Table of Contents



UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q
 
(Mark One)
 
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2014
 
or
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM                TO               
 
 
 
COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 1-3551
 
EQT CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
PENNSYLVANIA
 
25-0464690 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
625 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1700, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
 
15222
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip code)
 
(412) 553-5700
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes   x   No   ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  x   No  ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
Large Accelerated Filer    x
 
Accelerated Filer                  ¨
Non-Accelerated Filer      ¨
 
Smaller reporting company   ¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).  Yes  ¨   No  x
 
As of September 30, 2014 , 151,506 (in thousands) shares of common stock, no par value, of the registrant were outstanding.



Table of Contents



EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Index
 
 
 
Page No.
Part I.      Financial Information :
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
 
 
Item 3.
 
 
 
Item 4.
 
 
 
Part II.     Other Information:
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
Item 1A.
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
 
 
Item 6.
 
 
 
 
 
 


2

Table of Contents
PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Financial Statements
EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Statements of Consolidated Income (Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
(Thousands, except per share amounts)
Operating revenues
$
578,723

 
$
479,606

 
$
1,766,516

 
$
1,368,582

Operating expenses:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Transportation and processing
49,121

 
35,664

 
146,019

 
108,261

Operation and maintenance
27,944

 
25,902

 
80,752

 
73,202

Production
33,840

 
28,076

 
97,662

 
80,712

Exploration
3,606

 
5,256

 
12,477

 
15,124

Selling, general and administrative
57,131

 
48,171

 
169,382

 
142,778

Depreciation, depletion and amortization
175,578

 
169,473

 
484,908

 
474,982

Total operating expenses
347,220

 
312,542

 
991,200

 
895,059

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gain on sale / exchange of assets

 

 
37,749

 

Operating income
231,503

 
167,064

 
813,065

 
473,523

Other income
1,004

 
2,310

 
6,134

 
6,632

Interest expense
35,717

 
35,554

 
99,558

 
110,690

Income before income taxes
196,790

 
133,820

 
719,641

 
369,465

Income taxes
64,496

 
33,501

 
239,920

 
106,347

Income from continuing operations
132,294

 
100,319

 
479,721

 
263,118

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

 
2,291

 
1,772

 
42,891

Net income
132,294

 
102,610

 
481,493

 
306,009

Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
33,739

 
14,354

 
79,824

 
30,642

Net income attributable to EQT Corporation
$
98,555

 
$
88,256

 
$
401,669

 
$
275,367

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amounts attributable to EQT Corporation:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Income from continuing operations
$
98,555

 
$
85,965

 
$
399,897

 
$
232,476

Income from discontinued operations

 
2,291

 
1,772

 
42,891

Net income
$
98,555

 
$
88,256

 
$
401,669

 
$
275,367

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings per share of common stock attributable to EQT Corporation:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Basic:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Weighted average common stock outstanding
151,557

 
150,679

 
151,533

 
150,509

Income from continuing operations
$
0.65

 
$
0.57

 
$
2.64

 
$
1.54

Income from discontinued operations

 
0.02

 
0.01

 
0.29

Net income
$
0.65

 
$
0.59

 
$
2.65

 
$
1.83

Diluted:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Weighted average common stock outstanding
152,330

 
151,663

 
152,468

 
151,365

Income from continuing operations
$
0.65

 
$
0.57

 
$
2.62

 
$
1.54

Income from discontinued operations

 
0.01

 
0.01

 
0.28

Net income
$
0.65

 
$
0.58

 
$
2.63

 
$
1.82

Dividends declared per common share
$
0.03

 
$
0.03

 
$
0.09

 
$
0.09

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


3

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EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Income (Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
(Thousands)
Net income
$
132,294

 
$
102,610

 
$
481,493

 
$
306,009

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Net change in cash flow hedges:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Natural gas, net of tax expense (benefit) of $11,844, $(5,448), $(16,036) and $(15,595)
17,820

 
(8,287
)
 
(23,418
)
 
(23,782
)
Interest rate, net of tax expense of $25, $25, $75 and $75
36

 
36

 
108

 
108

Pension and other post-retirement benefits liability adjustment, net of tax expense of $113, $307, $340 and $920
175

 
433

 
527

 
1,302

Other comprehensive income (loss)
18,031

 
(7,818
)
 
(22,783
)
 
(22,372
)
Comprehensive income
150,325

 
94,792

 
458,710

 
283,637

Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
33,739

 
14,354

 
79,824

 
30,642

Comprehensive income attributable to EQT Corporation
$
116,586

 
$
80,438

 
$
378,886

 
$
252,995

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


4

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EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
Statements of Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows (Unaudited)
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
Cash flows from operating activities:
(Thousands)
Net income
$
481,493

 
$
306,009

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 

 
 

Deferred income taxes
102,301

 
14,869

Depreciation, depletion and amortization
484,908

 
493,341

Gain on sale / exchange of assets
(37,749
)
 

Gain on dispositions
(3,598
)
 

Provision for losses on accounts receivable
1,753

 
986

Other income
(6,134
)
 
(6,846
)
Stock-based compensation expense
33,072

 
37,108

(Gain) loss recognized in operating revenues for hedging ineffectiveness
(13,075
)
 
4,518

Loss (gain) on derivatives not designated as hedges
16,058

 
(307
)
Cash settlements on derivatives not designated as hedges
(9,232
)
 
(233
)
Lease impairment
8,729

 
12,132

Changes in other assets and liabilities:
 

 
 

Dividend from Nora Gathering, LLC
9,463

 
9,000

Excess tax benefits on stock-based compensation
(28,592
)
 

Accounts receivable and unbilled revenues
34,419

 
37,826

Inventory
7,438

 
13,014

Prepaid expenses and other
10,930

 
12,473

Accounts payable
(15,201
)
 
1,078

Accrued interest
30,860

 
27,030

Other items, net
34,102

 
6,110

Net cash provided by operating activities
1,141,945

 
968,108

Cash flows from investing activities:
 

 
 

Capital expenditures from continuing operations
(1,606,307
)
 
(1,195,769
)
Capital expenditures for acquisitions
(163,251
)
 

Capital expenditures from discontinued operations

 
(24,873
)
Restricted cash, net
(338,561
)
 

Proceeds from sale of assets
7,444

 

Net cash used in investing activities
(2,100,675
)
 
(1,220,642
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 

 
 

Proceeds from the issuance of common units of EQT Midstream Partners, LP, net of issuance costs
902,467

 
529,442

Proceeds from the issuance of EQT Midstream Partners, LP debt
500,000

 

Increase in short-term loans
450,000

 
178,500

Decrease in short-term loans
(450,000
)
 
(178,500
)
Dividends paid
(13,653
)
 
(13,565
)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
(46,155
)
 
(21,160
)
Repayments and retirements of long-term debt
(6,162
)
 
(23,204
)
Proceeds and tax benefits from exercises under equity compensation plans
42,181

 
22,863

Cash paid for taxes related to net settlement of share-based incentive awards
(49,013
)
 

Debt issuance costs and revolving credit facility origination fees
(12,690
)
 

Repurchase and retirement of common stock
(32,368
)
 

Net cash provided by financing activities
1,284,607

 
494,376

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
325,877

 
241,842

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
845,641

 
182,055

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
1,171,518

 
$
423,897

Cash paid during the period for:
 

 
 

Interest, net of amount capitalized
$
68,698

 
$
83,660

Income taxes, net
$
127,858

 
$
76,669

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

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EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)
 
 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
 
(Thousands)
Assets
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Current assets:
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents
$
1,171,518

 
$
845,641

Restricted cash
338,561

 

Accounts receivable (less accumulated provision for doubtful accounts: $6,977 at September 30, 2014 and $5,171 at December 31, 2013)
199,609

 
235,781

Derivative instruments, at fair value
101,542

 
107,647

Prepaid expenses and other
47,988

 
66,356

Total current assets
1,859,218

 
1,255,425

 
 
 
 
Equity in nonconsolidated investments

 
128,983

 
 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment
13,001,089

 
11,062,136

Less: accumulated depreciation and depletion
3,174,022

 
2,728,374

Net property, plant and equipment
9,827,067

 
8,333,762

 
 
 
 
Other assets
77,367

 
73,883

Total assets
$
11,763,652

 
$
9,792,053

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

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EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited)

 
September 30, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
 
(Thousands)
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 

 
 

Current portion of long-term debt
$
11,011

 
$
11,162

Accounts payable
370,314

 
330,329

Other current liabilities
235,470

 
181,919

Total current liabilities
616,795

 
523,410

 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
2,983,252

 
2,490,354

Deferred income taxes
1,713,824

 
1,655,765

Other liabilities and credits
274,531

 
258,396

Total liabilities
5,588,402

 
4,927,925

 
 
 
 
Equity:
 

 
 

Stockholders’ equity:
 

 
 

Common stock, no par value, authorized 320,000 shares, shares issued:
175,384 at September 30, 2014 and 175,684 at December 31, 2013
1,880,849

 
1,869,843

Treasury stock, shares at cost: 23,878 at September 30, 2014
and 24,800 at December 31, 2013
(431,067
)
 
(447,738
)
Retained earnings
2,936,387

 
2,567,980

Accumulated other comprehensive income
21,920

 
44,703

Total common stockholders’ equity
4,408,089

 
4,034,788

Noncontrolling interests in consolidated subsidiaries
1,767,161

 
829,340

Total equity
6,175,250

 
4,864,128

Total liabilities and equity
$
11,763,652

 
$
9,792,053

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


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Table of Contents



EQT CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Statements of Condensed Consolidated Equity (Unaudited)
 
 
Common Stock
 
 
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income
 
Noncontrolling
Interests in
Consolidated
Subsidiaries
 
 
 
Shares
Outstanding
 
No
Par Value
 
Retained
Earnings
 
 
 
Total
Equity
 
(Thousands)
Balance, January 1, 2013
150,109

 
$
1,308,771

 
$
2,195,502

 
$
99,547

 
$
284,982

 
$
3,888,802

Net income
 

 
 

 
275,367

 
 

 
30,642

 
306,009

Other comprehensive loss
 

 
 

 
 

 
(22,372
)
 
 

 
(22,372
)
Dividends ($0.09 per share)
 

 
 

 
(13,565
)
 
 

 
 

 
(13,565
)
Stock-based compensation plans, net
607

 
69,497

 
 

 
 

 
311

 
69,808

Distributions to noncontrolling interests ($1.12 per common unit)
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(21,160
)
 
(21,160
)
Issuance of common units of EQT Midstream Partners, LP


 


 


 


 
529,442

 
529,442

Deferred taxes related to public offering of common units of EQT Midstream Partners, LP


 
(1,641
)
 


 


 


 
(1,641
)
Balance, September 30, 2013
150,716

 
$
1,376,627

 
$
2,457,304

 
$
77,175

 
$
824,217

 
$
4,735,323

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, January 1, 2014
150,884

 
$
1,422,105

 
$
2,567,980

 
$
44,703

 
$
829,340

 
$
4,864,128

Net income
 

 
 

 
401,669

 
 

 
79,824

 
481,493

Other comprehensive loss
 

 
 

 
 

 
(22,783
)
 
 

 
(22,783
)
Dividends ($0.09 per share)
 

 
 

 
(13,653
)
 
 

 
 

 
(13,653
)
Stock-based compensation plans, net
922

 
40,436

 
 

 
 

 
1,685

 
42,121

Distributions to noncontrolling interests ($1.47 per common unit)
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(46,155
)
 
(46,155
)
Issuance of common units of EQT Midstream Partners, LP
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
902,467

 
902,467

Repurchase and retirement of common stock
(300
)
 
(12,759
)
 
(19,609
)
 
 

 
 

 
(32,368
)
Balance, September 30, 2014
151,506

 
$
1,449,782

 
$
2,936,387

 
$
21,920

 
$
1,767,161

 
$
6,175,250

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


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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

2
A.                         Financial Statements
 
The accompanying unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) for interim financial information and with the requirements of Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X.  Accordingly, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by United States GAAP for complete financial statements.  In the opinion of management, these statements include all adjustments (consisting of only normal recurring accruals, unless otherwise disclosed in this Form 10-Q) necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position of EQT Corporation and subsidiaries as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , the results of its operations for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 and its cash flows for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 .  In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, references to “we,” “us,” “our,” “EQT,” “EQT Corporation,” and the “Company” refer collectively to EQT Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries.
 
Certain previously reported amounts have been reclassified to conform to the current year presentation. The impact of these reclassifications were not material to any of the previously issued financial statements. Additionally, financial statements and notes to the financial statements previously reported in prior periods have been recast to reflect the presentation of discontinued operations as a result of the Equitable Gas Transaction (refer to Note B for additional information regarding discontinued operations).
 
The balance sheet at December 31, 2013 has been derived from the audited financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by United States GAAP for complete financial statements.
 
For further information, refer to the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in EQT Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 as well as “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” beginning on page 22 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 
B.                         Discontinued Operations
 
On December 17, 2013, the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary Distribution Holdco, LLC (Holdco) completed the disposition of their ownership interests in Equitable Gas Company, LLC (Equitable Gas) and Equitable Homeworks, LLC (Homeworks) to PNG Companies LLC (the Equitable Gas Transaction). Equitable Gas and Homeworks comprised substantially all of the Company’s previously reported Distribution segment.  The financial information of Equitable Gas and Homeworks is reflected as discontinued operations for all periods presented in these financial statements.  Prior periods have been recast to reflect this presentation.
 
During the second quarter of 2014 , the Company received additional cash proceeds of $7.4 million as a result of post-closing purchase price adjustments for the Equitable Gas Transaction. The Company recognized an additional gain of $3.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 , included in income from discontinued operations, net of tax, in the Statements of Consolidated Income. As consideration for the Equitable Gas Transaction, the Company received total cash proceeds of $748.0 million , select midstream assets (including the Allegheny Valley Connector) with a fair value of $140.3 million and other contractual assets with a fair value of $32.5 million .
 
The following table summarizes the components of discontinued operations activity:
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
(Thousands)  
Operating revenues
$

 
$
36,348

 
$

 
$
246,967

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from discontinued operations before income taxes

 
3,579

 
3,077

 
67,169

Income tax expense

 
1,288

 
1,305

 
24,278

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax
$

 
$
2,291

 
$
1,772

 
$
42,891



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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

C.                         EQT Midstream Partners, LP
 
In 2012, the Company formed EQT Midstream Partners, LP (the Partnership) (NYSE: EQM) to own, operate, acquire and develop midstream assets in the Appalachian Basin. The Partnership provides midstream services to the Company and other third parties. The Partnership is consolidated in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The Company records the noncontrolling interest of the public limited partners in its financial statements.
 
On May 7, 2014, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company contributed the Jupiter gathering system to EQM Gathering Opco, LLC (EQM Gathering), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Partnership, in exchange for $1.18 billion (the Jupiter Transaction). EQM Gathering is consolidated by the Company as it is still controlled by the Company.
 
On May 7, 2014, the Partnership completed an underwritten public offering of 12,362,500 common units, which included the full exercise of the underwriters’ overallotment option, representing Partnership limited partner interests. The Partnership received net proceeds of approximately $902.5 million from the offering, after deducting the underwriters’ discount and offering expenses of approximately $34 million . As of September 30, 2014 , the Company held a 2% general partner interest, all incentive distribution rights and a 34.4% limited partner interest in the Partnership. The Company’s limited partner interest in the Partnership consists of 3,959,952 common units and 17,339,718 subordinated units.
 
While the Company did not record a gain for accounting purposes as a result of the Jupiter Transaction, the Company recognized a taxable gain for federal income tax purposes of approximately $569.3 million in 2014. In conjunction with the Jupiter Transaction, $500.0 million of the proceeds received were placed into a qualified trust account pursuant to a deferred exchange agreement, that allows for the use of the funds in a potential like-kind exchange for certain identified assets. The Company has utilized $161.5 million of these funds primarily in connection with the exchange of certain assets with Range Resources Corporation (see Note K for a description of the Range Transaction) during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 .

During the third quarter of 2014, the Partnership issued 4.00% Senior Notes due 2024 ( 4.00% Senior Notes) in the aggregate principal amount of $ 500.0 million . Net proceeds of the offering of $ 492.4 million , after deducting a discount of $2.9 million and debt issuance costs of $4.7 million , were used to repay all of the outstanding borrowings under the Partnership’s credit facility and for general partnership purposes. The payment obligations under the 4.00% Senior Notes are unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured basis, by each of the Partnership’s existing and future subsidiaries that guarantees the Partnership’s credit facility (other than EQT Midstream Finance Corporation). The 4.00% Senior Notes contain covenants that limit the Partnership’s ability to, among other things, incur certain liens securing indebtedness, engage in certain sale and leaseback transactions, and enter into certain consolidations, mergers, conveyances, transfers or leases of all or substantially all of the Partnership’s assets.

During the third quarter of 2013, the Partnership and Equitrans, L.P. (Equitrans) entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger with EQT and Sunrise Pipeline, LLC (the Sunrise Transaction), a wholly-owned subsidiary of EQT and the owner of the Sunrise Pipeline, pursuant to which Sunrise Pipeline, LLC merged into Equitrans, in exchange for a $ 507.5 million cash payment, 479,184 common units of the Partnership and 267,942 general partner units of the Partnership.

D.                         Financial Information by Business Segment
 
Operating segments are revenue-producing components of the enterprise for which separate financial information is produced internally and which are subject to evaluation by the Company’s chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources.
 
The Company reports its operations in two segments, which reflect its lines of business.  The EQT Production segment includes the Company’s exploration for, and development and production of, natural gas, natural gas liquids (NGLs) and a limited amount of crude oil in the Appalachian and Permian Basins.  The EQT Midstream segment’s operations include the natural gas gathering, transportation, storage and marketing activities of the Company, including ownership and operation of the Partnership.
 
Operating segments are evaluated on their contribution to the Company’s consolidated results based on operating income. Other income, interest and income taxes are managed on a consolidated basis. Headquarters’ costs are billed to the operating segments based upon an allocation of the headquarters’ annual operating budget.  Differences between budget and actual headquarters’ expenses are not allocated to the operating segments.
 

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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

The Company’s management reviews and reports the EQT Production segment results with third-party transportation and processing costs reflected as a deduction from operating revenues. Third-party costs incurred to gather, process and transport gas produced by EQT Production to market sales points are recorded as a portion of transportation and processing costs in the Statements of Consolidated Income. Some transportation costs incurred by the Company are marketed for resale and are not incurred to transport gas produced by EQT Production.  These transportation costs are reflected as a deduction from operating revenues.

Substantially all of the Company’s operating revenues, income from operations and assets are generated or located in United States. 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
(Thousands)
Revenues from external customers:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

EQT Production
$
363,126

 
$
304,231

 
$
1,152,971

 
$
860,874

EQT Midstream
173,856

 
155,677

 
502,427

 
452,731

Third-party transportation and processing costs (a)
48,561

 
34,316

 
144,622

 
104,884

Less intersegment revenues, net (b)
(6,820
)
 
(14,618
)
 
(33,504
)
 
(49,907
)
Total
$
578,723

 
$
479,606

 
$
1,766,516

 
$
1,368,582

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

EQT Production (c) 
$
140,036

 
$
97,600

 
$
561,930

 
$
276,753

EQT Midstream (c)
93,600

 
78,533

 
265,196

 
224,993

Unallocated expenses (d)
(2,133
)
 
(9,069
)
 
(14,061
)
 
(28,223
)
Total operating income
$
231,503

 
$
167,064

 
$
813,065

 
$
473,523


Reconciliation of operating income to income from continuing operations:
Other income
$
1,004

 
$
2,310

 
$
6,134

 
$
6,632

Interest expense
35,717

 
35,554

 
99,558

 
110,690

Income taxes
64,496

 
33,501

 
239,920

 
106,347

Income from continuing operations
$
132,294

 
$
100,319

 
$
479,721

 
$
263,118

 
 
As of
September 30, 2014
 
As of
  December 31, 2013
 
(Thousands)
Segment assets:
 

 
 

EQT Production
$
7,549,424

 
$
6,359,065

EQT Midstream
2,609,926

 
2,514,429

Total operating segments
10,159,350

 
8,873,494

Headquarters assets, including cash and short-term investments
1,604,302

 
918,559

Total assets
$
11,763,652

 
$
9,792,053

 
(a)
This amount reflects the reclassification of third-party transportation and processing costs from operating revenues to transportation and processing costs at the consolidated level.
(b)
Includes entries to eliminate intercompany natural gas sales from EQT Production to EQT Midstream. The Company also had $8.9 million and $28.9 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 , respectively, of intercompany eliminations for transmission and storage services between EQT Midstream and the Company’s previously reported Distribution segment that were recast to discontinued operations as a result of the Equitable Gas Transaction. These recast adjustments had no impact on the Company’s net income for either of the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 .
(c)
Gains on sales / exchanges of assets of $31.0 million and $6.8 million are included in EQT Production and EQT Midstream operating income, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 .
(d)
Unallocated expenses consist primarily of incentive compensation expense, administrative costs and, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 , corporate overhead charges previously allocated to the Distribution segment that were reclassified to Headquarters as part of the recast of the 2013 financial information in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

11

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
(Thousands)
Depreciation, depletion and amortization:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

EQT Production
$
154,031

 
$
150,637

 
$
421,521

 
$
419,619

EQT Midstream
21,709

 
18,930

 
63,848

 
55,601

Other
(162
)
 
(94
)
 
(461
)
 
(238
)
Total
$
175,578

 
$
169,473

 
$
484,908

 
$
474,982

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Expenditures for segment assets (e):
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

EQT Production (f)
$
511,971

 
$
332,370

 
$
1,855,518

 
$
977,394

EQT Midstream
136,589

 
111,593

 
333,813

 
254,205

Other
805

 
942

 
2,167

 
3,162

Total
$
649,365

 
$
444,905

 
$
2,191,498

 
$
1,234,761

 
(e)     Includes non-cash capital expenditures of $25.0 million and $28.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and $68.8 million and $39.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, for certain labor overhead costs including a portion of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and non-cash capital expense accruals that have not yet been paid.
(f)      Expenditures for segment assets in the EQT Production segment include $37.2 million and $20.5 million for property acquisitions during the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and $646.9 million and $162.1 million for property acquisitions during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Included within the $646.9 million of property acquisitions during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is $159.0 million of cash capital expenditures and $353.1 million of non-cash capital expenditures for the exchange of assets with Range Resources Corporation (described in Note K).
 
E.                         Derivative Instruments
 
The Company’s primary market risk exposure is the volatility of future prices for natural gas and NGLs, which can affect the operating results of the Company primarily at EQT Production. The Company’s overall objective in its hedging program is to protect cash flows from undue exposure to the risk of changing commodity prices.
 
The Company uses over the counter (OTC) derivative commodity instruments, primarily swap and collar agreements, that are primarily placed with financial institutions and the creditworthiness of these institutions is regularly monitored. The Company also uses exchange traded futures contracts that obligate the Company to buy or sell a designated commodity at a future date for a specified price and quantity at a specified location. Swap agreements involve payments to or receipts from counterparties based on the differential between two prices for the commodity. Collar agreements require the counterparty to pay the Company if the index price falls below the floor price and the Company to pay the counterparty if the index price rises above the cap price. The Company also engages in basis swaps to protect earnings from undue exposure to the risk of geographic disparities in commodity prices and interest rate swaps to hedge exposure to interest rate fluctuations on potential debt issuances. During the third quarter of 2014, the Company granted 50,000 dth per day of calendar year 2016 swaptions to counterparties in exchange for calendar year 2015 collars with premium pricing. Swaption contracts grant the counterparty the option to enter into a fixed price swap agreement with the Company at a future date. Each 2016 swaption and associated 2015 collar was executed contemporaneously with a single counterparty, and no cash was exchanged at the inception of the contracts.
 
The Company recognizes all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value on a gross basis. These assets are reported in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as derivative instruments at fair value and the liabilities are reported within other current liabilities in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. These derivative instruments are reported as either current assets or current liabilities due to their highly liquid nature. The Company can net settle its derivative instruments at any time.
 
The accounting for the changes in fair value of the Company’s derivative instruments depends on the use of the derivative instruments.  To the extent that a derivative instrument has been designated and qualifies as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in fair value of the derivative instrument is reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (OCI), net of tax, and is subsequently reclassified into the Statements of Consolidated Income in the same period or periods during which the forecasted transaction affects earnings.  In conjunction with the exchange of assets with Range Resources Corporation (see Note K), the Company de-designated certain derivative instruments that were previously designated as cash flow hedges

12

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

because it was probable that the forecasted transactions would not occur, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $28.0 million recorded within gain on sale / exchange of assets in the Statements of Consolidated Income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 .  Any subsequent changes in fair value of these derivative instruments are recognized within operating revenues in the Statements of Consolidated Income each period.
 
For a derivative instrument designated and qualified as a fair value hedge, the change in fair value of the instrument was recognized as a portion of operating revenues in the Statements of Consolidated Income each period. In addition, the change in the fair value of the hedged item (natural gas inventory) was recognized as a portion of operating revenues in the Statements of Consolidated Income. The Company elected to exclude the spot/forward differential for the assessment of effectiveness of the fair value hedges.
 
Most of the derivative commodity instruments used by the Company to hedge its exposure to variability in expected future cash flows associated with the fluctuations in the price of natural gas related to the Company’s forecasted sale of equity production have been designated and qualify as cash flow hedges. Historically, some of the derivative commodity instruments used by the Company to hedge its exposure to adverse changes in the market price of natural gas stored in the ground were designated and qualified as fair value hedges. These fair value hedges were de-designated effective October 1, 2013. Basis swaps and the calendar 2016 swaptions and associated 2015 collars are not designated as hedges. Any hedging ineffectiveness and any change in fair value of derivative instruments that have not been designated as hedges are recognized in the Statements of Consolidated Income each period.
 
The Company also enters into fixed price natural gas sales agreements that are satisfied by physical delivery.  These physical commodity contracts qualify for the normal purchases and sales exception and are not subject to derivative instrument accounting.
 
Exchange-traded instruments are generally settled with offsetting positions. OTC arrangements require settlement in cash. Settlements of derivative commodity instruments are reported as a component of cash flows from operations in the accompanying Statements of Condensed Consolidated Cash Flows. 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Commodity derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
(Thousands)
Amount of gain (loss) recognized in OCI (effective portion), net of tax
$
23,160

 
$
17,733

 
$
(29,489
)
 
$
38,561

Amount of gain reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax, into gain on sale / exchange of assets due to forecasted transactions probable to not occur

 

 
16,735

 

Amount of gain (loss) reclassified from accumulated OCI into operating revenues (effective portion), net of tax
5,340

 
26,020

 
(22,806
)
 
62,343

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in operating revenues (ineffective portion) (a)
34,348

 
3,436

 
13,075

 
(4,518
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Amount of loss reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax, into interest expense (effective portion)
$
(36
)
 
$
(36
)
 
$
(108
)
 
$
(108
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Commodity derivatives designated as fair value hedges (b)
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Amount of loss recognized in operating revenues for fair value commodity contracts
$

 
$
(502
)
 
$

 
$
(1,341
)
Fair value (loss) gain recognized in operating revenues for inventory designated as hedged item

 
(76
)
 

 
386

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Amount of gain (loss) recognized in operating revenues
$
1,821

 
$
(943
)
 
$
(16,058
)
 
$
307


(a)   No amounts have been excluded from effectiveness testing of cash flow hedges.
(b)   For the three months ended September 30, 2013 , the net impact on operating revenues consisted of a $1.6 million loss due to the exclusion of the spot/forward differential from the assessment of effectiveness of the fair value hedges and a $1.0 million gain due to changes in basis. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013 , the net impact on operating revenues consisted of a $0.5 million gain due to the exclusion of the spot/forward differential from the assessment of effectiveness of the fair value hedges and a $1.5 million loss due to changes in basis.

13

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

 
As of
September 30, 2014
 
As of
December 31, 2013
 
(Thousands)  
Asset derivatives
 

 
 

Commodity derivatives designated as hedging instruments
$
61,332

 
$
104,430

Commodity derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
40,210

 
3,217

Total asset derivatives
$
101,542

 
$
107,647

 
 
 
 
Liability derivatives
 

 
 

Commodity derivatives designated as hedging instruments
$
9,146

 
$
27,618

Commodity derivatives not designated as hedging instruments
19,662

 
2,033

Total liability derivatives (included in other current liabilities)
$
28,808

 
$
29,651

 
The net fair value of derivative commodity instruments changed during the first nine months of 2014 primarily as a result of decreased New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) forward prices and settlements.  The absolute quantities of the Company’s derivative commodity instruments that have been designated and qualify as cash flow hedges totaled 353 Bcf and 398 Bcf as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , respectively, and are primarily related to natural gas swaps and collars. The open positions at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 had maturities extending through December 2018 and December 2017, respectively.
 
The Company deferred net gains of $38.3 million and $61.7 million in accumulated OCI, net of tax, as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , respectively, associated with the effective portion of the change in fair value of its derivative commodity instruments designated as cash flow hedges. Assuming no change in price or new transactions, the Company estimates that approximately $23.7 million of net unrealized gains on its derivative commodity instruments reflected in accumulated OCI, net of tax, as of September 30, 2014 will be recognized in earnings during the next twelve months due to the settlement of hedged transactions.
 
The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative contracts.  This credit exposure is limited to derivative contracts with a positive fair value, which may change as market prices change. The Company believes that NYMEX traded futures contracts have limited credit risk because Commodity Futures Trading Commission regulations are in place to protect exchange participants, including the Company, from potential financial instability of the exchange members. The Company’s OTC derivative instruments are primarily placed with financial institutions and thus are subject to events that would impact those companies individually as well as that industry as a whole.
 
The Company utilizes various processes and analysis to monitor and evaluate its credit risk exposures.  These include closely monitoring current market conditions, counterparty credit fundamentals and credit default swap rates.  Credit exposure is controlled through credit approvals and limits based on counterparty credit fundamentals. To manage the level of credit risk, the Company enters into transactions with financial counterparties that are of investment grade or better, enters into netting agreements whenever possible and may obtain collateral or other security.
 
When the net fair value of any of the Company’s swap agreements represents a liability to the Company which is in excess of the agreed-upon threshold between the Company and the financial institution acting as counterparty, the counterparty requires the Company to remit funds to the counterparty as a margin deposit for the derivative liability which is in excess of the threshold amount.  The Company records these deposits as a current asset.  When the net fair value of any of the Company’s swap agreements represents an asset to the Company which is in excess of the agreed-upon threshold between the Company and the financial institution acting as counterparty, the Company requires the counterparty to remit funds as margin deposits in an amount equal to the portion of the derivative asset which is in excess of the threshold amount. The Company records a current liability for such amounts received.  The Company had no such deposits in its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2014 or December 31, 2013 .
 

14

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

When the Company enters into exchange-traded natural gas contracts, exchanges may require the Company to remit funds to the corresponding broker as good-faith deposits to guard against the risks associated with changing market conditions.  The Company must make such deposits based on an established initial margin requirement as well as the net liability position, if any, of the fair value of the associated contracts.  The Company records these deposits as a current asset in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  In the case where the fair value of such contracts is in a net asset position, the broker may remit funds to the Company, in which case the Company records a current liability for such amounts received. The initial margin requirements are established by the exchanges based on the price, volatility and the time to expiration of the related contract.  The margin requirements are subject to change at the exchanges’ discretion.  The Company recorded current assets of $0.2 million and $0.3 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , respectively, for such deposits in its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
The Company recognizes all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value on a gross basis. Margin deposits remitted to financial counterparties or received from financial counterparties related to OTC natural gas swap agreements and options and any funds remitted to or deposits received from the Company’s brokers are recorded on a gross basis.  The Company has netting agreements with financial institutions and its brokers that permit net settlement of gross commodity derivative assets against gross commodity derivative liabilities. The table below reflects the impact of netting agreements and margin deposits on gross derivative assets and liabilities as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013

As of September 30, 2014
 
Derivative
instruments,
recorded in the
Condensed
Consolidated
Balance
Sheet, gross
 
Derivative
instruments
subject to
master
netting
agreements
 
Margin
deposits
remitted to
counterparties
 
Derivative
instruments,
net
 
 
(Thousands)
Asset derivatives:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value
 
$
101,542

 
$
(23,265
)
 
$

 
$
78,277

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liability derivatives:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value (included in other current liabilities)
 
$
28,808

 
$
(23,265
)
 
$
(204
)
 
$
5,339

 
As of December 31, 2013
 
Derivative
instruments,
recorded in the
Condensed
Consolidated
Balance
Sheet, gross
 
Derivative
instruments
subject to 
master
netting
agreements
 
Margin
deposits
remitted to
counterparties
 
Derivative
instruments,
net
 
 
(Thousands)
Asset derivatives:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value
 
$
107,647

 
$
(20,843
)
 
$

 
$
86,804

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liability derivatives:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value (included in other current liabilities)
 
$
29,651

 
$
(20,843
)
 
$
(266
)
 
$
8,542

 
Certain of the Company’s derivative instrument contracts provide that if the Company’s credit ratings by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P) or Moody’s Investors Services (Moody’s) are lowered below investment grade, additional collateral must be deposited with the counterparty.  The additional collateral can be up to 100% of the derivative liability.  As of September 30, 2014 , the aggregate fair value of all derivative instruments with credit risk-related contingent features that were in a net liability position was $6.8 million , for which the Company had no collateral posted on September 30, 2014 .  If the Company’s credit rating by S&P or Moody’s had been downgraded below investment grade to BB+ by S&P or Ba1 by Moody's on September 30, 2014 , the Company would have been required to post $0.6 million of additional collateral under the agreements with the respective counterparties.  Investment grade refers to the quality of the Company’s credit as assessed by one or more credit rating agencies. The Company’s senior unsecured debt was rated BBB by S&P and Baa3 by Moody’s at September 30, 2014 .  In order to be considered investment grade, the Company must be rated BBB- or higher by S&P and Baa3 or higher by Moody’s.  Anything below these ratings is considered non-investment grade. 

15

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

F.             Fair Value Measurements
 
The Company records its financial instruments, principally derivative instruments, at fair value in its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.  The Company has an established process for determining fair value which is based on quoted market prices, where available.  If quoted market prices are not available, fair value is based upon models that use as inputs market-based parameters, including but not limited to forward curves, discount rates, volatilities and nonperformance risk.  Nonperformance risk considers the effect of the Company’s credit standing on the fair value of liabilities and the effect of the counterparty’s credit standing on the fair value of assets.  The Company estimates nonperformance risk by analyzing publicly available market information, including a comparison of the yield on debt instruments with credit ratings similar to the Company’s or counterparty’s credit rating and the yield of a risk-free instrument.  The Company also considers credit default swaps rates where applicable.

The Company has categorized its assets and liabilities recorded at fair value into a three-level fair value hierarchy, based on the priority of the inputs to the valuation technique.  The fair value hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3).  Assets and liabilities included in Level 1 include the Company’s futures contracts.  Assets and liabilities in Level 2 primarily include the Company’s swap and collar agreements. As of December 31, 2013 , the Company transferred $54.4 million of derivative instruments, primarily collars, from Level 3 into Level 2.
 
The fair value of the assets and liabilities included in Level 2 is based on standard industry income approach models that use significant observable inputs, including NYMEX forward curves, LIBOR-based discount rates and basis forward curves.  The Company’s collars and swaptions are valued using standard industry income approach option models. The Company's collars were historically classified in Level 3 because the volatility assumption in the option pricing model was not observable over the full duration of the collars.  Effective December 31, 2013, the volatility assumption in the option pricing model was, and at September 30, 2014 continued to be, observable for the duration of the term of the collars outstanding. This change did not have a significant impact on the fair value of the derivative instruments previously included in Level 3. The significant observable inputs utilized by the option pricing models include NYMEX forward curves, natural gas volatilities and LIBOR-based discount rates.
 
The Company uses NYMEX forward curves to value futures, commodity swaps, collars and swaptions. The NYMEX forward curves, LIBOR-based discount rates, natural gas volatilities and basis forward curves are validated to external sources at least monthly.
 
The following assets and liabilities were measured at fair value on a recurring basis during the applicable period:
 
 
 
 
Fair value measurements at reporting date using
Description
 
As of
September 30, 
2014
 
Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
other observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
 
 
(Thousands)
Assets
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value
 
$
101,542

 
$
17

 
$
101,525

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value (included in other current liabilities)
 
$
28,808

 
$
6

 
$
28,802

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
Fair value measurements at reporting date using
Description
 
As of
December 31, 2013
 
Quoted prices in
active markets for
identical assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
other observable
inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
unobservable
inputs
(Level 3)
 
 
(Thousands)
Assets
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value
 
$
107,647

 
$
240

 
$
107,407

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Derivative instruments, at fair value (included in other current liabilities)
 
$
29,651

 
$
315

 
$
29,336

 
$


16

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

 
Fair value measurements using significant
unobservable inputs (Level 3)
Derivative instruments, at fair value, net
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
(Thousands)
Beginning of period
$

 
$
74,688

 
$

 
$
90,714

Total gains or losses:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Included in earnings

 
414

 

 
(341
)
Included in OCI

 
2,067

 

 
3,459

Purchases

 
(79
)
 

 
(7
)
Settlements

 
(8,769
)
 

 
(25,504
)
Transfers in and/or out of Level 3

 

 

 

End of period
$

 
$
68,321

 
$

 
$
68,321

 
Gains of $0.4 million and losses of $0.8 million are included in earnings in the table above for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 , respectively, attributable to the change in unrealized gains or losses relating to assets held as of September 30, 2013 .
 
The carrying value of cash equivalents approximates fair value due to the short maturity of the instruments; these are considered Level 1 fair values.
 
The Company estimates the fair value of its debt using its established fair value methodology.  Because not all of the Company’s debt is actively traded, the fair value of the debt is a Level 2 fair value measurement.  Fair value for non-traded debt obligations is estimated using a standard industry income approach model which utilizes a discount rate based on market rates for debt with similar remaining time to maturity and credit risk.  The estimated fair value of long-term debt on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was approximately $3.3 billion and $2.8 billion , respectively.
 
For information on the fair value of certain assets acquired from the exchange of properties with Range Resources Corporation, see Note K.
 
G.                        Income Taxes
 
The Company estimates an annual effective income tax rate based on projected results for the year and applies this rate to income before taxes to calculate income tax expense.  All of the Partnership’s earnings are included in the Company’s net income. However, the Company is not required to record income tax expense with respect to the portion of the Partnership’s earnings allocated to its noncontrolling public limited partners, which reduces the Company’s effective tax rate.  Any refinements made due to subsequent information that affects the estimated annual effective income tax rate are reflected as adjustments in the current period.
 
The Company’s effective income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was 33.3% , compared to 28.8% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 .  The increase in the effective income tax rate is primarily attributable to increased state tax expense in 2014 primarily due to higher natural gas prices and production sales volumes, a reduction in a state net operating loss valuation allowance related to bonus depreciation in 2013 and a reduction to tax reserves in 2013, partially offset by the increase in the Partnership earnings allocated to the noncontrolling limited partners resulting from the Partnership’s May 2014 underwritten public offering of common units.
 
There were no material changes to the Company’s methodology for determining unrecognized tax benefits during the three months ended September 30, 2014 .  The Company believes that it is appropriately reserved for uncertain tax positions.
 

17

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

H.                        Revolving Credit Facilities
 
As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , the Company had no loans or letters of credit outstanding under its revolving credit facility. The Company did not have any short-term loans outstanding under its revolving credit facility at any time during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 . The maximum amount of the Company’s outstanding short-term loans at any time was $140.5 million and $178.5 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 , respectively. The average daily balance of short-term loans outstanding was approximately $21.5 million and $16.1 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 , respectively, at weighted average interest rates of 1.61% and 1.65% , respectively.
 
As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , the Partnership had no loans or letters of credit outstanding under its revolving credit facility. The maximum amount of outstanding short-term loans under the Partnership’s revolving credit facility at any time during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $330.0 million and $450.0 million , respectively. The average daily balance of short-term loans outstanding was approximately $132.7 million and $159.4 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 , respectively, at weighted average annual interest rates of 1.66% and 1.67% , respectively. The Partnership had no short-term loans outstanding at any time during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 .
 
The Company incurred commitment fees averaging approximately 6 basis points for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , and 17 basis points and 18 basis points for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, to maintain credit availability under its revolving credit facility. The Partnership incurred commitment fees averaging approximately 6 basis points for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , and 18 and 19 basis points for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, to maintain credit availability under its revolving credit facility.
 
I.                             Earnings Per Share
 
Potentially dilutive securities, consisting of options and restricted stock awards, which were included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share, totaled 772,873 and 984,388 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and 935,027 and 856,112 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively.  There were no options to purchase common stock which were excluded from potentially dilutive securities because they were anti-dilutive for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 .  The impact of the Partnership’s dilutive units did not have a material impact on the Company’s earnings per share calculations for any of the periods presented.
 

18

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

J.         Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income by Component
 
The following tables explain the changes in accumulated OCI by component during the applicable period:
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014
 
Natural gas cash
flow hedges, net
of tax
 
Interest rate
cash flow
hedges, net
of tax
 
Pension and
other post-
retirement
benefits liability
adjustment,
net of tax
 
Accumulated
OCI (loss), net
of tax
 
(Thousands)
Accumulated OCI (loss), net   of tax, as of July 1, 2014
$
20,461

 
$
(1,060
)
 
$
(15,512
)
 
$
3,889

Gains recognized in accumulated OCI, net of tax
23,160

(a)

 

 
23,160

(Gains) losses reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax
(5,340
)
(a)
36

(a)
175

(b)
(5,129
)
Change in accumulated other comprehensive income, net of tax
17,820

 
36

 
175

 
18,031

Accumulated OCI (loss),   net of tax, as of September   30, 2014
$
38,281

 
$
(1,024
)
 
$
(15,337
)
 
$
21,920

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
Natural gas cash
flow hedges, net
of tax
 
Interest rate
cash flow
hedges, net
of tax
 
Pension and
other post-
retirement
benefits liability
adjustment,
net of tax
 
Accumulated
OCI (loss), net
of tax
 
(Thousands)
Accumulated OCI (loss), net   of tax, as of July 1, 2013
$
122,693

 
$
(1,204
)
 
$
(36,496
)
 
$
84,993

Gains recognized in accumulated OCI, net of tax
17,733

(a)

 

 
17,733

(Gains) losses reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax
(26,020
)
(a)
36

(a)
433

(b)
(25,551
)
Change in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
(8,287
)
 
36

 
433

 
(7,818
)
Accumulated OCI (loss),   net of tax, as of September   30, 2013
$
114,406

 
$
(1,168
)
 
$
(36,063
)
 
$
77,175


(a)   See Note E for additional information.
(b)   This accumulated OCI reclassification is attributable to the net actuarial loss and net prior service cost related to the Company’s defined benefit pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans.  See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 for additional information.

19

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014
 
Natural gas cash
flow hedges, net
of tax
 
Interest rate
cash flow
hedges, net
of tax
 
Pension and
other post-
retirement
benefits liability
adjustment,
net of tax
 
Accumulated
OCI (loss), net
of tax
 
(Thousands)
Accumulated OCI (loss), net   of tax, as of January 1, 2014
$
61,699

 
$
(1,132
)
 
$
(15,864
)
 
$
44,703

Losses recognized in accumulated OCI, net of tax
(29,489
)
(a)

 

 
(29,489
)
Gain reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax, into gain on sale / exchange of assets
(16,735
)
(a)

 

 
(16,735
)
Losses reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax
22,806

(a)
108

(a)
527

(b)
23,441

Change in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
(23,418
)
 
108

 
527

 
(22,783
)
Accumulated OCI (loss),   net of tax, as of September   30, 2014
$
38,281

 
$
(1,024
)
 
$
(15,337
)
 
$
21,920

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
Natural gas cash
flow hedges, net
of tax
 
Interest rate
cash flow
hedges, net
of tax
 
Pension and
other post-
retirement
benefits liability
adjustment,
net of tax
 
Accumulated
OCI (loss), net
of tax
 
(Thousands)
Accumulated OCI (loss), net   of tax, as of January 1, 2013
$
138,188

 
$
(1,276
)
 
$
(37,365
)
 
$
99,547

Gains recognized in accumulated OCI, net of tax
38,561

(a)

 

 
38,561

(Gains) losses reclassified from accumulated OCI, net of tax
(62,343
)
(a)
108

(a)
1,302

(b)
(60,933
)
Change in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax
(23,782
)
 
108

 
1,302

 
(22,372
)
Accumulated OCI (loss),   net of tax, as of September   30, 2013
$
114,406

 
$
(1,168
)
 
$
(36,063
)
 
$
77,175

 
(a)   See Note E for additional information.
(b)   This accumulated OCI reclassification is attributable to the net actuarial loss and net prior service cost related to the Company’s defined benefit pension plans and other post-retirement benefit plans.  See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 for additional information.
 

20

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) 

K.        Sale and Exchange of Properties
 
In April 2014, the Company executed an agreement to exchange certain assets with Range Resources Corporation (Range).  The transaction closed on June 16, 2014.  The Company received approximately 73,000 net acres and approximately 900 producing wells, most of which are vertical wells, in the Permian Basin of Texas. In exchange, Range received  approximately 138,000 net acres in the Company’s Nora field of Virginia (Nora), the Company’s working interest in approximately 2,000 producing vertical wells in Nora, the Company’s remaining 50% ownership interest in Nora Gathering, LLC (Nora LLC), which owns the supporting gathering system in Nora, and $159.0 million in cash, subject to certain post-closing purchase price adjustments.  The Company accounted for its previous 50% ownership interest in Nora LLC under the equity method, and this investment was reflected within equity in nonconsolidated investments in the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheet. Portions of the exchange of assets with Range are intended to qualify as a tax free asset exchange.
 
The fair value of the assets exchanged by the Company was approximately $512.1 million , of which $1.8 million was recorded during the three months ended September 30, 2014 . Fair value of $318.3 million was allocated to the acquired acreage and $193.8 million was allocated to the acquired wells. The Company recorded a pre-tax gain of $37.7 million , which is included in gain on sale / exchange of assets in the Statements of Consolidated Income. The gain on sale / exchange of assets includes a $28.0 million pre-tax gain related to the de-designation of certain derivative instruments that were previously designated as cash flow hedges because it was probable that the forecasted transactions would not occur. As of September 30, 2014 , the gain on sale remained subject to final purchase price adjustments.
 
As the asset exchange qualifies as a business combination under United States GAAP, the fair value of the acquired assets was determined using a discounted cash flow model under the market approach. Significant unobservable inputs used in the analysis included the determination of estimated developed reserves, NYMEX forward pricing and comparable sales transactions, which classify the acquired assets as a Level 3 measurement.
 
L.        Recently Issued Accounting Standards
 
In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The standard requires an entity to recognize revenue in a manner that depicts the transfer of goods or services to customers at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. ASU No. 2014-09 will replace most of the existing revenue recognition requirements in United States GAAP when it becomes effective. The guidance in ASU No. 2014-09 is effective for public entities for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods therein. Early adoption is not permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the method of adoption and impact this standard will have on its financial statements and related disclosures.


21

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Item 2.  Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
 
CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS
 
Disclosures in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q contain certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.  Statements that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts are forward-looking and usually identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “could,” “would,” “will,” “may,” “forecast,” “approximate,” “expect,” “project,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe” and other words of similar meaning in connection with any discussion of future operating or financial matters.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q include the matters discussed in the section captioned “Outlook” in Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” and the expectations of plans, strategies, objectives and growth and anticipated financial and operational performance of the Company and its subsidiaries, including guidance regarding the Company’s strategy to develop its Marcellus and other reserves; drilling plans and programs (including the number, type, feet of pay and location of wells to be drilled and the availability of capital to complete these plans and programs); production sales volumes (including liquids volumes) and growth rates; the timing of the Company’s operational capacity on third-party pipelines; gathering and transmission volumes; infrastructure programs (including the timing, cost and capacity of the transmission and gathering expansion projects); the timing, cost, capacity and expected interconnects with facilities and pipelines of the proposed Ohio Valley Connector (OVC) and Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) projects; the ultimate terms, partners and structure of the MVP joint venture; technology (including drilling techniques); monetization transactions, including midstream asset sales (dropdowns) to EQT Midstream Partners, LP (Partnership) and other asset sales, joint ventures or other transactions involving the Company’s assets; natural gas prices and changes in basis; reserves; projected capital expenditures; the amount and timing of any repurchases under the Company’s share repurchase authorization; liquidity and financing requirements, including funding sources and availability; hedging strategy; the effects of government regulation and litigation; and tax position (including the Company’s ability to complete like-kind exchanges).  The forward-looking statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from projected results.  Accordingly, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as a prediction of actual results.  The Company has based these forward-looking statements on current expectations and assumptions about future events.  While the Company considers these expectations and assumptions to be reasonable, they are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, regulatory and other risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company’s control.  With respect to the proposed OVC and MVP projects, these risks and uncertainties include, among others, the ability to obtain regulatory permits and approvals, the ability to secure customer contracts, and the availability of skilled labor, equipment and materials. Additional risks and uncertainties that may affect the operations, performance and results of the Company’s business and forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those set forth under Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 , as updated by Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
 
Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and the Company does not intend to correct or update any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
 
In reviewing any agreements incorporated by reference in or filed with this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, please remember such agreements are included to provide information regarding the terms of such agreements and are not intended to provide any other factual or disclosure information about the Company. The agreements may contain representations and warranties by the Company, which should not in all instances be treated as categorical statements of fact, but rather as a way of allocating the risk to one of the parties to such agreements should those statements prove to be inaccurate. The representations and warranties were made only as of the date of the relevant agreement or such other date or dates as may be specified in such agreement and are subject to more recent developments.  Accordingly, these representations and warranties alone may not describe the actual state of affairs of the Company or its affiliates as of the date they were made or at any other time. 

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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

CORPORATE OVERVIEW
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 vs. Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
Income from continuing operations attributable to EQT Corporation for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was $98.6 million , $0.65 per diluted share, compared with $86.0 million , $0.57 per diluted share, for the three months ended September 30, 2013 . The $12.6 million increase in income from continuing operations attributable to EQT Corporation between periods was primarily attributable to a 25% increase in natural gas and natural gas liquid (NGL) volumes sold and increases in contracted transmission capacity and gathering revenues. These factors were partially offset by a 6% decrease in the average effective sales price for natural gas, higher income tax expense, higher net income attributable to noncontrolling interests and higher operating expenses.
 
The average effective sales price to EQT Corporation for production sales volumes was $ 3.88 per Mcfe for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $ 4.12 per Mcfe for the three months ended September 30, 2013 .  The average New York Mercantile Exchange (NYMEX) natural gas index price was $4.06 per MMBtu during the third quarter of 2014 , 13% higher than the average index price of $3.58 per MMBtu during the third quarter of 2013 . The $0.24 per Mcfe decrease in the average effective sales price was primarily due to lower Appalachian Basin basis partially offset by the favorable average NYMEX natural gas price and favorable hedging impacts compared to the same period of 2013 . The average effective sales price in the third quarter of 2014 included a $34.3 million gain for hedging ineffectiveness of financial hedges compared to a $3.4 million gain in the third quarter of 2013.
 
Income tax expense increased $31.0 million during the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the three months ended September 30, 2013 as a result of higher pre-tax income and a higher effective income tax rate. The Company’s effective income tax rate was 32.8% for the third quarter of 2014 compared to 25.0% for the third quarter of 2013 . The rate was higher in the 2014 period due to increased state income taxes in 2014 as a result of higher pre-tax income in higher rate jurisdictions and the release of previously recorded income tax reserves during the 2013 period. The overall rate was lower than the federal statutory rate for both periods as the Company consolidates 100% of the pre-tax income related to the noncontrolling public limited partners’ share of Partnership earnings, but is not required to record an income tax provision with respect to the portion of the Partnership’s earnings allocated to its noncontrolling public limited partners.
 
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax, was $ 2.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 . On December 17, 2013, the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Distribution Holdco, LLC (Holdco), transferred 100% of their ownership interests in Equitable Gas Company, LLC (Equitable Gas) and Equitable Homeworks, LLC (Homeworks) to PNG Companies LLC (PNG Companies).
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests of the Partnership was $ 33.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $ 14.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 . The $19.3 million increase was primarily the result of increased noncontrolling interests as a result of the Jupiter Transaction and higher capacity reservation revenues in the Partnership. The Partnership completed underwritten public offerings of additional common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership in May 2014 (in connection with the Jupiter Transaction described in Note C to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements) and in July 2013 (in connection with the Sunrise Transaction described in Note C to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements).
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 vs. Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
Income from continuing operations attributable to EQT Corporation for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was $399.9 million , $2.62 per diluted share, compared with $232.5 million , $1.54 per diluted share, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The $167.4 million increase in income from continuing operations attributable to EQT Corporation between periods was primarily attributable to a 23% increase in natural gas and NGL volumes sold, a 4% higher average effective sales price for natural gas and NGLs, a $37.7 million pre-tax gain recognized on the sale / exchange of assets with Range Resources Corporation (Range), a decrease in interest expense, and increases in contracted transmission capacity and gathering revenues. These factors were partially offset by higher net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, higher operating expenses and higher income tax expense.
 

23

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The average effective sales price to EQT Corporation for production sales volumes was $ 4.34 per Mcfe for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $ 4.19 per Mcfe for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The $0.15 per Mcfe increase in the average effective sales price was primarily due to an increase in the average NYMEX natural gas price net of hedging impacts and an increase in third-party gathering and transmission recoveries from the utilization of existing and new third-party transportation capacity to reach higher priced markets during the unusually cold winter in the first quarter of 2014 , partially offset by lower Appalachian Basin basis compared to the same period of 2013 . The NYMEX natural gas index price averaged $4.55 per MMBtu during the first nine months of 2014 , 24% higher than the average index price of $3.67 per MMBtu during the first nine months of 2013 .

Interest expense decreased $11.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2013 primarily as a result of higher capitalized interest of $31.1 million on increased Marcellus well development in the first nine months of 2014 compared to $16.7 million in the first nine months of 2013 , partially offset by additional interest expense of $3.3 million related to the Partnership's 4.00% Senior Notes due 2024 issued during the third quarter of 2014.
 
Income tax expense increased $133.6 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2013 primarily as a result of higher pre-tax income as well as a higher effective tax rate. The Company’s effective income tax rate increased to 33.3% from 28.8% .  The increase in the effective income tax rate from the first nine months of 2013 is primarily attributable to increased state tax expense in 2014 primarily due to higher natural gas prices and production sales volumes, a reduction in a state net operating loss valuation allowance related to bonus depreciation in 2013 and a reduction to tax reserves in 2013, partially offset by the impact of the Partnership's ownership structure. For both periods, the overall rate was lower than the federal statutory rate as the Company consolidates 100% of the pre-tax income related to the noncontrolling public limited partners’ share of partnership earnings, but is not required to record an income tax provision with respect to the portion of the Partnership’s earnings allocated to its noncontrolling public limited partners.
 
Income from discontinued operations, net of tax, was $ 1.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $ 42.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . On December 17, 2013, the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary Holdco transferred 100% of their ownership interests in Equitable Gas and Homeworks to PNG Companies.
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests of the Partnership was $ 79.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $ 30.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The $49.2 million increase was primarily the result of increased noncontrolling interests and higher capacity reservation revenues in the Partnership. The Partnership completed underwritten public offerings of additional common units representing limited partner interests in the Partnership in May 2014 (in connection with the Jupiter Transaction described in Note C to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements) and in July 2013 (in connection with the Sunrise Transaction described in Note C to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements).
 
See “Investing Activities” under the caption “Capital Resources and Liquidity” for a discussion of capital expenditures.
 
Consolidated Operational Data
 
Revenues earned by the Company at the wellhead from the sale of natural gas and liquids are split between EQT Production and EQT Midstream. The split is reflected in the calculation of EQT Production’s average effective sales price.  The following operational information presents detailed gross liquid and natural gas operational information as well as midstream deductions to assist in the understanding of the Company’s consolidated operations.
 

24

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
in thousands (unless noted)
 
2014
 
2013
 
%
 
2014
 
2013
 
%
LIQUIDS
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 

NGLs:
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Sales Volume (MMcfe) (a)
 
12,047

 
6,426

 
87.5

 
27,768

 
20,048

 
38.5

Sales Volume (Mbbls)
 
2,008

 
1,071

 
87.5

 
4,628

 
3,341

 
38.5

Gross Price ($/Bbl)
 
$
42.27

 
$
40.89

 
3.4

 
$
46.46

 
$
43.24

 
7.4

Gross NGL Revenue
 
$
84,868

 
$
43,786

 
93.8

 
$
215,016

 
$
144,469

 
48.8

Oil:
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Sales Volume (MMcfe) (a)
 
933

 
474

 
96.8

 
1,632

 
1,169

 
39.6

Sales Volume (Mbbls)
 
155

 
79

 
96.2

 
272

 
195

 
39.5

Net Price ($/Bbl)
 
$
87.91

 
$
94.78

 
(7.2
)
 
$
87.46

 
$
87.51

 
(0.1
)
Net Oil Revenue
 
$
13,668

 
$
7,488

 
82.5

 
$
23,785

 
$
17,049

 
39.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Liquids Revenue
 
$
98,536

 
$
51,274

 
92.2

 
$
238,801

 
$
161,518

 
47.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GAS
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Sales Volume – Natural Gas (MMBtu)
 
110,362

 
92,075

 
19.9

 
310,201

 
253,956

 
22.1

Sales Volume – Ethane sold as natural gas (MMBtu)
 
11,039

 
8,244

 
33.9

 
26,205

 
21,623

 
21.2

Sales Volume (MMBtu)
 
121,401

 
100,319

 
21.0

 
336,406

 
275,579

 
22.1

NYMEX Price ($/MMBtu) (b)
 
$
4.05

 
$
3.58

 
13.1

 
$
4.52

 
$
3.68

 
22.8

Gas Revenue
 
$
491,864

 
$
358,911

 
37.0

 
$
1,521,859

 
$
1,014,754

 
50.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Gross Gas & Liquids Revenue (unhedged)
 
$
590,400

 
$
410,185

 
43.9

 
$
1,760,660

 
$
1,176,272

 
49.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales Volume (MMcf)
 
110,362

 
92,075

 
19.9

 
310,201

 
253,956

 
22.1

Total Sales Volume (MMcfe) (a)
 
123,342

 
98,975

 
24.6

 
339,601

 
275,173

 
23.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Gas & Liquids Price ($/Mcfe)
 
$
4.79

 
$
4.14

 
15.7

 
$
5.18

 
$
4.27

 
21.3

Hedge impact
 
0.37

 
0.48

 
(22.9
)
 
(0.06
)
 
0.37

 
(116.2
)
Basis
 
(1.38
)
 
(0.28
)
 
392.9

 
(0.82
)
 
$
(0.11
)
 
645.5

Third-party gathering & transmission recoveries, net
 
0.70

 
0.40

 
75.0

 
0.67

 
0.35

 
91.4

Average adjusted price ($/Mcfe)
 
$
4.48

 
$
4.74

 
(5.5
)
 
$
4.97

 
$
4.88

 
1.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Midstream Revenue Deductions ($ / Mcfe)
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Gathering to EQT Midstream
 
$
(0.74
)
 
$
(0.82
)
 
(9.8
)
 
$
(0.74
)
 
$
(0.83
)
 
(10.8
)
Transmission to EQT Midstream
 
(0.20
)
 
(0.23
)
 
(13.0
)
 
(0.20
)
 
(0.23
)
 
(13.0
)
Third-party gathering and transmission costs
 
(0.45
)
 
(0.52
)
 
(13.5
)
 
(0.50
)
 
(0.58
)
 
(13.8
)
Third-party processing
 
(0.15
)
 
(0.10
)
 
50.0

 
(0.13
)
 
(0.11
)
 
18.2

Total midstream revenue deductions
 
(1.54
)
 
(1.67
)
 
(7.8
)
 
(1.57
)
 
(1.75
)
 
(10.3
)
Average effective sales price to EQT Production
 
$
2.94

 
$
3.07

 
(4.2
)
 
$
3.40

 
$
3.13

 
8.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EQT Revenue ($ / Mcfe)
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 

Revenues to EQT Midstream
 
$
0.94

 
$
1.05

 
(10.5
)
 
$
0.94

 
$
1.06

 
(11.3
)
Revenues to EQT Production
 
2.94

 
3.07

 
(4.2
)
 
3.40

 
3.13

 
8.6

Average effective sales price to EQT Corporation
 
$
3.88

 
$
4.12

 
(5.8
)
 
$
4.34

 
$
4.19

 
3.6

 
(a)
NGLs and crude oil were converted to Mcfe at the rate of six Mcfe per barrel for all periods. Information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 has been recast to reflect this conversion rate.
(b)
The Company’s volume weighted NYMEX natural gas price (actual average NYMEX natural gas price ($/MMBtu) was $4.06 and $3.58 for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and $4.55 and $3.67 for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively).

25

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Business Segment Results of Operations
 
The Company has reported the components of each segment’s operating income from continuing operations and various operational measures in the sections below and, where appropriate, has provided information describing how a measure was derived. EQT’s management believes that presentation of this information provides useful information to management and investors regarding the financial condition, operations and trends of each of EQT’s business segments without being obscured by the financial condition, operations and trends for the other segments or by the effects of corporate allocations of interest, income taxes and other income.  In addition, management uses these measures for budget planning purposes. The Company’s management reviews and reports the EQT Production segment results for operating revenues and transportation and processing costs with transportation and processing costs reflected as a deduction from operating revenues as management believes this presentation provides a more useful view of net effective sales price and is consistent with industry practices. Third-party costs incurred to gather, process and transport gas produced by EQT Production to market sales points are reported as a component of transportation and processing costs in the consolidated results. Purchased gas costs at EQT Midstream include natural gas purchases, including natural gas purchases from affiliates, purchased gas cost adjustments and other gas supply expenses. These purchased gas costs are primarily with affiliates and are eliminated in consolidation. Consistent with the consolidated results, energy trading contracts recorded within storage, marketing and other are reported net within operating revenues, regardless of whether the contracts are physically or financially settled. The Company has reconciled each segment’s operating income to the Company’s consolidated operating income and net income in Note D to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. 

26

Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

EQT PRODUCTION

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
%
 
2014
 
2013
 
%
OPERATIONAL DATA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales volume detail (MMcfe):
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Horizontal Marcellus Play (a)
97,861

 
73,059

 
33.9

 
266,835

 
197,393

 
35.2

Horizontal Huron Play
9,187

 
8,627

 
6.5

 
24,165

 
26,783

 
(9.8
)
CBM Play
410

 
3,108

 
(86.8
)
 
5,916

 
9,340

 
(36.7
)
Other
15,884

 
14,181

 
12.0

 
42,685

 
41,657

 
2.5

Total production sales volumes (b)
123,342

 
98,975

 
24.6

 
339,601

 
275,173

 
23.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average daily sales volumes (MMcfe/d)
1,341

 
1,076

 
24.6

 
1,244

 
1,008

 
23.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average effective sales price to EQT
Production ($/Mcfe)
$
2.94

 
$
3.07

 
(4.2
)
 
$
3.40

 
$
3.13

 
8.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lease operating expenses (LOE), excluding
production taxes ($/Mcfe)
$
0.14

 
$
0.15

 
(6.7
)
 
$
0.14

 
$
0.15

 
(6.7
)
Production taxes ($/Mcfe)
$
0.14

 
$
0.13

 
7.7

 
$
0.15

 
$
0.14

 
7.1

Production depletion ($/Mcfe)
$
1.23

 
$
1.50

 
(18.0
)
 
$
1.22

 
$
1.50

 
(18.7
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization (DD&A) (thousands):
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Production depletion
$
151,576

 
$
148,362

 
2.2

 
$
413,794

 
$
412,514

 
0.3

Other DD&A
2,455

 
2,275

 
7.9

 
7,727

 
7,105

 
8.8

Total DD&A (thousands)
$
154,031

 
$
150,637

 
2.3

 
$
421,521

 
$
419,619

 
0.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditures (thousands) (c)
$
511,971

 
$
332,370

 
54.0

 
$
1,855,518

 
$
977,394

 
89.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL DATA (thousands)
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Total net operating revenues
$
363,126

 
$
304,231

 
19.4

 
$
1,152,971

 
$
860,874

 
33.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

LOE, excluding production taxes
17,166

 
14,801

 
16.0

 
47,526

 
42,452

 
12.0

Production taxes
16,674

 
13,275

 
25.6

 
50,136

 
38,260

 
31.0

Exploration expense
3,593

 
5,256

 
(31.6
)
 
12,444

 
15,124

 
(17.7
)
SG&A
31,626

 
22,662

 
39.6

 
90,400

 
68,666

 
31.7

DD&A
154,031

 
150,637

 
2.3

 
421,521

 
419,619

 
0.5

Total operating expenses
223,090

 
206,631

 
8.0

 
622,027

 
584,121

 
6.5

Gain on sale / exchange of assets

 

 

 
30,986

 

 
100.0

Operating income
$
140,036

 
$
97,600

 
43.5

 
$
561,930

 
$
276,753

 
103.0

(a)
Includes Upper Devonian wells.
(b)
NGLs and crude oil were converted to Mcfe at the rate of six Mcfe per barrel for all periods. Information for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 has been recast to reflect this conversion rate.
(c)
Includes $159.0 million of cash capital expenditures and $353.1 million of non-cash capital expenditures for the exchange of assets with Range during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and $114.6 million of capital expenditures for the purchase of acreage and Marcellus wells from Chesapeake Energy Corporation and its partners during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . Additionally, this amount includes certain labor overhead costs including a portion of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and non-cash capital expense accruals that have not yet been paid of $18.8 million and $23.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and $54.7 million and $31.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively.

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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 vs. Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
EQT Production’s operating income totaled $140.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $97.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 .  The $42.4 million increase in operating income was primarily due to increased sales of produced natural gas and NGLs partially offset by an increase in operating expenses and a lower average effective sale price.
 
Total net operating revenues were $363.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $304.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 .  The $58.9 million increase in net operating revenues was primarily due to a 25% increase in production sales volumes partially offset by a 4% decrease in the average effective sales price to EQT Production. The increase in production sales volumes was the result of increased production from the 2012 and 2013 drilling programs, primarily in the Marcellus play. This increase was partially offset by the normal production decline in the Company’s producing wells.
 
The $0.13 per Mcfe decrease in the average effective sales price to EQT Production was primarily due to lower Appalachian Basin basis partly offset by an increase in the average NYMEX natural gas price net of hedging impacts, increased third-party gathering and transmission recoveries, net, and lower per unit midstream charges compared to the same period in 2013. The $0.30 increase in third-party gathering and transmission recoveries, net, primarily relates to natural gas sales in the third quarter of 2014 at prices above market price. The Company executed natural gas sales with fixed differentials to NYMEX for the summer term during the fourth quarter of 2013 and first quarter of 2014 when market prices were favorable compared to the third quarter of 2014.
 
Total net operating revenues for the third quarter of 2014 included a $34.3 million gain for hedging ineffectiveness of financial hedges compared to a $3.4 million gain in the third quarter of 2013 . The $34.3 million gain for hedging ineffectiveness is attributable to the reversal of previously recognized hedging ineffectiveness expense primarily due to the decrease in NYMEX forward prices during the third quarter of 2014. Total net operating revenues for the third quarter of 2014 also included $0.8 million of derivative gains for derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments compared to $0.2 million of derivative gains for the same period of 2013
 
Operating expenses totaled $223.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $206.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 . The increase in operating expenses was the result of increases in LOE, production taxes, SG&A and DD&A partially offset by a decrease in exploration expense. The increase in LOE was mainly due to increased Marcellus activity. The increase in production taxes was primarily driven by an increase in severance taxes due to higher market sales prices and higher production sales volumes in certain jurisdictions subject to these taxes. SG&A expense increased in the third quarter of 2014 compared to the third quarter of 2013 primarily as a result of higher personnel costs of $3.1 million, including incentive compensation costs, higher reserves for litigation of $2.2 million, an increase in professional services of $1.8 million, and a higher allowance for doubtful accounts of $1.7 million. The increase in DD&A expense was the result of higher produced volumes partially offset by a lower overall depletion rate in the current year. The decrease in exploration expense was due to decreased impairments of unproved lease acreage of $1.8 million resulting from fewer lease expirations during the third quarter of 2014 compared to the third quarter of 2013.
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 vs. Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
EQT Production’s operating income totaled $561.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $276.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The $285.1 million increase in operating income was primarily due to an increase in sales of produced natural gas and NGLs, a higher average effective sale price and a gain on the exchange of assets partially offset by an increase in operating expenses.
 
Total net operating revenues were $1,153.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $860.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 .  The $292.1 million increase in operating revenues was primarily due to a 23% increase in production sales volumes and a 9% increase in the average effective sales price to EQT Production. The increase in production sales volumes was the result of increased production from the 2012 and 2013 drilling programs, primarily in the Marcellus play. This increase was partially offset by the normal production decline in the Company’s producing wells. 

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EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The $0.27 per Mcfe increase in the average effective sales price to EQT Production was the net result of an increase in the average NYMEX natural gas price net of hedging impacts combined with a $0.32 per Mcfe increase in third-party gathering and transmission recoveries from the utilization of existing and new third-party transportation capacity to reach higher priced markets and an $0.18 decrease in midstream revenue deductions, partly offset by lower Appalachian Basin basis compared to the first nine months of 2013. Third-party gathering and transmission recoveries, net, represent differences in natural gas prices between the Appalachian Basin and the sales points of other markets reached by utilizing this capacity, differences in natural gas prices between Appalachian Basin and fixed price sales contracts, term sales with fixed differentials to NYMEX and other marketing activity, including capacity releases and basis swaps. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 , EQT Production recognized higher recoveries compared to the same period in 2013 primarily by using its capacity to sell gas in higher priced markets, particularly in the first quarter of 2014 when the weather was unusually cold and market prices in the United States Northeast region were significantly higher than the Appalachian Basin prices. Much of these higher revenues resulted from sales off of the Company’s Texas Eastern Transmission (TETCO) and Tennessee Gas Pipeline capacity, including additional TETCO capacity that the Company acquired effective February 2014.  This new capacity of 245,000 MMBtu per day enables the Company to reach markets in eastern Pennsylvania.
 
Total net operating revenues for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 included a $13.1 million gain for hedging ineffectiveness of financial hedges compared to a $4.5 million loss for ineffectiveness of financial hedges in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The nine months ended September 30, 2014 also included $13.0 million of derivative losses for derivative instruments not designated as hedging instruments compared to $0.9 million of derivative gains for the same period of 2013.  The losses for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 primarily relate to unfavorable settlements and changes in fair market value of basis swaps.
 
As discussed in Note K to the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, in connection with an asset exchange with Range during the second quarter of 2014 , the Company received acreage and producing wells in the Permian Basin of Texas in exchange for acreage, producing wells, the Company’s 50% ownership interest in a supporting gathering system in the Nora field of Virginia and cash of $159.0 million . In conjunction with this transaction, EQT Production recognized a pre-tax gain of $31.0 million in 2014, which is included in gain on sale / exchange of assets in the Statements of Consolidated Income.  The $31.0 million pre-tax gain includes a $28.0 million pre-tax gain related to the de-designation of certain derivative instruments that were previously designated as cash flow hedges because it was probable that the forecasted transactions would not occur. Any subsequent changes in fair value of these derivative instruments are recognized within the results of operations for EQT Production.

Operating expenses totaled $622.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $584.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The increase in operating expenses was the result of increases in LOE, production taxes, SG&A and DD&A partially offset by a decrease in exploration expense. The increase in LOE was mainly due to increased Marcellus activity. Production taxes increased primarily due to an $8.0 million increase in severance taxes due to higher market sales prices and higher production sales volumes in certain jurisdictions subject to these taxes. Production taxes also increased due to a $3.2 million increase in the Pennsylvania impact fee, primarily as a result of an increase in the number of wells drilled in Pennsylvania. SG&A expense increased in the first nine months of 2014 compared to the first nine months of 2013, primarily as a result of higher personnel costs of $9.4 million, including incentive compensation costs, higher reserves for litigation of $5.5 million, an increase in professional services of $3.1 million and a higher allowance for doubtful accounts of $3.1 million. DD&A expense increased as a result of higher produced volumes partially offset by a lower overall depletion rate in the current year. The decrease in exploration expense was due to decreased impairments of unproved lease acreage of $3.6 million resulting from fewer lease expirations during the first nine months of 2014 compared to the first nine months of 2013.
 

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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

EQT MIDSTREAM

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2014
 
2013
 
%
 
2014
 
2013
 
%
OPERATIONAL DATA
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gathered volumes (BBtu)
155,139

 
125,139

 
24.0

 
417,097

 
342,502

 
21.8

Average gathering fee ($/MMBtu)
$
0.66

 
$
0.73

 
(9.6
)
 
$
0.68

 
$
0.76

 
(10.5
)
Gathering and compression expense ($/MMBtu)
$
0.14

 
$
0.17

 
(17.6
)
 
$
0.15

 
$
0.18

 
(16.7
)
Transmission pipeline throughput (BBtu)
167,150

 
111,309

 
50.2

 
464,031

 
297,126

 
56.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net operating revenues (thousands):
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Gathering
$
102,437

 
$
91,825

 
11.6

 
$
283,017

 
$
260,631

 
8.6

Transmission
55,795

 
39,962

 
39.6

 
159,424

 
116,105

 
37.3

Storage, marketing and other
8,245

 
8,165

 
1.0

 
25,085

 
23,426

 
7.1

Total net operating revenues
$
166,477

 
$
139,952

 
19.0

 
$
467,526

 
$
400,162

 
16.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Capital expenditures (thousands) (a)
$
136,589

 
$
111,593

 
22.4

 
$
333,813

 
$
254,205

 
31.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL DATA (thousands)
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total operating revenues
$
173,856

 
$
155,677

 
11.7

 
$
502,427

 
$
452,731

 
11.0

Purchased gas costs
7,379

 
15,725

 
(53.1
)
 
34,901

 
52,569

 
(33.6
)
Total net operating revenues
166,477

 
139,952

 
19.0

 
467,526

 
400,162

 
16.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses:
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Operating and maintenance (O&M)
27,844

 
25,720

 
8.3

 
80,442

 
72,329

 
11.2

SG&A
23,324

 
16,769

 
39.1

 
64,803

 
47,239

 
37.2

DD&A
21,709

 
18,930

 
14.7

 
63,848

 
55,601

 
14.8

Total operating expenses
72,877

 
61,419

 
18.7

 
209,093

 
175,169

 
19.4

Gain on sale / exchange of assets (b)

 

 

 
6,763

 

 
100.0

Operating income
$
93,600

 
$
78,533

 
19.2

 
$
265,196

 
$
224,993

 
17.9

 
(a)
Includes certain labor overhead costs including a portion of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and non-cash capital expense accruals that have not yet been paid of $6.3 million and $4.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively, and $14.3 million and $7.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively.
(b)
As discussed in Note K to the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, in connection with an asset exchange with Range during the second quarter of 2014, the Company received acreage and producing wells in the Permian Basin of Texas in exchange for acreage, producing wells, the Company’s 50% ownership interest in a supporting gathering system in the Nora field of Virginia and cash of $159.0 million . In conjunction with this transaction, EQT Midstream recognized a pre-tax gain of $6.8 million , which is included in gain on sale / exchange of assets in the Statements of Consolidated Income for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 .
 
