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NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORP - Annual Report: 2012 (Form 10-K)



 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10‑K

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

FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012
OR
o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM             TO             
Commission file number 1‑8359
NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New Jersey
 
22‑2376465
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification Number)
 
 
 
1415 Wyckoff Road, Wall, New Jersey 07719
 
732‑938‑1480
(Address of principal
executive offices)
 
(Registrant's telephone number,
including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (b) of the Act:
Common Stock ‑ $2.50 Par Value
 
New York Stock Exchange
(Title of each class)
 
(Name of each exchange on which registered)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12 (g) of the Act:
None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.
Yes: x            No: o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.
Yes: o            No: x

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: x            No: o

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 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes: x            No: o

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S‑K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the Registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. x

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 definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b‑2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer: x
Accelerated filer: o
Non-accelerated filer: o
Smaller reporting company: o
 
 
(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 

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

The aggregate market value of the Registrant's Common Stock held by nonaffiliates was $1,826,834,224 based on the closing price of $44.57 per share on March 30, 2012, as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.

The number of shares outstanding of $2.50 par value Common Stock as of November 23, 2012 was 41,689,123.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the Registrant's definitive Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareowners (Proxy Statement) to be held January 23, 2013, to be filed on or about December 14, 2012, are incorporated by reference into Part I and Part III of this report.
 


New Jersey Resources Corporation

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 
 
Page
PART I
 
 
ITEM 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 1A.
 
ITEM 1B.
 
ITEM 2.
 
ITEM 3.
 
ITEM 4.
 
ITEM 4A.
PART II
 
 
ITEM 5.
 
ITEM 6.
 
ITEM 7.
 
ITEM 7A.
 
ITEM 8.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ITEM 9.
 
ITEM 9A.
 
ITEM 9B.
PART III*
 
 
ITEM 10.
 
ITEM 11.
 
ITEM 12.
 
ITEM 13.
 
ITEM 14.
PART IV
 
 
ITEM 15.
 
 
 
 
 
 
* Portions of Item 10 and Items 11-14 are Incorporated by Reference from the Proxy Statement.


New Jersey Resources Corporation

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INFORMATION CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS                                                                           

Certain statements contained in this report, including, without limitation, statements as to management expectations and beliefs presented in Item 1.-Business, under the captions "BUSINESS SEGMENTS -Natural Gas Distribution-General;-Seasonality of Gas Revenues;-Gas Supply;-Regulation and Rates;-Competition" "-Energy Services" "-Clean Energy Ventures" "-Energy Holdings" "-Retail and Other" "ENVIRONMENT," and Item 3."-Legal Proceedings," and in Part II including "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in Item 7, and "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk" in Item 7A are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can also be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "intends," "estimates," "expects," "projects," "plans," "believes," "should," "will" or "continues" or comparable terminology and are made based upon management's current expectations and beliefs as of this date concerning future developments and their potential effect upon New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR or the Company). There can be no assurance that future developments will be in accordance with management's expectations or that the effect of future developments on the Company will be those anticipated by management.

The Company cautions readers that the assumptions that form the basis for forward-looking statements regarding customer growth, customer usage, qualifications for federal investment tax credits (ITCs) and Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs), extension of the federal Production Tax Credit (PTC), financial condition, results of operations, cash flows, capital requirements, market risk and other matters for fiscal 2013 and thereafter include many factors that are beyond the Company's ability to control or estimate precisely, such as estimates of future market conditions, the behavior of other market participants and changes in the debt and equity capital markets. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from NJR's expectations include, but are not limited to, those discussed in Item 1A. Risk Factors, as well as the following:

weather and economic conditions;
demographic changes in the New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) service territory and their effect on NJNG's customer growth;
volatility of natural gas and other commodity prices and their impact on NJNG customer usage, NJNG's BGSS incentive programs, NJR Energy Services' (NJRES) operations and on the Company's risk management efforts;
changes in rating agency requirements and/or credit ratings and their effect on availability and cost of capital to the Company;
the impact of volatility in the credit markets;
the ability to comply with debt covenants;
the impact to the asset values and resulting higher costs and funding obligations of NJR's pension and postemployment benefit plans as a result of downturns in the financial markets, a lower discount rate, and impacts associated with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act;
accounting effects and other risks associated with hedging activities and use of derivatives contracts;
commercial and wholesale credit risks, including the availability of creditworthy customers and counterparties, liquidity in the wholesale energy trading market;
the ability to obtain governmental approvals and/or financing for the construction, development and operation of certain non-regulated energy investments;
risks associated with the management of the Company's joint ventures and partnerships;
risks associated with our investments in renewable energy projects and our investment in an on-shore wind developer, including the availability of regulatory and tax incentives, logistical risks and potential delays related to construction, permitting, regulatory approvals and electric grid interconnection, the availability of viable projects and NJR's eligibility for ITCs, the future market for SRECs, the potential expiration of the PTC and operational risks related to projects in service;
timing of qualifying for ITCs due to delays or failures to complete planned solar energy projects and the resulting effect on our effective tax rate and earnings;
the level and rate at which NJNG's costs and expenses are incurred and the extent to which they are allowed to be recovered from customers through the regulatory process;
access to adequate supplies of natural gas and dependence on third-party storage and transportation facilities for natural gas supply;
operating risks incidental to handling, storing, transporting and providing customers with natural gas;
risks related to our employee workforce, including a work stoppage;
the regulatory and pricing policies of federal and state regulatory agencies;
the possible expiration of the NJNG Conservation Incentive Program (CIP);
the costs of compliance with the proposed regulatory framework for over-the-counter derivatives;
the costs of compliance with present and future environmental laws, including potential climate change-related legislation;
risks related to changes in accounting standards;
the impact of a disallowance of recovery of environmental-related expenditures and other regulatory changes;
environmental-related and other litigation and other uncertainties; and
the impact of natural disasters, terrorist activities, and other extreme events on our operations and customers, including the impacts associated with Post Tropical Cyclone Sandy, commonly referred to as Superstorm Sandy.

While the Company periodically reassesses material trends and uncertainties affecting the Company's results of operations and financial condition in connection with its preparation of management's discussion and analysis of results of operations and financial condition contained in its Quarterly and Annual Reports, the Company does not, by including this statement, assume any obligation to review or revise any particular forward-looking statement referenced herein in light of future events.

Page 1

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I


ITEM 1. BUSINESS                                                                                                                                                                         

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR or the Company) is a New Jersey corporation formed in 1981 pursuant to a corporate reorganization. The Company is an energy services holding company providing retail and wholesale energy services to customers in states from the Gulf Coast and Mid-Continent regions to the Appalachian and Northeast regions, the West Coast and Canada. The Company is an exempt holding company under section 1263 of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. NJR's subsidiaries and businesses include:

New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG), a local natural gas distribution company that provides regulated retail natural gas service to approximately 500,100 residential and commercial customers in central and northern New Jersey and participates in the off-system sales and capacity release markets. NJNG is regulated by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU) and comprises the Company's Natural Gas Distribution segment.

NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJRCEV) comprises the Company's Clean Energy Ventures segment and reports the results of operations and assets related to the Company's capital investments in renewable energy projects, including commercial and residential solar projects, as well as on-shore wind projects through a 19.9 percent ownership interest in OwnEnergy.

NJR Energy Services (NJRES) maintains and transacts around a portfolio of physical assets consisting of natural gas storage and transportation contracts. NJRES also provides wholesale energy management services to other energy companies and natural gas producers. NJRES comprises the Company's Energy Services segment.

NJR Energy Holdings Corporation (NJREH) primarily invests in energy-related ventures through its subsidiaries, NJNR Pipeline Company (Pipeline), which holds the Company's 5.53 percent ownership interest in Iroquois Gas Transmission L.P. (Iroquois) and NJR Steckman Ridge Storage Company, which holds the Company's 50 percent combined interest in Steckman Ridge GP, LLC and Steckman Ridge, LP (collectively, Steckman Ridge), a natural gas storage facility. Iroquois and Steckman Ridge comprise the Company's Energy Holdings segment.

NJR also has retail and other operations (Retail and Other), which includes the following companies:

NJR Retail Holdings (Retail Holdings), an unregulated affiliate that consolidates the Company's unregulated retail operations. Retail Holdings consists of the following wholly owned subsidiaries:

NJR Home Services (NJRHS), a company that provides heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) service repair and contract services to approximately 134,900 customers, as well as solar installation projects.

Commercial Realty & Resources (CR&R), a company that holds and develops commercial real estate.

NJR Plumbing Services (NJRPS), a company that provides plumbing repair and installation services.

NJR Energy Investments (NJREI), an unregulated affiliate that consolidates the Company's unregulated energy-related investments. NJREI includes the following wholly owned subsidiaries:

NJR Investment, a company that makes and holds certain energy-related investments, primarily through equity instruments of public companies.

NJR Energy Corporation (NJR Energy), a company that invests in energy-related ventures.

NJR Service an unregulated company that provides shared administrative services, including corporate communications, financial and planning, internal audit, legal, human resources and information technology for NJR and all subsidiaries.


Page 2

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

BUSINESS SEGMENTS

The Company operates within four reportable business segments: Natural Gas Distribution, Clean Energy Ventures, Energy Services and Energy Holdings.

The Natural Gas Distribution segment consists of regulated energy and off-system, capacity and storage management operations. The Clean Energy Ventures segment consists of capital investments in renewable energy projects. The Energy Services segment consists of unregulated wholesale energy operations. Lastly, the Energy Holdings segment consists of investments in the midstream natural gas market, such as natural gas transportation and storage facilities. Financial information related to these business segments for the years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010 are set forth in Note 14. Business Segment and Other Operations Data.

Natural Gas Distribution

General

NJNG provides natural gas service to approximately 500,100 customers, including approximately 30,100 customers whose service was temporarily suspended as a result of significant damage that occurred to portions of NJNG's distribution system in October from the effects of Post Tropical Cyclone Sandy, commonly referred to as Superstorm Sandy (Superstorm Sandy), until such time that NJNG restores the operational integrity to the affected portions of its infrastructure.

NJNG's service territory is in New Jersey's Monmouth and Ocean counties and parts of Burlington, Morris, Middlesex and Sussex counties. It encompasses 1,516 square miles, covering 105 municipalities with an estimated population of 1.4 million people. It is primarily suburban, with a wide range of cultural and recreational activities and highlighted by approximately 100 miles of New Jersey coastline. It is in close proximity to New York City, Philadelphia and the metropolitan areas of northern New Jersey and is accessible through a network of major roadways and mass transportation. NJNG added 6,704 and 6,783 new customers and added natural gas heat and other services to another 539 and 641 existing customers in fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. NJNG's new customer annual growth rate of approximately 1.3 percent is expected to continue with projected additions in the range of approximately 12,000 to 14,000 new customers over the next two years. This anticipated customer growth represents approximately $3.3 million in new annual utility gross margin, a non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP ) financial measure, as calculated under NJNG's Conservation Incentive Program (CIP) tariff.

When assessing the potential for future growth in its service area, NJNG uses information derived from county and municipal planning boards that describes housing developments in various stages of approval. Furthermore, builders in NJNG's service area are surveyed to determine their future development plans. NJNG has also periodically engaged outside consultants to assist in its customer growth projections. In addition to customer growth through new construction, NJNG's business strategy includes aggressively pursuing conversions from other fuels, such as oil, electricity and propane. The Company estimates that, during fiscal 2013, approximately 50 percent of NJNG's projected customer growth will consist of conversions.

The business is subject to various risks, such as those associated with adverse economic conditions, which can negatively impact customer growth, operating and financing costs, fluctuations in commodity prices, which can impact customer usage, customer conservation efforts, certain regulatory actions and environmental remediation. It is often difficult to predict the impact of trends associated with these risks. NJNG employs certain strategies to manage the challenges it faces, including pursuing customer conversions from other fuel sources and monitoring new construction markets through contact with developers, utilizing incentive programs through BPU-approved mechanisms to reduce gas costs, pursuing rate and other regulatory strategies designed to stabilize and decouple gross margin, and working actively with consultants and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection to manage expectations related to its obligations associated with its former manufactured gas plant (MGP) sites.


Page 3

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

Operating Revenues/Throughput

For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, operating revenues and throughput by customer class were as follows:
 
Operating Revenues
Throughput
 
(Thousands)
(Bcf) (1)
Residential
$
363,780

58
%
32.9

21
%
Commercial and other
88,484

14

6.5

4

Firm transportation
60,599

10

11.2

7

Total residential and commercial
512,863

82
%
50.6

32
%
Interruptible
6,510

1

10.3

6

Total system
519,373

83
%
60.9

38
%
BGSS incentive programs
108,340

17

99.6

62

Total
$
627,713

100
%
160.5

100
%
(1)    Billion cubic feet.

In fiscal 2012, no single customer represented more than 10 percent of total NJNG operating revenue.

Seasonality of Gas Revenues

As a result of the heat-sensitive nature of NJNG's residential customer base, therm sales are significantly affected by weather conditions. Specifically, customer demand substantially increases during the winter months when natural gas is used for heating purposes. Weather conditions directly influence the volume of natural gas delivered to customers. The relative measurement of the impact of weather is in degree-days. Degree-day data is used to estimate amounts of energy required to maintain comfortable indoor temperature levels based on each day's average temperature. A degree-day is the measure of the variation in the weather based on the extent to which the average daily temperature falls below 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Each degree of temperature below 65 degrees Fahrenheit is counted as one heating degree-day. Normal heating degree-days are based on a twenty-year average, calculated based upon three reference areas representative of NJNG's service territory.

The CIP, a mechanism authorized by the BPU, stabilizes fluctuations in NJNG's utility gross margin, as a result of variations in weather. In addition, the CIP decouples the link between utility gross margin and customer usage, allowing NJNG to promote energy conservation measures. Recovery of such utility gross margin is subject to additional conditions including an earnings test and an evaluation of Basic Gas Supply Service (BGSS)-related savings achieved. The CIP was initially authorized in October 2006 as a three-year pilot program, however, due to the continuing nature of energy efficiency programs at the state and federal levels in concert with the issuance of the economic stimulus programs, in fiscal 2010 NJNG requested and received approval from the BPU to extend the CIP through September 30, 2013. It is anticipated that NJNG will file for an extension of its CIP in fiscal 2013.

For additional information regarding the CIP, see Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis-Natural Gas Distribution Operations and Note 3. Regulation in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.

Gas Supply

Firm Natural Gas Supplies

NJNG's gas supply portfolio consists of long-term (over seven months), winter-term (November through March) and short-term (seven months or less) contracts. In fiscal 2012, NJNG purchased gas from approximately one hundred suppliers under contracts ranging from one day to one year and purchased over 10 percent of its natural gas from two suppliers. NJNG believes the loss of any one or both of these suppliers would not have a material adverse impact on its results of operations, financial position or cash flows as an adequate number of alternative suppliers exist. NJNG believes that its supply strategy should adequately meet its expected firm load over the next several years.

Firm Transportation and Storage Capacity

In order to take delivery of firm natural gas supplies, which ensures the ability to reliably service its customers, NJNG maintains agreements for firm transportation and storage capacity with several interstate pipeline companies. NJNG receives natural gas at eight citygate stations located in Middlesex, Morris and Passaic counties in New Jersey.

Page 4

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

The pipeline companies that provide firm transportation service to NJNG's citygate stations, the maximum daily deliverability of that capacity in dekatherms (dths) and the contract expiration dates are as follows:
Pipeline
Maximum daily
 
deliverability (dths)
Expiration
Texas Eastern Transmission, L.P.
270,948


Various dates between 2014 and 2023
Tennessee Gas Pipeline Co.
25,166


Various dates between 2014 and 2015
Columbia Gulf Transmission Corp.
20,000


2015
Algonquin Gas Transmission
12,000


2013
Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corp.
3,931


2014
Total
332,045




The pipeline companies that provide firm contract transportation service for NJNG and supply the above pipelines are ANR Pipeline Company (ANR), Iroquois Gas Transmission L.P., Tennessee Gas Pipeline Company, Dominion Transmission Corporation (Dominion) and Columbia Gulf Transmission Company.

In addition, NJNG has storage and related transportation contracts that provide additional maximum daily deliverability to NJNG's citygate stations of 102,941 dths from storage fields in its Northeast market area. The storage suppliers, the maximum daily deliverability of that storage capacity and the contract expiration dates are as follows:
Pipeline
Maximum daily
 
deliverability (dths)
Expiration
Texas Eastern Transmission, L.P.
94,557


2014
Transcontinental Gas Pipe Line Corp.
8,384


2014
Total
102,941




NJNG also has upstream storage contracts, maximum daily deliverability and contract expiration dates as follows:
Company
Maximum daily
 
deliverability (dths)
Expiration
Dominion Transmission Corporation
103,714


Various dates between 2015 and 2017
ANR Pipeline Company
39,703


2013
Steckman Ridge, L.P.
38,000


2020
Central New York Oil & Gas (Stagecoach)
25,337


2015
Total
206,754




NJNG utilizes its transportation contracts to transport gas from the ANR, Dominion, Steckman Ridge and Stagecoach storage fields to NJNG's citygates.

Citygate Supplies from NJRES

NJNG has several citygate supply agreements with NJRES. NJNG can call upon a supply of up to 28,600 dths/day delivered to NJNG's Transco citygate and a supply of up to 20,000 dths/day delivered to NJNG's Texas Eastern citygate. NJNG and NJRES have an agreement where NJNG released its Stagecoach storage capacity of 1.6 million dths to NJRES for the period from January 1, 2010 to March 31, 2013. NJRES will manage the storage and provide delivery to NJNG at NJNG's request as needed. NJNG and NJRES also have an agreement where NJNG released 159,790 dths/day of its Texas Eastern Transmission capacity to NJRES for the period from November 1, 2010 to October 31, 2014. NJNG can call upon a supply of up to 159,790 dths/day delivered to NJNG's Texas Eastern citygate as needed. See Note 15. Related Party Transactions in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding these transactions.


Page 5

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

Peaking Supply

To manage its winter peak day demand NJNG maintains two liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities with a combined deliverability of approximately 170,000 dths/day, which represents approximately 20 percent of its estimated peak day sendout. See Item 2. Properties-NJNG for additional information regarding the LNG storage facilities.

Basic Gas Supply Service (BGSS)

Wholesale natural gas prices are, by their nature, volatile. NJNG mitigates the impact of volatile price changes on customers through the use of financial derivative instruments, which are part of its financial risk management program, its storage incentive program and its BGSS clause. BGSS is a BPU-approved clause designed to allow for the recovery of natural gas commodity costs. The clause requires all New Jersey natural gas utilities to make an annual filing by each June 1 for review of BGSS rates and to request a potential rate change to be effective the following October 1. The BGSS is also designed to allow each natural gas utility to provisionally increase residential and small commercial customer BGSS rates up to 5 percent on December 1 and February 1 on a self-implementing basis, after proper notice and BPU action on the June filing. Such increases are subject to subsequent BPU review and final approval. Decreases in the BGSS rate and BGSS refunds can be implemented upon five days notice to the BPU.

NJNG is also permitted to refund or credit back a portion of the commodity costs to customers when the natural gas commodity costs decrease in comparison to amounts projected or to amounts previously collected from customers. During fiscal 2012, NJNG issued bill credits of $85.9 million to residential and small commercial customers as a result of the decline in the wholesale price of natural gas and a change in the methodology used to develop estimates of unaccounted-for gas. There were no refunds or rate adjustments during fiscal 2011 since commodity prices were stable.

NJNG also manages these commodity prices from time to time with rate adjustments. In June 2011, NJNG filed for a 9.1 percent decrease for the average residential heat customer as a result of lower natural gas prices and natural gas purchasing strategies approved by the BPU, effective October 4, 2011. On March 9, 2012, NJNG notified the BPU of a 3.6 percent decrease related to its BGSS rate, effective April 1, 2012, which will have an annual impact of approximately $19 million.

Concurrent with the annual BGSS filing, NJNG also files for an annual review of its CIP. The CIP was initially approved as a three-year program through September 2009. During fiscal 2010, the BPU approved an extension of the program through September 30, 2013. In June 2010, the BPU issued their final order approving NJNG's BGSS rate reduction of 17.2 percent for the average residential heating customer for fiscal 2010 and NJNG's recovery of $6.9 million of CIP rates representing amounts accrued and estimated through September 2009.

In June 2010, NJNG requested certain changes to its BGSS, including a 3.5 percent decrease for the average residential heating customer related to the BGSS rate effective September 16, 2010. This offset NJNG's request for an increase in the CIP recovery rate, effective October 1, 2010, allowing for a total annual recovery of $12.1 million representing CIP amounts accrued and estimated through September 30, 2010. The BPU approved this filing in April 2011.

In June 2011, NJNG requested approval to modify its CIP recovery rates resulting in a decrease to the total annual recovery of $3 million. The proposed CIP rates result in a .8 percent decrease to residential heat customers and a minor increase to all other customers. In May 2012, the BPU approved the changes on a final basis, effective October 4, 2011.

In June 2012, NJNG filed for a decrease in the CIP rate for residential non-heating customers and an increase in the CIP rates for residential heating and commercial customers. Effective October 12, 2012, the BPU approved the June 2012 proposed CIP rates. These rate changes, as well as other regulatory actions, are discussed further in Note 3. Regulation in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.

Future Natural Gas Supplies

NJNG expects to meet the natural gas requirements for existing and projected firm customers into the foreseeable future. If NJNG's long-term natural gas requirements change, NJNG would renegotiate and restructure its contract portfolio components to better match the changing needs of its customers.


Page 6

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

Regulation and Rates

State

NJNG is subject to the jurisdiction of the BPU with respect to a wide range of matters such as rates, the issuance of securities, the adequacy of service, the manner of keeping its accounts and records, the sufficiency of natural gas supply, pipeline safety, compliance with affiliate standards and the sale or encumbrance of its properties.

See Note 3. Regulation in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding NJNG's rate proceedings.

Federal

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulates rates charged by interstate pipeline companies for the transportation and storage of natural gas. This affects NJNG's agreements with several interstate pipeline companies for the purchase of such services. Costs associated with these services are currently recoverable through the BGSS.

Competition

Although its franchises are nonexclusive, NJNG is not currently subject to competition from other natural gas distribution utilities with regard to the transportation of natural gas in its service territory. Due to significant distances between NJNG's current large industrial customers and the nearest interstate natural gas pipelines, as well as the availability of its transportation tariff, NJNG currently does not believe it has significant exposure to the risk that its distribution system will be bypassed. Competition does exist from suppliers of oil, coal, electricity and propane. At the present time, however, natural gas is used in favor of alternate fuels in over 95 percent of new construction due to its efficiency and reliability. Natural gas prices are a function of market supply and demand. Although NJNG believes natural gas will remain competitive with alternate fuels, no assurance can be given in this regard.

The BPU, within the framework of the Electric Discount and Energy Competition Act (EDECA), fully opened NJNG's residential markets to competition, including third-party suppliers, and restructured rates to segregate its BGSS and delivery (i.e., transportation) prices. In the absence of any third-party supplier, BGSS must be provided by the state's natural gas utilities. On September 30, 2012, NJNG had 41,820 residential and 9,394 commercial and industrial customers utilizing the transportation service. Based on its current and projected level of transportation customers, NJNG expects to use its existing firm transportation and storage capacity to fully meet its firm sales contract obligations.

Clean Energy Ventures

NJRCEV is an unregulated company that invests, owns and operates renewable energy projects located in the State of New Jersey and owns a minority equity interest in an on-shore wind project developer.

NJRCEV invests in, owns and operates residential and commercial solar installations in the State of New Jersey. As of September 30, 2012, NJRCEV has placed a total of 35.9 MW (megawatts) of solar assets into service, including a combination of residential and commercial rooftop and ground mount solar systems. In October 2012, one of NJRCEV's commercial solar arrays, with a capacity to produce 1.5 MW, sustained damage from the effects of Superstorm Sandy.

These systems are registered with the BPU's Office of Clean Energy and are qualified to produce solar renewable energy certificates (SREC). An SREC represents the renewable attributes associated with one MWh (megawatt hour) of solar energy generated. NJRCEV sells the SRECs, at market-based rates, to a variety of counterparties including electric Load Serving Entities (LSE) that are required to comply with minimum state renewable energy generation standards. Solar projects are also eligible for federal investment tax credits (ITC) in the year that they are placed into service.

NJRCEV is subject to various risks including those associated with adverse federal and state legislation and regulatory policies, construction delays that can impact the timing or eligibility of tax incentives, etc., technological changes, and the future market of SRECs. See Item 1A. Risk Factors for additional information regarding these risks.


Page 7

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

Energy Services

NJRES provides unregulated wholesale energy services and engages in the business of optimizing natural gas storage and transportation assets. The rights to these assets are contractually acquired in anticipation of delivering natural gas or performing asset management activities for our customers or in conjunction with identifying arbitrage opportunities that exist in the marketplace. These arbitrage opportunities occur as a result of price differences between market locations and/or time horizons. These activities are conducted in the market areas in which NJRES has expertise and include states from the Gulf Coast and Mid-Continent regions to the Appalachian and Northeast regions, the West Coast and Canada.

While focusing on maintaining a low-risk operating and counterparty credit profile, NJRES activities specifically consist of the following elements:

Identifying and benefiting from variations in pricing of natural gas transportation and storage assets due to location or timing differences of natural gas prices to generate financial margin (as defined below);

Providing natural gas portfolio management services to nonaffiliated utilities, electric generation facilities and natural gas producers;

Leveraging transactions for the delivery of natural gas to customers by aggregating the natural gas commodity costs and transportation costs to minimize the total cost required to provide and deliver natural gas to NJRES' customers. These transactions identify the lowest cost alternative with the natural gas supply, transportation availability and markets to which NJRES is able to access through its business footprint and contractual asset portfolio; and

Managing economic hedging programs that are designed to mitigate adverse market price fluctuations in natural gas transportation and storage commitments.

NJRES views "financial margin" as its key financial metric. NJRES' financial margin, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, represents revenues earned from the sale of natural gas less costs of natural gas sold including any transportation and storage costs, and excludes any accounting impact from the change in fair value of derivative instruments designed to hedge the economic impact of transactions that have not been settled, which represent unrealized gains and losses, and the effects of economic hedging on the value of our natural gas in storage. NJRES uses financial margin to gauge operating results against established benchmarks and earnings targets as it eliminates the impact of volatility in GAAP earnings that can occur prior to settlement of the physical natural gas sale. NJRES, therefore, believes financial margin is more representative of its overall expected economic result.

NJRES focuses on creating value from natural gas assets, which are typically amassed through contractual rights to natural gas transportation and storage capacity. NJRES has developed a portfolio of natural gas storage and transportation capacity in the Gulf Coast, Mid-Continent, Appalachian and Northeast regions, the West Coast and Canada. These assets become more valuable when prices change between these areas and across time periods. On a forward basis, NJRES may lock in these price differentials through the use of financial instruments. In addition, NJRES seeks to optimize these assets on a daily basis as market conditions change by evaluating all the natural gas supplies and transportation to which it has access. This enables NJRES to capture geographic pricing differences across these various regions as delivered natural gas prices change as a result of market conditions. NJRES focuses on earning a financial margin on a single original transaction and then utilizing that transaction, and the changes in prices across the regions or across time periods, as the basis to further improve the initial result.

NJRES also participates in park-and-loan transactions with pipeline and storage counterparties, where NJRES will park (store) natural gas to be redelivered to NJRES at a later date or borrow (receive a loan of natural gas) to be returned to the pipeline or storage field at a later date. In these cases, NJRES evaluates the economics of the transaction to determine if it can capture pricing differentials in the marketplace to generate financial margin. In evaluating these transactions NJRES will compare the fixed fee it will pay to or receive from the counterparty, along with other costs such as time value of money, and the resulting spread it can generate when considering the market price at the beginning and end of the time period of the park or loan. When the transaction allows NJRES to generate a financial margin, NJRES will fix the financial margin by economically hedging the transaction with natural gas futures contracts.


Page 8

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

NJRES has built a portfolio of customers including local distribution companies, industrial companies, electric generators, retail aggregators, natural gas producers and other wholesale marketing companies. Sales to these customers have allowed NJRES to leverage its transportation and storage capacity and manage sales to these customers in an aggregate fashion. This strategy allows NJRES to extract more value from its portfolio of natural gas storage and pipeline transportation capacity through the arbitrage of pricing differences as a result of locational differences or over different periods of time.

In conducting its business, NJRES mitigates risk by following formal risk management guidelines, including transaction limits, segregation of duties, and formal contract and credit review approval processes. NJRES continuously monitors and seeks to reduce the risk associated with its credit exposures with its various counterparties. The Risk Management Committee (RMC) of NJR oversees compliance with these established guidelines.

Energy Holdings

Energy Holdings include investments in natural gas transportation and storage assets and is comprised of the following subsidiaries:

NJNR Pipeline, which consists of its 5.53 percent equity investment in Iroquois Gas Transmission System, which is a 412-mile natural gas pipeline from the New York-Canadian border to Long Island, New York and;

NJR Steckman Ridge Storage Company, which holds the Company's 50 percent equity investment in Steckman Ridge. Steckman Ridge is a partnership, jointly owned and controlled by subsidiaries of the Company and subsidiaries of Spectra Energy Corporation, that built, owns and operates a 17.7 Bcf natural gas storage facility in western Pennsylvania.

OTHER BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Retail and Other

Retail and Other operations consist primarily of the following unregulated affiliates:

NJRHS, which provides HVAC service, sales and installation of appliances to approximately 134,900 customers, as well as installation of solar equipment;

CR&R, which holds and develops commercial real estate.

As of September 30, 2012, CR&R's real estate portfolio consisted of 27 acres of undeveloped land in Monmouth County with a net book value of $5.4 million, 52 acres of undeveloped land in Atlantic County with a net book value of $2.1 million and a 56,400-square-foot office building on 5 acres of land in Monmouth County with a net book value of $8.3 million;

NJR Investment, a company that invests in and holds certain energy-related investments, primarily through equity instruments of public companies;

NJR Energy, a company that invests in energy-related ventures; and

NJR Service, which provides shared administrative and financial services to the Company and all its subsidiaries.

ENVIRONMENT

The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to legislation and regulation by federal, state and local authorities with respect to environmental matters. The Company believes that it is in compliance in all material respects with all applicable environmental laws and regulations.

NJNG is responsible for the environmental remediation of five MGP sites, which contain contaminated residues from former gas manufacturing operations that ceased at these sites by the mid-1950s and, in some cases, had been discontinued many years earlier. NJNG periodically and at least annually performs an environmental review of the MGP sites, including a review of potential estimated liabilities related to the investigation and remedial action on these sites. Based on this review, NJNG estimated that the total future expenditures to remediate and monitor the five MGP sites for which it is responsible will range from approximately $159.6 million to $266.4 million.

Page 9

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1. BUSINESS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                     

NJNG's estimate of these liabilities is based upon known facts, existing technology and enacted laws and regulations in place when the review was completed. Where available information is sufficient to estimate the amount of the liability, it is NJNG's policy to accrue the full amount of such estimate. Where the information is sufficient only to establish a range of possible liability, NJNG accrues the best estimate in the range, or if no point within the range is more likely than the other, it is NJNG's policy to accrue the lower end of the range. As of September 30, 2012, NJNG has recorded an MGP remediation liability and a corresponding Regulatory asset of $182 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, which represents the best estimate; however, actual costs may differ from these estimates. NJNG is currently recovering approximately $20 million annually and will continue to seek recovery of these costs through its remediation rider.

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

As of September 30, 2012, the Company and its subsidiaries employed 927 employees compared with 891 employees as of September 30, 2011. Of the total number of employees, NJNG had 411 and 402 and NJRHS had 106 and 98 union employees as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. NJNG and NJRHS have collective bargaining agreements with Local 1820 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), AFL-CIO expiring in December 2016 and April 2017, respectively. The labor agreements cover wage increases and other benefits, including closing the defined benefit pension and postemployment benefit plans and providing an enhanced 401 (k) retirement savings plan for represented employees hired on or after January 1, 2012. The Company considers its relationship with employees, including those covered by collective bargaining agreements, to be good.

AVAILABLE INFORMATION AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE DOCUMENTS

The following reports and any amendments to those reports are available free of charge on our website at http://njr360.client.shareholder.com/sec.cfm as soon as reasonably possible after filing or furnishing them with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC):

Annual reports on Form 10-K;
Quarterly reports on Form 10-Q; and
Current reports on Form 8-K.

In addition, on our website at http://njr360.client.shareholder.com/governance.cfm, the following documents are also available free of charge:

Corporate governance guidelines;
Principal Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers Code of Ethics;
Wholesale Trading Code of Conduct;
NJR Code of Conduct; and
the charters of the following Board Committees: Audit, Leadership Development and Compensation and Nominating/Corporate Governance.

In Part III of this Form 10-K, we incorporate certain information by reference from our Proxy Statement for our 2013 annual meeting of shareholders. We expect to file that Proxy Statement with the SEC on or about December 14, 2012, and we will make it available on our website as soon as reasonably possible following that filing date. Please refer to the Proxy Statement when it is available.

A printed copy of each is available free of charge to any shareholder who requests it by contacting the Corporate Secretary at New Jersey Resources Corporation, 1415 Wyckoff Road, Wall, NJ 07719.


Page 10

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS                                                                                                                                                             

When considering any investment in NJR's securities, investors should consider the following risk factors, as well as the information contained under the caption “Forward-Looking Statements,” in analyzing the Company's present and future business performance. While this list is not exhaustive, NJR's management also places no priority or likelihood based on their descriptions or orders of presentation.

Inability of NJR and/or NJNG to access the financial markets and conditions in the credit markets could affect management's ability to execute their respective business plans.

NJR relies on access to both short-term and long-term credit markets as significant sources of liquidity for capital requirements not satisfied by its cash flow from operations. Any deterioration in NJR's financial condition could hamper its ability to access the credit markets or otherwise obtain debt financing. Because certain state regulatory approvals may be necessary in order for NJNG to incur debt, NJNG may not be able to access credit markets on a timely basis.

External events could also increase the cost of borrowing or adversely affect the ability to access the financial markets. Such external events could include the following:

economic weakness in the United States or in the regions where NJR operates;

financial difficulties of unrelated energy companies;

capital market conditions generally;

market prices for natural gas;

the overall health of the natural gas utility industry; and

fluctuations in interest rates, particularly with respect to our variable rate debt instruments

NJR and its subsidiaries' ability to secure short-term financing is subject to conditions in the credit markets. A prolonged constriction of credit availability could affect management's ability to execute NJR's business plan. An inability to access capital may limit the ability to pursue improvements or acquisitions that NJR, or its subsidiaries, may otherwise rely on for both current operations and future growth.

NJRES and NJNG execute derivative transactions with financial institutions as a part of their economic hedging strategy and could incur losses associated with the inability of a financial counterparty to meet or perform under its obligations as a result of adverse conditions in the credit markets or their ability to access capital or post collateral.

NJR is a holding company and depends on its operating subsidiaries to meet its financial obligations.

NJR is a holding company with no significant assets other than possible cash investments and the stock of its operating subsidiaries. NJR relies exclusively on dividends from its subsidiaries, on intercompany loans from its non-regulated subsidiaries, and on the repayments of principal and interest from intercompany loans made to its subsidiaries for its cash flows. NJR's ability to pay dividends on its common stock and to pay principal and accrued interest on its outstanding debt depends on the payment of dividends to NJR by certain of its subsidiaries or the repayment of loans to NJR by its principal subsidiaries. The extent to which NJR's subsidiaries do not pay dividends or repay funds to NJR may adversely affect its ability to pay dividends to holders of its common stock and principal and interest to holders of its debt.

Credit rating downgrades could increase financing costs, limit access to the financial markets and negatively affect NJR and its subsidiaries.

NJNG's debt is currently rated by the rating agencies Moody's Investor Services, Inc. and Standard & Poor's Financial Services, LLC as investment grade. If such ratings are downgraded below investment grade, borrowing costs could increase, as will the costs of maintaining certain contractual relationships and obtaining future financing. Even if ratings are downgraded without falling below investment grade, NJR and NJNG can face increased borrowing costs under their current credit facilities. NJR and its subsidiaries' ability to borrow and costs of borrowing have a direct impact on its subsidiaries' ability to execute their operating strategies.

Page 11

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

Additionally, lower credit ratings could adversely affect relationships with NJNG's state regulators, who may be unwilling to allow NJNG to pass along increased costs to its natural gas customers.

Failure by NJR and/or NJNG to comply with debt covenants may impact NJR's financial condition.

NJR and NJNG's long-term debt obligations contain financial covenants related to debt-to-capital ratios and an interest coverage ratio for NJNG. These debt obligations also contain provisions that put certain limitations on NJR's ability to finance future operations or capital needs or to expand or pursue certain business activities. For example, certain of these agreements contain provisions that, among other things, put limitations on our ability to make loans or investments, make material changes to the nature of our businesses, merge, consolidate or engage in asset sales, grant liens, or make negative pledges. Furthermore, the debt obligations contain covenants and other provisions requiring NJR or NJNG to make timely delivery of accurate financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP. The failure to comply with any of these covenants could result in an event of default, which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of outstanding debt obligations and/or the inability to borrow under existing revolving credit facilities. NJNG has relied, and continues to rely, upon short-term bank borrowings or commercial paper supported by its revolving credit facility to finance the execution of a portion of its operating strategies. NJNG is dependent on these capital sources to purchase its natural gas supply and maintain its properties. The acceleration of outstanding debt obligations of NJR or NJNG and their inability to borrow under their existing revolving credit facilities would cause a material adverse change in NJR's or NJNG's financial condition.

NJRES' and NJRCEV's ability to conduct their businesses is dependent upon the creditworthiness of NJR.

If NJR suffers a reduction in its credit and borrowing capacity or in its ability to issue parental guarantees, the business prospects of NJRES and NJRCEV, which rely on the creditworthiness of NJR, would be adversely affected. NJRES would possibly be required to comply with various margin or other credit enhancement obligations under its trading and marketing contracts, and it may be unable to continue to trade or be able to do so only on less favorable terms with certain counterparties. In addition, NJRCEV would be required to seek alternative financing for its projects. NJRCEV may be unable to obtain such financing or able to do so only on less favorable terms.

The cost of providing pension and postemployment health care benefits to eligible former employees is subject to changes in pension fund values, interest rates and changing demographics and may have a material adverse effect on NJR's financial results.

NJR has two defined benefit pension plans and two postemployment health care plans (OPEB) for the benefit of eligible full-time employees and qualified retirees. The cost of providing these benefits to eligible current and former employees is subject to changes in the market value of the pension and OPEB fund assets, changing discount rates and changing demographics, including longer life expectancy of beneficiaries, an expected increase in the number of eligible former employees over the next five years, impacts from healthcare legislation and increases in health care costs.

Any sustained declines in equity markets and/or reductions in bond yields may have a material adverse effect on the funded status of NJR's pension and OPEB plans. In these circumstances, NJR may be required to recognize increased pension and OPEB expenses and/or be required to make additional cash contributions into the plans.

The funded status of these plans, and the related cost reflected in NJR's financial statements, are affected by various factors that are subject to an inherent degree of uncertainty. Under the Pension Protection Act of 2006, continued losses of asset values may necessitate increased funding of the plans in the future to meet minimum federal government requirements. A continued downward pressure on the asset values of these plans may require NJR to fund obligations earlier than it had originally planned, which would have a negative impact on cash flows from operations, decrease NJR's borrowing capacity and increase its interest expense.

Economic hedging activities of NJR that are designed to protect against commodity and financial market risks may cause fluctuations in reported financial results, and NJR's stock price could be adversely affected as a result.

Although NJR uses derivatives, including futures, forwards, options and swaps, to manage commodity and financial market risks, the timing of the recognition of gains or losses on these economic hedges in accordance with GAAP used in the United States of America does not always coincide with the gains or losses on the items being hedged. The difference in accounting can result in volatility in reported results, even though the expected profit margin is essentially unchanged from the dates the transactions were consummated.

Page 12

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

A change in our effective tax rate as a result of a failure to qualify for ITCs or being delayed in qualifying for ITCs due to delays or failures to complete planned solar energy projects may have a material impact on our earnings.

GAAP requires NJR to apply an effective tax rate to interim periods that is consistent with our estimated annual effective tax rate. As a result, quarterly, NJR projects the annual effective tax rate and then adjusts the tax expense recorded in that quarter to reflect the projected annual effective tax rate. The amount of the quarterly adjustment is based on information and assumptions, which are subject to change and which may have a material impact on quarterly and annual net financial earnings. Factors we consider in estimating the probability of projects being completed during the fiscal year include, but are not limited to, board of directors approval, execution of various contracts, including power purchase agreements, construction logistics, permitting and interconnection completion. If NJR fails to qualify for ITCs or is delayed in qualifying for some ITCs during the fiscal year due to delays or failures to complete planned solar energy projects as scheduled, our quarterly and annual net income and net financial earnings may be materially impacted.

NJNG's operations are subject to certain operating risks incidental to handling, storing, transporting and providing customers with natural gas.

NJNG's operations are subject to all operating hazards and risks incidental to handling, storing, transporting and providing customers with natural gas. These risks include explosions, pollution, release of toxic substances, fires, storms and other adverse weather conditions and hazards, each of which could result in damage to or destruction of facilities or damage to persons and property. If any of these events were to occur, NJNG could suffer substantial losses. Moreover, as a result, NJNG has been, and likely will be, a defendant in legal proceedings and litigation arising in the ordinary course of business. Although NJNG maintains insurance coverage, insurance may not be sufficient to cover all material expenses related to these risks.

Major changes in the supply and price of natural gas may affect financial results.

While NJNG expects to provide for the demand of its customers for the foreseeable future, factors impacting suppliers and other third parties, including increased competition, further deregulation, transportation costs, possible climate change legislation, transportation availability and drilling for new natural gas resources, may impact the supply and price of natural gas. NJNG actively hedges against the fluctuation in the price of natural gas by entering into forward and financial contracts with third parties. Should these third parties fail to perform and regulators not allow the pass-through of funds to customers, it may result in a loss that could have a material impact on NJR's financial position, cash flows and statement of operations.

