FORM 6-K

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

Report of Foreign Private Issuer pursuant to Rule 13-a-16 or 15d-16

of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER, 2023


COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-15150

Graphic

The Dome Tower

Suite 3000, 333 – 7th Avenue S.W.

Calgary, Alberta

Canada T2P 2Z1

(403) 298-2200

and

US Bank Tower

Suite 2200, 950 – 17th Street

Denver, Colorado

United States of America 80202-2805

(720) 279-5500


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F Form 40-F X

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1)

Yes No X

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7)

Yes No X

The exhibits to this report shall be incorporated by reference into or as an exhibit to, as applicable, the registrant’s Registration Statements under the Securities Act of 1933 on Form F-10 (File No. 333-273750) and Form S-8 (File No. 333-200583).



SIGNATURE

Pursuant to the requirements 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.

ENERPLUS CORPORATION

BY:

/s/ David A. McCoy

David A. McCoy

Vice President, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary

DATE: November 2, 2023


        MD&A

Exhibit 99.1

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS (“MD&A”)

The following discussion and analysis of financial results is dated November 2, 2023 and is to be read in conjunction with:

the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements of Enerplus Corporation (“Enerplus” or the “Company”) at and for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 (the “Interim Financial Statements”) and notes thereto;
the audited consolidated financial statements of Enerplus at December 31, 2022 and 2021 and for the years ended December 31, 2022, 2021 and 2020; and
the MD&A for the year ended December 31, 2022 (the “Annual MD&A”).

The following MD&A contains forward-looking information and statements. We refer you to the end of the MD&A under “Forward-Looking Information and Statements” for further information. The following MD&A also contains financial measures that do not have a standardized meaning as prescribed by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”). See “Non-GAAP Measures” at the end of the MD&A for further information. In addition, the following MD&A contains disclosure regarding certain risks and uncertainties associated with Enerplus’ business. See “Risk Factors and Risk Management” in the Annual MD&A and “Risk Factors” in Enerplus’ Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2022 (the “Annual Information Form”).

BASIS OF PRESENTATION

The Interim Financial Statements and notes thereto have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Unless otherwise stated, all dollar amounts are presented in U.S. dollars. Certain prior period amounts have been restated to conform with current period presentation as a result of the voluntary and retroactively applied change in the presentation currency from Canadian to U.S. dollars adopted by the Company in the fourth quarter of 2021.

The functional currency of the parent company changed from Canadian dollars to U.S. dollars effective January 1, 2023. This was the result of a gradual change in the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, culminating in the sale of Enerplus’ remaining Canadian operating assets at the end of 2022. This has triggered a prospective change as of January 1, 2023 in functional currency of the parent entity to U.S. dollars, consistent with the functional currency of its U.S. subsidiaries. All assets and liabilities held by the parent company were translated at the exchange rate at December 31, 2022 to determine opening balances in U.S. dollars. Amounts that are part of Shareholders’ Equity of the parent company were translated at historical exchange rates. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in Canadian dollars will be revalued at current exchange rates at each reporting period. Upon settlement and/or realization of Canadian dollar denominated assets and liabilities, there may be realized foreign exchange gains and losses depending on the change in the foreign exchange rate when the transaction was originally recorded and the final settlement date.

Where applicable, natural gas has been converted to barrels of oil equivalent (“BOE”) based on 6 Mcf:1 BOE and crude oil and natural gas liquids (“NGL”) have been converted to thousand cubic feet of gas equivalent (“Mcfe”) based on 0.167 bbl:1 Mcfe. The BOE and Mcfe rates are based on an energy equivalent conversion method primarily applicable at the burner tip and do not represent a value equivalent at the wellhead. Given that the value ratio based on the current price of natural gas as compared to crude oil is significantly different from the energy equivalency of 6:1 or 0.167:1, as applicable, utilizing a conversion on this basis may be misleading as an indication of value. Use of BOE and Mcfe in isolation may be misleading.

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, crude oil and natural gas sales are presented net of royalties in the Financial Statements. In addition, unless otherwise noted, all production volumes are presented on a “net” basis (after deduction of royalty obligations plus the Company’s royalty interests) consistent with U.S. oil and gas reporting standards.

All references to “liquids” in this MD&A include light and medium oil, heavy oil and tight oil (all together referred to as “crude oil”) and natural gas liquids on a combined basis. All references to “natural gas” in this MD&A include conventional natural gas and shale gas.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               1


        

OVERVIEW

Crude oil and natural gas liquids production increased by 14% to 66,625 BOE/day during the third quarter of 2023, compared to the second quarter of 2023, primarily due to strong well performance from additional wells coming on-stream in North Dakota. Total production during the third quarter of 2023 averaged 103,192 BOE/day, an increase of 8% compared to average production of 95,572 BOE/day in the second quarter of 2023. As a result, we are increasing our average annual production guidance for 2023 to 98,000 BOE/day - 99,000 BOE/day, including 60,500 bbls/day - 61,500 bbls/day of crude oil and natural gas liquids, from 94,500 BOE/day - 98,500 BOE/day, including 58,500 bbls/day - 61,500 bbls/day of crude oil and natural gas liquids. For the fourth quarter of 2023, we expect average production of 95,000 BOE/day - 99,000 BOE/day, including 60,500 bbls/day - 64,500 bbls/day of crude oil and natural gas liquids.

During the third quarter of 2023, a total of $67.7 million was returned to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, an increase from $66.5 million in the second quarter of 2023. As previously announced, we plan to return at least 60% of second half 2023 free cash flow1 to our shareholders, which is expected to result in over 70% of full year 2023 free cash flow returned. In conjunction with this plan, the Board of Directors approved a fourth quarter dividend of $0.06 per share to be paid in December 2023. The Company expects to continue to return significant free cash flow to shareholders in 2024 and anticipates its return of capital will equal approximately 70% of free cash flow. The Company expects to continue to prioritize share repurchases for the majority of its return of capital plan, based on current market conditions. We expect to fund the dividend and share repurchases through the free cash flow generated by the business.

Capital spending during the third quarter of 2023 was $121.4 million, compared to $180.9 million during the second quarter of 2023, with the majority of the spending focused on our U.S. crude oil properties. The decrease in capital spending was due to less completions activity during the third quarter of 2023. We are narrowing our annual capital spending guidance for 2023 to range between $520 - $540 million from $510 - $550 million.

Our realized Bakken crude oil price differential averaged $0.20/bbl above WTI during the third quarter of 2023, compared to $0.71/bbl below WTI during the second quarter of 2023. The stronger realized differential was due to higher prices for crude oil delivered to downstream markets in both Patoka and the U.S. Gulf Coast via the Dakota Access Pipeline combined with a recovery in WTI prices throughout the summer. Additionally, U.S. refinery utilizations and margins remained strong throughout the third quarter of 2023. Bakken crude oil prices have weakened in the fourth quarter of 2023 due to increased basin production and lower seasonal refinery demand resulting from planned maintenance outages. As a result, we are revising our 2023 expected annual realized Bakken crude oil price differential to $0.25/bbl below WTI, from a crude oil price differential at par to WTI, previously.

Our realized Marcellus sales price differential averaged $1.24/Mcf below NYMEX in the third quarter of 2023 compared to $0.68/Mcf below NYMEX in the second quarter of 2023. The wider differential was mainly due to increased supply in the northeast U.S. and regional storage levels tracking above historical averages. As a result of weaker expected realized differentials, we are revising our 2023 expected annual realized Marcellus natural gas differential to average $0.85/Mcf below NYMEX, from a natural gas differential of $0.75/Mcf below NYMEX, previously.

 

Operating expenses for the third quarter of 2023 increased to $96.6 million, or $10.17/BOE, compared to $89.1 million, or $10.25/BOE during the second quarter of 2023. The increase in total spend was due to higher production as a result of new wells brought on stream during the second and third quarters of 2023. We continue to expect operating expenses in the fourth quarter of 2023 to increase compared to the third quarter of 2023, due to planned workover activity. As a result, we are revising our operating expenses guidance for 2023 to range between $10.75/BOE - $11.00/BOE from $10.75/BOE - $11.50/BOE.

We reported net income of $127.7 million in the third quarter of 2023, compared to net income of $74.2 million in the second quarter of 2023. Net income increased primarily due to higher commodity prices and crude oil and natural gas liquids production in the third quarter of 2023.

 

In the third quarter of 2023, cash flow from operating activities and adjusted funds flow increased to $212.2 million and $263.7 million, respectively, compared to $186.6 million and $196.6 million in the second quarter of 2023. The increase was primarily due to higher commodity prices and crude oil and natural gas liquids production in the third quarter of 2023.

At September 30, 2023, net debt increased to $212.1 million, compared to $199.6 million at June 30, 2023. Net debt is calculated as total debt, which was comprised of our senior notes and borrowing on our $900 million sustainability linked lending (“SLL”) bank credit facility and our $365 million SLL bank credit facility (together referred to as the “Bank Credit Facilities”), less cash on hand of $46.2 million. Net debt increased primarily due to working capital changes, as our non-cash operating and investing working capital deficit changed by approximately $85.0 million in the third quarter of 2023. At September 30, 2023, a total of $135.7 million was drawn on our Bank Credit Facilities. Our net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio was 0.2x, which remains consistent with the second quarter of 2023.

1 This financial measure is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Measures” section in this MD&A.

2             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Production

Crude oil and natural gas liquids production increased by 14% during the third quarter of 2023, compared to the second quarter of 2023, primarily due to 17.2 net operated and 3.3 net non-operated wells coming on-stream in North Dakota. The increase in crude oil and natural gas production was partially offset by a 6% decrease in natural gas production in the Marcellus as a result of limited capital investment during 2023. As a result, total production during the third quarter of 2023 averaged 103,192 BOE/day, an increase of 8% compared to average production of 95,572 BOE/day in the second quarter of 2023.

Production decreased for the three months ended September 30, 2023 compared to the same period in 2022, due to the sale of substantially all of our Canadian assets in the fourth quarter of 2022, and a decrease in natural gas production in the Marcellus as a result of limited capital investment during 2023. Production for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, increased compared to the same period in 2022 due to strong well performance from new wells brought online, and an increase in gas capture which contributed to higher natural gas liquids and natural gas production volumes in North Dakota, partially offset by the sale of our Canadian assets in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Our crude oil and natural gas liquids weighting increased to 65% from 63% for the three months ended September 30, 2023 and decreased to 61% from 62% for the nine months ended September 30, 2023, compared to the same periods in 2022.

We are increasing our average annual total production guidance for 2023 to 98,000 BOE/day - 99,000 BOE/day, including 60,500 bbls/day - 61,500 bbls/day of crude oil and natural gas liquids, from 94,500 BOE/day - 98,500 BOE/day, including 58,500 bbls/day - 61,500 bbls/day of crude oil and natural gas liquids. For the fourth quarter of 2023, we expect average production of 95,000 BOE/day - 99,000 BOE/day, including 60,500 bbls/day - 64,500 bbls/day of crude oil and natural gas liquids.

Average daily production volumes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 are outlined below:

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

Average Daily Production Volumes

2023

2022

% Change

    

2023

2022

% Change

Tight oil (bbls/day)

54,195

52,793

3%

49,690

46,194

8%

Light and medium oil (bbls/day)

2,038

(100%)

2,097

(100%)

Heavy oil (bbls/day)

2,651

(100%)

2,855

(100%)

Total crude oil (bbls/day)

    

54,195

    

57,482

    

(6%)

49,690

    

51,146

    

(3%)

Natural gas liquids (bbls/day)

 

12,430

10,900

14%

10,871

9,319

17%

Shale gas - Marcellus (Mcf/day)

144,523

164,731

(12%)

159,509

164,843

(3%)

Shale gas - Bakken (Mcf/day)

74,878

64,918

15%

70,082

53,863

30%

Conventional natural gas (Mcf/day)

6,909

(100%)

7,139

(100%)

Total natural gas (Mcf/day)

 

219,401

    

236,558

(7%)

229,591

 

225,845

2%

Total daily sales (BOE/day)

 

103,192

 

107,808

(4%)

98,826

 

98,106

1%

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               3


        

Pricing

The prices received for crude oil, natural gas liquids and natural gas production directly impact our earnings, cash flow from operating activities, adjusted funds flow and financial condition. The following table compares quarterly average benchmark prices, selling prices and differentials:

Nine months ended September 30, 

Pricing (average for the period)

2023

2022

Q3 2023

Q2 2023

Q1 2023

Q4 2022

Q3 2022

Benchmarks

    

  

    

  

WTI crude oil ($/bbl)

$

77.39

$

98.09

$

82.26

$

73.78

$

76.13

$

82.65

$

91.56

Brent (ICE) crude oil ($/bbl)

82.06

102.33

85.95

78.01

82.22

88.60

97.81

Propane – Conway ($/bbl)

29.56

49.98

27.98

27.70

32.99

34.21

44.73

NYMEX natural gas – last day ($/Mcf)

 

2.69

 

6.77

 

2.55

 

2.10

 

3.42

 

6.26

 

8.20

CDN/US average exchange rate

 

0.74

 

0.78

 

0.74

 

0.74

 

0.74

 

0.74

 

0.77

CDN/US period end exchange rate

 

0.74

 

0.72

 

0.74

 

0.76

 

0.74

 

0.74

 

0.72

Enerplus selling price(1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Crude oil ($/bbl)

$

77.50

$

97.44

$

82.66

$

72.69

$

76.34

$

83.06

$

92.48

Natural gas liquids ($/bbl)

 

18.36

 

34.13

 

19.21

 

15.49

 

20.55

 

21.88

 

32.04

Natural gas ($/Mcf)

 

1.91

 

5.79

 

1.37

 

1.08

 

3.18

 

4.76

 

6.53

Average differentials

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bakken DAPL – WTI ($/bbl)

$

0.94

$

2.43

$

0.73

$

0.78

$

1.32

$

3.19

$

3.60

Brent (ICE) – WTI ($/bbl)

4.67

4.24

3.69

4.23

6.09

5.95

6.25

Transco Leidy monthly – NYMEX ($/Mcf)

 

(0.88)

 

(0.89)

 

(1.47)

 

(0.63)

(0.54)

(1.51)

(1.06)

Transco Z6 Non-New York monthly – NYMEX ($/Mcf)

 

0.47

 

(0.10)

 

(1.36)

 

(0.57)

 

3.35

 

(0.20)

 

(0.85)

Enerplus realized differentials(1)(2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bakken crude oil – WTI ($/bbl)

$

(0.16)

$

1.07

$

0.20

$

(0.71)

$

0.06

$

1.05

$

2.41

Marcellus natural gas – NYMEX ($/Mcf)

 

(0.83)

 

(0.53)

 

(1.24)

 

(0.68)

 

(0.64)

 

(1.18)

 

(0.99)

(1)

Excluding transportation costs, and the effects of commodity derivative instruments.