Three Months Ended September 30, 2014 vs. Three Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
EQT Midstream’s operating income totaled $93.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $78.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 . The increase in operating income was primarily the result of increased transmission net operating revenues and gathering net operating revenues, partly offset by increased operating expenses.

Transmission net operating revenues increased by $15.8 million as a result of higher third-party firm transmission contracted capacity and throughput of $14.0 million, including $2.3 million related to the Allegheny Valley Connector (AVC) facilities, and higher interruptible transmission service. The AVC facilities were acquired in the Equitable Gas Transaction (as defined and described in Note B to the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements). The increase in transmission revenue is the result of increased production development in the Marcellus Shale.

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EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Gathering net operating revenues increased due to a 24% increase in gathered volumes, partially offset by a 10% decrease in the average gathering fee.  The gathered volume increase was driven by higher affiliate and third-party volumes in the Marcellus play. The average gathering fee decreased due to a higher mix of gathered volumes in the Marcellus as these volumes have a lower average fee compared to Huron and other volumes.

Operating expenses totaled $72.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $61.4 million for the three months ended September 30, 2013 . O&M expense increased $2.1 million as a result of higher personnel costs, including incentive compensation costs, of $1.3 million and higher contract labor costs of $0.7 million related to the Partnership. SG&A expense increased $6.6 million , primarily due to higher personnel costs, including incentive compensation costs, of $3.0 million, increased professional services of $1.3 million and increased allocated expenses from affiliates of $1.0 million. DD&A increased $2.8 million as a result of additional assets placed in-service, including the AVC.
 
Total operating revenues increased $18.2 million primarily as a result of increased transmission revenues and increased gathered volumes partially offset by reduced gas marketing activity for storage, marketing and other. Purchased gas costs decreased $8.3 million primarily as a result of reduced gas marketing activity.
 
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 vs. Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
EQT Midstream’s operating income totaled $265.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $225.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The increase in operating income was primarily the result of increased transmission and gathering net operating revenues, a gain on the sale / exchange of assets and increased storage, marketing and other net operating revenues partly offset by increased operating expenses.

Transmission net operating revenues increased by $43.3 million as a result of higher third-party firm transmission contracted capacity and throughput of $40.6 million, including $10.0 million related to the AVC facilities, and higher interruptible transmission service. The increase in transmission revenue is the result of increased production development in the Marcellus Shale.
 
Gathering net operating revenues increased due to a 22% increase in gathered volumes, partially offset by an 11% decrease in the average gathering fee.  The gathered volume increase was driven by higher affiliate and third-party volumes in the Marcellus play.  The average gathering fee decreased due to a higher mix of gathered volumes in the Marcellus as these volumes increased at a lower average fee compared to Huron and other volumes, which have a higher gathering fee, decreased.
 
Storage, marketing and other net operating revenues increased from the prior year primarily due to increased storage revenues on the AVC, which was acquired in the Equitable Gas Transaction, partially offset by lower revenues on NGLs marketed for non-affiliated producers and reduced marketing revenues a result of the sale of certain energy marketing contracts on December 31, 2013.
 
Operating expenses totaled $209.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $175.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . O&M expense increased $8.1 million as a result of $4.4 million of higher compressor operating expenses related to an increase in Marcellus activity and additional compressors on the AVC and higher personnel costs of $3.9 million. SG&A expense increased $17.6 million primarily due to higher personnel costs, including incentive compensation costs, of $9.5 million, increased professional services of $2.6 million and increased allocated expenses from affiliates of $2.4 million. DD&A increased $8.2 million as a result of additional assets placed in-service, including the AVC.
 
Total operating revenues increased $49.7 million primarily as a result of increased transmission and gathered revenues partially offset by reduced gas marketing activity for storage, marketing and other. Purchased gas costs decreased $17.7 million primarily as a result of reduced gas marketing activity. 


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EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

OUTLOOK
 
The Company is committed to profitably developing its natural gas, NGL and oil reserves through environmentally responsible, cost-effective and technologically advanced horizontal drilling.  The market price for natural gas can be volatile and these fluctuations can impact the Company’s revenues, earnings and liquidity.  Due to the increased supply of natural gas in the Appalachian Basin, price differentials at regional sales points in the basin have been negative relative to Henry Hub since mid-2013. While the Company is unable to predict future movements in the market price for natural gas, the Company expects this trend in Appalachian basis to continue.
 
On July 24, 2014, the Partnership announced that it will construct and own the Ohio Valley Connector (OVC) pipeline, which will be regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). OVC will connect the Partnership’s transmission and storage system in northern West Virginia to Clarington, Ohio. At Clarington, OVC will interconnect with the Rockies Express Pipeline and the Texas Eastern Pipeline. In addition to providing Marcellus producers access to pipelines serving Midwest and Gulf Coast markets, OVC will provide Utica producers, located along the route, direct access to the Partnership’s extensive transmission system and is expected to be in-service by mid-year 2016. Subject to FERC approval, the 36-mile pipeline extension will provide approximately 1.0 Bcf per day of transmission capacity and is estimated to cost $300 million.  The Partnership has entered into a 20-year precedent agreement with EQT for a total of 650 MMcf per day of firm transmission capacity on OVC.
 
The Partnership will assume EQT’s interest in Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, a joint venture with a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc. The Mountain Valley Pipeline (MVP) will extend from the Partnership's existing transmission and storage system in Wetzel County, West Virginia to Pittsylvania County, Virginia.  The Partnership expects to own a majority interest in the joint venture and will operate the estimated 300-mile pipeline. 

The joint venture has secured a total of 2.0 Bcf per day of firm capacity commitments at 20-year terms, and is currently in negotiation with additional shippers who have expressed interest in the MVP project.  As a result, the final project scope, including pipe diameter and total capacity, is not yet determined. 

The pipeline, which is subject to FERC approval, will provide Marcellus and Utica natural gas supply to the growing demand markets in the southeast region.  The pre-filing process with FERC is expected to begin this month; and the pipeline is expected to be in-service during the fourth quarter of 2018.

Total EQT capital investment, excluding acquisitions, is expected to be approximately $2.3 billion in 2014, of which $225 million to $250 million is related to the Partnership. Capital investment for well development (primarily drilling) in 2014 is expected to be approximately $1.8 billion to support the drilling of approximately 362 gross wells, including 199 Marcellus wells, 120 Huron wells, 38 Upper Devonian wells, 4 Permian Basin wells and 1 Utica well. Estimated sales volumes are expected to be 465 - 470 Bcfe for an anticipated production sales volume growth of approximately 25% in 2014, while NGL volumes are expected to be 6,650 - 6,750 Mbbls. To support continued growth in production, the Company plans to invest a total of approximately $0.5 billion on midstream infrastructure in 2014, and expects to add approximately 440 MMcf per day of incremental gathering capacity and approximately 750 MMcf per day of transmission capacity.  The 2014 capital spending plan is expected to be funded by cash on hand, cash flow generated from operations and proceeds from equity and debt issuances by the Partnership.
 
The Company continues to focus on creating and maximizing shareholder value through the implementation of a strategy that economically accelerates the monetization of its asset base and prudently pursues midstream investment opportunities, all while maintaining a strong balance sheet with solid cash flow.  While the tactics continue to evolve based on market conditions, the Company is considering arrangements, including asset sales and joint ventures, to monetize the value of certain mature assets for re-deployment into its highest value development opportunities.  In addition, EQT is evaluating options to realize the value of its general partner stake in the Partnership, for which the Company expects to decide its course of action by the end of 2014.
 

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Table of Contents
EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

CAPITAL RESOURCES AND LIQUIDITY
 
Overview
 
The Company’s primary sources of cash for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 were cash flows from operating activities, proceeds from the underwritten public offering of the Partnership’s common units and proceeds from the Partnership's issuance of long-term debt, while the primary use of cash was for capital expenditures.
 
Operating Activities
 
Net cash flows provided by operating activities totaled $1,141.9 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $968.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 .  The $173.8 million increase in operating activities was primarily the result of a 23% increase in natural gas and NGL volumes sold, a 4% higher average effective sales price to EQT and increases in contracted transmission capacity and gathered volumes, partially offset by higher income tax payments of approximately $51.4 million and higher operating expenses.
 
Investing Activities
 
Net cash flows used in investing activities totaled $2,100.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $1,220.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The $880.1 million increase was attributable to an increase of $548.9 million in cash capital expenditures, including cash paid as part of the asset exchange with Range, and an increase in restricted cash of $338.6 million in the first nine months of 2014 compared to 2013. During 2014, the Company placed $500.0 million of the proceeds received from the Partnership’s underwritten public offering in connection with the Jupiter Transaction into restricted cash for the use of the funds in a potential like-kind exchange for certain identified assets within a statutory time period. The Company used $163.3 million of cash for acquisitions during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 , of which $161.5 million was restricted cash. Although the Company is evaluating other potential like-kind exchange transactions, the Company does not expect to utilize the full amount of the remaining funds in the qualified trust account within the statutory time period, which expires on November 3, 2014. Therefore, the Company expects to record an increase in the federal income taxable gain related to the Jupiter Transaction in the fourth quarter of 2014. As of September 30, 2014 , the Company had restricted cash of $338.6 million in its Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, representing the funds remaining in the qualified trust. Additionally, the Company capitalized certain labor overhead costs including a portion of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and non-cash expense accruals that have not yet been paid of $68.8 million and $39.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively.
 
Capital expenditures for EQT Production totaled $1,855.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to $977.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 . The $878.1 million increase in capital expenditures was primarily the result of an increase in property acquisitions and well development. Additionally, the Company capitalized certain labor overhead costs including a portion of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and non-cash expense accruals that have not yet been paid of $54.7 million and $31.2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively. Property acquisitions included $512.1 million of properties acquired as part of the asset exchange with Range, of which $353.1 million were non-cash capital expenditures. The increase in well development was driven by an increase in completed frac stages, an increase in wells spud and higher spending in the Huron play. The Company spud 244 gross wells in the first nine months of 2014, including 171 horizontal Marcellus and Upper Devonian wells, 72 horizontal Huron wells and 1 horizontal Permian Basin well. The Company spud 131 gross wells in the first nine months of 2013, including 127 horizontal Marcellus and Upper Devonian wells and 4 horizontal Utica wells.
 
Capital expenditures for EQT Midstream totaled $333.8 million , including $143.9 million related to the Partnership, for the first nine months of 2014 compared to $254.2 million , including $76.2 million related to the Partnership, for the first nine months of 2013.  The $79.6 million increase was primarily due to an increase in expenditures relating to gathering compression projects. Additionally, the Company capitalized certain labor overhead costs including a portion of non-cash stock-based compensation expense and non-cash expense accruals that have not yet been paid of $14.3 million and $7.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 , respectively.  

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EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Financing Activities
 
Cash flows provided by financing activities totaled $1,284.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 compared to cash flows provided by financing activities of $494.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 , an increase of $790.2 million between periods. The Company received net proceeds of $902.5 million from the Partnership’s May 2014 underwritten public offering of common units and proceeds from the Partnership's August 2014 issuance of $500.0 million of 4.00% Senior Notes due 2024, paid distributions to noncontrolling interests of $46.2 million , and used $32.4 million to repurchase and retire shares of the Company’s common stock during the nine months ended September 30, 2014 . The Company also paid $49.0 million for income tax withholdings related to the vesting or exercise of equity awards during the nine months ended September 30, 2014.  Under the Company’s share-based incentive awards, in connection with the settlement of equity awards, the Company may withhold shares or accept surrendered shares from Company employees holding the awards in exchange for satisfying the cash income tax withholding obligations with respect to the settlement of the awards. The Company received net proceeds of $529.4 million from the Partnership's July 2013 underwritten public offering of common units, repaid maturing long-term debt of $23.2 million and paid distributions to noncontrolling interests of $21.2 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 .

On April 30, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase authorization of up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s outstanding common stock.  The Company may repurchase shares from time to time in open market or in privately negotiated transactions.  The share repurchase authorization does not obligate the Company to acquire any specific number of shares, has no pre-established end date and may be discontinued by the Company at any time.  During the first nine months of 2014 , the Company repurchased and retired 300,000 shares of common stock for $32.4 million under the authorization.

Security Ratings and Financing Triggers
 
The table below reflects the credit ratings for debt instruments of the Company at September 30, 2014 .  Changes in credit ratings may affect the Company’s cost of short-term and long-term debt (including interest rates and fees under its lines of credit), collateral requirements under derivative instruments and access to the credit markets.
Rating Service
 
EQT Corporation
Senior Notes
 
Outlook
Moody’s Investors Service
 
Baa3
 
Stable
Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services
 
BBB
 
Stable
Fitch Ratings
 
BBB-
 
Stable
 
The table below reflects the credit ratings for debt instruments of the Partnership at September 30, 2014 .  Changes in credit ratings may affect the Partnership’s cost of short-term and long-term debt (including interest rates and fees under its lines of credit), collateral requirements under derivative instruments and access to the credit markets.
Rating Service
 
EQT Midstream Partners, LP
Senior Notes
 
Outlook
Moody's Investors Service
 
Ba1
 
Stable
Standard & Poor's Rating Services
 
BBB-
 
Stable
Fitch Ratings
 
BBB-
 
Stable

The Company’s and the Partnership's credit ratings are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by the assigning rating organization, and each rating should be evaluated independently of any other rating.  The Company and the Partnership cannot ensure that a rating will remain in effect for any given period of time or that a rating will not be lowered or withdrawn by a credit rating agency if, in its judgment, circumstances so warrant. If the credit rating agencies downgrade the ratings, particularly below investment grade, access to the capital markets may be limited, borrowing costs and margin deposits on derivative contracts would increase, counterparties may request additional assurances and the potential pool of investors and funding sources may decrease.  The required margin on the Company's derivative instruments is also subject to significant change as a result of factors other than credit rating, such as natural gas prices and credit thresholds set forth in agreements between the hedging counterparties and the Company. 

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EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The Company’s debt agreements and other financial obligations contain various provisions that, if not complied with, could result in termination of the agreements, require early payment of amounts outstanding or similar actions.  The most significant covenants and events of default under the debt agreements relate to maintenance of a debt-to-total capitalization ratio, limitations on transactions with affiliates, insolvency events, nonpayment of scheduled principal or interest payments, acceleration of other financial obligations and change of control provisions.  The Company’s credit facility contains financial covenants that require a total debt-to-total capitalization ratio of no greater than 65%.  The calculation of this ratio excludes the effects of accumulated other comprehensive income. As of September 30, 2014 , the Company was in compliance with all debt provisions and covenants.
 
The Partnership’s debt agreements and other financial obligations contain various provisions that, if not complied with, could result in termination of the agreements, require early payment of amounts outstanding or similar actions.  The most significant covenants and events of default under the debt agreements relate to maintenance of permitted leverage ratio, limitations on transactions with affiliates, insolvency events, nonpayment of scheduled principal or interest payments, acceleration of other financial obligations and change of control provisions.  Under the credit facility, the Partnership is required to maintain a consolidated leverage ratio of not more than 5.00 to 1.00 (or, not more than 5.50 to 1.00 for certain measurement periods following the consummation of certain acquisitions).  As of September 30, 2014 , the Partnership was in compliance with all debt provisions and covenants.

Commodity Risk Management
 
The substantial majority of the Company’s commodity risk management program is related to hedging sales of the Company’s produced natural gas.  The Company’s overall objective in this hedging program is to protect cash flow from undue exposure to the risk of changing commodity prices. The Company’s risk management program may include the use of exchange-traded natural gas futures contracts and options and over the counter (OTC) natural gas swap agreements and options (collectively, derivative commodity instruments) to hedge exposures to fluctuations in natural gas prices.  The derivative commodity instruments currently utilized by the Company are primarily NYMEX swaps and collars. The Company also enters into fixed price natural gas sales agreements that are satisfied by physical delivery. The Company’s fixed price natural gas sales agreements include contracts that fix only the NYMEX portion of the price and contracts that fix NYMEX and basis.

As of October 22, 2014, the approximate volumes and prices of Company’s total hedge position through December 2016 were:
 
 
 
2014 (b)
 
2015
 
2016 (c)
NYMEX swaps and fixed price sales
 
 

 
 

 
 

Total Volume (Bcf)
 
58

 
207

 
107

Average Price per Mcf (a)
 
$
4.34

 
$
4.24

 
$
4.37

Collars
 
 

 
 

 
 

Total Volume (Bcf)
 
6

 
40

 

Average Floor Price per Mcf (NYMEX) (a)
 
$
5.05

 
$
4.58

 
$

Average Cap Price per Mcf (NYMEX) (a)
 
$
8.85

 
$
7.21

 
$

 
(a)      The average price is based on a conversion rate of 1.05 MMBtu/Mcf.
(b)      October through December 31
(c)      For 2016, the Company also has a natural gas sales agreement for approximately 35 Bcf that includes a NYMEX ceiling price of $4.88 per Mcf. The Company also granted calendar 2016 swaptions for approximately 17 Bcf at a strike price of $4.73 per Mcf.
 
See Item 3, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk,” and Note E to the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s hedging program. 

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EQT Corporation and Subsidiaries
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Commitments and Contingencies
 
In the ordinary course of business, various legal and regulatory claims and proceedings are pending or threatened against the Company.  While the amounts claimed may be substantial, the Company is unable to predict with certainty the ultimate outcome of such claims and proceedings.  The Company accrues legal and other direct costs related to loss contingencies when actually incurred.  The Company has established reserves it believes to be appropriate for pending matters and, after consultation with counsel and giving appropriate consideration to available insurance, the Company believes that the ultimate outcome of any matter currently pending against the Company will not materially affect the financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.
 
During 2014, the Company entered into additional third-party natural gas transportation agreements through its wholly-owned gas marketing subsidiary, EQT Energy, LLC (EQT Energy).  These agreements increased the Company’s future aggregate obligations under its transportation commitments by approximately $2.2 billion and provide for approximately 750,000 dth per day of additional pipeline capacity.  The capacity commitments have terms extending up to 20 years.

During 2014, EQT Energy also entered into additional natural gas transportation agreements with the Partnership and Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC. These agreements increased EQT Energy’s future aggregate obligations under its transportation commitments by approximately $9.3 billion and provide for approximately 2,150,000 dth per day of additional pipeline capacity. The capacity commitments have 20 year terms.

During the third quarter of 2014, the Partnership issued 4.00% Senior Notes due 2024 in the aggregate principal amount of $ 500.0 million .

During the third quarter of 2014, the Company recorded a legal contingency of $2.2 million related to a suit filed by Journey Acquisitions II, LP (Journey) against EQT asserting that EQT drilled wells on leases and fee tracts that Journey claims EQT sold to it under a previous Purchase and Sale Agreement. The Company does not expect the final resolution of this matter to have a material impact on the financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.

Dividend
 
On October 15, 2014, the Board of Directors of the Company declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of three cents per share, payable December 1, 2014, to the Company’s shareholders of record at the close of business on November 14, 2014.
 
On October 21, 2014, the Board of Directors of the Partnership’s general partner declared a cash distribution to the Partnership’s common and subordinated unitholders of $0.55 per unit for the third quarter of 2014, together with the corresponding distribution to the general partner of $0.8 million related to its 2% general partner interest and $3.4 million related to its incentive distribution rights. The cash distribution is payable on November 14, 2014, to unitholders of record at the close of business on November 4, 2014, and to the general partner.

Critical Accounting Policies
 
The Company’s critical accounting policies are described in Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” for the year ended December 31, 2013 contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K.  Any new accounting policies or updates to existing accounting policies as a result of new accounting pronouncements have been included in the notes to the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three and nine month periods ended  September 30, 2014 .  The application of the Company’s critical accounting policies may require management to make judgments and estimates about the amounts reflected in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  Management uses historical experience and all available information to make these estimates and judgments.  Different amounts could be reported using different assumptions and estimates.


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Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
Derivative Instruments
 
The Company’s primary market risk exposure is the volatility of future prices for natural gas and NGLs, which can affect the operating results of the Company primarily at EQT Production.  The Company’s use of derivatives to reduce the effect of this volatility is described in Note E to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and under the caption “Commodity Risk Management” in the “Capital Resources and Liquidity” section of Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.  The Company uses derivative commodity instruments that are placed primarily with financial institutions and the creditworthiness of these institutions is regularly monitored.  The Company also enters into derivative instruments to hedge other forecasted natural gas purchases and sales, to hedge basis and to hedge exposure to fluctuations in interest rates.  The Company’s use of derivative instruments is implemented under a set of policies approved by the Company’s Hedge & Financial Risk Committee and reviewed by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors.
 
Commodity Price Risk
 
For the derivative commodity instruments used to hedge the Company’s forecasted production, most of which is hedged at NYMEX natural gas prices, the Company sets policy limits relative to the expected production and sales levels which are exposed to price risk.  For the derivative commodity instruments used to hedge forecasted natural gas purchases and sales which are exposed to price risk, the Company sets limits related to acceptable exposure levels. The Company does not enter into natural gas derivative commodity instruments for trading purposes.
 
The financial instruments currently utilized by the Company are primarily fixed price swap agreements and collar agreements which may require payments to or receipt of payments from counterparties based on the differential between two prices for the commodity. The Company may also use other contractual agreements in implementing its commodity hedging strategy.
 
The Company monitors price and production levels on a continuous basis and makes adjustments to quantities hedged as warranted.  The Company’s overall objective in its hedging program is to protect cash flows from undue exposure to the risk of changing commodity prices.
 
With respect to the derivative commodity instruments held by the Company as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 , the Company hedged portions of expected equity production, portions of forecasted purchases and sales, and portions of its basis exposure covering approximately 443 Bcf and 388 Bcf of natural gas, respectively.  See the “Commodity Risk Management” section in the “Capital Resources and Liquidity” section of Item 2, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further discussion.
 
A hypothetical decrease of 10% in the market price of natural gas from the September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 levels would increase the fair value of natural gas derivative instruments by approximately $149.1 million and $151.7 million, respectively.  A hypothetical increase of 10% in the market price of natural gas from the September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 levels would decrease the fair value of natural gas derivative instruments by approximately $150.0 million and $151.6 million, respectively.
 
The Company determined the change in the fair value of the derivative commodity instruments using a method similar to its normal determination of fair value as described in Note E to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The Company assumed a 10% change in the price of natural gas from its levels at September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 . The price change was then applied to the natural gas derivative commodity instruments recorded on the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, resulting in the change in fair value.
 
The above analysis of the derivative commodity instruments held by the Company does not include the offsetting impact that the same hypothetical price movement may have on the Company’s physical sales of natural gas. The portfolio of derivative commodity instruments held to hedge the Company’s forecasted production approximates a portion of the Company’s expected physical sales of natural gas.  Therefore, an adverse impact to the fair value of the portfolio of derivative commodity instruments held to hedge the Company’s forecasted production associated with the hypothetical changes in commodity prices referenced above should be offset by a favorable impact on the Company’s physical sales of natural gas, assuming the derivative commodity instruments are not closed out in advance of their expected term, the derivative commodity instruments continue to function effectively as hedges of the underlying risk, the anticipated transactions occur as expected and basis does not significantly change.

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Table of Contents



If the underlying physical transactions or positions are liquidated prior to the maturity of the derivative commodity instruments, a loss on the financial instruments may occur or the derivative commodity instruments might be worthless as determined by the prevailing market value on their termination or maturity date, whichever comes first.
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
Changes in interest rates affect the amount of interest the Company and the Partnership earn on cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments and the interest rates the Company and the Partnership pay on borrowings under their respective revolving credit facilities. All of the Company’s and the Partnership's long-term borrowings are fixed rate and thus do not expose the Company to fluctuations in its results of operations or liquidity from changes in market interest rates.  Changes in interest rates do affect the fair value of the Company’s and the Partnership's fixed rate debt. See Note H to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for further discussion of the Company’s borrowings and Note F to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of fair value measurements, including the fair value of long-term debt.
 
Other Market Risks
 
The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event of nonperformance by counterparties to derivative contracts.  This credit exposure is limited to derivative contracts with a positive fair value, which may change as market prices change.  The Company believes that NYMEX-traded futures contracts have limited credit risk because Commodity Futures Trading Commission regulations are in place to protect exchange participants, including the Company, from potential financial instability of the exchange members. The Company’s OTC derivative instruments are primarily with financial institutions and, thus, are subject to events that would impact those companies individually as well as that industry as a whole.
 
The Company utilizes various processes and analyses to monitor and evaluate its credit risk exposures.  These include closely monitoring current market conditions, counterparty credit fundamentals and credit default swap rates.  Credit exposure is controlled through credit approvals and limits based on counterparty credit fundamentals.  To manage the level of credit risk, the Company enters into transactions with financial counterparties that are of investment grade or better, enters into netting agreements whenever possible and may obtain collateral or other security.
 
Approximately 78%, or $101.5 million, of the Company’s OTC derivative contracts at September 30, 2014 had a positive fair value. Approximately 79%, or $107.4 million, of the Company’s OTC derivative contracts at December 31, 2013 had a positive fair value.
 
As of September 30, 2014 , the Company was not in default under any derivative contracts and had no knowledge of default by any counterparty to derivative contracts. The Company made no adjustments to the fair value of derivative contracts due to credit related concerns outside of the normal non-performance risk adjustment included in the Company’s established fair value procedure. The Company monitors market conditions that may impact the fair value of derivative contracts reported in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.
 
The Company is also exposed to the risk of nonperformance by credit customers on physical sales of natural gas.  A significant amount of revenues and related accounts receivable from EQT Production are generated from the sale of produced natural gas, NGLs and crude oil to certain marketers, utility and industrial customers located mainly in the Appalachian Basin and a gas processor in Kentucky and West Virginia. Additionally, a significant amount of revenues and related accounts receivable from EQT Midstream are generated from the gathering and transporting of natural gas in Kentucky, Virginia, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The Company has a $1.5 billion revolving credit facility that expires on February 18, 2019.  The credit facility is underwritten by a syndicate of financial institutions, each of which is obligated to fund its pro-rata portion of any borrowings by the Company. As of September 30, 2014 , the Company had no loans or letters of credit outstanding under its revolving credit facility. No one lender of the large group of financial institutions in the syndicate holds more than 10% of the facility.  The Company’s large syndicate group and relatively low percentage of participation by each lender is expected to limit the Company’s exposure to problems or consolidation in the banking industry.
 
The Partnership has a $750 million revolving credit facility that matures on February 18, 2019. The credit facility is underwritten by a syndicate of financial institutions, each of which is obligated to fund its pro-rata portion of any borrowings by the Partnership. As of September 30, 2014 , the Partnership had no loans or letters of credit outstanding under its credit facility. No one lender of the large group of financial institutions in the syndicate holds more than 10% of the facility. The Partnership’s large syndicate group and relatively low percentage of participation by each lender is expected to limit the Partnership’s exposure to problems or consolidation in the banking industry. The Company is not a guarantor of the Partnership’s obligations under the credit facility.

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Table of Contents



Item 4.   Controls and Procedures
 
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
 
Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Company’s Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer, an evaluation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act)), was conducted as of the end of the period covered by this report.  Based on that evaluation, the Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this report.
 
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
 
There were no changes in internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act) that occurred during the third quarter of 2014 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.


39

Table of Contents
PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

a
Item 1.  Legal Proceedings
 
In the ordinary course of business, various legal and regulatory claims and proceedings are pending or threatened against the Company. While the amounts claimed may be substantial, the Company is unable to predict with certainty the ultimate outcome of such claims and proceedings. The Company accrues legal and other direct costs related to loss contingencies when actually incurred. The Company has established reserves it believes to be appropriate for pending matters and, after consultation with counsel and giving appropriate consideration to available insurance, the Company believes that the ultimate outcome of any matter currently pending against the Company will not materially affect the financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.
 
Environmental Proceedings
 
In June and August 2012, the Company received three Notices of Violation (NOVs) from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (the PADEP). The NOVs alleged violations of the Pennsylvania Oil and Gas Act and Clean Streams Law in connection with the unintentional release in May 2012, by a Company vendor, of water from an impaired water pit at a Company well location in Tioga County, Pennsylvania. Since confirming the release, the Company has cooperated with the PADEP in remediating the affected areas.

During the second quarter of 2014, the Company received a proposed consent assessment of civil penalty (CACP) from the PADEP and the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (the PFBC). Under the CACP, the PADEP proposed a civil penalty related to the NOVs and the PFBC proposed a civil penalty related to possible violations of the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Code. The Company entered into settlement discussions regarding the assessed penalty with the PFBC and unsuccessfully attempted to do the same with the PADEP.  The Company was unable to resolve the PADEP claims due to the agency's interpretation of the penalty provisions of the Clean Streams Law. Accordingly, on September 19, 2014, the Company filed a declaratory judgment action in the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania against the PADEP seeking a court ruling on the legal interpretation.  The Company did not include the PFCB in the action due to ongoing settlement discussions.

On September 30, 2014, the PFBC filed a misdemeanor complaint against the Company through the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office in the Tioga County court; the Company has initiated settlement discussions with the Attorney General’s Office.

On October 7, 2014, the PADEP filed a complaint against the Company before the Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board seeking $4.5 million in civil penalties. The Company believes the PADEP’s penalty assessment is legally flawed and unsupportable under the Clean Streams Law.

While the Company expects these claims to result in penalties that exceed $100,000, the Company expects the resolution of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material impact on the financial position, results of operations or liquidity of the Company.

Item 1A. Risk Factors
 
While cyber security threats are embedded in a number of the Company’s risk factors discussed in Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 , in light of externalities, including the increase in cyber crime and cyber terrorism, the Company determined to add a standalone risk factor relating to cyber incidents:
 
Cyber incidents may adversely impact our operations.
 
Our business has become increasingly dependent upon digital technologies, including information systems, infrastructure and cloud applications, to operate our production and midstream businesses, and the maintenance of our financial and other records has long been dependent upon such technologies. The U.S. government has issued public warnings that indicate that energy assets might be specific targets of cyber security threats. Deliberate attacks on, or unintentional events affecting, our systems or infrastructure, the systems or infrastructure of third parties or the cloud could lead to corruption or loss of our proprietary data and potentially sensitive data, delays in production or delivery of natural gas and NGLs, difficulty in completing and settling transactions, challenges in maintaining our books and records, environmental damage, communication interruptions, other operational disruptions and third party liability.  Further, as cyber incidents continue to evolve, we may be required to expend additional resources to continue to modify or enhance our protective measures or to investigate and remediate any vulnerability to cyber incidents. 

40




Information regarding additional risk factors is discussed in Item 1A, “Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form  10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013 .

Item 2.  Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
 
The following table sets forth the Company’s repurchases of equity securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act that have occurred during the three months ended September 30, 2014 :
 
Period
 
Total
number
of shares
purchased (a)
 
Average
price
paid per
share (a)
 
Total number
of shares
purchased as
part of publicly
announced
plans or
programs
 
Maximum number
of shares that may
yet be purchased
under the plans or
programs (b)
July 2014  (July  1 – July 31)
 
1,002

 
$
102.99

 

 
700,000

August 2014  (August 1 – August 31)
 
191

 
94.62

 

 
700,000

September 2014 (September 1 – September 30)
 
569

 
97.57

 

 
700,000

Total
 
1,762

 
$
100.33

 

 


 
(a)
Reflects shares withheld by the Company to pay taxes upon vesting of restricted stock.
(b)
On April 30, 2014, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a share repurchase authorization of up to 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s outstanding common stock.  The Company may repurchase shares from time to time in open market or in privately negotiated transactions.  The share repurchase authorization does not obligate the Company to acquire any specific number of shares, has no pre-established end date and may be discontinued by the Company at any time. As of September 30, 2014 , the Company had repurchased 300,000 shares under this authorization since its inception.

Item 6.  Exhibits
 
4.01

Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014, among EQT Midstream Partners, LP, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee.
 
 
4.02

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014, among EQT Midstream Partners, LP, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee.
 
 
10.01

First Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, dated as of August 28, 2014, among MVP Holdco, LLC, US Marcellus Gas Infrastructure, LLC, and Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC. Specific items in this exhibit have been redacted, as marked by three asterisks (***), because confidential treatment for those terms has been requested. The redacted material has been separately filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
 
31.01

Rule 13(a)-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer
 
 
31.02

Rule 13(a)-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer
 
 
32

Section 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer
 
 
101

Interactive Data File


41




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.
 
 
 
 
EQT CORPORATION
 
(Registrant)
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Philip P. Conti
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 Date:  October 23, 2014
 


42




INDEX TO EXHIBITS
 
Exhibit No.
 
Description
 
Method of Filing
 
 
 
 
 
4.01

 
Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014, among EQT Midstream Partners, LP, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee.
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 4.01
 
 
 
 
 
4.02

 
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014, among EQT Midstream Partners, LP, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as Trustee.
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 4.02
 
 
 
 
 
10.01

 
First Amended and Restated Limited Liability Company Agreement of Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, dated as of August 28, 2014, among MVP Holdco, LLC, US Marcellus Gas Infrastructure, LLC, and Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC. Specific items in this exhibit have been redacted, as marked by three asterisks (***), because confidential treatment for those terms has been requested. The redacted material has been separately filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 10.01
 
 
 
 
 
31.01

 
Rule 13(a)-14(a) Certification of Principal Executive Officer
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 31.01
 
 
 
 
 
31.02

 
Rule 13(a)-14(a) Certification of Principal Financial Officer
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 31.02
 
 
 
 
 
32

 
Section 1350 Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 32
 
 
 
 
 
101

 
Interactive Data File
 
Filed herewith as Exhibit 101


43


Exhibit 4.01
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
as Issuer
 
and
 
THE SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS PARTY HERETO
 
and
 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A.
 
as Trustee
 
 
 

 
 
 
Indenture
 
Dated as of August 1, 2014
 
 
 

 
 
 
Debt Securities
 
 
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
Reconciliation and tie between Trust Indenture Act of 1939

and Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014
 

 





Section of
 

Trust Indenture
Section(s) of
Act of 1939
Indenture
 
 
§ 310
(a)(1)
7.10

 
(a)(2)
7.10

 
(a)(3)
Not Applicable
 
(a)(4)
Not Applicable
 
(a)(5)
7.10

 
(b)
7.08, 7.10
§ 311
(a)
7.11

 
(b)
7.11

 
(c)
Not Applicable
§ 312
(a)
2.07

 
(b)
11.03

 
(c)
11.03

§ 313
(a)
7.06

 
(b)
7.06

 
(c)
7.06

 
(d)
7.06

§ 314
(a)
4.03, 4.04
 
(b)
Not Applicable
 
(c)(1)
11.04

 
(c)(2)
11.04

 
(c)(3)
Not Applicable
 
(d)
Not Applicable
 
(e)
11.05

§ 315
(a)
7.01(b)
 
(b)
7.05

 
(c)
7.01(a)
 
(d)
7.01(c)
 
(d)(1)
7.01(c)(1)
 
(d)(2)
7.01(c)(2)
 
(d)(3)
7.01(c)(3)
 
(e)
6.11

§ 316
(a)(1)(A)
6.05

 
(a)(1)(B)
6.04

 
(a)(2)
Not Applicable
 
(a)(last sentence)
2.11

 
(b)
6.07

§ 317
(a)(1)
6.08

 
(a)(2)
6.09

 
(b)
2.06

§ 318
(a)
11.01


 
Note:                   This reconciliation and tie shall not, for any purpose, be deemed to be a part of the Indenture.
 
i





TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 
Page
 
 

ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
1

 
 

SECTION 1.01
Definitions
1

SECTION 1.02
Other Definitions
6

SECTION 1.03
Incorporation by Reference of Trust Indenture Act
6

SECTION 1.04
Rules of Construction
7

 
 
 

ARTICLE II THE SECURITIES
7

 
 
 

SECTION 2.01
Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series
7

SECTION 2.02
Denominations
10

SECTION 2.03
Forms Generally
10

SECTION 2.04
Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating
11

SECTION 2.05
Registrar and Paying Agent
13

SECTION 2.06
Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust.
13

SECTION 2.07
Holder Lists
14

SECTION 2.08
Transfer and Exchange
14

SECTION 2.09
Replacement Securities
14

SECTION 2.10
Outstanding Securities
15

SECTION 2.11
Original Issue Discount and Treasury Securities
15

SECTION 2.12
Temporary Securities
16

SECTION 2.13
Cancellation
16

SECTION 2.14
Payments; Defaulted Interest
16

SECTION 2.15
Persons Deemed Owners
17

SECTION 2.16
Computation of Interest
17

SECTION 2.17
Global Securities; Book-Entry Provisions
17

 
 
 

ARTICLE III REDEMPTION
19

 
 

SECTION 3.01
Applicability of Article
19

SECTION 3.02
Notice to the Trustee
20

SECTION 3.03
Selection of Securities To Be Redeemed
20

SECTION 3.04
Notice of Redemption
20

SECTION 3.05
Effect of Notice of Redemption
21

SECTION 3.06
Deposit of Redemption Price
21

SECTION 3.07
Securities Redeemed in Part
22

SECTION 3.08
Purchase of Securities
22

SECTION 3.09
Mandatory and Optional Sinking Funds
22

SECTION 3.10
Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities
23

SECTION 3.11
Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund
23

 
 
 

ARTICLE IV COVENANTS
24

 
 

SECTION 4.01
Payment of Securities
24

SECTION 4.02
Maintenance of Office or Agency
24

 
ii





SECTION 4.03
SEC Reports; Financial Statements
24

SECTION 4.04
Compliance Certificate
25

SECTION 4.05
Existence
26

SECTION 4.06
Waiver of Stay, Extension or Usury Laws
26

SECTION 4.07
Additional Amounts
26

 
 
 

ARTICLE V SUCCESSORS
26

 
 

SECTION 5.01
Limitations on Mergers and Consolidations
26

SECTION 5.02
Successor Person Substituted
27

 
 
 

ARTICLE VI DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES
27

 
 
 

SECTION 6.01
Events of Default
27

SECTION 6.02
Acceleration
29

SECTION 6.03
Other Remedies
30

SECTION 6.04
Waiver of Defaults
30

SECTION 6.05
Control by Majority
30

SECTION 6.06
Limitations on Suits
31

SECTION 6.07
Rights of Holders to Receive Payment
31

SECTION 6.08
Collection Suit by Trustee
31

SECTION 6.09
Trustee May File Proofs of Claim
32

SECTION 6.10
Priorities
32

SECTION 6.11
Undertaking for Costs
33

 
 
 

ARTICLE VII TRUSTEE
33

 
 
 

SECTION 7.01
Duties of Trustee
33

SECTION 7.02
Rights of Trustee
34

SECTION 7.03
May Hold Securities
35

SECTION 7.04
Trustee’s Disclaimer
35

SECTION 7.05
Notice of Defaults
36

SECTION 7.06
Reports by Trustee to Holders
36

SECTION 7.07
Compensation and Indemnity
36

SECTION 7.08
Replacement of Trustee
37

SECTION 7.09
Successor Trustee by Merger, etc.
39

SECTION 7.10
Eligibility; Disqualification
39

SECTION 7.11
Preferential Collection of Claims Against the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor
39

 
 
 

ARTICLE VIII DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE
39

 
 
 

SECTION 8.01
Termination of the Issuer’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ Obligations
39

SECTION 8.02
Application of Trust Money
43

SECTION 8.03
Repayment to Issuer or Subsidiary Guarantor
44

SECTION 8.04
Reinstatement
44

 
 
 

ARTICLE IX SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES AND AMENDMENTS
44

 
 

SECTION 9.01
Without Consent of Holders
44

 
iii





SECTION 9.02
With Consent of Holders
45

SECTION 9.03
Compliance with the Trust Indenture Act
47

SECTION 9.04
Revocation and Effect of Consents
47

SECTION 9.05
Notation on or Exchange of Securities
48

SECTION 9.06
Trustee to Sign Amendments, etc.
48

 
 
 

ARTICLE X GUARANTEE
49

 
 

SECTION 10.01
Guarantee
49

SECTION 10.02
Execution and Delivery of Guarantees
51

SECTION 10.03
Limitation on Liability of the Subsidiary Guarantors
51

SECTION 10.04
Release of Subsidiary Guarantors from Guarantee
51

SECTION 10.05
Contribution
52

SECTION 10.06
Guarantee for Benefit of Holders
52

 
 
 

ARTICLE XI MISCELLANEOUS
53

 
 

SECTION 11.01
Trust Indenture Act Controls
53

SECTION 11.02
Notices
53

SECTION 11.03
Communication by Holders with Other Holders
54

SECTION 11.04
Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent
54

SECTION 11.05
Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion
55

SECTION 11.06
Rules by Trustee and Agents
55

SECTION 11.07
Legal Holidays
55

SECTION 11.08
No Recourse Against Others
55

SECTION 11.09
Governing Law
56

SECTION 11.10
No Adverse Interpretation of Other Agreements
56

SECTION 11.11
Successors
56

SECTION 11.12
Severability
56

SECTION 11.13
Counterpart Originals
56

SECTION 11.14
Table of Contents, Headings, etc.
56

SECTION 11.15
Waiver of Jury Trial
57

SECTION 11.16
Submission of Jurisdiction
57

SECTION 11.17
Force Majeure
57

 
iv





INDENTURE dated as of August 1, 2014 among EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Issuer”), the Subsidiary Guarantors (as defined herein) party hereto and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee (the “Trustee”).
 
The Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors have duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture to provide for the issuance from time to time of the Issuer’s debentures, notes, bonds or other evidences of indebtedness to be issued in one or more series unlimited as to principal amount (herein called the “Securities”), and the related Guarantees (as hereinafter defined), if any, as provided in this Indenture.
 
The Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors are members of the same consolidated group of companies. The Subsidiary Guarantors will derive direct and indirect economic benefit from the issuance of the Securities. Accordingly, each Subsidiary Guarantor has duly authorized the execution and delivery of this Indenture in light of the possibility that such Subsidiary Guarantor will provide its full and unconditional guarantee of a series of the Securities to the extent provided in this Indenture.
 
All things necessary to make this Indenture a valid agreement of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, in accordance with its terms, have been done.
 
ARTICLE I

DEFINITIONS AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
 
SECTION 1.01                                            Definitions.
 
“Additional Amounts” means any additional amounts required by the express terms of a Security or by or pursuant to a Board Resolution, under circumstances specified therein or pursuant thereto, to be paid by the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, with respect to certain taxes, assessments or other governmental charges imposed on certain Holders and that are owing to such Holders.
 
“Affiliate” of any specified Person means any other Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by, or under direct or indirect common control with, such specified Person.  For purposes of this definition, “control” of a Person shall mean the power to direct the management and policies of such Person, directly or indirectly, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise, and the terms “controlling” and “controlled” shall have meanings correlative to the foregoing.
 
“Agent” means any Registrar or Paying Agent.
 
“Bankruptcy Law” means Title 11 of the United States Code or any similar federal, state or foreign law for the relief of debtors.
 
“Board of Directors,” when used with reference to the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor, means, (i) with respect to the Issuer, the Board of Directors of the General Partner or any authorized committee of the Board of Directors of the General Partner or any directors and/or officers of the General Partner to whom such Board of Directors or such committee shall have duly delegated its authority to act hereunder, and (ii) with respect to a Subsidiary

1





Guarantor, the board of directors or managers of such Subsidiary Guarantor, any authorized committee thereof and any directors, managers and/or officers thereof or of the General Partner, which may include the Board of Directors of the Issuer referred to in clause (i), in any case to whom such board of directors or managers or such committee shall have duly delegated its authority to act hereunder and, if such Subsidiary Guarantor is a limited partnership, the references to the Board of Directors shall mean the Board of Directors of the general partner of such  Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
“Board Resolution” means a copy of a resolution certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the General Partner to have been duly adopted by the Board of Directors of the Issuer and to be in full force and effect on the date of such certification, and delivered to the Trustee.
 
“Business Day” means any day that is not a Legal Holiday.
 
“Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee” means the office of the Trustee located at 525 William Penn Place, 38th Floor, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15259, Attention: Corporate Trust Administration, and as may be located at such other address as the Trustee may give notice to the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors.
 
“Credit Facility” means the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 18, 2014, by and among the Issuer, the subsidiary guarantors party thereto, Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as administrative agent, and a syndicate of lenders named therein, as amended, restated, refinanced, replaced or refunded from time to time.
 
“Default” means any event, act or condition that is, or after notice or the passage of time or both would be, an Event of Default.
 
“deliver” or “delivery” means, in the context of certificated Securities, actual physical delivery of the certificated Securities to the relevant Person required hereunder, together with all endorsements, and in the context of Global Securities, the designation on the records of the Depositary of a change in the beneficial interests of a holder in a Global Security.
 
“Depositary” means, with respect to the Securities of any series issuable or issued in whole or in part in global form, the Person specified pursuant to Section 2.01 hereof as the initial Depositary with respect to the Securities of such series, until a successor shall have been appointed and become such pursuant to the applicable provision of this Indenture, and thereafter “Depositary” shall mean or include such successor.
 
“Dollar” or “$” means a dollar or other equivalent unit in such coin or currency of the United States as at the time shall be legal tender for the payment of public and private debt.
 
“Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and any successor statute.
 
“GAAP” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial


2





Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as may be approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession of the United States, as in effect from time to time.
 
“General Partner” means EQT Midstream Services, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and its successors and permitted assigns as general partner of the Issuer or as the business entity with the ultimate authority to manage the business and operations of the Issuer.
 
“Global Security” means a Security that is issued in global form in the name of the Depositary with respect thereto or its nominee.
 
“Government Obligations” means, with respect to a series of Securities, direct obligations of the United States of America for the payment of which the full faith and credit of the United States of America is pledged, or obligations of a Person controlled or supervised by and acting as an agency or instrumentality of the United States of America, the payment of which is unconditionally guaranteed as a full faith and credit obligation by the United States of America.
 
“Guarantee” means the guarantee of the Issuer’s obligations under the Securities of a series by a Subsidiary Guarantor (if but only if specified with respect to such series as contemplated by Section 2.01(9)) as provided in Article X.
 
“Holder” means a Person in whose name a Security is registered.
 
“Indenture” means this Indenture as amended or supplemented from time to time pursuant to the provisions hereof, and includes the terms of a particular series of Securities established as contemplated by Section 2.01.
 
“interest” means, with respect to an Original Issue Discount Security that by its terms bears interest only after Maturity, interest payable after Maturity.
 
“Interest Payment Date,” when used with respect to any Security, shall have the meaning assigned to such term in the Security as contemplated by Section 2.01.
 
“Issuer” means the Person named as the “Issuer” in the first paragraph of this instrument until a successor Person shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter “Issuer” shall mean such successor Person; provided, however, that for purposes of any provision contained herein which is required by the TIA, “Issuer” shall also mean each other obligor (if any), other than a Subsidiary Guarantor, on the Securities of a series.
 
“Issuer Order” means a written request or order signed on behalf of the Issuer by two of its Officers and delivered to the Trustee.
 
“Legal Holiday” means a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banking institutions in any of The City of New York, New York or a Place of Payment are authorized or obligated by law, regulation or executive order to remain closed.


3





“Maturity” means, with respect to any Security, the date on which the principal of such Security or an installment of principal becomes due and payable as therein or herein provided, whether at the Stated Maturity thereof, or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise.
 
“Officer” means the Chief Executive Officer, the President, the Chief Financial Officer, any Executive Vice President, any Senior Vice President, any Vice President, the Treasurer, any Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, the Secretary or any Assistant Secretary of a Person, including, with respect to the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor, any such officer of the General Partner that the Board of Directors of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor shall have duly authorized to act hereunder.
 
“Officers’ Certificate” means a certificate signed on behalf of the Issuer by any two of its Officers.
 
“Opinion of Counsel” means a written opinion acceptable to the Trustee from legal counsel.  Such counsel may be an employee of or counsel to the Issuer, the General Partner, a Subsidiary Guarantor or an Affiliate of any of the foregoing.
 
“Original Issue Discount Security” means any Security that provides for an amount less than the principal amount thereof to be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 6.02.
 
“Person” means any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, incorporated or unincorporated association, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated organization or government or other agency, instrumentality or political subdivision thereof or other entity of any kind.
 
“Place of Payment” means, with respect to the Securities of any series, the place or places where the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of that series are payable as specified in accordance with Section 2.01 subject to the provisions of Section 4.02.
 
“principal” of a Security means the principal of the Security plus, when appropriate, the premium, if any, on the Security.
 
“Redemption Date” means, with respect to any Security to be redeemed, the date fixed for such redemption by or pursuant to this Indenture.
 
“Redemption Price” means, with respect to any Security to be redeemed, the price at which it is to be redeemed pursuant to this Indenture.
 
“Responsible Officer” means any officer within the corporate trust department of the Trustee having direct responsibility for the administration of this Indenture or any other officer to whom any corporate trust matter is referred because of such person’s knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject and who shall have direct responsibility for the administration of this Indenture.


4





“Rule 144A Securities” means Securities of a series designated pursuant to Section 2.01 as entitled to the benefits of Section 4.03(b).
 
“SEC” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.
 
“Securities” has the meaning stated in the preamble of this Indenture and more particularly means any Securities authenticated and delivered under this Indenture.
 
“Security Custodian” means, with respect to Securities of a series issued in global form, the Trustee for Securities of such series, as custodian with respect to the Securities of such series, or any successor entity thereto.
 
“Significant Subsidiary” means a Subsidiary of the Issuer that is a “significant subsidiary” of the Issuer as such term is defined in Rule 1-02(w) of Regulation S-X as in effect on the date hereof.
 
“Stated Maturity” means, when used with respect to any Security or any installment of principal thereof or interest thereon, the date specified in such Security as the fixed date on which the principal of such Security or such installment of principal or interest is due and payable.
 
“Subsidiary” of any Person means:
 
(1)                               any corporation, association or other business entity of which more than 50% of the total voting power of equity interests entitled, without regard to the occurrence of any contingency, to vote in the election of directors, managers, trustees or equivalent Persons thereof is at the time of determination owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such Person or any combination thereof; or
 
(2)                               in the case of a partnership, more than 50% of the partners’ equity interests, considering all partners’ equity interests as a single class, is at such time of determination owned or controlled, directly or indirectly, by such Person or one or more of the other Subsidiaries of such Person or any combination thereof.
 
“Subsidiary Guarantors” means, with respect to any series of Securities, the Subsidiaries of the Issuer party hereto and the other Person or Persons that have executed a supplemental indenture pursuant to Section 10.02, if any, in each case named in accordance with Section 2.01(9) as the “Subsidiary Guarantors” (i) in or pursuant to a Board Resolution, and set forth, or determined in the manner provided, in an Officers’ Certificate or in an Issuer Order, or (ii) in a supplemental indenture establishing the terms of such series of Securities, and any other Subsidiary of the Issuer who may execute this Indenture, or a supplement thereto, for the purpose of providing a Guarantee for such series of Securities pursuant to this Indenture, in each case, until a successor Person or Persons shall have become such pursuant to the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter “Subsidiary Guarantors” with respect to such series of Securities shall mean such successor Person or Persons.  If a series of Securities does not have any


5





Subsidiary Guarantors as contemplated by Section 2.01(9), all references in this Indenture to Subsidiary Guarantors shall be ignored with respect to such series of Securities.  For the avoidance of doubt, no Security of any series shall be entitled to the benefits of any Guarantee of any Subsidiary Guarantor unless so specified in accordance with Section 2.01(9).
 
“surrender” shall have the same meaning as “deliver” in the context of the surrender of a Security.
 
“TIA” means the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended, as in effect on the date hereof; provided, however, that, in the event the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 is amended after such date, “TIA” means, to the extent required by any such amendment, the Trust Indenture Act of 1939 as so amended.
 
“Trustee” means the Person named as such above until a successor replaces it in accordance with the applicable provisions of this Indenture, and thereafter “Trustee” means each Person who is then a Trustee hereunder, and if at any time there is more than one such Person, “Trustee” as used with respect to the Securities of any series means the Trustee with respect to Securities of that series.
 
“United States” means the United States of America (including the States and the District of Columbia) and its territories and possessions, which include Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, Wake Island and the Northern Mariana Islands.
 
SECTION 1.02                                            Other Definitions.
 
Term
Defined
in Section
 
“Agent Members”
“Bankruptcy Custodian”
“covenant defeasance”
“Event of Default”
“Funding Guarantor”
“Judgment Currency”
“legal defeasance”
“mandatory sinking fund payment”
“Notation of Guarantee”
“optional sinking fund payment”
“Paying Agent”
“Registrar”
“Required Currency”
“Successor”
 
2.17
6.01
8.01
6.01
10.05
6.10
8.01
3.09
10.02
3.09
2.05
2.05
6.10
5.01
 
SECTION 1.03                                            Incorporation by Reference of Trust Indenture Act.
 
Whenever this Indenture refers to a provision of the TIA, the provision is incorporated by reference in and made a part of this Indenture (and if the Indenture is not


6





qualified under the TIA at that time, as if it were so qualified unless otherwise provided).  The following TIA terms used in this Indenture have the following meanings:
 
“Commission” means the SEC.
 
“indenture securities” means the Securities.
 
“indenture security holder” means a Holder.
 
“indenture to be qualified” means this Indenture.
 
“indenture trustee” or “institutional trustee” means the Trustee.
 
“obligor” on the indenture securities means the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other obligor on the Securities.
 
All terms used in this Indenture that are defined by the TIA, defined by a TIA reference to another statute or defined by an SEC rule under the TIA have the meanings so assigned to them.
 
SECTION 1.04                                            Rules of Construction.
 
Unless the context otherwise requires:
 
(1)                               a term has the meaning assigned to it;
 
(2)                               an accounting term not otherwise defined has the meaning assigned to it in accordance with GAAP;
 
(3)                               “or” is not exclusive;
 
(4)                               words in the singular include the plural, and in the plural include the singular;
 
(5)                               provisions apply to successive events and transactions; and
 
(6)                               all references in this instrument to Articles and Sections are references to the corresponding Articles and Sections in and of this instrument.
 
ARTICLE II

THE SECURITIES
 
SECTION 2.01                                            Amount Unlimited; Issuable in Series.
 
The aggregate principal amount of Securities that may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture is unlimited.

7





The Securities may be issued in one or more series.  There shall be established in or pursuant to a Board Resolution, and set forth, or determined in the manner provided, in an Officers’ Certificate or in an Issuer Order, or established in one or more supplemental indentures, prior to the issuance of Securities of any series:
 
(1)                               the title of the Securities of the series (which shall distinguish the Securities of the series from the Securities of all other series);
 
(2)                               if there is to be a limit, the limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Securities of the series that may be authenticated and delivered under this Indenture (except for Securities authenticated and delivered upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Securities of the series pursuant to Section 2.08, 2.09, 2.12, 2.17, 3.07 or 9.05 and except for any Securities which, pursuant to Section 2.04 or 2.17, are deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder); provided, however, that unless otherwise provided in the terms of the series, the authorized aggregate principal amount of such series may be increased before or after the issuance of any Securities of the series by a Board Resolution (or action pursuant to a Board Resolution) to such effect;
 
(3)                               whether any Securities of the series are to be issuable initially in temporary global form and whether any Securities of the series are to be issuable in permanent global form, as Global Securities or otherwise, and, if so, whether beneficial owners of interests in any such Global Security may exchange such interests for Securities of such series and of like tenor of any authorized form and denomination and the circumstances under which any such exchanges may occur, if other than in the manner provided in Section 2.17, and the initial Depositary and Security Custodian, if any, for any Global Security or Securities of such series;
 
(4)                               the manner in which any interest payable on a temporary Global Security on any Interest Payment Date will be paid if other than in the manner provided in Section 2.14;
 
(5)                               the date or dates on which the principal of and premium (if any) on the Securities of the series is payable or the method of determination thereof;
 
(6)                               the rate or rates, or the method of determination thereof, at which the Securities of the series shall bear interest, if any, whether and under what circumstances Additional Amounts with respect to such Securities shall be payable, the date or dates from which such interest shall accrue, the Interest Payment Dates on which such interest shall be payable and the record date for the interest payable on any Securities on any Interest Payment Date, or if other than provided herein, the Person to whom any interest on Securities of the series shall be payable;
 
(7)                               the place or places where, subject to the provisions of Section 4.02, the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of the series shall be payable;


8





(8)                               the period or periods within which, the price or prices (whether denominated in cash, securities or otherwise) at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series may be redeemed, in whole or in part, at the option of the Issuer, if the Issuer is to have that option, and the manner in which the Issuer must exercise any such option, if different from those set forth herein;
 
(9)                               whether Securities of the series are entitled to the benefits of any Guarantee of any Subsidiary Guarantor pursuant to this Indenture, the identity of any such Subsidiary Guarantors (which may, but is not required to, include each of the Subsidiaries of the Issuer a party hereto) and any terms of such Guarantee with respect to the Securities of the series in addition to those set forth in Article X, or any exceptions to or changes to those set forth in Article X;
 
(10)                       the obligation, if any, of the Issuer to redeem, purchase or repay Securities of the series pursuant to any sinking fund or analogous provisions or at the option of a Holder thereof and the period or periods within which, the price or prices (whether denominated in cash, securities or otherwise) at which and the terms and conditions upon which Securities of the series shall be redeemed, purchased or repaid in whole or in part pursuant to such obligation;
 
(11)                       if other than denominations of $2,000 and any integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof, the denomination in which any Securities of that series shall be issuable;
 
(12)                       if other than Dollars, the form, including equity securities, other debt securities (including Securities), warrants or any other securities or property of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other Person, in which payment of the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of the series shall be payable;
 
(13)                       if the amount of payments of principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of the series may be determined with reference to any commodities, currencies or indices, values, rates or prices or any other index or formula, the manner in which such amounts shall be determined;
 
(14)                       if other than the entire principal amount thereof, the portion of the principal amount of Securities of the series that shall be payable upon declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 6.02;
 
(15)                       any additional means of satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture and any additional conditions or limitations to discharge with respect to Securities of the series and the related Guarantees, if any, pursuant to Article VIII or any modifications of or deletions from such conditions or limitations;
 
(16)                       any deletions or modifications of or additions to the Events of Default set forth in Section 6.01 or covenants of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor set forth in Article IV pertaining to the Securities of the series;


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(17)                       any restrictions or other provisions with respect to the transfer or exchange of Securities of the series, which may amend, supplement, modify or supersede those contained in this Article II;
 
(18)                       if the Securities of the series are to be convertible into or exchangeable for common units, other debt securities (including Securities), warrants, other equity securities or any other securities or property of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other Person, at the option of the Issuer or the Holder or upon the occurrence of any condition or event, the terms and conditions for such conversion or exchange;
 
(19)                       whether the Securities of the series are to be entitled to the benefit of Section 4.03(b) (and accordingly constitute Rule 144A Securities); and
 
(20)                       any other terms of the series (which terms shall not be prohibited by the provisions of this Indenture).
 
All Securities of any one series shall be substantially identical except as to denomination and except as may otherwise be provided in or pursuant to the Board Resolution referred to above and (subject to Section 2.03) set forth, or determined in the manner provided, in the Officers’ Certificate or Issuer Order referred to above or in any such supplemental indenture.
 
If any of the terms of the series are established by action taken pursuant to a Board Resolution, a copy of an appropriate record of such action, together with such Board Resolution, shall be set forth in an Officers’ Certificate or certified by the Secretary or an Assistant Secretary of the General Partner and delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Officers’ Certificate or Issuer Order setting forth the terms of the series.
 
SECTION 2.02                                            Denominations.
 
The Securities of each series shall be issuable in such denominations as shall be specified as contemplated by Section 2.01.  In the absence of any such provisions with respect to the Securities of any series, the Securities of such series denominated in Dollars shall be issuable in denominations of $2,000 and any integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.
 
SECTION 2.03                                            Forms Generally.
 
The Securities of each series shall be in fully registered form and in substantially such form or forms (including temporary or permanent global form) established by or pursuant to a Board Resolution or in one or more supplemental indentures.  The Securities may have notations, legends or endorsements required by law, securities exchange rule, the Issuer’s certificate of limited partnership, agreement of limited partnership or other similar governing documents, agreements to which the Issuer is subject, if any, or usage (provided that any such notation, legend or endorsement is in a form acceptable to the Issuer).  A copy of the Board Resolution establishing the form or forms of Securities of any series shall be delivered to the Trustee at or prior to the delivery of the Issuer Order contemplated by Section 2.04 for the authentication and delivery of such Securities.


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The definitive Securities of each series shall be printed, lithographed or engraved on steel engraved borders or may be produced in any other manner, all as determined by the Officers executing such Securities, as evidenced by their execution thereof.
 
The Trustee’s certificate of authentication shall be in substantially the following form:
 
“This is one of the Securities of the series designated therein referred to in the within-mentioned Indenture.
 
 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., as Trustee
 
 
 
By:
 
 
Authorized Officer
 
 
 
Dated:”.
 
SECTION 2.04                                            Execution, Authentication, Delivery and Dating.
 
Two Officers of the Issuer shall sign the Securities on behalf of the Issuer and, with respect to any related Guarantees, an Officer of each Subsidiary Guarantor shall sign the Notation of Guarantee on behalf of such Subsidiary Guarantor, in each case by manual or facsimile signature.
 
If an Officer of the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor whose signature is on a Security no longer holds that office at the time the Security is authenticated, the Security shall be valid nevertheless.
 
A Security shall not be entitled to any benefit under this Indenture or the related Guarantees, if any, or be valid or obligatory for any purpose until authenticated by the manual signature of an authorized signatory of the Trustee, which signature shall be conclusive evidence that the Security has been authenticated under this Indenture.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, if any Security has been authenticated and delivered hereunder but never issued and sold by the Issuer, and the Issuer delivers such Security to the Trustee for cancellation as provided in Section 2.13, together with a written statement (which need not comply with Section 11.05 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel) stating that such Security has never been issued and sold by the Issuer, for all purposes of this Indenture such Security shall be deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered hereunder and shall never be entitled to the benefits of this Indenture or the related Guarantees, if any.
 
At any time and from time to time after the execution and delivery of this Indenture, the Issuer may deliver Securities of any series executed by the Issuer (with, if applicable, the Notation of Guarantee for such series executed by each Subsidiary Guarantor thereof) to the Trustee for authentication, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver such Securities for original issue upon an Issuer Order for the authentication and delivery of such Securities or pursuant to such procedures acceptable to the Trustee as may be specified from time to time by Issuer Order.  Such order shall specify the amount of the Securities to be

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authenticated, the date on which the original issue of Securities is to be authenticated, the name or names of the initial Holder or Holders and any other terms of the Securities of such series not otherwise determined.  If provided for in such procedures, such Issuer Order may authorize (1) authentication and delivery of Securities of such series for original issue from time to time, with certain terms (including, without limitation, the Maturity date or dates, original issue date or dates and interest rate or rates) that differ from Security to Security and (2) authentication and delivery pursuant to electronic instructions from the Issuer or its duly authorized agent, which instructions shall be promptly confirmed in writing.
 
If the form or terms of the Securities of the series have been established in or pursuant to one or more Board Resolutions as permitted by Section 2.01, in authenticating such Securities, and accepting the additional responsibilities under this Indenture in relation to such Securities, the Trustee shall be provided with (in addition to the Issuer Order referred to above and the other documents required by Section 11.04), and (subject to Section 7.01) shall be fully protected in relying upon:
 
(a)                                an Officers’ Certificate setting forth the Board Resolution and, if applicable, an appropriate record of any action taken pursuant thereto, as contemplated by the last paragraph of Section 2.01; and
 
(b)                               an Opinion of Counsel to the effect that:
 
(i)                                   the form of such Securities has been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture;
 
(ii)                               the terms of such Securities have been established in conformity with the provisions of this Indenture; and
 
(iii)                           that when authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and issued by the Issuer in the manner and subject to any conditions specified in such Opinion of Counsel, such Securities and the related Guarantees, if any, will constitute valid and binding obligations of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, respectively, enforceable against the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, respectively, in accordance with their respective terms, except as the enforceability thereof may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, fraudulent conveyance or transfer or other similar laws in effect from time to time affecting the rights of creditors generally, and the application of general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is considered in a proceeding in equity or at law).
 
If all the Securities of any series are not to be issued at one time, it shall not be necessary to deliver such Officers’ Certificate and Opinion of Counsel at the time of issuance of each such Security, but such Officers’ Certificate and Opinion of Counsel shall be delivered at or before the time of issuance of the first Security of the series to be issued.
 
The Trustee shall not be required to authenticate such Securities if the issuance of such Securities pursuant to this Indenture would affect the Trustee’s own rights, duties or


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immunities under the Securities and this Indenture or otherwise in a manner not reasonably acceptable to the Trustee.
 
The Trustee may appoint an authenticating agent acceptable to the Issuer to authenticate Securities.  Unless limited by the terms of such appointment, an authenticating agent may authenticate Securities whenever the Trustee may do so.  Each reference in this Indenture to authentication by the Trustee includes authentication by such agent.  An authenticating agent has the same rights as an Agent to deal with the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or an Affiliate of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
Each Security shall be dated the date of its authentication.
 
SECTION 2.05                                            Registrar and Paying Agent.
 
The Issuer shall maintain an office or agency for each series of Securities where Securities of such series may be presented for registration of transfer or exchange (“Registrar”) and an office or agency where Securities of such series may be presented for payment (“Paying Agent”).  The Registrar shall keep a register of the Securities of such series and of their transfer and exchange.  The Issuer may appoint one or more co-registrars and one or more additional paying agents.  The term “Registrar” includes any co-registrar and the term “Paying Agent” includes any additional paying agent.
 
The Issuer shall enter into an appropriate agency agreement with any Registrar or Paying Agent not a party to this Indenture.  The agreement shall implement the provisions of this Indenture that relate to such Agent.  The Issuer shall notify the Trustee of the name and address of any Agent not a party to this Indenture.  The Issuer may change any Paying Agent or Registrar without notice to any Holder.  If the Issuer fails to appoint or maintain another entity as Registrar or Paying Agent, the Trustee shall act as such.  The Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer may act as Paying Agent or Registrar.
 
The Issuer initially appoints the Trustee as Registrar and Paying Agent.
 
SECTION 2.06                                            Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust.
 
The Issuer shall require each Paying Agent other than the Trustee to agree in writing that the Paying Agent will hold in trust for the benefit of Holders or the Trustee all money held by the Paying Agent for the payment of principal of, premium, if any, or interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to Securities and will notify the Trustee of any default by the Issuer in making any such payment.  While any such default continues, the Trustee may require a Paying Agent to pay all money held by it to the Trustee and to account for any funds disbursed.  The Issuer at any time may require a Paying Agent to pay all money held by it to the Trustee and to account for any funds disbursed.  Upon payment over to the Trustee and upon accounting for any funds disbursed, the Paying Agent (if other than the Issuer, a Subsidiary Guarantor or another Subsidiary of the Issuer) shall have no further liability for the money.  If the Issuer, a Subsidiary Guarantor or another Subsidiary of the Issuer acts as Paying Agent, it shall segregate and hold in a separate trust fund for the benefit of the Holders all money held by it as Paying Agent.  Each Paying Agent shall otherwise comply with TIA § 317(b).

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SECTION 2.07                                            Holder Lists.
 
The Trustee shall preserve in as current a form as is reasonably practicable the most recent list available to it of the names and addresses of Holders and shall otherwise comply with TIA § 312(a).  If the Trustee is not the Registrar with respect to a series of Securities, the Issuer shall furnish to the Trustee at least five Business Days before each Interest Payment Date with respect to such series of Securities, and at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, a list in such form and as of such date as the Trustee may reasonably require of the names and addresses of Holders of such series, and the Issuer shall otherwise comply with TIA § 312(a).
 
SECTION 2.08                                            Transfer and Exchange.
 
Except as set forth in Section 2.17 or as may be provided pursuant to Section 2.01:
 
When Securities of any series are presented to the Registrar with the request to register the transfer of such Securities or to exchange such Securities for an equal principal amount of Securities of the same series of like tenor and of other authorized denominations, the Registrar shall register the transfer or make the exchange as requested if its requirements and the requirements of this Indenture for such transactions are met; provided, however , that the Securities presented or surrendered for registration of transfer or exchange shall be duly endorsed or accompanied by a written instruction of transfer in form reasonably satisfactory to the Registrar duly executed by the Holder thereof or by his attorney, duly authorized in writing, on which instruction the Registrar can rely.
 
To permit registrations of transfers and exchanges, the Issuer shall execute Securities (with, if applicable, the Notation of Guarantee for such series executed by each Subsidiary Guarantor thereof) and the Trustee shall authenticate such Securities at the Registrar’s written request and submission of the Securities or Global Securities.  No service charge shall be made to a Holder for any registration of transfer or exchange (except as otherwise expressly permitted herein), but the Issuer may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any transfer tax or similar governmental charge payable in connection therewith (other than such transfer tax or similar governmental charge payable upon exchanges pursuant to Section 2.12, 3.07 or 9.05). The Trustee shall authenticate Securities in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.04.  Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Indenture to the contrary, the Issuer shall not be required to register the transfer or exchange of (a) any Security selected for redemption in whole or in part pursuant to Article III, except the unredeemed portion of any Security being redeemed in part, or (b) any Security during the period beginning 15 Business Days prior to the giving of notice of any offer to repurchase Securities of the series required pursuant to the terms thereof or of redemption of Securities of a series to be redeemed and ending at the close of business on the day of transmission.
 
SECTION 2.09                                            Replacement Securities.
 
If any mutilated Security is surrendered to the Trustee, or if the Holder of a Security claims that the Security has been destroyed, lost or stolen and the Issuer and the Trustee

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receive evidence to their satisfaction of the destruction, loss or theft of such Security, the Issuer shall issue, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to, and the Trustee shall authenticate a replacement Security of the same series if the Trustee’s requirements are met.  If any such mutilated, destroyed, lost or stolen Security has become or is about to become due and payable, the Issuer in its discretion may, instead of issuing a new Security, pay such Security.  If required by the Trustee, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Issuer, such Holder must furnish an indemnity bond that is sufficient in the judgment of the Trustee and the Issuer to protect the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee, any Agent or any authenticating agent from any loss that any of them may suffer if a Security is replaced.  The Issuer and the Trustee may charge a Holder for their expenses in replacing a Security.
 
Every replacement Security is an additional obligation of the Issuer.
 
SECTION 2.10                                            Outstanding Securities.
 
The Securities outstanding at any time are all the Securities authenticated by the Trustee except for those canceled by it, those delivered to it for cancellation, those reductions in the interest in a Global Security effected by the Trustee hereunder and those described in this Section 2.10 as not outstanding.
 
If a Security is replaced pursuant to Section 2.09, it ceases to be outstanding unless the Trustee receives proof satisfactory to it that the replaced Security is held by a protected purchaser.
 
If the principal amount of any Security is considered paid under Section 4.01, it ceases to be outstanding and interest on it ceases to accrue.
 
Except to the extent provided in Section 2.11, a Security does not cease to be outstanding because the Issuer, a Subsidiary Guarantor or an Affiliate of the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor holds the Security.
 
SECTION 2.11                                            Original Issue Discount and Treasury Securities.
 
In determining whether the Holders of the required principal amount of Securities have concurred in any direction, amendment, supplement, waiver or consent, (a) the principal amount of an Original Issue Discount Security shall be the principal amount thereof that would be due and payable as of the date of such determination upon acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 6.02 and (b) Securities owned by the Issuer, a Subsidiary Guarantor or any other obligor upon the Securities or any Affiliate of the Issuer, of a Subsidiary Guarantor or of such other obligor shall be disregarded, except that, for the purpose of determining whether the Trustee shall be protected in relying upon any such direction, amendment, supplement, waiver or consent, only Securities that a Responsible Officer of the Trustee actually knows are so owned shall be so disregarded.


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SECTION 2.12                                            Temporary Securities.
 
Until definitive Securities of any series are ready for delivery, the Issuer may prepare and execute, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to, and the Trustee shall authenticate temporary Securities.  Temporary Securities shall be substantially in the form of definitive Securities, but may have variations that the Issuer considers appropriate for temporary Securities.  Without unreasonable delay, the Issuer shall prepare and execute, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to, and the Trustee shall authenticate definitive Securities in exchange for temporary Securities.  Until so exchanged, the temporary Securities shall in all respects be entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture as definitive Securities.
 
SECTION 2.13                                            Cancellation.
 
The Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor at any time may deliver Securities to the Trustee for cancellation.  The Registrar and the Paying Agent shall forward to the Trustee any Securities surrendered to them for registration of transfer, exchange, payment or redemption or for credit against any sinking fund payment.  The Trustee shall cancel all Securities surrendered for registration of transfer, exchange, payment, redemption, replacement or cancellation or for credit against any sinking fund.  Unless the Issuer shall direct in writing that canceled Securities be returned to it, after written notice to the Issuer all canceled Securities held by the Trustee shall be disposed of in accordance with the usual disposal procedures of the Trustee, and the Trustee shall maintain a record of their disposal.  The Issuer may not issue new Securities to replace Securities that have been paid or that have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation.
 
SECTION 2.14                                            Payments; Defaulted Interest.
 
Unless otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 2.01, interest (except defaulted interest) on any Security that is payable, and is punctually paid or duly provided for, on any Interest Payment Date shall be paid to the Persons who are registered Holders of that Security at the close of business on the record date next preceding such Interest Payment Date, even if such Securities are canceled after such record date and on or before such Interest Payment Date.  The Holder must surrender a Security to a Paying Agent to collect principal payments.  Unless otherwise provided with respect to the Securities of any series, the Issuer will pay the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities in Dollars.  Such amounts shall be payable at the offices of the Trustee or any Paying Agent, provided that at the option of the Issuer, the Issuer may pay such amounts (1) by wire transfer with respect to Global Securities or (2) by check payable in such money mailed to a Holder’s registered address with respect to any Securities.
 