NJNG and NJRES rely on third parties to supply natural gas.

NJNG's ability to provide natural gas for its present and projected sales will depend upon its suppliers' ability to obtain and deliver additional supplies of natural gas, as well as NJNG's ability to acquire supplies directly from new sources. Factors beyond the control of NJNG, its suppliers and the independent suppliers who have obligations to provide natural gas to certain NJNG customers, may affect NJNG's ability to deliver such supplies. These factors include other parties' control over the drilling of new wells and the facilities to transport natural gas to NJNG's citygate stations, competition for the acquisition of natural gas, priority allocations, impact of severe weather disruptions to natural gas supplies, the regulatory and pricing policies of federal and state regulatory agencies, as well as the availability of Canadian reserves for export to the United States. Energy deregulation legislation may increase competition among natural gas utilities and impact the quantities of natural gas requirements needed for sales service.

NJRES also relies on a firm supply source to meet its energy management obligations to its customers. Should NJRES' suppliers fail to deliver supplies of natural gas, there could be a material impact on its cash flows and statement of operations.

The use of derivative contracts in the normal course of NJRES' business could result in financial losses that negatively impact results of operations.

NJRES uses derivatives, including futures, forwards, options and swaps and foreign exchange contracts, to manage commodity, financial market and foreign currency risks. NJRES could recognize financial losses on these contracts as a result of volatility in the market values of the underlying commodities or if a counterparty fails to perform under a contract. In the absence of actively quoted market prices and pricing information from external sources, the valuation of these financial instruments can involve management's judgment or use of estimates. As a result, changes in the underlying assumptions or use of alternative valuation methods could adversely affect the value of the reported fair value of these contracts.


Page 13

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

Adverse economic conditions including inflation, increased natural gas costs, foreclosures and business failures could adversely impact NJNG's customer collections and increase its level of indebtedness.

Inflation may cause increases in certain operating and capital costs. NJR has a process to continually review the adequacy of NJNG's rates in relation to the increasing cost of providing service and the inherent regulatory lag in adjusting those rates. The ability to control expenses is an important factor that will influence future results.

Rapid increases in the price of purchased gas may cause NJNG to experience a significant increase in short-term debt because it must pay suppliers for gas when it is purchased, which can be significantly in advance of when these costs may be recovered through the collection of monthly customer bills for gas delivered. Increases in purchased gas costs also slow collection efforts as customers are more likely to delay the payment of their gas bills, leading to higher-than-normal accounts receivable. In addition, the extended period of economic weakness in the U.S. has led to increasing unemployment, foreclosures in the housing markets, and the discontinuation of some commercial businesses that fall within NJNG's service territory. These situations can result in higher short-term debt levels and increased bad debt expense.

The impact of Superstorm Sandy could have a significant effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

In late October 2012, high winds, heavy rainfall and the related flooding associated with Superstorm Sandy caused significant damage to portions of NJNG's distribution infrastructure. The magnitude of the flooding is unprecedented. NJNG shut off the natural gas infrastructure that serves the storm-damaged barrier islands within NJNG's service territory. Approximately 30,100 of NJNG's approximately 500,100 customers have been affected by this shut off. NJNG is working to minimize the length of time its customers are without service.

We anticipate that Superstorm Sandy and its aftermath will influence our financial results, although estimates of the storm's effects are not available at this time. For example:

Operating revenues and utility gross margin are expected to be lower due to extended outages and inability to bill and collect revenues for gas previously delivered to NJNG's customers whose property has been damaged or destroyed;

Capital and other expenditures are expected to be higher due to the restoration, repair and replacement of damaged equipment and assets; and

Regulatory mechanisms may be modified or created to provide for recovery of restoration costs and lost revenues. However, we cannot be certain that such recovery mechanisms will be available.

While we believe NJNG has sufficient liquidity to meet its current obligations and to begin to fund restoration efforts from a combination of cash-on-hand and available capacity under revolving credit facilities, we may need to seek additional financing to fully fund restoration efforts. The inability to recover a significant amount of such costs could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

Changes in weather conditions may affect earnings and cash flows.

Weather conditions and other natural phenomena can have an adverse impact on earnings and cash flows. Severe weather conditions can impact suppliers and the pipelines that deliver gas to NJNG's distribution system. Extended mild weather, during either the winter period or summer period, can have a significant impact on demand for and the cost of natural gas. While NJR believes the CIP mitigates the impact of weather variations on its gross margin, severe weather conditions may still have an impact on the ability of suppliers and pipelines to deliver the natural gas to NJNG, which can negatively affect NJR's earnings. The CIP does not mitigate the impact of unusual weather conditions on the Company's cash flows.

Changes in customer growth may affect earnings and cash flows.

NJNG's ability to increase its utility firm gross margin is dependent upon the new construction housing market, as well as the conversion of customers to natural gas from other fuel sources. Should there be an extended economic recession, continued weakness in the housing market or a slowdown in the conversion market, there could be an adverse impact on NJNG's utility firm gross margin, earnings and cash flows.


Page 14

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

NJRES' earnings and cash flows are dependent upon optimization of its physical assets using financial transactions.

NJRES' earnings and cash flows are based, in part, on its ability to optimize its portfolio of contractual-based natural gas storage and pipeline assets. The optimization strategy involves utilizing its physical assets to take advantage of differences in natural gas prices between geographic locations and/or time periods. Any change among various pricing points could affect these differentials. In addition, significant increases in the supply of natural gas in NJRES' market areas, for example that can occur as a result of increased production along the Marcellus Shale in the Appalachian basin, can reduce NJRES' ability to find opportunities going forward. Changes in pricing dynamics and supply could have an adverse impact on NJRES' optimization activities, earnings and cash flows. NJRES incurs fixed demand fees to acquire its contractual rights to storage and transportation assets. Should commodity prices at various locations or time periods change in such a way that NJRES is not able to recover these costs from its customers, the cash flows and earnings at NJRES, and ultimately NJR, could be adversely impacted.

NJRES is exposed to market risk and may incur losses in wholesale services.

The storage and transportation portfolios at NJRES consist of contracts to transport and store natural gas commodities. If the values of these contracts change in a direction or manner that NJRES does not anticipate, the value of NJRES' portfolio could be negatively impacted. In addition, upon expiration of these storage and transportation contracts, to the extent that they are renewed or replaced at less favorable terms, NJR's results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted.

NJNG and NJRES rely on storage and transportation assets that they do not own or control to deliver natural gas.

NJNG and NJRES depend on natural gas pipelines and other storage and transportation facilities owned and operated by third parties to deliver natural gas to wholesale markets and to provide retail energy services to customers. If transportation or storage is disrupted, including for reasons of force majeure, the ability of NJNG and NJRES to sell and deliver their products and services may be hindered. As a result, they may be responsible for damages incurred by their customers, such as the additional cost of acquiring alternative supply at then-current market rates.

Investing through partnerships or joint ventures decreases NJR's ability to manage risk.

NJR and its subsidiaries have utilized joint ventures for certain non-regulated energy investments, including Steckman Ridge and Iroquois, and although they currently have no specific plans to do so, NJR and its subsidiaries may acquire interests in other joint ventures in the future. In these joint ventures, NJR and its subsidiaries may not have the right or power to direct the management and policies of the joint ventures, and other participants may take action contrary to their instructions or requests and against their policies and objectives. In addition, the other participants may become bankrupt or have economic or other business interests or goals that are inconsistent with those of NJR and its subsidiaries. If a joint venture participant acts contrary to the interests of NJR or its subsidiaries, it could harm NJR's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Our investments in renewable energy projects are subject to substantial risks.

Commercial and residential solar energy projects and on-shore wind projects, such as those in which we are investing, are relatively new and have been developed through advancement in technologies whose commercial application is limited, and which are unrelated to our core businesses. These projects are dependent upon currently existing favorable regulatory and tax incentives and there is uncertainty about the extent to which such incentives will be available in the future. The potential return on investment of these projects is based substantially on our eligibility for ITCs, the future market for SRECs that are traded in a competitive marketplace in the State of New Jersey and in the case of on-shore wind projects, the renewal or extension of the PTC and several states' renewable portfolio standards. As a result, these projects face the risk that the currently favorable regulatory regimes and tax laws may expire or be adversely modified during the life of the projects. Furthermore, a sustained decrease in the value of SRECs would negatively impact the return on investment of the solar projects. Legislative changes or declines in the price of SRECs could also lead to an impairment of the solar project assets.

In addition, because these projects depend on technology outside of our expertise, there are risks associated with our ability to develop and manage such projects profitably, including logistical risks and potential delays related to construction, permitting, regulatory approvals and electric grid interconnection, as well as the operational risk that the projects in service will not perform according to expectations due to equipment failure, suboptimal weather conditions or other factors beyond our control. All of the aforementioned risks could reduce the availability of viable solar energy projects for development. Furthermore, at the development or acquisition stage, because of the nascent nature of the renewable energy industry and the limited experience with the relevant technology, our ability to predict actual performance results may be hindered and the projects may not perform as predicted.

Page 15

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

We may be adversely impacted by natural disasters, pandemic illness, terrorist activities and other extreme events to which we may not be able to promptly respond.

Local or national natural disasters, pandemic illness, terrorist activities and other extreme events are a threat to our assets and operations. Companies in our industry and located in our service territory may face a heightened risk due to exposure to acts of terrorism that could target or impact our natural gas distribution, transmission and storage facilities and result in a disruption in our operations and ability to meet customer requirements. In addition, the threat of terrorist activities could lead to increased economic instability and volatility in the price of natural gas that could affect our operations. Natural disasters or actual or threatened terrorist activities may also disrupt capital markets and our ability to raise capital, or impact our suppliers or our customers directly. Local disaster or pandemic illness could result in part of our workforce being unable to operate or maintain our infrastructure or perform other tasks necessary to conduct our business. In addition, these risks could result in loss of human life, significant damage to property, environmental damage, impairment of our operations and substantial loss to us. Our regulators may not allow us to recover from our customers part or all of the increased cost related to the foregoing events, which would negatively affect our earnings.

We maintain emergency planning and training programs to remain ready to respond to events that could cause business interruption. However, a slow or inadequate response to events may have an adverse impact on operations and earnings. We may not be able to obtain sufficient insurance to cover all risks associated with local and national disasters, pandemic illness, terrorist activities and other events, which could increase the risk that an event could adversely affect our operations or financial results.

A work stoppage could adversely affect our natural gas distribution operations and results.

The majority of our natural gas distribution segment workforce is represented by the IBEW Local 1820 (Union) and is covered by a collective bargaining agreement that will expire in December 2016. Disputes with the Union over terms and conditions of the agreement could result in instability in our labor relationship and work stoppages that could impact the timely delivery of gas and other services from our utility, which could strain relationships with customers and state regulators and cause a loss of revenues that could adversely affect our results of operations. Our collective bargaining agreement may also increase the cost of employing our natural gas distribution segment workforce, affect our ability to continue offering market-based salaries and employee benefits, limit our flexibility in dealing with our workforce, and limit our ability to change work rules and practices and implement other efficiency-related improvements to successfully compete in today's challenging marketplace.

NJR is subject to governmental regulation. Compliance with current and future regulatory requirements and procurement of necessary approvals, permits and certificates may result in substantial costs to NJR.

NJR and its subsidiaries are subject to substantial regulation from federal, state and local regulatory authorities. They are required to comply with numerous laws and regulations and to obtain numerous authorizations, permits, approvals and certificates from governmental agencies. These agencies regulate various aspects of their business, including customer rates, services and natural gas pipeline operations.

The FERC has regulatory authority over some of NJR's operations, including sales of natural gas in the wholesale market and the purchase and sale of interstate pipeline and storage capacity. Any Congressional legislation or agency regulation that would alter these or other similar statutory and regulatory structures in a way to significantly raise costs that could not be recovered in rates from customers, that would reduce the availability of supply or capacity or that would reduce NJR's competitiveness would negatively impact its earnings. In addition, the United States Senate has passed the the Pipeline Transportation Safety Improvement Act and if enacted will increase federal regulatory oversight and could also increase administrative costs that may not be recovered in rates from customers, which could have an adverse impact on NJR's earnings.

NJR and its subsidiaries cannot predict the impact of any future revisions or changes in interpretations of existing regulations or the adoption of new laws and applicable regulations. Changes in regulations or the imposition of additional regulations could influence their operating environment and may result in substantial costs to them.

Risks related to the regulation of NJNG could affect the rates it is able to charge, its costs and its profitability.

NJNG is subject to regulation by federal, state and local authorities. These authorities regulate many aspects of NJNG's distribution operations, including construction and maintenance of facilities, operations, safety, rates that NJNG can charge customers, rates of return, the authorized cost of capital, recovery of pipeline replacement and environmental remediation costs and relationships with its affiliates. NJNG's ability to obtain rate increases, including base rate increases, extend its BGSS incentive

Page 16

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

programs and maintain its currently authorized rates of return may be impacted by events, including regulatory or legislative actions. There can be no assurance that NJNG will be able to obtain rate increases, continue its BGSS incentive programs or continue the opportunity to earn its currently authorized rates of return.

Significant regulatory assets recorded by NJNG could be disallowed for recovery from customers in the future.

NJNG records regulatory assets on its financial statements to reflect the ratemaking and regulatory decision-making authority of the BPU as allowed by current GAAP. The creation of a regulatory asset allows for the deferral of costs which, absent a mechanism to recover such costs from customers in rates approved by the BPU, would be charged to expense on its income statement in the period incurred. Primary regulatory assets that are subject to BPU approval include the recovery of BGSS and Universal Service Fund (USF) costs, remediation costs associated with its MGP sites, the CIP, the New Jersey Clean Energy program, economic stimulus plans, certain deferred income tax and pension and other postemployment plans. If there were to be a change in regulatory position surrounding the collection of these deferred costs there could be a material impact on NJNG's financial position, operations and cash flows.

Termination of NJNG’s CIP may lead to a decrease in earnings and cash flows.

Customer conservation efforts have been increasing and as a result NJNG has seen a decrease in volumes of natural gas delivered to its customers. NJNG’s CIP has a usage component that is intended to mitigate the impact to earnings as a result of reductions in customer usage. The CIP is scheduled to expire on September 30, 2013. If the CIP is not renewed or replaced with a similar mechanism to decouple the link between customer usage and NJNG’s utility gross margin, NJNG’s results from operations and cash flows, and NJR’s results from operations and cash flows, could be adversely affected.

Risks related to a new regulatory framework for over-the-counter derivatives may result in substantial costs to NJR and have an adverse impact on our businesses.

The Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act of 2010 (Dodd-Frank Act) requires the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to introduce a comprehensive new regulatory framework for over-the-counter derivatives. The Dodd-Frank Act requires that swap transactions designated by the CFTC for clearing must be cleared and traded through a derivatives clearing organization, unless otherwise exempt. Although the CFTC's proposed regulations and legislative history of the Dodd-Frank Act provide strong evidence that market participants, such as NJRES and NJNG, which utilize derivative financial instruments to hedge commercial risks, would be exempt from mandatory clearing, we cannot be certain of the impact until the CFTC issues its final implementation regulations with respect to swaps. The effect of the Dodd-Frank Act's mandates with respect to derivatives on our business depends in large measure on pending CFTC rulemaking proceedings and, in particular, the final definitions for the key terms "Swap Dealer" and "Major Swap Participant" and on the breadth of the "end-user exception" to mandatory clearing under the regulations. Entities defined as Swap Dealers and Major Swap Participants will be required to register with the CFTC and the SEC, adhere to specified capital requirements and face costly requirements for clearing and posting margin, as well as additional requirements for disclosure to counterparties, reporting, recordkeeping and business conduct. Even though NJRES and NJNG currently clear most transactions, such regulations could materially affect our ability to economically hedge our purchases and sales of natural gas by increasing the collateral costs associated with such activities. Even if our businesses are not defined as Swap Dealers or Major Swap Participants, our margin requirements could rise when transacting with Swap Dealers or Major Swap Participants as a consequence of the new collateral requirements required of such entities. If we fail to comply with the new regulations, we could be subject to fines, penalties or other enforcement action by the authorities that regulate our operations, or otherwise be subject to material costs and liabilities.

NJR's charter and bylaws may delay or prevent a transaction that stockholders would view as favorable.

The certificate of incorporation and bylaws of NJR, as well as New Jersey law, contain provisions that could delay, defer or prevent an unsolicited change in control of NJR, which may negatively affect the market price of the common stock or the ability of stockholders to participate in a transaction in which they might otherwise receive a premium for their shares over the then current market price. These provisions also may prevent changes in management. In addition, the board of directors is authorized to issue preferred stock without stockholder approval on such terms as the board of directors may determine. The common stockholders will be subject to, and may be negatively affected by, the rights of any preferred stock that may be issued in the future. In addition, NJR is subject to the New Jersey Shareholders' Protection Act, which could delay or prevent a change of control of NJR.


Page 17

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS (Continued)                                                                                                                                        

NJR and its subsidiaries may be unable to obtain governmental approvals, property rights and/or financing for the construction, development and operation of its non-regulated energy investments.

Construction, development and operation of energy investments, such as natural gas storage facilities, pipeline transportation systems, solar energy projects and on-shore wind projects, are subject to federal and state regulatory oversight and require certain property rights and approvals, including permits and licenses for such facilities and systems. NJR, its subsidiaries, or its joint venture partnerships may be unable to obtain, in a cost-efficient or timely manner, all such needed property rights, permits and licenses in order to successfully construct and develop its non-regulated energy facilities and systems. Successful financing of NJR's energy investments requires participation by willing financial institutions and lenders, as well as acquisition of capital at favorable interest rates. If NJR and its subsidiaries do not obtain the necessary regulatory approvals and financing, their equity investments could be impaired, and such impairment could have a materially adverse effect on NJR's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

NJR is involved in legal or administrative proceedings before various courts and governmental bodies that could adversely affect the company's results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

NJR is involved in legal or administrative proceedings before various courts and governmental bodies with respect to general claims, rates, taxes, environmental issues, gas cost prudence reviews and other matters. Adverse decisions regarding these matters, to the extent they require NJR to make payments in excess of amounts provided for in its financial statements, could adversely affect NJR's results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

Changes in accounting standards may adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.

The SEC is currently considering whether publicly registered companies in the United States should be required to prepare financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) instead of the current GAAP in the United States. IFRS is a comprehensive set of accounting standards promulgated by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), which are currently in effect for most other countries in the world. Unlike U.S. GAAP, IFRS does not currently provide an industry accounting standard for rate-regulated activities. As such, if IFRS were adopted in its current state, we could be precluded from applying certain regulatory accounting principles, including the recognition of certain regulatory assets and regulatory liabilities. The potential issues associated with rate-regulated accounting, along with other potential changes associated with the adoption of IFRS, may adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations, should adoption of IFRS be required. Also, the U.S. Financial Accounting Standards Board is considering various changes to U.S. GAAP, some of which may be significant, as part of a joint effort with the IASB to converge accounting standards over the next several years. If approved, adoption of these changes could adversely impact our financial condition and results of operations.

NJR costs of compliance with present and future environmental laws are significant and could adversely affect its cash flows and profitability.

NJR's operations are subject to extensive federal, state and local environmental statutes, rules and regulations relating to air quality, water quality, waste management, natural resources and site remediation. Compliance with these laws and regulations may require NJR to expend significant financial resources to, among other things, conduct site remediation and perform environmental monitoring. If NJR fails to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations, even if it is unable to do so due to factors beyond its control, it may be subject to civil liabilities or criminal penalties and may be required to incur significant expenditures to come into compliance. Additionally, any alleged violations of environmental laws and regulations may require NJR to expend significant resources in its defense against alleged violations.

Furthermore, the United States Congress has for some time been considering various forms of climate change legislation. There is a possibility that, when and if enacted, the final form of such legislation could impact NJR's costs and put upward pressure on wholesale natural gas prices. Higher cost levels could impact the competitive position of natural gas and negatively affect our growth opportunities, cash flows and earnings.


ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS                                                                                                                        

None


Page 18

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I

ITEM 2. PROPERTIES                                                                                                                                                                  

NJNG (All properties are located in New Jersey)

NJNG owns approximately 6,860 miles of distribution main, 6,810 miles of service main, 228 miles of transmission main and approximately 519,000 meters. Mains are primarily located under public roads. Where mains are located under private property, NJNG has obtained easements from the owners of record. In October 2012, portions of NJNG's distribution system were severely damaged from the effects of Superstorm Sandy and as a result, natural gas service to those sections of the infrastructure were shut off. Normal operations of the affected portions of our service territory will resume upon completion of restoration efforts.

Additionally, NJNG owns and operates two LNG storage plants in Stafford Township, Ocean County, and Howell Township, Monmouth County. The two LNG plants have an aggregate estimated maximum capacity of approximately 170,000 dths per day. These facilities are used for peaking natural gas supply and emergencies.

NJNG owns four service centers located in Rockaway Township, Morris County; Atlantic Highlands and Wall Township, Monmouth County; and Lakewood, Ocean County. These service centers house storerooms, garages, gas distribution and administrative offices. NJNG leases its headquarters and customer service facilities in Wall Township, customer service offices in Asbury Park, Monmouth County, and a service center in Manahawkin, Ocean County. These customer service offices support customer contact, marketing, economic development and other functions.

Substantially all of NJNG's properties, not expressly excepted or duly released, are subject to the lien of an Indenture of Mortgage and Deed of Trust to BNY Midwest Trust Company, Chicago, Illinois, dated April 1, 1952, as amended by thirty-three supplemental indentures (Indenture), as security for NJNG's mortgage bonds, which totaled $269.8 million at September 30, 2012. In addition, under the terms of the Indenture, NJNG could have issued up to $591.2 million of additional first mortgage bonds as of September 30, 2012.

All Other Business Operations

As of September 30, 2012, CR&R's real estate portfolio consisted of 27 acres of undeveloped land in Monmouth County with a net book value of $5.4 million, 52 acres of undeveloped land in Atlantic County with a net book value of $2.1 million and a 56,400-square-foot office building on 5 acres of land in Monmouth County with a net book value of $8.3 million.

As of September 30, 2012, NJRES currently leases office space in Wall Township, New Jersey and in Houston, Texas for its business activities.

As of September 30, 2012, the Steckman Ridge partnership owns and/or leases mineral rights on approximately 8,300 acres of land in Bedford County, Pennsylvania, where it has developed a 17.7 Bcf natural gas storage facility with up to 12 Bcf of working gas capacity. The Company was obligated to fund up to $132.5 million associated with the construction and development of Steckman Ridge. As of September 30, 2012, NJR had invested $126.8 million in Steckman Ridge, excluding capitalized interest and other direct costs of $7.7 million and received cash distributions from Steckman Ridge of $30.2 million. Equipment on the property includes a compressor station, gathering pipelines and pipeline interconnections.

NJRHS leases service centers in Dover, Morris County and Wall, Monmouth County, New Jersey.

NJRCEV has various contracts, including lease agreements, that allow access rights for the installation and maintenance of solar equipment on property, including commercial and residential rooftops.

Capital Expenditure Program

See Item 7. Management Discussion and Analysis-Cash Flows for a discussion of anticipated fiscal 2013 and 2014 capital expenditures as applicable to NJR's business segments and business operations.


Page 19

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS                                                                                                                                                

Manufactured Gas Plant Remediation (MGP)

NJNG is responsible for the remedial cleanup of five MGP sites, dating back to gas operations in the late 1800s and early 1900s, which contain contaminated residues from former gas manufacturing operations. NJNG is currently involved in administrative proceedings with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), as well as participating in various studies and investigations by outside consultants to determine the nature and extent of any such contaminated residues and to develop appropriate programs of remedial action, where warranted, under Administrative Consent Orders or Memoranda of Agreement with the NJDEP.

NJNG may, subject to BPU approval, recover its remediation expenditures, including carrying costs, over rolling seven-year periods pursuant to a Remediation Adjustment (RA). In January 18, 2012, the BPU approved the recovery of the remediation expenditures incurred through June 30, 2009, which maintained the expected annual recovery at approximately $20 million. In February 2012, NJNG filed its 2011 Societal Benefits Clause (SBC) filing, requesting approval of its MGP expenditures incurred through June 30, 2011, which would continue its existing overall SBC rate and recovery. As of September 30, 2012, $59.7 million of previously incurred remediation costs, net of recoveries from customers and insurance proceeds, are included in regulatory assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

NJNG periodically and at least annually performs an environmental review of the MGP sites, including a review of potential liability for investigation and remedial action. NJNG estimated at the time of the review that total future expenditures to remediate and monitor the five MGP sites for which it is responsible, including potential liabilities for Natural Resource Damages that might be brought by the NJDEP for alleged injury to groundwater or other natural resources concerning these sites, will range from approximately $159.6 million to $266.4 million. NJNG's estimate of these liabilities is based upon known facts, existing technology and enacted laws and regulations in place when the review was completed. However, NJNG expects actual costs to differ from these estimates. Where it is probable that costs will be incurred, and the information is sufficient to establish a range of possible liability, NJNG accrues the best estimated amount in the range. If no point within the range is more likely than the other, it is NJNG's policy to accrue the lower end of the range. Accordingly, as of September 30, 2012, NJNG has recorded an MGP remediation liability and a corresponding regulatory asset of $182 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, based on the best estimate. The actual costs to be incurred by NJNG are dependent upon several factors, including final determination of remedial action, changing technologies and governmental regulations, the ultimate ability of other responsible parties to pay and any insurance recoveries.

NJNG will continue to seek recovery of MGP-related costs through the RA. If any future regulatory position indicates that the recovery of such costs is not probable, the related cost would be charged to income in the period of such determination. However, because recovery of such costs is subject to BPU approval, there can be no assurance as to the ultimate recovery through the RA or the impact on the Company's results of operations, financial position or cash flows, which could be material.

General

The Company is party to various other claims, legal actions and complaints arising in the ordinary course of business. In the Company's opinion, other than as disclosed in this Item 3, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.


ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES                                                                                                                                     

Not applicable



Page 20

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I
 
ITEM 4A. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY                                                                                                       


The Company's Executive Officers and their business experience, age, and office are set forth below.
Office
Name
Age
Officer
Since
Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer
Laurence M. Downes
55
1986
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, NJNG and Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Marketing
Kathleen T. Ellis
59
2004
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Glenn C. Lockwood
51
1990
Senior Vice President and General Counsel
Mariellen Dugan
46
2005
Senior Vice President, NJRES
Stephen Westhoven
44
2004
President, NJRCEV and NJRHS
Stanley M. Kosierowski
60
2008
Vice President, Corporate Services, NJR Service
Deborah G. Zilai
59
1996

Laurence M. Downes, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Downes has held the position of Chairman of the Board since September 1996. He has held the position of President and Chief Executive Officer since July 1995. From January 1990 to July 1995, he held the position of Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer.

Kathleen T. Ellis, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, NJNG and Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Marketing

Ms. Ellis has held the position of Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs since December 2004 and the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of NJNG since February 2008. She also held the position of Senior Vice President, Corporate Affairs and Marketing of NJNG from July 2007 to February 2008. From December 2002 to November 2004, she held the position of Director of Communications for the Governor of the State of New Jersey, and from August 1998 to December 2002, she held the position of Manager of Communications and Director, State Governmental Affairs for Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G), a combined gas and electric utility company based in Newark, New Jersey.

Glenn C. Lockwood, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Mr. Lockwood has held the position of Executive Vice President since January 2011. He has held the position of Chief Financial Officer since September 1995 and held the position of Senior Vice President from January 1996 to December 2010. From January 1994 to September 1995, he held the position of Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer. From January 1990 to January 1994, he held the position of Assistant Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer.

Mariellen Dugan, Senior Vice President and General Counsel

Ms. Dugan has held the position of Senior Vice President and General Counsel since February 2008. She previously held the position of Vice President and General Counsel from December 2005 to February 2008. Prior to joining NJR, from February 2004 to November 2005, she held the position of First Assistant Attorney General for the State of New Jersey, and from February 2003 to February 2004, she held the position of Chief of Staff, Executive Assistant Attorney General of the State of New Jersey. From July 1999 to January 2003, Ms. Dugan was Of Counsel to the law firm of Kevin H. Marino P.C. in Newark, New Jersey.

Stephen Westhoven, Senior Vice President, NJRES

Mr. Westhoven has held the position of Senior Vice President, NJRES since May 2010. He joined NJNG in November 1990. Prior to his current position, he worked in the engineering and gas supply departments of NJNG, before becoming Director, and eventually serving as Vice President of Energy Trading at NJRES from January 2004 to May 2010.

 

Page 21

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part I

ITEM 4A. EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE COMPANY (Continued)                                                                                   



Stanley M. Kosierowski, President, NJRCEV and NJRHS

Mr. Kosierowski has held the position of President, NJRCEV and NJRHS since May 2010. He joined NJRCEV in September 2008 as Vice President. He also held the position of Vice President, Strategy and Operations of NJR from July 2009 to May 2010. Prior to his joining NJRCEV, he held the position of Chief Operating Officer of the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Trenton, New Jersey, from January 2004 to September 2008 and had a 30-year career at PSE&G where his last position held was President of Energy Technologies until December 2003.

Deborah G. Zilai, Vice President, Corporate Services, NJR Service

Mrs. Zilai has held the position of Vice President, Corporate Services, NJR Service since June 2005. She joined New Jersey Resources in June 1996 after a 20-year career at International Business Machines Corporation, where she held various management positions. Her current responsibilities include technology and human resources. From June 1996 to May 2005, she served as Vice President, Information Systems and Services.


Page 22

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II


ITEM 5. MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES                                                                                                                    

NJR's Common Stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol NJR. As of September 30, 2012, NJR had 39,235 holders of record of its common stock.

NJR's common stock high and low sales prices and dividends paid per share were as follows:
 
2012
2011
Dividends Paid
 
High
Low
High
Low
2012
2011
Fiscal Quarter
 
 
 
 
 
 
First
$50.48
$40.10
$44.10
$38.94
$0.36
$0.34
Second
$50.28
$43.86
$44.09
$40.24
$0.38
$0.36
Third
$45.50
$41.11
$46.29
$41.22
$0.38
$0.36
Fourth
$47.53
$43.40
$47.45
$39.60
$0.38
$0.36

The following table sets forth NJR's repurchase activity for the quarter ended September 30, 2012:
Period
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased
Average Price Paid per Share (or Unit)
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) That May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
07/01/12 - 07/31/12
$


 
1,242,870
08/01/12 - 08/31/12
$


 
1,242,870
09/01/12 - 09/30/12
$


 
1,242,870
Total
$


 
1,242,870
(1)
The stock repurchase plan, which was authorized by our Board of Directors, became effective in September 1996 and includes 8,750,000 shares of common stock for repurchase, of which, as of September 30, 2012, 1,242,870 shares remained for repurchase. The stock repurchase plan will expire when we have repurchased all shares authorized for repurchase thereunder, unless the repurchase plan is earlier terminated by action of our Board of Directors or additional shares are authorized for repurchase.



Page 23

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA                                                                                                                                   

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATISTICS
(Thousands, except per share data)
 
 
 
 
 
Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
 
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
2,248,923

$
3,009,209

$
2,639,304

$
2,592,460

$
3,816,210

Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
Gas purchases
1,841,408

2,550,571

2,167,558

2,245,169

3,330,756

Operation and maintenance
171,045

163,111

148,565

149,151

148,384

Regulatory rider expenses
40,350

51,246

45,966

44,992

39,666

Depreciation and amortization
41,643

34,370

32,267

30,328

38,464

Energy and other taxes
45,787

66,910

56,823

74,750

65,602

Total operating expenses
2,140,233

2,866,208

2,451,179

2,544,390

3,622,872

Operating income
108,690

143,001

188,125

48,070

193,338

Other income
2,128

3,747

5,258

4,409

4,368

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest
20,844

19,623

21,251

21,014

25,811

Income before income taxes
89,974

127,125

172,132

31,465

171,895

Income tax provision
7,729

37,665

64,692

11,376

66,034

Equity in earnings of affiliates
10,634

11,839

10,017

7,153

3,307

Net income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

$
27,242

$
109,168

Total assets
$
2,770,005

$
2,649,444

$
2,563,133

$
2,321,030

$
2,635,297

 
 
 
 
 
 
CAPITALIZATION
 
 
 
 
 
Common stock equity
$
813,865

$
776,257

$
725,483

$
689,726

$
728,068

Long-term debt
525,169

426,797

428,925

455,492

455,117

Total capitalization
$
1,339,034

$
1,203,054

$
1,154,408

$
1,145,218

$
1,183,185

 
 
 
 
 
 
COMMON STOCK DATA
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per share-Basic
$2.24
$2.45
$2.84
$0.65
$2.61
Earnings per share-Diluted
$2.23
$2.44
$2.82
$0.64
$2.59
Dividends declared per share
$1.52
$1.44
$1.36
$1.24
$1.11
 
 
 
 
 
 
NON-GAAP RECONCILIATION
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

$
27,242

$
109,168

Add:
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative instruments and related transactions, net of taxes
22,631

23,320

(16,825
)
39,254

(6,028
)
Effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory, net of taxes
(3,093
)
(18,086
)
1,132

34,474

(9,325
)
Net financial earnings (1)
$
112,417

$
106,533

$
101,764

$
100,970

$
93,815

 
 
 
 
 
 
Net financial earnings per share-Basic
$2.71
$2.58
$2.46
$2.40
$2.24
Net financial earnings per share-Diluted
$2.70
$2.56
$2.44
$2.38
$2.22
(1)
Net financial earnings (NFE) is a financial measure not calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) of the United States. NFE eliminates the timing differences surrounding the recognition of certain gains or losses, to effectively match the earnings effects of economic hedges associated with the physical sale or purchase of gas and, therefore, eliminates the impact of volatility to GAAP earnings associated with the related derivative instruments. For further discussion of this financial measure, see the Energy Services segment and Retail and Other Operations in Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Page 24

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA (Continued)                                                                                                              

NJNG OPERATING STATISTICS
Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
Operating revenues ($ in thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
$
363,780

$
579,038

$
471,056

$
686,798

$
594,147

Commercial, industrial and other
88,484

116,043

112,582

144,565

149,177

Firm transportation
60,599

57,126

45,616

40,356

28,634

Total residential and commercial
512,863

752,207

629,254

871,719

771,958

Interruptible
6,510

7,029

8,454

5,711

11,840

Total system
519,373

759,236

637,708

877,430

783,798

BGSS incentive programs
108,340

212,488

307,772

204,571

295,026

Total operating revenues
$
627,713

$
971,724

$
945,480

$
1,082,001

$
1,078,824

Throughput (Bcf)
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
32.9

42.3

40.3

43.6

40.8

Commercial, industrial and other
6.5

8.3

8.2

9.8

9.0

Firm transportation
11.2

12.2

10.1

9.4

8.9

Total residential and commercial
50.6

62.8

58.6

62.8

58.7

Interruptible
10.3

8.3

7.7

4.1

6.4

Total system
60.9

71.1

66.3

66.9

65.1

BGSS incentive programs
99.6

107.0

83.9

66.1

34.5

Total throughput
160.5

178.1

150.2

133.0

99.6

Customers at year-end
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
423,871

428,694

438,274

437,793

437,655

Commercial, industrial and other
24,985

25,666

26,312

27,771

29,002

Firm transportation
51,214

40,523

25,724

20,965

16,830

Total residential and commercial
500,070

494,883

490,310

486,529

483,487

Interruptible
41

41

43

45

46

BGSS incentive programs
32

40

40

36

27

Total customers at year-end
500,143

494,964

490,393

486,610

483,560

Interest coverage ratio (1)
10.85

10.73

9.43

8.19

6.08

Average therm use per customer
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
775

986

919

995

931

Commercial, industrial and other
3,675

4,350

4,986

4,777

5,303

Degree days (2)
3,698

4,686

4,341

4,791

4,399

Weather as a percent of normal (3)
78
%
99
%
91
%
101
%
91
%
Number of employees
611

590

582

613

572

(1)
NJNG's income from operations divided by interest expense.
(2)
Degree-day is the measure of the variation in the weather based on the extent to which the average daily temperature falls below 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
(3)
Normal heating degree-days are based on a twenty-year average, calculated based upon three reference areas representative of NJNG's service territory.



Page 25

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS                                                                                                                                                                                   

Forward-looking and Cautionary Statements

From time to time, we may make statements that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe-harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on the Company's then-current expectations and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those addressed in the forward-looking statements. Information concerning forward-looking statements is set forth on page one of this annual report and is incorporated herein. A detailed discussion of risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from such forward-looking statements is included in Item 1A. Risk Factors beginning on page 10 and are incorporated herein. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Management's Overview

New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR or the Company) is an energy services holding company providing retail natural gas service in New Jersey and wholesale natural gas and related energy services to customers in states from the Gulf Coast and Mid-Continent regions to the Appalachian and Northeast regions, the West Coast and Canada through two of its subsidiaries, New Jersey Natural Gas (NJNG) and NJR Energy Services (NJRES).

Comprising the Natural Gas Distribution segment, NJNG is a natural gas utility that provides regulated retail natural gas service in central and northern New Jersey and also participates in the off-system sales and capacity release markets. NJNG is regulated by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU).

NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJRCEV) was formed for the purpose of investing in renewable energy projects. In fiscal 2010, NJR entered the solar energy markets and began planning for capital investments primarily consisting of residential and commercial rooftop and ground mount solar systems, during which time the results of operations, assets and other financial information were reported as components of Retail and Other operations.

NJRES comprises the Energy Services segment. NJRES maintains and transacts around a portfolio of physical assets consisting of natural gas storage and transportation contracts. In addition, NJRES provides wholesale energy services to non-affiliated utility and energy companies.

The Energy Holdings segment includes NJR Energy Holdings Corporation (NJREH), which primarily invests in energy-related ventures through its subsidiaries, NJNR Pipeline Company (Pipeline), which holds the Company's 5.53 percent ownership interest in Iroquois Gas Transmission L.P. (Iroquois) and NJR Steckman Ridge Storage Company, which holds the Company's 50 percent combined interest in Steckman Ridge GP, LLC and Steckman Ridge, LP (collectively, Steckman Ridge), a natural gas storage facility in Pennsylvania.

The retail and other business operations (Retail and Other) includes: NJR Home Services (NJRHS), which provides service, sales and installation of appliances, as well as solar installation projects; NJR Energy Corporation (NJR Energy), a company that invests in energy-related ventures; NJR Plumbing Services (NJRPS), which provides plumbing repair and installation services; Commercial Realty and Resources (CR&R), which holds and develops commercial real estate; and NJR Service Corporation (NJR Service), which provides support services to the various NJR businesses.

Assets by business segment and operations at September 30, is as follows:
($ in thousands)
2012
 
2011
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
2,005,520

72
 %
 
$
1,942,691

74
 %
Clean Energy Ventures
223,247

8

 
80,234

3

Energy Services
347,406

12

 
400,882

15

Energy Holdings
157,779

6

 
159,940

6

Retail and Other
73,298

3

 
87,066

3

Intercompany assets (1)
(37,245
)
(1
)
 
(21,369
)
(1
)
Total
$
2,770,005

100
 %
 
$
2,649,444

100
 %
(1)
Consists of transactions between subsidiaries that are eliminated and reclassified in consolidation.

Page 26

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


An increase in capital expenditures associated with solar investments at Clean Energy Ventures was the primary contributor to the increase in assets, partially offset by a decrease at Energy Services in both accounts receivable and gas in storage during fiscal 2012.

Net income (loss) by business segment and operations for the fiscal years ended September 30, is as follows:
($ in Thousands)
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Net income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
73,238

79
 %
 
$
71,322

70
%
 
$
70,242

60
 %
Clean Energy Ventures
19,452

21

 
6,761

7

 
(593
)

Energy Services
(8,605
)
(10
)
 
13,479

13

 
42,711

36

Energy Holdings
6,749

7

 
6,780

7

 
6,444

5

Retail and Other
2,366

3

 
3,087

3

 
(1,119
)
(1
)
Eliminations (1)
(321
)

 
(130
)

 
(228
)

Total
$
92,879

100
 %
 
$
101,299

100
%
 
$
117,457

100
 %
(1)
Consists of transactions between subsidiaries that are eliminated in consolidation.

Included in net income are unrealized (losses) gains in the Energy Services segment of $(22.5) million, $(23.2) million and $19 million, after taxes, for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively and realized gains (losses) of $3.1 million, $18.1 million and $(1.1) million, after taxes, for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, which are related to financial derivative instruments that have settled and are designed to economically hedge natural gas still in inventory.

Net income for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2010, includes unrealized (losses) of $(2) million, after taxes, related to a financial natural gas swap in the Retail and Other operations that was used to economically hedge a gas sale contract and has since expired.

Management of the Company uses non-Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (non-GAAP) measures, noted as "net financial earnings," when evaluating the operating results of NJRES. Net financial earnings (NFE) is a measure of the earnings based on eliminating timing differences surrounding the recognition of certain gains or losses, to effectively match the earnings effects of the economic hedges with the physical sale of gas and, therefore, eliminates the impact of volatility to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) earnings associated with the derivative instruments.

NFE by business segment and operations for the fiscal years ended September 30, is as follows:
($ in Thousands)
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Net financial earnings (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
73,238

65
%
 
$
71,322

67
%
 
$
70,242

69
 %
Clean Energy Ventures
19,452

17

 
6,761

6

 
(593
)
(1
)
Energy Services
10,791

10

 
18,583

18

 
24,814

25

Energy Holdings
6,749

6

 
6,780

6

 
6,444

6

Retail and Other
2,366

2

 
3,087

3

 
857

1

Eliminations (1)
(179
)

 


 


Total
$
112,417

100
%
 
$
106,533

100
%
 
$
101,764

100
 %
(1)
Consists of transactions between subsidiaries that are eliminated in consolidation.