(2)

Based on a weighted average differential for the period.


CRUDE OIL

During the third quarter of 2023, our realized crude oil sales price averaged $82.66/bbl, an increase of 14% compared to the second quarter of 2023, in line with the increases in the underlying benchmark WTI price and Bakken differentials over the same period. WTI prices increased through the third quarter of 2023 due to strong demand for refined products during the peak summer consumption period as well as additional voluntary production cuts by Saudi Arabia and Russia through the end of the year.

Our realized Bakken crude oil price differential averaged $0.20/bbl above WTI during the third quarter of 2023, compared to $0.71/bbl below WTI during the second quarter of 2023. The stronger realized differential was due to higher prices for crude oil delivered to downstream markets in both Patoka and the U.S. Gulf Coast via the Dakota Access Pipeline combined with a recovery in WTI prices throughout the summer. Additionally, U.S. refinery utilizations and margins remained strong throughout the third quarter of 2023. Bakken crude oil prices have weakened in the fourth quarter of 2023 due to increased basin production and lower seasonal refinery demand resulting from planned maintenance outages. As a result, we are revising our 2023 expected annual realized Bakken crude oil price differential to $0.25/bbl below WTI, from a crude oil price differential at par to WTI, previously.

NATURAL GAS LIQUIDS

Our realized sales price for natural gas liquids averaged $19.21/bbl during the third quarter of 2023 compared to $15.49/bbl during the second quarter of 2023. The improved realized differentials were primarily due to an adjustment in our overall natural gas liquids composition due to wells coming on stream in the Little Knife area. Propane price weakness continued during the third quarter of 2023 due to high inventories, growing production, and reliance on exports to balance the North American market. Benchmark propane pricing at Conway remained flat, even as prices rose for other energy products.  

NATURAL GAS

Our realized natural gas sales price averaged $1.37/Mcf during the third quarter of 2023, an increase of 27% compared to the second quarter of 2023. The NYMEX benchmark price increased by 21% over the same period. The difference in price realization versus the benchmark was due to stronger regional prices received for our Bakken natural gas production, which offset weakness in Marcellus regional prices.

4             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

Our realized Marcellus sales price differential averaged $1.24/Mcf below NYMEX in the third quarter of 2023 compared to $0.68/Mcf below NYMEX in the second quarter of 2023. The wider differential was mainly due to increased supply in the northeast U.S. and regional storage levels tracking above historical averages. As a result of weaker expected realized differentials, we are revising our 2023 expected annual realized Marcellus natural gas differential to average $0.85/Mcf below NYMEX, from a natural gas differential of $0.75/Mcf below NYMEX, previously.

Price Risk Management

We have a price risk management program that considers our overall financial position and the economics of our capital program.  

We expect our commodity derivative contracts to continue to protect a portion of our cash flow from operating activities and adjusted funds flow. At November 1, 2023, we have hedged 10,000 bbls/day of WTI crude oil price exposure for the remainder of 2023. Additionally, we have hedged 5,000 bbls/day of WTI crude oil price exposure for the period January 1, 2024 to June 30, 2024. Our crude oil contracts include three-way collars, which limits upward price participation to the call strike level; additionally, the sold put limits the amount of downside protection we have to the difference between the strike price of the purchased and sold puts.

The following table summarizes Enerplus’ price risk management positions at September 30, 2023, and positions entered into subsequent to September 30, 2023 and up to November 1, 2023:

WTI Crude Oil ($/bbl)(1)(2)

NYMEX Natural Gas ($/Mcf)(2)

    

Oct 1, 2023 – Dec 31, 2023

Jan 1, 2024 – Jun 30, 2024

Oct 1, 2023 – Oct 31, 2023

Swaps

Volume (bbls/day)

10,000

 –

 –

Brent - WTI Spread

$ 5.47

 –

 –

3 Way Collars

Volume (bbls/day)

10,000

5,000

 –

Sold Puts

$ 65.00

$ 65.00

 –

Purchased Puts

$ 81.00

$ 77.00

 –

Sold Calls

$ 111.58

$ 95.00

 –

Collars

Volume (Mcf/day)

 –

 –

50,000

Volume (bbls/day)(3)

2,000

 –

 –

Purchased Puts

$ 5.00

 –

$ 4.05

Sold Calls

$ 75.00

 –

$ 7.00

(1)The total average deferred premium spent on our outstanding crude oil contracts is $1.19/bbl from October 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.
(2)Transactions with a common term have been aggregated and presented at weighted average prices and volumes.
(3)Outstanding commodity derivative instruments acquired as part of the Company’s acquisition of Bruin E&P Holdco, LLC completed in 2021.

ACCOUNTING FOR PRICE RISK MANAGEMENT

Commodity Risk Management Gains/(Losses)

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Realized gains/(losses):

  

    

    

    

   

    

    

    

Crude oil

$

(1.6)

$

(50.5)

$

7.1

$

(233.1)

Natural gas

 

6.9

 

(38.0)

 

46.7

 

(66.7)

Total realized gains/(losses)

$

5.3

$

(88.5)

$

53.8

$

(299.8)

Unrealized gains/(losses):

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Crude oil

$

(14.0)

$

126.0

$

(8.8)

$

98.8

Natural gas

 

(5.9)

 

19.5

 

(24.7)

 

3.6

Total unrealized gains/(losses)

$

(19.9)

$

145.5

$

(33.5)

$

102.4

Total commodity derivative instruments gains/(losses)

$

(14.6)

$

57.0

$

20.3

$

(197.4)

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

(Per BOE)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Total realized gains/(losses)

  

$

0.56

    

$

(8.92)

   

$

1.99

    

$

(11.19)

Total unrealized gains/(losses)

 

(2.10)

    

14.67

   

(1.24)

    

3.82

Total commodity derivative instruments gains/(losses)

$

(1.54)

$

5.75

$

0.75

$

(7.37)

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               5


        

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, Enerplus realized a loss of $1.6 million and a gain of $7.1 million, respectively, on our crude oil contracts, compared to realized losses of $50.5 million and $233.1 million for the same periods in 2022. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, realized gains of $6.9 million and $46.7 million, respectively, were recorded on our natural gas contracts, compared to realized losses of $38.0 million and $66.7 million for the same periods in 2022. Realized gains recorded during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were due to natural gas commodity prices falling below the purchased put values on our commodity derivative contracts.

As the forward markets for crude oil and natural gas fluctuate, as new contracts are executed, and as existing contracts are realized, changes in fair value are reflected as either a non-cash charge or gain to earnings. At September 30, 2023, the fair value of our crude oil and natural gas contracts was in a net liability position of $5.3 million (December 31, 2022 – net asset position of $26.1 million). For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the change in the fair value of our crude oil contracts resulted in unrealized losses of $14.0 million and $8.8 million, respectively, compared to unrealized gains of $126.0 million and $98.8 million, during the same periods in 2022. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded unrealized losses on our natural gas contracts of $5.9 million and $24.7 million, respectively, compared to unrealized gains of $19.5 million and $3.6 million, during the same periods in 2022.

Crude Oil and Natural Gas Sales

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions, except per BOE amounts)

2023

2022

  

2023

    

2022

Crude oil and natural gas sales

$

461.8

$

663.5

$

1,226.0

$

1,804.7

Per BOE

$

48.65

$

66.90

$

45.44

$

67.38

Crude oil and natural gas sales for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were $461.8 million, or $48.65/BOE, and $1,226.0 million, or $45.44/BOE, respectively, compared to $663.5 million, or $66.90/BOE, and $1,804.7 million, or $67.38/BOE, for the same periods in 2022. The decrease in crude oil and natural gas sales was primarily due to lower commodity prices and Marcellus production during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, and the impact of the Canadian divestments completed in the fourth quarter of 2022.

Operating Expenses

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions, except per BOE amounts)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Operating expenses

    

$

96.6

    

$

103.8

   

$

278.5

    

$

270.5

Per BOE

$

10.17

$

10.47

$

10.32

$

10.10

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, operating expenses were $96.6 million, or $10.17/BOE, and $278.5 million, or $10.32/BOE, respectively, compared to $103.8 million, or $10.47/BOE, and $270.5 million, or $10.10/BOE, for the same periods in 2022. During the three months ended September 30, 2023, the decrease was due to the impact of the Canadian divestments completed in the fourth quarter of 2022, partially offset by higher gas facility charges and lower natural gas production in the Marcellus which has lower associated operating expenses. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the increase was due to inflation adjusted contract pricing and lower natural gas production in the Marcellus, offset by the Canadian divestments completed in the fourth quarter of 2022.

We continue to expect operating expenses in the fourth quarter of 2023 to increase compared to the third quarter of 2023, due to planned workover activity. We are revising our operating expenses guidance for 2023 to range between $10.75/BOE - $11.00/BOE from $10.75/BOE - $11.50/BOE.

Transportation Costs

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions, except per BOE amounts)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Transportation costs

    

$

36.7

    

$

41.3

   

$

108.9

    

$

114.9

Per BOE

$

3.87

$

4.16

$

4.04

$

4.29

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, transportation costs were $36.7 million, or $3.87/BOE, and $108.9 million, or $4.04/BOE, respectively, compared to $41.3 million, or $4.16/BOE, and $114.9 million, or $4.29/BOE for the same periods in 2022. The decrease was due to a higher proportion of total production volumes from areas with lower associated transportation costs, offset by the impact of the Canadian divestments in the fourth quarter of 2022.

We are revising our transportation costs guidance for 2023 to $4.05/BOE from $4.20/BOE.

6             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

Production Taxes

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions, except per BOE amounts)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Production taxes

$

40.0

$

48.2

$

98.8

$

127.4

Per BOE

$

4.21

$

4.86

$

3.65

$

4.76

Production taxes (% of crude oil and natural gas sales)

8.7%

7.3%

8.1%

7.1%

Production taxes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, were $40.0 million, or 8.7%, and $98.8 million, or 8.1%, respectively, compared to $48.2 million, or 7.3%, and $127.4 million, or 7.1% for the same periods in 2022. The decrease in total production taxes for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, was primarily due to lower realized prices and higher effective tax rates on U.S. crude oil during June to October 2022 as WTI based pricing exceeded certain thresholds. The increase in production tax as a percentage of revenue for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 was due to increased U.S. crude oil production which has higher rates of production tax combined with decreased natural gas and natural gas liquids revenues with lower associated production taxes, compared to the same periods in 2022.

We continue to expect production taxes to average 8% in 2023.

Netbacks

The crude oil and natural gas classifications below contain properties according to their dominant production category. These properties may include associated crude oil, natural gas or natural gas liquids volumes which have been converted to the equivalent BOE/day or Mcfe/day and, as such, the revenue per BOE or per Mcfe may not correspond with the average selling price under the “Pricing” section of this MD&A.

Three months ended September 30, 2023

Netbacks by Property Type

Crude Oil

Natural Gas

Total

Average Daily Production

79,100 BOE/day

144,549 Mcfe/day

103,192 BOE/day

Netback $ per BOE or Mcfe

 

(per BOE)

 

(per Mcfe)

 

(per BOE)

Crude oil and natural gas sales

$

61.07

$

1.31

$

48.65

Operating expenses

 

(12.93)

 

(0.19)

 

(10.17)

Transportation costs

 

(3.37)

 

(0.92)

 

(3.87)

Production taxes

 

(5.40)

 

(0.05)

 

(4.21)

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

39.37

$

0.15

$

30.40

Realized gains/(losses) on commodity derivative contracts

 

(0.22)

0.52

0.56

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

39.15

$

0.67

$

30.96

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts(1) ($ millions)

$

286.5

$

2.0

$

288.5

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts(1) ($ millions)

$

284.9

$

8.9

$

293.8

(1)This financial measure is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Measures” section in this MD&A.