If the Issuer defaults in a payment of interest on the Securities of any series, the Issuer shall pay the defaulted interest in any lawful manner plus, to the extent lawful, interest on the defaulted interest, in each case at the rate provided in the Securities of such series and in Section 4.01.  The Issuer may pay the defaulted interest to the Persons who are Holders on a subsequent special record date.  At least 15 days before any special record date selected by the Issuer, the Issuer (or the Trustee, in the name of and at the expense of the Issuer upon 20 days’

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prior written notice from the Issuer setting forth such special record date and the interest amount to be paid) shall transmit to Holders a notice that states the special record date, the related payment date and the amount of such interest to be paid.
 
SECTION 2.15                                            Persons Deemed Owners.
 
The Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantors, the Trustee, any Agent and any authenticating agent may treat the Person in whose name any Security is registered as the owner of such Security for the purpose of receiving payments of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to such Security and for all other purposes.  None of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee, any Agent or any authenticating agent shall be affected by any notice to the contrary.
 
SECTION 2.16                                            Computation of Interest.
 
Except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 2.01 for Securities of any series, interest on the Securities of each series shall be computed on the basis of a year comprising twelve 30-day months.
 
SECTION 2.17                                            Global Securities; Book-Entry Provisions.
 
If Securities of a series are issuable in global form as a Global Security, as contemplated by Section 2.01, then, notwithstanding clause (11) of Section 2.01 and the provisions of Section 2.02, any such Global Security shall represent such of the outstanding Securities of such series as shall be specified therein and may provide that it shall represent the aggregate amount of outstanding Securities from time to time endorsed thereon and that the aggregate amount of outstanding Securities represented thereby may from time to time be reduced or increased, as appropriate, to reflect exchanges, transfers or redemptions.  Any endorsement of a Global Security to reflect the amount, or any increase or decrease in the amount, of outstanding Securities represented thereby shall be made by the Trustee (i) in such manner and upon instructions given by such Person or Persons as shall be specified in such Security or in an Issuer Order to be delivered to the Trustee pursuant to Section 2.04 or (ii) otherwise in accordance with written instructions or such other written form of instructions as is customary for the Depositary for such Security, from such Depositary or its nominee on behalf of any Person having a beneficial interest in such Global Security.  Subject to the provisions of Section 2.04 and, if applicable, Section 2.12, the Trustee shall deliver and redeliver any Security in permanent global form in the manner and upon instructions given by the Person or Persons specified in such Security or in the applicable Issuer Order.  With respect to the Securities of any series that are represented by a Global Security, the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors authorize the execution and delivery by the Trustee of a letter of representations or other similar agreement or instrument in the form customarily provided for by the Depositary appointed with respect to such Global Security.  Any Global Security may be deposited with the Depositary or its nominee, or may remain in the custody of the Trustee or the Security Custodian therefor pursuant to a FAST balance certificate agreement or similar agreement between the Trustee and the Depositary.  If an Issuer Order has been, or simultaneously is, delivered, any instructions by the Issuer with respect to endorsement or delivery or redelivery of a Security in global form shall

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be in writing but need not comply with Section 11.05 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel.
 
Members of, or participants in, the Depositary (“Agent Members”) shall have no rights under this Indenture with respect to any Global Security held on their behalf by the Depositary, or the Trustee or the Security Custodian as its custodian, or under such Global Security, and the Depositary may be treated by the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee or the Security Custodian and any agent of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee or the Security Custodian as the absolute owner of such Global Security for all purposes whatsoever.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) the registered holder of a Global Security of a series may grant proxies and otherwise authorize any Person, including Agent Members and Persons that may hold interests through Agent Members, to take any action that a Holder of Securities of such series is entitled to take under this Indenture or the Securities of such series and (ii) nothing herein shall prevent the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee or the Security Custodian, or any agent of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee or the Security Custodian, from giving effect to any written certification, proxy or other authorization furnished by the Depositary or shall impair, as between the Depositary and its Agent Members, the operation of customary practices governing the exercise of the rights of a beneficial owner of any Security.
 
Notwithstanding Section 2.08, and except as otherwise provided pursuant to Section 2.01, transfers of a Global Security shall be limited to transfers of such Global Security in whole, but not in part, to the Depositary, its successors or their respective nominees; interests of beneficial owners in a Global Security may be transferred in accordance with the rules and procedures of the Depositary; and Securities shall be transferred to all beneficial owners in exchange for their beneficial interests in a Global Security if, and only if, either (1) the Depositary notifies the Issuer that it is unwilling or unable to continue as Depositary for the Global Security and a successor Depositary is not appointed by the Issuer within 90 days of such notice, (2) an Event of Default has occurred with respect to such series and is continuing and the Registrar has received a request from the Depositary to issue Securities in lieu of all or a portion of the Global Security (in which case the Issuer shall deliver Securities within 30 days of such request) or (3) the Issuer in its sole discretion determines not to have the Securities represented by a Global Security.
 
In connection with any transfer of a portion of the beneficial interests in a Global Security to beneficial owners pursuant to this Section 2.17, the Registrar shall reflect on its books and records the date and a decrease in the principal amount of the Global Security in an amount equal to the principal amount of the beneficial interests in the Global Security to be transferred, and the Issuer shall execute, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to, and the Trustee upon receipt of an Issuer Order for the authentication and delivery of Securities shall authenticate and deliver, one or more Securities of the same series of like tenor and amount.
 
In connection with the transfer of all of the beneficial interests in a Global Security to beneficial owners pursuant to this Section 2.17, the Global Security shall be deemed to be surrendered to the Trustee for cancellation, and the Issuer shall execute, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to,


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and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver, to each beneficial owner identified by the Depositary in exchange for its beneficial interests in the Global Security, an equal aggregate principal amount of Securities of authorized denominations.
 
None of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Trustee will have any responsibility or liability for any aspect of the records relating to, or payments made on account of, Securities by the Depositary, or for maintaining, supervising or reviewing any records of the Depositary relating to such Securities.  None of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Trustee shall be liable for any delay by the Holder of the Global Security or the Depositary in identifying the beneficial owners, and each such Person may conclusively rely on, and shall be protected in relying on, instructions from such Holder of the Global Security or the Depositary for all purposes (including with respect to the registration and delivery, and the respective principal amounts, of the Securities to be issued).
 
The provisions of the last sentence of the third paragraph of Section 2.04 shall apply to any Global Security if such Global Security was never issued and sold by the Issuer and the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor delivers to the Trustee the Global Security together with written instructions (which need not comply with Section 11.05 and need not be accompanied by an Opinion of Counsel) with regard to the cancellation or reduction in the principal amount of Securities represented thereby, together with the written statement contemplated by the last sentence of the third paragraph of Section 2.04.
 
Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 2.03 and 2.14, unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 2.01, payment of principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to any Global Security shall be made to the Depositary.
 
The Issuer in issuing Securities of any series may use CUSIP numbers (if then generally in use), and, if so, the Trustee shall use CUSIP numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders of Securities of such series; provided that any such notice may state that no representation is made as to the correctness of such numbers either as printed on the Securities of such series or as contained in any notice of a redemption and that reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed on the Securities of such series, and any such redemption shall not be affected by any defect in or omission of such numbers.  The Issuer will promptly notify the Trustee in writing of any change in the CUSIP numbers.
 
Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, delivery or surrender of a Security shall not be required in the case of Global Securities in order to obtain the rights or benefits provided hereunder upon the delivery or surrender of a Security.
 
ARTICLE III

REDEMPTION
 
SECTION 3.01                                            Applicability of Article.
 
Securities of any series that are redeemable before their Stated Maturity shall be redeemable in accordance with their terms and (except as otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 2.01 for Securities of any series) in accordance with this Article III.

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SECTION 3.02                                            Notice to the Trustee.
 
If the Issuer elects to redeem Securities of any series pursuant to this Indenture, it shall notify the Trustee of the Redemption Date and the principal amount of Securities of such series to be redeemed.  The Issuer shall so notify the Trustee at least 45 days before the Redemption Date (unless a shorter notice shall be satisfactory to the Trustee) by delivering to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate stating that such redemption will comply with the provisions of this Indenture and of the Securities of such series.  Any such notice may be canceled at any time prior to the giving of such notice of such redemption to any Holder and shall thereupon be void and of no effect.
 
SECTION 3.03                                            Selection of Securities To Be Redeemed.
 
If less than all of the Securities of any series are to be redeemed (unless all of the Securities of such series of a specified tenor are to be redeemed), the particular Securities to be redeemed shall be selected not more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date from the outstanding Securities of such series (and tenor) not previously called for redemption, either pro rata, by lot or by such other method as the Trustee shall deem appropriate in accordance with industry standards at the time of such redemption and that may provide for the selection for redemption of portions (equal to the minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or any integral multiple thereof) of the principal amount of Securities of such series of a denomination larger than the minimum authorized denomination for Securities of that series or of the principal amount of Global Securities of such series; provided that, if at the time of redemption such Securities are registered as a Global Security, the Depositary shall determine, in accordance with its procedures, the principal amount of such Securities held by each beneficial owner of Securities to be redeemed.
 
If the Trustee selects the Securities to be redeemed, the Trustee shall promptly notify the Issuer and the Registrar in writing of the Securities selected for redemption and, in the case of any Securities selected for partial redemption, the principal amount thereof to be redeemed.
 
For purposes of this Indenture, unless the context otherwise requires, all provisions relating to redemption of Securities shall relate, in the case of any of the Securities redeemed or to be redeemed only in part, to the portion of the principal amount thereof which has been or is to be redeemed.
 
SECTION 3.04                                            Notice of Redemption.
 
Notice of redemption shall be transmitted not less than 30 days (or not less than 15 days in the case of convertible Securities) nor more than 60 days prior to the Redemption Date, to each Holder of Securities to be redeemed, in accordance with Section 11.02.
 
All notices of redemption shall identify the Securities to be redeemed and shall state:
 
(1)                               the Redemption Date;

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(2)                               the Redemption Price (or the method of calculating or determining the Redemption Price);
 
(3)                               that, unless the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, if any, default in making the redemption payment, interest on Securities called for redemption ceases to accrue on and after the Redemption Date, and the only remaining right of the Holders of such Securities is to receive payment of the Redemption Price upon surrender to the Paying Agent of the Securities redeemed;
 
(4)                               if any Security is to be redeemed in part, the portion of the principal amount thereof to be redeemed and that on and after the Redemption Date, upon surrender for cancellation of such Security to the Paying Agent, a new Security or Securities in the aggregate principal amount equal to the unredeemed portion thereof will be issued without charge to the Holder;
 
(5)                               that Securities called for redemption must be surrendered to the Paying Agent to collect the Redemption Price and the name and address of the Paying Agent;
 
(6)                               that the redemption is for a sinking or analogous fund, if such is the case;
 
(7)                               if such Securities are convertible into or exchangeable for common units, other debt securities (including Securities), warrants, other equity securities or any other securities or property of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other Person, the name and address of the conversion or exchange agent, the date on which the right to convert or exchange is terminated and the conversion or exchange rate; and
 
(8)                               the CUSIP number, if any, relating to such Securities.
 
Notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed at the election of the Issuer shall be given by the Issuer or, at the Issuer’s written request, by the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Issuer; provided that, in the latter case, the Issuer shall give the Trustee at least five days’ prior notice of the date the Issuer wishes the notice of redemption to be given (unless a shorter notice period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee).
 
SECTION 3.05                                            Effect of Notice of Redemption.
 
Once notice of redemption is mailed, Securities called for redemption become due and payable on the Redemption Date and at the Redemption Price.  Upon surrender to the Paying Agent, such Securities called for redemption shall be paid at the Redemption Price, but interest installments whose maturity is on or prior to such Redemption Date will be payable on the relevant Interest Payment Dates to the Holders of record at the close of business on the relevant record dates specified pursuant to Section 2.01.
 
SECTION 3.06                                            Deposit of Redemption Price.
 
By 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on any Redemption Date, the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor shall deposit with the Trustee or the Paying Agent (or, if either of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor is acting as the Paying Agent, segregate and hold in trust as

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provided in Section 2.06) an amount of money in same day funds sufficient to pay the Redemption Price of, and (except if the Redemption Date shall be an Interest Payment Date) accrued interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to, the Securities or portions thereof which are to be redeemed on that date, other than Securities or portions thereof called for redemption on that date which have been delivered by the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor to the Trustee for cancellation.
 
If the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor complies with the preceding paragraph, then, unless the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors default in the payment of such Redemption Price, interest on the Securities to be redeemed will cease to accrue on and after the applicable Redemption Date, whether or not such Securities are presented for payment, and the Holders of such Securities shall have no further rights with respect to such Securities except for the right to receive the Redemption Price, together with any such accrued interest and Additional Amounts, upon surrender of such Securities.  If any Security called for redemption shall not be so paid upon surrender thereof for redemption, the principal, premium, if any, any Additional Amounts, and, to the extent lawful, accrued interest thereon shall, until paid, bear interest from the Redemption Date at the rate specified pursuant to Section 2.01 or provided in the Securities or, in the case of Original Issue Discount Securities, such Securities’ yield to maturity.
 
SECTION 3.07                                            Securities Redeemed in Part.
 
Upon surrender to the Paying Agent of a Security to be redeemed in part, the Issuer shall execute, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to, and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Holder of such Security without service charge a new Security or Securities, of the same series and of any authorized denomination as requested by such Holder in aggregate principal amount equal to, and in exchange for, the unredeemed portion of the principal of the Security so surrendered that is not redeemed.
 
SECTION 3.08                                            Purchase of Securities.
 
Unless otherwise specified as contemplated by Section 2.01, the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor and any Affiliate of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor may at any time purchase or otherwise acquire Securities in the open market or by private agreement.  Any such acquisition shall not operate as or be deemed for any purpose to be a redemption of the indebtedness represented by such Securities.  Any Securities purchased or acquired by the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor may be delivered to the Trustee and, upon such delivery, the indebtedness represented thereby shall be deemed to be satisfied.  Section 2.13 shall apply to all Securities so delivered.
 
SECTION 3.09                                            Mandatory and Optional Sinking Funds.
 
The minimum amount of any sinking fund payment provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as a “mandatory sinking fund payment,” and any payment in excess of such minimum amount provided for by the terms of Securities of any series is herein referred to as an “optional sinking fund payment.”  Unless otherwise provided by the terms of Securities of any series, the cash amount of any sinking fund payment may be subject to

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reduction as provided in Section 3.10.  Each sinking fund payment shall be applied to the redemption of Securities of any series as provided for by the terms of Securities of such series and by this Article III.
 
SECTION 3.10                                            Satisfaction of Sinking Fund Payments with Securities.
 
The Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor may deliver outstanding Securities of a series (other than any previously called for redemption) and may apply as a credit Securities of a series that have been redeemed either at the election of the Issuer pursuant to the terms of such Securities or through the application of permitted optional sinking fund payments pursuant to the terms of such Securities, in each case in satisfaction of all or any part of any sinking fund payment with respect to the Securities of such series required to be made pursuant to the terms of such series of Securities; provided that such Securities have not been previously so credited.  Such Securities shall be received and credited for such purpose by the Trustee at the Redemption Price specified in such Securities for redemption through operation of the sinking fund and the amount of such sinking fund payment shall be reduced accordingly.
 
SECTION 3.11                                            Redemption of Securities for Sinking Fund.
 
Not less than 45 days prior (unless a shorter period shall be satisfactory to the Trustee) to each sinking fund payment date for any series of Securities, the Issuer will deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate specifying the amount of the next ensuing sinking fund payment for that series pursuant to the terms of that series, the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by payment of cash and the portion thereof, if any, which is to be satisfied by delivery of or by crediting Securities of that series pursuant to Section 3.10 and will also deliver or cause to be delivered to the Trustee any Securities to be so delivered.  Failure of the Issuer to timely deliver or cause to be delivered such Officers’ Certificate and Securities specified in this paragraph, if any, shall not constitute a default but shall constitute the election of the Issuer (i) that the mandatory sinking fund payment for such series due on the next succeeding sinking fund payment date shall be paid entirely in cash without the option to deliver or credit Securities of such series in respect thereof and (ii) that the Issuer will make no optional sinking fund payment with respect to such series as provided in this Section 3.11.
 
If the sinking fund payment or payments (mandatory or optional or both) to be made in cash on the next succeeding sinking fund payment date plus any unused balance of any preceding sinking fund payments made in cash shall exceed $100,000 or a lesser sum if the Issuer shall so request with respect to the Securities of any particular series, such cash shall be applied on the next succeeding sinking fund payment date to the redemption of Securities of such series at the sinking fund redemption price together with accrued interest to the date fixed for redemption.  If such amount shall be $100,000 or less and the Issuer makes no such request then it shall be carried over until a sum in excess of $100,000 is available.  Not less than 30 days before each such sinking fund payment date, the Securities to be redeemed upon such sinking fund payment date shall be selected in the manner specified in Section 3.03 and cause notice of the redemption thereof to be given in the name of and at the expense of the Issuer in the manner provided in Section 3.04.  Such notice having been duly given, the redemption of such Securities shall be made upon the terms and in the manner stated in Sections 3.05, 3.06 and 3.07.

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ARTICLE IV

COVENANTS
 
SECTION 4.01                                            Payment of Securities.
 
The Issuer shall pay the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of each series on the dates and in the manner provided in the Securities of such series and in this Indenture.  Principal, premium, interest and any Additional Amounts shall be considered paid on the date due if the Paying Agent (other than the Issuer, a Subsidiary Guarantor or another Subsidiary of the Issuer) holds by 11:00 a.m., New York City time, on that date money deposited by the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor designated for and sufficient to pay all principal, premium, interest and any Additional Amounts then due.
 
The Issuer shall pay interest (including post-petition interest in any proceeding under any Bankruptcy Law) on overdue principal and premium (if any), at a rate equal to the then applicable interest rate on the Securities to the extent lawful; and it shall pay interest (including post-petition interest in any proceeding under any Bankruptcy Law) on overdue installments of interest and any Additional Amount (without regard to any applicable grace period) at the same rate to the extent lawful.
 
SECTION 4.02                                            Maintenance of Office or Agency.
 
The Issuer will maintain in each Place of Payment for any series of Securities an office or agency (which may be an office of the Trustee, the Registrar or the Paying Agent) where Securities of that series may be presented for registration of transfer or exchange, where Securities of that series may be presented for payment and where notices and demands to or upon the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor in respect of the Securities of that series and this Indenture may be served. Unless otherwise designated by the Issuer by written notice to the Trustee and the Subsidiary Guarantors, such office or agency shall be the office of the Trustee in The City of New York, which on the date hereof is located at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286.  The Issuer will give prompt written notice to the Trustee and the Subsidiary Guarantors of the location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency.  If at any time the Issuer shall fail to maintain any such required office or agency or shall fail to furnish the Trustee and the Subsidiary Guarantors with the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee.
 
The Issuer may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where the Securities of one or more series may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes and may from time to time rescind such designations; provided, however , that no such designation or rescission shall in any manner relieve the Issuer of its obligation to maintain an office or agency in each Place of Payment for Securities of any series for such purposes.  The Issuer will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change in the location of any such other office or agency.
 
SECTION 4.03                                            SEC Reports; Financial Statements.
 
(a)                                For so long as the Issuer is subject to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Issuer shall file with the Trustee, within 15 days after it files the

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same with the SEC, copies of the annual reports and the information, documents and other reports (or copies of such portions of any of the foregoing as the SEC may by rules and regulations prescribe) that the Issuer is required to file with the SEC pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.  If this Indenture is qualified under the TIA, but not otherwise, the Issuer shall also comply with the provisions of TIA § 314(a).
 
(b)                               If the Issuer is not subject to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, the Issuer shall furnish to all Holders of Rule 144A Securities and prospective purchasers of Rule 144A Securities designated by the Holders of Rule 144A Securities, promptly upon their request, the information required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4) promulgated under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
 
(c)                                The availability of the foregoing information or reports on the SEC’s website will be deemed to satisfy the foregoing delivery requirements.
 
(d)                              Delivery of such reports, information and documents to the Trustee is for informational purposes only and the Trustee’s receipt of such shall not constitute constructive notice of any information contained therein or determinable from information contained therein, including the Issuer’s compliance with any of its covenants hereunder (as to which the Trustee is entitled to rely exclusively on Officers’ Certificates and statements pursuant to Section 4.04(a)).
 
SECTION 4.04                                            Compliance Certificate.
 
(a)                                The Issuer shall deliver to the Trustee, within 120 days after the end of each fiscal year of the Issuer, a statement signed by the principal executive officer, principal financial officer or principal accounting officer of the General Partner, which need not constitute an Officers’ Certificate, complying with TIA § 314(a)(4) and stating that in the course of performance by the signing officer of his duties as such officer of the General Partner, he would normally obtain knowledge of the keeping, observing, performing and fulfilling by the Issuer and any Subsidiary Guarantor of its obligations under this Indenture, and further stating that to the best of his knowledge each of the Issuer and any Subsidiary Guarantor has kept, observed, performed and fulfilled each and every covenant contained in this Indenture and is not in default in the performance or observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions hereof (or, if a Default or Event of Default shall have occurred, describing all such Defaults or Events of Default of which such officer may have knowledge and what action the Issuer and any Subsidiary Guarantor is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto).
 
(b)                               The Issuer shall, so long as Securities of any series are outstanding, deliver to the Trustee, as soon as practicable, but in no event more than 30 days, after any Officer of the General Partner becoming aware of any Default or Event of Default under this Indenture, a statement specifying such Default or Event of Default and what action the Issuer and any Subsidiary Guarantor is taking or proposes to take with respect thereto.

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SECTION 4.05           Existence.
 
Subject to Article V, the Issuer shall do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in full force and effect its existence.  This Section 4.05 shall not prohibit or restrict the Issuer from converting into a different form or jurisdiction of legal entity.
 
SECTION 4.06           Waiver of Stay, Extension or Usury Laws.
 
Each of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors covenants (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) that it will not at any time insist upon, or plead, or in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of, any stay or extension law or any usury law or other law that would prohibit or forgive it from paying all or any portion of the principal of or interest on the Securities as contemplated herein, wherever enacted, now or at any time hereafter in force, or which may affect the covenants or the performance of this Indenture; and (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) each of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby expressly waives all benefit or advantage of any such law, and covenants that it will not hinder, delay or impede the execution of any power herein granted to the Trustee, but will suffer and permit the execution of every such power as though no such law had been enacted.
 
SECTION 4.07           Additional Amounts.
 
If the Securities of a series expressly provide for the payment of Additional Amounts, the Issuer will pay to the Holder of any Security of such series Additional Amounts as expressly provided therein.  Whenever in this Indenture there is mentioned, in any context, the payment of the principal of or any premium or interest on, or in respect of, any Security of any series or the net proceeds received from the sale or exchange of any Security of any series, such mention shall be deemed to include mention of the payment of Additional Amounts provided for in this Section 4.07 to the extent that, in such context, Additional Amounts are, were or would be payable in respect thereof pursuant to the provisions of this Section 4.07 and express mention of the payment of Additional Amounts (if applicable) in any provisions hereof shall not be construed as excluding Additional Amounts in those provisions hereof where such express mention is not made.
 
ARTICLE V

SUCCESSORS
 
SECTION 5.01           Limitations on Mergers and Consolidations.
 
Neither the Issuer nor any Subsidiary Guarantor shall consolidate with or merge into any Person, or sell, lease, convey, assign, transfer or otherwise dispose of, in any transaction or series of transactions, all or substantially all of its assets to any Person (other than a consolidation or merger of the Issuer and one or more Subsidiary Guarantors or of two or more Subsidiary Guarantors, or a sale, lease, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Issuer to one or more Subsidiary Guarantors or of a Subsidiary Guarantor to the Issuer or one or more other Subsidiary Guarantors), unless:
 
(1)        either (a) the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, shall be the continuing Person or (b) the Person (if other than the Issuer or such

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Subsidiary Guarantor) formed by such consolidation or into which the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor is merged, or to which such sale, lease, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other disposition shall be made (collectively, the “Successor”), is organized under the laws of the United States of America, any political subdivision thereof or any State thereof or the District of Columbia, and expressly assumes by supplemental indenture, in the case of the Issuer, the due and punctual payment of the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to all the Securities and the performance of the Issuer’s covenants and obligations under this Indenture and the Securities, or, in the case of such Subsidiary Guarantor, the performance of the Guarantee and such Subsidiary Guarantor’s covenants and obligations under this Indenture and the Securities; and
 
(2)        immediately after giving effect to such transaction or series of transactions, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would result therefrom.
 
SECTION 5.02           Successor Person Substituted.
 
Upon any consolidation or merger of the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, or any sale, lease, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor in accordance with Section 5.01, the Successor formed by such consolidation or into which the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor is merged or to which such sale, lease, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other disposition is made shall succeed to, and be substituted for, and may exercise every right and power of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, under this Indenture and the Securities with the same effect as if such Successor had been named as the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, herein and the predecessor Issuer or Subsidiary Guarantor, in the case of a sale, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other disposition (except a lease), shall be released from all obligations under this Indenture, the Securities and, in the case of a Subsidiary Guarantor, its Guarantee.
 
ARTICLE VI

DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES
 
SECTION 6.01           Events of Default.
 
Unless either inapplicable to a particular series or specifically deleted or modified in or pursuant to the supplemental indenture or Board Resolution establishing such series of Securities or in the form of Security for such series, an “Event of Default,” wherever used herein with respect to Securities of any series, occurs if:
 
(1)        there is a default in the payment of interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to any Security of that series when the same becomes due and payable and such default continues for a period of 30 days;
 
(2)        there is a default in the payment of the principal of or premium, if any, on any Security of that series as and when the same shall become due and payable,

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whether at Stated Maturity, upon redemption, by declaration, upon required repurchase or otherwise;
 
(3)        there is a default in the deposit of any sinking fund payment with respect to any Security of that series as and when the same shall become due and payable, and such default continues for a period of 30 days;
 
(4)        the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor fails to comply with any of its other covenants or agreements in, or provisions of, the Securities of such series or this Indenture (other than an agreement, covenant or provision that has expressly been included in this Indenture solely for the benefit of one or more series of Securities other than that series) which shall not have been remedied within the specified period after written notice, as specified in the last paragraph of this Section 6.01;
 
(5)        the Issuer, or if that series of Securities is entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary, any such Subsidiary Guarantor, pursuant to or within the meaning of any Bankruptcy Law:
 
(A)       commences a voluntary case,
 
(B)       consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case,
 
(C)       consents to the appointment of a Bankruptcy Custodian of it or for all or substantially all of its property, or
 
(D)       makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors;
 
(6)        a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that remains unstayed and in effect for 90 days and that:
 
(A)       is for relief against the Issuer or if that series of Securities is entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary, any such Subsidiary Guarantor as debtor in an involuntary case,
 
(B)       appoints a Bankruptcy Custodian of the Issuer or any such Subsidiary Guarantor or a Bankruptcy Custodian for all or substantially all of the property of the Issuer or any such Subsidiary Guarantor, or
 
(C)       orders the liquidation of the Issuer or any such Subsidiary Guarantor;
 
(7)        if that series of Securities is entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary, such Guarantee ceases to be in full force and effect with respect to Securities of that series (except as otherwise provided in this Indenture) or is declared null and void in a judicial proceeding, or any such


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Subsidiary Guarantor denies or disaffirms its obligations under this Indenture or such Guarantee; or
 
(8)        any other Event of Default provided with respect to Securities of that series occurs.
 
The term “Bankruptcy Custodian” means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator or similar official under any Bankruptcy Law.
 
The Trustee shall not be deemed to know or have notice of any Default or Event of Default unless a Responsible Officer of the Trustee has actual knowledge thereof or unless written notice of any event which is in fact such a Default or Event of Default is received by a Responsible Officer of the Trustee at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee, and such notice references the Securities and this Indenture.
 
When a Default or Event of Default is cured, it ceases.
 
A Default under clause (4) or (8) of this Section 6.01 is not an Event of Default until the Trustee notifies the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of the series affected by such Default (or, in the case of a Default under clause (4) of this Section 6.01, if outstanding Securities of other series are affected by such Default, then at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities so affected) notify the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee, of the Default, and the Issuer or the applicable Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, fails to cure the Default within 90 days after receipt of the notice.  The notice must specify the Default, demand that it be remedied and state that the notice is a “Notice of Default.”
 
SECTION 6.02           Acceleration.
 
If an Event of Default with respect to any Securities of any series at the time outstanding (other than an Event of Default specified in clause (5) or (6) of Section 6.01) occurs and is continuing, the Trustee by notice to the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of the series affected by such Event of Default (or, in the case of an Event of Default described in clause (4) of Section 6.01, if outstanding Securities of other series are affected by such Event of Default, then at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities so affected) by notice to the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee, may declare the principal of (or, if any such Securities are Original Issue Discount Securities, such portion of the principal amount as may be specified in the terms of that series) and all accrued and unpaid interest on all then outstanding Securities of such series or of all series, as the case may be, to be due and payable.  Upon any such declaration, the amounts due and payable on the Securities shall be due and payable immediately.  If an Event of Default specified in clause (5) or (6) of Section 6.01 hereof occurs, such amounts shall ipso facto become and be immediately due and payable without any declaration, notice or other act on the part of the Trustee or any Holder.  The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of the series affected by such Event of Default or all series so affected, as the case may be, by written notice to the Trustee may rescind an acceleration and its consequences (other than nonpayment of principal of or


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premium or interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities) if the rescission would not conflict with any judgment or decree and if all existing Events of Default with respect to Securities of that series (or of all series, as the case may be) have been cured or waived, except nonpayment of principal, premium, interest or any Additional Amounts that has become due solely because of the acceleration.
 
SECTION 6.03           Other Remedies.
 
If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may pursue any available remedy to collect the payment of principal of, or premium, if any, or interest on the Securities or to enforce the performance of any provision of the Securities or this Indenture.
 
The Trustee may maintain a proceeding even if it does not possess any of the Securities or does not produce any of them in the proceeding.  A delay or omission by the Trustee or any Holder in exercising any right or remedy accruing upon an Event of Default shall not impair the right or remedy or constitute a waiver of or acquiescence in the Event of Default.  All remedies are cumulative to the extent permitted by law.
 
SECTION 6.04           Waiver of Defaults.
 
Subject to Sections 6.07 and 9.02, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of any series or of all series affected thereby (acting as one class) by notice to the Trustee may waive an existing or past Default or Event of Default with respect to such series or all series so affected, as the case may be, and its consequences (including waivers obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for Securities of such series or all series so affected or a solicitation of consents in respect of Securities of such series or all series so affected, provided that in each case such offer or solicitation is made to all Holders of then outstanding Securities of such series or all series so affected (but the terms of such offer or solicitation may vary from series to series)), except (1) a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of the principal of, or premium, if any, or interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to any Security or (2) a continued Default in respect of a provision that under Section 9.02 cannot be amended or supplemented without the consent of each Holder affected.  Upon any such waiver, such Default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured for every purpose of this Indenture; but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other Default or impair any right consequent thereon.
 
SECTION 6.05           Control by Majority.
 
With respect to Securities of any series, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of such series may direct in writing the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on it relating to or arising under an Event of Default described in clause (1), (2), (3), (7) or (8) of Section 6.01, and with respect to all Securities, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of all the then outstanding Securities affected may direct in writing the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on it not relating to or arising under such an Event of

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Default.  However, the Trustee may refuse to follow any direction that conflicts with applicable law or this Indenture, that the Trustee determines may be unduly prejudicial to the rights of other Holders, or that may involve the Trustee in personal liability; provided, however , that the Trustee may take any other action deemed proper by the Trustee that is not inconsistent with such direction.  Prior to taking any action hereunder, the Trustee shall be entitled to security or indemnification satisfactory to it in its sole discretion from Holders directing the Trustee against all losses and expenses caused by taking or not taking such action.
 
SECTION 6.06           Limitations on Suits.
 
Subject to Section 6.07 hereof, a Holder of a Security of any series may pursue a remedy with respect to this Indenture or the Securities of such series or the related Guarantees, if any, only if:
 
(1)        the Holder gives to the Trustee written notice of a continuing Event of Default with respect to such series;
 
(2)        the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of such series make a written request to the Trustee to pursue the remedy;
 
(3)        such Holder or Holders offer to the Trustee indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense;
 
(4)        the Trustee does not comply with the request within 60 days after receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity; and
 
(5)        during such 60-day period, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities of such series do not give the Trustee a direction inconsistent with the request.
 
A Holder may not use this Indenture to prejudice the rights of another Holder or to obtain a preference or priority over another Holder.
 
SECTION 6.07           Rights of Holders to Receive Payment.
 
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture, the right of any Holder of a Security to receive payment of principal of and premium, if any, and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Security, on or after the respective due dates expressed in the Security, or to bring suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after such respective dates, is absolute and unconditional and shall not be impaired or affected without the consent of the Holder.
 
SECTION 6.08           Collection Suit by Trustee.
 
If an Event of Default specified in clause (1) or (2) of Section 6.01 hereof occurs and is continuing, the Trustee is authorized to recover judgment in its own name and as trustee of an express trust against the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor for the amount of principal, premium (if any), interest and any Additional Amounts remaining unpaid on the Securities of the

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series affected by the Event of Default, and interest on overdue principal and premium, if any, and, to the extent lawful, interest on overdue interest, and such further amount as shall be sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.
 
SECTION 6.09           Trustee May File Proofs of Claim.
 
The Trustee is authorized to file such proofs of claim and other papers or documents and to take such actions, including participating as a member, voting or otherwise, of any committee of creditors, as may be necessary or advisable to have the claims of the Trustee (including any claim for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel) and the Holders allowed in any judicial proceedings relative to the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor or their respective creditors or properties and shall be entitled and empowered to collect, receive and distribute any money or other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and any Bankruptcy Custodian in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee, and in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due to it for the reasonable compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.07. To the extent that the payment of any such compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.07 out of the estate in any such proceeding, shall be denied for any reason, payment of the same shall be secured by a lien on, and shall be paid out of, any and all distributions, dividends, money, securities and other properties which the Holders of the Securities may be entitled to receive in such proceeding whether in liquidation or under any plan of reorganization or arrangement or otherwise.  Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition affecting the Securities or the rights of any Holder thereof, or to authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.
 
SECTION 6.10           Priorities.
 
If the Trustee collects any money pursuant to this Article VI, it shall pay out the money in the following order:
 
First:  to the Trustee for amounts due under Section 7.07;
 
Second:  to Holders for amounts due and unpaid on the Securities in respect of which or for the benefit of which such money has been collected, for principal, premium (if any), interest and any Additional Amounts ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the amounts due and payable on such Securities for principal, premium (if any), interest and any Additional Amounts, respectively; and
 
Third:  to the Issuer or as a court of competent jurisdiction shall direct in writing.
 
The Trustee, upon prior written notice to the Issuer, may fix record dates and payment dates for any payment to Holders pursuant to this Article VI.

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To the fullest extent allowed under applicable law, if for the purpose of obtaining a judgment against the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor in any court it is necessary to convert the sum due in respect of the principal of, premium (if any) or interest on or Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of any series (the “Required Currency”) into a currency in which a judgment will be rendered (the “Judgment Currency”), the rate of exchange used for purposes of rendering the judgment shall be the rate at which in accordance with normal banking procedures the Trustee could purchase in The City of New York the Required Currency with the Judgment Currency on the Business Day in The City of New York next preceding that on which final judgment is given.  None of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Trustee shall be liable for any shortfall nor shall it benefit from any windfall in payments to Holders of Securities under this Section 6.10 caused by a change in exchange rates between the time the amount of a judgment against it is calculated as above and the time the Trustee converts the Judgment Currency into the Required Currency to make payments under this Section 6.10 to Holders of Securities, but payment of such judgment shall discharge all amounts owed by the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors on the claim or claims underlying such judgment.
 
SECTION 6.11           Undertaking for Costs.
 
In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken or omitted by it as a trustee, a court in its discretion may require the filing by any party litigant in the suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of the suit, and the court in its discretion may assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, against any party litigant in the suit, having due regard to the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by the party litigant.  This Section 6.11 does not apply to a suit by the Trustee, a suit by a Holder pursuant to Section 6.07, or a suit by a Holder or Holders of more than 10% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of any series.
ARTICLE VII

TRUSTEE
 
SECTION 7.01           Duties of Trustee.
 
(a)        If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Trustee shall exercise such of the rights and powers vested in it by this Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in such exercise, as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of such person’s own affairs.
 
(b)        Except during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to the Securities of any series:
 
(1)        the Trustee need perform only those duties that are specifically set forth in this Indenture and no others, and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and
 
(2)        in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to the Trustee and conforming to the requirements of this Indenture.  However, the Trustee shall examine such certificates and opinions to

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determine whether, on their face, they appear to conform to the requirements of this Indenture but need not confirm or investigate the accuracy of any such opinions and certificates.
 
(c)        The Trustee may not be relieved from liabilities for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act or its own willful misconduct, except that:
 
(1)        this paragraph does not limit the effect of Section 7.01(b);
 
(2)        the Trustee shall not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a Responsible Officer, unless it is proved that the Trustee was negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts; and
 
(3)        the Trustee shall not be liable with respect to any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in accordance with a direction received by it pursuant to Section 6.05.
 
(d)       Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture that in any way relates to the Trustee is subject to the provisions of this Section 7.01.
 
(e)        No provision of this Indenture shall require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or incur any liability.  The Trustee may refuse to perform any duty or exercise any right or power unless it receives indemnity satisfactory to it against any loss, liability or expense.
 
(f)        The Trustee shall not be liable for interest on any money received by it except as the Trustee may agree in writing with the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors.  Money held in trust by the Trustee need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.  All money received by the Trustee shall, until applied as herein provided, be held in trust for the payment of the principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities.
 
SECTION 7.02           Rights of Trustee.
 
(a)        The Trustee may conclusively rely on any document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper Person.  The Trustee need not investigate any fact or matter stated in the document.
 
(b)        Before the Trustee acts or refrains from acting, it may require instruction, an Officers’ Certificate or an Opinion of Counsel or both to be provided.  The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in reliance on such instruction, Officers’ Certificate or Opinion of Counsel.  The Trustee may consult at the Issuer’s expense with counsel of its selection and the advice of such counsel or any Opinion of Counsel shall be full and complete authorization and protection in respect of any action taken, suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon.
 
(c)        The Trustee may act through agents and shall not be responsible for the misconduct or negligence of any agent appointed with due care.


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(d)       The Trustee shall not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith which it reasonably believes to be authorized or within its rights or powers conferred upon it by this Indenture.
 
(e)        Unless otherwise specifically provided in this Indenture, any demand, request, direction or notice from the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor shall be sufficient if signed by an Officer of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be.
 
(f)        The Trustee shall not be obligated to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, opinion, report, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond, debenture, note, other evidence of indebtedness or other paper or document.
 
(g)        The rights, privileges, protections, immunities and benefits given to the Trustee, including, without limitation, its right to be indemnified, are extended to, and shall be enforceable by, the Trustee in each of its capacities hereunder, and each agent, custodian and other Person employed to act hereunder.
 
(h)        The Trustee may request that the Issuer deliver an Officers’ Certificate setting forth the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified actions pursuant to this Indenture, which Officers’ Certificate may be signed by any person authorized to sign an Officers’ Certificate, including any person specified as so authorized in any such certificate previously delivered and not superseded.
 
(i)         In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for special, indirect, or consequential loss or damage of any kind whatsoever (including, but not limited to, loss of profit) irrespective of whether the Trustee has been advised of the likelihood of such loss or damage and regardless of the form of action.
 
SECTION 7.03           May Hold Securities.
 
The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may otherwise deal with the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any of their respective Affiliates with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee. Any Agent may do the same with like rights and duties.  However, the Trustee is subject to Sections 7.10 and 7.11.
 
SECTION 7.04           Trustee’s Disclaimer.
 
The Trustee makes no representation as to the validity or adequacy of this Indenture or the Securities, it shall not be accountable for the Issuer’s use of the proceeds from the Securities or any money paid to the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor or upon the Issuer’s or such Subsidiary Guarantor’s direction under any provision hereof, it shall not be responsible for the use or application of any money received by any Paying Agent other than the Trustee and it shall not be responsible for any statement or recital herein or any statement in the Securities other than its certificate of authentication.


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SECTION 7.05           Notice of Defaults.
 
If a Default or Event of Default with respect to the Securities of any series occurs and is continuing and it is known to the Trustee, the Trustee shall transmit to Holders of Securities of such series a notice of the Default or Event of Default within 90 days after it occurs.  Except in the case of a Default or Event of Default in payment of principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and Additional Amounts or any sinking fund installment with respect to the Securities of such series, the Trustee may withhold the notice if and so long as a committee of its Responsible Officers in good faith determines that withholding the notice is in the interests of Holders of Securities of such series.
 
SECTION 7.06           Reports by Trustee to Holders.
 
Within 60 days after May 15 of each year after the execution of this Indenture, the Trustee shall transmit to Holders of a series, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Issuer a brief report dated as of such reporting date that complies with TIA § 313(a); provided, however , that if no event described in TIA § 313(a) has occurred within the twelve months preceding the reporting date with respect to a series, no report need be transmitted to Holders of such series.  The Trustee also shall comply with TIA § 313(b).  The Trustee shall also transmit all reports if and as required by TIA §§ 313(c) and 313(d).
 
A copy of each report at the time of its transmission to Holders of a series of Securities shall be filed by the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor with the SEC and each securities exchange, if any, on which the Securities of such series are listed. The Issuer shall notify the Trustee if and when any series of Securities is listed or delisted on any securities exchange.
 
SECTION 7.07           Compensation and Indemnity.
 
The Issuer agrees to pay to the Trustee for its acceptance of this Indenture and services hereunder such compensation as the Issuer and the Trustee shall from time to time agree in writing. The Trustee’s compensation shall not be limited by any law on compensation of a trustee of an express trust.  The Issuer agrees to reimburse the Trustee upon request for all reasonable disbursements, advances and expenses incurred by it.  Such expenses shall include the reasonable compensation, disbursements and expenses of the Trustee’s agents and counsel.
 
The Issuer hereby agrees to indemnify the Trustee and any predecessor Trustee against any and all loss, liability, damage, claim or expense, including taxes (other than taxes based upon, measured by or determined by the income of the Trustee), incurred by it arising out of or in connection with the acceptance or administration of its duties under this Indenture, except as set forth in the next following paragraph.  The Trustee shall notify the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors promptly of any claim of which a Responsible Officer has received written notice and for which it may seek indemnity.  The Issuer shall defend the claim and the Trustee shall cooperate in the defense.  The Trustee may have separate counsel and the Issuer shall pay the reasonable fees and expenses of such counsel.  The Issuer need not pay for any settlement made without its consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld.


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The Issuer shall not be obligated to reimburse any expense or indemnify against any loss or liability incurred by the Trustee as determined to have been caused by the Trustee’s own negligence, willful misconduct or bad faith.
 
To secure the payment obligations of the Issuer in this Section 7.07, the Trustee shall have a lien prior to the Securities on all money or property held or collected by the Trustee, except for money or property held in trust to pay principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to Securities of any series.  Such lien and the Issuer’s obligations under this Section 7.07 shall survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture.
 
When the Trustee incurs expenses or renders services after an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(5) or (6) occurs, the expenses and the compensation for the services are intended to constitute expenses of administration under any Bankruptcy Law.
 
SECTION 7.08           Replacement of Trustee.
 
A resignation or removal of the Trustee and appointment of a successor Trustee shall become effective only upon the successor Trustee’s acceptance of appointment as provided in this Section 7.08.
 
The Trustee may resign and be discharged at any time with respect to the Securities of one or more series by so notifying the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors.  The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of any series may remove the Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series by so notifying the Trustee, the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors.  The Issuer may remove the Trustee if:
 
(1)        the Trustee fails to comply with Section 7.10;
 
(2)        the Trustee is adjudged a bankrupt or an insolvent or an order for relief is entered with respect to the Trustee under any Bankruptcy Law;
 
(3)        a Bankruptcy Custodian or public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or
 
(4)        the Trustee otherwise becomes incapable of acting.
 
If the Trustee resigns or is removed or if a vacancy exists in the office of Trustee for any reason, with respect to the Securities of one or more series, the Issuer shall promptly appoint a successor Trustee or Trustees with respect to the Securities of that or those series (it being understood that any such successor Trustee may be appointed with respect to the Securities of one or more or all of such series and that at any time there shall be only one Trustee with respect to the Securities of any particular series).  Within one year after the successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series takes office, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the Securities of such series then outstanding may appoint a successor Trustee to replace the successor Trustee appointed by the Issuer.
 
If a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of any series does not take office within 30 days after the retiring or removed Trustee resigns or is removed, the retiring or

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removed Trustee (at the expense of the Issuer), the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Holders of at least 10% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of such series may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.
 
If the Trustee with respect to the Securities of a series fails to comply with Section 7.10, any Holder of Securities of such series may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of such series.
 
In case of the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to all Securities, each such successor Trustee shall deliver a written acceptance of its appointment to the retiring Trustee, to the Issuer and to the Subsidiary Guarantors.  Thereupon the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective, and the successor Trustee shall have all the rights, powers and duties of the retiring Trustee under this Indenture.  The successor Trustee shall transmit a notice of its succession to Holders.  The retiring Trustee shall promptly transfer all property held by it as Trustee to the successor Trustee, upon payment of its charges hereunder and subject to the lien provided for in Section 7.07.
 
In case of the appointment of a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more (but not all) series, the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the retiring Trustee and each successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more (but not all) series shall execute and deliver a supplemental indenture in which each successor Trustee shall accept such appointment and that (1) shall confer to each successor Trustee all the rights, powers and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates, (2) if the retiring Trustee is not retiring with respect to all Securities, shall confirm that all the rights, powers and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series as to which the retiring Trustee is not retiring shall continue to be vested in the retiring Trustee and (3) shall add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more than one Trustee.  Nothing herein or in such supplemental indenture shall constitute such Trustees as co-trustees of the same trust, and each such Trustee shall be trustee of a trust or trusts hereunder separate and apart from any trust or trusts hereunder administered by any other such Trustee.  Upon the execution and delivery of such supplemental indenture, the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee shall become effective to the extent provided therein and each such successor Trustee shall have all the rights, powers and duties of the retiring Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.  On request of the Issuer or any successor Trustee, such retiring Trustee shall transfer to such successor Trustee all property held by such retiring Trustee as Trustee with respect to the Securities of that or those series to which the appointment of such successor Trustee relates.  Such retiring Trustee shall, however, have the right to deduct its unpaid fees and expenses, including attorneys’ fees.
 
Notwithstanding replacement of the Trustee or Trustees pursuant to this Section 7.08, the obligations of the Issuer under Section 7.07 shall continue for the benefit of the retiring Trustee or Trustees.




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SECTION 7.09           Successor Trustee by Merger, etc.
 
Subject to Section 7.10, if the Trustee consolidates, merges or converts into, or transfers all or substantially all of its corporate trust business to, another corporation, the successor corporation without any further act shall be the successor Trustee; provided, however , that in the case of a transfer of all or substantially all of its corporate trust business to another corporation, the transferee corporation expressly assumes all of the Trustee’s liabilities hereunder.
 
In case any Securities shall have been authenticated, but not delivered, by the Trustee then in office, any successor by merger, conversion or consolidation to such authenticating Trustee may adopt such authentication and deliver the Securities so authenticated; and in case at that time any of the Securities shall not have been authenticated, any successor to the Trustee may authenticate such Securities either in the name of any predecessor hereunder or in the name of the successor to the Trustee; and in all such cases such certificates shall have the full force which it is anywhere in the Securities or in this Indenture provided that the certificate of the Trustee shall have.
 
SECTION 7.10           Eligibility; Disqualification.
 
There shall at all times be a Trustee hereunder which shall be a corporation or banking association organized and doing business under the laws of the United States, any State thereof or the District of Columbia and authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trust power, shall be subject to supervision or examination by federal or state (or the District of Columbia) authority and shall have, or be a subsidiary of a bank or bank holding company having, a combined capital and surplus of at least $50 million as set forth in its most recent published annual report of condition.
 
The Indenture shall always have a Trustee who satisfies the requirements of TIA §§ 310(a)(1), 310(a)(2) and 310(a)(5).  The Trustee is subject to and shall comply with the provisions of TIA § 310(b) during the period of time required by this Indenture. Nothing in this Indenture shall prevent the Trustee from filing with the SEC the application referred to in the penultimate paragraph of TIA § 310(b).
 
SECTION 7.11           Preferential Collection of Claims Against the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
The Trustee is subject to and shall comply with the provisions of TIA § 311(a), excluding any creditor relationship listed in TIA § 311(b).  A Trustee who has resigned or been removed shall be subject to TIA § 311(a) to the extent indicated therein.
 
ARTICLE VIII

DISCHARGE OF INDENTURE
 
SECTION 8.01           Termination of the Issuer’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ Obligations.
 
(a)        This Indenture shall cease to be of further effect with respect to the Securities of a series (except that the Issuer’s obligations under Sections 2.05, 2.07, 2.08, 2.09,


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4.02, 7.07, 7.08 and 8.04, the Trustee’s and Paying Agent’s obligations under Section 8.03 and the rights, powers, protections and privileges accorded the Trustee under Article VII shall survive until all Securities of such series are no longer outstanding and, thereafter, only the Issuer’s obligations under Section 7.07, the Trustee’s and Paying Agent’s obligations under Section 8.03 and the rights, powers, protections and privileges accorded the Trustee under Article VII shall survive), and the Trustee and the Subsidiary Guarantors, if any, on demand of the Issuer, shall execute proper instruments acknowledging the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series, when:
 
(1)        either:
 
(A)       all outstanding Securities of such series theretofore authenticated and issued (other than destroyed, lost or stolen Securities that have been replaced or paid) have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation; or
 
(B)       all outstanding Securities of such series not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation:
 
(i)         have become due and payable, or
 
(ii)        will become due and payable at their Stated Maturity within one year, or
 
(iii)       are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Issuer,
 
and, in the case of clause (i), (ii) or (iii) above, the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor has irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as funds (immediately available to the Holders in the case of clause (i)) in trust for such purpose (x) cash in an amount, or (y) Government Obligations, maturing as to principal and interest at such times and in such amounts as will ensure the availability of cash in an amount or (z) a combination thereof, which will be sufficient, in the opinion (in the case of clauses (y) and (z)) of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee, to pay and discharge the entire indebtedness on the Securities of such series for principal and interest to the date of such deposit (in the case of Securities which have become due and payable) or for principal, premium, if any, and interest to the Stated Maturity or Redemption Date, as the case may be; or
 
(C)       the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors have properly fulfilled such other means of satisfaction and discharge as is specified, as contemplated by Section 2.01, to be applicable to the Securities of such series;
 
(2)        the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor has paid or caused to be paid all other sums payable by them hereunder with respect to the Securities of such series; and


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(3)        the Issuer has delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate stating that all conditions precedent to satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series have been complied with, together with an Opinion of Counsel to the same effect.
 
(b)        Unless this Section 8.01(b) is specified as not being applicable to Securities of a series as contemplated by Section 2.01, the Issuer may, at its option, terminate its and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ respective obligations under this Indenture other than the continuing obligations specified in the next succeeding paragraph of this Section 8.01(b) (“covenant defeasance”) with respect to the Securities of a series if:
 
(1)        the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor has irrevocably deposited or caused to be irrevocably deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust for the purpose of making the following payments, specifically pledged as security for and dedicated solely to the benefit of the Holders of Securities of such series, (i) cash in an amount, or (ii) Government Obligations, maturing as to principal and interest at such times and in such amounts as will ensure the availability of cash in an amount or (iii) a combination thereof, that is sufficient, in the opinion (in the case of clauses (ii) and (iii)) of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee, to pay the principal of and premium (if any) and interest on all Securities of such series on each date that such principal, premium (if any) or interest is due and payable and (at the Stated Maturity thereof or upon redemption as provided in Section 8.01(f)) to pay all other sums payable by it hereunder; provided that the Trustee shall have been irrevocably instructed to apply such money and/or the proceeds of such Government Obligations to the payment of said principal, premium (if any) and interest with respect to the Securities of such series as the same shall become due;
 
(2)        the Issuer has delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate stating that all conditions precedent to covenant defeasance with respect to the Securities of such series have been complied with, and an Opinion of Counsel to the same effect;
 
(3)        no Default or Event of Default with respect to the Securities of such series shall have occurred and be continuing on the date of such deposit;
 
(4)        the Issuer shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel from a nationally recognized counsel acceptable to the Trustee or a private letter ruling issued by the United States Internal Revenue Service to the effect that the Holders will not recognize income, gain or loss for United States Federal income tax purposes as a result of the Issuer’s exercise of its option under this Section 8.01(b) and will be subject to United States Federal income tax on the same amount and in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such option had not been exercised;
 
(5)        the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors have complied with any additional conditions specified pursuant to Section 2.01 to be applicable to the covenant defeasance of Securities of such series pursuant to this Section 8.01; and


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(6)        such deposit and discharge shall not cause the Trustee to have a conflicting interest as defined in TIA § 310(b).
 
In such event, the Issuer’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ respective obligations under this Indenture shall cease to be of further effect (except as set forth in this paragraph), no Default shall occur as a result of a failure to comply therewith and the Trustee and the Subsidiary Guarantors, on demand of the Issuer, shall execute proper instruments acknowledging covenant defeasance under this Indenture.  However, the Issuer’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ respective obligations in Sections 2.05, 2.06, 2.07, 2.08, 2.09, 4.01, 4.02, 7.07, 7.08 and 8.04, the Trustee’s and Paying Agent’s obligations in Section 8.03 and the rights, powers, protections and privileges accorded the Trustee under Article VII shall survive until all Securities of such series are no longer outstanding.  Thereafter, only the Issuer’s obligations in Section 7.07 and the Trustee’s and Paying Agent’s obligations in Section 8.03 shall survive with respect to Securities of such series.
 
After such irrevocable deposit made pursuant to this Section 8.01(b) and satisfaction of the other conditions set forth herein, the Trustee upon request shall acknowledge in writing the termination of the Issuer’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ obligations under this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series except for those surviving obligations specified above.
 
(c)        If the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors have previously complied or are concurrently complying with Section 8.01(b) (other than any additional conditions specified pursuant to Section 2.01 that are expressly applicable only to covenant defeasance) with respect to Securities of a series, then, unless this Section 8.01(c) is specified as not being applicable to Securities of such series as contemplated by Section 2.01, the Issuer may elect that its and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ respective obligations to make payments with respect to Securities of such series be discharged (“legal defeasance”), if:
 
(1)        no Default or Event of Default under clauses (5) and (6) of Section 6.01 hereof shall have occurred at any time during the period ending on the 91st day after the date of deposit contemplated by Section 8.01(b) (it being understood that this condition shall not be deemed satisfied until the expiration of such period);
 
(2)        unless otherwise specified with respect to Securities of such series as contemplated by Section 2.01, the Issuer has delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel from a nationally recognized counsel to the effect referred to in Section 8.01(b)(4) with respect to such legal defeasance, which opinion is based on (i) a private letter ruling issued by the United States Internal Revenue Service addressed to the Issuer, (ii) a published ruling of the United States Internal Revenue Service pertaining to a comparable form of transaction or (iii) a change in the applicable United States federal income tax law (including regulations) after the date of this Indenture;
 
(3)        the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors have complied with any other conditions specified pursuant to Section 2.01 to be applicable to the legal defeasance of Securities of such series pursuant to this Section 8.01(c); and


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(4)        the Issuer has delivered to the Trustee an Issuer Order requesting such legal defeasance of the Securities of such series and an Officers’ Certificate stating that all conditions precedent with respect to such legal defeasance of the Securities of such series have been complied with, together with an Opinion of Counsel to the same effect.
 
In such event, the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors will be discharged from all of their respective obligations under this Indenture and the Securities of such series, including their obligations under Sections 4.01 and 10.01 to pay principal of, premium (if any) and interest on, and any Additional Amounts with respect to, Securities of such series, and the entire indebtedness of the Issuer evidenced by such Securities and of the Subsidiary Guarantors evidenced by the related Guarantees, if any, shall be deemed paid and discharged.  However, the Issuer’s and the Subsidiary Guarantors’ respective obligations in Sections 2.05, 2.06, 2.07, 2.08, 2.09, 4.02, 7.07, 7.08 and 8.04, the Trustee’s and Paying Agent’s obligations in Section 8.03 and the rights, powers, protections and privileges accorded the Trustee under Article VII shall survive until all Securities of such series are no longer outstanding.  Thereafter, only the Issuer’s obligations in Section 7.07 and the Trustee’s and Paying Agent’s obligations in Section 8.03 shall survive with respect to Securities of such series.
 
(d)       In order to have money available on a payment date to pay principal of or premium (if any) or interest on the Securities, any Government Obligations deposited with the Trustee pursuant to this Section 8.01 shall be payable as to principal or interest on or before such payment date in such amounts as will provide the necessary money.  Government Obligations shall not be callable at the issuer’s option.
 
(e)        If and to the extent additional or alternative means of satisfaction and discharge or defeasance of Securities of a series are specified to be applicable to such series as contemplated by Section 2.01, each of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors may terminate any or all of its obligations under this Indenture with respect to Securities of a series and any or all of its obligations under the Securities of such series if it fulfills such other means of satisfaction and discharge or defeasance as may be so specified, as contemplated by Section 2.01, to be applicable to the Securities of such series.
 
(f)        If Securities of any series subject to this Section 8.01 are to be redeemed prior to their Stated Maturity, whether pursuant to any optional redemption provisions or in accordance with any mandatory or optional sinking fund provisions, the terms of the applicable trust arrangement shall provide for such redemption, and the Issuer shall make such arrangements as are reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee for the giving of notice of redemption by the Trustee in the name, and at the expense, of the Issuer.
 
SECTION 8.02           Application of Trust Money.
 
The Trustee shall hold in trust money or Government Obligations deposited with it pursuant to Section 8.01 hereof.  Subject to Section 8.03, it shall apply the deposited money and the money from Government Obligations through the Paying Agent and in accordance with this Indenture to the payment of principal of, premium (if any) and interest on and any Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities of the series with respect to which the deposit was made.


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SECTION 8.03           Repayment to Issuer or Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
The Trustee and the Paying Agent shall promptly pay to the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor any excess money or Government Obligations (or proceeds therefrom) held by them at any time upon the written request of the Issuer.
 
Subject to the requirements of any applicable abandoned property laws, the Trustee and the Paying Agent shall pay to the Issuer upon written request any money held by them for the payment of principal, premium (if any), interest or any Additional Amounts that remain unclaimed for two years after the date upon which such payment shall have become due.  After payment to the Issuer, Holders entitled to the money must look to the Issuer for payment as general creditors unless an applicable abandoned property law designates another Person, and all liability of the Trustee and the Paying Agent with respect to such money shall cease.
 
SECTION 8.04           Reinstatement.
 
If the Trustee or the Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or Government Obligations deposited with respect to Securities of any series in accordance with Section 8.01 by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, the obligations of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors under this Indenture with respect to the Securities of such series and under the Securities of such series shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to Section 8.01 until such time as the Trustee or the Paying Agent is permitted to apply all such money or Government Obligations in accordance with Section 8.01; provided, however, that if the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor has made any payment of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to any Securities because of the reinstatement of their obligations, the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, shall be subrogated to the rights of the Holders of such Securities to receive such payment from the money or Government Obligations held by the Trustee or the Paying Agent.
 
ARTICLE IX

SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURES AND AMENDMENTS
 
SECTION 9.01           Without Consent of Holders.
 
The Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee may amend or supplement this Indenture or the Securities or waive any provision hereof or thereof without the consent of any Holder:
 
(1)        to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency;
 
(2)        to comply with Section 5.01;
 
(3)        to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities;


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(4)        to provide any security for, or to add any guarantees of or additional obligors on, any series of Securities or the related Guarantees, if any;
 
(5)        to comply with any requirement in order to effect or maintain the qualification of this Indenture under the TIA;
 
(6)        to add to the covenants of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor for the benefit of the Holders of all or any series of Securities (and if such covenants are to be for the benefit of less than all series of Securities, stating that such covenants are expressly being included solely for the benefit of such series), or to surrender any right or power herein conferred upon the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor;
 
(7)        to add any additional Events of Default with respect to all or any series of the Securities (and, if any such Event of Default is applicable to less than all series of Securities, specifying the series to which such Event of Default is applicable);
 
(8)        to change or eliminate any of the provisions of this Indenture; provided that any such change or elimination shall become effective only when there is no outstanding Security of any series created prior to the execution of such amendment or supplemental indenture that is adversely affected in any material respect by such change in or elimination of such provision;
 
(9)        to establish the form or terms of Securities of any series as permitted by Section 2.01;
 
(10)      to supplement any of the provisions of this Indenture to such extent as shall be necessary to permit or facilitate the defeasance and discharge of any series of Securities pursuant to Section 8.01; provided, however , that any such action shall not adversely affect the interest of the Holders of Securities of such series or any other series of Securities in any material respect; or
 
(11)      to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment hereunder by a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities of one or more series and to add to or change any of the provisions of this Indenture as shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts hereunder by more than one Trustee, pursuant to the requirements of Section 7.08.
 
Upon the request of the Issuer, accompanied by a Board Resolution, and upon receipt by the Trustee of the documents described in Section 9.06, the Trustee shall, subject to Section 9.06, join with the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors in the execution of any supplemental indenture authorized or permitted by the terms of this Indenture and make any further appropriate agreements and stipulations that may be therein contained.
 
SECTION 9.02           With Consent of Holders.
 
Except as provided below in this Section 9.02, the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee may amend or supplement this Indenture with the consent (including consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for Securities of any one or


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more series or all series or a solicitation of consents in respect of Securities of any one or more series or all series, provided that in each case such offer or solicitation is made to all Holders of then outstanding Securities of each such series (but the terms of such offer or solicitation may vary from series to series)) of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of all series affected by such amendment or supplement (acting as one class).
 
Upon the request of the Issuer, accompanied by a Board Resolution, and upon the filing with the Trustee of evidence of the consent of the Holders as aforesaid, and upon receipt by the Trustee of the documents described in Section 9.06, the Trustee shall, subject to Section 9.06, join with the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors in the execution of such amendment or supplemental indenture.
 
It shall not be necessary for the consent of the Holders under this Section 9.02 to approve the particular form of any proposed amendment, supplement or waiver, but it shall be sufficient if such consent approves the substance thereof.
 
The Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities of one or more series or of all series (acting as one class) may waive compliance in a particular instance by the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor with any provision of this Indenture with respect to Securities of such series (including waivers obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for Securities of such series or a solicitation of consents in respect of Securities of such series, provided that in each case such offer or solicitation is made to all Holders of then outstanding Securities of such series (but the terms of such offer or solicitation may vary from series to series)).
 
However, without the consent of each Holder affected, an amendment, supplement or waiver under this Section 9.02 may not:
 
(1)        reduce the amount of Securities whose Holders must consent to an amendment, supplement or waiver;
 
(2)        reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest, including default interest, on any Security;
 
(3)        reduce the principal of, any premium on or any mandatory sinking fund payment with respect to, or change the Stated Maturity of, any Security or reduce the amount of the principal of an Original Issue Discount Security that would be due and payable upon a declaration of acceleration of the Maturity thereof pursuant to Section 6.02;
 
(4)        reduce the premium, if any, payable upon the redemption of any Security or change the time at which any Security may or shall be redeemed;
 
(5)        change any obligation of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor to pay Additional Amounts with respect to any Security;


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(6)        change the coin or currency in which any Security or any premium, interest or Additional Amounts with respect thereto are payable;
 
(7)        impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on or any Additional Amounts with respect to any Security pursuant to Sections 6.07 and 6.08, except as limited by Section 6.06;
 
(8)        make any change in the percentage of principal amount of Securities necessary to waive compliance with certain provisions of this Indenture pursuant to Section 6.04 or 6.07 or make any change in this sentence of Section 9.02;
 
(9)        if applicable, make any change that materially and adversely affects the right to convert any Security; or
 
(10)      waive a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of, premium (if any) or interest on or Additional Amounts with respect to the Securities.
 
A supplemental indenture that changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of this Indenture which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Securities, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Securities of such series with respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under this Indenture of the Holders of Securities of any other series.
 
The right of any Holder to participate in any consent required or sought pursuant to any provision of this Indenture (and the obligation of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor to obtain any such consent otherwise required from such Holder) may be subject to the requirement that such Holder shall have been the Holder of record of any Securities with respect to which such consent is required or sought as of a date identified by the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor in a notice furnished to Holders in accordance with the terms of this Indenture.
 
After an amendment, supplement or waiver under this Section 9.02 becomes effective, the Issuer shall transmit to the Holders of each Security affected thereby a notice briefly describing the amendment, supplement or waiver.  Any failure of the Issuer to transmit such notice, or any defect therein, shall not, however, in any way impair or affect the validity of any such amendment, supplement or waiver.
 
SECTION 9.03           Compliance with the Trust Indenture Act.
 
Every amendment or supplement to this Indenture or the Securities shall comply in form and substance with the TIA as then in effect.
 
SECTION 9.04           Revocation and Effect of Consents.
 
Until an amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective, a consent to it by a Holder is a continuing consent by the Holder and every subsequent Holder of a Security or portion of a Security that evidences the same debt as the consenting Holder’s Security, even if notation of the consent is not made on any Security.  However, any such Holder or subsequent Holder may revoke the consent as to his or her Security or portion of a Security if the Trustee

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receives written notice of revocation before a date and time therefor identified by the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor in a notice furnished to such Holder in accordance with the terms of this Indenture or, if no such date and time shall be identified, the date the amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective.  An amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective in accordance with its terms and thereafter binds every Holder.
 
The Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor may, but shall not be obligated to, fix a record date (which need not comply with TIA § 316(c)) for the purpose of determining the Holders entitled to consent to any amendment, supplement or waiver or to take any other action under this Indenture.  If a record date is fixed, then notwithstanding the provisions of the immediately preceding paragraph, those Persons who were Holders at such record date (or their duly designated proxies), and only those Persons, shall be entitled to consent to such amendment, supplement or waiver or to revoke any consent previously given, whether or not such Persons continue to be Holders after such record date.  No consent shall be valid or effective for more than 90 days after such record date unless consents from Holders of the principal amount of Securities required hereunder for such amendment or waiver to be effective shall have also been given and not revoked within such 90-day period.
 
After an amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective, it shall bind every Holder, unless it is of the type described in any of clauses (1) through (10) of Section 9.02 hereof.  In such case, the amendment, supplement or waiver shall bind each Holder who has consented to it and every subsequent Holder that evidences the same debt as the consenting Holder’s Security.
 
SECTION 9.05           Notation on or Exchange of Securities.
 
If an amendment or supplement changes the terms of an outstanding Security, the Issuer may require the Holder of the Security to deliver it to the Trustee.  The Trustee may place an appropriate notation on the Security at the request of the Issuer regarding the changed terms and return it to the Holder.  Alternatively, if the Issuer so determines, the Issuer in exchange for the Security shall issue, each Subsidiary Guarantor, if any, with respect to such series shall execute the Notation of Guarantee relating to, and the Trustee shall authenticate a new Security that reflects the changed terms.  Failure to make the appropriate notation or to issue a new Security shall not affect the validity of such amendment or supplement.
 
Securities of any series authenticated and delivered after the execution of any amendment or supplement may, and shall if required by the Trustee, bear a notation in form approved by the Trustee as to any matter provided for in such amendment or supplement.
 
SECTION 9.06           Trustee to Sign Amendments, etc.
 
The Trustee shall sign any amendment or supplement authorized pursuant to this Article if the amendment or supplement does not adversely affect the rights, duties, liabilities or immunities of the Trustee.  If it does, the Trustee may, but need not, sign it.  In signing or refusing to sign such amendment or supplement, the Trustee shall be provided with, and, subject to Section 7.01 hereof, shall be fully protected in relying upon, an Opinion of Counsel provided


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at the expense of the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor to the effect that such amendment or supplement is authorized or permitted by this Indenture.
 
ARTICLE X

GUARANTEE
 
SECTION 10.01         Guarantee.
 
(a)        Notwithstanding any provision of this Article X to the contrary, the provisions of this Article X relating to a Subsidiary Guarantor shall be applicable only to, and inure solely to the benefit of, the Securities of any series designated, pursuant to Section 2.01, as entitled to the benefits of the related Guarantee of such Subsidiary Guarantor.  If no Security is outstanding that is entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor, this Article X shall have no force and effect.
 
(b)        For value received and subject to the provisions of Section 10.01(a), each of the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby fully, unconditionally and absolutely guarantees to the Holders and to the Trustee the due and punctual payment of the principal of, and premium, if any, and interest on the Securities and all other amounts due and payable under this Indenture and the Securities by the Issuer, when and as such principal, premium, if any, and interest shall become due and payable, whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise, according to the terms of the Securities and this Indenture, subject to the limitations set forth in Section 10.03.
 
(c)        Failing payment when due of any amount guaranteed pursuant to the related Guarantee, for whatever reason, each of the Subsidiary Guarantors will be jointly and severally obligated to pay the same immediately.  Each of the Guarantees hereunder is intended to be a general, unsecured, senior obligation of the related Subsidiary Guarantor and will rank pari passu in right of payment with all indebtedness of such Subsidiary Guarantor that is not, by its terms, expressly subordinated in right of payment to such Guarantee.  Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby agrees that its obligations hereunder shall be full, unconditional and absolute, irrespective of the validity, regularity or enforceability of the Securities, its Guarantee, the Guarantee of any other Subsidiary Guarantor or this Indenture, the absence of any action to enforce the same, any waiver or consent by any Holder of the Securities with respect to any provisions hereof or thereof, the recovery of any judgment against the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor, or any action to enforce the same or any other circumstances which might otherwise constitute a legal or equitable discharge or defense of the Subsidiary Guarantors.  Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby agrees that in the event of a default in payment of the principal of, or premium, if any, or interest on the Securities of such series, whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise, legal proceedings may be instituted by the Trustee on behalf of the Holders or, subject to Section 6.06, by the Holders, on the terms and conditions set forth in this Indenture, directly against such Subsidiary Guarantor to enforce such Guarantee without first proceeding against the Issuer or any other Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
(d)       The obligations of each of the Subsidiary Guarantors under this Article X shall be as aforesaid full, unconditional and absolute and shall not be impaired, modified,


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released or limited by any occurrence or condition whatsoever, including, without limitation, (i) any compromise, settlement, release, waiver, renewal, extension, indulgence or modification of, or any change in, any of the obligations and liabilities of the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors contained in the Securities or this Indenture, (ii) any impairment, modification, release or limitation of the liability of the Issuer, any of the Subsidiary Guarantors or any of their estates in bankruptcy, or any remedy for the enforcement thereof, resulting from the operation of any present or future provision of any applicable Bankruptcy Law or other statute or from the decision of any court, (iii) the assertion or exercise by the Issuer, any of the Subsidiary Guarantors or the Trustee of any rights or remedies under the Securities or this Indenture or their delay in or failure to assert or exercise any such rights or remedies, (iv) the assignment or the purported assignment of any property as security for the Securities, including all or any part of the rights of the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors under this Indenture, (v) the extension of the time for payment by the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors of any payments or other sums or any part thereof owing or payable under any of the terms and provisions of the Securities or this Indenture or of the time for performance by the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors of any other obligations under or arising out of any such terms and provisions or the extension or the renewal of any thereof, (vi) the modification or amendment (whether material or otherwise) of any duty, agreement or obligation of the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors set forth in this Indenture, (vii) the voluntary or involuntary liquidation, dissolution, sale or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets, marshaling of assets and liabilities, receivership, insolvency, bankruptcy, assignment for the benefit of creditors, reorganization, arrangement, composition or readjustment of, or other similar proceeding affecting, the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors or any of their respective assets, or the disaffirmance of the Securities, the Guarantee or this Indenture in any such proceeding, (viii) the release or discharge of the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors from the performance or observance of any agreement, covenant, term or condition contained in any of such instruments by operation of law, (ix) the unenforceability of the Securities of such series, the related Guarantees or this Indenture or (x) any other circumstances (other than payment in full or discharge of all amounts guaranteed pursuant to the related Guarantees) which might otherwise constitute a legal or equitable discharge of a surety or guarantor.
 
(e)        Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby (i) waives diligence, presentment, demand of payment, filing of claims with a court in the event of the merger, insolvency or bankruptcy of the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors, and all demands whatsoever, (ii) acknowledges that any agreement, instrument or document evidencing its Guarantee may be transferred and that the benefit of its obligations hereunder shall extend to each holder of any agreement, instrument or document evidencing its Guarantee without notice to it and (iii) covenants that its Guarantee will not be discharged except by complete performance of such Guarantee.  Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors further agrees that if at any time all or any part of any payment theretofore applied by any Person to its Guarantee is, or must be, rescinded or returned for any reason whatsoever, including, without limitation, the insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of the Issuer or any of the Subsidiary Guarantors, such Guarantee shall, to the extent that such payment is or must be rescinded or returned, be deemed to have continued in existence notwithstanding such application, and such Guarantee shall continue to be effective or be reinstated, as the case may be, as though such application had not been made.


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(f)        Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors shall be subrogated to all rights of the Holders and the Trustee against the Issuer and any other Subsidiary Guarantor in respect of any amounts paid by such first Subsidiary Guarantor pursuant to the provisions of this Indenture; provided, however , that such Subsidiary Guarantor shall not be entitled to enforce or to receive any payments arising out of, or based upon, such right of subrogation until all of the Securities of such series and the related Guarantees shall have been paid in full or discharged.
 
SECTION 10.02         Execution and Delivery of Guarantees.
 
To evidence its Guarantee set forth in Section 10.01, any Subsidiary Guarantor that is not a party to this Indenture shall execute and deliver a supplemental indenture in substantially the form attached hereto as Annex A.  To further evidence its Guarantee set forth in Section 10.01, each of the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby agrees that a notation relating to such Guarantee (the “Notation of Guarantee”), substantially in the form attached hereto as Annex B, shall be endorsed on each Security of the series entitled to the benefits of such Guarantee authenticated and delivered by the Trustee, which Notation of Guarantee shall be executed by either manual or facsimile signature of an Officer of such Subsidiary Guarantor.  Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby agrees that its Guarantee set forth in Section 10.01 shall remain in full force and effect notwithstanding any failure to endorse on each Security the Notation of Guarantee relating to such Guarantee.  If any Officer of such Subsidiary Guarantor, whose signature is on this Indenture, any supplemental indenture or the Notation of Guarantee, no longer holds that office at the time the Trustee authenticates such Security or at any time thereafter, the Guarantee of such Security shall be valid nevertheless.  The delivery of any Security of a series entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee under this Article X by the Trustee, after the authentication thereof hereunder, shall constitute due delivery of the Guarantee set forth in this Indenture on behalf of each Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
SECTION 10.03         Limitation on Liability of the Subsidiary Guarantors.
 