Natural Gas Distribution Segment

Our natural gas distribution segment has approximately 500,100 residential and commercial customers in its service territory. The business is subject to various risks, such as those associated with adverse economic conditions that can negatively impact customer growth, operating and financing costs, fluctuations in commodity prices, which can impact customer usage, customer conservation efforts, certain regulatory actions, environmental remediation and severe weather conditions. It is often difficult to predict the impact of events or trends associated with these risks. NJNG employs certain strategies to mitigate the challenges it faces, including managing the integrity of its infrastructure, pursuing customer conversions from other fuel sources and monitoring new construction markets through contact with developers, utilizing BGSS incentive programs through BPU-approved mechanisms to reduce gas costs, pursuing rate and other regulatory strategies designed to stabilize and decouple margin, and working actively with consultants and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) to manage expectations related to its obligations associated with NJNG's manufactured gas plant (MGP) sites.

Page 27

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


In October 2012, high winds, heavy rainfall and the related flooding associated with Post Tropical Cyclone Sandy, commonly referred to as Superstorm Sandy (Superstorm Sandy) caused significant damage to portions of NJNG's distribution system. As a result, NJNG shut off the natural gas infrastructure in certain areas of its service territory that were most heavily damaged, affecting approximately 30,100 of NJNG's customers.

We anticipate that Superstorm Sandy and its aftermath will influence our financial results but are still assessing the damages. NJR and NJNG are unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss related to Superstorm Sandy, however, such costs could be material. The financial effects can include lower operating revenues, lower utility gross margin due to extended outages and inability to bill and collect revenues, and higher capital expenditures related to the restoration, repair or replacement of damaged equipment and assets. On November 19, 2012, NJNG filed a petition with the BPU requesting deferral accounting for actually incurred uninsured incremental operating and maintenance costs associated with Superstorm Sandy. In addition, NJNG requested the review of and the appropriate amortization period for such deferred expenses be addressed in the Company's next base rate case. However, there can be no assurances that such recovery mechanisms will be available or, if available, no assurances can be given relative to the timing or amount of such recovery.

While we believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our current obligations and to begin to fund restoration efforts from a combination of cash-on-hand and available capacity under revolving credit facilities, we may need to seek additional financing to fully fund restoration efforts.

NJNG's operations are managed with the goal of providing safe and reliable service, growing profitably and promoting clean energy programs through several key initiatives including:

Earning a reasonable rate of return on the investments in its natural gas distribution system, as well as timely recovery of all prudently incurred costs in order to provide safe and reliable service throughout NJNG's territory;

Working with the BPU and the New Jersey Division of Rate Counsel (Rate Counsel), on the continuation of the Conservation Incentive Program (CIP). The CIP allows NJNG to promote conservation programs to its customers while maintaining protection of its utility gross margin, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, against potential losses associated with reduced customer usage. CIP usage differences are calculated annually and are recovered one year following the end of the CIP usage year. Utility gross margin is defined as natural gas revenues less natural gas purchases, sales tax, a Transitional Energy Facilities Assessment (TEFA) and regulatory rider expenses. See the Results of Operations section of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for a further discussion of utility gross margin;

Managing its new customer growth rate, which is expected to be approximately 1.3 percent annually over the next two years;

Generating earnings from various BPU-authorized gross margin-sharing BGSS incentive programs;

Maintaining the integrity of its infrastructure, while working with the BPU to accelerate certain infrastructure projects in an effort to stimulate the local and state economies, while earning a return on investment;

Coordinating with the BPU on energy efficiency projects; and

Managing the volatility of wholesale natural gas prices through a hedging program designed to keep customers' Basic Gas Supply Service (BGSS) rates as stable as possible.

Conservation Incentive Program

The CIP eliminates the disincentive to promote conservation and energy efficiency and facilitates normalizing NJNG's utility gross margin recoveries for variances not only due to weather but also for other factors affecting usage, including customer conservation. Recovery of utility gross margin for the non-weather variance through the CIP is limited to the amount of certain gas supply cost savings achieved and is subject to an earnings test.


Page 28

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


An annual review of the CIP must be filed in June, coincident with NJNG's annual BGSS filing. Effective October 1, 2010, the BPU approved recovery of $12.1 million annually, an increase of $5.2 million, for accrued and estimated CIP amounts through September 30, 2010. In June 2011, NJNG filed for a change in the CIP rates, effective October 1, 2011, which resulted in a decrease to residential heat customers and a minor increase to all other customers. The change was approved by the BPU in May 2012. In June 2012, NJNG filed for a decrease in the CIP rate for residential non-heating customers and an increase in the CIP rates for residential heating and commercial customers. The CIP rates were approved by the BPU with changes effective October 12, 2012. See Note 3. Regulation in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements and the Results of Operations section of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for more information on the impact to utility gross margin.

As of September 30, 2012, NJNG has $35 million in regulatory assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets related to CIP accrued to be recovered in future periods from customers.

Customer growth

In conducting NJNG's business, management focuses on factors it believes may have significant influence on its future financial results. NJNG's policy is to work with all stakeholders, including customers, regulators and policymakers, to achieve favorable results. These factors include the rate of NJNG's customer growth in its service territory, which can be influenced by political and regulatory policies, the delivered cost of natural gas compared with competing fuels, interest rates and general economic conditions.

During fiscal 2012, NJNG added 6,704 new customers, which represents a customer growth rate of 1.4 percent, and converted 539 existing customers to natural gas heat and other services. This customer growth is expected to increase annual utility gross margin by approximately $3.7 million. NJNG currently expects to add, in total, approximately 12,000 to 14,000 new customers in fiscal 2013 and fiscal 2014. We believe that this growth rate would increase utility gross margin under NJNG's base rates by approximately $3.3 million annually, as calculated under NJNG's CIP tariff.

Commodity prices

Our natural gas distribution segment is affected by the price of natural gas, which can have a significant impact on our cash flows, short-term financing costs, gas costs recovered from customers, NJNG's ability to collect accounts receivable, which impacts our bad debt expense, and our ability to maintain a competitive advantage over other fuel sources. Natural gas commodity prices may experience high volatility as indicated by New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) settlement prices, which ranged from $2.04 per MMBtu (Million Metric British thermal unit) to $3.76 per MMBtu and from $3.29 per MMBtu to $4.38 per MMBtu during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of September 30, 2012, forward natural gas prices for the next twelve months on the NYMEX, which serve as a market indicator, averaged $3.74 per MMBtu, 32.2 percent higher than the average settlement price of $2.83 per MMBtu during fiscal 2012.

In order to provide price stability to its natural gas supply portfolio, NJNG employs a hedging strategy with the goal of having at least 75 percent of the Company's projected winter gas purchase volumes hedged by the beginning of the winter heating season and at least 25 percent of the gas purchase requirements hedged for the following April through March period. This is accomplished with financial derivatives, including those that are used in the BGSS incentive programs described below.

NJNG's cost of gas is passed through to our customers, without markup, by applying NJNG's authorized BGSS tariff rate to actual therms delivered. There is no utility gross margin associated with BGSS costs, therefore, changes in such costs do not impact NJNG's earnings. NJNG's cost of gas includes the purchased cost of the natural gas, fees paid to pipelines and storage facilities, adjustments as a result of BGSS incentive programs and hedging transactions. NJNG monitors its actual gas costs in comparison to its tariff rates to manage its cash flows associated with its allowed recovery of gas costs, which is facilitated through BPU-approved deferred accounting and the BGSS pricing mechanism. Accordingly, NJNG occasionally adjusts its periodic BGSS rates for its residential and small commercial customers to reflect changes in the cost of natural gas and can extend credits or refunds to its customers when the commodity cost is trending lower than the current BGSS rate. BGSS rates for its large commercial customers are changed monthly based on NYMEX prices.

During fiscal 2012, NJNG issued bill credits of $85.9 million to residential and small commercial customers as a result of the decline in the wholesale price of natural gas and a change in the methodology used to develop estimates of unaccounted-for gas. There were no bill credits during fiscal 2011.

Page 29

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJNG also manages these prices from time to time with rate adjustments. In June 2011, NJNG filed for a 9.1 percent decrease for the average residential heat customer as a result of lower natural gas prices and natural gas purchasing strategies approved by the BPU, effective October 4, 2011 with an approximate $16 million impact on cash flows. On March 9, 2012, NJNG notified the BPU of a 3.6 percent decrease related to its BGSS rate, effective April 1, 2012, which will have an annual impact of approximately $19 million on cash flows. A more detailed discussion of the impacts of the price of natural gas to operating revenues, gas purchases and cash flows can be found in the Results of Operations and Cash Flow sections of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

BGSS incentive programs

NJNG is eligible to receive financial incentives for reducing BGSS costs through a series of utility gross margin-sharing programs that include Off-System Sales, Capacity Release, Storage Incentive and Financial Risk Management (FRM) programs. Effective August 18, 2011, the BPU approved an extension of NJNG's BGSS incentive programs for four years through October 31, 2015, maintaining the existing margin-sharing percentages. This agreement also permits the Company to annually propose a process to evaluate and discuss alternative incentive programs, should performance of the existing incentives or market conditions warrant re-evaluation.

Utility gross margin from BGSS incentive programs was $9.4 million, $9.3 million and $9.4 million during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012 , 2011 and 2010, respectively. A more detailed discussion of the impacts to margin can be found in the Results of Operations section of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Environmental remediation

As a regulated company, NJNG is required to recognize the impact of regulatory decisions on its financial statements. As a result, significant costs are deferred and treated as regulatory assets, pending BPU decisions regarding their ultimate recovery from customers. The most significant costs incurred that are subject to this accounting treatment include MGP remediation costs recovered through remediation adjustment (RA) and wholesale natural gas costs recovered through BGSS. Actual remediation costs may vary from management's estimates due to the developing nature of remediation requirements, regulatory decisions by the NJDEP and related litigation. NJNG reviews these costs at the end of each fiscal year and adjusts its liability and corresponding regulatory asset as necessary to reflect its expected obligation.

NJNG has recognized a regulatory asset and a regulatory liability of $182 million as of September 30, 2012, a decrease of $900,000, or .5 percent, compared with the prior year.

NJNG is currently authorized to recover remediation costs of approximately $20 million annually. If there are changes in the regulatory position on the recovery of these costs as determined by the BPU, such costs would be charged to income in the period of such determination.

Infrastructure projects

NJNG has significant annual capital expenditures associated with the management of its natural gas distribution and transmission system and its associated pipeline integrity.

During fiscal 2009, NJNG implemented its Accelerated Infrastructure Program (AIP), as approved by the BPU, to enhance the reliability of NJNG's gas distribution system and to support economic development and job growth in New Jersey. Since inception of the program,the BPU has approved total infrastructure investments of $131 million, including $70.8 million related to the initial phase of construction projects (AIP I) and $60.2 million related to the second phase of construction projects (AIP II). NJNG defers the costs associated with the AIP projects, including NJNG's weighted cost of capital, and upon regulatory approval recovers these investments through its base rates. During fiscal 2011 NJNG had approval from the BPU to recover approximately $4.2 million for AIP I expenditures incurred through August 31, 2010, including an overall weighted average cost of capital of 7.76 percent. During fiscal 2012 NJNG had approval from the BPU to recover approximately $8.9 million annually, related to AIP I and AIP II infrastructure investments installed in NJNG's distribution and transmission systems. The rate changes included a weighted average cost of capital of 7.12 percent for AIP II. The existing weighted average cost of capital for AIP I remained the same. On November 20, 2012, NJNG filed for AIP base rate cost recovery, which represented an increase of $6.9 million to $15.8 million annually, related to AIP I and AIP II infrastructure investments installed in NJNG's distribution and transmission systems through October 31, 2012. The existing weighted average cost of capital remained the same for both AIP I and AIP II. The base rate change is requested to be approved effective March 1, 2013.

Page 30

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


On March 20, 2012, NJNG filed a petition with the BPU seeking to implement a Safety Acceleration and Facility Enhancement (SAFE) program, whereby NJNG would invest up to $204 million over a five-year period to replace portions of NJNG's gas distribution bare steel and cast iron infrastructure. NJNG entered into a stipulation with the BPU Staff and Rate Counsel, which was approved by the BPU on October 23, 2012, to include a four-year incremental investment program of $130 million, exclusive of AFUDC accruals.

In fiscal 2012, committed or spent capital expenditures totaled $120.1 million, including $46.7 million related to AIP II, which ends in October 2012, and cost of removal. In fiscal 2013 and 2014, NJNG has estimated capital expenditures of $119.3 million and $119.9 million, respectively, including SAFE construction costs of $34.6 million and $43.4 million, respectively. Expenditure estimates are subject to change and do not include costs associated with the restoration of damages to NJNG's infrastructure that occurred as a result of Superstorm Sandy. In addition, estimated capital expenditures are reviewed on a regular basis and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints, environmental regulations, unforeseen events, and the ability to access capital.

Other initiatives

NJNG administers BPU approved EE programs, which facilitate home energy audits and provide financing alternatives including rebates and other incentives designed to encourage the installation of high efficiency heating and cooling equipment. Depending on the specific initiative, NJNG recovers costs associated with the programs over a four to ten-year period. On January 18, 2012, the BPU approved the extension of the program through January 18, 2013, with an additional $10.4 million of investments in customer incentives and rebates, earning a weighted average return of 7.1 percent, including a cost of equity of 10.3 percent. On July 9, 2012, NJNG filed two petitions with the BPU that include the 2012 rate filing to reconcile BPU approved actual costs for EE programs and an extension of the EE programs over a four-year period, with modifications to include certain new programs. The Company's petition requests a BPU decision in early 2013. The BPU has approved total EE expenditures of $35.3 million, of which NJNG has spent $29.2 million as of September 30, 2012.

See Note 3. Regulation in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for a more detailed discussion on regulatory actions and recovery related to NJNG's EE programs.

On June 18, 2012, the BPU approved a pilot program for NJNG to invest up to $10 million to build compressed natural gas vehicle refueling stations in Monmouth, Ocean and Morris counties. NJNG intends to begin construction of the stations within one year and submit a cost recovery filing to the BPU in the spring of 2013, requesting a base rate change to be effective in the summer of 2013, earning an overall weighted average cost of capital of 7.1 percent, including a cost of equity of 10.3 percent. A portion of the proceeds from the utilization of the compressed natural gas (CNG) equipment, along with any available federal and state incentives, will be credited back to ratepayers to help offset the cost of this investment.

Interest Rate Risk

Due to the capital-intensive nature of NJNG's operations and the seasonal nature of its working capital requirements, significant changes in interest rates can also impact NJNG's results. A more detailed discussion can be found in the Liquidity and Capital Resources and Cash Flow sections of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Clean Energy Ventures Segment

NJRCEV actively pursues opportunities in the solar renewable energy markets and has entered into various agreements to install solar equipment involving both residential and commercial projects. Projects that are placed in service qualify for a 30 percent federal investment tax credit (ITC) and once the projects commence operations, for each Megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity produced, a Solar Renewable Energy Certificate (SREC) is created.

During fiscal 2012, capital expenditures committed or spent related to the purchase and installation of the equipment associated with these projects were $100.3 million. In October 2012, a portion of a 1.5 MW rooftop commercial solar array sustained damage as a result of Superstorm Sandy. The extent of the damage is still being evaluated, therefore, we are unable to estimate a loss or range of loss or related insurance recovery.


Page 31

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJRCEV's investments are subject to a variety of factors, including logistics associated with the start-up of residential and commercial solar projects, such as timing of construction schedules, the permitting and regulatory process, any delays related to electric grid interconnection, which may affect our ability to commence operations at these projects on a timely basis or, at all, economic trends, unforeseen events and the ability to access capital or allocation of capital to other investments or business opportunities. Projects not placed in service prior to a period end, would result in a failure to qualify for ITCs and SRECs and could have a significant adverse impact on earnings. In addition, since the primary contributors toward the value of qualifying renewable energy projects are the ITC and SRECs, changes in the federal statutes related to the ITC or in the markets surrounding SRECs, which can be traded or sold to load serving entities that need to comply with state renewable energy standards, could also significantly affect earnings.

These investments are subject to a variety of factors, including logistics associated with the start-up of commercial solar projects, such as timing of construction schedules, the permitting and regulatory process, and any delays related to electric grid interconnection, which may affect our ability to commence operations at these projects on a timely basis if at all. Projects not placed in service prior to a period end, would result in a failure to qualify for ITCs and SRECs and could have a significant adverse impact on earnings. In addition, since the primary contributors toward the value of qualifying renewable energy projects are the ITC and SRECs, changes in the federal statutes related to the ITC or in the markets surrounding SRECs, which can be traded or sold to load serving entities that need to comply with state renewable energy standards, could also significantly affect earnings.

Energy Services Segment

NJRES provides unregulated wholesale energy services and engages in the business of optimizing natural gas storage and transportation assets. The rights to these assets are contractually acquired in anticipation of delivering natural gas or performing asset management activities for customers or in conjunction with identifying arbitrage opportunities that exist in the marketplace. These arbitrage opportunities occur as a result of price differences between market locations and/or time horizons. These activities are conducted in the areas in which we have expertise and include states from the Gulf Coast and Mid-Continent regions to the Appalachian and Northeast regions, the West Coast and Canada. NJRES' optimization activities are impacted by changes in pricing between geographic locations and/or time periods. Margins are affected by volatility in natural gas markets and as a result NJRES' financial performance can significantly differ during periods of low or high volatility.

More specifically, NJRES activities consist of the following elements, which provide for growth, while focusing on maintaining a low-risk operating and counterparty credit profile:

Identifying and benefiting from variations in pricing of natural gas transportation and storage assets due to location or timing differences of natural gas prices to generate gross margin;

Providing natural gas portfolio management services to nonaffiliated utilities, natural gas producers and electric generation facilities;

Leveraging transactions for the delivery of natural gas to customers by aggregating the natural gas commodity costs and transportation costs in order to minimize the total cost required to provide and deliver natural gas to NJRES' customers by identifying the lowest cost alternative with the natural gas supply, transportation availability and markets to which NJRES is able to access through its business footprint and contractual asset portfolio; and

Managing economic hedging programs that are designed to mitigate adverse market price fluctuations in natural gas transportation and storage commitments.

NJRES focuses on creating value from natural gas assets, which are typically amassed through contractual rights to natural gas transportation and storage capacity. NJRES has developed a portfolio of natural gas storage and transportation capacity in states in the Gulf Coast, Mid-Continent, Appalachian, Northeast and West Coast regions of the United States and Canada. These assets become more valuable when prices change between these areas and across time periods. On a forward basis, NJRES may lock in these price differentials through the use of financial instruments. In addition, NJRES seeks to optimize these assets on a daily basis as market conditions change by evaluating all the natural gas supplies and transportation to which it has access. When market conditions allow, NJRES is able to capture geographic pricing differences across these various regions as delivered natural gas prices change. NJRES focuses on earning a margin on a single original transaction and then utilizing that transaction, and the changes in prices across the regions or across time periods, as the basis to further improve the initial result. This strategy is in large part dependent on volatility in natural gas markets, and is more challenging to execute in a period of economic downturn and resulting lower industrial gas consumption.

Page 32

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJRES transacts with a variety of counterparties including local distribution companies, industrial companies, electric generators, retail aggregators, natural gas producers and other wholesale marketing companies. The physical sales commitments to these counterparties allows NJRES to leverage its transportation and storage capacity. These physical sale commitments are managed in an aggregate fashion, and allows NJRES the ability to extract more value from its portfolio of natural gas storage and pipeline transportation capacity. NJRES' portfolio management customers include nonaffiliated utilities and electric generation plants. Services provided by NJRES include optimization of underutilized natural gas assets and basic gas supply functions.

Beginning in fiscal 2010, there has been a significant expansion of natural gas resources in the Northeast region as a result of drilling in the Marcellus Shale, which caused a general decrease in volatility in natural gas pricing in the Northeast. This has generally reduced the value of transportation and storage capacity in the northeast, a core market for NJRES. This downturn in volatility and capacity values could have a lasting effect on NJRES' earnings. NJRES has since looked into opportunities to provide asset management services to exploration and production companies working on the development of these natural gas resources.

In conducting its business, NJRES mitigates risk by following formal risk management guidelines, including transaction limits, approval processes, segregation of duties, and formal contract, credit review and approval procedures. NJRES continuously monitors and seeks to reduce the risk associated with its credit exposures with its various counterparties. The Risk Management Committee (RMC) of NJR oversees compliance with these established guidelines.

Energy Holdings Segment

NJR's subsidiary, NJR Energy Holdings Corporation, invests in natural gas assets, such as natural gas transportation and storage facilities. NJR believes that acquiring, owning and developing these midstream assets, which operate under a tariff structure that has either regulated or market-based rates, can provide a growth opportunity for the Company. To that end, NJR has ownership interests in Iroquois, a natural gas pipeline operating with regulated rates, and Steckman Ridge, a storage facility that operates under market-based rates, and is pursuing other potential opportunities that meet its investment and development criteria.

As of September 30, 2012, NJR's net investments in Steckman Ridge and Iroquois were $132.9 million and $22.9 million, respectively.

Retail and Other Operations

The financial results of Retail and Other have consisted primarily of the operating results of NJRHS, CR&R, and NJR Energy. NJRHS provides service, sales and installation of appliances to approximately 134,900 customers and has been focused on growing its installation business and expanding its service contract customer base. CR&R seeks additional opportunities to enhance the value of its undeveloped land and building. NJR Energy invests in other energy-related ventures through its operating subsidiaries. Retail and Other operations also include organizational expenses incurred at NJR.

Critical Accounting Policies

We prepare our financial statements in accordance with GAAP. Application of these accounting principles requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosures of contingencies during the reporting period. We regularly evaluate our estimates, including those related to the calculation of the fair value of derivative instruments, unbilled revenues, provisions for depreciation and amortization, regulatory assets, income taxes, pension and postemployment benefits other than pensions and contingencies related to environmental matters and litigation. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. In the normal course of business, estimated amounts are subsequently adjusted to actual results that may differ from estimates.

Regulatory Accounting

NJNG maintains its accounts in accordance with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Uniform System of Accounts as prescribed by the BPU. As a result of the ratemaking process, NJNG is required to apply the accounting principles in the Regulated Operations Topic 980 of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC), which differ in certain respects from those applied by unregulated businesses. Specifically, regulated operations record assets when it is probable that certain operating costs will be recoverable from customers in future periods and record liabilities

Page 33

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


associated with probable future obligations to customers. Accordingly, NJNG recognizes the impact of regulatory decisions on its financial statements. NJNG's BGSS requires NJNG to project its natural gas costs and provides the ability, subject to BPU approval, to recover or refund the difference, if any, of such actual costs compared with the projected costs included in prices through a BGSS charge to customers. Any underrecovery or overrecovery is recorded as a regulatory asset or liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and reflected in the BGSS charge to customers in subsequent years.

Derivative Instruments

We record our derivative instruments held as assets and liabilities at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. In addition, since we choose not to designate our financial commodity derivatives as accounting hedges, changes in the fair value of NJRES' and NJR Energy's financial derivatives, as well as NJRES' contracts for the purchase and sales of natural gas are recognized in earnings, as they occur, as a component of operating revenues or gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Changes in the fair value of foreign exchange contracts that NJRES utilizes as cash flow hedges are recorded to other comprehensive income, a component of stockholders' equity and reclassified to gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations when they settle.

The fair value of derivative instruments is determined by reference to quoted market prices of listed contracts, published quotations or quotations from independent parties. NJRES' portfolio is valued using the most current market information. If the price underlying a physical commodity transaction does not represent a visible and liquid market, NJRES may utilize pricing information provided by broker quotations and/or other services to determine an equivalent market price. As of September 30, 2012, fair values based on market prices that are not highly visible and liquid represent an immaterial amount of the total fair value of its derivative assets and liabilities reported on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Should there be a significant change in the underlying market prices or pricing assumptions, NJRES may experience a significant impact on its financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The valuation methods remained consistent for fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010. NJR applies a discount to its derivative assets to factor in an adjustment associated with the credit risk of its counterparties. NJR determines this amount by using historical default probabilities corresponding to the appropriate Standard and Poor's issuer ratings. Since the majority of NJR's counterparties are rated investment grade, this resulted in an immaterial credit risk adjustment.

Gains and losses associated with derivatives utilized by NJNG to manage the price risk inherent in its natural gas purchasing activities are recoverable through its BGSS, subject to BPU approval. Accordingly, the offset to the change in fair value of these derivatives is recorded as either a regulatory asset or liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Accounting guidance permits companies to apply an exception for certain commodity contracts intended for normal purchases and normal sales (normal) for which physical delivery is probable. NJR Energy had elected to designate its physical commodity contracts as normal and record the deliveries on an accrual basis. As a result, NJR Energy recognized the related liabilities incurred and assets acquired in the accounting period associated with the exchange of title to the underlying natural gas commodity. These financial derivatives expired during fiscal 2010.

We have not designated any derivatives as fair value hedges as of September 30, 2012 and 2011.

Income Taxes and Credits

We use the liability method to determine and record deferred tax assets, representing future tax benefits, and deferred tax liabilities, representing future taxes payable, resulting from the differences between the financial reporting amount and the corresponding tax basis of the assets and liabilities using the enacted rates expected to be in effect at the time the differences are settled. To the extent that it is more likely than not some or all of the deferred income tax assets won't be realized, an offsetting valuation allowance is recorded. As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, NJR had net deferred tax liabilities of $321 million and $326.3 million, respectively. We expect that all deferred tax assets will be realized, therefore, there is no valuation allowance recorded.

Accounting guidance also requires that we establish reserves for uncertain tax positions when it is more likely than not that the positions will not be sustained when challenged by taxing authorities. We have no reason to believe that we have any future obligations associated with unrecognized tax benefits, therefore, as of September 30, 2012, we have not recorded any liabilities related to uncertain tax positions.

Page 34

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


To the extent that NJNG invests in property that qualifies for ITCs, the ITC is deferred and amortized to income over the life of the equipment in accordance with regulatory treatment. For our unregulated subsidiaries, we recognize ITCs as a reduction to income tax expense when the property is placed in service. Changes in the federal statutes related to the ITC could have a negative impact on earnings and cash flows.

Capitalized Financing Costs

NJNG capitalizes allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC) as a component of utility plant on the Consolidated Balance Sheets including an incremental cost of equity component during periods when its short-term debt balances were lower than its construction work in progress balance. This results in a non-cash income statement recognition that is capitalized as a component of utility plant. AFUDC-equity is recorded as an increase to other income and AFUDC-debt is recorded as a reduction to interest expense on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Under regulatory rate practices and in accordance with GAAP applicable to regulated operations, NJNG fully recovers AFUDC through base rates. If any of these amounts were deemed to be unrecoverable, NJNG would record a charge for the unrecoverable portion on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Environmental Costs

At the end of each fiscal year, NJNG updates the environmental review of its MGP sites, including a review of its potential liability for investigation and remedial action, based on assistance from an independent external consulting firm. From this review, NJNG estimates expenditures necessary to remediate and monitor these MGP sites. As of September 30, 2012, NJNG estimated theses expenditures will range from approximately $159.6 million to $266.4 million. NJNG's estimate of these liabilities is developed from then currently available facts, existing technology and current laws and regulations.

In accordance with accounting standards for contingencies, NJNG's policy is to record a liability when it is probable that the cost will be incurred and the loss can be reasonably estimated. NJNG will determine a range of liabilities and will record the best estimated amount. If no point within the range is more likely than any other, NJNG will accrue the lower end of the range. Since we believe that recovery of these expenditures, as well as related litigation costs, is possible through the regulatory process, we have recorded a regulatory asset corresponding to the related accrued liability. Accordingly, NJNG has recorded an MGP remediation liability and a corresponding regulatory asset of $182 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, which is based on the best estimate.

The actual costs to be incurred by NJNG are dependent upon several factors, including final determination of remedial action, changing technologies and governmental regulations, the ultimate ability of other responsible parties to pay, as well as the potential impact of any litigation and any insurance recoveries. If there are changes in future regulatory positions that indicate the recovery of all or a portion of such regulatory asset is not probable, the related cost and carrying costs would be charged to income in the period of such determination. As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, $59.7 million and $75.6 million of previously incurred remediation costs, net of recoveries from customers and insurance proceeds received, are included in regulatory assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, respectively.

If there are changes in the regulatory position surrounding these costs, or should actual expenditures vary significantly from estimates in that these costs are disallowed for recovery by the BPU, such costs would be charged to income in the period of such determination.

Postemployment Employee Benefits

NJR's costs of providing postemployment employee benefits are dependent upon numerous factors including actual plan experience and assumptions of future experience. Postemployment employee benefit costs are impacted by actual employee demographics including age, compensation levels and employment periods, the level of contributions made to the plans, changes in long-term interest rates and the return on plan assets. Changes made to the provisions of the plans or healthcare legislation may also impact current and future postemployment employee benefit costs. Postemployment employee benefit costs may also be significantly affected by changes in key actuarial assumptions, including anticipated rates of return on plan assets, health care cost trends and discount rates used in determining the projected benefit obligations (PBO). In determining the PBO and cost amounts, assumptions can change from period to period and could result in material changes to net postemployment employee benefit periodic costs and the related liability recognized by NJR.


Page 35

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJR's postemployment employee benefit plan assets consist primarily of U.S. equity securities, international equity securities and fixed-income investments, with a targeted allocation of 39 percent, 20 percent and 41 percent, respectively. Fluctuations in actual market returns, as well as changes in interest rates, may result in increased or decreased postemployment employee benefit costs in future periods. Postemployment employee benefit expenses are included in operations and maintenance expense on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

The following is a summary of a sensitivity analysis for each actuarial assumption:

Pension Plans
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actuarial Assumptions
Increase/
(Decrease)
Estimated
Increase/(Decrease)
on PBO
(Thousands)
Estimated
Increase/(Decrease)
to Expense
(Thousands)
Discount rate
1.00

%
 
$
(28,743
)
 
 
$
(2,311
)
 
Discount rate
(1.00
)
%
 
$
36,345

 
 
$
2,813

 
Rate of return on plan assets
1.00

%
 
n/a
 
 
$
(1,537
)
 
Rate of return on plan assets
(1.00
)
%
 
n/a
 
 
$
1,537

 

Other Postemployment Benefits
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actuarial Assumptions
Increase/
(Decrease)
Estimated
Increase/(Decrease)
on PBO
(Thousands)
Estimated
Increase/(Decrease)
to Expense
(Thousands)
Discount rate
1.00

%
 
$
(18,154
)
 
 
$
(1,579
)
 
Discount rate
(1.00
)
%
 
$
23,240

 
 
$
1,966

 
Rate of return on plan assets
1.00

%
 
n/a
 
 
$
(321
)
 
Rate of return on plan assets
(1.00
)
%
 
n/a
 
 
$
323

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actuarial Assumptions
Increase/
(Decrease)
Estimated
Increase/(Decrease)
on PBO
(Thousands)
Estimated
Increase/(Decrease)
to Expense
(Thousands)
Health care cost trend rate
1.00

%
 
$
21,278

 
 
$
2,977

 
Health care cost trend rate
(1.00
)
%
 
$
(17,034
)
 
 
$
(2,347
)
 

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Refer to Note 2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for discussion of recently issued accounting standards.


Page 36

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Results of Operations

Consolidated

A summary of the company's consolidated results for the fiscal years ended September 30, is as follows:
($ in Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenues
$
2,248,923

$
3,009,209

$2,639,304
Gas purchases
$
1,841,408

$
2,550,571

$2,167,558
Net income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$117,457

The primary drivers of the changes noted above, which are described in more detail in the individual segment discussions, are as follows:

Operating revenues and gas purchases decreased during fiscal 2012, compared with the fiscal 2011, due primarily to:

decreases in off-system sales, decreases in firm sales due to lower therm usage and bill credits issued to NJNG customers during fiscal 2012, that did not occur during fiscal 2011; and

lower average commodity prices at NJRES, which correlate to the lower price levels on the NYMEX that averaged $2.83 per MMBtu during fiscal 2012 compared with $4.10 per MMBtu during fiscal 2011.

Operating revenues and gas purchases increased during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010 due primarily to:

higher average sales and gas purchase volumes partially offset by lower average prices, which correlate to the lower price levels on the NYMEX that averaged $4.10 per MMBtu during fiscal 2011 compared with $4.49 per MMBtu during fiscal 2010. In addition, increases in both operating revenue and gas purchases include a combined unrealized and realized gain during fiscal 2011, compared with a combined unrealized and realized loss during fiscal 2010;

bill credits and refunds issued to NJNG customers during fiscal 2010, that did not recur during fiscal 2011, along with an increase in firm sales due to higher therm usage due primarily to colder weather during fiscal 2011, partially offset by a decrease in off-system sales; and

increased installations and service contract revenue at NJRHS, in addition to unrealized (losses) associated with financial derivatives at NJR Energy during fiscal 2010 that did not recur in fiscal 2011.

Net income decreased 8.3 percent during fiscal 2012 to $92.9 million, compared with $101.3 million during fiscal 2011, which decreased 13.8 percent compared with $117.5 million during fiscal 2010. Earnings for fiscal 2012 were $2.24 per basic share and $2.23 per diluted share, compared with $2.45 per basic share and $2.44 per diluted share in fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2010 results of $2.84 per basic share and $2.82 per diluted share.

Changes in net income during both fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011were primarily driven by:

decreases at NJRES due primarily to changes in in the fair value of financial derivative instruments; partially offset by

increases in investment tax credits associated with solar projects that were completed and placed into service at Clean Energy Ventures; and

improved earnings at NJNG due primarily to customer growth.


Page 37

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Natural Gas Distribution Segment

NJNG is a local natural gas distribution company that provides regulated retail energy services to approximately 500,100 residential and commercial customers in central and northern New Jersey and participates in the off-system sales and capacity release markets.

NJNG's business is seasonal by nature, as weather conditions directly influence the volume of natural gas delivered. Specifically, customer demand substantially increases during the winter months when natural gas is used for heating purposes. As a result, NJNG receives most of its gas distribution revenues during the first and second fiscal quarters and is subject to variations in earnings and working capital during the year.

The Electric Discount and Energy Competition Act (EDECA) provides the framework for New Jersey's retail energy markets, which are open to competition from other electric and natural gas suppliers. Currently, NJNG's residential and commercial markets are open to competition, and its rates are segregated between BGSS (natural gas commodity) and delivery (i.e., transportation) components. NJNG does not earn utility gross margin on the commodity portion of its natural gas sales. NJNG earns utility gross margin through the delivery of natural gas to its customers and, therefore, is not negatively affected by customers who use its transportation service and purchase natural gas from another supplier. Under an existing order from the BPU, BGSS can be provided by suppliers other than the state's natural gas utilities, however, all customers who purchase natural gas from another supplier continue to use NJNG for transportation service.

Operating Results

NJNG's financial results for the fiscal years ended September 30, are as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Utility gross margin
 
 

Operating revenues
$
627,713

$
971,724

$
945,480

Less:
 
 
 
Gas purchases
274,370

592,909

590,813

Energy and other taxes
37,241

58,520

48,958

Regulatory rider expense
40,350

51,246

46,076

Total utility gross margin
275,752

269,049

259,633

Operation and maintenance expense
111,998

108,800

103,226

Depreciation and amortization
35,247

33,140

31,464

Other taxes not reflected in utility gross margin
3,899

3,944

4,009

Operating income
124,608

123,165

120,934

Other income
1,655

3,354

4,343

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest
14,890

14,875

16,618

Income tax provision
38,135

40,322

38,417

Net income
$
73,238

$
71,322

$
70,242


Utility Gross Margin

NJNG's utility gross margin is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as natural gas revenues less natural gas purchases, sales tax, a Transitional Energy Facilities Assessment (TEFA) and regulatory rider expenses, and may not be comparable to the definition of gross margin used by others in the natural gas distribution business and other industries.

Management believes that utility gross margin provides a more meaningful basis than revenue for evaluating utility operations since natural gas costs, sales tax, TEFA and regulatory rider expenses are included in operating revenue and passed through to customers and, therefore, have no effect on utility gross margin.


Page 38

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Natural gas costs are charged to operating expenses on the basis of therm sales at the prices in NJNG's BGSS tariff approved by the BPU. The BGSS tariff rate includes projected natural gas costs, which include fees paid to pipelines and storage facilities, and the impact of hedging activities and BGSS incentive programs. Any underrecoveries or overrecoveries from the projected amounts are deferred and reflected in the BGSS tariff rate in subsequent years.

TEFA, which is included in energy and other taxes on the Consolidated Statements of Operations, is calculated on a per-therm basis and excludes sales to cogeneration facilities, other utilities and off-system sales. TEFA represents a regulatory allowed assessment imposed on all energy providers in the State of New Jersey. TEFA replaced the previously used utility gross receipts and franchise tax formula. As of January 1, 2012, TEFA is being phased out over a three-year period.

Regulatory rider expenses consist of recovery of state-mandated programs, the RA and energy efficiency costs. These expenses are offset by corresponding revenues and are calculated on a per-therm basis.

NJNG's operating revenues and gas purchases decreased by $344 million, or 35.4 percent, and by $318.5 million, or 53.7 percent, respectively, during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011, as a result of:

a decrease of $107.2 million and $104.8 million, respectively in operating revenues and gas purchases related to off-system sales, due primarily to a reduction of 20 percent in volumes of natural gas sold as a result of an increase in the utilization of NJNG's transport capacity for capacity release volumes, coupled with a 36.7 percent decrease in price;

a decrease in operating revenues and gas purchases related to firm sales in the amount of $140 million and $85.6 million, respectively, as a result of lower therm usage due primarily to weather being 21.1 percent warmer than the prior year, partially offset by an increase in operating revenue of $36.7 million, as a result of higher CIP accruals;

a decrease in operating revenues and gas purchases in the amount of $85.9 million and $80.2 million, respectively, due to bill credits, inclusive of sales tax refunds of $5.7 million, during fiscal 2012 that did not occur during fiscal 2011;

a decrease in operating revenues and gas purchases related to firm sales in the amount of $51.5 million and $48.1 million, respectively, as a result of a decrease in the average BGSS rate per therm; partially offset by

an increase in operating revenue of $2.6 million due primarily to an increase in base rates related to AIP, partially offset by a decrease of $1.2 million related primarily to a decrease in rider rates.

NJNG's operating revenues and gas purchases increased by $26.2 million, or 2.8 percent, and by $2.1 million, or .4 percent, respectively, during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, as a result of:

an increase in operating revenues and gas purchases in the amount of $110.4 million and $103.2 million, respectively, due to a combination of refunds and bill credits, inclusive of sales tax refunds of $7.2 million, during fiscal 2010, that did not recur during fiscal 2011;

an increase in operating revenues and gas purchases related to firm sales in the amount of $26.4 million and $9.8 million, respectively, as a result of higher therm usage due primarily to weather being 7.9 percent colder than the prior year, partially offset by a decrease in operating revenue of $7.6 million, as a result of lower CIP accruals;

an increase in operating revenue of $5 million due primarily to the increase in base rates related to AIP and an increase of $3.5 million related primarily to an increase in rider rates; partially offset by

a decrease of $95.1 million and $94.9 million, respectively in operating revenues and gas purchases related to off-system sales, due primarily to a reduction of 26 percent in volumes of natural gas sold as a result of an increase in the utilization of NJNG's transport capacity for capacity release volumes, coupled with a .5 percent decrease in price; and

a decrease in operating revenues and gas purchases related to firm sales in the amount of $16.7 million and $15.6 million, respectively, as a result of a decrease in the average BGSS rate per therm.


Page 39

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Sales tax and TEFA, which are presented as both components of operating revenues and operating expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations, totaled $37.2 million, $58.5 million and $49 million during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The fluctuation in sales tax correlates directly to the changes in operating revenue from firm sales. The decrease during fiscal 2012 was due primarily to a decrease of $280.9 million in operating revenue subject to sales tax, compared with fiscal 2011. Sales tax increased in fiscal 2011 due primarily to an increase of $138.5 million in operating revenue from firm sales, compared with fiscal 2010.

Regulatory rider expenses are calculated on a per-therm basis and totaled $40.3 million, $51.2 million and $46.1 million during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. During fiscal 2012, the decrease in expense, which is offset by a corresponding decrease in operating revenue, is due primarily to a 3.1 percent decrease in rates and a 18.7 percent decrease in usage compared with fiscal 2011. The increase during fiscal 2011 was due primarily to an a 7.1 percent increase in rates and a 3.9 percent increase in usage compared with fiscal 2010.

NJNG's utility gross margin is comprised of the following components:

Utility firm gross margin, which is derived from residential and commercial customers who receive natural gas service from NJNG through either sales or transportation tariffs;

BGSS incentive programs, where gross margins generated or savings achieved from BPU-approved off-system sales, capacity release, financial risk management or storage incentive programs (defined below in BGSS Incentive Programs) are shared between customers and NJNG; and

Utility gross margin from interruptible customers who have the ability to switch to alternative fuels.

The following table summarizes Utility Gross Margin and Throughput in billion cubic feet (Bcf) of natural gas by type:
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
($ in thousands)
Margin
Bcf
 
Margin
Bcf
 
Margin
Bcf
Utility gross margin/throughput
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
$
173,451

32.9

 
$
172,280

42.3

 
$
170,556

40.3

Commercial, industrial and other
45,673

6.5

 
45,319

8.3

 
45,041

8.2

Firm transportation
46,773

11.2

 
41,715

12.2

 
34,268

10.1

Total utility firm gross margin/throughput
265,897

50.6

 
259,314

62.8

 
249,865

58.6

BGSS incentive programs
9,385

99.6

 
9,324

107.0

 
9,357

83.9

Interruptible
470

10.3

 
411

8.3

 
411

7.7

Total utility gross margin/throughput
$
275,752

160.5

 
$
269,049

178.1

 
$
259,633

150.2


Utility Firm Gross Margin

Utility firm gross margin is earned from residential and commercial customers who receive natural gas service from NJNG through either sales tariffs, which include a commodity and delivery component, or transportation tariffs, which include a delivery component only.