Three months ended September 30, 2022

Netbacks by Property Type

Crude Oil

Natural Gas

Total

Average Daily Production

 

79,304 BOE/day

171,027 Mcfe/day

107,808 BOE/day

Netback $ per BOE or Mcfe

 

(per BOE)

 

(per Mcfe)

 

(per BOE)

Crude oil and natural gas sales

$

75.60

$

7.12

$

66.90

Operating expenses

 

(13.87)

 

(0.17)

 

(10.47)

Transportation costs

 

(3.72)

 

(0.90)

 

(4.16)

Production taxes

 

(6.46)

 

(0.07)

 

(4.86)

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

51.55

$

5.98

$

47.41

Realized gains/(losses) on commodity derivative contracts

 

(6.93)

(2.41)

(8.92)

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

44.62

$

3.57

$

38.49

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts(1)

($ millions)

$

376.1

$

94.1

$

470.2

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts(1)

($ millions)

$

325.5

$

56.2

$

381.7

(1)This financial measure is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Measures” section in this MD&A.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               7


        

Nine months ended September 30, 2023

Netbacks by Property Type

Crude Oil

Natural Gas

Total

Average Daily Production

    

72,209 BOE/day

159,702 Mcfe/day

98,826 BOE/day

Netback $ per BOE or Mcfe

 

(per BOE)

 

(per Mcfe)

 

(per BOE)

Crude oil and natural gas sales

$

57.98

$

1.91

$

45.44

Operating expenses

 

(13.72)

 

(0.19)

 

(10.32)

Transportation costs

 

(3.54)

 

(0.90)

 

(4.04)

Production taxes

 

(4.94)

 

(0.03)

 

(3.65)

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

35.78

$

0.79

$

27.43

Realized gains/(losses) on commodity derivative contracts

 

0.36

1.07

1.99

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

36.14

$

1.86

$

29.42

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts(1) ($ millions)

$

705.4

$

34.4

$

739.8

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts(1) ($ millions)

$

712.4

$

81.2

$

793.6

(1)This financial measure is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Measures” section in this MD&A.

Nine months ended September 30, 2022

Netbacks by Property Type

Crude Oil

Natural Gas

Total

Average Daily Production

    

69,526 BOE/day

171,481 Mcfe/day

98,106 BOE/day

Netback $ per BOE or Mcfe

 

(per BOE)

 

(per Mcfe)

 

(per BOE)

Crude oil and natural gas sales

$

79.73

$

6.23

$

67.38

Operating expenses

 

(13.73)

 

(0.21)

 

(10.10)

Transportation costs

 

(3.84)

 

(0.90)

 

(4.29)

Production taxes

 

(6.57)

 

(0.06)

 

(4.76)

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

55.59

$

5.06

$

48.23

Realized gains/(losses) on commodity derivative contracts

 

(12.28)

(1.42)

(11.19)

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

43.31

$

3.64

$

37.04

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts(1) ($ millions)

$

1,055.1

$

236.9

$

1,291.9

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts(1) ($ millions)

$

822.0

$

170.3

$

992.1

(1)This financial measure is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Measures” section in this MD&A.

Total netbacks before and after the impact of commodity derivative contracts for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were lower compared to the same periods in 2022, due to lower realized commodity prices.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, crude oil properties accounted for 99% and 95%, respectively, of total netback before commodity derivative contracts, compared to 80% and 82% during the same periods in 2022, as a result of lower realized natural gas prices in 2023. 

G&A Expenses

Total G&A expenses include G&A expenses and share-based compensation (“SBC”) charges related to our long-term incentive plans (“LTI plans”).

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Cash:

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

G&A expenses

$

12.1

$

10.9

$

35.4

$

31.5

Share-based compensation expense/(recovery)

 

1.9

 

1.2

 

1.1

 

3.6

 

 

 

 

Non-Cash:

 

 

 

 

Share-based compensation expense/(recovery)

 

5.0

 

3.8

 

17.2

 

14.3

Equity swap gain

 

 

 

 

(1.0)

G&A recovery

(0.1)

(0.1)

(0.3)

(0.3)

Total G&A expenses

$

18.9

$

15.8

$

53.4

$

48.1

8             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

(Per BOE)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Cash:

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

G&A expenses

$

1.27

$

1.10

$

1.31

$

1.18

Share-based compensation expense/(recovery)

 

0.20

 

0.12

 

0.04

 

0.13

 

 

 

 

Non-Cash:

 

 

 

 

Share-based compensation expense/(recovery)

 

0.53

 

0.38

 

0.64

 

0.53

Equity swap gain

 

 

 

 

(0.04)

G&A recovery

(0.01)

(0.01)

(0.01)

(0.01)

Total G&A expenses

$

1.99

$

1.59

$

1.98

$

1.79

Cash G&A expenses for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were $12.1 million, or $1.27/BOE, and $35.4 million, or $1.31/BOE, respectively, compared to $10.9 million, or $1.10/BOE, and $31.5 million, or $1.18/BOE, for the same periods in 2022. Total cash G&A expenses increased primarily due to inflationary pressure on labour and services.

SBC can be equity-settled or cash-settled, depending on the underlying plan to which it relates. Cash-settled SBC for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, was an expense of $1.9 million, or $0.20/BOE, and an expense of $1.1 million, or $0.04/BOE, respectively, compared to expenses of $1.2 million, or $0.12/BOE, and $3.6 million, or $0.13/BOE, for the same periods in 2022, and relates to our director plans. The large expense in 2022 was due to a significant increase in Enerplus’ share price from 2021.

Equity-settled non-cash SBC for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, was $5.0 million, or $0.53/BOE, and $17.2 million, or $0.64/BOE, respectively, compared to $3.8 million, or $0.38/BOE, and $14.3 million, or $0.53/BOE, for the same periods in 2022. Performance Share Units (“PSUs”), as one of the equity-settled LTI plans, are impacted by performance multipliers. For the three months ended September 30, 2023, the increase was due to the applicable multipliers being higher compared to the same period in 2022. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, the increase was due to additional expense for retirement eligible individuals, compared to the same period in 2022.  

Enerplus previously had hedged a portion of the outstanding cash-settled units under its LTI plans. During the nine months ended September 30, 2022, we recorded a mark-to-market gain of $1.0 million as a result of higher share prices. Enerplus settled its equity derivative contracts during 2022 and did not have any equity derivatives outstanding at September 30, 2023.

We continue to expect cash G&A expenses of $1.35/BOE in 2023.

Interest Expense

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded a total interest expense of $4.8 million and $12.7 million, respectively, compared to $6.5 million and $18.6 million for the same periods in 2022. The decrease was primarily due to lower debt levels during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, compared to the same period in 2022, as lower debt levels were sustained throughout 2023.

At September 30, 2023, $135.7 million was drawn on the Bank Credit Facilities. At September 30, 2023, approximately 47% of our debt was based on fixed interest rates and 53% on floating interest rates (December 31, 2022 – 78%, 22%), with a weighted average interest rate of 4.1% and 6.6%, respectively (December 31, 2022 – 4.1%, 5.7%).

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               9


        

Foreign Exchange

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Realized:

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss

$

(0.1)

    

$

0.1

    

$

(0.2)

    

$

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss on U.S. dollar cash held in parent company

(1.0)

(1.1)

Unrealized:

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss on Canadian dollar working capital in parent company

0.7

(0.1)

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss on U.S. dollar working capital in parent company

 

 

17.0

 

 

14.9

Total foreign exchange (gain)/loss

$

0.6

$

16.1

$

(0.3)

$

13.8

CDN/US average exchange rate

 

0.74

 

0.77

0.74

0.78

CDN/US period end exchange rate

 

0.74

 

0.72

 

0.74

 

0.72

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, Enerplus recorded a foreign exchange loss of $0.6 million and a gain of $0.3 million, respectively, compared to gains of $16.1 million and $13.8 million for the same periods in 2022. The decrease for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, was due to Enerplus previously recording unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses on the translation of our U.S. dollar denominated working capital held in Canada at each period-end, prior to the functional currency change of the parent company to U.S. dollars on January 1, 2023.

Enerplus is exposed to foreign exchange risk as it relates to certain activities transacted in Canadian dollars. The parent company and its subsidiaries have a U.S. dollar functional currency, and the parent company has both U.S. and Canadian dollar transactions. Canadian denominated monetary assets and liabilities are subject to revaluation from the source currency of Canadian dollars to the functional currency of U.S. dollars, generating realized and unrealized foreign exchange (gains)/losses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss). For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022, Enerplus recorded unrealized foreign exchange losses of $17.0 million and $14.9 million, respectively, due to the impact of the weaker Canadian dollar on the U.S. dollar-denominated working capital held in the parent company, which had a Canadian dollar functional currency until December 31, 2022.

Following the change in functional currency of the parent company to U.S. dollars on January 1, 2023, the net investment hedge on the U.S. dollar denominated debt held in the parent entity for the U.S. subsidiaries was no longer required. Previously, the unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arising from the translation of the debt were recorded in Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss), net of tax, and were limited by the cumulative translation gain or loss on the net investment in the U.S. subsidiaries. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, there were no unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses recorded in Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) compared to unrealized losses of $24.3 million and $33.0 million, respectively, for the same periods in 2022, on Enerplus’ U.S. dollar denominated senior notes and Bank Credit Facilities.

Property, Plant and Equipment (“PP&E”)

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Capital spending(1)

    

$

121.4

    

$

114.5

$

440.9

    

$

346.4

Office capital

 

1.3

 

0.2

 

2.6

 

0.6

Sub-total

 

122.7

 

114.7

 

443.5

 

347.0

Property and land acquisitions

2.3

16.3

5.7

19.7

Property and land divestments(1)

 

(1.6)

 

(4.2)

 

(1.7)

 

(19.4)

Sub-total

 

0.7

 

12.1

 

4.0

 

0.3

Total

$

123.4

$

126.8

$

447.5

$

347.3

(1)Excludes changes in non-cash investing working capital.

Capital spending for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 totaled $121.4 million and $440.9 million, respectively, compared to $114.5 million and $346.4 million for the same periods in 2022. The increase was mainly due to increased capital activity on our North Dakota properties offset by minimal capital investment on our Marcellus natural gas properties.

Property and land acquisitions for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, were $2.3 million and $5.6 million, respectively, compared to $16.3 million and $19.7 million for the same periods in 2022. Property and land acquisitions during both periods were primarily related to the acquisition of interests in North Dakota.

10             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

Property and land divestments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, were $1.6 million and $1.7 million, respectively, compared to $4.2 million and $19.4 million for the same periods in 2022. Property and land divestments for the nine months ended September 30, 2022 related to the sale of minor non-operated interests in North Dakota and Colorado.

We are narrowing our annual capital spending guidance range for 2023 to $520 - $540 million from $510 - $550 million.

Depletion, Depreciation and Accretion (“DD&A”)

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions, except per BOE amounts)

2023

2022

2023

2022

DD&A expense

    

$

91.8

    

$

82.2

    

$

264.1

    

$

219.0

Per BOE

$

9.67

$

8.29

$

9.79

$

8.18

DD&A related to PP&E is recognized using the unit of production method based on proved reserves. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, Enerplus recorded DD&A expense of $91.8 million, or $9.67/BOE, and $264.1 million, or $9.79/BOE, respectively, compared to $82.2 million, or $8.29/BOE, and $219.0 million, or $8.18/BOE for the same periods in 2022. The increase was primarily a result of reserve additions and revisions at December 31, 2022 and subsequent capital spending in 2023.

Asset Retirement Obligation (“ARO”)

In connection with our operations, we incur abandonment, reclamation and remediation costs related to assets, such as surface leases, wells, facilities and pipelines. Total ARO included on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet is based on management’s estimate of our net ownership interest, costs to abandon, reclaim and remediate, the timing of the costs to be incurred in future periods and estimates for inflation. We have estimated the net present value of our asset retirement obligation to be $117.9 million at September 30, 2023, compared to $114.7 million at December 31, 2022.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, ARO settlements were $2.4 million and $11.3 million, respectively, compared to $1.6 million and $12.7 million during the same periods in 2022.

During 2022, Enerplus benefited from provincial government assistance to support the clean-up of inactive or abandoned crude oil and natural gas wells. These programs provided direct funding to oil field service contractors engaged by Enerplus to perform abandonment, remediation, and reclamation work. The funding received by the contractor was reflected as a reduction to ARO.

Income Taxes

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Current tax expense

    

$

12.5

    

$

7.9

   

$

27.0

    

$

24.9

Deferred tax expense

 

25.6

 

93.1

 

70.6

 

174.6

Total tax expense

$

38.1

$

101.0

$

97.6

$

199.5

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded a current tax expense of $12.5 million and $27.0 million, respectively, compared to $7.9 million and $24.9 million for the same periods in 2022. Current tax expense in 2023 was higher compared to 2022 as a result of utilizing all of our net operating losses in 2022. Many factors influence taxable income, including future commodity prices, production levels, development activities, capital spending, and overall profitability. We continue to expect 2023 cash tax of 3.0% – 4.0% of adjusted funds flow before tax based on guidance pricing.