Each Subsidiary Guarantor and by its acceptance hereof each Holder of a Security of a series entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee under this Article X hereby confirms that it is the intention of all such parties that the guarantee by such Subsidiary Guarantor pursuant to its Guarantee not constitute a fraudulent transfer or conveyance for purposes of any federal or state law.  To effectuate the foregoing intention, the Holders of a Security entitled to the benefits of such Guarantee and the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby irrevocably agree that the obligations of each Subsidiary Guarantor under its Guarantee shall be limited to the maximum amount as will, after giving effect to all other contingent and fixed liabilities of such Subsidiary Guarantor and to any collections from or payments made by or on behalf of any other Subsidiary Guarantor in respect of the obligations of such other Subsidiary Guarantor under its Guarantee, result in the obligations of such Subsidiary Guarantor under its Guarantee not constituting a fraudulent conveyance or fraudulent transfer under federal or state law.
 
SECTION 10.04         Release of Subsidiary Guarantors from Guarantee.
 
(a)        Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Indenture, unless otherwise provided as contemplated by Section 2.01, the Guarantee of any Subsidiary Guarantor may be released upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this Section 10.04.  Provided


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that no Default shall have occurred and shall be continuing under this Indenture, any Guarantee incurred by a Subsidiary Guarantor pursuant to this Article X shall be unconditionally released and discharged (i) in connection with sale, conveyance, assignment, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of the properties or assets of, or all of the Issuer’s direct or indirect limited partnership, limited liability company or other equity interests in, such Subsidiary Guarantor (including by way of merger or consolidation) to a Person that is not (either before or after giving effect to such transaction) an Affiliate of the Issuer; (ii) upon the merger of such Subsidiary Guarantor into the Issuer or any other Subsidiary Guarantor or the liquidation or dissolution of such Subsidiary Guarantor; (iii) upon satisfaction and discharge or covenant defeasance or legal defeasance with respect to the Notes as set forth in Section 8.01(a), (b) or (c); or (iv) following delivery of a written notice thereof by the Issuer to the Trustee, upon the release of all guarantees by such Subsidiary Guarantor under the Credit Facility; provided that, if, at any time following any release of such Subsidiary Guarantor from its initial Guarantee as described in this clause (iv), such Subsidiary Guarantor again provides a guarantee under the Credit Facility, then the Issuer will cause such Subsidiary Guarantor to again Guarantee the Securities in accordance herewith.
 
(b)        The Trustee shall deliver an appropriate instrument evidencing any release of a Subsidiary Guarantor from its Guarantee upon receipt of a written request of the Issuer accompanied by an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel that the Subsidiary Guarantor is entitled to such release in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture. If the Subsidiary Guarantor is not so released, it shall remain liable for the full amount of principal of (and premium, if any, on) and interest on the Securities entitled to the benefits of such Guarantee as provided in this Indenture, subject to the limitations of Section 10.03.
 
SECTION 10.05         Contribution.
 
In order to provide for just and equitable contribution among the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Subsidiary Guarantors hereby agree, inter se , that in the event any payment or distribution is made by any Subsidiary Guarantor (a “Funding Guarantor”) under its Guarantee, such Funding Guarantor shall be entitled to a contribution from each other Subsidiary Guarantor (as applicable) in a pro rata amount based on the net assets of each Subsidiary Guarantor (including the Funding Guarantor) for all payments, damages and expenses incurred by that Funding Guarantor in discharging the Issuer’s obligations with respect to the Securities of a series entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee under this Article X or any other Subsidiary Guarantor’s obligations with respect to its Guarantee of such series of Securities.
 
SECTION 10.06         Guarantee for Benefit of Holders.
 
The Guarantee contained in this Indenture is entered into by each Subsidiary Guarantor for the benefit of the Holders from time to time of the Securities of a series entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee under this Article X.  Such provisions shall not be deemed to create any right in, or to be in whole or in part for the benefit of, any Person other than the Trustee, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Holders from time to time of such Securities and their permitted successors and assigns.


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ARTICLE XI

MISCELLANEOUS
 
SECTION 11.01         Trust Indenture Act Controls.
 
If any provision of this Indenture limits, qualifies or conflicts with the duties imposed by operation of TIA § 318(c), the imposed duties shall control.
 
SECTION 11.02         Notices.
 
Any notice or communication by the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Trustee to the others is duly given if in writing and delivered in person or mailed by first-class mail (registered or certified, return receipt requested), telex, facsimile or overnight air courier guaranteeing next day delivery, to the other’s address:
 
If to the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor:
 
EQT Midstream Services, LLC
625 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1700
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
Attn:  General Counsel
Telephone: (412) 553-5700
Facsimile: (412) 553-5970
 
If to the Trustee:
 
The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A.
525 William Penn Place, 38th Floor
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15259
Attn:   Corporate Trust Administration
Telephone:  (412) 236-1215
Facsimile:    (412) 234-7571
 
The Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or the Trustee by notice to the others may designate additional or different addresses for subsequent notices or communications.
 
All notices and communications shall be deemed to have been duly given: at the time delivered by hand, if personally delivered; five Business Days after being deposited in the mail, postage prepaid, if mailed; when receipt acknowledged, if by facsimile; and the next Business Day after timely delivery to the courier, if sent by overnight air courier guaranteeing next day delivery.
 
The Trustee agrees to accept and act upon instructions or directions pursuant to this Indenture sent by unsecured e-mail, pdf, facsimile transmission or other similar unsecured electronic methods; provided, however , that the Issuer shall provide the Trustee a list of persons designated to give such instructions or directions, which list shall be amended and replaced whenever a person is to be added or deleted therefrom.  If the Issuer elects to give the Trustee e-

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mail or facsimile instructions (or instructions by a similar electronic method) and the Trustee in its discretion elects to act upon such instructions, the Trustee’s understanding of such instructions shall be deemed controlling.  The Trustee shall not be liable for any losses, costs or expenses arising directly or indirectly from the Trustee’s reliance upon and compliance with such instructions notwithstanding that such instructions conflict or are inconsistent with a subsequent written instruction. The Issuer agrees to assume all risks arising out of the use of such electronic methods to submit instructions and directions to the Trustee, including, without limitation, the risk of the Trustee acting on unauthorized instructions, and the risk of interception and misuse by third parties.
 
Any notice or communication to a Holder of a Global Security shall be transmitted in accordance with the Depositary’s applicable procedures, and any notice or communication to any other Holder shall be mailed by first-class mail, postage prepaid, to the Holder’s address shown on the register kept by the Registrar.  Failure to give a notice or communication to a Holder or any defect in it shall not affect its sufficiency with respect to other Holders.
 
If a notice or communication is given in the manner provided above within the time prescribed, it is duly given, whether or not the addressee receives it, except in the case of notice to the Trustee, it is duly given only when received.
 
If the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor transmits a notice or communication to Holders, it shall transmit a copy to the Issuer and the other Subsidiary Guarantors, as the case may be, and to the Trustee and each Agent at the same time.
 
All notices or communications, including, without limitation, notices to the Trustee, the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor by Holders, shall be in writing, except as otherwise set forth herein.
 
In case by reason of the suspension of regular mail service, or by reason of any other cause, it shall be impossible to mail any notice required by this Indenture, then such method of notification as shall be made with the approval of the Trustee shall constitute a sufficient mailing of such notice.
 
SECTION 11.03         Communication by Holders with Other Holders.
 
Holders may communicate pursuant to TIA § 312(b) with other Holders with respect to their rights under this Indenture or the Securities.  The Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Trustee, the Registrar and anyone else shall have the protection of TIA § 312(c).
 
SECTION 11.04         Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent.
 
Upon any request or application by the Issuer or a Subsidiary Guarantor to the Trustee to take any action under this Indenture, the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be, shall, if requested by the Trustee, furnish to the Trustee at the expense of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor, as the case may be:


54





(1)        an Officers’ Certificate (which shall include the statements set forth in Section 11.05) stating that, in the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent and covenants, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action have been complied with; and
 
(2)        an Opinion of Counsel (which shall include the statements set forth in Section 11.05 hereof) stating that, in the opinion of such counsel, all such conditions precedent and covenants have been complied with.
 
SECTION 11.05         Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion.
 
Each certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a condition or covenant provided for in this Indenture (other than a certificate provided pursuant to TIA § 314(a)(4)) shall comply with the provisions of TIA § 314(e) and shall include:
 
(1)        a statement that the Person making such certificate or opinion has read such covenant or condition;
 
(2)        a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;
 
(3)        a statement that, in the opinion of such Person, he or she has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him or her to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenant or condition has been complied with; and
 
(4)        a statement as to whether or not, in the opinion of such Person, such condition or covenant has been complied with.
 
SECTION 11.06         Rules by Trustee and Agents.
 
The Trustee may make reasonable rules for action by or at a meeting of Holders.  The Registrar or the Paying Agent may make reasonable rules and set reasonable requirements for its functions.
 
SECTION 11.07         Legal Holidays.
 
If a payment date is a Legal Holiday at a Place of Payment, payment may be made at that place on the next succeeding day that is not a Legal Holiday, and no interest shall accrue for the intervening period.
 
SECTION 11.08         No Recourse Against Others.
 
Obligations of the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture, the Securities and the related Guarantees, if any, are non-recourse to the General Partner and its Affiliates (other than the Issuer and such Subsidiary Guarantor), and payable only out of cash flow and assets of the Issuer and such Subsidiary Guarantor.  The Trustee, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance thereof, will be deemed to have agreed in this Indenture that (1) the


55





General Partner and its assets (and any of its Affiliates other than the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture, such Securities or such related Guarantees, and (2) no director, manager, member, officer, employee, stockholder, partner, unitholder or other owner of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee, the General Partner or any Affiliate of the foregoing entities shall have any liability in respect of the obligations of the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor under this Indenture, such Securities or such related Guarantees by reason of his, her or its status.  Each Holder by accepting a Security waives and releases all such liability.  The waiver and release shall be part of the consideration for the issuance of Securities.
 
SECTION 11.09                                    Governing Law.
 
THIS INDENTURE, THE SECURITIES AND THE GUARANTEES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
 
SECTION 11.10                                    No Adverse Interpretation of Other Agreements.
 
This Indenture may not be used to interpret another indenture, loan or debt agreement of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer.  Any such indenture, loan or debt agreement may not be used to interpret this Indenture.
 
SECTION 11.11                                    Successors.
 
All agreements of the Issuer and each of the Subsidiary Guarantors in this Indenture and the Securities shall bind its successors.  All agreements of the Trustee in this Indenture shall bind its successors.
 
SECTION 11.12                                    Severability.
 
In case any provision in this Indenture, in the Securities or in any Guarantee shall be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.
 
SECTION 11.13                                    Counterpart Originals.
 
The parties may sign any number of copies of this Indenture.  Each signed copy shall be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement.
 
SECTION 11.14                                    Table of Contents, Headings, etc.
 
The table of contents, cross-reference table and headings of the Articles and Sections of this Indenture have been inserted for convenience of reference only, are not to be considered a part hereof and shall in no way modify or restrict any of the terms or provisions hereof.


56





SECTION 11.15                                    Waiver of Jury Trial.
 
EACH OF THE ISSUER, THE SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS AND THE TRUSTEE HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS INDENTURE, THE NOTES, THE GUARANTEES, IF ANY, OR THE TRANSACTION CONTEMPLATED HEREBY.
 
SECTION 11.16                                    Submission of Jurisdiction.
 
The parties irrevocably submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of any competent New York State or federal court sitting in the Borough of Manhattan, City of New York, over any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Indenture.  To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, each of the parties irrevocably waives and agrees not to assert, by way of motion, as a defense or otherwise, any claim that it is not subject to the jurisdiction of any such court, any objection that it may now or hereafter have to the laying of the venue of any such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court and any claim that any such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum.
 
SECTION 11.17                                    Force Majeure.
 
In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the performance of its obligations hereunder arising out of or caused by, directly or indirectly, forces beyond its control, including, without limitation, strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts of war or terrorism, civil or military disturbances, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of God, and interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and hardware) services; it being understood that the Trustee shall use reasonable efforts which are consistent with accepted practices in the banking industry to resume performance as soon as practicable under the circumstances.









57





IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Indenture to be duly executed as of the day and year first above written.
 
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
EQUITRANS, L.P.
 
 
 
 
By: Equitrans Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
By: Equitrans Investments, LLC,
 
 
its sole member
 
By: EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
By: EQT Midstream Services, LLC
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
EQUITRANS INVESTMENTS, LLC
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signature Page to Indenture





 
EQUITRANS SERVICES, LLC
 
 
 
By:
Equitrans Investments, LLC,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
EQM GATHERING HOLDINGS, LLC
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
Signature Page to Indenture






 
EQM GATHERING OPCO, LLC
 
 
 
By:
EQM Gathering Holdings, LLC,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
Signature Page to Indenture






 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., as Trustee
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ R. Tarnas
 
Name:
R. Tarnas
 
Title:
Vice President
 
 
 
 
 
 
Signature Page to Indenture





ANNEX A
 
FORM OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE TO BE DELIVERED
BY SUBSEQUENT SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS
 
THIS [              ] SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE, dated as of [                ] (this “Supplemental Indenture”), is among [                    ] (the “New Subsidiary Guarantor”), EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Issuer”), each other then-existing Subsidiary Guarantors under the Indenture referred to below (the “Existing Subsidiary Guarantors”) and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee (the “Trustee”) under the Indenture.
 
W I T N E S S E T H:
 
WHEREAS, the Issuer, the Existing Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee have heretofore executed and delivered an Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014 (as amended, supplemented, waived or otherwise modified, the “Indenture”), providing for the issuance from time to time of the Issuer’s debentures, notes, bonds or other evidences of indebtedness (the “Securities”), which are to be issued in one or more series.
 
WHEREAS, Section 10.02 of the Indenture provides that any Subsidiary Guarantor that is not a party to the Indenture shall execute and deliver a supplemental indenture to evidence its Guarantee set forth in Section 10.01 of the Indenture.
 
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 9.01(4) of the Indenture, the Trustee, the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors are authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture to amend or supplement the Indenture, without the consent of any Holder, to add any guarantees of or additional obligors on any series of Securities.
 
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the New Subsidiary Guarantor, the Issuer, the Existing Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of any series of Securities designated pursuant to the Indenture as entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee by the New Subsidiary Guarantor (collectively, the “Guaranteed Securities”) as follows:
 
ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS
 
SECTION 1.01                                            Defined Terms .  As used in this Supplemental Indenture, capitalized terms defined in the Indenture or in the preamble or recitals thereto are used herein as therein defined. The words “herein,” “hereof” and “hereby” and other words of similar import used in this Supplemental Indenture refer to this Supplemental Indenture as a whole and not to any particular section hereof.

A-1





ARTICLE 2

AGREEMENT TO BE BOUND; GUARANTEE
 
SECTION 2.01                                            Agreement to be Bound .  The New Subsidiary Guarantor hereby becomes a party to the Indenture as a Subsidiary Guarantor with respect to the Guaranteed Securities and as such shall have all of the rights and be subject to all of the obligations and agreements of such a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture. The New Subsidiary Guarantor agrees to be bound by all of the provisions of the Indenture applicable to such a Subsidiary Guarantor and to perform all of the obligations and agreements of such a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture.
 
ARTICLE 3

MISCELLANEOUS
 
SECTION 3.01                                            Relation to the Indenture .  The provisions of this Supplemental Indenture shall become effective immediately upon the execution and delivery hereof.  This Supplemental Indenture and all the terms and provisions herein contained shall form a part of the Indenture as fully and with the same effect as if all such terms and provisions had been set forth in the Indenture; provided, however , such terms and provisions shall be so included in this Supplemental Indenture solely for the benefit of the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Trustee and the Holders of the Guaranteed Securities.  The Indenture is hereby ratified and confirmed and shall remain and continue in full force and effect in accordance with the terms and provisions thereof, as supplemented by this Supplemental Indenture, and the Indenture and this Supplemental Indenture shall be read, taken and construed together as one instrument.
 
SECTION 3.02                                            Effect of Supplemental Indenture .  The supplements to the Indenture set forth in this Supplemental Indenture affect only the provisions of the Indenture as such provisions relate to the Guaranteed Securities, the series of Securities comprised of the Guaranteed Securities and the rights, remedies and obligations of the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Holders of Guaranteed Securities, the Trustee and other Persons set forth in the Indenture as such rights, remedies and obligations relate to the Guaranteed Securities, and shall not affect any such provisions or otherwise create any such rights, remedies and obligations with respect to any other series of Securities.
 
SECTION 3.03                                            Counterparts of Supplemental Indenture . This Supplemental Indenture may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one instrument.
 
SECTION 3.04                                            Governing Law .  THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.
 
SECTION 3.05                                            No Responsibility of Trustee for Recitals, Etc .  The recitals and statements contained in this Supplemental Indenture shall be taken as the recitals and statements of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, and the Trustee assumes no responsibility for the correctness of the same.  The Trustee makes no representations as to the validity or sufficiency


A-2





of this Supplemental Indenture, except that the Trustee is duly authorized by all necessary corporate actions to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture.


















A-3





IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the day and year first above written.
 
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its General Partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
 
Title:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
[ EXISTING GUARANTORS ]
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
Title:
 
 
 
 
[ NEW GUARANTOR ] ,
 
as a Guarantor
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
Title:
 
 
 
 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., as Trustee
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
Title:

A-4





ANNEX B
 
FORM OF NOTATION OF GUARANTEE
 
Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors (which term includes any successor Person under the Indenture) has fully, unconditionally and absolutely guaranteed, to the extent set forth in the Indenture and subject to the provisions in the Indenture, the due and punctual payment of the principal of, and premium, if any, and interest on the Securities and all other amounts due and payable under the Indenture and the Securities by the Issuer.
 
The obligations of the Subsidiary Guarantors to the Holders of Securities and to the Trustee pursuant to the Guarantee and the Indenture are expressly set forth in Article X of the Indenture and reference is hereby made to the Indenture for the precise terms of the Guarantee.
 
 
[ SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS ]
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
Title:
 
 
 
 




B-1




Exhibit 4.02
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
as Issuer
 
and
 
THE SUBSIDIARY GUARANTORS PARTY HERETO
 
and
 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A.
 
as Trustee
 
 
 

 
 
First Supplemental Indenture
 
Dated as of August 1, 2014
 
 
 

 
 
 
to the Indenture

Dated as of August 1, 2014
 
 
 

 
 
4.00% Senior Notes due 2024





TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
Page
 
 
 
ARTICLE 1 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ORIGINAL INDENTURE
1

 
 

SECTION 1.01
Supplement to Article I of the Original Indenture
1

SECTION 1.02
Supplement to Article IV of the Original Indenture
4

SECTION 1.03
Effect of Article 1
7

 
 
 

ARTICLE 2 THE NOTES
7

 
 
 

SECTION 2.01
Form and Terms
7

SECTION 2.02
Designation, Amount, etc.
7

SECTION 2.03
Payment of Principal and Interest
8

SECTION 2.04
Subsidiary Guarantors
8

SECTION 2.05
Legends
8

SECTION 2.06
Redemption at the Option of the Issuer
9

 
 
 

ARTICLE 3 REPRESENTATIONS OF THE ISSUER
9

 
 
 

SECTION 3.01
Authority of the Issuer and Subsidiary Guarantors
9

SECTION 3.02
Truth of Recitals and Statements
9

 
 
 

ARTICLE 4 CONCERNING THE TRUSTEE
9

 
 
 

SECTION 4.01
Acceptance of Trusts
9

SECTION 4.02
No Responsibility of Trustee for Recitals, Etc.
9

 
 
 

ARTICLE 5 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
10

 
 
 

SECTION 5.01
Relation to the Original Indenture
10

SECTION 5.02
Meaning of Terms
10

SECTION 5.03
Counterparts of Supplemental Indenture
10

SECTION 5.04
Governing Law
10

 
 
 
Exhibit A                                  Form of Note
  
This Table of Contents does not constitute part of the Indenture or have any bearing upon the interpretation of any of its terms and provisions.
 


i





THIS FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE, dated as of August 1, 2014, is among EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Issuer”), the Subsidiary Guarantors party hereto and The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A., as trustee (the “Trustee”) under the Indenture (as defined below).
 
W I T N E S S E T H:
 
WHEREAS, the Issuer has duly authorized the issuance from time to time of its debentures, notes, bonds or other evidences of indebtedness (the “Securities”), which are to be issued in one or more series, and the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors have heretofore made, executed and delivered to the Trustee an Indenture dated as of August 1, 2014 (the “Original Indenture”) pursuant to which the Securities are issuable;
 
WHEREAS, Sections 2.01, 2.03 and 9.01 of the Original Indenture provide that the form or terms of any series of Securities may be established in a supplemental indenture, and the Issuer desires to establish in this First Supplemental Indenture both the form and terms of a separate series of Securities designated as its 4.00% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Notes”); and
 
WHEREAS, all things necessary to authorize the execution and delivery of this First Supplemental Indenture, to establish the Notes as provided for in this First Supplemental Indenture, and to make the Original Indenture, as supplemented with respect to the Notes by this First Supplemental Indenture and as it may otherwise be supplemented thereafter with applicability to the Notes (the Original Indenture, as so supplemented, being sometimes referred to herein as the “Indenture”), a valid agreement of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, in accordance with its terms, have been done;
 
NOW, THEREFORE, THIS FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE WITNESSETH that, for and in consideration of the premises and the purchase of the Notes by the Holders, the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree, solely for the equal and proportionate benefit of the respective Holders from time to time of Notes, as follows:
 
ARTICLE 1

SUPPLEMENT OF THE ORIGINAL INDENTURE
 
SECTION 1.01                    Supplement to Article I of the Original Indenture .  Section 1.01 of the Original Indenture is supplemented or superseded with respect to the Notes, in the case of definitional paragraphs that may be inconsistent, by inserting therein, in alphabetical order, the following definitional paragraphs:
 
“AVC Lease” means the Allegheny Valley Connector Facilities Lease Agreement, dated December 17, 2013, by and between Equitrans, LP and Allegheny Valley Connector, LLC.
 
“Comparable Treasury Issue” means the U.S. Treasury security selected by the Quotation Agent as having a maturity comparable to the remaining term of the Notes that would be utilized, at the time of selection and in accordance with customary financial



1





practice, in pricing new issues of corporate debt securities of comparable maturity to the remaining term of the Notes.
 
“Comparable Treasury Price” means, with respect to any Redemption Date, (i) the average of the Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations for such Redemption Date, after excluding the highest and lowest Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations; or (ii) if the Quotation Agent is unable to obtain at least four such Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations, the average of all Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations obtained by the Quotation Agent.
 
“Consolidated Net Tangible Assets” means, at any date of determination, the total amount of consolidated assets of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries after deducting therefrom (1) all current liabilities (excluding (a) any current liabilities that by their terms are extendable or renewable at the option of the obligor thereon to a time more than 12 months after the time as of which the amount thereof is being computed and (b) current maturities of long-term debt), and (2) the value (net of any applicable reserves) of all goodwill, trade names, trademarks, patents and other like intangible assets, all as set forth, or on a pro forma basis would be set forth, on the consolidated balance sheet of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries for the most recently completed fiscal quarter, prepared in accordance with GAAP.
 
“Debt” of any Person at any date means any obligation created or assumed by such Person for the repayment of borrowed money and, without duplication, any guarantee by such Person of any such obligation of others.
 
“Indenture” has the meaning specified in the recitals.
 
“Issue Date” means August 1, 2014, the date on which the Notes are first authenticated and delivered under the Indenture.
 
“Lien” means, with respect to any asset, any mortgage, lien, security interest, pledge, charge or other encumbrance of any kind in respect of such asset, whether or not filed, recorded or otherwise perfected under applicable law.
 
“Notes” has the meaning specified in the recitals.
 
“Original Indenture” has the meaning specified in the recitals.
 
“Principal Property” means, whether currently owned or leased or subsequently acquired, any pipeline, gathering system, terminal, storage facility, processing plant or other plant or facility located in the United States owned or leased by the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries and used in transporting, distributing, terminalling, gathering, treating, processing, marketing or storing natural gas, natural gas liquids or other hydrocarbons, except (1) any property or asset consisting of inventories, furniture, office fixtures and equipment (including data processing equipment), vehicles and equipment used on, or useful with, vehicles (but excluding vehicles that generate transportation revenues) and (2) any such pipeline or other plant or facility that, in the good faith opinion of the Board



2





of Directors of the Issuer as evidenced by a Board Resolution, is not material in relation to the activities of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole.
 
“Principal Subsidiary” means any of the Issuer’s Subsidiaries that owns or leases, directly or indirectly, a Principal Property.
 
“Quotation Agent” means a Reference Treasury Dealer selected by the Issuer.
 
“Reference Treasury Dealer” means each of Deutsche Bank Securities Inc., Goldman, Sachs & Co. and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC (and their respective successors) and one primary U.S. government securities dealer (a “Primary Treasury Dealer”) selected by the Issuer; provided, however , that if any of the foregoing shall cease to be a Primary Treasury Dealer, the Issuer will substitute therefor another Primary Treasury Dealer.
 
“Reference Treasury Dealer Quotations” means, with respect to each Reference Treasury Dealer and any Redemption Date for the Notes, an average, as determined by the Quotation Agent, of the bid and asked prices for the Comparable Treasury Issue for the Notes (expressed in each case as a percentage of its principal amount) quoted in writing to the Quotation Agent by such Reference Treasury Dealer at 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on the third Business Day preceding such Redemption Date.
 
“Sale-Leaseback Transaction” means the sale or transfer by the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary of any Principal Property to a Person (other than the Issuer or a Principal Subsidiary) and the taking back by the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary, as the case may be, of a lease of such Principal Property.
 
“Swap Contract” means (a) any and all rate swap transactions, basis swaps, credit derivative transactions, forward rate transactions, commodity swaps, commodity options, forward commodity contracts, equity or equity index swaps or options, bond or bond price or bond index swaps or options or forward bond or forward bond price or forward bond index transactions, interest rate options, forward foreign exchange transactions, cap transactions, floor transactions, collar transactions, currency swap transactions, cross-currency rate swap transactions, currency options, spot contracts, futures contracts traded on or subject to the rules of a designated contract market, or any other similar transactions or any combination of any of the foregoing (including any options to enter into any of the foregoing), whether or not any such transaction is governed by or subject to any master agreement, and (b) any and all transactions of any kind, and the related confirmations, which are subject to the terms and conditions of, or governed by, any form of master agreement published by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, Inc., any International Foreign Exchange Master Agreement, any North American Energy Standard Board Master Agreement, or any other master agreement, including any such obligations or liabilities under any master agreement.
 
“Treasury Rate” means, with respect to any Redemption Date for the Notes, the rate per year equal to the semi-annual equivalent yield to maturity of the Comparable Treasury Issue, calculated using a price for the Comparable Treasury Issue (expressed as





3





a percentage of its principal amount) equal to the Comparable Treasury Price for such Redemption Date; provided, however , that if no maturity is within three months before or after the Stated Maturity for the Notes, yields for the two published maturities most closely corresponding to such United States Treasury security will be determined and the Treasury Rate will be interpolated or extrapolated from those yields on a straight line basis rounding to the nearest month.  The Treasury Rate will be calculated on the third Business Day preceding the Redemption Date.
 
SECTION 1.02                    Supplement to Article IV of the Original Indenture .  Article IV of the Original Indenture is supplemented with respect to the Notes by inserting the following new Sections at the end thereof:
 
SECTION 4.08                                            Limitation on Liens.
 
While any of the Notes remain outstanding, the Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Principal Subsidiaries to, create, or permit to be created or to exist, any Lien upon any Principal Property of the Issuer or any of its Principal Subsidiaries, or upon any equity interests of any Principal Subsidiary, whether such Principal Property is, or equity interests are, owned on or acquired after the date of the Indenture, to secure any Debt, unless the Notes then outstanding are equally and ratably secured by such Lien for so long as any such Debt is so secured, other than:
 
(1)                           purchase money mortgages, or other purchase money Liens of any kind upon property acquired by the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary after the date of the Indenture, or Liens of any kind existing on any property or any equity interests at the time of the acquisition thereof (including Liens that exist on any property or any equity interests of a Person that is consolidated with or merged with or into the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary or that transfers or leases all or substantially all of its properties or assets to the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary), or conditional sales agreements or other title retention agreements and leases in the nature of title retention agreements with respect to any property acquired after the date of the Indenture, so long as no such Lien shall extend to or cover any other property of the Issuer or such Principal Subsidiary;
 
(2)                               Liens upon any property of the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary or any equity interests of any Principal Subsidiary existing as of the Issue Date or upon the property or any equity interests of any Person, which Liens existed at the time such Person became a Subsidiary of the Issuer;
 
(3)                               Liens for taxes or assessments or other governmental charges or levies relating to amounts that are not yet delinquent or are being contested in good faith;
 
(4)                               pledges or deposits to secure: (a) any other governmental charges or levies; (b) obligations under workers’ compensation laws, unemployment insurance and other social security legislation; (c) performance in connection with bids, tenders, contracts (other than contracts for the payment of money) or leases to which the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary is a party; (d) public or statutory obligations of the Issuer or any




4





Principal Subsidiary; and (e) surety, stay, appeal, indemnity, customs, performance or return-of-money bonds or pledges or deposits in lieu thereof;
 
(5)                               statutory or governmental Liens or Liens arising by operation of law, or builders’, materialmen’s, mechanics’, carriers’, warehousemen’s, workers’, repairmen’s, operators’, landlords’ or other similar Liens, in the ordinary course of business;
 
(6)                               Liens created by or resulting from any litigation or proceeding that at the time is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, including Liens relating to judgments thereunder as to which the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary has not exhausted its appellate rights;
 
(7)                               Liens on deposits required by any Person with whom the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary enters into forward contracts, futures contracts, Swap Contracts or other commodities contracts in the ordinary course of business and in accordance with established risk management policies;
 
(8)                               Liens in connection with leases (other than capital leases) made, or existing on property acquired, in the ordinary course of business; and Liens, if any, in connection with the AVC Lease or any similar lease;
 
(9)                               easements (including, without limitation, reciprocal easement agreements and utility agreements), zoning restrictions, rights-of-way, covenants, consents, reservations, encroachments, variations and other restrictions on the use of property or minor irregularities in title thereto, charges or encumbrances (whether or not recorded) affecting the use of real property and which are incidental to, and do not materially impair the use of such property in the operation of the business of the Issuer and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, or the value of such property for the purpose of such business;
 
(10)                       Liens in favor of the United States of America, any State, any foreign country or any department, agency or instrumentality or political subdivision of any such jurisdiction, to secure partial, progress, advance or other payments pursuant to any contract or statute or to secure any Debt incurred for the purpose of financing all or any part of the purchase price or the cost of constructing or improving the property subject to such Liens, including, without limitation, Liens to secure Debt of the pollution control, industrial development or similar revenue bond type;
 
(11)                       Liens of any kind upon any property acquired, constructed, developed or improved by the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary (whether alone or in association with others) after the date of the Indenture that are created prior to, at the time of, or within 12 months after such acquisition (or in the case of property constructed, developed or improved, after the completion of such construction, development or improvement and commencement of full commercial operation of such property, whichever is later) to secure or provide for the payment of any part of the purchase price or cost thereof; provided that in the case of such construction, development or improvement the Liens







5





shall not apply to any property theretofore owned by the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary other than theretofore unimproved real property;
 
(12)                       Liens upon any additions, improvements, replacements, repairs, fixtures, appurtenances or component parts thereof attaching to or required to be attached to property or assets pursuant to the terms of any mortgage, pledge agreement, security agreement or other similar instrument, creating a Lien upon such property or assets permitted by clauses (1) through (11) above;
 
(13)                       Liens in favor of the Issuer, one or more Principal Subsidiaries, one or more wholly owned Subsidiaries of the Issuer or any of the foregoing in combination;
 
(14)                       the replacement, extension or renewal (or successive replacements, extensions or renewals), as a whole or in part, of any Lien, or of any agreement, referred to in the clauses above, or the replacement, extension or renewal of the Debt secured thereby (not exceeding the principal amount of Debt secured thereby, other than to provide for the payment of any underwriting or other fees related to any such replacement, extension or renewal, as well as any premiums owed on and accrued and unpaid interest payable in connection with any such replacement, extension or renewal); provided that such replacement, extension or renewal is limited to all or a part of the same property that secured the Lien replaced, extended or renewed (plus improvements thereon or additions or accessions thereto);
 
(15)                       Liens resulting from the deposit of moneys or evidence of indebtedness in trust for the purpose of defeasing any Debt of the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary; or
 
(16)                       any Lien not excepted by the foregoing clauses (1) through (15); provided that immediately after the creation or assumption of such Lien the aggregate principal amount of Debt of the Issuer or any Principal Subsidiary secured by all Liens created or assumed under the provisions of this clause (16), together with all net sale proceeds from any Sale-Leaseback Transactions (reduced by the amounts applied pursuant to Section 4.09(1) and Section 4.09(3)(a)) shall not exceed an amount equal to 15% of the Consolidated Net Tangible Assets for the fiscal quarter that was most recently completed prior to the creation or assumption of such Lien.
 
Notwithstanding the foregoing, for purposes of making the calculation set forth in clause (16) of this Section 4.08, with respect to any such secured Debt of a non-wholly-owned Principal Subsidiary of the Issuer with no recourse to the Issuer or any wholly-owned Principal Subsidiary thereof, only that portion of the aggregate principal amount of such secured Debt reflecting the Issuer’s pro rata ownership interest in such non-wholly-owned Principal Subsidiary shall be included in calculating compliance herewith.
 
SECTION 4.09                                            Limitation on Sale/Leaseback Transactions
 
While any of the Notes remain outstanding, the Issuer shall not, and shall not permit any of its Principal Subsidiaries to, engage in a Sale-Leaseback Transaction, unless:






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(1)                               the Sale-Leaseback Transaction occurs within one year from the date of acquisition of the relevant Principal Property or the date of the completion of construction, development or substantial repair or improvement, or commencement of full operations on such Principal Property, whichever is later, and the Issuer has elected to designate, as a credit against (but not exceeding) the purchase price or cost of construction, development, repair or improvement of such Principal Property, an amount equal to all or a portion of the net sale proceeds from such Sale-Leaseback Transaction (with any such amount not being so designated to be applied as set forth in clause (3) below);
 
(2)                               the Issuer or such Principal Subsidiary would be entitled to incur Debt secured by a Lien on the Principal Property subject to the Sale-Leaseback Transaction in a principal amount equal to or exceeding the net sale proceeds from such Sale-Leaseback Transaction without equally and ratably securing the Notes; or
 
(3)                               the Issuer or such Principal Subsidiary, within a 270-day period after such Sale-Leaseback Transaction, applies or causes to be applied an amount not less than the net sale proceeds from such Sale-Leaseback Transaction to (a) the prepayment, repayment, redemption or retirement of any unsubordinated Debt of the Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries or (b) the investment in another Principal Property.
 
SECTION 1.03                    Effect of Article 1 .  The supplements to the Original Indenture set forth in Article 1 of this First Supplemental Indenture affect only the provisions of the Original Indenture as such provisions relate to the Notes, the series of Securities comprised of the Notes and the rights, remedies and obligations of the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Holders of Notes, the Trustee and other Persons set forth in the Original Indenture as such rights, remedies and obligations relate to the Notes.
 
ARTICLE 2

THE NOTES
 
SECTION 2.01                    Form and Terms .  The Notes shall be issued upon original issuance in whole in the form of one or more Global Securities (the “Global Notes”).  The Depository Trust Company and the Trustee are hereby designated as the Depositary and the Security Custodian, respectively, for the Global Notes under the Indenture.  The Notes and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication shall be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto (the “Form of Note”).  The terms of the Notes set forth on Exhibit A hereto are incorporated by reference herein as if set forth herein in their entirety.
 
SECTION 2.02                    Designation, Amount, etc .
 
(a)                                The Notes shall be entitled the “4.00% Senior Notes due 2024” of the Issuer.  The Notes shall be separate series of Securities under the Indenture.
 
(b)                               The initial limit upon the aggregate principal amount of the Notes that may be authenticated and delivered under the Indenture (except for Notes authenticated and delivered upon registration of transfer of, or in exchange for, or in lieu of, other Notes pursuant to Section 2.08, 2.09, 2.12, 2.17, 3.07 or 9.05 of the Indenture and except for any Notes which,



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pursuant to Section 2.04 or 2.17 of the Indenture, are deemed never to have been authenticated and delivered thereunder) is $500,000,000; provided, however, that the authorized aggregate principal amount of the Notes may be increased before or after the issuance of any Notes by a Board Resolution (or action pursuant to a Board Resolution) to such effect.  The Notes issued on the Issue Date and any such additional Notes subsequently issued shall be treated as a single series for all purposes under the Indenture, including, without limitation, waivers, amendments and redemptions.
 
(c)                                The Notes shall not be entitled to the benefit of Section 4.03(b) of the Original Indenture (and shall not constitute Rule 144A Securities).
 
SECTION 2.03                    Payment of Principal and Interest .
 
(a)                                The date on which the principal of the Notes is payable shall be August 1, 2024.
 
(b)                               The rate at which the Notes shall bear interest shall be 4.00% per annum.  Interest on the Notes shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year of twelve 30-day months.  The Interest Payment Dates on which such interest shall be payable shall be February 1 and August 1 of each year, commencing February 1, 2015.  The record dates for the interest payable on the Notes on any Interest Payment Date shall be the January 15 and July 15, as the case may be, next preceding such Interest Payment Date.
 
(c)                                No Additional Amounts with respect to the Notes shall be payable.
 
(d)                              The place or places where the principal of, premium (if any) on and interest on the Notes shall be payable shall be the office or agency of the Issuer maintained for that purpose, initially the office of the Trustee in The City of New York, and any other office or agency maintained by the Issuer for such purpose.  Payments in respect of Global Notes (including principal, premium, if any, and interest) shall be made by wire transfer of immediately available funds to the accounts specified by the Holder of such Notes.  In all other cases, at the option of the Issuer, payment of interest may be made by check mailed to the address of the person entitled thereto as such address shall appear in the register of the Notes maintained by the Registrar.
 
(e)                                The Paying Agent and Registrar for the Notes initially shall be the Trustee.
 
SECTION 2.04                    Subsidiary Guarantors .  The Notes shall be entitled to the benefits of a Guarantee by each Subsidiary Guarantor, the terms of which are set forth in Article X of the Original Indenture.  Subject to Section 10.04 of the Indenture, the “Subsidiary Guarantors” named with respect to the Notes shall be the Subsidiaries of the Issuer party hereto and each Subsidiary of the Issuer that provides a guarantee under the Credit Facility; provided that in no event shall EQT Midstream Finance Corporation be a Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
SECTION 2.05                    Legends . Each Global Note shall bear the legend set forth on the face of the Form of Note.





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SECTION 2.06                    Redemption at the Option of the Issuer .
 
(a)                                The Notes are subject to redemption, in whole at any time and in part from time to time, at the option of the Issuer, in principal amounts of $1,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 above such amount (provided that the unredeemed portion of any Note redeemed in part may not be less than $2,000), upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice as provided in the Indenture, at a Redemption Price equal to (i) if the Redemption Date is prior to May 1, 2024, the greater of (1) 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed and (2) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest on such Notes (exclusive of interest accrued to the Redemption Date) discounted to the Redemption Date on a semiannual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the Treasury Rate plus 25 basis points; or (ii) if the Redemption Date is on or after May 1, 2024, 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed, plus, in each of clauses (i) and (ii), accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the principal amount being redeemed to such Redemption Date.
 
(b)                               The Issuer shall have no obligation to redeem, purchase or repay Notes pursuant to any sinking fund or analogous provision or at the option of a Holder thereof.
 
ARTICLE 3

REPRESENTATIONS OF THE ISSUER
 
SECTION 3.01                    Authority of the Issuer and Subsidiary Guarantors .  Each of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors is duly authorized to execute and deliver this First Supplemental Indenture, and all partnership or limited liability company action on its part required for the execution and delivery of this First Supplemental Indenture has been duly and effectively taken.
 
SECTION 3.02                    Truth of Recitals and Statements .  The Issuer warrants that the recitals of fact and statements contained in this First Supplemental Indenture are true and correct, and that the recitals of fact and statements contained in all certificates and other documents furnished thereunder will be true and correct.
 
ARTICLE 4

CONCERNING THE TRUSTEE
 
SECTION 4.01                    Acceptance of Trusts .  The Trustee accepts the trusts hereunder and agrees to perform the same, but only upon the terms and conditions set forth in the Original Indenture and in this First Supplemental Indenture, to all of which the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the respective Holders of the Notes at any time hereafter outstanding agree by their acceptance thereof.
 
SECTION 4.02                    No Responsibility of Trustee for Recitals, Etc .  The recitals and statements contained in this First Supplemental Indenture shall be taken as the recitals and statements of the Issuer and the Subsidiary Guarantors, and the Trustee assumes no responsibility for the correctness of the same.  The Trustee makes no representations as to the validity or sufficiency of this First Supplemental Indenture, except that the Trustee is duly authorized by all necessary corporate actions to execute and deliver this First Supplemental Indenture.


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ARTICLE 5

MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
 
SECTION 5.01                    Relation to the Original Indenture .  The provisions of this First Supplemental Indenture shall become effective immediately upon the execution and delivery hereof.  This First Supplemental Indenture and all the terms and provisions herein contained shall form a part of the Original Indenture as fully and with the same effect as if all such terms and provisions had been set forth in the Original Indenture; provided, however , such terms and provisions shall be so included in this First Supplemental Indenture solely for the benefit of the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors, the Trustee and the Holders of the Notes.  The Original Indenture is hereby ratified and confirmed and shall remain and continue in full force and effect in accordance with the terms and provisions thereof, as supplemented by this First Supplemental Indenture, and the Original Indenture and this First Supplemental Indenture shall be read, taken and construed together as one instrument.
 
SECTION 5.02                    Meaning of Terms .  Any term used in this First Supplemental Indenture which is defined in the Original Indenture shall have the meaning specified in the Original Indenture, unless the context shall otherwise require.
 
SECTION 5.03                    Counterparts of Supplemental Indenture . This First Supplemental Indenture may be executed in several counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one instrument.
 
SECTION 5.04                    Governing Law .  THIS FIRST SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE AND THE NOTES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK.





















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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this First Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed as of the day and year first above written.
 
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
EQUITRANS, L.P.
 
 
 
 
By: Equitrans Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
By: Equitrans Investments, LLC,
 
 
its sole member
 
By: EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
By: EQT Midstream Services, LLC
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
EQUITRANS INVESTMENTS, LLC
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
 
 



Signature Page to First Supplemental Indenture





 
EQUITRANS SERVICES, LLC
 
 
 
By:
Equitrans Investments, LLC,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
EQM GATHERING HOLDINGS, LLC
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 























Signature Page to First Supplemental Indenture






 
EQM GATHERING OPCO, LLC
 
 
 
By:
EQM Gathering Holdings, LLC,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Partners, LP,
 
 
its sole member
 
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its general partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
Name:
Philip P. Conti
 
 
Title:
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 












































Signature Page to First Supplemental Indenture






 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., as Trustee
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ R. Tarnas
 
Name:
R. Tarnas
 
Title:
Vice President
 
 
 
 
 
 























































Signature Page to First Supplemental Indenture






*        To be included only if the Security is a Global Security.
 
Exhibit A
 
[FORM OF FACE OF SECURITY]
 
[Unless and until it is exchanged in whole or in part for Securities in definitive form, this Security may not be transferred except as a whole by the Depositary to a nominee of the Depositary or by a nominee of the Depositary to the Depositary or another nominee of the Depositary or by the Depositary or any such nominee to a successor Depositary or a nominee of such successor Depositary.  The Depository Trust Company (55 Water Street, New York, New York), a New York corporation (“DTC”), shall act as the Depositary until a successor shall be appointed by the Issuer and the Registrar.  Unless this certificate is presented by an authorized representative of DTC to the issuer or its agent for registration of transfer, exchange or payment, and any certificate issued is registered in the name of Cede & Co. or in such other name as is requested by an authorized representative of DTC (and any payment is made to Cede & Co. or to such other entity as is requested by an authorized representative of DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL inasmuch as the registered owner hereof, Cede & Co., has an interest herein.]*
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
4.00% SENIOR NOTE DUE 2024
 
 
CUSIP No. _____________
 
 
No.___________
$_____________
 
EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Issuer,” which term includes any successor Person under the Indenture hereinafter referred to), for value received, promises to pay to ____________ or registered assigns, the principal sum of ______________________ Dollars [, or such greater or lesser amount as indicated on the Schedule of Exchanges of Securities hereto,]* on August 1, 2024.
 
Interest Payment Dates:                                       February 1 and August 1
 
Record Dates:                                                                                                     January 15 and July 15
 
Reference is hereby made to the further provisions of this Security set forth on the reverse hereof, which further provisions shall for all purposes have the same effect as if set forth at this place.






A-1





IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Issuer has caused this Security to be signed manually or by facsimile by its duly authorized officers.
 
Dated:
 
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
 
 
By:
EQT Midstream Services, LLC,
 
 
its General Partner
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
Title:
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
 
Name:
 
 
Title:
 
 
Certificate of Authentication:
 
 
 
This is one of the Securities of the series
 
designated therein referred to in the within-
 
mentioned Indenture.
 
 
 
THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON
 
TRUST COMPANY, N.A., as Trustee
 
 
 
 
 
By:
 
 
Authorized Officer
 
 
 
Dated:
 
 
 
 
 











A-2





[FORM OF REVERSE OF SECURITY]
 
EQT MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, LP
 
4.00% SENIOR NOTE DUE 2024
 
 
This Security is one of a duly authorized issue of 4.00% Senior Notes due 2024 (the “Securities”) of EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership (the “Issuer”).
 
1.                                     Interest .  The Issuer promises to pay interest on the principal amount of this Security at 4.00% per annum.  The Issuer will pay interest semiannually on February 1 and August 1 of each year (each an “Interest Payment Date”), or if any such day is not a Business Day, on the next succeeding Business Day.  Interest on the Securities will accrue from the most recent Interest Payment Date on which interest has been paid or, if no interest has been paid, from August 1, 2014; provided that if there is no existing Default in the payment of interest, and if this Security is authenticated between a record date referred to on the face hereof (each, a “Record Date”) and the next succeeding Interest Payment Date, interest shall accrue from such next succeeding Interest Payment Date; provided, further , that the first Interest Payment Date shall be February 1, 2015.  The Issuer shall pay interest on overdue principal and premium (if any) from time to time at a rate equal to the interest rate then in effect; it shall pay interest on overdue installments of interest (without regard to any applicable grace periods) from time to time at the same rate to the extent lawful.  Interest will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months.
 
2.                                     Method of Payment .  The Issuer will pay interest on the Securities (except defaulted interest) to the Persons who are registered Holders of Securities at the close of business on the Record Date next preceding the Interest Payment Date, even if such Securities are canceled after such Record Date and on or before such Interest Payment Date.  The Holder must surrender this Security to a Paying Agent to collect principal payments.  The Issuer will pay the principal of, premium (if any) on and interest on the Securities in money of the United States of America that at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.  Such amounts shall be payable at the offices of the Trustee (as defined below); provided that, at the option of the Issuer, the Issuer may pay such amounts (1) by wire transfer with respect to Global Securities or (2) by check payable in such money mailed to a Holder’s registered address with respect to any Securities.
 
3.                                     Paying Agent and Registrar .  Initially, The Bank of New York Mellon Trust Company, N.A. (the “Trustee”), the trustee under the Indenture (as defined below), will act as Paying Agent and Registrar.  The Issuer may change any Paying Agent or Registrar without notice to any Holder.  The Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any other Subsidiary of the Issuer may act in any such capacity.
 
4.                                     Indenture .  The Issuer issued the Securities under an Indenture, dated as of August 1, 2014 (the “Base Indenture”), among the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors party thereto and the Trustee, as amended and supplemented with respect to the Securities by the First Supplemental Indenture thereto, dated as of August 1, 2014 and as it may otherwise be amended



A-3





and supplemented thereafter with applicability to the Securities (the Base Indenture, as so amended and supplemented, the “Indenture”).  The terms of the Securities include those stated in the Indenture and those made part of the Indenture by reference to the Trust Indenture Act of 1939, as amended (the “TIA”), as in effect on the date of execution of the Indenture.  The Securities are subject to all such terms, and Holders are referred to the Indenture and the TIA for a statement of such terms and for the definitions of capitalized terms used but not defined herein.  The Securities are unsecured general obligations of the Issuer limited to $500,000,000 in aggregate principal amount; provided, however , that the authorized aggregate principal amount of the Securities may be increased before or after the issuance of any Securities by a Board Resolution (or action pursuant to a Board Resolution) to such effect.  The Base Indenture provides for the issuance of other series of debt securities (including the Securities, the “Debt Securities”) thereunder.
 
5.                                     Guarantees .  Each of the Subsidiary Guarantors named pursuant to the Indenture fully, unconditionally and absolutely guarantees to the Holders and to the Trustee the due and punctual payment of the principal of, and premium, if any, and interest on the Securities and all other amounts due and payable under the Indenture and the Securities by the Issuer, when and as such principal, premium, if any, and interest shall become due and payable, whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise, according to the terms of the Securities and the Indenture, subject to the limitations set forth in the Indenture.  In the event of a default in payment of the principal of, or premium, if any, or interest on the Securities, whether at the Stated Maturity or by declaration of acceleration, call for redemption or otherwise, legal proceedings may be instituted by the Trustee on behalf of the Holders or, subject to the Indenture, by the Holders, on the terms and conditions set forth in the Indenture, directly against any Subsidiary Guarantor to enforce its Guarantee without first proceeding against the Issuer or any other Subsidiary Guarantor.
 
6.                                     Denominations, Transfer, Exchange .  The Securities are in registered form without coupons in minimum denominations of $2,000 and any integral multiples of $1,000.  The transfer of Securities may be registered and Securities may be exchanged as provided in the Indenture.  The Registrar and the Trustee may require a Holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements and transfer documents and to pay any taxes and fees required by law or permitted by the Indenture.  Neither the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee nor the Registrar shall be required to register the transfer or exchange of (a) any Security selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any Security being redeemed in part, or (b) any Security during the period beginning 15 Business Days before the giving of notice of redemption of Securities to be redeemed and ending at the close of business on the day of transmission.
 
7.                                     Persons Deemed Owners .  The registered Holder of a Security shall be treated as its owner for all purposes.
 
8.                                     Redemption .  The Securities are subject to redemption, in whole at any time and in part from time to time, at the option of the Issuer, in principal amounts of $1,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 above such amount (provided that the unredeemed portion of any Security redeemed in part may not be less than $2,000), upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ prior notice as provided in the Indenture, at a Redemption Price equal to (i) if the




A-4





Redemption Date is prior to May 1, 2024, the greater of (1) 100% of the principal amount of the Securities to be redeemed and (2) the sum of the present values of the remaining scheduled payments of principal and interest on such Securities (exclusive of interest accrued to the Redemption Date) discounted to the Redemption Date on a semiannual basis (assuming a 360-day year consisting of twelve 30-day months) at the Treasury Rate plus 25 basis points; or (ii) if the Redemption Date is on or after May 1, 2024, 100% of the principal amount of the Securities to be redeemed, plus, in each of clauses (i) and (ii), accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the principal amount being redeemed to such Redemption Date.
 
9.                                     Amendments and Waivers .  Subject to certain exceptions and limitations, the Indenture or the Securities may be amended or supplemented with the consent of the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Debt Securities of all series affected by such amendment or supplement (acting as one class), and any existing or past Default or Event of Default under, or compliance with any provision of, the Indenture may be waived (other than any continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of the principal of, premium (if any) on or interest on the Securities) by the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding Debt Securities of any series or of all series (acting as one class) in accordance with the terms of the Indenture.  Without the consent of any Holder, the Issuer, the Subsidiary Guarantors and the Trustee may amend or supplement the Indenture or the Securities or waive any provision of either: (i) to cure any ambiguity, omission, defect or inconsistency; (ii) if required, to provide for the assumption of the obligations of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture in the case of the merger, consolidation or sale, lease, conveyance, transfer or other disposition of all or substantially all of the assets of the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor; (iii) to provide for uncertificated Securities in addition to or in place of certificated Securities; (iv) to provide any security for, or to add any guarantees of or additional obligors on, the Securities or the related Guarantees; (v) to comply with any requirement in order to effect or maintain the qualification of the Indenture under the TIA; (vi) to add to the covenants of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor for the benefit of the Holders of the Securities, or to surrender any right or power conferred by the Indenture upon the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor; (vii) to add any additional Events of Default with respect to all or any series of the Debt Securities; (viii) to change or eliminate any of the provisions of the Indenture, provided that no outstanding Security is adversely affected in any material respect; (ix) to supplement any of the provisions of the Indenture to such extent as shall be necessary to permit or facilitate the defeasance and discharge of the Securities pursuant to the Indenture; or (x) to evidence and provide for the acceptance of appointment under the Indenture by a successor Trustee with respect to the Securities and to add to or change any of the provisions of the Indenture as shall be necessary to provide for or facilitate the administration of the trusts thereunder by more than one Trustee, pursuant to the requirements of the Indenture.
 
The right of any Holder to participate in any consent required or sought pursuant to any provision of the Indenture (and the obligation of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor to obtain any such consent otherwise required from such Holder) may be subject to the requirement that such Holder shall have been the Holder of record of any Securities with respect to which such consent is required or sought as of a date identified by the Issuer or such Subsidiary Guarantor in a notice furnished to Holders in accordance with the terms of the Indenture.






A-5





Without the consent of each Holder affected, an amendment, supplement or waiver may not (i) reduce the amount of Debt Securities whose Holders must consent to an amendment, supplement or waiver; (ii) reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest, including default interest, on any Security; (iii) reduce the principal of or premium on, or change the Stated Maturity of, any Security; (iv) reduce the premium, if any, payable upon the redemption of any Security or change the time at which any Security may or shall be redeemed; (v) change the coin or currency in which any Security or any premium or interest with respect thereto is payable; (vi) impair the right to institute suit for the enforcement of any payment of principal of or premium (if any) or interest on any Security, except as provided in the Indenture; (vii) make any change in the percentage of principal amount of Debt Securities necessary to waive compliance with certain provisions of the Indenture or make any change in the provision for modification; or (viii) waive a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of or premium (if any) or interest on the Securities.
 
A supplemental indenture that changes or eliminates any covenant or other provision of the Base Indenture, as supplemented from time to time, which has expressly been included solely for the benefit of one or more particular series of Debt Securities under the Base Indenture, or which modifies the rights of the Holders of Debt Securities of such series with respect to such covenant or other provision, shall be deemed not to affect the rights under the Indenture of the Holders of Debt Securities of any other series.
 
10.                             Defaults and Remedies .  Events of Default are defined in the Indenture and generally include: (i) default for 30 days in payment of any interest on the Securities; (ii) default in any payment of principal of or premium, if any, on the Securities as and when due and payable; (iii) default by the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor in compliance with any of its other covenants or agreements in, or provisions of, the Securities or in the Indenture which shall not have been remedied within 90 days after written notice by the Trustee or by the holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the Securities then outstanding (or, in the event that other Debt Securities issued under the Base Indenture are also affected by the default, then 25% in principal amount of all outstanding Debt Securities so affected); (iv) certain events involving bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization of the Issuer or any Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary or (v) any Guarantee by a Subsidiary Guarantor that is a Significant Subsidiary ceases to be in full force and effect with respect to Securities (except as otherwise provided in the Indenture) or is declared null and void in a judicial proceeding, or any such Subsidiary Guarantor denies or disaffirms its obligations under the Indenture or such Guarantee.  If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Securities (or, in the case of an Event of Default described in clause (iii) above, if outstanding Debt Securities of other series are affected by such Default, then at least 25% in principal amount of the then outstanding Debt Securities so affected), may declare the principal of and interest on all the Securities (or such Debt Securities) to be immediately due and payable, except that in the case of an Event of Default described in clause (iv) above, all outstanding Debt Securities under the Base Indenture become due and payable immediately without further action or notice.  The amount due and payable upon the acceleration of any Security is equal to 100% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest to the date of payment.  Holders may not enforce the Indenture or the Securities except as provided in the Indenture.  The Trustee may require security or indemnity satisfactory to it before it enforces the Indenture or the Securities.  Subject to certain limitations, Holders of a majority in principal amount of the then outstanding




A-6





Securities (or affected Debt Securities) may direct the Trustee in its exercise of any trust or power.  The Trustee may withhold from Holders notice of any continuing default (except a default in payment of principal, premium or interest) if it determines that withholding notice is in their interests.  The Issuer must furnish annual compliance certificates to the Trustee.
 
11.       Discharge Prior to Maturity .  The Indenture with respect to the Securities shall be discharged and canceled upon the payment of all of the Securities and shall be discharged except for certain obligations upon the irrevocable deposit with the Trustee of any combination of funds and Government Obligations sufficient for such payment.
 
12.       Trustee Dealings with Issuer or Subsidiary Guarantors .  The Trustee, in its individual or any other capacity, may become the owner or pledgee of Securities and may make loans to, accept deposits from, and perform services for the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any of their respective Affiliates, and may otherwise deal with the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor or any such Affiliates, as if it were not Trustee.
 
13.       No Recourse Against Others . Obligations of the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture, the Securities and the related Guarantees are non-recourse to the General Partner and its Affiliates (other than the Issuer and such Subsidiary Guarantor), and payable only out of cash flow and assets of the Issuer and such Subsidiary Guarantor.  The Trustee, and each Holder of a Security by its acceptance hereof, will be deemed to have agreed in the Indenture that (1) the General Partner and its assets (and any of its Affiliates other than the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor) shall not be liable for any of the obligations of the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture, the Securities or the related Guarantees, and (2) no director, manager, member, officer, employee, stockholder, partner, unitholder or other owner of the Issuer, any Subsidiary Guarantor, the Trustee, the General Partner or any Affiliate of the foregoing entities shall have any liability in respect of the obligations of the Issuer and a Subsidiary Guarantor under the Indenture, the Securities or the related Guarantees by reason of his, her or its status.  Each Holder by accepting a Security waives and releases all such liability.  The waiver and release is part of the consideration for the issuance of the Securities.
 
14.       Authentication .  This Security shall not be valid until authenticated by the manual signature of the Trustee or an authenticating agent.
 
15.       CUSIP Numbers .  Pursuant to a recommendation promulgated by the Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures, the Issuer has caused CUSIP numbers to be printed on the Securities as a convenience to the Holders of the Securities.  No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers as printed on the Securities and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed thereon.
 
16.       Abbreviations .  Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a Holder or an assignee, such as:  TEN COM (= tenants in common), TEN ENT (= tenants by the entireties), JT TEN (= joint tenants with right of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (= Custodian), and U/G/M/A (= Uniform Gifts to Minors Act).





A-7





The Issuer will furnish to any Holder upon written request and without charge a copy of the Indenture.  Request may be made to:
 
EQT Midstream Services, LLC
625 Liberty Avenue, Suite 1700
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
Attn:  General Counsel








































A-8





SCHEDULE OF EXCHANGES OF SECURITIES*
 
The following exchanges of a part of this Global Security for other Securities have been made:
 
Date of Exchange
 
Amount of
Decrease in
Principal Amount
of this Global Security
 
Amount of
Increase in
Principal Amount
of this Global Security
 
Principal Amount
of this Global
Security Following
Such Decrease
or Increase
 
Signature of
Authorized Officer
of Trustee or
Security Custodian
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




































A-9





ASSIGNMENT FORM
 
To assign this Security, fill in the form below: (I) or (we) assign and transfer this Security to:
 
 
(Insert assignee’s social security or tax I.D. number)
 
 
 
 
(Print or type assignee’s name, address and zip code)
 
and irrevocably appoint
 
as agent to transfer this Security on the books of the Issuer. The agent may substitute another to act for him.
 
Date:
 
 
Your Signature:
 
 
 
(Sign exactly as your name appears on
 
 
the face of this Security)
 
 
Signature Guarantee:
 
(Participant in a Recognized Signature
Guarantee Medallion Program)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 






















A-10


Exhibit 10.01

Portions of this Exhibit have been redacted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment under Rule 24b-2 of the General Rules and Regulations under the Securities Exchange Act. Omitted information marked “[***]” in this Exhibit has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission together with such request for confidential treatment.

Execution Copy

















FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT
OF
MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE, LLC
A Delaware Limited Liability Company


August 28, 2014

















        
        


 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article 1 DEFINITIONS                                      1
1.01
Definitions                                1
1.02
Interpretation                                17
Article 2 ORGANIZATION                                  18
2.01
Formation                                18
2.02
Name                                    18
2.03
Registered Office; Registered Agent; Principal Office in the
United States; Other Offices                         18
2.04
Purposes                                18
2.05
No State Law Partnership                            18
2.06
Foreign Qualification                            18
2.07
Term                                    19
2.08
Title to Property                                19
Article 3 MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS; DISPOSITIONS OF INTERESTS              19
3.01
Capital Structure                                19
3.02
Representations, Warranties and Covenants.                    20
3.03
Dispositions and Encumbrances of Membership Interests.            22
3.04
Creation of Additional Membership Interests    36
3.05
Access to Information                            36
3.06
Confidential Information                            37
3.07
Founding Shippers                            39
3.08
Liability to Third Parties                            39
3.09
Use of Members’ Names and Trademarks                    39
Article 4 CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS/LOANS                          39
4.01
Capital Contributions                            39
4.02
Loans                                    42
4.03
No Other Contribution or Loan Obligations                    44
4.04
Return of Contributions                            44
4.05
Capital Accounts                                44
4.06
Failure to Make a Capital Contribution or Loan.                45
4.07
Credit Assurance.                                48
Article 5 DISTRIBUTIONS AND ALLOCATIONS                      49
5.01
Distributions                                49
5.02
[Intentionally omitted.]                            49
5.03
[Intentionally omitted.]                            49
5.04
Allocations for Maintaining Capital Accounts                49
5.05
Allocations for Tax Purposes                        51
5.06
Varying Interests                                52
5.07
Amounts Withheld                            52

i
        


 

Article 6 MANAGEMENT                                  53
6.01
Generally                                53
6.02
Management Committee                            53
6.03
Construction, Operation and Management Agreement                60
6.04
No Duties; Disclaimer of Duties                        60
6.05
Business Opportunities.                            61
6.06
Insurance Coverage.                            63
6.07
Indemnification.                                64
6.08
Limitation on Liability                            64
6.09
Delivery of Operating Budget                        65
Article 7 DEVELOPMENT OF FACILITIES                          65
7.01
Development of Facilities.                            65
7.02
Employee Matters                            66
7.03
General Regulatory Matters.                        67
Article 8 TAXES                                          67
8.01
Tax Returns                                67
8.02
Tax Elections                                67
8.03
Tax Matters Member                            68
Article 9 BOOKS, RECORDS, REPORTS, AND BANK ACCOUNTS              69
9.01
Maintenance of Books                            69
9.02
Reports                                    69
9.03
Bank Accounts                                71
Article 10 WITHDRAWAL                                  71
10.01
Right of Withdrawal                            71
10.02
Deemed Withdrawal                            71
10.03
Effect of Withdrawal                            72
Article 11 DISPUTE RESOLUTION                              73
11.01
Disputes                                    73
11.02
Negotiation to Resolve Disputes                        74
11.03
Courts                                    74
11.04
Specific Performance                            74
11.05
Arbitration.                                75
Article 12 DISSOLUTION, WINDING-UP AND TERMINATION                  76
12.01
Dissolution                                76
12.02
Winding-Up and Termination                        77
12.03
Deficit Capital Accounts                            79
12.04
Certificate of Cancellation                            79

ii
        


 

Article 13 GENERAL PROVISIONS                              79
13.01
Offset; Costs and Expenses                        79
13.02
Notices                                    79
13.03
Entire Agreement; Superseding Effect                    79
13.04
Effect of Waiver or Consent                        80
13.05
Amendment or Restatement                        80
13.06
Binding Effect                                80
13.07
Governing Law; Severability                        80
13.08
Further Assurances                            80
13.09
Waiver of Certain Rights                            81
13.10
Counterparts                                81
13.11
Fair Market Value Determination.                        81
13.12
Other Agreements                            81


EXHIBIT :

A - Members and Sharing Ratios in Series A
B - Form of Limited Liability Company Agreement






iii
        


 

FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT
OF
MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE, LLC
This FIRST AMENDED AND RESTATED LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT OF MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE, LLC (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of August 28, 2014 (the “ Effective Date ”), is adopted, executed and agreed to by MVP Holdco, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ EQT ”), US Marcellus Gas Infrastructure, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ USG ”), and Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ Company ”) and each Person from time to time admitted to the Company as a Member in accordance with the terms hereof.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, on August 22, 2014, the Company was formed as a “series” limited liability company in accordance with the Act (as hereinafter defined) for the purpose of developing, constructing, owning and operating an interstate natural gas pipeline and related facilities and EQT, as the Company’s initial member, entered into a written agreement governing the affairs of the Company and the conduct of its business (the “ Initial Agreement ”); and
WHEREAS, EQT, as the Company’s initial member, wishes to amend and restate the Initial Agreement in its entirety in connection with the admission of USG as a Member and in order to make certain provisions regarding the affairs of the Company and the conduct of its business and the rights and obligations of the parties hereto on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein.
NOW THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, EQT and USG agree as follows:
Article 1
DEFINITIONS
1.01
Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the respective meanings set forth below or set forth in the Sections referred to below:
708(b) Members – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
AAA – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(a).
Act – means the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act.
Additional Contribution/Loan – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a)(ii).
Additional Contribution/Loan Members – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a)(ii).
Additional Facility – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.05(a).
Additional Joint Venture LLC – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(i)(JJ).
Adjusted Capital Account – means, with respect to each Series, the Capital Account maintained for each Member as provided in Section 4.05, (a) increased by (i) an amount equal to such Member’s allocable share of Minimum Gain with respect to such Series as computed in accordance with the applicable Treasury Regulations, and



 

(ii) the amount that such Member is deemed to be obligated to restore with respect to such Series pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(c), if any, and (b) reduced by the adjustments provided for in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4)-(6) with respect to such Series. The foregoing definition of Adjusted Capital Account is intended to comply with the provisions of Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
Affiliate – means, (i) with respect to any Person, (a) each entity that such Person Controls; (b) each Person that Controls such Person, including, in the case of a Member, such Member’s Parent; and (c) each entity that is under common Control with such Person, including, in the case of a Member, each entity that is Controlled by such Member’s Parent; provided that, with respect to any Member, an Affiliate shall include (y) a limited partnership or a Person Controlled by a limited partnership if such Member’s Parent has the power to appoint the general partner of such limited partnership, or such general partner is otherwise is Controlled by such Member’s Parent, or (z) a limited liability company or a Person controlled by a limited liability company if such Member’s Parent has the power to appoint the managing member or manager (or, if more than one manager, a majority of managers) of the limited liability company, or such managing member or manager(s) are Controlled by such Member’s Parent; provided , further , that, for purposes of this Agreement, the Company shall not be an Affiliate of any Member; and (ii) [***].
Affiliate’s Outside Activities – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.05(a).
Agreement – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Alternate Representative – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a)(i).
Appraiser – has the meaning set forth in Section 13.11(c).
Approval Date – means (i) with respect to Series A, the Effective Date, and (ii) with respect to each additional Series or Additional Joint Venture LLC, the date an Additional Facility is approved pursuant to Section 6.05(a) and assigned by the Management Committee to such additional Series or Additional Joint Venture LLC.
Approved Precedent Agreement – means each Precedent Agreement approved by the Management Committee pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(S).
Arbitration – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(a).
Arbitration Invoking Party – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(b).
Arbitration Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(b).
Arbitration Noticed Party – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(b).
Assignee – means any Person that acquires a Membership Interest or any portion thereof through a Disposition; provided that an Assignee shall have no right to be admitted to the Company as a Member except in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(iii). Subject to the Preferential Rights set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii), the Assignee of a dissolved Member is the shareholder, partner, member or other equity owner or owners of the dissolved Member to whom such Member’s Membership Interest is assigned by the Person conducting the liquidation or winding-up of such Member. The Assignee of a Bankrupt Member is (a) the Person or Persons (if any) to whom such Bankrupt Member’s Membership Interest is assigned by order of the bankruptcy court or other Governmental Authority having jurisdiction

2
        


 

over such Bankruptcy, or (b) in the event of a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, the creditor to which such Membership Interest is assigned.
Assumed Tax Rate – means, for any period, the effective maximum combined marginal U.S. federal, state, and local income tax rate applicable to ordinary income of an individual resident of New York, New York, after giving effect to any U.S. federal income tax deduction for state and local income taxes.
Authorizations – means licenses, certificates, permits, orders, approvals, determinations and authorizations from Governmental Authorities having valid jurisdiction.
Available Cash – means, with respect to each Series and with respect to any Quarter ending prior to the termination or liquidation of the Series, and without duplication:
(a)    the sum of all cash and cash equivalents with respect to such Series on hand at the end of such Quarter, less
(b)    the amount of any cash reserves with respect to such Series that is necessary or appropriate in the reasonable discretion of the Management Committee (i) to provide for the proper conduct of the business of the Series (including reserves for future maintenance capital expenditures and for anticipated future credit needs of the Series) subsequent to such Quarter or (ii) to comply with applicable law or any loan agreement, security agreement, mortgage, debt instrument or other agreement or obligation to which the Company with respect to such Series is a party or by which it is bound or its assets are subject.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, “Available Cash” with respect to the Quarter in which a liquidation or termination of the Series occurs and any subsequent Quarter shall be deemed to equal zero.
Bankruptcy or Bankrupt – means, with respect to any Person, that (a) such Person (i) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; (ii) files a voluntary bankruptcy petition; (iii) becomes the subject of an order for relief or is declared insolvent in any federal or state bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings; (iv) files a petition or answer seeking for such Person a reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation, dissolution, or similar relief under any Law; (v) files an answer or other pleading admitting or failing to contest the material allegations of a petition filed against such Person in a proceeding of the type described in subclauses (i) through (iv) of this clause (a); or (vi) seeks, consents to, or acquiesces in the appointment of a trustee, receiver, or liquidator of such Person or of all or any substantial part of such Person’s properties; or (b) against such Person, a proceeding seeking reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation, dissolution, or similar relief under any Law has been commenced and 120 Days have expired without dismissal thereof or with respect to which, without such Person’s consent or acquiescence, a trustee, receiver, or liquidator of such Person or of all or any substantial part of such Person’s properties has been appointed and 90 Days have expired without the appointment’s having been vacated or stayed, or 90 Days have expired after the date of expiration of a stay, if the appointment has not previously been vacated.
Breaching Member – means a Member that, as of any date, (a) has committed a failure or breach of the type described in the definition of “Default,” (b) has received a written notice with respect to such failure or breach of the type described in such definition of “Default,” and (c) has not cured such failure or breach as of such date, but as to which the applicable cure period set forth in such definition of “Default” has not then expired.
Business Day – means any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday, or a holiday on which national banking associations in the State of Delaware are closed.