Utility firm gross margin from residential service sales increased $1.2 million to $173.5 million, during fiscal 2012, and increased $1.7 million to $172.3 million, during fiscal 2011, due primarily to an increase in base rates related to the AIP, partially offset by a decrease in residential customers that transferred into the transportation service. Utility firm gross margin from commercial and industrial service sales remained relatively flat during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2010.

Utility firm gross margin from transportation service increased $5.1 million and $7.4 million during fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively. The improvement in margins during both periods was due primarily to an increase in customers largely as a result of customers that transferred from residential and commercial sales, as noted above, due to marketing activity by third party natural gas providers in NJNG's distribution territory. NJNG had 41,820, 31,830 and 17,932 residential customers and 9,394, 8,693 and 7,792 commercial customers using its transportation service at September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Page 40

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJNG added 6,704, 6,783 and 6,189 new customers and converted 539, 641 and 667 existing customers to natural gas heat and other services during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The customer growth during fiscal 2012 represents an estimated annual increase of approximately .8 Bcf in sales to firm customers, assuming normal weather and usage, which would contribute approximately $3.7 million annually to utility gross margin.

NJNG's total utility firm gross margin includes the following adjustments related to the CIP mechanism:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Weather (1)
$
30,243

$
571

$
9,032

Usage
14,745

7,733

6,886

Total
$
44,988

$
8,304

$
15,918

(1)
Compared with the twenty-year average, weather was 22.1 percent, .7 percent and 8.6 percent warmer-than-normal during fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

BGSS Incentive Programs

To reduce the overall cost of its natural gas supply commitments, NJNG has entered into contracts to sell natural gas to wholesale customers outside its franchise territory when natural gas is not needed for firm system requirements. These off-system sales enable NJNG to reduce its overall costs applicable to BGSS customers. NJNG also participates in the capacity release market on the interstate pipeline network when the capacity is not needed for its firm system requirements. NJNG retains 15 percent of the utility gross margin from these sales, with 85 percent credited to firm customers through the BGSS.

The FRM program is designed to provide price stability to NJNG's natural gas supply portfolio. The FRM program includes an incentive mechanism designed to encourage the use of financial instruments to economically hedge NJNG's natural gas costs. Gross margin is generated by entering into financial option positions that have a strike price below a published quarterly benchmark, minus premiums and associated fees. NJNG retains 15 percent of the utility gross margin, with 85 percent credited to firm customers through the BGSS.

The storage incentive program measures the difference between the actual cost of natural gas injected into storage and a benchmark established with the purchase of a portfolio of futures contracts applicable to the April-through-October natural gas injection season. Gains and losses are shared on an 80 percent and 20 percent basis between customers and NJNG, respectively.

Utility gross margin generated by NJNG's BGSS incentive programs remained relatively flat during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2010. During fiscal 2012, FRM, storage incentive and capacity release margins increased, offset by a decrease in off-system sales. During fiscal 2011, FRM and capacity release increased, which was offset by a decrease in storage incentive program margins.

Interruptible Revenues

As of September 30, 2012, NJNG serves 41 customers through interruptible transportation and sales services compared with 41 customers in fiscal 2011 and 43 customers in fiscal 2010. Interruptible customers are those customers whose service can be temporarily halted as they have the ability to utilize an alternate fuel source. Interruptible revenues generally account for less than 1 percent of total utility gross margin.

Operation and Maintenance Expense

Operation and maintenance expense increased $3.2 million, or 2.9 percent, during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011, due primarily to the following:

an increase in fringe benefits of $2.3 million related to increased pension and health benefit costs and medical claims;

an increase in compensation costs of $2.1 million due primarily to increased incentive accruals coupled with an increase in new hires;

an increase in charitable contributions of $1.4 million;

Page 41

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


an increase in shared corporate services costs of $1.2 million; partially offset by

a decrease in bad debt expense of $2.4 million corresponding to lower customer receivable balances during fiscal 2012, in comparison to balances during the prior fiscal year;

a decrease of $582,000 in contractors expense due to decreased snow removal compared with the prior year; and

a decrease of $232,000 in leasing expense due to increased purchases of assets.

Operation and maintenance expense increased $5.6 million, or 5.4 percent, during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to the following:

increase in fringe benefits of $2.5 million related to pension and health benefit costs due to the decline in the discount rate used to measure plan liabilities coupled with an increase in actual medical claims;

an increase in bad debt expense of $1.7 million corresponding to higher customer receivable balances during fiscal 2011, in comparison to balances during the prior fiscal year, which were lower as a result of BGSS refund and bill credits issued to customers;

an increase in compensation costs of $1.5 million due primarily to increased incentive accruals coupled with an increase in new hires;

an increase in contractors expense of $1.1 million, due to increased weather-related expenditures;

an increase in charitable contributions of $409,000 partially offset by

a decrease of $1.7 million in engineering costs.

Depreciation Expense

Depreciation expense increased $2.1 million and $1.7 million in fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively, as a result of additional utility plant being placed into service.

Operating Income

Operating income increased $1.4 million, or 1.2 percent, in fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011 and increased $2.2 million or 1.8 percent, in fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to increases in total utility gross margin, partially offset by an increases in depreciation expense and operation and maintenance expense, as previously discussed.

Interest Expense

Interest expense remained relatively flat during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011 and decreased $1.7 million during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to the redemption of a $20 million, 6.88 percent Series CC First Mortgage bond in October 2010.

Net Income

Net income increased $1.9 million, or 3 percent, to $73.2 million in fiscal 2012 compared with fiscal 2011 due primarily to the factors discussed above along with a decrease in other income due primarily to lower capitalized cost of equity related to AFUDC as a result of increased short-term debt balances in comparison to NJNG's construction work in progress. Also contributing to the increase in net income was a decrease in income tax provision, due primarily to a state tax refund coupled with an adjustment to the provision as a result of a decrease in the effective tax rate.

Net income increased $1.1 million, or 1.5 percent, to $71.3 million in fiscal 2011 compared with fiscal 2010. The increase in operating income and decrease in interest expense, as discussed above, was partially offset by a decrease in other income as a result of lower interest rates and an increase in income tax expense of $1.9 million correlating to the higher operating income. In addition, fiscal 2010, income tax expense included a $509,000 non-recurring favorable New Jersey tax rate adjustment.

Page 42

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Clean Energy Ventures Segment

Operating Results

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, NJRCEV began to invest, own and operate commercial solar installations in the State of New Jersey. Since that time, NJRCEV has placed a total of 35.9 MW of solar assets into service, including a combination of four roof-top and ground mounted commercial projects during fiscal 2012, totaling approximately 20.2 MW of solar capacity and five commercial roof-top projects totaling 7.4 MW during fiscal 2011. In addition, NJRCEV's residential solar leasing program placed into service approximately 5.9 MW of capacity on 778 homes during fiscal 2012 and approximately 2.4 MW of capacity on 349 homes during fiscal 2011.

The financial results of NJRCEV for the fiscal years ended September 30, are summarized as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenue
$
2,257

$
862

$

Operation and maintenance expense
$
8,505

$
5,101

$
1,001

Depreciation and amortization
$
5,680

$
421

$

Income tax (benefit)
$
(32,507
)
$
(11,604
)
$
(410
)
Net income (loss)
$
19,452

$
6,761

$
(593
)

Operating revenue generated during fiscal 2012 and 2011, consisted primarily of the sale of SRECs. As of September 30, 2012, NJRCEV has 28,358 SRECs available for sale. In addition, during fiscal 2011, NJRCEV began hedging a portion of its expected SREC production through forward sale contracts. As of September 30, 2012, NJRCEV has hedged approximately 34 percent of its SREC inventory and projected SREC production related to its existing commercial assets for energy years 2013 through 2015.

Operation and maintenance expense increased during fiscal 2012 and 2011, as compared with the respective prior fiscal periods, due primarily to increases in compensation, shared corporate services costs, consulting costs and other administrative expenses. In addition, NJRCEV incurred start-up costs that contributed to the increase in operation and maintenance expense during fiscal 2011.

Depreciation expense increased $5.3 million and $421,000 in fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively, as a result of additional solar projects being placed into service.

Income tax benefit during fiscal 2012 and 2011 includes $34.1 million and $12.1 million respectively, of ITCs associated with solar projects that were completed and placed into service during the corresponding fiscal year. Total expenditures eligible for ITCs were $113.8 million and $40.3 million during fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Net income in fiscal 2012 and 2011 increased $12.7 million and $7.4 million, respectively, compared with the prior fiscal periods, due primarily to the increase in ITCs partially offset by higher operation and maintenance and depreciation expense, as discussed above. In addition, higher SREC sales partially offset by higher depreciation expense associated with the increase in solar projects placed into service, contributed to the change in net income during fiscal 2012.

Energy Services Segment

NJRES is a non-regulated natural gas marketer principally engaged in the optimization of natural gas storage and transportation assets. Through the use of its contracts for natural gas storage and pipeline capacity, NJRES is able to take advantage of pricing differences between geographic locations, commonly referred to as "locational spreads" or "basis spreads," and pricing differences across time horizons, commonly referred to as "time spreads." To capture these price differences, NJRES may enter into contracts for the future delivery and sales of physical natural gas and simultaneously enters into financial derivative contracts to establish an initial financial margin for each of its forecasted physical commodity transactions. The financial derivative contracts serve to protect the cash flows of the transaction from volatility in commodity prices and can include futures, options, and swap contracts, which are all predominantly actively quoted on the NYMEX.


Page 43

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Typically, periods of greater price volatility provide NJRES with additional opportunities to generate margin by managing its financial hedge transactions with the intent of further improving the respective time or locational spreads on a forward basis.

The strategies used to capture the value associated with these price differences include, but are not limited to the following:

Storage: NJRES attempts to take advantages of differences in market prices occurring over different time periods (time spreads) as follows:

NJRES can purchase gas to inject into storage and concurrently lock in margin with a contract to sell the natural gas at a higher price at a future date;

NJRES can purchase a future contract with an early delivery date at a lower price and simultaneously sell another future contract with a later delivery date having a higher price; and

NJRES can "borrow" gas from a pipeline or storage operator and repay that gas at a later date, and earn a margin by selling the gas at a later date at a higher price and/or by receiving a fee.

Transportation (Basis): Similarly, NJRES benefits from pricing differences between various receipt and delivery points along a natural gas pipeline as follows:

NJRES can utilize its pipeline capacity by purchasing natural gas at a lower price location and transporting to a higher value location. NJRES can enter into a basis swap contract, a financial commodity derivative based on the price of natural gas at two different locations, when it will lead to positive cash flows and margin for NJRES.

Because NJRES has physical storage and transportation capacity contracts it is able to take advantage of the continuous daily changes in supply and demand in the market areas in which it operates. By utilizing those contracts to assist natural gas marketers, local distribution companies, industrial companies, electric generators, natural gas producers and retail aggregators in managing their gas supply needs, NJRES has opportunities to deliver the gas from storage, purchase flowing gas, or move the gas along a more economically advantageous transportation route than originally planned thereby improving the initial margin. The combination of strategically positioned natural gas storage and transportation assets and physical purchase and sales contracts provides NJRES with a significant amount of arbitrage opportunities that are typically more prevalent during periods of high daily price volatility.

Predominantly all of NJRES' physical purchases and sales of natural gas result in the physical delivery of natural gas. NJRES accounts for its physical commodity contracts and its financial derivative instruments at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Financial derivative instruments are used to economically hedge the forecasted purchase, sale and transportation of natural gas and include financial futures, swaps and option contracts. Changes in the fair value of these contracts are included in earnings as a component of operating revenue and gas purchases, as appropriate, on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Unrealized gains and losses at NJRES are the result of changes in the fair value of derivative instruments. The change in fair value of these derivative instruments at NJRES over periods of time can result in substantial volatility in reported net income. When a financial instrument settles, the result is the realization of these gains or losses. NJRES utilizes certain financial instruments to economically hedge natural gas inventory placed into storage that will be sold at a later date, all of which were contemplated as part of an entire forecasted transaction. Volatility in earnings also occurs as a result of timing differences between the settlement of the financial derivative and the sale of the corresponding natural gas that was hedged with the financial instrument. When the financial instrument settles and the natural gas is placed in inventory, the realized gains and losses associated with the financial instrument are recognized in earnings. However, the gains and losses associated with the economically hedged natural gas are not recognized in earnings until the natural gas inventory is sold.

NJRES' financial and physical contracts will result, over time, in earning a gross margin on the entire transaction. For financial reporting purposes under GAAP, the change in fair value associated with derivative instruments used to economically hedge these transactions are recorded as a component of gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations during the duration of the financial instrument or commodity contract. These changes in fair value are referred to as unrealized gains and losses. In other instances, certain financial contracts designed to economically fix or hedge the price of natural gas that is purchased and placed into storage, to be sold at a later date, settle and result in realized gains, which are also recorded as a component of gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Page 44

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


These unrealized gains or losses from the change in fair value of unsettled financial instruments and physical commodity contracts, or realized gains or losses related to financial instruments that economically hedge natural gas inventory that has not been sold as part of a planned transaction, cause large variations in the reported gross margin and earnings of NJRES. NJRES will continue to earn the gross margin established at inception of the transaction over the duration of the forecasted transaction and may be able to capitalize on events in the marketplace that enable it to increase the initial margin; however, gross margin or earnings during periods prior to the delivery of the natural gas will not reflect the underlying economic result.

NJRES recognizes its demand charges, which represent the right to use natural gas pipeline and storage capacity assets of a third-party, over the term of the related natural gas pipeline or storage contract. The term of these contracts vary from less than one year to ten years.

Operating Results

NJRES' financial results for the fiscal years ended September 30, are summarized as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenues
$
1,580,611

$
2,052,303

$
1,685,044

Gas purchases (including demand charges)
1,574,246

2,016,704

1,601,701

Gross margin
6,365

35,599

83,343

Operation and maintenance expense
17,759

16,682

14,947

Depreciation and amortization
59

61

153

Other taxes
1,043

1,110

858

Operating (loss) income
(12,496
)
17,746

67,385

Other income
37

9

15

Interest expense, net
1,096

995

1,439

Income tax (benefit) provision
(4,950
)
3,281

23,250

Net (loss) income
$
(8,605
)
$
13,479

$
42,711


As of September 30, 2012, NJRES' portfolio of financial derivative instruments was comprised of:

42.5 Bcf of net short futures contracts and fixed swap positions, and;

27.1 Bcf of net long basis swap positions.

As of September 30, 2011, NJRES' portfolio of financial derivative instruments was comprised of:

28.3 Bcf of net short futures contracts and fixed swap positions, and;

27.4 Bcf of net short basis swap positions

As of September 30, 2010, NJRES' portfolio of financial derivative instruments was comprised of:

31.4 Bcf of net short futures contracts and fixed swap positions, and;

11.1 Bcf of net long basis swap positions.

Gross Margin

Gross margin during fiscal 2012, was lower by approximately $29.2 million compared with fiscal 2011, due primarily to a decrease of $471.7 million in operating revenue and of $442.5 million in gas purchases. Decreases in natural gas commodity prices, which correlate to lower prices levels on the NYMEX, are the primary factor for changes in operating revenues and gas purchases. NYMEX prices averaged $2.83 per MMBtu for fiscal 2012 as compared with $4.10 per MMBtu for fiscal 2011, a decrease of 31 percent.

Page 45

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJRES had unrealized (losses) gains of $(35.6) million, $(36.7) million and $31.1 million during fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, relating to physical and financial contracts that have not yet settled. These unrealized amounts represent the change in price of natural gas from the original hedge price compared with the market price of natural gas at each reporting date. When transactions are settled any previously recognized unrealized amounts related to these transactions are realized.

NJRES also had realized gains (losses) of $4.9 million, $28.6 million and $(3.5) million during fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, relating to the effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory. The realized gains (losses) pertain to the settlement of certain purchased futures and fixed swap contracts, which economically hedge planned natural gas purchases. The increase in gains incurred during fiscal 2012 and 2011, resulted from more favorable settlement prices compared with the respective prior year.

As these financial contracts settle, the physical gas is purchased and injected into storage. These physical gas injections and the associated financial hedges are part of the NJRES' business strategy to subsequently sell the natural gas from storage in the future. The realized amounts are a component of the anticipated financial margin associated with the overall strategy, and as a result of certain accounting requirements, are recognized in current earnings and result in a timing difference until the related gas is sold at which time, NJRES will realize the entire margin on the transaction.

In addition, there was a decrease in realized margin associated with physical sale of natural gas during fiscal 2012 and 2011, as described further in the discussion of financial margin in the Non-GAAP measures section below.

Non-GAAP measures

Management of the Company uses non-GAAP measures, noted as "financial margin" and "net financial earnings," when evaluating the operating results of NJRES. Since NJRES economically hedges its natural gas purchases and sales with derivative instruments, management uses these measures to compare NJRES' results against established benchmarks and earnings targets as it eliminates the impact of volatility to GAAP earnings associated with the derivative instruments. Volatility can occur as a result of timing differences surrounding the recognition of certain gains and losses. These timing differences can impact GAAP earnings in two ways:

Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives are recognized in reported earnings in periods prior to sales of physical gas inventory flows; and

Settlement of economic hedges that result in realized gains and losses prior to when the related physical gas inventory movements occur.

NFE and net financial margin are measures of the earnings and margin based on eliminating these timing differences to effectively match the earnings effects of the economic hedges with the physical sale of gas. Consequently, to reconcile from GAAP to both financial margin and NFE, current period unrealized gains and losses on the derivatives are excluded as a reconciling item. Additionally, the effects of economic hedging on the value of our natural gas in storage is also included in current period net loss. However, financial margin and NFE include only realized gains and losses related to natural gas sold out of inventory, effectively matching the full earnings effects of the derivatives with realized margins on physical gas flows.

Management views financial margin and NFE as more representative of the overall expected economic result. To the extent that there are unanticipated changes in the markets or to the effectiveness of the economic hedges, NJRES' non-GAAP results can differ from what was originally planned at the beginning of the transaction.

The following table is a computation of NJRES' financial margin for the fiscal years ended September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenues
$
1,580,611

$
2,052,303

$
1,685,044

Less: Gas purchases
1,574,246

2,016,704

1,601,701

Add:
 
 
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative instruments and related instruments
35,566

36,676

(31,113
)
Effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory
(4,891
)
(28,604
)
3,469

Financial margin
$
37,040

$
43,671

$
55,699


Page 46

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


A reconciliation of operating income, the closest GAAP financial measurement to NJRES' financial margin is as follows for the fiscal years ended September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Operating (loss) income
$
(12,496
)
$
17,746

$
67,385

Add:
 
 
 
Operation and maintenance expense
17,759

16,682

14,947

Depreciation and amortization
59

61

153

Other taxes
1,043

1,110

858

Subtotal - Gross margin
6,365

35,599

83,343

Add:
 
 
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative instruments and related instruments
35,566

36,676

(31,113
)
Effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory
(4,891
)
(28,604
)
3,469

Financial margin
$
37,040

$
43,671

$
55,699


A reconciliation of NJRES' net (loss) income to NFE is as follows for the fiscal years ended September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Net (loss) income
$
(8,605
)
$
13,479

$
42,711

Add:
 
 
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative instruments and related instrument, net of taxes
22,489

23,190

(19,029
)
Effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory, net of taxes
(3,093
)
(18,086
)
1,132

Net financial earnings
$
10,791

$
18,583

$
24,814


Financial margin decreased $6.6 million to $37 million during fiscal 2012, due primarily to lower NYMEX prices, and the resulting overall reduction in price volatility in NJRES' market area. Exploration and production of shale gas in the Northeastern region continued to contribute to a compression in natural gas prices and a general decrease in opportunities to generate margin from the optimization of transportation and storage assets in NJRES' market area. The fundamental change in the supply of shale gas and related market volatility is expected to continue to challenge NJRES' financial margin. NJRES' NFE contributed 10 percent of consolidated NFE during fiscal 2012, compared with 18 percent during fiscal 2011.

Financial margin decreased $12 million to $43.7 million during fiscal 2011 from $55.7 million during fiscal 2010. NJRES' financial margin was adversely impacted by the decrease in volatility in natural gas prices in its core markets caused by the economic downturn, which led to a reduction in industrial consumption. In addition, there was an increase in the supply of natural gas resources in NJRES' market area as a result of the exploration and production of shale gas in the Northeastern region, which also contributed to a compression in price. As a result, NJRES' financial margin was impacted by a decrease in opportunities to optimize transportation assets because of the lack of volatility in the marketplace caused by a decrease in the demand for natural gas in fiscal 2011, compared with the prior year and a decrease in overall basis spreads, which lowered the overall value of the transportation portfolio.

Operation and Maintenance Expense

Operation and maintenance expense increased $1.1 million, or 6.5 percent, during fiscal 2012 compared with fiscal 2011, due primarily to a $1.4 million bad debt reserve related to the bankruptcy of MF Global and an increase of $360,000 in legal fees, offset primarily by a decrease of $350,000 in charitable contributions.

Operation and maintenance expense decreased $1.7 million, or 11.6 percent, during fiscal 2011 compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to an increase in charitable contributions and incentive compensation, partially offset by a decrease in consulting and shared corporate services costs.


Page 47

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Future results are subject to NJRES' ability to maintain and expand its wholesale marketing activities and are contingent upon many other factors, including an adequate number of appropriate counterparties, volatility in the natural gas market, availability of storage arbitrage opportunities, sufficient liquidity in the energy trading market, supply and demand for natural gas and continued access to the capital markets.

Net Financial Earnings

NFE decreased $8 million during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011, due primarily to a decrease in financial margin of $6.6 million, as previously discussed. Also, in fiscal 2011 there was an income tax benefit of $4.3 million related to a tax refund received from the State of New Jersey during the fourth quarter. After fees and federal income taxes, the net impact of the tax refund was $2.4 million. See Note 12. Income Taxes in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements for a more detailed discussion of the refund.

NFE decreased $6.2 million during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to lower financial margin, which was impacted by a general reduction in volatility in NJRES' market area, as previously described, partially offset by the income tax benefit as previously discussed.

Energy Holdings Segment

Operating Results

The financial results of Energy Holdings for the fiscal years ended September 30, are summarized as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Equity in earnings of affiliates
$
14,308

$
14,904

$
12,996

Operation and maintenance expense
$
1,008

$
1,094

$
659

Interest expense, net
$
1,567

$
2,264

$
1,485

Net income
$
6,749

$
6,780

$
6,444


Equity in earnings, which is driven primarily by transportation revenues generated by Iroquois and storage revenues generated by Steckman Ridge, is as follows for the fiscal years ended September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Iroquois
$
5,014

$
4,878

$
4,610

Steckman Ridge
9,294

10,026

8,386

Total equity in earnings
$
14,308

$
14,904

$
12,996


Equity in earnings decreased $596,000 during fiscal 2012 due primarily to lower earnings at Steckman Ridge and increased $1.9 million during fiscal 2011 compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to higher earnings at Steckman Ridge. Equity in earnings from Steckman Ridge is driven by storage revenues, which are based on market rates.

Operation and maintenance expense remained relatively flat during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011. Operation and maintenance expense increased $435,000 during fiscal 2011 compared with fiscal 2010 due primarily to a charitable contribution in fiscal 2011.

Interest expense, net decreased $697,000 during fiscal 2012, compared with the prior fiscal year, due primarily to a reduction of debt during fiscal 2012. Interest expense, net increased $779,000 during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to higher interest rates during fiscal 2011.

Net income in fiscal 2012 remained relatively flat, compared with fiscal 2011. Net income in fiscal 2011 increased $336,000, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to the increase in equity in earnings.


Page 48

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Retail and Other Operations

Operating Results

The consolidated financial results of Retail and Other for the fiscal years ended September 30, are summarized as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenues
$
42,195

$
39,960

$
30,551

Operation and maintenance expense
$
32,655

$
31,768

$
28,970

Net income (loss)
$
2,366

$
3,087

$
(1,119
)

Operating revenue increased $2.2 million, or 5.6 percent, during fiscal 2012, to $42.2 million compared with $40 million for fiscal 2011. The improvement was due primarily to an increase in NJRHS' installations and service contracts as well as an expansion of its service territory.

Operating revenue increased $9.4 million, or 30.8 percent, in fiscal 2011, compared with $30.6 million during fiscal 2010. The improvement was due primarily to an increase of $5.6 million at NJRHS due to increased installations and service contracts, offset by unrealized losses associated with financial derivatives at NJR Energy of $3.3 million during fiscal 2010 that did not recur in fiscal 2011.

Operation and maintenance expense increased $887,000 during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011, due primarily to increases in shared corporate services and advertising expenses at NJRHS.

Operation and maintenance expense increased by $2.8 million in fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to increased compensation and advertising expenses, partially offset by decreased shared corporate services costs at NJRHS.

Net income during fiscal 2012, decreased $721,000, compared with fiscal 2011, due primarily to the factors noted above, in addition to increased interest expense at NJR as a result of a tax audit settlement.

Net income during fiscal 2011 increased $4.2 million, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to:

higher operating revenue, as discussed above;

a sale of land at CR&R that resulted in a gain of $785,000;

an unrealized loss of $2 million during fiscal 2010 related to financial derivatives that did not recur during fiscal 2011;

an increase of ITCs associated with NJRHS' residential solar pilot program during fiscal 2011; partially offset by

increased operation and maintenance expense, as discussed above; and

an increase in depreciation expense of $204,000 related to NJRHS' solar installations.

Also contributing to the increase in net income during fiscal 2011 was a non-recurring tax charge of approximately $591,000 that occurred during fiscal 2010, related to a change in the deductibility of federal subsidies associated with Medicare Part D.

The residential solar pilot program generated $569,000 and $118,000 of net income during fiscal 2011 and 2010, respectively. The program and related assets were transferred to NJRCEV during the third quarter of fiscal 2011.

Non-GAAP measures

When NJR Energy enters into economic hedges with financial derivative instruments, management of the Company uses the non-GAAP measure “net financial earnings” to monitor the operational results without the impact of unsettled derivatives. During fiscal 2010, NJR Energy incurred unrealized losses associated with derivatives that were designed to economically hedge a long-term fixed-price contract to sell gas to a counterparty. The contract and related derivatives both expired in October 2010 and there were no hedged transactions during fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2012.

Page 49

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


A reconciliation of Net income (loss) to Net financial earnings, a non-GAAP measure, of Retail and Other operations, is as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Net income (loss)
$
2,366

$
3,087

$
(1,119
)
Add:
 
 
 
Unrealized loss on derivative instruments, net of taxes


1,976

Net financial earnings
$
2,366

$
3,087

$
857


The decrease of $721,000 in net financial earnings during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011, was consistent with the decrease in net income during the same period, which is described previously in detail.

Net financial earnings increased $2.2 million during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010, due primarily to an increase in operating revenue and ITCs at NJRHS, a gain on sale of land at CR&R, and decreased income taxes as a result of a non-recurring tax charge that occurred during fiscal 2010, partially offset by an increase in operations and maintenance expense and depreciation, as previously discussed.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

NJR's objective is to maintain an efficient consolidated capital structure that reflects the different characteristics of each business segment and business operations and provides adequate financial flexibility for accessing capital markets as required.

NJR's consolidated capital structure at September 30, was as follows:
 
2012

2011

Common stock equity
50
%
57
%
Long-term debt
32

31

Short-term debt
18

12

Total
100
%
100
%

Common stock equity

NJR satisfies its external common equity requirements, if any, through issuances of its common stock, including the proceeds from stock issuances under its Automatic Dividend Reinvestment Plan (DRP) and proceeds from the exercise of options issued under the Company's long-term incentive program. The DRP allows NJR, at its option, to use shares purchased on the open market, treasury shares or newly issued shares.

In 1996, the NJR Board of Directors (Board) authorized the Company to implement a share repurchase program, which has been expanded several times since the inception of the program. In January 2010, the Board authorized an increase in the number of shares of NJR common stock authorized for repurchase under NJR's Share Repurchase Plan by 2 million shares to a total of 8.75 million shares. As of September 30, 2012, the Company repurchased a total of 7.5 million of those shares and may repurchase an additional 1.2 million shares under the approved program.

Debt

NJR and its unregulated subsidiaries generally rely on cash flows generated from operating activities and utilization of committed credit facilities to provide liquidity to meet working capital and external debt-financing requirements. NJR may from time to time look to access the capital markets to fund long-life assets.

NJR believes that its existing borrowing availability and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to satisfy its and its subsidiaries' working capital, capital expenditures and dividend requirements for the foreseeable future. NJR, NJNG, NJRCEV and NJRES currently anticipate that its financing requirements for the next twelve months will be met primarily through the issuance of short-term debt, meter sale-leasebacks, proceeds from the Company's DRP and may also include the issuance of long-term debt depending on timing of capital investments.

NJR believes that as of September 30, 2012, NJR and NJNG were, and currently are, in compliance with all debt covenants.

Page 50

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Long-Term Debt

NJR

NJR has $50 million of 6.05 percent senior unsecured notes, issued through the private placement market, maturing in September 2017.

On May 12, 2011, NJR entered into an unsecured, uncommitted $100 million private placement shelf note agreement (the MetLife Facility) with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (MetLife). The MetLife Facility, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, allows NJR to issue senior notes to MetLife or certain of MetLife's affiliates from time to time during a two-year issuance period ending May 10, 2013, on terms and conditions, including interest rates and maturity dates, to be agreed upon in connection with each note issuance. On September 17, 2012, NJR issued $25 million of 1.94 percent senior notes due September 15, 2015, and $25 million of 2.51 percent senior notes due September 15, 2018. The proceeds of these issuances will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and capital expenditures. The notes issued under the MetLife Facility are guaranteed by certain unregulated subsidiaries of NJR. As of September 30, 2012, $50 million remains available for borrowing under the MetLife Facility.

On June 30, 2011, NJR entered into an unsecured, uncommitted $75 million private placement shelf note agreement (the Prudential Facility) with Prudential Investment Management, Inc. (Prudential). The Prudential Facility, subject to the terms and conditions set forth therein, allows NJR to issue senior notes to Prudential or certain of Prudential's affiliates from time to time during a three-year issuance period ending June 30, 2014, on terms and conditions, including interest rates and maturity dates, to be agreed upon in connection with each note issuance. On September 17, 2012, NJR issued $50 million of 3.25 percent senior notes due September 17, 2022. The proceeds of these issuances will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and capital expenditures. The notes issued under the Prudential Facility are guaranteed by certain unregulated subsidiaries of NJR. As of September 30, 2012, $25 million remains available for borrowing under the Prudential Facility.

The MetLife Facility and Prudential Facility (Facilities) each contain customary representations and warranties for transactions of this type. The Facilities also each contain customary events of default and certain covenants that will limit NJR's ability beyond agreed upon thresholds, to, among other things: (i) incur additional debt (including a covenant that limits the amount of consolidated total debt of NJR at the end of a fiscal quarter to 65 percent of the consolidated total capitalization of NJR, as those terms are defined in each Facility and a covenant limiting priority debt to 20 percent of NJR's consolidated total capitalization, as those terms are defined in each Facility); (ii) incur liens; (iii) make dispositions of assets; (iv) enter into transactions with affiliates; and (v) merge, consolidate, transfer, sell or lease all or substantially all of the NJR's assets. These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications set forth in the Facilities.

NJNG

On October 1, 2010, upon maturity, NJNG redeemed its $20 million, 6.88 percent Series CC First Mortgage bonds.

As of September 30, 2012, NJNG's long-term debt consisted of a $60 million, 4.77 percent unsecured senior note maturing in March 2014, $172.8 million in secured fixed-rate debt issuances, with maturities ranging from 2018 to 2040, $97 million in secured variable rate debt with maturities ranging from 2027 to 2041 and $46.1 million in capital leases with various maturities ranging from 2013 to 2021.

Through September 7, 2011, NJNG was obligated with respect to several loan agreements securing six series of variable rate bonds issued by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) totaling $97 million. These bonds were commonly referred to as auction-rate securities (ARS) and had an interest rate reset every seven or thirty-five days, depending upon the applicable series. On those dates, an auction was held for the purposes of determining the interest rate of the securities. The interest rates associated with NJNG's variable-rate debt were based on the rates of the related ARS. Through their subsequent redemption, all of the auctions surrounding the ARS had failed, resulting in those bonds bearing interest at their maximum rates, as defined as the lesser of (i) 175 percent of thirty-day London inter-bank offered rate (LIBOR) or (ii) 10 to 12 percent per annum, as applicable to such series of ARS. While the failure of the ARS auctions did not signify or constitute a default on NJNG, the ARS did impact NJNG's borrowing costs on the variable-rate debt. NJNG had a weighted average interest rate of .33 percent at June 30, 2011, and .35 percent prior to redemption on September 7, 2011, for the ARS.

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New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


On August 29, 2011, NJNG completed a refunding of its outstanding auction-rate securities whereby the NJEDA issued a total of $97 million of Natural Gas Facilities Refunding Revenue Bonds (New Jersey Natural Gas Company Project) comprised of three series of bonds: the $9.5 million principal amount Series 2011A Bonds (Non-AMT) due September 1, 2027, the $41 million principal amount Series 2011B Bonds (AMT) due August 1, 2035 and the $46.5 million principal amount Series 2011C Bonds (AMT) due August 1, 2041 (collectively, the EDA Bonds). EDA Bonds are special, limited obligations of the NJEDA payable solely from payments made by NJNG pursuant to a Loan Agreement between the NJEDA and the Company (Loan Agreement), and are secured by the pledge of $97 million principal amount First Mortgage Bonds issued by the Company. Each series of the EDA Bonds accrues interest at a daily interest rate, subject to earlier redemption or conversion to another interest rate mode. The maximum interest rate on the EDA Bonds is 12 percent per annum. NJNG's obligations under the Loan Agreement (and its corresponding obligations under the First Mortgage Bonds) match the respective principal amounts, interest rates and maturity dates of the EDA Bonds. The weighted average interest rate as of September 30, 2012, on the EDA Bonds was .22 percent. The interest rate on the EDA Bonds may vary based upon market conditions. Sudden increases in the interest rate could cause a change in interest expense and cash flow for NJNG in the future.

The EDA Bonds are Variable Rate Demand Notes (VRDN), which are sold to investors on a daily basis with the interest rate set by the remarketing agent. If the remarketing agent is unable to sell the VRDNs to an investor on a given day, NJNG would be required to repurchase the EDA Bonds. Concurrently with the issuance of the EDA Bonds, and in order to provide NJNG additional liquidity for its obligations under the Loan Agreement, NJNG entered into a $100 million, four-year credit facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (JPMC Facility), dated August 29, 2011, and expiring on August 31, 2015. The JPMC Facility is available to the Company to provide liquidity support in the event of a failed remarketing of the EDA Bonds and to ensure payment of principal and interest. Borrowings under the JPMC Facility bear interest, at the Company's option at (i) a rate per annum equal to the greater of (A) JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.'s prime rate, (B) the Federal Funds Open Rate, as quoted on stated electronic sources that display such rate, plus .50 percent, and (C) the Daily LIBOR Rate (as defined in the agreement) plus 1.00 percent, plus in the case of (A), (B), and (C), an applicable margin of up to .75 percent, depending upon the credit rating of NJNG from Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC and Moody's Investors Service, Inc., or a successor nationally recognized statistical rating agency (Credit Rating), or (ii) a rate per annum equal to the Daily LIBOR Rate plus an applicable margin of 1.00 percent to 1.75 percent, depending on the Credit Rating. The commitment fee for the JPMC Facility may range from .075 percent to .20 percent, depending upon the Credit Rating. As of September 30, 2012, the commitment fee was .10 percent, the applicable margin for loans described in (i) above was .25 percent and the applicable margin for loans described in (ii) above was 1.25 percent.

The JPMC Facility contains representations, warranties, covenants, conditions and defaults customary for transactions of this type, including but not limited to: (a) a maximum leverage ratio (consolidated total indebtedness to consolidated total capitalization as defined in the JPMC Facility), of not more than .65 to 1.00 at any time; (b) limitations on liens and incurrence of debt, investments, and mergers and asset dispositions, and the use of the proceeds of the JPMC Facility; (c) requirements to preserve corporate existence, and comply with laws; and (d) default provisions, including defaults for non-payment, defaults for breach of representations and warranties, defaults for insolvency, defaults for non-performance of covenants, cross-defaults and guarantor defaults. The occurrence of an event of default under the JPMC Facility could result in all loans and other obligations of NJNG becoming immediately due and payable and the JPMC Facility being terminated.

Costs associated with the issuance of the VRDN's, as well as remaining unamortized debt costs associated with the ARS, will be amortized over the life of the VRDN in accordance with ASC 980, Regulated Operations.

On October 4, 2012, the BPU approved a petition filed by NJNG requesting authorization over a three-year period to issue medium-term debt with a maturity of not more than 30 years, renew its revolving credit facility expiring August 2014, renew the JPMC Facility, enter into interest rate risk management transactions and increase the size of its meter leasing program on a permanent basis.

Short-Term Debt

NJR uses its short-term borrowings primarily to finance its share repurchases, to satisfy NJRES' short-term liquidity needs and to finance, on an initial basis, unregulated investments. NJRES' use of high-injection, high-withdrawal storage facilities and anticipated pipeline park-and-loan arrangements, combined with related economic hedging activities in the volatile wholesale natural gas market, create significant short-term cash requirements.


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New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


NJNG satisfies its debt needs by issuing short- and long-term debt based upon its own financial profile. The seasonal nature of NJNG's operations creates large short-term cash requirements, primarily to finance natural gas purchases and customer accounts receivable. NJNG obtains working capital for these requirements, and for the temporary financing of construction and MGP remediation expenditures and energy tax payments, through the issuance of commercial paper and short-term bank loans.

As of September 30, 2012, NJR and NJNG had revolving credit facilities totaling $325 million and $200 million, respectively, as described below, with $166.3 million and $65 million, respectively, available under the facilities. Due to the seasonal nature of natural gas prices and demand, NJR and NJNG's short-term borrowings tend to peak in the winter months. In addition, the JPMC Facility providing liquidity support for NJNG's VRDNs has not been used to date.

Short-term borrowings were as follows:
 
Three Months Ended
Twelve Months Ended
($ in thousands)
September 30, 2012
NJR
 
 
Balance at end of period
$
144,800

$
144,800

Weighted average interest rate at end of period
1.16
%
1.16
%
Average balance for the period
$
226,257

$
204,327

Weighted average interest rate for average balance
0.83
%
0.63
%
Month end maximum for the period
$
224,250

$
241,800

 
 
 
NJNG
 
 
Balance at end of period
$
135,000

$
135,000

Weighted average interest rate at end of period
0.18
%
0.18
%
Average balance for the period
$
113,571

$
68,471

Weighted average interest rate for average balance
0.18
%
0.16
%
Month end maximum for the period
$
135,000

$
135,000


NJR

On August 22, 2012, NJR, entered into a $325 million Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (New NJR Credit Facility), which refinanced an earlier $325 million revolving credit facility that was scheduled to expire on December 13, 2012, but has now been terminated. The New NJR Credit Facility is scheduled to terminate on August 22, 2017. Borrowings under the New NJR Credit Facility bear interest, at NJR’s option at (i) a rate per annum equal to the greatest of (A) PNC Bank N.A.’s prime rate, (B) the Federal Funds Open Rate, plus .50 percent, or (C) the Daily LIBOR Rate (as defined in the agreement) plus 1.00 percent, plus in the case of (A), (B) and (C), an applicable margin between 0 percent and .625 percent, depending upon the credit rating of NJNG, or (ii) a rate per annum equal to the Daily LIBOR Rate plus an applicable margin of .875 percent to 1.625 percent, depending on NJNG's credit rating. As of September 30, 2012, the Commitment Fee Rate was .10 percent, the applicable margin for loans described in (i) above was 0 percent and the applicable margin for loans described in (ii) above was .875 percent. Certain of NJR's unregulated subsidiaries have guaranteed to the lenders all of NJR's obligations under the credit facility.

The New NJR Credit Facility permits the borrowing of revolving loans and swingline loans, as well as the issuance of letters of credit. The New NJR Credit Facility also includes an accordion feature, which would allow NJR, in the absence of a default or event of default, to increase from time to time, with the existing or new lenders, the revolving credit commitments under the New NJR Credit Facility in minimum $5 million increments up to a maximum of $100 million. In addition, borrowings under the New NJR Credit Facility are conditioned upon compliance with a maximum leverage ratio (consolidated total indebtedness to consolidated total capitalization as defined in the New NJR Credit Facility), of not more than .65 to 1.00 at any time. Financial covenants contained in NJR's credit facility include a maximum debt-to-total capitalization ratio of 65 percent. As of September 30, 2012, the consolidated total indebtedness to total capitalization ratio was 43 percent after adjustments for the fair value of derivative assets and liabilities and standby letters of credit, as defined in NJR's New Credit Facility.


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New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


The New NJR Credit Facility contains customary representations and warranties for transactions of this type. The New NJR Credit Facility also contains customary events of default and certain covenants that will limit NJR's ability beyond agreed upon thresholds, to, among other things: (i) incur additional debt; (ii) incur liens; (iii) make dispositions of assets; (iv) enter into transactions with affiliates; and (v) merge, consolidate, transfer, sell or lease all or substantially all of the NJR's assets. These covenants are subject to a number of exceptions and qualifications set forth in the New NJR Credit Facility. As of September 30, 2012, NJR had $144.8 million outstanding under the New NJR Credit Facility. Neither NJNG nor its assets are obligated or pledged to support the New NJR Credit Facility.

During fiscal 2012, NJR's average interest rate under the New NJR Credit Facility and the replaced credit facility was .63 percent, resulting in interest expense of $1.3 million. Based on average borrowings under the facilities of $204.3 million during the period, a 100 basis point change in the underlying average interest rate would have caused a change in interest expense of approximately $2.1 million during fiscal 2012.

As of September 30, 2012, NJR has three letters of credit outstanding totaling $13.9 million. Two of the letters of credit, which total $11 million, are on behalf of NJRES and one letter of credit is on behalf of NJRCEV totaling $2.9 million. These letters of credit reduce the amount available under NJR's committed credit facility by the same amount. NJR does not anticipate that these letters of credit will be drawn upon by the counterparties, and they will be renewed as necessary.