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded a deferred income tax expense of $25.6 million and $70.6 million, respectively, compared to an expense of $93.1 million and $174.6 million for the same periods in 2022. Deferred tax expense was lower in 2023 compared to 2022 due to a decrease in net income.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               11


        

We assess the recoverability of our deferred income tax assets each period to determine whether it is more likely than not all or a portion of our deferred income tax assets will not be realized. We have considered available positive and negative evidence including future taxable income and reversing existing temporary differences in making this assessment. This assessment is primarily the result of projecting future taxable income using total proved and probable forecast average prices and costs. There is risk of a valuation allowance in future periods if commodity prices weaken or other evidence indicates that some of our deferred income tax assets will not be realized. See “Risk Factors and Risk Management – Risk of Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties and Deferred Tax Assets” in the Annual MD&A. For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, no valuation allowance was recorded against our Canadian income related deferred tax asset; however, a full valuation allowance has been recorded against our deferred income tax assets related to capital items. Our deferred income tax asset recorded in Canada was $143.1 million, and the deferred income tax liability recorded in the U.S. was $114.1 million as at September 30, 2023. (December 31, 2022 - $155.0 million deferred income tax asset in Canada and $55.4 million deferred income tax liability in the U.S.).

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

There are numerous factors that influence how we assess liquidity and leverage, including commodity price cycles, capital spending levels, acquisition and divestment plans, commodity derivative contracts, share repurchases and dividend levels. We also assess our leverage relative to our most restrictive debt covenant, which is a maximum senior debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization, impairment and other non-cash charges (“adjusted EBITDA”) ratio of 3.5x for a period of up to nine months, after which it drops to 3.0x. At September 30, 2023, our senior debt to adjusted EBITDA ratio was 0.2x and our net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio was 0.2x. Although a capital management measure that is not included in our debt covenants, the net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio is often used by investors and analysts to evaluate liquidity.

Net debt at September 30, 2023 decreased to $212.1 million, compared to $221.5 million at December 31, 2022. Net debt was comprised of our senior notes and Bank Credit Facilities totaling $258.3 million, less cash on hand of $46.2 million.

At September 30, 2023, our Bank Credit Facilities totaled $1.3 billion, of which $135.7 million was drawn. We expect to finance our working capital requirements through cash, adjusted funds flow and our credit capacity. We have sufficient liquidity to meet our financial commitments for the near term.

Our reinvestment rate1 was 46% and 61% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, respectively, compared to 32% and 38% for the same periods in 2022.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, a total of $200.8 million was returned to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, compared to $271.3 million for the same period in 2022. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, a total of 10.6 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”) at an average price of $15.50 per share, for total consideration of $164.4 million. During the nine months ended September 30, 2022, a total of 18.1 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $13.35 per share, for total consideration of $241.9 million.

Subsequent to September 30, 2023 and up to November 1, 2023, we repurchased 2.5 million common shares under the NCIB at an average price of $16.65 per share, for total consideration of $40.9 million.

As previously announced, we plan to return at least 60% of second half 2023 free cash flow to shareholders through share repurchases and dividends, which is expected to result in over 70% of full year 2023 free cash flow returned. In conjunction with this plan, the Board of Directors approved a fourth quarter dividend of $0.06 per share to be paid in December 2023. The Company expects to continue to return significant free cash flow to shareholders in 2024 and anticipates its return of capital will equal approximately 70% of free cash flow. Based on current market conditions, the Company expects to continue to prioritize share repurchases for the majority of its return of capital plan. Remaining free cash flow not allocated to return of capital is expected to be directed to reinforcing the balance sheet.

At September 30, 2023, we were in compliance with all covenants under the Bank Credit Facilities and outstanding senior notes. If we exceed or anticipate exceeding our covenants, we may be required to repay, refinance or renegotiate the terms of the debt. See “Risk Factors – Debt covenants of the Corporation may be exceeded with no ability to negotiate covenant relief” in the Annual Information Form. Agreements relating to our Bank Credit Facilities and the senior note purchase agreements have been filed under our SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca. 

1 This financial measure is a supplementary financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Measures – Supplementary Financial Measures” section in this MD&A.

12             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

The following table lists our financial covenants at September 30, 2023:

Covenant Description

    

    

September 30, 2023

Bank Credit Facilities:

 

Maximum Ratio

Senior debt to adjusted EBITDA

 

3.5x

0.2x

Total debt to adjusted EBITDA

 

4.0x

0.2x

Total debt to capitalization

 

55%

12%

Senior Notes:

 

Maximum Ratio

 

Senior debt to adjusted EBITDA(1)

 

3.0x - 3.5x

0.2x

Senior debt to consolidated present value of total proved reserves(2)

 

60%

6%

 

Minimum Ratio

 

Adjusted EBITDA to interest

 

4.0x

 

65.6x

Definitions

“Senior debt” is calculated as the sum of drawn amounts on our bank credit facilities, outstanding letters of credit and the principal amount of senior notes.

“Adjusted EBITDA” is calculated as net income less interest, taxes, depletion, depreciation, amortization, accretion, impairment and other non-cash gains and losses. Adjusted EBITDA is calculated on a trailing twelve-month basis and is adjusted for material acquisitions and divestments. Adjusted EBITDA for the three months and the trailing twelve months ended September 30, 2023 was $282.5 million and $1,225.0 million, respectively.

“Total debt” is calculated as the sum of senior debt plus subordinated debt. Enerplus currently does not have any subordinated debt.

“Capitalization” is calculated as the sum of total debt and shareholder’s equity plus a $823.7 million adjustment related to our adoption of U.S. GAAP.

Footnotes

(1)

Senior debt to adjusted EBITDA for the senior notes may increase to 3.5x for a period of 6 months, after which the ratio decreases to 3.0x.

(2)

Senior debt to consolidated present value of total proved reserves is calculated annually on December 31 based on before tax reserves at forecast prices discounted at 10%.

Dividends

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions, except per share amounts)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Dividends

    

$

12.6

    

$

11.5

   

$

36.4

    

$

29.4

Per weighted average share (Basic)

$

0.060

$

0.050

$

0.170

$

0.126

During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we declared total dividends of $12.6 million, or $0.06 per share, and $36.4 million, or $0.17 per share, respectively, compared to $11.5 million, or $0.05 per share, and $29.4 million, or $0.126 per share for the same periods in 2022. The total amount of dividends paid to shareholders has increased compared to the same period in 2022 due to the increased sustainability of the business and as a result of our current return of capital plan.

Subsequent to September 30, 2023, the Board of Directors approved a fourth quarter dividend of $0.06 per share to be paid in December 2023. We expect to fund the dividend through the free cash flow generated by the business.

Shareholders’ Capital

Nine months ended September 30, 

2023

    

2022

Share capital ($ millions)

 

$

2,745.6

 

$

2,926.2

Common shares outstanding (thousands)

207,985

226,966

Weighted average shares outstanding – basic (thousands)

213,621

237,835

Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted (thousands)

220,093

245,403

For the nine months ended September 30, 2023, a total of 2.4 million units vested pursuant to our treasury-settled LTI plans, including the impact of performance multipliers (2022 – 2.2 million). In total, 1.3 million shares were issued from treasury and $7.3 million was transferred from paid-in capital to share capital (2022 – 1.2 million shares; $8.0 million). We elected to cash-settle the remaining units related to the required tax withholdings for the total amount of $16.5 million (2022 – $11.6 million). 

On August 4, 2023, we filed a short form base shelf prospectus (the “Shelf Prospectus”) with securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada and a Registration Statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Shelf Prospectus allows us to offer and issue common shares, preferred shares, warrants, subscription receipts and units by way of one or more prospectus supplements during the 25-month period that the Shelf Prospectus remains valid.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               13


        

During the third quarter, Enerplus received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) to renew its NCIB to purchase up to 10% of the public float (within the meaning of the TSX rules), or 21.0 million common shares, during a 12-month period. The Company completed its previous NCIB in July 2023.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, 10.6 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $15.50 per share, for total consideration of $164.4 million. Of the amount paid, $99.0 million was charged to share capital and $65.4 million was added to accumulated deficit.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2022, 18.1 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $13.35 per share, for total consideration of $241.9 million. Of the amount paid, $175.8 million was charged to share capital and $66.1 million was added to accumulated deficit.

Subsequent to September 30, 2023 and up to November 1, 2023, we repurchased 2.5 million common shares under the NCIB at an average price of $16.65 per share, for total consideration of $40.9 million. At November 1, 2023, 15.8 million common shares remain available for repurchase under the current NCIB.

At November 1, 2023, we had 205,529,455 common shares outstanding. In addition, an aggregate of 7,991,418 common shares may be issued to settle outstanding grants under the PSUs and Restricted Share Unit plans assuming the maximum performance multiplier of 2.0 times for the PSUs.

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Crude Oil and

Net

Net Income/(Loss) Per Share

($ millions, except per share amounts)

Natural Gas Sales

Income/(Loss)

Basic

Diluted

2023

Third Quarter

$

461.8

$

127.7

$

0.61

$

0.59

Second Quarter

350.9

74.2

0.35

0.34

First Quarter

413.2

137.5

0.63

0.62

Total 2023

$

1,226.0

$

339.4

$

1.59

$

1.54

2022

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Fourth Quarter

$

548.7

 

$

330.7

 

$

1.49

 

$

1.43

Third Quarter

    

663.5

305.9

1.32

1.28

Second Quarter

628.0

244.4

1.01

0.99

First Quarter

 

513.2

33.2

0.14

0.13

Total 2022

$

2,353.4

$

914.3

$

3.91

 

$

3.77

2021

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Fourth Quarter

$

499.7

 

$

176.9

 

$

0.71

 

$

0.68

Third Quarter

 

421.1

98.1

0.38

0.38

Second Quarter

 

333.4

(50.9)

(0.20)

(0.20)

First Quarter

 

228.4

10.3

0.04

0.04

Total 2021

$

1,482.6

 

$

234.4

 

$

0.93

 

$

0.90


Crude oil and natural gas sales increased to $461.8 million during the third quarter of 2023, compared to $350.9 million during the second quarter of 2023. We reported net income of $127.7 million during the third quarter of 2023 compared to net income of $74.2 million during the second quarter of 2023. The increase in crude oil and natural gas sales and net income was primarily due to higher commodity prices and higher crude oil and natural gas liquids production in the third quarter of 2023.

Crude oil and natural gas sales increased in 2022, compared to 2021, due to higher production and improved realized pricing. Net income increased in 2022, compared to 2021, due to higher production and commodity prices as well as the gain on the Canadian asset divestments recorded in the fourth quarter of 2022.

14             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

RECENT ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

We have not early adopted any accounting standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective. Our significant accounting policies remain unchanged from December 31, 2022.

2023 GUIDANCE(1)

 

Summary of 2023 Annual Expectations

    

Target

Capital spending ($ millions)

 

$520 to $540 (from $510 to $550)

Average annual production (BOE/day)

98,000 - 99,000 (from 94,500 - 98,500)

Average annual crude oil and natural gas liquids production (bbls/day)

60,500 - 61,500 (from 58,500 - 61,500)

Fourth quarter average production (BOE/day)

95,000 - 99,000

Fourth quarter average crude oil and natural gas liquids production (bbls/day)

60,500 - 64,500

Average production tax rate (% of gross sales, before transportation)

8%

Operating expenses (per BOE)

 

$10.75 - $11.00 (from $10.75 - $11.50)

Transportation costs (per BOE)

 

$4.05 (from $4.20)

Cash G&A expenses (per BOE)

 

$1.35

Current tax expense (% of adjusted funds flow before tax)

3% - 4%

Differential/Basis Outlook(2)

Target

Average U.S. Bakken crude oil differential (compared to WTI crude oil)

($0.25)/bbl (from $0.00/bbl)

Average Marcellus natural gas differential (compared to last day NYMEX natural gas)

($0.85)/Mcf (from ($0.75)/Mcf)

(1)This constitutes forward-looking information. Refer to “Forward-Looking Information and Statements” section in this MD&A.
(2)Excludes transportation costs.


NON-GAAP MEASURES

This MD&A includes references to certain non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios used by the Company to evaluate its financial performance, financial position or cash flow. Non-GAAP financial measures are financial measures disclosed by a company that (a) depict historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of a company, (b) with respect to their composition, exclude amounts that are included in, or include amounts that are excluded from, the composition of the most directly comparable financial measure disclosed in the primary financial statements of the company, (c) are not disclosed in the financial statements of the company and (d) are not a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation. Non-GAAP ratios are financial measures disclosed by a company that are in the form of a ratio, fraction, percentage or similar representation that has a non-GAAP financial measure as one or more of its components, and that are not disclosed in the financial statements of the company.

These non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios do not have standardized meanings or definitions as prescribed by U.S. GAAP and may not be comparable with the calculation of similar financial measures by other entities.

For each measure, we have: (a) indicated the composition of the measure; (b) identified the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure and provided comparative detail where appropriate; (c) indicated the reconciliation of the measure to the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure to the extent one exists; and (d) provided details on the usefulness of the measure for the reader. These non-GAAP financial measures and non-GAAP ratios should not be considered as a substitute for, or superior to, measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

“Adjusted net income/(loss)” is used by Enerplus and is useful to investors and securities analysts in evaluating the financial performance of the company by adjusting for certain unrealized items and other items that the company considers appropriate to adjust given their irregular nature. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is net income/(loss).

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Net income/(loss)

 

$

127.7

$

305.9

$

339.4

 

$

583.6

Unrealized derivative instrument, foreign exchange and marketable securities (gain)/loss

15.6

(128.5)

32.0

(88.5)

Other expense/(income) related to investing activities

(1.4)

(1.4)

13.1

Tax effect

(4.7)

30.5

(7.7)

17.8

Adjusted net income/(loss)

 

$

137.2

$

207.9

$

362.3

 

$

526.0

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               15


        

“Free cash flow” is used by Enerplus and is useful to investors and securities analysts in analyzing operating and financial performance, leverage and liquidity. Free cash flow is calculated as adjusted funds flow minus capital spending. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is cash flow from operating activities.

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

  

2022

Cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

$

212.2

$

409.9

$

640.2

$

856.8

Asset retirement obligation settlements

2.5

1.6

11.3

12.7

Changes in non-cash operating working capital

49.0

(55.9)

69.1

45.4

Adjusted funds flow

$

263.7

$

355.6

$

720.6

$

914.9

Capital spending

(121.4)

(114.5)

(440.9)

(346.4)

Free cash flow

$

142.3

$

241.1

$

279.7

$

568.5


“Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts” and “Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts” is used by Enerplus and is useful to investors and securities analysts, in evaluating operating performance of our crude oil and natural gas assets, both before and after consideration of our realized gain/(loss) on commodity derivative instruments. A direct GAAP equivalent does not exist for these measures, although a reconciliation is provided below:

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

 ($ millions)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Crude oil and natural gas sales

    

$

461.8

    

$

663.5

    

$

1,226.0

    

$

1,804.7

Less:

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses

 

(96.6)

 

(103.8)

 

(278.5)

 

(270.5)

Transportation expenses

 

(36.7)

 

(41.3)

 

(108.9)

 

(114.9)

Production taxes

 

(40.0)

 

(48.2)

 

(98.8)

 

(127.4)

Netback before impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

288.5

$

470.2

$

739.8

$

1,291.9

Net realized gain/(loss) on derivative instruments

 

5.3

 

(88.5)

 

53.8

 

(299.8)

Netback after impact of commodity derivative contracts

$

293.8

$

381.7

$

793.6

$

992.1

Other Financial Measures

CAPITAL MANAGEMENT MEASURES

Capital management measures are financial measures disclosed by a company that (a) are intended to enable an individual to evaluate a company’s objectives, policies and processes for managing the company’s capital, (b) are not a component of a line item disclosed in the primary financial statements of the company, (c) are disclosed in the notes to the financial statements of the company, and (d) are not disclosed in the primary financial statements of the company. The following section provides an explanation of the composition of those capital management measures if not previously provided:

“Adjusted funds flow” is used by Enerplus and is useful to investors and securities analysts, in analyzing operating and financial performance, leverage and liquidity. The most directly comparable GAAP measure is cash flow from operating activities. Adjusted funds flow is calculated as cash flow from operating activities before asset retirement obligation expenditures and changes in non-cash operating working capital.

“Net debt” is calculated as current and long-term debt associated with senior notes plus any outstanding Bank Credit Facilities balances, less cash and cash equivalents. “Net debt” is useful to investors and securities analysts in analyzing financial liquidity and Enerplus considers net debt to be a key measure of capital management.

“Net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio” is used by Enerplus and is useful to investors and securities analysts in analyzing leverage and liquidity. The net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio is calculated as net debt divided by a trailing twelve months of adjusted funds flow. There is no directly comparable GAAP equivalent for this measure, and it is not equivalent to any of our debt covenants.

16             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL MEASURES

Supplementary financial measures are financial measures disclosed by a company that (a) are, or are intended to be, disclosed on a periodic basis to depict the historical or expected future financial performance, financial position or cash flow of a company, (b) are not disclosed in the financial statements of the company, (c) are not non-GAAP financial measures, and (d) are not non-GAAP ratios. The following section provides an explanation of the composition of those supplementary financial measures if not previously provided:

“Capital spending” Capital and office expenditures, excluding other capital assets/office capital and property and land acquisitions and divestments.

“Cash general and administrative expenses” or “Cash G&A expenses” General and administrative expenses that are settled through cash payout, as opposed to expenses that relate to accretion or other non-cash allocations that are recorded as part of general and administrative expenses.

“Cash share-based compensation” or “Cash SBC expenses” Share-based compensation that is settled by way of cash payout, as opposed to equity settled.

“Reinvestment rate” Comparing the amount of our capital spending to adjusted funds flow (as a percentage).

INTERNAL CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

We are required to comply with National Instrument 52-109 - Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings. This instrument requires us to disclose in our interim MD&A any weaknesses in or changes to Enerplus’ internal control over financial reporting during the period that may have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting. We confirm that no such weaknesses were identified in, or changes were made to, internal controls over financial reporting during the three months ended September 30, 2023.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Additional information relating to Enerplus, including our Annual Information Form, is available under our profile on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.ca, on the EDGAR website at www.sec.gov and at www.enerplus.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION AND STATEMENTS

This MD&A contains certain forward-looking information and statements (“forward-looking information”) within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words “expect”, “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “guidance”, “ongoing”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “plans”, “budget”, “strategy” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information. In particular, but without limiting the foregoing, this MD&A contains forward-looking information pertaining to the following: expectations regarding Enerplus’ business, operations and financial condition in 2023 and beyond; Enerplus’ return of capital plans, including expectations regarding payment of dividends and the source of funds related thereto; expectations regarding Enerplus’ share repurchase program, including timing and amounts thereof and the funding of the share repurchase program from free cash flow; expected production volumes in 2023, including the production mix, and 2023 production guidance; 2023 capital spending guidance; expectations regarding free cash flow generation and long-term capital spending reinvestment rates; expected operating strategy in 2023; the proportion of our anticipated crude oil and natural gas liquids production that is hedged and the expected effectiveness of such hedges in protecting our cash flow from operating activities and adjusted funds flow; oil and natural gas prices and differentials and expectations regarding the market environment and our commodity risk management program in 2023; 2023 Bakken and Marcellus differential guidance; capital spending guidance; expectations regarding realized oil and natural gas prices; expected operating, transportation and cash G&A expenses and production taxes and 2023 guidance with respect thereto; potential future non-cash PP&E impairments, as well as relevant factors that may affect such impairment; the amount of our future abandonment and reclamation costs and asset retirement obligations; deferred income taxes and the time at which cash taxes may be paid; expected 2023 cash tax as a percentage of adjusted funds flow before tax; future debt and working capital levels, financial capacity, liquidity and capital resources to fund capital spending, working capital requirements and deficits and senior note repayments; expectations regarding our ability to comply with or renegotiate debt covenants under the Bank Credit Facilities and outstanding senior notes; and our future acquisitions and dispositions.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               17


        

The forward-looking information contained in this MD&A reflects several material factors and expectations and assumptions of Enerplus including, without limitation: the ability to fund our return of capital plans, including both dividends at the current level and the share repurchase program, from free cash flow as expected; that our common share trading price will be at levels, and that there will be no other alternatives, that, in each case, make share repurchases an appropriate and best strategic use of our free cash flows; that we will conduct our operations and achieve results of operations as anticipated; the continued operation of DAPL; that our development plans will achieve the expected results; that lack of adequate infrastructure will not result in curtailment of production and/or reduced realized prices beyond our current expectations; current and anticipated commodity prices, differentials and cost assumptions; the general continuance of current or, where applicable, assumed industry conditions, the impact of inflation, weather conditions, storage fundamentals; the continuation of assumed tax, royalty and regulatory regimes; the accuracy of the estimates of our reserve and contingent resource volumes; the continued availability of adequate debt and/or equity financing and adjusted funds flow to fund our capital, operating and working capital requirements, and dividend payments as needed; our ability to comply with our debt covenants; our ability to meet the targets associated with the Bank Credit Facilities; the availability of third party services; expected transportation costs; the extent of our liabilities; the rates used to calculate the amount of our future abandonment and reclamation costs and asset retirement obligations; factors used to assess the realizability of our deferred income tax assets; and the availability of technology and process to achieve environmental targets.

In addition, our 2023 guidance described in this MD&A is based on rest of year commodity prices of: a WTI price of $80.00/bbl, a NYMEX price of $3.00/Mcf, and a CDN/USD exchange rate of $0.72. Enerplus believes the material factors, expectations and assumptions reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable but no assurance can be given that these factors, expectations and assumptions will prove to be correct. Current conditions, economic and otherwise, render assumptions, although reasonable when made, subject to increased uncertainty.

The forward-looking information included in this MD&A is not a guarantee of future performance and should not be unduly relied upon. Such information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking information including, without limitation: failure by Enerplus to achieve or realize anticipated proceeds or benefits, of the sale of Enerplus’ assets in Canada; continued instability, or further deterioration, in global economic and market environment, inflation and/or the Ukraine/Russia conflict and heightened geopolitical risks; decreases in commodity prices or volatility in commodity prices; changes in realized prices of Enerplus’ products from those currently anticipated; changes in the demand for or supply of our products, including global energy demand; volatility in our common share trading price and free cash flow, as well as changes to the market conditions, that could impact our planned share repurchases and dividend levels, including the timing and sources of financing thereof; unanticipated operating results, results from our capital spending activities or production declines; legal proceedings or other events inhibiting or preventing operation of DAPL; curtailment of our production due to low realized prices or lack of adequate infrastructure; changes in tax or environmental laws, royalty rates or other regulatory matters; risks associated with the realization of our deferred income tax assets; changes in our capital plans or by third party operators of our properties; increased debt levels or debt service requirements; inability to comply with debt covenants under our Bank Credit Facilities and/or outstanding senior notes; inaccurate estimation of our oil and gas reserve and contingent resource volumes; limited, unfavourable or a lack of access to capital markets; increased costs; a lack of adequate insurance coverage; the impact of competitors; reliance on industry partners and third party service providers; changes in law or government programs or policies in Canada or the United States; and certain other risks detailed from time to time in our public disclosure documents (including, without limitation, those risks identified in this MD&A, our Annual Information Form, our Annual MD&A and Form 40-F at December 31, 2022), which are available at www.sedarplus.ca, www.sec.gov and through Enerplus’ website at www.enerplus.com.

The forward-looking information contained in this MD&A speaks only as of the date of this MD&A. Enerplus does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking information contained herein, except as required by applicable laws. Any forward-looking information contained herein are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

18             ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        STATEMENTS

Exhibit 99.2

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(US$ thousands) unaudited

    

Note

    

September 30, 2023

    

December 31, 2022

Assets

 

  

 

  

Current assets

 

  

 

  

Cash and cash equivalents

$

46,205

$

38,000

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts

 

12

 

305,991

 

276,590

Other current assets

4

57,332

56,552

Derivative financial assets

12

 

2,047

 

36,542

 

411,575

 

407,684

Property, plant and equipment:

 

  

Crude oil and natural gas properties (full cost method)

 

3

 

1,520,074

 

1,322,904

Other capital assets

 

3

 

9,501

 

10,685

Property, plant and equipment

 

1,529,575

 

1,333,589

Other long-term assets

4

7,028

21,154

Right-of-use assets

21,117

20,556

Deferred income tax asset

 

10

 

143,123

 

154,998

Total Assets

$

2,112,418

$

1,937,981

 

  

 

  

Liabilities

 

  

 

  

Current liabilities

 

  

 

  

Accounts payable

 

$

375,806

$

398,482

Current portion of long-term debt

 

5

 

80,600

 

80,600

Derivative financial liabilities

 

12

 

7,324

 

10,421

Current portion of lease liabilities

11,655

13,664

 

475,385

 

503,167

Long-term debt

 

5

 

177,677

 

178,916

Asset retirement obligation

 

6

 

117,903

 

114,662

Lease liabilities

11,502

9,262

Deferred income tax liability

10

114,069

55,361

Total Liabilities

 

896,536

 

861,368

Shareholders’ Equity

 

  

 

  

Share capital – authorized unlimited common shares, no par value

Issued and outstanding: September 30, 2023 – 208 million shares

December 31, 2022 – 217 million shares

 

11

 

2,745,597

 

2,837,329

Paid-in capital

 

43,887

 

50,457

Accumulated deficit

 

(1,272,261)

 

(1,509,832)

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(301,341)

 

(301,341)

 

1,215,882

 

1,076,613

Total Liabilities & Shareholders' Equity

$

2,112,418

$

1,937,981

Subsequent Event

11

The accompanying notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               1


        

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) and Comprehensive Income/(Loss)

Three months ended

Nine months ended

September 30, 

September 30, 

(US$ thousands, except per share amounts) unaudited

Note

2023

2022

2023

2022

Revenues

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

Crude oil and natural gas sales

 

7

$

461,836

$

663,532

$

1,225,957

$

1,804,701

Commodity derivative instruments gain/(loss)

 

12

 

(14,602)

 

56,995

 

20,324

 

(197,368)

 

447,234

 

720,527

 

1,246,281

 

1,607,333

Expenses

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Operating

 

96,573

 

103,841

 

278,493

 

270,451

Transportation

 

36,745

 

41,312

 

108,946

 

114,949

Production taxes

 

39,959

 

48,169

 

98,847

 

127,351

General and administrative

 

8

 

18,862

 

15,745

 

53,368

 

48,013

Depletion, depreciation and accretion

 

91,825

 

82,225

 

264,051

 

219,006

Interest

 

 

4,832

 

6,471

 

12,742

 

18,624

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss

 

9

 

641

 

16,109

 

(250)

 

13,764

Other expense/(income)

4, 6

 

(7,935)

 

(368)

 

(6,873)

 

12,020

 

281,502

 

313,504

 

809,324

 

824,178

Income/(Loss) Before Taxes

 

165,732

 

407,023

 

436,957

 

783,155

Current income tax expense/(recovery)

 

10

 

12,500

 

7,929

 

27,000

 

24,929

Deferred income tax expense/(recovery)

 

10

 

25,577

 

93,149

 

70,583

 

174,632

Net Income/(Loss)

$

127,655

$

305,945

$

339,374

$

583,594

Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)

 

 

 

  

 

  

Unrealized gain/(loss) on foreign currency translation

12

 

 

28,582

 

 

29,939

Foreign exchange gain/(loss) on net investment hedge, net of tax

12

(24,276)

(32,995)

Total Comprehensive Income/(Loss)

$

127,655

$

310,251

$

339,374

$

580,538

Net Income/(Loss) per Share

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Basic

 

11

$

0.61

$

1.32

$

1.59

$

2.47

Diluted

 

11

$

0.59

$

1.28

$

1.54

$

2.40

The accompanying notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

2               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


         

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity

Three months ended

Nine months ended

September 30, 

September 30, 

(US$ thousands) unaudited

2023

  

2022

2023

2022

Share Capital

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Balance, beginning of period

$

2,776,088

$

3,001,604

$

2,837,329

$

3,094,061

Purchase of common shares under Normal Course Issuer Bid

(30,520)

(75,387)

(99,023)

(175,803)

Share-based compensation – treasury settled

 

29

 

 

7,291

 

7,959

Balance, end of period

$

2,745,597

$

2,926,217

$

2,745,597

$

2,926,217

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Paid-in Capital

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Balance, beginning of period

$

38,963

$

41,843

$

50,457

$

50,881

Share-based compensation – tax withholdings settled in cash

(50)

(16,470)

(11,567)

Share-based compensation – treasury settled

 

(29)

 

 

(7,291)

 

(7,959)

Share-based compensation – non-cash

 

5,003

 

3,765

 

17,191

 

14,253

Balance, end of period

$

43,887

$

45,608

$

43,887

$

45,608

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Accumulated Deficit

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Balance, beginning of period

$

(1,362,697)

$

(2,008,253)

$

(1,509,832)

$

(2,238,325)

Net income/(loss)

127,655

305,945

339,374

583,594

Purchase of common shares under Normal Course Issuer Bid

 

(24,607)

 

(36,413)

 

(65,442)

 

(66,132)

Dividends declared(1)

 

(12,612)

 

(11,516)

 

(36,361)

 

(29,374)

Balance, end of period

$

(1,272,261)

$

(1,750,237)

$

(1,272,261)

$

(1,750,237)

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss)

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Balance, beginning of period

$

(301,341)

$

(304,669)

$

(301,341)

$

(297,307)

Unrealized gain/(loss) on foreign currency translation

 

 

28,582

 

 

29,939

Foreign exchange gain/(loss) on net investment hedge, net of tax

(24,276)

(32,995)

Balance, end of period

$

(301,341)

$

(300,363)

$

(301,341)

$

(300,363)

Total Shareholders’ Equity

$

1,215,882

$

921,225

$

1,215,882

$

921,225

(1)For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, dividends declared were $0.060 per share and $0.170 per share, respectively (2022 – $0.050 per share and $0.126 per share, respectively).

The accompanying notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               3


        

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Three months ended

Nine months ended

September 30, 

September 30, 

(US$ thousands) unaudited

Note

2023

2022

2023

2022

Operating Activities

  

  

  

    

  

    

  

    

  

Net income/(loss)

$

127,655

$

305,945

$

339,374

$

583,594

Non-cash items add/(deduct):

 

Depletion, depreciation and accretion

 

91,825

82,225

264,051

219,006

Changes in fair value of derivative instruments

 

12

 

19,924

(145,480)

33,515

(103,423)

Deferred income tax expense/(recovery)

 

10

 

25,577

93,149

70,583

174,632

Unrealized foreign exchange (gain)/loss on working capital

 

9

 

679

16,997

(33)

14,876

Share-based compensation and general and administrative

 

8, 11

 

4,881

3,665

16,869

13,959

Other expense/(income)

4

(5,411)

(289)

(2,322)

12,267

Amortization of debt issuance costs

5

388

366

1,176

1,070

Translation of U.S. dollar cash held in parent company

9

(956)

(1,071)

Investing activities in Other income

(1,834)

(2,496)

Asset retirement obligation settlements

 

6

 

(2,448)

(1,560)

(11,318)

(12,704)

Changes in non-cash operating working capital

 

13

 

(48,991)

55,884

(69,155)

(45,408)

Cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

 

212,245

 

409,946

 

640,244

 

856,798

Financing Activities

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Drawings from/(repayment of) bank credit facilities

5

 

42,172

(130,315)

79,361

(186,015)

Repayment of senior notes

 

5

 

(21,000)

(21,000)

(80,600)

(100,600)

Purchase of common shares under Normal Course Issuer Bid

11

(55,127)

(111,800)

(164,465)

(241,935)

Share-based compensation – tax withholdings settled in cash

11

(50)

(16,470)

(11,567)

Dividends

 

11

 

(12,612)

(11,516)

(36,361)

(29,374)

Cash flow from/(used in) financing activities

 

(46,617)

 

(274,631)

 

(218,535)

 

(569,491)

Investing Activities

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Capital and office expenditures

13

 

(170,635)

(121,382)

(439,440)

(311,449)

Canadian divestments

4, 13

15,128

27,362

Property and land acquisitions

 

(2,275)

(16,252)

(5,661)

(19,662)

Property and land divestments

 

 

1,563

4,214

4,202

6,333

Cash flow from/(used in) investing activities

 

(156,219)

 

(133,420)

 

(413,537)

 

(324,778)

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

(679)

14,884

33

18,308

Change in cash and cash equivalents

 

8,730

 

16,779

 

8,205

 

(19,163)

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

 

37,475

25,406

38,000

61,348

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$

46,205

$

42,185

$

46,205

$

42,185

The accompanying notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

4               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        NOTES

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(unaudited)

1) REPORTING ENTITY

These interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (“interim Consolidated Financial Statements”) and notes present the financial position and results of Enerplus Corporation (the “Company” or “Enerplus”) including its Canadian and United States (“U.S.”) subsidiaries. Enerplus is a North American crude oil and natural gas exploration and production company. Enerplus is publicly traded on the Toronto and New York stock exchanges under the ticker symbol ERF. Enerplus’ corporate offices are located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada and Denver, Colorado, United States.

2) BASIS OF PREPARATION

Enerplus’ interim Consolidated Financial Statements present its results of operations and financial position under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and the 2022 comparative periods. Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform with current period presentation. Certain information and notes normally included with the annual audited Consolidated Financial Statements have been condensed or have been disclosed on an annual basis only. Accordingly, these interim Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in conjunction with Enerplus’ annual audited Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2022.

The functional currency of the parent company changed from Canadian dollars to U.S. dollars effective January 1, 2023. This was the result of a gradual change in the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, culminating in the sale of Enerplus’ remaining Canadian operating assets at the end of 2022. This has triggered a prospective change as of January 1, 2023 in functional currency of the parent entity to U.S. dollars, consistent with the functional currency of its U.S. subsidiaries. All assets and liabilities held by the parent company were translated at the exchange rate at December 31, 2022 to determine opening balances in U.S. dollars.  Amounts that are part of Shareholders’ Equity of the parent company are translated at historical exchange rates. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in Canadian dollars will be revalued at current exchange rates at each reporting period. Upon settlement and/or realization of Canadian dollar denominated assets and liabilities, there may be realized foreign exchange gains and losses depending on the change in the foreign exchange rate when the transaction was originally recorded and the final settlement date.  

These unaudited interim Consolidated Financial Statements reflect, in the opinion of Management, all normal and recurring adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position and results of the Company as at and for the periods presented.

In preparing these financial statements, Enerplus is required to make estimates and assumptions and use judgement. Accordingly, actual results may differ from estimated amounts as future confirming events occur. Significant estimates and judgement used in the preparation of the financial statements are described in the Company’s annual audited Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2022.

3) PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (“PP&E”)

Accumulated Depletion,

At September 30, 2023

    

    

Depreciation, and 

    

($ thousands)

Cost

Impairment

Net Book Value

Crude oil and natural gas properties(1)

$

7,661,991

$

(6,141,917)

$

1,520,074

Other capital assets

 

101,314

(91,813)

 

9,501

Total PP&E

$

7,763,305

$

(6,233,730)

$

1,529,575

Accumulated Depletion,

At December 31, 2022

    

  

Depreciation, and 

   

($ thousands)

Cost

Impairment

Net Book Value

Crude oil and natural gas properties(1)

$

7,214,993

$

(5,892,089)

$

1,322,904

Other capital assets

 

99,283

 

(88,598)

 

10,685

Total PP&E

$

7,314,276

$

(5,980,687)

$

1,333,589

(1)All of the Company’s unproved properties are included in the full cost pool.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               5


        

4) DIVESTMENTS

In the fourth quarter of 2022, the Company divested substantially all of its Canadian assets in two transactions for total adjusted proceeds of $213.0 million after purchase price adjustments and transaction costs. These transactions resulted in a $151.9 million gain on asset divestments on the Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) in the fourth quarter of 2022.

At September 30, 2023, the current and long-term portion of the outstanding loan receivable from one of the purchasers of $15.8 million and $1.2 million, respectively (December 31, 2022 – $17.7 million and $13.4 million, respectively), have been recorded as part of Other current assets and Other long-term assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

At September 30, 2023, the common shares of one of the purchasers had a fair value of $19.0 million (December 31, 2022 – $23.1 million). The fair value of the marketable securities has been recorded as part of Other current assets on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

5) DEBT

($ thousands)

    

September 30, 2023

    

December 31, 2022

Current:

 

  

 

  

Senior notes

$

80,600

$

80,600

Long-term:

Bank credit facilities

135,677

56,316

Senior notes

 

42,000

 

122,600

Total debt

$

258,277

$

259,516

Bank Credit Facilities

Enerplus has two senior unsecured, covenant-based, sustainability linked lending (“SLL”) bank credit facilities. The first is a $900 million facility with $50 million maturing on October 31, 2025 and $850 million maturing on October 31, 2026. The second facility for $365 million matures on October 31, 2025. Debt issuance costs of $2.0 million in relation to the SLL bank credit facilities were netted against the bank credit facilities at September 30, 2023. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, total amortization of debt issuance costs amounted to $0.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively (2022 ­– $0.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively).

Senior Notes

During the three months ended September 30, 2023, Enerplus made a $21.0 million principal repayment on its 2014 senior notes. In addition, during the nine months ended September 30, 2023, Enerplus made its fourth $59.6 million principal repayment on its 2012 senior notes. The terms and rates of the Company’s outstanding senior notes are provided below:

  

Original

  

Remaining

Coupon

Principal

Principal

Issue Date

Interest Payment Dates

Principal Repayment

Rate

($ thousands)

($ thousands)

September 3, 2014

March 3 and Sept 3

3 equal annual installments beginning September 3, 2024

3.79%

$200,000

$63,000

May 15, 2012

 

May 15 and Nov 15

 

1 final installment on May 15, 2024

 

4.40%

$355,000

 

$59,600

Total carrying value at September 30, 2023

$ 122,600

Capital Management

Enerplus' capital consists of cash and cash equivalents, debt and shareholders' equity. The Company’s objective for managing capital is to prioritize balance sheet strength while maintaining flexibility to repay debt, fund sustaining capital, return capital to shareholders or fund future production growth. Capital management measures are useful to investors and securities analysts in analyzing operating and financial performance, leverage, and liquidity. Enerplus’ key capital management measures are as follows:

6               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

a) Net debt

Enerplus calculates net debt as current and long-term debt associated with senior notes plus any outstanding bank credit facility balances, minus cash and cash equivalents.

($ thousands)

September 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Current portion of long-term debt

$

80,600

    

$

80,600

Long-term debt

177,677

178,916

Total debt

$

258,277

$

259,516

Less: Cash and cash equivalents

(46,205)

(38,000)

Net debt

$

212,072

$

221,516

b)Adjusted funds flow

Adjusted funds flow is calculated as cash flow from operating activities before asset retirement obligation expenditures and changes in non-cash operating working capital.

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Cash flow from/(used in) operating activities

    

$

212,245

    

$

409,946

$

640,244

    

$

856,798

Asset retirement obligation settlements

2,448

1,560

11,318

12,704

Changes in non-cash operating working capital

48,991

(55,884)

69,155

45,408

Adjusted funds flow

$

263,684

$

355,622

$

720,717

$

914,910

c)Net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio

The net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio is calculated as net debt divided by a trailing twelve months of adjusted funds flow.

($ thousands)

September 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Net debt

$

212,072

  

$

221,516

Trailing adjusted funds flow

1,036,096

1,230,289

Net debt to adjusted funds flow ratio

0.2x

0.2x

6) ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION (“ARO”)

($ thousands)

September 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Balance, beginning of year

$

114,662

$

132,814

Change in estimates

 

6,538

 

48,419

Property acquisition and development activity

 

3,920

 

3,985

Divestments

 

 

(58,284)

Settlements

 

(11,318)

 

(17,401)

Government assistance

(1,744)

Accretion expense

 

4,101

 

6,873

Balance, end of period

$

117,903

$

114,662

Enerplus has estimated the present value of its ARO to be $117.9 million at September 30, 2023 based on a total undiscounted uninflated liability of $272.3 million (December 31, 2022 – $114.7 million and $262.4 million, respectively).

During 2022, Enerplus benefited from provincial government assistance to support the clean-up of inactive or abandoned crude oil and natural gas wells. These programs provided direct funding to oil field service contractors engaged by Enerplus to perform abandonment, remediation, and reclamation work. The funding received by the contractor was reflected as a reduction to ARO.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2022, Enerplus recognized $13.1 million as part of Other expense/(income) in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss) to fund abandonment and reclamation obligation requirements on previously disposed of assets.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               7


        

7)  CRUDE OIL AND NATURAL GAS SALES

Crude oil and natural gas sales by country and by product for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022 are as follows:

Three months ended September 30, 2023

Natural

Natural gas liquids

($ thousands)

    

Total revenue

    

Crude oil(1)

    

gas(1)

    

and other(1)(2)

United States

$

461,836

$

412,149

$

27,707

$

21,980

Three months ended September 30, 2022

Natural

Natural gas liquids

($ thousands)

    

Total revenue

    

Crude oil(1)

    

gas(1)

    

and other(1)(2)

United States

$

626,746

$

456,385

$

139,575

$

30,786

Canada

36,786

32,684

2,593

1,509

Total

$

663,532

$

489,069

$

142,168

$

32,295

Nine months ended September 30, 2023

Natural

Natural gas liquids

($ thousands)

    

Total revenue

    

Crude oil(1)

    

gas(1)

    

and other(1)(2)

United States

$

1,225,957

$

1,051,339

$

120,035

$

54,583

Nine months ended September 30, 2022

Natural

Natural gas liquids

($ thousands)

    

Total revenue

    

Crude oil(1)

    

gas(1)

    

and other(1)(2)

United States

$

1,677,253

$

1,247,816

$

347,043

$

82,394

Canada

127,448

112,680

9,855

4,913

Total

$

1,804,701

$

1,360,496

$

356,898

$

87,307

(1)U.S. sales of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids relate primarily to the Company’s North Dakota and Marcellus properties. Canadian crude oil sales relate primarily to the Company’s waterflood properties in 2022. Substantially all of the Canadian assets were disposed of in the fourth quarter of 2022.
(2)Includes third party processing income of nil for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 (2022 – $0.2 million and $0.5 million, respectively).

8) GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSE

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

General and administrative expense excluding share-based compensation(1)

$

11,957

$

10,797

$

35,122

$

31,191

Share-based compensation expense

 

6,905

 

4,948

 

18,246

 

16,822

General and administrative expense

$

18,862

$

15,745

$

53,368

$

48,013

(1)Includes a non-cash lease credit of $122 and $322 for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 (2022 – credit of $100 and $294, respectively).

9)   FOREIGN EXCHANGE

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Realized:

    

    

    

    

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss

$

(38)

$

68

$

(217)

$

(41)

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss on U.S. dollar cash held in parent company

(956)

(1,071)

Unrealized:

 

 

 

 

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss on Canadian dollar working capital in parent company

679

(33)

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss on U.S. dollar working capital in parent company

 

 

16,997

 

 

14,876

Foreign exchange (gain)/loss

$

641

$

16,109

$

(250)

$

13,764

8               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

10) INCOME TAXES

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Current tax

    

    

    

    

   

    

    

    

United States

$

12,500

$

7,929

$

27,000

$

24,929

Canada

Current tax expense/(recovery)

 

12,500

 

7,929

 

27,000

 

24,929

Deferred tax

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

United States

$

24,804

$

43,328

$

58,708

$

173,694

Canada

773

49,821

11,875

938

Deferred tax expense/(recovery)

25,577

93,149

70,583

174,632

Income tax expense/(recovery)

$

38,077

$

101,078

$

97,583

$

199,561

The difference between the expected income taxes based on the statutory income tax rate and the effective income taxes for the current and prior period is impacted by expected annual earnings, recognition or reversal of valuation allowance, foreign rate differentials for foreign operations, statutory and other rate differentials, non-taxable portions of capital gain and losses, and share-based compensation.

The Company's deferred income tax asset recorded in Canada was $143.1 million and the deferred income tax liability recorded in the U.S. was $114.1 million at September 30, 2023 (December 31, 2022 – $155.0 million deferred income tax asset in Canada and $55.4 million deferred income tax liability in the U.S.).

11) SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

a) Share Capital

Nine months ended

Year ended

Authorized unlimited number of common shares issued:

September 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

(thousands)

 

Shares

 

Amount

 

Shares

 

Amount

Balance, beginning of year

    

217,285

    

$

2,837,329

    

243,852

$

3,094,061

Issued/(Purchased) for cash:

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Purchase of common shares under Normal Course Issuer Bid

 

(10,611)

 

(99,023)

 

(27,925)

(266,694)

Non-cash:

 

 

 

  

 

  

Share-based compensation – treasury settled(1)

 

1,311

 

7,291

 

1,358

 

9,962

Balance, end of period

 

207,985

$

2,745,597

 

217,285

$

2,837,329

(1)The amount of shares issued on long-term incentive settlement is net of employee withholding taxes.

Dividends declared to shareholders for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 were $12.6 million and $36.4 million, respectively (2022 – $11.5 million and $29.4 million, respectively).

On August 4, 2023, the Company filed a short form base shelf prospectus (the “Shelf Prospectus”) with securities regulatory authorities in each of the provinces and territories of Canada and a Registration Statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Shelf Prospectus allows Enerplus to offer and issue common shares, preferred shares, warrants, subscription receipts and units by way of one or more prospectus supplements during the 25-month period that the Shelf Prospectus remains valid.

On August 17, 2023, Enerplus renewed its Normal Course Issuer Bid (“NCIB”) to purchase up to 10% of the public float (within the meaning under Toronto Stock Exchange rules) during a 12-month period. Enerplus completed its previous NCIB in July 2023.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               9


        

During the three months ended September 30, 2023, 3.3 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $16.85 per share, for total consideration of $55.1 million. Of the amount paid, $30.5 million was charged to share capital and $24.6 million was added to accumulated deficit. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, 10.6 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $15.50 per share, for total consideration of $164.4 million. Of the amount paid, $99.0 million was charged to share capital and $65.4 million was added to accumulated deficit.

During the three months ended September 30, 2022, 7.9 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $14.13 per share, for total consideration of $111.8 million. Of the amount paid, $75.4 million was charged to share capital and $36.4 million was added to accumulated deficit. During the nine months ended September 30, 2022, 18.1 million common shares were repurchased and cancelled under the NCIB at an average price of $13.35 per share, for total consideration of $241.9 million. Of the amount paid, $175.8 million was charged to share capital and $66.1 million was added to accumulated deficit.

Subsequent to September 30, 2023, and up to November 1, 2023, the Company repurchased 2.5 million common shares under the NCIB at an average price of $16.65 per share, for total consideration of $40.9 million.

b) Share-based Compensation

The following table summarizes Enerplus’ share-based compensation expense, which is included in General and administrative expense on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss):

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Cash:

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

    

Long-term incentive plans (recovery)/expense

$

1,902

$

1,183

$

1,055

$

3,577

Non-Cash:

 

 

 

 

Long-term incentive plans (recovery)/expense

 

5,003

 

3,765

 

17,191

 

14,253

Equity swap (gain)/loss

 

 

 

 

(1,008)

Share-based compensation expense

$

6,905

$

4,948

$

18,246

$

16,822

Long-term Incentive (“LTI”) Plans

The following table summarizes the Performance Share Unit (“PSU”), Restricted Share Unit (“RSU”), Director Deferred Share Unit (“DSU”) and Director RSU (“DRSU”) activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2023:

Cash-settled LTI plans

Equity-settled LTI plans

(thousands of units)

DSU/DRSU

PSU(1)

RSU

Total

Balance, beginning of year

 

633

3,689

2,321

 

6,643

Granted

 

79

512

493

1,084

Vested

 

(170)

(996)

(1,200)

(2,366)

Forfeited

 

(33)

(33)

Balance, end of period

 

542

 

3,205

 

1,581

 

5,328

(1)Based on underlying awards before any effect of the performance multiplier.

Cash-settled LTI Plans

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, the Company recorded a cash share-based compensation expense of $1.9 million and $1.1 million, respectively (2022 –$1.2 million and $3.6 million expense, respectively).

At September 30, 2023, a liability of $9.5 million (December 31, 2022 – $11.1 million) with respect to the Director DSU and DRSU Plans has been recorded to Accounts payable on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

10               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

Equity-settled LTI Plans

The following table summarizes the cumulative share-based compensation expense recognized to-date, which is recorded as Paid-in capital on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Unrecognized amounts will be recorded to non-cash share-based compensation expense over the remaining vesting terms.

At September 30, 2023 ($ thousands, except for years)

    

PSU(1)

    

RSU

    

Total

Cumulative recognized share-based compensation expense

$

24,877

$

15,552

$

40,429

Unrecognized share-based compensation expense

 

7,744

 

5,494

 

13,238

Fair value

$

32,621

$

21,046

$

53,667

Weighted-average remaining contractual term (years)

 

1.1

 

1.2

 

  

(1)Includes estimated performance multipliers.

The Company directly withholds shares on PSU and RSU settlements for tax-withholding purposes. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, $0.1 million and $16.5 million, respectively (2022 – nil and $11.6 million, respectively) in cash withholding taxes were paid.

c) Basic and Diluted Net Income/(Loss) Per Share

Net income/(loss) per share has been determined as follows:

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

(thousands, except per share amounts)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Net income/(loss)

    

$

127,655

    

$

305,945

    

$

339,374

    

$

583,594

Weighted average shares outstanding – Basic

 

210,337

231,565

213,621

237,835

Dilutive impact of share-based compensation

 

6,520

7,571

6,472

7,568

Weighted average shares outstanding – Diluted

 

216,857

 

239,136

 

220,093

 

245,403

Net income/(loss) per share

 

  

 

  

 

  

 

  

Basic

$

0.61

$

1.32

$

1.59

$

2.47

Diluted

$

0.59

$

1.28

$

1.54

$

2.40

12) FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT

a) Fair Value Measurements

At September 30, 2023, the carrying value of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, and accounts payable approximated their fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. The fair values of the bank credit facilities approximate their carrying values as they bear interest at floating rates and the credit spread approximates current market rates.

At September 30, 2023, the senior notes had a carrying value of $122.6 million and a fair value of $113.4 million (December 31, 2022 – $203.2 million and $189.5 million, respectively). The fair value of the senior notes is estimated based on the amount that Enerplus would have to pay a third party to assume the debt, including the credit spread for the difference between the issue rate and the period end market rate. The period end market rate is estimated by comparing the debt to new issuances (secured or unsecured) and secondary trades of similar size and credit statistics for both public and private debt.

At September 30, 2023, the loan receivable had a carrying value and fair value of $17.0 million (December 31, 2022 – $31.1 million and $31.6 million, respectively). The fair value of the loan receivable is estimated based on the amount that Enerplus would receive from a third party to assume the loan, including the difference between the coupon rate and the period end market rate for loan receivables of similar terms and credit risk.

The fair value of marketable securities are considered level 1 fair value measurements, while the derivative contracts, senior notes, bank credit facilities and loan receivable are considered level 2 fair value measurements. There were no transfers between fair value hierarchy levels during the period.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               11


        

b) Derivative Financial Instruments

The derivative financial assets and liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets result from recording derivative financial instruments at fair value.