3
        


 

[***]
Capital Account – means, with respect to each Series, the account maintained by the Company for each Member in accordance with Section 4.05.
Capital Budget – means, with respect to each Series, (a) the Construction Budget for the Series, (b) the capital budget associated with the Facilities covered by any Approved Precedent Agreement for the Series, and (c) the annual capital budget for the Series that is approved (or deemed approved) pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(GG). Each Capital Budget shall cover all items that are classified as capital items under Required Accounting Practices.
Capital Call – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(iv).
Capital Contribution – means, with respect to each Series, the amount of money and the net agreed fair market value of any property (other than money) contributed to the Company with respect to the Series by the Member. Any reference in this Agreement to the Capital Contribution of a Member shall include a Capital Contribution of its predecessors in interest.
Certified Public Accountants – means a firm of independent public accountants selected from time to time by the Management Committee.
Change of Control – means:
(a)    with respect to any Member, an event (such as a Disposition of voting securities or other equity interests or substantially all the assets of such Member) that causes such Member to cease to be Controlled by such Member’s then Parent; provided that the term “Change of Control” shall not include any of the following events:
(A)    with respect to a Founding Member, an event that causes such Member’s then Parent to be Controlled by another Person;
(B)    a Disposition of the Membership Interests held by, or the equity or assets of, such Member to an Affiliate of such Member or such Member’s then Parent, or any other event, including any corporate reorganization, merger, combination or similar transaction, that results in such Member being Controlled by an Affiliate of such Member’s then Parent, including, in each case, a Disposition to a limited partnership whose general partner is Controlled by an Affiliate of such Member or its then Parent;
(C)    in the case of a Member that is a publicly traded partnership or is Controlled by a publicly traded partnership, any Disposition of units or issuance of new units representing limited partner interests by such publicly traded partnership, whether to an Affiliate or an unrelated party and whether or not such units or interests are listed on a national securities exchange or quotation service so long as the general partner of such publicly traded partnership is Controlled by an Affiliate of such Member or its Parent; and
(D)    [***];
(b)    prior to and following the In-Service Date, with respect to the Operator, an event (such as a Disposition of voting securities or other equity interests of substantially all the assets of the Operator)

4
        


 

that causes, directly or indirectly, the Operator to be Controlled by another Person, subject to Section 3.03(b)(vi)(D). With respect to the Operator, “Change of Control” shall not include an event (i) that causes the Operator to be Controlled by an Affiliate of the Operator or an Affiliate of the Operator’s then Parent or (ii) that causes the Parent of the Operator to be Controlled by another Person so long as [***]; and
(c)    Notwithstanding the foregoing, and for the avoidance of doubt, any event that (i) constitutes a Change of Control under clause (a) of this definition of Change of Control or (ii) is expressly excluded from this definition of Change of Control pursuant to clauses (a)(A), (a)(B), (a)(C) or (a)(D) above shall not be deemed a Disposition for purposes of Section 3.03 of this Agreement, other than for purposes of Section 3.03(b)(iv); provided , however , that Dispositions or issuances described in clause (a)(C) shall not be deemed a Disposition for purposes of Section 3.03(b)(iv).
Change Exercise Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Change Purchasing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Change Unexercised Portion – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Changing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Claim – means any and all judgments, claims, causes of action, demands, lawsuits, suits, proceedings, Governmental investigations or audits, losses, assessments, fines, penalties, administrative orders, obligations, costs, expenses, liabilities and damages (whether actual, consequential or punitive), including interest, penalties, reasonable attorney’s fees, disbursements and costs of investigations, deficiencies, levies, duties, imposts, remediation and cleanup costs, and natural resources damages.
Code – means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
COM Agreement – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.03.
COM Approval Matters – means all matters requiring the approval of the Company or providing for the exercise of rights by the Company, including, without limitation, those set forth in Sections 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 4.2, 4.4, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1(b), 7.2, 8.2, and 8.3, Article 9, Sections 13.2 and 13.4, Article 15, Article 17, Section 18.6 and 18.9, Exhibit A, and Exhibit B of the COM Agreement.
Comment Deadline – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.09.
Company – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Confidential Information – means all information and data (including all copies thereof) that is furnished or submitted by any of the Members, their Affiliates, or Operator, whether oral, written, or electronic, to the other Members, their Affiliates, or Operator in connection with the Facilities and the resulting information and data obtained from those studies, including market evaluations, market proposals, service designs and pricing, pipeline system design and routing, cost estimating, rate studies, identification of permits, strategic plans, legal documents, environmental studies and requirements, public and governmental relations planning, identification of regulatory issues and development of related strategies, legal analysis and documentation, financial planning, gas reserves and deliverability data, studies of the natural gas supplies for the Facilities, and other studies and activities to determine

5
        


 

the potential viability of the Facilities and their design characteristics, and identification of key issues. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Confidential Information” shall not include any information that:
(a)    is in the public domain at the time of its disclosure or thereafter, other than as a result of a disclosure directly or indirectly by a Member or its Affiliates in contravention of this Agreement;
(b)    as to any Member or its Affiliates, was in the possession of such Member or its Affiliates prior to the execution of this Agreement and not subject to a separate confidentiality restriction;
(c)    has been independently acquired or developed by a Member or its Affiliates without violating any of the obligations of such Member or its Affiliates under this Agreement; or
(d)    is received from a third-party source on a non-confidential basis, provided that such third-party source is not subject to an obligation of confidentiality and would not reasonably have been expected to know that the information was to be kept confidential from the applicable party.
Construction Budget – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(i).
Contributing/Loan Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a).
Control, Controls or Controlled – means the possession, directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, of the following:
(a)    (i) in the case of a corporation, 50% or more of the outstanding voting securities thereof; (ii) in the case of a limited liability company, general partnership or venture, the right to 50% or more of the distributions therefrom (including liquidating distributions); (iii) in the case of a trust or estate, including a statutory trust, 50% or more of the beneficial interest therein; (iv) in the case of a limited partnership (A) the right to 50% or more of the distributions therefrom (including liquidating distributions), (B) where the general partner of such limited partnership is a corporation, ownership of 50% or more of the outstanding voting securities of such corporate general partner, (C) where the general partner of such limited partnership is a partnership, limited liability company or other entity (other than a corporation or limited partnership), the right to 50% or more of the distributions (including liquidating distributions) from such general partner entity, or (D) where the general partner of such limited partnership is a limited partnership, Control of the general partner of such general partner in the manner described under subclause (B) or (C) of this clause, or (v) in the case of any other entity, 50% or more of the economic or beneficial interest therein; or
(b)    in the case of any entity, the power or authority, through ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise, to exercise predominant control over the management of the entity.
Control Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Covered Person – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.07(a).
Credit Assurance – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(a).
Day – means a calendar day, provided that if any period of Days referred to in this Agreement shall end on a Day that is not a Business Day, then the expiration of such period shall be automatically extended until the end of the next occurring Business Day.

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Deadlock – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01.
December Deadline – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.09.
Deemed Membership Disposition – means, with respect to any Membership Interest that is owned by a Person, the primary assets of which comprise such Membership Interest and assets that are directly related thereto, a Disposition of all of the voting securities or other equity interests of such Person.
Default – means, with respect to any Member:
(a)    the failure of such Member to contribute, within [***] Days of the date required pursuant to Section 4.06, all or any portion of a Capital Contribution that such Member is required to make as provided in this Agreement; or
(b)    the failure of a Member to comply in any material respect with any of its other agreements, covenants or obligations under this Agreement, or the failure of any representation or warranty made by a Member in this Agreement to have been true and correct in all material respects at the time it was made;
in the case of each of clause (a) and (b) above if such breach is not cured by the applicable Member within [***] Days of its receiving written notice of such breach from any other Member (or, if a breach of clause (b) is not capable of being cured within such [***]-Day period, if such Member fails to promptly commence substantial efforts to cure such breach or to prosecute such curative efforts to completion with continuity and diligence). The Management Committee may, but shall have no obligation to, extend the foregoing [***]-Day and [***]-Day periods, as determined in its Sole Discretion.
Default Rate – means a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (a) a varying rate per annum equal to the sum of (i) the prime rate as published in The Wall Street Journal , with adjustments in that varying rate to be made on the same date as any change in that rate is so published, plus (ii) [***]% per annum, and (b) the maximum rate permitted by Law.
Delaware Certificate – means the Certificate of Formation of the Company that was filed with the Office of the Secretary of State of Delaware on August 22, 2014.
Delaware Courts – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.03.
Demand Event – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(b).
Diluted Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.02(b)(ii)(B).
Dispose , Disposing , or Disposition – means, with respect to any asset (including a Membership Interest or any portion thereof), a sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance, gift, exchange or other disposition of such asset, whether such disposition be voluntary, involuntary or by operation of Law (and, with respect to a Membership Interest, any derivative or similar arrangement whereby a portion or all of the economic interests in, or risk of loss or opportunity for gain with respect to, such Membership Interest is transferred or shifted to another Person), including the following: (a) in the case of an asset owned by a natural person, a transfer of such asset upon the death of its owner, whether by will, intestate succession or otherwise; (b) in the case of an asset owned by an entity, (i) a merger or consolidation of such entity (other than where such entity is the survivor thereof) or (ii) a distribution of such asset by

7
        


 

such entity to its shareholders, partners, members, or other equity owners, including in connection with the dissolution, liquidation, winding-up or termination of such entity (unless, in the case of dissolution, such entity’s business is continued without the commencement of liquidation or winding-up); and (c) a disposition in connection with, or in lieu of, a foreclosure of an Encumbrance; but such terms shall not include the creation of an Encumbrance.
Disposing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Disposition Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Dispute – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01.
Disputing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01.
Dissolution Event – has the meaning set forth in Section 12.01(b).
Economic Risk of Loss – has the meaning assigned to that term in Treasury Regulation Section 1.752-2(a).
Effective Date – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Encumber , Encumbering , or Encumbrance – means the creation of a security interest, lien, pledge, mortgage or other encumbrance, other than a Permitted Encumbrance, whether such encumbrance be voluntary, involuntary or by operation of Law.
EQM – means EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership.
EQT – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Facilities – means the facilities comprised of (a) the Initial Facilities; and (b) any Additional Facility approved pursuant to Section 6.05(a).
Fair Market Value – means (i) the fair market cash value of the Membership Interest of the Changing Member as determined pursuant to the terms of Section 13.11(b) or (c), as applicable, or (ii) the fair market cash value of the consideration to be paid to the Disposing Member pursuant to the proposed Disposition as determined pursuant to the terms of Section 13.11(a) or (c), as applicable.
FERC – means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or any Governmental Authority succeeding to the powers of such commission.
FERC Application – means the document pursuant to which application for a certificate(s) of public convenience and necessity is made under Section 7 of the NGA to the FERC by a Series of the Company for authority to construct, own, acquire, and operate, and provide service on the Facilities assigned to such Series.
FERC Certificate – means the certificate(s) of public convenience and necessity issued by the FERC pursuant to any FERC Application.
FERC Response Date – means the date that is 30 Days following the date upon which the FERC has issued the applicable FERC Certificate.

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Financing Commitment – means the definitive agreements between one or more financial institutions or other Persons and the Company or the Financing Entity pursuant to which such financial institutions or other Persons agree, subject to the conditions set forth therein, to lend money to, or purchase securities of, the Company or the Financing Entity, the proceeds of which shall be used to finance all or a portion of the Facilities or to repay loans made by the Members pursuant to Section 4.02.
Financing Entity – means a corporation, limited liability company, trust, or other entity that may be organized for the purpose of issuing securities, the proceeds from which are to be advanced directly or indirectly to the Company to finance all or a portion of the Facilities.
FMV Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 13.11(c).
Founding Members – means, with respect to any Series, EQT, USG and any of their respective Affiliates that are Members (and any limited partnership or master limited partnership to which such Members’ Membership Interests have been assigned pursuant to Section 3.03(e) or Section 3.03(f) of this Agreement); [***].
Founding Shippers – means the Affiliate of EQT and the Affiliate of USG that, in each case, enters into a Precedent Agreement to provide a commitment for firm transportation [***].
FPL – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.05(f).
GAAP – means United States generally accepted accounting principles.
Gas Transportation Service Agreements – means the gas transportation service agreements by and between the Company or its designee and the Shippers for the transportation of natural gas through the Facilities.
[***]
Governmental Authority (or Governmental ) – means a federal, state, local or foreign governmental authority; a state, province, commonwealth, territory or district thereof; a county or parish; a city, town, township, village or other municipality; a district, ward or other subdivision of any of the foregoing; any executive, legislative or other governing body of any of the foregoing; any agency, authority, board, department, system, service, office, commission, committee, council or other administrative body of any of the foregoing; including the FERC, any court or other judicial body; and any officer, official or other representative of any of the foregoing.
including – means including, without limitation.
Indebtedness – means any amount (absolute or contingent) payable by the Company or any Series as debtor, borrower, issuer, guarantor or otherwise, pursuant to (a) an agreement or instrument involving or evidencing money borrowed, the advance of credit, a conditional sale or a transfer with recourse or with an obligation to repurchase; (b) indebtedness of a third party guaranteed by or secured by (or for which the holder of such indebtedness has an existing right, contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) any lien on assets owned or acquired by, the Company or any Series, whether or not the indebtedness secured thereby has been assumed; (c) purchase-money indebtedness and capital lease obligations; (d) an interest rate protection agreement, foreign currency exchange agreement or other hedging arrangement; or (e) a letter of credit issued for the account of the Company or any Series.
Independent Accounting Firm – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
Initial Agreement – has the meaning set forth in the Recitals.

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Initial Facilities - means (a) approximately 330 miles of pipeline expected to be between 36 and 42 inches in diameter and certain compression facilities, as described in the FERC Application for such facilities, if and as amended from time to time, together with any upgrades thereto, extending from the tailgate of the MarkWest Mobley plant in Smithfield, West Virginia to Transco Station 165 near Chatham, Virginia; (b) [***]; (c) installing or upgrading any compression with respect to the facilities described in clause (a) above; and (d) [***].
Initial Operating Budget – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(i).
Initial Release – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(b)(i).
Investment Grade – means, with respect to any Person, having debt rated as investment grade by at least two of the three nationally-recognized ratings agencies, being at least [***] for Moody’s Investor Services and at least [***] for each of Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings.
In-Service Date – means, with respect to each Series, the date of the placing of the Facilities owned by or with respect to such Series in service. On, or as promptly as practicable after, such date, the Operator shall notify the Members of its occurrence.
Law – means any applicable constitutional provision, statute, act, code (including the Code), law, regulation, rule, ordinance, order, decree, ruling, proclamation, resolution, judgment, decision, declaration, or interpretative or advisory opinion or letter of a Governmental Authority having valid jurisdiction.
Letter of Credit – means an irrevocable, unconditional, transferable standby letter of credit in form and substance satisfactory to the Management Committee for the benefit of the Company or any Series, issued by a United States bank or a foreign bank with a United States branch, with United States based assets of at least $10,000,000,000 and a rating of [***] or better from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Service or a rating of [***] from Moody’s Investor Service.
Management Committee – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02.
Material Contracts – means any of the following contracts, agreements, letter agreements or other instruments to which the Company or any Series is or becomes a party after the Effective Date: engineering, procurement and construction contracts, contracts for the construction of the Facilities, contracts for the procurement of pipe, compression and associated equipment and any other contracts that require expenditures by the Company or any Series in excess of [***] Dollars ($[***]) in the aggregate or provide for revenue to the Company or any Series in excess of [***] Dollars ($[***]), in each case, subject to the approval of the Management Committee pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(D).
Matured Financing Obligation – means the Company’s debt for borrowed money (including any related interest, costs, fees, hedge unwind costs or other repayment obligations) that has become due (including by acceleration or any full or partial mandatory prepayment thereof) under any Financing Commitment.
Member – means any Person executing this Agreement as of the date of this Agreement as a member or hereafter admitted to the Company as a member as provided in this Agreement, but such term does not include any Person who has ceased to be a member in the Company.
Member Nonrecourse Debt – has the meaning assigned to the term “partner nonrecourse debt” in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(b)(4).

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Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain – has the meaning assigned to the term “partner nonrecourse debt minimum gain” in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(2).
Member Nonrecourse Deductions – has the meaning assigned to the term “partner nonrecourse deductions” in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(i)(1) and 1.704-2(i)(2).
Membership Interests – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.01(a).
Minimum Gain – means, with respect to each Series, (a) with respect to Nonrecourse Liabilities associated with the Series, the amount of gain that would be realized by the Company with respect to the Series if it disposed of (in a taxable transaction) all Company properties with respect to the Series that are subject to the Nonrecourse Liabilities in full satisfaction of the Nonrecourse Liabilities, computed in accordance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-2(d), or (b) with respect to each Member Nonrecourse Debt, the amount of gain that would be realized by the Company with respect to the Series if it disposed of (in a taxable transaction) the Company property with respect to the Series that is subject to such Member Nonrecourse Debt in full satisfaction of such Member Nonrecourse Debt, computed in accordance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-2(i).
Necessary Regulatory Approvals – means all Authorizations as may be required (but excluding Authorizations of a nature not customarily obtained prior to commencement of construction of facilities) in connection with (a) the formation of the Company and the construction, acquisition and operation of the Facilities; and (b) the transportation of the natural gas to be transported under the applicable Gas Transportation Service Agreements through the Facilities including the applicable FERC Certificate.
New Member – means a Person, other than EQT or USG, admitted after the Effective Date pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
NGA – means the Natural Gas Act of 1938, as amended.
Non-Contributing/Loan Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a).
Non-Changing Founding Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(C).
Non-Disposing Founding Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Nonrecourse Deductions – has the meaning assigned that term in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(b) and 1.704-2(c).
Nonrecourse Liabilities – means, with respect to any Series, nonrecourse liabilities (or portions thereof) associated with the Series for which no Member bears the economic risk of loss, as determined under Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-2(b)(3) and 1.752-1(a)(2).
Non-Termination Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
Operator – means EQT Gathering, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, and any successor operator appointed following a termination of the COM Agreement.
Operating Budget – means, with respect to each Series, the Initial Operating Budget and each subsequent annual operating budget for the Series that is approved (or deemed approved) pursuant to Section 6.02(i)

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(GG). The Operating Budget shall cover all items that are classified as non-capital items under Required Accounting Practices.
[***]
Operator Preferential Right – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(D).
Outstanding Capital Contributions – means, with respect to each Series and with respect to any Member as of the time of any determination, the excess, if any, of (i) the aggregate Capital Contributions previously made by such Member with respect to the Series, over (ii) the aggregate distributions previously made by the Company to such Member with respect to the Series pursuant to Article 5.
Parent – means (i) with respect to a Member, the Person that directly or indirectly Controls such Member as set forth in Exhibit A , which shall be promptly updated by a Member upon any change to the identity of such Member’s Parent, or (ii) with respect to the Operator, the Person that ultimately Controls the Operator.
Parent Decision Makers – means the chief executive officer of the Parent of each of USG and EQT or another senior executive officer designated in writing by the chief executive officer of the Parent of each of USG and EQT (a copy of which writing to be delivered promptly to the other Founding Member(s)).
Performance Assurances – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(b)(i).
Permitted Encumbrance – means (i) liens for taxes or assessments not yet due or not yet delinquent or, if delinquent, that are being contested in good faith in the normal course of business; (ii) easements, rights-of-way, servitudes, permits, surface leases, and other rights in respect of surface operations, pipelines, grazing, logging, canals, ditches, reservoirs or the like, and easements for streets, alleys, highways, pipelines, telephone lines, power lines, railways, and other easements and rights-of-way, on, over or in respect of any properties that do not materially impair the use of the assets of, or the operation of the business of, the Company; and (iii) rights reserved to or vested in any municipality or governmental, statutory, or public authority to control or regulate any properties in any manner, and all applicable Laws of any Governmental Authority.
Person – has the meaning assigned that term in Section 18-101(11) of the Act and also includes a Governmental Authority and any other entity.
Precedent Agreement – means any agreement between the Company and a prospective shipper of natural gas through the Facilities that involves the commitment by such shipper to pay demand charges in return for a firm transportation obligation on the part of the Company, in each case subject to the satisfaction of one or more conditions precedent.
Preferential Exercise Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Preferential Purchasing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Preferential Right – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
[***]
[***]

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Project Schedule – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(i).
Qualified Guarantor – means, with respect to a Member, such Member’s Parent or a subsidiary of such Member’s Parent, in each case, so long as such Person is Investment Grade.
Quarter – unless the context requires otherwise, means a fiscal quarter of the Company.
Related Party Matter – means (a) any occurrence or circumstance where (i) the Company, on the one hand, and a Member or an Affiliate of such Member, on the other hand, propose to enter into, terminate, or amend a contract or arrangement with each other, including, without limitation, a Gas Transportation Service Agreement, a Precedent Agreement, the COM Agreement, or any other contract or arrangement, or (ii) any Member believes that a dispute has arisen between the Company and an Affiliate of any Member under a Gas Transportation Service Agreement, a Precedent Agreement, the COM Agreement, or any other contract or arrangement, or (iii) a matter with respect to enforcement under any such Gas Transportation Service Agreement, Precedent Agreement, COM Agreement, or other contract or arrangement is involved; (b) making any determination as to the suitability of a Qualified Guarantor of a Member (other than a Founding Member, which is addressed in the definition of “Qualified Guarantor”) or substitution of a successor Qualified Guarantor of such Member; (c) the appointment of any successor Operator or Shipper that is an Affiliate of a Member; (d) any decision by the Company to exercise any of the owner performance rights under Section 4.4 of the COM Agreement while an Affiliate of EQT or USG is the Operator; or (e) making any determination, not to be unreasonably withheld, with respect to the suitability of the Operator pursuant to clause (b) of the definition of Change of Control.
Representative – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a)(i).
Representative Budget Comments – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.09.
Required Accounting Practices – means the accounting rules and regulations, if any, at the time prescribed by the Governmental Authorities under the jurisdiction of which the Company is at the time operating and, to the extent of matters not covered by such rules and regulations, generally accepted accounting principles as practiced in the United States at the time prevailing for companies engaged in a business similar to that of the Company.
Rules – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(a).
[***]
[***]
[***]
[***]
Selection Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(c).
Series – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.01(b).
Series A – means the initial Series created hereunder as of the date hereof that holds the Initial Facilities.
Series Schedule – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.01(c).

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Sharing Ratio – means, subject in each case to adjustments in accordance with this Agreement or in connection with Dispositions of Membership Interests, (a) in the case of a Member executing this Agreement as of the date of this Agreement or a Person acquiring such Member’s Membership Interest, the percentage specified for that Member as its Sharing Ratio on Exhibit A with respect to a Series, and (b) in the case of Membership Interests issued pursuant to Section 3.04, the Sharing Ratio established pursuant thereto; provided that the total of all Sharing Ratios for each Series shall always equal 100%.
[***]
[***]
[***]
Shippers – means the Founding Shippers and any other Person that (a) has entered into a Gas Transportation Service Agreement with the Company or its designee (or, if applicable, a Precedent Agreement relating thereto) to provide transportation of natural gas through the Facilities and (b) meets the criteria for creditworthiness determined by the Management Committee.
[***]
Sole Discretion – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(f)(ii).
Subject Contract – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(a).
Supermajority Interest means the approval of the Representatives of the Founding Members representing greater than [***]% of the aggregate Sharing Ratios of the Founding Members.
Tax Matters Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 8.03(a).
Term – has the meaning set forth in Section 2.07.
Termination Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
Total Event Demand Amount – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(b).
Treasury Regulations – means the regulations (including temporary regulations) promulgated by the United States Department of the Treasury pursuant to and in respect of provisions of the Code. All references herein to sections of the Treasury Regulations shall include any corresponding provision or provisions of succeeding, similar or substitute, temporary or final Treasury Regulations.
USG – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Withdrawal , or Withdrawn – means or refers to the withdrawal, resignation, or retirement of a Member from the Company as a Member. Such terms shall not include any Dispositions of Membership Interests (which are governed by Sections 3.03(a) and (b)), even though the Member making a Disposition may cease to be a Member as a result of such Disposition.
Withdrawn Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 10.03.

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Other terms defined herein have the meanings so given them.
1.02
Interpretation . Unless the context requires otherwise: (a) the gender (or lack of gender) of all words used in this Agreement includes the masculine, feminine and neuter; (b) references to Articles and Sections refer to Articles and Sections of this Agreement; (c) references to Exhibits refer to the Exhibits attached to this Agreement, each of which is made a part hereof for all purposes; (d) references to Laws refer to such Laws as they may be amended from time to time, and references to particular provisions of a Law include any corresponding provisions of any succeeding Law; (e) references to money refer to legal currency of the United States of America; (f) the definitions given for terms in this Article 1 and elsewhere in this Agreement shall apply to both the singular and plural forms of the terms defined, (g) the conjunction “or” shall be understood in its inclusive sense (and/or); and (h) the words “hereby”, “herein”, “hereunder”, “hereof” and words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole (including any Exhibits and Schedules hereto) and not merely to the specific section, paragraph or clause in which such word appears.
ARTICLE 2     
ORGANIZATION
2.01
Formation . The Company has been organized as a Delaware limited liability company by the filing of the Delaware Certificate and execution of the Initial Agreement as of August 22, 2014. The Delaware Certificate contains and shall maintain a notice of the limitation of liabilities of series in conformity with Section 18-215 of the Act.
2.02
Name . The name of the Company is Mountain Valley Pipeline, LLC, and all Company business shall be conducted in that name or such other names that comply with Law as the Management Committee may select.
2.03
Registered Office; Registered Agent; Principal Office in the United States; Other Offices . The registered office of the Company required by the Act to be maintained in the State of Delaware shall be the office of the initial registered agent named in the Delaware Certificate or such other office (which need not be a place of business of the Company) as the Management Committee may designate in the manner provided by Law. The registered agent of the Company in the State of Delaware shall be the initial registered agent named in the Delaware Certificate or such other Person or Persons as the Management Committee may designate in the manner provided by Law. The principal office of the Company in the United States shall be at such place as the Management Committee may designate, which need not be in the State of Delaware, and the Company shall maintain records there or such other place as the Management Committee shall designate and shall keep the street address of such principal office at the registered office of the Company in the State of Delaware. The Company may have such other offices as the Management Committee may designate.
2.04
Purposes . The purposes of the Company are to plan, design, construct, acquire, own, finance, maintain and operate the Facilities, to market the services of the Facilities, to engage in the transmission of natural gas through the Facilities, and to engage in any activities directly or indirectly relating thereto, including the Disposition of the Facilities.
2.05
No State Law Partnership . The Members intend that the Company shall be a limited liability company and, except as provided in Article 8 with respect to U.S. federal income tax treatment (and other tax treatment therewith), the Company shall not be a partnership (including a limited partnership) or joint venture, and no Member shall be a partner or joint venture of any other Member, for any purposes, and this Agreement may not be construed to suggest otherwise.

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2.06
Foreign Qualification . Prior to the Company’s conducting business in any jurisdiction other than Delaware, the Management Committee shall cause the Company to comply, to the extent procedures are available and those matters are reasonably within the control of the Management Committee, with all requirements necessary to qualify the Company as a foreign limited liability company in that jurisdiction. At the request of the Management Committee, each Member shall execute, acknowledge, swear to, and deliver all certificates and other instruments conforming with this Agreement that are necessary or appropriate to qualify, continue, and terminate the Company as a foreign limited liability company in all such jurisdictions in which the Company may conduct business.
2.07
Term . The period of existence of the Company (the Term ) commenced on August 22, 2014, and shall end at such time as a certificate of cancellation is filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware in accordance with Section 12.04.
2.08
Title to Property . All assets, property and rights of the Company or any Series shall be owned or leased by the Company or such Series as an entity and, except with respect to assets, property or rights of the Company or such Series leased or licensed to the Company by a Member (subject to the terms hereof), no Member shall have any ownership interest in such assets, property or rights in its individual name or right, and each Member’s Membership Interest shall be personal property for all purposes. Subject to Section 3.01(b), the Company shall hold all assets, property and rights of the Company in the name of the Company and not in the name of any Member.
ARTICLE 3     
MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS; DISPOSITIONS OF INTERESTS
3.01
Capital Structure .
(a)      The capital structure of the Company shall consist of one class of limited liability company interests called “ Membership Interests ,” which shall consist of, with respect to any Member and with respect to each Series, (a) that Member’s status as a Member; (b) that Member’s share of the income, gain, loss, deduction, and credits of, and the right to receive distributions from, the Company; (c) any [***] to which that Member is entitled pursuant to Section 4.06(b); (d) all other rights, benefits, and privileges enjoyed by that Member (under the Act, this Agreement, or otherwise) in its capacity as a Member, including that Member’s rights to vote, consent, and approve amendments to this Agreement pursuant to Section 13.05; (e) with respect to the Founding Members only, such Founding Members’ rights to participate in the management of the Company through the Management Committee; and (f) all obligations, duties, and liabilities imposed on that Member (under the Act or this Agreement or otherwise) in its capacity as a Member, including any obligations to make Capital Contributions to the extent set forth in Article 4. As of the Effective Date, EQT and USG are the Members of the Company and have Membership Interests in Series A.
(b)      Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, from time to time, the Management Committee may, by written resolution approved by a Supermajority Interest, establish one (1) or more additional series pursuant to Section 18-215 of the Act (each, a “ Series ”) for purposes of holding any Facilities of the Company. Upon the establishment of each Series, the Management Committee shall designate the Members and the Sharing Ratios with respect to such Series and the assets and liabilities of the Company that will be allocated to or become the assets and liabilities of such Series; [***]. Legal title to any assets allocated to a Series may be held in the name of such Series or in the Company’s name, as may be determined by the Management Committee.
(c)      Separate and distinct records shall be maintained for each Series and the assets and liabilities associated with each Series shall be held and accounted for separately from the other assets and liabilities of any other Series for all purposes. The Company may open a separate bank account for any such Series. The Management Committee may authorize each Series to issue separate Membership Interests having the terms, preferences, powers, rights, and obligations of Membership Interests as set forth herein and as may be otherwise set forth on the Series Schedule (as defined below) adopted by the Management Committee. Each Member shall have such Sharing Ratio in Series A as set forth on Exhibit A and shall have such Sharing Ratio in each such additional Series in any addendum to this Agreement to be adopted by the Management Committee for each such additional Series with the written resolution authorizing the applicable additional Series (each such addendum, a “ Series Schedule ”), and this Agreement shall accordingly be amended with each such additional Series Schedule. In the case of any such additional Series that is not treated as a separate partnership for U.S. federal tax purposes (if so determined by the Management Committee), the Series Schedule for such Series shall either provide that any or all of Sections 4.05, 5.04, 5.06, 8.02 or 8.03 hereof do not apply to such Series or shall otherwise provide how such Sections (or any other Sections hereof) are modified with respect to such Series, as agreed to by the Members holding Membership Interests in such Series; provided that, so long as a Series generates, or can reasonably be expected to generate, income for U.S. federal income tax purposes that is or would be exclusively “qualifying income” (as such term is defined pursuant to Section 7704 of the Code), such Series shall not be treated other than as a separate partnership (or disregarded as an entity separate from a separate partnership) for U.S. federal tax purposes. All profits and losses generated by assets allocated to a Series shall inure to the benefit of only the Members holding Membership Interests in such Series in accordance with Section 5.04. Subject to Article 12, a Series may not be terminated and its affairs wound up pursuant to Section 18-215(k) of the Act without the affirmative vote of a Supermajority Interest.
(d)      All debts, liabilities, obligations and expenses incurred, contracted for or otherwise existing with respect to each Series shall be enforceable against the assets of such Series only and not against the assets of the Company generally or any other Series, and none of the debts, liabilities, obligations, or expenses incurred, contracted for, or otherwise existing with respect to the Company generally or any other Series shall be enforceable against the assets of such Series. Any Person extending credit to, contracting with, or otherwise having any claim against any Series may look only to the assets of that Series to satisfy any such obligation or claim and shall have no claim or right to any assets allocated to or belonging to any other Series or the Company generally. Notice of this limitation on liabilities to Series has been set forth in the Delaware Certificate, and the statutory provisions of Section 18-215 of the Act (and the statutory effect under Section 18-215 of setting forth such notice in the Certificate of Formation) shall be applicable to the Company and each Series that may be established.
3.02
Representations, Warranties and Covenants .
(a)      Each Member hereby represents, warrants, and covenants to the Company and to each other Member that the following statements are true and correct as of the Effective Date:
(i)      that such Member is duly incorporated, organized, or formed (as applicable), validly existing, and (if applicable) in good standing under the Law of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, organization, or formation; if required by applicable Law, that such Member is duly qualified and in good standing in the jurisdiction of its principal place of business, if different from its jurisdiction of incorporation, organization, or formation; and that such Member has full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder, and all necessary actions by the board of directors, officers, shareholders, managers, members, partners, trustees, beneficiaries, or other applicable Persons necessary for the due authorization, execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement by that Member have been duly taken;
(ii)      that such Member has duly executed and delivered this Agreement and the other documents that this Agreement contemplates that such Member will execute, and they each constitute the valid and binding obligation of such Member enforceable against it in accordance with their respective terms (except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or similar Laws of general application and by the effect of general principles of equity, regardless of whether considered at law or in equity); and
(iii)      that such Member’s authorization, execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement does not and will not (A) conflict with, or result in a breach, default or violation of, (1) the organizational documents of such Member, (2) any contract or agreement to which that Member is a party or is otherwise subject, or (3) any Law, order, judgment, decree, writ, injunction, or arbitral award to which such Member is subject; or (B) other than the FERC Application and the Necessary Regulatory Approvals that the Members have agreed to obtain pursuant to Article 7, require any consent, approval, or authorization from, filing or registration with, or notice to, any Governmental Authority or other Person, unless such requirement has already been satisfied.
(b)      The Company hereby represents and warrants, and the Company covenants, to each Member that the following statements are true and correct as of the Effective Date:
(i)      (x) the Company is duly formed and is validly existing, and in good standing under the Act; (y) the Company has full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder (including the issuance of the Membership Interests to each Member), and all necessary actions by the Company’s managers, members or other applicable Persons necessary for the due authorization, execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement by the Company have been duly taken;
(ii)      the issuance of the Membership Interests to each Member, as contemplated hereby, has been duly authorized by all requisite limited liability company action on the part of the Company and its members, managers or other applicable Persons, and such Membership Interests are validly issued and, subject only to the terms of Article 4, fully paid and nonassessable and, subject to the restrictions in Article 3, are being issued free and clear of any preemptive rights under the Act or other applicable law, the organizational documents of the Company, and any other contract to which the Company or its members, managers or other Person is bound or by which their property is subject;
(iii)      no other Person has any right to acquire any Membership Interest or other equity interest in the Company or take part in the management of the Company; and
(iv)      the Company has not entered into any contract, agreement, or other arrangement with any Person with respect to the Company, the Facilities, the Membership Interests, or voting rights with respect to the Company.
3.03
Dispositions and Encumbrances of Membership Interests .
(a)      General Restriction . A Member may not Dispose of or Encumber all or any portion of its Membership Interest except in strict accordance with this Section 3.03. References in this Section 3.03 to Dispositions or Encumbrances of a “Membership Interest” shall also refer to Dispositions or Encumbrances of a portion of a Membership Interest. Any attempted Disposition or Encumbrance of a Membership Interest, other than in strict accordance with this Section 3.03, shall be, and is hereby declared, null and void ab initio . The rights and obligations constituting a Membership Interest may not be separated, divided, or split from the other attributes of a Membership Interest except as contemplated by the express provisions of this Agreement. The Members agree that the provisions of this Section 3.03 may be enforced by specific performance pursuant to Section 11.04.
(b)
Dispositions of Membership Interests.
(i)      General Restriction . Subject to Sections 3.03(d), (e), and (f), no Member may Dispose of its Membership Interest without the prior written consent of each of EQT and USG, which consent may be withheld by each in its Sole Discretion; provided , however , that no such consent shall be required (A) with respect to a Founding Member, where such Disposition would not cause the Company or applicable Series to be treated as a publicly traded partnership subject to tax as an association for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and (B) with respect to a [***] or any other Member (other than a Founding Member), where such Disposition (x) when added to all Dispositions by such [***] or Member during the immediately preceding twelve (12) months, is less than 50% of such [***] or Member’s Sharing Ratio as of the beginning of such period of twelve (12) months, (y) would not cause any adverse tax consequences to the Company, any Series, or any Member, and (z) would not cause the Company or applicable Series to be treated as a publicly traded partnership subject to tax as an association for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Subject to receiving the consent required in the foregoing sentence, if necessary, a Member may Dispose of its Membership Interest only by complying with all of the following requirements: (I) such Member must offer the Founding Members the right to acquire such Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii), unless (1) the proposed Assignee is an Affiliate of the Disposing Member or the Founding Members consent to the Disposition to such Assignee, which consent may be granted or withheld in the Sole Discretion of each Founding Member or (2) the Disposition is made by EQT or USG in accordance with Section 3.03(d), (e), or (f); (II) such Member must comply with the requirements of Section 3.03(b)(iv) and, if the Assignee is to be admitted as a Member, Section 3.03(b)(iii); and (III) unless the proposed Assignee is an Affiliate of the Disposing Member, the Disposition must comply with the following minimum size requirements: (1) if such Member’s Sharing Ratio with respect to a Series is less than [***]%, the Disposition must include all of the Member’s Membership Interest with respect to the Series, and (2) except with respect to [***], if such Member’s Sharing Ratio with respect to a Series is [***] or more, but such Member does not propose to dispose of all of its Membership Interest with respect to the Series, the Disposition must be of a Membership Interest having a Sharing Ratio with respect to the Series of at least [***]%.
(ii)      Preferential Purchase Rights .
(A)      Preferential Purchase Rights . Subject to Section 3.03(b)(ii)(B), Section 3.03(b)(ii)(C), and Section 3.03(b)(ii)(D), if a Member desires to consummate a bona fide transaction that will result in the Disposition of all or a portion of its Membership Interest in a Series (whether or not the proposed Disposition is to another Member), then such Member (the “ Disposing Member ”) shall promptly give notice thereof (the “ Disposition Notice ”) to the Company and each Founding Member of the Series; provided that this Section 3.03(b)(ii) shall not apply to a Disposition to an Affiliate of the Disposing Member or a Disposition in accordance with Section 3.03(d), [***], or Section 3.03(e), or Section 3.03(f). The Disposition Notice shall set forth all relevant information with respect to the proposed Disposition, including the name and address of the prospective acquirer, the precise Membership Interest and Series that is the subject of the Disposition, the price to be paid for such Membership Interest, and any other terms and conditions of the proposed Disposition. If any Member is a Disposing Member but either or both of EQT and/or USG and their respective Affiliates are not the Disposing Member (such of EQT and/or USG and their respective Affiliates as is not a Disposing Member being referred to herein as the “ Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) ”), such Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) shall have the right (the “ Preferential Right ”) to acquire, for the same purchase price, and on the same material terms and conditions, as are set forth in the Disposition Notice, some or all of the Membership Interest specified in the Disposition Notice; provided that, if the purchase price to be paid to the Disposing Member pursuant to the proposed Disposition is not entirely in cash, the purchase price for the Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) exercising the Preferential Right shall be [***]. The Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) shall have [***] Days following receipt of the Disposition Notice (or if the price to be paid pursuant to such offer is not in cash, then [***] Days following [***]) in which to notify the other Members (including the Disposing Member) whether such Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) desires to exercise its Preferential Right. A notice in which a Non-Disposing Founding Member exercises such Preferential Right is referred to herein as a “ Preferential Exercise Notice ” and as deliverer of a Preferential Exercise Notice, such Non-Disposing Founding Member is referred to herein as a “ Preferential Purchasing Member .” The Preferential Purchasing Member(s) shall indicate in a Preferential Exercise Notice whether the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) elects to purchase all of the Disposing Member’s Membership Interest as set forth in the Disposition Notice or any portion thereof. In the event that more than one of EQT or USG (or their respective Affiliates) is a Preferential Purchasing Member, then each Preferential Purchasing Member shall indicate in a Preferential Exercise Notice whether it elects to purchase only its pro rata share of the Membership Interest offered in the Disposition Notice (based on its Sharing Ratio in the applicable Series) or whether such Preferential Purchasing Member elects to purchase a greater portion of such Membership Interest (up to the full amount thereof). If the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) elects to exercise the Preferential Right to purchase the entire Membership Interest offered in the Disposition Notice (subject to proration based on the Preferential Purchasing Members’ respective Sharing Ratios in the applicable Series in the event that Preferential Purchasing Members elected to purchase a greater number of Membership Interests than the amount offered), the Disposing Member and the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) shall close the acquisition of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(E). In the event that the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) elect to purchase less than the entire Membership Interest specified in the Disposition Notice, then the Disposing Member shall have the right to Dispose of the remaining amount of the unexercised portion of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(E).
(B)      [***].
(C)      [***].
(D)      Preferential Purchase Right Resulting from Disposition of Membership Interests Held by the Operator . Notwithstanding the foregoing, for so long as the Operator is an Affiliate of a Member, if the Disposing Member is the Operator and the Assignee of such Disposing Member’s Membership Interests is not an Affiliate of such Member (including, for the avoidance of doubt, in the event the Operator is an Affiliate of EQT or EQM, where the Assignee is not an Affiliate of either EQT or EQM), then such Disposing Member shall promptly deliver the Disposition Notice to the Non-Disposing Founding Members that are not Affiliates of the Operator, and such Non-Disposing Founding Members and their Affiliates shall have the right (the “ Operator Preferential Right ”) to acquire a portion of the Membership Interests of the Disposing Member for the same purchase price and on the same material terms and conditions as are set forth in the Disposition Notice; provided that, if the purchase price to be paid to the Disposing Member pursuant to the proposed Disposition is not entirely in cash, the purchase price shall be [***]. The Non-Disposing Founding Members and their Affiliates shall have [***] Days following receipt of the Disposition Notice (or if the price to be paid pursuant to such offer is not in cash, then [***] Days following [***]) in which to notify the Disposing Member whether they desire to exercise the Operator Preferential Right. To the extent a Non-Disposing Founding Members or any of its Affiliates exercises its Operator Preferential Right, such Non-Disposing Founding Member (or its Affiliate) will be deemed a Preferential Purchasing Member. If the Non-Disposing Founding Member or any of its Affiliates elects to exercise the Operator Preferential Right to purchase the entire Membership Interest offered in the Disposition Notice, then the Disposing Member and the Non-Disposing Founding Member (or its Affiliate) shall close the acquisition of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(E). In the event that the Non-Disposing Founding Member (or its Affiliate) elects to purchase less than the entire Membership Interest specified in the Disposition Notice, then the Disposing Member shall have the right to Dispose of the remaining amount of the unexercised portion of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(E).
(E)      Closing . If the Preferential Rights are exercised in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A), 3.03(b)(ii)(B), 3.03(b)(ii)(C), or 3.03(b)(ii)(D), as applicable, the closing of the purchase of the Membership Interest shall occur at the principal place of business of the Company no later than the [***] Day after the expiration of the [***]-Day period referred to in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A), Section 3.03(b)(ii)(B), 3.03(b)(ii)(C), or 3.03(b)(ii)(D), as applicable (or, if later, the fifth Business Day after the receipt of all applicable Authorizations to the purchase), unless the Disposing Member and the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) agree upon a different place or date. At the closing, (1) the Disposing Member shall execute and deliver to the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) (aa) an assignment of the Membership Interest, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) containing a general warranty of title as to such Membership Interest (including that such Membership Interest is free and clear of all Encumbrances, other than those permitted under Section 3.03(c)(ii)) and (bb) any other instruments reasonably requested by the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) to give effect to the purchase; and (2) the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) shall deliver to the Disposing Member in immediately-available funds the purchase price provided for in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A), Section 3.03(b)(ii)(B), 3.03(b)(ii)(C), or 3.03(b)(ii)(D), as applicable. The Sharing Ratios and Capital Accounts of the Members shall be deemed adjusted to reflect the effect of the purchase.
(F)      Waiver of Preferential Right . If no Non-Disposing Founding Member delivers a First Preferential Exercise Notice or Second First Preferential Exercise Notice, or if the Preferential Rights are not exercised in full pursuant to Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A), 3.03(b)(ii)(B), 3.03(b)(ii)(C), or 3.03(b)(ii)(D), the Disposing Member shall have the right, subject to compliance with the provisions of Sections 3.03(a) and (b), to Dispose of the portion of the Membership Interest described in the Disposition Notice that is not purchased pursuant to the Preferential Rights to the proposed Assignee strictly in accordance with the terms of the Disposition Notice for a period of [***] Days after the expiration of the [***]-Day period referred to in such Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A), 3.03(b)(ii)(B), 3.03(b)(ii)(C), or 3.03(b)(ii)(D) (or, if later, the fifth Business Day after the receipt of all applicable Authorizations to the purchase). If, however, the Disposing Member fails so to Dispose of the Membership Interest within such [***]-Day period (or, if applicable, such fifth Business Day period), the proposed Disposition shall again become subject to the Preferential Rights.
(G)      Transfer of Operator Rights . In connection with a Disposition of Membership Interests where the rights provided for in this Section 3.03(b)(ii) are not exercised or where such rights are waived pursuant to Section 3.03(b)(ii)(F), the Member with the right to appoint the Operator (which Member shall initially be EQT) may transfer such right to appoint the Operator to the assignee of such Membership Interests; [***].
(iii)      Admission of Assignee as a Member . An Assignee has the right to be admitted to the Company as a Member, with the Membership Interest in the applicable Series (and attendant Sharing Ratio) so transferred to such Assignee, only upon consent of the Management Committee and only if such Disposition is effected in strict compliance with Sections 3.03(a) and (b) or is effected in accordance with Section 3.03(d), [***], or Section 3.03(e), or Section 3.03(f).
(iv)      Requirements Applicable to All Dispositions and Admissions . In addition to the requirements set forth in Sections 3.03(b)(i), 3.03(b)(ii) and 3.03(b)(iii), any Disposition of a Membership Interest and any admission of an Assignee as a Member shall also be subject to the following requirements, and such Disposition (and admission, if applicable) shall not be effective unless such requirements are complied with; provided the Management Committee, in its sole and absolute discretion, may waive any of the following requirements:
(A)      Disposition Documents . The following documents must be delivered to the Management Committee and must be satisfactory, in form and substance, to the Management Committee in its sole and absolute discretion:
(1)      Disposition Instrument . A copy of the instrument pursuant to which the Disposition is effected.
(2)      Ratification of this Agreement . An instrument, executed by the Disposing Member and its Assignee, containing the following information and agreements, to the extent they are not contained in the instrument described in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(1): (aa) the notice address of the Assignee; (bb) if applicable, the Parent of the Assignee; (cc) the Sharing Ratios after the Disposition of the Disposing Member and its Assignee (which together must total the Sharing Ratio of the Disposing Member before the Disposition); (dd) the Assignee’s ratification of this Agreement and agreement to be bound by it, and its confirmation that the representations and warranties in Section 3.02 are true and correct with respect to it; and (ee) representations and warranties by the Disposing Member and its Assignee (1) that the Disposition and admission is being made in accordance with all applicable Laws, (2) that the matter set forth in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(3) is true and correct, and (3) that the Disposition and admission do not violate any Financing Commitment or any other agreement to which the Company is a party.
(3)      Securities Law Opinion . Unless the Membership Interest subject to the Disposition is registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any applicable state securities Law, a favorable opinion of the Disposing Member’s legal counsel, or, if so elected by the Management Committee, the Company’s legal counsel or other legal counsel acceptable to the Management Committee, to the effect that the Disposition and admission is being made pursuant to a valid exemption from registration under those Laws and in accordance with those Laws; provided that no such opinion shall be required in the case of a Disposition by a Member to an Affiliate or a Disposition made in accordance with Section 3.03(d), with respect to [***], or Section 3.03(e), or Section 3.03(f).
(4)      Tax Opinion . A favorable opinion of the Disposing Member’s legal counsel, or, if so elected by the Management Committee, the Company’s legal counsel or other legal counsel acceptable to the Management Committee, to the effect that the Disposition would not cause the Company or applicable Series to be treated as a publicly traded partnership subject to tax as an association for U.S. federal income tax purposes (unless the provision of such tax opinion is waived in advance by the Management Committee); provided that no such opinion shall be required in the case of a Disposition by a Member to an Affiliate or a Disposition made in accordance with Section 3.03(d), with respect to [***], or Section 3.03(e), or Section 3.03(f).
(B)      Payment of Expenses . The Disposing Member and its Assignee shall pay, or reimburse the Company for, all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the Company in connection with the Disposition and admission, including the legal fees incurred in connection with the legal opinions referred to in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(3) and (4), on or before the 10th Day after the receipt by that Person of the Company’s invoice for the amount due. The Company will provide such invoice as soon as practicable after the amount due is determined but in no event later than [***] Days thereafter. If payment is not made by the date due, the Person owing that amount shall pay interest on the unpaid amount from the date due until paid at a rate per annum equal to the Default Rate.
(C)      No Release . No Disposition of a Membership Interest shall effect a release of the Disposing Member from any liabilities to the Company or the other Members arising from events occurring prior to the Disposition.
(D)      Indebtedness of Company . Any Disposition of all or any portion of the Membership Interest of a Member shall also include the Disposition of a proportionate share of the Indebtedness owed by the Company to the Disposing Member. As long as this Agreement shall remain in effect, all evidences of Indebtedness of the Company owed to any of the Members shall bear an appropriate legend to indicate that it is held subject to, and may be Disposed only in accordance with, the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and that such Disposition may be made only in conjunction with the Disposition of a proportionate part of such Member’s Membership Interest.
(v)      Deemed Membership Disposition . A Deemed Membership Disposition shall be deemed to be a Disposition of a Membership Interest and must comply with the requirements set forth in Sections 3.03(a) and (b).
(vi)      Change of Control .
(A)      [***].
(B)      [***].
(C)      [***].
(D)      Change of Control of Member That Is the Operator . Notwithstanding the foregoing, [***].
(E)      Closing . If the [***].
(F)      Definitions . As used in this Section 3.03(b)(vi), [***].
(vii)      [ Intentionally omitted .]
(viii)      [***]
(c)      Encumbrances of Membership Interest . A Member may not Encumber its Membership Interest in a Series, except by complying with one of the two following paragraphs:
(i)      (A) such Member must receive the consent of [***] of the non-Encumbering Founding Members (calculated without reference to the Sharing Ratio of the Encumbering Founding Member in such Series), which consent (as contemplated by Section 6.02(f)(ii)) may be granted or withheld in the Sole Discretion of each such other Member; and (B) the instrument creating such Encumbrance must provide that any foreclosure of such Encumbrance (or Disposition in lieu of such foreclosure) must comply with the requirements of Sections 3.03(a) and (b); or
(ii)      such Encumbrance is [***].
(d)      [***]
(e)      EQT [***] and Related Assignment Rights . Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, EQT shall have the right from time to time to sell or assign (i) to [***] or (ii) to any [***] Person Controlled by EQT or its then Parent all or any part of the Membership Interest in a Series then held by EQT or its Affiliates ( provided that, in either case, if such sale or assignment occurs prior to the In-Service Date, then, at the time of such sale or assignment, such Assignee provides the Company with replacement Performance Assurances, if applicable, meeting the requirements of Section 4.01(b)), and any such Assignee may further sell or assign such Membership Interest in such Series to any such Person, directly or indirectly through multiple sales or assignment among Affiliates, in each case, without any consent from USG or its Affiliates and without triggering any rights or restrictions under or the provisions of Section 3.03(b)(ii) or, with respect to such Series, during the period commencing on the Effective Date through the twelve-month anniversary of the In-Service Date with respect to the Facilities relating to such Series, Section 3.03(b)(viii). EQT shall promptly provide to the Company and USG copies of the assignment instrument and the ratification instrument associated with each such sale or assignment, and the Members shall amend Exhibit A to reflect the Sharing Ratios set forth in such ratification instrument.
(f)      USG [***] and Related Assignment Rights . Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, USG shall have the right from time to time to sell or assign to [***] Person Controlled by USG or its then Parent all or any part of the Membership Interest in a Series then held by USG or its Affiliates ( provided that, in either case, if such sale or assignment occurs prior to the In-Service Date, then, at the time of such sale or assignment, such Assignee provides the Company with replacement Performance Assurances, if applicable, meeting the requirements of Section 4.01(b)), and any such Assignee may further sell or assign such Membership Interest in such Series to any such Person, directly or indirectly through multiple sales or assignments among Affiliates, in each case, without any consent from EQT or its Affiliates and without triggering any rights or restrictions under or the provisions of Section 3.03(b)(ii) or, with respect to such Series, during the period commencing on the Effective Date through the twelve-month anniversary of the In-Service Date with respect to the Facilities relating to such Series, Section 3.03(b)(viii). USG shall promptly provide to the Company and EQT copies of the assignment instrument and the ratification instrument associated with each such sale or assignment, and the Members shall amend Exhibit A to reflect the Sharing Ratios set forth in such ratification instrument.
3.04
Creation of Additional Membership Interests . With respect to a Series, additional Membership Interests may be created and issued to existing Members or to other Persons ([***]), and such other Persons may be admitted to the Company as Members, with the consent of [***], on such terms and conditions as [***] may determine at the time of admission. The terms of admission or issuance must specify the Sharing Ratios applicable thereto and may provide for the creation of different classes of Members having different rights, powers and duties. Any such admission is effective only after the New Member has executed and delivered to the Members an instrument containing the notice address of the New Member, the Assignee’s ratification of this Agreement and agreement to be bound by it, and its confirmation that the representations and warranties in Section 3.02 are true and correct with respect to it. The provisions of this Section 3.04 shall not apply to Dispositions of Membership Interests or admissions of Assignees in connection therewith, such matters being governed by Sections 3.03(a) and (b).
3.05
Access to Information . (a) Each Founding Member of a Series shall be entitled to receive any information that it may request concerning such Series; provided that this Section 3.05 shall not obligate the Company, the Series, the Management Committee, or the Operator to create any information that does not already exist at the time of such request (other than to convert existing information from one medium to another, such as providing a printout of information that is stored in a computer database), except as otherwise provided in Section 9.02. Each Founding Member of a Series shall also have the right, upon reasonable notice, and at all reasonable times during usual business hours to inspect the properties of the Series and to audit, examine, and make copies of the books of account and other records of the Series and to have access to the employees of the Operator to discuss the Series’ businesses and financial affairs. Such right may be exercised through any agent or employee of such Founding Member designated in writing by it or by an independent public accountant, engineer, attorney or other consultant so designated. The Founding Member making the request shall bear all costs and expenses incurred in any inspection, examination or audit made on such Founding Member’s behalf. The Founding Members and the Operator agree to reasonably cooperate, and to cause their respective independent public accountants, engineers, attorneys or other consultants to reasonably cooperate, in connection with any such request. Confidential Information obtained pursuant to this Section 3.05(a) shall be subject to the provisions of Section 3.06.
(b)      Each New Member shall be entitled to receive only the information and reports set forth in Section 9.02. Confidential Information received pursuant to this Section 3.05(b) shall be subject to the provisions of Section 3.06.
3.06
Confidential Information . (a) Except as permitted by Section 3.06(b), (i) each Member shall keep confidential all Confidential Information and shall not disclose any Confidential Information to any Person, including any of its Affiliates, and (ii) each Member shall use the Confidential Information only in connection with the Facilities and the Company.
(b)      Notwithstanding Section 3.06(a), but subject to the other provisions of this Section 3.06, a Member may make the following disclosures and uses of Confidential Information:
(i)      disclosures to another Member or to the Operator in connection with the Company;
(ii)      disclosures and uses that are approved in advance by the Management Committee;
(iii)      disclosures that may be required from time to time to obtain requisite Authorizations or financing for the Facilities, if such disclosures are approved in advance by the Management Committee;
(iv)      disclosures to an Affiliate of such Member, including the directors, officers, members, managers, employees, agents and advisors of such Affiliate, if such Affiliate has agreed to abide by the terms of this Section 3.06; provided , however , that in no event shall [***];
(v)      disclosures to a Person that is not a Member or an Affiliate of a Member, if such Person has been retained by the Company, a Member, or the Operator to provide services in connection with the Company and has agreed to abide by the terms of this Section 3.06;
(vi)      disclosures to a bona fide potential direct or indirect purchaser of such Member’s Membership Interest, if such potential purchaser has executed a confidentiality agreement in form and substance acceptable to the Management Committee;
(vii)      disclosures required, with respect to a Member or an Affiliate of a Member, pursuant to (i) the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, (ii) the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, (iii) any state securities Laws, or (iv) any national securities exchange or automated quotation system; and
(viii)      disclosures that a Member is legally compelled to make by deposition, interrogatory, request for documents, subpoena, civil investigative demand, order of a court of competent jurisdiction, or similar process, or otherwise by Law or that a Member makes to a Governmental Authority or regulatory authority pursuant to a regulatory request, examination, or audit; provided that, prior to any such disclosure, such Member shall, to the extent legally permissible:
(A)      provide the Management Committee with prompt notice of such requirements so that one or more of the Members may seek a protective order or other appropriate remedy or waive compliance with the terms of this Section 3.06(b)(viii);
(B)      consult with the Management Committee on the advisability of taking steps to resist or narrow such disclosure; and
(C)      cooperate with the Management Committee and with the other Members in any attempt one or more of them may make to obtain a protective order or other appropriate remedy or assurance that confidential treatment will be afforded the Confidential Information; and in the event such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, or the other Members waive compliance with the provisions hereof, such Member agrees (1) to furnish only that portion of the Confidential Information that, in the opinion of such Member’s counsel, such Member is legally required to disclose, and (2) to exercise all reasonable efforts to obtain assurance that confidential treatment will be accorded such Confidential Information.
(c)      Each Member shall take such precautionary measures as may be required to ensure (and such Member shall be responsible for) compliance with this Section 3.06 by any of its Affiliates, and its and their directors, officers, employees and agents, and other Persons to which it may disclose Confidential Information in accordance with this Section 3.06.
(d)      Promptly after any Withdrawal or Disposition by any Member of all of its Membership Interests pursuant to Sections 3.03 or 10.02, a Withdrawn Member or Disposing Member, as applicable, shall promptly destroy (and provide a certificate of destruction to the Company with respect to), or return to the Company, all Confidential Information in its possession. Notwithstanding the immediately preceding sentence, but subject to the other provisions of this Section 3.06, a Withdrawn Member or Disposing Member may retain for a stated period, but not disclose to any other Person, Confidential Information for the limited purposes of (i) explaining such Member’s corporate decisions with respect to the Facilities; (ii) preparing such Member’s tax returns and defending audits, investigations and proceedings relating thereto; or (iii) in compliance with such Member’s document retention policy; provided that the Withdrawn Member or Disposing Member must notify the Management Committee in advance of such retention and specify in such notice the stated period of such retention.
(e)      The Members agree that no adequate remedy at law exists for a breach or threatened breach of any of the provisions of this Section 3.06, the continuation of which unremedied will cause the Company and the other Members to suffer irreparable harm. Accordingly, the Members agree that the Company and the other Members shall be entitled, in addition to other remedies that may be available to them, to immediate injunctive relief from any breach of any of the provisions of this Section 3.06 and to specific performance of their rights hereunder, as well as to any other remedies available at law or in equity, pursuant to Sections 11.03 and 11.04.
(f)      The obligations of the Members under this Section 3.06 (including the obligations of any Withdrawn Member) shall terminate on the [***] anniversary of the end of the Term.
3.07
Founding Shippers . Promptly following [***], but in no event later than [***] ([***]) Business Days following the end of such binding open season, each Founding Shipper shall enter into Precedent Agreements for the firm commitment shipping capacity [***].
3.08
Liability to Third Parties . No Member or its Affiliates shall be liable for the debts, obligations or liabilities of the Company or any Series.
3.09
Use of Members’ Names and Trademarks . The Company, a Series, the Members and their Affiliates shall not use the name or trademark of any Member or its Affiliates in connection with public announcements regarding the Company, or marketing or financing activities of the Company, without the prior written consent of such Member or Affiliate.
ARTICLE 4     
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS/LOANS
4.01
Capital Contributions . (c) (ix) Promptly following the Approval Date for any Facility, but in any event no later than 120 Days thereafter, EQT shall provide to USG (A) a capital budget covering the design, engineering, procurement, construction and installation of such Facility assigned to the applicable Series through the applicable In-Service Date for such Facility (the “ Construction Budget ”); (B) a schedule (the “ Project Schedule ”) containing milestones and including details to support all major development, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and testing activities of such Facility assigned to the applicable Series during the period prior to the applicable In-Service Date for such Facility; and (C) an operating budget covering the [***] period following the In-Service Date for such Facility assigned to the applicable Series (the “ Initial Operating Budget ”). With respect to Series A only, if such Construction Budget, Project Schedule and Initial Operating Budget are not approved by a Supermajority Interest by the [***] Day following the delivery thereof to USG, Series A may be dissolved pursuant to Section 12.01(b)(v).
(x)      As to the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget and any Capital Budget associated with any Facility covered by any Approved Precedent Agreement approved by the Management Committee in accordance with Section 6.02(i)(S) or 6.02(i)(GG), no further approval of [***] shall be required for the Capital Contributions required to fund such budget or project as set forth therein, subject to Section 6.02(i)(S) or 6.02(i)(GG); rather, subject to and in accordance with the COM Agreement, the Operator shall issue written notices to the Company for such Capital Contribution and, subject to Sections 6.02(i)(I) and (K), loans from Members, at such times and in such amounts necessary to fund the costs associated with such budget or project.
(xi)      In connection with each individual Capital Call required under the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget, each subsequent Operating Budget, and any Capital Budget associated with a Facility covered by any Approved Precedent Agreement, the Management Committee, by the affirmative vote of [***] of the applicable Series, will determine what portion (if any) of such funding will be made pursuant to Capital Contributions and what portion (if any) of such funding will be made by loans by the Members to the Company. Upon receipt of each notice issued by the Operator pursuant to Section 4.01(a)(ii), the Company shall issue written requests to each Member, consistent with the determination made pursuant to the preceding sentence, for the making of the Capital Contributions and/or loans required in connection with such notice.
(xii)      The Management Committee shall issue or cause to be issued a written request to each Member for the making of Capital Contributions at such times and in such amounts as the Management Committee shall approve or as determined pursuant to Section 4.01(a)(iii) (such written request referred to herein as a “ Capital Call ”). Capital Contributions shall be made by the Members in accordance with their respective Sharing Ratio for such Series. Such Capital Contributions shall be made in cash, unless a Supermajority Interest elects to request non-cash Capital Contributions. All amounts timely received by the Company pursuant to this Section 4.01 shall be credited to the respective Member’s Capital Account with respect to such Series as of such specified date.
(xiii)      Each Capital Call shall contain the following information:
(A)      The total amount of Capital Contributions requested from all Members;
(B)      With respect to the applicable Series, the amount of Capital Contribution requested from the Member to whom the request is addressed, such amount to be in accordance with the Sharing Ratio of such Member for such Series;
(C)      The purpose for which the funds are to be applied in such reasonable detail as the Management Committee shall direct; and
(D)      The date on which payments of the Capital Contribution shall be made (which date shall not be less than 30 Days following the date the Capital Call is given, unless a sooner date is approved by the Management Committee) and the method of payment, provided that such date and method shall be the same for each of the Members.
(xiv)      In the event the Management Committee fails to approve an Operating Budget within 30 Days of the submission of such Operating Budget to all of the Representatives on the Management Committee for approval, the Operator is authorized, subject to and in accordance with the COM Agreement, to issue a notice to the Members of such Series for the making of Capital Contributions and/or loans required to fund the costs associated with such Operating Budget in an amount consistent with the Operating Budget most recently approved by the Management Committee of such Series and including costs that do not exceed, for any line item, [***] percent ([***]%) of the amount set forth for such line item in such most recently approved Operating Budget.
(d)      Each Member agrees that it shall make payments of its respective Capital Contributions in accordance with Capital Calls issued pursuant to this Section 4.01. Each Member shall deliver to the applicable Series:
(iii)      within [***] Business Days following the Management Committee’s approval of the Construction Budget of a Series, but in no event later than October 31, 2014 (or, with respect to a New Member admitted after such time but prior to the In-Service Date of the Facilities assigned to such Series, within 10 Business Days of such admission), and for the period up to the issuance of FERC’s initial release to the Company to commence construction pursuant to the applicable FERC Certificate (the “ Initial Release ”), performance assurances (“ Performance Assurances ”) equal to such Member’s share of $[***] (calculated based on such Member’s Sharing Ratio); and
(iv)      within ten (10) Business Days of the date of the Initial Release (or, with respect to a New Member admitted after the Initial Release, within ten (10) Business Days of such admission) for the period following the Initial Release and up to the In-Service Date, Performance Assurances equal to [***] percent ([***]%) of such Member’s remaining obligations to make Capital Contributions to the Series pursuant to this Article 4 (calculated based on such Member’s Sharing Ratio multiplied by the remaining obligations under the applicable Construction Budget and net of any security posted by such Member, or Member’s Affiliate, under any Approved Precedent Agreement).
With respect to the applicable Series, the Company shall be entitled to draw from the Performance Assurances in the event a Member fails to make payments of its respective Capital Contributions in accordance with Capital Calls issued pursuant to this Section 4.01. The Performance Assurances posted by a Member pursuant to this Section 4.01(b) shall be reduced (i) at the end of each Quarter, to reflect the [***] percent ([***]%) of such Member’s actual Capital Contributions made to the Series during such Quarter and (ii) in connection with a Disposition of all or a portion of such Member’s Membership Interest in a Series, to reflect the replacement Performance Assurances to be posted by the Assignee of such Membership Interest pursuant to this Section 4.01(b). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 4.01(b), at no time prior to the applicable In-Service Date will a Member’s Performance Assurance obligation be less than such Member’s share of $[***] (calculated based on a Member’s Sharing Ratio). Such Performance Assurances shall be permitted to be in the form of one or more of (A) a full and unconditional written guarantee from a Qualified Guarantor, (B) a Letter of Credit or (C) cash collateral (with the ability to substitute from time to time among (A), (B) or (C)). For the avoidance of doubt, a Member’s obligation to post Performance Assurances pursuant to this Section 4.01(b) shall expire (and any obligations under any posted Performance Assurances shall terminate) on the applicable In-Service Date with respect to the Facilities of a Series.
(e)      In addition to the authority granted the Management Committee in the other provisions of this Section 4.01 to issue Capital Calls, if within [***] Days prior to the date any Matured Financing Obligation is to become due (or within [***] Days after any notice of acceleration of any Matured Financing Obligation received prior to the maturity date thereof), (i) the Management Committee has not made a Capital Call for the payment of such amount that is (or is expected to be) a Matured Financing Obligation, and (ii) the Members have been unable to secure refinancing for such Matured Financing Obligation on reasonably acceptable terms after negotiating in good faith to do so with third-party lender(s), then at any time thereafter, (1) either EQT or USG may, on behalf of the Management Committee, issue a Capital Call for cash in the amount required for the payment of such Matured Financing Obligation, and each Member shall be obligated to pay such Capital Call as provided in this Section 4.01, but such payment shall be made within [***] Days after the date the Capital Call is given (and not the [***] Day period provided for in Section 4.01(a)(v)(D)); provided that any failure by a Member to make a Capital Contribution with respect to a Capital Call made pursuant to this Section 4.01(c)(1) shall not constitute a Default under or breach of this Agreement; and (2) in the event any Member fails to make a Capital Contribution with respect to a Capital Call made pursuant to Section 4.01(c)(1), on or prior to such [***] Day, then each Founding Member shall have the right, but not the obligation, to pay the portion of the Capital Contribution owed and unpaid to permit the Company to discharge such Matured Financing Obligation. If any Founding Member elects to pay such Matured Financing Obligation pursuant to Section 4.01(c)(2), then such Founding Member will be deemed to be an Additional Contribution/Loan Member with respect to such payment, and its payment of the Matured Financing Obligation shall be treated, at the election of such Additional Contribution/Loan Member, as one of either: (A) a Capital Contribution or loan resulting in the Additional Contribution/Loan Members receiving [***] or (B) a permanent Capital Contribution that results in an adjustment of Membership Interests under Section 4.06(c).
4.02
Loans . (g) If pursuant to Section 4.01(a)(iii) the Management Committee determines as to any individual Capital Call that all or a portion of such Capital Call shall be made by loans from the Members to the Company with respect to the Series, then each Member shall make a loan to the Company with respect to the Series at the time and in the amount and under such terms and conditions as the Management Committee of such Series shall approve by the affirmative vote of a Supermajority Interest.
(h)      If the Management Committee determines that the Series needs funds other than as contemplated by Section 4.02(a), then, rather than calling for Capital Contributions, the Management Committee may issue or cause to be issued a written request to each Member for the making of loans to the Company with respect to the Series at such times, in such amounts and under such terms and conditions as the Management Committee of such Series shall approve by the affirmative vote of a Supermajority Interest; provided that the Management Committee of such Series shall not call for loans rather than Capital Contributions if doing so would breach any Financing Commitment or other agreement of the Company.
(i)      All amounts received from a Member after the date specified in Section 4.02(d)(iv) by the Company with respect to a Series pursuant to this Section 4.02 shall be accompanied by interest on such overdue amounts (and the default shall not be cured unless such interest is also received by the Company), which interest shall be payable to the Company with respect to such Series and shall accrue from and after such specified date at the Default Rate. Any such interest paid shall not be considered part of the principal of the loan.
(j)      Each written request issued pursuant to Section 4.02(a) or 4.02(b) shall contain the following information:
(i)      The total amount of loans requested from all Members;
(ii)      The amount of the loan requested from the Member to whom the request is addressed, such amount to be in accordance with the Sharing Ratio of such Member in the applicable Series;
(iii)      The purpose for which the funds are to be applied in such reasonable detail as the Management Committee shall direct;
(iv)      The date on which the loans to the Company with respect to such Series shall be made (which date shall not be less than [***] Days following the date the request is given, unless a sooner date is approved by the Management Committee of such Series) and the method of payment; provided that such date and method shall be the same for each of the Members; and
(v)      All terms concerning the repayment of or otherwise relating to such loans; provided that such terms shall be the same for each of the Members and in the case of costs covered by the Construction Budget shall be consistent with Section 4.01(a)(iii).
(k)      Each Member agrees that it shall make its respective loans in accordance with requests issued pursuant to this Section 4.02.

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4.03
No Other Contribution or Loan Obligations . No Member shall be required or permitted to make any Capital Contributions or loans to the Company with respect to a Series except pursuant to this Article 4.

4.04
Return of Contributions . Except as expressly provided herein, a Member is not entitled to the return of any part of its Capital Contributions or to be paid interest in respect of either its Capital Account or its Capital Contributions. An unreturned Capital Contribution is not a liability of the Company or of any Member. A Member is not required to contribute or to lend any cash or property to the Company to enable the Company to return any Member’s Capital Contributions.
4.05
Capital Accounts . (g) A separate Capital Account shall be established and maintained for each Member with respect to each Series. Each Member’s Capital Account with respect to each Series shall be increased by (i) the amount of money contributed by that Member to the Company with respect to the Series; (ii) the fair market value of property contributed by that Member to the Company with respect to the Series (net of liabilities secured by such contributed property that the Company with respect to the Series is considered to assume or take subject to under Section 752 of the Code); (iii) allocations to that Member of income and gain (or items thereof) with respect to the Series, including items specifically allocated to such Member with respect to the Series pursuant to Section 5.04(b) and income and gain exempt from tax and income and gain described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(g), but excluding income and gain described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(4)(i); and (iv) the amount of any liabilities with respect to the Series assumed by such Member and shall be decreased by (v) the amount of money distributed to that Member by the Company with respect to the Series; (vi) the fair market value of property distributed to that Member by the Company with respect to the Series (net of liabilities secured by such distributed property that such Member is considered to assume or take subject to under Section 752 of the Code); (vii) allocations to that Member of expenditures of the Company with respect to the Series described (or treated as described) in Section 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code; (viii) allocations of loss and deduction (or items thereof) with respect to the Series, including items specifically allocated to such Member pursuant to Section 5.04(b) and loss and deduction described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(g), but excluding items described in (vi) above and loss or deduction described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(4)(i) or 1.704-1(b)(4)(iii); and (ix) the amount of any liabilities of such Member assumed by the Company with respect to the Series. The Members’ Capital Accounts with respect to each Series shall also be maintained and adjusted as permitted by the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f) and as required by the other provisions of Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv) and 1.704-1(b)(4), including adjustments to reflect the allocations to the Members of depreciation, depletion, amortization, and gain or loss as computed for book purposes rather than the allocation of the corresponding items as computed for tax purposes, as required by Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(g). Thus, in the discretion of the Management Committee, the Members’ Capital Accounts shall be increased or decreased to reflect a revaluation of the property with respect to the Series based on the fair market value of the property on the date of adjustment (as determined pursuant to Section 4.05(b)), immediately prior to (A) the contribution of more than a de minimis amount of money or other property to the Company with respect to the Series by a new or existing Member as consideration for a Membership Interest or an increased Sharing Ratio, (B) the distribution of more than a de minimis amount of money or other property by the Company with respect to the Series to a Member as consideration for a Membership Interest, or (C) the liquidation of the Series. Except as provided in this Section 4.05 with respect to each separate Capital Account established with respect to each Series, a Member who has more than one Membership Interest shall have a single Capital Account that reflects all such Membership Interests, regardless of the class of Membership Interests owned by such Member and regardless of the time or manner in which such Membership Interests were acquired. Upon the Disposition of all or a portion of a Membership Interest, the Capital Account or Capital Accounts of the Disposing Member that is or are attributable to such Membership Interest shall carry over to the Assignee in accordance with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(l). The Capital Accounts shall not be deemed to be, nor have the same meaning as, the capital account of the Company under the NGA.
(h)      Whenever the fair market value of property is required to be determined pursuant to the second and third sentences of Section 4.05(a), the Operator shall propose such a fair market value in a notice to the other Members. If any other Member disagrees with such determination, such Member shall notify the other Members of such disagreement within [***] Business Days of receiving such notice. If such Dispute is not resolved within [***] Business Days after such notice, any Member may submit such Dispute for binding appraisal in accordance with Section 13.11(c) by delivering a FMV Notice to the other Members.
This Section 4.05 is intended to comply with the capital account maintenance provisions of Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv) and will be applied and interpreted in accordance with such Treasury Regulations.
4.06
Failure to Make a Capital Contribution or Loan .
(a)      General . If any Member fails to make a Capital Contribution as requested by the Management Committee (or on behalf of the Management Committee pursuant to Section 4.01(c)) in a Capital Call validly and timely issued pursuant to Section 4.01 or a loan when required pursuant to Section 4.02(a) or 4.02(b) (each such Member being a “ Non - Contributing/Loan Member ”), and if such failure continues for more than [***] Days after the date on which it is due, the Members that have contributed their Capital Contribution or made their loan, as applicable (each, a “ Contributing/Loan Member ”) may (without limitation as to other remedies that may be available, and in particular such other remedies shall include the right to specifically enforce the obligation of the Non-Contributing/Loan Member to make the required Capital Contribution or loan) thereafter elect to:
(ix)      treat the Non-Contributing/Loan Member’s failure to contribute as a Default by giving notice thereof to the Non-Contributing/Loan Member, in which event the provisions of this Agreement regarding the commission of a Default by a Member shall apply (but if the Capital Call is for the payment of a Matured Financing Obligation, the Default shall be immediate on the giving of such notice and the [***]-Day cure period contemplated in the definition of Default shall not apply); or
(x)      pay the portion of the Capital Contribution owed and unpaid by, or make the loan required from, the Non-Contributing/Loan Member (the “ Additional Contribution/Loan ”) in which event the Contributing/Loan Members that elect to fund the Non-Contributing/Loan Members’ share (the “ Additional Contribution/Loan Members ”) may treat the contribution or loan, as applicable as one of: (1) a Capital Contribution or loan, as applicable, resulting in the Additional Contribution/Loan Members receiving [***] under Section 4.06(b), or (2) a permanent Capital Contribution that results in an adjustment of Membership Interests under Section 4.06(c), as determined by the Additional Contribution/Loan Members as set forth below;
provided , however , that this Section 4.06 shall be applied separately with respect to each Series, as more fully described in this Section 4.06.
No Contributing/Loan Member shall be obligated to make either election under clause (i) or clause (ii) above. The decision of the Contributing/Loan Members to elect (i) or (ii) above shall be made by the determination of the Contributing/Loan Members holding the Supermajority Interest of all Contributing/Loan Members, but clause (ii) above may not be elected unless at such time of determination there is one or more Additional Contribution/Loan Members. The decision of the Additional Contribution/Loan Members to elect clause (ii)(1) or clause (ii)(2) above shall be made by the determination of the Additional Contribution/Loan Members holding the Supermajority Interest of all Additional Contribution/Loan Members. Unless and until such election is made, payment of the Additional Contribution/Loan shall be treated as a Priority Interest under Section 4.06(a)(ii) (1). [***]
(b)      [***]
(i)      [***]
(ii)      [***] shall not alter the Sharing Ratios of the Members, nor shall [***] alter any distributions to the Contributing/Loan Members (in their capacity as Contributing/Loan Members, as opposed to their capacity as Additional Contribution/Loan Members) in accordance with their respective Sharing Ratios. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, a Member may not Dispose of all or a portion of [***] except to a Person to whom it Disposes all or the applicable pro rata portion of its Membership Interest after compliance with the requirements of this Agreement in connection therewith.
(iii)      For so long as any Additional Contribution/Loan Member holds [***], neither any Non-Contributing/Loan Member nor its Representative (except for a Non-Contributing/Loan Member that has paid to the Additional Contribution/Loan Member(s) all of the amount of the Additional Contribution/Loan attributable to such Non-Contributing/Loan Member in accordance with Section 4.06(b)(i)) shall have the right to vote its Membership Interest (or Sharing Ratio) with respect to the Series under this Agreement with respect to any decision regarding distributions from the Company with respect to the Series, and any distribution to which such Non-Contributing/Loan Member is entitled with respect to the Series shall be paid [***].
(iv)      No Member that is a Non-Contributing/Loan Member may Dispose of its Membership Interest unless, at the closing of such Disposition, either the Non-Contributing/Loan Member or the proposed Assignee pays [***]. No Assignee shall be admitted to the Company as a Member until compliance with this Section 4.06(b)(iv) has occurred.
(c)      Permanent Contribution . If the Additional Contribution/Loan Members elect under Section 4.06(a)(ii) to have the Additional Contribution/Loan with respect to a Series treated as a permanent Capital Contribution, then the Sharing Ratios of each Member with respect to the Series will be automatically adjusted to equal each Member’s total Capital Contributions with respect to the Series when expressed as a percentage of all Members’ Capital Contributions with respect to the Series (after giving effect to the Capital Contribution made by the Additional Contribution/Loan Members).
(d)      Further Assurance . In connection with this Section 4.06, each Member shall execute and deliver any additional documents and instruments and perform any additional acts that may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate and perform the provisions of this Section 4.06.
(e)      Deemed Non-Contributing/Loan Member . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, for purposes of this Agreement the term “Non-Contributing/Loan Member” shall include any Member who (i) fails to vote (through such Member’s Representatives) in favor of a proposed Capital Call under Section 4.01 or a proposed loan pursuant to Section 4.02 and (ii) fails to fund such Capital Call or loan, in each case, to the extent necessary to cover the amount of any Matured Financing Obligation that is to become due within [***] Days or that has become due (by acceleration or otherwise).
4.07
Credit Assurance .
(a)      Unless otherwise agreed to by [***], if the Series is required to provide a guaranty, letter of credit or other credit support (each a “ Credit Assurance ”) to a counterparty under any contract or agreement (including an Approved Precedent Agreement) approved by the Management Committee of the Series prior to the In-Service Date of the Facilities of such Series (each a “ Subject Contract ”), then each Member agrees [***].
(b)      If a breach, default or other event occurs under a Subject Contract and the counterparty thereunder makes a demand or draw on one or more Credit Assurances for such breach, default or other event (an “ Demand Event ”), then a determination will be made as to the total dollar amount demanded or drawn by such counterparty for such Demand Event (“ Total Event Demand Amount ”). [***]
(c)      If any Member [***] then such Member [***].
ARTICLE 5     
DISTRIBUTIONS AND ALLOCATIONS
5.01
Distributions . With respect to each Series, within [***] Days following the end of each Quarter following the In-Service Date, the Management Committee shall determine the amount of Available Cash with respect to such Quarter, and an amount equal to 100% of Available Cash with respect to such Quarter shall, subject to Section 18-607 of the Act, be distributed in accordance with this Article 5 to the Members (other than a Breaching Member) in proportion to their respective Sharing Ratios (at the time the amounts of such distributions are made); provided , however , that, if the Management Committee fails timely to determine the amount of Available Cash with respect to any Quarter following the In-Service Date, an amount equal to [***]% of the Available Cash with respect to the Series determined with respect to the immediately preceding Quarter shall, subject to Section 18-607 of the Act, be distributed in accordance with this Article 5 to the Members (other than a Breaching Member) in proportion to their respective Sharing Ratios with respect to the Series (at the time the amounts of such distributions are made).
5.02
[Intentionally omitted.]