NJRES' letters of credit are used to secure the purchase and/or sale of natural gas and used for margin requirements for natural gas transactions; one expires on December 31, 2012 and the other expires on June 30, 2013. NJRCEV's letter of credit secures construction of a ground-mounted solar project and expires on November 27, 2013.

NJNG

In August 2011, NJNG entered into a $200 million unsecured committed credit facility expiring August 2014 (NJNG Credit Facility). The NJNG Credit Facility permits the borrowing of revolving loans and swing loans, as well as the issuance of letters of credit. It also permits an increase to the facility, from time to time, with the existing or new lenders, in a minimum of $15 million increments up to a maximum of $50 million at the lending banks' discretion. Depending on borrowing levels and credit ratings, NJNG's interest rate can either be, at its discretion, based upon Prime Rate, the Federal Funds Open Rate or the Daily LIBOR Rate, in each case, plus an applicable spread and facility fee. In addition, borrowings under NJNG's credit facility are conditioned upon compliance with a maximum leverage ratio, as defined in the credit facility, of not more than .65 to 1.00 at any time. During fiscal 2012, NJNG's weighted average interest rate under the NJNG Credit Facility was .16 percent, resulting in interest expense of $113,900. Based on average borrowings under the facility of $68.5 million during the period, a 100 basis point change in the underlying average interest rate would have caused a change in interest expense of approximately $687,900 during fiscal 2012.

Sale-Leaseback

NJNG received $6.5 million, $5.9 million and $4.9 million for fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, in connection with the sale-leaseback of its natural gas meters. During fiscal 2012 and 2011, NJNG exercised early purchase options with respect to meter leases by making final principal payments of $1 million and $3.9 million, respectively. There was no early purchase option exercised in fiscal 2010. This sale-leaseback program is expected to continue on an annual basis.


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New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


Contractual Obligations

The following table is a summary of NJR, NJNG and NJRES contractual cash obligations and financial commitments and their applicable payment due dates as of September 30, 2012:
 
 
Up to
2-3
4-5
After
(Thousands)
Total
1 Year
Years
Years
5 Years
Long-term debt (1)
$
610,766

$
18,095

$
116,659

$
79,496

$
396,516

Capital lease obligations (1)
65,774

10,652

19,827

18,603

16,692

Operating leases (1)
12,107

2,057

2,634

1,734

5,682

Short-term debt
279,800

279,800




New Jersey Clean Energy Program (1)
5,619

5,619




Construction obligations
23,577

23,577




Accelerated Infrastructure Programs (AIP II)
2,933

2,933




Remediation expenditures (2)
182,000

12,650

37,720

8,000

123,630

Natural gas supply purchase obligations-NJNG
331,717

104,827

217,317

9,573


Demand fee commitments-NJNG
568,162

90,999

143,708

88,370

245,085

Natural gas supply purchase obligations-NJRES
401,316

388,175

13,141



Demand fee commitments-NJRES
204,568

92,922

65,671

28,994

16,981

Total contractual cash obligations
$
2,688,339

$
1,032,306

$
616,677

$
234,770

$
804,586

(1)
These obligations include an interest component, as defined under the related governing agreements or in accordance with the applicable tax statute.
(2)
Expenditures are estimated.

NJR does not expect to be required to make additional contributions to fund its pension plans over the next three fiscal years based on current actuarial assumptions; however, funding requirements are uncertain and can depend significantly on changes in actuarial assumptions, returns on plan assets and changes in the demographics of eligible employees and covered dependents. In addition, as in the past, NJR may elect to make contributions in excess of the minimum required amount to the plans. In fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, NJR made discretionary contributions of $20 million and $4.9 million, respectively, to the pension plans. These contributions brought the plan to the Transition Target Funding level under the Pension Protection Act. There are no Federal requirements to pre-fund postemployment health care plans (OPEB) benefits. However, the Company is required to fund certain amounts due to regulatory agreements with the BPU. It is anticipated that the annual funding level to the OPEB plans will range from $4 million to $6 million annually over the next five years. Additional contributions may vary based on market conditions and various assumptions.

As of September 30, 2012, there were NJR guarantees covering approximately $361 million of natural gas purchases and demand fee commitments of NJRES and NJNG included in natural gas supply purchase obligations above, not yet reflected in Accounts payable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

NJNG's incurs significant capital expenditures consisting primarily of its construction program to support customer growth, maintenance of its distribution and transmission system and replacement needed under pipeline safety regulations. During fiscal 2012, committed or spent capital expenditures totaled $120.1 million, including cost of removal and AIP expenditures of $46.7 million. In October 2011, NJNG increased base rate revenue to recover approximately $8.9 million annually, based on AIP expenditures incurred through August 31, 2011.

In fiscal 2013 and 2014, NJNG's total capital expenditures are projected to be $119.3 million and $119.9 million, respectively, and include estimated SAFE construction costs of $34.6 million and $43.4 million, respectively. However, in October 2012, Superstorm Sandy caused significant damage to portions of NJNG's distribution infrastructure. We anticipate that Superstorm Sandy and its aftermath will influence our financial results but are still assessing the damages. NJR and NJNG are unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss related to Superstorm Sandy, however, such costs could be material. The financial effects can include lower operating revenues, lower utility gross margin due to extended outages and inability to bill and collect revenues, and higher capital expenditures related to the restoration, repair or replacement of damaged equipment and assets. On November 19, 2012, NJNG filed a petition with the BPU requesting deferral accounting for actually incurred uninsured incremental operating and maintenance costs associated with Superstorm Sandy. In addition, NJNG requested the review of and the appropriate amortization period for such deferred expenses be addressed in the Company's next base rate case. However, there can be no

Page 55

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


assurances that such recovery mechanisms will be available or, if available, no assurances can be given relative to the timing or amount of such recovery.

While we believe we have sufficient liquidity to meet our current obligations and to begin to fund restoration efforts from a combination of cash on hand and available capacity under revolving credit facilities, we may need to seek additional financing in order to fully fund restoration efforts.

NJNG's future MGP expenditures as of September 30, 2012, are estimated to total $182 million. For a more detailed description of MGP see Note 13. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements.

Estimated capital expenditures are reviewed on a regular basis and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints, environmental regulations, unforeseen events, and the ability to access capital.

NJRCEV's expenditures include discretionary spending on capital projects that support NJR's goal to promote clean energy. Accordingly, NJRCEV enters into agreements to install solar equipment involving both residential and commercial projects. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, NJRCEV entered the wind market through an $8.8 million investment in OwnEnergy. During fiscal 2012, capital expenditures committed or spent related to the purchase and installation of the solar equipment were $100.3 million. The effects of Superstorm Sandy also resulted in damage a portion of a 1.5 MW commercial rooftop solar array. The extent of the damage is still being evaluated, therefore, we are unable to estimate a loss or range of loss. or related insurance recovery.

Capital expenditures related to renewable energy projects are also subject to change due to a variety of factors, including logistics associated with the start-up of residential and commercial solar projects, such as timing of construction schedules, the permitting and regulatory process, any delays related to electric grid interconnection, which may affect our ability to commence operations at these projects on a timely basis or, at all, economic trends, unforeseen events and the ability to access capital or allocation of capital to other investments or business opportunities.

NJRES does not currently anticipate any significant capital expenditures in fiscal 2013 and 2014.

Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements

The Company does not have any off-balance-sheet arrangements, with the exception of guarantees covering approximately $361 million of natural gas purchases and demand fee commitments, see Note 13. Commitments and Contingent Liabilities, and three outstanding letters of credit totaling $13.9 million, that secures operational activities at certain unregulated subsidiaries, see Note 8. Debt.

Cash Flow

Operating Activities

As presented on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, cash flow from operating activities totaled $51.1 million during fiscal 2012, compared with $250.1 million during fiscal 2011. Operating cash flows are primarily affected by variations in working capital, which can be impacted by several factors including:

seasonality of NJR's business;

fluctuations in wholesale natural gas prices;

timing of storage injections and withdrawals;

management of the deferral and recovery of gas costs;

changes in contractual assets utilized to optimize margins related to natural gas transactions;

timing of the collections of receivables and payments of current liabilities; and

volumes of natural gas purchased and sold.

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New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS (Continued)                                                                                                                                                             


The decrease of $199 million in cash generated from operations during fiscal 2012, compared with fiscal 2011, was due primarily to:

credits of $85.9 million issued to NJNG's customers during the first quarter of fiscal 2012 related to gas costs previously collected from customers, in addition to a decrease in NJNG's BGSS rate implemented at the beginning of fiscal 2012 that contributed toward a decrease in the recovery of gas costs during fiscal 2012;

changes in gas purchase payables balances at NJRES due primarily to a 37 percent decline in average prices during fiscal 2012 compared with a 12 percent decline during fiscal 2011, in addition to a reduction in park and loan activity during the current fiscal year, resulting in a decrease of $93 million in cash flows; and

an increase in margin deposits of $30 million at NJRES due primarily to a decrease in the market value of open positions as a result of changes in the NYMEX forward prices.

Changes in working capital were the primary contributors to the $110.7 million increase in cash generated from operating activities during fiscal 2011, compared with fiscal 2010. The increase in cash was due primarily to:

an increase in NJNG's gas costs recovered of approximately $113.8 million during fiscal 2011, which reflects higher volumes of gas sold during the current fiscal year, in addition to cash refunds and bill credits that NJNG issued to customers during fiscal 2010, that did not recur during fiscal 2011;

lower volumes of gas in storage at NJRES and NJNG during the current fiscal year, coupled with a lower average cost of gas in storage resulting in an increase in cash flows of $79.1 million; partially offset by

an increase in margin deposits of $77.6 million due primarily to a decrease in the market value of open positions as a result of changes in the NYMEX forward prices.

Investing Activities

Cash flow used in investing activities totaled $217.1 million during fiscal 2012, compared with $175.1 million during fiscal 2011. The increase was due primarily to higher solar equipment expenditures at NJRCEV and utility plant expenditures at NJNG. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, NJRCEV acquired an ownership interest in OwnEnergy, a developer of on-shore wind projects, for $8.8 million.

Cash flow used in investing activities totaled $175.1 million during fiscal 2011, compared with $101.4 million during fiscal 2010. The increase was due primarily to higher solar equipment expenditures at NJRCEV and utility plant expenditures at NJNG, offset by a decrease in investments in Steckman Ridge.

NJNG's capital expenditures result primarily from the need for services, mains and meters to support its continued customer growth, mandated pipeline safety rulemaking, general system improvements and approved infrastructure programs. In fiscal 2012 and fiscal 2011, NJNG's committed or spent capital expenditures, including cost of removal, totaled $120.1 million and $113.1 million, respectively, including $46.7 million and $44 million, respectively, related to AIP.

The Company has entered into various agreements to install solar equipment involving both residential and commercial projects. During fiscal 2012 and 2011, capital expenditures, committed or spent, totaled $100.3 million and $74.2 million, respectively.

As of September 30, 2012, NJR invested $126.8 million in Steckman Ridge, excluding capitalized interest and other direct costs of $7.7 million, and received cash distributions of $30.2 million.

Retail and Other capital expenditures in past years have been made primarily in connection with investments made to preserve the value of real estate holdings. In fiscal 2011, NJR sold approximately 4.5 acres of CR&R's undeveloped land located in Monmouth County with a net book value of $1.6 million. The land was sold for $2.4 million with a pre-tax gain on the sale of $785,000, after closing costs. As of September 30, 2012, CR&R owned 79 acres of undeveloped land and a 56,400 square-foot office building on five acres of land.
Financing Activities

Financing cash flows generally are seasonal in nature and are impacted by the volatility in pricing in the natural gas markets. NJNG's inventory levels are built up during its natural gas injection season (April through October) and reduced during withdrawal season (November through March) in response to the supply requirements of its customers. Changes in financing cash flows can also be impacted by the funding demands of NJRES' gas management and marketing functions and renewable energy investments at NJRCEV.

Cash used in financing activities totaled $163.1 million during fiscal 2012, compared with $68.5 million during fiscal 2011, with the increase due primarily to higher short-term borrowings of $120 million at NJNG, the issuance of $100 million of senior notes by NJR, and a redemption of long-term debt of $130 million by NJNG during fiscal 2011 that did not occur in fiscal 2012.

Cash used in financing activities totaled $68.5 million during fiscal 2011, compared with $73.3 million during fiscal 2010, with the decrease due primarily to the redemption of NJNG's $20 million, 6.88 percent Series CC First Mortgage Bonds in fiscal 2011, partially offset by a decrease in shares repurchased during fiscal 2011.

On August 29, 2011, due to the lack of liquidity in the market for ARS, and the resulting exposure of NJNG to the LIBOR-based maximum rate, NJNG completed a refunding of its $97 million ARS. The ARS were replaced with the issuance of three series of variable rate demand notes with the same principal amount of $97 million and with maturity dates ranging from September 2027 to August 2041.

NJNG received $6.5 million, $5.9 million and $4.9 million for fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, in connection with the sale-leaseback of its natural gas meters. During fiscal 2012 and 2011, NJNG exercised early purchase options with respect to meter leases by making final principal payments of $1 million and $3.9 million, respectively. There was no early purchase option exercised in fiscal 2010. This sale-leaseback program is expected to continue on an annual basis.

Credit Ratings

The table below summarizes NJNG's current credit ratings issued by two rating entities, S&P and Moody's:
 
Standard and Poor's
Moody's
Corporate Rating
A
N/A
Commercial Paper
A-1
P-1
Senior Secured
A+
Aa3
Ratings Outlook
Stable
Stable

NJNG's S&P and Moody's ratings are investment-grade ratings. NJR is not a rated entity.

NJNG is not party to any lending agreements that would accelerate the maturity date of any obligation caused by a failure to maintain any specific credit rating. If such ratings are downgraded below investment grade, borrowing costs could increase, as would the costs of maintaining certain contractual relationships and future financing. Even if ratings are downgraded without falling below investment grade, NJR and NJNG could face increased borrowing costs under their credit facilities. A rating set forth above is not a recommendation to buy, sell or hold the Company's or NJNG's securities and may be subject to revision or withdrawal at any time. Each rating set forth above should be evaluated independently of any other rating.

The timing and mix of any external financings will target a common equity ratio that is consistent with maintaining the Company's current short-term and long-term credit ratings.


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New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK (Continued)                      


ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK                                              

Financial Risk Management

Commodity Market Risks

Natural gas is a nationally traded commodity. Its prices are determined effectively by the NYMEX and over-the-counter markets. The prices on the NYMEX and over-the-counter markets generally reflect the national balance of natural gas supply and demand, but are also significantly influenced from time to time by other events.

The regulated and unregulated natural gas businesses of NJR and its subsidiaries are subject to market risk due to fluctuations in the price of natural gas. To economically hedge against such fluctuations, NJR and its subsidiaries have entered into forwards, futures contracts, options agreements and swap agreements. To manage these derivative instruments, NJR has well-defined risk management policies and procedures that include daily monitoring of volumetric limits and monetary guidelines. NJR's natural gas businesses are conducted through three of its operating subsidiaries. NJNG is a regulated utility that uses futures, options and swaps to economically hedge against price fluctuations, and its recovery of natural gas costs is governed by the BPU. NJRES uses futures, options, swaps and physical contracts to economically hedge purchases and sales of natural gas and NJR Energy from time to time may enter into energy-related ventures.

The following table reflects the changes in the fair market value of financial derivatives related to natural gas purchases and sales from September 30, 2011 to September 30, 2012:
 
Balance
Increase
Less
Balance
(Thousands)
September 30, 2011
(Decrease) in Fair
Market Value
Amounts
Settled
September 30, 2012
NJNG
 
$
(8,452
)
 
$
(25,216
)
 
$
(35,837
)
 
$
2,169

NJRES
 
13,661

 
81,517

 
103,147

 
(7,969
)
Total
 
$
5,209

 
$
56,301

 
$
67,310

 
$
(5,800
)

There were no changes in methods of valuations during the year ended September 30, 2012.

The following is a summary of fair market value of financial derivatives at September 30, 2012, excluding foreign exchange contracts discussed below, by method of valuation and by maturity for each fiscal year period:
(Thousands)
2013
2014
2015 - 2017
After 2017
Total
Fair Value
Price based on NYMEX
$
(3,189
)
$
537

 
$

 
$

 
$
(2,652
)
Price based on other external data
(1,309
)
(1,352
)
 
(487
)
 

 
(3,148
)
Total
$
(4,498
)
$
(815
)
 
$
(487
)
 
$

 
$
(5,800
)

The following is a summary of financial derivatives by type as of September 30, 2012:
 
 
Volume Bcf
Price per MMBtu
Amounts included in Derivatives (Thousands)
NJNG
Futures
16.1

$2.72 - $4.56
 
$
2,170

 
Swaps
3.4

$2.70 - $3.02
 
(1
)
 
Options

 

NJRES
Futures
(28.6
)
$2.58 - $4.76
 
(4,822
)
 
Swaps
13.2

$2.37 - $7.42
 
(3,112
)
 
Options
4.4

$0.006 - $0.02
 
$
(35
)
Total
 
 
 
 
$
(5,800
)

Page 58

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK (Continued)                      


The following table reflects the changes in the fair market value of physical commodity contracts from September 30, 2011 to September 30, 2012:
 
Balance
Increase
Less
Balance
(Thousands)
September 30, 2011
(Decrease) in Fair
Market Value
Amounts
Settled
September 30, 2012
NJRES - Prices based on other external data
 
$
26,339

 
(3,507
)
 
12,330

 
$
10,502


Foreign Currency Market Risks

The following table reflects the changes in the fair market value of financial derivatives related to foreign currency hedges from September 30, 2011 to September 30, 2012:
 
Balance
Increase
Less
Balance
(Thousands)
September 30, 2011
(Decrease) in Fair
Market Value
Amounts
Settled
September 30, 2012
NJRES
 
$
266

 
(103
)
 
89

 
$
74


There were no changes in methods of valuations during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012.

The following is a summary of fair market value of financial derivatives related to foreign currency hedges at September 30, 2012, by method of valuation and by maturity for each fiscal year period:
(Thousands)
2013
2014
2015 - 2017
 
After 2017
 
Total
Fair Value
Prices based on other external data
$
18

35

 
21

 

 
$
74


The Company's market price risk is predominately related to changes in the price of natural gas at Henry Hub, which is the delivery point for the NYMEX natural gas futures contracts. As the fair value of futures and our fixed swaps is derived from this location, the price sensitivity analysis below has been prepared for all open Henry Hub natural gas futures and fixed swap positions. Based on this, an illustrative 10 percent movement in Henry Hub natural gas futures contract prices, for example, increases (decreases) the reported derivative fair value of all open Henry Hub natural gas futures and fixed swap positions by approximately $16.5 million. This analysis does not include potential changes to reported credit adjustments embedded in the $7 million reported fair value.
Derivative Fair Value Sensitivity Analysis
 
(Thousands)
Henry Hub Futures and Fixed Price Swaps
Percent increase in NYMEX natural gas futures prices
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
Estimated change in derivative fair value
$

$
(8,248
)
$
(16,495
)
$
(24,742
)
$
(32,990
)
Ending derivative fair value
$
(7,025
)
$
(15,273
)
$
(23,520
)
$
(31,767
)
$
(40,015
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Percent decrease in NYMEX natural gas futures prices
0%
(5)%
(10)%
(15)%
(20)%
Estimated change in derivative fair value
$

$
8,248

$
16,495

$
24,742

$
32,990

Ending derivative fair value
$
(7,025
)
$
1,223

$
9,470

$
17,717

$
25,965


Wholesale Credit Risk

NJNG, NJRES and NJR Energy engage in wholesale marketing activities. NJR monitors and manages the credit risk of its wholesale marketing operations through credit policies and procedures that management believes reduce overall credit risk. These policies include a review and evaluation of prospective counterparties' financial statements and/or credit ratings, daily monitoring of counterparties' credit limits, daily communication with traders regarding credit status and the use of credit mitigation measures, such as minimum margin requirements, collateral requirements and netting agreements. Examples of collateral include letters of credit and cash received for either prepayment or margin deposit.


Page 59

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK (Continued)                      


The Company's Risk Management Committee (RMC) continuously monitors NJR's credit risk management policies and procedures. The RMC is comprised of individuals from NJR-affiliated companies that meet twice a month and, among other things, evaluate the effectiveness of existing credit policies and procedures, review material transactions and discuss emerging issues.

The following is a summary of gross and net credit exposures, grouped by investment and noninvestment grade counterparties, as of September 30, 2012. Gross credit exposure is defined as the unrealized fair value of derivative and energy trading contracts plus any outstanding wholesale receivable for the value of natural gas delivered and/or financial derivative commodity contract that has settled for which payment has not yet been received. Net credit exposure is defined as gross credit exposure reduced by collateral received from counterparties and/or payables, where netting agreements exist. The amounts presented below exclude accounts receivable for NJNG retail natural gas sales and services.

NJRES' counterparty credit exposure as of September 30, 2012, is as follows:
(Thousands)
Gross Credit Exposure
Net Credit Exposure
Investment grade
 
$
132,459

 
$
96,548

Noninvestment grade
 
22,089

 
20,033

Internally rated investment grade
 
17,765

 
7,999

Internally rated noninvestment grade
 
7,518

 
485

Total
 
$
179,831

 
$
125,065


NJNG's counterparty credit exposure as of September 30, 2012, is as follows:
(Thousands)
Gross Credit Exposure
Net Credit Exposure
Investment grade
 
$
11,817

 
$
10,782

Noninvestment grade
 
62

 
62

Internally rated investment grade
 
461

 
180

Internally rated noninvestment grade
 
245

 
24

Total
 
$
12,585

 
$
11,048


Due to the inherent volatility in the prices of natural gas commodities and derivatives, the market value of contractual positions with individual counterparties could exceed established credit limits or collateral provided by those counterparties. If a counterparty failed to perform the obligations under its contract (for example, failed to deliver or pay for natural gas), the Company could sustain a loss. This loss would comprise the loss on natural gas delivered but not paid for and/or the cost of replacing natural gas not delivered at a price higher than the price in the original contract. Any such loss could have a material impact on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Liquidation of Clearing Broker

MF Global Inc. (MFGI) and MF Global UK Limited (UKMF), which operated as futures commission merchants and broker/dealer entities of MF Global Holdings Ltd. (collectively with its affiliates, MF Global), were NJRES' clearing brokers through which NJRES held positions in energy futures contracts, options on futures contracts, and swaps cleared on exchanges administered by the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). The CME and ICE both require NJRES to maintain adequate margin against NJRES' trading positions, which our former clearing brokers, MFGI and UKMF, were required to hold on our behalf in segregated or secured accounts. MF Global disclosed to the CME that it had a “significant shortfall” in its segregated customer accounts. Shortly thereafter, on October 31, 2011, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation announced that it had initiated the liquidation of MFGI under the Securities Investor Protection Act (SIPA) in the U.S. and the High Court in the U.K. appointed special administrators to conduct the liquidation of UKMF. The SIPA Trustee's latest estimate of the shortfall in commodities customers' segregated account funds is $1.6 billion.

As of the close of business on November 3, 2011, the market value of NJRES' MF Global account was $27.8 million, of which $10.6 million related to CME positions and $17.2 million related to ICE positions. On May 21, 2012, NJRES received notice from the Trustee that its claim filed in the MFGI liquidation proceeding had been allowed in the amount of $27.8 million.

Page 60

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK (Continued)                      


As of September 30, 2012, NJRES received distributions from the SIPA Trustee totaling $8.4 million related to its CME positions. Accordingly, the remaining exposure as of September 30, 2012, is $19.4 million. On October 5, 2012, NJRES received an additional $859,300 related to its CME positions.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company established an allowance for bad debt of $1.4 million and began the process of exploring third party bids for the bankruptcy claim. On October 24, 2012, NJR sold its remaining claim of $18.5 million for $17.1 million. The loss on the sale is equal to the allowance established as of September 30, 2012.

Interest Rate Risk

As of September 30, 2012, NJNG is obligated with respect to a loan agreement securing three series of VRDNs totaling $97 million of variable-rate debt issued by the EDA. Pursuant to the terms of the loan agreement, NJNG is obligated to make the principal and interest payments on the VRDNs. The VRDNs are in a daily interest rate mode and bear interest at a rate determined daily by a remarketing agent based upon market conditions. As of September 30, 2012, the VRDNs had a weighted average interest rate of .22 percent. The VRDNs are subject to changes in market conditions for tax-exempt bonds and there can be no assurance that the interest rate will remain stable and not increase significantly due to market conditions, which could potentially adversely affect NJNG's borrowing costs. A 100 basis point change in the VRDNs' average interest rate would have caused a change in interest expense for these variable rate bonds by approximately $975,000 during fiscal 2012, assuming that they were outstanding for the entire year.

At September 30, 2012, the Company (excluding NJNG) had no variable-rate long-term debt.

For more information regarding the interest rate risk related to our short-term debt, please see the Liquidity and Capital Resources - Debt section of Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.

Effects of Inflation

Although inflation rates have been relatively low to moderate in recent years, any change in price levels has an effect on operating results due to the capital-intensive and regulated nature of the Company's utility subsidiary. The Company attempts to minimize the effects of inflation through cost control, productivity improvements and regulatory actions when appropriate.

Page 61

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA                                                                                 

MANAGEMENT'S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

Management of New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR or the Company) is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The Company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company's Management and Board of Directors regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and includes policies and procedures that:

pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;

provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and

improvements in the design of internal control over financial reporting related to the accounting of commodity transacting, resulting in the implementation of new and expanded processes and controls; and

Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012. In making this assessment, management used the criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting described in the “Internal Control-Integrated Framework” set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on the assessment, management concluded that, as of September 30, 2012, the Company's internal control over financial reporting was effective to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the Unites States.

The conclusion of the Company's principal executive officer and principal financial officer is based on the recognition that there are inherent limitations in all systems of internal control over financial reporting. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements, errors or fraud. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

The Company's independent registered public accounting firm, Deloitte & Touche LLP, has issued its report on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, which appears herein.


November 28, 2012



Page 62

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of
New Jersey Resources Corporation:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of New Jersey Resources Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, and the related consolidated statements of operations, comprehensive income, common stock equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012. Our audits also included the financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 15. These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated November 28, 2012, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting.



/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Parsippany, New Jersey


November 28, 2012

Page 63

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders
of New Jersey Resources Corporation

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of New Jersey Resources Corporation and subsidiaries (the "Company") as of September 30, 2012, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company's principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company's board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company's assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of September 30, 2012, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules as of and for the year ended September 30, 2012, of the Company and our report dated November 28, 2012, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedules.



/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Parsippany, New Jersey


November 28, 2012


Page 64

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                             

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Thousands, except per share data)
 
 
Fiscal years ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
OPERATING REVENUES
 
 
 
Utility
$
627,713

$
971,724

$
937,433

Nonutility
1,621,210

2,037,485

1,701,871

Total operating revenues
2,248,923

3,009,209

2,639,304

OPERATING EXPENSES
 
 
 
Gas purchases:
 
 
 
Utility
268,459

534,363

576,220

Nonutility
1,572,949

2,016,208

1,591,338

Operation and maintenance
171,045

163,111

148,565

Regulatory rider expenses
40,350

51,246

45,966

Depreciation and amortization
41,643

34,370

32,267

Energy and other taxes
45,787

66,910

56,823

Total operating expenses
2,140,233

2,866,208

2,451,179

OPERATING INCOME
108,690

143,001

188,125

Other income
2,128

3,747

5,258

Interest expense, net of capitalized interest
20,844

19,623

21,251

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES AND EQUITY IN EARNINGS OF AFFILIATES
89,974

127,125

172,132

Income tax provision
7,729

37,665

64,692

Equity in earnings of affiliates
10,634

11,839

10,017

NET INCOME
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

 
 
 
 
EARNINGS PER COMMON SHARE
 
 
 
BASIC
$2.24
$2.45
$2.84
DILUTED
$2.23
$2.44
$2.82
DIVIDENDS PER COMMON SHARE
$1.52
$1.44
$1.36
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES OUTSTANDING
 
 
 
BASIC
41,527

41,359

41,364

DILUTED
41,632

41,568

41,630



CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal years ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
Net income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

Unrealized gain on available for sale securities, net of tax of $(270), $(24) and $(1,066), respectively (1)
391

38

1,544

Net unrealized (loss) gain on derivatives, net of tax of $71, $(84) and $69, respectively
(122
)
146

(97
)
Adjustment to postemployment benefit obligation, net of tax of $345, $(567) and $1,464, respectively
(436
)
1,219

(3,402
)
Other comprehensive (loss) income
(167
)
1,403

(1,955
)
Comprehensive income
$
92,712

$
102,702

$
115,502

(1)
Available for sale securities are included in other noncurrent assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Page 65

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                             

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
Fiscal years ended September 30,
2012
 
2011
 
2010
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
$
92,879

 
$
101,299

 
$
117,457

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative instruments
35,789

 
36,876

 
(27,392
)
Depreciation and amortization
41,643

 
35,200

 
33,192

Allowance for equity used during construction
(638
)
 
(2,100
)
 
(2,165
)
Allowance for bad debt expense
3,932

 
4,865

 
3,307

Deferred income taxes
(5,323
)
 
35,034

 
68,458

Manufactured gas plant remediation costs
(7,965
)
 
(14,115
)
 
(3,824
)
Equity in earnings of affiliates, net of distributions received
6,799

 
2,791

 
839

Cost of removal - asset retirement obligations
(1,196
)
 
(826
)
 
(809
)
Contributions to postemployment benefit plans
(25,874
)
 
(11,496
)
 
(19,567
)
Changes in:
 
 
 
 
 
Components of working capital
(95,357
)
 
43,748

 
(35,297
)
Other noncurrent assets
(20,539
)
 
7,081

 
3,525

Other noncurrent liabilities
26,931

 
11,744

 
1,691

Cash flows from operating activities
51,081

 
250,101

 
139,415

CASH FLOWS (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Expenditures for
 
 
 
 
 
Utility plant
(104,277
)
 
(93,624
)
 
(86,620
)
Solar equipment
(89,726
)
 
(71,989
)
 
(2,641
)
Real estate properties and other
(1,334
)
 
(3,549
)
 
(917
)
Cost of removal
(12,178
)
 
(8,369
)
 
(7,201
)
Investments in equity investees
(8,800
)
 

 
(4,300
)
Withdrawal from (investment in) restricted cash construction fund
(802
)
 
58

 
(445
)
Proceeds from asset sales

 
2,396

 

Proceeds from available for sale investments

 

 
721

Cash flows (used in) investing activities
(217,117
)
 
(175,077
)
 
(101,403
)
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock
13,834

 
13,704

 
6,487

Tax benefit from stock options exercised
780

 
2,007

 
669

Proceeds from sale-leaseback transaction
6,522

 
5,901

 
4,925

Refinancing of long-term debt

 
97,045

 

Proceeds from long-term debt
100,000

 

 

Payments of long-term debt
(8,025
)
 
(130,091
)
 
(6,749
)
Purchases of treasury stock
(8,768
)
 
(10,193
)
 
(29,650
)
Payments of common stock dividends
(61,688
)
 
(58,650
)
 
(53,137
)
Net proceeds from short-term debt
120,450

 
11,750

 
4,200

Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
163,105

 
(68,527
)
 
(73,255
)
Change in cash and cash equivalents
(2,931
)
 
6,497

 
(35,243
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
7,440

 
943

 
36,186

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
4,509

 
$
7,440

 
$
943

CHANGES IN COMPONENTS OF WORKING CAPITAL
 
 
 
 
 
Receivables
$
36,670

 
$
(49,473
)
 
$
(66,189
)
Inventories
28,814

 
40,363

 
(38,743
)
Recovery of gas costs
(11,686
)
 
41,118

 
(72,688
)
Gas purchases payable
(70,277
)
 
22,289

 
100,290

Prepaid and accrued taxes
23,036

 
(8,691
)
 
(10,431
)
Accounts payable and other
(3,418
)
 
4,469

 
291

Restricted broker margin accounts
666

 
(31,813
)
 
35,468

Customers' credit balances and deposits
(65,324
)
 
21,819

 
18,740

Other current assets
(33,838
)
 
3,667

 
(2,035
)
Total
$
(95,357
)
 
$
43,748

 
$
(35,297
)
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH FLOWS INFORMATION
 
 
 
 

Cash paid for
 
 
 
 

Interest (net of amounts capitalized)
$
16,670

 
$
17,323

 
$
14,665

Income taxes
$
10,053

 
$
5,165

 
$
24,177

SUPPLEMENTAL SCHEDULE OF NONCASH INVESTING ACTIVITIES
 
 
 
 
 
Accrued capital expenditures
$
8,257

 
$
9,423

 
$
1,575

See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Page 66

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                             

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

ASSETS
(Thousands)
 
 
September 30,
2012
2011
 
 
 
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
 
 
Utility plant, at cost
$
1,591,532

$
1,502,451

Construction work in progress
102,420

92,827

Solar equipment, real estate properties and other, at cost
192,026

76,431

Construction work in progress
20,558

34,455

Total property, plant and equipment
1,906,536

1,706,164

Accumulated depreciation and amortization
(421,659
)
(410,237
)
Property, plant and equipment, net
1,484,877

1,295,927

 
 
 
CURRENT ASSETS
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
4,509

7,440

Customer accounts receivable
 
 
Billed
170,543

209,266

Unbilled revenues
7,017

7,333

Allowance for doubtful accounts
(4,797
)
(4,612
)
Regulatory assets
32,734

17,630

Gas in storage, at average cost
265,193

294,475

Materials and supplies, at average cost
7,863

7,395

Prepaid and accrued taxes
32,029

54,311

Derivatives, at fair value
48,021

100,338

Restricted broker margin accounts
21,929

22,595

Deferred taxes
29,074

1,498

Other current assets
33,229

14,698

Total current assets
647,344

732,367

 
 
 
NONCURRENT ASSETS
 
 
Investments in equity investees
164,595

159,063

Regulatory assets
441,263

434,185

Derivatives, at fair value
2,328

6,515

Other noncurrent assets
29,598

21,387

Total noncurrent assets
637,784

621,150

Total assets
$
2,770,005

$
2,649,444


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Page 67

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II
 
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                             

CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
(Thousands)
 
 
September 30,
2012
2011
 
 
 
CAPITALIZATION
 
 
Common stock, $2.50 par value; authorized 75,000,000 shares;
outstanding 2012-41,619,633; 2011-41,421,786
$
110,956

$
110,258

Premium on common stock
272,566

265,524

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss), net of tax
(10,771
)
(10,604
)
Treasury stock at cost and other; shares 2012-2,763,659; 2011-2,808,093
(116,551
)
(117,683
)
Retained earnings
557,665

528,762

Common stock equity
813,865

776,257

Long-term debt
525,169

426,797

Total capitalization
1,339,034

1,203,054

 
 
 
CURRENT LIABILITIES
 
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
7,760

7,575

Short-term debt
279,800

159,350

Gas purchases payable
182,414

252,691

Accounts payable and other
66,765

65,960

Dividends payable
16,648

14,912

Deferred and accrued taxes
2,072

778

Regulatory liabilities
1,169

4,633

New Jersey clean energy program
5,619

15,011

Derivatives, at fair value
42,440

68,698

Customers' credit balances and deposits
48,452

113,776

Total current liabilities
653,139

703,384

 
 
 
NONCURRENT LIABILITIES
 
 
Deferred income taxes
355,306

327,782

Deferred investment tax credits
5,905

6,227

Deferred revenue
5,502

7,633

Derivatives, at fair value
3,133

6,341

Manufactured gas plant remediation
182,000

182,900

Postemployment employee benefit liability
124,196

114,305

Regulatory liabilities
67,077

59,837

New Jersey clean energy program

5,133

Asset retirement obligation
27,983

27,026

Other noncurrent liabilities
6,730

5,822

Total noncurrent liabilities
777,832

743,006

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 13)



Total capitalization and liabilities
$
2,770,005

$
2,649,444


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


Page 68

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                             

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMMON STOCK EQUITY
(Thousands)
Number of Shares
Common Stock
Premium on Common Stock
Accumulated Other Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Treasury Stock And Other
Retained Earnings
Total
Balance at September 30, 2009
41,586

$
109,386

$
249,219

 
$
(10,052
)
 
$
(84,598
)
$
425,771

$
689,726

Net income



 

 

117,457

117,457

Other comprehensive (loss)



 
(1,955
)
 


(1,955
)
Common stock issued under stock plans
289

327

1,602

 

 
5,743


7,672

Tax benefits from stock plans


326

 

 


326

Cash dividend declared



 

 

(56,213
)
(56,213
)
Treasury stock and other
(701
)


 

 
(31,530
)

(31,530
)
Balance at September 30, 2010
41,174

109,713

251,147

 
(12,007
)
 
(110,385
)
487,015

725,483

Net income



 

 

101,299

101,299

Other comprehensive income



 
1,403

 


1,403

Common stock issued under stock plans
621

545

12,370

 

 
11,213


24,128

Tax benefits from stock plans


2,007

 

 


2,007

Cash dividend declared



 

 

(59,552
)
(59,552
)
Treasury stock and other
(373
)


 

 
(18,511
)

(18,511
)
Balance at September 30, 2011
41,422

110,258

265,524

 
(10,604
)
 
(117,683
)
528,762

776,257

Net income



 

 

92,879

92,879

Other comprehensive (loss)



 
(167
)
 


(167
)
Common stock issued under stock plans
445

698

6,262

 

 
11,681


18,641

Tax benefits from stock plans


780

 

 


780

Cash dividend declared



 

 

(63,976
)
(63,976
)
Treasury stock and other
(247
)


 

 
(10,549
)

(10,549
)
Balance at September 30, 2012
41,620

$
110,956

$
272,566

 
$
(10,771
)
 
$
(116,551
)
$
557,665

$
813,865


See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements


Page 69

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                         


1.
NATURE OF THE BUSINESS

New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR or the Company) provides regulated gas distribution services and certain non-regulated businesses primarily through the following subsidiaries:

New Jersey Natural Gas Company (NJNG) provides natural gas utility service to approximately 500,100 retail customers in central and northern New Jersey and is subject to rate regulation by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities (BPU). NJNG comprises the Natural Gas Distribution segment;

NJR Clean Energy Ventures (NJRCEV) comprises the Clean Energy Ventures segment and reports the results of operations and assets related to the Company's capital investments in renewable energy projects, including commercial and residential solar projects and on-shore wind investments;

NJR Energy Services Company (NJRES) comprises the Energy Services segment that maintains and transacts around a portfolio of natural gas storage and transportation positions and provides wholesale energy and energy management services;

NJR Energy Holdings Corporation (NJREH) primarily invests in energy-related ventures through its subsidiaries, NJNR Pipeline Company (Pipeline), which holds the Company's 5.53 percent ownership interest in Iroquois Gas Transmission L.P. (Iroquois), and NJR Steckman Ridge Storage Company, which holds the Company's 50 percent combined interest in Steckman Ridge GP, LLC and Steckman Ridge, LP (collectively, Steckman Ridge). Iroquois and Steckman Ridge comprise the Energy Holdings segment (previously Midstream Assets); and

NJR Retail Holdings Corporation (Retail Holdings) has two principal subsidiaries, NJR Home Services Company (NJRHS) and Commercial Realty & Resources Corporation (CR&R). Retail Holdings and NJR Energy Corporation (NJR Energy) are included in Retail and Other operations.

2.
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Principles of Consolidation

The Consolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.

Other financial investments or contractual interests that lack the characteristics of a voting interest entity, which are commonly referred to as variable interest entities, are evaluated by NJR to determine if it has the power to direct business activities and, therefore, would be considered a controlling interest that NJR would have to consolidate. Based on those evaluations, NJR has determined that it does not have any investments in variable interest entities as of September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010.

Investments in entities over which the Company does not have a controlling financial interest are either accounted for under the equity method or cost method of accounting.

Regulatory Assets & Liabilities

Under cost-based regulation, regulated utility enterprises generally are permitted to recover their operating expenses and earn a reasonable rate of return on their utility investment.

NJNG maintains its accounts in accordance with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Uniform System of Accounts as prescribed by the BPU and in accordance with the Regulated Operations Topic of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification (ASC). As a result of the impact of the ratemaking process and regulatory actions of the BPU, NJNG is required to recognize the economic effects of rate regulation. Accordingly, NJNG capitalizes or defers certain costs that are expected to be recovered from its customers as regulatory assets and recognizes certain obligations representing probable future expenditures as regulatory liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 3. Regulation, for a more detailed description of NJNG's regulatory assets and liabilities.


Page 70

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Gas in Storage

Gas in storage is reflected at average cost on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, and represents natural gas and liquefied natural gas that will be utilized in the ordinary course of business.

The following table summarizes gas in storage by company as of September 30:
 
2012
2011
($ in thousands)
Gas in Storage
 
Bcf
Gas in Storage
 
Bcf
NJNG
 
$
145,379

22.2

 
$
159,328

23.1

NJRES
 
119,814

45.5

 
135,147

36.8

Total
 
$
265,193

67.7

 
$
294,475

59.9


Demand Fees

For the purpose of securing adequate storage and pipeline capacity, NJRES and NJNG enter into storage and pipeline capacity contracts, which require the payment of certain demand charges to maintain the ability to access such natural gas storage or pipeline capacity, during a fixed time period, which generally ranges from one to five years. Demand charges are based on established rates as regulated by FERC. These demand charges represent commitments to pay storage providers or pipeline companies for the right to store and transport natural gas utilizing their respective assets.

The following table summarizes the demand charges, which are net of capacity releases, and are included as a component of gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended September 30:
(Millions)
2012
2011
2010
NJRES
$
129.8

$
112.3

$
105.1

NJNG
86.7

98.9

98.6

Total
$
216.5

$
211.2

$
203.7


NJRES expenses demand charges ratably over the term of the contract.

NJNG's cost associated with demand charges are included in its weighted average cost of gas. The demand charges are expensed based on NJNG's Basic Gas Supply Service (BGSS) sales and recovered as part of its wholesale gas commodity component of its BGSS tariff.

Derivative Instruments

NJR accounts for its financial instruments, such as futures, options, foreign exchange contracts and swaps, as well as its physical commodity contracts related to the purchase and sale of natural gas at NJRES, as derivatives, and therefore recognizes them at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. NJR's unregulated subsidiaries record changes in the fair value of their financial commodity derivatives and physical forward contracts in gas purchases or operating revenues, as appropriate, on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. NJRES designates its foreign exchange contracts as cash flow hedges of Canadian dollar dominated gas purchases. Changes in the fair value of the effective portion of these hedges are recorded to other comprehensive income, a component of stockholders' equity, and reclassified to gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations when they settle. Ineffective portions of the cash flow hedges are recognized immediately in earnings. During fiscal 2011 and 2012, NJR had no derivatives designated as fair value hedges.

The Derivatives and Hedging Topic of the ASC also provides for an exception (“normal scope exception”) for qualifying physical commodity contracts that are intended for purchases and sales during the normal course of business and for which physical delivery is probable. NJR applies this exception to physical commodity contracts at NJNG and forward contracts at NJRCEV, therefore does not record changes in the fair value of these contracts until the contract settles and the related underlying natural gas or solar renewable energy certificate (SREC) is delivered. NJNG's derivatives used to economically hedge its natural gas purchasing activities are recoverable through its BGSS, a component of its tariff. Accordingly, the offset to the change in fair value of these derivatives is recorded as a regulatory asset or liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

See Note 4. Derivative Instruments for additional details regarding natural gas trading and hedging activities.

Page 71

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Fair values of exchange-traded instruments, including futures, swaps, foreign exchange contracts and certain options, are based on actively quoted market prices. Fair values are subject to change in the near term and reflect management's best estimate based on various factors. In establishing the fair value of commodity contracts that do not have quoted prices, such as physical contracts, over-the-counter options and swaps and certain embedded derivatives, management uses available market data and pricing models to estimate fair values. Estimating fair values of instruments that do not have quoted market prices requires management's judgment in determining amounts that could reasonably be expected to be received from, or paid to, a third party in settlement of the instruments. These amounts could be materially different from amounts that might be realized in an actual sale transaction.

Revenues

Revenues from the sale of natural gas to customers of NJNG are recognized in the period that gas is delivered and consumed by customers, including an estimate for unbilled revenue.

In determining the amount of revenue from sales to natural gas customers by NJNG, certain assumptions are used to develop estimates of unaccounted-for gas. Unaccounted-for gas occurs for a number of reasons including leakage or other actual losses, discrepancies due to meter inaccuracies, variations of temperature and/or pressure, and other variants. The estimating factors may change from time to time as a result of improvements in the quality and/or the timeliness of certain metering and billing information.

NJNG records unbilled revenue for natural gas services. Natural gas sales to individual customers are based on meter readings, which are performed on a systematic basis throughout the month. At the end of each month, the amount of natural gas delivered to each customer after the last meter reading is estimated, and NJNG recognizes unbilled revenues related to these amounts. The unbilled revenue estimates are based on amounts delivered from date of the last meter read to the end of the respective accounting period, estimated customer usage by customer type, weather effects, unaccounted-for gas and the most current tariff rates.

Revenues for NJRES are recognized when the gas is physically delivered to the customer. In addition, changes in the fair value of derivatives that economically hedge the forecasted sales of the natural gas are recognized in operating revenues as they occur, as noted above.

Revenues from all other activities are recorded in the period during which products or services are delivered and accepted by customers, or over the related contractual term.

Gas Purchases

NJNG's tariff includes a component for BGSS, which is designed to allow NJNG to recover the cost of natural gas through rates charged to its customers and is normally revised on an annual basis. As part of computing its BGSS rate, NJNG projects its cost of natural gas, net of supplier refunds, the impact of hedging activities and credits from non-firm sales and transportation activities. NJNG subsequently recovers or refunds the difference, if any, of actual costs compared with those included in current rates. Any underrecoveries or overrecoveries are either refunded to customers or deferred and, subject to BPU approval, reflected in the BGSS rates in subsequent years.

NJRES' gas purchases represent the total commodity contract cost, recognized upon completion of the transaction, as well as realized gains and losses of settled derivative instruments, both for physical purchase contracts and all financial contracts and unrealized gains and losses on the change in fair value of financial derivative instruments that have not yet settled.

Income Taxes

The Company computes income taxes using the liability method, whereby deferred income taxes are generally determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax basis of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect in the years in which the differences are expected to reverse. See Note 12. Income Taxes.

In addition, NJR evaluates its tax positions to determine the appropriate accounting and recognition of future obligations associated with unrecognized tax benefits.


Page 72

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The Company invests in property that qualifies for federal investment tax credits (ITCs) and utilizes the ITCs as allowed based on the cost and life of the assets purchased. ITCs at NJNG are deferred and amortized as a reduction to the tax provision over the average lives of the related equipment in accordance with regulatory treatment. ITCs at NJR's unregulated subsidiaries are recognized as a reduction to income tax expense when the property is placed in service.

Capitalized and Deferred Interest

Included on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are capitalized amounts associated with the debt and equity components of NJNG's allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC), which are recorded in utility plant. NJNG's base rates include the ability for NJNG to recover the cost of debt associated with AFUDC and construction work in progress (CWIP). An incremental cost of equity is also recoverable during periods when NJNG's short-term debt balances are lower than its CWIP. Corresponding amounts recognized in interest expense and other income, as appropriate, are included on the Consolidated Statements of Operations are as follows for the fiscal years ended September 30:
($ in thousands)
2012
2011
2010
AFUDC:
 
 
 
Debt
$
300

$
1,020

$
978

Equity
638

2,100

2,165

Total
$
938

$
3,120

$
3,143

Weighted average rate %
1.47
%
5.21
%
7.39
%

Pursuant to a BPU order, NJNG is permitted to recover carrying costs on uncollected balances related to Societal Benefits Clause (SBC) program costs, which include New Jersey Clean Energy Program (NJCEP), Remediation Adjustment (RA) and Universal Service Fund (USF) expenditures. See Note 3. Regulation. Accordingly, other income included $878,000, $1.1 million and $1.7 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

Sales Tax Accounting

Sales tax and Transitional Energy Facilities Assessment (TEFA) are collected from customers and presented in both operating revenues and operating expenses on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the fiscal years ended September 30, as follows:
(Millions)
2012
2011
2010
Sales tax
$
32.3

$
50.7

$
41.6

TEFA (1)
6.0

9.0

8.3

Total
$
38.3

$
59.7

$
49.9

(1)
TEFA will be phased out over a three-year period commencing January 1, 2012.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consists of cash on deposit and temporary investments with original maturities of three months or less, and excludes restricted cash of $1.2 million and $387,000 as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, that is recorded in other noncurrent assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Property Plant and Equipment

Regulated property, plant and equipment and solar equipment are stated at original cost. Regulated property, plant and equipment costs include direct labor, materials and third-party construction contractor costs, AFUDC and certain indirect costs related to equipment and employees engaged in construction. Upon retirement, the cost of depreciable regulated property, plus removal costs less salvage, is charged to accumulated depreciation with no gain or loss recorded.

Depreciation is computed on a straight-line basis over the useful life of the assets for non-regulated assets for financial statement purposes and using rates based on the estimated average lives of the various classes of depreciable property for NJNG. The composite rate of depreciation used for NJNG was 2.38 percent of average depreciable property in fiscal 2012, 2.39 percent in fiscal 2011 and 2.24 percent in fiscal 2010.

Page 73

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Property, plant and equipment was comprised of the following as of September 30:
(Thousands)
 
 
 
 
Property Classifications
Estimated Useful Lives
 
2012
2011
Distribution facilities
38 to 74 years
 
$
1,352,101

$
1,304,182

Transmission facilities
35 to 56 years
 
248,774

200,051

Storage facilities
34 to 47 years
 
41,663

42,364

Solar property
20 to 25 years
 
181,123

78,322

All other property
5 to 35 years
 
82,875

81,245

Total property, plant and equipment
 
 
1,906,536

1,706,164

Accumulated depreciation and amortization
 
 
(421,659
)
(410,237
)
Property, plant and equipment, net
 
 
$
1,484,877

$
1,295,927


Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company reviews the carrying amount of an asset for possible impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that such amount may not be recoverable.

For the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, no impairments were identified.

Available for Sale Securities

Included in other non-current assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are certain investments in equity securities of a publicly traded energy company that have a fair value of $11 million and $10.3 million as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Total unrealized gains associated with these equity securities, which are included as a part of accumulated other comprehensive income, a component of common stock equity, were $8.3 million ($4.9 million, after tax) and $7.7 million ($4.5 million, after tax) for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. Reclassifications made from unrealized gains to realized gains are determined based on average cost. There were no sales of securities during fiscal 2012 and 2011.

Sale of Asset

In fiscal 2011, CR&R sold approximately 4.5 acres of undeveloped land with a net book value of $1.6 million. The land was sold for $2.4 million, generating a pre-tax gain of $785,000 after closing costs, which was reported as a component of operating revenue on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Investments in Equity Investees

The Company accounts for its investments in Iroquois and Steckman Ridge using the equity method of accounting, where its respective ownership interests are 50 percent or less and/or it has significant influence over operating and management decisions, but is not the primary beneficiary, as defined under ASC 810. The Company's share of earnings is recognized as equity in earnings of affiliates on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Iroquois is a limited partnership, which owns and operates a 412-mile interstate natural gas transmission pipeline providing service to local gas distribution companies, electric utilities and electric power generators, as well as marketers and other end-users, directly or indirectly, by connecting with pipelines and interconnects throughout the northeastern United States. Steckman Ridge is a 17.7 billion cubic foot (Bcf) natural gas storage facility, with up to 12 Bcf of working capacity, which was jointly developed and constructed with a partner in western Pennsylvania.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 the Company, through its subsidiary NJRCEV, acquired a 19.9 percent ownership interest in OwnEnergy, a developer of on-shore wind projects. NJRCEV is not the primary beneficiary of OwnEnergy, nor does it have significant influence over operating and management decisions. Therefore, NJRCEV applies the cost method of accounting and records dividends, if and when received, as a component of other income on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.


Page 74

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income

Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) was comprised of the following balances, net of tax, as of September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
Unrealized gain on available for sale securities
$
4,921

$
4,530

Net unrealized gain on foreign currency derivatives
51

173

Postemployment benefit obligation adjustment
(15,743
)
(15,307
)
Total
$
(10,771
)
$
(10,604
)

Customer Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

Our receivables consist of natural gas sales and transportation services billed to residential, commercial, industrial and other customers, as well as equipment sales and installations to commercial and residential customers. NJR evaluates it accounts receivables and, to the extent customer account balances are outstanding for more than thirty days, establishes an allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance is based on a combination of factors including historical collection experience and trends, aging of receivables, general economic conditions in the company's distribution or sales territories, and customer specific information. We write-off our customers' accounts once we determine they are uncollectible.

The following table summarizes customer accounts receivable by company as of September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
 
2011
NJRES
135,891

80
%
 
155,594

74
%
NJNG (1)
33,093

19

 
45,092

22

NJRCEV
154


 
69


NJRHS and other
1,405

1

 
8,511

4

Total
$
170,543

100
%
 
$
209,266

100
%
(1)
Does not include unbilled revenues of $7 million and $7.3 million as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Asset Retirement Obligations (ARO)

NJR recognizes a liability for its AROs based on the fair value of the liability when incurred, which is generally upon acquisition, construction, development and/or through the normal operation of the asset. Concurrently, NJR also capitalizes an asset retirement cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related asset by the same amount as the liability. In periods subsequent to the initial measurement, NJR is required to recognize changes in the liability resulting from the passage of time (accretion) or due to revisions to either timing or the amount of the originally estimated cash flows to settle the conditional ARO.

Pension and Postemployment Plans

NJR has two noncontributory defined pension plans covering substantially all employees, including officers. Benefits are based on each employee's years of service and compensation. NJR's funding policy is to contribute annually to these plans at least the minimum amount required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) of 1974, as amended, and not more than can be deducted for federal income tax purposes. Plan assets consist of equity securities, fixed-income securities and short-term investments. NJR contributed $20 million, $4.9 million and $14.5 million in aggregate to the plans in fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

NJR also provides two primarily noncontributory medical and life insurance plans for eligible retirees and dependents. Medical benefits, which make up the largest component of the plans, are based upon an age and years-of-service vesting schedule and other plan provisions. Funding of these benefits is made primarily into Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association trust funds. NJR contributed $5.8 million, $6.5 million and $4.8 million in aggregate to these plans in fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.


Page 75

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Foreign Currency Transactions

NJRES' market area includes Canadian delivery points and as a result incurs certain natural gas commodity costs and demand fees that are denominated in Canadian dollars. Gains or losses that occur as a result of these foreign currency transactions are reported as a component of gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations and were not material during the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010.

Recent Updates to the Accounting Standards Codification (ASC)

Fair Value

In May 2011, the FASB issued an amendment to ASC Topic 820, Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, clarifying certain guidance to ensure that U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) have the same fair value meaning, measurements and disclosure requirements. The amended guidance became effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011. There was no impact to the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

Presentation of Comprehensive Income

In June 2011, the FASB issued an amendment to ASC Topic 220, Comprehensive Income, allowing two alternatives for the presentation of comprehensive income, eliminating the option to present the components of comprehensive income (OCI) as a part of the statement of changes in stockholders' equity and requiring that reclassification adjustments from OCI to income be presented on the face of the financial statements. Upon adoption, the total of comprehensive income, including the components of net income and OCI, will be presented in either one statement or in two separate but consecutive statements. In October 2011, the FASB tentatively decided to indefinitely defer the provisions related to the presentation of reclassification adjustments. The other portions of the amendment remain unchanged and will become effective for interim and annual periods beginning after December 15, 2011, with early adoption permitted. Effective September 30, 2011, NJR early-adopted the two-statement approach. Since the amendment only impacted the presentation of comprehensive income, there was no impact to the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

Balance Sheet Offsetting

In December 2011, the FASB issued an amendment to ASC Topic 210, Balance Sheet, requiring additional disclosures about the nature of an entity's rights of setoff and related master netting arrangements associated with its financial and derivative instruments. The objective of the disclosures is to facilitate comparison between financial statements prepared on the basis of U.S. GAAP and those prepared on the basis of IFRS. The amended guidance will become effective for interim and annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2013, and will be applied retrospectively. The Company has determined that the new guidance will not impact its financial position, results of operations or cash flows upon adoption.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires NJR to make estimates that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and related disclosure of contingencies during the reporting period. On a monthly basis, NJR evaluates its estimates, including those related to the calculation of the fair value of derivative instruments, debt, unbilled revenues, allowance for doubtful accounts, provisions for depreciation and amortization, regulatory assets and liabilities, income taxes, pensions and other postemployment benefits, contingencies related to environmental matters and litigation. AROs are evaluated as often as needed. NJR bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying value of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources.

NJR has legal, regulatory and environmental proceedings during the normal course of business that can result in loss contingencies. When evaluating the potential for a loss, NJR will establish a reserve if a loss is probable and can be estimated, in which case it is NJR's policy to accrue the full amount of such estimate. Where the information is sufficient only to establish a range of probable liability, and no point within the range is more likely than any other, it is NJR's policy to accrue the lower end of the range. In the normal course of business, estimated amounts are subsequently adjusted to actual results that may differ from estimates.

Page 76

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

3.
REGULATION

The Electric Discount and Energy Competition Act (EDECA) is the legal framework for New Jersey's public utility and wholesale energy landscape. NJNG is required, pursuant to a written order by the BPU under EDECA, to open its residential markets to competition from third-party natural gas suppliers. Customers can choose the supplier of their natural gas commodity in NJNG's service territory.

As required by EDECA, NJNG's rates are segregated into two primary components, the commodity portion, which represents the wholesale cost of natural gas, including the cost for interstate pipeline capacity to transport the gas to NJNG's service territory, and the delivery portion, which represents the transportation of the commodity portion through NJNG's gas distribution system to the end-use customer. NJNG does not earn utility gross margin on the commodity portion of its natural gas sales. NJNG earns utility gross margin through the delivery of natural gas to its customers, regardless of whether it or a third-party supplier provides the wholesale natural gas commodity.

Under EDECA, the BPU is required to audit the state's energy utilities every two years. The primary purpose of the audit is to ensure that utilities and their affiliates offering unregulated retail services do not have unfair competitive advantage over nonaffiliated providers of similar retail services. A combined competitive services and management audit of NJNG commenced in November 2006, and a final report on findings and recommendations was approved by the BPU on January 28, 2009. As of September 30, 2011, all recommendations have been implemented by NJNG and a completion letter was received from the BPU on October 24, 2011, that finalized the audit.

NJNG is subject to cost-based regulation, therefore, it is permitted to recover authorized operating expenses and earn a reasonable return on its utility investment based on the BPU's approval, in accordance with accounting guidance applicable to regulated operations. The impact of the ratemaking process and decisions authorized by the BPU allows NJNG to capitalize or defer certain costs that are expected to be recovered from its customers as regulatory assets and to recognize certain obligations representing amounts that are probable future expenditures as regulatory liabilities.

As recovery of regulatory assets is subject to BPU approval, if there are any changes in regulatory positions that indicate recovery is not probable, the related cost would be charged to income in the period of such determination.

Regulatory assets and liabilities included on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, are comprised of the following:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
Regulatory assets-current
 
 
Underrecovered gas costs
$
7,053

$

Conservation Incentive Program
25,681

9,178

Derivatives, net

8,452

Total current
$
32,734

$
17,630

Regulatory assets-noncurrent
 
 
Environmental remediation costs
 
 
Expended, net of recoveries
$
59,745

$
75,646

Liability for future expenditures
182,000

182,900

Deferred income taxes
11,405

10,879

Energy Efficiency Program
26,025

11,906

New Jersey Clean Energy Program
5,619

20,144

Postemployment and other benefit costs
142,495

123,827

Other
13,974

8,883

Total noncurrent
$
441,263

$
434,185

Regulatory liability-current
 
 
Overrecovered gas costs
$

$
4,633

Derivatives, net
1,169


Total current
$
1,169

$
4,633

Regulatory liabilities-noncurrent
 
 
Cost of removal obligation
$
65,994

$
59,752

Derivatives, net
1,000


Other
83

85

Total noncurrent
$
67,077

$
59,837


Page 77

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

NJNG's recovery of costs is facilitated through its base rates, BGSS and other regulatory riders. NJNG is required to make an annual filing to the BPU by June 1 of each year for review of its BGSS, Conservation Incentive Program (CIP) and various other programs and related rates. Annual rate changes are requested to be effective at the beginning of the following fiscal year. In addition, NJNG is also permitted to request approval of certain rate or program changes on an interim basis. All rate and program changes are subject to proper notification and BPU review and approval.

Gas Costs

NJNG recovers its cost of gas through the BGSS rate component of its customers' bills. NJNG's cost of gas includes the purchased cost of the natural gas commodity, fees paid to pipelines and storage facilities, adjustments as a result of BGSS incentive programs, and hedging transactions. Under-recovered gas costs represent a regulatory asset that generally occurs during periods when NJNG's BGSS rates are lower than actual costs and requests amounts to be recovered from customers in the future. Conversely, over-recovered gas costs represent a regulatory liability that generally occurs when NJNG's BGSS rates are higher than actual costs and requests approval to be returned to customers including interest, when applicable, in accordance with NJNG's approved tariff.

Conservation Incentive Program

The CIP permits NJNG to recover utility gross margin variations related to customer usage resulting from customer conservation efforts and allows NJNG to mitigate the impact of weather on its gross margin. Such utility gross margin variations are recovered in the year following the end of the CIP usage year, without interest, and are subject to additional conditions, including an earnings test and an evaluation of BGSS related savings.

Derivatives

Derivatives are utilized by NJNG to manage the price risk associated with its natural gas purchasing activities and to participate in certain BGSS incentive programs. The gains and losses associated with NJNG's derivatives are recoverable through its BGSS, as noted above, without interest. See Note 4. Derivatives.

Environmental Remediation Costs Recovery

NJNG is responsible for the cleanup of certain former gas manufacturing facilities. Actual expenditures are recovered, with interest, over seven year rolling periods, through a RA rate rider. Recovery for NJNG's estimated future liability will be requested and/or recovered when actual expenditures are incurred. See Note 13. Commitments and Contingencies.

Deferred Income Taxes

In 1993, NJNG adopted the provisions of ASC 740, Income Taxes, which changed the method used to determine deferred tax assets and liabilities. Upon adoption, NJNG recognized a transition adjustment and corresponding regulatory asset representing the difference between NJNG's existing deferred tax amounts compared with the deferred tax amounts calculated in accordance with the change in method prescribed by ASC 740. NJNG recovers the regulatory asset associated with these tax impacts through future base rates, without interest.

New Jersey Clean Energy Program (NJCEP)

The NJCEP is a statewide program that encourages energy efficiency and renewable energy. Funding amounts are determined by the BPU and all New Jersey utilities are required to share in the funding obligation. The current NJCEP program is for the calendar years 2009 through 2012. NJNG recovers the costs associated with its portion of the NJCEP obligation, including interest, through its Societal Benefits Clause (SBC) rate rider.

Energy Efficiency Program (EE)

NJNG administers certain programs that supplement the states' NJCEP and that allows NJNG to promote clean energy to its residential and commercial customers, as described further below. NJNG will recover related expenditures and a weighted average cost of capital through an EE rate rider, as approved by the BPU, over a four to ten year period depending upon the initiative and available on-bill financing.

Page 78

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Postemployment and Other Benefit Costs

Postemployment and Other Benefit Costs represents NJNG's underfunded postemployment benefit obligations that the Company began recognizing in fiscal 2006, as a result of changes in the accounting provisions of ASC 715, Compensation and Benefits, as well as a fiscal 2010 tax charge resulting from a change in the deductibility of federal subsidies associated with Medicare D, both of which are deferred as regulatory assets and are recoverable, without interest, in base rates. See Note 10. Employee Benefit Plans.

Other Regulatory Assets

Other regulatory assets consists primarily of deferred costs associated with certain components of NJNG's SBC, as discussed further below, and NJNG's compliance with federal and state mandated pipeline integrity management (PIM) provisions. NJNG's related costs to maintain the operational integrity of its distribution and transmission main are recoverable, subject to BPU review and approval, in its next base rate case. NJNG is limited to recording a regulatory asset associated with PIM that does not exceed $700,000 per year. In addition, to the extent that project costs are lower than the approved PIM annual expense of $1.4 million, NJNG will record a regulatory liability that will be refundable as a credit to customers' gas costs when the net cumulative liability exceeds $1 million. As of September 30, 2012, NJNG has recorded $2.5 million of PIM in other regulatory assets.

Cost of Removal Obligation

NJNG accrues and collects for cost of removal in base rates. A regulatory liability represents the current collections in excess of actual expenditures, which the Company will return to customers over approximately 48 years, through a reduction in the depreciation expense component of NJNG's base rates, as approved by the BPU in NJNG's last base rate case.

The following is a description of regulatory proceedings during fiscal 2011 and 2012:

BGSS and CIP

BGSS rates are normally revised on an annual basis. In addition, in order to manage the fluctuations in wholesale natural gas costs, NJNG has the ability to make two interim filings during the fiscal year to increase residential and small commercial customer BGSS rates on a self-implementing and provisional basis. NJNG is also permitted to refund or credit back a portion of the commodity costs to customers when the natural gas commodity costs decrease in comparison to amounts projected or to amounts previously collected from customers. During fiscal 2012, NJNG provided bill credits of approximately $85.9 million to NJNG's residential and small commercial customers due to a decline in the wholesale prices of natural gas and a change in the methodology used to develop estimates of unaccounted-for gas. Commodity prices were relatively stable during fiscal 2011, therefore, there were no refunds or rate adjustments. On March 9, 2012, NJNG notified the BPU of a 3.6 percent decrease related to its BGSS rate, effective April 1, 2012, which will have an annual impact of approximately $19 million.

Concurrent with the annual BGSS filing, NJNG files for an annual review of its CIP. The CIP was initially approved as a three-year program through September 2009. During fiscal 2010, the BPU approved an extension of the program through September 30, 2013. It is anticipated that NJNG will file for an extension of its CIP in fiscal 2013. NJNG's annual BGSS and CIP filings are summarized as follows:

June 2010 BGSS/CIP filing - In April 2011, the BPU issued their final order approving NJNG's request to reduce rates for a 3.5 percent decrease for the average residential heating customer related to the BGSS rate, effective September 16, 2010. This offset NJNG's request for an increase in the CIP recovery rate, approved by the BPU effective October 1, 2010, allowing for a total annual recovery of $12.1 million representing CIP amounts accrued and estimated through September 30, 2010.

June 2011 BGSS/CIP filing - NJNG proposed to reduce BGSS rates for a 9.1 percent decrease for the average residential heating customer as a result of cost control and natural gas purchasing strategies, as well as lower natural gas prices. In addition, NJNG requested approval to modify its CIP recovery rates resulting in a decrease to the total annual recovery of $3 million. The proposed CIP rates result in an increase to all classes except residential heat, which represents a decrease. In May 2012, the BPU approved the changes effective October 4, 2011.

June 2012 BGSS/CIP filing - NJNG proposed to maintain its current BGSS rate. In addition, NJNG requested approval to decrease the CIP rate for residential non-heating customers and increase the CIP rates for residential heating and commercial customers, which were approved on a provisional basis effective October 12, 2012, which increased an average residential heating customer bill by 2.4 percent.

Page 79

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Infrastructure Programs

NJNG has significant annual capital expenditures associated with the management of its natural gas distribution and transmission system and its associated pipeline integrity.

During fiscal 2009, NJNG implemented its Accelerated Infrastructure Programs (AIP) commencing construction on fourteen infrastructure projects at a BPU approved cost of $70.8 million (AIP I). AIP was initially approved by the BPU as a two-year program, to enhance the reliability of NJNG's gas distribution system and to support economic development and job growth in New Jersey. During fiscal 2011, the BPU approved an extension to NJNG's AIP, allowing for additional capital investments of $60.2 million (AIP II) to be made through October 31, 2012. NJNG defers the costs associated with the AIP projects, including NJNG's weighted cost of capital, and upon regulatory approval recovers these investments through its base rates.

Annual filings include the following:

June 2011 AIP filing - NJNG filed for AIP base rate cost recovery, which represented an increase of $4.7 million related to AIP I and AIP II infrastructure investments installed in NJNG's distribution and transmission systems. A settlement was reached and approved by the BPU effective October 1, 2011. The rate changes included a weighted average cost of capital of 7.12 percent for AIP II. The existing weighted average cost of capital for AIP I remained the same at 7.76 percent. The requested base rate change was approved on a final basis in August 2012.

November 2012 AIP filing - NJNG filed for AIP base rate cost recovery, requesting an increase of $6.9 million, which represents a cumulative impact of $15.8 million annually, related to AIP I and AIP II infrastructure investments installed in NJNG's distribution and transmission systems through October 31, 2012. The existing weighted average cost of capital remained the same for both AIP I and AIP II. The base rate change is requested to be approved in March 2013.

On March 20, 2012, NJNG filed a petition with the BPU seeking to implement a Safety Acceleration and Facility Enhancement (SAFE) program, whereby NJNG would invest up to $204 million over a five-year period to replace portions of NJNG's gas distribution unprotected steel and cast iron infrastructure in order to improve the safety and reliability of the gas distribution system. NJNG entered into a stipulation with the BPU Staff and Rate Counsel, which was approved by the BPU on October 23, 2012, to include a four-year incremental investment program of $130 million, exclusive of AFUDC accruals. The approved SAFE Program will include the deferral of infrastructure costs subject to review in NJNG's next base rate case to be filed no later than November 2015, the deferral of depreciation expense on SAFE investments and recognizes an overall rate of return on infrastructure investments of 6.9 percent. The deferred cost recovery will include accruals for both debt and equity components of AFUDC while construction is in progress. When construction is completed and plant is placed in service, NJNG will accrue an AFUDC rate at 6.9 percent per year until such time that NJNG receives approval for recovery of all costs through base rates.

BGSS Incentive Programs

NJNG is eligible to receive financial incentives for reducing BGSS costs through a series of utility gross margin-sharing programs that include off-system sales, capacity release, storage incentive and Financial Risk Management (FRM) programs. In August 2011, the BPU approved an extension of NJNG's BGSS incentive programs for four years through October 31, 2015, maintaining the existing margin-sharing percentages. This agreement also permits the Company to annually propose a process to evaluate and discuss alternative incentive programs, should performance of the existing incentives or market conditions warrant re-evaluation.

Energy Efficiency Programs (EE)

NJNG commenced its EE programs during fiscal 2009, allowing it to promote energy efficiency to its residential and commercial customers while stimulating state and local economies through the creation of jobs. Depending on the specific initiative, NJNG recovers costs associated with the programs over a four to ten-year period to facilitate home energy audits and to provide financing alternatives including rebates and other incentives designed to encourage the installation of high efficiency heating and cooling equipment. In September 2010, NJNG received BPU approval for recovery of an additional $9.6 million in energy efficiency investments, effective January 1, 2011, to be recovered over a five to ten-year period, depending on the rebate or financing initiative. The approval allowed for an extension of certain existing initiatives, as well as new or expanded funding incentives for commercial customers. In January 2011, NJNG notified the BPU that its proposed solar incentive component was withdrawn. On July 15, 2011, NJNG filed a separate EE petition, approved by the BPU in January 2012, to extend its current EE programs through January 18, 2013. As of September 30, 2012, the BPU approved total EE expenditures of $35.3 million, of which, NJNG has spent a total of $29.2 million.

Page 80

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The EE program investments and costs are filed with the BPU on an annual basis and include the following:

June 2011 EE filing - NJNG requested that the existing EE rate remain the same through an amended filing on July 15, 2011. On January 18, 2012, the BPU approved an extension of NJNG's EE program for one year with an additional $10.4 million of investments in customer incentives and rebates, earning a weighted average cost of capital of 7.1 percent, including a cost of equity of 10.3 percent.

June 2012 EE filing - On July 9, 2012, NJNG filed two petitions with the BPU related to The SAVEGREEN Project® (SAVEGREEN) EE programs. The petitions include the 2012 rate filing, which represents a reconciliation of BPU approved actual costs for EE programs and a petition related to the extension of NJNG's EE programs over a four-year program, with modifications to include certain new programs. The Company's petition requests a BPU decision in early 2013. The rate impact will incorporate the existing Savegreen programs and the extension of the new Savegreen programs over a four to ten-year period.

Societal Benefits Clause (SBC)

The SBC is comprised of three primary riders that allow NJNG to recover costs associated with USF, which is a permanent statewide program for all natural gas and electric utilities for the benefit of income-eligible customers, manufactured gas plant (MGP) remediation, and the NJCEP. NJNG has submitted the following filings to the BPU, which includes a report of program expenditures incurred each program year:

June 2010 SBC filing - NJNG filed an application to maintain the existing MGP factor and NJCEP rate. In November 2011, NJNG, the BPU and Rate Counsel executed a stipulation agreeing to maintain the existing MGP and NJCEP rates. On January 18, 2012, the BPU approved the filing, in which NJNG requested approval of its MGP remediation expenditures incurred through June 30, 2009, which maintained the expected annual recovery at approximately $20 million. In addition, natural gas utilities in the State of New Jersey collectively filed with the BPU to increase the statewide USF rate to be effective October 1, 2010. Effective November 1, 2010, the BPU approved the recovery of the USF program year budget, resulting in an overall increase to the average monthly bill of a residential heating customer by .03 percent, and the recovery of deferred USF administrative costs.

June 2011 USF filing - NJNG filed to reduce the annual USF recovery rate, which was approved by the BPU, effective November 1, 2011.

February 2012 SBC filing - NJNG filed an application requesting approval of its MGP expenditures incurred through June 30, 2011, which continued its existing overall SBC rate and recovery.

June 2012 USF filing - NJNG filed to reduce the USF recovery rate resulting in a .1 percent decrease for the average residential heating customer. The rate was approved by the BPU effective October 1, 2012.

Other Regulatory Initiatives

On June 18, 2012, the BPU approved a pilot program for NJNG to invest up to $10 million to build compressed natural gas vehicle refueling stations in Monmouth, Ocean and Morris counties. NJNG intends to begin construction of the stations within one year and submit a cost recovery filing to the BPU in the spring of 2013, requesting a base rate change to be effective in the summer of 2013, earning an overall weighted average cost of capital of 7.1 percent, including a cost of equity of 10.3 percent. A portion of the proceeds from the utilization of the CNG equipment, along with any available federal and state incentives, will be credited back to ratepayers to help offset the cost of this investment.

On November 19, 2012, NJNG filed a petition with the BPU requesting deferral accounting for actually incurred uninsured incremental operating and maintenance costs associated with Post Tropical Cyclone Sandy, commonly referred to as Superstorm Sandy (Superstorm Sandy). In addition, NJNG requested the review of and the appropriate amortization period for such deferred expenses be addressed in the Company's next base rate case.


Page 81

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

4.
DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are subject to commodity price risk due to fluctuations in the market price of natural gas. To manage this risk, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries enter into a variety of derivative instruments including, but not limited to, futures contracts, physical forward contracts, financial options and swaps to economically hedge the commodity price risk associated with its existing and anticipated commitments to purchase and sell natural gas. In addition, the Company may utilize foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges of Canadian dollar denominated gas purchases. These contracts, with a few exceptions as described below, are accounted for as derivatives. Accordingly, all of the financial and certain of the Company's physical derivative instruments are recorded at fair value on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. For a more detailed discussion of the Company's fair value measurement policies and level disclosures associated with the NJR's derivative instruments, see Note 5. Fair Value.

Since the Company chooses not to designate its financial commodity and physical forward commodity derivatives as accounting hedges, changes in the fair value of these derivative instruments are recorded as a component of gas purchases or operating revenues, as appropriate for NJRES, on the Consolidated Statements of Operations as unrealized gains or (losses). For NJRES at settlement, realized gains and (losses) on all financial derivative instruments are recognized as a component of gas purchases and realized gains and (losses) on all physical derivatives follow the presentation of the related unrealized gains and (losses) as a component of either gas purchases or operating revenues.

NJRES also enters into natural gas transactions in Canada and, consequently, is exposed to fluctuations in the value of Canadian currency relative to the US dollar. NJRES utilizes foreign currency derivatives to lock in the currency translation rate associated with natural gas transactions denominated in Canadian currency. The derivatives may include currency forwards, futures, or swaps and are accounted for as derivatives. These derivatives are being used to hedge future forecasted cash payments associated with transportation and storage contracts. The Company has designated these foreign currency derivatives as cash flow hedges of that exposure, and expects the hedge relationship to be highly effective throughout the term. Since NJRES designates its foreign exchange contracts as cash flow hedges, changes in fair value of the effective portion of the hedge are recorded in other comprehensive income (OCI). When the foreign exchange contracts are settled, realized gains and (losses) are recognized in gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations.

As a result of NJRES entering into transactions to borrow gas, commonly referred to as “park and loans,” an embedded derivative is created related to potential differences between the fair value of the amount borrowed and the fair value of the amount that may ultimately be repaid, based on changes in forward natural gas prices during the contract term. This embedded derivative is accounted for as a forward sale in the month in which the repayment of the borrowed gas is expected to occur, and is considered a derivative transaction that is recorded at fair value on the balance sheet, with changes in value recognized in current period earnings.

Changes in fair value of NJNG's financial derivative instruments are recorded as a component of regulatory assets or liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, as NJNG has received regulatory approval to defer and to recover these amounts through future BGSS rates as an increase or decrease to the cost of natural gas in NJNG's tariff.

The Company elects normal purchase/normal sale (NPNS) accounting treatment on all physical commodity contracts at NJNG. These contracts are accounted for on an accrual basis. Accordingly, gains or (losses) are recognized in earnings when the contract settles and the natural gas is delivered.

During fiscal 2012, NJRCEV began hedging certain of its expected production of SRECs through forward sale contracts. The Company intends to physically deliver the SRECs upon settlement, therefore, applies NPNS accounting treatment to the contracts and recognizes related revenue upon transfer of the SRECs.

Realized and unrealized gains and (losses) related to NJR Energy's financial derivatives, which have expired, were recorded as a component of operating revenues during fiscal 2010.


Page 82

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Fair Value of Derivatives

The following table reflects the fair value of NJR's derivative assets and liabilities recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30:
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
 
 
2012
 
2011
(Thousands)
Balance Sheet Location
Asset
Derivatives
Liability
Derivatives
Asset
Derivatives
Liability
Derivatives
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NJRES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency contracts
Derivatives - current
 
$
116

 
$
97

 
$
153

 
$
8

 
Derivatives - noncurrent
 
70

 
15

 
127

 
6

Fair value of derivatives designated as hedging instruments
 
$
186

 
$
112

 
$
280

 
$
14

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NJNG:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial commodity contracts
Derivatives - current
 
$
6,203

 
$
5,034

 
$
5,424

 
$
13,258

 
Derivatives - noncurrent
 
1,000

 

 
2

 
620

NJRES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Physical forward commodity contracts
Derivatives - current
 
19,590

 
9,530

 
33,240

 
10,570

 
Derivatives - noncurrent
 
658

 
216

 
4,450

 
781

Financial commodity contracts
Derivatives - current
 
22,112

 
27,779

 
61,521

 
44,862

 
Derivatives - noncurrent
 
600

 
2,902

 
1,936

 
4,934

Fair value of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 
$
50,163

 
$
45,461

 
$
106,573

 
$
75,025

Total fair value of derivatives
 
 
$
50,349

 
$
45,573

 
$
106,853

 
$
75,039


At September 30, 2012, the gross notional amount of the foreign currency transactions was approximately $8.4 million, and ineffectiveness in the hedge relationship is immaterial to the financial results of NJR.

NJRES utilizes financial derivatives to economically hedge the gross margin associated with the purchase of physical gas for injection into storage and the subsequent sale of physical gas at a later date. The gains or (losses) on the financial transactions that are economic hedges of the cost of the purchased gas are recognized prior to the gains or (losses) on the physical transaction, which are recognized in earnings when the natural gas is sold. Therefore, mismatches between the timing of the recognition of realized gains or (losses) on the financial derivative instruments and gains or (losses) associated with the actual sale of the natural gas that is being economically hedged along with fair value changes in derivative instruments creates volatility in the results of NJRES, although the Company's intended economic results relating to the entire transaction are unaffected.

The following table reflects the effect of derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations as of September 30:
(Thousands)
Location of gain (loss) recognized in income on derivatives
Amount of gain (loss) recognized
in income on derivatives
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
2012
 
2011
 
2010
NJRES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Physical commodity contracts
Operating revenues
$
(7,187
)
 
$
41,538

 
$
40,392

Physical commodity contracts
Gas purchases
12,967

 
6,474

 
(3,608
)
Financial commodity contracts
Gas purchases
81,872

 
(7,008
)
 
89,987

Subtotal NJRES
 
87,652

 
41,004

 
126,771

NJR Energy:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Financial commodity contracts
Operating revenues

 

 
(509
)
Total NJRES and NJR Energy unrealized and realized gains (losses)
$
87,652

 
$
41,004

 
$
126,262


Not included in the previous table, are (losses) associated with NJNG's financial derivatives that totaled $(25.3) million, $(15.1) million and $(34.5) million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively. These derivatives

Page 83

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

are part of NJNG's risk management activities that relate to its natural gas purchasing activities and BGSS incentive programs. As these transactions are entered into pursuant to and recoverable through regulatory riders, any changes in the value of NJNG's financial derivatives are deferred in regulatory assets or liabilities and there is no impact to earnings.

As previously noted, NJRES designates its foreign exchange contracts as cash flow hedges, therefore, changes in fair value of the effective portion of the hedge are recorded in OCI and, upon settlement of the contracts, realized gains and (losses) are reclassified from OCI to gas purchases on the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The following table reflect the effect of derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges on OCI as of September 30:
(Thousands)
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized in OCI on Derivatives (Effective Portion) (1)
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Reclassified from OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
Amount of Gain or (Loss) Recognized on Derivative (Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing)
Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships:
2012
2011
2012
2011
2012
2011
Foreign currency contracts
$
(90
)
$
241

$
(102
)
$
119

$

$

(1)
The settlement of foreign currency transactions over the next twelve months is expected to result in the reclassification of $18,000 from OCI into earnings. The maximum tenor is April 2015.

NJNG and NJRES had the following outstanding long (short) derivatives as of September 30:
 
 
 
Volume (Bcf)
 
 
 
2012
2011
NJNG
Futures
 
16.1

23.7

 
Swaps
 
3.4

(1.8
)
 
Options
 

1.1

NJRES
Futures
 
(28.6
)
(13.8
)
 
Swaps
 
13.2

(41.9
)
 
Options
 
4.4


 
Physical
 
(3.5
)
58.3


Broker Margin

Generally, exchange-traded futures contracts require posted collateral, referred to as margin, usually in the form of cash. The amount of margin required is comprised of a fixed initial amount based on the contract and a variable amount based on market price movements from the initial trade price. The Company maintains broker margin accounts for NJNG and NJRES. The balances as of September 30, by company, are as follows:
(Thousands)
Balance Sheet Location
2012
2011
NJNG broker margin deposit
Broker margin - Current assets
$
1,713

$
11,722

NJRES broker margin deposit
Broker margin - Current assets
$
20,216

$
10,873


Wholesale Credit Risk

NJNG and NJRES are exposed to credit risk as a result of their wholesale marketing activities. As a result of the inherent volatility in the prices of natural gas commodities and derivatives, the market value of contractual positions with individual counterparties could exceed established credit limits or collateral provided by those counterparties. If a counterparty fails to perform the obligations under its contract (e.g., fails to deliver or pay for natural gas), then the Company could sustain a loss.

NJR monitors and manages the credit risk of its wholesale marketing operations through credit policies and procedures that management believes reduce overall credit risk. These policies include a review and evaluation of current and prospective counterparties' financial statements and/or credit ratings, daily monitoring of counterparties' credit limits and exposure, daily communication with traders regarding credit status and the use of credit mitigation measures, such as collateral requirements and netting agreements. Examples of collateral include letters of credit and cash received for either prepayment or margin deposit. Collateral may be requested due to NJR's election not to extend credit or because exposure exceeds defined thresholds. Most of

Page 84

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

NJR's wholesale marketing contracts contain standard netting provisions. These contracts include those governed by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) and the North American Energy Standards Board (NAESB). The netting provisions refer to payment netting, whereby receivables and payables with the same counterparty are offset and the resulting net amount is paid to the party to which it is due.

The following is a summary of gross credit exposures grouped by investment and noninvestment grade counterparties, as of September 30, 2012. Internally-rated exposure applies to counterparties that are not rated by Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC (S&P) or Moody's Investors Service, Inc. (Moody's). In these cases, the company's or guarantor's financial statements are reviewed, and similar methodologies and ratios used by S&P and/or Moody's are applied to arrive at a substitute rating. Gross credit exposure is defined as the unrealized fair value of physical and financial derivative commodity contracts plus any outstanding wholesale receivable for the value of natural gas delivered and/or financial derivative commodity contract that has settled for which payment has not yet been received. The amounts presented below have not been reduced by any collateral received or netting and exclude accounts receivable for NJNG retail natural gas sales and services.
(Thousands)
Gross Credit
Exposure
Investment grade
 
$
144,276

 
Noninvestment grade
 
22,151

 
Internally rated investment grade
 
18,226

 
Internally rated noninvestment grade
 
7,763

 
Total
 
$
192,416

 

Conversely, certain of NJNG's and NJRES' derivative instruments are linked to agreements containing provisions that would require cash collateral payments from the Company if certain events occur. These provisions vary based upon the terms in individual counterparty agreements and can result in cash payments if NJNG's credit rating were to fall below its current level. NJNG's credit rating, with respect to S&P, reflects the overall corporate credit profile of NJR. Specifically, most, but not all, of these additional payments will be triggered if NJNG's debt is downgraded by the major credit agencies, regardless of investment grade status. In addition, some of these agreements include threshold amounts that would result in additional collateral payments if the values of derivative liabilities were to exceed the maximum values provided for in relevant counterparty agreements. Other provisions include payment features that are not specifically linked to ratings, but are based on certain financial metrics.

Collateral amounts associated with any of these conditions are determined based on a sliding scale and are contingent upon the degree to which the Company's credit rating and/or financial metrics deteriorate, and the extent to which liability amounts exceed applicable threshold limits. The aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit-risk-related contingent features that were in a liability position on September 30, 2012 and 2011, is $1.6 million and $4.1 million, respectively, for which the Company had not posted collateral. If all thresholds related to the credit-risk-related contingent features underlying these agreements had been invoked on September 30, 2012 and 2011, the Company would have been required to post to its counterparties an additional $1.2 million and $1.7 million, respectively. These amounts differ from the respective net derivative liabilities reflected on the Consolidated Balance Sheets because the agreements also include clauses, commonly known as “Rights of Offset,” that would permit the Company to offset its derivative assets against its derivative liabilities for determining additional collateral to be posted.

Liquidation of Clearing Broker

MF Global Inc. (MFGI) and MF Global UK Limited (UKMF), which operated as futures commission merchants and broker/dealer entities of MF Global Holdings Ltd. (collectively with its affiliates, MF Global), were NJRES' clearing brokers through which NJRES held positions in energy futures contracts, options on futures contracts, and swaps cleared on exchanges administered by the Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME) and the Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). The CME and ICE both require NJRES to maintain adequate margin against NJRES' trading positions, which our former clearing brokers, MFGI and UKMF, were required to hold on our behalf in segregated or secured accounts. MF Global disclosed to the CME that it had a “significant shortfall” in its segregated customer accounts. Shortly thereafter, on October 31, 2011, the Securities Investor Protection Corporation announced that it had initiated the liquidation of MFGI under the Securities Investor Protection Act (SIPA) in the U.S. and the High Court in the U.K. appointed special administrators to conduct the liquidation of UKMF. The SIPA Trustee's latest estimate of the shortfall in commodities customers' segregated account funds is $1.6 billion.


Page 85

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

As of the close of business on November 3, 2011, the market value of NJRES' MF Global account was $27.8 million, of which $10.6 million related to CME positions and $17.2 million related to ICE positions. On May 21, 2012, NJRES received notice from the Trustee that its claim filed in the MFGI liquidation proceeding had been allowed in the amount of $27.8 million. As of September 30, 2012, NJRES received distributions from the SIPA Trustee totaling $8.4 million related to its CME positions. Accordingly, the remaining exposure as of September 30, 2012, is $19.4 million. On October 5, 2012, NJRES received an additional $859,300 related to its CME positions.

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company established an allowance for bad debt of $1.4 million and began the process of exploring third party bids for the bankruptcy claim. On October 24, 2012, NJR sold its remaining claim of $18.5 million for $17.1 million. The loss on the sale is equal to the allowance established as of September 30, 2012 as noted above.

5.
FAIR VALUE

Fair Value of Assets and Liabilities

The fair value of cash and temporary investments, commercial paper and borrowings under revolving credit facilities are estimated to equal their carrying amounts due to the short maturity of those instruments. The estimated fair value of long-term debt at NJNG and NJR, including current maturities and excluding capital leases, as applicable, is as follows:
 
September 30,
(Thousands)
2012
2011
NJNG
 
 
Carrying value
$
329,845

$
329,845

Fair market value
$
364,394

$
357,930

NJR
 
 
Carrying value
$
150,000

$
50,000

Fair market value
$
165,662

$
58,565


Effective January 1, 2012, NJR changed its valuation technique from a market approach to an income approach. NJR considers the discounted cash flow method to provide a more consistently reliable fair value. Inputs include observable municipal and corporate yields, as appropriate for NJR's credit rating. As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, NJR discloses its debt within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Fair Value Hierarchy

NJR applies fair value measurement guidance to its financial assets and liabilities, as appropriate, which include financial derivatives and physical commodity contracts qualifying as derivatives, available for sale securities and other financial assets and liabilities. In addition, authoritative accounting literature prescribes the use of a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value based on the source of the data used to develop the price inputs. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the lowest priority to inputs that are based on unobservable market data and include the following:

Level 1
Unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets; NJR's Level 1 assets and liabilities include exchange traded futures contracts, listed equities, and money market funds.

Level 2
Price data, which includes both commodity and basis price data other than Level 1 quotes, that is observed either directly or indirectly from publications or pricing services; NJR's Level 2 assets and liabilities include over-the-counter physical forward commodity contracts and swap contracts or derivatives that are initially valued using observable quotes and are subsequently adjusted to include time value, credit risk or estimated transport pricing components for which no basis price is available. These additional adjustments are not considered significant to the ultimate recognized values.

Level 3
Inputs derived from a significant amount of unobservable market data; these include NJR's best estimate of fair value and are derived primarily through the use of internal valuation methodologies.


Page 86

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

NJNG's and NJRES' financial derivatives portfolios consist mainly of futures, options and swaps. NJR primarily uses the market approach and its policy is to use actively quoted market prices when available. The principal market for its derivative transactions is the natural gas wholesale market, therefore, the primary source for its price inputs is the New York Mercantile (NYMEX) exchange. NJRES also uses Natural Gas Exchange (NGX) for Canadian delivery points and Platts and NYMEX ClearPort for certain over-the-counter physical forward commodity contracts. However, NJRES also engages in transactions that result in transporting natural gas to delivery points for which there is no actively quoted market price. In most instances, the cost to transport to the final delivery location is not significant to the overall valuation. If required, NJRES' policy is to use the best information available to determine fair value based on internal pricing models, which would include estimates extrapolated from broker quotes or pricing services.

NJR also has available for sale securities and other financial assets that include listed equities, mutual funds and money market funds for which there are active exchange quotes available.

When NJR determines fair values, measurements are adjusted, as needed, for credit risk associated with its counterparties, as well as its own credit risk. NJR determines these adjustments by using historical default probabilities that correspond to the applicable S&P issuer ratings, while also taking into consideration collateral and netting arrangements that serve to mitigate risk.

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are summarized as follows:
 
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
Significant Other Observable Inputs
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
 
(Thousands)
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Total
As of September 30, 2012:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Physical forward commodity contracts
 
$

 
 
$
20,248

 
 
$

 
$
20,248

Financial derivative contracts - natural gas
 
14,270

 
 
15,645

 
 

 
29,915

Financial commodity contracts - foreign exchange
 

 
 
186

 
 

 
186

Available for sale equity securities - energy industry (1)
 
11,009

 
 

 
 

 
11,009

Other (2)
 
30

 
 

 
 

 
30

Total assets at fair value
 
$
25,309

 
 
$
36,079

 
 
$

 
$
61,388

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Physical forward commodity contracts
 
$

 
 
$
9,746

 
 
$

 
$
9,746

Financial commodity contracts - natural gas
 
16,922

 
 
18,793

 
 

 
35,715

Financial commodity contracts - foreign exchange
 

 
 
112

 
 

 
112

Other
 

 
 

 
 

 

Total liabilities at fair value
 
$
16,922

 
 
$
28,651

 
 
$

 
$
45,573

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As of September 30, 2011:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Physical forward commodity contracts
 
$

 
 
$
37,690

 
 
$

 
$
37,690

Financial derivative contracts - natural gas
 
25,617

 
 
43,266

 
 

 
68,883

Financial commodity contracts - foreign exchange
 

 
 
280

 
 

 
280

Available for sale equity securities - energy industry (1)
 
10,348

 
 

 
 

 
10,348

Other (2)
 
2,204

 
 

 
 

 
2,204

Total assets at fair value
 
$
38,169

 
 
$
81,236

 
 
$

 
$
119,405

Liabilities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Physical forward commodity contracts
 
$

 
 
$
11,351

 
 
$

 
$
11,351

Financial derivative contracts - natural gas
 
23,715

 
 
39,959

 
 

 
63,674

Financial commodity contracts - foreign exchange
 

 
 
14

 
 

 
14

Other
 

 
 

 
 

 

Total liabilities at fair value
 
$
23,715

 
 
$
51,324

 
 
$

 
$
75,039

(1)
Included in other noncurrent assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
(2)
Includes various money market funds.


Page 87

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

6.
INVESTMENTS IN EQUITY INVESTEES

Investment in equity investees includes NJR's equity method investments and cost method investments.

Equity Method Investments

As of September 30, NJR's equity method investments include the following:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
Steckman Ridge
$
132,931

$
135,130

Iroquois
22,864

23,933

Total
$
155,795

$
159,063


As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, the investment of Steckman Ridge includes loans with a total outstanding principal balance of $70.4 million. The loans accrue interest at a variable rate that resets quarterly and are due December 31, 2017.

The following is the summarized financial information for Steckman Ridge and Iroquois for fiscal years ended September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Steckman Ridge
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
28,468

$
29,172

$
25,910

Operating income
$
20,554

$
21,767

$
18,568

Net income
$
18,587

$
20,053

$
16,772

Current assets
$
10,209

$
10,236

$
6,553

Noncurrent assets
$
243,896

$
247,943

$
250,720

Current liabilities
$
1,084

$
1,046

$
1,993

Noncurrent liabilities
$
140,811

$
140,811

$
140,811

Iroquois
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
206,385

$
202,581

$
204,059

Operating income
$
114,872

$
111,540

$
116,760

Net income
$
90,672

$
88,208

$
83,359

Current assets
$
95,570

$
101,575

$
102,585

Noncurrent assets
$
688,670

$
716,686

$
746,286

Current liabilities
$
29,800

$
31,158

$
33,664

Noncurrent liabilities
$
366,694

$
378,099

$
394,627


NJRES and NJNG have entered into transportation, storage and park and loan agreements with Iroquois and Steckman Ridge. See Note 15. Related Party Transactions for more information on these intercompany transactions.

Cost Method Investments

During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, NJR acquired a 19.9 percent ownership interest in OwnEnergy, a developer of on-shore wind projects. NJR's investment of $8.8 million is accounted for in accordance with the cost method of accounting.

7.
EARNINGS PER SHARE

The following table presents the calculation of the Company's basic and diluted earnings per share for the fiscal years ended September 30:

Page 88

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

(Thousands, except per share amounts)
2012
2011
2010
Net income , as reported
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

Basic earnings per share
 
 
 
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding-basic
41,527

41,359

41,364

Basic earnings per common share
$2.24
$2.45
$2.84
Diluted earnings per share
 
 
 
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding-basic
41,527

41,359

41,364

Incremental shares (1)
105

209

266

Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding-diluted
41,632

41,568

41,630

Diluted earnings per common share (2)
$2.23
$2.44
$2.82
(1)
Incremental shares consist of stock options, stock awards and performance units.
(2)
There were no anti-dilutive shares excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share for fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010.


Page 89

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

8.
DEBT

NJNG and NJR finance working capital requirements and capital expenditures through the issuance of various long-term debt and other financing arrangements, including unsecured credit and private placement debt shelf facilities. Amounts available under credit facilities are reduced by bank or commercial paper borrowings, as applicable, and any outstanding letters of credit.

The following table presents the long-term debt of the Company as of September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
NJNG
 
 
 
First mortgage bonds:
Maturity date:
 
 
5.00%
Series HH
December 1, 2038
$
12,000

$
12,000

4.50%
Series II
August 1, 2023
10,300

10,300

4.60%
Series JJ
August 1, 2024
10,500

10,500

4.90%
Series KK
October 1, 2040
15,000

15,000

5.60%
Series LL
May 15, 2018
125,000

125,000

Variable
Series MM
September 1, 2027
9,545

9,545

Variable
Series NN
August 1, 2035
41,000

41,000

Variable
Series OO
August 1, 2041
46,500

46,500

4.77% Unsecured senior notes
March 15, 2014
60,000

60,000

Capital lease obligation-Buildings
June 1, 2021
21,907

23,314

Capital lease obligation-Meters
Various dates
30,887

30,683

Capital lease obligation-Equipment
December 1, 2013
290

530

Less: Current maturities of long-term debt
(7,760
)
(7,575
)
Total NJNG long-term debt
375,169

376,797

NJR
 
 
 
6.05% Unsecured senior notes
September 24, 2017
50,000

50,000

1.94% Unsecured senior notes
September 17, 2015
25,000


2.51% Unsecured senior notes
September 17, 2018
25,000


3.25% Unsecured senior notes
September 17, 2022
50,000


Total NJR long-term debt
150,000

50,000

Total long-term debt
$
525,169

$
426,797


Annual long-term debt redemption requirements, excluding capital leases, as of September 30, are as follows:
(Millions)
NJNG
NJR
2013
$

$

2014
$
60.0

$

2015
$

$
25.0

2016
$

$

2017
$

$
50.0

Thereafter
$
269.8

$
75.0


NJNG First Mortgage Bonds

NJNG's mortgage secures its First Mortgage Bonds and represents a lien on substantially all of its property, including natural gas supply contracts. Certain indentures supplemental to the mortgage include restrictions as to cash dividends and other distributions on NJNG's common stock that apply as long as certain series of First Mortgage Bonds are outstanding. As of September 30, 2012, restricted net assets for unconsolidated subsidiaries and consolidated subsidiaries were $515.9 million and under the most restrictive provision, $314 million of NJNG's retained earnings was available for dividends.

Page 90

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            


Through September 7, 2011, NJNG was obligated with respect to several loan agreements securing six series of variable rate bonds issued by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) totaling $97 million. These bonds were commonly referred to as auction-rate securities (ARS) and had an interest rate reset every seven or thirty-five days, depending upon the applicable series. On those dates, an auction was held for the purposes of determining the interest rate of the securities. The interest rates associated with NJNG's variable-rate debt were based on the rates of the related ARS. Through their subsequent redemption, all of the auctions surrounding the ARS had failed, resulting in those bonds bearing interest at their maximum rates, as defined as the lesser of (i) 175 percent of thirty-day London inter-bank offered rate (LIBOR) or (ii) 10 to 12 percent per annum, as applicable to such series of ARS. While the failure of the ARS auctions did not signify or constitute a default on NJNG, the ARS did impact NJNG's borrowing costs of the variable-rate debt. On August 29, 2011, due to the lack of liquidity in the market for ARS, and the resulting exposure of NJNG to the LIBOR-based maximum rate, NJNG completed a refunding of the ARS, whereby the NJEDA issued three series of Variable Rate Demand Notes (VDRN) with a total principal amount of $97 million and maturity dates ranging from September 2027 to August 2041. The proceeds from the issuance of the VRDN were used to refund the entire $97 million principal amount of ARS, which were retired upon redemption. The First Mortgage Bonds were canceled upon the redemption of the EDA ARS and the corresponding loan agreements were terminated and replaced with a new loan agreement securing the payment of principal and interest on the VRDNs by NJNG. Costs associated with the issuance of the VRDNs, as well as remaining unamortized debt costs associated with the ARS, will be amortized over the life of the VRDNs in accordance with ASC 980, Regulated Operations, therefore, there was no impact to income upon extinguishment of the ARS.

The rates on these types of investments are generally correlated with the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA) Municipal Swap Index and will initially accrue interest at a daily rate, with a maximum rate of 12 percent per annum. As of September 30, 2012, the interest rate on these securities was .22 percent.

VRDNs are sold to investors on a daily basis with the interest rate set by the remarketing agent. In the case where the remarketing agent is unable to sell the VRDNs to an investor on a given day, NJNG would be required to repurchase the EDA Bonds. Therefore, in conjunction with the issuance of the EDA Bonds, NJNG entered into a $100 million four-year credit facility, which expires on August 31, 2015, to provide liquidity support in the event of a failed remarketing of the EDA Bonds and to ensure payment of principal and interest. There would be no increase in debt if this were to occur.

On October 1, 2010, upon maturity, NJNG redeemed its $20 million, 6.88 percent Series CC First Mortgage bonds.

On October 4, 2012, the BPU approved a petition filed by NJNG requesting authorization over a three-year period to issue debt, renew its revolving credit facility expiring August 2014, renew its credit facility supporting NJNG's obligations with respect to bonds issued by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, enter into interest rate risk management transactions and increase the size of its meter leasing program on a permanent basis.

NJNG Sale-Leasebacks

NJNG's master lease agreement for its headquarters building has a twenty-five and a half-year term that expires in June 2021, with two five-year renewal options. The present value of the agreement's minimum lease payments is reflected as both a capital lease asset and a capital lease obligation, which are included in utility plant and long-term debt, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
NJNG received $6.5 million, $5.9 million and $4.9 million for fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively, in connection with the sale-leaseback of its natural gas meters. During fiscal 2012 and 2011, NJNG exercised early purchase options with respect to meter leases by making final principal payments of $1 million and $3.9 million, respectively. There was no early purchase option exercised in fiscal 2010. This sale-leaseback program is expected to continue on an annual basis.


Page 91

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Contractual commitments for capital lease payments, as of the fiscal years ended September 30, are as follows:
(Millions)
Lease Payments
2013
 
$
10.7

2014
 
10.2

2015
 
9.6

2016
 
9.9

2017
 
8.7

Thereafter
 
16.7

Subtotal
 
65.8

Less: interest component
 
(12.7
)
Total
 
$
53.1


NJR Debt

NJR has two unsecured, uncommitted private placement debt shelf note agreements. The first agreement was entered into on May 12, 2011, in the amount of $100 million, and expires on May 10, 2013. As of September 30, 2012, NJR had two borrowings outstanding under this agreement, $25 million at 1.94 percent, which will mature on September 15, 2015 and $25 million at 2.51 percent, which will mature on September 15, 2018. The second agreement became effective on June 30, 2011, in the amount of $75 million, and expires on June 30, 2014. As of September 30, 2012, NJR had $50 million at 3.25 percent outstanding under this agreement, which will mature on September 17, 2022. Notes issued under these agreements are guaranteed by certain unregulated subsidiaries of the Company. The additional credit lines will be used for general corporate purposes, including working capital and capital expenditures.

NJR had no long-term, variable-rate debt outstanding at September 30, 2012 and 2011.

A summary of NJNG's and NJR's debt shelf and credit facilities as of September 30, are as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
 
2011
NJNG
 
 
 
Bank credit facility dedicated to EDA Bonds (1)
$
100,000

 
$
100,000

Bank credit facilities (1)
$
200,000

 
$
200,000

Amount outstanding at end of period
$
135,000

 
$
26,500

Weighted average interest rate at end of period
.18
%
 
.24
%
Amount available at end of period
$
65,000

 
$
173,500

NJR
 
 
 
Debt shelf facilities (2)
$
175,000

 
$
175,000

Amount outstanding at end of period
$
100,000

 
$

Weighted average interest rate at end of period
2.74
%
 
%
Amount available at end of period
$
75,000

 
$
175,000

Bank credit facilities (1)
$
325,000

 
$
325,000

Amount outstanding at end of period
$
144,800

 
$
132,850

Weighted average interest rate at end of period
1.16
%
 
.54
%
Amount available at end of period (3)
$
166,339

 
$
157,853

(1)
Committed credit facilities, which require commitment fees on the unused amounts.
(2)
Uncommitted, long-term debt shelf facilities, which require no commitment fees on the unused amounts.
(3)
Letters of credit outstanding total $13.9 million and $34.3 million as of September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively, which reduces amount available.


Page 92

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

NJNG

NJNG had a $200 million revolving unsecured committed credit facility, which was due to expire in December 2012. On August 24, 2011, NJNG replaced the facility with a new $200 million unsecured committed credit facility expiring August 2014. The credit facility is used to support NJNG's commercial paper program and provides for the issuance of letters of credit. It also permits an increase to the facility, from time to time, with the existing or new lenders, in a minimum of $15 million increments up to a maximum of $50 million at the lending banks' discretion. As of September 30, 2012, NJNG had $135 million in borrowings outstanding under the facility.

NJR

NJR had a $325 million revolving unsecured committed credit facility, which was due to expire in December 2012. On August 22, 2012, NJR replaced the facility with a new $325 million unsecured committed credit facility expiring August 22, 2017. The credit facility is used primarily to finance its share repurchases, to satisfy NJRES' short-term liquidity needs and to finance, on an initial basis, unregulated investments. It also permits an increase to the facility, from time to time, with the existing or new lenders, in a minimum of $5 million increments up to a maximum of $100 million at the lending banks' discretion.

Neither NJNG nor the results of its operations are obligated or pledged to support the NJR credit or debt shelf facilities.

As of September 30, 2012, NJR has three letters of credit outstanding totaling $13.9 million. Two of the letters of credit, which total $11 million, are on behalf of NJRES and one letter of credit on behalf of NJRCEV totaling $2.9 million. These letters of credit reduce the amount available under NJR's committed credit facility by the same amount. NJR does not anticipate that these letters of credit will be drawn upon by the counterparties, and they will be renewed as necessary.

NJRES' letters of credit are used to secure the purchase and/or sale of natural gas and for margin requirements for natural gas transactions; one expires on December 31, 2012 and the other expires on June 30, 2013. NJRCEV's letter of credit secures construction of a ground-mounted solar project and expires on November 27, 2013.

9.
STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

In January 2007, the NJR 2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (2007 Plan) replaced the 2002 Employee and Outside Director Long-Term Incentive Plan (Long-Term Plan). Shares can be issued in the form of options, performance shares or restricted stock. As of September 30, 2012, 1,722,037 and 61,162 shares remain available for future issuance to employees and directors, respectively.

Included in operation and maintenance expense during fiscal 2012 is $2.6 million related to stock-based compensation compared with $2.8 million and $2.7 million in fiscal 2011 and fiscal 2010, respectively. As of September 30, 2012, there remains $2.2 million of deferred compensation related to unvested restricted and performance shares that is expected to be recognized over the next two years.

The following table summarizes all stock-based compensation expense recognized during the following fiscal years:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Stock-based compensation expense:
 
 
 
Performance shares
$
1,276

$
915

$
813

Restricted stock
1,362

1,932

1,841

Compensation expense included in operation and maintenance expense
2,638

2,847

2,654

Income tax benefit
(1,078
)
(1,163
)
(1,084
)
Total, net of tax
$
1,560

$
1,684

$
1,570



Page 93

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Stock Options

The following table summarizes the stock option activity for the past three fiscal years:
 
Shares

Weighted Average
Exercise Price
Outstanding at September 30, 2009
333,461

 
$26.36
 
Granted

 

 
Exercised
(68,307
)
 
$23.20
 
Forfeited
(2,026
)
 
$18.32
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2010
263,128

 
$27.24
 
Granted

 

 
Exercised
(152,448
)
 
$26.86
 
Forfeited
(917
)
 
$18.11
 
Outstanding at September 30, 2011
109,763

 
$27.84
 
Granted

 

 
Exercised
(28,138
)
 
$25.30
 
Forfeited

 

 
Outstanding at September 30, 2012
81,625

 
$28.71
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2012
81,625

 
$28.71
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2011
109,763

 
$27.84
 
Exercisable at September 30, 2010
263,128

 
$27.24
 

For the stock options listed above, there are no costs related to unvested options.

The following table summarizes stock options outstanding and exercisable as of September 30, 2012:
 
Outstanding and Exercisable
Exercise Price Range
Number
Of Stock
Options
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Term
(in years)
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
(in thousands)
$20.99 - $26.00
12,000

.7
$22.68
 
$
276

 
$26.01 - $29.00
23,250

2.5
$28.68
 
$
667

 
$29.01 - $30.37
46,375

2.6
$30.29
 
$
1,405

 
Total
81,625

2.3
$28.71
 
$
2,348

 

Performance Shares

In fiscal 2012, the Company granted to various officers 28,418 performance shares, which vest on September 30, 2014, subject to the Company meeting certain performance conditions. In fiscal 2011, the Company granted to various officers 56,325 performance shares, which are market condition awards that vest on September 30, 2013, subject to certain conditions. In fiscal 2010, the Company granted to various officers 29,865 performance shares, which are market condition awards and 24,312 performance shares, which met certain performance milestones (performance conditions). Both performance share grants vested on September 30, 2012. There is $1.4 million of deferred compensation related to unvested performance shares that is expected to be recognized over the next two years.


Page 94

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The following table summarizes the performance share activity under the 2007 Plan for the past three fiscal years:
 
Shares (1)
Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2009
61,980

 
$31.84
 
Granted
54,177

 
$30.05
 
Vested (2)
(55,905
)
 
$31.84
 
Cancelled/forfeited
(9,777
)
 
$31.04
 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2010
50,475

 
$31.07
 
Granted
56,325

 
$26.24
 
Vested

 

 
Cancelled/forfeited
(773
)
 
$29.74
 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2011
106,027

 
$28.04
 
Granted
28,418

 
$47.17
 
Vested (3)
(49,702
)
 
$30.08
 
Cancelled/forfeited

 

 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2012
84,743

 
$33.26
 
(1)
The number of common shares issued related to performance shares may range from zero to 150 percent of the number of shares shown in the table above based on the Company's achievement of performance goals associated with NJR total shareowner return relative to a selected peer group of companies.
(2)
The number of common shares related to performance shares earned as of September 30, 2010, was 135 percent , or 75,472 shares. The number represented on this line is the target number of 100 percent. See footnote (1) above.
(3)
As certified by the Company's Leadership and Compensation Committee on November 13, 2012, the number of common shares related to performance shares and market condition shares earned was 68.8 percent , or 15,427 shares and 70 percent, or 19,095 shares, respectively. The number represented on this line is the target number of 100 percent. See footnote (1) above.

The Company measures compensation expense related to performance shares based on the fair value of these awards at their date of grant. In accordance with ASC 718, compensation expense for market condition grants are recognized for awards granted, and are not adjusted based on actual achievement of the performance goals. The Company estimated the fair value of these grants on the date of grant using a lattice model. Performance condition grants are initially fair valued at the company's stock price on grant date, and are subsequently adjusted for actual achievement of the performance goals.

Restricted Stock

In fiscal 2012, the company granted 49,171 deferred restricted shares that vested immediately and 1,929 shares of restricted stock that will vest in October 2014. Both of these grants will be distributed in a lump sum in October 2014. In fiscal 2011, the company granted 36,614 restricted shares, which vest in three equal annual installments, the first installment having occurred on October 15, 2011, and 25,535 restricted shares, all of which will vest on November 17, 2013. In fiscal 2010, the Company issued 24,312 shares of restricted stock, which vest in three equal installments, the first installment having occurred on October 15, 2010. Also, in fiscal 2010 and 2009 the Company issued 24,312 and 115,211 shares of restricted stock, respectively, that vested immediately, of which 106,730 were retention grants with distribution deferred until fiscal 2012, which are now fully distributed. There is $789,000 of deferred compensation related to unvested restricted stock shares that is expected to be recognized over the next two years.


Page 95

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The following table summarizes the restricted stock activity under the 2007 Plan for the past three fiscal years:
 
Shares

Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value
Total Fair Value of Vested Shares (in Thousands)
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2009
111,797

 
$
31.30

 
 

 
Granted
24,312

 
$
36.42

 
 

 
Vested
(74,888
)
 
$
(31.28
)
 
 
$
2,749

 
Cancelled/forfeited
(4,856
)
 
$
(33.00
)
 
 

 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2010
56,365

 
$
33.40

 
 

 
Granted
62,149

 
$
40.74

 
 

 
Vested
(41,201
)
 
$
(32.29
)
 
 
$
1,723

 
Cancelled/forfeited
(216
)
 
$
(36.42
)
 
 

 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2011
77,097

 
$
39.90

 
 

 
Granted
51,100

 
$
47.17

 
 

 
Vested
(68,851
)
 
$
(44.86
)
 
 
$
3,198

 
Cancelled/forfeited

 

 
 

 
Non-vested and outstanding at September 30, 2012
59,346

 
$
40.40

 
 

 

10.
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Pension and Other Postemployment Benefit Plans (OPEB)

The Company has two trusteed, noncontributory defined benefit retirement plans covering regular represented and nonrepresented employees with more than one year of service. All represented employees of NJRHS hired on or after October 1, 2000, non-represented employees hired on or after October 1, 2009, and NJNG represented employees hired on or after January 1, 2012, are covered by an enhanced defined contribution plan instead of the defined benefit plan.

Defined benefit plan benefits are based on years of service and average compensation during the highest sixty consecutive months of employment.

The Company also maintains an unfunded nonqualified pension equalization plan (PEP) that was established to provide employees with the full level of benefits as stated in the qualified plan without reductions due to various limitations imposed by the provisions of federal income tax laws and regulations. There were no plan assets in the nonqualified plan due to the nature of the plan.

The Company provided postemployment medical and life insurance benefits to employees who meet certain eligibility requirements. During fiscal 2012, the Plan was amended so that represented employees hired on or after January 1, 2012, are no longer eligible for postemployment medical benefits.

The Company's funding policy for its pension plans is to contribute at least the minimum amount required by the ERISA, as amended. In fiscal 2012 and 2011, the Company had no minimum funding requirements; however, the Company made discretionary contributions to the pension plans during fiscal 2012 and 2011 totaling $20 million and $4.9 million, respectively. The Company elected to make these discretionary tax-deductible contributions to improve the funded status of the pension plans. The Company does not expect to be required to make additional contributions to fund the pension plans over the next three fiscal years based on current actuarial assumptions; however, funding requirements are uncertain and can depend significantly on changes in actuarial assumptions, returns on plan assets and changes in the demographics of eligible employees and covered dependents. In addition, as in the past, the Company may elect to make contributions in excess of the minimum required amount to the plans.

There are no Federal requirements to pre-fund OPEB benefits. However, the Company is required to fund certain amounts due to regulatory agreements with the BPU. The Company contributed $5.8 million and $6.5 million, respectively, in fiscal 2012 and 2011 and estimates that it will contribute between $4 million to $6 million over the next five years. Additional contributions may be required based on market conditions and changes to assumptions.

Page 96

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The Company's OPEB plans provide prescription drug benefits that are actuarially equivalent to those provided by Medicare Part D, for which the Company qualifies for federal subsidies. As a result of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which was enacted in March 2010, beginning in fiscal 2014 the tax deduction available to the Company will be reduced to the extent its drug expenses are reimbursed under the Medicare Part D retiree drug subsidy program. Accordingly, the Company recorded a non-cash, after-tax adjustment of approximately $3.2 million, of which, approximately $2.4 million, relates to NJNG. Since the Company believes the amount is recoverable through the regulatory process, NJNG has recognized a regulatory asset of $2.4 million. In addition, the regulatory asset was grossed up by $1.6 million associated with the recovery of NJNG's income taxes. The non-cash, after-tax charge to the Company's non-regulated activities was $792,000.

The following summarizes the changes in the funded status of the plans and the related liabilities recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30:
 
Pension (1)
OPEB
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2012
2011
Change in Benefit Obligation
 
 
 
 
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
$
171,148

$
155,189

$
99,066

$
89,279

Service cost
5,375

4,775

3,584

3,345

Interest cost
8,825

8,378

5,133

4,845

Plan participants' contributions
47

48

29

16

Amendments
1,083


(3,423
)

Actuarial loss
30,428

8,342

18,807

3,637

Benefits paid, net of retiree subsidies received
(5,770
)
(5,584
)
(2,169
)
(2,056
)
Benefit obligation at end of year
$
211,136

$
171,148

$
121,027

$
99,066

Change in plan assets
 
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
$
124,289

$
122,865

$
31,428

$
27,644

Actual return on plan assets
28,018

1,933

6,222

(556
)
Employer contributions
20,080

5,027

5,775

6,497

Benefits paid, net of plan participants' contributions
(5,723
)
(5,536
)
(2,335
)
(2,157
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
$
166,664

$
124,289

$
41,090

$
31,428

Funded status
$
(44,472
)
$
(46,859
)
$
(79,937
)
$
(67,638
)
Amounts recognized on Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
 
 
Postemployment employee benefit liability
 
 
 
 
Current
$
(93
)
$
(75
)
$
(120
)
$
(117
)
Non-current
(44,379
)
(46,784
)
(79,817
)
(67,521
)
Total
$
(44,472
)
$
(46,859
)
$
(79,937
)
$
(67,638
)
(1)
Includes the Company's Pension Equalization Plan (PEP).

The Company recognizes a liability for its underfunded benefit plans as required by the Compensation - Retirement Benefits Topic of the ASC. The Company records the offset to regulatory assets for the portion of liability relating to its regulated utility and to accumulated other comprehensive income for the portion of the liability related to its non-regulated operations.


Page 97

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The following table summarizes the amounts recognized in regulatory assets and accumulated other comprehensive income as of September 30:
 
Regulatory Assets
 
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
 
Pension
OPEB
 
 
Pension
OPEB
Balance at September 30, 2010
$
62,565

$
38,750

(1) 
 
$
18,045

$
9,305

Amounts arising during the period:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial loss (gain)
12,912

11,592

 
 
4,987

(4,927
)
Amounts amortized to net periodic costs:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial (loss)
(3,087
)
(2,063
)
 
 
(859
)
(549
)
Prior service (cost)
(35
)
(68
)
 
 
(13
)
(7
)
Net transition obligation

(286
)
 
 

(70
)
Balance at September 30, 2011
$
72,355

$
47,925

(1) 
 
$
22,160

$
3,752

Amounts arising during the period:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial loss (gain)
10,896

16,773

 
 
4,198

(1,442
)
Amounts amortized to net periodic costs:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net actuarial (loss)
(3,848
)
(2,671
)
 
 
(1,166
)
(223
)
Prior service credit (cost)
1,046

(2,677
)
 
 
(9
)
(420
)
Net transition obligation

(551
)
 
 

(156
)
Balance at September 30, 2012
$
80,449

$
58,799

(1) 
 
$
25,183

$
1,511

(1)
Balance represents amounts recognized in accordance with ASC 715 and excludes $308,000 and $609,000 associated with a regulatory asset approved by the BPU for fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively.

Amounts included in regulatory assets and accumulated other comprehensive income expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost in fiscal 2013 are as follows:
 
Regulatory Assets
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
(Thousands)
Pension
OPEB
 
Pension
OPEB
Net actuarial gain
$
5,719

$
3,743


$
1,928

$
114

Prior service credit (cost)
105

(301
)

3

(54
)
Net transition obligation

22



4

Total
$
5,824

$
3,464


$
1,931

$
64


The accumulated benefit obligation (ABO) for the pension plans, including the PEP, exceeded the fair value of plan assets. The projected benefit and accumulated benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets as of September 30, are as follows:
 
Pension
(Thousands)
2012
2011
Projected benefit obligation
$
211,136

$
171,148

Accumulated benefit obligation
$
186,825

$
151,590

Fair value of plan assets
$
166,664

$
124,289



Page 98

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The components of the net periodic cost for pension benefits, including the Company's PEP, and OPEB costs (principally health care and life insurance) for employees and covered dependents for fiscal years ended September 30, are as follows:
 
Pension
OPEB
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
2012
2011
2010
Service cost
$
5,375

$
4,775

$
3,969

$
3,584

$
3,345

$
2,814

Interest cost
8,825

8,378

8,196

5,133

4,845

4,819

Expected return on plan assets
(12,685
)
(11,490
)
(10,306
)
(2,746
)
(2,472
)
(1,939
)
Recognized actuarial loss
5,015

3,946

2,722

2,894

2,612

2,279

Prior service cost amortization
46

48

56

25

75

76

Recognized net initial obligation



356

356

356

Net periodic benefit cost
$
6,576

$
5,657

$
4,637

$
9,246

$
8,761

$
8,405


The weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit costs during the fiscal year and obligations as of September 30, are as follows:
 
Pension
 
OPEB
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
Benefit costs:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate
5.25
%
 
5.50
%
 
6.25
%
 
5.25
%
 
5.50
%
 
6.25
%
Expected asset return
8.25
%
 
8.25
%
 
8.25
%
 
8.25
%
 
8.25
%
 
8.25
%
Compensation increase
3.25
%
 
2.50/3.25%

 
3.75
%
 
3.25
%
 
3.25
%
 
3.75
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Obligations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount rate
4.30
%
 
5.25
%
 
5.50
%
 
4.30
%
 
5.25
%
 
5.50
%
Compensation increase
3.25
%
 
3.25
%
 
2.50/3.25%

 
3.25
%
 
3.25
%
 
2.50/3.25%


In selecting an assumed discount rate, the Company uses a modeling process that involves selecting a portfolio of high-quality corporate debt issuances (AA- or better) whose cash flows (via coupons or maturities) match the timing and amount of the Company's expected future benefit payments. The Company considers the results of this modeling process, as well as overall rates of return on high-quality corporate bonds and changes in such rates over time, to determine its assumed discount rate.

Information relating to the assumed health care cost trend rate (HCCTR) used to determine expected OPEB benefits as of September 30, and the effect of a one percent change in the rate, are as follows:
($ in thousands)
2012
 
2011
 
2010
HCCTR
7.5
%
 
8.2
%
 
8.0
%
Ultimate HCCTR
4.8
%
 
4.8
%
 
5.0
%
Year ultimate HCCTR reached
2022

 
2019

 
2018

 
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of a 1 percentage point increase in the HCCTR on:
 
 
 
 
 
Year-end benefit obligation
$
21,278

 
$
17,193

 
$
15,474

Total service and interest cost
$
1,868

 
$
1,751

 
$
1,571

Effect of a 1 percentage point decrease in the HCCTR on:
 
 
 
 
 
Year-end benefit obligation
$
(17,034
)
 
$
(13,792
)
 
$
(12,421
)
Total service and interest costs
$
(1,457
)
 
$
(1,367
)
 
$
(1,234
)


Page 99

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The Company's investment objective is a long-term real rate of return on assets before permissible expenses that is approximately 8 percent greater than the assumed rate of inflation as measured by the consumer price index. The expected long-term rate of return is based on the asset categories in which the Company invests and the current expectations and historical performance for these categories.

The mix and targeted allocation of the pension and OPEB plans' assets are as follows:
 
2013
Assets at
 
Target
September 30,
Asset Allocation
Allocation
2012

 
2011

 
U.S. equity securities
39
%
 
39
%
 
36
%
 
International equity securities
20

 
21

 
17

 
Fixed income
41

 
40

 
47

 
Total
100
%
 
100
%
 
100
%
 

The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid during the following years:
(Thousands)
Pension
OPEB
2013
$
6,451

$
2,865

2014
$
6,853

$
3,278

2015
$
7,289

$
3,712

2016
$
7,760

$
4,189

2017
$
8,269

$
4,688

2018 - 2022
$
52,985

$
31,951


The Company 's OPEB plans provide prescription drug benefits that are actuarially equivalent to those provided by Medicare Part D. Therefore, under the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 the Company qualifies for federal subsidies.

The estimated subsidy payments are:
 
Estimated Subsidy Payment
Fiscal Year
(Thousands)
2013
$220
2014
$237
2015
$257
2016
$280
2017
$305
2018 - 2022
$2,010


Page 100

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Pension assets held in the master trust, measured at fair value are summarized as follows:
 
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
Significant
Other Observable
Inputs
Significant Unobservable
Inputs
 
(Thousands)
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Total
As of September 30, 2012:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
 
$

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$

Registered Investment Companies-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Large Cap Fund
 

 
 

 
 

 

Large Cap Index Fund
 
55,006

 
 

 
 

 
55,006

Small Cap Fund
 
9,988

 
 

 
 

 
9,988

World Equity Ex-US Fund
 
34,266

 
 

 
 

 
34,266

Fixed Income Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging Markets Debt Fund
 
8,380

 
 

 
 

 
8,380

High Yield Bond Fund
 
16,635

 
 

 
 

 
16,635

Long Duration Fund
 
42,389

 
 

 
 

 
42,389

Total assets at fair value
 
$
166,664

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$
166,664

As of September 30, 2011:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
 
$

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$

Registered Investment Companies-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Large Cap Fund
 
18,754

 
 

 
 

 
18,754

Large Cap Index Fund
 
18,922

 
 

 
 

 
18,922

Small Cap Fund
 
6,505

 
 

 
 

 
6,505

World Equity Ex-US Fund
 
20,993

 
 

 
 

 
20,993

Fixed Income Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Emerging Markets Debt Fund
 
6,145

 
 

 
 

 
6,145

High Yield Bond Fund
 
12,537

 
 

 
 

 
12,537

Long Duration Fund
 
40,433

 
 

 
 

 
40,433

Total assets at fair value
 
$
124,289

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$
124,289



Page 101

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

OPEB assets held in the Master Trust, measured at fair value are summarized as follows:
 
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
Significant
Other Observable
Inputs
Significant Unobservable
Inputs
 
(Thousands)
(Level 1)
(Level 2)
(Level 3)
Total
As of September 30, 2012:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
 
$
1,159

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$
1,159

Registered Investment Companies-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Large Cap Fund
 

 
 

 
 

 

Large Cap Index Fund
 
13,217

 
 

 
 

 
13,217

Small Cap Fund
 
2,380

 
 

 
 

 
2,380

World Equity Ex-US Fund
 
8,166

 
 

 
 

 
8,166

Fixed Income Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core Fixed Income Fund
 
10,207

 
 

 
 

 
10,207

Emerging Markets Debt Fund
 
1,997

 
 

 
 

 
1,997

High Yield Bond Fund
 
3,964

 
 

 
 

 
3,964

Total assets at fair value
 
$
41,090

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$
41,090

As of September 30, 2011:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Money market funds
 
$
1,593

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$
1,593

Registered Investment Companies-
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Large Cap Fund
 
4,765

 
 

 
 

 
4,765

Large Cap Index Fund
 
4,825

 
 

 
 

 
4,825

Small Cap Fund
 
1,591

 
 

 
 

 
1,591

World Equity Ex-US Fund
 
5,550

 
 

 
 

 
5,550

Fixed Income Funds:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Core Fixed Income Fund
 
8,366

 
 

 
 

 
8,366

Emerging Markets Debt Fund
 
1,589

 
 

 
 

 
1,589

High Yield Bond Fund
 
3,149

 
 

 
 

 
3,149

Total assets at fair value
 
$
31,428

 
 
$

 
 
$

 
$
31,428


The Plan had no Level 2 or Level 3 fair value measurements during the two fiscal years and there have been no changes in valuation methodologies as of September 30, 2012. The following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for assets measured at fair value:

Money Market funds: Represents bank balances and money market funds that are valued based on the net asset value of shares held at year end.

Registered Investment Companies: Equity and fixed income funds valued at the net asset value (NAV) of shares held by the plan at year end as reported on the active market on which the individual securities are traded.

The methods described above may produce a fair value calculation that may not be indicative of net realizable value or reflective of future fair values. Furthermore, while the Plan believes its valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants, the use of different methodologies or assumptions to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in a different fair value measurement at the reporting date.

Page 102

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Defined Contribution Plan

The Company offers an Employees' Retirement Savings Plan (Savings Plan) to eligible employees. The Company matches 50 percent of participants' contributions up to 6 percent of base compensation. Represented NJRHS employees, non-represented employees hired on or after October 1, 2009, and NJNG represented employees hired on or after January 1, 2012, are eligible for an employer special contribution of between 2 percent and 3 percent of base compensation, depending on years of service, into the Savings Plan on their behalf. The amount expensed and contributed for the matching provision of the Savings Plan was $1.7 million in fiscal 2012, $1.5 million in fiscal 2011 and $1.4 million in fiscal 2010. The amount contributed for the employer special contribution of the Savings Plan was $143,000 in fiscal 2012, $96,000 in fiscal 2011 and $86,000 in fiscal 2010.

11.
ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS (ARO)

NJR recognizes AROs related to the costs associated with cutting and capping its main and service gas distribution pipelines of NJNG, which are required by New Jersey law when taking such gas distribution pipeline out of service.

The following is an analysis of the change in the ARO liability for the fiscal year ended September 30:
(Thousands)
2012
 
2011
Balance at October 1
$
27,026

 
$
26,009

Accretion
1,774

 
1,663

Additions
380

 
180

Retirements
(1,197
)
 
(826
)
Balance at period end
$
27,983

 
$
27,026


Accretion amounts are not reflected as an expense on NJR's Consolidated Statements of Operations, but rather are deferred as a regulatory asset and netted against NJNG's regulatory liabilities, for presentation purposes, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Accretion for the next five years is estimated to be as follows:
(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal Year Ended September 30,
Estimated Accretion
2013
 
$
1,866

 
2014
 
1,948

 
2015
 
2,009

 
2016
 
2,069

 
2017
 
2,121

 
Total
 
$
10,013

 

12.
INCOME TAXES

A reconciliation of the United States federal statutory rate of 35 percent to the effective rate from operations for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010 is as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Statutory income tax expense
$
35,213

$
48,638

$
63,753

Change resulting from
 
 
 
State income taxes
5,434

3,435

4,626

Depreciation and cost of removal
(3,999
)
(2,558
)
(1,986
)
Investment tax credits (ITC)
(34,397
)
(13,150
)
(769
)
Basis adjustment of solar assets due to ITC
5,974

2,266

91

Other
(496
)
(966
)
(1,023
)
Income tax provision
$
7,729

$
37,665

$
64,692

Effective income tax rate
7.7
%
27.1
%
35.5
%

Page 103

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The effective tax rate decreased to 7.7 percent for fiscal 2012 from 27.1 percent in fiscal 2011, due primarily to the impact of federal ITCs of $27.1 million and $9.6 million, net of deferred tax impact related to required basis adjustment, generated by solar investments placed in service during fiscal 2012 and 2011, respectively.

The income tax provision (benefit) from operations consists of the following:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Current
 
 
 
Federal
$
14,983

$
14,566

$
(7,343
)
State
4,025

6,618

(981
)
Deferred
 
 
 
Federal
18,757

30,932

65,258

State
4,361

(1,301
)
8,527

Investment tax credits
(34,397
)
(13,150
)
(769
)
Income tax provision
$
7,729

$
37,665

$
64,692


The temporary differences, which give rise to deferred tax assets and (liabilities), consist of the following:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
Deferred tax assets
 
 
Investment tax credits
$
32,002

$
3,353

Deferred service contract revenue
3,185

3,191

Incentive compensation
7,666

3,775

Over-recovered gas costs

1,866

Other
8,893

5,451

Total deferred tax assets
$
51,746

$
17,636

Deferred tax liabilities
 
 
Property related items
$
(284,871
)
$
(258,501
)
Remediation costs
(24,018
)
(30,459
)
Equity investments
(31,610
)
(28,255
)
Post employment benefits
(8,520
)
(4,914
)
Fair value of derivatives
(5,461
)
(16,602
)
Conservation incentive plan
(11,200
)
(3,697
)
Under-recovered gas costs
(2,835
)

Other
(4,514
)
(1,492
)
Total deferred tax liabilities
$
(373,029
)
$
(343,920
)
 
 
 
Total net deferred tax liabilities
$
(321,283
)
$
(326,284
)

The Company and one or more of its subsidiaries files or expects to file income and/or franchise tax returns in the United States Federal jurisdiction and in the states of New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Texas, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Louisiana. The Company neither files in, nor believes it has a filing requirement in, any foreign jurisdictions.

The Company's federal income tax returns through fiscal 2009 have either been reviewed by the IRS, or the related statute of limitations has expired and all matters have been settled. The IRS is currently examining fiscal 2010 tax return.

The State of New Jersey has completed its sales and use tax examinations through March 31, 2010, and its corporate business tax examinations through September 30, 2008. All periods subsequent to those ended September 30, 2008, are statutorily open to examination in all applicable states with the exception of New York. In New York, all periods subsequent to September 30, 2009, are statutorily open to examination.

Page 104

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

NJRES amended its New Jersey State Income Tax returns for the periods ended September 30, 2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007, and requested refunds related to a dispute over certain rules surrounding a company's ability to apportion income away from the state. Discussions between NJR and the State of New Jersey on the interpretation of the apportionment rules and relevant case law were completed during fiscal 2011, resulting in a refund of approximately $4.3 million. Accordingly, in fiscal 2011, NJRES recognized a $4.3 million state tax benefit. After fees and federal income taxes, the net impact was $2.4 million, or $0.06 per share.

NJR evaluates its tax positions to determine the appropriate accounting and recognition of potential future obligations associated with unrecognized tax benefits. As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, based on its analysis, the Company determined there was no need to recognize any liabilities associated with uncertain tax positions.

As of September 30, 2012, the Company has state income tax net operating losses of approximately $51.1 million, which generally have a life of 20 years. The company has recorded a deferred tax asset of approximately $3 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, reflecting the tax benefit associated with the loss carry forwards. These deferred tax assets will expire as follows:
(Thousands)
 
Fiscal years 2013 - 2017
$
373

Fiscal years 2018 - 2022

Fiscal Years 2023 - 2027

Fiscal Years 2028 - 2032
2,639

Total
$
3,012


In addition, as of September 30, 2012, the company has an ITC carry forward of approximately $28.8 million, which has a life of 20 years. This carry forward will expire at the end of fiscal year 2032.

13.
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Cash Commitments

NJNG has entered into long-term contracts, expiring at various dates through August 2030, for the supply, storage and delivery of natural gas. These contracts include current annual fixed charges of approximately $91 million at current contract rates and volumes, which are recoverable through BGSS.

For the purpose of securing storage and pipeline capacity, NJRES enters into storage and pipeline capacity contracts, which require the payment of certain demand charges by NJRES to maintain the ability to access such natural gas storage or pipeline capacity, during a fixed time period, which generally ranges from one to five years. Demand charges are based on established rates as regulated by the FERC. These demand charges represent commitments to pay storage providers or pipeline companies for the right to store and transport natural gas utilizing their respective assets.

Commitments as of September 30, 2012, for natural gas purchases and future demand fees for the next five fiscal year periods are as follows:
(Thousands)
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
Thereafter
NJRES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Natural gas purchases
$
388,175

$
13,141

$

$

$

$

Storage demand fees
32,831

18,675

12,037

7,106

5,035

7,318

Pipeline demand fees
60,091

24,063

10,896

9,083

7,770

9,663

Sub-total NJRES
$
481,097

$
55,879

$
22,933

$
16,189

$
12,805

$
16,981

NJNG:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Natural gas purchases
$
104,827

$
104,262

$
113,055

$
9,442

$
131

$

Storage demand fees
29,721

24,913

15,854

11,069

9,990

23,247

Pipeline demand fees
61,278

67,804

35,137

34,558

32,753

221,838

Sub-total NJNG
$
195,826

$
196,979

$
164,046

$
55,069

$
42,874

$
245,085

Total (1)
$
676,923

$
252,858

$
186,979

$
71,258

$
55,679

$
262,066

(1)
Does not include amounts related to intercompany asset management agreements between NJRES and NJNG.

NJNG's capital expenditures are estimated at $119.3 million and $119.9 million for fiscal 2013 and 2014, respectively, and

Page 105

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

consist primarily of its construction program to support customer growth, maintenance of its distribution system and replacements needed under pipeline safety regulations. Estimated capital expenditures include SAFE construction costs of $34.6 million and $43.4 million for fiscal 2013 and 2014, respectively.

Expenditure estimates are subject to change and do not include costs associated with the restoration of damages to NJNG's infrastructure that occurred subsequent to the 2012 fiscal year end as a result of Superstorm Sandy. See Note 17. Subsequent Events for more information on the impacts of Superstorm Sandy. Furthermore, estimated expenditures are reviewed on a regular basis and may vary based on the ongoing effects of regulatory constraints, environmental regulations, unforeseen events, and the ability to access capital.

NJRCEV's expenditures include discretionary spending on capital projects that support NJR's goal to promote clean energy. Accordingly, NJRCEV enters into agreements to install solar equipment involving both residential and commercial projects. During fiscal 2012, capital expenditures committed or spent related to the purchase and installation of the solar equipment were $100.3 million. The effects of Superstorm Sandy also resulted in damage to a portion of a 1.5 MW commercial rooftop solar array.

Capital expenditures related to renewable energy projects are also subject to change based on a variety of factors, such as the identification of appropriate projects, the timing of construction schedules, the permitting and regulatory process, delays related to electric grid interconnection, which may affect our ability to commence operations at these projects on a timely basis, if at all, ability to access capital or allocation of capital to other investments or business opportunities.

As of September 30, 2012, the Company's future minimum lease payments under various operating leases will not be more than $2.1 million annually for the next five years and $5.7 million in the aggregate for all years thereafter.

Guarantees

As of September 30, 2012, there were NJR guarantees covering approximately $361 million of natural gas purchases and demand fee commitments of NJRES and NJNG not yet reflected in accounts payable on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The Company enters into agreements to lease vehicles, generally over a five-year term, that qualify as operating leases. These agreements contain provisions that could require the Company to make additional cash payments at the end of the term for a portion of the residual value of the vehicles. As of September 30, 2012, the present value of the liability recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets is $650,000. In the event performance under the guarantee is required, the Company's maximum future payment would be $922,000.

Legal Proceedings

Manufactured Gas Plant Remediation

NJNG is responsible for the remedial cleanup of five MGP sites, dating back to gas operations in the late 1800s and early 1900s that contain contaminated residues from former gas manufacturing operations. NJNG is currently involved in administrative proceedings with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), as well as participating in various studies and investigations by outside consultants to determine the nature and extent of any such contaminated residues and to develop appropriate programs of remedial action, where warranted, under Administrative Consent Orders or Memoranda of Agreement with the NJDEP.

NJNG may, subject to BPU approval, recover its remediation expenditures, including carrying costs, over rolling seven-year periods pursuant to a remediation adjustment (RA) approved by the BPU. On January 18, 2012, the BPU approved the recovery of the remediation expenditures incurred through June 30, 2009, which maintained the expected annual recovery at approximately $20 million. In February 2012, NJNG filed its 2011 SBC filing, requesting approval of its MGP expenditures incurred through June 30, 2011, which would continue its existing overall SBC rate and recovery. As of September 30, 2012, $59.7 million of previously incurred remediation costs, net of recoveries from customers and insurance proceeds, are included in regulatory assets on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.


Page 106

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

NJNG periodically and at least annually performs an environmental review of the MGP sites, including a review of potential liability for investigation and remedial action. NJNG estimated at the time of the review that total future expenditures to remediate and monitor the five MGP sites for which it is responsible, including potential liabilities for Natural Resource Damages that might be brought by the NJDEP for alleged injury to groundwater or other natural resources concerning these sites, will range from approximately $159.6 million to $266.4 million. NJNG's estimate of these liabilities is based upon known facts, existing technology and enacted laws and regulations in place when the review was completed. Where it is probable that costs will be incurred, and the information is sufficient to establish a range of possible liability, NJNG accrues the best estimated amount in the range. If no point within the range is more likely than the other, it is NJNG's policy to accrue the lower end of the range. Accordingly, as of September 30, 2012, NJNG has recorded an MGP remediation liability and a corresponding regulatory asset of $182 million on the Consolidated Balance Sheets, based on the best estimate. The actual costs to be incurred by NJNG are dependent upon several factors, including final determination of remedial action, changing technologies and governmental regulations, the ultimate ability of other responsible parties to pay and any insurance recoveries.

NJNG will continue to seek recovery of MGP-related costs through the RA. If any future regulatory position indicates that the recovery of such costs is not probable, the related non-recoverable costs would be charged to income in the period of such determination. However, because recovery of such costs is subject to BPU approval, there can be no assurance as to the ultimate recovery through the RA or the impact on the Company's results of operations, financial position or cash flows, which could be material.

General

The Company is party to various other claims, legal actions and complaints arising in the ordinary course of business. In the Company's opinion, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

14.
BUSINESS SEGMENT AND OTHER OPERATIONS DATA

NJR organizes its businesses based on its services as well as regulatory environment. As a result, the Company manages the businesses through the following reportable segments and other operations: the Natural Gas Distribution segment consists of regulated energy and off-system, capacity and storage management operations; the Energy Services segment consists of unregulated wholesale energy operations; the Clean Energy Ventures segment consist of capital investments in renewable energy projects; the Energy Holdings segment (previously Midstream Assets) consists of NJR's investments in natural gas transportation and storage facilities; the Retail and Other operations consist of appliance and installation services, commercial real estate development, renewable energy and other investments and general corporate activities.


Page 107

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

Information related to the Company's various business segments and other operations is detailed below:
(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenues
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
 
 
 
External customers
$
627,713

$
971,724

$
937,433

Intercompany


8,047

Clean Energy Ventures
 
 
 
External customers
2,257

862


Energy Services
 
 
 
External customers
1,577,851

1,996,997

1,671,655

Intercompany
2,760

55,306

13,389

Segment subtotal
2,210,581

3,024,889

2,630,524

Retail and Other
 
 
 
External customers
41,102

39,626

30,216

Intercompany
1,093

334

335

Eliminations
(3,853
)
(55,640
)
(21,771
)
Total
$
2,248,923

$
3,009,209

$
2,639,304

Depreciation and amortization
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
35,247

$
33,140

$
31,464

Clean Energy Ventures
5,680

421


Energy Services
59

61

153

Energy Holdings
6

6

6

Segment subtotal
40,992

33,628

31,623

Retail and Other
661

742

644

Eliminations
(10
)


Total
$
41,643

$
34,370

$
32,267

Interest income (1)
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
889

$
1,133

$
1,973

Energy Services
37

9

15

Energy Holdings
1,098

901

933

Segment subtotal
2,024

2,043

2,921

Retail and Other
3

43

4

Eliminations
(1,001
)
(870
)
(907
)
Total
$
1,026

$
1,216

$
2,018

(1)
Included in other income on the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Page 108

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal Years Ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
Interest expense, net of capitalized interest
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
14,890

$
14,875

$
16,618

Clean Energy Ventures
854

84

2

Energy Services
1,096

995

1,439

Energy Holdings
2,665

3,165

2,418

Segment subtotal
19,505

19,119

20,477

Retail and Other
1,339

504

774

Total
$
20,844

$
19,623

$
21,251

Income tax provision (benefit)
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
38,135

$
40,322

$
38,417

Clean Energy Ventures
(32,507
)
(11,604
)
(410
)
Energy Services
(4,950
)
3,281

23,250

Energy Holdings
4,978

4,702

4,301

Segment subtotal
5,656

36,701

65,558

Retail and Other
2,178

1,033

(727
)
Eliminations
(105
)
(69
)
(139
)
Total
$
7,729

$
37,665

$
64,692

Equity in earnings of affiliates
 
 
 
Energy Holdings
$
14,308

$
14,904

$
12,996

Eliminations
(3,674
)
(3,065
)
(2,979
)
Total
$
10,634

$
11,839

$
10,017

Net financial earnings (loss)
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
73,238

$
71,322

$
70,242

Clean Energy Ventures
19,452

6,761

(593
)
Energy Services
10,791

18,583

24,814

Energy Holdings
6,749

6,780

6,444

Segment subtotal
110,230

103,446

100,907

Retail and Other
2,366

3,087

857

Eliminations
(179
)


Total
$
112,417

$
106,533

$
101,764

Capital expenditures
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
116,455

$
101,993

$
93,821

Clean Energy Ventures
89,726

71,989

555

Segment subtotal
206,181

173,982

94,376

Retail and Other
1,334

3,549

3,003

Total
$
207,515

$
177,531

$
97,379

Investments in equity investees
 
 
 
Clean Energy Ventures
$
8,800

$

$

Energy Holdings


4,300

Total
$
8,800

$

$
4,300



Page 109

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

The chief operating decision maker of the Company is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CEO uses net financial earnings as a measure of profit or loss in measuring the results of the Company's segments and operations. A reconciliation of consolidated net financial earnings to consolidated net income is as follows:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Consolidated net financial earnings
$
112,417

$
106,533

$
101,764

Less:
 
 
 
Unrealized loss (gain) from derivative instruments and related transactions, net of taxes (1) (2)
22,631

23,320

(16,825
)
Effects of economic hedging related to natural gas inventory, net of taxes (3)
(3,093
)
(18,086
)
1,132

Consolidated net income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

(1)
Excludes unrealized losses related to an intercompany transaction between NJNG and NJRES that have been eliminated in consolidation of approximately $142,000, $130,000 and $228,000 for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
(2)
Includes taxes of approximately $13 million, $13.4 million, and $(10) million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
(3)
Includes taxes of approximately $(1.8) million, $(10.5) million and $1.3 million for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.

The Company uses derivative instruments as economic hedges of purchases and sales of physical gas inventory. For GAAP purposes, these derivatives are recorded at fair value and related changes in fair value are included in reported earnings. Revenues and cost of gas related to physical gas flow is recognized as the gas is delivered to customers. Consequently, there is a mismatch in the timing of earnings recognition between the economic hedges and physical gas flows. Timing differences occur in two ways:

Unrealized gains and losses on derivatives are recognized in reported earnings in periods prior to physical gas inventory flows; and

Unrealized gains and losses of prior periods are reclassified as realized gains and losses when derivatives are settled in the same period as physical gas inventory movements occur.

NFE is a measure of the earnings based on eliminating these timing differences, to effectively match the earnings effects of the economic hedges with the physical sale of gas. Consequently, to reconcile between GAAP and net financial earnings, current period unrealized gains and losses on the derivatives are excluded from net financial earnings as a reconciling item. Additionally, realized derivative gains and losses are also included in current period net income. However, net financial earnings include only realized gains and losses related to natural gas sold out of inventory, effectively matching the full earnings effects of the derivatives with realized margins on physical gas flows.

The Company's assets for the various business segments and business operations are detailed below:
(Thousands)
2012
2011
2010
Assets at end of period:
 
 
 
Natural Gas Distribution
$
2,005,520

$
1,942,691

$
1,904,545

Clean Energy Ventures
223,247

80,234

645

Energy Services
347,406

400,882

432,380

Energy Holdings
157,779

159,940

159,882

Segment subtotal
2,733,952

2,583,747

2,497,452

Retail and Other
73,298

87,066

85,219

Intercompany assets (1)
(37,245
)
(21,369
)
(19,538
)
Total
$
2,770,005

$
2,649,444

$
2,563,133

(1)
Consists of transactions between subsidiaries that are eliminated and reclassified in consolidation.


Page 110

New Jersey Resources Corporation
Part II

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

15.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

NJRES may periodically enter into storage or park and loan agreements with its affiliated FERC-regulated natural gas storage facility, Steckman Ridge, or transportation agreements with its affiliated FERC-regulated interstate pipeline, Iroquois Gas Transmission. As of September 30, 2012, NJRES has entered into storage and park and loan transactions with Steckman Ridge for varying terms, all of which expire by October 2013. Additionally, NJRES has transportation capacity with Iroquois Gas Transmission that expires by March 2019. Demand fees associated with both Steckman Ridge and Iroquois Gas Transmission were $3.2 million and $4.7 million during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and $971,000 and $4.7 million for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2011. As of September 30, 2012, NJRES had fees payable of $170,000 and $394,000 to Steckman Ridge and Iroquois Gas Transmission, respectively, and had fees payable of $237,000 and $389,000 respectively, as of September 30, 2011, which are included in gas purchases payable.

In January 2010, NJNG entered into a ten-year agreement effective April 1, 2010, for 3 Bcf of firm storage capacity with Steckman Ridge. Under the terms of the agreement, NJNG incurs demand fees, at market rates, of approximately $9.3 million annually. These fees are recoverable through NJNG's BGSS mechanism and are included in regulatory assets. Additionally, NJNG has transportation capacity with Iroquois Gas Transmission that expires by January 2019. Demand fees associated with both Steckman Ridge and Iroquois Gas Transmission were $9 million and $9.9 million during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively. As of September 30, 2012 and 2011, NJNG had fees payable to Steckman Ridge and Iroquois Gas Transmission in the amount of $775,000 and $61,000, respectively, for both fiscal years.

In December 2009, NJNG and NJRES entered into an asset management agreement that began in January 2010 and ends in March 2014. Under the terms of this agreement, NJNG released certain transportation and storage contracts to NJRES for the entire term of the agreement. NJNG also sold approximately 1 Bcf of natural gas in storage at cost to NJRES. In return, NJNG has the option to purchase index priced gas from NJRES at NJNG's citygate and other delivery locations to maintain operational reliability. In September 2010, NJNG and NJRES entered into an another asset management agreement that began in September 2010 and ends October 2014, whereby NJNG released additional transportation contracts to NJRES for the entire term of the agreement and has the option to purchase index priced gas from NJRES at NJNG's citygate.

16.
SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)

A summary of financial data for each quarter of fiscal 2012 and 2011 follows. Due to the seasonal nature of the Company's businesses, quarterly amounts vary significantly during the fiscal year. In the opinion of management, the information furnished reflects all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the results of the interim periods.
 
First
Second
Third
Fourth
(Thousands, except per share data)
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
Quarter
2012
 
 
 
 
Operating revenues
$
642,411

$
612,921

$
425,121

$
568,470

Gross margin(1)
$
120,364

$
115,068

$
28,713

$
45,155

Operating income (loss)
$
75,218

$
67,689

$
(19,911
)
$
(14,306
)
Net income (loss)
$
57,357

$
54,535

$
(10,320
)
$
(8,693
)
Earnings (loss) per share
 
 
 
 
Basic
$1.38
$1.31
$(0.25)
$(0.21)
Diluted
$1.38
$1.31
$(0.25)
$(0.21)
2011




Operating revenues
$
713,152

$
976,987

$
648,169

$
670,901

Gross margin(1)
$
82,659

$
136,572

$
71,237

$
36,520

Operating income (loss)
$
40,263

$
93,202

$
27,182

$
(17,646
)
Net income (loss)
$
24,509

$
63,927

$
20,374

$
(7,511
)
Earnings (loss) per share
 
 
 
 
Basic
$0.59
$1.55
$0.49
$(0.18)
Diluted
$0.59
$1.54
$0.49
$(0.18)
(1)
Gross margin consists of operating revenue less cost of goods sold and other direct expenses at NJR's unregulated subsidiaries and utility gross margin at NJNG, which includes natural gas revenues less natural gas purchases, sales tax, a TEFA and regulatory rider expenses.

The sum of quarterly amounts may not equal the annual amounts due to rounding.

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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (Continued)                                                            

17.
SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

In October 2012, high winds, heavy rainfall and the related flooding associated with Superstorm Sandy caused significant damage to portions of NJNG's distribution infrastructure. As a result, NJNG shut off its natural gas infrastructure in certain areas of its service territory that were most heavily damaged, affecting approximately 30,100 of NJNG's approximately 500,100 customers.

NJRCEV also evaluated its solar assets and determined that a portion of a 1.5 MW commercial solar rooftop array sustained damage as a result of the storm.

We anticipate that Superstorm Sandy and its aftermath will influence our financial results but are still assessing the damages. NJR and NJNG are unable to estimate the possible loss or range of loss related to Superstorm Sandy, however, such costs could be material. The financial effects can include lower operating revenues, lower utility gross margin due to extended outages and inability to bill and collect revenues, and higher capital expenditures related to the restoration, repair or replacement of damaged equipment and assets. On November 19, 2012, NJNG filed a petition with the BPU requesting deferral accounting for actually incurred uninsured incremental operating and maintenance costs associated with Superstorm Sandy. In addition, NJNG requested the review of and the appropriate amortization period for such deferred expenses be addressed in the Company's next base rate case. However, there can be no assurances that such recovery mechanisms will be available or, if available, no assurances can be given relative to the timing or amount of such recovery.

While the Company believes it has sufficient liquidity to meet its current obligations and to begin to fund restoration efforts from a combination of cash-on-hand and available capacity under revolving credit facilities, the Company may need to seek additional financing in order to fully fund restoration efforts.


ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL
DISCLOSURE                                                                                                                                                                                   

None


ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES                                                                                                                             

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Under the supervision and with the participation of the Company's management, including the principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of its disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) (the Exchange Act), as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on this evaluation, the Company's principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that, as of end of the period covered by this report, the Company's disclosure controls and procedures are effective, to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Management's Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting

The report of management required under this ITEM 9A is contained in ITEM 8 of this Form 10-K under the caption Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting.

Attestation Report of Registered Public Accounting Firm

The attestation report required under this ITEM 9A is contained in ITEM 8 of this 10-K under the caption Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.


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Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
There has been no change in internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f)) that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2012, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.


ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION                                                                                                                                            

None

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ITEM 10. DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE                                         

Information required by this item, including information concerning the Board of Directors of the Company, the members of the Company's Audit Committee, the Company's Audit Committee Financial Expert, compliance with Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and shareholder proposals, is incorporated by reference to the Company's Proxy Statement for the 2013 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, which will be filed with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after September 30, 2012. The information regarding executive officers is included in this report following Item 4, as Item 4A, under the caption Executive Officers of the Company.

The Board of Directors has adopted the Principal Executive Officer and Senior Financial Officers Code of Ethics, governing the chief executive officer and senior financial officers, in compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Sarbanes-Oxley) and SEC regulations and the Code of Conduct, a code for all directors, officers and employees, as required by the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) rules (collectively, the Codes). Copies of the Codes are available free of charge on the Company's website at http://investor.njresources.com under the caption Corporate Governance. A printed copy of each Code is available free of charge to any shareholder who requests it by contacting the Corporate Secretary at 1415 Wyckoff Road, Wall, New Jersey 07719. The Company will disclose any amendments to, or waivers from, a provision of the Codes that applies to the principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions that relate to any element of the Codes as defined in Item 406 of Regulation S-K by posting such information on the Company's website.

Because the Company's common stock is listed on the NYSE, the chief executive officer is required to make, and he has made, an annual certification to the NYSE stating that he was not aware of any violation by the Company of the corporate governance listing standards of the NYSE. The chief executive officer made his annual certification to that effect to the NYSE as of February 22, 2012. In addition, the Company has filed, as exhibits to the Annual Report on Form 10-K, the certifications of the principal executive officer and principal financial officer required under Sections 906 and 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley to be filed with the SEC regarding the quality of its public disclosure.


ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION                                                                                                                               

Information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the Registrant's Proxy Statement.


ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND
RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS                                                                                                                                    

Information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the Registrant's Proxy Statement.


ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE      

Information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the Registrant's Proxy Statement.


ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES                                                                                             

Information required by this Item is incorporated by reference from the Registrant's Proxy Statement.


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ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES                                                                                  

(a) 1. Financial Statements.

All Financial Statements of the Registrant are filed as part of this report and included in Item 8 of Part II of this Form 10-K.

(a) 2. Financial Statement Schedules-See Index to Financial Statement Schedules in Item 8.
(a) 3. Exhibits-See Exhibit Index on page


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INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
 
 
Page
 
Schedule I - Condensed financial information of registrant for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012
 
 
 
 
Schedule II - Valuation and qualifying accounts and reserves for each of the three years in the period ended September 30, 2012

Schedules other than those listed above are omitted because they are not required or are not applicable, or the required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.


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SCHEDULE I

NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORPORATION (Parent Company)
CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010

STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal years ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
Operating revenues
$

$

$

Operating expenses
9,957

10,138

9,213

Operating loss
9,957

10,138

9,213

Other income
11,254

10,580

9,960

Interest expense
1,297

442

748

(Loss) before income taxes and equity in earnings of affiliates


(1
)
Income tax provision (benefit)
95

(11
)
57

Equity in earnings of subsidiaries
92,974

101,288

117,515

Net income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457


STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal years ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
Net Income
$
92,879

$
101,299

$
117,457

Adjustment to postemployment benefit obligation, net of tax of $348, $(205) and $323, respectively
(505
)
296

(467
)
Other comprehensive (loss) income
(505
)
296

(467
)
Comprehensive income
$
92,374

$
101,595

$
116,990


STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Thousands)
 
 
 
Fiscal years ended September 30,
2012
2011
2010
Net cash provided from operating activities
$
47,491

$
60,937

$
40,370

 
 
 
 
Net cash (used in) investing activities
$
(115,236
)
$
(54,568
)
$
(41,397
)
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities:
 
 
 
Payments of long-term debt
$
(1,678
)
$
(77
)
$

Tax benefit from stock options exercised
780

2,007

669

Proceeds from common stock
13,834

13,704

6,487

Proceeds from long-term debt
100,000



Net proceeds from associated companies
13,315

54,538

79,361

Purchases of treasury stock
(8,768
)
(10,193
)
(29,650
)
Payments of common stock dividends
(61,688
)
(58,650
)
(53,137
)
Net proceeds (payments) of short-term debt
11,950

(7,750
)
(2,800
)
Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
$
67,745

$
(6,421
)
$
930

Change in cash and cash equivalents
$

$
(52
)
$
(97
)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
5

57

154

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
$
5

$
5

$
57


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Part IV

SCHEDULE I

NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORPORATION (Parent Company)

BALANCE SHEETS
(Thousands)
 
 
September 30,
2012
2011
ASSETS
 
 
Current assets
$
2,778

$
3,018

Investments
845,023

814,732

Intercompany receivable, net
241,021

139,193

Deferred charges and other assets
4,945

1,320

Total assets
$
1,093,767

$
958,263

CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES
 
 
Current liabilities
$
127,525

$
131,117

Long-term debt
150,000

50,000

Deferred credits and other liabilities
2,377

889

Common stock equity
813,865

776,257

Total capitalization and liabilities
$
1,093,767

$
958,263


NOTE TO CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1.
BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Pursuant to rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the unconsolidated condensed financial statements of New Jersey Resources Corporation (NJR) do not reflect all of the information and notes normally included with financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Therefore, these condensed financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Form 10-K.

NJR has accounted for the earnings of its subsidiaries under the equity method in these unconsolidated condensed financial statements. Cash dividends paid to NJR from its subsidiaries were $61.7 million, $58.7 million and $53.1 million during fiscal 2012, 2011 and 2010, respectively.


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Part IV

SCHEDULE II

VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
YEARS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2012, 2011 and 2010

(Thousands)
 
ADDITIONS
 
 
CLASSIFICATION
BEGINNING
BALANCE
CHARGED TO
EXPENSE
OTHER (1)
ENDING BALANCE
2012
 
 
 
 
Regulatory asset
$
141

(70
)

$
71

Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
4,612

3,932

(3,747
)
$
4,797

2011
 
 
 
 
Regulatory asset
$
212

(71
)

$
141

Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
2,993

4,865

(3,246
)
$
4,612

2010
 
 
 
 
Regulatory asset
$
282

(70
)

$
212

Allowance for doubtful accounts
$
6,064

3,307

(6,378
)
$
2,993

(1)
Uncollectible accounts written off, less recoveries and adjustments.


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Part IV

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 
 
NEW JERSEY RESOURCES CORPORATION
 
 
(Registrant)
Date:
November 28, 2012
 
 
 
By:/s/ Glenn C. Lockwood
 
 
Glenn C. Lockwood
 
 
Executive Vice President and
 
 
Chief Financial Officer


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant in the capacities and on the dates indicated:
November 28, 2012
/s/ Laurence M. Downes
November 28, 2012
/s/ Alfred C. Koeppe
 
Laurence M. Downes
Chairman, President and
Chief Executive Officer
Director
 
Alfred C. Koeppe
Director
 
 
 
 
November 28, 2012
/s/ Lawrence R. Codey
November 28, 2012
/s/ Glenn C. Lockwood
 
Lawrence R. Codey
Director
 
Glenn C. Lockwood
Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)
 
 
 
 
November 28, 2012
/s/ Donald L. Correll
November 28, 2012
/s/ J. Terry Strange
 
Donald L. Correll
Director
 
J. Terry Strange
Director
 
 
 
 
November 28, 2012
/s/ Robert B. Evans
November 28, 2012
/s/ Sharon C. Taylor
 
Robert B. Evans
Director
 
Sharon C. Taylor
Director
 
 
 
 
November 28, 2012
/s/ M. William Howard, Jr.
November 28, 2012
/s/ David A. Trice
 
M. William Howard, Jr.
Director
 
David A. Trice
Director
 
 
 
 
November 28, 2012
/s/ Jane M. Kenny
November 28, 2012
/s/ George R. Zoffinger
 
Jane M. Kenny
Director
 
George R. Zoffinger
Director


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Part IV

EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
3.1
Certificate of Incorporation of the Company, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3-1 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1996, as filed on December 30, 1996 and Exhibit 3.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on March 6, 2008)
 
 
3.2
By-Laws of the Company, as amended on July 14, 2009 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on July 20, 2009)
 
 
4.1
Specimen Common Stock Certificates (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4-1 to Registration Statement No. 033-21872)
 
 
4.2
Indenture of Mortgage and Deed of Trust between NJNG and Harris Trust and Savings Bank, as Trustee, dated April 1, 1952, as supplemented by twenty-one Supplemental Indentures (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4(g) to Registration Statement No. 002-9569)
 
 
4.2(a)
Thirtieth Supplemental Indenture, dated as of December 1, 2003 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2(J) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2003, as filed on December 16, 2003)
 
 
4.2(b)
Thirty-First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of October 1, 2005 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2(I) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2005, as filed on November 29, 2005)
 
 
4.2(c)
Thirty-Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 1, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2(i) to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on May 20, 2008)
 
 
4.2(d)
Thirty-Third Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2(d) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2011, as filed on November 23, 2011)
 
 
4.3
$200,000,000 Credit Agreement dated as of August 24, 2011, by and among New Jersey Natural Gas Company, the Lenders party thereto, PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Syndication Agent, U.S. Bank National Association, TD Bank, N.A., and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Documentation Agents, and PNC Capital Markets LLC, as Lead Arranger. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2011, as filed on November 23, 2011)
 
 
4.4
$325,000,000 Amended and Restated Credit Agreement dated as of August 22, 2012 by and among the Company, the guarantors thereto, the lenders party thereto, PNC Bank, National Association, as Administrative Agent, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Syndication Agents, Bank of America, N.A., TD Bank, N.A. and U.S. Bank National Association, as Documentation Agents (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on August 28, 2012)
 
 
4.5
$60,000,000 Note Purchase Agreement by and among NJNG and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., as Placement Agent, dated March 15, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4-1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q as filed on May 10, 2004)
 
 
4.6
$50,000,000 Note Purchase Agreement dated as of September 24, 2007, by and among the Company, New York Life Insurance Company and New York Life Insurance and Annuity Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on December 10, 2007)
 
 
4.7
$125,000,000 Note Purchase Agreement dated as of May 15, 2008, by and among New Jersey Natural Gas Company and the Purchasers party thereto (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on May 20, 2008)
 
 
4.8
$100,000,000 Shelf Note Purchase Agreement dated as of May 12, 2011, between New Jersey Resources Corporation and Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on May 17, 2011)



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Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
4.9
$75,000,000 Shelf Note Purchase Agreement dated as of June 30, 2011, between New Jersey Resources Corporation and Prudential Investment Management, Inc. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on July 6, 2011)
 
 
4.10
Loan Agreement between New Jersey Economic Development Authority and New Jersey Natural Gas Company dated as of August 1, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2011, as filed on November 23, 2011)
 
 
4.11
$100,000,000 Credit Facility Agreement by and among New Jersey Natural Gas Company, the Lenders party thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent, and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, as Lead Arranger, dated as of August 29, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2011, as filed on November 23, 2011)
 
 
10.1*
Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement between the Company and Laurence M. Downes dated December 31, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.2(a)*
Schedule of Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreements for named executive officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2(a) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2010, as filed on November 24, 2010)
 
 
10.2(b)*
Form of Amendment of Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Agreement between the Company and Named Executive Officer (for future use) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4(b) to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.3
Service Agreement for Rate Schedule SS-1by and between NJNG and Texas Eastern Transmission Company, dated as of June 21, 1995 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-5B to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1996, as filed on December 30, 1996)
 
 
10.4
Lease Agreement between NJNG, as Lessee and State Street Bank and Trust Company of Connecticut, National Association, as Lessor for NJNG's Headquarters Building dated December 21, 1995 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10-7 to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 1996, as filed on December 30, 1996)
 
 
10.5*
The Company's Long-Term Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended, effective as of October 1, 1995 (incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy Statement for the 1996 Annual Meeting as filed on January 4, 1996)
 
 
10.6*
Employment Continuation Agreement between the Company and Laurence M. Downes dated December 31, 2008 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.6(a)*
Schedule of Employee Continuation Agreements (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6(a) to the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended September 30, 2010, as filed on November 24, 2010)
 
 
10.7*
Summary of Company's Non-Employee Director Compensation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Current Report on Form 8-K as filed on September 18, 2012)
 
 
10.8*
The Company's 2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan (as amended and restated January 1, 2009) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.9*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Stock Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.10*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Performance Units Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.11*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Restricted Stock Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.12*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Performance Share Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 


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Exhibit
Number
Exhibit Description
10.13*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Performance Shares Agreement - TSR (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on January 4, 2010)
 
 
10.14*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Performance Shares Agreement - NFE Growth (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on January 4, 2010)
10.15*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Performance Shares Agreement-NFE (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on December 28, 2011)
 
 
10.16*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Deferred Stock Retention Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on December 28, 2011)
 
 
10.17
Limited Liability Company Agreement of Steckman Ridge GP, LLC dated as of March 2, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on May 3, 2007)
 
 
10.18
Limited Partnership Agreement of Steckman Ridge, LP dated as of March 2, 2007 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on May 3, 2007)
 
 
10.19*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Performance Shares Agreement-NFE (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on December 28, 2011)
 
 
10.20*
2007 Stock Award and Incentive Plan Form of Deferred Stock Retention Award Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Current Report on Form 8-K, as filed on December 28, 2011)
 
 
10.21*
New Jersey Resources Corporation Savings Equalization Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.22*
New Jersey Resources Corporation Pension Equalization Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.28 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.23*
New Jersey Resources Corporation Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.25 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
10.24*
New Jersey Resources Corporation Officers' Deferred Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, as filed on February 6, 2009)
 
 
21.1+
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
 
 
23.1+
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
 
31.1+
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
 
31.2+
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
 
32.1+ †
Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
 
32.2+ †
Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act
 
 
101+
Interactive Data File (Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2012, furnished in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language)).
_______________________________

+
Filed herewith.
*
Denotes compensatory plans or arrangements or management contracts.
†    This certificate accompanies this report pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and shall not be deemed filed by NJR for purposes of Section 18 or any other provision of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.


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