The following table summarizes the change in fair value associated with equity and commodity contracts for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023 and 2022:

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

Income Statement

Unrealized Gain/(Loss) ($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Presentation

Equity Swaps

$

$

$

$

1,008

 

G&A expense

Commodity Contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

  

Crude oil

 

(14,003)

 

125,978

 

(8,780)

 

98,785

 

Commodity derivative

Natural gas

 

(5,921)

 

19,502

 

(24,735)

 

3,630

 

instruments

Total unrealized gain/(loss)

$

(19,924)

$

145,480

$

(33,515)

$

103,423

 

  

The following table summarizes the effect of Enerplus’ commodity contracts on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss):

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Unrealized change in fair value gain/(loss)

    

$

(19,924)

    

$

145,480

    

$

(33,515)

    

$

102,415

Net realized cash gain/(loss)

 

5,322

 

(88,485)

 

53,839

 

(299,783)

Commodity contracts gain/(loss)

$

(14,602)

$

56,995

$

20,324

$

(197,368)

The following table summarizes the presentation of fair values on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

September 30, 2023

December 31, 2022

Assets

Liabilities

Assets

Liabilities

($ thousands)

Current

Current

Current

Current

Commodity Contracts:

 

 

Crude oil

$

74

$

7,324

$

9,834

$

10,421

Natural gas

1,973

 

 

26,708

Total

$

2,047

$

7,324

$

36,542

$

10,421

The fair value of commodity contracts is estimated based on commodity and option pricing models that incorporate various factors including forecasted commodity prices, volatility and the credit risk of the entities party to the contract. Changes and variability in commodity prices over the term of the contracts can result in material differences between the estimated fair value at a point in time and the actual settlement amounts.

At September 30, 2023, the fair value of Enerplus’ commodity contracts totaled a net liability of $5.3 million (December 31, 2022 – net asset of $26.1 million).

c) Risk Management

In the normal course of operations, Enerplus is exposed to various market risks, including commodity prices, foreign exchange, interest rates, equity prices, credit risk, liquidity risk, and the risks associated with environmental/climate change risk, social and governance regulation, and compliance.

i) Market Risk

Market risk is comprised of commodity price, foreign exchange, interest rate and equity price risk.

Commodity Price Risk:

Enerplus manages a portion of commodity price risk through a combination of financial derivative and physical delivery sales contracts. Enerplus’ policy is to enter into commodity contracts subject to a maximum of 80% of forecasted production volumes.

12               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

The following tables summarize Enerplus’ price risk management positions at September 30, 2023, and positions entered into subsequent to September 30, 2023 and up to November 1, 2023:

Crude Oil Instruments:

Instrument Type(1)(2)

Oct 1, 2023 – Oct 31, 2023

Nov 1, 2023 – Dec 31, 2023

Jan 1, 2024 – Jun 30, 2024

bbls/day

$/bbl

bbls/day

$/bbl

bbls/day

$/bbl

WTI Purchased Put

10,000

81.00

10,000

81.00

5,000

77.00

WTI Sold Put

10,000

65.00

10,000

65.00

5,000

65.00

WTI Sold Call

10,000

111.58

10,000

111.58

5,000

95.00

Brent – WTI Spread

10,000

5.47

10,000

5.47

WTI Purchased Swap

250

64.85

WTI Sold Swap(3)

250

42.10

WTI Purchased Put(3)

2,000

5.00

2,000

5.00

WTI Sold Call(3)

2,000

75.00

2,000

75.00

(1)The total average deferred premium spent on the Company’s outstanding crude oil contracts is $1.19/bbl from October 1, 2023 – June 30, 2024.
(2)Transactions with a common term have been aggregated and presented at weighted average prices and volumes.
(3)Outstanding commodity derivative instruments acquired as part of the Company’s acquisition of Bruin E&P Holdco, LLC completed in 2021.  

Natural Gas Instruments:

Instrument Type(1)

Oct 1, 2023 – Oct 31, 2023

MMcf/day

$/Mcf

NYMEX Purchased Put

50.0

4.05

NYMEX Sold Call

50.0

7.00

(1)Transactions with a common term have been aggregated and presented at weighted average prices/Mcf.

Foreign Exchange Risk:

Enerplus is exposed to foreign exchange risk as it relates to certain activities transacted in Canadian dollars. The parent company and its subsidiaries have a U.S. dollar functional currency, and the parent company has both U.S. and Canadian dollar transactions. Canadian denominated monetary assets and liabilities are subject to revaluation from the source currency of Canadian dollars to the functional currency of U.S. dollars, generating realized and unrealized foreign exchange (gains)/losses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income/(Loss).

Following the change in functional currency of the parent company to U.S. dollars on January 1, 2023, the net investment hedge on the U.S. dollar denominated debt held in the parent entity for the U.S. subsidiaries was no longer required. Previously, the unrealized foreign exchange gains and losses arising from the translation of the debt were recorded in Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss), net of tax, and were limited by the cumulative translation gain or loss on the net investment in the U.S. subsidiaries. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, there were no unrealized foreign exchange gains or losses recorded in Other Comprehensive Income/(Loss) compared to an unrealized loss of $24.3 million and $33.0 million, respectively on Enerplus’ U.S. denominated senior notes and bank credit facilities for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2022.

Interest Rate Risk:

The Company’s senior notes bear interest at fixed rates while the bank credit facilities bear interest at floating rates. At September 30, 2023, approximately 47% of Enerplus’ debt was based on fixed interest rates and 53% on floating interest rates (December 31, 2022 – 78% fixed and 22% floating), with a weighted average interest rates of 4.1% and 6.6%, respectively (December 31, 2022 – 4.1% and 5.7%, respectively). At September 30, 2023, Enerplus did not have any interest rate derivatives outstanding.

Equity Price Risk:

Enerplus is exposed to equity price risk in relation to its long-term incentive plans detailed in Note 11. The Company may enter into various equity swaps to fix the future settlement cost on a portion of its cash settled LTI plans. At September 30, 2023 and December 31, 2022, Enerplus did not have any equity swaps outstanding.

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               13


        

ii) Credit Risk

Credit risk represents the financial loss Enerplus would experience due to the potential non-performance of counterparties to its financial instruments. Enerplus is exposed to credit risk mainly through its joint venture, marketing, divestments and financial counterparty receivables. Enerplus has appropriate policies and procedures in place to manage its credit risk; however, given the volatility in commodity prices, Enerplus is subject to an increased risk of financial loss due to non-performance or insolvency of its counterparties.

Enerplus mitigates credit risk through credit management techniques, including conducting financial assessments to establish and monitor counterparties’ credit worthiness, setting exposure limits, monitoring exposures against these limits and obtaining financial assurances such as letters of credit, parental guarantees, or third party credit insurance where warranted. Enerplus monitors and manages its concentration of counterparty credit risk on an ongoing basis.

The Company’s maximum credit exposure consists of the carrying amount of its non-derivative financial assets and the fair value of its derivative financial assets. At September 30, 2023, approximately 90% of Enerplus’ marketing receivables were with companies considered investment grade (December 31, 2022 – 90%).  

Enerplus actively monitors past due accounts and takes the necessary actions to expedite collection, which can include withholding production, netting amounts off future payments or seeking other remedies including legal action. Should Enerplus determine that the ultimate collection of a receivable is in doubt, it will provide the necessary provision in its allowance for doubtful accounts with a corresponding charge to earnings. If Enerplus subsequently determines an account is uncollectible the account is written off with a corresponding charge to the allowance account. Enerplus’ allowance for doubtful accounts balance at September 30, 2023 was $2.9 million (December 31, 2022 – $2.9 million).

iii) Liquidity Risk & Capital Management

Liquidity risk represents the risk that Enerplus will be unable to meet its financial obligations as they become due. Enerplus mitigates liquidity risk through actively managing its capital, which it defines as debt (net of cash and cash equivalents) and shareholders’ capital. Enerplus’ objective is to provide adequate short and longer term liquidity while maintaining a flexible capital structure to sustain the future development of its business. Enerplus strives to balance the portion of debt and equity in its capital structure given its current crude oil and natural gas assets and planned investment opportunities.

Management monitors a number of key variables with respect to its capital structure, including debt levels, capital spending plans, dividends, share repurchases, access to capital markets, as well as acquisition and divestment activity.

At September 30, 2023, Enerplus was in full compliance with all covenants under the bank credit facilities and outstanding senior notes. If the Company breaches or anticipates breaching its covenants, the Company may be required to repay, refinance, or renegotiate the terms of the debt.

iv) Climate Change Risk

Enerplus is exposed to climate change risks through changing regulation, potential access to capital, capital spending plans and the impact of climate related events on the Company’s financial position. There have been no material changes since management’s risk assessment at December 31, 2022.

13)   SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION

a)Changes in Non-Cash Operating Working Capital

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Accounts receivable

    

$

(68,223)

    

$

73,456

    

$

(32,507)

    

$

(86,627)

Other assets – operating

 

(3,233)

 

(2,575)

 

6,057

 

2,217

Accounts payable – operating

 

22,465

 

(14,997)

 

(42,705)

 

39,002

Non-cash operating activities

$

(48,991)

$

55,884

$

(69,155)

$

(45,408)

14               ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT


        

b)Changes in Non-Cash Investing Working Capital  

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Accounts payable – investing(1)

    

$

(47,940)

    

$

(6,750)

    

$

16,553

    

$

35,540

Other current assets – investing(1)

(12,439)

Non-cash investing activities

$

(47,940)

$

(6,750)

$

4,114

$

35,540

(1)Relates to changes in Accounts payable and Other current assets for capital and office expenditures and included in Capital and office expenditures on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Settlement on divestment(1)

$

$

$

$

13,053

(1)Relates to funding abandonment and reclamation obligation requirements on previously disposed assets.

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Loan receivable

    

$

5,509

    

$

    

$

14,985

    

$

Accounts receivable

1,966

3,128

Other current assets

5,524

5,524

Non-cash working capital – Canadian divestments(1)

$

12,999

$

$

23,637

$

(1)Refer to Note 4.

c)Cash Income Taxes and Interest Payments

Three months ended September 30, 

Nine months ended September 30, 

($ thousands)

2023

2022

2023

2022

Income taxes paid

    

$

5,026

    

$

17,657

    

$

20,260

    

$

20,271

Interest paid

$

4,853

$

5,056

$

11,962

$

17,455

ENERPLUS 2023 Q3 REPORT               15


Exhibit 99.3

FORM 52-109F2

CERTIFICATION OF INTERIM FILINGS

FULL CERTIFICATE

I, Ian C. Dundas, President and Chief Executive Officer of Enerplus Corporation, certify the following:

1.

Review:  I have reviewed the interim financial report and interim MD&A (together, the “interim filings”) of Enerplus Corporation (the “issuer”) for the interim period ended September 30, 2023.

2.

No misrepresentations:  Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings.

3.

Fair presentation:  Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim financial report together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the interim filings.

4.

Responsibility:  The issuer’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as those terms are defined in National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings, for the issuer.

5.

Design:  Subject to the limitations, if any, described in paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3, the issuer’s other certifying officer and I have, as at the end of the period covered by the interim filings

(a)

designed DC&P, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that

(i)

material information relating to the issuer is made known to us by others, particularly during the period in which the interim filings are being prepared; and

(ii)

information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and

(b)

designed ICFR, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer’s GAAP.

5.1

Control framework:  The control framework the issuer’s other certifying officer and I used to design the issuer’s ICFR is Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013 Framework) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

5.2

ICFR — material weakness relating to design:  N/A

5.3

Limitation on scope of design:  N/A

6.

Reporting changes in ICFR:  The issuer has disclosed in its interim MD&A any change in the issuer’s ICFR that occurred during the period beginning on July 1, 2023 and ended on September 30, 2023 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer’s ICFR.

Date: November 2, 2023

/s/ Ian C. Dundas

Ian C. Dundas
President and Chief Executive Officer
Enerplus Corporation


Exhibit 99.4

FORM 52-109F2

CERTIFICATION OF INTERIM FILINGS

FULL CERTIFICATE

I, Jodine J. Jenson Labrie, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Enerplus Corporation, certify the following:

1.

Review:  I have reviewed the interim financial report and interim MD&A (together, the “interim filings”) of Enerplus Corporation (the “issuer”) for the interim period ended September 30, 2023.

2.

No misrepresentations:  Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim filings do not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated or that is necessary to make a statement not misleading in light of the circumstances under which it was made, with respect to the period covered by the interim filings.

3.

Fair presentation:  Based on my knowledge, having exercised reasonable diligence, the interim financial report together with the other financial information included in the interim filings fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, financial performance and cash flows of the issuer, as of the date of and for the periods presented in the interim filings.

4.

Responsibility:  The issuer’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (DC&P) and internal control over financial reporting (ICFR), as those terms are defined in National Instrument 52-109 Certification of Disclosure in Issuers’ Annual and Interim Filings, for the issuer.

5.

Design:  Subject to the limitations, if any, described in paragraphs 5.2 and 5.3, the issuer’s other certifying officer and I have, as at the end of the period covered by the interim filings

(a)

designed DC&P, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance that

(i)

material information relating to the issuer is made known to us by others, particularly during the period in which the interim filings are being prepared; and

(ii)

information required to be disclosed by the issuer in its annual filings, interim filings or other reports filed or submitted by it under securities legislation is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in securities legislation; and

(b)

designed ICFR, or caused it to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with the issuer’s GAAP.

5.1

Control framework:  The control framework the issuer’s other certifying officer and I used to design the issuer’s ICFR is Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013 Framework) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

5.2

ICFR — material weakness relating to design:  N/A

5.3

Limitation on scope of design:  N/A

6.

Reporting changes in ICFR:  The issuer has disclosed in its interim MD&A any change in the issuer’s ICFR that occurred during the period beginning on July 1, 2023 and ended on September 30, 2023 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the issuer’s ICFR.

Date: November 2, 2023

/s/ Jodine J. Jenson Labrie

Jodine J. Jenson Labrie
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Enerplus Corporation



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