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5.03
[Intentionally omitted.]
5.04
Allocations for Maintaining Capital Accounts . (i) For purposes of maintaining the Capital Accounts pursuant to Section 4.05, except as provided in Sections 5.04(b) and (c), each item of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit with respect to each Series shall be allocated to the Members in accordance with their respective Sharing Ratios with respect to the Series, and to the extent such items are not allocable to any particular Series, such items shall be allocated among the various Series by the Management Committee. For the avoidance of doubt, the items described in this Section 5.04 will be allocated to each Series as if such Series was a separate partnership for federal income tax purposes and shall be allocated to the Members associated with each Series on that basis.
(j)      With respect to each period during which [***] with respect to an Additional Contribution/Loan treated as a Capital Contribution is outstanding with respect to a Series, each Additional Contribution/Loan Member shall be allocated items of income and gain with respect to the Series in an amount equal to the return that has accrued (whether or not paid) with respect to such Capital Contribution pursuant to Section 4.06(b)(i), and items of income and gain with respect to the Series that would otherwise be allocable to the Non-Contributing/Loan Member(s) shall be correspondingly reduced.
(k)      Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of Section 5.04, the following special allocations will be made:
(i)      [Intentionally omitted.]
(ii)      Nonrecourse Deductions with respect to any Series shall be allocated to the Members in proportion to their Sharing Ratios with respect to the Series.
(iii)      Member Nonrecourse Deductions with respect to any Series attributable to Member Nonrecourse Debt with respect to the Series shall be allocated to the Members bearing the Economic Risk of Loss for such Member Nonrecourse Debt as determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(b)(4). If more than one Member bears the Economic Risk of Loss for such Member Nonrecourse Debt, the Member Nonrecourse Deductions attributable to such Member Nonrecourse Debt shall be allocated among the Members according to the ratio in which they bear the Economic Risk of Loss. This Section 5.04(c)(iii) is intended to comply with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(iv)      Notwithstanding any other provision hereof to the contrary, if there is a net decrease in Minimum Gain with respect to any Series for an allocation period (or if there was a net decrease in Minimum Gain with respect to the Series for a prior allocation period and the Company did not have sufficient amounts of income and gain with respect to the Series during prior periods to allocate among the Members under this Section 5.04(c)(iv), items of income and gain with respect to the Series shall be allocated to each Member in an amount equal to such Member’s share of the net decrease in such Minimum Gain (as determined pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(g)(2)). This Section 5.04(c)(iv) is intended to constitute a minimum gain chargeback under Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(f) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(v)      Notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary except Section 5.04(c)(iv) (dealing with Minimum Gain), if there is a net decrease in Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain with respect to any Series for an allocation period (or if there was a net decrease in Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain for a prior allocation period and the Company did not have sufficient amounts of income and gain with respect to the Series during prior periods to allocate among the Members under this Section 5.04(c)(v)), items of income and gain with respect to the Series shall be allocated to each Member in an amount equal to such Member’s share of the net decrease in Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain (as determined pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(4)). This Section 5.04(c)(v) is intended to constitute a partner nonrecourse debt minimum gain chargeback under Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(4) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(vi)      Notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary except Section 5.04(c)(ii) and Section 5.04(c)(iii), no losses or other items of expense with respect to any Series shall be allocated to any Member to the extent that such allocation would cause such Member to have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance (or increase any existing deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance) with respect to the Series at the end of the allocation period. All losses and other items of expense in excess of the limitation set forth in this Section 5.04(c)(vi) shall be allocated to the Members with interests in the Series who do not have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance with respect to the Series in proportion to their relative positive Adjusted Capital Accounts with respect to the Series but only to the extent that such losses and other items of expense do not cause any such Member to have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance with respect to the Series.
(vii)      If any Member unexpectedly receives any adjustments, allocations or distributions described in Treasury Regulations Sections 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4), (5) or (6) resulting in or increasing an Adjusted Capital Account deficit for such Member with respect to any Series, items of income and gain with respect to the Series will be specially allocated to such Member in any amount and manner sufficient to eliminate, to the extent required by the Treasury Regulations, such Adjusted Capital Account deficit of the Member as quickly as possible; provided , however , that an allocation pursuant to this Section 5.04(c)(vii) shall be made only if and to the extent that such Member would have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance with respect to the Series after all other allocations provided for in this Article 5 have been tentatively made as if this Section 5.04(c)(vii) were not in this Agreement. The items of income or gain to be allocated will be determined in accordance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d). This subsection (vii) is intended to qualify and be construed as a “qualifying income offset” within the meaning of Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d) and will be applied and interpreted in accordance with such Treasury Regulations.
5.05
Allocations for Tax Purposes . (f) Except as provided in Section 5.05(b) and Section 5.05(c) or as otherwise required by the Code or Treasury Regulations, solely for federal income tax purposes, items of taxable income, gain, loss and deduction of the Company with respect to each Series for each fiscal year or other relevant period shall be allocated among the Members in the same manner as each correlative item of “book” income, gain, loss and deduction with respect to the Series is allocated to the Capital Accounts of the Members with respect to the Series pursuant to Section 5.04 and each tax credit shall be allocated to the Members in the same manner as the receipt or expenditure giving rise to such credit is allocated pursuant to Section 5.04.
(g)      Income, gain, loss, and deduction with respect to property contributed to the Company with respect to any Series by a Member or revalued pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f) shall be allocated among the Members in a manner that takes into account the variation between the adjusted tax basis of such property and its book value, as required by Section 704(c) of the Code and Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(4)(i), using the remedial allocation method permitted by Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-3(d).
(h)      Pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 1.1245-1(e), to the extent the Company with respect to any Series recognizes gain as a result of a sale, exchange or other disposition of Company assets with respect to the Series which is taxable as recapture income under Sections 1245 or 1250 of the Code or unrecaptured Section 1250 gain under Section 1(h) of the Code, such recapture income shall be allocated among the Members with respect to the Series in the same proportion as the depreciation and amortization giving rise to such recapture income was allocable among the Members. In no event, however, shall any Member be allocated recapture income hereunder in excess of the amount of gain allocated to the Member under this Agreement. Any recapture income that is not allocated to a Member due to the gain limitation described in the previous sentence shall be allocated among those Members whose shares of total gain on the sale, exchange or other disposition of the property exceed their share of depreciation and amortization attributable to Company or Series assets, in proportion to their relative shares of the total allocable gain.
(i)      Allocations pursuant to this Section 5.05 are solely for federal (and, where applicable, state and local) tax purposes and shall not affect, or in any way be taken into account in computing, any Capital Account or share of income, gain, loss and other deduction described in Section 5.04 or distributions pursuant to any provision of this Agreement.
(j)      The Members are aware of the income and other tax consequences of the allocations made by this Agreement and hereby agree to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement in reporting their shares of items of income, gain, loss, credit and deduction.
5.06
Varying Interests . All items of income, gain, loss, deduction or credit with respect to each Series shall be allocated, and all distributions shall be made, to the Persons shown on the records of the Company to have been Members with respect to the Series as of the last Day of the period for which the allocation or distribution is to be made. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if during any taxable year there is a change in any Member’s Sharing Ratio with respect to a Series, the Members agree that their allocable shares of such items for the taxable year shall be determined based on any method determined by the Management Committee for such Series to be permissible under Code Section 706 and the related Treasury Regulations to take account of the Members’ varying Sharing Ratios with respect to the Series.
5.07
Amounts Withheld . The Company is authorized to withhold from payments and distributions to the Members and to pay over to any federal, state or local Governmental Authority any amounts required to be so withheld pursuant to the Code or any provisions of any applicable Law and shall allocate such amounts to the Members with respect to which such amounts were withheld. All amounts withheld pursuant to the Code or any provisions of any applicable Law with respect to any payment, distribution or allocation shall be treated for all purposes under this Agreement as amounts paid or distributed pursuant to this Article 5 to the Members with respect to which such amount was withheld. All taxes paid on behalf of such Member pursuant to this Section 5.07 in excess of any distributions otherwise payable to such Member shall, at the option of the Company, (i) be promptly paid to the Company with respect to the applicable Series by such Member or (ii) be repaid by reducing the amount of the current or next succeeding distribution or distributions which would otherwise have been made to such Member or, if such distributions are not sufficient for that purpose, by so reducing the proceeds of liquidation otherwise payable to such Member. Whenever the Company selects option (ii) of the preceding sentence, such Member shall for all purposes of this Agreement be treated as having received a distribution under 5.01 of the amount of the tax payment. To the fullest extent permitted by law, each Member hereby agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company and the other Members from and against any liability for taxes (and related interest, penalties or additions to tax) with respect to income attributable to or distributions or other payments to such Member.
ARTICLE 6     
MANAGEMENT
6.01
Generally . Except as provided in Section 6.05(a), the management of each Series is fully vested in the Founding Members of such Series. To facilitate the orderly and efficient management of the Series, the Founding Members shall act (a) collectively as a “committee of the whole” pursuant to Section 6.02, and (b) through the delegation of certain duties and authority to the Operator. Subject to the express provisions of this Agreement, each Member agrees that it will not exercise its authority under the Act to bind or commit the Company or any Series to agreements, transactions or other arrangements, or to hold itself out as an agent of the Company or any Series.
6.02
Management Committee . The Founding Members shall act collectively through meetings as a “committee of the whole,” which is hereby named the “ Management Committee .” Decisions or actions taken by the Management Committee in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement shall constitute decisions or actions by the Company and shall be binding on each Member, Representative, and employee of the Company. The Management Committee shall conduct its affairs in accordance with the following provisions and the other provisions of this Agreement:
(c)
Representatives.
(xi)      Designation . To facilitate the orderly and efficient conduct of Management Committee meetings, each Founding Member (together with its Affiliates who are also Founding Members, if any) shall notify the other Founding Member(s), from time to time, of the identity of (A) one of its senior officers, who will represent it at such meetings (a “ Representative ”), and (B) at least one, but not more than two, additional senior officers, who will represent it at any meeting that the Founding Member’s Representative is unable to attend (each an “ Alternate Representative ”). (The term “ Representative ” shall also refer to any Alternate Representative that is actually performing the duties of the applicable Representative.) [***]. The initial Representative and Alternate Representatives of each Founding Member are set forth in Exhibit A . A Founding Member may designate a different Representative or Alternate Representatives for any meeting of the Management Committee by notifying the other Founding Member(s) at least [***] Business Days prior to the scheduled date for such meeting; provided that, if giving such advance notice is not feasible, then such new Representative or Alternate Representatives shall present written evidence of his or her authority at the commencement of such meeting.
(xii)      Authority . Each Representative shall have the full authority to act on behalf of the Founding Member that designated such Representative; the action of a Representative at a meeting (or through a written consent) of the Management Committee shall bind the Founding Member that designated such Representative; and the other Members of the applicable Series shall be entitled to rely upon such action without further inquiry or investigation as to the actual authority (or lack thereof) of such Representative. In addition, the act of an Alternate Representative shall be deemed the act of the Representative for which such Alternate Representative is acting, without the need to produce evidence of the absence or unavailability of such Representative.
(xiii)      DISCLAIMER OF DUTIES; INDEMNIFICATION . EACH REPRESENTATIVE SHALL REPRESENT, AND OWE DUTIES TO, ONLY THE MEMBER THAT DESIGNATED SUCH REPRESENTATIVE (THE NATURE AND EXTENT OF SUCH DUTIES BEING AN INTERNAL AFFAIR OF SUCH MEMBER), AND SHALL NOT OWE ANY DUTIES (INCLUDING FIDUCIARY DUTIES) TO THE COMPANY, ANY OTHER MEMBER OR REPRESENTATIVE, OR ANY AFFILIATE, OFFICER, OR EMPLOYEE OF THE COMPANY, ANY OTHER MEMBER, OR ANY OTHER PERSON. THE PROVISIONS OF SECTIONS 6.02(f)(ii) AND 6.04 SHALL ALSO INURE TO THE BENEFIT OF EACH MEMBER’S REPRESENTATIVE. THE COMPANY SHALL INDEMNIFY, PROTECT, DEFEND, RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS EACH REPRESENTATIVE FROM AND AGAINST ANY CLAIMS ASSERTED BY OR ON BEHALF OF ANY PERSON (INCLUDING ANOTHER MEMBER), OTHER THAN THE MEMBER THAT DESIGNATED SUCH REPRESENTATIVE, THAT ARISE OUT OF, RELATE TO, OR ARE OTHERWISE ATTRIBUTABLE TO, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, THE COMPANY OR SUCH REPRESENTATIVE’S SERVICE ON THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.
(xiv)      Attendance . Each Founding Member shall use all reasonable efforts to cause its Representative or Alternate Representative to attend each meeting of the Management Committee, unless its Representative is unable to do so because of a “force majeure” event or other event beyond his reasonable control, in which event such Founding Member shall use all reasonable efforts to cause its Representative or Alternate Representative to participate in the meeting by telephone pursuant to Section 6.02(h).
(d)      Secretary . The Management Committee may designate a Secretary of the Management Committee, who need not be a Representative or an employee of a Member or any Affiliate thereof.
(e)      Procedures . The Secretary, or if no Secretary has been appointed, a person designated in writing by the Representatives, of the Management Committee shall maintain written minutes of each meeting held by the Management Committee. The Management Committee may adopt whatever rules and procedures relating to its activities as it may deem appropriate, provided that such rules and procedures shall not be inconsistent with or violate the provisions of this Agreement.
(f)      Time and Place of Meetings . The Management Committee shall meet quarterly, subject to more or less frequent meetings upon approval of the Management Committee. Notice of, and an agenda for, all Management Committee meetings shall be provided by the Representatives to all Members at least five Days prior to the date of each meeting, together with proposed minutes of the previous Management Committee meeting (if such minutes have not been previously ratified). Among other items, the agenda will provide for a discussion of (i) the results of operations, including explanations of significant variances in revenues, expenses and cash flow activities and (ii) amounts due for contractual obligations that will impact Available Cash. Special meetings of the Management Committee may be called at such times, and in such manner, as any Founding Member reasonably deems necessary; provided , however , that a Founding Member may only call a special meeting of the Management Committee with respect to a Series for which that Founding Member owns a Membership Interest. Any Founding Member calling for any such special meeting shall notify the Representatives, who in turn shall notify all Founding Members of the date and agenda for such meeting at least five Days prior to the date of such meeting. Such five-Day period may be shortened by the Management Committee, acting through Supermajority Interest. All meetings of the Management Committee shall be held at a location agreed upon by the Representatives. Attendance of a Representative of a Founding Member at a meeting of the Management Committee shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where such Representative attends the meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.
(g)      Quorum . The presence of Representative(s) of Founding Members representing Supermajority Interest shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Management Committee.
(h)
Voting.
(vi)      Voting by Sharing Ratios . Subject to Section 6.05(a), voting on all matters shall be effected on a Series basis, with a separate vote taken with respect to each Series affected by the matter to be decided; provided that, in any matter pertaining to multiple Series, a Series shall only be bound in such matter if the Management Committee voting in respect of such Series has approved such matter. Subject to Sections 6.02(j), 6.05(a), and 6.05(e), each Representative shall be entitled to vote on all matters submitted to a vote of the Management Committee in respect of a particular Series in accordance with the respective Sharing Ratio with respect to such Series of the Founding Member that designated such Representative.
(vii)      DISCLAIMER OF DUTIES . WITH RESPECT TO ANY VOTE, CONSENT OR APPROVAL AT ANY MEETING OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE OR OTHERWISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN SECTION 6.02(j) AND SECTION 6.05(e) OF THIS AGREEMENT, EACH REPRESENTATIVE MAY GRANT OR WITHHOLD SUCH VOTE, CONSENT OR APPROVAL (A) IN ITS SOLE AND ABSOLUTE DISCRETION, (B) WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE, (C) SUBJECT TO SUCH CONDITIONS AS IT SHALL DEEM APPROPRIATE, AND (D) WITHOUT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE INTERESTS OF, AND WITHOUT INCURRING LIABILITY TO, THE COMPANY, A SERIES, ANY OTHER MEMBER OR REPRESENTATIVE, OR ANY AFFILIATE, OFFICER, OR EMPLOYEE OF THE COMPANY, ANY SERIES OR ANY OTHER MEMBER (COLLECTIVELY, “ SOLE DISCRETION ”). THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION 6.02(f)(ii) SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING THE NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, WILLFUL MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHER FAULT OR RESPONSIBILITY OF A MEMBER OR ITS REPRESENTATIVE.
(viii)      Exclusion of Certain Members and Their Sharing Ratios . With respect to any vote, consent or approval, any Breaching Member or Withdrawn Member (and any Representative of such Breaching Member or Withdrawn Member) shall be excluded from such decision (as contemplated by Section 10.03(b)), and the Sharing Ratio of such Breaching Member or Withdrawn Member shall be disregarded in calculating the voting thresholds in Section 6.02(f)(i). In addition, if any other provision of this Agreement provides that a Supermajority Interest is to be calculated without reference to the Sharing Ratio of a particular Founding Member, then the applicable voting threshold shall be deemed adjusted accordingly.
(i)      Action by Written Consent . Any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the Management Committee may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice, and without a vote if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, is signed by the Representatives that could have taken the action at a meeting of the Management Committee.
(j)      Meetings by Telephone . Representatives may participate in and hold such meeting by means of conference telephone, videoconference or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other. Participation in such a meeting shall constitute presence in person at such meeting, except where a Representative participates in the meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.
(k)      Matters Requiring Approval of the Management Committee . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, but subject to Section 6.05(e), none of the following actions may be taken by, or on behalf of, a Series without first obtaining the approval of a Supermajority Interest of the Management Committee:
(A)      with respect to each Series, conducting any activity or business that, in the reasonable judgment of the Operator acting in good faith, may generate income for federal income tax purposes that may not be “qualifying income” (as such term is defined pursuant to Section 7704 of the Code) in excess of [***]% of the gross income of the Series;
(B)      any material tax elections or any material decisions relating to material tax returns, in each case, as determined in the reasonable judgment of the Operator acting in good faith;
(C)      considering at a meeting of the Management Committee a material matter not on the agenda for that meeting;
(D)      entering into, amending in any material respect, or terminating any Material Contract, or taking any action that results in a material default under any Material Contract;
(E)      approving any material loans made by the Series or the provision of any material financial guarantees by the Series, except to the extent such material loans or material financial guarantees have been specifically included in and approved as part of the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget, or any subsequent annual Capital Budget or Operating Budget that has been approved by the Management Committee;
(F)      placing or permitting any liens or other encumbrances (other than Permitted Encumbrances) to exist on the assets of the Series;
(G)      [***]
(H)      [***]
(I)      [***]
(J)      [***]
(K)      [***]
(L)      except as otherwise provided in Section 4.01(a)(ii) making a Capital Call or otherwise requiring any Member to make any Capital Contribution, except to the extent such Capital Call or Capital Contribution has been specifically included in and approved as part of the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget, or any subsequent annual Capital Budget or Operating Budget that has been approved by the Management Committee;
(M)      [***]
(N)      selecting a different name for the Company, or making any change to the principal nature of the business of the Company;
(O)      [***]
(P)      [***]
(Q)      approving accounting procedures for the Series in accordance with GAAP, or voluntarily changing or terminating the appointment of the Series’ accountants;
(R)      [***]
(S)      [***]
(T)      [***]
(U)      [***]
(V)      on the occurrence of a Dissolution Event, the designation of a Member or other Person to serve as liquidator pursuant to Section 12.02;
(W)      the commencement, conduct or settlement of any suit, action or proceeding or arbitration, each involving in excess of $[***];
(X)      the formation of any subcommittee of the Management Committee pursuant to Section 6.02(k);
(Y)      termination of a Series pursuant to Section 12.01(a)(i);
(Z)      causing or permitting the Series to become Bankrupt (but this provision shall not be construed to require any Member to ensure the profitability or solvency of the Series);
(AA)      the Disposition or abandonment of all or substantially all of the Series’ assets, or of the Series’ material assets other than any Disposition(s) in the ordinary course of business;
(BB)      causing or permitting the Company to merge, consolidate or convert into any other entity;
(CC)      [***]
(DD)      approving the FERC Application pursuant to Section 7.01(a);
(EE)      making any decision required pursuant to Sections 7.01(b), (c) or (d);
(FF)      [***]
(GG)      [***]
(HH)      [***]
(II)      [***]
(JJ)      [***]
(l)      Reasonableness . In any matter proposed to the Management Committee pursuant to [***].
(m)      Subcommittees . The Management Committee may create such subcommittees, and delegate to such subcommittees such authority and responsibility, and rescind any such delegations, as it may deem appropriate.
(n)      Officers . The Management Committee may designate one or more Persons to be officers of a Series. Any officers so designated shall have such titles and, subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, have such authority and perform such duties as the Management Committee may delegate to them and shall serve at the pleasure of the Management Committee and report to the Management Committee.
6.03
Construction, Operation and Management Agreement . The Company shall enter into a Construction, Operation and Management Agreement with Operator (the “ COM Agreement ”) in such form as shall be approved by the Founding Members.
6.04
No Duties; Disclaimer of Duties . Each Member acknowledges its express intent, and agrees with each other Member for the mutual benefit of all the Members, that
(k)      to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, no Member, in its capacity as Member, nor any of such Member’s or any of its Affiliates’ respective employees, agents, directors, managers or officers shall have any fiduciary duty to the Company, any Series, any other Member or Representative or any other Person in connection with the business and affairs of the Company or a Series or any consent or approval given or withheld pursuant to this Agreement; provided , however , that nothing herein shall eliminate the implied contractual covenant of good faith and fair dealing;
(l)      to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, no Representative, in such Person’s capacity as a Representative, shall have any fiduciary duty to the Company, any Series, any Member (other than the Member that designated such Representative), any other Representative, or any other Person in connection with the business and affairs of the Company or any Series or any consent or approval given or withheld pursuant to this Agreement; provided , however , that nothing herein shall eliminate the implied contractual covenant of good faith and fair dealing; and
(m)      the provisions of this Section 6.04 will apply for the benefit of each Member, and no standard of care, duty, or other legal restriction or theory of liability shall limit or modify the right of each Member to act and direct its Representative to vote in the manner determined by the Member that designated such Representative in its Sole Discretion.
To the maximum extent permitted by applicable Law, each Member hereby releases and forever discharges each other Member and such other Member’s Representative from all liabilities that such other Member or its Representative might owe, under the Act or otherwise, to the Company, the releasing Member, or such releasing Member’s Representative on the ground that any decision of that other Member or such other Member’s Representative to grant or withhold any vote, consent or approval constituted the breach or violation of any standard of care, any fiduciary duty or other legal restriction or theory of liability applicable to such other Member or its Representative; provided , however , that nothing herein shall eliminate any Member’s liability for any act or omission that constitutes a bad faith violation of the implied contractual covenant of good faith and fair dealing. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, nothing in this Section 6.04 shall limit or waive any claims against, actions, rights to sue, other remedies or other recourse of the Company, any Member or any other Person may have against any Member, Representative or employee of the Company for a breach of contract claim relating to any binding agreement.
6.05
Business Opportunities .
(d)      During the Term, except as otherwise provided in Section 6.05(f) [***], any project involving the planning, design, construction, acquisition, ownership, maintenance, or operation of the Facilities may be conducted only by the Company through a Series and not by any Member or any Affiliate of a Member; provided that the Management Committee may, pursuant to Section 6.02(KK), determine that one or more Additional Facilities shall be owned and conducted by EQT and USG (or their Affiliates) through an Additional Joint Venture LLC [***], and the operating agreement of any such Additional Joint Venture LLC shall be substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B . [***]. If such Representative shall elect to cause the Company to pursue such natural gas pipeline (each, including the construction, installation, operation, and maintenance of which, an “ Additional Facility ”), then the Management Committee shall create a separate Series pursuant to Section 3.01(b) to hold the Company’s right, title and interest in and to such Additional Facility and shall determine the terms of, and issue, additional Membership Interests in such Series in accordance with the terms of Sections 3.01(b) and 6.02((i)(G), [***].
(e)      A Member and each Affiliate of a Member may engage in and possess interests in other business ventures of any and every type and description, independently or with others, including ones in competition with the Company, with no obligation to offer to the Company, any other Member or any Affiliate of another Member the right to participate therein. Subject to Section 6.02(i)(HH), the Company may transact business with any Member or Affiliate thereof. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Members recognize and agree that their respective Affiliates currently engage in certain activities involving natural gas and electricity marketing and trading (including futures, options, swaps, exchanges of future positions for physical deliveries and commodity trading), gathering, processing, storage, transportation and distribution, electric generation, development and ownership, as well as other commercial activities related to natural gas and that these and other activities by Members’ Affiliates may be based on natural gas that is shipped through the Facilities or otherwise made possible or facilitated by reason of the Company’s activities (herein referred to as “ Affiliate s Outside Activities ”). No Affiliate of a Member shall be restricted in its right to conduct, individually or jointly with others, for its own account any Affiliate’s Outside Activities, and no Member or its Affiliates shall have any duty or obligation, express or implied, fiduciary or otherwise, to account to, or to share the results or profits of such Affiliate’s Outside Activities with, the Company, any other Member or any Affiliate of any other Member, by reason of such Affiliate’s Outside Activities. The provisions of this Section 6.05(b) and Sections 6.02(a)(iii), 6.02(f)(ii), 6.04, 6.05(d), 6.05(e), and 6.07(a) constitute an agreement to modify or eliminate, as applicable, fiduciary duties pursuant to the provisions of Section 18-1101 of the Act.
(f)
Subject to Section 6.05(a), each Member:
(i)      renounces in advance each and every interest or expectancy it or any of its Affiliates might be considered to have under the Act, at common law or in equity by reason of its membership in the Company in any business opportunity, or in any opportunity to participate in any business opportunity, in any business or industry in which any other Member or its Affiliates now or in the future engages, which is presented to the Company, to any other Member or any of its Affiliates or to any present or future partner, member, director, officer, manager, supervisor, employee, agent or representative of the Company or of any other Member or any of its Affiliates; and
(ii)      waives and consents to [***].
(g)
Subject to Section 6.05(a), the Company:
(i)      renounces in advance each and every interest or expectancy it might be considered to have under the Act, at common law or in any business opportunity, or in any opportunity to participate in any business opportunity, in any business or industry in which any Member or any of its Affiliates now or in the future engages, which is presented to such Member or any of its Affiliates or to any present or future partner, member, director, officer, manager, supervisor, employee, agent or representative of such Member or any of its Affiliates; and
(ii)      waives and consents to [***].
(h)      Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, with respect to a Related Party Matter, the Representative of the Founding Member who is, or whose Affiliate is, involved in such Related Party Matter [***].
(i)      [***]
6.06
Insurance Coverage .
(a)      Operator Insurance . Pursuant to the COM Agreement, the Operator is required to carry and maintain or cause to be carried and maintained certain liability insurance coverages.
(b)      Owner Insurance . The Management Committee shall determine the type limits, deductibles and other terms applicable to the insurance coverages to be maintained by each Series, and such Series shall engage an insurance broker to provide recommendations and to procure such insurance coverages on behalf of the Series.
(c)      Claim for Property Loss or Damage . In the event of actual loss or damage to a Series’ property or any incident reasonably anticipated to give rise to a claim for loss or damage to the Series’ property, the Series shall promptly provide written notice to the Members of such loss, damage or incident. The Series shall take all actions necessary to provide proper and timely notification to its insurers of such loss, damage or incident. The Series shall be responsible for the preparation, submittal and negotiation of all insurance claims related to any loss, damage or incident involving the Series’ property. The Members of such Series each agree to use all reasonable efforts to cooperate with each other and the Series in the preparation, submittal and negotiation of all such claims by the Series, including, but not limited to, the assignment of adjusters and the provision and exchange of information related to any loss, damage or incident involving the Series’ property.
(d)      Directors’ and Officers’ Liability . Each Member shall carry and maintain Directors’ and Officers’ Liability insurance covering its own respective persons who are serving as officers, directors, Representatives or Management Committee members of a Series. Each Member shall also be responsible for insuring its respective Membership Interest in a Series for securities claims against such Series.
6.07
Indemnification .
(a)      Subject to Section 6.07(b), to the fullest extent permitted by the Act, each Series shall indemnify and hold harmless each Representative and each Member and the managers, officers, directors, stockholders, partners, members, managers, employees, affiliates, representatives and agents of such Member, as well as each officer, employee, representative, and agent of the Series (individually, a “ Covered Person ”) from and against any and all Claims in which the Covered Person may be involved, or threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise, by reason of the fact that he or it is a Covered Person or which relates to or arises out of the Series or its property, business or affairs. A Covered Person shall not be entitled to indemnification under this Section 6.07(a) with respect to [***].
(b)      Notwithstanding the obligations of the Series pursuant to Section 6.07(a) and subject to Section 6.08, each Member shall indemnify, protect, defend, release and hold harmless the Company, each Series and each other Member, its Representative, its Affiliates, and its and their respective directors, officers, trustees, employees and agents from and against [***].
6.08
Limitation on Liability . EXCEPT IN CONNECTION WITH INDEMNIFICATION OBLIGATIONS ARISING FROM AN ACTION OR PROCEEDING BROUGHT BY A THIRD PARTY FOR AMOUNTS PAID OR OWING TO SUCH THIRD PARTY, EACH MEMBER AGREES THAT NO MEMBER SHALL BE LIABLE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT FOR EXEMPLARY, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES WHICH IN ANY WAY ARISE OUT OF, RELATE TO, OR ARE A CONSEQUENCE OF, ITS PERFORMANCE OR NONPERFORMANCE HEREUNDER, OR THE PROVISION OF OR FAILURE TO PROVIDE ANY SERVICE HEREUNDER, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF FUTURE PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTIONS, AND LOSS OF CUSTOMERS, WHETHER SUCH DAMAGES ARE ASSERTED IN AN ACTION BROUGHT IN CONTRACT, IN TORT OR PURSUANT TO SOME OTHER THEORY, AND WHETHER THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES WAS MADE KNOWN OR WAS FORESEEABLE.
6.09
Delivery of Operating Budget . On or prior to [***] of each year, the Operator shall deliver a draft annual Operating Budget for the following year to each of the Representatives, which Representatives will have [***] Days to provide comments (the “ Comment Deadline ”) on such draft annual Operating Budget (such comments, the “ Representative Budget Comments ”). The Operator shall make a good faith effort to respond to, and incorporate into such draft annual Operating Budget, the Representative Budget Comments and shall deliver to each of the Representatives the final annual Operating Budget for the following year on or before [***] (the “ December Deadline ”) of each year; provided , however , that, if the board of directors of the Operator has not convened to approve the annual Operating Budget by [***] of a given year, then the December Deadline shall be extended to [***] of such year; provided , further , that, if the meeting of the board of directors of the Operator to approve the annual Operating Budget is scheduled prior to the Comment Deadline, the Operator shall promptly notify the Representatives in writing of the date and time of such meeting (but no less than [***] Business Days in advance of such meeting), and the Representatives shall use reasonable efforts to provide the Representative Budget Comments in advance of such meeting. The Operator and the Representatives shall work together in good faith to cause the Operating Budget to be approved by [***] of such year.
ARTICLE 7     
DEVELOPMENT OF FACILITIES
7.01
Development of Facilities .
(o)      FERC Application . Pursuant to the terms of the COM Agreement, USG, EQT, and the Operator shall jointly prepare and submit to the Management Committee the proposed FERC Application related to the Facilities assigned to a Series; and, following the approval of the FERC Application by the Management Committee, USG, EQT, and the Operator shall, on behalf of the Company, file the FERC Application with the FERC.
(p)      Approval of FERC Certificate . No later than [***] Days prior to the FERC Response Date, the Management Committee shall vote on whether the FERC Certificate for the Facilities assigned to a Series is issued on terms and conditions which are not materially different from those requested in a FERC Application for such Facilities and whether the Company shall (i) accept the FERC Certificate for the applicable Facilities without seeking rehearing; (ii) accept such FERC Certificate and seek rehearing of the order issuing the FERC Certificate; (iii) file for rehearing before committing to accept or reject the FERC Certificate; or (iv) reject such FERC Certificate. The Management Committee shall be deemed to have approved the FERC Certificate for the applicable Facilities if the Management Committee determines that such certificate is issued on terms and conditions which are not materially different from those requested in the FERC Application for the applicable Facilities. In such event the Management Committee shall accept the FERC Certificate prior to the FERC Response Date with or without seeking rehearing of the order issuing the FERC Certificate for the applicable Facilities. In such event, subject to the terms of this Agreement, each Member shall be firmly committed to the construction of the applicable Facilities and the construction of the applicable Facilities shall not be subject to any conditions precedent, including but not limited to Management Committee approval of any financial commitment for obtaining funds to finance the applicable Facilities or the Management Committee approval to construct the applicable Facilities.
(q)      If the Management Committee finds that the FERC Certificate for the applicable Facilities is issued on terms and conditions which are materially different from those requested in the FERC Application and EQT and USG vote to accept the order issuing the FERC Certificate with or without seeking rehearing, then the Management Committee and the applicable Series shall accept the FERC Certificate prior to the FERC Response Dates, and in such event, and subject to the terms of this Agreement, each Member shall be firmly committed to the construction of the applicable Facilities and the construction of the applicable Facilities shall not be subject to any conditions precedent as provided in Section 7.01(b).
(r)      If the Management Committee finds that the FERC Certificate for the applicable Facilities is issued on terms and conditions which are materially different from those requested in the FERC Application for the applicable Facilities and [***]. In the event no Member votes to accept the order issuing the FERC Certificate for the Facilities, then such vote shall be a Dissolution Event with respect to the Series and the Series shall dissolve and its offices shall be wound up pursuant to Article 12.
7.02
Employee Matters . To facilitate placing the Facilities assigned to a Series in service, a Founding Member that is not, or does not have an Affiliate that is, the Operator shall have the right to have one (1) employee located in the Operator’s primary place of business with respect to the Facilities and any construction or engineering site until the In-Service Date for such Facilities, and such employee shall have access to all construction and engineering offices related to the Facilities and shall be permitted to review, examine, and copy the books, records, plans, reports, forecasts, studies, budgets, and other information related to such Facilities.
7.03
General Regulatory Matters .
(n)      The Members acknowledge that either the Company will be a “natural gas company” as defined in Section 2(6) of the NGA or the assets of the Company will be operated by a “natural gas company” as defined in Section 2(6) of the NGA in accordance with the certificate of authority granted by the FERC.
(o)      Each Member shall (i) cooperate fully with the Company, the Management Committee, USG, EQT, and the Operator in securing the Necessary Regulatory Approvals, including supporting all FERC Applications, and in connection with any reports prescribed by the FERC and any other Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Company; (ii) join in any eminent domain takings by the Company, to the extent, if any, required by Law; and (iii) without limiting or modifying Section 6.04 or 6.05, devote such efforts as shall be reasonable and necessary to develop and promote the Facilities for the benefit of the Company, taking into account such Member’s Sharing Ratio, resources, and expertise.
ARTICLE 8     
TAXES
8.01
Tax Returns . Except as otherwise required by any final Treasury Regulations, each Member, each Series, and the Company shall treat each Series as an entity formed under local law for federal (and, where applicable, state and local) tax purposes and shall file tax returns for or with respect to each Series accordingly. Operator shall prepare and timely file (on behalf of the Company and any such Series) all federal, state and local tax returns required to be filed by the Company or with respect to each such Series; provided that so long as USG is a Founding Member with respect to the Series to which a material tax return relates, USG shall have the right to review and comment on such material return at least 25 Days prior to the relevant due date for such return (which return may be provided to USG in draft form) and that the Operator shall include any such timely received comments as are reasonable, subject to applicable Law and to any ethical obligations of a return preparer. Each Member shall furnish to Operator all pertinent information in its possession relating to the Company’s operations and the operations of each Series that is necessary to enable such tax returns to be timely prepared and filed. The Company shall bear the costs of the preparation and filing of its returns.
8.02
Tax Elections . The Company or each Series shall make the following elections on the appropriate tax returns:
(p)
to adopt the calendar year as the Company’s and each Series’ fiscal and taxable year;
(q)
to adopt the accrual method of accounting;
(r)
to make the election described in Code Section 754 with respect to the first taxable year of the Company and each Series;
(s)
to elect to deduct or amortize the organizational expenses of the Company and each Series in accordance with Section 709(b) of the Code and to depreciate property pursuant to the most rapid depreciation or cost recovery method available; and
(t)
any other election the Management Committee for each Series may deem appropriate or that the Operator is permitted to make without Management Committee approval in accordance with Section 6.02(i)(B).
Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, none of the Company, any Series or any Member shall make an election for the Company or any Series to be excluded from the application of the provisions of subchapter K of chapter 1 of subtitle A of the Code or elect for the Company or any Series to be treated as an association taxable as a corporation or any similar provisions of applicable state law and no provision of this Agreement shall be construed to sanction or approve such an election.
8.03
Tax Matters Member . (j) EQT shall serve as the “tax matters partner” of the Company and each Series pursuant to Section 6231(a)(7) of the Code (the “ Tax Matters Member ”). The Tax Matters Member shall take such action as may be necessary to cause to the extent possible each other Member to become a “notice partner” within the meaning of Section 6223 of the Code. The Tax Matters Member shall inform each other Member of all significant matters that may come to its attention in its capacity as Tax Matters Member by giving notice thereof on or before the fifth Business Day after becoming aware thereof and, within that time, shall forward to each other Member copies of all significant written communications it may receive from a taxing authority in that capacity. In the event that EQT ceases to be the Tax Matters Member (or any successor Tax Matters Member ceases to be a Member), the Management Committee shall appoint a successor Tax Matters Member.
(k)      The Tax Matters Member shall provide any Member, upon reasonable request, access to accounting and tax information and schedules obtained by the Tax Matters Member solely in its capacity as Tax Matters Member as shall be necessary for the preparation by such Member of its income tax returns and such Member’s tax information reporting requirements.
(l)      The Tax Matters Member shall take no action in its capacity as Tax Matters Member without the authorization of the Management Committee, other than such action as may be required by Law. Any cost or expense incurred by the Tax Matters Member in connection with its duties, including the preparation for or pursuance of administrative or judicial proceedings and in complying with Section 8.03(b), shall be paid by the Company.
(m)      The Tax Matters Member shall not enter into any extension of the period of limitations for making assessments on behalf of the Members without first obtaining the consent of the Management Committee. The Tax Matters Member shall not bind any Member to a settlement agreement without obtaining the consent of such Member. Any Member that enters into a settlement agreement with respect to any partnership item (as described in Code Section 6231(a)(3)) with respect to the Company or any Series shall notify the other Members of such settlement agreement and its terms within [***] Days from the date of the settlement.
(n)      No Member shall file a request pursuant to Code Section 6227 for an administrative adjustment of Company items or items of any Series for any taxable year without first notifying the other Members no later than [***] Days prior to filing such request. If the Management Committee consents to the requested adjustment, the Tax Matters Member shall file the request for the administrative adjustment on behalf of the Members. If such consent is not obtained within [***] Days from such notice, any Member, including the Tax Matters Member, may file a request for administrative adjustment on its own behalf. Any Member intending to file a petition under Code Sections 6226, 6228 or other Code Section with respect to any item involving the Company shall notify the other Members of such intention and the nature of the contemplated proceeding. In the case where the Tax Matters Member is the Member intending to file such petition on behalf of the Company or any Series, such notice shall be given within a reasonable period of time to allow the other Members to participate in the choosing of the forum in which such petition will be filed.
(o)      If any Member intends to file a notice of inconsistent treatment under Code Section 6222(b), such Member shall give reasonable notice under the circumstances to the other Members of such intent and the manner in which the Member’s intended treatment of an item is (or may be) inconsistent with the treatment of that item by the other Members.
ARTICLE 9     
BOOKS, RECORDS, REPORTS, AND BANK ACCOUNTS
9.01
Maintenance of Books . (u) The Operator shall keep or cause to be kept at the principal office of the Company or at such other location approved by the Management Committee complete and accurate books and records of the Company and each Series, including all books and records necessary to provide to the Members any information required to be provided pursuant to Section 9.02, supporting documentation of the transactions with respect to the conduct of the Company’s and Series’ business and minutes of the proceedings of its Members and the Management Committee, and any other books and records that are required to be maintained by applicable Law.
(v)      The books of account of the Company and Series shall be (i) maintained on the basis of a fiscal year that is the calendar year, (ii) maintained on an accrual basis in accordance with Required Accounting Practices, and (iii) unless the Management Committee decides otherwise, audited by the Certified Public Accountants at the end of each calendar year.
9.02
Reports . (p) With respect to each calendar year, the Operator shall prepare and deliver to each Member:
(i)      Within 75 Days after the end of such calendar year, a statement of operations and a statement of cash flows for such year, a balance sheet as of the end of such year, and an audited report thereon of the Certified Public Accountants; provided that, upon the written request of one or more Members at least [***] Days prior to the applicable calendar year end, which request shall be a standing request effective for subsequent calendar years unless and until revoked by the requesting Member, the Operator shall prepare and deliver to the requesting Member(s) within 25 Days after the end of each such calendar year the foregoing information except for the audited report, which the Operator shall use reasonable efforts to prepare and deliver to the requesting Member(s) no later than 14 Days prior to any regulatory, contractual or filing deadlines of such Member for which the Operator has been notified by such Member.
(ii)      Within 75 Days after the end of such calendar year, such federal, state and local income tax returns and such other accounting and tax information and schedules as shall be necessary for tax reporting purposes by each Member with respect to such year.
(q)      Upon the written request of one or more Founding Members at least [***] Days prior to the applicable calendar year end, the Operator shall use reasonable efforts to prepare and deliver to the requesting Founding Member(s) the following information within [***] Days after the end of such calendar year:
(i)      A discussion and analysis of the results of operations including detailed explanations of significant variances in revenues, expenses and cash flow activities appearing in the audited financial statements, as compared to the same periods in the prior calendar year, and relevant operational statistics, including volumetric data;
(ii)      A schedule of amounts due by year for contractual obligations that will impact Available Cash including notes payable, capital leases, operating leases, and purchase obligations; and
(iii)      A three-year forward-looking forecast that includes a balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and a statement of cash flows. Such forecast shall include information pertaining to the underlying assumptions used in its preparation including volumetric, revenue per-unit and capital expenditure assumptions. Such forecast also shall be updated within 45 Days after execution by the Company of a material Gas Transportation Service Agreement if the timing and amount of revenues or expenses resulting from such agreement are materially different than estimates included in the forward-looking forecast.
The reasonable incremental cost to the Operator of preparing the above reports shall be reimbursed to the Operator by the Founding Member requesting such reports and, in the case of two or more Founding Members requesting such reports, equally by such Founding Members. Such cost shall be determined in accordance with the Accounting Procedure set forth in the COM Agreement.
(r)      Within 25 Days after the end of each calendar month, the Operator shall cause to be prepared and delivered to each Member with an appropriate certification of the Person authorized to prepare the same ( provided that the Management Committee may change the financial statements required by this Section 9.02(c) to a quarterly basis or may make such other change therein as it may deem appropriate):
(i)      A statement of operations for such month (including sufficient information to permit the Members to calculate their tax accruals) and for the portion of the calendar year then ended as compared with the same periods for the prior calendar year and with the budgeted results for the current periods;
(ii)      A balance sheet as of the end of such month and the portion of the calendar year then ended; and
(iii)      For quarter month end, a statement of cash flows for the portion of the calendar year then ended as compared to the same period for the prior calendar year.
(s)      In addition to its obligations under subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this Section 9.02, but subject to Section 3.06, the Operator shall timely prepare and deliver to any Member, upon request, all of such additional financial statements, notes thereto and additional financial information as may be required in order for each Member or an Affiliate of such Member to comply with any reporting requirements under (i) the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, (ii) the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and (iii) any national securities exchange or automated quotation system. The reasonable incremental cost to Operator of preparing and delivering such additional financial statements, notes thereto and additional financial information, including any required incremental audit fees and expenses, shall be reimbursed to the Operator by the Member requesting such reports and, in the case of two or more Members requesting such additional information, equally by such Members. Such cost shall be determined in accordance with the Accounting Procedure set forth in the COM Agreement.
(t)      Operator shall also cause to be prepared and delivered to each Founding Member such other reports, forecasts, studies, budgets and other information as such Founding Member may reasonably request from time to time.
(u)      For purposes of clarification and not limitation, any audit or examination by a Member pursuant to Section 3.6 of the COM Agreement may, at the option of such Member, include audit or examination of the books, records and other support for the costs incurred pursuant to subsections (b) and (e) of this Section 9.02.
9.03
Bank Accounts . Funds of each Series shall be deposited in such banks or other depositories as shall be designated from time to time by the Management Committee and shall not be commingled with the Operator’s funds. All withdrawals from any such depository shall be made only as authorized by the Management Committee and shall be made only by check, wire transfer, debit memorandum or other written instruction. The Management Committee may authorize the Operator to designate and maintain accounts in any such banks or other depositories in accordance with Exhibit A to the COM Agreement.
ARTICLE 10     
WITHDRAWAL
10.01
Right of Withdrawal . With respect to each Series, (a) prior to the In-Service Date of the Facilities assigned to such Series, no Member shall have the right to withdraw from such Series, other than [***] and (b) following the In-Service Date of the Facilities assigned to such Series, each Member shall have the right to withdraw from the Series [***] Days following delivery of written notice to the Management Committee.
10.02
Deemed Withdrawal . A Member is deemed to have Withdrawn from a Series upon the occurrence of any of the following events:
(e)
the Member is deemed, pursuant to Section 7.01(d) to have Withdrawn from the Series;
(f)
there occurs an event that makes it unlawful for the Member to continue to be a Member;
(g)
the Member becomes Bankrupt;
(h)
the Member dissolves and commences liquidation or winding-up; or
(i)
the Member commits a Default.
10.03
Effect of Withdrawal . A Member that is deemed to have Withdrawn pursuant to Section 10.01 or Section 10.02 (a “ Withdrawn Member ”), must comply with the following requirements in connection with its Withdrawal:
(c)      The Withdrawn Member ceases to be a Member of the applicable Series immediately upon the occurrence of the applicable Withdrawal event.
(d)      The Withdrawn Member shall not be entitled to receive any distributions from the Series except as set forth in Section 10.03(e), and neither it nor its Representative shall be entitled to exercise any voting or consent rights, or to appoint any Representative or Alternate Representative to the Management Committee (and the Representative (and the Alternate Representative) appointed by such Member shall be deemed to have resigned) or to receive any further information (or access to information) from the Series. The Sharing Ratio of such Member with respect to any Series shall not be taken into account in calculating the Sharing Ratios of the Members for any purposes. This Section 10.03(b) shall also apply to a Breaching Member; but if a Breaching Member cures its breach during the applicable cure period, then any distributions that were withheld from such Member shall be paid to it, without interest.
(e)      The Withdrawn Member must pay to each Series all amounts owed to it by such Withdrawn Member.
(f)      The Withdrawn Member shall remain obligated for all liabilities it may have under this Agreement or otherwise with respect to the Series that accrue prior to the Withdrawal.
(g)      In the event of a Withdrawal with respect to any Series under Section 10.01 or a deemed Withdrawal under Section 10.02(b) or (c), the Withdrawn Member shall be entitled to receive a portion of each distribution that is made by the Series from and after the In-Service Date for the Facilities assigned to such Series, equal to the product of the Withdrawn Member’s Sharing Ratio with respect to the Series as of the date of its Withdrawal multiplied by the aggregate amount of such distribution; provided that the Withdrawn Member’s rights under this Section 10.03(e) shall automatically terminate at such time as the Withdrawn Member has received an aggregate amount under this Section 10.03(e) equal to the sum of (i) lesser of (A) the Withdrawn Member’s Outstanding Capital Contribution with respect to the Series, and (B) the Fair Market Value of the Withdrawn Member’s Membership Interest with respect to the Series, each determined as of the date of the Withdrawal, plus (ii) any Indebtedness of the Company owed to such Member at the time of Withdrawal. From the date of the Withdrawal to the date of such payment, the amount owing to the Withdrawn Member pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be recorded as a contingent obligation of the Series until such payment is made. The rights of a Withdrawn Member under this Section 10.03(e) shall (A) be subordinate to the rights of any other creditor of the Series, (B) not include any right on the part of the Withdrawn Member to receive any interest or other amounts with respect thereto (except as may otherwise be provided in the evidence of any Indebtedness of the Series owed to such Withdrawn Member); (C) not require the Series to make any distribution (the Withdrawn Member’s rights under this Section 10.03(e) being limiting to receiving a portion of such distributions as the Management Committee may, in its Sole Discretion, decide to cause the Series to make); (D) not require any Member to make a Capital Contribution or a loan to permit the Series to make a distribution or otherwise to pay the Withdrawn Member; and (E) be treated as a liability of the Series for purposes of Section 12.02.
(h)      Except as set forth in Section 10.03(e), a Withdrawn Member shall not be entitled to receive any return of its Capital Contributions or other payment from the Series in respect of its Membership Interest in such Series. Any Performance Assurances or Credit Assurances provided by the Withdrawn Member and outstanding as of the date of Withdrawal shall continue as to the liabilities accrued prior to the date of Withdrawal for which such Performance Assurances were provided under Section 4.01(b) or such Credit Assurances were provided under Section 4.07; provided that, in the event a Member is Withdrawn pursuant to Section 10.02(e), such Member shall pay over and forfeit any remaining Performance Assurances as liquidated damages and not as a penalty.
(i)      The Sharing Ratio of the Withdrawn Member with respect to the Series to which the withdrawal relates shall be allocated among the remaining Members with Membership Interests in such Series in the proportion that each Member’s Sharing Ratio with respect to the Series bears to the total Sharing Ratio of all remaining Members with respect to the Series, or in such other proportion as the remaining Members may unanimously agree.
(j)      A deemed Withdrawal under Section 7.01(d) shall carry no connotation or implication that the Withdrawn Member has breached this Agreement or otherwise acted contrary to the intent of this Agreement, it being understood that (i) each Member is completely free to cast its vote as it wishes at the Management Committee meetings described in such Section and (ii) the concept of “deemed Withdrawal” in such Section is merely a convenient technique for permitting the continued development of the Facilities by the Members that desire to continue such development.
ARTICLE 11     
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
11.01
Disputes . This Article 11 shall apply to any dispute arising under or related to this Agreement (whether arising in contract, tort or otherwise, and whether arising at law or in equity), including (a) any dispute regarding the construction, interpretation, performance, validity or enforceability of any provision of this Agreement or whether any Person is in compliance with, or breach of, any provisions of this Agreement; (b) any deadlock among the Representatives on any matter requiring approval of the Management Committee (including any dispute over whether the Representatives of any Founding Member (or its Affiliates) are reasonably withholding their consent in connection with a determination by the Management Committee, but only with respect to those matters specifically identified in Section 6.02(j) and Section 6.05(e)) other than the matters covered by Sections 6.02(i)(G) or 6.02(i)(BB) (a “ Deadlock ”); and (c) the applicability of this Article 11 to a particular dispute. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 11.01 shall not apply to any matters that, pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, are to be resolved by a vote of the Management Committee; provided that, if a vote, approval, consent, determination or other decision must, under the terms of this Agreement, be made (or withheld) in accordance with a standard other than Sole Discretion (such as a reasonableness standard), then the issue of whether such standard has been satisfied may be a dispute to which this Article 11 applies (including Section 11.03); and provided , further , that any Deadlock shall be resolved solely as provided in Sections 11.02 and 11.05 hereof. Any dispute to which this Article 11 applies is referred to herein as a “ Dispute . ” With respect to a particular Dispute, each Member that is a party to such Dispute is referred to herein as a “ Disputing Member . ” The provisions of this Article 11 shall be the exclusive method of resolving Disputes.
11.02
Negotiation to Resolve Disputes . If a Dispute arises, the Disputing Members shall attempt to resolve such Dispute through the following procedure:
(k)      first, the designated Representative of each of the Disputing Members shall promptly meet (whether by phone or in person) in a good faith attempt to resolve the Dispute; and
(l)      second, if the Dispute is still unresolved after ten (10) Business Days following the commencement of the negotiations described in Section 11.02(a), then the Parent Decision Makers shall meet in person within five (5) Business Days after the expiration of the aforementioned period of ten (10) Business Days, and such Parent Decision Makers shall attempt in good faith to resolve the Dispute as promptly as practicable.
11.03
Courts . If a Dispute (other than a Deadlock) is still unresolved following ten (10) Business Days after a written request or demand for negotiations described in Section 11.02(b), then any of such Disputing Members may submit such Dispute only to the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware or, in the event that such court does not have jurisdiction over the subject matter of such Dispute, to another court of the State of Delaware or a U.S. federal court located in the State of Delaware (collectively, “ Delaware Courts ”), and each of the Members irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Delaware Courts and hereby consents to service of process in any such Dispute by the delivery of such process to such party at the address and in the manner provided in Section 13.02. Each of the Members hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives any objection to the laying of venue in any Dispute in the Delaware Courts and hereby further irrevocably and unconditionally waives and agrees not to plead or clam in any such court that any action, suit or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. EACH MEMBER IRREVOCABLY WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.
11.04
Specific Performance . The Members understand and agree that (a) irreparable damage would occur in the event that any provision of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with its specific terms, (b) although monetary damages may be available for the breach of such covenants and agreements such monetary damages are not intended to and do not adequately compensate for the harm that would result from a breach of this Agreement, would be an inadequate remedy therefor and shall not be construed to diminish or otherwise impair in any respect any Member’s or the Company’s right to specific performance and (c) the right of specific performance is an integral part of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and without that right none of the Members would have entered into this Agreement. It is accordingly agreed that, in addition to any other remedy that may be available to it, including monetary damages, each of the Members and the Company shall be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions of this Agreement. Each of the Members further agrees that no Member nor the Company shall be required to obtain, furnish or post any bond or similar instrument in connection with or as a condition to obtaining any remedy referred to in this Section 11.04 and each Member waives any objection to the imposition of such relief or any right it may have to require the obtaining, furnishing or posting of any such bond or similar instrument.
11.05
Arbitration
(a)      If a Deadlock is still unresolved pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 11.02, then the Deadlock shall be settled by arbitration conducted in the English language in New York, New York, administered by and in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Commercial Arbitration Rules (“ Rules ”) of the American Arbitration Association (“ AAA ”) (the “ Arbitration ”).
(b)      Any Disputing Member (the “ Arbitration Invoking Party ”) may, by notice (the “ Arbitration Notice ”) to any other Disputing Member (the “ Arbitration Noticed Party ”), submit the Dispute to Arbitration in accordance with the provisions of this Section 11.05(b). Any Disputing Member may initiate Arbitration by filing with the AAA a notice of intent to arbitrate within the mediation period.
(c)      Any such Arbitration proceeding shall be before a tribunal of three (3) arbitrators, one (1) designated by the Arbitration Invoking Party, one (1) designated by the Arbitration Noticed Party, and one (1) designated by the two (2) arbitrators so designated. The Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall each name their arbitrator by notice (the “ Selection Notice ”) given within five (5) Business Days after the date of the Arbitration Notice, and the two (2) arbitrators so appointed shall agree upon the third member of the tribunal within five (5) Business Days after the date of the Selection Notice. Any member of the tribunal not appointed within the period required, whether by one of the Disputing Members or by the two (2) arbitrators chosen by the Disputing Members, shall be appointed by the AAA. The arbitrators shall have no affiliation with, financial or other interest in, or prior employment with either Disputing Member or their Affiliates and shall be experienced and well-regarded oil and gas attorneys knowledgeable in the field of the dispute.
(d)      In any Arbitration in which the Deadlock involves a dispute over whether the Representatives of any Founding Members are reasonably withholding their consent in connection with a determination by the Management Committee with respect to any matter identified in Section 6.02(j) or Section 6.05(e), the arbitrators shall first determine whether the Representatives of such Founding Member are reasonably withholding their consent in the matter(s) in question and, if such Representatives are determined to have acted reasonably, the arbitrators shall then immediately proceed to resolve the Deadlock among the Representatives on the matter(s) requiring approval of the Management Committee.
(e)      Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall have twenty (20) Business Days, commencing on the date the Arbitration Notice is given, to prepare and submit a proposal for the resolution of the dispute to the tribunal, including a description of how such Disputing Member arrived at its proposal and the arguments therefor, as it deems appropriate. Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall deliver a copy of its proposal, including any such supplemental information, to the other Disputing Member at the same time it delivers the proposal to the tribunal.
(f)      Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall have five (5) Business Days after the receipt of the other Disputing Member’s proposal to revise its respective proposal and submit a final proposal to the tribunal, including supporting arguments for its own and against the other Disputing Member’s proposal.
(g)      Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall present oral arguments supporting its final proposal to the tribunal at a proceeding held five (5) Business Days after the deadline for submission of final proposals to the tribunal. Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall have three (3) hours to make its oral presentation to the tribunal.
(h)      The tribunal shall, within ten (10) Business Days after presentation of the oral arguments, render a decision that selects the Arbitration Invoking Party’s final proposal (with no modifications thereto) or the Arbitration Noticed Party’s final proposal (with no modifications thereto), and no other proposal. The award rendered pursuant to the foregoing shall be final and binding on the Disputing Members, shall not be subject to appeal, and judgment thereon may be entered or enforcement thereof sought by either Disputing Member in any court of competent jurisdiction.
(i)      Each Disputing Member shall bear the costs of its appointed arbitrator and its own attorneys’ fees, and the costs of the third arbitrator incurred in accordance with the foregoing shall be shared equally by the Disputing Members. Additional incidental costs of the Arbitration shall be paid for by the non-prevailing Disputing Member in the Arbitration.
(j)      Notwithstanding the foregoing, each Disputing Member may at any time in a Dispute apply to the Court of Chancery for a decree of dissolution of the Company pursuant to Section 18-802 of the Act.
ARTICLE 12     
DISSOLUTION, WINDING-UP AND TERMINATION
12.01
Dissolution .
(m)      The Company shall dissolve and its affairs shall be wound up (i) on the date all Series of the Company are terminated and wound up or (ii) upon entry of a decree of judicial dissolution under Section 18-802 of the Act.
(n)      A Series shall dissolve and its affairs shall be wound up on the first to occur of the following events (each a “ Dissolution Event ”):
(iii)      decision to terminate the Series by Supermajority Interest;
(iv)      entry of a decree of judicial dissolution of the Series under Section 18-215(m) of the Act;
(v)      the Disposition or abandonment of all or substantially all of the Series’ business and assets;
(vi)      an event that makes it unlawful for the business of the Series to be carried on;
(vii)      with respect to Series A, by 10 Business Days’ written notice of termination given by USG or EQT if the initial Construction Budget, the Project Schedule and the Initial Operating Budget have not been approved by USG and EQT by the [***] Day following the delivery thereof to USG; provided , however , that, if the initial Construction Budget, Project Schedule and the Initial Operating Budget are approved within 10 Business Days following delivery of such notice of termination, then such written notice of termination shall be null and void, and this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.
(o)      The termination and winding up of a Series shall not, in it of itself, cause a dissolution of the Company or the termination of any other Series; provided , however , that the Company shall dissolve and its affairs shall be wound up on the date all Series of the Company are terminated and wound up. The termination of a single Series shall not affect the limitation on liabilities of such Series or any other Series provided by this Agreement and the Act.
12.02
Winding-Up and Termination . (a) On the termination of a Series, the Management Committee shall designate a Member or other Person to serve as liquidator. The liquidator shall proceed diligently to wind up the affairs of the Series and make final distributions as provided herein and in the Act. The costs of winding-up shall be borne as a Series expense. Until final distribution, the liquidator shall continue to operate the Series properties with all of the power and authority of the Members. The steps to be accomplished by the liquidator are as follows:
(i)      as promptly as possible after termination and again after final winding-up, the liquidator shall cause a proper accounting to be made by a recognized firm of certified public accountants of the Series’ assets, liabilities, and operations through the last Day of the month in which the termination occurs or the final winding-up is completed, as applicable;
(ii)      the liquidator shall discharge from Series funds all of the Indebtedness of the Series and other debts, liabilities and obligations of the Series (including all expenses incurred in winding-up and any loans described in Section 4.02) or otherwise make adequate provision for payment and discharge thereof (including the establishment of a cash escrow fund for contingent liabilities in such amount and for such term as the liquidator may reasonably determine); and
(iii)      all remaining assets of the Series shall be distributed to the Members as follows:
(A)      the liquidator may sell any or all Series property, including to Members, and any resulting gain or loss from each sale shall be computed and allocated to the Capital Accounts of the Members with respect to the Series in accordance with the provisions of Article 5;
(B)      with respect to all Series property that has not been sold, the fair market value of that property shall be determined and the Capital Accounts of the Members with respect to the Series shall be adjusted to reflect the manner in which the unrealized income, gain, loss, and deduction inherent in property that has not been reflected in the Capital Accounts with respect to the Series previously would be allocated among the Members if there were a taxable disposition of that property for the fair market value of that property on the date of distribution; and
(C)      Series property (including cash) shall be distributed among the Members in accordance with Section 5.01; and those distributions shall be made by the end of the taxable year of the Series during which the liquidation of the Series occurs (or, if later, [***] Days after the date of the liquidation).
(b)      The distribution of cash or property to a Member with respect to a Series in accordance with the provisions of this Section 12.02 constitutes a complete return to the Member of its Capital Contributions with respect to the Series and a complete distribution to the Member of its Membership Interest with respect to the Series and all the Series property and constitutes a compromise to which all Members have consented pursuant to Section 18-502(b) of the Act. To the extent that a Member returns funds to the Company or any Series, it has no claim against any other Member for those funds. Except as otherwise provided by applicable laws, upon termination of a Series, each Member associated with such Series shall look solely to the assets of such Series for the return of its Capital Contributions made with respect to such Series, and if the assets of such Series remaining after payment of or due provision for the debts and liabilities of the Company with respect to such Series are insufficient to return such Capital Contributions, such Members shall have no recourse against any other Series, the Company or any other Member, except as otherwise provided by law.
(c)      No dissolution or termination of the Company shall relieve a Member from any obligation to the extent such obligation has accrued as of the date of such dissolution or termination. Upon such termination, any books and records of the Company that there is a reasonable basis for believing will ever be needed again shall be furnished to the Operator, who shall keep such books and records (subject to review by any Person that was a Member at the time of dissolution) for a period at least three (3) years. At such time as the Operator no longer agrees to keep such books and records, it shall offer the Persons who were Members at the time of dissolution the opportunity to take over such custody, shall deliver such books and records to such Persons if they elect to take over such custody, and may destroy such books and records if they do not so elect. Any such custody by such Persons shall be on such terms as they may agree upon among themselves.
12.03
Deficit Capital Accounts . No Member will be required to pay to the Company, to any other Member or to any third party any deficit balance that may exist from time to time in any Member’s Capital Account with respect to any Series.
12.04
Certificate of Cancellation . On completion of the distribution of the Company’s assets as provided herein, the Members (or such other Person or Persons as the Act may require or permit) shall file a certificate of cancellation with the Secretary of State of Delaware, cancel any other filings made pursuant to the Act, and take such other actions as may be necessary to terminate the existence of the Company. Upon the filing of such certificate of cancellation, the existence of the Company shall terminate (and the Term shall end), except as may be otherwise provided by the Act or other applicable Law.
ARTICLE 13     
GENERAL PROVISIONS
13.01
Offset; Costs and Expenses . (d) Whenever a Series is to pay any sum to any Member, any amounts that Member owes the Series may be deducted from that sum before payment.
(e)      Series A shall reimburse the Founding Members for all out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by the Founding Members prior to the Effective Date in connection with the drafting, review and negotiation of this Agreement and the COM Agreement and for any out-of-pocket costs or expenses incurred by a Member in connection with the formation of the Company.
13.02
Notices . Except as expressly set forth to the contrary in this Agreement, all notices, requests or consents provided for or permitted to be given under this Agreement must be in writing and must be delivered to the recipient in person, by courier or mail, or by facsimile or other electronic transmission, including electronic mail. A notice, request or consent given under this Agreement is effective on receipt by the Member to receive it; provided that a facsimile or other electronic transmission that is transmitted after the normal business hours of the recipient shall be deemed effective on the next Business Day. All notices, requests and consents to be sent to a Member must be sent to or made at the addresses given for that Member on Exhibit A or in the instrument described in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(2) or Section 3.04, or such other address as that Member may specify by notice to the other Members. Any notice, request or consent to the Company must be given to all of the Members. Whenever any notice is required to be given by Law, the Delaware Certificate or this Agreement, a written waiver thereof, signed by the Person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice.
13.03
Entire Agreement; Superseding Effect . This Agreement, the COM Agreement, and [***] constitute the entire agreement of the Members and their Affiliates relating to the Company and the transactions contemplated hereby and supersede all provisions and concepts contained in all prior agreements.
13.04
Effect of Waiver or Consent . Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, a waiver or consent, express or implied, to or of any breach or default by any Member in the performance by that Member of its obligations with respect to the Company is not a consent or waiver to or of any other breach or default in the performance by that Member of the same or any other obligations of that Member with respect to the Company. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, failure on the part of a Member to complain of any act of any Member or to declare any Member in default with respect to the Company, irrespective of how long that failure continues, does not constitute a waiver by that Member of its rights with respect to that default until the applicable statute-of-limitations period has run.
13.05
Amendment or Restatement . This Agreement and the Delaware Certificate may be amended or restated only by a written instrument executed (or, in the case of the Delaware Certificate, approved) by Supermajority Interest; provided , however , that any amendment or restatement that is materially adverse to any Member in a manner that is disproportionate to such Member’s interest (as compared to the interest of other Members) shall (a) if the affected Member is a Founding Member, require the written consent or approval of such Founding Member; or (b) if the affected Member is not a Founding Member, require the written consent or approval of a majority of all Members similarly adversely affected.
13.06
Binding Effect . Subject to the restrictions on Dispositions set forth in this Agreement, this Agreement is binding on and shall inure to the benefit of the Members and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
13.07
Governing Law; Severability . THIS AGREEMENT IS GOVERNED BY AND SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE, EXCLUDING ANY CONFLICT-OF-LAWS RULE OR PRINCIPLE THAT MIGHT REFER THE GOVERNANCE OR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THIS AGREEMENT TO THE LAW OF ANOTHER JURISDICTION. In the event of a direct conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and any mandatory, non-waivable provision of the Act, such provision of the Act shall control. If any provision of the Act provides that it may be varied or superseded in a limited liability company agreement (or otherwise by agreement of the members or managers of a limited liability company), such provision shall be deemed superseded and waived in its entirety if this Agreement contains a provision addressing the same issue or subject matter. If any provision of this Agreement or the application thereof to any Member or circumstance is held invalid or unenforceable to any extent, (a) the remainder of this Agreement and the application of that provision to other Members or circumstances is not affected thereby, and (b) the Members shall negotiate in good faith to replace that provision with a new provision that is valid and enforceable and that puts the Members in substantially the same economic, business and legal position as they would have been in if the original provision had been valid and enforceable.
13.08
Further Assurances . In connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, each Member shall execute and deliver any additional documents and instruments and perform any additional acts that may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate and perform the provisions of this Agreement and those transactions; provided , however , that this Section 13.08 shall not obligate a Member to furnish guarantees or other credit supports by such Member’s Parent or other Affiliates.
13.09
Waiver of Certain Rights . Each Member irrevocably waives any right it may have to maintain any action for dissolution of the Company or for partition of the property of the Company.
13.10
Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if all signing parties had signed the same document. All counterparts shall be construed together and constitute the same instrument.
13.11
Fair Market Value Determination .
(a)      [***]
(b)      [***]
(c)      [***]
13.12
Other Agreements . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, it is hereby acknowledged and agreed that the Company has the power and authority, without further act, approval, or vote of the Management Committee, to [***].

[Remainder of page intentionally left blank. Signature page follows.]

18
        


 


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Members have executed this Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
MEMBERS :

MVP HOLDCO, LLC
By:      /s/ Randall L. Crawford    
Name:    
Randall L. Crawford    
Title:     
President    
US MARCELLUS GAS INFRASTRUCTURE, LLC

By:     
/s/ Lawrence A. Wall, Jr.     
Name:
Lawrence A. Wall, Jr.     
Title:
President    
COMPANY :

MOUNTAIN VALLEY PIPELINE, LLC

By:     MVP Holdco, LLC, its Member
By: /s/ Randall L. Crawford     Name:     Randall L. Crawford    
Title:     
President    
By:
US Marcellus Gas Infrastructure, LLC,
its Member
By: /s/ Lawrence A. Wall, Jr.    
Name:
Lawrence A. Wall, Jr.    
Title:
President    




19
        


 

EXHIBIT A
MEMBERS

Name, Address, Fax and E-mail
Series A Sharing
Ratio
Parent
Representative and Alternate Representatives

MVP HOLDCO, LLC

EQT Plaza
625 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
Fax: (412) 553-7781
Attention: Blue Jenkins
   [***]
   David Gray
   [***]
   Sean McGinty
   [***]



[***]%

[***]

[***]


[***]


US MARCELLUS GAS INFRASTRUCTURE, LLC

601 Travis Street
Suite 1900
Houston, Texas 77002
Fax: 713.751.0375
Attention: Lawrence A. Wall, Jr.
                    [***]
                 Karina Amelang
    [***]

 

[***]%

[***]

[***]


[***]





 

EXHIBIT B

FORM OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT





















LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT
OF
[●], LLC
A Delaware Limited Liability Company


[●], 2014

















        
        
746278.04-WILSR01A - MSW

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article 1 DEFINITIONS                                      1
1.01
Definitions                                1
1.02
Interpretation                                16
Article 2 ORGANIZATION                                  16
2.01
Formation                                16
2.02
Name                                    16
2.03
Registered Office; Registered Agent; Principal Office in the
United States; Other Offices                        16
2.04
Purposes                                17
2.05
No State Law Partnership                            17
2.06
Foreign Qualification                            17
2.07
Term                                    17
2.08
Title to Property                                17
Article 3 MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS; DISPOSITIONS OF INTERESTS              17
3.01
Capital Structure                                17
3.02
Representations, Warranties and Covenants.                    18
3.03
Dispositions and Encumbrances of Membership Interests.            19
3.04
Creation of Additional Membership Interests                    29
3.05
Access to Information                            29
3.06
Confidential Information                            30
3.07
Liability to Third Parties                            32
3.08
Use of Members’ Names and Trademarks                    32
Article 4 CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS/LOANS                          32
4.01
Capital Contributions                            32
4.02
Loans                                    35
4.03
No Other Contribution or Loan Obligations                    36
4.04
Return of Contributions                            37
4.05
Capital Accounts                                37
4.06
Failure to Make a Capital Contribution or Loan.                38
4.07
Credit Assurance.                                41
Article 5 DISTRIBUTIONS AND ALLOCATIONS                      41
5.01
Distributions                                41
5.02
[Intentionally omitted.]                            42
5.03
[Intentionally omitted.]                            42
5.04
Allocations for Maintaining Capital Accounts                42
5.05
Allocations for Tax Purposes                        43
5.06
Varying Interests                                44
5.07
Amounts Withheld                            44

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Article 6 MANAGEMENT                                  45
6.01
Generally                                45
6.02
Management Committee                            45
6.03
Construction, Operation and Management Agreement                52
6.04
No Duties; Disclaimer of Duties                        52
6.05
Business Opportunities.                            53
6.06
Insurance Coverage.                            54
6.07
Indemnification.                                55
6.08
Limitation on Liability                            56
6.09
Delivery of Operating Budget                        56
Article 7 DEVELOPMENT OF FACILITIES                          57
7.01
Development of Facilities.                            57
7.02
Employee Matters                            58
7.03
General Regulatory Matters.                        58
Article 8 TAXES                                          58
8.01
Tax Returns                                58
8.02
Tax Elections                                59
8.03
Tax Matters Member                            59
Article 9 BOOKS, RECORDS, REPORTS, AND BANK ACCOUNTS              60
9.01
Maintenance of Books                            60
9.02
Reports                                    60
9.03
Bank Accounts                                62
Article 10 WITHDRAWAL                                  63
10.01
Right of Withdrawal                            63
10.02
Deemed Withdrawal                            63
10.03
Effect of Withdrawal                            63
Article 11 DISPUTE RESOLUTION                              65
11.01
Disputes                                    65
11.02
Negotiation to Resolve Disputes                        65
11.03
Courts                                    65
11.04
Specific Performance                            66
11.05
Arbitration.                                66
Article 12 DISSOLUTION, WINDING-UP AND TERMINATION                  68
12.01
Dissolution                                68
12.02
Winding-Up and Termination                        68
12.03
Deficit Capital Accounts                            70
12.04
Certificate of Cancellation                            70

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Article 13 GENERAL PROVISIONS                              70
13.01
Offset; Costs and Expenses                        70
13.02
Notices                                    70
13.03
Entire Agreement; Superseding Effect                    70
13.04
Effect of Waiver or Consent                        70
13.05
Amendment or Restatement                        71
13.06
Binding Effect                                71
13.07
Governing Law; Severability                        71
13.08
Further Assurances                            71
13.09
Waiver of Certain Rights                            72
13.10
Counterparts                                72
13.11
Fair Market Value Determination.                        72


EXHIBIT :

A - Members



iii
        
746278.04-WILSR01A - MSW

 

LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT
OF
[●], LLC
This LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY AGREEMENT OF [●], LLC (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of [●], 2014 (the “ Effective Date ”), is adopted, executed and agreed to by [EQT Entity], LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ EQT ”), [USG Entity], LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ USG ”), and [●], LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ Company ”) and each Person from time to time admitted to the Company as a Member in accordance with the terms hereof.
RECITALS
WHEREAS, on [●], 20[●], the Company was formed as a limited liability company in accordance with the Act (as hereinafter defined) for the purpose of developing, constructing, owning, and operating the Facilities (as defined herein) [and [●]]; and
WHEREAS, the Members (as hereinafter defined) desire to make certain provisions regarding the affairs of the Company and the conduct of its business and the rights and obligations of the Members on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth herein.
NOW THEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Members agree as follows:
Article 1     
DEFINITIONS
1.03
Definitions . As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the respective meanings set forth below or set forth in the Sections referred to below:
708(b) Members – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
AAA – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(a).
Act – means the Delaware Limited Liability Company Act.
Additional Contribution/Loan – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a)(ii).
Additional Contribution/Loan Members – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a)(ii).
Adjusted Capital Account – means the Capital Account maintained for each Member as provided in Section 4.05, (a) increased by (i) an amount equal to such Member’s allocable share of Minimum Gain as computed in accordance with the applicable Treasury Regulations, and (ii) the amount that such Member is deemed to be obligated to restore pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(c), if any, and (b) reduced by the adjustments provided for in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4)-(6). The foregoing definition of Adjusted Capital Account is intended to comply with the provisions of Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
Affiliate – means, (i) with respect to any Person, (a) each entity that such Person Controls; (b) each Person that Controls such Person, including, in the case of a Member, such Member’s Parent; and (c) each entity that is under common Control with such Person, including, in the case of a Member, each entity that is Controlled by such Member’s Parent; provided that, with respect to any Member, an Affiliate shall include (y) a limited partnership or a Person Controlled by a limited partnership if such Member’s Parent has the power to appoint the general partner of such limited partnership, or such general partner is otherwise is Controlled by such Member’s Parent, or (z) a limited liability company or a Person controlled by a limited liability company if such Member’s Parent has the power to appoint the managing member or manager (or, if more than one manager, a majority of managers) of the limited liability company, or such managing member or manager(s) are Controlled by such Member’s Parent; provided , further , that, for purposes of this Agreement, the Company shall not be an Affiliate of any Member; and (ii) [***].
Affiliate’s Outside Activities – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.05(a).
Agreement – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Alternate Representative – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a)(i).
Appraiser – has the meaning set forth in Section 13.11(c).
Approved Precedent Agreement – means each Precedent Agreement approved by the Management Committee pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(S).
Arbitration – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(a).
Arbitration Invoking Party – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(b).
Arbitration Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(b).
Arbitration Noticed Party – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(b).
Assignee – means any Person that acquires a Membership Interest or any portion thereof through a Disposition; provided that an Assignee shall have no right to be admitted to the Company as a Member except in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(iii). Subject to the Preferential Rights set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii), the Assignee of a dissolved Member is the shareholder, partner, member or other equity owner or owners of the dissolved Member to whom such Member’s Membership Interest is assigned by the Person conducting the liquidation or winding-up of such Member. The Assignee of a Bankrupt Member is (a) the Person or Persons (if any) to whom such Bankrupt Member’s Membership Interest is assigned by order of the bankruptcy court or other Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over such Bankruptcy, or (b) in the event of a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, the creditor to which such Membership Interest is assigned.
Assumed Tax Rate – means, for any period, the effective maximum combined marginal U.S. federal, state, and local income tax rate applicable to ordinary income of an individual resident of New York, New York, after giving effect to any U.S. federal income tax deduction for state and local income taxes.
Authorizations – means licenses, certificates, permits, orders, approvals, determinations and authorizations from Governmental Authorities having valid jurisdiction.
Available Cash – means, with respect to any Quarter ending prior to the dissolution or liquidation of the Company, and without duplication:
(a)    the sum of all cash and cash equivalents of the Company on hand at the end of such Quarter, less
(b)    the amount of any cash reserves that is necessary or appropriate in the reasonable discretion of the Management Committee (i) to provide for the proper conduct of the business of the Company (including reserves for future maintenance capital expenditures and for anticipated future credit needs of the Company) subsequent to such Quarter or (ii) to comply with applicable law or any loan agreement, security agreement, mortgage, debt instrument or other agreement or obligation to which the Company is a party or by which it is bound or its assets are subject.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, “Available Cash” with respect to the Quarter in which a liquidation or dissolution of the Company occurs and any subsequent Quarter shall be deemed to equal zero.
Bankruptcy or Bankrupt – means, with respect to any Person, that (a) such Person (i) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors; (ii) files a voluntary bankruptcy petition; (iii) becomes the subject of an order for relief or is declared insolvent in any federal or state bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings; (iv) files a petition or answer seeking for such Person a reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation, dissolution, or similar relief under any Law; (v) files an answer or other pleading admitting or failing to contest the material allegations of a petition filed against such Person in a proceeding of the type described in subclauses (i) through (iv) of this clause (a); or (vi) seeks, consents to, or acquiesces in the appointment of a trustee, receiver, or liquidator of such Person or of all or any substantial part of such Person’s properties; or (b) against such Person, a proceeding seeking reorganization, arrangement, composition, readjustment, liquidation, dissolution, or similar relief under any Law has been commenced and 120 Days have expired without dismissal thereof or with respect to which, without such Person’s consent or acquiescence, a trustee, receiver, or liquidator of such Person or of all or any substantial part of such Person’s properties has been appointed and 90 Days have expired without the appointment’s having been vacated or stayed, or 90 Days have expired after the date of expiration of a stay, if the appointment has not previously been vacated.
Breaching Member – means a Member that, as of any date, (a) has committed a failure or breach of the type described in the definition of “Default,” (b) has received a written notice with respect to such failure or breach of the type described in such definition of “Default,” and (c) has not cured such failure or breach as of such date, but as to which the applicable cure period set forth in such definition of “Default” has not then expired.
Business Day – means any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday, or a holiday on which national banking associations in the State of Delaware are closed.
[***]
Capital Account – means the account maintained by the Company for each Member in accordance with Section 4.05.
Capital Budget – means (a) the Construction Budget, (b) the capital budget associated with the Facilities covered by any Approved Precedent Agreement, and (c) the annual capital budget for the Company that is approved (or deemed approved) pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(GG). Each Capital Budget shall cover all items that are classified as capital items under Required Accounting Practices.
Capital Call – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(iv).
Capital Contribution – means, with respect to a Member, the amount of money and the net agreed fair market value of any property (other than money) contributed to the Company by the Member. Any reference in this Agreement to the Capital Contribution of a Member shall include a Capital Contribution of its predecessors in interest.
Certified Public Accountants – means a firm of independent public accountants selected from time to time by the Management Committee.
Change of Control – means:
(a)    with respect to any Member, an event (such as a Disposition of voting securities or other equity interests or substantially all the assets of such Member) that causes such Member to cease to be Controlled by such Member’s then Parent; provided that the term “Change of Control” shall not include any of the following events:
(A)    with respect to a Founding Member, an event that causes such Member’s then Parent to be Controlled by another Person;
(B)    a Disposition of the Membership Interests held by, or the equity or assets of, such Member to an Affiliate of such Member or such Member’s then Parent, or any other event, including any corporate reorganization, merger, combination or similar transaction, that results in such Member being Controlled by an Affiliate of such Member’s then Parent, including, in each case, a Disposition to a limited partnership whose general partner is Controlled by an Affiliate of such Member or its then Parent;
(C)    in the case of a Member that is a publicly traded partnership or is Controlled by a publicly traded partnership, any Disposition of units or issuance of new units representing limited partner interests by such publicly traded partnership, whether to an Affiliate or an unrelated party and whether or not such units or interests are listed on a national securities exchange or quotation service so long as the general partner of such publicly traded partnership is Controlled by an Affiliate of such Member or its Parent; and
(D)    [***];
(b)    prior to and following the In-Service Date, with respect to the Operator, an event (such as a Disposition of voting securities or other equity interests of substantially all the assets of the Operator) that causes, directly or indirectly, the Operator to be Controlled by another Person, subject to Section 3.03(b)(vi)(D). With respect to the Operator, “Change of Control” shall not include an event (i) that causes the Operator to be Controlled by an Affiliate of the Operator or an Affiliate of the Operator’s then Parent or (ii) that causes the Parent of the Operator to be Controlled by another Person so long as [***]; and
(c)    Notwithstanding the foregoing, and for the avoidance of doubt, any event that (i) constitutes a Change of Control under clause (a) of this definition of Change of Control or (ii) is expressly excluded from this definition of Change of Control pursuant to clauses (a)(A), (a)(B), (a)(C) or (a)(D) above shall not be deemed a Disposition for purposes of Section 3.03 of this Agreement, other than for purposes of Section 3.03(b)(iv); provided , however , that Dispositions or issuances described in clause (a)(C) shall not be deemed a Disposition for purposes of Section 3.03(b)(iv).
Change Exercise Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Change Purchasing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Change Unexercised Portion – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Changing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Claim – means any and all judgments, claims, causes of action, demands, lawsuits, suits, proceedings, Governmental investigations or audits, losses, assessments, fines, penalties, administrative orders, obligations, costs, expenses, liabilities and damages (whether actual, consequential or punitive), including interest, penalties, reasonable attorney’s fees, disbursements and costs of investigations, deficiencies, levies, duties, imposts, remediation and cleanup costs, and natural resources damages.
Code – means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
COM Agreement – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.03.
COM Approval Matters – means all matters requiring the approval of the Company or providing for the exercise of rights by the Company, including, without limitation, those set forth in Sections 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 4.2, 4.4, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1(b), 7.2, 8.2, and 8.3, Article 9, Sections 13.2 and 13.4, Article 15, Article 17, Section 18.6 and 18.9, Exhibit A, and Exhibit B of the COM Agreement.
Comment Deadline – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.09.
Company – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Confidential Information – means all information and data (including all copies thereof) that is furnished or submitted by any of the Members, their Affiliates, or Operator, whether oral, written, or electronic, to the other Members, their Affiliates, or Operator in connection with the Facilities and the resulting information and data obtained from those studies, including market evaluations, market proposals, service designs and pricing, pipeline system design and routing, cost estimating, rate studies, identification of permits, strategic plans, legal documents, environmental studies and requirements, public and governmental relations planning, identification of regulatory issues and development of related strategies, legal analysis and documentation, financial planning, gas reserves and deliverability data, studies of the natural gas supplies for the Facilities, and other studies and activities to determine the potential viability of the Facilities and their design characteristics, and identification of key issues. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the term “Confidential Information” shall not include any information that:
(a)    is in the public domain at the time of its disclosure or thereafter, other than as a result of a disclosure directly or indirectly by a Member or its Affiliates in contravention of this Agreement;
(b)    as to any Member or its Affiliates, was in the possession of such Member or its Affiliates prior to the execution of this Agreement and not subject to a separate confidentiality restriction;
(c)    has been independently acquired or developed by a Member or its Affiliates without violating any of the obligations of such Member or its Affiliates under this Agreement; or
(d)    is received from a third-party source on a non-confidential basis, provided that such third-party source is not subject to an obligation of confidentiality and would not reasonably have been expected to know that the information was to be kept confidential from the applicable party.
Construction Budget – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(i).
Contributing/Loan Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a).
Control, Controls or Controlled – means the possession, directly or indirectly, through one or more intermediaries, of the following:
(a)    (i) in the case of a corporation, 50% or more of the outstanding voting securities thereof; (ii) in the case of a limited liability company, general partnership or venture, the right to 50% or more of the distributions therefrom (including liquidating distributions); (iii) in the case of a trust or estate, including a statutory trust, 50% or more of the beneficial interest therein; (iv) in the case of a limited partnership (A) the right to 50% or more of the distributions therefrom (including liquidating distributions), (B) where the general partner of such limited partnership is a corporation, ownership of 50% or more of the outstanding voting securities of such corporate general partner, (C) where the general partner of such limited partnership is a partnership, limited liability company or other entity (other than a corporation or limited partnership), the right to 50% or more of the distributions (including liquidating distributions) from such general partner entity, or (D) where the general partner of such limited partnership is a limited partnership, Control of the general partner of such general partner in the manner described under subclause (B) or (C) of this clause, or (v) in the case of any other entity, 50% or more of the economic or beneficial interest therein; or
(b)    in the case of any entity, the power or authority, through ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise, to exercise predominant control over the management of the entity.
Control Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(A).
Covered Person – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.07(a).
Credit Assurance – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(a).
Day – means a calendar day, provided that if any period of Days referred to in this Agreement shall end on a Day that is not a Business Day, then the expiration of such period shall be automatically extended until the end of the next occurring Business Day.
Deadlock – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01.
December Deadline – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.09.
Deemed Membership Disposition – means, with respect to any Membership Interest that is owned by a Person, the primary assets of which comprise such Membership Interest and assets that are directly related thereto, a Disposition of all of the voting securities or other equity interests of such Person.
Default – means, with respect to any Member:
(a)    the failure of such Member to contribute, within [***] Days of the date required pursuant to Section 4.06, all or any portion of a Capital Contribution that such Member is required to make as provided in this Agreement; or
(b)    the failure of a Member to comply in any material respect with any of its other agreements, covenants or obligations under this Agreement, or the failure of any representation or warranty made by a Member in this Agreement to have been true and correct in all material respects at the time it was made;
in the case of each of clause (a) and (b) above if such breach is not cured by the applicable Member within [***] Days of its receiving written notice of such breach from any other Member (or, if a breach of clause (b) is not capable of being cured within such [***]-Day period, if such Member fails to promptly commence substantial efforts to cure such breach or to prosecute such curative efforts to completion with continuity and diligence). The Management Committee may, but shall have no obligation to, extend the foregoing [***]-Day and [***]-Day periods, as determined in its Sole Discretion.
Default Rate – means a rate per annum equal to the lesser of (a) a varying rate per annum equal to the sum of (i) the prime rate as published in The Wall Street Journal , with adjustments in that varying rate to be made on the same date as any change in that rate is so published, plus (ii) [***]% per annum, and (b) the maximum rate permitted by Law.
Delaware Certificate – means the Certificate of Formation of the Company that was filed with the Office of the Secretary of State of Delaware on [__________], 2014.
Delaware Courts – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.03.
Demand Event – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(b).
Dispose , Disposing , or Disposition – means, with respect to any asset (including a Membership Interest or any portion thereof), a sale, assignment, transfer, conveyance, gift, exchange or other disposition of such asset, whether such disposition be voluntary, involuntary or by operation of Law (and, with respect to a Membership Interest, any derivative or similar arrangement whereby a portion or all of the economic interests in, or risk of loss or opportunity for gain with respect to, such Membership Interest is transferred or shifted to another Person), including the following: (a) in the case of an asset owned by a natural person, a transfer of such asset upon the death of its owner, whether by will, intestate succession or otherwise; (b) in the case of an asset owned by an entity, (i) a merger or consolidation of such entity (other than where such entity is the survivor thereof) or (ii) a distribution of such asset by such entity to its shareholders, partners, members, or other equity owners, including in connection with the dissolution, liquidation, winding-up or termination of such entity (unless, in the case of dissolution, such entity’s business is continued without the commencement of liquidation or winding-up); and (c) a disposition in connection with, or in lieu of, a foreclosure of an Encumbrance; but such terms shall not include the creation of an Encumbrance.
Disposing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Disposition Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Dispute – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01.
Disputing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.01.
Dissolution Event – has the meaning set forth in Section 12.01(b).
Economic Risk of Loss – has the meaning assigned to that term in Treasury Regulation Section 1.752-2(a).
Effective Date – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Encumber , Encumbering , or Encumbrance – means the creation of a security interest, lien, pledge, mortgage or other encumbrance, other than a Permitted Encumbrance, whether such encumbrance be voluntary, involuntary or by operation of Law.
EQM – means EQT Midstream Partners, LP, a Delaware limited partnership.
EQT – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Facilities – means [●].
Fair Market Value – means (i) the fair market cash value of the Membership Interest of the Changing Member as determined pursuant to the terms of Section 13.11(b) or (c), as applicable, or (ii) the fair market cash value of the consideration to be paid to the Disposing Member pursuant to the proposed Disposition as determined pursuant to the terms of Section 13.11(a) or (c), as applicable.
FERC – means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission or any Governmental Authority succeeding to the powers of such commission.
FERC Application – means the document pursuant to which application for a certificate(s) of public convenience and necessity is made under Section 7 of the NGA to the FERC by the Company for authority to construct, own, acquire, and operate, and provide service on the Facilities.
FERC Certificate – means the certificate(s) of public convenience and necessity issued by the FERC pursuant to the FERC Application.
FERC Response Date – means the date that is 30 Days following the date upon which the FERC has issued the FERC Certificate.
Financing Commitment – means the definitive agreements between one or more financial institutions or other Persons and the Company or the Financing Entity pursuant to which such financial institutions or other Persons agree, subject to the conditions set forth therein, to lend money to, or purchase securities of, the Company or the Financing Entity, the proceeds of which shall be used to finance all or a portion of the Facilities or to repay loans made by the Members pursuant to Section 4.02.
Financing Entity – means a corporation, limited liability company, trust, or other entity that may be organized for the purpose of issuing securities, the proceeds from which are to be advanced directly or indirectly to the Company to finance all or a portion of the Facilities.
FMV Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 13.11(c).
Founding Members – means EQT, USG and any of their respective Affiliates that are Members (and any limited partnership or master limited partnership to which such Members’ Membership Interests have been assigned pursuant to Section 3.03(e) or Section 3.03(f) of this Agreement); [***].
FPL – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.05(f).
GAAP – means United States generally accepted accounting principles.
Gas Transportation Service Agreements – means the gas transportation service agreements by and between the Company or its designee and the Shippers for the transportation of natural gas through the Facilities.
[***]
Governmental Authority (or Governmental ) – means a federal, state, local or foreign governmental authority; a state, province, commonwealth, territory or district thereof; a county or parish; a city, town, township, village or other municipality; a district, ward or other subdivision of any of the foregoing; any executive, legislative or other governing body of any of the foregoing; any agency, authority, board, department, system, service, office, commission, committee, council or other administrative body of any of the foregoing; including the FERC, any court or other judicial body; and any officer, official or other representative of any of the foregoing.
including – means including, without limitation.
Indebtedness – means any amount (absolute or contingent) payable by the Company as debtor, borrower, issuer, guarantor or otherwise, pursuant to (a) an agreement or instrument involving or evidencing money borrowed, the advance of credit, a conditional sale or a transfer with recourse or with an obligation to repurchase; (b) indebtedness of a third party guaranteed by or secured by (or for which the holder of such indebtedness has an existing right, contingent or otherwise, to be secured by) any lien on assets owned or acquired by the Company, whether or not the indebtedness secured thereby has been assumed; (c) purchase-money indebtedness and capital lease obligations; (d) an interest rate protection agreement, foreign currency exchange agreement or other hedging arrangement; or (e) a letter of credit issued for the account of the Company.
Independent Accounting Firm – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
Initial Operating Budget – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(i).
Initial Release – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(b)(i).
Investment Grade – means, with respect to any Person, having debt rated as investment grade by at least two of the three nationally-recognized ratings agencies, being at least [***] for Moody’s Investor Services and at least [***] for each of Standard & Poor’s and Fitch Ratings.
In-Service Date – means the date of the placing of the Facilities in service. On, or as promptly as practicable after, such date, the Operator shall notify the Members of its occurrence.
Law – means any applicable constitutional provision, statute, act, code (including the Code), law, regulation, rule, ordinance, order, decree, ruling, proclamation, resolution, judgment, decision, declaration, or interpretative or advisory opinion or letter of a Governmental Authority having valid jurisdiction.
Letter of Credit – means an irrevocable, unconditional, transferable standby letter of credit in form and substance satisfactory to the Management Committee for the benefit of the Company, issued by a United States bank or a foreign bank with a United States branch, with United States based assets of at least $10,000,000,000 and a rating of [***] or better from Standard & Poor’s Ratings Service or a rating of [***] from Moody’s Investor Service.
Management Committee – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02.
Material Contracts – means any of the following contracts, agreements, letter agreements or other instruments to which the Company is or becomes a party after the Effective Date: engineering, procurement and construction contracts, contracts for the construction of the Facilities, contracts for the procurement of pipe, compression and associated equipment and any other contracts that require expenditures by the Company in excess of [***] Dollars ($[***]) in the aggregate or provide for revenue to the Company in excess of [***] Dollars ($[***]), in each case, subject to the approval of the Management Committee pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(D).
Matured Financing Obligation – means the Company’s debt for borrowed money (including any related interest, costs, fees, hedge unwind costs or other repayment obligations) that has become due (including by acceleration or any full or partial mandatory prepayment thereof) under any Financing Commitment.
Member – means any Person executing this Agreement as of the date of this Agreement as a member or hereafter admitted to the Company as a member as provided in this Agreement, but such term does not include any Person who has ceased to be a member in the Company.
Member Nonrecourse Debt – has the meaning assigned to the term “partner nonrecourse debt” in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(b)(4).
Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain – has the meaning assigned to the term “partner nonrecourse debt minimum gain” in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(2).
Member Nonrecourse Deductions – has the meaning assigned to the term “partner nonrecourse deductions” in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(i)(1) and 1.704-2(i)(2).
Membership Interests – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.01(a).
Minimum Gain – means (a) with respect to Nonrecourse Liabilities, the amount of gain that would be realized by the Company if it disposed of (in a taxable transaction) all Company properties that are subject to the Nonrecourse Liabilities in full satisfaction of the Nonrecourse Liabilities, computed in accordance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-2(d), or (b) with respect to each Member Nonrecourse Debt, the amount of gain that would be realized by the Company if it disposed of (in a taxable transaction) the Company property that is subject to such Member Nonrecourse Debt in full satisfaction of such Member Nonrecourse Debt, computed in accordance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-2(i).
Necessary Regulatory Approvals – means all Authorizations as may be required (but excluding Authorizations of a nature not customarily obtained prior to commencement of construction of facilities) in connection with (a) the formation of the Company and the construction, acquisition and operation of the Facilities; and (b) the transportation of the natural gas to be transported under the applicable Gas Transportation Service Agreements through the Facilities including the FERC Certificate.
New Member – means a Person, other than EQT or USG, admitted after the Effective Date pursuant to the terms and conditions of this Agreement.
NGA – means the Natural Gas Act of 1938, as amended.
Non-Contributing/Loan Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.06(a).
Non-Changing Founding Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(vi)(C).
Non-Disposing Founding Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Nonrecourse Deductions – has the meaning assigned that term in Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-2(b) and 1.704-2(c).
Nonrecourse Liabilities – means nonrecourse liabilities (or portions thereof) of the Company for which no Member bears the economic risk of loss, as determined under Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-2(b)(3) and 1.752-1(a)(2).
Non-Termination Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
Operator – means [●], and any successor operator appointed following a termination of the COM Agreement.
Operating Budget – means the Initial Operating Budget and each subsequent annual operating budget for the Company that is approved (or deemed approved) pursuant to Section 6.02(i)(GG). The Operating Budget shall cover all items that are classified as non-capital items under Required Accounting Practices.
[***]
Operator Preferential Right – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(D).
Outstanding Capital Contributions – means, with respect to any Member as of the time of any determination, the excess, if any, of (i) the aggregate Capital Contributions previously made by such Member, over (ii) the aggregate distributions previously made by the Company to such Member pursuant to Article 5.
Parent – means (i) with respect to a Member, the Person that directly or indirectly Controls such Member as set forth in Exhibit A , which shall be promptly updated by a Member upon any change to the identity of such Member’s Parent, or (ii) with respect to the Operator, the Person that ultimately Controls the Operator.
Parent Decision Makers – means the chief executive officer of the Parent of each of USG and EQT or another senior executive officer designated in writing by the chief executive officer of the Parent of each of USG and EQT (a copy of which writing to be delivered promptly to the other Founding Member(s)).
Performance Assurances – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(b)(i).
Permitted Encumbrance – means (i) liens for taxes or assessments not yet due or not yet delinquent or, if delinquent, that are being contested in good faith in the normal course of business; (ii) easements, rights-of-way, servitudes, permits, surface leases, and other rights in respect of surface operations, pipelines, grazing, logging, canals, ditches, reservoirs or the like, and easements for streets, alleys, highways, pipelines, telephone lines, power lines, railways, and other easements and rights-of-way, on, over or in respect of any properties that do not materially impair the use of the assets of, or the operation of the business of, the Company; and (iii) rights reserved to or vested in any municipality or governmental, statutory, or public authority to control or regulate any properties in any manner, and all applicable Laws of any Governmental Authority.
Person – has the meaning assigned that term in Section 18-101(11) of the Act and also includes a Governmental Authority and any other entity.
Precedent Agreement – means any agreement between the Company and a prospective shipper of natural gas through the Facilities that involves the commitment by such shipper to pay demand charges in return for a firm transportation obligation on the part of the Company, in each case subject to the satisfaction of one or more conditions precedent.
Preferential Exercise Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Preferential Purchasing Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
Preferential Right – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A).
[***]
[***]
Project Schedule – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.01(a)(i).
Qualified Guarantor – means, with respect to a Member, such Member’s Parent or a subsidiary of such Member’s Parent, in each case, so long as such Person is Investment Grade.
Quarter – unless the context requires otherwise, means a fiscal quarter of the Company.
Related Party Matter – means (a) any occurrence or circumstance where (i) the Company, on the one hand, and a Member or an Affiliate of such Member, on the other hand, propose to enter into, terminate, or amend a contract or arrangement with each other, including, without limitation, a Gas Transportation Service Agreement, a Precedent Agreement, the COM Agreement, or any other contract or arrangement, or (ii) any Member believes that a dispute has arisen between the Company and an Affiliate of any Member under a Gas Transportation Service Agreement, a Precedent Agreement, the COM Agreement, or any other contract or arrangement, or (iii) a matter with respect to enforcement under any such Gas Transportation Service Agreement, Precedent Agreement, COM Agreement, or other contract or arrangement is involved; (b) making any determination as to the suitability of a Qualified Guarantor of a Member (other than a Founding Member, which is addressed in the definition of “Qualified Guarantor”) or substitution of a successor Qualified Guarantor of such Member; (c) the appointment of any successor Operator or Shipper that is an Affiliate of a Member; (d) any decision by the Company to exercise any of the owner performance rights under Section 4.4 of the COM Agreement while an Affiliate of EQT or USG is the Operator; or (e) making any determination, not to be unreasonably withheld, with respect to the suitability of the Operator pursuant to clause (b) of the definition of Change of Control.
Representative – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(a)(i).
Representative Budget Comments – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.09.
Required Accounting Practices – means the accounting rules and regulations, if any, at the time prescribed by the Governmental Authorities under the jurisdiction of which the Company is at the time operating and, to the extent of matters not covered by such rules and regulations, generally accepted accounting principles as practiced in the United States at the time prevailing for companies engaged in a business similar to that of the Company.
Rules – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(a).
Selection Notice – has the meaning set forth in Section 11.05(c).
Sharing Ratio – means, subject in each case to adjustments in accordance with this Agreement or in connection with Dispositions of Membership Interests, (a) in the case of a Member executing this Agreement as of the date of this Agreement or a Person acquiring such Member’s Membership Interest, the percentage specified for that Member as its Sharing Ratio on Exhibit A with respect to the Company, and (b) in the case of Membership Interests issued pursuant to Section 3.04, the Sharing Ratio established pursuant thereto; provided that the total of all Sharing Ratios shall always equal 100%.
Shippers – means any Person that (a) has entered into a Gas Transportation Service Agreement with the Company or its designee (or, if applicable, a Precedent Agreement relating thereto) to provide transportation of natural gas through the Facilities and (b) meets the criteria for creditworthiness determined by the Management Committee.
Sole Discretion – has the meaning set forth in Section 6.02(f)(ii).
Subject Contract – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(a).
Supermajority Interest means the approval of the Representatives of the Founding Members representing greater than [***]% of the aggregate Sharing Ratios of the Founding Members.
Tax Matters Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 8.03(a).
Term – has the meaning set forth in Section 2.07.
Termination Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 3.03(b)(viii).
Total Event Demand Amount – has the meaning set forth in Section 4.07(b).
Treasury Regulations – means the regulations (including temporary regulations) promulgated by the United States Department of the Treasury pursuant to and in respect of provisions of the Code. All references herein to sections of the Treasury Regulations shall include any corresponding provision or provisions of succeeding, similar or substitute, temporary or final Treasury Regulations.
USG – has the meaning set forth in the Preamble.
Withdrawal , or Withdrawn – means or refers to the withdrawal, resignation, or retirement of a Member from the Company as a Member. Such terms shall not include any Dispositions of Membership Interests (which are governed by Sections 3.03(a) and (b)), even though the Member making a Disposition may cease to be a Member as a result of such Disposition.
Withdrawn Member – has the meaning set forth in Section 10.03.
Other terms defined herein have the meanings so given them.
1.04
Interpretation . Unless the context requires otherwise: (a) the gender (or lack of gender) of all words used in this Agreement includes the masculine, feminine and neuter; (b) references to Articles and Sections refer to Articles and Sections of this Agreement; (c) references to Exhibits refer to the Exhibits attached to this Agreement, each of which is made a part hereof for all purposes; (d) references to Laws refer to such Laws as they may be amended from time to time, and references to particular provisions of a Law include any corresponding provisions of any succeeding Law; (e) references to money refer to legal currency of the United States of America; (f) the definitions given for terms in this Article 1 and elsewhere in this Agreement shall apply to both the singular and plural forms of the terms defined, (g) the conjunction “or” shall be understood in its inclusive sense (and/or); and (h) the words “hereby”, “herein”, “hereunder”, “hereof” and words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole (including any Exhibits and Schedules hereto) and not merely to the specific section, paragraph or clause in which such word appears.
Article 2     
ORGANIZATION
2.09
Formation . The Company has been organized as a Delaware limited liability company by the filing of the Delaware Certificate and execution of the Initial Agreement as of [●], 20[●].
2.10
Name . The name of the Company is [●], LLC, and all Company business shall be conducted in that name or such other names that comply with Law as the Management Committee may select.
2.11
Registered Office; Registered Agent; Principal Office in the United States; Other Offices . The registered office of the Company required by the Act to be maintained in the State of Delaware shall be the office of the initial registered agent named in the Delaware Certificate or such other office (which need not be a place of business of the Company) as the Management Committee may designate in the manner provided by Law. The registered agent of the Company in the State of Delaware shall be the initial registered agent named in the Delaware Certificate or such other Person or Persons as the Management Committee may designate in the manner provided by Law. The principal office of the Company in the United States shall be at such place as the Management Committee may designate, which need not be in the State of Delaware, and the Company shall maintain records there or such other place as the Management Committee shall designate and shall keep the street address of such principal office at the registered office of the Company in the State of Delaware. The Company may have such other offices as the Management Committee may designate.
2.12
Purposes . The purposes of the Company are to plan, design, construct, acquire, own, finance, maintain, and operate the Facilities [and [●]].
2.13
No State Law Partnership . The Members intend that the Company shall be a limited liability company and, except as provided in Article 8 with respect to U.S. federal income tax treatment (and other tax treatment therewith), the Company shall not be a partnership (including a limited partnership) or joint venture, and no Member shall be a partner or joint venture of any other Member, for any purposes, and this Agreement may not be construed to suggest otherwise.
2.14
Foreign Qualification . Prior to the Company’s conducting business in any jurisdiction other than Delaware, the Management Committee shall cause the Company to comply, to the extent procedures are available and those matters are reasonably within the control of the Management Committee, with all requirements necessary to qualify the Company as a foreign limited liability company in that jurisdiction. At the request of the Management Committee, each Member shall execute, acknowledge, swear to, and deliver all certificates and other instruments conforming with this Agreement that are necessary or appropriate to qualify, continue, and terminate the Company as a foreign limited liability company in all such jurisdictions in which the Company may conduct business.
2.15
Term . The period of existence of the Company (the Term ) commenced on [●], 20[●], and shall end at such time as a certificate of cancellation is filed with the Secretary of State of Delaware in accordance with Section 12.04.
2.16
Title to Property . All assets, property and rights of the Company shall be owned or leased by the Company as an entity and, except with respect to assets, property or rights of the Company leased or licensed to the Company by a Member (subject to the terms hereof), no Member shall have any ownership interest in such assets, property or rights in its individual name or right, and each Member’s Membership Interest shall be personal property for all purposes. The Company shall hold all assets, property and rights of the Company in the name of the Company and not in the name of any Member.
Article 3     
MEMBERSHIP INTERESTS; DISPOSITIONS OF INTERESTS
3.10
Capital Structure . The capital structure of the Company shall consist of one class of limited liability company interests called “ Membership Interests ,” which shall consist of, with respect to any Member, (a) that Member’s status as a Member; (b) that Member’s share of the income, gain, loss, deduction, and credits of, and the right to receive distributions from, the Company; (c) any [***] to which that Member is entitled pursuant to Section 4.06(b); (d) all other rights, benefits, and privileges enjoyed by that Member (under the Act, this Agreement, or otherwise) in its capacity as a Member, including that Member’s rights to vote, consent, and approve amendments to this Agreement pursuant to Section 13.05; (e) with respect to the Founding Members only, such Founding Members’ rights to participate in the management of the Company through the Management Committee; and (f) all obligations, duties, and liabilities imposed on that Member (under the Act or this Agreement or otherwise) in its capacity as a Member, including any obligations to make Capital Contributions to the extent set forth in Article 4. As of the Effective Date, EQT and USG are the Members of the Company with the Sharing Ratios set forth on Exhibit A hereto.
3.11
Representations, Warranties and Covenants .
(f)      Each Member hereby represents, warrants, and covenants to the Company and to each other Member that the following statements are true and correct as of the Effective Date:
(viii)      that such Member is duly incorporated, organized, or formed (as applicable), validly existing, and (if applicable) in good standing under the Law of the jurisdiction of its incorporation, organization, or formation; if required by applicable Law, that such Member is duly qualified and in good standing in the jurisdiction of its principal place of business, if different from its jurisdiction of incorporation, organization, or formation; and that such Member has full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder, and all necessary actions by the board of directors, officers, shareholders, managers, members, partners, trustees, beneficiaries, or other applicable Persons necessary for the due authorization, execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement by that Member have been duly taken;
(ix)      that such Member has duly executed and delivered this Agreement and the other documents that this Agreement contemplates that such Member will execute, and they each constitute the valid and binding obligation of such Member enforceable against it in accordance with their respective terms (except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or similar Laws of general application and by the effect of general principles of equity, regardless of whether considered at law or in equity); and
(x)      that such Member’s authorization, execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement does not and will not (A) conflict with, or result in a breach, default or violation of, (1) the organizational documents of such Member, (2) any contract or agreement to which that Member is a party or is otherwise subject, or (3) any Law, order, judgment, decree, writ, injunction, or arbitral award to which such Member is subject; or (B) other than the FERC Application and the Necessary Regulatory Approvals that the Members have agreed to obtain pursuant to Article 7, require any consent, approval, or authorization from, filing or registration with, or notice to, any Governmental Authority or other Person, unless such requirement has already been satisfied.
(g)      The Company hereby represents and warrants, and the Company covenants, to each Member that the following statements are true and correct as of the Effective Date:
(i)      (x) the Company is duly formed and is validly existing, and in good standing under the Act; (y) the Company has full power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder (including the issuance of the Membership Interests to each Member), and all necessary actions by the Company’s managers, members or other applicable Persons necessary for the due authorization, execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement by the Company have been duly taken;
(ii)      the issuance of the Membership Interests to each Member, as contemplated hereby, has been duly authorized by all requisite limited liability company action on the part of the Company and its members, managers or other applicable Persons, and such Membership Interests are validly issued and, subject only to the terms of Article 4, fully paid and nonassessable and, subject to the restrictions in Article 3, are being issued free and clear of any preemptive rights under the Act or other applicable law, the organizational documents of the Company, and any other contract to which the Company or its members, managers or other Person is bound or by which their property is subject;
(iii)      no other Person has any right to acquire any Membership Interest or other equity interest in the Company or take part in the management of the Company; and
(iv)      the Company has not entered into any contract, agreement, or other arrangement with any Person with respect to the Company, the Facilities, the Membership Interests, or voting rights with respect to the Company.
3.12
Dispositions and Encumbrances of Membership Interests .
(a)      General Restriction . A Member may not Dispose of or Encumber all or any portion of its Membership Interest except in strict accordance with this Section 3.03. References in this Section 3.03 to Dispositions or Encumbrances of a “Membership Interest” shall also refer to Dispositions or Encumbrances of a portion of a Membership Interest. Any attempted Disposition or Encumbrance of a Membership Interest, other than in strict accordance with this Section 3.03, shall be, and is hereby declared, null and void ab initio . The rights and obligations constituting a Membership Interest may not be separated, divided, or split from the other attributes of a Membership Interest except as contemplated by the express provisions of this Agreement. The Members agree that the provisions of this Section 3.03 may be enforced by specific performance pursuant to Section 11.04.
(b)
Dispositions of Membership Interests.
(iii)      General Restriction . Subject to Sections 3.03(e) and (f), no Member may Dispose of its Membership Interest without the prior written consent of each of EQT and USG, which consent may be withheld by each in its Sole Discretion; provided , however , that no such consent shall be required (A) with respect to a Founding Member, where such Disposition would not cause the Company to be treated as a publicly traded partnership subject to tax as an association for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and (B) with respect to any Member (other than a Founding Member), where such Disposition (x) when added to all Dispositions by such Member during the immediately preceding twelve (12) months, is less than 50% of such Member’s Sharing Ratio as of the beginning of such period of twelve (12) months, (y) would not cause any adverse tax consequences to the Company or any Member, and (z) would not cause the Company to be treated as a publicly traded partnership subject to tax as an association for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Subject to receiving the consent required in the foregoing sentence, if necessary, a Member may Dispose of its Membership Interest only by complying with all of the following requirements: (I) such Member must offer the Founding Members the right to acquire such Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii), unless (1) the proposed Assignee is an Affiliate of the Disposing Member or the Founding Members consent to the Disposition to such Assignee, which consent may be granted or withheld in the Sole Discretion of each Founding Member or (2) the Disposition is made by EQT or USG in accordance with Section 3.03(e) or (f); (II) such Member must comply with the requirements of Section 3.03(b)(iv) and, if the Assignee is to be admitted as a Member, Section 3.03(b)(iii); and (III) unless the proposed Assignee is an Affiliate of the Disposing Member, the Disposition must comply with the following minimum size requirements: (1) if such Member’s Sharing Ratio is less than [***]%, the Disposition must include all of the Member’s Membership Interest, and (2) if such Member’s Sharing Ratio is [***]% or more, but such Member does not propose to dispose of all of its Membership Interest, the Disposition must be of a Membership Interest having a Sharing Ratio of at least [***]%.
(iv)      Preferential Purchase Rights .
(E)      Preferential Purchase Rights . Subject to Section 3.03(b)(ii)(B), if a Member desires to consummate a bona fide transaction that will result in the Disposition of all or a portion of its Membership Interest (whether or not the proposed Disposition is to another Member), then such Member (the “ Disposing Member ”) shall promptly give notice thereof (the “ Disposition Notice ”) to the Company and each Founding Member; provided that this Section 3.03(b)(ii) shall not apply to a Disposition to an Affiliate of the Disposing Member or a Disposition in accordance with Section 3.03(e) or Section 3.03(f). The Disposition Notice shall set forth all relevant information with respect to the proposed Disposition, including the name and address of the prospective acquirer, the precise Membership Interest that is the subject of the Disposition, the price to be paid for such Membership Interest, and any other terms and conditions of the proposed Disposition. If any Member is a Disposing Member but either or both of EQT and/or USG and their respective Affiliates are not the Disposing Member (such of EQT and/or USG and their respective Affiliates as is not a Disposing Member being referred to herein as the “ Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) ”), such Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) shall have the right (the “ Preferential Right ”) to acquire, for the same purchase price, and on the same material terms and conditions, as are set forth in the Disposition Notice, some or all of the Membership Interest specified in the Disposition Notice; provided that, if the purchase price to be paid to the Disposing Member pursuant to the proposed Disposition is not entirely in cash, the purchase price for the Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) exercising the Preferential Right shall be [***]. The Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) shall have [***] Days following receipt of the Disposition Notice (or if the price to be paid pursuant to such offer is not in cash, then [***] Days following [***]) in which to notify the other Members (including the Disposing Member) whether such Non-Disposing Founding Member(s) desires to exercise its Preferential Right. A notice in which a Non-Disposing Founding Member exercises such Preferential Right is referred to herein as a “ Preferential Exercise Notice ” and as deliverer of a Preferential Exercise Notice, such Non-Disposing Founding Member is referred to herein as a “ Preferential Purchasing Member .” The Preferential Purchasing Member(s) shall indicate in a Preferential Exercise Notice whether the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) elects to purchase all of the Disposing Member’s Membership Interest as set forth in the Disposition Notice or any portion thereof. In the event that more than one of EQT or USG (or their respective Affiliates) is a Preferential Purchasing Member, then each Preferential Purchasing Member shall indicate in a Preferential Exercise Notice whether it elects to purchase only its pro rata share of the Membership Interest offered in the Disposition Notice (based on its Sharing Ratio) or whether such Preferential Purchasing Member elects to purchase a greater portion of such Membership Interest (up to the full amount thereof). If the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) elects to exercise the Preferential Right to purchase the entire Membership Interest offered in the Disposition Notice (subject to proration based on the Preferential Purchasing Members’ respective Sharing Ratios in the event that Preferential Purchasing Members elected to purchase a greater number of Membership Interests than the amount offered), the Disposing Member and the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) shall close the acquisition of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(C). In the event that the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) elect to purchase less than the entire Membership Interest specified in the Disposition Notice, then the Disposing Member shall have the right to Dispose of the remaining amount of the unexercised portion of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(C).
(F)      Preferential Purchase Right Resulting from Disposition of Membership Interests Held by the Operator . Notwithstanding the foregoing, for so long as the Operator is an Affiliate of a Member, if the Disposing Member is the Operator and the Assignee of such Disposing Member’s Membership Interests is not an Affiliate of such Member (including, for the avoidance of doubt, in the event the Operator is an Affiliate of EQT or EQM, where the Assignee is not an Affiliate of either EQT or EQM), then such Disposing Member shall promptly deliver the Disposition Notice to the Non-Disposing Founding Members that are not Affiliates of the Operator, and such Non-Disposing Founding Members and their Affiliates shall have the right (the “ Operator Preferential Right ”) to acquire a portion of the Membership Interests of the Disposing Member for the same purchase price and on the same material terms and conditions as are set forth in the Disposition Notice; provided that, if the purchase price to be paid to the Disposing Member pursuant to the proposed Disposition is not entirely in cash, the purchase price shall be [***]. The Non-Disposing Founding Members and their Affiliates shall have [***] Days following receipt of the Disposition Notice (or if the price to be paid pursuant to such offer is not in cash, then [***] Days following [***]) in which to notify the Disposing Member whether they desire to exercise the Operator Preferential Right. To the extent a Non-Disposing Founding Members or any of its Affiliates exercises its Operator Preferential Right, such Non-Disposing Founding Member (or its Affiliate) will be deemed a Preferential Purchasing Member. If the Non-Disposing Founding Member or any of its Affiliates elects to exercise the Operator Preferential Right to purchase the entire Membership Interest offered in the Disposition Notice, then the Disposing Member and the Non-Disposing Founding Member (or its Affiliate) shall close the acquisition of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(C). In the event that the Non-Disposing Founding Member (or its Affiliate) elects to purchase less than the entire Membership Interest specified in the Disposition Notice, then the Disposing Member shall have the right to Dispose of the remaining amount of the unexercised portion of the Membership Interest in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(C).
(G)      Closing . If the Preferential Rights are exercised in accordance with Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A) or 3.03(b)(ii)(B), as applicable, the closing of the purchase of the Membership Interest shall occur at the principal place of business of the Company no later than the [***] Day after the expiration of the [***]-Day period referred to in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A) or Section 3.03(b)(ii)(B), as applicable (or, if later, the fifth Business Day after the receipt of all applicable Authorizations to the purchase), unless the Disposing Member and the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) agree upon a different place or date. At the closing, (1) the Disposing Member shall execute and deliver to the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) (aa) an assignment of the Membership Interest, in form and substance reasonably acceptable to the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) containing a general warranty of title as to such Membership Interest (including that such Membership Interest is free and clear of all Encumbrances, other than those permitted under Section 3.03(c)(ii)) and (bb) any other instruments reasonably requested by the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) to give effect to the purchase; and (2) the Preferential Purchasing Member(s) shall deliver to the Disposing Member in immediately-available funds the purchase price provided for in Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A) or Section 3.03(b)(ii)(B), as applicable. The Sharing Ratios and Capital Accounts of the Members shall be deemed adjusted to reflect the effect of the purchase.
(H)      Waiver of Preferential Right . If no Non-Disposing Founding Member delivers a First Preferential Exercise Notice or Second First Preferential Exercise Notice, or if the Preferential Rights are not exercised in full pursuant to Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A) or 3.03(b)(ii)(B), the Disposing Member shall have the right, subject to compliance with the provisions of Sections 3.03(a) and (b), to Dispose of the portion of the Membership Interest described in the Disposition Notice that is not purchased pursuant to the Preferential Rights to the proposed Assignee strictly in accordance with the terms of the Disposition Notice for a period of [***] Days after the expiration of the [***]-Day period referred to in such Section 3.03(b)(ii)(A) or 3.03(b)(ii)(B) (or, if later, the fifth Business Day after the receipt of all applicable Authorizations to the purchase). If, however, the Disposing Member fails so to Dispose of the Membership Interest within such [***]-Day period (or, if applicable, such fifth Business Day period), the proposed Disposition shall again become subject to the Preferential Rights.
(I)      Transfer of Operator Rights . In connection with a Disposition of Membership Interests where the rights provided for in this Section 3.03(b)(ii) are not exercised or where such rights are waived pursuant to Section 3.03(b)(ii)(D), the Member with the right to appoint the Operator (which Member shall initially be EQT) may transfer such right to appoint the Operator to the assignee of such Membership Interests; [***].
(v)      Admission of Assignee as a Member . An Assignee has the right to be admitted to the Company as a Member, with the Membership Interest and attendant Sharing Ratio) so transferred to such Assignee, only upon consent of the Management Committee and only if such Disposition is effected in strict compliance with Sections 3.03(a) and (b) or is effected in accordance with Section 3.03(e) or Section 3.03(f).
(vi)      Requirements Applicable to All Dispositions and Admissions . In addition to the requirements set forth in Sections 3.03(b)(i), 3.03(b)(ii) and 3.03(b)(iii), any Disposition of a Membership Interest and any admission of an Assignee as a Member shall also be subject to the following requirements, and such Disposition (and admission, if applicable) shall not be effective unless such requirements are complied with; provided the Management Committee, in its sole and absolute discretion, may waive any of the following requirements:
(A)      Disposition Documents . The following documents must be delivered to the Management Committee and must be satisfactory, in form and substance, to the Management Committee in its sole and absolute discretion:
(1)      Disposition Instrument . A copy of the instrument pursuant to which the Disposition is effected.
(2)      Ratification of this Agreement . An instrument, executed by the Disposing Member and its Assignee, containing the following information and agreements, to the extent they are not contained in the instrument described in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(1): (aa) the notice address of the Assignee; (bb) if applicable, the Parent of the Assignee; (cc) the Sharing Ratios after the Disposition of the Disposing Member and its Assignee (which together must total the Sharing Ratio of the Disposing Member before the Disposition); (dd) the Assignee’s ratification of this Agreement and agreement to be bound by it, and its confirmation that the representations and warranties in Section 3.02 are true and correct with respect to it; and (ee) representations and warranties by the Disposing Member and its Assignee (1) that the Disposition and admission is being made in accordance with all applicable Laws, (2) that the matter set forth in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(3) is true and correct, and (3) that the Disposition and admission do not violate any Financing Commitment or any other agreement to which the Company is a party.
(3)      Securities Law Opinion . Unless the Membership Interest subject to the Disposition is registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and any applicable state securities Law, a favorable opinion of the Disposing Member’s legal counsel, or, if so elected by the Management Committee, the Company’s legal counsel or other legal counsel acceptable to the Management Committee, to the effect that the Disposition and admission is being made pursuant to a valid exemption from registration under those Laws and in accordance with those Laws; provided that no such opinion shall be required in the case of a Disposition by a Member to an Affiliate or a Disposition made in accordance with Section 3.03(e) or Section 3.03(f).
(4)      Tax Opinion . A favorable opinion of the Disposing Member’s legal counsel, or, if so elected by the Management Committee, the Company’s legal counsel or other legal counsel acceptable to the Management Committee, to the effect that the Disposition would not cause the Company to be treated as a publicly traded partnership subject to tax as an association for U.S. federal income tax purposes (unless the provision of such tax opinion is waived in advance by the Management Committee); provided that no such opinion shall be required in the case of a Disposition by a Member to an Affiliate or a Disposition made in accordance with Section 3.03(e) or Section 3.03(f).
(B)      Payment of Expenses . The Disposing Member and its Assignee shall pay, or reimburse the Company for, all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by the Company in connection with the Disposition and admission, including the legal fees incurred in connection with the legal opinions referred to in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(3) and (4), on or before the 10th Day after the receipt by that Person of the Company’s invoice for the amount due. The Company will provide such invoice as soon as practicable after the amount due is determined but in no event later than [***] Days thereafter. If payment is not made by the date due, the Person owing that amount shall pay interest on the unpaid amount from the date due until paid at a rate per annum equal to the Default Rate.
(C)      No Release . No Disposition of a Membership Interest shall effect a release of the Disposing Member from any liabilities to the Company or the other Members arising from events occurring prior to the Disposition.
(D)      Indebtedness of Company . Any Disposition of all or any portion of the Membership Interest of a Member shall also include the Disposition of a proportionate share of the Indebtedness owed by the Company to the Disposing Member. As long as this Agreement shall remain in effect, all evidences of Indebtedness of the Company owed to any of the Members shall bear an appropriate legend to indicate that it is held subject to, and may be Disposed only in accordance with, the terms and conditions of this Agreement, and that such Disposition may be made only in conjunction with the Disposition of a proportionate part of such Member’s Membership Interest.
(vii)      Deemed Membership Disposition . A Deemed Membership Disposition shall be deemed to be a Disposition of a Membership Interest and must comply with the requirements set forth in Sections 3.03(a) and (b).
(viii)      Change of Control .
(A)      [***]
(B)      Change of Control of Member That Is the Operator . Notwithstanding the foregoing, [***].
(C)      Closing . If the [***].
(D)      Definitions . As used in this Section 3.03(b)(vi), [***].
(ix)      [ Intentionally omitted .]
(x)      [***]
(c)      Encumbrances of Membership Interest . A Member may not Encumber its Membership Interest, except by complying with one of the two following paragraphs:
(iii)      (A) such Member must receive the consent of [***] of the non-Encumbering Founding Members (calculated without reference to the Sharing Ratio of the Encumbering Founding Member), which consent (as contemplated by Section 6.02(f)(ii)) may be granted or withheld in the Sole Discretion of each such other Member; and (B) the instrument creating such Encumbrance must provide that any foreclosure of such Encumbrance (or Disposition in lieu of such foreclosure) must comply with the requirements of Sections 3.03(a) and (b); or
(iv)      such Encumbrance [***].
(d)      [Intentionally omitted.]
(e)      EQT [***] and Related Assignment Rights . Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, EQT shall have the right from time to time to sell or assign (i) to [***], or (ii) to any [***] other Person Controlled by EQT or its then Parent all or any part of the Membership Interest then held by EQT or its Affiliates ( provided that, in either case, if such sale or assignment occurs prior to the In-Service Date, then, at the time of such sale or assignment, such Assignee provides the Company with replacement Performance Assurances, if applicable, meeting the requirements of Section 4.01(b)), and any such Assignee may further sell or assign such Membership Interest to any such Person, directly or indirectly through multiple sales or assignment among Affiliates, in each case, without any consent from USG or its Affiliates and without triggering any rights or restrictions under or the provisions of Section 3.03(b)(ii) or during the period commencing on the Effective Date through the twelve-month anniversary of the In-Service Date, Section 3.03(b)(viii). EQT shall promptly provide to the Company and USG copies of the assignment instrument and the ratification instrument associated with each such sale or assignment, and the Members shall amend Exhibit A to reflect the Sharing Ratios set forth in such ratification instrument.
(f)      USG [***] and Related Assignment Rights . Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, USG shall have the right from time to time to sell or assign to any [***] other Person Controlled by USG or its then Parent all or any part of the Membership Interest then held by USG or its Affiliates ( provided that, in either case, if such sale or assignment occurs prior to the In-Service Date, then, at the time of such sale or assignment, such Assignee provides the Company with replacement Performance Assurances, if applicable, meeting the requirements of Section 4.01(b)), and any such Assignee may further sell or assign such Membership Interest to any such Person, directly or indirectly through multiple sales or assignments among Affiliates, in each case, without any consent from EQT or its Affiliates and without triggering any rights or restrictions under or the provisions of Section 3.03(b)(ii) or during the period commencing on the Effective Date through the twelve-month anniversary of the In-Service Date, Section 3.03(b)(viii). USG shall promptly provide to the Company and EQT copies of the assignment instrument and the ratification instrument associated with each such sale or assignment, and the Members shall amend Exhibit A to reflect the Sharing Ratios set forth in such ratification instrument.
3.13
Creation of Additional Membership Interests . Additional Membership Interests may be created and issued to existing Members or to other Persons ([***]), and such other Persons may be admitted to the Company as Members, with the consent of [***], on such terms and conditions as [***] may determine at the time of admission. The terms of admission or issuance must specify the Sharing Ratios applicable thereto and may provide for the creation of different classes of Members having different rights, powers and duties. Any such admission is effective only after the New Member has executed and delivered to the Members an instrument containing the notice address of the New Member, the Assignee’s ratification of this Agreement and agreement to be bound by it, and its confirmation that the representations and warranties in Section 3.02 are true and correct with respect to it. The provisions of this Section 3.04 shall not apply to Dispositions of Membership Interests or admissions of Assignees in connection therewith, such matters being governed by Sections 3.03(a) and (b).
3.14
Access to Information . (a) Each Founding Member of the Company shall be entitled to receive any information that it may request concerning the Company; provided that this Section 3.05 shall not obligate the Company, the Management Committee, or the Operator to create any information that does not already exist at the time of such request (other than to convert existing information from one medium to another, such as providing a printout of information that is stored in a computer database), except as otherwise provided in Section 9.02. Each Founding Member shall also have the right, upon reasonable notice, and at all reasonable times during usual business hours to inspect the properties of the Company and to audit, examine, and make copies of the books of account and other records of the Company and to have access to the employees of the Operator to discuss the Company’s businesses and financial affairs. Such right may be exercised through any agent or employee of such Founding Member designated in writing by it or by an independent public accountant, engineer, attorney or other consultant so designated. The Founding Member making the request shall bear all costs and expenses incurred in any inspection, examination or audit made on such Founding Member’s behalf. The Founding Members and the Operator agree to reasonably cooperate, and to cause their respective independent public accountants, engineers, attorneys or other consultants to reasonably cooperate, in connection with any such request. Confidential Information obtained pursuant to this Section 3.05(a) shall be subject to the provisions of Section 3.06.
(b)      Each New Member shall be entitled to receive only the information and reports set forth in Section 9.02. Confidential Information received pursuant to this Section 3.05(b) shall be subject to the provisions of Section 3.06.
3.15
Confidential Information . (a) Except as permitted by Section 3.06(b), (i) each Member shall keep confidential all Confidential Information and shall not disclose any Confidential Information to any Person, including any of its Affiliates, and (ii) each Member shall use the Confidential Information only in connection with the Facilities and the Company.
(b)      Notwithstanding Section 3.06(a), but subject to the other provisions of this Section 3.06, a Member may make the following disclosures and uses of Confidential Information:
(xi)      disclosures to another Member or to the Operator in connection with the Company;
(xii)      disclosures and uses that are approved in advance by the Management Committee;
(xiii)      disclosures that may be required from time to time to obtain requisite Authorizations or financing for the Facilities, if such disclosures are approved in advance by the Management Committee;
(xiv)      disclosures to an Affiliate of such Member, including the directors, officers, members, managers, employees, agents and advisors of such Affiliate, if such Affiliate has agreed to abide by the terms of this Section 3.06; provided , however , that in no event shall [***];
(xv)      disclosures to a Person that is not a Member or an Affiliate of a Member, if such Person has been retained by the Company, a Member, or the Operator to provide services in connection with the Company and has agreed to abide by the terms of this Section 3.06;
(xvi)      disclosures to a bona fide potential direct or indirect purchaser of such Member’s Membership Interest, if such potential purchaser has executed a confidentiality agreement in form and substance acceptable to the Management Committee;
(xvii)      disclosures required, with respect to a Member or an Affiliate of a Member, pursuant to (i) the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, (ii) the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, (iii) any state securities Laws, or (iv) any national securities exchange or automated quotation system; and
(xviii)      disclosures that a Member is legally compelled to make by deposition, interrogatory, request for documents, subpoena, civil investigative demand, order of a court of competent jurisdiction, or similar process, or otherwise by Law or that a Member makes to a Governmental Authority or regulatory authority pursuant to a regulatory request, examination, or audit; provided that, prior to any such disclosure, such Member shall, to the extent legally permissible:
(A)      provide the Management Committee with prompt notice of such requirements so that one or more of the Members may seek a protective order or other appropriate remedy or waive compliance with the terms of this Section 3.06(b)(viii);
(B)      consult with the Management Committee on the advisability of taking steps to resist or narrow such disclosure; and
(C)      cooperate with the Management Committee and with the other Members in any attempt one or more of them may make to obtain a protective order or other appropriate remedy or assurance that confidential treatment will be afforded the Confidential Information; and in the event such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, or the other Members waive compliance with the provisions hereof, such Member agrees (1) to furnish only that portion of the Confidential Information that, in the opinion of such Member’s counsel, such Member is legally required to disclose, and (2) to exercise all reasonable efforts to obtain assurance that confidential treatment will be accorded such Confidential Information.
(c)      Each Member shall take such precautionary measures as may be required to ensure (and such Member shall be responsible for) compliance with this Section 3.06 by any of its Affiliates, and its and their directors, officers, employees and agents, and other Persons to which it may disclose Confidential Information in accordance with this Section 3.06.
(d)      Promptly after any Withdrawal or Disposition by any Member of all of its Membership Interests pursuant to Sections 3.03 or 10.02, a Withdrawn Member or Disposing Member, as applicable, shall promptly destroy (and provide a certificate of destruction to the Company with respect to), or return to the Company, all Confidential Information in its possession. Notwithstanding the immediately preceding sentence, but subject to the other provisions of this Section 3.06, a Withdrawn Member or Disposing Member may retain for a stated period, but not disclose to any other Person, Confidential Information for the limited purposes of (i) explaining such Member’s corporate decisions with respect to the Facilities; (ii) preparing such Member’s tax returns and defending audits, investigations and proceedings relating thereto; or (iii) in compliance with such Member’s document retention policy; provided that the Withdrawn Member or Disposing Member must notify the Management Committee in advance of such retention and specify in such notice the stated period of such retention.
(e)      The Members agree that no adequate remedy at law exists for a breach or threatened breach of any of the provisions of this Section 3.06, the continuation of which unremedied will cause the Company and the other Members to suffer irreparable harm. Accordingly, the Members agree that the Company and the other Members shall be entitled, in addition to other remedies that may be available to them, to immediate injunctive relief from any breach of any of the provisions of this Section 3.06 and to specific performance of their rights hereunder, as well as to any other remedies available at law or in equity, pursuant to Sections 11.03 and 11.04.
(f)      The obligations of the Members under this Section 3.06 (including the obligations of any Withdrawn Member) shall terminate on the [***] anniversary of the end of the Term.
3.16
Liability to Third Parties . No Member or its Affiliates shall be liable for the debts, obligations or liabilities of the Company.
3.17
Use of Members’ Names and Trademarks . The Company, the Members and their Affiliates shall not use the name or trademark of any Member or its Affiliates in connection with public announcements regarding the Company, or marketing or financing activities of the Company, without the prior written consent of such Member or Affiliate.
Article 4     
CAPITAL CONTRIBUTIONS/LOANS
4.08
Capital Contributions . (j) (i) Promptly following the Effective Date, but in any event no later than 120 Days thereafter, EQT shall provide to USG (A) a capital budget covering the design, engineering, procurement, construction and installation of the Facilities through the In-Service Date (the “ Construction Budget ”); (B) a schedule (the “ Project Schedule ”) containing milestones and including details to support all major development, engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning and testing activities of the Facilities during the period prior to the In-Service Date; and (C) an operating budget covering the [***] period following the In-Service Date (the “ Initial Operating Budget ”). If such Construction Budget, Project Schedule and Initial Operating Budget are not approved by a Supermajority Interest by the [***] Day following the delivery thereof to USG, the Company may be dissolved pursuant to Section 12.01(b)(v).
(ii)      As to the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget and any Capital Budget associated with the Facilities covered by any Approved Precedent Agreement approved by the Management Committee in accordance with Section 6.02(i)(S) or 6.02(i)(GG), no further approval of [***] shall be required for the Capital Contributions required to fund such budget or project as set forth therein, subject to Section 6.02(i)(S) or 6.02(i)(GG); rather, subject to and in accordance with the COM Agreement, the Operator shall issue written notices to the Company for such Capital Contribution and, subject to Sections 6.02(i)(I) and (K), loans from Members, at such times and in such amounts necessary to fund the costs associated with such budget or project.
(iii)      In connection with each individual Capital Call required under the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget, each subsequent Operating Budget, and any Capital Budget associated with the Facilities covered by any Approved Precedent Agreement, by the affirmative vote of [***] of the Management Committee, will determine what portion (if any) of such funding will be made pursuant to Capital Contributions and what portion (if any) of such funding will be made by loans by the Members to the Company. Upon receipt of each notice issued by the Operator pursuant to Section 4.01(a)(ii), the Company shall issue written requests to each Member, consistent with the determination made pursuant to the preceding sentence, for the making of the Capital Contributions and/or loans required in connection with such notice.
(iv)      The Management Committee shall issue or cause to be issued a written request to each Member for the making of Capital Contributions at such times and in such amounts as the Management Committee shall approve or as determined pursuant to Section 4.01(a)(iii) (such written request referred to herein as a “ Capital Call ”). Capital Contributions shall be made by the Members in accordance with their respective Sharing Ratio. Such Capital Contributions shall be made in cash, unless a Supermajority Interest elects to request non-cash Capital Contributions. All amounts timely received by the Company pursuant to this Section 4.01 shall be credited to the respective Member’s Capital Account as of such specified date.
(v)      Each Capital Call shall contain the following information:
(A)      The total amount of Capital Contributions requested from all Members;
(B)      The amount of Capital Contribution requested from the Member to whom the request is addressed, such amount to be in accordance with the Sharing Ratio of such Member;
(C)      The purpose for which the funds are to be applied in such reasonable detail as the Management Committee shall direct; and
(D)      The date on which payments of the Capital Contribution shall be made (which date shall not be less than 30 Days following the date the Capital Call is given, unless a sooner date is approved by the Management Committee) and the method of payment, provided that such date and method shall be the same for each of the Members.
(vi)      In the event the Management Committee fails to approve an Operating Budget within 30 Days of the submission of such Operating Budget to all of the Representatives on the Management Committee for approval, the Operator is authorized, subject to and in accordance with the COM Agreement, to issue a notice to the Company, pursuant to which the Company shall issue written requests to each Member for the making of Capital Contributions and/or loans required to fund the costs associated with such Operating Budget in an amount consistent with the Operating Budget most recently approved by the Management Committee and including costs that do not exceed, for any line item, [***] percent ([***]%) of the amount set forth for such line item in such most recently approved Operating Budget.
(k)      Each Member agrees that it shall make payments of its respective Capital Contributions in accordance with Capital Calls issued pursuant to this Section 4.01. Each Member shall deliver to the Company:
(i)      within [***] Business Days following the Management Committee’s approval of the Construction Budget, but in no event later than October 31, 2014 (or, with respect to a New Member admitted after such time and prior to the In-Service Date, within 10 Business Days of such admission), and for the period up to the issuance of FERC’s initial release to the Company to commence construction pursuant to the FERC Certificate (the “ Initial Release ”), performance assurances (“ Performance Assurances ”) equal to such Member’s share of $[***] (calculated based on such Member’s Sharing Ratio); and
(ii)      within ten (10) Business Days of the date of the Initial Release (or, with respect to a New Member admitted after the Initial Release, within ten (10) Business Days of such admission) for the period following the Initial Release and up to the In-Service Date, Performance Assurances equal to [***] percent ([***]%) of such Member’s remaining obligations to make Capital Contributions to the Company pursuant to this Article 4 (calculated based on such Member’s Sharing Ratio multiplied by the remaining obligations under the Construction Budget and net of any security posted by such Member, or Member’s Affiliate, under any Approved Precedent Agreement).
The Company shall be entitled to draw from the Performance Assurances in the event a Member fails to make payments of its respective Capital Contributions in accordance with Capital Calls issued pursuant to this Section 4.01. The Performance Assurances posted by a Member pursuant to this Section 4.01(b) shall be reduced (i) at the end of each Quarter, to reflect the [***] percent ([***]%) of such Member’s actual Capital Contributions made to the Company during such Quarter and (ii) in connection with a Disposition of all or a portion of such Member’s Membership Interest, to reflect the replacement Performance Assurances to be posted by the Assignee of such Membership Interest pursuant to this Section 4.01(b). Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 4.01(b), at no time prior to the In-Service Date will a Member’s Performance Assurance obligation be less than such Member’s share of $[***] (calculated based on a Member’s Sharing Ratio). Such Performance Assurances shall be permitted to be in the form of one or more of (A) a full and unconditional written guarantee from a Qualified Guarantor, (B) a Letter of Credit or (C) cash collateral (with the ability to substitute from time to time among (A), (B) or (C)). For the avoidance of doubt, a Member’s obligation to post Performance Assurances pursuant to this Section 4.01(b) shall expire (and any obligations under any posted Performance Assurances shall terminate) on the In-Service Date.
(l)      In addition to the authority granted the Management Committee in the other provisions of this Section 4.01 to issue Capital Calls, if within [***] Days prior to the date any Matured Financing Obligation is to become due (or within [***] Days after any notice of acceleration of any Matured Financing Obligation received prior to the maturity date thereof), (i) the Management Committee has not made a Capital Call for the payment of such amount that is (or is expected to be) a Matured Financing Obligation, and (ii) the Members have been unable to secure refinancing for such Matured Financing Obligation on reasonably acceptable terms after negotiating in good faith to do so with third-party lender(s), then at any time thereafter, (1) either EQT or USG may, on behalf of the Management Committee, issue a Capital Call for cash in the amount required for the payment of such Matured Financing Obligation, and each Member shall be obligated to pay such Capital Call as provided in this Section 4.01, but such payment shall be made within [***] Days after the date the Capital Call is given (and not the [***] Day period provided for in Section 4.01(a)(v)(D)); provided that any failure by a Member to make a Capital Contribution with respect to a Capital Call made pursuant to this Section 4.01(c)(1) shall not constitute a Default under or breach of this Agreement; and (2) in the event any Member fails to make a Capital Contribution with respect to a Capital Call made pursuant to Section 4.01(c)(1), on or prior to such [***] Day, then each Founding Member shall have the right, but not the obligation, to pay the portion of the Capital Contribution owed and unpaid to permit the Company to discharge such Matured Financing Obligation. If any Founding Member elects to pay such Matured Financing Obligation pursuant to Section 4.01(c)(2), then such Founding Member will be deemed to be an Additional Contribution/Loan Member with respect to such payment, and its payment of the Matured Financing Obligation shall be treated, at the election of such Additional Contribution/Loan Member, as one of either: (A) a Capital Contribution or loan resulting in the Additional Contribution/Loan Members receiving [***] or (B) a permanent Capital Contribution that results in an adjustment of Membership Interests under Section 4.06(c).
4.09
Loans . (p) If pursuant to Section 4.01(a)(iii) the Management Committee determines as to any individual Capital Call that all or a portion of such Capital Call shall be made by loans from the Members to the Company, then each Member shall make a loan to the Company at the time and in the amount and under such terms and conditions as the Management Committee shall approve by the affirmative vote of a Supermajority Interest.
(q)      If the Management Committee determines that the Company needs funds other than as contemplated by Section 4.02(a), then, rather than calling for Capital Contributions, the Management Committee may issue or cause to be issued a written request to each Member for the making of loans to the Company at such times, in such amounts and under such terms and conditions as the Management Committee shall approve by the affirmative vote of a Supermajority Interest; provided that the Management Committee shall not call for loans rather than Capital Contributions if doing so would breach any Financing Commitment or other agreement of the Company.
(r)      All amounts received from a Member after the date specified in Section 4.02(d)(iv) by the Company pursuant to this Section 4.02 shall be accompanied by interest on such overdue amounts (and the default shall not be cured unless such interest is also received by the Company), which interest shall be payable to the Company and shall accrue from and after such specified date at the Default Rate. Any such interest paid shall not be considered part of the principal of the loan.
(s)      Each written request issued pursuant to Section 4.02(a) or 4.02(b) shall contain the following information:
(i)      The total amount of loans requested from all Members;
(ii)      The amount of the loan requested from the Member to whom the request is addressed, such amount to be in accordance with the Sharing Ratio of such Member;
(iii)      The purpose for which the funds are to be applied in such reasonable detail as the Management Committee shall direct;
(iv)      The date on which the loans to the Company shall be made (which date shall not be less than [***] Days following the date the request is given, unless a sooner date is approved by the Management Committee) and the method of payment; provided that such date and method shall be the same for each of the Members; and
(v)      All terms concerning the repayment of or otherwise relating to such loans; provided that such terms shall be the same for each of the Members and in the case of costs covered by the Construction Budget shall be consistent with Section 4.01(a)(iii).
(t)      Each Member agrees that it shall make its respective loans in accordance with requests issued pursuant to this Section 4.02.
4.10
No Other Contribution or Loan Obligations . No Member shall be required or permitted to make any Capital Contributions or loans to the Company except pursuant to this Article 4.
4.11
Return of Contributions . Except as expressly provided herein, a Member is not entitled to the return of any part of its Capital Contributions or to be paid interest in respect of either its Capital Account or its Capital Contributions. An unreturned Capital Contribution is not a liability of the Company or of any Member. A Member is not required to contribute or to lend any cash or property to the Company to enable the Company to return any Member’s Capital Contributions.
4.12
Capital Accounts . (k) A separate Capital Account shall be established and maintained for each Member with respect to such Member’s Membership Interest in the Company. Each Member’s Capital Account shall be increased by (i) the amount of money contributed by that Member to the Company; (ii) the fair market value of property contributed by that Member to the Company (net of liabilities secured by such contributed property that the Company is considered to assume or take subject to under Section 752 of the Code); (iii) allocations to that Member of income and gain (or items thereof), including items specifically allocated to such Member pursuant to Section 5.04(b) and income and gain exempt from tax and income and gain described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(g), but excluding income and gain described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(4)(i); and (iv) the amount of any liabilities assumed by such Member and shall be decreased by (v) the amount of money distributed to that Member by the Company; (vi) the fair market value of property distributed to that Member by the Company (net of liabilities secured by such distributed property that such Member is considered to assume or take subject to under Section 752 of the Code); (vii) allocations to that Member of expenditures of the Company described (or treated as described) in Section 705(a)(2)(B) of the Code; (viii) allocations of loss and deduction (or items thereof), including items specifically allocated to such Member pursuant to Section 5.04(b) and loss and deduction described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(g), but excluding items described in (vi) above and loss or deduction described in Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(4)(i) or 1.704-1(b)(4)(iii); and (ix) the amount of any liabilities of such Member assumed by the Company. The Members’ Capital Accounts shall also be maintained and adjusted as permitted by the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f) and as required by the other provisions of Treasury Regulation Sections 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv) and 1.704-1(b)(4), including adjustments to reflect the allocations to the Members of depreciation, depletion, amortization, and gain or loss as computed for book purposes rather than the allocation of the corresponding items as computed for tax purposes, as required by Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(g). Thus, in the discretion of the Management Committee, the Members’ Capital Accounts shall be increased or decreased to reflect a revaluation of the property based on the fair market value of the property on the date of adjustment (as determined pursuant to Section 4.05(b)), immediately prior to (A) the contribution of more than a de minimis amount of money or other property to the Company by a new or existing Member as consideration for a Membership Interest or an increased Sharing Ratio, (B) the distribution of more than a de minimis amount of money or other property by the Company to a Member as consideration for a Membership Interest, or (C) the liquidation of the Company. A Member who has more than one Membership Interest shall have a single Capital Account that reflects all such Membership Interests, regardless of the class of Membership Interests owned by such Member and regardless of the time or manner in which such Membership Interests were acquired. Upon the Disposition of all or a portion of a Membership Interest, the Capital Account of the Disposing Member that is attributable to such Membership Interest shall carry over to the Assignee in accordance with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(l). The Capital Accounts shall not be deemed to be, nor have the same meaning as, the capital account of the Company under the NGA.
(l)      Whenever the fair market value of property is required to be determined pursuant to the second and third sentences of Section 4.05(a), the Operator shall propose such a fair market value in a notice to the other Members. If any other Member disagrees with such determination, such Member shall notify the other Members of such disagreement within [***] Business Days of receiving such notice. If such Dispute is not resolved within [***] Business Days after such notice, any Member may submit such Dispute for binding appraisal in accordance with Section 13.11(c) by delivering a FMV Notice to the other Members.
This Section 4.05 is intended to comply with the capital account maintenance provisions of Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv) and will be applied and interpreted in accordance with such Treasury Regulations.
4.13
Failure to Make a Capital Contribution or Loan .
(c)      General . If any Member fails to make a Capital Contribution as requested by the Management Committee (or on behalf of the Management Committee pursuant to Section 4.01(c)) in a Capital Call validly and timely issued pursuant to Section 4.01 or a loan when required pursuant to Section 4.02(a) or 4.02(b) (each such Member being a “ Non - Contributing/Loan Member ”), and if such failure continues for more than [***] Days after the date on which it is due, the Members that have contributed their Capital Contribution or made their loan, as applicable (each, a “ Contributing/Loan Member ”) may (without limitation as to other remedies that may be available, and in particular such other remedies shall include the right to specifically enforce the obligation of the Non-Contributing/Loan Member to make the required Capital Contribution or loan) thereafter elect to:
(xix)      treat the Non-Contributing/Loan Member’s failure to contribute as a Default by giving notice thereof to the Non-Contributing/Loan Member, in which event the provisions of this Agreement regarding the commission of a Default by a Member shall apply (but if the Capital Call is for the payment of a Matured Financing Obligation, the Default shall be immediate on the giving of such notice and the [***]-Day cure period contemplated in the definition of Default shall not apply); or
(xx)      pay the portion of the Capital Contribution owed and unpaid by, or make the loan required from, the Non-Contributing/Loan Member (the “ Additional Contribution/Loan ”) in which event the Contributing/Loan Members that elect to fund the Non-Contributing/Loan Members’ share (the “ Additional Contribution/Loan Members ”) may treat the contribution or loan, as applicable as one of: (1) a Capital Contribution or loan, as applicable, resulting in the Additional Contribution/Loan Members receiving [***] under Section 4.06(b), or (2) a permanent Capital Contribution that results in an adjustment of Membership Interests under Section 4.06(c), as determined by the Additional Contribution/Loan Members as set forth below.
No Contributing/Loan Member shall be obligated to make either election under clause (i) or clause (ii) above. The decision of the Contributing/Loan Members to elect (i) or (ii) above shall be made by the determination of the Contributing/Loan Members holding the Supermajority Interest of all Contributing/Loan Members, but clause (ii) above may not be elected unless at such time of determination there is one or more Additional Contribution/Loan Members. The decision of the Additional Contribution/Loan Members to elect clause (ii)(1) or clause (ii)(2) above shall be made by the determination of the Additional Contribution/Loan Members holding the Supermajority Interest of all Additional Contribution/Loan Members. Unless and until such election is made, payment of the Additional Contribution/Loan shall be treated as a Priority Interest under Section 4.06(a)(ii) (1). [***].
(d)      [***]
(v)      [***]
(vi)      [***] shall not alter the Sharing Ratios of the Members, nor shall the [***] alter any distributions to the Contributing/Loan Members (in their capacity as Contributing/Loan Members, as opposed to their capacity as Additional Contribution/Loan Members) in accordance with their respective Sharing Ratios. Notwithstanding any provision in this Agreement to the contrary, a Member may not Dispose of all or a portion of [***] except to a Person to whom it Disposes all or the applicable pro rata portion of its Membership Interest after compliance with the requirements of this Agreement in connection therewith.
(vii)      For so long as any Additional Contribution/Loan Member holds [***], neither any Non-Contributing/Loan Member nor its Representative (except for a Non-Contributing/Loan Member that has paid to the Additional Contribution/Loan Member(s) all of the amount of the Additional Contribution/Loan attributable to such Non-Contributing/Loan Member in accordance with Section 4.06(b)(i)) shall have the right to vote its Membership Interest (or Sharing Ratio) under this Agreement with respect to any decision regarding distributions from the Company, and any distribution to which such Non-Contributing/Loan Member is entitled shall be paid to [***].
(viii)      No Member that is a Non-Contributing/Loan Member may Dispose of its Membership Interest unless, at the closing of such Disposition, either the Non-Contributing/Loan Member or the proposed Assignee pays [***]. No Assignee shall be admitted to the Company as a Member until compliance with this Section 4.06(b)(iv) has occurred.
(e)      Permanent Contribution . If the Additional Contribution/Loan Members elect under Section 4.06(a)(ii) to have the Additional Contribution/Loan treated as a permanent Capital Contribution, then the Sharing Ratios of each Member will be automatically adjusted to equal each Member’s total Capital Contributions when expressed as a percentage of all Members’ Capital Contributions (after giving effect to the Capital Contribution made by the Additional Contribution/Loan Members).
(f)      Further Assurance . In connection with this Section 4.06, each Member shall execute and deliver any additional documents and instruments and perform any additional acts that may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate and perform the provisions of this Section 4.06.
(g)      Deemed Non-Contributing/Loan Member . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, for purposes of this Agreement the term “Non-Contributing/Loan Member” shall include any Member who (i) fails to vote (through such Member’s Representatives) in favor of a proposed Capital Call under Section 4.01 or a proposed loan pursuant to Section 4.02 and (ii) fails to fund such Capital Call or loan, in each case, to the extent necessary to cover the amount of any Matured Financing Obligation that is to become due within [***] Days or that has become due (by acceleration or otherwise).
4.14
Credit Assurance .
(g)      Unless otherwise agreed to by [***], if the Company is required to provide a guaranty, letter of credit or other credit support (each a “ Credit Assurance ”) to a counterparty under any contract or agreement (including an Approved Precedent Agreement) approved by the Management Committee of the Company prior to the In-Service Date (each a “ Subject Contract ”), then each Member agrees [***].
(h)      If a breach, default or other event occurs under a Subject Contract and the counterparty thereunder makes a demand or draw on one or more Credit Assurances for such breach, default or other event (an “ Demand Event ”), then a determination will be made as to the total dollar amount demanded or drawn by such counterparty for such Demand Event (“ Total Event Demand Amount ”). [***].
(i)      If any [***], then such Member [***].
Article 5     
DISTRIBUTIONS AND ALLOCATIONS
5.08
Distributions . Within [***] Days following the end of each Quarter following the In-Service Date, the Management Committee shall determine the amount of Available Cash with respect to such Quarter, and an amount equal to 100% of Available Cash with respect to such Quarter shall, subject to Section 18-607 of the Act, be distributed in accordance with this Article 5 to the Members (other than a Breaching Member) in proportion to their respective Sharing Ratios (at the time the amounts of such distributions are made); provided , however , that, if the Management Committee fails timely to determine the amount of Available Cash with respect to any Quarter following the In-Service Date, an amount equal to [***]% of the Available Cash determined with respect to the immediately preceding Quarter shall, subject to Section 18-607 of the Act, be distributed in accordance with this Article 5 to the Members (other than a Breaching Member) in proportion to their respective Sharing Ratios (at the time the amounts of such distributions are made).
5.09
[Intentionally omitted.]
5.10
[Intentionally omitted.]
5.11
Allocations for Maintaining Capital Accounts . (m) For purposes of maintaining the Capital Accounts pursuant to Section 4.05, except as provided in Sections 5.04(b) and (c), each item of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit shall be allocated to the Members in accordance with their respective Sharing Ratios.
(n)      With respect to each period during which [***] with respect to an Additional Contribution/Loan treated as a Capital Contribution is outstanding, each Additional Contribution/Loan Member shall be allocated items of income and gain in an amount equal to the return that has accrued (whether or not paid) with respect to such Capital Contribution pursuant to Section 4.06(b)(i), and items of income and gain that would otherwise be allocable to the Non-Contributing/Loan Member(s) shall be correspondingly reduced.
(o)      Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of Section 5.04, the following special allocations will be made:
(i)      [Intentionally omitted.]
(ii)      Nonrecourse Deductions shall be allocated to the Members in proportion to their Sharing Ratios.
(iii)      Member Nonrecourse Deductions attributable to Member Nonrecourse Debt shall be allocated to the Members bearing the Economic Risk of Loss for such Member Nonrecourse Debt as determined under Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(b)(4). If more than one Member bears the Economic Risk of Loss for such Member Nonrecourse Debt, the Member Nonrecourse Deductions attributable to such Member Nonrecourse Debt shall be allocated among the Members according to the ratio in which they bear the Economic Risk of Loss. This Section 5.04(c)(iii) is intended to comply with the provisions of Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(iv)      Notwithstanding any other provision hereof to the contrary, if there is a net decrease in Minimum Gain for an allocation period (or if there was a net decrease in Minimum Gain for a prior allocation period and the Company did not have sufficient amounts of income and gain during prior periods to allocate among the Members under this Section 5.04(c)(iv), items of income and gain shall be allocated to each Member in an amount equal to such Member’s share of the net decrease in such Minimum Gain (as determined pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(g)(2)). This Section 5.04(c)(iv) is intended to constitute a minimum gain chargeback under Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(f) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(v)      Notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary except Section 5.04(c)(iv) (dealing with Minimum Gain), if there is a net decrease in Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain for an allocation period (or if there was a net decrease in Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain for a prior allocation period and the Company did not have sufficient amounts of income and gain during prior periods to allocate among the Members under this Section 5.04(c)(v)), items of income and gain shall be allocated to each Member in an amount equal to such Member’s share of the net decrease in Member Nonrecourse Debt Minimum Gain (as determined pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(4)). This Section 5.04(c)(v) is intended to constitute a partner nonrecourse debt minimum gain chargeback under Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-2(i)(4) and shall be interpreted consistently therewith.
(vi)      Notwithstanding any provision hereof to the contrary except Section 5.04(c)(ii) and Section 5.04(c)(iii), no losses or other items of expense shall be allocated to any Member to the extent that such allocation would cause such Member to have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance (or increase any existing deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance) at the end of the allocation period. All losses and other items of expense in excess of the limitation set forth in this Section 5.04(c)(vi) shall be allocated to the Members who do not have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance in proportion to their relative positive Adjusted Capital Accounts but only to the extent that such losses and other items of expense do not cause any such Member to have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance.
(vii)      If any Member unexpectedly receives any adjustments, allocations or distributions described in Treasury Regulations Sections 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d)(4), (5) or (6) resulting in or increasing an Adjusted Capital Account deficit for such Member, items of income and gain will be specially allocated to such Member in any amount and manner sufficient to eliminate, to the extent required by the Treasury Regulations, such Adjusted Capital Account deficit of the Member as quickly as possible; provided , however , that an allocation pursuant to this Section 5.04(c)(vii) shall be made only if and to the extent that such Member would have a deficit Adjusted Capital Account balance after all other allocations provided for in this Article 5 have been tentatively made as if this Section 5.04(c)(vii) were not in this Agreement. The items of income or gain to be allocated will be determined in accordance with Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d). This subsection (vii) is intended to qualify and be construed as a “qualifying income offset” within the meaning of Treasury Regulations Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(ii)(d) and will be applied and interpreted in accordance with such Treasury Regulations.
5.12
Allocations for Tax Purposes . (h) Except as provided in Section 5.05(b) and Section 5.05(c) or as otherwise required by the Code or Treasury Regulations, solely for federal income tax purposes, items of taxable income, gain, loss and deduction of the Company for each fiscal year or other relevant period shall be allocated among the Members in the same manner as each correlative item of “book” income, gain, loss and deduction is allocated to the Capital Accounts of the Members pursuant to Section 5.04 and each tax credit shall be allocated to the Members in the same manner as the receipt or expenditure giving rise to such credit is allocated pursuant to Section 5.04.
(i)      Income, gain, loss, and deduction with respect to property contributed to the Company by a Member or revalued pursuant to Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(2)(iv)(f) shall be allocated among the Members in a manner that takes into account the variation between the adjusted tax basis of such property and its book value, as required by Section 704(c) of the Code and Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-1(b)(4)(i), using the remedial allocation method permitted by Treasury Regulation Section 1.704-3(d).
(j)      Pursuant to Treasury Regulations Section 1.1245-1(e), to the extent the Company recognizes gain as a result of a sale, exchange or other disposition of Company assets which is taxable as recapture income under Sections 1245 or 1250 of the Code or unrecaptured Section 1250 gain under Section 1(h) of the Code, such recapture income shall be allocated among the Members in the same proportion as the depreciation and amortization giving rise to such recapture income was allocable among the Members. In no event, however, shall any Member be allocated recapture income hereunder in excess of the amount of gain allocated to the Member under this Agreement. Any recapture income that is not allocated to a Member due to the gain limitation described in the previous sentence shall be allocated among those Members whose shares of total gain on the sale, exchange or other disposition of the property exceed their share of depreciation and amortization attributable to Company assets, in proportion to their relative shares of the total allocable gain.
(k)      Allocations pursuant to this Section 5.05 are solely for federal (and, where applicable, state and local) tax purposes and shall not affect, or in any way be taken into account in computing, any Capital Account or share of income, gain, loss and other deduction described in Section 5.04 or distributions pursuant to any provision of this Agreement.
(l)      The Members are aware of the income and other tax consequences of the allocations made by this Agreement and hereby agree to be bound by the provisions of this Agreement in reporting their shares of items of income, gain, loss, credit and deduction.
5.13
Varying Interests . All items of income, gain, loss, deduction or credit shall be allocated, and all distributions shall be made, to the Persons shown on the records of the Company to have been Members as of the last Day of the period for which the allocation or distribution is to be made. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if during any taxable year there is a change in any Member’s Sharing Ratio, the Members agree that their allocable shares of such items for the taxable year shall be determined based on any method determined by the Management Committee to be permissible under Code Section 706 and the related Treasury Regulations to take account of the Members’ varying Sharing Ratios.
5.14
Amounts Withheld . The Company is authorized to withhold from payments and distributions to the Members and to pay over to any federal, state or local Governmental Authority any amounts required to be so withheld pursuant to the Code or any provisions of any applicable Law and shall allocate such amounts to the Members with respect to which such amounts were withheld. All amounts withheld pursuant to the Code or any provisions of any applicable Law with respect to any payment, distribution or allocation shall be treated for all purposes under this Agreement as amounts paid or distributed pursuant to this Article 5 to the Members with respect to which such amount was withheld. All taxes paid on behalf of such Member pursuant to this Section 5.07 in excess of any distributions otherwise payable to such Member shall, at the option of the Company, (i) be promptly paid to the Company by such Member or (ii) be repaid by reducing the amount of the current or next succeeding distribution or distributions which would otherwise have been made to such Member or, if such distributions are not sufficient for that purpose, by so reducing the proceeds of liquidation otherwise payable to such Member. Whenever the Company selects option (ii) of the preceding sentence, such Member shall for all purposes of this Agreement be treated as having received a distribution under 5.01 of the amount of the tax payment. To the fullest extent permitted by law, each Member hereby agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company and the other Members from and against any liability for taxes (and related interest, penalties or additions to tax) with respect to income attributable to or distributions or other payments to such Member.
Article 6     
MANAGEMENT
6.10
Generally . Except as provided in Section 6.05(a), the management of the Company is fully vested in the Founding Members. To facilitate the orderly and efficient management of the Company, the Founding Members shall act (a) collectively as a “committee of the whole” pursuant to Section 6.02, and (b) through the delegation of certain duties and authority to the Operator. Subject to the express provisions of this Agreement, each Member agrees that it will not exercise its authority under the Act to bind or commit the Company to agreements, transactions or other arrangements, or to hold itself out as an agent of the Company.
6.11
Management Committee . The Founding Members shall act collectively through meetings as a “committee of the whole,” which is hereby named the “ Management Committee .” Decisions or actions taken by the Management Committee in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement shall constitute decisions or actions by the Company and shall be binding on each Member, Representative, and employee of the Company. The Management Committee shall conduct its affairs in accordance with the following provisions and the other provisions of this Agreement:
(m)
Representatives.
(i)      Designation . To facilitate the orderly and efficient conduct of Management Committee meetings, each Founding Member (together with its Affiliates who are also Founding Members, if any) shall notify the other Founding Member(s), from time to time, of the identity of (A) one of its senior officers, who will represent it at such meetings (a “ Representative ”), and (B) at least one, but not more than two, additional senior officers, who will represent it at any meeting that the Founding Member’s Representative is unable to attend (each an “ Alternate Representative ”). (The term “ Representative ” shall also refer to any Alternate Representative that is actually performing the duties of the applicable Representative.) [***]. The initial Representative and Alternate Representatives of each Founding Member are set forth in Exhibit A . A Founding Member may designate a different Representative or Alternate Representatives for any meeting of the Management Committee by notifying the other Founding Member(s) at least [***] Business Days prior to the scheduled date for such meeting; provided that, if giving such advance notice is not feasible, then such new Representative or Alternate Representatives shall present written evidence of his or her authority at the commencement of such meeting.
(ii)      Authority . Each Representative shall have the full authority to act on behalf of the Founding Member that designated such Representative; the action of a Representative at a meeting (or through a written consent) of the Management Committee shall bind the Founding Member that designated such Representative; and the other Members shall be entitled to rely upon such action without further inquiry or investigation as to the actual authority (or lack thereof) of such Representative. In addition, the act of an Alternate Representative shall be deemed the act of the Representative for which such Alternate Representative is acting, without the need to produce evidence of the absence or unavailability of such Representative.
(iii)      DISCLAIMER OF DUTIES; INDEMNIFICATION . EACH REPRESENTATIVE SHALL REPRESENT, AND OWE DUTIES TO, ONLY THE MEMBER THAT DESIGNATED SUCH REPRESENTATIVE (THE NATURE AND EXTENT OF SUCH DUTIES BEING AN INTERNAL AFFAIR OF SUCH MEMBER), AND SHALL NOT OWE ANY DUTIES (INCLUDING FIDUCIARY DUTIES) TO THE COMPANY, ANY OTHER MEMBER OR REPRESENTATIVE, OR ANY AFFILIATE, OFFICER, OR EMPLOYEE OF THE COMPANY, ANY OTHER MEMBER, OR ANY OTHER PERSON. THE PROVISIONS OF SECTIONS 6.02(f)(ii) AND 6.04 SHALL ALSO INURE TO THE BENEFIT OF EACH MEMBER’S REPRESENTATIVE. THE COMPANY SHALL INDEMNIFY, PROTECT, DEFEND, RELEASE AND HOLD HARMLESS EACH REPRESENTATIVE FROM AND AGAINST ANY CLAIMS ASSERTED BY OR ON BEHALF OF ANY PERSON (INCLUDING ANOTHER MEMBER), OTHER THAN THE MEMBER THAT DESIGNATED SUCH REPRESENTATIVE, THAT ARISE OUT OF, RELATE TO, OR ARE OTHERWISE ATTRIBUTABLE TO, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, THE COMPANY OR SUCH REPRESENTATIVE’S SERVICE ON THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE.
(iv)      Attendance . Each Founding Member shall use all reasonable efforts to cause its Representative or Alternate Representative to attend each meeting of the Management Committee, unless its Representative is unable to do so because of a “force majeure” event or other event beyond his reasonable control, in which event such Founding Member shall use all reasonable efforts to cause its Representative or Alternate Representative to participate in the meeting by telephone pursuant to Section 6.02(h).
(n)      Secretary . The Management Committee may designate a Secretary of the Management Committee, who need not be a Representative or an employee of a Member or any Affiliate thereof.
(o)      Procedures . The Secretary, or if no Secretary has been appointed, a person designated in writing by the Representatives, of the Management Committee shall maintain written minutes of each meeting held by the Management Committee. The Management Committee may adopt whatever rules and procedures relating to its activities as it may deem appropriate, provided that such rules and procedures shall not be inconsistent with or violate the provisions of this Agreement.
(p)      Time and Place of Meetings . The Management Committee shall meet quarterly, subject to more or less frequent meetings upon approval of the Management Committee. Notice of, and an agenda for, all Management Committee meetings shall be provided by the Representatives to all Members at least five Days prior to the date of each meeting, together with proposed minutes of the previous Management Committee meeting (if such minutes have not been previously ratified). Among other items, the agenda will provide for a discussion of (i) the results of operations, including explanations of significant variances in revenues, expenses and cash flow activities and (ii) amounts due for contractual obligations that will impact Available Cash. Special meetings of the Management Committee may be called at such times, and in such manner, as any Founding Member reasonably deems necessary. Any Founding Member calling for any such special meeting shall notify the Representatives, who in turn shall notify all Founding Members of the date and agenda for such meeting at least five Days prior to the date of such meeting. Such five-Day period may be shortened by the Management Committee, acting through Supermajority Interest. All meetings of the Management Committee shall be held at a location agreed upon by the Representatives. Attendance of a Representative of a Founding Member at a meeting of the Management Committee shall constitute a waiver of notice of such meeting, except where such Representative attends the meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.
(q)      Quorum . The presence of Representative(s) of Founding Members representing Supermajority Interest shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting of the Management Committee.
(r)
Voting.
(i)      Voting by Sharing Ratios . Subject to Sections 6.02(j), 6.05(a), and 6.05(e), each Representative shall be entitled to vote on all matters submitted to a vote of the Management Committee in accordance with the respective Sharing Ratio of the Founding Member that designated such Representative.
(ii)      DISCLAIMER OF DUTIES . WITH RESPECT TO ANY VOTE, CONSENT OR APPROVAL AT ANY MEETING OF THE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE OR OTHERWISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT OTHERWISE EXPRESSLY PROVIDED IN SECTION 6.02(j) AND SECTION 6.05(e) OF THIS AGREEMENT, EACH REPRESENTATIVE MAY GRANT OR WITHHOLD SUCH VOTE, CONSENT OR APPROVAL (A) IN ITS SOLE AND ABSOLUTE DISCRETION, (B) WITH OR WITHOUT CAUSE, (C) SUBJECT TO SUCH CONDITIONS AS IT SHALL DEEM APPROPRIATE, AND (D) WITHOUT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE INTERESTS OF, AND WITHOUT INCURRING LIABILITY TO, THE COMPANY, ANY OTHER MEMBER OR REPRESENTATIVE, OR ANY AFFILIATE, OFFICER, OR EMPLOYEE OF THE COMPANY OR ANY OTHER MEMBER (COLLECTIVELY, “ SOLE DISCRETION ”). THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION 6.02(f)(ii) SHALL APPLY NOTWITHSTANDING THE NEGLIGENCE, GROSS NEGLIGENCE, WILLFUL MISCONDUCT, STRICT LIABILITY OR OTHER FAULT OR RESPONSIBILITY OF A MEMBER OR ITS REPRESENTATIVE.
(iii)      Exclusion of Certain Members and Their Sharing Ratios . With respect to any vote, consent or approval, any Breaching Member or Withdrawn Member (and any Representative of such Breaching Member or Withdrawn Member) shall be excluded from such decision (as contemplated by Section 10.03(b)), and the Sharing Ratio of such Breaching Member or Withdrawn Member shall be disregarded in calculating the voting thresholds in Section 6.02(f)(i). In addition, if any other provision of this Agreement provides that a Supermajority Interest is to be calculated without reference to the Sharing Ratio of a particular Founding Member, then the applicable voting threshold shall be deemed adjusted accordingly.
(s)      Action by Written Consent . Any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of the Management Committee may be taken without a meeting, without prior notice, and without a vote if a consent or consents in writing, setting forth the action so taken, is signed by the Representatives that could have taken the action at a meeting of the Management Committee.
(t)      Meetings by Telephone . Representatives may participate in and hold such meeting by means of conference telephone, videoconference or similar communications equipment by means of which all persons participating in the meeting can hear each other. Participation in such a meeting shall constitute presence in person at such meeting, except where a Representative participates in the meeting for the express purpose of objecting to the transaction of any business on the ground that the meeting is not lawfully called or convened.
(u)      Matters Requiring Approval of the Management Committee . Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, but subject to Section 6.05(e), none of the following actions may be taken by, or on behalf of, the Company without first obtaining the approval of a Supermajority Interest of the Management Committee:
(A)      conducting any activity or business that, in the reasonable judgment of the Operator acting in good faith, may generate income for federal income tax purposes that may not be “qualifying income” (as such term is defined pursuant to Section 7704 of the Code) in excess of [***]% of the gross income of the Company;
(B)      any material tax elections or any material decisions relating to material tax returns, in each case, as determined in the reasonable judgment of the Operator acting in good faith;
(C)      considering at a meeting of the Management Committee a material matter not on the agenda for that meeting;
(D)      entering into, amending in any material respect, or terminating any Material Contract, or taking any action that results in a material default under any Material Contract;
(E)      approving any material loans made by the Company or the provision of any material financial guarantees by the Company, except to the extent such material loans or material financial guarantees have been specifically included in and approved as part of the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget, or any subsequent annual Capital Budget or Operating Budget that has been approved by the Management Committee;
(F)      placing or permitting any liens or other encumbrances (other than Permitted Encumbrances) to exist on the assets of the Company;
(G)      [***]
(H)      [***]
(I)      [***]
(J)      [***]
(K)      [***]
(L)      except as otherwise provided in Section 4.01(a)(ii) making a Capital Call or otherwise requiring any Member to make any Capital Contribution, except to the extent such Capital Call or Capital Contribution has been specifically included in and approved as part of the Construction Budget, the Initial Operating Budget, or any subsequent annual Capital Budget or Operating Budget that has been approved by the Management Committee;
(M)      [***]
(N)      selecting a different name for the Company, or making any change to the principal nature of the business of the Company;
(O)      [***]
(P)      [***]
(Q)      approving accounting procedures for the Company in accordance with GAAP, or voluntarily changing or terminating the appointment of the Company’s accountants;
(R)      [***]
(S)      [***]
(T)      [***]
(U)      [***]
(V)      on the occurrence of a Dissolution Event, the designation of a Member or other Person to serve as liquidator pursuant to Section 12.02;
(W)      the commencement, conduct or settlement of any suit, action or proceeding or arbitration, each involving in excess of $[***];
(X)      the formation of any subcommittee of the Management Committee pursuant to Section 6.02(k);
(Y)      dissolution of the Company pursuant to Section 12.01;
(Z)      causing or permitting the Company to become Bankrupt (but this provision shall not be construed to require any Member to ensure the profitability or solvency of the Company);
(AA)      the Disposition or abandonment of all or substantially all of the Company’s assets, or of the Company’s material assets other than any Disposition(s) in the ordinary course of business;
(BB)      causing or permitting the Company to merge, consolidate or convert into any other entity;
(CC)      [***]
(DD)      approving the FERC Application pursuant to Section 7.01(a);
(EE)      making any decision required pursuant to Sections 7.01(b), (c) or (d);
(FF)      [***]
(GG)      [***]
(HH)      [***]
(v)      Reasonableness . In any matter proposed to the Management Committee pursuant to [***].
(w)      Subcommittees . The Management Committee may create such subcommittees, and delegate to such subcommittees such authority and responsibility, and rescind any such delegations, as it may deem appropriate.
(x)      Officers . The Management Committee may designate one or more Persons to be officers of the Company. Any officers so designated shall have such titles and, subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, have such authority and perform such duties as the Management Committee may delegate to them and shall serve at the pleasure of the Management Committee and report to the Management Committee.
6.12
Construction, Operation and Management Agreement . The Company shall enter into a Construction, Operation and Management Agreement with Operator (the “ COM Agreement ”) in such form as shall be approved by the Founding Members.
6.13
No Duties; Disclaimer of Duties . Each Member acknowledges its express intent, and agrees with each other Member for the mutual benefit of all the Members, that
(a)      to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, no Member, in its capacity as Member, nor any of such Member’s or any of its Affiliates’ respective employees, agents, directors, managers or officers shall have any fiduciary duty to the Company, any other Member or Representative or any other Person in connection with the business and affairs of the Company or any consent or approval given or withheld pursuant to this Agreement; provided , however , that nothing herein shall eliminate the implied contractual covenant of good faith and fair dealing;
(b)      to the fullest extent permitted by applicable Law, no Representative, in such Person’s capacity as a Representative, shall have any fiduciary duty to the Company, any Member (other than the Member that designated such Representative), any other Representative, or any other Person in connection with the business and affairs of the Company or any consent or approval given or withheld pursuant to this Agreement; provided , however , that nothing herein shall eliminate the implied contractual covenant of good faith and fair dealing; and
(c)      the provisions of this Section 6.04 will apply for the benefit of each Member, and no standard of care, duty, or other legal restriction or theory of liability shall limit or modify the right of each Member to act and direct its Representative to vote in the manner determined by the Member that designated such Representative in its Sole Discretion.
To the maximum extent permitted by applicable Law, each Member hereby releases and forever discharges each other Member and such other Member’s Representative from all liabilities that such other Member or its Representative might owe, under the Act or otherwise, to the Company, the releasing Member, or such releasing Member’s Representative on the ground that any decision of that other Member or such other Member’s Representative to grant or withhold any vote, consent or approval constituted the breach or violation of any standard of care, any fiduciary duty or other legal restriction or theory of liability applicable to such other Member or its Representative; provided , however , that nothing herein shall eliminate any Member’s liability for any act or omission that constitutes a bad faith violation of the implied contractual covenant of good faith and fair dealing. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, nothing in this Section 6.04 shall limit or waive any claims against, actions, rights to sue, other remedies or other recourse of the Company, any Member or any other Person may have against any Member, Representative or employee of the Company for a breach of contract claim relating to any binding agreement.
6.14
Business Opportunities .
(a)      During the Term, except as otherwise provided in Section 6.05(f), any project involving the planning, design, construction, acquisition, ownership, maintenance, or operation of the Facilities may be conducted only by the Company and not by any Member or any Affiliate of a Member.
(b)      A Member and each Affiliate of a Member may engage in and possess interests in other business ventures of any and every type and description, independently or with others, including ones in competition with the Company, with no obligation to offer to the Company, any other Member or any Affiliate of another Member the right to participate therein. Subject to Section 6.02(i)(HH), the Company may transact business with any Member or Affiliate thereof. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Members recognize and agree that their respective Affiliates currently engage in certain activities involving natural gas and electricity marketing and trading (including futures, options, swaps, exchanges of future positions for physical deliveries and commodity trading), gathering, processing, storage, transportation and distribution, electric generation, development and ownership, as well as other commercial activities related to natural gas and that these and other activities by Members’ Affiliates may be based on natural gas that is shipped through the Facilities or otherwise made possible or facilitated by reason of the Company’s activities (herein referred to as “ Affiliate s Outside Activities ”). No Affiliate of a Member shall be restricted in its right to conduct, individually or jointly with others, for its own account any Affiliate’s Outside Activities, and no Member or its Affiliates shall have any duty or obligation, express or implied, fiduciary or otherwise, to account to, or to share the results or profits of such Affiliate’s Outside Activities with, the Company, any other Member or any Affiliate of any other Member, by reason of such Affiliate’s Outside Activities. The provisions of this Section 6.05(b) and Sections 6.02(a)(iii), 6.02(f)(ii), 6.04, 6.05(d), 6.05(e), and 6.07(a) constitute an agreement to modify or eliminate, as applicable, fiduciary duties pursuant to the provisions of Section 18-1101 of the Act.
(c)
Subject to Section 6.05(a), each Member:
(iii)      renounces in advance each and every interest or expectancy it or any of its Affiliates might be considered to have under the Act, at common law or in equity by reason of its membership in the Company in any business opportunity, or in any opportunity to participate in any business opportunity, in any business or industry in which any other Member or its Affiliates now or in the future engages, which is presented to the Company, to any other Member or any of its Affiliates or to any present or future partner, member, director, officer, manager, supervisor, employee, agent or representative of the Company or of any other Member or any of its Affiliates; and
(iv)      waives and consents to [***].
(d)
Subject to Section 6.05(a), the Company:
(i)      renounces in advance each and every interest or expectancy it might be considered to have under the Act, at common law or in any business opportunity, or in any opportunity to participate in any business opportunity, in any business or industry in which any Member or any of its Affiliates now or in the future engages, which is presented to such Member or any of its Affiliates or to any present or future partner, member, director, officer, manager, supervisor, employee, agent or representative of such Member or any of its Affiliates; and
(ii)      waives and consents to [***].
(e)      Notwithstanding any other provision in this Agreement, with respect to a Related Party Matter, the Representative of the Founding Member who is, or whose Affiliate is, involved in such Related Party Matter [***].
(f)      [***]
6.15
Insurance Coverage .
(a)      Operator Insurance . Pursuant to the COM Agreement, the Operator is required to carry and maintain or cause to be carried and maintained certain liability insurance coverages.
(b)      Owner Insurance . The Management Committee shall determine the type limits, deductibles and other terms applicable to the insurance coverages to be maintained by the Company, and the Company shall engage an insurance broker to provide recommendations and to procure such insurance coverages on behalf of the Company.
(c)      Claim for Property Loss or Damage . In the event of actual loss or damage to the Company’s property or any incident reasonably anticipated to give rise to a claim for loss or damage to the Company’s property, the Company shall promptly provide written notice to the Members of such loss, damage or incident. The Company shall take all actions necessary to provide proper and timely notification to its insurers of such loss, damage or incident. The Company shall be responsible for the preparation, submittal and negotiation of all insurance claims related to any loss, damage or incident involving the Company’s property. The Members each agree to use all reasonable efforts to cooperate with each other and the Company in the preparation, submittal and negotiation of all such claims by the Company, including, but not limited to, the assignment of adjusters and the provision and exchange of information related to any loss, damage or incident involving the Company’s property.
(d)      Directors’ and Officers’ Liability . Each Member shall carry and maintain Directors’ and Officers’ Liability insurance covering its own respective persons who are serving as officers, directors, Representatives or Management Committee members. Each Member shall also be responsible for insuring its respective Membership Interest for securities claims against the Company.
6.16
Indemnification .
(a)      Subject to Section 6.07(b), to the fullest extent permitted by the Act, the Company shall indemnify and hold harmless each Representative and each Member and the managers, officers, directors, stockholders, partners, members, managers, employees, affiliates, representatives and agents of such Member, as well as each officer, employee, representative, and agent of the Company (individually, a “ Covered Person ”) from and against any and all Claims in which the Covered Person may be involved, or threatened to be involved, as a party or otherwise, by reason of the fact that he or it is a Covered Person or which relates to or arises out of the Company or its property, business or affairs. A Covered Person shall not be entitled to indemnification under this Section 6.07(a) with respect to [***].
(b)      Notwithstanding the obligations of the Company pursuant to Section 6.07(a) and subject to Section 6.08, each Member shall indemnify, protect, defend, release and hold harmless the Company and each other Member, its Representative, its Affiliates, and its and their respective directors, officers, trustees, employees and agents from and against [***].
6.17
Limitation on Liability . EXCEPT IN CONNECTION WITH INDEMNIFICATION OBLIGATIONS ARISING FROM AN ACTION OR PROCEEDING BROUGHT BY A THIRD PARTY FOR AMOUNTS PAID OR OWING TO SUCH THIRD PARTY, EACH MEMBER AGREES THAT NO MEMBER SHALL BE LIABLE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT FOR EXEMPLARY, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL, SPECIAL OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES WHICH IN ANY WAY ARISE OUT OF, RELATE TO, OR ARE A CONSEQUENCE OF, ITS PERFORMANCE OR NONPERFORMANCE HEREUNDER, OR THE PROVISION OF OR FAILURE TO PROVIDE ANY SERVICE HEREUNDER, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF FUTURE PROFITS, BUSINESS INTERRUPTIONS, AND LOSS OF CUSTOMERS, WHETHER SUCH DAMAGES ARE ASSERTED IN AN ACTION BROUGHT IN CONTRACT, IN TORT OR PURSUANT TO SOME OTHER THEORY, AND WHETHER THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES WAS MADE KNOWN OR WAS FORESEEABLE.
6.18
Delivery of Operating Budget . On or prior to [***] of each year, the Operator shall deliver a draft annual Operating Budget for the following year to each of the Representatives, which Representatives will have [***] Days to provide comments (the “ Comment Deadline ”) on such draft annual Operating Budget (such comments, the “ Representative Budget Comments ”). The Operator shall make a good faith effort to respond to, and incorporate into such draft annual Operating Budget, the Representative Budget Comments and shall deliver to each of the Representatives the final annual Operating Budget for the following year on or before [***] (the “ December Deadline ”) of each year; provided , however , that, if the board of directors of the Operator has not convened to approve the annual Operating Budget by [***] of a given year, then the December Deadline shall be extended to [***] of such year; provided , further , that, if the meeting of the board of directors of the Operator to approve the annual Operating Budget is scheduled prior to the Comment Deadline, the Operator shall promptly notify the Representatives in writing of the date and time of such meeting (but no less than [***] Business Days in advance of such meeting), and the Representatives shall use reasonable efforts to provide the Representative Budget Comments in advance of such meeting. The Operator and the Representatives shall work together in good faith to cause the Operating Budget to be approved by [***] of such year.
Article 7     
DEVELOPMENT OF FACILITIES
7.04
Development of Facilities .
(v)      FERC Application . Pursuant to the terms of the COM Agreement, USG, EQT, and the Operator shall jointly prepare and submit to the Management Committee the proposed FERC Application related to the Facilities; and, following the approval of the FERC Application by the Management Committee, USG, EQT, and the Operator shall, on behalf of the Company, file the FERC Application with the FERC.
(w)      Approval of FERC Certificate . No later than [***] Days prior to the FERC Response Date, the Management Committee shall vote on whether the FERC Certificate for the Facilities is issued on terms and conditions which are not materially different from those requested in the FERC Application for the Facilities and whether the Company shall (i) accept the FERC Certificate for the Facilities without seeking rehearing; (ii) accept the FERC Certificate and seek rehearing of the order issuing the FERC Certificate; (iii) file for rehearing before committing to accept or reject the FERC Certificate; or (iv) reject the FERC Certificate. The Management Committee shall be deemed to have approved the FERC Certificate for the Facilities if the Management Committee determines that such certificate is issued on terms and conditions which are not materially different from those requested in the FERC Application for the Facilities. In such event the Management Committee shall accept the FERC Certificate prior to the FERC Response Date with or without seeking rehearing of the order issuing the FERC Certificate for the Facilities. In such event, subject to the terms of this Agreement, each Member shall be firmly committed to the construction of the Facilities and the construction of the Facilities shall not be subject to any conditions precedent, including but not limited to Management Committee approval of any financial commitment for obtaining funds to finance the Facilities or the Management Committee approval to construct the Facilities.
(x)      If the Management Committee finds that the FERC Certificate for the Facilities is issued on terms and conditions which are materially different from those requested in the FERC Application and EQT and USG vote to accept the order issuing the FERC Certificate with or without seeking rehearing, then the Management Committee and the Company shall accept the FERC Certificate prior to the FERC Response Dates, and in such event, and subject to the terms of this Agreement, each Member shall be firmly committed to the construction of the Facilities and the construction of the Facilities shall not be subject to any conditions precedent as provided in Section 7.01(b).
(y)      If the Management Committee finds that the FERC Certificate for the Facilities is issued on terms and conditions which are materially different from those requested in the FERC Application for the Facilities and [***]. In the event no Member votes to accept the order issuing the FERC Certificate for the Facilities, then such vote shall be a Dissolution Event and the Company shall dissolve and its offices shall be wound up pursuant to Article 12.
7.05
Employee Matters . To facilitate placing the Facilities in service, a Founding Member that is not, or does not have an Affiliate that is, the Operator shall have the right to have one (1) employee located in the Operator’s primary place of business with respect to the Facilities and any construction or engineering site until the In-Service Date for such Facilities, and such employee shall have access to all construction and engineering offices related to the Facilities and shall be permitted to review, examine, and copy the books, records, plans, reports, forecasts, studies, budgets, and other information related to such Facilities.
7.06
General Regulatory Matters .
(u)      The Members acknowledge that either the Company will be a “natural gas company” as defined in Section 2(6) of the NGA or the assets of the Company will be operated by a “natural gas company” as defined in Section 2(6) of the NGA in accordance with the certificate of authority granted by the FERC.
(v)      Each Member shall (i) cooperate fully with the Company, the Management Committee, USG, EQT, and the Operator in securing the Necessary Regulatory Approvals, including supporting all FERC Applications, and in connection with any reports prescribed by the FERC and any other Governmental Authority having jurisdiction over the Company; (ii) join in any eminent domain takings by the Company, to the extent, if any, required by Law; and (iii) without limiting or modifying Section 6.04 or 6.05, devote such efforts as shall be reasonable and necessary to develop and promote the Facilities for the benefit of the Company, taking into account such Member’s Sharing Ratio, resources, and expertise.
Article 8     
TAXES
8.04
Tax Returns . Operator shall prepare and timely file (on behalf of the Company) all federal, state and local tax returns required to be filed by the Company; provided that so long as USG is a Founding Member to which a material tax return relates, USG shall have the right to review and comment on such material return at least 25 Days prior to the relevant due date for such return (which return may be provided to USG in draft form) and that the Operator shall include any such timely received comments as are reasonable, subject to applicable Law and to any ethical obligations of a return preparer. Each Member shall furnish to Operator all pertinent information in its possession relating to the Company’s operations that is necessary to enable the Company’s tax returns to be timely prepared and filed. The Company shall bear the costs of the preparation and filing of its returns.
8.05
Tax Elections . The Company shall make the following elections on the appropriate tax returns:
(w)
to adopt the calendar year as the Company’s fiscal and taxable year;
(x)
to adopt the accrual method of accounting;
(y)
to make the election described in Code Section 754 with respect to the first taxable year of the Company;
(z)
to elect to deduct or amortize the organizational expenses of the Company in accordance with Section 709(b) of the Code and to depreciate property pursuant to the most rapid depreciation or cost recovery method available; and
(aa)
any other election the Management Committee may deem appropriate or that the Operator is permitted to make without Management Committee approval in accordance with Section 6.02(i)(B).
Notwithstanding the foregoing, however, neither the Company nor any Member shall make an election for the Company to be excluded from the application of the provisions of subchapter K of chapter 1 of subtitle A of the Code or elect for the Company to be treated as an association taxable as a corporation or any similar provisions of applicable state law and no provision of this Agreement shall be construed to sanction or approve such an election.
8.06
Tax Matters Member . (h) EQT shall serve as the “tax matters partner” of the Company pursuant to Section 6231(a)(7) of the Code (the “ Tax Matters Member ”). The Tax Matters Member shall take such action as may be necessary to cause to the extent possible each other Member to become a “notice partner” within the meaning of Section 6223 of the Code. The Tax Matters Member shall inform each other Member of all significant matters that may come to its attention in its capacity as Tax Matters Member by giving notice thereof on or before the fifth Business Day after becoming aware thereof and, within that time, shall forward to each other Member copies of all significant written communications it may receive from a taxing authority in that capacity. In the event that EQT ceases to be the Tax Matters Member (or any successor Tax Matters Member ceases to be a Member), the Management Committee shall appoint a successor Tax Matters Member.
(i)      The Tax Matters Member shall provide any Member, upon reasonable request, access to accounting and tax information and schedules obtained by the Tax Matters Member solely in its capacity as Tax Matters Member as shall be necessary for the preparation by such Member of its income tax returns and such Member’s tax information reporting requirements.
(j)      The Tax Matters Member shall take no action in its capacity as Tax Matters Member without the authorization of the Management Committee, other than such action as may be required by Law. Any cost or expense incurred by the Tax Matters Member in connection with its duties, including the preparation for or pursuance of administrative or judicial proceedings and in complying with Section 8.03(b), shall be paid by the Company.
(k)      The Tax Matters Member shall not enter into any extension of the period of limitations for making assessments on behalf of the Members without first obtaining the consent of the Management Committee. The Tax Matters Member shall not bind any Member to a settlement agreement without obtaining the consent of such Member. Any Member that enters into a settlement agreement with respect to any partnership item (as described in Code Section 6231(a)(3)) with respect to the Company shall notify the other Members of such settlement agreement and its terms within [***] Days from the date of the settlement.
(l)      No Member shall file a request pursuant to Code Section 6227 for an administrative adjustment of Company items for any taxable year without first notifying the other Members no later than [***] Days prior to filing such request. If the Management Committee consents to the requested adjustment, the Tax Matters Member shall file the request for the administrative adjustment on behalf of the Members. If such consent is not obtained within [***] Days from such notice, any Member, including the Tax Matters Member, may file a request for administrative adjustment on its own behalf. Any Member intending to file a petition under Code Sections 6226, 6228 or other Code Section with respect to any item involving the Company shall notify the other Members of such intention and the nature of the contemplated proceeding. In the case where the Tax Matters Member is the Member intending to file such petition on behalf of the Company, such notice shall be given within a reasonable period of time to allow the other Members to participate in the choosing of the forum in which such petition will be filed.
(m)      If any Member intends to file a notice of inconsistent treatment under Code Section 6222(b), such Member shall give reasonable notice under the circumstances to the other Members of such intent and the manner in which the Member’s intended treatment of an item is (or may be) inconsistent with the treatment of that item by the other Members.
Article 9     
BOOKS, RECORDS, REPORTS, AND BANK ACCOUNTS
9.04
Maintenance of Books . (bb) The Operator shall keep or cause to be kept at the principal office of the Company or at such other location approved by the Management Committee complete and accurate books and records of the Company, including all books and records necessary to provide to the Members any information required to be provided pursuant to Section 9.02, supporting documentation of the transactions with respect to the conduct of the Company’s business and minutes of the proceedings of its Members and the Management Committee, and any other books and records that are required to be maintained by applicable Law.
(cc)      The books of account of the Company shall be (i) maintained on the basis of a fiscal year that is the calendar year, (ii) maintained on an accrual basis in accordance with Required Accounting Practices, and (iii) unless the Management Committee decides otherwise, audited by the Certified Public Accountants at the end of each calendar year.
9.05
Reports . (n) With respect to each calendar year, the Operator shall prepare and deliver to each Member:
(iv)      Within 75 Days after the end of such calendar year, a statement of operations and a statement of cash flows for such year, a balance sheet as of the end of such year, and an audited report thereon of the Certified Public Accountants; provided that, upon the written request of one or more Members at least [***] Days prior to the applicable calendar year end, which request shall be a standing request effective for subsequent calendar years unless and until revoked by the requesting Member, the Operator shall prepare and deliver to the requesting Member(s) within 25 Days after the end of each such calendar year the foregoing information except for the audited report, which the Operator shall use reasonable efforts to prepare and deliver to the requesting Member(s) no later than 14 Days prior to any regulatory, contractual or filing deadlines of such Member for which the Operator has been notified by such Member.
(v)      Within 75 Days after the end of such calendar year, such federal, state and local income tax returns and such other accounting and tax information and schedules as shall be necessary for tax reporting purposes by each Member with respect to such year.
(o)      Upon the written request of one or more Founding Members at least [***] Days prior to the applicable calendar year end, the Operator shall use reasonable efforts to prepare and deliver to the requesting Founding Member(s) the following information within [***] Days after the end of such calendar year:
(iv)      A discussion and analysis of the results of operations including detailed explanations of significant variances in revenues, expenses and cash flow activities appearing in the audited financial statements, as compared to the same periods in the prior calendar year, and relevant operational statistics, including volumetric data;
(v)      A schedule of amounts due by year for contractual obligations that will impact Available Cash including notes payable, capital leases, operating leases, and purchase obligations; and
(vi)      A three-year forward-looking forecast that includes a balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and a statement of cash flows. Such forecast shall include information pertaining to the underlying assumptions used in its preparation including volumetric, revenue per-unit and capital expenditure assumptions. Such forecast also shall be updated within 45 Days after execution by the Company of a material Gas Transportation Service Agreement if the timing and amount of revenues or expenses resulting from such agreement are materially different than estimates included in the forward-looking forecast.
The reasonable incremental cost to the Operator of preparing the above reports shall be reimbursed to the Operator by the Founding Member requesting such reports and, in the case of two or more Founding Members requesting such reports, equally by such Founding Members. Such cost shall be determined in accordance with the Accounting Procedure set forth in the COM Agreement.
(p)      Within 25 Days after the end of each calendar month, the Operator shall cause to be prepared and delivered to each Member with an appropriate certification of the Person authorized to prepare the same ( provided that the Management Committee may change the financial statements required by this Section 9.02(c) to a quarterly basis or may make such other change therein as it may deem appropriate):
(v)      A statement of operations for such month (including sufficient information to permit the Members to calculate their tax accruals) and for the portion of the calendar year then ended as compared with the same periods for the prior calendar year and with the budgeted results for the current periods;
(vi)      A balance sheet as of the end of such month and the portion of the calendar year then ended; and
(vii)      For quarter month end, a statement of cash flows for the portion of the calendar year then ended as compared to the same period for the prior calendar year.
(q)      In addition to its obligations under subsections (a), (b), and (c) of this Section 9.02, but subject to Section 3.06, the Operator shall timely prepare and deliver to any Member, upon request, all of such additional financial statements, notes thereto and additional financial information as may be required in order for each Member or an Affiliate of such Member to comply with any reporting requirements under (i) the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, (ii) the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, and (iii) any national securities exchange or automated quotation system. The reasonable incremental cost to Operator of preparing and delivering such additional financial statements, notes thereto and additional financial information, including any required incremental audit fees and expenses, shall be reimbursed to the Operator by the Member requesting such reports and, in the case of two or more Members requesting such additional information, equally by such Members. Such cost shall be determined in accordance with the Accounting Procedure set forth in the COM Agreement.
(r)      Operator shall also cause to be prepared and delivered to each Founding Member such other reports, forecasts, studies, budgets and other information as such Founding Member may reasonably request from time to time.
(s)      For purposes of clarification and not limitation, any audit or examination by a Member pursuant to Section 3.6 of the COM Agreement may, at the option of such Member, include audit or examination of the books, records and other support for the costs incurred pursuant to subsections (b) and (e) of this Section 9.02.
9.06
Bank Accounts . Funds of the Company shall be deposited in such banks or other depositories as shall be designated from time to time by the Management Committee and shall not be commingled with the Operator’s funds. All withdrawals from any such depository shall be made only as authorized by the Management Committee and shall be made only by check, wire transfer, debit memorandum or other written instruction. The Management Committee may authorize the Operator to designate and maintain accounts in any such banks or other depositories in accordance with Exhibit A to the COM Agreement.
Article 10     
WITHDRAWAL
10.04
Right of Withdrawal . (a) Prior to the In-Service Date, no Member shall have the right to withdraw from the Company and (b) following the In-Service Date, each Member shall have the right to withdraw from the Company [***] Days following delivery of written notice to the Management Committee.
10.05
Deemed Withdrawal . A Member is deemed to have Withdrawn from the Company upon the occurrence of any of the following events:
(g)
the Member is deemed, pursuant to Section 7.01(d) to have Withdrawn from the Company;
(h)
there occurs an event that makes it unlawful for the Member to continue to be a Member;
(i)
the Member becomes Bankrupt;
(j)
the Member dissolves and commences liquidation or winding-up; or
(k)
the Member commits a Default.
10.06
Effect of Withdrawal . A Member that is deemed to have Withdrawn pursuant to Section 10.01 or Section 10.02 (a “ Withdrawn Member ”), must comply with the following requirements in connection with its Withdrawal:
(p)      The Withdrawn Member ceases to be a Member immediately upon the occurrence of the applicable Withdrawal event.
(q)      The Withdrawn Member shall not be entitled to receive any distributions from the Company except as set forth in Section 10.03(e), and neither it nor its Representative shall be entitled to exercise any voting or consent rights, or to appoint any Representative or Alternate Representative to the Management Committee (and the Representative (and the Alternate Representative) appointed by such Member shall be deemed to have resigned) or to receive any further information (or access to information) from the Company. The Sharing Ratio of such Member shall not be taken into account in calculating the Sharing Ratios of the Members for any purposes. This Section 10.03(b) shall also apply to a Breaching Member; but if a Breaching Member cures its breach during the applicable cure period, then any distributions that were withheld from such Member shall be paid to it, without interest.
(r)      The Withdrawn Member must pay to the Company all amounts owed to it by such Withdrawn Member.
(s)      The Withdrawn Member shall remain obligated for all liabilities it may have under this Agreement or otherwise with respect to the Company that accrue prior to the Withdrawal.
(t)      In the event of a Withdrawal under Section 10.01 or a deemed Withdrawal under Section 10.02(b) or (c), the Withdrawn Member shall be entitled to receive a portion of each distribution that is made by the Company from and after the In-Service Date, equal to the product of the Withdrawn Member’s Sharing Ratio as of the date of its Withdrawal multiplied by the aggregate amount of such distribution; provided that the Withdrawn Member’s rights under this Section 10.03(e) shall automatically terminate at such time as the Withdrawn Member has received an aggregate amount under this Section 10.03(e) equal to the sum of (i) lesser of (A) the Withdrawn Member’s Outstanding Capital Contribution, and (B) the Fair Market Value of the Withdrawn Member’s Membership Interest, each determined as of the date of the Withdrawal, plus (ii) any Indebtedness of the Company owed to such Member at the time of Withdrawal. From the date of the Withdrawal to the date of such payment, the amount owing to the Withdrawn Member pursuant to the preceding sentence shall be recorded as a contingent obligation of the Company until such payment is made. The rights of a Withdrawn Member under this Section 10.03(e) shall (A) be subordinate to the rights of any other creditor of the Company, (B) not include any right on the part of the Withdrawn Member to receive any interest or other amounts with respect thereto (except as may otherwise be provided in the evidence of any Indebtedness of the Company owed to such Withdrawn Member); (C) not require the Company to make any distribution (the Withdrawn Member’s rights under this Section 10.03(e) being limiting to receiving a portion of such distributions as the Management Committee may, in its Sole Discretion, decide to cause the Company to make); (D) not require any Member to make a Capital Contribution or a loan to permit the Company to make a distribution or otherwise to pay the Withdrawn Member; and (E) be treated as a liability of the Company for purposes of Section 12.02.
(u)      Except as set forth in Section 10.03(e), a Withdrawn Member shall not be entitled to receive any return of its Capital Contributions or other payment from the Company in respect of its Membership Interest. Any Performance Assurances or Credit Assurances provided by the Withdrawn Member and outstanding as of the date of Withdrawal shall continue as to the liabilities accrued prior to the date of Withdrawal for which such Performance Assurances were provided under Section 4.01(b) or such Credit Assurances were provided under Section 4.07; provided that, in the event a Member is Withdrawn pursuant to Section 10.02(e), such Member shall pay over and forfeit any remaining Performance Assurances as liquidated damages and not as a penalty.
(v)      The Sharing Ratio of the Withdrawn Member shall be allocated among the remaining Members in the proportion that each Member’s Sharing Ratio bears to the total Sharing Ratio of all remaining Members, or in such other proportion as the remaining Members may unanimously agree.
(w)      A deemed Withdrawal under Section 7.01(d) shall carry no connotation or implication that the Withdrawn Member has breached this Agreement or otherwise acted contrary to the intent of this Agreement, it being understood that (i) each Member is completely free to cast its vote as it wishes at the Management Committee meetings described in such Section and (ii) the concept of “deemed Withdrawal” in such Section is merely a convenient technique for permitting the continued development of the Facilities by the Members that desire to continue such development.
Article 11     
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
11.06
Disputes . This Article 11 shall apply to any dispute arising under or related to this Agreement (whether arising in contract, tort or otherwise, and whether arising at law or in equity), including (a) any dispute regarding the construction, interpretation, performance, validity or enforceability of any provision of this Agreement or whether any Person is in compliance with, or breach of, any provisions of this Agreement; (b) any deadlock among the Representatives on any matter requiring approval of the Management Committee (including any dispute over whether the Representatives of any Founding Member (or its Affiliates) are reasonably withholding their consent in connection with a determination by the Management Committee, but only with respect to those matters specifically identified in Section 6.02(j) and Section 6.05(e)) other than the matters covered by Sections 6.02(i)(G) or 6.02(i)(BB) (a “ Deadlock ”); and (c) the applicability of this Article 11 to a particular dispute. Notwithstanding the foregoing, this Section 11.01 shall not apply to any matters that, pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, are to be resolved by a vote of the Management Committee; provided that, if a vote, approval, consent, determination or other decision must, under the terms of this Agreement, be made (or withheld) in accordance with a standard other than Sole Discretion (such as a reasonableness standard), then the issue of whether such standard has been satisfied may be a dispute to which this Article 11 applies (including Section 11.03); and provided , further , that any Deadlock shall be resolved solely as provided in Sections 11.02 and 11.05 hereof. Any dispute to which this Article 11 applies is referred to herein as a “ Dispute . ” With respect to a particular Dispute, each Member that is a party to such Dispute is referred to herein as a “ Disputing Member . ” The provisions of this Article 11 shall be the exclusive method of resolving Disputes.
11.07
Negotiation to Resolve Disputes . If a Dispute arises, the Disputing Members shall attempt to resolve such Dispute through the following procedure:
(j)      first, the designated Representative of each of the Disputing Members shall promptly meet (whether by phone or in person) in a good faith attempt to resolve the Dispute; and
(k)      second, if the Dispute is still unresolved after ten (10) Business Days following the commencement of the negotiations described in Section 11.02(a), then the Parent Decision Makers shall meet in person within five (5) Business Days after the expiration of the aforementioned period of ten (10) Business Days, and such Parent Decision Makers shall attempt in good faith to resolve the Dispute as promptly as practicable.
11.08
Courts . If a Dispute (other than a Deadlock) is still unresolved following ten (10) Business Days after a written request or demand for negotiations described in Section 11.02(b), then any of such Disputing Members may submit such Dispute only to the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware or, in the event that such court does not have jurisdiction over the subject matter of such Dispute, to another court of the State of Delaware or a U.S. federal court located in the State of Delaware (collectively, “ Delaware Courts ”), and each of the Members irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Delaware Courts and hereby consents to service of process in any such Dispute by the delivery of such process to such party at the address and in the manner provided in Section 13.02. Each of the Members hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives any objection to the laying of venue in any Dispute in the Delaware Courts and hereby further irrevocably and unconditionally waives and agrees not to plead or clam in any such court that any action, suit or proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum. EACH MEMBER IRREVOCABLY WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING WITH RESPECT TO THIS AGREEMENT.
11.09
Specific Performance . The Members understand and agree that (a) irreparable damage would occur in the event that any provision of this Agreement were not performed in accordance with its specific terms, (b) although monetary damages may be available for the breach of such covenants and agreements such monetary damages are not intended to and do not adequately compensate for the harm that would result from a breach of this Agreement, would be an inadequate remedy therefor and shall not be construed to diminish or otherwise impair in any respect any Member’s or the Company’s right to specific performance and (c) the right of specific performance is an integral part of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and without that right none of the Members would have entered into this Agreement. It is accordingly agreed that, in addition to any other remedy that may be available to it, including monetary damages, each of the Members and the Company shall be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to prevent breaches of this Agreement and to enforce specifically the terms and provisions of this Agreement. Each of the Members further agrees that no Member nor the Company shall be required to obtain, furnish or post any bond or similar instrument in connection with or as a condition to obtaining any remedy referred to in this Section 11.04 and each Member waives any objection to the imposition of such relief or any right it may have to require the obtaining, furnishing or posting of any such bond or similar instrument.
11.10
Arbitration
(e)      If a Deadlock is still unresolved pursuant to the procedures set forth in Section 11.02, then the Deadlock shall be settled by arbitration conducted in the English language in New York, New York, administered by and in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Commercial Arbitration Rules (“ Rules ”) of the American Arbitration Association (“ AAA ”) (the “ Arbitration ”).
(f)      Any Disputing Member (the “ Arbitration Invoking Party ”) may, by notice (the “ Arbitration Notice ”) to any other Disputing Member (the “ Arbitration Noticed Party ”), submit the Dispute to Arbitration in accordance with the provisions of this Section 11.05(b). Any Disputing Member may initiate Arbitration by filing with the AAA a notice of intent to arbitrate within the mediation period.
(g)      Any such Arbitration proceeding shall be before a tribunal of three (3) arbitrators, one (1) designated by the Arbitration Invoking Party, one (1) designated by the Arbitration Noticed Party, and one (1) designated by the two (2) arbitrators so designated. The Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall each name their arbitrator by notice (the “ Selection Notice ”) given within five (5) Business Days after the date of the Arbitration Notice, and the two (2) arbitrators so appointed shall agree upon the third member of the tribunal within five (5) Business Days after the date of the Selection Notice. Any member of the tribunal not appointed within the period required, whether by one of the Disputing Members or by the two (2) arbitrators chosen by the Disputing Members, shall be appointed by the AAA. The arbitrators shall have no affiliation with, financial or other interest in, or prior employment with either Disputing Member or their Affiliates and shall be experienced and well-regarded oil and gas attorneys knowledgeable in the field of the dispute.
(h)      In any Arbitration in which the Deadlock involves a dispute over whether the Representatives of any Founding Members are reasonably withholding their consent in connection with a determination by the Management Committee with respect to any matter identified in Section 6.02(j) or Section 6.05(e), the arbitrators shall first determine whether the Representatives of such Founding Member are reasonably withholding their consent in the matter(s) in question and, if such Representatives are determined to have acted reasonably, the arbitrators shall then immediately proceed to resolve the Deadlock among the Representatives on the matter(s) requiring approval of the Management Committee.
(i)      Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall have twenty (20) Business Days, commencing on the date the Arbitration Notice is given, to prepare and submit a proposal for the resolution of the dispute to the tribunal, including a description of how such Disputing Member arrived at its proposal and the arguments therefor, as it deems appropriate. Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall deliver a copy of its proposal, including any such supplemental information, to the other Disputing Member at the same time it delivers the proposal to the tribunal.
(j)      Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall have five (5) Business Days after the receipt of the other Disputing Member’s proposal to revise its respective proposal and submit a final proposal to the tribunal, including supporting arguments for its own and against the other Disputing Member’s proposal.
(k)      Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall present oral arguments supporting its final proposal to the tribunal at a proceeding held five (5) Business Days after the deadline for submission of final proposals to the tribunal. Each of the Arbitration Invoking Party and the Arbitration Noticed Party shall have three (3) hours to make its oral presentation to the tribunal.
(l)      The tribunal shall, within ten (10) Business Days after presentation of the oral arguments, render a decision that selects the Arbitration Invoking Party’s final proposal (with no modifications thereto) or the Arbitration Noticed Party’s final proposal (with no modifications thereto), and no other proposal. The award rendered pursuant to the foregoing shall be final and binding on the Disputing Members, shall not be subject to appeal, and judgment thereon may be entered or enforcement thereof sought by either Disputing Member in any court of competent jurisdiction.
(m)      Each Disputing Member shall bear the costs of its appointed arbitrator and its own attorneys’ fees, and the costs of the third arbitrator incurred in accordance with the foregoing shall be shared equally by the Disputing Members. Additional incidental costs of the Arbitration shall be paid for by the non-prevailing Disputing Member in the Arbitration.
(n)      Notwithstanding the foregoing, each Disputing Member may at any time in a Dispute apply to the Court of Chancery for a decree of dissolution of the Company pursuant to Section 18-802 of the Act.
Article 12     
DISSOLUTION, WINDING-UP AND TERMINATION

746278.04-WILSR01A - MSW

 

12.05
Dissolution . The Company shall dissolve and its affairs shall be wound up on the first to occur of the following events (each a “ Dissolution Event ”):
(y)
decision to dissolve the Company by Supermajority Interest;
(z)
entry of a decree of judicial dissolution of the Company under Section 18-802 of the Act;
(aa)
the Disposition or abandonment of all or substantially all of the Company’s business and assets;
(bb)
an event that makes it unlawful for the business of the Company to be carried on;
(cc)
by 10 Business Days’ written notice of termination given by USG or EQT if the initial Construction Budget, the Project Schedule and the Initial Operating Budget have not been approved by USG and EQT by the [***] Day following the delivery thereof to USG; provided , however , that, if the initial Construction Budget, Project Schedule and the Initial Operating Budget are approved within 10 Business Days following delivery of such notice of termination, then such written notice of termination shall be null and void, and this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect.
12.06
Winding-Up and Termination . (l) On the occurrence of a Dissolution Event, the Management Committee shall designate a Member or other Person to serve as liquidator. The liquidator shall proceed diligently to wind up the affairs of the Company and make final distributions as provided herein and in the Act. The costs of winding-up shall be borne as a Company expense. Until final distribution, the liquidator shall continue to operate the Company properties with all of the power and authority of the Members. The steps to be accomplished by the liquidator are as follows:
(viii)      as promptly as possible after dissolution and again after final winding-up, the liquidator shall cause a proper accounting to be made by a recognized firm of certified public accountants of the Company’s assets, liabilities, and operations through the last Day of the month in which the dissolution occurs or the final winding-up is completed, as applicable;
(ix)      the liquidator shall discharge from Company funds all of the Indebtedness of the Company and other debts, liabilities and obligations of the Company (including all expenses incurred in winding-up and any loans described in Section 4.02) or otherwise make adequate provision for payment and discharge thereof (including the establishment of a cash escrow fund for contingent liabilities in such amount and for such term as the liquidator may reasonably determine); and
(x)      all remaining assets of the Company shall be distributed to the Members as follows:
(A)      the liquidator may sell any or all Company property, including to Members, and any resulting gain or loss from each sale shall be computed and allocated to the Capital Accounts of the Members in accordance with the provisions of Article 5;
(B)      with respect to all Company property that has not been sold, the fair market value of that property shall be determined and the Capital Accounts of the Members shall be adjusted to reflect the manner in which the unrealized income, gain, loss, and deduction inherent in property that has not been reflected in the Capital Accounts previously would be allocated among the Members if there were a taxable disposition of that property for the fair market value of that property on the date of distribution; and
(C)      Company property (including cash) shall be distributed among the Members in accordance with Section 5.01; and those distributions shall be made by the end of the taxable year of the Company during which the liquidation of the Company occurs (or, if later, [***] Days after the date of the liquidation).
(m)      The distribution of cash or property to a Member in accordance with the provisions of this Section 12.02 constitutes a complete return to the Member of its Capital Contributions and a complete distribution to the Member of its Membership Interest and all the Company’s property and constitutes a compromise to which all Members have consented pursuant to Section 18-502(b) of the Act. To the extent that a Member returns funds to the Company, it has no claim against any other Member for those funds.
(n)      No dissolution or termination of the Company shall relieve a Member from any obligation to the extent such obligation has accrued as of the date of such dissolution or termination. Upon such termination, any books and records of the Company that there is a reasonable basis for believing will ever be needed again shall be furnished to the Operator, who shall keep such books and records (subject to review by any Person that was a Member

2
        

 

at the time of dissolution) for a period at least three (3) years. At such time as the Operator no longer agrees to keep such books and records, it shall offer the Persons who were Members at the time of dissolution the opportunity to take over such custody, shall deliver such books and records to such Persons if they elect to take over such custody, and may destroy such books and records if they do not so elect. Any such custody by such Persons shall be on such terms as they may agree upon among themselves.
12.07
Deficit Capital Accounts . No Member will be required to pay to the Company, to any other Member or to any third party any deficit balance that may exist from time to time in any Member’s Capital Account.
12.08
Certificate of Cancellation . On completion of the distribution of the Company’s assets as provided herein, the Members (or such other Person or Persons as the Act may require or permit) shall file a certificate of cancellation with the Secretary of State of Delaware, cancel any other filings made pursuant to the Act, and take such other actions as may be necessary to terminate the existence of the Company. Upon the filing of such certificate of cancellation, the existence of the Company shall terminate (and the Term shall end), except as may be otherwise provided by the Act or other applicable Law.


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Article 13     
GENERAL PROVISIONS
13.13
Offset; Costs and Expenses . (a) Whenever the Company is to pay any sum to any Member, any amounts that Member owes the Company may be deducted from that sum before payment.
(b)      The Company shall reimburse the Founding Members for all out-of-pocket costs and expenses incurred by the Founding Members prior to the Effective Date in connection with the drafting, review and negotiation of this Agreement and the COM Agreement and for any out-of-pocket costs or expenses incurred by a Member in connection with the formation of the Company.
13.14
Notices . Except as expressly set forth to the contrary in this Agreement, all notices, requests or consents provided for or permitted to be given under this Agreement must be in writing and must be delivered to the recipient in person, by courier or mail, or by facsimile or other electronic transmission, including electronic mail. A notice, request or consent given under this Agreement is effective on receipt by the Member to receive it; provided that a facsimile or other electronic transmission that is transmitted after the normal business hours of the recipient shall be deemed effective on the next Business Day. All notices, requests and consents to be sent to a Member must be sent to or made at the addresses given for that Member on Exhibit A or in the instrument described in Section 3.03(b)(iv)(A)(2) or Section 3.04, or such other address as that Member may specify by notice to the other Members. Any notice, request or consent to the Company must be given to all of the Members. Whenever any notice is required to be given by Law, the Delaware Certificate or this Agreement, a written waiver thereof, signed by the Person entitled to notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent to the giving of such notice.
13.15
Entire Agreement; Superseding Effect . This Agreement and the COM Agreement constitute the entire agreement of the Members and their Affiliates relating to the Company and the transactions contemplated hereby and supersede all provisions and concepts contained in all prior agreements.
13.16
Effect of Waiver or Consent . Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, a waiver or consent, express or implied, to or of any breach or default by any Member in the performance by that Member of its obligations with respect to the Company is not a consent or waiver to or of any other breach or default in the performance by that Member of the same or any other obligations of that Member with respect to the Company. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, failure on the part of a Member to complain of any act of any Member or to declare any Member in default with respect to the Company, irrespective of how long that failure continues, does not constitute a waiver by that Member of its rights with respect to that default until the applicable statute-of-limitations period has run.
13.17
Amendment or Restatement . This Agreement and the Delaware Certificate may be amended or restated only by a written instrument executed (or, in the case of the Delaware Certificate, approved) by Supermajority Interest; provided , however , that any amendment or restatement that is materially adverse to any Member in a manner that is disproportionate to such Member’s interest (as compared to the interest of other Members) shall (a) if the affected Member is a Founding Member, require the written consent or approval of such Founding Member; or (b) if the affected Member is not a Founding Member, require the written consent or approval of a majority of all Members similarly adversely affected.
13.18
Binding Effect . Subject to the restrictions on Dispositions set forth in this Agreement, this Agreement is binding on and shall inure to the benefit of the Members and their respective successors and permitted assigns.
13.19
Governing Law; Severability . THIS AGREEMENT IS GOVERNED BY AND SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE, EXCLUDING ANY CONFLICT-OF-LAWS RULE OR PRINCIPLE THAT MIGHT REFER THE GOVERNANCE OR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THIS AGREEMENT TO THE LAW OF ANOTHER JURISDICTION. In the event of a direct conflict between the provisions of this Agreement and any mandatory, non-waivable provision of the Act, such provision of the Act shall control. If any provision of the Act provides that it may be varied or superseded in a limited liability company agreement (or otherwise by agreement of the members or managers of a limited liability company), such provision shall be deemed superseded and waived in its entirety if this Agreement contains a provision addressing the same issue or subject matter. If any provision of this Agreement or the application thereof to any Member or circumstance is held invalid or unenforceable to any extent, (a) the remainder of this Agreement and the application of that provision to other Members or circumstances is not affected thereby, and (b) the Members shall negotiate in good faith to replace that provision with a new provision that is valid and enforceable and that puts the Members in substantially the same economic, business and legal position as they would have been in if the original provision had been valid and enforceable.
13.20
Further Assurances . In connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby, each Member shall execute and deliver any additional documents and instruments and perform any additional acts that may be necessary or appropriate to effectuate and perform the provisions of this Agreement and those transactions; provided , however , that this Section 13.08 shall not obligate a Member to furnish guarantees or other credit supports by such Member’s Parent or other Affiliates.
13.21
Waiver of Certain Rights . Each Member irrevocably waives any right it may have to maintain any action for dissolution of the Company or for partition of the property of the Company.
13.22
Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if all signing parties had signed the same document. All counterparts shall be construed together and constitute the same instrument.
13.23
Fair Market Value Determination .
(a)     [***]
(b)     [***]
(c)     [***]
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank. Signature page follows.]

4
        

 


IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Members have executed this Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
MEMBERS :

[EQT], LLC
By:                   
Name:    
        
Title:     
        
[USG], LLC

By:     
        
Name:
        
Title:
        
COMPANY :

[●], LLC

By:     
        
Name:
        
Title:
        




5
        

 

EXHIBIT A
MEMBERS

Name, Address, Fax and E-mail
Sharing
Ratio
Parent
Representative and Alternate Representatives

[EQT]

EQT Plaza
625 Liberty Avenue
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222


[●]%

[●]

[●] – Representative


[●] – Alternate Representative


[USG]

601 Travis Street
Suite 1900
Houston, Texas 77002
Fax: 713.751.0375

 

[●]%

[●]

[●] – Representative


[●] – Alternate Representative









Exhibit 31.01
 
CERTIFICATION
 
I, David L. Porges, certify that:
 
1.      I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EQT Corporation;
 
2.
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
 
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
 
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
 
(a)  
Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
 
(b)
Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting 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 generally accepted accounting principles;
 
(c)
Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
(d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
 
5.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditor and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
(a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
(b)
Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
 
 
Date: October 23, 2014
 
 
/s/ David L. Porges
 
 
David L. Porges
 
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
 





Exhibit 31.02
 
CERTIFICATION
 
I, Philip P. Conti, certify that:
 
1.    I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of EQT Corporation;
 
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
 
3.
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
 
4.
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
 
(a)          Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
 
(b)          Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting 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 generally accepted accounting principles;
 
(c)           Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
 
(d)          Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
 
5.               The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditor and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
 
(a)          All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
 
(b)          Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
 
  
 
Date: October 23, 2014
 
 
 
 
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
 
 Philip P. Conti
 
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 





Exhibit 32
 
CERTIFICATION
 
In connection with the Quarterly Report of EQT Corporation (“EQT”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2014, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), the undersigned certify pursuant to § 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
 
(1)
The Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
 
(2)
The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of EQT.
 
 
 
/s/ David L. Porges
 
October 23, 2014
David L. Porges
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Philip P. Conti
 
October 23, 2014
Philip P. Conti
 
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer