Table of Contents

 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
     
þ   ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010
OR
     
o   TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from  _________  to  _________ 
Commission file number: 1-14204
FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware   06-0853042
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)
     
3 Great Pasture Road    
Danbury, Connecticut   06813
(Address of principal executive offices)   (Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (203) 825-6000
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
     
Title of each class   Name of each exchange on which registered
     
Common Stock, $.0001 par value per share   The Nasdaq Stock Market LLC (Nasdaq Global
Market)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes o No þ
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act. Yes o No þ
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 þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o
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 o   Accelerated filer þ   Non-accelerated filer o   Smaller reporting company o
        (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)    
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
As of April 30, 2010, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was $198,393,984 based on the closing sale price of $2.75 as reported on the NASDAQ Global Market.
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
     
Class   Outstanding at January 13, 2011
Common Stock, $.0001 par value per share   123,191,914 shares
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
         
Document   Parts Into Which Incorporated  
Annual Report to Shareholders for the Fiscal Year Ended October 31, 2010 (Annual Report)
  Parts I, II, and IV
Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held March 24, 2011 (Proxy Statement)
  Part III
 
 

 

 


 

FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
INDEX
         
    Page  
Description   Number  
Part I
       
 
       
    6  
 
       
    29  
 
       
    43  
 
       
    43  
 
       
    43  
 
       
       
 
       
    44  
 
       
    49  
 
       
    51  
 
       
    73  
 
       
    74  
 
       
    107  
 
       
    107  
 
       
    108  
 
       
       
 
       
    108  
 
       
    108  
 
       
    108  
 
       
    108  
 
       
    108  
 
       
       
 
       
    109  
 
       
    112  
 
       
  Exhibit 10.61
  Exhibit 10.62
  Exhibit 10.63
  Exhibit 10.64
  Exhibit 10.65
  Exhibit 21
  Exhibit 23.1
  Exhibit 31.1
  Exhibit 31.2
  Exhibit 32.1
  Exhibit 32.2

 

2


Table of Contents

Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer
When used in this report, the words “expects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “should”, “will”, “could”, “would”, “may”, and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements relate to the development and commercialization of FuelCell Energy, Inc’s. and its subsidiaries (“FuelCell Energy”, “Company”, “we”, “us” and “our”) fuel cell technology and products, future funding under government research and development contracts, future financing for projects including publicly issued bonds, equity and debt investments by investors and commercial bank financing, the expected cost competitiveness of our technology, and our ability to achieve our sales plans and cost reduction targets. These and other forward-looking statements contained in this report are subject to risks and uncertainties, known and unknown, that could cause actual results to differ materially from those forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, general risks associated with product development and manufacturing, changes in the utility regulatory environment, potential volatility of energy prices, government appropriations, the ability of the government to terminate its development contracts at any time, rapid technological change, competition and changes in accounting policies or practices adopted voluntarily or as required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, as well as other risks contained under Item 1A — Risk Factors of this report. We cannot assure you that we will be able to meet any of our development or commercialization schedules, that the government will appropriate the funds anticipated by us under our government contracts, that the government will not exercise its right to terminate any or all of our government contracts, that any of our new products or technology, once developed, will be commercially successful, that our existing DFC power plants will remain commercially successful, or that we will be able to achieve any other result anticipated in any other forward-looking statement contained herein. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak only as of the date of this report. Except for ongoing obligations to disclose material information under the federal securities laws, we expressly disclaim any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statement to reflect any change in our expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.
Background
Information contained in this report concerning the electric power supply industry and the distributed generation market, our general expectations concerning this industry and this market, and our position within this industry are based on market research, industry publications, other publicly available information and on assumptions made by us based on this information and our knowledge of this industry and this market, which we believe to be reasonable. Although we believe that the market research, industry publications and other publicly available information are reliable, including the sources that we cite in this report, they have not been independently verified by us and, accordingly, we cannot assure you that such information is accurate in all material respects. Our estimates, particularly as they relate to our general expectations concerning the electric power supply industry and the distributed generation market, involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change based on various factors, including those discussed under Item 1A — Risk Factors of this report.
We define distributed generation as small (typically 50 megawatts or less) electric generation power plants (combustion-based such as engines and turbines as well as non-combustion-based such as fuel cells) located at or near the end user. This is contrasted with central generation that we define as large power plants (typically hundreds of megawatts to 1,000 megawatts or larger) that deliver electricity to end users through a comprehensive transmission and distribution system.

 

3


Table of Contents

As used in this report, all degrees refer to Fahrenheit (“F”); kilowatt (“kW”) and megawatt (“MW”) numbers designate nominal or rated capacity of the referenced power plant; “efficiency” or “electrical efficiency” means the ratio of the electrical energy generated in the conversion of a fuel to the total energy contained in the fuel (lower heating value, the standard for power plant generation, assumes the water in the product is in vapor form; as opposed to higher heating value, which assumes the water in the product is in liquid form, net of parasitic load); “overall energy efficiency” refers to efficiency based on the electrical output plus useful heat output of the power plant; kW means 1,000 watts; MW means 1,000,000 watts; “kilowatt hour” (“kWh”) is equal to 1kW of power supplied to or taken from an electric circuit steadily for one hour; and one British Thermal Unit (“Btu”) is equal to the amount of heat necessary to raise one pound of pure water from 59 o F to 60 o F at a specified constant pressure.
All dollar amounts are in U.S. dollars unless otherwise noted.
Additional Technical Terms and Definitions
Alternating Current (“AC”) — Electric current where the magnitude and direction of the current varies cyclically, as opposed to Direct Current (“DC”) , where the direction of the current stays constant. The usual waveform in an AC power circuit is a sine wave, as this results in the most efficient transmission of energy. AC refers to the form in which energy is delivered to businesses and residences.
Anaerobic Digester Gas or Renewable Biogas — Biogas produced in biomass digesters employing bacteria in a heated and controlled oxygen environment. The biogas can be used as a renewable fuel source for Direct FuelCells. Biomass may be generated from municipal waste water treatment facilities, food or beverage processing or agricultural waste.
Anode — An active fuel cell component functioning as a negative electrode, where oxidation of fuel occurs. Also referred to as “ fuel electrode .”
Availability — An industry standard (IEEE (The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 762, “Definitions for Use in Reporting Electric Generating Unit Reliability, Availability and Productivity”) used to compute total period hours less the amount of time a power plant is not producing electricity due to planned or unplanned maintenance. “Availability percentage” is calculated as total period hours since commercial acceptance date (mutually agreed upon time period when our Direct FuelCell (“DFC”) power plants have operated at a specific output level for a specified period of time) less hours not producing electricity due to planned and unplanned maintenance divided by total period hours. Grid disturbances, force majeure events and site specific issues such as a lack of available fuel supply or customer infrastructure repair do not penalize the calculation of availability according to this standard.
Balance of Plant (“BOP”) — Consists of the remaining systems, components, and structures that comprise a complete power plant or energy system that are not included in the fuel cell stack module. We manufacture the fuel cell stack module and procure the BOP (items such as fuel handling, processing equipment and electrical interface equipment such as inverters to convert the fuel cell stack module’s DC electricity output to AC) from third parties.
Baseload — Consistent power generation that is available to meet minimum electricity demands around-the-clock. This differs from peak or peaking power generation or load-following generation that is designed to be turned on or off quickly to meet sudden changes in electricity demand.
Cathode — An active fuel cell component functioning as a positive (electrically) electrode, where reduction of oxidant occurs. Also referred to as “oxidant electrode.”
Co-generation Configuration — A power plant configuration featuring simultaneous onsite generation of electricity and recovery of waste heat to produce process steam or hot water, or to use heat for space heating.

 

4


Table of Contents

Humid Flue Gas — Exhaust gas from fuel cell and other power plants or a furnace. The gas typically contains humidity (moisture).
Metallic Bipolar Plates — The conductive plates used in a fuel cell stack to provide electrical continuity from active components of one cell to those in an adjacent cell. The plates also provide isolation of fuel and air fed to the fuel cell.
Microturbine — A gas turbine with typical power output ranges of 30 kW to 350 kW. Microturbines are characterized by low-pressure ratios (less than 5) and high-speed alternators.
Nitrogen Oxides (“NOx”) — Generic term for a group of highly reactive gases, all of which contain nitrogen and oxygen in varying amounts. Many of the NOx are colorless and odorless. However, one common pollutant, Nitrogen Dioxide (“NO2”), along with particles in the air, can often be seen as a reddish-brown layer over many urban areas. NOx form when fuel is burned at high temperatures, as in a combustion process. The primary manmade sources of NOx are motor vehicles, electric utilities, and other industrial, commercial and residential sources that burn fuels.
Particulate Matter — Solid or liquid particles emitted into the air that is generally caused by the combustion of materials or dust generating activities. Particulate matter caused by combustion can be harmful to humans as the fine particles of chemicals, acids and metals may get lodged in lung tissue.
Reforming — Catalytic conversion of hydrocarbon fuel (such as pipeline natural gas or digester gas) to hydrogen-rich gas. The hydrogen-rich gas serves as a fuel for the electrochemical reaction.
Renewable Portfolio Standards (“RPS”) States seeking to secure cleaner energy sources are setting standards that require utilities to provide a certain amount of their electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind or other biomass-fueled technologies, including fuel cells. These standards are referred to as Renewable Portfolio Standards. Also referred to as Renewable Energy Standard (“RES”) when referring to clean energy standards mandated by the U.S. government and South Korean government.
Sulfur Oxide (“SOx”) — Sulfur oxide refers to any one of the following: sulfur monoxide, sulfur dioxide (“SO2”) and sulfur trioxide. SO2 is a byproduct of various industrial processes. Coal and petroleum contain sulfur compounds, and generate SO2 when burned.
Synthesis Gas — A gas mixture of hydrogen and carbon monoxide generally derived from gasification of coal or other biomass. It can serve as a fuel for the fuel cell after any required fuel clean up.

 

5


Table of Contents

Item 1. BUSINESS
We are a world leader in the development and production of stationary fuel cells for commercial, industrial, government and utility customers. Our ultra-clean, high efficiency Direct FuelCell ® (DFC ® ) power plants are generating power at over 50 locations worldwide. Our products have generated over 650 million kWh of power using a variety of fuels including renewable wastewater gas, food and beverage waste, natural gas and other hydrocarbon fuels.
Our vision is to provide ultra-clean, highly efficient, reliable distributed generation baseload power at a cost per kilowatt hour that is less than the cost of grid-delivered electricity. Our power plants provide electricity that is priced competitively to grid-delivered electricity in certain high cost regions of the world.
Our Company was founded in Connecticut in 1969 and reincorporated in Delaware in 1999. Our core fuel cell products (“Direct FuelCell ® ” or “DFC ® Power Plants”) offer highly efficient stationary power generation for customers. In addition to our commercial products, we continue to develop our carbonate fuel cells, planar solid oxide fuel cell (“SOFC”) technology and other fuel cell technology with our own and government research and development funds.
Our proprietary carbonate DFC Power Plants electrochemically (without combustion) produce electricity directly from readily available hydrocarbon fuels such as natural gas and biogas in a highly efficient process. The primary byproducts of the fuel cell process are heat and water. Due to the lack of combustion, our fuel cells emit virtually zero pollutants such as NOx, SOx or particulate matter.
Our fuel cells operate 24 hours per day seven days per week providing reliable power to both on-site customers and grid-support applications. Our DFC Power Plants can be part of a total on-site power generation solution with our high efficiency products providing base load power. Our power plants can also work in conjunction with intermittent power, such as solar or wind, or less efficient combustion-based equipment that provide peaking and load following energy. Our products are also well suited for meeting the needs of utility grid-support applications.
Higher fuel efficiency results in lower emissions of carbon dioxide (“CO2”), a major greenhouse gas, and also results in less fuel needed per kWh of electricity generated and Btu of heat produced. The high efficiency of the DFC Power Plant results in significantly less CO2 per unit of power production compared to the average U.S. fossil fuel power plant. Greater efficiency reduces customers’ exposure to volatile fuel costs, minimizes operating costs, and provides maximum electrical output from a finite fuel source. DFC Power Plants achieve electrical efficiencies of 47 percent to 60 percent or higher depending on configuration, location, and application, and up to 90 percent total efficiency in combined heat and power applications.
A fuel cell power plant includes the fuel cell stack module that produces the electricity, and balance-of-plant (BOP). The mechanical balance-of-plant processes the incoming fuel such as natural gas or renewable biogas and includes various fuel handling and processing equipment such as pipes and blowers. The electrical balance-of-plant processes the power generated for use by the customer and includes electrical interface equipment such as inverters.
Our fuel cells operate on a variety of hydrocarbon fuels, including natural gas, renewable biogas, propane, methanol, coal gas, and coal mine methane.

 

6


Table of Contents

Compared to other power generation technologies, our products offer significant advantages including:
   
Near-zero pollutants;
 
   
High efficiency;
 
   
Ability to site units locally as distributed power generation;
 
   
Potentially lower cost power generation;
 
   
Byproduct heat ideal for cogeneration applications;
 
   
High efficiency and cogeneration reduce carbon emissions
 
   
Reliable around-the-clock base load power;
 
   
Quiet operation; and
 
   
Fuel flexibility.
Typical customers for our products include universities, manufacturers, mission critical institutions such as correction facilities and government installations, hotels, natural gas letdown stations and customers who can use renewable biogas for fuel such as municipal water treatment facilities, breweries, and food processors. Our MW-class products are also used to supplement the grid for utility customers. With increasing demand for renewable and ultra-clean power options and increased volatility in electric markets, our products offer our customers greater control over power generation economics, reliability, and emissions.
Our DFC Power Plants are protected by 61 U.S. and 66 international patents. We currently have 30 U.S. and 130 international patents under application.
2010 Update
Our strategy is focused on continuing to reduce our product costs while expanding in our key geographic and vertical markets to grow sales volume. We believe that the combination of these two activities will drive our path to profitability.
Order flow of 16.4 MW in 2010 illustrates the growing recognition of the need for baseload renewable power and the need to use abundant and affordable supplies of natural gas in the U.S. as cleanly and efficiently as possible. As renewable technologies like wind and solar are deployed more widely, the need for clean baseload technology that complements these intermittent sources becomes more acute, particularly baseload power that utilizes renewable biogas. The ability of DFC Power Plants to utilize renewable biogas to efficiently produce clean electricity in a reliable manner was a primary driver of order flow during the fourth quarter of 2010. 11.0 MW of the orders received will operate on renewable biogas while the remaining 5.4 MW will operate on natural gas.
Fuel cells operating on natural gas are attractive for customers that value the clean power and distributed generation attributes of fuel cells. The virtual lack of pollutants emitted by fuel cells is important in areas with strict clean air permitting regulations such as certain regions of California. Providing reliable on-site power generation that reduces reliance on the transmission grid is also an important attribute of fuel cells that contributed to order activity in 2010.
During 2010, we received our first direct utility purchase in the U.S. from a major utility in California under a rate base model. Domestic orders received in 2010 also included two 2.8 MW DFC3000 power plants, which will be our first installations of this product in the U.S. Prior to these two orders, the DFC3000 had only been sold in South Korea.
For several of these projects, we saw a variety of financing structures used, including traditional project financing, bonds, grants and tax credits as well as new partners with their own sources of capital. Our power plant projects typically cost multiple millions of dollars, have lead times that exceed one year and have project lives that may span five years or longer. The improved availability of capital was instrumental in closing these orders and potentially supports future order activity.

 

7


Table of Contents

The 16.4 MW of orders received during 2010 were concentrated in the second half of the year, with 12.7 MW received in the fourth quarter. Orders were primarily from U.S. customers in 2010 compared to order activity in 2009 and 2008 that included orders from POSCO Power, which we expect in 2011. Customers, primarily POSCO Power, ordered 32.8 MW of fuel cells in fiscal 2009 and 32.3 MW in fiscal 2008. We ended fiscal 2010 with 33.5 MW in backlog with 92 percent of the backlog representing multi-megawatt products, modules and module kits and 8 percent of the backlog representing sub-megawatt products. Product and service backlog totaled $154.3 million at the end of 2010, the highest backlog ever achieved. Comparable backlog was $90.7 million in 2009 and $87.6 million in 2008.
Legislation favorable to fuel cells was passed in March, 2010 by the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea with the adoption of a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requiring 4 percent clean energy generation by 2015 and 10 percent by 2022. Today, only about one percent of Korea’s electricity comes from renewable resources. The South Korean government desires clean distributed generation power sources to support their growing power needs while minimizing additional investment and congestion of the transmission grid. Fuel cells address these needs and are designated as an economic driver due to their ultra-clean emissions, high efficiency and reliable distributed generation capabilities, which will help the Country achieve its RPS and electricity generation goals.
The highly efficient Direct FuelCell-Energy Recovery Generation™ (DFC -ERG ® ) power plant, a joint project with Enbridge Inc., (NYSE: ENB), completed its first year of operation during 2010. The DFC-ERG plant generated very favorable operating results in the first year, having attained an average electrical efficiency of 62.5 percent and equipment up-time of 93 percent. Although its average electrical efficiency of 62.5 percent compares favorably to a typical conventional fossil fuel generation of about 35 to 40 percent, the plant’s peak electrical efficiency topped 70 percent in some of the scenarios under which it was evaluated. The system’s high electrical efficiency allowed it to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 45 percent compared to a conventional natural gas power plant.
The continued growth in our backlog and our production run rate is a key part of our ongoing product cost reduction strategy. To date, our cost reduction program has successfully reduced the unit cost of our megawatt-class products by more than 60 percent. Increased volume enables several areas of continued cost reduction, including expansion of our global sourcing program, larger volume purchases, more competition among our suppliers, increased utilization of our factory capacity, and increased productivity and automation in our facilities and supply chain. As a result of product cost reductions, we believe sales volume of 75 MW to 125 MW will drive the Company to profitability with the lower end of the range reflecting a sales mix oriented towards complete power plants and the upper end of the range oriented towards fuel cell components.
In response to the increased level of domestic orders received in 2010 and anticipating additional orders from POSCO Power, we increased our production run rate to 35 megawatts per year during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2010. Actual production in fiscal 2010 was approximately 22 MW compared to approximately 30 MW in 2009 and approximately 22 MW in 2008.
Our overall manufacturing process (module manufacturing, final assembly, testing and conditioning) has a production capacity of 70 MW per year. We are expecting to continue to increase production volume based on continued order flow. By investing $5 million to $7 million for upgrades and maintenance of production assets, maximizing existing assets, operating at full capacity (e.g multiple shifts 24 hours per day, up to 7 days a week) and making other improvements, we estimate that we can increase capacity from 70 MW to 90 MW of annual production. Depending on product mix, which would include full power plants, we may be able to reach profitability at 80 to 90 MW of annual production.
With increasing order flow, our plan has been to expand production capacity to 150 MW within our existing Torrington facility. This expansion would require the addition of equipment (e.g. furnaces, tapecasting and other equipment) to increase the capacity of certain operations. Due to the economies of scale and equipment required, we believe it is more cost effective to add capacity in large blocks. We estimate that the expansion to 150 MW will require additional capital investments of $35 to $45 million although, this expansion may occur in stages depending on the level of market demand.

 

8


Table of Contents

Markets
The market for alternative energy power generation continues to grow both in the U.S. and abroad and we expect to continue to benefit from this momentum. Driving this growth are concerns about pollutants and green house gas emissions along with the limited supply and rising cost of fossil fuels. More than 66 percent of the world’s electric power is generated from carbon-based fossil fuels, and this is forecasted to continue to increase for some time. With the primary source of electric generation still driven by fossil fuels, we believe markets need new power generation products like our fuel cells that are not only more efficient and environmentally superior, but also cost effective and reliable.
On-Site Power
Stationary fuel cell power plants can be an economical alternative to utility-provided power and other distributed generation products. Wastewater treatment facilities and brewery companies, for instance, can use methane, a renewable byproduct of their own processes, to operate fuel cell power plants. This allows them to eliminate gas flaring and the use of conventional combustion-based power generation equipment, both of which emit pollutants such as NOx, SOx and particulate matter. These facilities also reduce their operating costs because our fuel cell power plants can be up to 90 percent efficient when operated in combined heat and power (“CHP”) mode and produce significantly more high-value electricity than competing technologies. Customers also gain the added benefits of quiet operation and improved power reliability that on-site power generation provides.
Utility or RPS
DFC power plants are well suited for utility grid-support due to their distributed generation attributes. A utility can site the power plant near where power is needed, connecting to the existing transmission grid. By producing power locally in the distribution system, our fuel cells can ease grid constraints and also help to enable the smart grid by producing power at the point of use. South Korea has adopted this utility-model and in 2010, a large California utility purchased two DFC power plants.
The South Korean government desires clean distributed generation power sources to support their growing power needs while minimizing additional investment and congestion of the transmission grid. To meet these needs, the Government enacted a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to promote the adoption of renewable power generation by the Nation’s utilities. This utility-model promotes clean distributed generation that supports the existing transmission and distribution system. Fuel cells address these needs and are designated as an economic driver due to their ultra-clean emissions, high efficiency and reliable distributed generation capabilities.
A Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) is a mechanism designed to increase the use of renewable power generation sources. The RPS may be voluntary or mandated through legislation and generally places the obligation on the suppliers of electricity to generate a specified percentage of their electricity from renewable power sources. The purpose of an RPS is to provide a market-based mechanism that provides a competitive marketplace for providing renewable energy at the lowest possible cost while allowing clean renewable power to compete with cheaper fossil fuels. An RPS may even be structured to promote economic growth through adoption of renewable power generation.
Fuel cells can play a role in meeting RPS clean power mandates by generating highly efficient, clean electricity 24 hours per day seven days per week. Fuel cells operating on renewable biogas meet the requirements of typical RPS programs and many RPS programs include fuel cells operating on natural gas due to the clean and highly efficient power generation process of fuel cells. Fuel cells can balance other forms of intermittent power generation such as wind and solar as fuel cells can be incorporated into the electric grid infrastructure. Increased use of wind, solar and traditional generation requires upgrades to the transmission and distribution system, whereas our fuel cells fit into the existing grid, augmenting power where needed.

 

9


Table of Contents

Individual States in the U.S. seeking to secure cleaner energy sources, higher efficiency and greater energy independence are establishing renewable portfolio standards that require utilities to provide a certain amount of their electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass-fueled technologies, and fuel cells. There are currently 27 states and the District of Columbia that have instituted RPS mandates and 5 states that have adopted non-binding renewable energy goals. These markets represent a potential for an estimated 76,750 MW of renewable power by 2025, according to the Union for Concerned Scientists. Fuel cells using biogas fuels qualify as renewable power generation technology in all of the RPS states, with nine states specifying that fuel cells operating on natural gas are also eligible for these initiatives.
Business Strategy
Our business strategy is to expand our leadership position in key markets, build renewable portfolio standards markets and continue to reduce the cost of our products. We believe a production mix more heavily weighted with MW-class products is our fastest path to achieve profitability. Our focus continues to be:
Build on our leadership position in geographic and vertical markets

Increased orders from our target markets will drive us to profitability. In many regions around the world, there is growing adoption of clean, low carbon technologies. Countries are also looking to green technologies as a way to grow their economies. This attention to clean energy technologies is driving policy in South Korea, Europe and the U.S.
South Korea : The South Korean Government passed a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) in March 2010 that requires 4 percent clean energy generation by 2015 and 10 percent by 2022. The program becomes effective in 2012 and will mandate 350 MW of additional renewable energy per year through 2016, and 700 MW per year through 2022. At present, only about 1 percent of South Korea’s electricity comes from renewable resources. Fuel cells operating on natural gas and bio gas fully qualify under the mandates of the program.
High efficiency fuel cells are an excellent green energy solution for South Korea due to the high cost of imported fuel and the poor wind and solar profiles of the Korean Peninsula. The South Korean government desires clean distributed generation power sources to support their growing power needs while minimizing additional investment and congestion of the transmission grid. Fuel cells address these needs and are designated as an economic driver due to their ultra-clean emissions, high efficiency and reliable distributed generation capabilities, which will help South Korea achieve its RPS and electricity generation goals.
POSCO Power, a subsidiary of South Korean based POSCO, one of the world’s largest steel manufacturers, produces fuel cell stack modules from cells and components provided by us under a Stack Technology Transfer and License Agreement signed in 2009. This agreement is part of our strategy to localize certain power plant manufacturing. Locating final assembly closer to end users reduces costs and ensures products meet the needs of individual markets.
POSCO built a 100 MW manufacturing facility in 2008 that produces balance-of-plant systems. Demonstrating their long-term commitment to fuel cell technology and to our partnership, POSCO began construction in April 2010 of an additional facility to assemble and manufacture fuel cell modules with an annual capacity of 100 MW. The fuel cell stack module assembly plant is expected to begin production in early 2011 using fuel cell components shipped from the United States. Local capacity in South Korea effectively increases worldwide capacity for our DFC Power Plants and demonstrates the commitment of POSCO to the DFC product line.

 

10


Table of Contents

The fuel cell market in South Korea is a utility-model with fuel cell power plants supporting the electric grid and byproduct heat generally used to create steam for heating and cooling of nearby buildings. POSCO Power is constructing the world’s largest fuel cell power plant in Daegu Metropolitan City, South Korea. The plant will generate 11.2 MW when completed, utilizing four DFC3000 power plants.
In an effort to expand the market for fuel cells in South Korea, POSCO Power is funding, under a joint development agreement with the Company that was announced subsequent to the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010, the development of a small-scale Direct FuelCell power plant targeted at the commercial/apartment building market in Asia. The $5.8 million program will be funded in stages as performance milestones are reached.
California: Clean energy deployment remains a focus in California with 15.2 MW of orders received in fiscal year 2010. These orders will utilize a variety of fuels, including renewable biogas, directed biogas and natural gas:
   
6.5 MW of power plants will be located at wastewater treatment facilities and will utilize renewable biogas for fuel. These orders included a repeat customer as a municipal water district chose to utilize DFC power plants at another one of their wastewater treatment plants following an initial purchase in 2007.
 
   
4.5 MW of power plants will operate on directed biogas in San Diego, California including locations at the University of California, a city-owned pump station and a wastewater treatment plant. Renewable biogas generated from the wastewater treatment process will be cleaned and injected into an existing gas pipeline to fuel the power plants.
 
   
4.2 MW of power plants will operate on natural gas including two power plants sold to Pacific Gas and Electric, a major utility that will site the power plants at California universities. A 1.4 MW power plant will be located at a municipal-owned pump station and will operate on natural gas. The favorable economic profile of the DFC plant combined with the ability to meet current and future clean air regulations drove the purchasing decision.
As renewable technologies like wind and solar are deployed more widely, the need for clean baseload technology that complements these intermittent sources becomes more acute, particularly baseload power that utilizes renewable biogas. Municipal water treatment operations are an attractive market opportunity as the renewable baseload power attributes of fuel cells meet their need for clean power around-the-clock and help to solve pollutant emission challenges. Clean air permitting is a significant hurdle in some regions of California. Due to the electrochemical reaction that replaces combustion, virtually no pollutants are emitted by the fuel cell, simplifying and accelerating the clean air permitting process.
During fiscal year 2010, the 2.8 MW DFC3000 received certification under the California Air Resources Board’s distributed generation standards demonstrating the ability of the plant to meet challenging clean air standards. The DFC3000 is the only multi-MW fuel cell to achieve this certification. The DFC1500 and DFC300 are already certified, affirming the ultra-clean emission profile of all FuelCell Energy products. The California Air Quality Management Districts oversee the toughest clean air standards in the nation.
The Self-Generation Incentive Program (“SGIP”) adopted by the State of California demonstrates the State’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gases and encouraging clean distributed generation. Under this Program, qualifying fuel cell projects of up to 3 MW are eligible for incentives of up to $4,500 per kilowatt when operating on renewable biogas and up to $2,500 per kilowatt when operating on natural gas. The SGIP expires at the end of 2015.

 

11


Table of Contents

A feed-in tariff (FiT) is a power-supply oriented policy designed to encourage the adoption of renewable energy by guaranteeing a payment based on the kilowatt hours of electricity produced for a specific period of time from the regional utility. A FiT could make it more economically attractive to generate power using fuel cells and lead to wider deployment. The California legislature passed bills creating two feed-in tariff programs. One bill, AB1613 passed in 2007, created a feed-in tariff for combined heat and power projects under which our fuel cell projects qualify. A second bill, SB32 passed in 2009, created a separate feed-in-tariff for units operated on renewable biogas. Once the feed-in-tariffs are fully implemented by the California Public Utilities Commission (“CPUC”), they could enable fuel cell customers to sell excess electricity to the grid. The CPUC is currently working to set pricing for these tariffs and we expect a final ruling in 2011.
To date, our focus has been on capturing certain geographic markets. The South Korean market uses fuel cells for grid support, the California market uses fuel cells for onsite distributed generation, and Connecticut has approved the use of fuel cells to satisfy its RPS requirements of clean distributed generation. We expect to continue to expand geographically in the US, Canada and Europe. As a result of success in the initial geographical markets, several FuelCell Energy products are attracting vertical markets. Fuel cells operating on biogas are attracting worldwide interest with their low cost fuel and ability to provide renewable baseload power.
   
Wastewater Treatment / Biogas — The municipal wastewater treatment market, which utilizes renewable biogas, has immediate global potential. In California, over 50 percent of our installed base and backlog utilize biogas produced by the wastewater treatment process or food processing. Our units virtually eliminate pollutants, reduce CO2 and decrease costs. The heat from our power plants is used in the anaerobic digester so in addition to saving on electricity costs, customers save on fuel costs. This type of combined heat and power configuration can yield efficiency up to 90 percent, depending on the application.
Utilities / Universities — Pacific Gas and Electric, one of the largest utilities in the United States ordered two 1.4 MW DFC1500 power plants in 2010 for installation at two university campuses in California. The order follows an approval from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in April 2010 for two California based utilities to purchase fuel cells for installation at four California universities. The CPUC and the State are leaders in the adoption of alternative energy to reduce greenhouse gases and pollution while encouraging the utilization of distributed generation solutions that generate power at the point of use. The CPUC approval noted the important role that fuel cells will play in the State’s future energy mix.
An order received in 2010 included a 2.8 MW DFC3000 operating on directed biogas that will be installed at a California university. Renewable biogas generated from a wastewater treatment plant will be processed and injected into an existing gas pipeline to be used as fuel for the DFC3000.
Universities are attracted to fuel cell generated power due to the high efficiency, reliable baseload power and lack of pollutants that support sustainability goals. Universities can utilize the byproduct heat to generate steam for facility heating, increasing the overall efficiency of the power plant. Some universities incorporate fuel cell technology into their curriculum.

 

12


Table of Contents

Build Renewable Portfolio Standards Markets
RPS programs mandate that a certain percentage of electricity be generated from renewable and ultra-clean resources. Our multi-MW products, which are scalable to utility sized installations and our natural gas pipeline applications, are well suited to address these markets.
   
Connecticut — Connecticut’s RPS requires utilities to purchase 20 percent of their peak electricity needs, or about 1,000 MW, from clean power sources by 2020. During 2009, Connecticut’s Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) finalized the selection of 27.3 MW of projects incorporating our power plants, bringing the total approved projects to 43.5 MW. All of the projects utilize our 2.8 MW DFC3000 power plants either alone or in combination with turbines.
Each of these projects has executed power purchase agreements with utilities. We are in active discussions with private and government financing sources for the 43.5 MW of fuel cell projects selected and approved by the DPUC.
Additionally, Congress is seeking solutions to address environmental problems that could result in a federal energy bill beneficial for fuel cells. Its actions could result in a national renewable energy standard — a federal RPS — and longer term, the implementation of “cap and trade” policies. The Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) has recently signaled its intent to issue new CO2 regulations. This heightened attention to the need for clean energy solutions should prove beneficial given our products’ high efficiency, low CO2 emissions and near-zero regulated emissions.
   
Canada: Our DFC-ERG system, developed with our partner Enbridge Inc., is specifically designed for natural gas pressure letdown stations. Natural gas is piped under high pressure over long distances and the pressure must be reduced at letdown stations before it can be distributed locally. Our fuel cell power plant is coupled with a turbo expander to harness this energy from the letdown process that is otherwise lost. In its first full year of operation, the DFC-ERG plant attained an average electrical efficiency of 62.5 percent, peak electrical efficiency above 70 percent, power availability of 93 percent and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of up to 45 percent.
Our first DFC-ERG power plant went into operation in Toronto in 2008 and four DFC-ERG power plants were approved by the Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control. The potential market size has been estimated at 250 to 350 MW in just the Northeastern U.S., northern California and Toronto, Canada.
In September 2009, the Ontario government ruled that gas distribution companies, such as Enbridge, may own and operate power plants that generate both electricity and heat, including fuel cells operating on natural gas, up to 10 MW per facility. This is an essential step toward the deployment of the DFC-ERG for pipeline applications in the province. The Ontario government is also expected to establish a revised feed-in-tariff to encourage the installation of clean energy generation that would include stationary fuel cells.
Continue to Reduce Product Costs
Cost reductions are essential for us to more fully penetrate the market for our fuel cell products and attain profitability. Cost reductions will also reduce or eliminate the need for incentive funding programs which currently allow us to price our products to compete with grid-delivered power and other distributed generation technologies. Product cost reductions come from several areas such as:
   
engineering improvements;
 
   
technology advances;
 
   
supply chain management;
 
   
production volume; and
 
   
manufacturing process improvements.

 

13


Table of Contents

Since 2003, we have made significant progress in reducing the total life cycle costs (manufactured cost and service costs) of our power plants primarily through value engineering our products, manufacturing process improvements, technology improvements, and global sourcing.
2010 was the first full year of production of our lower-cost, higher-output DFC1500 and DFC3000 models incorporating 350 kW stacks, an increase from the prior 300 kW stacks. By producing more power in a power plant, additional revenue can be attained without a commensurate increase in production costs. As a result our products are gross margin profitable on a per unit basis. We believe that with sufficient sales volume, production of these lower cost MW-class power plants will move our Company to profitability. We are also developing and expect to bring to market products with a stack life longer than five-years. Extending stack life increases the sales value of the product and reduces service costs.
We sell complete power plants, fuel cell modules and fuel cell module kits (components). Based on the current backlog, we expect the mix of production to be composed of a mix of fuel cell module kits and megawatt-class power plants including the DFC1500 and DFC3000 in 2011. To date, our cost reduction program has successfully reduced the unit cost of our megawatt-class products by more than 60 percent. Increased volume enables several areas of continued cost reduction, including expansion of our global sourcing program, larger volume purchases, more competition among our suppliers, increased utilization of our factory capacity, and increased productivity and automation in our facilities and supply chain. As a result of product cost reductions, sales volume of 75 to 125 MWs will drive the Company to profitability. The low end of this ranges require sustained annual production primarily of our DFC3000 power plants and fuel cell modules and the high end of the range includes a mix of fuel cell components and our DFC1500 and DFC300 power plants. Actual results will depend on product mix, volume, mix of full power plants vs. modules only, future service costs, and market pricing.
Products
Our core DFC Power Plant products are the 300 kW DFC300, the 1.4 MW DFC1500, and the 2.8 MW DFC3000. Our 2.8 MW product is scalable to utility sized applications. We also manufacture and install multi-megawatt DFC-ERG power plants for use in natural gas pipeline applications and DFC/Turbine power plants for large load users. The DFC-ERG and DFC/Turbine power plants are our highest-efficiency products and are nearly twice as efficient as the average U.S. central generation fossil fuel power plant.

 

14


Table of Contents

The following table shows industry estimates of the electrical efficiency, operating temperature, expected capacity range and byproduct heat use of the principal types of fuel cells being developed for commercial applications:
                         
            Electrical            
            Efficiency            
        Electrical   With Bottom   Operating   Expected    
Fuel Cell       Efficiency   Cycle   Temperature   Capacity   Byproduct Heat
Type   Electrolyte   Percentage   Percentage   o F   Range   Use
PEM
  Polymer Membrane   30-35   NA   180   5 kW to 250 kW   Warm Water
Phosphoric Acid   Phosphoric Acid   35-40   NA   400   50 kW to 400 kW   Hot Water
Carbonate (Direct FuelCell ® )   Potassium/Lithium Carbonate   45-50   58 – 70   1,200   300 kW to 2.8 MW and larger   Hot water or High Pressure Steam
Solid Oxide   Stabilized Zirconium dioxide Ceramic   45-50   58 – 70   1,400-1,800   3 kW to 1 MW and larger   Hot water or High Pressure Steam
Our carbonate fuel cell, known as the Direct FuelCell, operates at approximately 1,200°F. This temperature avoids the use of precious metal electrodes required by lower temperature fuel cells, such as proton exchange membrane (“PEM”) and phosphoric acid, and the more expensive metals and ceramic materials required by higher temperature fuel cells, such as tubular solid oxide. As a result, we are able to use less expensive catalysts and readily available metals in our designs. In addition, our fuel cell produces high quality byproduct heat energy (700°F) that can be harnessed for CHP applications using hot water, steam or chiller water to heat or cool buildings.
Our Direct FuelCell is so named because of its ability to generate electricity directly from a hydrocarbon fuel, such as natural gas or anaerobic digester gas, by reforming the fuel inside the fuel cell to produce hydrogen. This “one-step” reforming process results in a simpler, more efficient, and cost-effective energy conversion system compared with external reforming fuel cells. External reforming fuel cells, such as PEM and phosphoric acid, generally use complex, external fuel processing equipment to convert the fuel into hydrogen. This external equipment increases capital cost and reduces electrical efficiency. Additionally, natural gas and anaerobic digester gas have infrastructures that are already established. Consequently, our products are not dependent on the development of a hydrogen delivery infrastructure.
We have established a leading position in the sale of fuel cell power plants and strengthened our position by continuing to improve our products’ performance and availability, reducing costs for our products, and expanding repeatable markets for our products. Our cumulative fleet availability starting with the first commercial installation in 2003 is approximately 90 percent. Availability percentage is calculated as the percentage that the power plants have operated at a specific output level for a specified period of time less hours not producing electricity due to planned and unplanned maintenance divided by total period hours.
Markets and Applications
The worldwide market for alternative energy power generation is growing and we expect to continue to benefit from this momentum. More than 66 percent of the world’s electric power is generated from carbon-based fossil fuels, and this is forecasted to continue to increase for some time. Countries, states, provinces, cities and towns are looking for better solutions that use these fuels more efficiently, economically and at the same time, cleanly. With the primary source of electric generation still driven by fossil fuels, markets need new power generation products like DFC fuel cells that are not only more efficient and environmentally superior, but also cost effective and reliable.

 

15


Table of Contents

Governments around the world, including the U.S., South Korean and many European governments, have tied the support of green energy programs to economic growth. In the U.S., the federal investment tax credit (ITC) is available for fuel cells in an amount up to $3,000 per kW or 30 percent, whichever is less. Recipients can choose a tax credit or a grant, with the tax credit option expiring December 31, 2016 and the tax grant option recently extended by the U.S. Congress expiring December 31, 2011. This ITC grant program potentially improves the financial returns of fuel cell projects, which is beneficial for our customers and attractive for potential customers.
In South Korea, the Ministry of Knowledge Economy designated fuel cells as a key economic driver for the country under President Lee Myung-bak’s green growth plan. The efficient production of electricity has important economic benefits for South Korea since it imports its fossil fuels. Ultra-clean, highly efficient fuel cell power plants meet South Korea’s need for increased production of clean power with green technologies that contribute to increased domestic employment as well as its mandate for clean energy generation. Additionally, the country’s clean energy program requires lean electricity to be directed first to the utility grid, encouraging the deployment of MW-class systems.
In the U.S., states seeking to secure cleaner energy sources and greater energy independence are setting RPS mandates that require utilities to provide a certain amount of their electricity from renewable sources such as solar, wind, biomass-fueled technologies, and fuel cells. There are currently 27 states and the District of Columbia that have instituted RPS mandates and 5 states that have adopted non-binding renewable energy goals. These markets represent an estimated 76,750 MW by 2025. Fuel cells using biogas fuels qualify as renewable power generation technology in all of the RPS states, with some states and the District of Columbia specifying that fuel cells operating on natural gas are also eligible for these initiatives.
Fuel cells can play a critical role in meeting RPS clean power mandates by generating highly efficient, electric power around-the-clock that also balances other forms of intermittent power generation such as wind and solar as they are incorporated into the electric grid infrastructure. Increased use of wind, solar and traditional generation requires upgrades to the transmission and distribution system, whereas our fuel cells fit into the existing grid, augmenting power where needed without requiring transmission and distribution equipment upgrades. By producing base load power locally in the distribution system, our fuel cells can ease grid constraints, making room for additional central wind or solar power generation in the system. This distributed generation aspect of fuel cells also helps to enable the smart grid due to the lack of reliance on the transmission grid.
The wastewater treatment market continues to be among our strongest because our fuel cells are particularly economical and efficient for these customers. Since our fuel cells operate on the renewable biogas produced by the wastewater treatment process and their byproduct heat is used in the treatment process, the efficiency of these installations can be as much as 90 percent. Fuel cells operating on biogas qualify for incentives in all 27 RPS states and the District of Columbia and in all 5 states with non-binding renewable energy goals.
There are currently 21 MW of our DFC Power Plants installed or in backlog for municipal water treatment / biogas applications. Based on our installed base, market support for our products, and our marketing focus in this area, we expect municipal water treatment facilities to continue to be a strong market for our products.

 

16


Table of Contents

Distributed Generation Markets and Applications
We compete in the distributed generation marketplace. We believe distributed generation can be a more cost-effective solution than traditional grid-delivered electricity for the following reasons:
   
Provides better economics — Distributed generation avoids transmission and distribution system investment by using the existing infrastructure close to the end user. Distributed generation allows customers to use the heat byproduct from on-site power generation (combined heat and power or CHP) boosting efficiency and lowering energy costs. Distributed generation also offers the ability to control energy costs through fuel flexibility and efficiency. For example, wastewater treatment facilities and brewery companies can use methane, a byproduct of their own processes, to operate their fuel cell power plants. This allows for the elimination of gas flaring and the use of conventional combustion-based power generation equipment, both of which generate pollution. These facilities also reduce their operating costs because our DFC Power Plants can be up to 90 percent efficient when operated in CHP mode and produce significantly more high-value electricity than competing technologies. Customers also gain the added benefits of quiet operation and improved power reliability.
 
   
Increases reliability by locating power closer to the end user By locating smaller power plants on-site, power generation bypasses the congested transmission and distribution system and reduces dependence on a vulnerable centralized electrical infrastructure.
 
   
Eases congestion in the transmission and distribution system — Each kW of on-site power generation removes the need for the same amount from the centralized transmission and distribution system, easing congestion that can cause power outages and hastening grid recovery after the resolution of electrical infrastructure problems. In addition, distributed generation provides added strength to the grid by opening up distribution capacity for central wind or solar generation.
 
   
Reduces the need for new large generation and associated transmission and distribution line investments and provides greater capacity utilization in less time On-site, distributed generation can be added in increments that more closely match expected demand in a shorter time frame (weeks to months) compared with traditional central power generation plants and transmission and distribution systems (often 36 months or longer) that require more extensive siting and right of way approvals. Siting distributed generation can defer or avoid massive transmission and distribution investment such as unpopular above ground high voltage lines or expensive underground high voltage lines.
 
   
Enables the use of more renewable fuel for power generation Distributed generation enables end-users to use renewable biogas to generate high-efficiency, clean power, and reduces the need for fossil fuels.
 
   
Promotes greater energy independence Distributed generation reduces dependence on foreign oil and on centralized power generation, giving customers more control over their power costs and supply. A byproduct of fuel cell power generation is high-temperature heat, which can be used for heating and air conditioning, reducing the need for heating oil.
 
   
Minimizes losses in the transmission and distribution grid An estimated 6.5 percent of central generated power is lost in the transmission and distribution grid according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Distributed generation minimizes transmission losses, promoting efficient power generation.
Our fuel cell products are competitive in the marketplace because of superior product attributes including higher operational efficiency, virtually no pollutants, lower carbon emissions particularly when configured for combined heat and power and distributed generation. Our fuel cells are unique among power generation technologies (including other fuel cell technologies) in that they provide these attributes at a scale suitable to distributed generation. The only other commercial power generation technology with electrical efficiency comparable to our products — combined cycle power plants — achieves that efficiency only in sizes above 20 MWs. The fact that fuel cells provide their high efficiency at small sizes as well as in multi-megawatt class applications, combined with the ultra-clean and quiet operating characteristics, makes them an ideal power generation technology for distributed generation. While most small-scale technologies suffer from high emissions or low efficiency, our direct fuel cells provide the efficiency of a large combined cycle power plant in a size small enough to be located near the end user. This avoids the need to add transmission or distribution capacity, and provides a mechanism to strengthen the existing distribution system.

 

17


Table of Contents

As we reduce our product costs, we are able to price our products competitively in the markets in which we compete. In California, for instance, factoring in the value of the heat used for cogeneration, government incentives, and possible offsets due to emissions credits, the net cost to the end user of our products is approximately $0.10 to $0.12/kWh, depending on location and application, which is a level competitive with grid-delivered electricity and other distributed generation products in our target markets. Tougher emission standards increase the cost of competing products and as our costs continue to come down, we become increasingly competitive in more markets.
Strategic Alliances and Market Development Agreements

Our original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) and energy service company (“ESCO”) partners have extensive experience in designing, manufacturing, distributing, selling and servicing energy products worldwide. We believe our strength in the development of fuel cell products coupled with their understanding of sophisticated commercial and industrial customers, products and services will enhance the sales, service and product development of our products. Our strategic business partners include:
   
POSCO Power In February 2007, we signed a 10-year manufacturing and distribution agreement with POSCO to distribute and package DFC Power Plants in South Korea. POSCO has extensive experience in power plant project development, having built over 2,400 MW of power plants, equivalent to 3.7 percent of South Korea’s national capacity. POSCO built a 100 MW fuel cell BOP manufacturing facility in Pohang and began manufacturing operations in 2009.
 
     
In October 2009, we entered into the 2009 License Agreement allowing POSCO to manufacture fuel cell stack modules from cell and module components provided by us. These fuel cell modules will be combined with BOP manufactured in South Korea to complete electricity-producing fuel cell power plants for sale in South Korea.
 
     
In response to the RPS, POSCO Power is investing in local fuel cell production capacity in South Korea including a 100 MW balance of plant facility already in operation and a 100 MW fuel cell stack module assembly plant that is expected to begin production in early 2011 using fuel cell components shipped from the United States. This localization strategy allows FuelCell Energy to reduce costs, and ensure that products meet the needs of individual markets.
 
     
We have also partnered with POSCO Power to expand the market for fuel cells in South Korea, through development of a small-scale Direct FuelCell power plant targeted at the commercial/apartment building market in Asia. POSCO Power will fund the development under a joint development agreement announced subsequent to the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010. The $5.8 million program will be funded in stages as performance milestones are reached.
 
   
Enbridge, Inc . — We have partnered with Enbridge, a global leader in energy transportation and distribution that includes the DFC-ERG power plant that they co-developed with us. A 2.2 MW DFC-ERG unit was installed at Enbridge’s headquarters in Toronto in 2008 and we were awarded contracts under Connecticut’s Project 150 to install 18.8 MW of DFC-ERG power plants at four natural gas distribution stations, including a 9 MW DFC-ERG installation at a natural gas letdown station in Milford, Connecticut.
 
   
Marubeni Corporation — We are ending our alliance and distribution agreement with Marubeni at the end of its term in June 2011. Since 2001 , we have installed one 4.75 MW DFC Power Plant with Marubeni in the Japanese market. In 2010, we entered into an agreement with Marubeni Corporation to resolve open contractual issues and repurchase surplus inventory items previously sold to Marubeni.
   
Energy Service Company Partners — We also partner with energy service companies that have expertise in the markets where we compete. These companies market our products. Partners include: Alliance Power, Inc., Chevron Energy Solutions, Logan Energy Corp, BioFuels Energy, UTS Bioenergy, and G3 Powersystems.

 

18


Table of Contents

Competition
We compete on the basis of our products’ reliability, fuel efficiency, environmental considerations, and cost. We believe that our DFC carbonate fuel cells offer competitive and environmental advantages over other fuel cell designs and combustion-based technologies for stationary base load power generation.
Our DFC Power Plants specifically provide the following attributes that provide an advantage over other distributed technologies of similar size:
   
Higher overall efficiency and lower carbon dioxide — Our DFC Power Plants are designed to achieve an electrical efficiency of 47 percent and overall energy efficiency up to 90 percent when operated in CHP mode. The higher the electrical efficiency, the more power generated with the least fuel, which results in lower CO2. DFC Power Plants generate only half the CO2 of the average U.S. fossil fuel plant and near-zero NOX, SOX and particulate matter, compared with other technologies their size. Thus when operated in CHP applications, DFC fuel cells reduce CO2 by roughly the same amount as other distributed generation technologies but they far surpass these technologies in reduction of NOX, SOX and particulate matter.
 
   
Lower emissions Our DFC Power Plant installations emit less CO2, and near zero SOX, NOX and particulate matter. They have been designated ultra-clean by the California Air Resources Board (“CARB”), and our products are certified to CARB 2007 emissions standards. Emissions of DFC Power Plants versus traditional combustion-based power plants are:
                                         
    Emissions (Lbs. Per MWh)  
    NOX     SO 2     PM 10     CO 2     CO 2 with CHP  
Average U.S. Fossil Fuel Plant
    5.06       11.6       0.27       2,031     NA
Microturbine (60 kW)
    0.44       .008       0.09       1,596       520 – 680  
Small Gas Turbine
    1.15       .008       0.08       1,494       520 – 680  
DFC Power Plant
    0.01       0.0001       0.00002       940       520 – 680  
   
Fuel flexibility Our DFC Power Plants can use a variety of hydro-carbon based fuel sources, such as natural gas, renewable biogas from wastewater treatment facilities, food processors and breweries, and coal gas (escaping gas from active and abandoned coal mines as well as synthesis gas processed from coal). This enhances independence from imported oil and gives customers fuel flexibility, allowing them to choose the least expensive alternative.
 
   
Provide end users with greater control of their energy costs The high efficiency of our DFC Power Plants and around-the-clock 24/7 operation gives customers predictability and savings on energy costs. The cost of utility-provided power continues to rise and is subject to significant volatility. Generating on-site power with known generating costs from a DFC Power Plant gives customers a predictable component of their operations that can be budgeted and controlled.
Several companies in the U.S. are involved in fuel cell development, although we believe we are the only domestic company engaged in significant manufacturing and commercialization of stationary carbonate fuel cells. Emerging fuel cell technologies (and companies developing them) include PEM fuel cells (Ballard Power Systems, Inc.; United Technologies Corp. or UTC Power; and Plug Power), phosphoric acid fuel cells (UTC Power and Samsung Everland) and solid oxide fuel cells (Siemens Westinghouse Electric Company, General Electric, Delphi, Rolls Royce, Bloom Energy, and Acumentrics). Each of these competitors has the potential to capture market share in our target markets.

 

19


Table of Contents

There are other potential carbonate fuel cell competitors internationally. In Europe, Ansaldo Fuel Cells in Italy is actively engaged in carbonate fuel cell development and is a potential competitor. Fuji Electric has been involved with both PEM and phosphoric acid fuel cells. In Korea, Doosan Corporation is engaged in carbonate fuel cell development.
Other than fuel cell developers, we must also compete with such companies as Caterpillar, Cummins, Wartsilla, MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH (“MTU”), Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Detroit Diesel, which manufacture more mature combustion-based power generation equipment, including various engines and turbines, and have well-established manufacturing and distribution operations along with product operating and cost features. Electrical efficiency of these products can be competitive with our DFC Power Plants in certain applications. Significant competition may also come from gas turbine companies like General Electric, Ingersoll Rand, Solar Turbines and Kawasaki, which have recently made progress in improving efficiency and reducing pollution in large-size combined cycle natural gas fueled generators. These companies have also made efforts to extend these advantages to smaller sizes.
We also compete against the electric grid with utilities that generate power in large central-generation locations and then use transmission lines to transport the electricity to the point of use.
Molten carbonate fuel cells offer attributes that can not be completely matched by any individual competitor, including ultra-clean power generation generated in a highly efficient manner at the point of use. Conventional fossil fuel power plants generate electricity by combustion of hydrocarbon fuels, such as coal, oil, or natural gas. With reciprocating engines, fuel combustion takes place within the engine that drives a generator that produces electricity. In a gas turbine combined cycle plant, fuels, such as natural gas, are burned in the gas turbine, which drives a generator. The exhaust heat from the gas turbine is used to boil water, which converts to high-pressure steam and used to rotate a steam turbine generating additional electricity. The combustion process typically creates emissions of SOX, NOX, CO2, carbon monoxide, particulates and other air pollutants.
Manufacturing
Manufacturing Process
We have a 65,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Torrington, Connecticut where we produce our repeating fuel cell components: the anode and cathode electrodes, metallic bipolar plates and the electrolyte matrix. These stack components are combined and assembled into fuel cell modules. The completed modules are then transported to our test and conditioning facilities in Danbury, Connecticut and then shipped to customer sites for installation with the BOP that has been shipped separately.
Our manufacturing strategy is to commit our capital to manufacturing the critical core fuel cell components. The components of the BOP are either purchased directly from suppliers or the manufacturing is outsourced based on our designs and specifications.
Capacity and Production Ramp-up
Our overall manufacturing process (module manufacturing, final assembly, testing and conditioning) has a production capacity of 70 MW per year. We are expecting to continue to increase production volume based on continued order flow. By investing $5 million to $7 million for upgrades and maintenance of production assets, maximizing existing assets, operating at full capacity (e.g multiple shifts 24 hours per day, up to 7 days a week) and making other improvements, we estimate that we can increase capacity from 70 MW to 90 MW of annual production.
With increasing order flow, our plan has been to expand production capacity to 150 MW within our existing Torrington facility. This expansion would require the addition of equipment (e.g. furnaces, tapecasting and other equipment) to increase the capacity of certain operations. Due to the economies of scale and equipment required, we believe it is more cost effective to add capacity in large blocks. We estimate that the expansion to 150 MW will require additional capital investments of $35 to $45 million although, this expansion may occur in stages depending on the level of market demand.

 

20


Table of Contents

Raw Materials and Supplier Relationships
We use various raw materials and components to construct a fuel cell module, including nickel and stainless steel which are critical to our manufacturing process. Our fuel cell stack raw materials are sourced from multiple vendors and are not considered precious metals In addition to manufacturing the fuel cell module in our Torrington facility, the electrical BOP and mechanical BOP are assembled by and procured from several key suppliers. All of our suppliers must undergo a qualification process, which generally takes from four to twelve months. We continually evaluate new suppliers and are currently qualifying several new suppliers.
Service and Warranty Agreements
We offer comprehensive service and maintenance programs including total fleet management, refurbishment and recycling services and complete product support including spare parts inventory. In addition to the standard product warranty of one year, we also offer customers long-term service agreements (“LTSA”) for fuel cell power plants ranging from one to 20 years. Our standard LTSA term is five years and may be renewed if the parties mutually agree on future pricing. Pricing for service contracts is based upon the markets in which we compete as well as estimates of future costs.
Customer service is supported by our Global Technical Assistance Center (GTAC), located at the Company’s Danbury, Connecticut headquarters. From this state-of-the-art facility, trained technicians remotely monitor DFC power plants around the world. GTAC technicians are available 24 hours a day seven days per week, 365 days per year to respond to customer inquiries, order replacement parts, or schedule a service call from one of our regional service teams. We have also established parts warehouses that include spare fuel cell stacks in Connecticut, California and Asia. We have fully equipped regional field service teams, stack repair/refurbishment centers located in Connecticut and South Korea, and testing and conditioning facilities located in Connecticut. All personnel complete an operator and maintenance technician training program and work closely with the engineering and technology support organizations to service our products in the field. This infrastructure has enabled us to diagnose issues quickly, maintain high product availability and ensure customer satisfaction.
Under the standard provisions of the LTSAs, we provide services to maintain, monitor, and repair customer power plants to meet minimum operating levels. Should the power plant not meet the minimum operating levels, we may be required to replace the fuel cell stack with a new or used replacement or pay performance penalties. Our contractual liability under LTSAs is limited to amount of service fees payable under the contract. This can often times be less than the cost of a new stack replacement. However, in order to continue to meet customer expectations, we may incur costs in excess of our contractual liabilities.
Power Purchase Agreements
Power purchase agreements (“PPAs”) are a common arrangement in the energy industry, whereby a customer purchases power from an owner and operator of the power generation equipment. A number of our partners such as Alliance Power, BioFuels Energy or UTS Bioenergy enter into PPAs with end users in the U.S. After purchasing DFC Power Plants from us, they own and operate the units.
When we began installing our early version power plants, we seeded the market with a few PPAs to penetrate key target markets and develop operational and transactional experience. To date, we funded the development and construction of certain fuel cell power plants sited near customers in California, and own and operate 2.5 MW of assets through joint ventures in which we have an 80 percent ownership interest. As we enter into multi-megawatt projects in RPS markets with the benefit of the federal ITC and accelerated depreciation, we believe future PPAs will attract third party financing and ownership. This has begun to happen as three different transactions totaling 8.7 MW were closed in October 2010 that involved PPA’s with third party ownership. In each project, we sold our power plants to a third party that will own and operate the plants and sell the electricity under long term PPA’s to the power user.

 

21


Table of Contents

Research and Development
We perform both customer-sponsored and company-funded research and development projects. The goal of our research and development efforts is to improve our core products and expand our technology portfolio in complementary high temperature fuel cell systems. In addition, we are conducting development work on advanced applications for other fuel cell technologies, including SOFC and PEM.
The cost of customer sponsored research and development is classified as cost of research and development contracts in our consolidated financial statements. We also fund our own research and development projects including extending module life, increasing the power output of our modules and reducing the cost of our products. Company-funded research and development is included in research and development expenses in our consolidated financial statements. For the fiscal years ended 2010, 2009, and 2008, total customer-sponsored and company-funded research and development costs and expenses were $28.9 million, $30.2 million, and $39.5 million, respectively.
Government Research & Development Contracts
Since 1975, we have worked on the development of our DFC technology with various U.S. government departments and agencies, including the Department of Energy (DOE), the Department of Defense (DOD), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Defense Advance Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Government funding, principally from the DOE, provided 15 percent, 16 percent, and 17 percent of our revenue for the fiscal years ended 2010, 2009, and 2008, respectively. From the inception of our carbonate fuel cell development program in the mid-1970s to date, more than $550 million has been invested relating to government programs in support of the development of our DFC and related technologies.
Research and development programs are building on the versatility of our fuel cell power plants and contributing to the development of potentially new end markets. Our power plants can provide three value streams including clean electricity, high quality usable heat and hydrogen. The hydrogen can be used for vehicle refueling or industrial purposes. Significant research and development programs we are currently working on include:
Co-production of Hydrogen and Electricity using DFC Power Plants — Our high temperature DFC power plant generates electricity directly from a hydrocarbon fuel by reforming the fuel inside the fuel cell to supply hydrogen for the fuel cell electrical generation process. Gas separation technology can then be added to capture hydrogen that is not used by the electrical generation process, and we term this configuration DFC-H2. This value-added proposition may be compelling for industrial users of hydrogen. It also provides a technology bridge to the hydrogen infrastructure under development by the DOE in our nation’s bid for greater energy independence.
Advanced Hydrogen Programs : The demonstration DFC-H2 power plant generates ultra-clean electricity and hydrogen for industrial and transportation uses.
   
A DFC300-H2 power plant is operating at a wastewater treatment facility in Los Angeles, California to supply 1) hydrogen for use in fuel cell vehicle refueling, 2) clean electricity, and 3) high quality heat for the wastewater treatment process. The plant began operating on natural gas during the fourth quarter of 2010 and is expected to be operational on renewable biogas by early 2011. The demonstration is being performed under sub-contract to Air Products (NYSE: APD) with the majority of funding provided by the DOE.
 
   
In 2010, we were awarded approximately $2.8 million by the DOE to demonstrate the hydrogen production capacity of a 300 kilowatt DFC300 fuel cell for use by the metal processing industry. A DFC300-H2 will be configured to generate three value streams including: 1) hydrogen for use in a heat treating process, 2) clean electricity, and 3) high quality heat. Over 600 companies operate in the metal processing industry in the USA, representing a significant potential market for this demonstration product.
   
The DOE awarded us approximately $2.0 million in 2010 to further develop and demonstrate a highly efficient and reliable method for compressing hydrogen utilizing our solid-state Electrochemical Hydrogen Compressor (EHC) technology. The EHC technology can be utilized to compress hydrogen for storage, transport and subsequent use for vehicle refueling or other industrial applications.

 

22


Table of Contents

SECA and Large Scale Hybrid Programs — We are currently participating in Phase II of the DOE’s Solid State Energy Conversion Alliance (“SECA”) Large Scale Hybrid Program. The goal of the program is to develop a multi-MW, highly efficient, central generation SOFC power plant operating on coal syngas. Phase I of the program was a two-year, $32.3 million cost-shared program. Phase II, awarded in fiscal 2009 is a $30.2 million program which began in January 2009 and is nearing completion. We have submitted a bid for approximately $34 million to the DOE for Phase III and expect a decision in early 2011.
We utilize the cell and stack design of our technology team partner, Versa Power Systems Inc. (“Versa”), for our SOFC development programs. We currently own approximately 39% of Versa. Versa has been engaged in SOFC development since 1997 and is considered a world leader in SOFC cell and stack technology. We have been a prime contractor in the SECA program since 2003.
The FuelCell Energy/Versa team has met cost and performance objectives for a minimum 25 kW fuel cell stack in Phase II of the program. The full scale advanced fuel cell system to be demonstrated in Phase III is expected to incorporate an SOFC module with an output of up to 250 kW of ultra-clean grid electrical power. Accomplishing these Phase III goals will require selection by DOE for SECA Phase III, along with continued availability of DOE and cost-share funding.
The goal of this multi-phased program is to develop an advanced fuel cell system with overall efficiency of at least 50 percent in converting energy contained in coal to ultra-clean grid electrical power. In contrast, today’s average U.S. coal-based power plant has an electrical efficiency of approximately 33 percent. In addition, the envisioned SOFC-hybrid system is expected to separate 90 percent or more of the system’s CO2 emissions for capture and environmentally safe disposal while being cost competitive with other base load power generating technologies.
Government Regulation
Our Company and its products are subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to, among other things, land use, safe working conditions, handling and disposal of hazardous and potentially hazardous substances and emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere. Emissions of SOX and NOX from our power plants are much lower than conventional combustion-based generating stations, and are well within existing and proposed regulatory limits. The primary emissions from our power plants, assuming no cogeneration application, are humid flue gas that is discharged at temperatures of 700-800°F, water that is discharged at temperatures of 10-20°F above ambient air temperatures, and CO2 in per kW hour amounts much less than conventional fossil fuel central generation power plants. In light of the high temperature of the gas emissions, we are required to site or configure our power plants in a way that will allow the gas to be vented at acceptable and safe distances. The discharge of water from our power plants requires permits that depend on whether the water is to be discharged into a storm drain or into the local wastewater system. Lastly, as with any use of hydrocarbon fuel, the discharge of emissions must meet emissions standards. While our products have very low carbon monoxide emissions, there could be additional permitting requirements in smog non-attainment areas with respect to carbon monoxide if a number of our units are aggregated together.

 

23


Table of Contents

We are also subject to federal, state, provincial or local regulation with respect to, among other things, emissions and siting. In addition, utility companies and several states have created and adopted or are in the process of creating interconnection regulations covering both technical and financial requirements for interconnection of fuel cell power plants to utility grids.
Proprietary Rights and Licensed Technology
To compete in the marketplace, align effectively with business partners, and protect our proprietary rights, we rely primarily on a combination of trade secrets, patents, confidentiality procedures and agreements, and patent assignment agreements. We have 61 current U.S. patents (including one allowed in September 2010 by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for which issue is pending) and 66 international patents covering our fuel cell technology (in certain cases covering the same technology in multiple jurisdictions). Fifty-nine of our U.S. patents relate to our Direct FuelCell technology and two patents relate to PEM fuel cell technology. We also have submitted 30 U.S. and 130 international patent applications.
Our patents will expire between 2011 and 2029, and the current average remaining life of our patents is approximately 11.2 years. During 2010, six new U.S patents were issued or allowed (including the patent allowed in September 2010) and three U.S. and 16 international patents expired or were abandoned. The expiration of these patents has no material impact on our current or anticipated operations. We also have approximately 34 invention disclosures in process with our patent counsel that may result in additional patent applications.
Many of our U.S. patents are the result of government-funded research and development programs, including our DOE programs. U.S. patents that we own that resulted from government-funded research are subject to the government exercising “march-in” rights. We believe that the likelihood of the U.S. government exercising these rights is remote and would only occur if we ceased our commercialization efforts and there was a compelling national need to use the patents.
We have also entered into certain license agreements through which we have obtained the rights to use technology developed under joint projects. Through these agreements, we must make certain royalty payments on the sales of products that contain the licensed technology, subject to certain milestones and limitations.

 

24


Table of Contents

Significant Customers and Backlog
We contract with a small number of customers for the sale of our products and for research and development contracts. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, our top three customers, POSCO, which is a related party and owns approximately 10 percent of the outstanding common shares of the Company, the U.S. government (primarily the Department of Energy) and Pacific Gas and Electric, accounted for 83 percent, 80 percent and 62 percent, respectively of our total annual consolidated revenue. Our largest strategic partner, POSCO, accounted for 58 percent, 64 percent and 46 percent of total revenues, the U.S. government accounted for 15 percent, 16 percent and 17 percent of total revenues and Pacific Gas and Electric accounted for 10 percent of total revenues for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010. There was no revenue from Pacific Gas and Electric in 2009 or 2008.
There can be no assurance that we will continue to achieve historical levels of sales of our products to our largest customers. Even though our customer base is expected to increase and our revenue streams to diversify, a substantial portion of net revenues could continue to depend on sales to a limited number of customers. Our agreements with these customers may be cancelled if we fail to meet certain product specifications or materially breach the agreement, and our customers may seek to renegotiate the terms of current agreements or renewals. The loss of, or a reduction in sales to, one or more of our larger customers could have a material adverse affect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
See Item 7 — Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Item 8 — Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data for further information regarding our revenue and revenue recognition policies.
Backlog refers to the aggregate revenues remaining to be earned at a specified date under contracts we have entered into. Revenue backlog is as follows:
   
Total product sales and service backlog was $154.3 million at October 31, 2010 compared to $90.7 million as of October 31, 2009. Product order backlog was $87.2 million and $66.4 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, representing 33.5 MW and 43.7 MW as of October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009, respectively. Product orders represent 55 percent of our total funded backlog as of October 31, 2010. Backlog for long-term service agreements was $67.1 million and $24.3 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Although backlog reflects business that is considered firm, cancellations or scope adjustments may occur and will be reflected in our backlog when known.
 
   
For research and development contracts, we include the total contract value including any unfunded portion of the total contract value in backlog. Research and development contract backlog was $9.7 million and $14.2 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The unfunded portion of our research and development contracts amounted to $4.4 million and $10.9 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Due to the long-term nature of these contracts, fluctuations from year to year are not an indication of any future trend.
As of October 31, 2010 we had contracts for power plants totaling 2.5 MW under PPAs ranging from five to ten years. Revenue under these agreements is recognized as electricity is produced. This revenue is not included in backlog described above.

 

25


Table of Contents

Employees
As of October 31, 2010 we had 441 full-time employees, of whom 181 were located at the Torrington, Connecticut manufacturing plant, and 260 were located at the Danbury, Connecticut facility or various field offices. None of our employees is represented by a labor union or covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
Available Information
Our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and all amendments to those reports will be made available free of charge through the Investor Relations section of the Company’s Internet website (http://www.fuelcellenergy.com) as soon as practicable after such material is electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Material contained on our website is not incorporated by reference in this report. Our executive offices are located at 3 Great Pasture Road, Danbury, CT 06813.
The public may also read and copy any materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains an Internet website that contains reports and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC located at http://www.sec.gov .

 

26


Table of Contents

Executive Officers of the Registrant
             
NAME   AGE   PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION
 
           
R. Daniel Brdar
President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors
    51     Mr. Brdar has been Chairman of the Board of Directors since January 2007, Chief Executive Officer since January 2006 and President since August 2005. Mr. Brdar, previously FuelCell Energy’s Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, joined the Company in 2000. Mr. Brdar held management positions at General Electric Power Systems from 1997 to 2000 where he focused on new product introduction programs and was product manager for its gas turbine technology. Mr. Brdar was Associate Director, Office of Power Systems Product Management at the U.S. Department of Energy where he held a variety of positions from 1988 to 1997 including directing the research, development and demonstration of advanced power systems including gas turbines, gasification systems and fuel cells. Mr. Brdar received a B.S. in Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh in 1981.
 
           
Christopher R. Bentley
Executive Vice President, Government R&D Operations, Strategic Manufacturing Development
    68     Mr. Bentley has been responsible for Government Research and Development Operations and Strategic Manufacturing Development since January of 2005. He joined the Company in 1990 to develop manufacturing and operations capabilities in support of the DFC commercialization initiative. He served on the Board of Directors from 1993 to 2004. Prior to joining the Company, he was Director of Manufacturing (1985), Vice-President and General Manager (1985-1988) and President (1989) of the Turbine Airfoils Division of Chromalloy Gas Turbine Corporation, a major manufacturer of gas turbine hardware. From 1960 to 1985 he was with the General Electric Company. Mr. Bentley received a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University in 1966.
 
           
Joseph G. Mahler
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary, Treasurer, Corporate Strategy
    58     Mr. Mahler joined the Company in October 1998 as Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary, and Treasurer. Mr. Mahler’s responsibilities include finance, accounting, corporate governance, strategy, treasury, information systems and human resources. Mr. Mahler was Vice President-Chief Financial Officer at Earthgro, Inc. from 1993 to 1998 and worked at Ernst & Young in the New York and Hartford offices from 1974 to 1992. Mr. Mahler was a partner in the Hartford office’s Entrepreneurial Services Group. Mr. Mahler received a B.S. in Accounting from Boston College in 1974 and is a CPA.

 

27


Table of Contents

             
NAME   AGE   PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION
 
           
Anthony F. Rauseo
Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer
    51     Mr. Rauseo was appointed to Chief Operating Officer in July, 2010. In this position, Mr. Rauseo has responsibility for closely integrating the manufacturing operations with the supply chain, product development and quality initiatives. Mr. Rauseo joined the Company in 2005 as Vice President of Engineering and Chief Engineer. Prior to joining Fuel Cell Energy, Mr. Rauseo held a variety of key management positions in manufacturing, quality and engineering including five years with CiDRA Corporation. Prior to joining CiDRA, Mr. Rauseo was with Pratt and Whitney for 17 years where he held various leadership positions in product development, production and customer support of aircraft turbines. Mr. Rauseo received a Bachelor Science Mechanical Engineering from Rutgers University in 1983 and received a Masters Science Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1987.
 
           
Arthur A. Bottone
Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer
    50     Mr. Bottone joined FuelCell Energy in February 2010 as Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. Mr. Bottone’s focus is to accelerate profitable revenue growth by capitalizing on heightened demand by the world’s industrialized and emerging nations for clean and renewable energy. He is also responsible for developing and implementing strategies to further expand the company’s market opportunities and growth potential. Mr. Bottone’s qualifications include 25 years of experience at Ingersoll Rand Company, a diversified global industrial concern. Mr. Bottone received an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology in 1983, and received a Certificate of Professional Development from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania in 2004.

 

28


Table of Contents

Item 1A. RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the following risk factors before making an investment decision. If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition, or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. In such cases, the trading price of our common stock could decline, and you may lose all or part of your investment.
We have incurred losses and anticipate continued losses and negative cash flow.
We have been transitioning from a contract research and development company to a commercial products developer and manufacturer. As such, we have not been profitable since our fiscal year ended October 31, 1997. We expect to continue to incur net losses and generate negative cash flow until we can produce sufficient revenues to cover our costs. We may never become profitable. Even if we do achieve profitability, we may be unable to sustain or increase our profitability in the future. For the reasons discussed in more detail below, there are substantial uncertainties associated with our achieving and sustaining profitability. We have, from time to time, sought financing in the public markets in order to fund operations. Our future ability to obtain such financing, if required, could be impaired by a variety of factors, including the price of our common stock, the current global economic crisis and general market conditions.
Our cost reduction strategy may not succeed or may be significantly delayed, which may result in our inability to offer our products at competitive prices and may adversely affect our sales.
Our cost reduction strategy is based on the assumption that a significant increase in production will result in economies of scale. In addition, our cost reduction strategy relies on advancements in our manufacturing process, global competitive sourcing, engineering design and technology improvements (including stack life and projected power output). Failure to achieve our cost reduction targets would have a material adverse effect on our commercialization plans and, therefore, our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
Our products compete with products using other energy sources, and if the prices of the alternative sources are lower than energy sources used by our products, sales of our products will be adversely affected. Volatility of electricity prices may impact sales of our products in the markets in which we compete.
Our DFC Power Plants operate using a variety of hydrocarbon fuels, including natural gas, methanol, diesel, biogas, coal gas, coal mine methane, and propane. If these fuels are not readily available or if their prices increase such that electricity produced by our products costs more than electricity provided by other generation sources, our products would be less economically attractive to potential customers. In addition, we have no control over the prices of several types of competitive energy sources such as oil, gas or coal as well as local utility electricity costs. Significant decreases (or short term increases) in the price of these fuels or grid delivered prices for electricity could also have a material adverse effect on our business because other generation sources could be more economically attractive to consumers than our products.

 

29


Table of Contents

The reduction or elimination of government subsidies and economic incentives for alternative energy technologies, including our fuel cell power plants, could reduce demand for our products, lead to a reduction in our revenues and adversely impact our operating results.
We believe that the near-term growth of alternative energy technologies, including our fuel cells, relies on the availability and size of government and economic incentives (including, but not limited to, the U.S. Federal ITC, the incentive programs in South Korea and the state of California and state RPS programs). Many of these government incentives expire, phase out over time, exhaust the allocated funding, or require renewal by the applicable authority. In addition, these incentive programs could be challenged by utility companies, or for other reasons found to be unconstitutional, and/or could be reduced or discontinued for other reasons. The reduction, elimination, or expiration of government subsidies and economic incentives may result in the diminished economic competitiveness of our power plants to our customers and could materially and adversely affect the growth of alternative energy technologies, including our fuel cells, as well as our future operating results.
Financial markets worldwide have been impacted by a credit crisis which may have a material adverse impact on our Company, our customers and our suppliers.
Financial markets have been impacted by a credit crisis worldwide, affecting both debt and equity markets. This has substantially limited the amount of financing available to all companies, including companies with substantially greater resources, better credit ratings and more successful operating histories than ours. It is impossible to predict how long this crisis will last or how it will be resolved and it may have a materially adverse affect on us for a number of reasons, such as:
   
The long term nature of our sales cycle often requires long lead times between order booking and product fulfillment. For this, we often require substantial cash down payments in advance of delivery. Our growth strategy assumes that financing will be available for our customers to provide for such down payments and to pay for our products. The worldwide credit crisis may delay, cancel or restrict the construction budgets and funds available to our customers that we expect to be the ultimate purchasers of our products and services;
 
   
Projects using our products are, in part, financed by equity investors interested in tax benefits as well as by the commercial and governmental debt markets. The significant volatility in the U.S. and international stock markets since 2008, coupled with the failure of several large financial institutions, has caused significant uncertainty and resulted in an increase in the return required by investors in relation to the risk of such projects. This in turn has increased the cost of capital to the point where new projects or projects in the early or planning stages may not receive funding or may have project delays or cancellations.
If we, or our customers and suppliers, cannot obtain financing under favorable terms during the current financial crisis or should the financial crisis worsen, our business may be negatively impacted.
We have signed product sales contracts, long-term service agreements and power purchase agreements with customers subject to technology and operating risks as well as market conditions that may affect our operating results.
Revenues from fuel cell product sales contracts are recognized proportionally as costs are incurred and assigned to a customer contract by comparing the estimated total manufacture and installation costs for each contract to the total contract value. Prior to fiscal 2010, we have not provided for a contract loss reserve on product sales contracts as products were in their early stages of development and market acceptance, and the total costs to produce, install and commission these units could not be reasonably estimated. As a result of a consistent production rate over the past two fiscal years and installation and commissioning experience for our major product lines, management now believes that it has sufficient product cost history to reasonably estimate the total costs of our fuel cell product sales contracts. Accordingly, effective November 1, 2009, contract loss reserves are recognized at the time we become aware that estimated total costs are expected to exceed the contract sales price. Actual results could vary from initial estimates and reserve estimates will be updated as we gain further manufacturing and operating experience.

 

30


Table of Contents

We have contracted under long-term service agreements with certain customers to provide service on our products over terms ranging from one to 20 years. Under the provisions of these contracts, we provide services to maintain, monitor, and repair customer power plants to meet minimum operating levels. Pricing for service contracts is based upon estimates of future costs. While we have conducted tests to determine the overall life of our products, we have not run our products over their projected useful life prior to large-scale commercialization. As a result, we cannot be sure that our products will last to their expected useful life, which could result in warranty claims and further losses on service contracts.
Under the terms of our Power purchase agreements (“PPAs”), customers agree to purchase power from our fuel cell power plants at negotiated rates, generally for periods of five to ten years. Electricity rates are generally a function of the customer’s current and future electricity pricing available from the grid. Revenues are earned and collected under these PPAs as power is produced. As owner of the power plants, we are responsible for all operating costs necessary to maintain, monitor and repair the power plants. Under certain agreements, we are also responsible for procuring fuel, generally natural gas, to run the power plants. Should electricity rates decrease or operating costs increase from our original estimates, our results of operations could be negatively impacted. We have qualified for incentive funding for these projects in California under the states’ SGIP and from other government programs. Funds are payable upon commercial installation and demonstration of the plant and may require return of the funds for failure of certain performance requirements. Revenue related to these incentive funds is recognized ratably over the performance period. We are not required to produce minimum amounts of power under our PPA agreements and we have the right to terminate PPA agreements by giving written notice to the customer, subject to certain exit costs.
We extend product warranties which could affect our operating results.
We warranty our products for a specific period of time against manufacturing or performance defects. We accrue for warranty costs based on historical warranty claim experience, however actual future warranty expenses may be greater than we’ve assumed in our estimates. As a result, operating results could be negatively impacted should there be product manufacturing or performance defects in excess of our estimates.
Our products are complex and could contain defects which could reduce sales of those products or result in claims against us.
We develop complex and evolving products. Despite testing by us, our customers and our suppliers, issues may be found in existing or new products. This could result in a delay in recognition or loss of revenues, loss of market share or failure to achieve market acceptance. The occurrence of defects could also cause us to incur significant warranty, support and repair costs, could divert the attention of our engineering personnel from our product development efforts, and could harm our relationships with our customers. The occurrence of these problems could result in the delay or loss of market acceptance of our products and would likely harm our business. Defects or performance problems with our products could result in financial or other damages to our customers. From time to time, we have been involved in disputes regarding product warranty issues. Although we seek to limit our liability, a product liability claim brought against us, even if unsuccessful, would likely be time consuming and could be costly to defend. Our customers could also seek and obtain damages from us for their losses. We have reserved for potential damages related to performance problems, however actual results may be different than the assumptions used in our reserve calculations.

 

31


Table of Contents

We currently face and will continue to face significant competition.
We compete on the basis of our products’ reliability, fuel efficiency, environmental considerations and cost. Technological advances in alternative energy products or improvements in the electric grid or other sources of power generation, or other fuel cell technologies may negatively affect the development or sale of some or all of our products or make our products non-competitive or obsolete prior to commercialization or afterwards. Other companies, some of which have substantially greater resources than ours, are currently engaged in the development of products and technologies that are similar to, or may be competitive with, our products and technologies.
Several companies in the U.S. are involved in fuel cell development, although we believe we are the only domestic company engaged in significant manufacturing and commercialization of carbonate fuel cells. Emerging fuel cell technologies (and companies developing them) include PEM fuel cells (Ballard Power Systems, Inc.; United Technologies Corp. or UTC Power; and Plug Power), phosphoric acid fuel cells (UTC Power and Samsung Everland) and solid oxide fuel cells (Siemens Westinghouse Electric Company, General Electric, Delphi, Rolls Royce, Bloom Energy, and Acumentrics). Each of these competitors has the potential to capture market share in our target markets.
There are other potential carbonate fuel cell competitors internationally. In Europe, a company in Italy, Ansaldo Fuel Cells, is actively engaged in carbonate fuel cell development and is a potential competitor. Fuji Electric has been involved with both PEM and phosphoric acid fuel cells. In Korea, Doosan Corporation is engaged in carbonate fuel cell development.
Other than fuel cell developers, we must also compete with such companies as Caterpillar, Cummins, Wartsilla, MTU, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Detroit Diesel, which manufacture more mature combustion-based equipment, including various engines and turbines, and have well-established manufacturing, distribution, and operating and cost features. Electrical efficiency of these products can be competitive with our DFC Power Plants in certain applications. Significant competition may also come from gas turbine companies like General Electric, Ingersoll Rand, Solar Turbines and Kawasaki, which have recently made progress in improving fuel efficiency and reducing pollution in large-size combined cycle natural gas fueled generators. These companies have also made efforts to extend these advantages to smaller sizes.
We have a large and influential stockholder, which may make it difficult for a third party to acquire our common stock.
POSCO Power currently owns approximately 10 percent of our outstanding common stock, which could make it difficult for a third party to acquire our common stock. POSCO Power is also a licensee of our technology and purchaser of our products. Therefore, it may be in their interests to possess substantial influence over matters concerning our overall strategy and technological and commercial development.
We have limited experience manufacturing our products on a commercial basis, which may adversely affect our planned increases in production capacity and our ability to satisfy customer requirements.
Our first commercial power plant installation was in 2003 so we have limited experience manufacturing our products on a commercial basis. Our overall manufacturing process has a production capacity of 70 MW per year. We expect that we will further increase our manufacturing capacity based on market demand. We cannot be sure that we will be able to achieve any planned increases in production capacity. Also, as we scale up our production capacity, we cannot be sure that unplanned failures or other technical problems relating to the manufacturing process will not occur.

 

32


Table of Contents

Even if we are successful in achieving our planned increases in production capacity, we cannot be sure that we will do so in time to meet our product commercialization schedule or to satisfy the requirements of our customers. Additionally, we cannot be sure that we will be able to continue to develop efficient, low-cost manufacturing capabilities and processes (including automation) that will enable us to meet our cost goals and profitability projections. Our failure to develop advanced manufacturing capabilities and processes, or meet our cost goals, could have a material adverse effect on our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
Unanticipated increases or decreases in business growth may result in adverse financial consequences for us.
If our business grows more quickly than we anticipate, our existing and planned manufacturing facilities may become inadequate and we may need to seek out new or additional space, at considerable cost to us. If our business does not grow as quickly as we expect, our existing and planned manufacturing facilities would, in part, represent excess capacity for which we may not recover the cost; in that circumstance, our revenues may be inadequate to support our committed costs and our planned growth, and our gross margins, and business strategy would be adversely affected.
Our plans are dependent on market acceptance of our products.
Our plans are dependent upon market acceptance of, as well as enhancements to, our products. Fuel cell systems represent an emerging market, and we cannot be sure that potential customers will accept fuel cells as a replacement for traditional power sources. As is typical in a rapidly evolving industry, demand and market acceptance for recently introduced products and services are subject to a high level of uncertainty and risk. Since the distributed generation market is still evolving, it is difficult to predict with certainty the size of the market and its growth rate. The development of a market for our products may be affected by many factors that are out of our control, including:
   
the cost competitiveness of our fuel cell products;
 
   
the future costs of natural gas and other fuels used by our fuel cell products;
 
   
customer reluctance to try a new product;
 
   
perceptions of the safety of our fuel cell products;
 
   
the market for distributed generation;
 
   
local permitting and environmental requirements; and
 
   
the emergence of newer, more competitive technologies and products.
If a sufficient market fails to develop or develops more slowly than we anticipate, we may be unable to recover the losses we will have incurred in the development of our products and may never achieve profitability.
As we continue to commercialize our products, we intend to continue to develop warranties, power production guarantees and other terms and conditions relating to our products that will be acceptable to the marketplace, and continue to develop a service organization that will aid in servicing our products and obtain self-regulatory certifications, if available, with respect to our products. Failure to achieve any of these objectives may also slow the development of a sufficient market for our products and, therefore, have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition.

 

33


Table of Contents

We are substantially dependent on a small number of customers and the loss of any one of these customers could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We contract with a small number of customers for the sale of our products and for research and development contracts. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, our top three customers, POSCO Power, which is a related party and owns approximately 10 percent of the outstanding common shares of the Company, the U.S. Government (primarily the Department of Energy) and Pacific Gas and Electric, accounted for 83 percent, 80 percent and 62 percent, respectively of our total annual consolidated revenue. Our largest strategic partner, POSCO Power, accounted for 58 percent, 64 percent and 46 percent of total revenues, and the U.S. Government accounted for 15 percent, 16 percent and 17 percent of total revenues and Pacific Gas and Electric, accounted for 10 percent of total revenues for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010 and there was no revenue from Pacific Gas and Electric for the fiscal years ended 2009 and 2008.
There can be no assurance that we will continue to achieve historical levels of sales of our products to our largest customers. Even though our customer base is expected to increase and our revenue streams to diversify, a substantial portion of net revenues could continue to depend on sales to a limited number of customers. Our agreements with these customers may be cancelled if we fail to meet certain product specifications or materially breach the agreement, and our customers may seek to renegotiate the terms of current agreements or renewals. The loss of, or a reduction in sales to, one or more of our larger customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Our government research and development contracts are subject to the risk of termination by the contracting party and we may not realize the full amounts allocated under the contracts due to the lack of Congressional appropriations.
A portion of our fuel cell revenues have been derived from long-term cooperative agreements and other contracts with the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Navy, and other U.S. government agencies. These agreements are important to the continued development of our technology and our products.
Generally, our U.S. government research and development contracts are subject to the risk of termination at the convenience of the contracting agency. Furthermore, these contracts, irrespective of the amounts allocated by the contracting agency, are subject to annual Congressional appropriations and the results of government or agency sponsored reviews and audits of our cost reduction projections and efforts. We can only receive funds under these contracts ultimately made available to us annually by Congress as a result of the appropriations process. Accordingly, we cannot be sure whether we will receive the full amounts awarded under our government research and development or other contracts. Failure to receive the full amounts under any of our government research and development contracts could materially and adversely affect our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.

 

34


Table of Contents

A negative government audit could result in an adverse adjustment of our revenue and costs and could result in civil and criminal penalties.
Government agencies, such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency, routinely audit and investigate government contractors. These agencies review a contractor’s performance under its contracts, cost structure, and compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and standards. If the agencies determine through these audits or reviews that we improperly allocated costs to specific contracts, they will not reimburse us for these costs. Therefore, an audit could result in adjustments to our revenue and costs.
Further, although we have internal controls in place to oversee our government contracts, no assurance can be given that these controls are sufficient to prevent isolated violations of applicable laws, regulations and standards. If the agencies determine that we or one of our subcontractors engaged in improper conduct, we may be subject to civil or criminal penalties and administrative sanctions, payments, fines, and suspension or prohibition from doing business with the government, any of which could materially affect our results of operations and financial condition.
The U.S. government has certain rights relating to our intellectual property, including restricting or taking title to certain patents.
Many of our U.S. patents relating to our fuel cell technology are the result of government-funded research and development programs. We own all patents resulting from research funded by our DOE contracts awarded to date, based on our “small business” status when each contract was awarded. Under current regulations, patents resulting from research funded by government agencies other than the DOE are owned by us, whether or not we are a “small business.”
Eleven U.S. patents that we own have resulted from government-funded research and are subject to the risk of exercise of “march-in” rights by the government. March-in rights refer to the right of the U.S. government or a government agency to exercise its non-exclusive, royalty-free, irrevocable worldwide license to any technology developed under contracts funded by the government if the contractor fails to continue to develop the technology. These “march-in” rights permit the U.S. government to take title to these patents and license the patented technology to third parties if the contractor fails to utilize the patents. In addition, our DOE-funded research and development agreements also require us to agree that we will not provide to a foreign entity any fuel cell technology subject to that agreement unless the fuel cell technology will be substantially manufactured in the U.S. Accordingly, we could lose some or all of the value of these patents.
A failure to qualify as a “small business” could adversely affect our rights to own future patents under DOE-funded contracts.
Qualifying as a “small business” under DOE contracts allows us to own the patents that we develop under DOE contracts. A “small business” under applicable government regulations generally consists of no more than 500 employees averaged over a one year period. If we continue to grow, we will no longer qualify as a “small business” and no longer own future patents we develop under future contracts, grants or cooperative agreements funded by the DOE based on such certification, unless we obtain a patent waiver from the DOE. Should we not obtain a patent waiver and outright ownership, we would nevertheless retain exclusive rights to any such patents, so long as we continue to commercialize the technology covered by the patents. As of October 31, 2010, we had a total of 441 full-time employees; however, we cannot assure you that we will continue to qualify as a “small business” in the future.

 

35


Table of Contents

Our future success and growth is dependent on our market strategy.
We cannot assure you that we will enter into distributor relationships that are consistent with, or sufficient to support, our commercialization plans, and our growth strategy or that these relationships will be on terms favorable to us. Even if we enter into these types of relationships, we cannot assure you that the distributors with which we form relationships will focus adequate resources on selling our products or will be successful in selling them. Some of these distributor arrangements have or will require that we grant exclusive distribution rights to companies in defined territories. These exclusive arrangements could result in our being unable to enter into other arrangements at a time when the distributor with which we form a relationship is not successful in selling our products or has reduced its commitment to marketing our products. In addition, certain distributor arrangements include, and some future distributor arrangements may also include, the issuance of equity and warrants to purchase our equity, which may have an adverse affect on our stock price. To the extent we enter into distributor relationships, the failure of these distributors to assist us with the marketing and distribution of our products may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.
We cannot be sure that our original equipment manufacturers (“OEMs”) will manufacture or package products using our Direct FuelCell components. Our success will largely depend upon our ability to make our products compatible with the power plant products of OEMs and the ability of these OEMs to sell their products containing our products. In addition, some OEMs may need to redesign or modify their existing power plant products to fully incorporate our products. Accordingly, any integration, design, manufacturing or marketing problems encountered by OEMs could adversely affect the market for our products and, therefore, our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
We depend on third party suppliers for the development and supply of key raw materials and components for our products.
We use various raw materials and components to construct a fuel cell module, including nickel and stainless steel which are critical to our manufacturing process. We also rely on third-party suppliers for the balance-of-plant components in our products. Suppliers must undergo a qualification process, which takes four to twelve months. We continually evaluate new suppliers and we are currently qualifying several new suppliers. There are a limited number of suppliers for some of the key components of products. A supplier’s failure to develop and supply components in a timely manner, supply components that meet our quality, quantity or cost requirements, technical specifications, or our inability to obtain alternative sources of these components on a timely basis or on terms acceptable to us could harm our ability to manufacture our Direct FuelCell products. In addition, to the extent the processes that our suppliers use to manufacture components are proprietary; we may be unable to obtain comparable components from alternative suppliers.
We do not know when or whether we will secure long-term supply relationships with any of our suppliers or whether such relationships will be on terms that will allow us to achieve our objectives. Our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition could be harmed if we fail to secure long-term relationships with entities that will supply the required components for our Direct FuelCell products.
We depend on our intellectual property, and our failure to protect that intellectual property could adversely affect our future growth and success.
Failure to protect our existing intellectual property rights may result in the loss of our exclusivity or the right to use our technologies. If we do not adequately ensure our freedom to use certain technology, we may have to pay others for rights to use their intellectual property, pay damages for infringement or misappropriation, or be enjoined from using such intellectual property. We rely on patent, trade secret, trademark and copyright law to protect our intellectual property. As of October 31, 2010, we had 61 current U.S. patents and 66 international patents covering our fuel cell technology. These patents will expire between 2011 and 2029 and have an average remaining life of approximately 11.2 years.

 

36


Table of Contents

Some of our intellectual property is not covered by any patent or patent application and includes trade secrets and other know-how that is not able to be patented, particularly as it relates to our manufacturing processes and engineering design. In addition, some of our intellectual property includes technologies and processes that may be similar to the patented technologies and processes of third parties. If we are found to be infringing third-party patents, we do not know whether we will be able to obtain licenses to use such patents on acceptable terms, if at all. Our patent position is subject to complex factual and legal issues that may give rise to uncertainty as to the validity, scope, and enforceability of a particular patent.
We cannot assure you that any of the U.S. or international patents owned by us or other patents that third parties license to us will not be invalidated, circumvented, challenged, rendered unenforceable or licensed to others, or any of our pending or future patent applications will be issued with the breadth of claim coverage sought by us, if issued at all. In addition, effective patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret protection may be unavailable, limited or not applied for in certain foreign countries.
We also seek to protect our proprietary intellectual property, including intellectual property that may not be patented or able to be patented, in part by confidentiality agreements and, if applicable, inventors’ rights agreements with our subcontractors, vendors, suppliers, consultants, strategic partners and employees. We cannot assure you that these agreements will not be breached, that we will have adequate remedies for any breach or that such persons or institutions will not assert rights to intellectual property arising out of these relationships. Certain of our intellectual property have been licensed to us on a non-exclusive basis from third parties that may also license such intellectual property to others, including our competitors. If our licensors are found to be infringing third-party patents, we do not know whether we will be able to obtain licenses to use the intellectual property licensed to us on acceptable terms, if at all.
If necessary or desirable, we may seek extensions of existing licenses or further licenses under the patents or other intellectual property rights of others. However, we can give no assurances that we will obtain such extensions or further licenses or that the terms of any offered licenses will be acceptable to us. The failure to obtain a license from a third party for intellectual property that we use at present could cause us to incur substantial liabilities, and to suspend the manufacture or shipment of products or our use of processes requiring the use of that intellectual property.
While we are not currently engaged in any intellectual property litigation, we could become subject to lawsuits in which it is alleged that we have infringed the intellectual property rights of others or commence lawsuits against others who we believe are infringing upon our rights. Our involvement in intellectual property litigation could result in significant expense to us, adversely affecting the development of sales of the challenged product or intellectual property and diverting the efforts of our technical and management personnel, whether or not that litigation is resolved in our favor.
Our future success will depend on our ability to attract and retain qualified management and technical personnel.
Our future success is substantially dependent on the continued services and on the performance of our executive officers and other key management, engineering, scientific, manufacturing and operating personnel, particularly R. Daniel Brdar, our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors. The loss of the services of any executive officer, including Mr. Brdar, or other key management, engineering, scientific, manufacturing and operating personnel, could materially adversely affect our business. Our ability to achieve our development and commercialization plans will also depend on our ability to attract and retain additional qualified management and technical personnel. Recruiting personnel for the fuel cell industry is competitive. We do not know whether we will be able to attract or retain additional qualified management and technical personnel. Our inability to attract and retain additional qualified management and technical personnel, or the departure of key employees, could materially and adversely affect our development and commercialization plans and, therefore, our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.

 

37


Table of Contents

Our management may be unable to manage rapid growth effectively.
We may rapidly expand our manufacturing capabilities, accelerate the commercialization of our products and enter a period of rapid growth, which will place a significant strain on our senior management team and our financial and other resources. Any expansion may expose us to increased competition, greater overhead, marketing and support costs and other risks associated with the commercialization of a new product. Our ability to manage rapid growth effectively will require us to continue to improve our operations, to improve our financial and management information systems and to train, motivate and manage our employees. Difficulties in effectively managing issues presented by such a rapid expansion could harm our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
We may be affected by environmental and other governmental regulation.
We are subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to, among other things, land use, safe working conditions, handling and disposal of hazardous and potentially hazardous substances and emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere. In addition, it is possible that industry-specific laws and regulations will be adopted covering matters such as transmission scheduling, distribution, and the characteristics and quality of our products, including installation and servicing. These regulations could limit the growth in the use of carbonate fuel cell products, decrease the acceptance of fuel cells as a commercial product and increase our costs and, therefore, the price of our products. Accordingly, compliance with existing or future laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
Utility companies could impose customer fees or interconnection requirements on our customers that could make our products less desirable.
Utility companies commonly charge fees to larger, industrial customers for disconnecting from the electric grid or for having the capacity to use power from the electric grid for back up purposes. These fees could increase the cost to our customers of using our Direct FuelCell products and could make our products less desirable, thereby harming our business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
Several states have created and adopted, or are in the process of creating, their own interconnection regulations covering both technical and financial requirements for interconnection to utility grids. Depending on the complexities of the requirements, installation of our systems may become burdened with additional costs that might have a negative impact on our ability to sell systems. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers has been working to create an interconnection standard addressing the technical requirements for distributed generation to interconnect to utility grids. Many parties are hopeful that this standard will be adopted nationally to help reduce the barriers to deployment of distributed generation such as fuel cells; however this standard may not be adopted nationally thereby limiting the commercial prospects and profitability of our fuel cell systems.

 

38


Table of Contents

We could be liable for environmental damages resulting from our research, development or manufacturing operations.
Our business exposes us to the risk of harmful substances escaping into the environment, resulting in personal injury or loss of life, damage to or destruction of property, and natural resource damage. Depending on the nature of the claim, our current insurance policies may not adequately reimburse us for costs incurred in settling environmental damage claims, and in some instances, we may not be reimbursed at all. Our business is subject to numerous federal, state, and local laws and regulations that govern environmental protection and human health and safety. We believe that our businesses are operating in compliance in all material respects with applicable environmental laws, however these laws and regulations have changed frequently in the past and it is reasonable to expect additional and more stringent changes in the future.
Our operations may not comply with future laws and regulations and we may be required to make significant unanticipated capital and operating expenditures. If we fail to comply with applicable environmental laws and regulations, governmental authorities may seek to impose fines and penalties on us or to revoke or deny the issuance or renewal of operating permits and private parties may seek damages from us. Under those circumstances, we might be required to curtail or cease operations, conduct site remediation or other corrective action, or pay substantial damage claims.
Our products use inherently dangerous, flammable fuels, operate at high temperatures and use corrosive carbonate material, each of which could subject our business to product liability claims.
Our business exposes us to potential product liability claims that are inherent in products that use hydrogen. Our products utilize fuels such as natural gas and convert these fuels internally to hydrogen that is used by our products to generate electricity. The fuels we use are combustible and may be toxic. In addition, our Direct FuelCell products operate at high temperatures and use corrosive carbonate material, which could expose us to potential liability claims. Although we have incorporated a robust design and redundant safety features in our power plants and have established and comprehensive safety, maintenance, and training programs in place, and follow third-party certification protocols, codes and standards, we cannot guarantee there will not be accidents. Any accidents involving our products or other hydrogen-using products could materially impede widespread market acceptance and demand for our products. In addition, we might be held responsible for damages beyond the scope of our insurance coverage. We also cannot predict whether we will be able to maintain adequate insurance coverage on acceptable terms.
We are subject to risks inherent in international operations.
Since we market our products both inside and outside the U.S., our success depends in part, on our ability to secure international customers and our ability to manufacture products that meet foreign regulatory and commercial requirements in target markets. Sales to customers located outside the U.S. accounted for 59 percent, 65 percent and 50 percent of our consolidated revenue in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Sales to customers in South Korea represent the majority of our international sales. We have limited experience developing and manufacturing our products to comply with the commercial and legal requirements of international markets. In addition, we are subject to tariff regulations and requirements for export licenses, particularly with respect to the export of some of our technologies. We face numerous challenges in our international expansion, including unexpected changes in regulatory requirements, potential conflicts or disputes that countries may have to deal with, fluctuations in currency exchange rates, longer accounts receivable requirements and collections, difficulties in managing international operations, potentially adverse tax consequences, restrictions on repatriation of earnings and the burdens of complying with a wide variety of international laws. Any of these factors could adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition.

 

39


Table of Contents

Our stock price has been and could remain volatile.
The market price for our common stock has been and may continue to be volatile and subject to extreme price and volume fluctuations in response to market and other factors, including the following, some of which are beyond our control:
   
failure to meet our product development and commercialization milestones;
 
   
variations in our quarterly operating results from the expectations of securities analysts or investors;
 
   
downward revisions in securities analysts’ estimates or changes in general market conditions;
 
   
announcements of technological innovations or new products or services by us or our competitors;
 
   
announcements by us or our competitors of significant acquisitions, strategic partnerships, joint ventures or capital commitments;
 
   
additions or departures of key personnel;
 
   
investor perception of our industry or our prospects;
 
   
insider selling or buying;
 
   
demand for our common stock; and
 
   
general technological or economic trends.
In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of their stock, many companies have been the subjects of securities class action litigation. If we became involved in securities class action litigation in the future, it could result in substantial costs and diversion of management’s attention and resources and could harm our stock price, business prospects, results of operations and financial condition.
Provisions of Delaware and Connecticut law and of our charter and by-laws may make a takeover more difficult.
Provisions in our certificate of incorporation and by-laws and in Delaware and Connecticut corporate law may make it difficult and expensive for a third-party to pursue a tender offer, change in control or takeover attempt that is opposed by our management and board of directors. Public stockholders who might desire to participate in such a transaction may not have an opportunity to do so. These anti-takeover provisions could substantially impede the ability of public stockholders to benefit from a change in control or change in our management and board of directors.
We depend on relationships with strategic partners, and the terms and enforceability of many of these relationships are not certain.
We have entered into relationships with strategic partners for design, product development and distribution of our existing products, and products under development, some of which may not have been documented by a definitive agreement. The terms and conditions of many of these agreements allow for termination by the partners. Termination of any of these agreements could adversely affect our ability to design, develop and distribute these products to the marketplace. We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully negotiate and execute definitive agreements with any of these partners, and failure to do so may effectively terminate the relevant relationship.

 

40


Table of Contents

Future sales of substantial amounts of our common stock could affect the market price of our common stock.
Future sales of substantial amounts of our common stock, or securities convertible or exchangeable into shares of our common stock, into the public market, including shares of our common stock issued upon exercise of options and warrants, or perceptions that those sales could occur, could adversely affect the prevailing market price of our common stock and our ability to raise capital in the future.
The rights of the Series 1 preferred shares and Series B preferred stock could negatively impact FuelCell.
The terms of the Series 1 preferred shares issued by FuelCell Energy, Ltd. (“FCE”), our wholly-owned, indirect subsidiary, provide rights to the holder, Enbridge Inc. (“Enbridge”), which could negatively impact us. Quarterly dividends of Cdn.$312,500 accrue on the Series 1 preferred shares (subject to possible reduction pursuant to the terms of the Series 1 preferred shares). We have agreed to pay a minimum of Cdn.$500,000 in cash or common stock annually to Enbridge, as long as Enbridge holds these shares. Interest accrues on cumulative unpaid dividends at an annual rate of 9 percent, compounded quarterly. All cumulative unpaid dividends originally had to be paid by December 31, 2010. Using an exchange rate of Cdn.$1.0 to U.S.$1.00 (approximate exchange rate on December 31, 2010), cumulative unpaid dividends and accrued interest on the Series 1 Preferred Shares was $12.5 million as of December 31, 2010. The Company and Enbridge have been in negotiations to modify certain terms of the Series 1 preferred share agreement, and have agreed to extend the payment deadline to January 31, 2011 to continue these negotiations. Under the existing terms, FCE Ltd. has the option of meeting this obligation through a cash payment or with unregistered shares of FuelCell Energy, Inc. common stock. We are a guarantor of FCE Ltd’s obligations to Enbridge. In the current negotiations, Enbridge is seeking terms that, as proposed, may require payments in excess of those we believe we are obligated to pay. While we intend to achieve the most favorable outcome in light of our obligations under the Series 1 preferred shares, we can not presently predict the final terms of any agreement with Enbridge. Subsequent to 2010, FCE will be required to pay an annual dividend of Cdn.$1.25 million so long as the Series 1 Preferred Shares remain outstanding. The Company has guaranteed FCE’s dividend obligations under the Series 1 preferred shares under a Guarantee Agreement.
We are also required to issue common stock to the holder of the Series 1 preferred shares if and when the holder exercises its conversion rights. The number of shares of common stock that we may issue upon conversion could be significant and dilutive to our existing stockholders. For example, assuming the holder of the Series 1 preferred shares exercises its conversion rights after July 31, 2020 and assuming our common stock price is $1.14 (our common stock closing price on October 31, 2010) and an exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00 (exchange rate on October 31, 2010) at the time of conversion, we would be required to issue approximately 22,633,617 shares of our common stock.
The terms of the Series B preferred stock also provide rights to their holders that could negatively impact us. Holders of the Series B preferred stock are entitled to receive cumulative dividends at the rate of $50 per share per year, payable either in cash or in shares of our common stock. To the extent the dividend is paid in shares, additional issuances could be dilutive to our existing stockholders and the sale of those shares could have a negative impact on the price of our common stock. A share of our Series B preferred stock may be converted at any time, at the option of the holder, into 85.1064 shares of our common stock (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of $11.75 per share), plus cash in lieu of fractional shares. Furthermore, the conversion rate applicable to the Series B preferred stock is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events.

 

41


Table of Contents

If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal controls, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud, which could harm our brand and operating results.
Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reliable and accurate financial reports and effectively prevent fraud. We have devoted significant resources and time to comply with the internal control over financial reporting requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. In addition, Section 404 under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 requires that we assess, and that our auditors attest to, the design and operating effectiveness of our controls over financial reporting. Our compliance with the annual internal control report requirement for each fiscal year will depend on the effectiveness of our financial reporting and data systems and controls. Inferior internal controls could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the trading price of our stock and our access to capital.
Our results of operations could vary as a result of methods, estimates and judgments we use in applying our accounting policies.
The methods, estimates and judgments we use in applying our accounting policies have a significant impact on our results of operations (see “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” in Part II, Item 7 of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2010. Such methods, estimates and judgments are, by their nature, subject to substantial risks, uncertainties and assumptions, and factors may arise over time that could lead us to reevaluate our methods, estimates and judgments.
As we gain experience in future periods, management will continue to reevaluate its estimates for contract losses, service agreements, warranty, liquidated damages and inventory reserves. Changes in those estimates and judgments could significantly affect our results of operations and financial condition. We may also adopt changes required by the Financial Accounting Standards Board and the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Health Care Reform Acts
In March 2010, the President of the United States signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (collectively the “2010 Acts”). The 2010 Acts will have a substantial impact on health care providers, insurers, employers and individuals. The 2010 Acts will impact employers and businesses differently depending on the size of the organization and the specific impacts on a company’s employees. Certain provisions of the 2010 Acts became effective during our open enrollment period (November 1, 2010) while other provisions of the 2010 Acts will be effective in future years. The 2010 Acts could require, among other things, changes to our current employee benefit plans, our information technology infrastructure, and in our administrative and accounting processes. The ultimate extent and cost of these changes cannot be determined at this time and are being evaluated and updated as related regulations and interpretations of the 2010 Acts become available.

 

42


Table of Contents

Item 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.
Item 2. PROPERTIES
The following is a summary of our offices and locations:
                 
                Lease
        Square   Expiration
Location   Business Use   Footage   Dates
 
               
Danbury, Connecticut
  Corporate Headquarters, Research and Development, Sales, Marketing, Purchasing and Administration and administrative     72,000     Company owned
 
               
Torrington, Connecticut
  Manufacturing and administrative     65,000     December-2015
 
               
Danbury, Connecticut
  Manufacturing and Operations     38,000     October-2014
Item 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
None.

 

43


Table of Contents

PART II
Item 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
FuelCell Common Stock
Our common stock has been publicly traded since June 25, 1992. From September 21, 1994 through February 25, 1997, it was quoted on the NASDAQ National Market, and from February 26, 1997 through June 6, 2000 it was traded on the American Stock Exchange. Our common stock trades under the symbol “FCEL” on the Nasdaq Global Market. The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices for our common stock for the fiscal periods indicated as reported by the Nasdaq Global Market during the indicated quarters.
                 
    Common Stock  
    Price  
    High     Low  
First quarter
(through January 06, 2011)
  $ 2.41     $ 1.12  
 
               
Year Ended October 31, 2010
               
First Quarter
  $ 4.02     $ 2.76  
Second Quarter
  $ 3.40     $ 2.57  
Third Quarter
  $ 2.95     $ 1.02  
Fourth Quarter
  $ 1.42     $ 1.04  
 
               
Year Ended October 31, 2009
               
First Quarter
  $ 5.48     $ 2.25  
Second Quarter
  $ 4.06     $ 1.98  
Third Quarter
  $ 5.47     $ 2.76  
Fourth Quarter
  $ 4.61     $ 3.27  
On January 10, 2011, the closing price of our common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market was $2.01 per share. As of January 10, 2011, there were 590 holders of record of our common stock. This does not include the number of persons whose stock is in nominee or “street” name accounts through brokers.
We have never paid a cash dividend on our common stock and do not anticipate paying any cash dividends on common stock in the foreseeable future. In addition, the terms of our Series B preferred shares prohibit the payment of dividends on our common stock unless all dividends on the Series B preferred stock have been paid in full.

 

44


Table of Contents

Performance Graph
The following graph compares the annual change in the Company’s cumulative total stockholder return on its Common Stock for the five fiscal years ended October 31, 2010 with the cumulative stockholder total return on the Russell 2000 Index and a peer group consisting of Standard Industry Classification (“SIC”) Group Code 369 companies listed on The American Stock Exchange, Nasdaq Global Market and New York Stock Exchange for that period (“Peer Index”). It assumes $100 invested on November 1, 2005 with dividends reinvested.
COMPARISON OF 5-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN
AMONG FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
RUSSELL 2000 INDEX AND PEER INDEX
(PERFORMANCE GRAPH)
ASSUMES $100 INVESTED ON NOVMEBER 1, 2005
ASSUMES DIVIDEND REINVESTED
FISCAL YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 31, 2010
Series 1 Preferred Shares
We have 1,000,000 Series 1 Class A Cumulative Redeemable Exchangeable Preferred Shares (“Series 1 Preferred Shares”) issued and outstanding. The Series 1 Preferred Shares were issued by FuelCell Energy, Ltd. (“FCE”), one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries. We have guaranteed the obligations of FCE under the Series 1 Preferred Shares.
A holder of Series 1 Preferred Shares has the right to convert such shares into fully paid and non-assessable common stock of the Company at the following conversion prices:
   
Cdn$129.46 per share of our common stock after July 31, 2010 until July 31, 2015;
 
   
Cdn$138.71 per share of our common stock after July 31, 2015 until July 31, 2020; and
 
   
at any time after July 31, 2020, at a price equal to 95 percent of the then current market price (in Cdn.$) of shares of our common stock at the time of conversion.

 

45


Table of Contents

The foregoing conversion prices are subject to adjustment for certain subsequent events. As illustrated below, the number of shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the Series 1 Preferred Shares after July 31, 2020 may be significantly greater than the number of shares issuable prior to that time.
The following examples illustrate the number of shares of our common stock that we will be required to issue to the holder(s) of the Series 1 Preferred Shares if and when the holder(s) exercise their conversion rights pursuant to the terms of the Series 1 Preferred Shares. The following examples are based upon Cdn.$25.0 million of Series 1 Preferred Shares outstanding (the amount currently outstanding) and assume that all accrued dividends have been paid through the time of the conversion and, in the case of conversions occurring after July 31, 2020, that the exchange rate for Canadian dollars is Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00 (exchange rate on October 31, 2010) at the time of the conversion:
   
if conversion occurs after July 31, 2010, but prior to July 31, 2015, we would be required to issue 193,110 shares of our common stock;
 
   
if conversion occurs after July 31, 2015, but prior to July 31, 2020, we would be required to issue 180,232 shares of our common stock; and
 
   
if conversion occurs any time after July 31, 2020, assuming our common stock price is U.S. $1.14 (our common stock closing price on October 31, 2010) at the time of conversion, we would be required to issue 22,633,617 shares of our common stock.
Quarterly dividends of Cdn.$312,500 accrue on the Series 1 Preferred Shares (subject to possible reduction pursuant to the terms of the Series 1 Preferred Shares). We have agreed to pay a minimum of Cdn.$500,000 in cash or common stock annually to Enbridge Inc. (“Enbridge”), the sole holder of the Series 1 Preferred Shares, as long as Enbridge holds these shares. Interest accrues on cumulative unpaid dividends at an annual rate of 9 percent, compounded quarterly. All cumulative unpaid dividends originally had to be paid by December 31, 2010. Using an exchange rate of Cdn.$1.0 to U.S.$1.00 (approximate exchange rate on December 31, 2010), cumulative unpaid dividends and accrued interest on the Series 1 Preferred Shares was $12.5 million as of December 31, 2010. In December 2010, Enbridge agreed to extend the payment deadline to January 31, 2011. The Company and Enbridge are in negotiations to modify certain terms of the Series 1 preferred share agreement.
The Series 1 Preferred Shares are redeemable by FCE for Cdn.$25 per share plus all unpaid dividends and accrued interest. Holders of the Series 1 Preferred Shares do not have any mandatory or conditional redemption rights.
In the event of the liquidation or dissolution of FCE, the holders of Series 1 Preferred Shares will be entitled to receive Cdn.$25 per share plus all unpaid dividends and accrued interest before any amount will be paid or any of FCE’s property or assets will be distributed to the holders of FCE’s common stock. After payment to the holders of the Series 1 Preferred Shares of the amounts payable to them, the holders of the Series 1 Preferred Shares will not be entitled to any other distribution of FCE’s property or assets.
Series B Preferred Shares
We have 250,000 shares of our 5 percent Series B Cumulative Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock (Liquidation Preference $1,000) (“Series B Preferred Stock”) authorized for issuance. At October 31, 2010 and 2009, there were 64,020 and 64,120 shares of Series B Preferred Stock issued and outstanding. The shares of our Series B Preferred Stock and the shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the shares of our Series B Preferred Stock are covered by a registration rights agreement. The following is a summary of certain provisions of our Series B Preferred Stock.

 

46


Table of Contents

Ranking
Shares of Series B Preferred Stock rank with respect to dividend rights and rights upon our liquidation, winding up or dissolution:
   
senior to shares of our common stock;
 
   
junior to our debt obligations; and
 
   
effectively junior to our subsidiaries’ (i) existing and future liabilities and (ii) capital stock held by others.
Dividends
The Series B Preferred Stock pays cumulative annual dividends of $50 per share which are payable quarterly in arrears on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15. Unpaid accumulated dividends do not bear interest.
The dividend rate is subject to upward adjustment as set forth in the Certificate of Designation if we fail to pay, or to set apart funds to pay, any quarterly dividend. The dividend rate is also subject to upward adjustment as set forth in the Registration Rights Agreement entered into with the Initial Purchasers if we fail to satisfy our registration obligations with respect to the Series B Preferred Stock (or the underlying common shares) under the Registration Rights Agreement.
No dividends or other distributions may be paid or set apart for payment on our common shares (other than a dividend payable solely in shares of a like or junior ranking) unless all accumulated and unpaid Series B Preferred Stock dividends have been paid or funds or shares of common stock have been set aside for payment of accumulated and unpaid Series B Preferred Stock dividends.
The dividend on the Series B Preferred Stock may be paid in cash; or at the option of the holder, in shares of our common stock, which will be registered pursuant to a registration statement to allow for the immediate sale of these common shares in the public market. Dividends of $3.2 million were paid in each of the years ended October 31, 2010 and 2009. There were no cumulative unpaid dividends at October 31, 2010.
Liquidation
The Series B Preferred Stock stockholders are entitled to receive, in the event that we are liquidated, dissolved or wound up, whether voluntary or involuntary, $1,000 per share plus all accumulated and unpaid dividends to the date of that liquidation, dissolution, or winding up (“Liquidation Preference”). Until the holders of Series B Preferred Stock receive their Liquidation Preference in full, no payment will be made on any junior shares, including shares of our common stock. After the Liquidation Preference is paid in full, holders of the Series B Preferred Stock will not be entitled to receive any further distribution of our assets. At October 31, 2010 and 2009, the Series B Preferred Stock had a Liquidation Preference of $64.0 million and $64.1 million, respectively.
Conversion Rights
Each Series B Preferred Stock share may be converted at any time, at the option of the holder, into 85.1064 shares of our common stock (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of $11.75 per share) plus cash in lieu of fractional shares. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events, as described in the Certificate of Designation, but will not be adjusted for accumulated and unpaid dividends. If converted, holders of Series B Preferred Stock do not receive a cash payment for all accumulated and unpaid dividends; rather, all accumulated and unpaid dividends are cancelled.

 

47


Table of Contents

We may, at our option, cause shares of Series B Preferred Stock to be automatically converted into that number of shares of our common stock that are issuable at the then prevailing conversion rate. We may exercise our conversion right only if the closing price of our common stock exceeds 150 percent of the then prevailing conversion price ($11.75 at October 31, 2010) for 20 trading days during any consecutive 30 trading day period, as described in the Certificate of Designation.
Redemption
We do not have the option to redeem the shares of Series B Preferred Stock. However, holders of the Series B Preferred Stock can require us to redeem all or part of their shares at a redemption price equal to the Liquidation Preference of the shares to be redeemed in the case of a “fundamental change” (as described in the Certificate of Designation).
We may, at our option, elect to pay the redemption price in cash or, in shares of our common stock valued at a discount of 5 percent from the market price of shares of our common stock, or any combination thereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we may only pay such redemption price in shares of our common stock that are registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and eligible for immediate sale in the public market by non-affiliates of the Company.
Voting Rights
Holders of Series B Preferred Stock currently have no voting rights; however, holders may receive certain voting rights, as described in the Certificate of Designation, if (1) dividends on any shares of Series B Preferred Stock, or any other class or series of stock ranking on a parity with the Series B Preferred Stock with respect to the payment of dividends, shall be in arrears for dividend periods, whether or not consecutive, for six calendar quarters or (2) we fail to pay the redemption price, plus accrued and unpaid dividends, if any, on the redemption date for shares of Series B Preferred Stock following a fundamental change.
So long as any shares of Series B Preferred Stock remain outstanding, we will not, without the consent of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock outstanding at the time (voting separately as a class with all other series of preferred stock, if any, on parity with our Series B Preferred Stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred and are exercisable) issue or increase the authorized amount of any class or series of shares ranking senior to the outstanding shares of the Series B Preferred Stock as to dividends or upon liquidation. In addition, we will not, subject to certain conditions, amend, alter or repeal provisions of our certificate of incorporation, including the Certificate of Designation relating to the Series B Preferred Stock, whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise, so as to adversely amend, alter or affect any power, preference or special right of the outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock or the holders thereof without the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the issued and outstanding Series B Preferred Stock shares.
Equity Compensation Plan Information
See Part III, Item 12 for information regarding securities authorized for issuance under our equity compensation plans.

 

48


Table of Contents

Item 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The selected consolidated financial data presented below as of the end of each of the years in the five-year period ended October 31, 2010 have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements together with the notes thereto included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K. The data set forth below is qualified by reference to, and should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and their notes and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” included elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K.
Consolidated Statement of Operations Data:
(Amounts presented in thousands, except for per share amounts)
                                         
    Years Ended October 31,  
    2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
Revenues:
                                       
Product sales and revenues
  $ 59,226     $ 73,804     $ 82,748     $ 32,517     $ 21,514  
Research and development contracts
    10,551       14,212       17,987       15,717       11,774  
 
                             
Total revenues
    69,777       88,016       100,735       48,234       33,288  
 
                             
 
                                       
Costs and expenses:
                                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
    78,060       107,033       134,038       61,827       61,526  
Cost of research and development contracts
    10,370       10,994       16,059       13,438       10,330  
Administrative and selling expenses
    17,150       17,194       19,968       18,625       17,759  
Research and development costs
    18,562       19,160       23,471       27,489       24,714  
 
                             
Total costs and expenses
    124,142       154,381       193,536       121,379       114,329  
 
                             
 
                                       
Loss from operations
    (54,365 )     (66,365 )     (92,801 )     (73,145 )     (81,041 )
 
                                       
Interest expense
    (127 )     (265 )     (100 )     (84 )     (103 )
Loss from equity investments
    (730 )     (812 )     (1,867 )     (1,263 )     (828 )
Interest and other income, net (1)
    1,354       860       3,268       7,471       5,760  
Redeemable minority interest
    (2,367 )     (2,092 )     (1,857 )     (1,653 )     107  
Provision for income tax
    (91 )                        
 
                             
Net loss
    (56,326 )     (68,674 )     (93,357 )     (68,674 )     (76,105 )
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
    663                          
 
                             
Net loss attributable to FuelCell Energy, Inc.
    (55,663 )     (68,674 )     (93,357 )     (68,674 )     (76,105 )
Preferred stock dividends
    (3,201 )     (3,208 )     (3,208 )     (3,208 )     (8,117 )
 
                             
Net loss to common shareholders
  $ (58,864 )   $ (71,882 )   $ (96,565 )   $ (71,882 )   $ (84,222 )
 
                             
 
                                       
Net loss to common shareholders
                                       
Basic
  $ (0.63 )   $ (0.99 )   $ (1.41 )   $ (1.16 )   $ (1.65 )
Diluted
  $ (0.63 )   $ (0.99 )   $ (1.41 )   $ (1.16 )   $ (1.65 )
 
                                       
Weighted average shares outstanding
                                       
Basic
    93,926       72,393       68,571       61,991       51,047  
Diluted
    93,926       72,393       68,571       61,991       51,047  
 
     
(1)  
Includes net license fee income of $34, $42 and $70 for years ended October 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006, respectively that were reported separately in prior years.

 

49


Table of Contents

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data:
(Amounts presented in thousands, except for per share amounts)
                                         
    Years Ended October 31,  
    2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 20,467     $ 57,823     $ 38,043     $ 92,997     $ 26,247  
Short-term investments (U.S. treasury securities)
    25,019       7,004       30,406       60,634       81,286  
Working capital
    48,171       77,793       59,606       158,687       104,307  
Total current assets
    102,209       119,679       118,020       201,005       133,709  
Long-term investments (U.S. treasury securities)
    9,071             18,434             13,054  
Total assets
    150,529       162,688       185,476       253,188       206,652  
Total current liabilities
    54,038       41,886       58,414       42,318       29,402  
Total non-current liabilities
    12,098       14,534       6,747       5,014       5,840  
Redeemable minority interest
    16,849       14,976       13,307       11,884       10,665  
Redeemable preferred stock
    59,857       59,950       59,950       59,950       59,950  
Total equity
    7,687       31,342       47,058       134,022       100,795  
Book value per share (1)
  $ 0.07     $ 0.37     $ 0.68     $ 1.97     $ 1.90  
 
     
(1)  
Calculated as total equity divided by common shares issued and outstanding as of the balance sheet date.

 

50


Table of Contents

Item 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with information included in Item 8 of this report. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “Company”, “FuelCell Energy”, “we”, “us”, and “our” refer to FuelCell Energy Inc. and its subsidiaries. All tabular dollar amounts are in thousands.
In addition to historical information, this discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Factors that could cause such a difference include, without limitation, the risk that commercial field trials of our products will not occur when anticipated, general risks associated with product development and manufacturing, changes in the utility regulatory environment, potential volatility of energy prices, rapid technological change, competition, market acceptance of our products and our ability to achieve our sales plans and cost reduction targets, as well as other risks set forth in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission including those set forth under Item 1A — Risk Factors in this report.
Overview and Recent Developments
Overview
We are a world leader in the development and production of stationary fuel cells for commercial, industrial, government and utility customers. Our ultra-clean, high efficiency Direct FuelCell ® (DFC ® ) power plants are generating power at over 50 locations worldwide. Our products have generated over 650 million kWh of power using a variety of fuels including renewable wastewater gas, food and beverage waste, natural gas and other hydrocarbon fuels.
Our vision is to provide ultra-clean, highly efficient, reliable distributed generation baseload power at a cost per kilowatt hour that is less than the cost of grid-delivered electricity. On an un-subsidized basis, our power plants provide electricity that is priced competitively to grid-delivered electricity in certain high cost regions of the United States.
Our Company was founded in Connecticut in 1969 and reincorporated in Delaware in 1999. Our core fuel cell products (“Direct FuelCell ® ” or “DFC ® Power Plants”) offer highly efficient stationary power generation for customers. In addition to our commercial products, we continue to develop our carbonate fuel cells, planar solid oxide fuel cell (“SOFC”) technology and other fuel cell technology with our own and government research and development funds.
Our proprietary carbonate DFC Power Plants electrochemically (without combustion) produce electricity directly from readily available hydrocarbon fuels such as natural gas and biogas in a highly efficient process. The primary byproducts of the fuel cell process are heat and water. Due to the lack of combustion, our fuel cells emit virtually zero pollutants such as NOx, SOx or particulate matter.
Our fuel cells operate 24 hours per day seven days per week providing reliable power to both on-site customers and grid-support applications. Our DFC Power Plants can be part of a total on-site power generation solution with our high efficiency products providing base load power. Our power plants can also work in conjunction with intermittent power, such as solar or wind, or less efficient combustion-based equipment that provide peaking and load following energy. Our products are also well suited for meeting the needs of utility grid-support applications.
Higher fuel efficiency results in lower emissions of carbon dioxide (“CO2”), a major greenhouse gas, and also results in less fuel needed per kWh of electricity generated and Btu of heat produced. The high efficiency of the DFC Power Plant results in significantly less CO2 per unit of power production compared to the average U.S. fossil fuel power plant. Greater efficiency reduces customers’ exposure to volatile fuel costs, minimizes operating costs, and provides maximum electrical output from a finite fuel source. DFC Power Plants achieve electrical efficiencies of 47 percent to 60 percent or higher depending on configuration, location, and application, and up to 90 percent total efficiency in combined heat and power applications.

 

51


Table of Contents

A fuel cell power plant includes the fuel cell stack module that produces the electricity, and balance-of-plant (BOP). The mechanical balance-of-plant processes the incoming fuel such as natural gas or renewable biogas and includes various fuel handling and processing equipment such as pipes and blowers. The electrical balance-of-plant processes the power generated for use by the customer and includes electrical interface equipment such as inverters.
Our fuel cells operate on a variety of hydrocarbon fuels, including natural gas, renewable biogas, propane, methanol, coal gas, and coal mine methane.
Compared to other power generation technologies, our products offer significant advantages including:
   
Near-zero pollutants;
 
   
High efficiency;
 
   
Ability to site units locally as distributed power generation;
 
   
Potentially lower cost power generation;
 
   
Byproduct heat ideal for cogeneration applications;
 
   
High efficiency and cogeneration reduce carbon emissions
 
   
Reliable around-the-clock base load power;
 
   
Quiet operation; and
 
   
Fuel flexibility.
Typical customers for our products include universities, manufacturers, mission critical institutions such as correction facilities and government installations, hotels, natural gas letdown stations and customers who can use renewable biogas for fuel such as municipal water treatment facilities, breweries, and food processors. Our MW-class products are also used to supplement the grid for utility customers. With increasing demand for renewable and ultra-clean power options and increased volatility in electric markets, our products offer our customers greater control over power generation economics, reliability, and emissions.
Our DFC Power Plants are protected by 61 U.S. and 66 international patents. We currently have 30 U.S. and 130 international patents under application.
Recent Developments
Registered Direct Offering
On January 10, 2011 we announced entry into a definitive agreement with an institutional investor to sell an aggregate of 10,160,428 units at a negotiated price of $1.87 per unit, with each unit consisting of (i) one share of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (“Common Stock”) and (ii) one warrant to purchase 1.0 share of Common Stock, in a registered direct offering for gross proceeds of $19.0 million. The net proceeds from the sale of the units, after deducting the placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses, will be approximately $17.8 million. We intend to use the proceeds from this offering for product development, project financing, expansion of manufacturing capacity, and general corporate purposes.
The warrants have an exercise price of $2.29 per share and are exercisable beginning on the date that is six months and one day after the closing date and will expire twenty one months after issuance. Additionally, FuelCell Energy will obtain the right, subject to certain conditions, to require the investor to purchase up to 10.0 million additional shares approximately nine months after the initial closing date of the transaction. The sale price for the additional shares will be based on a fixed ten percent discount to a volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) measurement at the time FuelCell Energy exercises the option. FuelCell Energy cannot require the investor to purchase more than $20 million of additional shares.

 

52


Table of Contents

The offering closed on January 13, 2011. Lazard Capital Markets LLC served as the sole placement agent for the offering.
Public Offering
In July 2010 we completed an underwritten public offering of 27,600,000 shares of common stock at a price to the public of $1.25 per share. Net proceeds to the Company from the offering, after deducting the underwriters’ discounts and commissions and offering expenses, were approximately $32.1 million.
Commercial Products
California: Clean energy deployment remains a focus in California with 15.2 MW of orders received during fiscal 2010. The State and its Public Utilities Commission are driving clean energy deployment to reduce greenhouse gases and pollution while encouraging the utilization of distributed generation. Fiscal 2010 California orders are for use at wasterwater treatment facilities, universities, municipal pump stations and animal farms and will utilize a variety of fuels, including renewable biogas, directed biogas, animal waste, and natural gas. The financing used for these projects included publicly issued bonds, equity and debt investments by investors and commercial bank financing.
South Korea: In March 2010, the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea passed a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requiring 4 percent clean energy generation by 2015 and 10 percent by 2022. The program, which will become effective in 2012, will mandate 350 MW of additional renewable energy per year through 2016, and 700 megawatts per year through 2022. Carrying forward the policy introduced in 2006 under Korea’s feed-in tariff program, the government has elected to designate fuel cells operating on natural gas and biogas as “New and Renewable Energy,” fully qualifying under the new program.
In response to the new South Korean RPS, POSCO Power began construction of a 100 MW fuel cell stack assembly plant in South Korea in April 2010 with production expected to begin in early 2011. For this facility, POSCO Power procured fuel cell stack module assembly and conditioning equipment through FCE which will be used to assemble and condition fuel cell stacks in South Korea using fuel cell components supplied by FuelCell Energy.
In 2010, POSCO Power also ordered a 300 kilowatt DFC 300MA fuel cell power plant to develop market applications that target grid support combined with the ability to provide emergency power for installations requiring an uninterrupted supply of power. In the event of temporary interruption of power from the transmission grid, the fuel cell power plant would then switch and provide power to the installation. The South Korean Government is providing financial support for the purchase of this fuel cell power plant and associated development activities.
We have also partnered with POSCO Power to expand the market for fuel cells in South Korea through development of a small-scale Direct FuelCell power plant targeted at the commercial/apartment building market. POSCO Power will fund the development under a joint development agreement announced subsequent to the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010. The $5.8 million program will be funded in stages as performance milestones are reached.
Connecticut: The Company continues active discussions with private and government financing sources for the 43.5 MW of fuel cell projects selected and approved by the Connecticut Department of Utility Control. The Company also received 0.9 MW of orders in Connecticut during fiscal 2010.

 

53


Table of Contents

Government Research and Development Contracts
Advanced Hydrogen Programs :
   
A DFC300-H2 power plant has been installed at a wastewater treatment facility in Los Angeles, California to supply 1) hydrogen for use in fuel cell vehicle refueling, 2) clean electricity, and 3) high quality heat for the wastewater treatment process. The plant began operating on natural gas during the fourth quarter of 2010 and is expected to be operational on renewable biogas by early 2011. The demonstration is being performed under sub-contract to Air Products with the majority of funding provided by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
 
   
The Company was awarded approximately $2.8 million during the fourth quarter of 2010 by the DOE to demonstrate the hydrogen production capacity of a DFC power plant for use by the metal processing industry. A DFC300-H2 will be configured to generate three value streams including: 1) hydrogen for use in a heat treating process, 2) clean electricity, and 3) high quality heat. Over 600 companies operate in the metal processing industry in the USA, representing a significant potential market.
Hydrogen Compression : The Company was awarded approximately $2.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2010 by the DOE to further develop and demonstrate a highly efficient and reliable method for compressing hydrogen utilizing its solid-state Electrochemical Hydrogen Compressor (EHC) technology. The EHC technology can be utilized to compress hydrogen for storage, transport and subsequent use for vehicle refueling or other industrial applications.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Development: The Company continues to partner with Versa Power Systems Inc. (Versa), for the development of a Large Scale Coal-Based Solid Oxide Fuel Cell under the U.S. Department of Energy Solid State Energy Conversion Alliance (SECA) Program. The FuelCell Energy/Versa team met cost and performance objectives for a minimum 25 kW fuel cell stack in Phase II of the program. The full scale advanced fuel cell system to be demonstrated in Phase III is expected to incorporate an SOFC module with an output of up to 250 kW to efficiently convert the energy contained in coal to ultra-clean grid electrical power. We have submitted a bid for approximately $34 million to the DOE for Phase III and expect a decision in early 2011.
Series 1 Preferred Share Obligation
As previously disclosed, our wholly owned subsidiary (FCE Ltd) had a $12.5 million obligation originally due to Enbridge on December 31, 2010. The Company and Enbridge have been in negotiations to modify certain terms of the Series 1 preferred share agreement, and have agreed to extend the payment deadline to January 31, 2011 to continue these negotiations. Under the existing terms, FCE Ltd. has the option of meeting this obligation through a cash payment or with unregistered shares of FuelCell Energy, Inc. common stock. The Company is a guarantor of FCE Ltd’s obligations to Enbridge. In the current negotiations, Enbridge is seeking terms that, as proposed, may require payments in excess of those we believe we are obligated to pay. While we intend to achieve the most favorable outcome in light of our obligations under the Series 1 preferred shares, it can not presently predict the final terms of any agreement with Enbridge.
This obligation relates to dividends accrued on the series 1 preferred stock acquired in the 2003 acquisition of Global Thermoelectric, Inc (GTI). This obligation has been reported in temporary equity on the balance sheet as redeemable preferred stock of subsidiary. We acquired Global Thermoelectric due to their expertise in solid oxide fuel cell technology. At the time of the acquisition, Enbridge owned preferred shares in GTI. Refer also to Note 11 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

54


Table of Contents

Revolving Credit Facility
In January 2011, the Company entered into a $5.0 million revolving credit facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and the Export-Import Bank of the United States. The credit facility is to be used for working capital to finance the manufacture and production and subsequent export sale of the Company’s products or services. The agreement has a one year term with renewal provisions. The outstanding principal balance of the facility will bear interest, at the option of the Company of either the one-month LIBOR plus 1.5 percent or the prime rate of JP Morgan Chase. The facility is secured by certain working capital assets and general intangibles, up to the amount of the outstanding facility balance.
Results of Operations
Management evaluates the results of operations and cash flows using a variety of key performance indicators including revenues compared to prior periods and internal forecasts, costs of our products and results of our “cost-out” initiatives, and operating cash use. These are discussed throughout the ‘Results of Operations’ and ‘Liquidity and Capital Resources’ sections.
Comparison of the Years Ended October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009
Revenues and Costs of revenues
Revenues, cost of revenues, gross margins and cost ratios for the years ended October 31, 2010 and 2009 were as follows:
                                         
    Year Ended     Year Ended        
    October 31, 2010     October 31, 2009        
            Percent of             Percent of     Percentage  
    Revenues     Revenues     Revenues     Revenues     change  
Revenues:
                                       
Product sales and revenues
  $ 59,226       85 %   $ 73,804       84 %     (20 )%
Research and development contracts
    10,551       15 %     14,212       16 %     (26 )%
 
                               
Total revenues
  $ 69,777       100 %   $ 88,016       100 %     (21 )%
 
                               
 
                                       
Costs and expenses:
                                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
  $ 78,060       88 %   $ 107,033       91 %     (27 )%
Cost of research and development contracts
    10,370       12 %     10,994       9 %     (6 )%
 
                               
Total costs and expenses
  $ 88,430       100 %   $ 118,027       100 %     (25 )%
 
                               
 
                                       
Gross Margin:
                                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
  $ (18,834 )     101 %   $ (33,229 )     111 %     (43 )%
Cost of research and development contracts
    181       (1 )%     3,218       (11 )%     (94 )%
 
                               
Total gross margin
  $ (18,653 )     100 %   $ (30,011 )     100 %     (38 )%
 
                               
 
                                       
Product Sales Cost-to-revenue ratio
    1.32               1.45                  
Total revenues for the year ended October 31, 2010 decreased by $18.2 million, or 21 percent, to $69.8 million from $88.0 million during the same period last year. Total cost of revenues for the year ended October 31, 2010 decreased by $29.6 million, or 25 percent, to $88.4 million from $118.0 million during the same period last year.

 

55


Table of Contents

We contract with a small number of customers for the sale of our products and for research and development contracts. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, our top three customers, POSCO, which is a related party and owns approximately 10 percent of the outstanding common shares of the Company, the U.S. government (primarily the Department of Energy) and Pacific Gas and Electric, accounted for 83 percent, 80 percent and 63 percent, respectively, of our total annual consolidated revenue. Our largest strategic partner, POSCO, accounted for 58 percent, 64 percent and 46 percent, respectively, of total revenues, the U.S. government accounted for 15 percent, 16 percent and 17 percent, respectively, of total revenues and Pacific Gas and Electric accounted for 10 percent of total revenues for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010 and there was no revenue from Pacific Gas and Electric in 2009 or 2008.
There can be no assurance that we will continue to achieve historical levels of sales of our products to our largest customers. Even though our customer base is expected to increase and our revenue streams to diversify, a substantial portion of net revenues could continue to depend on sales to a limited number of customers. Our agreements with these customers may be cancelled if we fail to meet certain product specifications or materially breach the agreement, and our customers may seek to renegotiate the terms of current agreements or renewals. The loss of, or a reduction in sales to, one or more of our larger customers could have a material adverse affect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Product sales and revenues
We have historically sold our fuel cell products below cost while the market develops and product costs are reduced. We have been engaged in a formal commercial cost-out program since 2003 to reduce the total life cycle costs of our power plants and have made significant progress primarily through value engineering our products, manufacturing process improvements, higher production levels, technology improvements and global sourcing. During fiscal 2009, we began production of our newest MW-class power plants. The new design incorporates new stacks with outputs of 350 kW each compared to 300 kW previously, along with lower component and raw material costs derived from process improvements, volume manufacturing and global sourcing. As a result, we have seen significant improvement in our manufactured product margins during fiscal 2010. The overall product cost-to-revenue ratio (including warranty expenses, liquidated damages, costs to service power plants for customers with LTSAs, PPA operating costs and LCM adjustments) improved to 1.32 in fiscal 2010 from 1.45 in fiscal 2009.
Product sales and revenues decreased $14.6 million to $59.2 million for fiscal 2010, compared to $73.8 million for fiscal 2009. Lower product revenue resulted from the transition in product sales mix to POSCO from complete power plants in fiscal 2009 to a larger proportion in fiscal 2010 being only for the stack module part of the power plant. Partially offsetting this decline was higher revenue from LTSAs due to sales of service agreements on power plant installations in South Korea. Revenue in fiscal 2010 included $46.5 million of product sales (complete power plants, modules and components), $3.6 million related to the sale of stack module assembly and conditioning equipment to POSCO and for site engineering and construction work for projects where we are responsible for complete power plant system installation, $6.9 million related to service agreements and component sales and $2.2 million related to PPAs.
Cost of product sales and revenues decreased to $78.1 million for fiscal 2010, compared to $107.0 million during 2009. This decrease is due to the transition of production for POSCO from complete power plants to only the stack module part of the power plant, production of lower cost products and the impact from higher costs in 2009 due to delays in commissioning and final acceptance testing on the first multi-megawatt products installed in South Korea. Although we did continue to incur some post installation issues in fiscal 2010 in South Korea, they were significantly less than in fiscal 2009.
Cost of product sales and revenues includes costs to manufacture and ship our power plants and power plant components to customers, site engineering and construction costs where we are responsible for power plant system installation, costs for stack module assembly and conditioning equipment sold to POSCO, warranty expense, liquidated damages and costs to service power plants for customers with long-term service agreements (including maintenance and stack replacement costs incurred during the period), PPA operating costs and LCM adjustments.

 

56


Table of Contents

Service agreements and aftermarket costs, net of revenues, totaled $13.9 million for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010 compared to $14.4 million in the same period of the prior year. The decrease in net service agreement and aftermarket costs is primarily due to lower stack replacement and routine maintenance costs.
Research and development contracts
Research and development contracts revenue is derived primarily (greater than 90 percent) from the DOE and other governmental agencies. Research and development contracts revenue and related costs for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010 and 2009 were as follows:
                         
    Years Ended        
    October 31,     Percentage  
    2010     2009     change  
 
 
Research and development contracts
  $ 10,551     $ 14,212       (26 )%
Cost of research and development contracts
    10,370       10,994       (6 )%
 
                   
Gross margin
  $ 181     $ 3,218       (94 )%
 
                   
Research and development contracts revenue decreased $3.7 million to $10.5 million for fiscal 2010, compared to $14.2 million for 2009. Cost of research and development contracts decreased $0.6 million to $10.4 million during fiscal 2010, compared to $11.0 million for 2009. Margin from research and development contracts for 2010 was $0.2 million or 2 percent, compared to $3.2 million or 23 percent in 2009. The decline in revenue was primarily due to lower activity on the SECA program.
Administrative and selling expenses
Administrative and selling expenses remained unchanged at $17.2 million during fiscal 2010, compared to 2009.
Research and development expenses
Research and development expenses decreased $0.6 million to $18.6 million during fiscal 2010, compared to $19.2 million in 2009. The decrease is related to the cash management plan implemented in fiscal 2009 and increased support by the Company’s engineers on non-research and development activities.
Loss from operations
Loss from operations for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010 was $54.4 million compared to a loss of $66.4 million in 2009. The improvement in net loss from operations was due to the $11.4 million net improvement in gross margin on product sales and research and development contracts and lower research and development expenses.
Loss from equity investments
Our ownership interest in Versa Power Systems, Inc. (“Versa”) at October 31, 2010 was 39 percent, unchanged from 2009. We account for the investment under the equity method of accounting. Our share of equity losses from Versa decreased $0.1 million to $0.7 million in fiscal 2010 compared to $0.8 million in 2009. This decrease was due to lower cost share requirements on research and development activity being performed by Versa.

 

57


Table of Contents

Interest and other income, net
Interest and other income, net, increased to $1.4 million for fiscal 2010 compared to $0.9 million for 2009. The increase is due to license fee income on the POSCO technology transfer agreements.
Provision for income taxes
We have not paid federal or state income taxes in several years due to our history of net operating losses, although we have paid foreign taxes in South Korea. In fiscal 2010, our provision for income taxes was $0.1 million, which related to South Korean tax obligations. During 2009, we began manufacturing products that are gross margin profitable on a per unit basis; however, we cannot estimate when production volumes will be sufficient to generate taxable income. Accordingly, no tax benefit has been recognized related to current or prior year losses and other deferred tax assets as significant uncertainty exists surrounding the recoverability of these deferred tax assets. Approximately $4.2 million of our valuation allowance would reduce additional paid in capital upon subsequent recognition of any related tax benefits.
As of October 31, 2010, we had $541 million of federal NOL carryforwards that expire in the years 2020 through 2030 and $343 million in state NOL carryforwards that expire in the years 2011 through 2030. Additionally, we had $8.7 million of state tax credits available, of which $1.0 million expires in 2018. The remaining credits do not expire.
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
The net loss attributed to the noncontrolling interest for 2010 was $0.7 million. During the year, we adopted new guidance on the accounting for noncontrolling interest (formerly “minority interest”). See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.

 

58


Table of Contents

Comparison of the Years Ended October 31, 2009 and October 31, 2008
Revenues and Costs of revenues
Revenue, cost of revenues, gross margins and cost ratios for the years ended October 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:
                                         
    Years Ended     Years Ended        
    October 31, 2009     October 31, 2008     Percentage  
            Percent of             Percent of     change in  
    Revenues     Revenues     Revenues     Revenues     Revenue  
Revenues:
                                       
Product sales and revenues
  $ 73,804       84 %   $ 82,748       82 %     (11 )%
Research and development contracts
    14,212       16 %     17,987       18 %     (21 )%
 
                               
Total revenues
  $ 88,016       100 %   $ 100,735       100 %     (13 )%
 
                               
 
                                       
Costs and expenses:
                                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
  $ 107,033       91 %   $ 134,038       89 %     (20 )%
Cost of research and development contracts
    10,994       9 %     16,059       11 %     (32 )%
 
                               
Total costs and expenses
  $ 118,027       100 %   $ 150,097       100 %     (21 )%
 
                               
 
                                       
Gross Margin:
                                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
  $ (33,229 )     111 %   $ (51,290 )     104 %     (35 )%
Cost of research and development contracts
    3,218       (11 )%     1,928       (4 )%     67 %
 
                               
Total gross margin
  $ (30,011 )     100 %   $ (49,362 )     100 %     (39 )%
 
                               
 
                                       
Product Sales Cost-to-revenue ratio
    1.45               1.62                  
Total revenues for the year ended October 31, 2009 decreased by $12.7 million, or 13 percent, to $88.0 million from $100.7 million during the same period last year. Total cost of revenues for the year ended October 31, 2009 decreased by $32.1 million, or 21 percent, to $118.0 million from $150.1 million during the same period last year.
We contract with a small number of customers for the sale of our products and for research and development contracts. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and 2008, our top two customers, POSCO and the DOE, accounted for 80 percent and 62 percent, respectively, of our total annual consolidated revenue. POSCO, accounted for 64 percent and 46 percent, respectively, of total revenues, and the DOE and other governmental agencies accounted for 16 percent and 17 percent, respectively, of total revenues for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and 2008.
Product sales and revenues
Product sales and revenues decreased $8.9 million to $73.8 million for fiscal 2009, compared to $82.7 million for fiscal 2008. Reduced site engineering and construction work of $6.7 million and lower component sales of $1.5 million drove the decrease. Revenue in fiscal 2009 included $63.2 million of power plant sales compared to $64.3 million last year, $2.0 million related to site engineering and construction work for projects where we are responsible for complete power plant system installation compared to $8.7 million last year, $6.0 million related to service agreements and component sales compared to $6.8 million last year and $2.6 million of revenue related to PPAs compared to $2.9 million last year.

 

59


Table of Contents

Cost of product sales and revenues decreased to $107.0 million for fiscal 2009, compared to $134.0 million during 2008. The cost-to-revenue ratio also decreased to 1.45-to-1 during fiscal 2009, compared to 1.62-to-1 during the same period a year ago. The cost-to-revenue ratio was favorably impacted in fiscal 2009 by the shift to lower cost MW-class products and lower unit costs across all product lines. In the second half of the fiscal year we experienced delays in commissioning and final acceptance testing on the first multi-MW products installed in South Korea. This resulted in higher costs which negatively impacted the cost-to-revenue ratio.
Cost of product sales and revenues includes costs to manufacture and ship our power plants and power plant components to customers, site engineering and construction costs where we are responsible for power plant system installation, warranty expense, liquidated damages and costs to service power plants for customers with long-term service agreements (including maintenance and stack replacement costs incurred during the period), PPA operating costs and LCM adjustments.
Service agreements and aftermarket costs, net of revenues, totaled $14.4 million for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009 compared to $19.9 million in the same period of the prior year. The decrease in net service agreement and aftermarket costs is primarily due to lower stack replacement costs. In fiscal year 2008, we began producing a five-year fuel cell stack and are now using these stacks in our current power plants.
Research and development contracts
Research and development contracts revenue is derived primarily (greater than 90 percent) from the DOE and other governmental agencies. Research and development contracts revenue and related costs for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:
                         
    Years Ended        
    October 31,     Percentage  
    2009     2008     change  
 
 
Research and development contracts
  $ 14,212     $ 17,987       (21 )%
Cost of research and development contracts
    10,994       16,059       (32 )%
 
                   
Gross margin
  $ 3,218     $ 1,928       67 %
 
                   
Research and development contracts revenue decreased $3.8 million to $14.2 million for fiscal 2009, compared to $18.0 million for 2008. Cost of research and development contracts decreased $5.1 million to $11.0 million during fiscal 2009, compared to $16.1 million for 2008. Margin from research and development contracts for 2009 was $3.2 million or 23 percent, compared to $1.9 million or 11 percent in 2008. The decline in revenue compared to the prior year is due to the completion of several government programs in the second half of fiscal 2008 and the transition to the Phase II coal-based SOFC contract that was awarded in January 2009. Phase II of the MW-class coal-based SOFC contract is a $30.2 million contract of which the DOE has agreed to fund $21.0 million with the remaining amount to be funded by us. The decline in costs and corresponding margin improvement is due to a lower cost-share requirement for the Phase II coal-based SOFC contract.
Administrative and selling expenses
Administrative and selling expenses decreased $2.8 million to $17.2 million during fiscal 2009, compared to $20.0 million in 2008. This decrease is due to lower spending as a result of the cash management plan implemented in fiscal 2009 and lower share-based compensation expense.

 

60


Table of Contents

Research and development expenses
Research and development expenses decreased $4.3 million to $19.2 million during fiscal 2009, compared to $23.5 million in 2008. The decrease is related to the cash management plan implemented in fiscal 2009 and the lower level of engineering effort supporting manufacturing operations, which is accounted for in cost of goods sold.
Loss from operations
Loss from operations for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009 was $66.4 million compared to a loss of $92.8 million in 2008. The reduction is due to a shift of production to lower cost MW-class products, improved sales margins from cost reductions across all product lines and lower operating expenses for the reasons noted above.
Loss from equity investments
Our ownership interest in Versa Power Systems, Inc. (“Versa”) at October 31, 2009 was 39 percent, unchanged from 2008. We account for the investment under the equity method of accounting. Our share of equity losses from Versa decreased $1.1 million to $0.8 million in fiscal 2009 compared to $1.9 million in 2008. This decrease was due to lower cost share requirements on research and development activity being performed by Versa.
Interest and other income, net
Interest and other income, net, decreased to $0.9 million for fiscal 2009 compared to $3.3 million for 2008 due to lower average invested balances and lower average interest rates.
Provision for income taxes
We have not paid federal or state income taxes in several years due to our history of net operating losses. During 2009, we began manufacturing products that are expected to be gross margin profitable on a per unit basis; however, we cannot estimate when production volumes will be sufficient to generate taxable income. Accordingly, no tax benefit has been recognized related to current or prior year losses and other deferred tax assets as significant uncertainty exists surrounding the recoverability of these deferred tax assets. Approximately $4.3 million of our valuation allowance would reduce additional paid in capital upon subsequent recognition of any related tax benefits.
As of October 31, 2009, we had $497 million of federal NOL carryforwards that expire in the years 2020 through 2029 and $341 million in state NOL carryforwards that expire in the years 2011 through 2029. We also had $8.1 million of Connecticut state tax credit carryforwards, of which $1 million expires in 2018. The remaining credits do not expire.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Our future liquidity will be dependent on obtaining the order volumes and cost reductions necessary to achieve profitable operations. As a result of product cost reductions, we believe sales volume of 75 MW to 125 MW will drive the Company to profitability with the lower end of the range reflecting a sales mix oriented towards complete power plants and the upper end of the range oriented towards fuel cell components. Actual results will depend on product mix, volume, future service costs, and market pricing.
We have been engaged in a formal commercial cost-out program since 2003 to reduce the total life cycle costs of our power plants and have made significant progress primarily through value engineering our products, manufacturing process improvements, higher production levels, technology improvements and global sourcing. During fiscal 2009, we began production of our newest megawatt-class power plants. These power plants incorporate new fuel cell stacks with outputs of 350 kilowatts (kW) compared to 300 kW previously, along with lower component and raw material costs. As a result, we have experienced significant improvement in our margins and cost ratios as product sales in 2010 were gross margin positive on a per unit basis.

 

61


Table of Contents

During fiscal 2010, our manufacturing run-rate was an annualized 22 MW, compared to 30 MW in fiscal 2009 to match production with customer delivery requirements on remaining backlog. Our sales and service backlog as of October 31, 2010 was approximately $154 million compared to approximately $91 million as of October 31, 2009. In response to the increased level of domestic orders received in 2010 and anticipating additional orders from POSCO Power, we increased our production run rate to 35 megawatts per year during the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2010.
By investing $5 million to $7 million for upgrades and maintenance of production assets, maximizing existing assets, operating at full capacity (e.g multiple shifts 24 hours per day, up to 7 days a week) and making other improvements, we estimate that we can increase capacity from 70 MW to 90 MW of annual production. With increasing order flow, our plan has been to expand production capacity to 150 MW within our existing Torrington facility. This expansion would require the addition of equipment (e.g. furnaces, tapecasting and other equipment) to increase the capacity of certain operations. Due to the economies of scale and equipment required, we believe it is more cost effective to add capacity in large blocks. We estimate that the expansion to 150 MW will require additional capital investments of $35 to $45 million although, this expansion may occur in stages depending on the level of market demand.
In addition to increasing annual order volume and reducing product costs, we may also raise capital through debt or equity offerings; however, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain additional capital in the future. The timing and size of any financing will depend on multiple factors including market conditions, future order flow and the need to adjust production capacity. If we are unable to raise additional capital, our growth potential may be adversely affected and we may have to modify our plans. We anticipate that our existing capital resources, together with anticipated revenues and cash flows, will be adequate to satisfy our financial requirements and agreements through at least the next twelve months.
Cash Flows
Cash, cash equivalents, and investments in U.S. treasuries totaled approximately $54.6 million as of October 31, 2010 compared to $64.8 million as of October 31, 2009. Net cash and investments used during the year ended October 31, 2010 was $10.3 million compared to $22.1 million during fiscal 2009. We received cash inflow from the following equity offering in fiscal 2010:
   
In July 2010, we received $32.1 million, net of underwriting discounts, commissions and offering expenses, from an underwritten public offering of 27,600,000 shares of common stock at $1.25 per share.
Excluding this offering, our use of net cash and investments for the fiscal year totaled $42.4 million. As a result of reduced product costs and expected cash flow on existing contract backlog and improvements in the U.S. market that is driving increased production levels, we expect that cash use, excluding equity offerings, will be reduced from fiscal 2010 levels. Actual quarterly cash use is impacted by numerous factors including the timing of new orders and customer payments, changes in working capital, capital spending and the factory production rate.

 

62


Table of Contents

Cash, cash equivalents, and investments in U.S. Treasuries at October 31, 2010 and 2009 were as follows:
                         
    Years Ended        
    October 31,        
    2010     2009     Change  
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 20,467     $ 57,823     $ (37,356 )
U.S. Treasuries
    34,090       7,004       27,086  
 
                 
Total
  $ 54,557     $ 64,827     $ (10,270 )
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at October 31, 2010 totaled $20.5 million, reflecting a decrease of $37.4 million from October 31, 2009. We have pledged approximately $9.0 million of our cash and cash equivalents as collateral and letters of credit for certain banking requirements and contracts. As of October 31, 2010, outstanding letters of credit totaled $7.3 million. These expire on various dates through May 2012. The key components of our cash inflows and outflows from operations were as follows:
Operating Activities — During fiscal 2010, we used $35.0 million in cash for operating activities, compared to $65.2 million of cash used during 2009. Cash used in operating activities during fiscal 2010 consisted of the net loss for the year of $56.3 million and changes in net working capital of $6.7 million partially offset by non-cash charges totaling $14.6 million.
Changes in working capital improved through decreased accounts receivable of $4.5 million and increased deferred revenue of $6.4 million due to milestone payments primarily related to our POSCO product and sales contracts. Also benefiting working capital was higher accounts payable and accrued expenses of $4.5 million. These working capital improvements were partially offset by higher inventory of $7.9 million related to product in inventory not yet applied to customer contracts and higher other assets of $0.8 million. Non-cash charges consisted primarily of share-based compensation of $2.9 million, increase in carrying value of equity investment and redeemable minority interest of $3.1 million, depreciation expense of $7.4 million, impairment on fixed assets of $0.8 million and increase in the allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.4 million.
During fiscal 2009, we used $65.2 million in cash for operating activities, compared to $61.4 million of cash used during 2008. Cash used in operating activities during fiscal 2009 consisted of the net loss for the year of $68.7 million and changes in net working capital of $13.8 million partially offset by non-cash charges totaling $17.3 million.
Investing Activities — During fiscal 2010, net cash used in investing activities totaled $30.3 million compared to $37.8 million of cash provided in 2009. Cash used in investing activities in 2010 consisted of new U.S. Treasury purchases of $59.7 million partially offset by the maturity of $32.5 million of investments in U.S. treasury securities, capital expenditures of $2.5 million and a convertible debt investment in Versa of $0.6 million.
During fiscal 2009, net cash provided by investing activities totaled $37.8 million compared to $3.8 million of cash provided in 2008. Cash provided by investing activities in 2009 consisted of the maturity of $41.0 million of investments in U.S. treasury securities partially offset by capital expenditures of $2.6 million and a convertible debt investment in Versa of $0.6 million.
Financing Activities — During fiscal 2010, net cash provided by financing activities totaled $27.9 million compared to $47.2 million in 2009. Cash provided by financing activities during 2010 consisted primarily of $32.1 million from the sale and issuance of common stock partially offset by the payment of preferred stock dividends of $3.7 million, debt repayment of $0.4 million and restricted stock transactions of $0.2 million.

 

63


Table of Contents

During fiscal 2009, net cash provided by financing activities totaled $47.2 million compared to $2.6 million in 2008. Cash provided by financing activities during 2009 consisted primarily of $50.3 million from the sale and issuance of common stock partially offset by the payment of preferred stock dividends of $3.6 million. As previously discussed, we raised $22.5 million, net of fees, from the sale of common stock in a direct registered stock offering and POSCO purchased $25.0 million of our common stock in connection with the execution of the 2009 License Agreement.
Sources and Uses of Cash and Investments
We continue to invest in new product and market development and, as such, we are not currently generating positive cash flow from operations. Our operations are funded primarily through sales of equity and debt securities, cash generated from product sales, service contracts and PPAs, incentive funding, government research and development contracts, and interest earned on investments. In order to produce positive cash flow from operations, we need to be successful at increasing annual order volume and implementing our cost reduction efforts as well as continuing involvement in research and development contracts. Status of these activities is described below.
On January 13, 2011 we closed on a registered direct offering with an institutional investor for the sale of 10,160,428 units at a negotiated price of $1.87 per unit (gross proceeds of $19.0 million), with each unit consisting of (i) one share of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (“Common Stock”) and (ii) one warrant to purchase 1.0 share of Common Stock. The net proceeds from the sale of the units, after deducting the placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses, will be approximately $17.8 million. We intend to use the proceeds from this offering for product development, project financing, expansion of manufacturing capacity, and general corporate purposes.
Increasing annual order volume
We need to increase annual order volume to achieve profitability. Increased production volumes lower costs by leveraging supplier/purchasing opportunities, creating opportunities for incorporating manufacturing process improvements, and spreading fixed costs over more units. Our overall manufacturing process (module manufacturing, final assembly, testing and conditioning) has a production capacity of 70 MW per year.
Refer to Recent Development for updates on our key markets (South Korea, California and Connecticut) and information on our government research and development projects.
Cost reduction efforts
Product cost reductions are essential for us to more fully penetrate the market for our fuel cell products and attain profitability. Cost reductions will also reduce or eliminate the need for incentive funding programs which currently allow us to price our products to compete with grid-delivered power and other distributed generation technologies. Product cost reductions come from several areas:
   
engineering improvements;
 
   
technology advances;
 
   
supply chain management;
 
   
production volume; and
 
   
manufacturing process improvements.
We continually strive to reduce product costs and increase power output of our products. As previously mentioned, we began production of our newest megawatt-class power plants during fiscal 2009, which incorporate higher output stacks and lower component and raw material costs. Also in 2009, we introduced a five-year fuel cell stack which is expected to reduce our long-term service costs. We are also developing and expect to bring to market products with a stack life greater than five-years. Extending stack life increases the sales value of the product and reduces service costs.
Continued involvement in research and development contracts
Our research and development contracts are generally multi-year, cost reimbursement contracts. The majority of these are U.S. Government contracts that are dependent upon the government’s continued allocation of funds and may be terminated in whole or in part at the convenience of the government. We will continue to seek research and development contracts, and to obtain these contracts, we must continue to prove the benefits of our technologies and be successful in our competitive bidding.

 

64


Table of Contents

Commitments and Significant Contractual Obligations
A summary of our significant future commitments and contractual obligations as of October 31, 2010 and the related payments by fiscal year is summarized as follows:
                                           
      Payments Due by Period  
              Less than     1 - 3     3 - 5     More Than  
Contractual Obligations     Total     1 year     years     years     5 years  
 
 
Capital and operating lease commitments (1)
    $ 3,731     $ 872     $ 1,563     $ 1,221     $ 75  
Term loans (principal and interest)
      5,703       1,044       730       761       3,168  
Purchase commitments (2)
      43,843       36,755       7,088              
Series B Preferred dividends payable (3)
                                         
Series 1 Preferred dividends payable (4)
      24,224       12,875       2,454       2,454       6,441  
 
                               
Total
    $ 77,501     $ 51,546     $ 11,835     $ 4,436     $ 9,684  
 
                               
     
(1)  
Future minimum lease payments on capital and operating leases.
 
(2)  
Purchase commitments with suppliers for materials, supplies and services incurred in the normal course of business.
 
(3)  
We are currently paying $3.2 million in annual dividends on our Series B Preferred Stock. Dividends on Series B Preferred Stock accrue at an annual rate of 5 percent and are paid quarterly. On or after November 20, 2009 we may, at our option, cause shares of our Series B Preferred Stock to be automatically converted into that number of shares of our common stock that are issuable at the then prevailing conversion rate. We may exercise our conversion right only if the closing price of our common stock exceeds 150 percent of the then prevailing conversion price ($11.75 at November 20, 2009) for 20 trading days during any consecutive 30 trading day period, as described in the certificate of designation for the Series B Preferred Stock. The $3.2 million annual dividend payment has not been included as we cannot reasonably determine when and if we will be able to convert the Series B Preferred Stock into shares of our common stock.
 
(4)  
Annual dividends of Cdn.$1.25 million ($1.16 million based on the October 31, 2010 exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00) accrue on the Series 1 Preferred Stock. We have agreed to pay a minimum of Cdn.$500,000 ($465,000 based on an exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00) in cash or common stock annually to Enbridge, the holder of the Series 1 Preferred Stock, so long as Enbridge holds the shares. Interest accrues on cumulative unpaid dividends at an annual rate of 9 percent until payment thereof. All cumulative unpaid dividends originally had to be paid by December 31, 2010. Using an exchange rate of Cdn.$1.0 to U.S.$1.00 (approximate exchange rate on December 31, 2010), cumulative unpaid dividends and accrued interest on the Series 1 Preferred Shares was $12.5 million as of December 31, 2010. In December 2010, Enbridge agreed to extend the payment deadline to January 31, 2011. The Company and Enbridge are in negotiations to modify certain terms of the Series 1 preferred share agreement. The payment amounts above assume (i) that the minimum dividend payments are made through December 31, 2010, (ii) that all cumulative unpaid dividends and accrued interest are paid on December 31, 2010, (iii) that the annual dividend of Cdn.$1.25 million is paid thereafter, and (iv) an exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00. We have the option of paying these amounts in common stock or cash.
In April 2008, we entered into a new 10-year loan agreement with the Connecticut Development Authority allowing for a maximum amount borrowed of $4.0 million. At October 31, 2010, we had an outstanding balance of $3.8 million on this loan. The stated interest rate is 5 percent and the loan will be collateralized by the assets procured under this loan as well as $4.0 million of additional machinery and equipment. Repayment terms require (i) interest only payments on outstanding balances through November 2009 and (ii) interest and principal payments commencing in December 2009 through May 2018.

 

65


Table of Contents

Bridgeport FuelCell Park, LLC (“BFCP”), one of our wholly-owned subsidiaries, has an outstanding loan with the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund, secured by assets of BFCP. Interest accrues monthly at an annual rate of 8.75 percent and repayment of principal and accrued interest is not required until the occurrence of certain events. As of October 31, 2010, no repayments of principal and interest have been made and we cannot reasonably determine when such repayments will begin. The outstanding balance on this loan, including accrued interest, is $0.7 million as of October 31, 2010.
In June 2010 the Company entered into an agreement with Marubeni Corporation to return certain advance contract payments, resolve claims for services and repurchase surplus inventory items previously sold to Marubeni Corporation. The agreement called for payments of approximately $1.9 million to Marubeni Corporation between June and December 2010 and a payment of $1.0 million upon title transfer of surplus inventory to FuelCell. Payments due under this agreement as of October 31, 2010 are recorded as accrued expenses. The Company did not incur a charge to the consolidated statement of operations for this agreement. Terms of the agreement were completed in December of 2010.
We have pledged approximately $9.0 million of our cash and cash equivalents as collateral and letters of credit for certain banking requirements and contracts. As of October 31, 2010, outstanding letters of credit totaled $7.3 million. These expire on various dates through May 2012.
We have identified uncertain tax positions aggregating $15.7 million and reduced our NOLs by this amount. Because of the level of NOLs and valuation allowances, unrecognized tax benefits, even if not resolved in our favor, would not result in any cash payment or obligation and therefore have not been included in the contractual obligation table above.
In addition to the commitments listed in the table above, we have the following outstanding obligations:
Power purchase agreements
As of October 31, 2010, we had 2.5 MW of power plant installations under PPAs ranging in duration from five to ten years. As owner of the power plants, we are responsible for all operating costs necessary to maintain, monitor and repair the power plants. Under certain agreements, we are also responsible for procuring fuel, primarily natural gas, to run the power plants.
We qualified for incentive funding for these projects in California under the state’s SGIP and other government programs. Funds are payable upon commercial installation and demonstration of the plant and may require return of the funds for failure of certain performance requirements during the period specified by the government program. Revenue related to these incentive funds is recognized ratably over the performance period. As of October 31, 2010 we had deferred revenue totaling $1.0 million related to incentive funding received on PPAs, which will be earned and recognized in fiscal 2011.
Service and warranty agreements
We warranty our products for a specific period of time against manufacturing or performance defects. Our standard warranty period is generally 15 months after shipment or 12 months after installation of the product. In addition to the standard product warranty, we have contracted with certain customers to provide services to ensure the power plants meet minimum operating levels for terms ranging from one to 20 years. Our standard LTSA term is five years. Pricing for service contracts is based upon estimates of future costs. Also see Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates for additional details.

 

66


Table of Contents

Research and development cost-share contracts
We have contracted with various government agencies to conduct research and development as either a prime contractor or sub-contractor under multi-year, cost-reimbursement and/or cost-share type contracts or cooperative agreements. Cost-share terms require that participating contractors share the total cost of the project based on an agreed upon ratio. In many cases, we are reimbursed only a portion of the costs incurred or to be incurred on the contract. While government research and development contracts may extend for many years, funding is often provided incrementally on a year-by-year basis if contract terms are met and Congress authorizes the funds. As of October 31, 2010, research and development sales backlog totaled $9.7 million, of which $5.3 million is funded. Should funding be delayed or if business initiatives change, we may choose to devote resources to other activities, including internally funded research and development.
Health Care Reform Acts
In March 2010, the President of the United States signed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (collectively the “2010 Acts”). The 2010 Acts will have a substantial impact on health care providers, insurers, employers and individuals. The 2010 Acts will impact employers and businesses differently depending on the size of the organization and the specific impacts on a company’s employees. Certain provisions of the 2010 Acts became effective during our open enrollment period (November 1, 2010) while other provisions of the 2010 Acts will be effective in future years. The 2010 Acts could require, among other things, changes to our current employee benefit plans, our information technology infrastructure, and in our administrative and accounting processes. The ultimate extent and cost of these changes cannot be determined at this time and are being evaluated and updated as related regulations and interpretations of the 2010 Acts become available.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
We prepare our financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, revenue recognition, contract loss reserves, excess, slow-moving and obsolete inventories, product warranty costs, reserves on long-term service agreements, share-based compensation expense, allowance for doubtful accounts, depreciation and amortization, long-lived asset impairments and contingencies. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period they are determined to be necessary.
We believe that the following discussion represents our critical accounting policies and estimates.
Revenue Recognition
We earn revenue from (i) the sale and installation of fuel cell power plants and modules (ii) sale of component part kits and spare parts to customers, (iii) site engineering and construction services (iv) providing services under long-term service agreements (“LTSA”), (v) the sale of electricity under power purchase agreements (“PPA”) as well as incentive revenue from the sale of electricity under PPA’s, and (vi) customer-sponsored research and development projects. Our revenue is primarily generated from customers located throughout the U.S. and Asia and from agencies of the U.S. government. Revenue from customer-sponsored research and development projects is recorded as research and development contracts revenue and all other revenues are recorded as product sales and revenues in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

67


Table of Contents

Revenue from sales of our DFC power plants and modules are recognized under the percentage of completion method of accounting. Revenues are recognized proportionally as costs are incurred and assigned to a customer contract by comparing total expected costs for each contract to the total contract value. Prior to fiscal 2010, we did not provide for a contract loss reserve on product sales contracts as products were in their early stages of development and market acceptance, and the total costs and timing of production for product sales contracts as well as installation and commissioning of these units could not be reasonably estimated. However, upon procurement of inventory for fulfillment of a product sales contract, the Company recorded such inventory at the lower of cost or market. As a result of a more consistent production rate and predictable timing for fulfillment of product sales contracts and more installation and commissioning experience for our major product lines, effective November 1, 2009 a contract loss reserve on product sales contracts is recognized at the time we become aware that estimated total costs are expected to exceed the contract sales price. As of October 31, 2010, the estimated contract loss reserve totaled approximately $0.6 million. Actual results could vary from initial estimates and reserve estimates will be updated as we gain further manufacturing and operating experience.
Revenue from component part kits and spare parts sales is recognized upon shipment and title transfer under the terms of the customer contract.
Revenue from LTSA contracts for power plants with our 5-year stack design is earned ratably over the term of the contract by performing routine monitoring and maintenance and by meeting a certain level of power output. For our legacy LTSA contracts on power plants with our older 3-year stack design, a portion of the contract value related to the stack replacement has been deferred. Upon stack replacement, revenue is recognized ratably over the remaining contract term. Revenue related to routine monitoring and maintenance under legacy contracts is recognized ratably over the full term of the contract.
Revenue from the sale of electricity is recognized as electricity is provided to the customer. Incentive revenue is recognized ratably over the term of the PPA. Site engineering and construction services revenue is recognized on percentage of completion as costs are incurred.
Revenue from research and development contracts is recognized proportionally as costs are incurred and compared to the estimated total research and development costs for each contract. Revenue from government funded research, development and demonstration programs are generally multi-year, cost-reimbursement and/or cost-shared type contracts or cooperative agreements. We are reimbursed for reasonable and allocable costs up to the reimbursement limits set by the contract or cooperative agreement, and on certain contracts we are reimbursed only a portion of the costs incurred. While government research and development contracts may extend for many years, funding is often provided incrementally on a year-by-year basis if contract terms are met and Congress has authorized the funds.
Inventories and Advance Payments to Vendors
Inventories consist principally of raw materials and work-in-process and are stated at the lower of cost or market. In certain circumstances, we will make advance payments to vendors for future inventory deliveries. These advance payments (net of related reserves) are recorded as other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Prior to November 1, 2009, we provided for a lower of cost or market (“LCM”) reserve to the cost basis of inventory at the time of purchase as our products were historically sold below cost. During the second half of 2009, we began production of our newest megawatt-class power plants and modules. The manufactured cost per kilowatt of these products is lower than previous models due to a 17 percent power increase and lower component and raw materials cost and are expected to be gross margin positive on a unit by unit basis. As a result, beginning in fiscal 2010, we revised our method of estimating contract losses and no longer provide for an LCM reserve on new inventory purchased.

 

68


Table of Contents

As of October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009, the LCM adjustment to the cost basis of inventory and advance payments to vendors was $5.0 million and $9.5 million, respectively, which equates to a reduction of 12 and 25 percent, respectively, of the gross inventory and advance payments to vendors value. As inventory is utilized in finished products and sold and used to service LTSAs, the Company expects the LCM reserve to continue to decline.
Warranty and Service Expense Recognition
We warranty our products for a specific period of time against manufacturing or performance defects. Our warranty is limited to a term generally 15 months after shipment or 12 months after installation of our products. We reserve for estimated future warranty costs based on historical experience. We also provide for a specific reserve if there is a known issue requiring repair during the warranty period. Given our limited operating experience, particularly for newer product designs, actual results could vary from initial estimates. Estimates used to record warranty reserves are updated as we gain further operating experience. As of October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009, the warranty reserve, which is classified in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet totaled $0.7 million and $0.5 million, respectively.
In addition to the standard product warranty, we have entered into LTSA contracts with certain customers to provide monitoring, maintenance and repair services for fuel cell power plants ranging from one to 20 years. Our standard service agreement term is five years. Under the terms of our LTSA, the power plant must meet a minimum operating output during the term. If minimum output falls below the contract requirement, we may be subject to performance penalties or may be required to repair or replace the customer’s fuel cell stack. The Company has provided for a reserve for performance guarantees which based on historical fleet performance totaled $1.2 million and $0.9 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
For our legacy LTSA contracts on power plants with our older 3-year stack design, the Company has accrued a reserve based on estimated future stack replacement and service costs in excess of the contract value. We expect the replacement of older stacks produced prior to the five-year stack design will continue into mid 2012. Reserve estimates for future costs associated with maintaining legacy service agreements are determined based on a number of factors including the estimated life of the stack, used replacement stacks available, our limit of liability on service agreements and the customer’s future operating plans for the power plant. Our reserve estimates include cost assumptions based on what we anticipate the service requirements will be to fulfill obligations on a contract by contract basis, which in many cases is in excess of our contractual limit of liability under LTSAs which is limited to the amount of service fees payable under the contract. As of October 31, 2010, our reserve on LTSA contracts totaled $6.6 million compared to $6.0 million as of October 31, 2009.
LTSA’s for power plants that have our five-year stack design are not expected to require a stack change to continue to meet minimum operating levels during the initial five-year term of the contract, although we have limited operating experience with these products. Stack replacements for new agreements which include the five-year stack design are expected to only be required upon renewal of the service agreement by the customer.
At the end of our LTSA contracts, customers are expected to either renew the contract or we anticipate that the stack module or the entire power plant will be returned to the Company as the plant is no longer being monitored or having routine service performed. In situations where the customer agrees at the time of a restack to return the stack to the Company at the end of the LTSA term, the cost of the stack is recorded as a long-term asset and depreciated over its expected life. If the Company does not obtain rights to title from the customer, the cost of the stack is expensed at the time of restack. During fiscal 2010, depreciation on stacks recorded as long-term assets totaled $0.1 million. As of October 31, 2010, the total remaining stack value recorded as a long-term asset was $2.0 million. This balance is expected to increase over time as stack replacements occur.

 

69


Table of Contents

Share-Based Compensation
We account for restricted stock awards (RSA’s) based on the closing market price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant. We account for stock options awarded to employees and non-employee directors under the fair value method of accounting using the Black-Scholes valuation model to estimate fair value at the grant date. The model requires us to make estimates and assumptions regarding the expected life of the option, the risk-free interest rate, the expected volatility of our common stock price and the expected dividend yield. The fair value of equity awards is amortized to expense over the vesting period, generally four years. Share-based compensation was $3.0 million, $4.8 million and $5.5 million for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards, research and development credit carryforwards, and differences between financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates and laws expected to be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded against deferred tax assets if it is unlikely that some or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized.
As of November 1, 2007, we adopted guidance for how a company should recognize, measure, present, and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that the company has taken or expects to take on a tax return (including a decision whether to file or not file a return in a particular jurisdiction). The company’s financial statements should reflect expected future tax consequences of such positions presuming the taxing authorities’ full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.
The evaluation of a tax position is a two-step process. The first step is recognition: the company determines whether it is more likely than not that a tax position will be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The second step is measurement: a tax position that meets the “more likely than not” recognition threshold is measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. The tax position is measured at the largest amount of benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement.
Accounting Guidance Update
Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance
In April 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting guidance that amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized definite-lived intangible asset. In developing assumptions about renewal or extension options used to determine the useful life of a definite-lived intangible asset, a company needs to consider its own historical experience adjusted for company-specific factors. In the absence of that experience, the company shall consider the assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension options. The new guidance was effective for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. We currently do not have any intangible assets recorded in our consolidated balance sheets; therefore, the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements will be determined when and if we acquire definite-lived intangible assets.

 

70


Table of Contents

In December 2007, the FASB issued new guidance that requires noncontrolling interests (formerly “minority interests”) in a subsidiary be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Consolidated net income should include the net income for both the parent and the noncontrolling interest with disclosure of both amounts in the consolidated statements of operations. The calculation of earnings per share would continue to be based on income amounts attributable to the parent. This guidance became effective for the quarter ended January 31, 2010 and changed the accounting for and reporting of noncontrolling interests in our subsidiaries.
In December 2007, the FASB issued revised accounting guidance for business combinations that requires an acquirer to measure the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at their fair values on the acquisition date, with goodwill being the excess value over the net identifiable assets acquired. The guidance also requires that certain other assets and liabilities related to the acquisition, such as contingencies and research and development, be recorded at fair value. The new guidance was effective for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. The potential impact of this revised guidance on our consolidated financial statements will be based upon future business combinations, if any.
Recent Accounting Guidance Not Yet Effective
In April 2010, the FASB provided guidance on defining a milestone and determining when it may be appropriate to apply the milestone method of revenue recognition for research or development transactions. Research or development arrangements frequently include payment provisions whereby a portion or all of the consideration is contingent upon the achievement of milestone events. An entity may only recognize consideration that is contingent upon the achievement of a milestone in its entirety in the period the milestone is achieved only if the milestone meets certain criteria. This guidance is effective prospectively for milestones achieved in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010 (November 1, 2010 for the Company). While we are still analyzing the potential impact of this guidance, we believe that our current practices are consistent with the guidance and, accordingly, we do not expect the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on our financial statements.
In January 2010, the FASB issued guidance that requires new disclosures for fair value measurements and provides clarification for existing disclosure requirements. This amended guidance require disclosures about inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value as well as disclosures about significant transfers in and out of Levels 1 and Levels 2 fair value measurements and disclosures about the purchase, sale, issuance and settlement activity of Level 3 fair value measurements. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for disclosures about the purchase, sale, issuance and settlement activity of Level 3 fair value measurements, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. The Company was not impacted by the disclosures effective for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2009 and we do not expect the remaining disclosures required after December 15, 2010 upon adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on our financial statements or disclosures.
In December 2009, the FASB issued revised guidance related to the consolidation of variable interest entities (“VIE”). The revised guidance requires reporting entities to evaluate former qualified special purpose entities for consolidation, changes the approach to determining a VIE’s primary beneficiary from a quantitative assessment to a qualitative assessment designed to identify a controlling financial interest, and increases the frequency of required reassessments to determine whether a company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. It also clarifies, but does not significantly change, the characteristics that identify a VIE. The guidance is effective as of the beginning of a company’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2009 (November 1, 2010 for the Company), and for subsequent interim and annual reporting periods. We do not expect this new guidance will have an impact on our financial statements.

 

71


Table of Contents

In October 2009, the FASB issued guidance updating accounting standards for revenue recognition for multiple-deliverable arrangements. The stated objective of the update was to address the accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products or services separately rather than as a combined unit. The guidance provides amended methodologies for separating consideration in multiple-deliverable arrangements and expands disclosure requirements. The guidance will be effective prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010 (November 1, 2010 for the Company), with early adoption permitted. We do not expect this guidance will have an impact on our financial statements or disclosures.
In June 2009, the FASB issued accounting guidance which requires a company to perform ongoing reassessment of whether it is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (“VIE”). Specifically, the guidance modifies how a company determines when an entity that is insufficiently capitalized or is not controlled through voting (or similar rights) should be consolidated. The guidance clarifies that the determination of whether a company is required to consolidate a VIE is based on, among other things, an entity’s purpose and design and a company’s ability to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance. The guidance requires an ongoing reassessment of whether a company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE and enhanced disclosures of the company’s involvement in VIEs and any significant changes in risk exposure due to that involvement. The guidance will be effective for the first quarter of fiscal 2011. We do not expect this new guidance will have an impact on our financial statements.

 

72


Table of Contents

Item 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Interest Rate Exposure
We typically invest in U.S. Treasury securities with maturities ranging from less than three months to one year or more. We expect to hold these investments until maturity and accordingly, these investments are carried at cost and not subject to mark-to-market accounting. At October 31, 2010, our U.S. Treasury investments had a carrying value of $34.1 million and maturity dates ranging from November 18, 2010 to March 15, 2012. The fair value of these securities at October 31, 2010 approximated their carrying value. At October 31, 2009, our U.S. Treasury investments had a carrying value of $7.0 million and maturity dates ranging from December 31, 2009 to April 30, 2010. The fair value of these securities at October 31, 2009 approximated their carrying value. Cash is invested overnight with high credit quality financial institutions and therefore we are not exposed to market risk from changing interest rates. Based on our overall interest rate exposure at October 31, 2010, including all interest rate sensitive instruments, a change in interest rates of one percent would affect our results of operations by $0.2 million.
Foreign Currency Exchange Risk
As of October 31, 2010, less than one percent of our total cash, cash equivalents and investments were in currencies other than U.S. dollars (Canadian dollars and South Korean Won). We make purchases from certain vendors in currencies other than U.S. dollars. Although we have not experienced significant foreign exchange rate losses to date, we may in the future, especially to the extent that we do not engage in currency hedging activities. The economic impact of currency exchange rate movements on our operating results is complex because such changes are often linked to variability in real growth, inflation, interest rates, governmental actions and other factors. These changes, if material, may cause us to adjust our financing and operating strategies.
Derivative Fair Value Exposure
Series 1 Preferred Stock
Our Series 1 Preferred shares include embedded derivatives that require bifurcation from the host contract. Specifically, the embedded derivatives requiring bifurcation from the host contract include the conversion feature of the security and the variable dividend obligation. The aggregate fair value of these derivatives included within long-term debt and other liabilities in our consolidated balance sheets as of October 31, 2010 and 2009 was $0.5 million. The fair value was based on valuation models using various assumptions including historical stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate and a credit spread based on the yield indexes of technology high yield bonds, foreign exchange volatility as the Series 1 Preferred security is denominated in Canadian dollars, and the closing price of our common stock. Changes in any of these assumptions would change the underlying fair value with a corresponding charge or credit to earnings. However, any changes to the assumptions are not expected to have a material effect on our results of operations or financial condition.
Warrants
In connection with our investment in Versa, we received warrants for the right to purchase additional shares of Versa’s common stock. At October 31, 2010 and 2009, we held warrants for the right to purchase 3,969 and 3,108 shares of Versa’s common stock, respectively. We have determined that these warrants represent derivatives. The fair value of the warrants is based on the Black-Scholes valuation model using historical stock price, volatility (based on a peer group since Versa’s common stock is not publicly traded) and risk-free interest rate assumptions. The fair value of the warrants at October 31, 2010 and 2009 was $0.2 million and was included within investment and loan to affiliate in our consolidated balance sheets. Changes in any of these assumptions would result in a change in the fair value of the warrants and impact our results of operations; however; the impact is not expected to be material. For example, a 10 percent increase in the volatility assumption would have resulted in a charge to earnings of $20 thousand, assuming all other assumptions remain the same.

 

73


Table of Contents

Item 8. CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
         
Index to the Consolidated Financial Statements   Page  
 
       
    75  
 
       
    76  
 
       
    77  
 
       
    78  
 
       
    79  
 
       
    80  
 
       

 

74


Table of Contents

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Stockholders
FuelCell Energy, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of FuelCell Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended October 31, 2010. We also have audited FuelCell Energy, Inc.’s internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). FuelCell Energy, Inc.’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying management report on internal controls over financial reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of FuelCell Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended October 31, 2010, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, FuelCell Energy, Inc. maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Hartford, Connecticut
January 14, 2011

 

75


Table of Contents

FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
                 
    October 31,     October 31,  
    2010     2009  
ASSETS
               
Current assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 20,467     $ 57,823  
Investments: U.S. treasury securities
    25,019       7,004  
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $393 and $19, respectively
    18,066       22,920  
Inventories, net
    33,404       25,433  
Other current assets
    5,253       6,499  
 
           
Total current assets
    102,209       119,679  
 
               
Property, plant and equipment, net
    26,679       32,394  
 
               
Investments: U.S. treasury securities
    9,071        
Investment and loan to affiliate
    9,837       10,064  
Other assets, net
    2,733       551  
 
           
Total assets
  $ 150,529     $ 162,688  
 
           
 
               
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
               
Current liabilities:
               
Current portion of long-term debt and other liabilities
  $ 976     $ 997  
Accounts payable
    10,267       8,484  
Accounts payable due to affiliate
    575       1,584  
Accrued liabilities
    16,721       13,808  
Deferred revenue, royalty income and customer deposits
    25,499       17,013  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    54,038       41,886  
 
               
Long-term deferred revenue and royalty income
    8,042       10,124  
 
               
Long-term debt and other liabilities
    4,056       4,410  
 
           
Total liabilities
    66,136       56,420  
 
           
 
               
Redeemable minority interest
    16,849       14,976  
Redeemable convertible preferred stock (liquidation preference of $64,020 at October 31, 2010 and $64,120 at October 31, 2009)
    59,857       59,950  
Commitments and contingencies (Note 16)
               
 
               
Total Equity:
               
Stockholders’ equity
               
Common stock, ($.0001 par value); 150,000,000 shares authorized; 112,965,725 and 84,387,741 shares issued and outstanding at October 31, 2010 and 2009 respectively)
    11       8  
Additional paid-in capital
    663,951       631,296  
Accumulated deficit
    (655,623 )     (599,960 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
    11       (2 )
Treasury stock, Common, at cost (5,679 shares at October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively)
    (53 )     (53 )
Deferred compensation
    53       53  
 
           
Total stockholders’ equity
    8,350       31,342  
Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries
    (663 )      
 
           
Total equity
    7,687       31,342  
 
           
Total liabilities and equity
  $ 150,529     $ 162,688  
 
           
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

76


Table of Contents

FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations
For the Years Ended October 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
                         
    Years Ended  
    October 31,     October 31,     October 31,  
    2010     2009     2008  
 
                       
Revenues
                       
Product sales and revenues
  $ 59,226     $ 73,804     $ 82,748  
Research and development contracts
    10,551       14,212       17,987  
 
                 
Total revenues
    69,777       88,016       100,735  
 
                 
 
                       
Costs and expenses
                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
    78,060       107,033       134,038  
Cost of research and development contracts
    10,370       10,994       16,059  
Administrative and selling expenses
    17,150       17,194       19,968  
Research and development costs
    18,562       19,160       23,471  
 
                 
Total costs and expenses
    124,142       154,381       193,536  
 
                 
 
                       
Loss from operations
    (54,365 )     (66,365 )     (92,801 )
 
                       
Interest expense
    (127 )     (265 )     (100 )
Loss from equity investments
    (730 )     (812 )     (1,867 )
Interest and other income, net
    1,354       860       3,268  
 
                 
 
                       
Loss before redeemable minority interest
    (53,868 )     (66,582 )     (91,500 )
Redeemable minority interest
    (2,367 )     (2,092 )     (1,857 )
 
                 
Loss before provision for income tax
    (56,235 )     (68,674 )     (93,357 )
Provision for income tax
    (91 )            
 
                 
Net loss
    (56,326 )     (68,674 )     (93,357 )
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
    663              
 
                 
Net loss attributable to FuelCell Energy, Inc.
    (55,663 )     (68,674 )     (93,357 )
Preferred stock dividends
    (3,201 )     (3,208 )     (3,208 )
 
                 
Net loss to common shareholders
  $ (58,864 )   $ (71,882 )   $ (96,565 )
 
                 
 
                       
Net loss to common shareholders
                       
Basic
  $ (0.63 )   $ (0.99 )   $ (1.41 )
Diluted
  $ (0.63 )   $ (0.99 )   $ (1.41 )
 
                       
Weighted average shares outstanding
                       
Basic
    93,925,863       72,392,928       68,570,689  
Diluted
    93,925,863       72,392,928       68,570,689  
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

77


Table of Contents

FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity
For the Years Ended October 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
                                                                         
                                    Other                              
                    Additional             Comprehensive                     Noncontrolling        
    Common Stock     Paid-in     Accumulated     Income     Treasury     Deferred     Interest in     Total  
    Shares     Amount     Capital     Deficit     (Loss)     Stock     Compensation     subsidiaries     Equity  
 
                                                                       
Balance, October 31, 2007
    68,085,059     $ 7     $ 571,944     $ (437,929 )   $     $ (126 )   $ 126     $     $ 134,022  
Sale of common stock
    180,000             1,689                                     1,689  
Share based compensation
                  5,529                                     5,529  
Stock issued under benefit plans
    514,086             2,383                                     2,383  
Preferred dividends — Series B
                (3,208 )                                   (3,208 )
Deferred compensation
    3,301                               36       (36 )            
Net loss
                      (93,357 )                             (93,357 )
 
                                                     
Balance, October 31, 2008
    68,782,446     $ 7     $ 578,337     $ (531,286 )   $     $ (90 )   $ 90     $     $ 47,058  
Sale of common stock
    14,450,118       1       50,193                                     50,194  
Share based compensation
                  4,815                                     4,815  
Stock issued under benefit plans
    1,151,875             1,307                                     1,307  
Preferred dividends — Series B
                (3,208 )                                   (3,208 )
Change in fair value of warrants
                  (148 )                                   (148 )
Deferred compensation
    3,302                               37       (37 )            
Effect of foreign currency translation
                            (2 )                       (2 )
Net loss
                      (68,674 )                             (68,674 )
 
                                                     
Balance, October 31, 2009
    84,387,741     $ 8     $ 631,296     $ (599,960 )   $ (2 )   $ (53 )   $ 53     $     $ 31,342  
Sale of common stock
    27,600,000       3       32,077                                     32,080  
Share based compensation
                2,965                                     2,965  
Conversion of Series B preferred stock to common stock, net of original issuance costs
    8,510             93                                     93  
Stock issued under benefit plans
    969,474             721                                     721  
Preferred dividends — Series B
                (3,201 )                                   (3,201 )
Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries
                                              (663 )     (663 )
Effect of foreign currency translation
                            13                         13  
Net loss
                      (55,663 )                             (55,663 )
 
                                                     
Balance, October 31, 2010
    112,965,725     $ 11     $ 663,951     $ (655,623 )   $ 11     $ (53 )   $ 53     $ (663 )   $ 7,687  
 
                                                     
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

78


Table of Contents

FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
For the Years Ended October 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008
(Amounts in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
                         
    Years Ended October 31,  
    2010     2009     2008  
Cash flows from operating activities:
                       
Net loss
  $ (56,326 )   $ (68,674 )   $ (93,357 )
 
                       
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
                       
Stock-based compensation
    2,965       4,815       5,529  
Loss in equity investments
    730       812       1,867  
Redeemable minority interest
    2,367       2,092       1,857  
Interest receivable on loan to affiliate
    (155 )     (141 )     (162 )
Asset impairment
    765             179  
Loss (gain) on derivatives
    95       330       (99 )
Depreciation and amortization
    7,438       8,591       8,801  
Amortization of bond premium
    91       836       607  
(Recovery) provision for doubtful accounts
    374       (32 )     (13 )
(Increase) decrease in operating assets:
                       
Accounts receivable
    4,480       (6,792 )     (6,020 )
Inventories
    (7,971 )     (910 )     5,058  
Other assets
    (785 )     2,402       (1,462 )
Increase (decrease) in operating liabilities:
                       
Accounts payable
    774       (7,050 )     4,614  
Accrued liabilities
    3,762       3,786       3,824  
Deferred revenue and customer deposits
    6,404       (5,268 )     7,370  
 
                 
Net cash used in operating activities
    (34,992 )     (65,203 )     (61,407 )
 
                 
 
                       
Cash flows from investing activities:
                       
Capital expenditures for property and equipment
    (2,481 )     (2,588 )     (7,368 )
Convertible loan to affiliate
    (600 )     (600 )      
Treasury notes matured
    32,500       41,000       79,100  
Treasury notes purchased
    (59,677 )           (67,913 )
 
                 
Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities
    (30,258 )     37,812       3,819  
 
                 
 
                       
Cash flows from financing activities:
                       
Repayments of debt
    (377 )     (237 )     (449 )
Proceeds from debt
          436       3,564  
Net proceeds from sale of common stock
    32,104       50,332       2,091  
Payment of preferred dividends
    (3,695 )     (3,631 )     (3,642 )
Common stock issued for option and stock purchase plans
    (151 )     273       1,070  
 
                 
Net cash provided by financing activities
    27,881       47,173       2,634  
 
                 
 
                       
Effect on cash from changes in foreign currency rates
    13       (2 )      
 
                 
 
                       
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents
    (37,356 )     19,780       (54,954 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    57,823       38,043       92,997  
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 20,467     $ 57,823     $ 38,043  
 
                 
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements.

 

79


Table of Contents

 
Note 1. Nature of Business and Significant Accounting Policies
Nature of Business
FuelCell Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”, “we”, “us”, “our”) are engaged in the development and manufacture of high temperature fuel cells for clean electric power generation. Our Direct FuelCell power plants produce reliable, secure and environmentally friendly 24/7 base load electricity for commercial, industrial, government and utility customers. We have commercialized our stationary fuel cells and are beginning the development of planar solid oxide fuel cell and other fuel cell technology. We expect to incur losses as we continue to participate in government cost share programs, sell products at prices lower than our costs, and invest in our cost reduction initiatives.
The consolidated financial statements include our accounts and those of our subsidiaries, including FuelCell Energy, Ltd. (“FCE Ltd.”), our Canadian subsidiary; Bridgeport Fuel Cell Park, LLC (“BFCP”), DFC-ERG Milford, LLC and DFC-ERG Connecticut, LLC, which were formed for the purpose of developing projects within Connecticut; and FCE Korea Ltd., which was formed to facilitate our business operations in South Korea. Alliance Monterrey, LLC; Alliance Chico, LLC; Alliance Star Energy, LLC; and Alliance TST Energy, LLC, (collectively, the “Alliance Entities”) are joint ventures with Alliance Power, Inc. (“Alliance”) established to construct fuel cell power plants and sell power under power purchase agreements (“PPA”). We have an 80 percent interest in each entity and accordingly, the financial results of the Alliance Entities are consolidated with our financial results. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated.
Significant Accounting Policies
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash equivalents consist primarily of investments in money market funds and U.S. Treasury securities with original maturities averaging three months or less at date of acquisition. We place our temporary cash investments with high credit quality financial institutions. We have pledged approximately $9.0 million of our cash and cash equivalents as collateral against letters of credit, banking requirements and customer contracts. At October 31, 2010 and 2009, we had outstanding letters of credit of $7.3 million and $0.6 million, respectively.
Investments
Investments consist of U.S. Treasury securities with original maturities of greater than three months at the date of acquisition. The notes are classified as held-to-maturity since we have the ability and intention to hold them until maturity. The notes are carried at amortized cost, which is par value, plus or minus unamortized premium or discount. We classify notes with remaining maturities of one year or less as current assets and notes with remaining maturities greater than one year as non-current assets.
Inventories and Advance Payments to Vendors
Inventories consist principally of raw materials and work-in-process and are stated at the lower of cost or market. In certain circumstances, we will make advance payments to vendors for future inventory deliveries. These advance payments (net of related reserves) are recorded as other current assets on the consolidated balance sheets.
Prior to November 1, 2009, we provided for a lower of cost or market (“LCM”) reserve to the cost basis of inventory at the time of purchase as our products were historically sold below cost. During the second half of 2009, we began production of our newest megawatt-class power plants and modules. The manufactured cost per kilowatt of these products is lower than previous models due to a 17 percent power increase and lower component and raw materials cost and are expected to be gross margin positive on a unit by unit basis. As a result, beginning in fiscal 2010, we revised our method of estimating contract losses and no longer provide for an LCM reserve on new inventory purchased.

 

80


Table of Contents

As of October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009, the LCM adjustment to the cost basis of inventory and advance payments to vendors was $5.0 million and $9.5 million, respectively, which equates to a reduction of 12 and 25 percent, respectively, of the gross inventory and advance payments to vendors value. As inventory is utilized in finished products and sold or used to service LTSAs the Company expects the LCM reserve to continue to decline.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost, less accumulated depreciation provided on the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the respective assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized on the straight-line method over the shorter of the estimated useful lives of the assets or the term of the lease. When property is sold or otherwise disposed of, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and any resulting gain or loss is reflected in operations for the period.
Intellectual Property
Intellectual property, including internally generated patents and know-how, is carried at no value.
Impairment of Long Lived Assets
Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. If events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable, we compare the carrying amount of the asset group to future undiscounted net cash flows, excluding interest costs, expected to be generated by the asset group and their ultimate disposition. If the sum of the undiscounted cash flows is less than the carrying value, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset group exceeds the fair value of the asset group. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value, less costs to sell.
Revenue Recognition
We earn revenue from (i) the sale and installation of fuel cell power plants and modules (ii) sale of component part kits and spare parts to customers, (iii) site engineering and construction services (iv) providing services under long-term service agreements (“LTSA”), (v) the sale of electricity under power purchase agreements (“PPA”) as well as incentive revenue from the sale of electricity under PPA’s, and (vi) customer-sponsored research and development projects. Our revenue is primarily generated from customers located throughout the U.S. and Asia and from agencies of the U.S. government. Revenue from customer-sponsored research and development projects is recorded as research and development contracts revenue and all other revenues are recorded as product sales and revenues in the consolidated statements of operations.
Revenue from sales of our DFC power plants and modules are recognized under the percentage of completion method of accounting. Revenues are recognized proportionally as costs are incurred and assigned to a customer contract by comparing total expected costs for each contract to the total contract value. Prior to fiscal 2010, we did not provide for a contract loss reserve on product sales contracts as products were in their early stages of development and market acceptance, and the total costs and timing of production for product sales contracts as well as installation and commissioning of these units could not be reasonably estimated. However, upon procurement of inventory for fulfillment of a product sales contract, the Company recorded such inventory at the lower of cost or market. As a result of a more consistent production rate and predictable timing for fulfillment of product sales contracts and more installation and commissioning experience for our major product lines, effective November 1, 2009 a contract loss reserve on product sales contracts is recognized at the time we become aware that estimated total costs are expected to exceed the contract sales price. As of October 31, 2010, the estimated loss reserve for contracts in backlog totaled approximately $0.6 million. Actual results could vary from initial estimates and reserve estimates will be updated as we gain further manufacturing and operating experience.

 

81


Table of Contents

Revenue from component part kits and spare parts sales is recognized upon shipment and title transfer under the terms of the customer contract.
Revenue from LTSA contracts for power plants with our 5-year stack design is earned ratably over the term of the contract by performing routine monitoring and maintenance and by meeting a certain level of power output. For our legacy LTSA contracts on power plants with our older 3-year stack design, a portion of the contract value related to the stack replacement has been deferred. Upon stack replacement, revenue is recognized ratably over the remaining contract term. Revenue related to routine monitoring and maintenance under legacy contracts is recognized ratably over the full term of the contract.
Revenue from the sale of electricity is recognized as electricity is provided to the customer. Incentive revenue is recognized ratably over the term of the PPA. Site engineering and construction services revenue is recognized on percentage of completion as costs are incurred.
Revenue from research and development contracts is recognized proportionally as costs are incurred and compared to the estimated total research and development costs for each contract. Revenue from government funded research, development and demonstration programs are generally multi-year, cost-reimbursement and/or cost-shared type contracts or cooperative agreements. We are reimbursed for reasonable and allocable costs up to the reimbursement limits set by the contract or cooperative agreement, and on certain contracts we are reimbursed only a portion of the costs incurred. While government research and development contracts may extend for many years, funding is often provided incrementally on a year-by-year basis if contract terms are met and Congress has authorized the funds.
Warranty and Service Expense Recognition
We warranty our products for a specific period of time against manufacturing or performance defects. Our warranty is limited to a term generally 15 months after shipment or 12 months after installation of our products. We reserve for estimated future warranty costs based on historical experience. We also provide for a specific reserve if a there is a known issue requiring repair during the warranty period. Given our limited operating experience, particularly for newer product designs, actual results could vary from initial estimates. Estimates used to record warranty reserves are updated as we gain further operating experience. As of October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009, the warranty reserve, which is classified in accrued liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet totaled $0.7 million and $0.5 million, respectively.
In addition to the standard product warranty, we have entered into LTSA contracts with certain customers to provide monitoring, maintenance and repair services for fuel cell power plants ranging from one to 20 years. Our standard service agreement term is five years. Under the terms of our LTSA, the power plant must meet a minimum operating output during the term. If minimum output falls below the contract requirement, we may be subject to performance penalties or may be required to repair or replace the customer’s fuel cell stack. The Company has provided for a reserve for performance guarantees, which based on historical fleet performance totaled $1.2 million and $0.9 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
For our legacy LTSA contracts on power plants with our older 3-year stack design, the Company has accrued a reserve based on estimates of future stack replacement and service costs in excess of the contract value. We expect the replacement of older stacks produced prior to the five-year stack design will continue into mid-2012. Reserve estimates for future costs associated with maintaining legacy service agreements are determined by a number of factors including the estimated life of the stack, used replacement stacks available, our limit of liability on service agreements and future operating plans for the power plant. Our reserve estimates include cost assumptions based on what we anticipate the service requirements will be to fulfill obligations on a contract by contract basis, which in many cases is in excess of our contractual limit of liability under LTSAs which is limited to the amount of service fees payable under the contract. As of October 31, 2010, our reserve on LTSA contracts totaled $6.6 million compared to $6.0 million as of October 31, 2009.

 

82


Table of Contents

LTSA’s for power plants that have our five-year stack design are not expected to require a stack change to continue to meet minimum operating levels during the initial five-year term of the contract, although we have limited operating experience with these products. Stack replacements for new agreements which include the five-year stack design are expected to only be required upon renewal of the service agreement by the customer.
At the end of our LTSA contracts, customers are expected to either renew the contract or we anticipate that the stack module or the entire power plant will be returned to the Company as the plant is no longer being monitored or having routine service performed. In situations where the customer agrees at the time of a restack to return the stack to the Company at the end of the LTSA term, the cost of the stack is recorded as a long-term asset and depreciated over its expected life. If the Company does not obtain rights to title from the customer, the cost of the stack is expensed at the time of restack. As of October 31, 2010, total stack value recorded as a long-term asset was $2.0 million, net of $0.1 million of accumulated depreciation. This balance is expected to increase over time as stack replacements occur.
Deferred Revenue, Royalty Income and Customer Deposits
In February 2007, we entered into a 10-year manufacturing and distribution agreement with POSCO Power (“POSCO”). Under the terms of this agreement, POSCO will manufacture balance of plant (“BOP”) in South Korea using its design, procurement and manufacturing expertise. Under the terms of the agreement, we will receive a 4.1 percent royalty on sales of BOP made by POSCO, subject to minimum royalties. Minimum annual royalties under this agreement and recorded were $0.3 and $0.2 million for the years ended October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
In October 2009, we entered into a 10-year Stack Technology Transfer and License Agreement (the “2009 License Agreement”) with POSCO allowing it to produce fuel cell stack modules from cells and components provided by us. These fuel cell modules will be combined with BOP manufactured in South Korea to complete electricity-producing fuel cell power plants for sale in South Korea. The 2009 License Agreement provides for an ongoing royalty, initially set at 4.1 percent of the revenues generated from sales of fuel cell stack modules manufactured and sourced by POSCO.
In connection with the 2009 License Agreement, we received an upfront license fee of $10.0 million. This amount has been deferred and will be recognized as revenue ratably over the term of the 2009 License Agreement.
In addition, we receive payments from customers upon the acceptance of a purchase order and when contractual milestones are reached. These payments may be deferred based on the nature of the payment and status of the specific project. Deferred revenue is recognized as revenue in accordance with our revenue recognition policies summarized above.
Warrant Value Recognition
Warrants have been issued as sales incentives to certain of our business partners. These warrants vested if orders from our business partners exceeded stipulated levels. If warrants vested, or if management estimated that it was probable that warrants would vest, a proportional amount of the fair value of the warrants was capitalized and subsequently recorded as a sales discount when the related revenue was recognized. There were no material amounts charged to sales discounts for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008. As of October 31, 2010 and 2009, there are no remaining warrants outstanding.

 

83


Table of Contents

Research and Development Costs
We perform both customer-sponsored research and development projects based on contractual agreement with customers and company-sponsored research and development projects. Costs incurred for customer-sponsored projects include manufacturing and engineering labor, applicable overhead expenses, materials to build and test prototype units and other costs associated with customer-sponsored research and development contracts. These costs are recorded as cost of research and development contracts in the consolidated statements of operations.
Costs incurred for company-sponsored research and development projects consist primarily of labor, overhead, materials to build and test prototype units and consulting fees. These costs are recorded as research and development expenses in the consolidated statements of operations.
Share-Based Compensation
We account for stock options awarded to employees and non-employee directors under the fair value method of accounting using the Black-Scholes valuation model to estimate fair value at the grant date. The model requires us to make estimates and assumptions regarding the expected life of the option, the risk-free interest rate, the expected volatility of our common stock price and the expected dividend yield. The fair value of stock options is amortized to expense over the vesting period, generally four years. Refer to Note 13 for additional information.
Income Taxes
Income taxes are accounted for under the liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards, research and development credit carryforwards, and differences between financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates and laws expected to be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded against deferred tax assets if it is unlikely that some or all of the deferred tax assets will be realized.
As of November 1, 2007, we adopted guidance for how a company should recognize, measure, present, and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that the company has taken or expects to take on a tax return (including a decision whether to file or not file a return in a particular jurisdiction). The company’s financial statements reflect expected future tax consequences of such positions presuming the taxing authorities’ full knowledge of the position and all relevant facts.
Concentrations
We contract with a small number of customers for the sale of our products and for research and development contracts. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, our top three customers accounted for 83 percent, 80 percent and 62 percent, respectively, of our total annual consolidated revenue.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, our top three customers, POSCO, which is a related party and owns approximately 10 percent of the outstanding common shares of the Company, the U.S. government (primarily the Department of Energy) and Pacific Gas and Electric, accounted for 83 percent, 80 percent and 63 percent, respectively of our total annual consolidated revenue. Our largest strategic partner, POSCO, accounted for 58 percent, 64 percent and 46 percent of total revenues, the U.S. government accounted for 15 percent, 16 percent and 17 percent of total revenues and Pacific Gas and Electric accounted for 10 percent of total revenues for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2010 and there was no revenue from Pacific Gas and Electric in 2009 or 2008.

 

84


Table of Contents

There can be no assurance that we will continue to achieve historical levels of sales of our products to our largest customers. Even though our customer base is expected to increase and our revenue streams to diversify, a substantial portion of net revenues could continue to depend on sales to a limited number of customers. Our agreements with these customers may be cancelled if we fail to meet certain product specifications or materially breach the agreement, and our customers may seek to renegotiate the terms of current agreements or renewals. The loss of, or a reduction in sales to, one or more of our larger customers could have a material adverse affect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Derivatives
We do not use derivatives for trading or speculative purposes. Derivative instruments consist of our warrants to purchase additional shares of common stock of Versa Power Systems, Inc. (“Versa”) and embedded derivatives in our Series 1 Preferred Shares. We account for these derivatives using the fair-value method with changes in the underlying fair value recorded to earnings. Refer to Notes 2 and 11 for additional information.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, revenue recognition, excess, slow-moving and obsolete inventories, product warranty costs, LTSA reserves, allowance for uncollectible receivables, depreciation and amortization, impairment of assets, taxes, and contingencies. Estimates and assumptions are reviewed periodically, and the effects of revisions are reflected in the consolidated financial statements in the period they are determined to be necessary.
Comprehensive Income (Loss)
Comprehensive loss of $55.7 million, $68.7 million and $93.4 million includes net loss to common shareholders of $55.7 million, $68.7 million and $93.4 million (as reported before preferred dividends) and foreign currency translation adjustments of $13.0 thousand, $2.0 thousand and $0 for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, which are included as a component of stockholders’ equity in the consolidated balance sheets.
Foreign Currency Translation
The translation of FuelCell Korea Ltd’s financial statements results in translation gains or losses, which are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) within stockholders’ equity.
Our Canadian subsidiary, FCE Ltd., is financially and operationally integrated and therefore the temporal method of translation of foreign currencies is followed. The functional currency is U.S. dollars. We are subject to foreign currency transaction gains and losses as certain invoices are denominated in Canadian dollars. We recognized a loss of $0.01 million, a loss of $0.2 million, a loss of $0.3 million for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. These amounts have been classified as interest and other income, net in the consolidated statements of operations.
Subsequent Events
We have evaluated subsequent events and are not aware of any significant events that occurred subsequent to the balance sheet date but prior to the filing of this Form 10-K with the SEC that would have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

 

85


Table of Contents

Liquidity
We anticipate that our existing capital resources, together with anticipated revenues and cash flows, will be adequate to satisfy our financial requirements and agreements through at least the next 12 months. As a result of product cost reductions, we believe sales volume of 75 MW to 125 MW will drive the Company to profitability with the lower end of the range reflecting a sales mix oriented towards complete power plants and the upper end of the range oriented towards fuel cell components. Our future liquidity will be dependent on obtaining the order volumes and cost reductions on our fuel cell products necessary to achieve profitable operations. We may also raise capital through additional equity offerings; however, there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain additional financing in the future. If we are unable to raise additional capital, our growth potential may be adversely affected and we may have to modify our plans.
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
In April 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued accounting guidance that amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized definite-lived intangible asset. In developing assumptions about renewal or extension options used to determine the useful life of a definite-lived intangible asset, a company needs to consider its own historical experience adjusted for company-specific factors. In the absence of that experience, the company shall consider the assumptions that market participants would use about renewal or extension options. The new guidance was effective for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. We currently do not have any intangible assets recorded in our consolidated balance sheets; therefore, the impact of this guidance on our consolidated financial statements will be determined when and if we acquire definite-lived intangible assets.
In December 2007, the FASB issued new guidance that requires noncontrolling interests (formerly “minority interests”) in a subsidiary be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. Consolidated net income should include the net income for both the parent and the noncontrolling interest with disclosure of both amounts in the consolidated statements of operations. The calculation of earnings per share would continue to be based on income amounts attributable to the parent. This guidance became effective for the quarter ended January 31, 2010 and changed the accounting for and reporting of noncontrolling interests in our subsidiaries.
In December 2007, the FASB issued revised accounting guidance for business combinations that requires an acquirer to measure the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at their fair values on the acquisition date, with goodwill being the excess value over the net identifiable assets acquired. The guidance also requires that certain other assets and liabilities related to the acquisition, such as contingencies and research and development, be recorded at fair value. The new guidance was effective for the first quarter of fiscal 2010. The potential impact of this revised guidance on our consolidated financial statements will be based upon future business combinations, if any.

 

86


Table of Contents

Recent Accounting Guidance Not Yet Effective
In April 2010, the FASB provided guidance on defining a milestone and determining when it may be appropriate to apply the milestone method of revenue recognition for research or development transactions. Research or development arrangements frequently include payment provisions whereby a portion or all of the consideration is contingent upon the achievement of milestone events. An entity may only recognize consideration that is contingent upon the achievement of a milestone in its entirety in the period the milestone is achieved only if the milestone meets certain criteria. This guidance is effective prospectively for milestones achieved in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010 (November 1, 2010 for the Company). While we are still analyzing the potential impact of this guidance, we believe that our current practices are consistent with the guidance and, accordingly, we do not expect the adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on our financial statements.
In January 2010, the FASB issued guidance that requires new disclosures for fair value measurements and provides clarification for existing disclosure requirements. This amended guidance require disclosures about inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value as well as disclosures about significant transfers in and out of Levels 1 and Levels 2 fair value measurements and disclosures about the purchase, sale, issuance and settlement activity of Level 3 fair value measurements. This guidance is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for disclosures about the purchase, sale, issuance and settlement activity of Level 3 fair value measurements, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010. The Company was not impacted by the disclosures effective for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2009 and we do not expect the remaining disclosures required after December 15, 2010 upon adoption of this guidance will have a material impact on our financial statements or disclosures.
In December 2009, the FASB issued revised guidance related to the consolidation of variable interest entities (“VIE”). The revised guidance requires reporting entities to evaluate former qualified special purpose entities for consolidation, changes the approach to determining a VIE’s primary beneficiary from a quantitative assessment to a qualitative assessment designed to identify a controlling financial interest, and increases the frequency of required reassessments to determine whether a company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE. It also clarifies, but does not significantly change, the characteristics that identify a VIE. The guidance is effective as of the beginning of a company’s first fiscal year beginning after November 15, 2009 (November 1, 2010 for the Company), and for subsequent interim and annual reporting periods. We do not expect this guidance will have an impact on our financial statements.
In October 2009, the FASB issued guidance updating accounting standards for revenue recognition for multiple-deliverable arrangements. The stated objective of the update was to address the accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products or services separately rather than as a combined unit. The guidance provides amended methodologies for separating consideration in multiple-deliverable arrangements and expands disclosure requirements. The guidance will be effective prospectively for revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified in fiscal years beginning on or after June 15, 2010 (November 1, 2010 for the Company), with early adoption permitted. We do not expect this guidance will have an impact on our financial statements or disclosures.
In June 2009, the FASB issued accounting guidance which requires a company to perform ongoing reassessment of whether it is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity (“VIE”). Specifically, the guidance modifies how a company determines when an entity that is insufficiently capitalized or is not controlled through voting (or similar rights) should be consolidated. The guidance clarifies that the determination of whether a company is required to consolidate a VIE is based on, among other things, an entity’s purpose and design and a company’s ability to direct the activities of the VIE that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance. The guidance requires an ongoing reassessment of whether a company is the primary beneficiary of a VIE and enhanced disclosures of the company’s involvement in VIEs and any significant changes in risk exposure due to that involvement. The guidance will be effective for the first quarter of fiscal 2011. We do not expect this guidance will have an impact on our financial statements.

 

87


Table of Contents

Note 2. Equity investments
Versa is one of our sub-contractors under the Department of Energy’s (“DOE”) large-scale hybrid project to develop a coal-based, multi-megawatt solid oxide fuel cell (“SOFC”) based hybrid system. Versa is a private company founded in 2001 that is developing advanced SOFC systems for various stationary and mobile applications. We have a 39 percent ownership interest and account for Versa under the equity method of accounting. We recognize our share of the losses as loss from equity investments on the consolidated statements of operations.
In 2007, we loaned Versa $2.0 million in the form of a convertible note (the “2007 Convertible Note”), in 2009, we loaned Versa $0.6 million and in 2010 we loaned Versa $0.6 million, also in the form of convertible notes (the “2010 Convertible Note”, the “2009 Convertible Note” and the 2007 Convertible Note, the “Convertible Notes”). The 2007 Convertible Note matures May 2017, the 2009 Convertible Note matures November 2018 and the 2010 Convertible Note matures April 2020, unless certain prepayment events occur. In conjunction with the Convertible Notes, we received warrants for the right to purchase 3,969 shares of Versa common stock at a weighted average exercise price of $165 per share. Our ownership percentage would increase to 45 percent if the Convertible Notes and warrants are converted into common stock.
We have determined that the above warrants represent derivatives subject to fair value accounting. The fair value is determined based on the Black-Scholes valuation model using historical stock price, volatility (based on a peer group since Versa’s common stock is not publicly traded) and risk-free interest rate assumptions. The fair value of the warrants is included within investment and loan to affiliate on the consolidated balance sheets and changes in the fair value of the warrants are included in interest and other income on the consolidated statements of operations. The fair value of the warrants as of October 31, 2010 and 2009 was $0.2 million and $0.2 million, respectively. The change in the fair value of the warrants was not material to the consolidated financial statements for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008. The carrying value of our investment in and loans to Versa was $9.8 million and $10.1 million as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
Note 3. Investments
The following table summarizes the amortized cost basis and fair value of our investments in U.S. treasury securities at October 31, 2010 and 2009:
                                 
            Gross     Gross        
    Amortized     unrealized     unrealized        
    cost     gains     (losses)     Fair value  
U.S. government obligations
                               
AT October 31, 2010
  $ 34,090     $ 74     $     $ 34,164  
AT October 31, 2009
  $ 7,004     $ 40     $     $ 7,044  
                 
    2010     2009  
Reported as:
               
Short-term investments
  $ 25,019     $ 7,004  
Long-term investments
    9,071        
 
           
 
  $ 34,090     $ 7,004  
 
           
As of October 31, 2010, investment securities had maturity dates ranging from November 18, 2010 to March 15, 2012, and estimated yields ranging from 0.15 percent to 1.75 percent, with a weighted average yield of 0.70 percent.

 

88


Table of Contents

Note 4. Inventories
The components of inventory at October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009 consisted of the following:
                 
    2010     2009  
 
               
Raw materials
  $ 15,509     $ 14,583  
Work-in-process
    22,786       19,790  
 
           
Gross inventory
    38,295       34,373  
Less amount to reduce certain inventories to lower of cost or market
    (4,891 )     (8,940 )
 
           
Net inventory
  $ 33,404     $ 25,433  
 
           
Raw materials consist mainly of various nickel powders and steels, various other components used in producing cell stacks and purchased components for BOP. Work-in-process inventory is comprised of material, labor, and overhead costs incurred to build fuel cell stacks, which are subcomponents of a power plant. Work in process also includes costs related to power plants in inventory which have not yet been dedicated to a particular commercial customer contract. The above inventory amounts include a lower of cost or market adjustment to write down the carrying value of inventory to its estimated market value.
Note 5. Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable at October 31, 2010 and 2009 consisted of the following:
                 
    2010     2009  
U.S. Government:
               
Amount billed
  $ 223     $ 574  
Unbilled recoverable costs
    605       776  
 
           
 
    828       1,350  
 
               
Commercial customers:
               
Amount billed
  $ 9,718     $ 5,439  
Unbilled recoverable costs
    7,520       16,131  
 
           
 
    17,238       21,570  
 
           
 
  $ 18,066     $ 22,920  
 
           
We bill customers for power plant sales based on reaching certain milestones. We bill the U.S. government for research and development contracts based on actual costs incurred, typically in the month subsequent to incurring costs. Unbilled recoverable costs relate to revenue recognized on customer contracts that have not been billed. The amounts above are presented net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $0.4 million and $19 thousand at October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

89


Table of Contents

Note 6. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment at October 31, 2010 and 2009 consisted of the following:
                         
                    Estimated  
    2010     2009     Useful Life  
Land
  $ 524     $ 524        
Building and improvements
    7,634       6,851     10-26 years
Machinery, equipment and software
    67,825       59,860     3-8 years
Furniture and fixtures
    2,749       2,604     10 years
Power plants for use under PPAs
    13,538       17,743     3-10 years
Construction in progress (1)
    912       6,710          
 
                   
 
    93,182       94,292          
 
                       
Less: Accumulated depreciation
    (66,503 )     (61,898 )        
 
                   
Property, plant and equipment, net
  $ 26,679     $ 32,394          
 
                   
 
     
(1)  
Included in construction in progress are costs of $0.9 million and $0.8 million at October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, to build power plants that will service power purchase agreement contracts.
Depreciation expense was $7.4 million, $8.6 million and $8.8 million for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Note 7. Other Current Assets
Other current assets at October 31, 2010 and October 31, 2009 consisted of the following:
                 
    2010     2009  
 
               
Advance payments to vendors (1)
  $ 4,033     $ 3,362  
Interest receivable (2)
    55       185  
Receivable for state research and development tax credit (3)
          279  
Insurance receivable for power plant damaged during shipping (4)
          1,642  
Prepaid expenses and other (5)
    1,165       1,031  
 
           
Total
  $ 5,253     $ 6,499  
 
           
 
     
(1)  
Advance payments to vendors relate to inventory purchases. The amounts have been reduced by a lower of cost or market adjustment of $0.1 million and $0.6 million at October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.
 
(2)  
Interest receivable relates to amounts due on investments in U.S. Treasury securities.
 
(3)  
The Company is eligible for a refundable state of Connecticut research and development tax credit. Approximately $0.2 million related to the fiscal 2009 tax refund was received prior to October 31, 2010. The fiscal 2008 tax refund of $0.3 million was received subsequent to October 31, 2009. This tax refund is recorded as part of interest and other income, net on the consolidated statements of operations.
 
(4)  
In fiscal 2009, one of the Company’s power plants was damaged during shipment. The insurance receivable related to this damage was recovered in full prior to October 31, 2010.
 
(5)  
Primarily relates to other accounts receivable related to POSCO royalties and other prepaid vendor expenses including insurance, rent and lease payments.

 

90


Table of Contents

Note 8. Accrued Liabilities
Accrued liabilities at October 31, 2010 and 2009 consisted of the following:
                 
    2010     2009  
 
               
Accrued payroll and employee benefits (1)
  $ 3,430     $ 3,258  
Accrued contract and operating costs (2)
    3,276       3,190  
Reserve for product warranty costs (3)
    696       500  
Reserve for long-term service agreement costs (4)
    6,592       5,950  
Accrued taxes, legal, professional and other (5)
    2,727       910  
 
           
 
  $ 16,721     $ 13,808  
 
           
 
     
(1)  
Balance relate to amounts owe to employees for compensation and benefits as of the end of the period.
 
(2)  
Balance includes estimated losses accrued on product sales contracts and amounts estimated as potentially owed to customers related to contract performance.
 
(3)  
Activity in the reserve for product warranty costs during the year ended October 31, 2010 included additions for specific known warranty issues totaling $1.5 million, other additions for estimates of potential future warranty obligations of $2.5 million on contracts in the warranty period and reserve reductions related to actual warranty spend and reversals to income of $3.8 million as contracts progress through the warranty period or are beyond the warranty period.
 
(4)  
For our legacy LTSA contracts on power plants with our older 3-year stack design, the Company has accrued a reserve based on estimated of the future stack replacement and service costs in excess of the contract value. We expect the replacement of older stacks produced prior to the five-year stack design will continue in mid 2012. Reserve estimates for future costs associated with maintaining legacy service agreements are be determined by a number of factors including the estimated life of the stack, used replacement stacks available, our limit of liability on service agreements and future operating plans for the power plant.
 
(5)  
Balance includes accrued sales, use and payroll taxes as well as estimated legal, professional and other expense estimates as of the end of the period.
Note 9. Debt and Leases
At October 31, 2010 and 2009, debt consisted of the following:
                 
    2010     2009  
Connecticut Development Authority Note
  $ 3,831     $ 4,000  
Connecticut Clean Energy Fund Note
    710       650  
Capitalized lease obligations
    134       321  
 
           
Total debt
  $ 4,675     $ 4,971  
 
               
Less: Current portion of long-term debt
    (976 )     (997 )
 
           
 
               
Long-term debt
  $ 3,699     $ 3,974  
 
           
In April 2008, we entered into a 10-year loan agreement with the Connecticut Development Authority to finance equipment purchases associated with manufacturing capacity expansion allowing for a maximum borrowing of $4.0 million. The stated interest rate is 5 percent and the loan is collateralized by the assets procured under this loan as well as $4.0 million of additional machinery and equipment. Interest only payments are required through November 2009. Principal and interest payments are due commencing in December 2009 through May 2018. The outstanding balance on the loan was $3.8 million and $4.0 for the years ended October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. For the year ended October 31, 2010 $0.2 million was classified as current portion of long-term debt and $3.6 million was classified as long-term debt. Interest paid during Fiscal 2010 amounted to approximately $0.2 million.

 

91


Table of Contents

In April 2006, BFCP entered into a loan agreement with the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund for $0.5 million, secured by assets of BFCP. Loan proceeds were designated for pre-development expenses associated with the development, construction and operation of a fuel cell generation facility in Bridgeport, Connecticut (the “Project”). Interest accrues monthly at an annual rate of 8.75 percent. Repayment of principal and any accrued and unpaid interest is required on the earliest occurrence of any of the following events: (a) twelve months after the commencement date of the commercial operation of the Project, (b) the date of consummation and closing of permanent institutional financing of the Project, (c) the date of consummation and closing of any sale of the Project and (d) the date upon which certain change in control events occur related to BFCP. None of these events has occurred and we have not made any payments or prepayments as of October 31, 2010. The outstanding balance on this loan was $0.7 million, including $0.2 million of accrued interest, as of October 31, 2010. This note is classified as currently payable as the timing of events that would result in repayment are not determinable.
We lease computer equipment under a master lease agreements. Lease payment terms are generally thirty-six months from the date of acceptance for leased equipment.
Aggregate annual principal payments under our loan agreements and capital lease obligations for the years subsequent to October 31, 2010 are as follows:
         
2011
    976  
2012
    217  
2013
    196  
2014
    205  
2015
    216  
Thereafter
    2,865  
 
     
 
  $ 4,675  
 
     
Note 10. Shareholders’ Equity
Common Stock
During the third quarter of fiscal 2010, we sold 27.6 million shares of our common stock at $1.25 per share in a public offering that generated net cash proceeds of approximately $32.1 million. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from this offering for product development, project financing, to expand manufacturing capacity and for general corporate purposes. We also issued 1.0 million shares under employee benefit plans.
During 2009, we issued a total of 15.6 million shares of our common stock. We sold 6.7 million shares in a registered direct offering for aggregate net proceeds of $22.5 million and in connection with the execution of the 2009 License Agreement, POSCO purchased 7.0 million shares for aggregate net proceeds of $25.0 million. We also sold 0.7 million shares on the open market to fund dividend payments on our outstanding preferred shares and issued 1.2 million shares under employee benefit plans.

 

92


Table of Contents

Note 11. Redeemable Preferred Stock
Redeemable Series B Preferred Stock
We have 250,000 shares of our 5 percent Series B Cumulative Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock (Liquidation Preference $1,000) (“Series B Preferred Stock”) authorized for issuance. At October 31, 2010 and 2009, there were 64,020 and 64,120 shares, respectively of Series B Preferred Stock issued and outstanding, with a carrying value of $59.9 million and $60.0 million, respectively. The shares of our Series B Preferred Stock and the shares of our common stock issuable upon conversion of the shares of our Series B Preferred Stock are covered by a registration rights agreement. The following is a summary of certain provisions of our Series B Preferred Stock.
   
Ranking — Shares of Series B Preferred Stock rank with respect to dividend rights and rights upon our liquidation, winding up or dissolution:
   
senior to shares of our common stock;
   
junior to our debt obligations; and
   
effectively junior to our subsidiaries’ (i) existing and future liabilities and (ii) capital stock held by others.
   
Dividends — The Series B Preferred Stock pays cumulative annual dividends of $50 per share which are payable quarterly in arrears on February 15, May 15, August 15 and November 15, which commenced on February 15, 2005, when, as and if declared by the board of directors. Dividends accumulate and are cumulative from the date of original issuance. Accumulated dividends on the Series B Preferred Stock do not bear interest.
 
     
The dividend rate is subject to upward adjustment as set forth in the Certificate of Designation if we fail to pay, or to set apart funds to pay, any quarterly dividend. The dividend rate is also subject to upward adjustment as set forth in the Registration Rights Agreement entered into with the Initial Purchasers if we fail to satisfy our registration obligations with respect to the Series B Preferred Stock (or the underlying common shares) under the Registration Rights Agreement.
 
     
No dividends or other distributions may be paid or set apart for payment on our common shares (other than a dividend payable solely in shares of a like or junior ranking) unless all accumulated and unpaid Series B Preferred Stock dividends have been paid or funds or shares of common stock have been set aside for payment of accumulated and unpaid Series B Preferred Stock dividends.
 
     
The dividend on the Series B Preferred Stock may be paid in cash; or at the option of the holder, in shares of our common stock, which will be registered pursuant to a registration statement to allow for the immediate sale of these common shares in the public market. Dividends of $3.2 million were paid in cash in each of the years ended October 31, 2010 and 2009. There were no cumulative unpaid dividends at October 31, 2010 and 2009.
   
Liquidation — The Series B Preferred Stock stockholders are entitled to receive, in the event that we are liquidated, dissolved or wound up, whether voluntary or involuntary, $1,000 per share plus all accumulated and unpaid dividends to the date of that liquidation, dissolution, or winding up (“Liquidation Preference”). Until the holders of Series B Preferred Stock receive their Liquidation Preference in full, no payment will be made on any junior shares, including shares of our common stock. After the Liquidation Preference is paid in full, holders of the Series B Preferred Stock will not be entitled to receive any further distribution of our assets. At October 31, 2010 and 2009, the Series B Preferred Stock had a Liquidation Preference of $64.0 million and $64.1 million, respectively.
   
Conversion Rights — Each Series B Preferred Stock share may be converted at any time, at the option of the holder, into 85.1064 shares of our common stock (which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of $11.75 per share) plus cash in lieu of fractional shares. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment upon the occurrence of certain events, as described below, but will not be adjusted for accumulated and unpaid dividends. If converted, holders of Series B Preferred Stock do not receive a cash payment for all accumulated and unpaid dividends; rather, all accumulated and unpaid dividends are cancelled.

 

93


Table of Contents

     
Beginning after November 20, 2009 we may, at our option, cause shares of Series B Preferred Stock to be automatically converted into that number of shares of our common stock that are issuable at the then prevailing conversion rate. We may exercise our conversion right only if the closing price of our common stock exceeds 150 percent of the then prevailing conversion price ($11.75 at November 20, 2009) for 20 trading days during any consecutive 30 trading day period, as described in the Certificate of Designation.
     
If holders of Series B Preferred Stock elect to convert their shares in connection with certain fundamental changes (as described below and in the Certificate of Designation), we will in certain circumstances increase the conversion rate by a number of additional shares of common stock upon conversion or, in lieu thereof, we may in certain circumstances elect to adjust the conversion rate and related conversion obligation so that shares of our Series B Preferred Stock are converted into shares of the acquiring or surviving company, in each case as described in the Certificate of Designation.
 
     
The adjustment of the conversion price is to prevent dilution of the interests of the holders of the Series B Preferred Stock from the following:
   
Issuances of common stock as a dividend or distribution to holders of our common stock;
   
Common stock share splits or share combinations;
   
Issuances to holders of our common stock of any rights, warrants or options to purchase our common stock for a period of less than 60 days; and
   
Distributions of assets, evidences of indebtedness or other property to holders of our common stock.
     
During 2010, holders of Series B preferred shares converted 100 preferred shares and received 8,510 shares of the Company’s common stock in exchange.
   
Redemption — We do not have the option to redeem the shares of Series B Preferred Stock. However, holders of the Series B Preferred Stock can require us to redeem all or part of their shares at a redemption price equal to the Liquidation Preference of the shares to be redeemed in the case of a “fundamental change.” A fundamental change will be deemed to have occurred if any of the following occurs:
   
any “person” or “group” is or becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 50 percent or more of the total voting power of all classes of our capital stock then outstanding and normally entitled to vote in the election of directors;
   
during any period of two consecutive years, individuals who at the beginning of such period constituted the Board of Directors (together with any new directors whose election by our Board of Directors or whose nomination for election by our shareholders was approved by a vote of two-thirds of our directors then still in office who were either directors at the beginning of such period or whose election of nomination for election was previously so approved) cease for any reason to constitute a majority of our directors then in office;
   
the termination of trading of our common stock on the Nasdaq Stock Market and such shares are not approved for trading or quoted on any other U.S. securities exchange; or
   
we consolidate with or merge with or into another person or another person merges with or into us or the sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of our assets and certain of our subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to another person and, in the case of any such merger or consolidation, our securities that are outstanding immediately prior to such transaction and which represent 100 percent of the aggregate voting power of our voting stock are changed into or exchanged for cash, securities or property, unless pursuant to the transaction such securities are changed into securities of the surviving person that represent, immediately after such transaction, at least a majority of the aggregate voting power of the voting stock of the surviving person.

 

94


Table of Contents

     
Notwithstanding the foregoing, holders of shares of Series B Preferred Stock will not have the right to require us to redeem their shares if:
   
the last reported sale price of shares of our common stock for any five trading days within the 10 consecutive trading days ending immediately before the later of the fundamental change or its announcement equaled or exceeded 105 percent of the conversion price of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock immediately before the fundamental change or announcement;
   
at least 90 percent of the consideration (excluding cash payments for fractional shares) and, in respect of dissenters’ appraisal rights, if the transaction constituting the fundamental change consists of shares of capital stock traded on a U.S. national securities exchange, or which will be so traded or quoted when issued or exchanged in connection with a fundamental change, and as a result of the transaction, shares of Series B Preferred Stock become convertible into such publicly traded securities; or
   
in the case of fundamental change event in the fourth bullet above, the transaction is affected solely to change our jurisdiction of incorporation.
     
We may, at our option, elect to pay the redemption price in cash or, in shares of our common stock valued at a discount of 5 percent from the market price of shares of our common stock, or any combination thereof. Notwithstanding the foregoing, we may only pay such redemption price in shares of our common stock that are registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and eligible for immediate sale in the public market by non-affiliates of the Company.
   
Voting Rights — Holders of Series B Preferred Stock currently have no voting rights; however, holders may receive certain voting rights, as described in the Certificate of Designation, if (1) dividends on any shares of Series B Preferred Stock, or any other class or series of stock ranking on a parity with the Series B Preferred Stock with respect to the payment of dividends, shall be in arrears for dividend periods, whether or not consecutive, for six calendar quarters or (2) we fail to pay the redemption price, plus accrued and unpaid dividends, if any, on the redemption date for shares of Series B Preferred Stock following a fundamental change.
     
So long as any shares of Series B Preferred Stock remain outstanding, we will not, without the consent of the holders of at least two-thirds of the shares of Series B Preferred Stock outstanding at the time (voting separately as a class with all other series of preferred stock, if any, on parity with our Series B Preferred Stock upon which like voting rights have been conferred and are exercisable) issue or increase the authorized amount of any class or series of shares ranking senior to the outstanding shares of the Series B Preferred Stock as to dividends or upon liquidation. In addition, we will not, subject to certain conditions, amend, alter or repeal provisions of our certificate of incorporation, including the certificate of designation relating to the Series B Preferred Stock, whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise, so as to adversely amend, alter or affect any power, preference or special right of the outstanding shares of Series B Preferred Stock or the holders thereof without the affirmative vote of not less than two-thirds of the issued and outstanding Series B Preferred Stock shares.

 

95


Table of Contents

Series 1 Preferred Shares — Redeemable minority interest
In connection with our acquisition of Global Thermoelectric Inc. (“Global”) in November 2003, we acquired 1,000,000 Series 2 Preferred Shares (“Series 2 Preferred Shares”). With the sale of Global in May of 2004, the Series 2 Preferred Shares were cancelled, and replaced with substantially equivalent Series 1 Preferred Shares (“Series 1 Preferred Shares”) issued by FCE Ltd.
The fair value of the Series 2 Preferred Shares was determined at the acquisition date of Global using the income method. In applying this method, cash flows were estimated for the life of the securities and then discounted to present value to arrive at an indication of fair value. Amounts projected and then discounted included future dividend payments and conversion of the securities in 2020. Implicit in this valuation are certain assumptions regarding timing and payment of dividends and the ultimate conversion of the securities. Because the Series 1 Preferred Shares were issued as a replacement of the Series 2 Preferred Shares with equivalent terms and dividend requirements, the carrying value of the Series 1 Preferred Shares was set equal to the carrying value (original fair value plus any accretion of the fair value discount) of the Series 2 Preferred Shares at the date the Series 2 Preferred Shares were cancelled. The carrying value of the Series 1 Preferred Shares is adjusted quarterly to reflect dividend payments and accretion of the fair value discount established at the acquisition date. As of October 31, 2010 and 2009, the Series 1 Preferred Shares had a carrying value of $16.8 million and $15.0 million, respectively.
The significant terms of the Series 1 Preferred Shares include the following:
   
Voting Rights — The holders of the Series 1 Preferred shares are not entitled to any voting rights or to receive notice of or to attend any meeting of the shareholders of FCE Ltd., but shall be entitled to receive notice of meetings of shareholders of FCE Ltd. called for the purpose of authorizing the dissolution or sale of its assets or a substantial part thereof.
   
Dividends — Quarterly dividends of Cdn.$312,500 ($306,719 based on the October 31, 2010 exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00) accrue on the Series 1 Preferred Shares (subject to possible reduction pursuant to the terms of the Series 1 Preferred Shares on account of increases in the price of our common stock). We have agreed to pay a minimum of Cdn.$500,000 in cash or common stock annually to Enbridge, the sole holder of the Series 1 Preferred Shares, as long as Enbridge holds these shares. Interest accrues on cumulative unpaid dividends at an annual rate of 9 percent, compounded quarterly. All cumulative unpaid dividends must be paid by December 31, 2010. Using an exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00, cumulative unpaid dividends and accrued interest was $11.9 million as of October 31, 2010. Subsequent to December 31, 2010 the required annual dividend payment increases to Cdn.$1.25 million ($1.23 million based on an exchange rate of Cdn.$0.98 to U.S.$1.00). We have guaranteed FCE Ltd.’s dividend obligations under the Series 1 Preferred Shares. During the year ended October 31, 2010, we paid cash dividends totaling Cdn.$500,000. Refer to Note 19 — Subsequent Events which describes changes to this obligation since the Balance Sheet date.
     
Dividend and accrued interest payments can be made in cash or common stock, at the option of FCE Ltd., and such shares issued may be unregistered. If FCE Ltd. elects to make such payments using shares of common stock, the number of common shares is determined by dividing the cash dividend obligation by 95 percent of the volume weighted average price at which the common shares have been traded on NASDAQ during the 20 consecutive trading days preceding the end of the calendar quarter for which such dividend in common shares is to be paid converted into Canadian dollars using the Bank of Canada’s noon rate of exchange on the day of determination.

 

96


Table of Contents

   
Redemption — FCE Ltd. may redeem in whole or in part the Series 1 Preferred Shares if the trading price of our common stock for a calculated period is not less than 120 percent of the current conversion price plus all accrued and unpaid dividends. The Series 1 Preferred Shares are redeemable by FCE Ltd. for Cdn.$25 per share plus all unpaid dividends and accrued interest. Holders of the Series 1 Preferred Shares do not have any mandatory or conditional redemption rights.
   
Liquidation or Dissolution — In the event of the liquidation or dissolution of FCE Ltd., the holders of Series 1 Preferred Shares will be entitled to receive Cdn.$25 per share plus all unpaid dividends and accrued interest. We have guaranteed any liquidation obligations of FCE Ltd.
   
Conversion Rights — A holder of Series 1 Preferred Shares has the right to convert such shares into fully paid and non-assessable shares of FuelCell common stock at the following conversion prices:
   
Cdn$129.46 per share of our common stock after July 31, 2010 until July 31, 2015;
   
Cdn$138.71 per share of our common stock after July 31, 2015 until July 31, 2020; and
   
at any time after July 31, 2020, at a price equal to 95 percent of the then current market price (in Cdn.$) of shares of our common stock at the time of conversion.
     
The conversion rates set forth above shall be adjusted if we: (i) split our shares of common stock; (ii) pay a stock dividend; (iii) issue rights, options or other convertible securities to our common stockholders enabling them to acquire our common stock at a price less than 95 percent of the then-current price; or (iv) fix a record date to distribute to our common stockholders shares of any class of securities, indebtedness or assets.
Derivative liability related to Series 1 Preferred Shares
The conversion feature and variable dividend contained in the terms of the Series 1 Preferred Shares are not clearly and closely related to the characteristics of the Series 1 Preferred Shares. Accordingly, these features qualify as embedded derivative instruments and are required to be accounted for separately and recorded as derivative financial instruments at fair value.
The conversion feature is valued using a lattice model. This is a one-factor model used to project stochastic stock prices, while risk free rates, discount rates and foreign exchange rates are deterministic factors. Based on the pay-off profiles of the Series 1 Preferred Shares, it is assumed that we will exercise the call option to force conversion in 2020. Conversion after 2020 delivers a fixed pay-off to the investor, and is modeled as a fixed payment in 2020. The cumulative dividend is modeled as a quarterly cash dividend component (to satisfy minimum dividend payment requirement), and a one-time cumulative dividend payment in 2010. The cumulative dividend is compounded at a 2.45 percent quarterly rate. Call option strikes are adjusted for the cumulative dividend and the conversion ratio is adjusted by the accreted notional until 2010.
The variable dividend is valued using a Monte Carlo simulation model. The embedded derivative is defined as the difference between the value of a normal 5 percent annual dividend payment stream, and the value of a stock price and foreign exchange rate linked dividend payment stream. Future stock prices and exchange rates are simulated following geometric Brownian motion to determine the stock/FX linked dividend going out to the year 2020, when the Series 1 Preferred Shares are assumed to be force converted.
The assumptions used in these valuation models include historical stock price volatility, risk-free interest rate and a credit spread based on the yield indexes of technology high yield bonds, foreign exchange volatility as the security is denominated in Canadian dollars, and the closing price of our common stock. The aggregate fair value of these derivatives included within long-term debt and other liabilities on the consolidated balance sheets as of October 31, 2010 and 2009 was $0.5 million.

 

97


Table of Contents

Note 12. Segment Information
We are engaged in the development, design, production and sale of high temperature fuel cells for clean electric power generation. Critical to the success of our business is, among other things, our research and development efforts, both through customer-sponsored projects and company-sponsored projects. Management considers our research and development activities and the production and sale of our fuel cell products as one activity. Accordingly, we have identified one business segment: fuel cell power plant production and research.
Revenues, by geographic location (based on the customer’s ordering location) for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was as follows:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
 
                       
South Korea
  $ 40,148     $ 56,100     $ 46,160  
United States
    28,764       30,450       50,705  
Canada
    136       74       159  
Germany
    681       991       2,856  
Japan
    48       401       855  
 
                 
Total
  $ 69,777     $ 88,016     $ 100,735  
 
                 
Note 13. Benefit Plans
We have shareholder approved equity incentive plans, a shareholder approved Section 423 Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”) and an employee tax-deferred savings plan, which are described in more detail below.
Equity Incentive Plans
The Board adopted the 2006 and 2010 Equity Incentive Plans (collectively, the “Equity Plans”). Pursuant to the Equity Plans, 5.0 million shares of common stock were reserved for issuance. The Board is authorized to grant incentive stock options, nonstatutory stock options, stock appreciation rights (“SARs”), restricted stock awards (“RSAs”), restricted stock units, performance units, performance shares, dividend equivalent rights and other stock based awards to our officers, key employees and non-employee directors. Stock options, RSAs and SARs have restrictions as to transferability. Stock option exercise prices are fixed by the Board but shall not be less than the fair market value of our common stock on the date of the grant. SARs may be granted in conjunction with stock options. Stock options generally vest ratably over four years and expire 10 years from the date of grant. As of October 31, 2010, there were 2,005,181 shares available for grant. As of October 31, 2010, equity awards outstanding consisted of incentive stock options, nonstatutory stock options and RSAs. The Company has not issued any other type of equity award to its officers, key employees and non-employee directors. The 1998 Equity Incentive Plan remains in effect only to the extent of awards outstanding under the plan as of October 31, 2010.

 

98


Table of Contents

We account for stock options awarded to employees and non-employee directors under the fair value method. The fair value of stock options is estimated on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option valuation model and the following weighted-average assumptions:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
Expected life (in years)
    7.0       6.8       6.7  
Risk free interest rate
    3.4 %     2.3 %     3.2 %
Volatility
    72.2 %     72.4 %     64.0 %
Dividends yield
    0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
The expected life is the period over which our employees are expected to hold the options and is based on historical data for similar grants. The risk free interest rate is based on the expected U.S. Treasury rate over the expected life. Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of our stock. Dividend yield is based on our expected dividend payments over the expected life.
Share-based compensation was reflected in the consolidated statements of operations as follows:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
 
                       
Cost of product sales and revenues
  $ 761     $ 1,029     $ 1,004  
Cost of research and development contracts
    175       188       235  
General and administrative expense
    1,397       2,802       3,287  
Research and development expense
    627       780       940  
 
                 
Total share-based compensation
  $ 2,960     $ 4,799     $ 5,466  
 
                 
The following table summarizes our stock option activity for the year ended October 31, 2010:
                 
            Weighted-  
            Average  
Options   Shares     Option Price  
Outstanding at October 31, 2009
    5,740,705     $ 10.86  
Granted
    171,139     $ 2.89  
Exercised
        $ 0.00  
Cancelled
    (793,643 )   $ 14.57  
 
             
Outstanding at October 31, 2010
    5,118,201     $ 10.15  
 
             
The weighted average grant-date fair value per share for options granted during the periods ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $2.02, $1.97 and $5.44, respectively. There were no options exercised in fiscal 2010. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the periods ended October 31, 2009 and 2008 was $0.1 million and $2.2 million, respectively.

 

99


Table of Contents

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable at October 31, 2010:
                                         
    Options Outstanding     Options Exercisable  
            Weighted                
            Average     Weighted Average             Weighted Average  
Range of   Number     Remaining     Exercise     Number     Exercise  
Exercise Prices   outstanding     Contractual Life     Price     exercisable     Price  
 
                                       
$0.27 — $5.10
    383,091       8.8     $ 2.89       336,105     $ 2.87  
$5.11 — $9.92
    2,909,087       5.6     $ 8.01       2,320,137     $ 7.96  
$9.93 — $14.74
    1,320,523       3.7     $ 12.10       1,309,223     $ 12.11  
$14.75 — $19.56
    139,500       1.3     $ 15.81       139,500     $ 15.81  
$19.57 — $24.39
    217,000       0.4     $ 23.01       217,000     $ 23.01  
$24.40 — $29.21
    15,000       0.4     $ 25.25       15,000     $ 25.25  
$29.22 — $34.03
    134,000       0.1     $ 29.91       134,000     $ 29.91  
 
                                   
 
                                       
 
    5,118,201       4.9     $ 10.15       4,470,965     $ 10.48  
 
                                   
There was no intrinsic value for options outstanding and exercisable at October 31, 2010.
During fiscal year 2010, we granted 774,849 RSAs to employees. RSA expense is based on the fair value of the award at the date of grant and is amortized over the vesting period, generally four years. The weighted average grant-date fair value of RSAs was $2.65 per share. During the year, 25,160 RSAs were cancelled. At October 31, 2010, there were 1,207,534 outstanding RSAs with an average remaining life of 1.8 years and an aggregate intrinsic value of $1.4 million.
As of October 31, 2010, total compensation cost related to nonvested stock options and RSAs not yet recognized was $1.8 million and $2.8 million, respectively, which is expected to be recognized over the next 1.1 and 2.8 years, respectively, on a weighted-average basis.
Stock may be issued to employees as part of the annual incentive bonus. During fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, we issued 233,822, 355,253 and 140,271 shares of common stock, respectively, in lieu of cash bonuses with values of $0.7 million, $1.1 million and $1.1 million, respectively, to fulfill the accrued obligation from each of the prior fiscal years.
During fiscal 2008 we issued 9,387 shares of common stock to directors as compensation in lieu of cash. No shares were issued to directors as compensation in 2010 or 2009.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
There were 900,000 shares of common stock reserved for issuance under the ESPP. Under the ESPP, eligible employees have the right to purchase shares of common stock at the lesser of (i) 85 percent of the last reported sale price of our common stock on the first business day of the offering period, or (ii) 85 percent of the last reported sale price of the common stock on the last business day of the offering period, in either case rounded up to avoid impermissible trading fractions. Shares issued pursuant to the ESPP contain a legend restricting the transfer or sale of such common stock for a period of six months after the date of purchase. As of October 31, 2010, there were 127,703 shares of common stock available for issuance under the ESPP.

 

100


Table of Contents

ESPP activity for the year ended October 31, 2010 was as follows:
         
    Number of  
Options   Shares  
Balance at October 31, 2009
    207,207  
Issued @ 2.70
    (39,858 )
Issued @ 2.34
    (39,646 )
 
     
Outstanding at October 31, 2010
    127,703  
 
     
The fair value of shares under the ESPP was determined at the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
Expected life (in years)
    0.5       0.5       0.5  
Risk free interest rate
    0.2 %     0.7 %     2.1 %
Volatility
    94.0 %     99.0 %     68.9 %
Dividends yield
    0.0 %     0.0 %     0.0 %
The weighted-average fair value of shares issued under the ESPP during fiscal 2010 was $2.52 per share.
Employee Tax-Deferred Savings Plans
We offer a 401(k) plan (the “Plan”) to all full time employees that provides for tax-deferred salary deductions for eligible employees (beginning the first month following an employee’s hire date). Employees may choose to make voluntary contributions of their annual compensation to the Plan, limited to an annual maximum amount as set periodically by the Internal Revenue Service. We provide discretionary matching contributions equal to 100 percent of the employee’s contribution amount, up to a maximum of 6 percent of the employee’s annual salary. Participants are required to contribute a minimum of 3 percent in order to be eligible to participate and receive the matching contribution. Matching contributions begin vesting after one year and are fully vested after five years. Employee contributions are fully vested when made. Under the Plan, there is no option available to the employee to receive or purchase our common stock. In February 2009, we suspended our matching contribution. Matching contributions under the Plan were $0.5 million and $1.7 million for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Note 14. Income Taxes
The components of loss from continuing operations before income taxes for the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009, and 2008 were as follows:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
 
                       
U.S.
  $ (53,868 )   $ (66,582 )   $ (91,500 )
Foreign
    (2,367 )     (2,092 )     (1,857 )
 
                 
Loss before income taxes
  $ (56,235 )   $ (68,674 )   $ (93,357 )
 
                 
There was a current income tax expense of $0.1 million related to foreign withholding taxes in South Korea and no deferred federal income tax expense (benefit) for the year ended October 31, 2010. There was no current or deferred federal income tax expense (benefit) for the years ended October 31, 2009 and 2008. Franchise tax expense, which is included in administrative and selling expenses, was $0.2 million, $0.2 million and $0.2 million for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

101


Table of Contents

The reconciliation of the federal statutory income tax rate to our effective income tax rate for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was as follows:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
Statutory federal income tax rate
    (34.0 )%     (34.0 )%     (34.0 )%
 
                       
Increase (decrease) in income taxes resulting from:
                       
State taxes net of Federal benefits
    (2.0 )     (1.6 )     (3.4 )
Net operating loss adjustment
    1.6       0.5       (1.3 )
Nondeductible expenditures
    1.7       1.7       1.4  
Change in State tax rate
    7.6       12.8        
Other, net
          0.1       0.7  
Valuation allowance
    25.1       20.5       36.6  
 
                 
 
                       
Effective income tax rate
    %     %     %
 
                 
Our deferred tax assets and liabilities consisted of the following at October 31, 2010 and 2009:
                 
    2010     2009  
Deferred tax assets:
               
Compensation and benefit accruals
  $ 3,855     $ 3,665  
Bad debt and other reserves
    3,028       2,444  
Capital loss and tax credit carry-forwards
    5,885       5,456  
Investment in Versa
    2,491       2,305  
Net operating loss
    188,963       175,363  
Deferred license revenue
    3,178       3,646  
Lower of cost or market inventory reserves
    1,897       3,635  
 
           
Gross deferred tax assets:
    209,297       196,514  
Valuation allowance
    (207,622 )     (194,087 )
 
           
Deferred tax assets after valuation allowance
    1,675       2,427  
Deferred tax liability:
               
Investment in partnerships
    (581 )     (509 )
Accumulated depreciation
    (1,094 )     (1,918 )
 
           
Gross deferred tax liability
    (1,675 )     (2,427 )
 
           
Net deferred tax assets
  $     $  
 
           
We continually evaluate our deferred tax assets as to whether it is “more likely than not” that the deferred tax assets will be realized. In assessing the realizability of our deferred tax assets, management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income and tax planning strategies. Based on the projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are realizable, management believes that significant uncertainty exists surrounding the recoverability of the deferred tax assets. As a result, we recorded a full valuation allowance against our net deferred tax assets. Approximately $4.2 million of the valuation allowance will reduce additional paid in capital upon subsequent recognition of any related tax benefits.
At October 31, 2010, we had federal and state NOL carryforwards of $541 million and $343 million, respectively, for which a portion of the NOL has not been recognized in connection with share-based compensation. The Federal NOLs expire in varying amounts from 2020 through 2030 while state NOLs expire in varying amounts from 2011 through 2030. Additionally, we had $8.7 million of state tax credits available, of which $1.0 million expires in 2018. The remaining credits do not expire.
Certain transactions involving the Company’s beneficial ownership occurred in fiscal 2010 and prior years, which could have resulted in a stock ownership change for purposes of Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. We have completed a detailed Section 382 study in fiscal 2010 to determine if any of our NOL and credit carryovers will be subject to limitation. Based on that study we have determined that there was no ownership change as of the end of our 2010 fiscal year under Section 382.

 

102


Table of Contents

As discussed in Note 1, we adopted guidance for how a company should recognize, measure, present, and disclose in its financial statements uncertain tax positions that the company has taken or expects to take on a tax return (including a decision whether to file or not file a return in a particular jurisdiction). There was no cumulative effect on retained earnings from the adoption of this guidance, although NOL carryforwards and the related valuation allowance were adjusted by $15.7 million.
The liability for unrecognized tax benefits at October 31, 2010 and 2009 was $15.7 million. This amount is directly associated with a tax position taken in a year in which federal and state NOL carryforwards were generated. Accordingly, the amount of unrecognized tax benefit has been presented as a reduction in the reported amounts of our federal and state NOL carryforwards. It is our policy to record interest and penalties on unrecognized tax benefits as income taxes; however, because of our significant NOLs, no provision for interest or penalties has been recorded.
We file income tax returns in the U.S. and various states, primarily Connecticut and California. We are open to examination by the Internal Revenue Service and various states in which we file for fiscal years 1998 to the present. We are currently not under any income tax examinations.
Note 15. Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings (loss) per common share (“EPS”) are generally calculated as income (loss) available to common shareholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted EPS is generally calculated as income (loss) available to common shareholders divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding plus the dilutive effect of common share equivalents. The calculation of basic and diluted EPS for the years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was as follows:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
Numerator
                       
 
                       
Net loss
  $ (56,326 )   $ (68,674 )   $ (93,357 )
Preferred stock dividend
    (3,201 )     (3,208 )     (3,208 )
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest
    663              
 
                 
Net loss to common shareholders
  $ (58,864 )   $ (71,882 )   $ (96,565 )
 
                 
Denominator
                       
 
                       
Weighted average basic common shares
    93,925,863       72,392,928       68,570,689  
Effect of dilutive securities (1)
                 
 
                 
Weighted average diluted common shares
    93,925,863       72,392,928       68,570,689  
 
                 
 
                       
Basic loss per share
    (0.63 )     (0.99 )     (1.41 )
 
                       
Diluted loss per share (1)
    (0.63 )     (0.99 )     (1.41 )
     
(1)  
Due to the net loss to common shareholders in each of the years presented above, diluted earnings per share was computed without consideration to potentially dilutive instruments as their inclusion would have been antidilutive. Potentially dilutive instruments include stock options, warrants and convertible preferred stock. At October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, there were options to purchase 5.1 million, 5.7 million and 6.0 million shares of common stock, respectively. There were no outstanding warrants as of October 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. As of October 31, 2008, there were outstanding warrants to purchase 500,000 shares of common stock. See Note 11 for further information on preferred stock.

 

103


Table of Contents

Note 16. Commitments and Contingencies
Lease agreements
In December 2006, we entered into a master lease agreement that allows for the lease of computer equipment up to an aggregate cost of $2.5 million. As of October 31, 2010, we had capital lease obligations of $0.1 million. Lease payment terms are thirty six months from the date of lease.
We also lease certain computer and office equipment and manufacturing facilities in Torrington, and Danbury, Connecticut under operating leases expiring on various dates through 2015. Rent expense was $1.4 million, $1.4 million and $1.3 million for the fiscal years ended October 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.
Non-cancelable minimum payments applicable to operating and capital leases as of October 31, 2010 were as follows:
                 
    Operating     Capital  
    Leases     Leases  
2011
  $ 809     $ 103  
2012
    780       31  
2013
    772        
2014
    773        
2015
    448        
Thereafter
    75        
 
           
Total
  $ 3,657     $ 134  
 
           
Service and warranty agreements
Under the provisions of our LTSAs, we provide services to maintain, monitor, and repair customer power plants to meet minimum operating levels. Should the power plant not meet the minimum operating levels, we may be required to replace the fuel cell stack with a new or used stack. Our reserves on LTSA contracts totaled $6.6 million, $6.0 million and $4.0 million as of October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Our reserve estimates include cost assumptions based on what we anticipate the service requirements will be to meet our contractual obligations on a contract by contract basis. We have incurred and expect to continue to incur costs in excess of our minimum contractual liabilities in order to maintain customer power plants under our LTSAs. The revenue and cost of our LTSAs in the fiscal years ended October 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, were as follows:
                         
    2010     2009     2008  
 
                       
Revenue
  $ 6,850     $ 5,015     $ 4,222  
Costs
    (20,774 )     (19,386 )     (24,151 )
 
                 
Costs in Excess of revenue
  $ (13,924 )   $ (14,371 )   $ (19,929 )
 
                 
In fiscal 2008, our five-year fuel cell stack went into production and was placed in service during fiscal 2009, extending the expected life by two years. Service agreements related to power plants that have the five-year stack design are not expected to require a stack change to continue to meet minimum operating levels although we have limited operating experience with these products. Power plants that do not have the new design may require a stack replacement and we expect to continue to incur costs for stack changes as the older three-year stacks reach end of life.
Power purchase agreements
Under the terms of our PPAs, customers agree to purchase power from our fuel cell power plants at negotiated rates, generally for periods of five to ten years. Electricity rates are generally a function of the customers’ current and future electricity pricing available from the grid. As owner of the power plants, we are responsible for all operating costs necessary to maintain, monitor and repair the power plants. Under certain agreements, we are also responsible for procuring fuel, generally natural gas, to run the power plants. The assets, including fuel cell power plants, are carried at book value which approximates fair value based on our estimates of future revenues and expenses. Should actual results differ from our estimates, our results of operations could be negatively impacted. We are not required to produce minimum amounts of power under our PPA agreements and we have the right to terminate PPA agreements by giving written notice to the customer, subject to certain exit costs.

 

104


Table of Contents

Other
We are involved in legal proceedings, claims and litigation arising out of the ordinary conduct of our business. Although we cannot assure the outcome, management presently believes that the result of such legal proceedings, either individually, or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial statements, and no material amounts have been accrued in our consolidated financial statements with respect to these matters.
Note 17. Supplemental Cash Flow Information
The following represents supplemental cash flow information:
                         
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2010     2009     2008  
Cash Interest Paid
  $ 241     $ 264     $ 101  
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
                       
Common stock issued for employee annual incentive bonus
          1,076       1,050  
Note 18. Quarterly Information (Unaudited — see accompanying accountants’ report)
Selected unaudited financial data for each quarter of fiscal years 2010 and 2009 is presented below. We believe that the information reflects all normal recurring adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the information for the periods presented.
                                         
    First     Second     Third     Fourth     Full  
    Quarter     Quarter     Quarter     Quarter     Year  
Year ended October 31, 2010
                                       
Revenues
  $ 14,616     $ 16,587     $ 18,873     $ 19,701     $ 69,777  
Loss on operations
    (14,269 )     (15,436 )     (12,559 )     (12,101 )     (54,365 )
Net loss
    (14,718 )     (15,978 )     (13,114 )     (12,516 )     (56,326 )
Preferred stock dividends
    (802 )     (800 )     (799 )     (800 )     (3,201 )
Net loss to common shareholders
    (15,434 )     (16,682 )     (13,825 )     (12,923 )     (58,864 )
Net loss to common shareholders per
basic and diluted common share (1)
  $ (0.18 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.15 )   $ (0.11 )   $ (0.63 )
 
                                       
Year ended October 31, 2009
                                       
Revenues
  $ 21,723     $ 22,864     $ 23,017     $ 20,412     $ 88,016  
Loss on operations
    (19,435 )     (18,395 )     (14,487 )     (14,048 )     (66,365 )
Net loss
    (19,919 )     (19,080 )     (14,915 )     (14,760 )     (68,674 )
Preferred stock dividends
    (802 )     (802 )     (802 )     (802 )     (3,208 )
Net loss to common shareholders
    (20,721 )     (19,882 )     (15,717 )     (15,562 )     (71,882 )
Net loss to common shareholders per basic and diluted common share (1)
  $ (0.30 )   $ (0.29 )   $ (0.21 )   $ (0.20 )   $ (0.99 )
 
     
(1)  
The full year net loss to common shareholders basic and diluted share may not equal the sum of the quarters due to weighting of outstanding shares.

 

105


Table of Contents

Note 19. Subsequent Events
Registered Direct Offering
On January 10, 2011 we announced entry into a definitive agreement with an institutional investor to sell an aggregate of 10,160,428 units at a negotiated price of $1.87 per unit, with each unit consisting of (i) one share of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (“Common Stock”) and (ii) one warrant to purchase 1.0 share of Common Stock, in a registered direct offering for gross proceeds of $19.0 million. The net proceeds from the sale of the units, after deducting the placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses, will be approximately $17.8 million. We intend to use the proceeds from this offering for product development, project financing, expansion of manufacturing capacity, and general corporate purposes.
The warrants have an exercise price of $2.29 per share and are exercisable beginning on the date that is six months and one day after the closing date and will expire twenty one months after issuance. Additionally, FuelCell Energy will obtain the right, subject to certain conditions, to require the investor to purchase up to 10.0 million additional shares approximately nine months after the initial closing date of the transaction. The sale price for the additional shares will be based on a fixed ten percent discount to a volume weighted average price (“VWAP”) measurement at the time FuelCell Energy exercises the option. FuelCell Energy cannot require the investor to purchase more than $20 million of additional shares.
The offering closed on January 13, 2011. Lazard Capital Markets LLC served as the sole placement agent for the offering.
Series 1 Preferred Share Obligation
As previously disclosed, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary (FCE Ltd) had a $12.5 million obligation originally due to Enbridge on December 31, 2010. The Company and Enbridge have been in negotiations to modify certain terms of the Series 1 preferred share agreement, and have agreed to extend the payment deadline to January 31, 2011 to continue these negotiations. Under the existing terms, FCE Ltd. has the option of meeting this obligation through a cash payment or with unregistered shares of FuelCell Energy, Inc. common stock. The Company is a guarantor of FCE Ltd’s obligations to Enbridge. Enbridge is currently negotiating new terms that, as proposed, may require payments in excess of those we believe we are obligated to pay. While the Company intends to achieve the most favorable outcome in light of its obligations under the Series 1 preferred shares, it can not presently predict the final terms of any agreement with Enbridge.
This obligation relates to dividends accrued on the series 1 preferred stock acquired in the 2003 acquisition of Global Thermoelectric, Inc (GTI). This obligation has been reported in temporary equity on the balance sheet as redeemable preferred stock of subsidiary. The Company acquired Global Thermoelectric due to their expertise in solid oxide fuel cell technology. At the time of the acquisition, Enbridge owned preferred shares in GTI. Refer also to Note 11 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Revolving Credit Facility
In January 2011, the Company entered into a $5.0 million revolving credit facility with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and the Export-Import Bank of the United States. The credit facility is to be used for working capital to finance the manufacture and production and subsequent export sale of the Company’s products or services. The agreement has a one year term with renewal provisions. The outstanding principal balance of the facility will bear interest, at the option of the Company of either the one-month LIBOR plus 1.5 percent or the prime rate of JP Morgan Chase. The facility is secured by certain working capital assets and general intangibles, up to the amount of the outstanding facility balance.

 

106


Table of Contents

Item 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
None.
Item 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures, which are designed to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the Company’s periodic SEC reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to provide reasonable assurance that information required to be disclosed in the Company’s periodic SEC reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to its principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.
We, as members of management of FuelCell Energy, Inc., and its subsidiaries (the “Company”), are responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America. Internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:
   
Pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;
   
Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles of the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and
   
Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive and financial officers, we assessed the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2010, based on criteria for effective internal control over financial reporting established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework , issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on this assessment, we have concluded that the Company maintained effective internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2010 based on the specified criteria.

 

107


Table of Contents

Changes In Internal Control Over Financial Reporting.
There have been no changes in the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting during the most recent fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Item 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.
PART III
Item 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2010 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days from fiscal year end.
Item 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2010 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days from fiscal year end.
Item 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2010 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days from fiscal year end.
Item 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2010 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days from fiscal year end.
Item 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES
Information required under this Item is incorporated by reference to the Company’s 2010 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days from fiscal year end.

 

108


Table of Contents

PART IV
Item 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
The following documents are filed as part of this report:
  1.  
Financial Statements — See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements at Item 8 of the Annual Report on Form 10-K.
  2.  
Financial Statement Schedules — Supplemental schedules are not provided because of the absence of conditions under which they are required or because the required information is given in the financial statements or notes thereto
  3.  
Exhibits — The following exhibits are filed as part of, or incorporated by reference into, this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
EXHIBITS TO THE 10-K
       
Exhibit No.   Description
 
     
3.1
    Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, as amended, July 12, 1999 (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 8-K dated September 21, 1999)
 
     
3.1.1
    Certificate of Amendment of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, dated October 31, 2003 (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 8-K dated November 4, 2003)
 
     
3.2
    Restated By-Laws of the Registrant, dated July 13,1999 (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 8-K dated September 21, 1999)
 
     
4
    Specimen of Common Share Certificate (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10K/A for fiscal year ended October 31, 1999)
 
     
4.1
    Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of February 7, 2007, by and between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and POSCO Power (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 8-K dated February 20, 2007)
 
     
4.2
    Schedule A to Articles of Amendment of FuelCell Energy, Ltd., setting forth the rights, privileges, restrictions and conditions of Class A Cumulative Redeemable Exchangeable Preferred Shares (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended January 31, 2009).
 
     
4.3
    Certificate of Designation for the 5% Series B Cumulative Convertible Perpetual Preferred Stock (Liquidation Preference $1,000) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 contained in the Company’s Form 8-K, dated November 22, 2004).
 
     
4.4
    Securities Purchase Agreement dated as of June 9, 2009, by and between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and POSCO Power (incorporated by reference to exhibit 4.01 contained in the Company’s Form 8-K, dated November 2, 2009).
 
     
10.1
    ** Alliance Agreement between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and POSCO Power, dated as of February 7, 2007 (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 10-Q/A for the period ended January 31, 2009).

 

109


Table of Contents

EXHIBITS TO THE 10-K
       
Exhibit No.   Description
 
     
10.2
    ** Technology Transfer, License and Distribution Agreement between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and POSCO Power, dated as of February 7, 2007 (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 10-Q/A for the period ended January 31, 2009).
 
     
10.3
    Loan agreement, dated April 29, 2008, between the Company and the Connecticut Development Authority (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Form 10-Q for the period ended January 31, 2009).
 
     
10.4
    ** Stack Technology Transfer and License Agreement dated as of October 27, 2009, by and between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and POSCO Power (incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.1 of the Company’s Form 8-K, dated November 2, 2009).
 
     
10.5
    ** Contract for the Supply of DFC Modules and DFC Components dated as of June 9, 2009, by and between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and POSCO Power (incorporated by reference to exhibit 10.2 of the Company’s Form 8-K, dated November 2, 2009).
 
     
10.21
    *FuelCell Energy, Inc. 1988 Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s Amendment No. 1 to its Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 33-47233) dated June 1, 1992)
 
     
10.36
    *The FuelCell Energy, Inc. Section 423 Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-KSB for fiscal year ended October 31, 1994 dated January 18, 1995)
 
     
10.41
    *Amendment No. 2 to the FuelCell Energy, Inc. Section 423 Stock Purchase Plan (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-Q for the period ended April 30, 1996 dated June 13, 1996)
 
     
10.42
    *Amendments to the FuelCell Energy, Inc. 1988 Stock Option Plan (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-Q for the period ended April 30, 1996 dated June 13, 1996)
 
     
10.48
    *Employment Agreement between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and the Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary, dated October 5, 1998 (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-K for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1998)
 
     
10.54
    *The FuelCell Energy, Inc. 1998 Equity Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 1998)
 
     
10.55
    Lease agreement, dated March 8, 2000, between the Company and Technology Park Associates, L.L.C. (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-Q for the period ended April 30, 2000)
 
     
10.56
    Security agreement, dated June 30, 2000, between the Company and the Connecticut Development Authority (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2000)
 
     
10.57
    Loan agreement, dated June 30, 2000, between the Company and the Connecticut Development Authority (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-Q for the period ended July 31, 2000)
 
     
10.60
    * Employment Agreement, dated January 12, 2006, between R. Daniel Brdar (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 8-K dated January 17, 2006).
 
     
10.61
    Export loan agreement dated January 4, 2011, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
     
10.62
    Security Agreement dated January 4, 2011, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
     
10.63
    Intracreditor Subordination and Confirmation Agreement made and effective as of January 4, 2011 by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
     
10.64
    Promissory Note dated January 4, 2011, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
     
10.65
    * Employment Agreement, dated January 28, 2010 between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and Arthur Bottone, Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer.

 

110


Table of Contents

EXHIBITS TO THE 10-K
       
Exhibit No.   Description
 
     
14
    Code of Ethics applicable to the Company’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. (incorporated by reference to exhibit of the same number contained in the Company’s 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2003)
 
     
21
    Subsidiaries of the Registrant
 
     
23.1
    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
     
31.1
    Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
 
     
31.2
    Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
 
     
32.1
    Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
 
     
32.2
    Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002
     
*  
Management Contract or Compensatory Plan or Arrangement
 
**  
Confidential Treatment has been granted for portions of this document

 

111


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized on January 14, 2011.
     
FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.
   
 
   
/s/ R. Daniel Brdar
   
 
R. Daniel Brdar
   Dated: January 14, 2011
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
   
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
         
Signature   Capacity   Date
 
       
/s/ R. Daniel Brdar
     
 
R. Daniel Brdar
  Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
  January 14, 2011
 
       
/s/ Joseph G. Mahler
     
 
Joseph G. Mahler
  Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Secretary and Treasurer
(Principal Accounting and Financial Officer)
  January 14, 2011
 
       
/s/ Richard A. Bromley
Richard A. Bromley
  Director   January 13, 2011
 
       
/s/ James H. England
   
 
James H. England
  Director   January 10, 2011

 

112


Table of Contents

         
Signature   Capacity   Date
 
       
/s/ James D. Gerson
       
 
James D. Gerson
  Director   January 7, 2011
 
       
/s/ Thomas L. Kempner
       
 
Thomas L. Kempner
  Director   January 7, 2011
 
       
/s/ William A. Lawson
       
 
William A. Lawson
  Director   January 7, 2011
 
       
/s/ George K. Petty
       
 
George K. Petty
  Director   January 9, 2011
 
       
/s/ John A. Rolls
       
 
John A. Rolls
  Director   January 6, 2011
 
       
/s/ Togo Dennis West Jr.
       
 
Togo Dennis West Jr.
  Director   January 7, 2011

 

113


Table of Contents

INDEX OF EXHIBITS
     
Exhibit 10.61
  Export loan Agreement dated January 4, 2011, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
   
Exhibit 10.62
  Security Agreement dated January 4, 2011, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
   
Exhibit 10.63
  Intracreditor Subordination and Confirmation Agreement made and effective as of January 4, 2011 by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
   
Exhibit 10.64
  Promissory Note dated January 4, 2011, between the Company and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
     
Exhibit 10.65
  * Employment Agreement, dated January 28, 2010 between FuelCell Energy, Inc. and Arthur Bottone, Senior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer.
 
   
Exhibit 21
  Subsidiaries of the Registrant
 
   
Exhibit 23.1
  Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
   
Exhibit 31.1
  CEO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
   
Exhibit 31.2
  CFO Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
   
Exhibit 32.1
  CEO Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
   
Exhibit 32.2
  CFO Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

 

114

Exhibit 10.61
EXPORT LOAN AGREEMENT
THIS EXPORT LOAN AGREEMENT between JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and FuelCell Energy, Inc., a corporation organized and existing under the laws of Delaware (“ Borrower ”), is made and executed as of January 4, 2011. This Agreement governs the Credit Accommodations described herein. Borrower understands and agrees that: (a) in granting, issuing, renewing, or extending such Credit Accommodations, Lender is relying upon Borrower’s representations, warranties, and agreements set forth in this Agreement and the other Financing Documents; and (b) such Credit Accommodations shall be and remain subject to the following terms and conditions of this Agreement until all Borrower’s Obligations hereunder have been paid and performed in full.
ARTICLE I
CERTAIN DEFINED TERMS
Section 1.1 Definitions . Capitalized terms used but not defined in this Agreement shall have the meanings assigned those terms in the Borrower Agreement. As used herein, the following terms shall have the following meanings unless the context requires otherwise:
Adjusted One Month LIBOR Rate ” means, an interest rate per annum equal to the sum of (i) 2.50% per annum plus (ii) the quotient of (a) the interest rate determined by Lender by reference to the Reuters Screen LIBOR01 Page (or on any successor or substitute page) to be the rate at approximately 11:00 a.m. London time, on such date or, if such date is not a Business Day, on the immediately preceding Business Day, for dollar deposits with a maturity equal to one (1) month divided by (b) one minus the Reserve Requirement (expressed as a decimal) applicable to dollar deposits in the London interbank market with a maturity equal to one (1) month.
Affiliate ” shall mean any person, corporation or other entity directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Borrower and any director or officer of the Borrower or any subsidiary of the Borrower.
Agreement ” shall mean this Export Loan Agreement, as it may be amended, modified, restated, renewed and extended from time to time, together with all exhibits and schedules attached hereto from time to time. This Agreement is the Loan Agreement referred to in the Borrower Agreement.
Borrower ” shall mean FuelCell Energy, Inc. and its successors and assigns.
Borrower Agreement ” shall mean the Borrower Agreement relating to the Loan executed by Borrower for the benefit of Lender and Ex-Im Bank, in the form prescribed by Ex-Im Bank attached hereto as Exhibit A .
Borrower’s Obligations ” shall mean all loans, advances, debts, expenses, fees, liabilities, and obligations, including any accrued interest thereon, for the performance of covenants, tasks or duties or for payment of monetary amounts (whether or not such performance is then required or contingent, or such amounts are liquidated or determinable) owing by Borrower to Lender, of any kind or nature, present or future, arising in connection with the Loan. Borrower’s Obligations are the Loan Facility Obligations, as defined in the Borrower Agreement, and are included in the Liabilities, as defined in the Security Agreement and the Guaranty.

 

 


 

Business Day ” means a day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks generally are open in Connecticut and/or New York for the conduct of substantially all of their commercial lending activities and on which dealings in United States dollars are carried on in the London interbank market.
CB Floating Rate ” means the Prime Rate; provided that the CB Floating Rate shall never be less than the Adjusted One Month LIBOR Rate. Any change in the CB Floating Rate due to a change in the Prime Rate or the Adjusted One Month LIBOR Rate shall be effective from and including the effective date of such change in the Prime Rate or the Adjusted One Month LIBOR Rate, respectively.
CBFR Interest ” means interest accrued at the CB Floating Rate as contemplated by Section 2.5.
Collateral ” shall mean all real or personal property and interests in real and personal property in and upon which Lender has been granted a Lien, including the Security Interest, as security for the payment and performance of Borrower’s Obligations and all Proceeds thereof.
Credit Period ” shall be the period commencing on the Effective Date (as defined in the Borrower Agreement) and ending on the Stated Final Disbursement Date.
Default ” means any Event of Default or any event or circumstance which will constitute an Event of Default after notice or the passage of time or both.
Default Rate ” shall mean the interest otherwise applicable to the Credit Accommodations, plus three percent (3%).
Dollars ” and the sign “ $ ” shall mean dollars in lawful money of the United States of America and, in relation to all payments in Dollars hereunder, (i) same day funds paid through the Regional Clearing House Interbank Payments System, or (ii) immediately available funds paid through the Regional Federal Reserve Bank, or (iii) such other funds as may then be required by the customary procedure of member banks of the Regional Clearing House Association for the settlement of payments.
Domestic Credit Agreements ” shall mean, collectively, the following agreements together with all amendments, modifications and extensions thereof: (i) that certain Purchasing Card Agreement governing the $1,800M internal guidance line to support business credit card use; (ii) Application and Agreement for Irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit dated January 13, 2010, executed by the Borrower, as applicant for the letter of credit in the amount of up to $333,000 described therein, to the Lender; (iii) Application and Agreement for Irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit dated November 17, 2008, executed by the Borrower, as applicant for the letter of credit in the amount of up to $570,895 described therein, to the Lender; (iv) Application and Agreement for Irrevocable Standby

 

-2-


 

Letter of Credit dated May 12, 2010, executed by the Borrower, as applicant for the letter of credit in the amount of up to $3,233,149 described therein, to the Lender, (v) Application and Agreement for Irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit dated May 12, 2010, executed by the Borrower, as applicant for the letter of credit in the amount of up to $3,121,999 described therein, to the Lender, (vi) Continuing Pledge Agreement dated as of April 4, 2007 executed by the Borrower in favor of the Lender; (vii) Control Agreement dated as of April 4, 2007 executed among the Borrower, the Lender and J.P. Morgan Securities Inc., as securities intermediary; (viii) Assignment of Deposit(s) dated as of November 3, 2008 executed by the Borrower in favor of the Lender; (ix) Assignment of Deposit Account dated as of January 13, 2010 executed by the Borrower in favor of the Lender; and (x) Assignment of Deposit Account dated as of May 12, 2010 executed by the Borrower in favor of the Lender.
Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable ” means any Accounts which (a) arise as a result of the export sale of Items, (b) are eligible for insurance under the Ex-Im Bank Short-Term Comprehensive Insurance Program but are not insured due to policy limitations, (c) are not more than 60 days past due, and (d) are not supported by sight drafts or letters of credit. In no event will Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable include (i) any Accounts Receivable of the types described in paragraphs (a) through (bb) of the definition of Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable in the Borrower Agreement or (ii) any Accounts Receivable of any single Buyer whenever the portion of the Accounts Receivable of such Buyer which have not been paid within sixty (60) days from the due date is in excess of 50% of the total amount outstanding on all Accounts Receivable payable by such Buyer.
Event of Default ” shall have the meaning assigned to such term in Section 8.1 of this Agreement.
Ex-Im Bank ” shall mean the Export-Import Bank of the United States, its successors and assigns.
Ex-Im Bank Guarantee ” shall mean the Master Guarantee Agreement between Lender and Ex-Im Bank, together with (i) the Super Delegated Authority Letter Agreement between Lender and Ex-Im Bank, (ii) the Affiliate Guarantee Authorization Agreement between Lender and Ex-Im Bank and (iii) the Loan Authorization Notice.
Export-Related Borrowing Base ” shall mean, at the date of determination thereof, (a) the sum of (i) the Export-Related Inventory Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Eligible Export-Related Inventory set forth in Section 5.B.(1.) of the Loan Authorization Notice plus (ii) the Export-Related Accounts Receivable Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable set forth in Section 5.B.(2.) of the Loan Authorization Notice, less (b) such reserves and in such amounts deemed necessary and proper by Lender from time to time.
Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate ” shall mean a Borrowing Base Certificate in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B .

 

-3-


 

Export-Related Collateral ” shall mean all Export-Related Inventory, Export-Related Accounts Receivable (as such term of modified pursuant to the terms of the Waiver Letter), Export-Related General Intangibles, and all Proceeds.
Financing Documents ” shall mean, collectively, this Agreement, the Note, the Security Agreement, the Guaranty, the Borrower Agreement, the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee, the Waiver Letter, the Letter of Credit Application(s), all Letters of Credit issued pursuant hereto, and any other documents, certificates and agreements which are executed and delivered by Borrower or any other Person evidencing, securing, guaranteeing or otherwise relating to Borrower’s Obligations. The Financing Documents are the Loan Documents, as defined in the Borrower Agreement.
Highest Lawful Rate ” shall mean the maximum nonusurious rate of interest permitted to be charged by applicable Federal or Connecticut law (whichever permits the higher lawful rate) from time to time in effect.
Incorporated Covenants ” shall have the meaning given such term in Article VII.
Lender ” means JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., its successors and assigns.
Letter of Credit Application ” shall mean an Application and Agreement for Irrevocable Standby Letter of Credit or an Application and Agreement for Irrevocable Commercial Letter of Credit, as the case may be, in such form as is provided by Lender to Borrower and which is executed by Borrower and delivered to Lender in connection with a request for the issuance of a Standby Letter of Credit or a Commercial Letter of Credit, respectively, pursuant to this Agreement.
LIBOR Advance ” means the outstanding principal amount of the Note that is accruing interest at the LIBOR Rate as provided in Section 2.5.
LIBOR Interest ” means interest accruing at the LIBOR Rate as contemplated by Section 2.5.
LIBOR Period ” means, the period commencing on the day the Borrower specifies as the day any part of the outstanding principal balance of the Note is to begin to accrue interest at the LIBOR Rate as contemplated by Section 2.5 and ending on the numerically corresponding day in the calendar month that is one month thereafter, and each period of one month thereafter commencing on the last day of the preceding LIBOR Period until the Borrower elects to thereafter have no part of the outstanding principal balance of the Note accrue interest at the LIBOR Rate pursuant to Section 2.5(e); provided , that (i) if any such LIBOR Period would end on a day other than a Business Day, such LIBOR Period shall be extended to the next succeeding Business Day unless such next succeeding Business Day would fall in the next calendar month, in which case such LIBOR Period shall end on the next preceding Business Day, (ii) any LIBOR Period that commences on the last Business Day of a calendar month (or on a day for which there is no numerically corresponding day in the next succeeding calendar month) shall end on the last Business Day of the next succeeding calendar month, and (iii) any LIBOR Period that would otherwise end after the Stated Final Disbursement Date shall end on the Business Day after the Stated Final Disbursement Date.

 

-4-


 

LIBOR Rate ” means, for any LIBOR Period, the interest rate per annum equal to the sum of (i) 1.50% plus (ii) quotient of (a) the interest rate determined by Lender by reference to the Reuters Screen LIBOR01 Page (or on any successor or substitute page) to be the rate at approximately 11:00 a.m. London time, on the second Business Days immediately preceding the first day of the LIBOR Period for dollar deposits with a maturity equal to one (1) month divided by (b) one minus the Reserve Requirement (expressed as a decimal) applicable to dollar deposits in the London interbank market with a maturity equal to one (1) month.
Loan ” means the credit facility described in Section 2.1. The Loan is the Loan Facility, as defined in the Borrower Agreement.
Loan Authorization Notice ” shall mean the Loan Authorization Notice executed by Lender and delivered to and acknowledged by Ex-Im Bank setting forth the terms and conditions of the Loan, a copy of which is attached hereto as Exhibit C . The Loan Authorization Notice is the Loan Authorization Notice, as defined in the Borrower Agreement.
Maturity Date ” shall mean the first Business Day following the Stated Final Disbursement Date; provided, however, that with regard to Letter of Credit Obligations outstanding on the Stated Final Disbursement Date, the Maturity Date for any Disbursement under the Letter(s) of Credit related thereto shall be the first Business Day following the date of such Disbursement.
Note ” shall mean the promissory note of even date herewith in the original principal amount of Five Million and No/100 Dollars ($5,000,000) executed by Borrower and payable to Lender evidencing the outstanding principal balance of the Disbursements, together with all renewals, extensions, modifications, refinancings and consolidations of and substitutions for such promissory note.
Prime Rate ” means the rate of interest per annum announced from time to time by the Lender as its prime rate. The Prime Rate is a variable rate and each change in the Prime Rate is effective from and including the date the change is announced as being effective. THE PRIME RATE IS A REFERENCE RATE AND MAY NOT BE THE BANK’S LOWEST RATE.
Proceeds ” or “proceeds” shall mean, when used with respect to any of the Collateral, all products and proceeds, cash and non-cash, within the meaning of the UCC and shall include the proceeds of any and all contracts, letters of credit and insurance policies.
Property ” means any interest in any kind of property or asset, whether real, personal or mixed, tangible or intangible.
Regulation D ” means Regulation D of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System as from time to time in effect and any successor thereto or other regulation or official interpretation of said Board of Governors relating to reserve requirements applicable to member banks of the Federal Reserve System.

 

-5-


 

Reserve Requirement ” means, with respect to any LIBOR Period, the maximum aggregate reserve requirement (including all basic, supplemental, marginal and other reserves) which is imposed under Regulation D.
Requirement of Law ” means, as to any Person, any law (statutory or common), treaty, rule or regulation or determination of an arbitrator or of a Governmental Authority, in each case applicable to or binding upon the Person or any of its Property or to which the Person or any of its Property is subject.
Security Agreement ” shall mean the Security Agreement of even date herewith, executed by Borrower in favor of Lender creating the Security Interest in the Collateral described therein, together with all amendments, modifications and extensions thereof.
Security Interest ” is the security interest in the Collateral created pursuant to the Security Agreement.
Stated Final Disbursement Date ” means the date stipulated as the Final Disbursement Date in Section 10 of the Loan Authorization Notice.
Waiver Letter ” shall mean that, collectively, (i) that certain letter dated August 2, 2010 to Lender from Ex-Im Bank, (ii) that certain letter dated November 10, 2010 to Lender from Ex-Im Bank, (iii) that certain letter dated December 13, 2010 and (iv) that certain e-mail correspondence dated December 16, 2010, pursuant to which Ex-Im Bank waives some requirements under the Master Guarantee Agreement, subject to the conditions specified therein.
Section 1.2 Accounting Terms . All accounting terms used but not defined in this Agreement or the Borrower Agreement shall be construed in accordance and conformity with GAAP applied on a consistent basis. Except as expressly provided herein, terms used herein that are defined in the UCC and are not otherwise defined in this Agreement or the Borrower Agreement shall have the meanings assigned to such terms in the UCC.
ARTICLE II
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Section 2.1 Advances and Letters of Credit .
(a) Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, including without limitation the satisfaction of the conditions described in Article III, Lender agrees to establish a Revolving Loan Facility pursuant to which Lender may, in its sole discretion upon request of Borrower, make and incur Credit Accommodations in support of Export Orders, provided the Credit Accommodation Amount at any time shall not exceed the lesser of (i) the Maximum Amount, and (ii) the Export-Related Borrowing Base. All Letters of Credit issued shall be in Dollars and all Disbursements shall be made in Dollars.

 

-6-


 

(b) Lender may agree to make advances directly to Borrower or for Borrower’s account during the Credit Period, it being expressly agreed that Lender has no commitment to do so. Borrower shall request each advance under the Loan by delivering to Lender a written request therefore, an Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate, a copy of the Export Order(s) against which Borrower is requesting an advance, and such other information and documentation as Lender may require, in accordance with Section 6.10. Upon receipt of the above described information and documents by Lender, Lender shall make such advance within five (5) Business Days following Lender’s determination that all conditions to the making of such advance have been satisfied. Each advance shall be conclusively deemed to have been made at the request of and for the benefit of Borrower (a) when credited to any deposit account of Borrower maintained with Lender, or (b) when advanced in accordance with the instructions of an authorized Person. Lender, at its option, may set a cutoff time, after which all requests for advances under the Loan will be treated as having been requested on the next succeeding Business Day.
(c) Lender may agree to issue Letters of Credit on behalf of Borrower or for Borrower’s account from time to time during the Credit Period, it being expressly agreed that Lender has no commitment to do so. Standby Letters of Credit may be issued for Borrower’s account for use as a performance bond, which Standby Letters of Credit can be drawn upon by Buyers only if Borrower fails to perform its obligations with respect to the relevant Export Order. Each Disbursement to fund a drawing under a Standby Letter of Credit shall conclusively be deemed to have been made when advanced in accordance with a draw request or instructions of an authorized Person. Each Letter of Credit will be in form and substance satisfactory to Lender and if approved for issuance by Lender in its sole discretion, will be issued by Lender as soon as practicable following (a) Lender’s receipt of a completed Letter of Credit Application, an Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate, a copy of the Export Order with respect to which Borrower is requesting a Letter of Credit, and such other information and documentation as Lender may require, in accordance with Section 6.10; and (b) Lender’s determination that all conditions to issuing such Letter of Credit have been satisfied, including but not limited to the Borrower’s obligation to provide and maintain adequate collateral in the amount equivalent to twenty-five percent (25%) of the undrawn amount of each Letter of Credit issued hereunder. In no event shall (i) the expiry date of any Letter of Credit be later than twelve (12) months from the date of issuance of such Letter of Credit. Lender shall not be requested to issue during the last sixty (60) days of the Credit Period any Letter of Credit which will expire after the Stated Final Disbursement Date unless Lender agrees in writing to a renewal of the Loan, or Ex-Im Bank’s prior written approval of the issuance of such Letter of Credit is obtained.
(d) The terms and conditions of each Letter of Credit Application delivered by Borrower and accepted by Lender hereunder, including without limitation terms related to reimbursement of amounts drawn and the payment of fees and interest, are incorporated herein by this reference; provided, however, that (a) no provisions subjecting Lender and Borrower to arbitration or other dispute resolution provisions contained in any Letter of Credit Application shall be incorporated into this Agreement or applicable to Letters of Credit issued pursuant to this Agreement, and (b) to the extent that there is any conflict between the terms and conditions of any Letter of Credit Application and this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail, except for (i) definitions contained in any Letter of Credit Application, (ii) if there is any provision contained in any Letter of Credit Application which subjects the Letter of Credit issued pursuant thereto to the UCP, the UCP shall prevail and (iii) if there is any provision contained in any Letter of Credit Application for a Standby Letter of Credit which subjects the Standby Letter of Credit issued pursuant thereto to the ISP, the ISP shall prevail.
(e) The outstanding principal balance of Disbursements hereunder shall be evidenced by the Note and shall be repaid as set forth in Section 2.3 below.

 

-7-


 

(f) Interest on the outstanding principal balance of the Note shall accrue and be payable as set forth in Section 2.5 below.
(g) If the Lender determines that the introduction of any Requirement of Law, or any change in any Requirement of Law, or in the interpretation or administration of any Requirement of Law, has made it unlawful, or that any central bank or other Governmental Authority has asserted that it is unlawful, for the Lender to make the Disbursements and have interest accruing thereon on the basis of the LIBOR Rate, then, on notice thereof by the Lender to the Borrower, the Disbursements shall thereafter accrue interest at the CB Floating Rate until the Bank notifies the Borrower that the circumstances giving rise to such determination no longer exist. If the Bank determines that for any reason adequate and reasonable means do not exist for determining the LIBOR Rate for any LIBOR Period, or that the LIBOR Rate does not adequately and fairly reflect the cost to the Bank of making or maintaining the Disbursements, (i) the Bank will promptly so notify the Borrower, and (ii) thereafter, the obligation of the Bank to make or maintain the Disbursements with interest accruing thereon on the basis of the LIBOR Rate shall be suspended until the Lender revokes such notice in writing.
Section 2.2 Credit Accommodations .
(a) The amount of the Credit Accommodations available to be made or incurred hereunder at any particular time from time to time shall be equal to the difference between (a) the lesser at such time of (i) the Maximum Amount, or (ii) the Export-Related Borrowing Base; and (b) the Credit Accommodation Amount at such time. The Export-Related Borrowing Base shall be determined in accordance with this Agreement, the Borrower Agreement, the Waiver Letter and the Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate. Any Eligible Export-Related Account Receivable included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base which subsequently fails to satisfy any of the applicable eligibility criteria shall immediately cease to be included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base.
(b) Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary:
(i) Lender shall not undertake any new Credit Accommodation under this Agreement:
(A) after the Stated Final Disbursement Date;
(B) during the continuance of an Event of Default hereunder;
(C) if such Credit Accommodation has been or will be used in a manner prohibited by the Borrower Agreement; or
(D) if no outstanding Export Order(s) exist with respect to Borrower.
(ii) No Warranty Letters of Credit shall be issued by Lender under this Agreement without the prior written approval of Lender and Ex-Im Bank; and if such approval is obtained, any Warranty Letter of Credit so approved shall be issued only upon the satisfaction of all conditions to such issuance, including reserves from the Export-Related Borrowing Base, established by Lender and Ex-Im Bank.

 

-8-


 

Section 2.3 Payments and Prepayment of Borrower’s Obligations
(a) Borrower’s Obligations shall be paid (and may be prepaid) in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement, the Borrower Agreement and the Note. Unless sooner due and payable or paid pursuant to the other provisions of this Agreement, the Borrower Agreement and the Note, Borrower shall pay to Lender in full on the Maturity Date all outstanding Borrower’s Obligations, including, without limitation, the aggregate principal amount of all Disbursements then outstanding and all accrued but unpaid interest, together with all other applicable fees, costs and charges, if any, not yet paid. Disbursements made to Borrower or for Borrower’s account and repaid by Borrower during the Credit Period may, at the option of Lender and at Borrower’s request, be available on a continuous basis until the Stated Final Disbursement Date to fund Credit Accommodations made or incurred under the Loan in accordance with the terms of this Agreement and the Borrower Agreement.
(b) In accordance with the Borrower Agreement, upon demand by Lender, Borrower shall provide additional Collateral or make additional payment(s) to Lender to ensure that at all times (i) the Export-Related Borrowing Base equals or exceeds the Disbursements; and (ii) the outstanding principal balance of the Credit Accommodations that is supported by Eligible Export-Related Inventory does not exceed sixty percent (60%) of the sum of (y) the outstanding principal balance of the Disbursement(s), and (z) the undrawn face amount of all outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit hereunder.
(c) All payments made by or received from Borrower or for Borrower’s account in respect of Borrower’s Obligations (including prepayments by Borrower and Proceeds received by Lender) shall be applied by Lender first to the payment of accrued and unpaid interest, second to the payment of the principal amount of Borrower’s Obligations, and third to any unpaid costs, fees and expenses due under this Agreement and the other Financing Documents.
(d) If (i) any payment or prepayment of principal of any LIBOR Advance is made other than on the last day of the LIBOR Period for such LIBOR Advance or (ii) if Borrower fails to make a principal or interest payment with respect to any LIBOR Advance on the date such payment is due and payable, Borrower shall on demand pay to Lender any amounts required to compensate Lender for any additional losses, out-of-pocket costs or expenses which it may reasonably incur as a result of such payment or nonpayment, including any loss, cost or expense actually incurred by reason of the liquidation or reemployment of deposits or other funds acquired by Lender to fund or maintain such LIBOR Advance. A certificate of Lender setting forth any amount or amounts that Lender is entitled to receive pursuant to this Section shall be delivered to Borrower and shall be conclusive absent manifest error.

 

-9-


 

Section 2.4 Reliance by Lender on Communications and Authorizations from Borrower . In making or incurring any Credit Accommodation pursuant to this Agreement and the other Financing Documents, Lender shall be authorized to rely on any Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate, Letter of Credit Application, or other information, documentation, notice or communication which appears to have been executed and delivered by any of the authorized representatives of Borrower who are designated in the general certificate delivered by Borrower to Lender. In the event that the Person(s) authorized to execute and deliver such documents or to take action hereunder on behalf of Borrower become(s) unavailable or unable to do so, Borrower promptly shall appoint one or more successor representative(s) and shall furnish Lender with a certificate satisfactory to Lender which shall contain a copy of the resolutions or other actions taken by Borrower to authorize such appointment(s) and the specimen signature of each Person so appointed to act on behalf of Borrower pursuant to this Agreement.
Section 2.5 Interest .
(a) The outstanding principal balance of the Note shall bear interest at the option of the Borrower at either the CB Floating Rate or the LIBOR Rate, in each case as specified by Borrower to Bank in writing in form acceptable to Lender pursuant to paragraph (e) of this Section 2.5; provided that (A) if prior to the commencement of any LIBOR Period Lender determines (which determination shall be conclusive absent manifest error) that adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining the LIBOR Rate; or the Lender determines that the LIBOR Rate will not adequately and fairly reflect the cost to Lender of making or maintaining any LIBOR Advance, then the entire outstanding principal balance of the Note shall accrue interest at the CB Floating Rate; and (B) the outstanding principal amount of the Note not paid when due will bear interest from its due date until paid at the Default Rate. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if at any time the rate determined to be applicable to the outstanding principal balance of the Note pursuant to the foregoing sentence (the “ Contract Rate ”) exceeds the Highest Lawful Rate, the actual rate of interest to accrue on such principal amount will be limited to the Highest Lawful Rate, but any subsequent reductions in the Contract Rate for any reason will not reduce the interest rate payable on such amount below the Highest Lawful Rate until the total amount of interest accrued on such principal amount equals the amount of interest which would have accrued if the Contract Rate had at all times been in effect.
(b) Notwithstanding the foregoing, during the occurrence and continuance of an Event of Default, the Lender may, at its option, by notice to the Borrower (which notice may be revoked at the option of the Lender), declare that the entire outstanding principal balance of the Note shall bear interest at the Default Rate.
(c) CBFR Interest shall be paid on the last day of each calendar month and LIBOR Interest shall be paid on the last day of each applicable LIBOR Period; provided that (i) Default Interest shall be payable on demand, and (ii) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of the Note, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid shall be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment.
(d) All CBFR Interest shall be computed on the basis of a year of 365 days (or 366 days in a leap year) and all LIBOR Interest shall be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days, and in each case shall be payable for the actual number of days elapsed. The applicable CB Floating Rate or LIBOR Rate shall be determined by the Lender, and such determination shall be conclusive absent manifest error.

 

-10-


 

(e) At any time and from time to time, Borrower may notify Lender in writing in form acceptable to Lender of what portion of the outstanding principal amount of the Note Borrower elects to accrue interest at the LIBOR Rate and the first day of the LIBOR Period to apply thereto, which day shall be at least three Business Days after the date of such notice; and the remaining outstanding principal balance of the Note shall accrue interest at the CB Floating Rate; provided that (i) at no time may more than one LIBOR Period be in effect; (ii) the minimum outstanding principal amount of any LIBOR Advance shall be $100,000; and (iii) in the event Borrower fails to so notify Lender that a portion of the outstanding principal balance of the Note is to accrue interest at the LIBOR Rate, Borrower shall be deemed to have elected the CB Floating Rate to be the rate of interest applicable to the entire outstanding principal balance of the Note; and (iv) in the event Borrower fails to notify Lender at least three Business Days prior to the last day of any LIBOR Period that Borrower elects to change the outstanding principal amount of the LIBOR Advance for a new LIBOR Period, Borrower shall be deemed to have elected to continue to have the same amount continue to accrue interest at the LIBOR Rate for an additional LIBOR Period commencing on the last day of the current LIBOR Period.
ARTICLE III
CONDITIONS PRECENDENT
Section 3.1 Conditions to Credit Accommodation . Lender may elect in its sole discretion to make or not to make any Credit Accommodation requested Borrower, it being expressly agreed that Lender has no commitment to do so hereunder. Prior to making a decision about any requested Credit Accommodation, Lender requires satisfaction of each of the following conditions precedent, with all documents, instruments, opinions, reports, and other items described below to be in form and substance satisfactory to Lender:
(a) Lender shall have received evidence that this Agreement and all other Financing Documents have been duly authorized, executed, and delivered by the parties thereto and shall be and remain valid and enforceable.
(b) To the extent not previously received by Lender, Lender shall have received a general certificate of the Secretary of Borrower, dated no later than the date of the execution and delivery of this Agreement, certifying (i) that attached thereto is a true, complete and correct copy of Borrower’s organizational documents as then in effect, (ii) that attached thereto is a true, complete and correct copy of resolutions adopted by the board of directors or similar governing body of Borrower authorizing the execution and delivery of this Agreement and each of the other Financing Documents and authorizing Borrower to incur Borrower’s Obligations and to perform all other covenants and agreements of Borrower contained in this Agreement and in the other Financing Documents, and (iii) as to the incumbency and specimen signature of each officer of Borrower who is authorized to execute and deliver this Agreement, all Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificates and Letter of Credit Applications to be delivered pursuant hereto, and any other Financing Documents and other instruments, certificates and documents to be executed and delivered by Borrower hereunder.
(c) Lender shall have received satisfactory evidence that the insurance which Borrower is required to maintain pursuant to this Agreement, including but not limited to the insurance described in Section 6.6, is in full force and effect.
(d) Borrower shall have paid all of the fees, costs and expenses which are due and payable under this Agreement and any other Financing Document.

 

-11-


 

(e) Ex-Im Bank shall have acknowledged to Lender Ex-Im Bank’s receipt of the Loan Authorization Notice to Lender effecting the coverage of Borrower’s Obligations under the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee.
(f) All conditions set forth in the Loan Authorization Notice that were to be satisfied as of the date of Lender’s making or incurring the requested Credit Accommodation shall have been satisfied, and Lender otherwise shall be permitted under the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee to make and incur Credit Accommodations hereunder.
(g) All legal matters incident to the Loan and all documents necessary in the opinion of Lender to the making or incurring of Credit Accommodations shall be satisfactory in all respects to counsel for Lender.
(h) All Liens, including the Security Interest, in and upon the Collateral shall have been duly authorized, created and perfected, (i) with first priority, with respect to the Collateral described in Section 6(A) of the Loan Authorization Notice, and (ii) with the priorities set forth in Sections 6(E) and (F) of the Loan Authorization Notice with respect to other Collateral, in each case subject only to Permitted Liens, and shall be and remain valid and enforceable.
(i) Lender, at its option and for its sole benefit, shall have conducted an audit of the Collateral, books, records, and operations, and Lender shall be satisfied as to their condition.
(j) Lender shall have received a completed and executed Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate and any other information and documentation that Lender may require, in accordance with Section 4.3 hereof.
(k) (i) Borrower shall have complied with, and shall then be in compliance with, all the terms, covenants, and conditions of this Agreement, the Borrower Agreement, and all other Financing Documents which are binding upon it, (ii) there shall exist no Event of Default under this Agreement, and (iii) all representations and warranties of Borrower contained in this Agreement and all other Financing Documents shall be true and correct.
(l) Borrower shall have complied with, and shall then be in compliance with, all the terms, covenants, and conditions of any other agreement now existing or hereafter arising between Lender and Borrower, and there shall exist no default or event of default thereunder.
(m) Borrower shall have complied with applicable laws, and regulations in each instance in which Borrower has generated, handled, used, stored or disposed of any hazardous or toxic waste or substance, on or off its premises (whether or not owned by Borrower). Borrower shall have no material contingent liability for non-compliance with environmental or hazardous waste laws. Borrower shall have not received any notice that it or any of its property or operations does not comply with, or that any governmental authority is investigating its compliance with, any environmental or hazardous waste laws.
(n) There shall have been no material adverse change in the business, condition (financial or otherwise), operations, performance, property or prospects of Borrower or the Borrower’s subsidiaries since December 31, 2009.

 

-12-


 

(o) Lender shall have received from Borrower an Economic Impact Certification covering the Items described in Paragraph 4.A of the Loan Authorization Notice.
ARTICLE IV
SECURITY
Section 4.1 Collateral . To secure payment and performance of all Borrower’s Obligations, Borrower shall grant to Lender valid, enforceable and duly perfected Liens, including the Security Interest, on all Collateral. The Liens shall be of first priority with respect to the Collateral described in Section 6(A) of the Loan Authorization Notice, and the Liens shall have the priorities set forth in Sections 6(E) and (F) of the Loan Authorization Notice with respect to the other Collateral, in each case subject only to Permitted Liens. Borrower agrees that Lender shall have in respect of all Collateral that is subject to the UCC all of the rights and remedies of a secured party under the UCC in all states in which any portion of the Collateral may be located, as well as those provided in this Agreement. In the event Lender has extended or extends a loan or other credit accommodation to Borrower in addition to the Loan and receives a Lien on any assets or property, the Lien on such assets and property shall also secure Borrower’s Obligations, and Borrower agrees to execute such documents and instruments as Lender requires to extend such security to Borrower’s Obligations.
Section 4.2 Perfection of Security Interest . Borrower agrees to the filing of financing statements and the execution of other documents and to take whatever other actions are requested by Lender to perfect and continue Lender’s Liens upon the Collateral. Borrower hereby appoints Lender as its irrevocable attorney-in-fact for the purpose of executing any financing statements and other documents necessary to perfect or to continue its Liens. Lender may at any time, and without further authorization from Borrower, file a copy, photograph, facsimile, or other reproduction of any financing statement for use as a financing statement. Borrower will reimburse Lender for all expenses for the perfection, termination, and the continuation of the perfection of Lender’s Liens upon the Collateral. Borrower will promptly notify Lender of any change in Borrower’s name including any change to the assumed business names of Borrower. Borrower also will promptly notify Lender of any change in Borrower’s social security number or employer identification number. Before any cash Collateral shall be included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base, the Borrower shall cause each deposit account or other bank account in which such cash is deposited to be subject to a first priority lien in favor of Lender pursuant to an account control agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Lender. The Lender’s Security Interest in any Export-Related Accounts Receivable shall be further perfected by Borrower’s execution and delivery to Lender of any instruments, the giving of any notices and the taking of any additional steps that may be required under foreign law in order to ensure the effectiveness of the assignment of such Export-Related Accounts Receivable against the Buyer.

 

-13-


 

Section 4.3 Collateral Records and Reports; Field Examinations . Borrower does now, and at all times hereafter shall keep correct and accurate books and records of the Collateral, all of which books and records shall be available to Lender or Lender’s representative upon demand for inspection and copying at any reasonable time. In this connection, Borrower acknowledges that Lender is required by Ex-Im Bank to perform (or contract to perform) a field examination of Borrower and the Collateral in accordance with Lender’s customary procedures but in no event less than every six months. Such field examination shall include without limitation an inspection and valuation of Inventory and Other Assets, a book audit of Accounts Receivable and a review of the Accounts Receivable Aging Report. Borrower further acknowledges that Lender is required by the Ex-Im Bank to perform (or contract to perform) a review of Borrower’s sales records at least on a quarterly basis. For Revolving Loan Facilities, if Lender elects in its sole discretion to make Credit Accommodations based upon summaries of Export Orders, then at least once each quarter, Lender shall review a sampling selected by Lender of those Export Orders representing at least ten percent (10%) of the aggregate Dollar volume of Export Orders and ten percent (10%) of the number of Export Orders supporting Credit Accommodations made or incurred during the past quarter. Specifically with respect to Export-Related Collateral, Borrower agrees to keep and maintain such books and records as Lender may require. Borrower shall submit to Lender in writing from time to time upon Lender’s request and in any event no later than twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month (a) an Accounts Receivable Aging Report for the immediately preceding month, which report shall include the customer name, Dollar amount due and number of days outstanding for each Export-Related Account Receivable, (b) an Inventory schedule for the immediately preceding month, which schedule shall include the location of each Item of Inventory, (c) information concerning the status of completion of Export Orders, and (d) such other information, reports, contracts, invoices and other data relating to the Collateral as Lender may request.
Section 4.4 Payment under Borrower Letters of Credit . If the letter of credit payment terms for the country specified in a certain Export Order are specified in the Country Limitation Schedule with respect to such country, Borrower shall require that each commercial letter of credit issued for its benefit with respect to any Export-Related Account Receivable or Export-Related Inventory arising out such Export Order shall provide that all payments of drawings thereunder shall be paid for the account of Borrower directly to Borrower’s account with Lender, or, alternatively, that payment shall be made only to Lender’s account.
Section 4.5 Assignment of Foreign Credit Insurance Policy Proceeds and Buyer/Supplier Financing . Borrower shall, simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement and as and when such policies are put into effect or financing is obtained by Borrower for the benefit of any Buyer, at any time prior to the payment and performance in full of Borrower’s Obligations, assign to Lender the proceeds of all foreign credit insurance policies maintained by Borrower and any financing obtained by Borrower for the benefit of any Buyer, including, without limitation, any financing the repayment of which is guaranteed or insured by Ex-Im Bank or any other expert credit agency, such assignment to provide for payment to be made directly into Borrower’s account with Lender or to Lender.
Section 4.6 Loss of Collateral . Lender shall not be liable for the loss of any Collateral in its possession, nor shall such loss diminish Borrower’s Obligations.
Section 4.7 Negative Pledge . Until the Borrower’s Obligations hereunder have been paid in full, unless the Bank otherwise consents in writing, the Borrower agrees that it shall not create or agree to create, any Lien on the Collateral, except for Permitted Liens or Liens created for the benefit of Lender to secure the Borrower’s Obligations.

 

-14-


 

ARTICLE V
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
Borrower represents and warrants the following to Lender and Ex-Im Bank, as of the Effective Date, as of the date each Credit Accommodation is made or incurred hereunder, as of the date of any renewal, extension or modification of the Loan, and at all times any of Borrower’s Obligations are outstanding, and it is the affirmative obligation of Borrower to notify Lender in writing promptly, but in any event within five (5) Business Days, of any occurrence, circumstance or fact which would affect its ability to make the representations and warranties contained herein:
Section 5.1 Organization and Authority . Borrower is a corporation which is duly organized, validly existing, and in good standing under the laws of the state of Borrower’s formation and is duly qualified and in good standing in all other states in which Borrower is doing business except where the failure to so qualify would not be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Borrower has the full power and authority to own its properties and to transact the businesses in which it is presently engaged or presently proposes to engage. Borrower has not been suspended or debarred from doing business with the United States government. The execution, delivery, and performance of this Agreement and all other Financing Documents to which Borrower is a party have been duly authorized by all necessary action by Borrower; do not require the consent or approval of any other Person; and do not conflict with, result in a violation of, or constitute a default under (a) any provision of Borrower’s organizational documents or any other agreement or instrument binding upon Borrower, or (b) any law, governmental regulation, court decree, or order applicable to Borrower. Borrower has all requisite power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement and all other Financing Documents to which Borrower is a party.
Section 5.2 Financial Condition . Each financial statement of Borrower supplied to Lender fairly discloses financial condition of Borrower as of the date of each such statement, and there has been no material change in Borrower’s financial condition subsequent to the date of the most recent financial statement supplied to Lender, which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect. Borrower has no material contingent obligations except as disclosed in such financial statements.
Section 5.3 Legal Effect . This Agreement and all other Financing Documents to which Borrower is a party constitute legal, valid and binding obligations of Borrower enforceable against Borrower in accordance with their respective terms, except as limited by applicable bankruptcy and creditors’ rights laws, or principles of general equity.
Section 5.4 Properties . Borrower is the sole owner of, and has good title to, all of Borrower’s properties free and clear of all security interests except for Permitted Liens and Liens in favor of Lender. Title to all of Borrower’s properties are in Borrower’s legal name, and Borrower has not used, or filed a UCC financing statement under, any other name for at least the last six (6) years. Borrower possesses all permits, licenses, patents, trademarks, and copyrights required to conduct its business. All easements, rights-of-way and other rights necessary to maintain and operate Borrower’s property have been obtained and are in full force and effect.

 

-15-


 

Section 5.5 Compliance . Except as disclosed to and acknowledged by Lender in writing, (a) Borrower is conducting Borrower’s businesses in material compliance with all applicable federal, state and local laws, statutes, ordinances, rules, regulations, orders, determinations and court decisions, including, without limitation, those pertaining to health or environmental matters, and (b) Borrower otherwise does not have any contingent liability in connection with the release into the environment, disposal or the improper storage of any toxic or hazardous substance or solid waste which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
Section 5.6 Licenses . All necessary licenses, permits and authorizations required for the exporting of Items have been or will be timely obtained by Borrower, and to the best of Borrower’s knowledge, all required necessary licenses, permits and authorizations have been or will be timely obtained by each importer.
Section 5.7 Performance . Borrower has an operating history of at least one year. Borrower has sufficient financial resources with which to perform its Export Orders and to pay any costs of completing its Export Orders which are not paid from the proceeds of the Loan.
Section 5.8 Litigation and Claims . No litigation, claim, investigation, administrative proceeding or similar action (including those for unpaid taxes) against Borrower is pending or, to Borrower’s knowledge, threatened, and no other event has occurred which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect other than litigation, claims, or other events, if any, that have been disclosed to and acknowledged by Lender in writing.
Section 5.9 Taxes . All tax returns and reports of Borrower that are or were required to be filed have been filed in a timely manner, and all taxes, assessments and other governmental charges have been paid in full, except those that have been disclosed in writing to Lender which are presently being or to be contested by Borrower in good faith in the ordinary course of business and for which adequate reserves have been provided.
Section 5.10 Lien Priority . Unless otherwise previously disclosed to and approved by Lender in writing, Borrower has not entered into any security agreements, granted a Lien or permitted the filing or attachment of any Lien (other than Permitted Liens) on or affecting any of the Collateral, except in favor of Lender.
Section 5.11 Use of Proceeds . Borrower shall not use any Loan proceeds for (i) the purchasing of fixed assets, (ii) capital expenditures, or (iii) the purchasing or carrying of “margin stock” as defined in Regulation U issued by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System.
Section 5.12 Employee Benefit Plans . Each employee benefit plan as to which Borrower may have any liability complies in all material respects with all applicable requirements of law and regulations, and (a) no Reportable Event nor Prohibited Transaction (as defined in ERISA) has occurred with respect to any such plan, (b) Borrower has not withdrawn from any such plan or initiated steps to do so, (c) no steps have been taken to terminate any such plan, and (d) there are no unfunded liabilities other than those previously disclosed to Lender in writing.

 

-16-


 

Section 5.13 Location of Borrower’s Offices and Records . Borrower’s place of business, or Borrower’s chief executive office if Borrower has more than one place of business, is located at the address for notices to Borrower set forth in Section 9.4. Unless Borrower has notified Lender and Lender has acknowledged in writing to the contrary, said address is also the location of Borrower’s books and records concerning the Collateral.
Section 5.14 Export-Related Accounts Receivable .
(a) All Export-Related Accounts Receivable represented by Borrower to constitute Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable satisfy all relevant eligibility criteria.
(b) All Export-Related Receivables information contained in Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificates and related reports delivered to Lender will be true and correct, subject to immaterial variance.
(c) Lender shall have the right at any time upon reasonable notice, during normal business hours and at Borrower’s expense to confirm with Buyers the accuracy of such Export-Related Accounts Receivable information.
Section 5.15 Information . All information heretofore or contemporaneously herewith furnished by Borrower to Lender for the purposes of or in connection with this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby is, and all information hereafter furnished by or on behalf of Borrower to Lender will be, true and accurate in every material respect on the date as of which such information is dated or certified; and none of such information is or will be incomplete by omitting to state any material fact necessary to make such information not misleading. Borrower understands and agrees that Lender, without independent investigation, is relying upon the above representations and warranties in extending the Loan to Borrower. Borrower further agrees that the foregoing representations and warranties shall be continuing in nature and shall remain in full force and effect as long as any of Borrower’s Obligations remain outstanding.
ARTICLE VI
COVENANTS
Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that, while this Agreement is in effect and until all of Borrower’s Obligations are fully paid and performed, Borrower shall:
Section 6.1 Additional Liabilities . Promptly, but in any event within five (5) Business Days, inform Lender in writing (a) in the event any litigation, claim, investigation, administrative proceeding or similar action affecting Borrower which could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect is filed or threatened against Borrower, and (b) of the creation, occurrence or assumption by Borrower of any actual or contingent liabilities not permitted under this Agreement.
Section 6.2 Financial Records. Maintain or cause to be maintained books and records in accordance with GAAP, and permit Lender and Ex-Im Bank or their representatives to examine, review, audit and make and take away copies or reproductions of Borrower’s books and records at all reasonable times. If any books and records, including, without limitation, computer generated records and computer software programs for the generation of such records, now or hereafter are maintained in the possession of a third party, Borrower, upon request of Lender, shall instruct such party to permit Lender and Ex-Im Bank or their representatives free access to such records at all reasonable times and to provide Lender with copies of any records it may request, all at Borrower’s expense.

 

-17-


 

Section 6.3 Reporting Requirements . Furnish to Lender:
(a) As soon as available and in any event not later than forty-five (45) days after the end of each fiscal quarter the unaudited consolidated financial statements of Borrower as of the end of such quarter and the related unaudited statements of income and shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the period commencing at the end of the previous year and ending with the end of such quarter, and the corresponding figures as at the end of, and for, the corresponding period in the preceding fiscal year, all in reasonable detail and duly certified with respect to such statements (subject to year-end audit adjustments) by an authorized financial officer of Borrower as having been prepared in accordance with GAAP;
(b) As soon as available and in any event not later than one hundred and twenty (120) days after the end of each fiscal year, a copy of the audited annual consolidated financial statement for such year for Borrower including therein audited balance sheets of Borrower as of the end of such fiscal year and the related statements of income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for such fiscal year, and the corresponding figures as at the end of, and for, the preceding fiscal year, in each case audited and certified by a firm of independent certified public accountants of recognized standing acceptable to Lender, including any management letters delivered by such accounting firm to Borrower in connection with such audit together with a certificate of such accounting firm to Lender stating that, in the course of the regular audit of the business of Borrower which auditing was conducted by such accounting firm in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards, such accounting firm has obtained no knowledge that an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, or if, in the opinion of such accounting firm, an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, a statement as to the nature thereof;
(c) To the extent not hereinabove described, the financial statements of Borrower deliverable pursuant to the Loan Authorization Notice by the dates set forth therein.
Section 6.4 Taxes, Charges and Liens .
(a) Pay and discharge when due and prior to the date on which penalties would attach, all of Borrower’s indebtedness and obligations, including, without limitation, all assessments, taxes, governmental charges, levies and liens, of every kind and nature, imposed upon Borrower or its properties, income, or profits, and all lawful claims that, if unpaid, might become a lien or charge upon any of Borrower’s properties, income, or profits; provided, however, Borrower will not be required to pay and discharge any such assessment, tax, charge, levy, lien or claim so long as (i) the legality of the same shall be contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings, and (ii) Borrower shall have established or caused to have been established adequate reserves with respect to such contested assessment, tax, charge, levy, lien, or claim in accordance with GAAP.

 

-18-


 

(b) Borrower, upon demand of Lender, will furnish to Lender evidence of payment of the assessments, taxes, charges, levies, liens and claims and will authorize the appropriate governmental official to deliver to Lender at any time a written statement of any assessments, taxes, charges, levies, liens and claims against Borrower’s properties, income, or profits.
Section 6.5 Additional Information . Furnish to Lender such additional information and statements, lists of assets and liabilities, aging of receivables and payables, inventory schedules, budgets, forecasts, financial information on principal suppliers of Borrower, and other reports with respect to Borrower’s financial condition and business operations as Lender may reasonably request from time to time, including, without limitation, reports with respect to Borrower’s accounts payable within thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar month.
Section 6.6 Insurance . Maintain fire and other risk insurance, public liability insurance, business interruption insurance, multi-hazard insurance, export credit insurance, worker’s compensation coverage, general liability insurance, and such other insurance as Lender may require with respect to Borrower’s properties and operations, in form, amounts, coverage and with insurance companies reasonably acceptable to Lender. If Borrower fails to provide any required insurance or fails to continue such insurance in force, Lender may, but shall not be required to, obtain such insurance at Borrower’s expense, and the cost of such insurance will be added to Borrower’s Obligations. Borrower, upon request of Lender, will deliver to Lender from time to time the policies or certificates of insurance in form and substance satisfactory to Lender, including stipulations that coverage will not be canceled or changed without at least ten (10) days’ prior written notice to Lender. In connection with all policies covering any of the Collateral, Borrower will provide Lender with such loss payable or other endorsements as Lender may require; and each such policy in any event shall contain a standard non-contributing, non-reporting mortgagee or loss payee clause naming Lender as mortgagee and loss payee. Each liability insurance policy shall name Lender as additional insured. At Lender’s request Borrower shall furnish to Lender from time to time reports on each existing insurance policy including, without limitation, the following: (a) the name of the insurer; (b) the risks insured; (c) the amount of the policy; (d) the properties insured; (e) the then current property values on the basis of which insurance has been obtained, and the manner of determining those values; (f) the expiration date of the policy; and (g) such additional information as Lender may request.
Section 6.7 Other Agreements . Comply with, and cause its Affiliates to comply in all material respects with, all terms and conditions of all other agreements, whether now or hereafter existing, between Borrower and any other party, and notify Lender immediately in writing of any default in connection with any other such agreements.
Section 6.8 Performance . Perform and comply with all terms, conditions, and provisions set forth in this Agreement and in the other Financing Documents and in all Export Orders (including, without limitation, the delivery of the goods required thereby free and clear of defects and prior to the deadline specified therein) in a timely manner, and promptly notify Lender (including, without limitation, providing such notice of events as is required pursuant to the Borrower Agreement) of the occurrence of any event which constitutes or may constitute an Event of Default under this Agreement or a default under any of the other Financing Documents or Export Orders. Borrower shall, as soon as possible, take all actions necessary to entitle Borrower to receive any payments due under all Export Orders, including, without limitation, the timely drawing of drafts under any letters of credit issued for the benefit of Borrower in connection therewith and the timely presentation of any claims under any insurance policy issued by, or financing guaranteed by, Ex-Im Bank or any other insurer or guarantor.

 

-19-


 

Section 6.9 Operations . Conduct its business affairs in a reasonable and prudent manner and in compliance with all applicable federal, state, municipal, and foreign laws, ordinances, rules and regulations respecting its properties, charters, businesses and operations, including without limitation, compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, all applicable environmental statutes, rules, regulations and ordinances and with all minimum funding standards and other requirements of ERISA and other laws applicable to Borrower’s employee benefit plans.
Section 6.10 Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificates . In addition to deliveries within five (5) Business Days prior to the date each request for a Credit Accommodation is made by Borrower (if required by Lender) or as otherwise required by Lender and Ex-Im Bank, and so long as there are any Credit Accommodations outstanding under the Loan, deliver to Lender no later than the twenty (20) days after the end of each calendar month an Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate, along with such supporting documentation as Lender may request. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate shall include or be accompanied by (a) in the event Borrower is requesting Credit Accommodations, a copy of the Export Order(s) (or, for Revolving Loan Facilities, if permitted in writing by Lender, a written summary of the Export Order(s)) and related invoice(s) against which Borrower is requesting Credit Accommodations, and copies of all other documentation pursuant to which the Buyer’s obligations in respect of the Export Order(s) are evidenced, secured or guaranteed, and (b) in all cases, an Accounts Receivable Aging Report and Inventory schedule as described in Section 4.3, reconciled directly to Borrower’s month-end Accounts Receivable report, its month-end Inventory schedule, and its general ledger, adjusted for intra-month sales, receipts, credits and other adjustments.
Section 6.11 Additional Assurances . Execute, acknowledge and deliver, or cause to be executed, acknowledged or delivered, to Lender and Ex-Im Bank such promissory notes, mortgages, deeds of trust, security agreements, financing statements, instruments, documents and other agreements as Lender or Ex-Im Bank may reasonably request to evidence and secure the Loan, to perfect the Liens or otherwise facilitate the performance of this Agreement, any of the other Financing Documents and the Waiver Letter.
Section 6.12 Compliance Certificate . Unless waived in writing by Lender, provide Lender within fifteen (15) days after the end of each calendar quarter with a certificate executed by Borrower’s chief financial officer or other officer or person acceptable to Lender (a) certifying that the representations and warranties set forth in this Agreement and the other Financing Documents are true and correct as of the date of the certificate and that, as of the date of the certificate, no Event of Default exists under this Agreement, and (b) demonstrating compliance with all covenants set forth in this Agreement, including the Incorporated Covenants.

 

-20-


 

ARTICLE VII
INCORPORATED COVENANTS
Borrower covenants and agrees with Lender that, while this Agreement is in effect and until all of Borrowers’ Obligations are fully paid and performed, Borrower shall further perform and observe all of the covenants (the “ Incorporated Covenants ”) set forth in the Domestic Credit Agreements.
ARTICLE VIII
EVENTS OF DEFAULT; REMEDIES
Section 8.1 Events of Default. Each of the following shall constitute an “ Event of Default ” under this Agreement:
(a) Failure of Borrower to make any payment when due on any of Borrower’s Obligations, including, without limitation, any mandatory prepayments of Borrower’s Obligations from the Proceeds of or comprising Export-Related Accounts Receivable and such failure shall continue for five (5) days;
(b) Failure of Borrower to comply with or to perform when due any other term, obligation, covenant or condition contained in this Agreement, the Note, the Borrower Agreement or in any of the other Financing Documents which is not cured within fifteen (15) days;
(c) Failure of Borrower to pay when due any amount payable to Lender under any other loan or credit accommodation to Borrower and such failure shall continue for a period of five (5) days;
(d) The occurrence of any default or event of default under any other agreement now existing or hereafter arising between Lender and Borrower;
(e) Any warranty, representation or statement made in or furnished to Lender under this Agreement or the other Financing Documents is false or misleading in any material respect when made or furnished, or becomes false or misleading in any material respect at any time thereafter;
(f) The occurrence of any event which permits the acceleration of the maturity of any indebtedness owing by Borrower to any third party under any agreement or undertaking, or any such indebtedness shall not be paid as and when due;
(g) The occurrence of any event of default whether or not caused, directly or indirectly, by actions or omissions of Borrower or any third party under any agreement or undertaking entered into by Borrower, past any cure period provided thereon;

 

-21-


 

(h) Borrower (i) applies for, consents to or suffers the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee, liquidator or similar fiduciary of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property or calls a meeting of its creditors, (ii) admits in writing its inability, or is generally unable, to pay its debts as they become due or ceases operations of its present business, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, (iv) commences a voluntary case under any state or federal bankruptcy laws (as now or hereafter in effect), (v) is adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent, (vi) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law providing for the relief of debtors, (vii) acquiesces to, or fails to have dismissed within thirty (30) days, any petition filed against it in any involuntary case under such bankruptcy laws, (viii) is the subject of any proceeding for the liquidation of its assets or dissolution, or (ix) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing.
(i) The Borrower becomes the subject of any merger or consolidation.
(j) Commencement of foreclosure or forfeiture proceedings, whether by judicial proceeding, self-help, repossession or any other method, by any creditor of Borrower, or by any governmental agency; or the issuance of any levy, assessment, attachment, seizure or Lien, other than a Permitted Lien, against any of the Collateral which is not stayed or lifted within fifteen (15) days.
(k) The occurrence of an event of default under the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee or the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee ceases to be in effect for any reason whatsoever without Lender’s prior written consent, including, without limitation, Borrower’s failure to pay all fees due Ex-Im Bank.
(l) Any material delay occurs in Borrower’s performance of its obligations under any Export Order, unless such delay is due to force majeure and Borrower is able to satisfy Lender that the delay will not cause a default under the applicable Export Order or diminish the Buyer’s payment obligations thereunder; or a material adverse change occurs in the financial condition of any supplier to Borrower.
(m) An event occurs which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
(n) Any Lien in any of the Collateral granted or intended by the Financing Documents to be granted to Lender ceases to be a valid, enforceable, perfected, first priority Lien (or a lesser priority if expressly permitted pursuant to Section 6 of the Loan Authorization Notice) subject only to Permitted Liens.
(o) Any material provision of any Financing Document for any reason ceases to be valid, binding and enforceable in accordance with its terms.
(p) Any litigation is filed against Borrower which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and such litigation is not withdrawn or dismissed within thirty (30) days of the filing thereof.

 

-22-


 

Section 8.2 Effect of an Event of Default . If any Event of Default shall occur, and unless such Event of Default shall be cured to the satisfaction of Lender and Ex-Im Bank, Lender may, at its option, without further notice or demand, (a) declare all Borrower’s Obligations (contingent or otherwise) immediately due and payable; (b) refuse to make or incur any additional Credit Accommodations under this Agreement or the Note; (d) assemble, sell, lease, buy, transfer or otherwise dispose of the Collateral or the Proceeds thereof; and (e) exercise all the rights and remedies provided in this Agreement, the Note, the Waiver Letter or in any of the other Financing Documents or available at law, in equity, or otherwise; provided, however, that if any Event of Default of the type described in Section 8.1(f) shall occur, all Borrower’s Obligations shall automatically become fully due and payable, without any notice, demand or action by Lender. Except as may be prohibited by applicable law, all of Lender’s rights and remedies shall be cumulative and may be exercised singularly or concurrently. Election by Lender to pursue any remedy shall not exclude pursuit of any other remedy, and an election to make expenditures or to take action to perform an obligation of Borrower shall not affect Lender’s right to declare a default and to exercise its rights and remedies.
ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 9.1 Amendments . This Agreement, together with the other Financing Documents and the Waiver Letter, constitute the entire understanding and agreement of the parties as to the matters set forth in this Agreement. No alteration of or amendment to this Agreement shall be effective unless given in writing and signed by the party or parties sought to be charged or bound by the alteration or amendment. This Agreement, the other Financing Documents and the Waiver Letter supersede all existing agreements, oral or written, previously entered into between Borrower and Lender with respect to the Loan unless Borrower and Lender agree in writing to the contrary.
Section 9.2 Caption Headings . Caption headings in this Agreement are for convenience purposes only and are not to be used to interpret or define the provisions of this Agreement.
Section 9.3 Consent to Loan Participation . Borrower agrees and consents to Lender’s sale or transfer, at Lender’s sole discretion, whether now or later, of one or more participation interests in the Loan to one or more purchasers, whether related or unrelated to Lender. Lender may provide, without any limitation whatsoever, to any one or more purchasers, potential purchasers, or affiliates of Lender, any information or knowledge Lender may have about Borrower or about any other matter relating to the Loan, and Borrower hereby waives any rights to privacy it may have with respect to such matters. Borrower additionally waives any and all notices of sale of participation interests, as well as all notices of any repurchase of such participation interests.

 

-23-


 

Section 9.4 Notices . All communications and notices required to be given under this Agreement shall be hand delivered or sent by nationally recognized overnight courier or United States mail, certified or registered, postage prepaid, addressed to the party to whom the notice is to be given at the address shown below. All such communications and notices shall be effective upon delivery. Any party may change its address for notices under this Agreement by giving formal written notice to the other parties, specifying that the purpose of the notice is to change the party’s address. To the extent permitted by applicable law, if there is more than one Borrower, notice to any Borrower will constitute notice to all Borrowers:
if to Borrower:
FuelCell Energy, Inc.
3 Great Pasture Road
Danbury, CT 06813
Attention: Michael Bishop, VP and Corporate Controller
if to Lender:
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
Two Corporate Drive, Suite 730
Shelton, CT 06484
Attention: James Patrick Murphy
with copy to:
JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. — Global Trade Services
2200 Ross Ave., 6 th Floor
Dallas, Texas 75201
Attention: Mr. Randall Mascorro
if to Ex-Im Bank:
Export-Import Bank of the United States
811 Vermont Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20571
Attention: Vice President, Business Credit Division
Section 9.5 Survival . All covenants, agreements, representations and warranties of Borrower made herein and in the other Financing Documents and in the certificates, instruments and other documents delivered pursuant hereto or thereto shall survive the making or incurring of Credit Accommodations hereunder, and shall continue in full force and effect until all of Borrower’s Obligations have been paid and performed in full.
Section 9.6 Successors and Assigns . Whenever in this Agreement any of the parties hereto is referred to, such reference shall be deemed to include the successors and permitted assigns of such party; and all covenants, promises and agreements by or on behalf of Borrower which are contained in this Agreement or in the other Financing Documents shall inure to the benefit of the successors and assigns of Lender and Ex-Im Bank, which is a third-party beneficiary of this Agreement and each of the other Financing Documents to which it is not a direct party. Borrower may not assign any interest that it may have under this Agreement, including, without limitation, the right to receive the benefit of the Loan to be extended hereunder, without the prior written consent of Lender and Ex-Im Bank. Any assignment made or attempted by Borrower without the prior written consent of Lender and Ex-Im Bank shall be void and of no effect. No consent by Lender and Ex-Im Bank to an assignment by Borrower shall release Borrower as the party primarily obligated and liable under the terms of this Agreement unless Borrower shall be released specifically by Lender and Ex-Im Bank in writing.

 

-24-


 

No consent by Lender and Ex-Im Bank to an assignment shall be deemed to be a waiver of the requirement of prior written consent by Lender and Ex-Im Bank with respect to each and every further assignment and as a condition precedent to the effectiveness of such assignment. Lender may assign its interest in any or all of the Financing Documents or the Waiver Letter to any Person, including Ex-Im Bank, without the consent of or notice to Borrower or any other Person, upon such terms as Lender in its sole discretion deems appropriate.
Section 9.7 Payment of Fees and Expenses . Borrower shall pay all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including, without limitation, the fees and disbursements of legal counsel employed by Lender, incurred by Lender in connection with (a) the preparation and negotiation of this Agreement, the Waiver Letter and the other Financing Documents, (b) the making or incurring of Credit Accommodations by Lender, (c) the protection of the Collateral and any other security for the repayment of Borrower’s Obligations, and (d) the enforcement and protection of the rights of Lender in connection with this Agreement, the Waiver Letter or any of the other Financing Documents. Prior to Lender’s making or incurring any Credit Accommodations hereunder, Borrower shall pay to Lender, as an additional condition precedent to the making or incurring of Credit Accommodations, the Ex-Im Bank facility fee determined in accordance with the Loan Authorization Notice and all other fees and expenses due Lender. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Borrower shall pay or cause to be paid to Lender the Ex-Im Bank application fee in the amount of $100 and the Ex-Im Bank guarantee fee in the amount of $75,000, payable on the Effective Date and at any renewal hereof.
Section 9.8 Applicable Law; Jurisdiction; Consent to Service of Process . Except as hereinafter expressly provided, this Agreement is governed by and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Connecticut. The Ex-Im Bank Guarantee is governed by New York law. Accordingly, notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained herein or in any of the other Financing Documents, to the extent, but only to the extent, necessary to assure full satisfaction of and compliance with all terms and conditions of Ex-Im Bank’s guaranty of Borrower’s Obligations under the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee and to preserve Lender’s rights thereunder, this Agreement and each of the other Financing Documents shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York. Lender and Borrower hereby submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of any Connecticut state court or federal court sitting in Connecticut over any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement. Final judgment in any such suit, action or proceeding brought in any such court shall be conclusive and binding upon Borrower and may be enforced in any court to the jurisdiction of which Borrower is subject, by a suit upon the judgment.
Section 9.9 No Liability of Lender . Neither Lender nor Ex-Im Bank shall be liable for any act or omission by it pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement, in the absence of fraud or gross negligence. Borrower hereby agrees that neither Lender nor Ex-Im Bank shall be chargeable for any negligence, mistake, act or omission of any accountant, examiner, agency or attorney employed by it in making examinations, investigations or collections, or otherwise in perfecting, maintaining, protecting or realizing upon any lien or Security Interest in the Collateral or any other interest in any security for Borrower’s Obligations. Neither Lender nor Ex-Im Bank shall incur any liability to Borrower or to any other party in connection with the acts or omissions of Lender or Ex-Im Bank in reliance upon any certificate or other paper believed by Lender or Ex-Im Bank to be genuine or with respect to any other thing which Lender or Ex-Im Bank may do or refrain from doing, unless such act or omission amounts to fraud or gross negligence.

 

-25-


 

Section 9.10 WAIVER OF SPECIAL DAMAGES . THE BORROWER WAIVES, TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT NOT PROHIBITED BY LAW, ANY RIGHT THE UNDERSIGNED MAY HAVE TO CLAIM OR RECOVER FROM THE BANK IN ANY LEGAL ACTION OR PROCEEDING ANY SPECIAL, EXEMPLARY, PUNITIVE OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
Section 9.11 Indemnification . Borrower agrees to protect, indemnify, defend and hold harmless Lender and Ex-Im Bank from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs or expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees AND ANY SUCH CLAIMS, DAMAGES, LOSSES, LIABILITIES, COSTS OR EXPENSES INCURRED BY REASON OF THE LENDER’S OR EX-IM BANK’S OWN NEGLIGENCE OR STRICT LIABILITY) whatsoever which Lender and Ex-Im Bank may, at any time, sustain or incur by reason of or in consequence of or arising out of extending the Loan to Borrower, the making or incurring of Credit Accommodations, or the issuance of a guaranty of Borrower’s Obligations, as the case may be; it being the intention of the parties that this Agreement shall be construed and applied to protect, indemnify, defend and hold harmless Lender and Ex-Im Bank against any and all risks involved in the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, the Waiver Letter and the other Financing Documents, all of which risks are hereby assumed by Borrower. The provisions of this Section shall survive the expiration or termination of this Agreement, the Waiver Letter, the other Financing Documents, and the payment and performance of Borrower’s Obligations.
Section 9.12 Authorization for Direct Payments (ACH Debits) . To effectuate any payment due under this Agreement, the Note or any other Financing Document, Borrower hereby authorizes Lender to initiate debit entries to any deposit account of Borrower maintained with Lender and to debit the same to such account. This authorization to initiate debit entries shall remain in full force and effect until Lender has received written notification of its termination in such time and in such manner as to afford Lender a reasonable opportunity to act on it. Borrower acknowledges (a) that such debit entries may cause an overdraft of any such account which may result in Lender’s refusal to honor items drawn on any such account until adequate deposits are made to any such account; (b) that Lender is under no duty or obligation to initiate any debit entry for any purpose; and (c) that if a debit is not made because any such account does not have a sufficient available balance, or otherwise, the payments may be late or past due.
Section 9.13 No Partnership . Nothing contained in this Agreement shall be construed in a manner to create any relationship among Borrower, Lender and Ex-Im Bank other than the relationship of borrower, lender and credit enhancement provider, and Borrower, Lender and Ex-Im Bank shall not be considered partners or co-venturers for any purpose on account of this Agreement.
Section 9.14 Controlling Agreement . Borrower acknowledges and agrees that (a) the Borrower Agreement contains additional representations, terms, covenants and conditions related to Borrower and the Loan, and (b) as between Lender and Borrower this Agreement and the Borrower Agreement together govern the establishment of the Loan as a Loan Facility guaranteed pursuant to the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee and the making and incurring of Credit Accommodations under the Loan. In the event any of the representations, terms, covenants or conditions contained in this Agreement conflict with those contained in the Borrower Agreement, then as between Lender and Borrower, the more stringent provisions of each with respect to Borrower shall govern and prevail.

 

-26-


 

Section 9.15 USA PATRIOT ACT NOTIFICATION . The following notification is provided to Borrowers pursuant to Section 326 of the USA Patriot Act of 2001, 31 U.S.C. Section 5318: IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT PROCEDURES FOR OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT . To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, Federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account, including any deposit account, treasury management account, loan, other extension of credit, or other financial services product. What this means for Borrowers: When any Borrower opens an account, if any Borrower is an individual Lender will ask for such Borrower’s name, taxpayer identification number, residential address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Lender to identify such Borrower, and if any Borrower is not an individual Lender will ask for such Borrower’s name, taxpayer identification number, business address, and other information that will allow Lender to identify such Borrower. Lender may also ask, if any Borrower is an individual to see such Borrower’s driver’s license or other identifying documents, and if any Borrower is not an individual to see such Borrower’s legal organizational documents or other identifying documents.
Section 9.16 Waiver of Trial by Jury. EACH OF BORROWER AND LENDER HEREBY VOLUNTARILY, KNOWINGLY, IRREVOCABLY AND UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY ACTION OR PROCEEDING (WHETHER BASED ON CONTRACT, TORT, OR OTHERWISE), TO WHICH BORROWER AND LENDER MAY BE PARTIES ARISING OUT OF OR IN ANY WAY PERTAINING OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT, THE WAIVER LETTER OR ANY OF THE OTHER FINANCING DOCUMENTS. IT IS AGREED AND UNDERSTOOD THAT THIS WAIVER CONSTITUTES A WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY OF ALL CLAIMS AGAINST ALL PARTIES TO SUCH ACTIONS OR PROCEEDINGS, INCLUDING CLAIMS AGAINST PARTIES WHO ARE NOT PARTIES TO THIS AGREEMENT. THIS WAIVER IS KNOWINGLY, WILLINGLY AND VOLUNTARILY MADE BY EACH OF BORROWER AND LENDER, AND BORROWER HEREBY REPRESENTS THAT NO REPRESENTATIONS OF FACT OR OPINION HAVE BEEN MADE BY ANY PERSON TO INDUCE THIS WAIVER OF TRIAL BY JURY OR TO IN ANY WAY MODIFY OR NULLIFY ITS EFFECT. BORROWER FURTHER REPRESENTS THAT IT HAS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO BE REPRESENTED IN THE SIGNING OF THIS AGREEMENT AND IN THE MAKING OF THIS WAIVER BY INDEPENDENT LEGAL COUNSEL, SELECTED OF ITS OWN FREE WILL, AND THAT IT HAS HAD THE OPPORTUNITY TO DISCUSS THIS WAIVER WITH COUNSEL. THIS PROVISION IS A MATERIAL INDUCEMENT TO THE LENDER TO PROVIDE THE FINANCING HEREUNDER.
Section 9.17 Severability . If a court of competent jurisdiction finds any provision of this Agreement to be invalid or unenforceable as to any person or circumstance, such finding shall not render that provision invalid or unenforceable as to any other persons or circumstances. If feasible, any such offending provision shall be deemed to be modified to be within the limits of enforceability or validity, however, if the offending provision cannot be so modified, it shall be stricken and all other provisions of this Agreement in all other respect shall remain valid and enforceable.

 

-27-


 

Section 9.18 Rules of Construction . For purposes of this Agreement, the following additional rules of construction shall apply, unless specifically indicated to the contrary: (a) wherever from the context it appears appropriate, each term stated in either the singular or plural shall include the singular and the plural, and pronouns stated in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender shall include the masculine, the feminine and the neuter; (b) the term “or” is not exclusive; (c) the term “including” (or any form thereof) shall not be limiting or exclusive; (d) all references to statutes and related regulations shall include any amendments of same and any successor statutes and regulations; (e) the words “this Agreement”, “herein”, “hereof”, “hereunder” or other words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole including the exhibits hereto as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented; (f) all references in this Agreement to sections, subsections, paragraphs and exhibits shall refer to the corresponding sections, subsections, paragraphs and exhibits of or to this Agreement; and (g) all references to any instruments or agreements, including references to the Waiver Letter or any of the Financing Documents, shall include any and all modifications, amendments and supplements thereto and any and all restatements, extensions or renewals thereof to the extent permitted under this Agreement.
Section 9.19 Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute the same document. Signature pages may be detached from the counterparts to a single copy of this Agreement to physically form one document.
Section 9.20 Time is of the Essence . Time is of the essence in the performance of this Agreement.
Section 9.21 Waiver . Lender shall not be deemed to have waived any rights under this Agreement unless such waiver is given in writing and signed by Lender. No delay or omission on the part of Lender in exercising any right shall operate as a waiver of such right or any other right. A waiver by Lender of a provision of this Agreement shall not prejudice or constitute a waiver of Lender’s right otherwise to demand strict compliance with that provision or any other provision of this Agreement. No prior waiver by Lender, nor any course of dealing between Lender and Borrower, or between Lender, shall constitute a waiver of any of Lender’s rights or of any obligations of Borrower as to any future transactions. Whenever the consent of Lender is required under this Agreement, the granting of such consent by Lender in any instance shall not constitute continuing consent in subsequent instances where such consent is required, and in all cases such consent may be granted or withheld in the sole discretion of Lender.
Section 9.22 Usury not Intended . Borrower and Lender intend to conform strictly to applicable usury laws. Therefore, the total amount of interest (as defined under applicable law) contracted for, charged or collected under this Agreement or any other Loan Document will never exceed the Highest Lawful Rate. If Lender contracts for, charges or receives any excess interest, it will be deemed a mistake. Lender will automatically reform the Loan Document or charge to conform to applicable law, and if excess interest has been received, Lender will either refund the excess to Borrower or credit the excess on any unpaid principal amount of the Note or any other Loan Document. All amounts constituting interest will be spread throughout the full term of the Loan Document or applicable Note in determining whether interest exceeds lawful amounts.

 

-28-


 

Section 9.23 ENTIRE AGREEMENT . THIS WRITTEN AGREEMENT AND THE FINANCING DOCUMENTS REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT AMONG THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES.
THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS AMONG THE PARTIES.
[Remainder of this page intentionally left blank]

 

-29-


 

         
EXECUTED as of the date first above written.    
 
       
BORROWER:    
 
       
FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.    
 
       
By:
  /s/ Joseph G. Mahler    
Name:
 
 
Joseph G. Mahler
   
Title:
 
 
Sr. Vice President & CFO
   
 
 
 
   
 
       
LENDER:    
 
       
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.    
 
       
By:
  /s/ James P. Murphy    
Name:
 
 
James P. Murphy
   
Title:
 
 
Authorized Signer
   
 
 
 
   
 
       
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. — GLOBAL TRADE SERVICES    
 
       
By:
  /s/ Randall Mascorro    
Name:
 
 
Randall Mascorro
   
Title:
  Vice President    
[ Signature Page To Export Loan Agreement ]

 

 


 

EXHIBIT A
Export-Import Bank of the United States
Working Capital Guarantee Program
Borrower Agreement
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

 


 

TABLE OF CONTENTS
         
ARTICLE I DEFINITIONS
    1  
 
1.01 Definition of Terms
    1  
1.02 Rules of Construction
    14  
1.03 Incorporation of Recitals
    15  
 
ARTICLE II OBLIGATIONS OF BORROWER
    15  
2.01 Use of Credit Accommodations
    15  
2.02 Security Interests
    15  
2.03 Loan Documents and Loan Authorization Agreement
    16  
2.04 Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificates and Export Orders
    16  
2.05 Schedules, Reports and Other Statements
    16  
2.06 Exclusions from the Export-Related Borrowing Base
    16  
2.07 Borrowings and Reborrowings
    17  
2.08 Repayment Terms
    17  
2.09 Financial Statements
    17  
2.10 Additional Security or Payment
    17  
2.11 Continued Security Interest
    18  
2.12 Inspection of Collateral and Facilities
    18  
2.13 General Intangibles
    19  
2.14 Economic Impact Approval
    19  
2.15 Indirect Exports
    20  
2.16 Overseas Inventory and Accounts Receivable
    20  
2.17 Country Limitation Schedule
    21  
2.18 Notice of Certain Event
    21  
2.19 Insurance
    22  
2.20 Taxes
    22  
2.21 Compliance with Laws
    22  
2.22 Negative Covenants
    22  
2.23 Cross Default
    22  
2.24 Munitions List
    22  
2.25 Suspension and Debarment, etc
    23  
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

i


 

         
ARTICLE III RIGHTS AND REMEDIES
    23  
3.01 Indemnification
    23  
3.02 Liens
    23  
 
ARTICLE IV MISCELLANEOUS
    24  
4.01 Governing Law
    24  
4.02 Notification
    24  
4.03 Partial Invalidity
    24  
4.04 Waiver of Jury Trial
    24  
4.05 Consequential Damages
    24  
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

ii


 

Export-Import Bank of the United States
Working Capital Guarantee Program
Borrower Agreement
THIS BORROWER AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) is made and entered into by the entity identified as Borrower on the signature page hereof (“Borrower”) in favor of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“Ex-Im Bank”) and the institution identified as Lender on the signature page hereof (“Lender”).
RECITALS
Borrower has requested that Lender establish a Loan Facility in favor of Borrower for the purposes of providing Borrower with working capital to finance the manufacture, production or purchase and subsequent export sale of Items.
Lender and Borrower expect that Ex-Im Bank will provide a guarantee to Lender regarding this Loan Facility subject to the terms and conditions of the Master Guarantee Agreement, a Loan Authorization Agreement, and to the extent applicable, the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement or Fast Track Lender Agreement.
Lender and Ex-Im Bank have requested that Borrower execute this Agreement as a condition precedent to Lender establishing the Loan Facility and Ex-Im Bank providing the guarantee.
NOW, THEREFORE, Borrower hereby agrees as follows:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
1.01 Definition of Terms . As used in this Agreement, including the Recitals to this Agreement and the Loan Authorization Agreement, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
Accounts Receivable” shall mean all of Borrower’s now owned or hereafter acquired (a) “accounts” (as such term is defined in the UCC), other receivables, book debts and other forms of obligations, whether arising out of goods sold or services rendered or from any other transaction; (b) rights in, to and under all purchase orders or receipts for goods or services; (c) rights to any goods represented or purported to be represented by any of the foregoing (including unpaid sellers’ rights of rescission, replevin, reclamation and stoppage in transit and rights to returned, reclaimed or repossessed goods); (d) moneys due or to become due to such Borrower under all purchase orders and contracts (which includes Export Orders) for the sale of goods or the performance of services or both by Borrower (whether or not yet earned by performance on the part of Borrower), including the proceeds of the foregoing; (e) any notes, drafts, letters of credit, insurance proceeds or other instruments, documents and writings evidencing or supporting the foregoing; and (f) all collateral security and guarantees of any kind given by any other Person with respect to any of the foregoing.
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

 


 

“Accounts Receivable Aging Report” shall mean a report detailing the Export-Related Accounts Receivable and Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable for a Loan Facility, and the applicable terms for the relevant time period; in the case of Indirect Exports, such report shall indicate the portion of such Accounts Receivables corresponding to Indirect Exports.
“Advance Rate” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, the rate specified in Section 5.C. of the Loan Authorization Agreement for each category of Primary Collateral except for Export-Related General Intangibles and Other Collateral. Unless otherwise set forth in writing by Ex-Im Bank, in no event shall the Advance Rate exceed (i) ninety percent (90%) for Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable, (ii) seventy five percent (75%) for Eligible Export-Related Inventory, (iii) seventy percent (70%) for Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable or (iv) sixty percent (60%) for Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory and (v) twenty five percent (25%) for Retainage Accounts Receivable.
“Affiliated Foreign Person” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.15.
“Business Day” shall mean any day on which the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is open for business.
“Buyer” shall mean a Person that has entered into one or more Export Orders with Borrower or who is an obligor on Export-Related Accounts Receivable or Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable.
“Capital Good” shall mean a capital good (e.g., manufacturing equipment, licensing agreements) that will establish or expand foreign production capacity of an exportable good.
“Collateral” shall mean all real and personal property and interest in real and personal property in or upon which Lender has been, or shall be, granted a Lien as security for the payment of all the Loan Facility Obligations and all products and proceeds (cash and non-cash) thereof.
“Commercial Letters of Credit” shall mean those letters of credit subject to the UCP payable in Dollars and issued or caused to be issued by Lender on behalf of Borrower under a Loan Facility for the benefit of a supplier(s) of Borrower in connection with Borrower’s purchase of goods or services from the supplier in support of the export of the Items.
“Country Limitation Schedule” shall mean the schedule published from time to time by Ex-Im Bank setting forth on a country by country basis whether and under what conditions Ex-Im Bank will provide coverage for the financing of export transactions to countries listed therein.
“Credit Accommodation Amount” shall mean, the sum of (a) the aggregate outstanding amount of Disbursements and (b) the aggregate outstanding Letter of Credit Obligations, which sum may not exceed the Maximum Amount.
“Credit Accommodations” shall mean, collectively, Disbursements and Letter of Credit Obligations.

 

2


 

“Debarment Regulations” shall mean, collectively, (a) the Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) regulations (Common Rule), 53 Fed. Reg. 19204 (May 26, 1988), (b) Subpart 9.4 (Debarment, Suspension, and Ineligibility) of the Federal Acquisition Regulations, 48 C.F.R. 9.400-9.409 and (c) the revised Governmentwide Debarment and Suspension (Nonprocurement) regulations (Common Rule), 60 Fed. Reg. 33037 (June 26, 1995).
“Delegated Authority Letter Agreement” shall mean the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement, if any, between Ex-Im Bank and Lender.
“Disbursement” shall mean, collectively, (a) an advance of a working capital loan from Lender to Borrower under the Loan Facility, and (b) an advance to fund a drawing under a Letter of Credit issued or caused to be issued by Lender for the account of Borrower under the Loan Facility.
“Dollars” or “$” shall mean the lawful currency of the United States.
“Economic Impact Approval” shall mean a written approval issued by Ex-Im Bank stating the conditions under which a Capital Good may be included as an Item in a Loan Facility consistent with Ex-Im Bank’s economic impact procedures (or other mechanism for making this determination that Ex-Im Bank notifies Lender of in writing).
“Economic Impact Certification” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 2.14(b).
“Effective Date” shall mean the date on which (a) all of the Loan Documents have been executed by Lender, Borrower and, if applicable, Ex-Im Bank and (b) all of the conditions to the making of the initial Credit Accommodations under the Loan Documents or any amendments thereto have been satisfied.
“Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable” shall mean Export-Related Accounts Receivable which are acceptable to Lender and which are deemed to be eligible pursuant to the Loan Documents, but in no event shall Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable include any Account Receivable:
(a) that does not arise from the sale of Items in the ordinary course of Borrower’s business;
(b) that is not subject to a valid, perfected first priority Lien in favor of Lender;
(c) as to which any covenant, representation or warranty contained in the Loan Documents with respect to such Account Receivable has been breached;
(d) that is not owned by Borrower or is subject to any right, claim or interest of another Person other than the Lien in favor of Lender;
(e) with respect to which an invoice has not been sent;
(f) that arises from the sale of defense articles or defense services;

 

3


 

(g) that arises from the sale of Items to be used in the construction, alteration, operation or maintenance of nuclear power, enrichment, reprocessing, research or heavy water production facilities unless with Ex-Im Bank’s prior written consent;
(h) that is due and payable from a Buyer located in a country with which Ex-Im Bank is prohibited from doing business as designated in the Country Limitation Schedule;
(i) that does not comply with the requirements of the Country Limitation Schedule;
(j) that is due and payable more than one hundred eighty (180) days from the date of the invoice;
(k) that is not paid within sixty (60) calendar days from its original due date, unless it is insured through Ex-Im Bank export credit insurance for comprehensive commercial and political risk, or through Ex-Im Bank approved private insurers for comparable coverage, in which case it is not paid within ninety (90) calendar days from its due date;
(l) of a Buyer for whom fifty percent (50%) or more of the Accounts Receivable of such Buyer do not satisfy the requirements of subclauses (j) and (k) above;
(m) that arises from a sale of goods to or performance of services for an employee of Borrower, a stockholder of Borrower, a subsidiary of Borrower, a Person with a controlling interest in Borrower or a Person which shares common controlling ownership with Borrower;
(n) that is backed by a letter of credit unless the Items covered by the subject letter of credit have been shipped;
(o) that Lender or Ex-Im Bank, in its reasonable judgment, deems uncollectible for any reason;
(p) that is due and payable in a currency other than Dollars, except as may be approved in writing by Ex-Im Bank;
(q) that is due and payable from a military Buyer, except as may be approved in writing by Ex-Im Bank;
(r) that does not comply with the terms of sale set forth in Section 7 of the Loan Authorization Agreement;
(s) that is due and payable from a Buyer who (i) applies for, suffers, or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee or liquidator of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property or calls a meeting of its creditors, (ii) admits in writing its inability, or is generally unable, to pay its debts as they become due or ceases operations of its present business, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, (iv) commences a voluntary case under any state or federal bankruptcy laws (as now or hereafter in effect), (v) is adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent, (vi) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law providing for the relief of debtors, (vii) acquiesces to, or fails to have dismissed, any petition which is filed against it in any involuntary case under such bankruptcy laws, or (viii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing;

 

4


 

(t) that arises from a bill-and-hold, guaranteed sale, sale-and-return, sale on approval, consignment or any other repurchase or return basis or is evidenced by chattel paper;
(u) for which the Items giving rise to such Accounts Receivable have not been shipped to the Buyer or when the Items are services, such services have not been performed or when the Export Order specifies a timing for invoicing the Items other than shipment or performance and the Items have not been invoiced in accordance with such terms of the Export Order, or the Accounts Receivable otherwise do not represent a final sale;
(v) that is subject to any offset, deduction, defense, dispute, or counterclaim or the Buyer is also a creditor or supplier of Borrower or the Account Receivable is contingent in any respect or for any reason;
(w) for which Borrower has made any agreement with the Buyer for any deduction therefrom, except for discounts or allowances made in the ordinary course of business for prompt payment, all of which discounts or allowances are reflected in the calculation of the face value of each respective invoice related thereto;
(x) for which any of the Items giving rise to such Account Receivable have been returned, rejected or repossessed;
(y) that is included as an eligible receivable under any other credit facility to which Borrower is a party;
(z) any of the Items giving rise to such Accounts Receivable are Capital Goods, unless the transaction is in accordance with Section 2.14;
(aa) that is due and payable from a Buyer that is, or is located in, the United States; provided however, that this subsection (aa) shall not preclude an Export-Related Accounts Receivable arising from the sale of Items to foreign contractors or subcontractors providing services to a United States Embassy or the United States Military located overseas from being deemed an Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable; or
(bb) that arises from the sale of Items that do not meet the U.S. Content requirements in accordance with Section 2.01(b)(ii).
“Eligible Export-Related Inventory” shall mean Export-Related Inventory which is acceptable to Lender and which is deemed to be eligible pursuant to the Loan Documents, but in no event shall Eligible Export-Related Inventory include any Inventory:
(a) that is not subject to a valid, perfected first priority Lien in favor of Lender;
(b) that is located at an address that has not been disclosed to Lender in writing;

 

5


 

(c) that is placed by Borrower on consignment or held by Borrower on consignment from another Person;
(d) that is in the possession of a processor or bailee, or located on premises leased or subleased to Borrower, or on premises subject to a mortgage in favor of a Person other than Lender, unless such processor or bailee or mortgagee or the lessor or sublessor of such premises, as the case may be, has executed and delivered all documentation which Lender shall require to evidence the subordination or other limitation or extinguishment of such Person’s rights with respect to such Inventory and Lender’s right to gain access thereto;
(e) that is produced in violation of the Fair Labor Standards Act or subject to the “hot goods” provisions contained in 29 U.S.C.§215 or any successor statute or section;
(f) as to which any covenant, representation or warranty with respect to such Inventory contained in the Loan Documents has been breached;
(g) that is not located in the United States unless expressly permitted by Lender, on terms acceptable to Lender;
(h) that is an Item or is to be incorporated into Items that do not meet U.S. Content requirements in accordance with Section 2.01(b)(ii);
(i) that is demonstration Inventory;
(j) that consists of proprietary software (i.e. software designed solely for Borrower’s internal use and not intended for resale);
(k) that is damaged, obsolete, returned, defective, recalled or unfit for further processing;
(l) that has been previously exported from the United States;
(m) that constitutes, or will be incorporated into Items that constitute, defense articles or defense services;
(n) that is an Item or will be incorporated into Items that will be used in the construction, alteration, operation or maintenance of nuclear power, enrichment, reprocessing, research or heavy water production facilities unless with Ex-Im Bank’s prior written consent;
(o) that is an Item or is to be incorporated into Items destined for shipment to a country as to which Ex-Im Bank is prohibited from doing business as designated in the Country Limitation Schedule;
(p) that is an Item or is to be incorporated into Items destined for shipment to a Buyer located in a country in which Ex-Im Bank coverage is not available for commercial reasons as designated in the Country Limitation Schedule, unless and only to the extent that such Items are to be sold to such country on terms of a letter of credit confirmed by a bank acceptable to Ex-Im Bank;

 

6


 

(q) that constitutes, or is to be incorporated into, Items whose sale would result in an Accounts Receivable which would not be an Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable;
(r) that is included as eligible inventory under any other credit facility to which Borrower is a party; or
(s) that is, or is to be incorporated into, an Item that is a Capital Good, unless the transaction is in accordance with Section 2.14.
“Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable” shall mean Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable which are acceptable to Lender and which are deemed to be eligible pursuant to the Loan Documents but in no event shall include the Accounts Receivable (a) through (bb) excluded from the definition of Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable.
“Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory” shall mean Export-Related Overseas Inventory which is acceptable to Lender and which is deemed to be eligible pursuant to the Loan Documents, but in no event shall include the Inventory (a) through (r) excluded from the definition of Eligible Export-Related Inventory.
“Eligible Person” shall mean a sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership, corporation or limited liability company which (a) is domiciled, organized or formed, as the case may be, in the United States, whether or not such entity is owned by a foreign national or foreign entity; (b) is in good standing in the state of its formation or otherwise authorized to conduct business in the United States; (c) is not currently suspended or debarred from doing business with the United States government or any instrumentality, division, agency or department thereof; (d) exports or plans to export Items; (e) operates and has operated as a going concern for at least one (1) year; (f) has a positive tangible net worth determined in accordance with GAAP; and (g) has revenue generating operations relating to its core business activities for at least one year. An Affiliated Foreign Person that meets all of the requirements of the foregoing definition of Eligible Person other than subclause (a) thereof shall be deemed to be an Eligible Person
“ERISA” shall mean the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
“Export Order” shall mean a documented purchase order or contract evidencing a Buyer’s agreement to purchase the Items from Borrower for export from the United States, which documentation shall include written information that is necessary to confirm such purchase order or contract, including identification of the Items, the name of the Buyer, the country of destination, contact information for the Buyer and the total amount of the purchase order or contract; in the case of Indirect Exports, such documentation shall further include a copy of the written purchase order or contract from a foreign purchaser or other documentation clearly evidencing a foreign purchaser’s agreement to purchase the Items.
“Export-Related Accounts Receivable” shall mean those Accounts Receivable arising from the sale of Items which are due and payable to Borrower in the United States.

 

7


 

“Export-Related Accounts Receivable Value” shall mean, at the date of determination thereof, the aggregate face amount of Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable less taxes, discounts, credits, allowances and Retainages, except to the extent otherwise permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing.
“Export-Related Borrowing Base” shall mean, at the date of determination thereof, the sum of (a) (if Lender elects to include) the Export-Related Inventory Value or Export-Related Historical Inventory Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Eligible Export-Related Inventory set forth in Section 5.B.(1.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement, plus (b) the Export-Related Accounts Receivable Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable set forth in Section 5.B.(2.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement, plus (c) if permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing, the Retainage Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Retainages set forth in Section 5.B.(3.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement, plus (d) the Other Assets set forth in Section 5.B.(4.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement multiplied by the Advance Rate agreed to in writing by Ex-Im Bank, plus (e) if permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing, the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable set forth in Section 5.B.(5.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement, plus (f) if permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing, the Export-Related Overseas Inventory Value multiplied by the Advance Rate applicable to Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory set forth in Section 5.B.(6.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement, less (g) the amounts required to be reserved pursuant to Sections 4.12 and 4.13 of this Agreement for each outstanding Letter of Credit, less (h) such reserves and in such amounts deemed necessary and proper by Lender from time to time.
“Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate” shall mean a certificate in the form provided or approved by Lender, executed by Borrower and delivered to Lender pursuant to the Loan Documents detailing the Export-Related Borrowing Base supporting the Credit Accommodations which reflects, to the extent included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base, Export-Related Accounts Receivable, Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable, Export-Related Inventory, Eligible Export-Related Inventory, Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable, Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable, Export-Related Overseas Inventory and Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory balances that have been reconciled with Borrower’s general ledger, Accounts Receivable Aging Report and Inventory schedule.
“Export-Related General Intangibles” shall mean the Pro Rata Percentage of General Intangibles determined as of the earlier of: (i) the date such General Intangibles are liquidated and (ii) the date Borrower fails to pay when due any outstanding amount of principal or accrued interest payable under the Loan Documents that becomes the basis for a Payment Default on which a Claim is filed.
“Export-Related Historical Inventory Value” shall mean with respect to a Borrower, the relevant Export-Related Sales Ratio multiplied by the lowest of (i) the cost of such Borrower’s Inventory as determined in accordance with GAAP, or (ii) the market value of such Borrower’s Inventory as determined in accordance with GAAP or (iii) the appraised or orderly liquidation value of such Borrower’s Inventory, if Lender has loans and financial accommodations to such Borrower for which it conducts (or contracts for the performance of) such an appraised or orderly liquidation value.

 

8


 

“Export-Related Inventory” shall mean the Inventory of Borrower located in the United States that has been purchased, manufactured or otherwise acquired by Borrower for sale or resale as Items, or to be incorporated into Items to be sold or resold pursuant to Export Orders.
“Export-Related Inventory Value” shall mean, at the date of determination thereof, the lowest of (i) the cost of Eligible Exported-Related Inventory as determined in accordance with GAAP, or (ii) the market value of Eligible Export-Related Inventory as determined in accordance with GAAP or (iii) the lower of the appraised market value or orderly liquidation value of the Eligible Export-Related Inventory, if Lender has other loans and financial accommodations to a Borrower for which it conducts (or contracts for the performance of) such an appraised or orderly liquidation value.
“Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable” shall mean those Accounts Receivable arising from the sale of Items which are due and payable outside of the United States either to a Borrower or an Affiliated Foreign Person.
“Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable Value” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, at the date of determination thereof, the aggregate face amount of Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable less taxes, discounts, credits, allowances and Retainages, except to the extent otherwise permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing.
“Export-Related Overseas Inventory” shall mean the Inventory of Borrower located outside of the United States that has been purchased, manufactured or otherwise acquired by such Borrower for sale or resale as Items, or to be incorporated into Items to be sold or resold pursuant to Export Orders.
“Export-Related Overseas Inventory Value” shall mean, at the date of determination thereof, the lowest of (i) the cost of Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory as determined in accordance with GAAP, (ii) the market value of Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory as determined in accordance with GAAP or (iii) the appraised or orderly liquidation value of the Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory, if Lender has other loans and financial accommodations to Borrower or an Affiliated Foreign Person for which it conducts (or contracts for the performance of) such a appraised or orderly liquidation.
“Export-Related Sales Ratio” shall mean with respect to a Borrower, the percentage of such Borrower’s total sales revenue derived from the sale of Eligible Export-Related Inventory over a rolling twelve-month period ending no more than ninety (90) days prior to the date of the relevant Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate
“Extension” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, an amendment to the Loan Authorization Agreement extending the Final Disbursement Date on the same terms and conditions as the Loan Facility for an aggregate period not to exceed one hundred and twenty (120) days beyond the original Final Disbursement Date, either as agreed to in writing by Ex-Im Bank or, in the case of Delegated Authority, as notified by Lender to Ex-Im Bank pursuant to its authority under the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement.

 

9


 

“Fast Track Lender Agreement” shall mean the Fast Track Lender Agreement, if any, between Ex-Im Bank and Lender.
“Final Disbursement Date” shall mean the last date on which Lender may make a Disbursement set forth in Section 10 of the Loan Authorization Agreement (including as amended by an Extension) or, if such date is not a Business Day, the next succeeding Business Day; provided , however , to the extent that Lender has not received cash collateral in the amount of the Letter of Credit Obligations or an equivalent full indemnity from Borrower or Guarantor, as applicable, with respect to Letter of Credit Obligations outstanding on the Final Disbursement Date, the Final Disbursement Date with respect to an advance to fund a drawing under such Letter of Credit shall be no later than thirty (30) days after any such drawing which may be no later than the expiry date of the Letter of Credit related thereto.
“GAAP” shall mean the generally accepted accounting principles issued in the United States.
“General Intangibles” shall mean all intellectual property and other “general intangibles” (as such term is defined in the UCC).
“Guarantor” shall mean any Person which is identified in Section 3 of the Loan Authorization Agreement who shall guarantee (jointly and severally if more than one) the payment and performance of all or a portion of the Loan Facility Obligations.
“Guarantee Agreement” shall mean a valid and enforceable agreement of guarantee executed by each Guarantor in favor of Lender.
“Indirect Exports” shall mean finished goods or services that are sold by a Borrower to a Buyer located in the United States, are intended for export from the United States, and are identified in Section 4.A.(2.) of the Loan Authorization Agreement.
“Inventory” shall mean all “inventory” (as such term is defined in the UCC), now or hereafter owned or acquired by Borrower, wherever located, including all inventory, merchandise, goods and other personal property which are held by or on behalf of Borrower for sale or lease or are furnished or are to be furnished under a contract of service or which constitute raw materials, work in process or materials used or consumed or to be used or consumed in Borrower’s business or in the processing, production, packaging, promotion, delivery or shipping of the same, including other supplies.
“ISP” shall mean the International Standby Practices-ISP98, International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 590 and any amendments and revisions thereof.
“Issuing Bank” shall mean the bank that issues a Letter of Credit, which bank is Lender itself or a bank that Lender has caused to issue a Letter of Credit by way of a guarantee or reimbursement obligation.
“Items” shall mean the finished goods or services which are intended for export from the United States, either directly or as an Indirect Export, meet the U.S. Content requirements in accordance with Section 2.01(b)(ii) of this Agreement and are specified in Section 4.A. of the Loan Authorization Agreement.

 

10


 

“Letter of Credit” shall mean a Commercial Letter of Credit or a Standby Letter of Credit.
“Letter of Credit Obligations” shall mean all undrawn amounts of outstanding obligations incurred by Lender, whether direct or indirect, contingent or otherwise, due or not due, in connection with the issuance or guarantee by Lender or Issuing Bank of Letters of Credit.
“Lien” shall mean any mortgage, security deed or deed of trust, pledge, hypothecation, assignment, deposit arrangement, lien, charge, claim, security interest, security title, easement or encumbrance, or preference, priority or other security agreement or preferential arrangement of any kind or nature whatsoever (including any lease or title retention agreement, any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing, and the filing of, or agreement to give, any financing statement perfecting a security interest under the UCC or comparable law of any jurisdiction) by which property is encumbered or otherwise charged.
“Loan Agreement” shall mean a valid and enforceable agreement between Lender and a Borrower setting forth, with respect to each Loan Facility, the terms and conditions of such Loan Facility.
“Loan Authorization Agreement” shall mean, as applicable, the duly executed Loan Authorization Agreement, Fast Track Loan Authorization Agreement, or the Loan Authorization Notice, setting forth certain terms and conditions of each Loan Facility, a copy of which is attached hereto as Annex A.
“Loan Authorization Notice” shall mean the Loan Authorization Notice executed by Lender and delivered to Ex-Im Bank in accordance with the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement setting forth the terms and conditions of each Loan Facility.
“Loan Documents” shall mean the Loan Authorization Agreement, the Loan Agreement, this Agreement, each promissory note (if applicable), each Guarantee Agreement, and all other instruments, agreements and documents now or hereafter executed by the applicable Borrower, any Guarantor, Lender or Ex-Im Bank evidencing, securing, guaranteeing or otherwise relating to the Loan Facility or any Credit Accommodations made thereunder.
“Loan Facility” shall mean the Revolving Loan Facility, the Transaction Specific Loan Facility or the Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility established by Lender in favor of Borrower under the Loan Documents.
“Loan Facility Obligations” shall mean all loans, advances, debts, expenses, fees, liabilities, and obligations, including any accrued interest thereon, for the performance of covenants, tasks or duties or for payment of monetary amounts (whether or not such performance is then required or contingent, or amounts are liquidated or determinable) owing by Borrower to Lender, of any kind or nature, present or future, arising in connection with the Loan Facility.

 

11


 

“Loan Facility Term” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, the number of months or portion thereof from the Effective Date to the Final Disbursement Date as set forth in the Loan Authorization Agreement as amended.
“Master Guarantee Agreement” shall mean the Master Guarantee Agreement between Ex-Im Bank and Lender, as amended, modified, supplemented and restated from time to time.
“Material Adverse Effect” shall mean a material adverse effect on (a) the business, assets, operations, prospects or financial or other condition of Borrower or any Guarantor, (b) any Borrower’s ability to pay or perform the Loan Facility Obligations in accordance with the terms thereof, (c) the Collateral or Lender’s Liens on the Collateral or the priority of such Lien, or (d) Lender’s rights and remedies under the Loan Documents.
“Maximum Amount” shall mean the maximum Credit Accommodation Amount that may be outstanding at any time under each Loan Facility, as specified in Section 5.A. of the Loan Authorization Agreement.
“Other Assets” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, such other assets of a Borrower to be included in Primary Collateral, which may include cash and marketable securities, or such other assets as Ex-Im Bank agrees to in writing, and disclosed as Primary Collateral in Section 6.A. of the Loan Authorization Agreement. The applicable Advance Rate (to be multiplied by the Other Asset Value) shall be as agreed to by Ex-Im Bank in writing case by case by case and set forth in Section 5.B.(4) of the Loan Authorization Agreement.
“Other Asset Value” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, at the date of determination thereof, the value of the Other Assets as determined in accordance with GAAP.
“Other Collateral” shall mean any additional collateral that Lender customarily would require as security for loan facilities on its own account and risk where the permitted borrowing level is based principally on a borrowing base derived from a borrower’s inventory and accounts receivable, but where such additional collateral does not enter into the borrowing base calculation.
“Permitted Liens” shall mean (a) Liens for taxes, assessments or other governmental charges or levies not delinquent, or, being contested in good faith and by appropriate proceedings and with respect to which proper reserves have been taken by Borrower; provided , that , the Lien shall have no effect on the priority of the Liens in favor of Lender or the value of the assets in which Lender has such a Lien and a stay of enforcement of any such Lien shall be in effect; (b) deposits or pledges securing obligations under worker’s compensation, unemployment insurance, social security or public liability laws or similar legislation; (c) deposits or pledges securing bids, tenders, contracts (other than contracts for the payment of money), leases, statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds and other obligations of like nature arising in the ordinary course of Borrower’s business; (d) judgment Liens that have been stayed or bonded; (e) mechanics’, workers’, materialmen’s or other like Liens arising in the ordinary course of Borrower’s business with respect to obligations which are not due; (f) Liens placed upon fixed assets hereafter acquired to secure a portion of the purchase price thereof, provided, that, any such Lien shall not encumber any other property of Borrower; (g) security interests being terminated concurrently with the execution of the Loan Documents; and (h) Liens disclosed in Section 6.D. of the Loan Authorization Agreement, provided that , except as otherwise permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing, such Liens in Section 6.D. shall be subordinate to the Liens in favor of Lender on Primary Collateral.

 

12


 

“Person” shall mean any individual, sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership, joint venture, trust, unincorporated organization, association, corporation, limited liability company, institution, public benefit corporation, entity or government (whether national, federal, provincial, state, county, city, municipal or otherwise, including any instrumentality, division, agency, body or department thereof), and shall include such Person’s successors and assigns.
“Pro Rata Percentage” shall mean, with respect to a Loan Facility, as of the date of determination thereof, the principal balance of the Credit Accommodations outstanding as a percentage of the combined principal balance of all loans from Lender to such Borrower including the then outstanding principal balance of the Credit Accommodations plus unfunded amounts under outstanding Letters of Credit.
“Principals” shall mean any officer, director, owner, partner, key employee, or other Person with primary management or supervisory responsibilities with respect to Borrower or any other Person (whether or not an employee) who has critical influence on or substantive control over the transactions covered by this Agreement.
“Retainage” shall mean that portion of the purchase price of an Export Order that a Buyer is not obligated to pay until the end of a specified period of time following the satisfactory performance under such Export Order.
“Retainage Accounts Receivable” shall mean those portions of Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable arising out of a Retainage.
“Retainage Value” shall mean, at the date of determination thereof, the aggregate face amount of Retainage Accounts Receivable as permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing, less taxes, discounts, credits and allowances, except to the extent otherwise permitted by Ex-Im Bank in writing.
“Revolving Loan Facility” shall mean the credit facility or portion thereof established by Lender in favor of Borrower for the purpose of providing working capital in the form of loans and/or Letters of Credit to finance the manufacture, production or purchase and subsequent export sale of Items pursuant to Loan Documents under which Credit Accommodations may be made and repaid on a continuous basis based solely on credit availability on the Export-Related Borrowing Base during the term of such credit facility
“Special Conditions” shall mean those conditions, if any, set forth in Section 13 of the Loan Authorization Agreement.
“Specific Export Orders” shall mean those Export Orders specified in Section 5.D. of the Loan Authorization Agreement as applicable for a Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility or a Transaction Specific Loan Facility.

 

13


 

“Standby Letters of Credit” shall mean those letters of credit subject to the ISP or UCP issued or caused to be issued by Lender for Borrower’s account that can be drawn upon by a Buyer only if Borrower fails to perform all of its obligations with respect to an Export Order.
“Transaction Specific Loan Facility” shall mean a credit facility or a portion thereof established by Lender in favor of Borrower for the purpose of providing working capital in the form of loans and/or Letters of Credit to finance the manufacture, production or purchase and subsequent export sale of Items pursuant to Loan Documents under which Credit Accommodations are made based solely on credit availability on the Export-Related Borrowing Base relating to Specific Export Orders and once such Credit Accommodations are repaid they may not be reborrowed.
“Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility” shall mean a Revolving Credit Facility established to provide financing of Specific Export Orders.
“UCC” shall mean the Uniform Commercial Code, as the same may be in effect from time to time in the relevant United States jurisdiction.
“UCP” shall mean the Uniform Customs and Practice for Documentary Credits (1993 Revision), International Chamber of Commerce Publication No. 500 and any amendments and revisions thereof.
“U.S.” or “United States” shall mean the United States of America including any division or agency thereof (including United States embassies or United States military bases located overseas), and any United States Territory (including without limitation, Puerto Rico, Guam or the United States Virgin Islands).
“U.S. Content” shall mean, with respect to any Item, all the costs, including labor, materials, services and overhead, but not markup or profit margin, which are of U.S. origin or manufacture, and which are incorporated into an Item in the United States.
“Warranty” shall mean Borrower’s guarantee to Buyer that the Items will function as intended during the warranty period set forth in the applicable Export Order.
“Warranty Letter of Credit” shall mean a Standby Letter of Credit which is issued or caused to be issued by Lender to support the obligations of Borrower with respect to a Warranty or a Standby Letter of Credit which by its terms becomes a Warranty Letter of Credit.
1.02 Rules of Construction . For purposes of this Agreement, the following additional rules of construction shall apply, unless specifically indicated to the contrary: (a) wherever from the context it appears appropriate, each term stated in either the singular or plural shall include the singular and the plural, and pronouns stated in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender shall include the masculine, the feminine and the neuter; (b) the term “or” is not exclusive; (c) the term “including” (or any form thereof) shall not be limiting or exclusive; (d) all references to statutes and related regulations shall include any amendments of same and any successor statutes and regulations; (e) the words “this Agreement”, “herein”, “hereof”, “hereunder” or other words of similar import refer to this Agreement as a whole including the schedules, exhibits, and annexes hereto as the same may be amended, modified or supplemented; (f) all references in this Agreement to sections, schedules, exhibits, and annexes shall refer to the corresponding sections, schedules, exhibits, and annexes of or to this Agreement; and (g) all references to any instruments or agreements, including references to any of the Loan Documents, the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement, or the Fast Track Lender Agreement shall include any and all modifications, amendments and supplements thereto and any and all extensions or renewals thereof to the extent permitted under this Agreement.

 

14


 

1.03 Incorporation of Recitals . The Recitals to this Agreement are incorporated into and shall constitute a part of this Agreement.
ARTICLE II
OBLIGATIONS OF BORROWER
Until payment in full of all Loan Facility Obligations and termination of the Loan Documents, Borrower agrees as follows:
2.01 Use of Credit Accommodations . (a) Borrower shall use Credit Accommodations only for the purpose of enabling Borrower to finance the cost of manufacturing, producing, purchasing or selling the Items. Borrower may not use any of the Credit Accommodations for the purpose of: (i) servicing or repaying any of Borrower’s pre-existing or future indebtedness unrelated to the Loan Facility unless approved by Ex-Im Bank in writing; (ii) acquiring fixed assets or capital assets for use in Borrower’s business; (iii) acquiring, equipping or renting commercial space outside of the United States; (iv) paying the salaries of non U.S. citizens or non-U.S. permanent residents who are located in offices outside of the United States; or (v) in connection with a Retainage or Warranty unless approved by Ex-Im Bank in writing.
(b) In addition, no Credit Accommodation may be used to finance the manufacture, purchase or sale of any of the following:
(i) Items to be sold to a Buyer located in a country as to which Ex-Im Bank is prohibited from doing business as designated in the Country Limitation Schedule;
(ii) that part of the cost of the Items which is not U.S. Content unless such part is not greater than fifty percent (50%) of the cost of the Items and is incorporated into the Items in the United States;
(iii) defense articles or defense services;
(iv) Capital Goods unless in accordance with Section 2.14 of this Agreement; or
(v) without Ex-Im Bank’s prior written consent, any Items to be used in the construction, alteration, operation or maintenance of nuclear power, enrichment, reprocessing, research or heavy water production facilities.
2.02 Security Interests . Borrower agrees to cooperate with Lender in any steps Lender shall take to file and maintain valid, enforceable and perfected security interests in the Collateral.

 

15


 

2.03 Loan Documents and Loan Authorization Agreement . (a) This Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents applicable to Borrower have been duly executed and delivered on behalf of Borrower, and are and will continue to be legal and valid obligations of Borrower, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms.
(b) Borrower shall comply with all of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Loan Authorization Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents to which it is a party.
(c) Borrower hereby represents and warrants to Lender that Borrower is an Eligible Person.
2.04 Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificates and Export Orders . (a) In order to receive Credit Accommodations under the Loan Facility, Borrower shall have delivered to Lender an Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate as frequently as required by Lender but at least within the past month, together with a copy of the Export Order(s) or, for Revolving Loan Facilities, if permitted by Lender, a written summary of the Export Orders (when Eligible Export-Related Inventory and Eligible Overseas Export-Related Inventory are entering the Export-Related Borrowing Base) against which Borrower is requesting Credit Accommodations. In addition, so long as there are any Credit Accommodations outstanding under the Loan Facility, Borrower shall deliver to Lender an Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate at least once each month. Lender shall determine if daily electronic reporting reconciled monthly may substitute for monthly Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificates. If the Lender requires an Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate more frequently, Borrower shall deliver such Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate as required by Lender.
(b) If Lender permits summaries of Export Orders, Borrower shall also deliver promptly to Lender copies of any Export Orders requested by Lender.
2.05 Schedules, Reports and Other Statements . With the delivery of each Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate required in Section 2.04 above, Borrower shall submit to Lender in writing (a) an Inventory schedule for the preceding month, as applicable, and (b) an Accounts Receivable Aging Report for the preceding month. Borrower shall also furnish to Lender promptly upon request such information, reports, contracts, invoices and other data concerning the Collateral as Lender may from time to time specify.
2.06 Exclusions from the Export-Related Borrowing Base . In determining the Export-Related Borrowing Base, Borrower shall exclude therefrom Inventory which are not Eligible Export-Related Inventory or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory and Accounts Receivable which are not Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable. Borrower shall promptly, but in any event within five (5) Business Days, notify Lender (a) if any then existing Export-Related Inventory or Export-Related Overseas Inventory no longer constitutes Eligible Export-Related Inventory or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory, as applicable or (b) of any event or circumstance which to Borrower’s knowledge would cause Lender to consider any then existing Export-Related Accounts Receivable or Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable as no longer constituting an Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable, as applicable.

 

16


 

2.07 Borrowings and Reborrowings . (a) If the Loan Facility is a Revolving Loan Facility or Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility, provided that Borrower is not in default under any of the Loan Documents, Borrower may borrow, repay and reborrow amounts under such Loan Facility up to the credit available on the current Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate subject to the terms of this Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents until the close of business on the Final Disbursement Date.
(b) If the Loan Facility is a Transaction Specific Loan Facility, provided that Borrower is not in default under any of the Loan Documents, Borrower may borrow (but not reborrow) amounts under the Loan Facility up to the credit available on the current Export-Related Borrowing Base Certificate subject to the terms of this Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents until the close of business on the Final Disbursement Date.
2.08 Repayment Terms . (a) The Borrower on a Revolving Loan Facility shall pay in full the outstanding Loan Facility Obligations no later than the first Business Day after the Final Disbursement Date unless such Loan Facility is renewed or extended by Lender consistent with procedures required by Ex-Im Bank.
(b) The Borrower on a Transaction Specific Loan Facility and a Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility shall, within two (2) Business Days of the receipt thereof, pay to Lender (for application against the outstanding Loan Facility Obligations) all checks, drafts, cash and other remittances it may receive in payment or on account of the Export-Related Accounts Receivable, Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable or any other Collateral, in precisely the form received (except for the endorsement of Borrower where necessary). Pending such deposit, Borrower shall hold such amounts in trust for Lender separate and apart and shall not commingle any such items of payment with any of its other funds or property. Unless a Transaction Specific Loan Facility or Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility is renewed or extended by Lender consistent with procedures required by Ex-Im Bank, Borrower shall pay in full all outstanding Loan Facility Obligations no later than the first Business Day after the Final Disbursement Date, except for Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivables and Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable outstanding as of the Final Disbursement Date and due and payable after such date, for which the principal and accrued and unpaid interest thereon shall be due and payable no later than the first Business Day after the date such Accounts Receivable are due and payable.
2.09 Financial Statements . Borrower shall deliver to Lender the financial statements required to be delivered by Borrower in accordance with Section 11 of the Loan Authorization Agreement.
2.10 Additional Security or Payment . (a) Borrower shall at all times ensure that the Export-Related Borrowing Base equals or exceeds the aggregate outstanding amount of Disbursements. If informed by Lender or if Borrower otherwise has actual knowledge that the Export-Related Borrowing Base is at any time less than the aggregate outstanding amount of Disbursements, Borrower shall, within five (5) Business Days, either (i) furnish additional Collateral to Lender, in form and amount satisfactory to Lender and Ex-Im Bank or (ii) pay to Lender an amount equal to the difference between the aggregate outstanding amount of Disbursements and the Export-Related Borrowing Base.

 

17


 

(b) For purposes of this Agreement, in determining the Export-Related Borrowing Base there shall be deducted from the Export-Related Borrowing Base an amount equal to (i) twenty-five percent (25%) of the undrawn amount of outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit and Standby Letters of Credit and (ii) one hundred percent (100%) of the undrawn amount of outstanding Warranty Letters of Credit less the amount of cash collateral held by Lender to secure Warranty Letters of Credit.
(c) Unless otherwise approved in writing by Ex-Im Bank, for Revolving Loan Facilities (other than Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facilities), Borrower shall at all times ensure that the sum of the outstanding amount of Disbursements and the undrawn amount of outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit that is supported by Eligible Export-Related Inventory or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory (discounted by the relevant Advance Rate percentages) in the Export-Related Borrowing Base does not exceed sixty percent (60%) of the sum of the total outstanding amount of Disbursements and the undrawn amount of all outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit. If informed by Lender or if Borrower otherwise has actual knowledge that the sum of the outstanding amount of Disbursements and the undrawn amount of outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit that is supported by such Inventory exceeds sixty percent (60%) of the sum of the total outstanding Disbursements and the undrawn amount of all outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit, Borrower shall, within five (5) Business Days, either (i) furnish additional non-Inventory Collateral to Lender, in form and amount satisfactory to Lender and Ex-Im Bank, or (ii) pay down the applicable portion of the outstanding Disbursements or (iii) reduce the undrawn amount of outstanding Commercial Letters of Credit such that the above described ratio is not exceeded.
(d) If informed by Lender or if Borrower otherwise has actual knowledge that the conditions of Section 2.16(g) are at any time not being met, Borrower shall, within five (5) Business Days, either (i) furnish additional Collateral to Lender that is not Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory, in form and amount satisfactory to Lender and Ex-Im Bank, or (ii) remove from the Export-Related Borrowing Base the portion of Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable or Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory that supports greater than fifty percent (50%) of the Export-Related Borrowing Base.
2.11 Continued Security Interest . Borrower shall not change (a) its name or identity in any manner, (b) the location of its principal place of business or its jurisdiction of organization or formation, (c) the location of any of the Collateral or (d) the location of any of the books or records related to the Collateral, in each instance without giving thirty (30) days prior written notice thereof to Lender and taking all actions deemed necessary or appropriate by Lender to continuously protect and perfect Lender’s Liens upon the Collateral.
2.12 Inspection of Collateral and Facilities . (a) Borrower shall permit the representatives of Lender and Ex-Im Bank to make at any time during normal business hours inspections of the Collateral and of Borrower’s facilities, activities, and books and records, and shall cause its officers and employees to give full cooperation and assistance in connection therewith.

 

18


 

(b) Borrower agrees to facilitate Lender’s conduct of field examinations at Borrower’s facilities in accordance with the time schedule and content for such examinations that Lender requests. Such field examinations shall address at a minimum: (x) the value of the Collateral against which Credit Accommodations may be provided, (y) the amount, if any, that the aggregate outstanding amount of Disbursements exceeds the Export-Related Borrowing Base and (z) whether such Borrower is in material compliance with the terms of each of the Loan Documents. Such field examinations shall include an inspection and evaluation of the Export-Related Inventory and Export-Related Overseas Inventory, a book audit of Export-Related Accounts Receivable and Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable, a review of the Accounts Receivable Aging Reports and a review of Borrower’s compliance with any Special Conditions. Lenders who opt to use the Export-Related Historical Inventory Value in the Export-Related Borrowing Base calculation shall reconcile those numbers against the calculation for the relevant time periods using the Export-Related Inventory Value. Whenever Export-Related Accounts Receivable or Export-Related Inventory derived from Indirect Exports are in the Export-Related Borrowing Base, Lender shall verify compliance with Section 2.15 herein, including taking a random sampling of ultimate foreign purchasers.
2.13 General Intangibles . Borrower represents and warrants that it owns, or is licensed to use, all General Intangibles necessary to conduct its business as currently conducted except where the failure of Borrower to own or license such General Intangibles could not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
2.14 Economic Impact Approval . (a) For Loan Facilities up to and including $10 million, Borrower acknowledges that Capital Goods may not be included as Items, and Export-Related Inventory, Export-Related Overseas Inventory, Export-Related Accounts Receivable and Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable in connection with the sale of such Capital Goods may not be included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base, if such Capital Goods would enable a foreign buyer to establish or expand production of a product where, as of the date of the Economic Impact Certification covering such Item: (i) the Buyer is subject to a Final Anti-Dumping (AD) or Countervailing Duty (CVD) order, or a Suspension Agreement arising from a AD or CVD investigation, and such product is substantially the same as the product that is the subject of the AD/CVD order or suspension agreement; or (ii) the Buyer is the subject of a Section 201 injury determination by the International Trade Commission (“ITC”) and such product is substantially the same as a product that is the subject of the ITC injury determination. Borrower may consult with Ex-Im Bank regarding the appropriate application of this Section 2.14(a) and may, at its option, request that Ex-Im Bank issue an Economic Impact Approval covering any Items listed in Section 4.A. of the Loan Authorization Agreement. For Loan Facilities over $10 million involving Items that are Capital Goods, Borrower shall obtain from Ex-Im Bank, and abide by, an Economic Impact Approval covering all Items listed in Section 4(A) of the Loan Authorization Agreement.
(b) Borrower shall provide Lender with a certification in the form of Annex B (an “Economic Impact Certification”) covering the Items stated in Section 4(A) of the Loan Authorization Agreement prior to Lender including such Items in the Loan Authorization Agreement. Prior to Lender amending the Loan Authorization Agreement to include additional Items, Borrower shall provide Lender with an additional Economic Impact Certification covering such additional Items.

 

19


 

2.15 Indirect Exports. Indirect Exports may be included as Items in a Loan Facility provided that funds available under such Loan Facility’s Export-Related Borrowing Base supported by Accounts Receivable and Inventory derived from Indirect Exports at no time exceed ten percent (10%) of the Maximum Amount of such Loan Facility, and provided , further that (a) the ultimate foreign buyer for the Items must be located in a country in which Ex-Im Bank is not legally prohibited from doing business in accordance with the Country Limitation Schedule, and (b) the Borrower must make available to Lender verifiable evidence of intent to export the Indirect Exports from the United States, which evidence may be contained in the Export Orders and Accounts Receivable Aging Reports and supporting documents. Lender must obtain written consent from Ex-Im Bank prior to including funds derived from Indirect Exports in an Export-Related Borrowing Base above the ten percent (10%) threshold.
2.16 Overseas Inventory and Accounts Receivable . Upon the prior written consent of Ex-Im Bank, Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable and Export-Related Overseas Inventory of a Borrower or of an Affiliated Foreign Person (as defined below) may be included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base provided that conditions required by Ex-Im Bank, including the following, are met:
(a) the Affiliated Foreign Person, if any, has been approved by Ex-Im Bank;
(b) the Affiliated Foreign Person, if any, is a Borrower under the relevant Loan Facility;
(c) notwithstanding the Maximum Amount of the Loan Facility, all payments due and payable on such Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable are collected through a cash collateral account under Lender’s control;
(d) as of the Effective Date, or such later date when the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable and/or Export-Related Overseas Inventory are added to the Loan Facility, Lender has obtained a valid and enforceable first priority Lien in the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable and Export-Related Overseas Inventory, as applicable;
(e) as of the Effective Date, or such later date when the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable and/or Export-Related Overseas Inventory are added to the Loan Facility, Lender has obtained a legal opinion confirming the security interest in the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable and Export-Related Overseas Inventory;
(f) the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable are due and payable in United States Dollars or other currency acceptable to Ex-Im Bank; and
(g) at no time may the portion of the Export-Related Borrowing Base derived from Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable and Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory exceed fifty percent (50%) of the Export-Related Borrowing Base.
For purposes hereof, an “Affiliated Foreign Person” shall mean a subsidiary or affiliate of a Borrower on the same Loan Facility, which has duly executed as a Borrower all of the applicable Loan Documents and any other documents required by Ex-Im Bank, meets all of the requirements of the definition of Eligible Person other than subclause (a) thereof and is in good standing in the country of its formation or otherwise authorized to conduct business in such country.

 

20


 

2.17 Country Limitation Schedule . Unless otherwise informed in writing by Lender or Ex-Im Bank, Borrower shall be entitled to rely on the last copy of the Country Limitation Schedule distributed from Lender to Borrower.
2.18 Notice of Certain Events . Borrower shall promptly, but in any event within five (5) Business Days, notify Lender in writing of the occurrence of any of the following:
(a) Borrower or any Guarantor (i) applies for, consents to or suffers the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee, liquidator or similar fiduciary of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property or calls a meeting of its creditors, (ii) admits in writing its inability, or is generally unable, to pay its debts as they become due or ceases operations of its present business, (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, (iv) commences a voluntary case under any state or federal bankruptcy laws (as now or hereafter in effect), (v) is adjudicated as bankrupt or insolvent, (vi) files a petition seeking to take advantage of any other law providing for the relief of debtors, (vii) acquiesces to, or fails to have dismissed within thirty (30) days, any petition filed against it in any involuntary case under such bankruptcy laws, or (vii) takes any action for the purpose of effecting any of the foregoing;
(b) any Lien in any of the Collateral, granted or intended by the Loan Documents to be granted to Lender, ceases to be a valid, enforceable, perfected, first priority Lien (or a lesser priority if expressly permitted pursuant to Section 6 of the Loan Authorization Agreement) subject only to Permitted Liens;
(c) the issuance of any levy, assessment, attachment, seizure or Lien, other than a Permitted Lien, against any of the Collateral which is not stayed or lifted within thirty (30) calendar days;
(d) any proceeding is commenced by or against Borrower or any Guarantor for the liquidation of its assets or dissolution;
(e) any litigation is filed against Borrower or any Guarantor which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect and such litigation is not withdrawn or dismissed within thirty (30) calendar days of the filing thereof;
(f) any default or event of default under the Loan Documents;
(g) any failure to comply with any terms of the Loan Authorization Agreement;
(h) any material provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Document for any reason ceases to be valid, binding and enforceable in accordance with its terms;
(i) any event which has had or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; or
(j) the aggregate outstanding amount of Disbursements exceeds the applicable Export-Related Borrowing Base.

 

21


 

2.19 Insurance . Borrower will at all times carry property, liability and other insurance, with insurers acceptable to Lender, in such form and amounts, and with such deductibles and other provisions, as Lender shall require, and Borrower will provide evidence of such insurance to Lender on the proper Acord Form, so that Lender is satisfied that such insurance is, at all times, in full force and effect. Each property insurance policy shall name Lender as loss payee or mortgagee and shall contain a lender’s loss payable endorsement in form acceptable to Lender and each liability insurance policy shall name Lender as an additional insured. All policies of insurance shall provide that they may not be cancelled or changed without at least thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to Lender and shall otherwise be in form and substance satisfactory to Lender. Borrower will promptly deliver to Lender copies of all reports made to insurance companies.
2.20 Taxes . Borrower has timely filed all tax returns and reports required by applicable law, has timely paid all applicable taxes, assessments, deposits and contributions owing by Borrower and will timely pay all such items in the future as they became due and payable. Borrower may, however, defer payment of any contested taxes; provided, that Borrower (a) in good faith contests Borrower’s obligation to pay such taxes by appropriate proceedings promptly and diligently instituted and conducted; (b) notifies Lender in writing of the commencement of, and any material development in, the proceedings; (c) posts bonds or takes any other steps required to keep the contested taxes from becoming a Lien upon any of the Collateral; and (d) maintains adequate reserves therefore in conformity with GAAP.
2.21 Compliance with Laws . Borrower represents and warrants that it has complied in all material respects with all provisions of all applicable laws and regulations, including those relating to Borrower’s ownership of real or personal property, the conduct and licensing of Borrower’s business, the payment and withholding of taxes, ERISA and other employee matters, safety and environmental matters.
2.22 Negative Covenants . Without the prior written consent of Ex-Im Bank and Lender, Borrower shall not: (a) merge, consolidate or otherwise combine with any other Person; (b) acquire all or substantially all of the assets or capital stock of any other Person; (c) sell, lease, transfer, convey, assign or otherwise dispose of any of its assets, except for the sale of Inventory in the ordinary course of business and the disposition of obsolete equipment in the ordinary course of business; (d) create any Lien on the Collateral except for Permitted Liens; (e) make any material changes in its organizational structure or identity; or (f) enter into any agreement to do any of the foregoing.
2.23 Cross Default . Borrower shall be deemed in default under the Loan Facility if Borrower fails to pay when due any amount payable to Lender under any loan or other credit accommodations to Borrower whether or not guaranteed by Ex-Im Bank.
2.24 Munitions List . If any of the Items are articles, services, or related technical data that are listed on the United States Munitions List (part 121 of title 22 of the Code of Federal Regulations), Borrower shall send a written notice promptly, but in any event within five (5) Business Days, of Borrower learning thereof to Lender describing the Items(s) and the corresponding invoice amount.

 

22


 

2.25 Suspension and Debarment, etc . On the date of this Agreement neither Borrower nor its Principals are (a) debarred, suspended, proposed for debarment with a final determination still pending, declared ineligible or voluntarily excluded (as such terms are defined under any of the Debarment Regulations referred to below) from participating in procurement or nonprocurement transactions with any United States federal government department or agency pursuant to any of the Debarment Regulations or (b) indicted, convicted or had a civil judgment rendered against Borrower or any of its Principals for any of the offenses listed in any of the Debarment Regulations. Unless authorized by Ex-Im Bank, Borrower will not knowingly enter into any transactions in connection with the Items with any person who is debarred, suspended, declared ineligible or voluntarily excluded from participation in procurement or nonprocurement transactions with any United States federal government department or agency pursuant to any of the Debarment Regulations. Borrower will provide immediate written notice to Lender if at any time it learns that the certification set forth in this Section 2.24 was erroneous when made or has become erroneous by reason of changed circumstances.
ARTICLE III
RIGHTS AND REMEDIES
3.01 Indemnification . Upon Ex-Im Bank’s payment of a Claim to Lender in connection with the Loan Facility pursuant to the Master Guarantee Agreement, Ex-Im Bank may assume all rights and remedies of Lender under the Loan Documents and may enforce any such rights or remedies against Borrower, the Collateral and any Guarantors. Borrower shall hold Ex-Im Bank and Lender harmless from and indemnify them against any and all liabilities, damages, claims, costs and losses incurred or suffered by either of them resulting from (a) any materially incorrect certification or statement knowingly made by Borrower or its agent to Ex-Im Bank or Lender in connection with the Loan Facility, this Agreement, the Loan Authorization Agreement or any other Loan Documents or (b) any material breach by Borrower of the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the Loan Authorization Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents. Borrower also acknowledges that any statement, certification or representation made by Borrower in connection with the Loan Facility is subject to the penalties provided in Article 18 U.S.C. Section 1001.
3.02 Liens . Borrower agrees that any and all Liens granted by it to Lender are also hereby granted to Ex-Im Bank to secure Borrower’s obligation, however arising, to reimburse Ex-Im Bank for any payments made by Ex-Im Bank pursuant to the Master Guarantee Agreement. Lender is authorized to apply the proceeds of, and recoveries from, any property subject to such Liens to the satisfaction of Loan Facility Obligations in accordance with the terms of any agreement between Lender and Ex-Im Bank.

 

23


 

ARTICLE IV
MISCELLANEOUS
4.01 Governing Law . This Agreement and the obligations arising under this Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the law of the state governing the Loan Agreement.
4.02 Notification . All notices required by this Agreement shall be given in the manner and to the parties provided for in the Loan Agreement.
4.03 Partial Invalidity . If at any time any of the provisions of this Agreement becomes illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any respect under the law of any jurisdiction, neither the legality, the validity nor the enforceability of the remaining provisions hereof shall in any way be affected or impaired.
4.04 Waiver of Jury Trial . BORROWER HEREBY KNOWINGLY, VOLUNTARILY AND INTENTIONALLY WAIVES ANY AND ALL RIGHTS IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY ACTION, SUIT, PROCEEDING OR OTHER LITIGATION BROUGHT TO RESOLVE ANY DISPUTE ARISING UNDER, ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT, THE LOAN AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT, ANY LOAN DOCUMENT, OR ANY OTHER AGREEMENT, DOCUMENT OR INSTRUMENT EXECUTED OR DELIVERED IN CONNECTION HEREWITH OR THEREWITH OR ANY COURSE OF CONDUCT, COURSE OF DEALING, STATEMENTS (WHETHER VERBAL OR WRITTEN), OR ACTIONS OR OMISSIONS OF LENDER, EX-IM BANK, OR ANY OTHER PERSON, RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, THE LOAN AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT OR ANY OTHER LOAN DOCUMENT.
4.05 Consequential Damages . Neither Ex-Im Bank, Lender nor any agent or attorney for any of them shall be liable to Borrower for consequential damages arising from any breach of contract, tort or other wrong relating to the establishment, administration or collection of the Loan Facility Obligations.

 

24


 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Borrower has caused this Agreement to be duly executed as of the 4th day of January, 2011.
         
FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.    
     (Name of Borrower)    
 
       
By:
  /s/ Joseph G. Mahler    
 
 
 
(Signature)
   
Name:
  Joseph G. Mahler    
 
 
 
(Print or Type)
   
Title:
  Sr. Vice President & CFO    
 
 
 
(Print or Type)
   
 
       
ACKNOWLEDGED:    
 
       
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.    
 
       
By:
  /s/ James P. Murphy    
 
 
 
(Signature)
   
Name:
  James P. Murphy    
 
 
 
(Print or Type)
   
Title:
  Authorized Signer    
 
 
 
(Print or Type)
   
 
       
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.    
Global Trade Services    
 
       
By:
  /s/ Randall Mascorro    
 
 
 
(Signature)
   
Name:
  Randall Mascorro    
Title:
  Vice President    

 

25


 

ANNEXES:
     
Annex A
- Loan Authorization Agreement, Fast Track Loan Authorization Agreement or Loan Authorization
Notice, as applicable
 
Annex B
- Economic Impact Certification

 

26


 

[ Two originals to be provided to Ex-Im Bank]
     
To:
  Export-Import Bank of the United States
 
  811 Vermont Avenue, N.W.
 
  Washington, D.C. 20571
 
  Attention: Vice President — United States Division
LOAN AUTHORIZATION NOTICE
We hereby notify the Export-Import Bank of the United States (“Ex-Im Bank”) that, pursuant to the delegated authority granted by Ex-Im Bank to the undersigned institution (the “Lender”) under the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement referred to below between Lender and Ex-Im Bank, we have issued an Ex-Im Bank Guarantee under the Master Guarantee Agreement between Ex-Im Bank and Lender, of the Loan Facility identified below from Lender to Borrower identified below. The Loan Facility is subject to the specific terms and conditions set forth below. Unless otherwise defined, the capitalized terms used herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Master Guarantee Agreement.
1.  
Documentation and Location of Loan Documents :
 
   
Name of Lender: JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.
 
   
Delegated Authority Letter Agreement Number: TX — DA — 05 — 010
 
   
Master Guarantee Agreement Number: TX — MGA — 05 — 010
 
   
Borrower Agreement Date: January 4, 2011
 
   
Effective Date of this Loan Facility: January 4, 2011
 
   
Location of Loan Documents: 2200 Ross Ave., 6 th Floor, Dallas, Texas 75201
 
   
If Borrower was assisted by a city/state export agency, please provide the name of the agency, contact person, and telephone number.
     
Name:
   
 
   
Address:
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
Attention:
   
 
   
Telephone:
   
 
   
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

1


 

2.  
A. Borrower’s Name and Address : The full name, address, contact person, telephone and telefax numbers of Borrower are as follows:
     
Name:
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.
Address:
  3 Great Pasture Rd.
 
  Danbury, CT 06813
Attention:
  Michael Bishop, VP and Corporate Controller
Telephone:
  203-825-6000 
Telecopier:
  203-825-6100 
  B.  
Is Borrower a Small Business as stipulated by SBA guidelines ?
þ Yes o No
 
  C.  
Additionality: Please select appropriate answer(s).
  o      (1.)  
Borrower meets all small business criteria:
  (i)  
Maximum Amount is $2 million or less;
 
  (ii)  
Borrower qualifies as Small Business under SBA Guidelines;
 
  (iii)  
Borrower employs 100 people or fewer; and
 
  (iv)  
Borrower’s annual revenues do not exceed $10 million.
  þ      (2.)  
Repayment risk associated with foreign sale.
 
  þ      (3.)  
Borrower’s creditworthiness requires Guarantee.
 
  o      (4.)  
Lender’s internal lending limits reached.
 
  o      (5.)  
Lender’s statutory lending limits reached.
 
  o      (6.)  
Other (please specify)                                           .
 
  þ      (7.)  
Lender has adequately addressed each of the requirements of “Additionality” as set forth in the Working Capital Guaranty Manual in its internal credit memorandum.
3.  
Guarantor’s Name and Address : Are there Guarantors for the Loan Facility?
  o  
Yes
 
  þ  
No If no, attach waiver letter from Ex-Im Bank and/or ownership breakdown.
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

2


 

   
The full name, address, telephone and telefax numbers of each Guarantor are as follows:
     
Name:
   
 
   
Address:
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
 
   
Attention:
   
 
   
Telephone:
   
 
   
Telecopier:
   
 
   
4.  
The Items to be financed :
  A.     (1.)  
The Items: (Complete description of goods and services to be exported, e.g. machine tools, electronic components, logs, etc.)
  SIC Code(s)/NAIC No(s): 335999   
Development and manufacture of high- efficiency stationary fuel cell power plants
  (2.)  
Will Indirect Exports be included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base?
  þ  
Yes. If yes, please indicate which Items above will include Indirect Exports and affirm:
  þ  
Funds available under the Export-Related Borrowing Base derived from Indirect Exports shall at all times constitute no more than 10% of the Maximum Amount of this Loan Facility in accordance with the standard stated in Section 4.15 of the Master Guarantee Agreement; or
 
  o  
Funds available under the Export-Related Borrowing Base derived from Indirect Exports might constitute more than 10% of the Maximum Amount of this Loan Facility. Lender has obtained Ex-Im Bank’s prior written consent to exceed 10% of the Maximum Amount. Attached is a copy of Ex-Im Bank’s written consent.
  o  
No.
  (3.)  
Have you obtained an Economic Impact Certification from the Borrower covering all Items listed in 4.A.(1) in accordance with Section 4.09 of the MGA?
  þ  
Yes
 
  o  
No
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

3


 

  B.  
Are Commercial Letters of Credit or Standby Letters of Credit (other than Warranty Letters of Credit) to be issued under this Loan Facility?
  þ  
Yes If yes, approximately what percentage of the Loan Facility will be utilized for Commercial Letters of Credit or Standby Letters of Credit? Up to 50%
 
  o  
No
  C.  
Are Warranty Letters of Credit expected to be issued under this Loan Facility?
  o  
Yes Lender has obtained Ex-Im Bank’s prior written consent for issuance of such Warranty Letters of Credit. Attached is a copy of Ex-Im Bank’s written consent.
 
  þ  
No
  D.  
Are Retainage Accounts Receivable to be included in the Export-Related Borrowing Base?
  o  
Yes Lender has obtained Ex-Im Bank’s prior written consent for inclusion of each such Retainage Accounts Receivable. Attached is a copy of Ex-Im Bank’s written consent.
 
  þ  
No
5.  
Maximum Amount, Advance Rates, Loan Facility Terms :
  A.  
Maximum Amount: $5,000,000.00
 
  B.  
Advance Rates by Categories of Primary Collateral:
  (1.)  
Inventory: The Advance Rate (to be multiplied by the Export-Related Inventory Value or Export-Related Historical Inventory Value) for Collateral categorized as Eligible Export-Related Inventory shall be:
Seventy-five percent ( 75% )
  (2.)  
Accounts Receivable: The Advance Rate (to be multiplied by the Export-Related Accounts Receivable Value) for Collateral categorized as Eligible Export-Related Accounts Receivable shall be:
Ninety percent ( 90% )
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

4


 

  (3.)  
Retainage Accounts Receivable: The Advance Rate (to be multiplied by the Retainage Value) for Collateral categorized as Retainage Accounts Receivable shall be:
Zero percent ( 0% )
  (4.)  
Other Assets (as described in Section 6.A. below): The Advance Rate (to be multiplied by the Other Assets Value) for Collateral categorized as Other Assets shall be:
Zero percent ( 0% )
  (5.)  
Overseas Accounts Receivable: The Advance Rate (to be multiplied by the Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable Value) for Collateral categorized as Eligible Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable shall be:
Zero percent ( 0% )
  (6.)  
Overseas Inventory: The Advance Rate (multiplied by the Export-Related Overseas Inventory Value) for Collateral categorized as Eligible Export-Related Overseas Inventory shall be:
Zero percent ( 0% )
  C.  
Type of Loan Facility and Exports supported:
  (1.)  
Type of Loan Facility:
 
  þ  
The Loan Facility is a Revolving Loan Facility (other than a Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility). (Complete subsections (2.), (3.) and (5.), and, if applicable, (6.) below.)
 
  o  
The Loan Facility is a Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility. (Complete subsections (3.), (4.), and (5.), and, if applicable, (6.) below.)
 
  o  
The Loan Facility is a Transaction Specific Loan Facility. (Complete subsections (3.), (4.), and (5.), and, if applicable, (6.) below.)
 
  (2.)  
For a Revolving Loan Facility, identify the top three countries to which the Items will be exported:
Country of Export: South Korea
Country of Export: Canada
Country of Export: Germany
  (3.)  
Estimated Total Export Sales each year to be supported by this Loan Facility: $ 38,800,000.00
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

5


 

  (4.)  
For a Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility or a Transaction Specific Loan Facility, identify the Specific Export Order(s):
             
Country of Export:
           
         
Contract Price:
         
 
           
Contract Number:
           
         
Contract Date:
           
         
 
           
         
Parties:
           
         
 
           
         
 
           
         
  (5.)  
Lender shall conduct field examinations:
  o  
At least every six (6) months starting on the date six (6) months following the Effective Date of the Loan Facility.
  þ  
At least every six (6) months starting 4/30/11 (specify date no later than six (6) months following the Effective Date of the Loan Facility; semi-annual field examination schedule must include Borrower’s fiscal year end date if audited financial statements will substitute for one field examination annually).
  (6.)  
For Loan Facilities with a Loan Facility Term greater than one (1) year, Lender shall provide Ex-Im Bank an annual review:
  o  
On each Loan Facility Anniversary Date or
 
  o  
Annually starting                      (specify date no later than the first anticipated Loan Facility Anniversary Date).
6.  
Security Interests :
 
   
Subject to the provisions of subsections D, E and F below in this Section 6, Lender agrees to obtain and maintain the following valid, enforceable and perfected security interests in the following Collateral, and the proceeds thereof:
  A.  
First priority in the following (check all that apply):
  þ  
All Inventory.
 
  o  
All Export-Related Inventory.
 
  o  
All Export-Related Overseas Inventory.
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

6


 

  o  
All Export-Related Inventory relating to Specific Export Order(s).
 
  o  
All Export-Related Overseas Inventory relating to Specific Export Order(s).
 
  þ  
All Accounts Receivable.
 
  o  
All Export-Related Accounts Receivable.
 
  o  
All Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable.
 
  o  
All Export-Related Accounts Receivable relating to Specific Export Order(s).
 
  o  
All Export-Related Overseas Accounts Receivable relating to Specific Export Order(s).
 
  þ  
All General Intangibles.
 
  o  
All Export-Related General Intangibles.
 
  o  
All Other Assets. Please specify:                                                               
 
  o  
All Other Collateral. Please specify:                                                               
  B.  
Secondary Collateral: Any other assets of Borrower in which Lender is receiving a Lien to secure any other financial accommodations provided by Lender to such Borrower.
 
     
Please specify: Cash collateral being held at JPMC securing other facilities
 
  C.  
Guarantor Collateral: Any assets of a Guarantor or a third party in which Lender is granted a Lien to secure any financial accommodations provided by Lender to Borrower.
 
     
Please specify: N/A
 
  D.  
Permitted Liens:
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

7


 

     
(1) Liens granted to the Connecticut Development Authority pursuant to: (a) the Note in the amount of $4,000,000, the Loan Agreement, and the Security Agreement all dated April 29, 2008; and (b) the Loan Agreement with the Connecticut Development Authority Dated as of June 30, 2000, as amended.
 
     
(2) Liens granted to (i) Relational, LLC, (ii) Relational II, LLC, and(iii) Key Equipment Finance Inc. for which UCC Financing Statements have been filed prior to the date hereof, securing equipment leased or purchased by the Borrower;
 
     
(3) Liens granted or to be granted in connection with the financing of power plants to be sold by the Borrower to entities controlled by the Borrower or the Borrower’s distribution partners for projects selected by the State of Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control (“DPUC”) for purposes of providing 43.5 megawatts, including (but not limited to) projects for generating approximately 27.3 megawatts of power which may be financed in whole or in part by a United States Department of Energy Loan Guarantee.
 
     
(4) Liens on raw materials which secure trade debt arising from the purchase of such raw materials and such trade debt is incurred by borrower in the ordinary course of business;
 
     
(5) Liens and all associated rights of the Department of Energy and other governmental agencies arising from so-called “march-in rights” to the technology subject to a cooperative research and development agreement.
 
  E.  
The Liens of Lender on the Secondary Collateral shall be a first priority Lien except for the following Liens: N/A
 
  F.  
The Liens of Lender on the Guarantor Collateral shall be a first priority Lien except for the following Liens: N/A
 
  G.  
Are you separately collateralizing the Unguaranteed Portion10% portion of this Loan Facility?
 
     
No þ
 
     
Yes o If yes, please specify separate collateral. _________________________.
   
Note: Lender cannot collateralize its retained 10% risk with cash, cash equivalents or marketable securities from Borrower, any Guarantor, or any of Borrower’s Affiliates (as defined in Section 5(b) of the Delegated Authority Letter Agreement) or any third party guarantors.
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

8


 

7.  
Terms of Sale :
 
   
The terms of sale for the Items under this Loan Facility shall be typical for the industry but in no event shall allow for payment more than 180 days following the original invoice date. The terms may include the following:
  þ  
Confirmed irrevocable letters of credit.
 
  þ  
Irrevocable letters of credit.
 
  þ  
Open account insured through Ex-Im Bank export credit insurance for comprehensive commercial and political risk.
 
  þ  
Open account insured through non Ex-Im Bank export credit insurance for comprehensive commercial and political risk.
 
  þ  
Cash payment received prior to shipment.
 
  þ  
Open account uninsured.
 
  þ  
Sight draft documents against payment (also known as “documentary collections”).
 
  o  
Other terms. [If checked, any such terms of sale must be fully described on an attached addendum in order for this Notice to be considered complete.]
8.  
Interest Rate and Other Fees .
  A.  
Lender’s Interest Rate: JPMC CBFR or LIBOR + 1 1 / 2 %
 
  B.  
Other Fees: Letter of Credit fees if applicable
9.  
Facility Fee : Lender will submit a completed and signed Schedule A together with the Facility Fee amount determined in accordance with the applicable section of Schedule A:
  A.  
within ten (10) Business Days of the Effective Date;
 
  B.  
with respect to a Revolving Loan Facility (other than a Transaction Specific Revolving Loan Facility), within ten (10) Business Days of the first and second anniversaries of the Effective Date, as applicable; and/or
 
  C.  
within ten (10) Business Days of the Effective Date of an Extension of the Final Disbursement Date (such Extensions not to exceed one-hundred-twenty (120) days in the aggregate), as applicable. Please note that Ex-Im Bank considers a Renewal to be a new Loan Facility rather than an Extension .
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

9


 

10.  
Final Disbursement Date : January 3, 2012.
 
11.  
Financial Reporting Requirements : Borrower and each Guarantor shall deliver to Lender the following financial statements:
  A.  
Year End Financial Statements .
 
     
Within one hundred and twenty (120) days of Borrower’s and each Guarantor’s (other than individual Guarantor) fiscal year end or if such Person is required to submit a Form 10-K at the time of filing of such Form 10-K, the income statement, balance sheet and statement of cash flow as of such fiscal year-end including in each case all footnotes and other disclosures, which financial statements have been (check one):
  þ  
certified without qualification by an independent accounting firm acceptable to Lender (the “Accountants”) (For Loan Facilities with a Maximum Amount of $5,000,000 or more)
 
  o  
reviewed by the Accountants (For Loan Facilities with a Maximum Amount of $2,000,000 or more but less than $5,000,000)
 
  o  
compiled by the Accountants (For Loan Facilities with a Maximum Amount of $1,000,000 or more but less than $2,000,000)
 
  o  
internally prepared by management of such Person in accordance with GAAP, certified as fairly presenting the financial condition of such Person as of the date thereof by an authorized officer of such Person (For Loan Facilities with a Maximum Amount of less than $1,000,000)
  B.  
Quarterly Financial Statements .
 
     
Within 45 days of Borrower’s and each Guarantor’s (other than an individual Guarantor) fiscal quarter end or if such Person is required to submit a Form 10-Q at the time of filing of such Form 10-Q, the income statement, balance sheet and statement of cash flow as of the end of such fiscal quarter which have been internally prepared by management of such Person in accordance with GAAP, and certified as fairly presenting the financial condition of such Person as of the date thereof by an authorized officer of such Person.
 
  C.  
Individual Guarantors Financial Statements : Once each year, a personal financial statement on a bank form or such other form generally accepted by Lender.
12.  
Country Limitation Schedule : (See Country Limitation Schedule dated October 28, 2010, attached hereto, which may be updated from time to time)
 
13.  
See attached waiver letters dated August 2, 2010, November 10, 2010 and December 13, 2010 and e-mail correspondence dated December 16, 2010 from the Export-Import Bank of the United States for a listing of the approved waiver items.
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

10


 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Lender has caused this instrument to be executed and delivered as of this 4th day of January, 2011.
         
Name of Lender:
  JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.    
 
   
 
   
By:
   
 
   
 
  (Signature)    
Name:
  Randall Mascorro    
Title:
  Vice President    
         
Address:
       
 
  2200 Ross Ave., 6 th Floor   Telephone: 214-965-3632
 
  Dallas, Texas 75201   Telefax:      214-965-3671
Receipt acknowledged by:
Export-Import Bank of the United States
         
By:
   
 
(Signature)
   
 
       
Name:
       
 
       
Title:
                       , Business Credit Division    
Date:
       
 
       
Ex-Im Bank hereby designates the Loan Facility referred to in this Loan Authorization Notice as Guaranteed Loan Facility No.                                           .
Ex-Im Bank 12/31/05

 

11

Exhibit 10.62
SECURITY AGREEMENT
THIS SECURITY AGREEMENT dated as of January 4, 2011 (this “ Security Agreement ”) is by and between FUELCELL ENERGY, INC., a Delaware corporation (the “ Grantor ”) and JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A. (the “ Secured Party ”).
RECITALS
A. This Security Agreement is entered into in connection with that certain Export Loan Agreement of even date herewith (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ Export Loan Agreement ”), between the Grantor, as borrower and Secured Party, as lender.
C. It is a requirement under the Export Loan Agreement that the Grantor shall secure the due payment and performance of all obligations of the Borrower under such agreements, including without limitation the Borrower’s Obligations (as defined in the Export Loan Agreement).
AGREEMENT
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged and confessed, the Grantor hereby agrees with Secured Party as follows:
Section 1. Definitions; Interpretation . (a) All capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Security Agreement that are defined in the Export Loan Agreement shall have the meanings assigned to such terms by the Export Loan Agreement. Any terms used in this Security Agreement that are defined in the UCC (as defined below) and not otherwise defined herein or in the Export Loan Agreement, shall have the meanings assigned to those terms by the UCC. All meanings to defined terms, unless otherwise indicated, are to be equally applicable to both the singular and plural forms of the terms defined. The following terms shall have the meanings specified below:
Accounts ” means an “account” as defined in the UCC.
Chattel Paper ” has the meaning set forth in the UCC, to the extent they evidence obligations to pay the Accounts.
Collateral ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2 of this Security Agreement.
Contracts ” means all contracts to which Grantor now is, or hereafter will be bound, or to which the Grantor is or hereafter will be a party, beneficiary or assignee, and all exhibits, schedules and other attachments to such contracts, as the same may be amended, supplemented or otherwise modified or replaced from time to time.

 

 


 

Contract Documents ” means all Instruments, Chattel Paper, bonds, guarantees or similar documents evidencing, representing, arising from or existing in respect of, relating to, securing or otherwise supporting the payment of, Accounts.
Deposit Accounts ” means all deposit accounts now owned or hereafter maintained by Grantor with any depositary bank, or in which Grantor holds or acquires any other right, title or interest, constituting “deposit accounts” under the UCC.
Document ” means a bill of lading, dock warrant, dock receipt, warehouse receipt or order for the delivery of goods, and also any other document which in the regular course of business or financing is treated as adequately evidencing that the person in possession of it is entitled to receive, hold and dispose of the document and the goods it covers, to the extent that it relates to any other Collateral.
General Intangibles ” means all general intangibles now or hereafter owned by Grantor, or in which Grantor holds or acquires any other right, title or interest, constituting “general intangibles” or “payment intangibles” under the UCC, including, but not limited to, all trademarks, trademark applications, trademark registrations, tradenames, fictitious business names, business names, company names, business identifiers, prints, labels, trade styles and service marks (whether or not registered), trade dress, including logos and/or designs, copyrights, patents, patent applications, goodwill of Grantor’s business symbolized by any of the foregoing, trade secrets, license rights, license agreements, permits, franchises, and any rights to tax refunds to which Grantor is now or hereafter may be entitled.
Instrument ” means an “instrument” as defined in the UCC, evidencing the obligation to pay Accounts.
Inventory ” means all of the inventory of Grantor, or in which Grantor holds or acquires any right, title or interest, of every type or description, now owned or hereafter acquired and wherever located, whether raw, in process or finished, and all materials usable in processing the same and all documents of title covering any inventory, including, without limitation, work in process, materials used or consumed in Grantor’s business, now owned or hereafter acquired or manufactured by Grantor and held for sale in the ordinary course of its business, all present and future substitutions therefor, parts and accessories thereof and all additions thereto, all Proceeds thereof and products of such inventory in any form whatsoever, and any other item constituting “inventory” under the UCC.
Inventory Records ” means all books, records, other similar property, and General Intangibles at any time relating to Inventory.
Letter of Credit Rights ” means “letter-of-credit rights” as defined in the UCC with respect to letter of credits issued in favor of the Borrower and related to Accounts and Inventory.

 

- 2 -


 

Proceeds ” means all proceeds (as defined in the UCC) of any or all of the Collateral, including without limitation (i) any and all proceeds of, all claims for, and all rights of Grantor to receive the return of any premiums for, any insurance, indemnity, warranty or guaranty payable from time to time with respect to any of the Collateral, (ii) any and all payments (in any form whatsoever) made or due and payable from time to time in connection with any requisition, confiscation, condemnation, seizure or forfeiture of all or any part of the Collateral by any governmental authority (or any Person acting under color of any governmental authority), (iii) all proceeds received or receivable when any or all of the Collateral is sold, exchanged or otherwise disposed, whether voluntarily, involuntarily, in foreclosure or otherwise, (iv) all claims of Grantor for damages arising out of, or for breach of or default under, any Collateral, (v) all rights of Grantor to terminate, amend, supplement, modify or waive performance under any Contracts, to perform thereunder and to compel performance and otherwise exercise all remedies thereunder, and (vi) any and all other amounts from time to time paid or payable under or in connection with any of the Collateral.
Secured Obligations ” means all obligations of Grantor to Secured Party now or hereafter existing, including without limitation all Borrower’s Obligations (as defined in the Export Loan Agreement), and any extensions, modifications, substitutions, amendments and renewals thereof, whether for principal, interest, fees, expenses, indemnification, or otherwise.
Security Agreement ” means this Security Agreement, as the same may be modified, supplemented or amended from time to time in accordance with its terms.
UCC ” shall mean the Uniform Commercial Code as the same may, from time to time, be in effect in the State of Connecticut; provided, however, in the event that, by reason of mandatory provisions of law, any or all of the attachment, perfection or priority of the security interest in any Collateral is governed by the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in a jurisdiction other than the State of Connecticut, the term “UCC” shall mean the Uniform Commercial Code as in effect in such other jurisdiction for purposes of the provisions hereof relating to such attachment, perfection or priority and for purposes of definitions related to such provisions.
(b) All meanings to defined terms, unless otherwise indicated, are to be equally applicable to both the singular and plural forms of the terms defined. Article, Section, Schedule, and Exhibit references are to Articles and Sections of and Schedules and Exhibits to this Security Agreement, unless otherwise specified. All references to instruments, documents, contracts, and agreements are references to such instruments, documents, contracts, and agreements as the same may be amended, supplemented, and otherwise modified from time to time, unless otherwise specified. The words “hereof”, “herein” and “hereunder” and words of similar import when used in this Security Agreement shall refer to this Security Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Security Agreement. As used herein, the term “including” means “including, without limitation”. Paragraph headings have been inserted in this Security Agreement as a matter of convenience for reference only and it is agreed that such paragraph headings are not a part of this Security Agreement and shall not be used in the interpretation of any provision of this Security Agreement.

 

- 3 -


 

Section 2. Assignment, Pledge and Grant of Security Interest . As collateral security for the prompt and complete payment and performance when due of all Secured Obligations, Grantor hereby assigns, pledges, and grants to Secured Party a lien on and continuing security interest in all of the Grantor’s right, title and interest in, to and under, all items described in this Section 2, whether now owned or hereafter acquired by the Grantor and wherever located and whether now or hereafter existing or arising (collectively, the “ Collateral ”): (i) Accounts; (ii) all Inventory; (iii) General Intangibles; (iv) all Deposit Accounts which are pledged to the Secured Party to secure certain obligations of Grantor existing on the date of this Agreement (other than the Secured Obligations); (v) all cash and cash equivalents; (vi) any and all liens and security interests (together with the documents evidencing such security interests) granted to the Grantor by an obligor to secure such obligor’s obligations owing under any Instrument, Chattel Paper, or Contract which is pledged hereunder or with respect to which a security interest in the Grantor’s rights in such Instrument, Chattel Paper, or Contract is granted hereunder; (vii) any and all guaranties given by any Person for the benefit of the Grantor which guarantees the obligations of an obligor under any Instrument, Chattel Paper or Contract, which are pledged hereunder; and (viii) any and all additions, accessions and improvements to, all substitutions and replacements for and all products and Proceeds of or derived from all of the items described above in this Section 2.
Section 3. Representations and Warranties . Grantor hereby represents and warrants the following to Secured Party:
(a)  Records . Grantor is a corporation due organized and existing under the laws of Delaware. All records concerning the Collateral are located at its address for notices that is specified in the Export Loan Agreement. None of the Accounts is evidenced by a promissory note or other instrument.
(b)  Other Liens . The Grantor is, and will be the record, legal, and beneficial owner of all of the Collateral pledged by the Grantor free and clear of any Lien, except for the Permitted Liens. No effective financing statement or other instrument similar in effect covering all or any part of the Collateral is, or will be, on file in any recording office, except such as may be filed in connection with this Security Agreement or in connection with other Permitted Liens.
(c) Lien Priority and Perfection .
(i) Subject only to Permitted Liens, this Security Agreement creates valid and continuing security interests in the Collateral, securing the payment and performance of all the Secured Obligations. Upon the filing of a UCC financing statement with the office of the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware, the security interests granted to Secured Party hereunder will constitute valid and perfected security interests in all Collateral with respect to which a security interest can be perfected by the filing of a financing statement, subject only to Permitted Liens.
(ii) No consent of any other Person and no authorization, approval, or other action by, and no notice to or filing with any Governmental Authority is required (A) for the grant by the Grantor of the pledge, assignment, and security interest granted hereby or for the execution, delivery, or performance of this Security Agreement by the Grantor, (B) for the validity, perfection, or maintenance of the pledge, assignment, lien, and security interest created hereby (including the first-priority (subject to Permitted Liens) nature thereof), except for security interests that cannot be perfected by filing under the UCC, or (C) for the exercise by Secured Party of the rights provided for in this Security Agreement or the remedies in respect of the Collateral pursuant to this Security Agreement, except (1) those consents to assignment of licenses, permits, approvals, and other rights that are as a matter of law not assignable, (2) those consents, approvals, authorizations, actions, notices or filings which have been duly obtained or made and, in the case of the maintenance of perfection, the filing of continuation statements under the UCC, and (3) those filings and actions described in Section 3(c)(i).

 

- 4 -


 

(d)  Tradenames; Prior Names . Grantor has not conducted business under any name other than its current name during the last five years prior to the date of this Security Agreement.
(e)  Exclusive Control . The Grantor has exclusive possession and control of all Collateral constituting Inventory.
Section 4. Covenants .
(a) Further Assurances .
(i) Grantor agrees that from time to time, at its expense, Grantor shall promptly execute and deliver all instruments and documents, and take all action, that may be reasonably necessary or desirable, or that Secured Party may reasonably request, in order to perfect and protect any pledge, assignment, or security interest granted or intended to be granted hereby or to enable Secured Party to exercise and enforce its rights and remedies hereunder with respect to any Collateral. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, Grantor (A) at the request of Secured Party, shall execute such instruments, endorsements or notices, as may be reasonably necessary or desirable or as Secured Party may reasonably request, in order to perfect and preserve the assignments and security interests granted or purported to be granted hereby, (B) shall, at the reasonable request of Secured Party, mark conspicuously each material document included in the Collateral, each Chattel Paper included in the Accounts, and each of its records pertaining to the Collateral with a legend, in form and substance satisfactory to Secured Party, including that such document, Chattel Paper, or record is subject to the pledge, assignment, and security interest granted hereby, (C) shall, if any Collateral shall be evidenced by a promissory note or other instrument or chattel paper, deliver and pledge to Secured Party hereunder such note or instrument or chattel paper duly endorsed and accompanied by duly executed instruments of transfer or assignment, all in form and substance satisfactory to Secured Party, (D) authorizes Secured Party to file any financing statements, amendments or continuations without the signature of the Grantor to the extent permitted by applicable law in order to perfect or maintain the perfection of any security interest granted under this Security Agreement, and (E) will complete and deliver promptly to Secured Party, for any insurance contract constituting life insurance on any Person that is acquired by the Borrower, an assignment of such insurance contract and any necessary questionnaire in form and substance satisfactory to the Secured Party and the relevant insurance company named in each such assignment with respect to each such insurance contract.
(ii) Grantor shall pay all filing, registration and recording fees and all refiling, re-registration and re-recording fees, and all other reasonable expenses incident to the execution and acknowledgment of this Security Agreement, any assurance, and all federal, state, county and municipal stamp taxes and other taxes, duties, imports, assessments and charges arising out of or in connection with the execution and delivery of this Security Agreement, any agreement supplemental hereto, any financing statements, and any instruments of further assurance.

 

- 5 -


 

(iii) Grantor shall promptly provide to Secured Party all information and evidence Secured Party may reasonably request concerning the Collateral to enable Secured Party to enforce the provisions of this Security Agreement.
Section 5. Change of Name; State of Formation . Grantor shall give Secured Party at least 30 days’ prior written notice before it (i) in the case of Grantor that is not a “registered organization” (as such term is defined in Section 9-102 of the UCC), changes the location of its principal place of business and chief executive office, (ii) changes the location of its jurisdiction of formation or organization, (iii) changes the location of the Inventory, or original copies of any Chattel Paper evidencing Accounts, or (iv) uses a trade name other than its current name used on the date hereof. Other than as permitted by the terms of both the Export Loan Agreement and the Borrower Agreement, Grantor shall not amend, supplement, modify or restate its articles or certificate of incorporation, bylaws, limited liability company agreements, or other equivalent organizational documents, nor amend its name or change its jurisdiction of incorporation, organization or formation with the prior written consent of Secured Party.
(a)  Right of Inspection . Grantor shall hold and preserve, at its own cost and expense satisfactory and complete records of the Collateral, including, but not limited to, Instruments, Chattel Paper, Contracts, and records with respect to the Accounts, and will permit representatives of Secured Party, upon reasonable advance notice, at any time during normal business hours to inspect and copy them. Upon the occurrence and during the continuation of any Event of Default, at Secured Party’s request, Grantor shall promptly deliver copies of any and all such records to Secured Party.
(b)  Liability Under Contracts and Accounts . Notwithstanding anything in this Security Agreement to the contrary, (i) the execution of this Security Agreement shall not release Grantor from its obligations and duties under any of the Contract Documents, or any other contract or instrument which are part of the Collateral and Accounts included in the Collateral, (ii) the exercise by Secured Party of any of its rights hereunder shall not release Grantor from any of its duties or obligations under any Contract Documents, or any other Contract or Instrument which are part of the Collateral and Accounts included in the Collateral, and (iii) Secured Party shall not have any obligation or liability under any Contract Documents, or any other contract or instrument which are part of the Collateral and Accounts included in the Collateral by reason of the execution and delivery of this Security Agreement, nor shall Secured Party be obligated to perform any of the obligations or duties of Grantor thereunder or to take any action to collect or enforce any claim for payment assigned hereunder.
(c)  Transfer of Certain Collateral; Release of Certain Security Interest . Grantor agrees that it shall not sell, assign, or otherwise dispose of any Collateral, except as otherwise permitted under the Export Loan Agreement. Secured Party shall promptly, at the Grantor’s expense, execute and deliver all further instruments and documents, and take all further action that a Grantor may reasonably request in order to release its security interest in any Collateral which is disposed of in accordance with the terms of the Export Loan Agreement.

 

- 6 -


 

(d)  Accounts . Grantor agrees that it will use commercially reasonable efforts to ensure that each Account (i) is and will be, in all material respects, the genuine, legal, valid, and binding obligations of the account debtor in respect thereof, representing an unsatisfied obligation of such account debtor, (ii) is and will be, in all material respects, enforceable in accordance with its terms, is not and will not be subject to any setoffs, defenses, taxes, counterclaims, except in the ordinary course of business, (iii) is and will be, in all material respects, in compliance with all applicable laws, whether federal, state, local or foreign, and (iv) which if evidenced by Chattel Paper, will not require the consent of the account debtor in respect thereof in connection with its assignment hereunder.
(e)  Negotiable Instrument . If Grantor shall at any time hold or acquire any Negotiable Instruments, including promissory notes, the Grantor shall forthwith endorse, assign and deliver the same to Secured Party, accompanied by such instruments of transfer or assignment duly executed in blank as Secured Party may from time to time reasonably request.
(f)  Other Covenants of Grantor . Grantor agrees that (i) any action or proceeding to enforce this Security Agreement may be taken by Secured Party either in the Grantor’s name or in Secured Party’s name, as Secured Party may deem necessary, and (ii) the Grantor will, until the indefeasible payment in full in cash of the Secured Obligations, warrant and defend its title to the Collateral and the interest of Secured Party in the Collateral against any claim or demand of any Persons (other than Permitted Liens) which could reasonably be expected to materially adversely affect the Grantor’s title to, or Secured Party’s right or interest in, such Collateral.
Section 6. Termination of Security Interest . Upon the indefeasible payment in full in cash of the Secured Obligations, the security interest granted hereby shall terminate and all rights to the Collateral shall revert to the Grantor to the extent such Collateral shall not have been sold or otherwise applied pursuant to the terms hereof. Upon any such termination, Secured Party will, at the Grantor’s expense, execute and deliver to the Grantor such documents (including, without limitation, UCC-3 termination statements) as the Grantor shall reasonably request to evidence such termination.
Section 7. Reinstatement . If, at any time after payment in full of all Secured Obligations and termination of Secured Party’s security interest, any payments on the Secured Obligations previously made must be disgorged by Secured Party for any reason whatsoever, including, without limitation, the insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of Grantor or any other Person, this Security Agreement and Secured Party’s security interests herein shall be reinstated as to all disgorged payments as though such payments had not been made, and Grantor shall sign and deliver to Secured Party all documents, and shall do such other acts and things, as may be necessary to reinstate and perfect Secured Party’s security interest. GRANTOR SHALL DEFEND AND INDEMNIFY SECURED PARTY FROM AND AGAINST ANY CLAIM, DAMAGE, LOSS, LIABILITY, COST OR EXPENSE UNDER THIS SECTION 7 (INCLUDING REASONABLE ATTORNEYS’ FEES AND EXPENSES) IN THE DEFENSE OF ANY SUCH ACTION OR SUIT INCLUDING SUCH CLAIM, DAMAGE, LOSS, LIABILITY, COST, OR EXPENSE ARISING AS A RESULT OF SECURED PARTY’S OWN NEGLIGENCE BUT EXCLUDING SUCH CLAIM, DAMAGE, LOSS, LIABILITY, COST, OR EXPENSE THAT IS FOUND IN A FINAL, NON-APPEALABLE JUDGMENT BY A COURT OF COMPETENT JURISDICTION TO HAVE RESULTED FROM SECURED PARTY’S GROSS NEGLIGENCE OR WILLFUL MISCONDUCT.

 

- 7 -


 

Section 8. Remedies upon Event of Default .
(a) If any Event of Default (as such term is defined in either the Export Loan Agreement) has occurred and is continuing, Secured Party may, (i) proceed to protect and enforce the rights vested in it by this Security Agreement or otherwise available to it, including but not limited to, the right to cause all revenues and other moneys pledged hereby as Collateral to be paid directly to it, and to enforce its rights hereunder to such payments and all other rights hereunder by such appropriate judicial proceedings as it shall deem most effective to protect and enforce any of such rights, either at law or in equity or otherwise, whether for specific enforcement of any covenant or agreement contained in any of the Contract Documents, or in aid of the exercise of any power therein or herein granted, or for any foreclosure hereunder and sale under a judgment or decree in any judicial proceeding, or to enforce any other legal or equitable right vested in it by this Security Agreement or by law; (ii) cause any action at law or suit in equity or other proceeding to be instituted and prosecuted and enforce any rights hereunder or included in the Collateral, subject to the provisions and requirements thereof; (iii) sell or otherwise dispose of any or all of the Collateral or cause the Collateral to be sold or otherwise disposed of in one or more sales or transactions, at such prices and in such manner as may be commercially reasonable, and for cash or on credit or for future delivery, without assumption of any credit risk, at public or private sale, without demand of performance or notice of intention to sell or of time or place of sale (except such notice as is required by applicable statute and cannot be waived), it being agreed that Secured Party may be a purchaser on its own behalf at any such sale and that Secured Party or any other Person who may be a bona fide purchaser for value and without notice of any claims of any or all of the Collateral so sold shall thereafter hold the same absolutely free from any claim or right of whatsoever kind, including any equity of redemption of Grantor, any such demand, notice or right and equity being hereby expressly waived and released to the extent permitted by law; (iv) incur reasonable expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, reasonable consultants’ fees, and other costs appropriate to the exercise of any right or power under this Security Agreement; (v) perform any obligation of Grantor hereunder and make payments, purchase, contest or compromise any encumbrance, charge or lien, and pay taxes and expenses, without, however, any obligation to do so; (vi) in connection with any acceleration and foreclosure, take possession of the Collateral and render it usable and repair and renovate the same, without, however, any obligation to do so, and enter upon any location where the Collateral may be located for that purpose, control, manage, operate, rent and lease the Collateral, collect all rents and income from the Collateral and apply the same to reimburse Secured Party for any cost or expenses incurred hereunder or under any of the Financing Documents and the Credit Documents and to the payment or performance of Grantor’s obligations hereunder or under any of the Financing Documents and the Credit Documents, and apply the balance to the other Secured Obligations and any remaining excess balance to whomsoever is legally entitled thereto; (vii) secure the appointment of a receiver for the Collateral or any part thereof; (viii) require Grantor to, and Grantor hereby agrees that it will at its expense and upon request of Secured Party forthwith, assemble all or part of the Collateral as directed by Secured Party and make it available to Secured Party at a place to be designated by Secured Party which is reasonably convenient to both parties; (ix) exercise any other or additional rights or remedies granted to a secured party under the UCC; or (x) occupy any premises owned or leased by Grantor where the Collateral or any part thereof is assembled for a reasonable period in order to effectuate its rights and remedies hereunder or under law, without obligation to Grantor in respect of such occupation. If, pursuant to applicable law, prior notice of sale of the Collateral under this Section is required to be given to Grantor, Grantor hereby acknowledges that the minimum time required by such applicable law, or if no minimum time is specified, 10 days, shall be deemed a reasonable notice period. Secured Party shall not be obligated to make any sale of Collateral regardless of notice of sale having been given. Secured Party may adjourn any public or private sale from time to time by announcement at the time and place fixed therefor, and such sale may, without further notice, be made at the time and place to which it was so adjourned.

 

- 8 -


 

(b) All reasonable costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses) incurred by Secured Party in connection with any suit or proceeding in connection with the performance by Secured Party of any of the agreements contained in any of the Contract Documents, or in connection with any exercise of its rights or remedies hereunder, pursuant to the terms of this Security Agreement, shall constitute additional indebtedness secured by this Security Agreement and shall be paid on demand by the Grantor to Secured Party.
Section 9. Remedies Cumulative; Delay Not Waiver .
(a) No right, power or remedy herein conferred upon or reserved to Secured Party is intended to be exclusive of any other right, power or remedy and every such right, power and remedy shall, to the extent permitted by law, be cumulative and in addition to every other right, power and remedy given hereunder or now or hereafter existing at law or in equity or otherwise. The assertion or employment of any right or remedy hereunder or otherwise shall not prevent the concurrent assertion or employment of any other appropriate right or remedy. Resort to any or all security now or hereafter held by Secured Party may be taken concurrently or successively and in one or several consolidated or independent judicial actions or lawfully taken nonjudicial proceedings, or both.
(b) No delay or omission of Secured Party to exercise any right or power accruing upon the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default as aforesaid shall impair any such right or power or shall be construed to be a waiver of any such Event of Default or an acquiescence therein; and every power and remedy given by this Security Agreement may be exercised from time to time, and as often as shall be deemed expedient, by Secured Party.
Section 10. Contract Rights . Secured Party may exercise any of the rights and remedies of Grantor under or in connection with the Collateral, including, without limitation, any rights of Grantor to demand or otherwise require payment of any amount under, or performance of any provisions of, the Contract Documents.
Section 11. Accounts .
(a) Secured Party may, or may direct Grantor to, take any action Secured Party deems necessary or advisable to enforce collection of the Accounts, including, without limitation, notifying the account debtors or obligors under any Accounts of the assignment of such Accounts to Secured Party and, upon the occurrence and continuation of an Event of Default, directing such account debtors or obligors to make payment of all amounts due or to become due directly to Secured Party. Upon such notification and direction, and at the expense of the Grantor, Secured Party may enforce collection of any such Accounts, and adjust, settle, or compromise the amount or payment thereof in the same manner and to the same extent as Grantor might have done.

 

- 9 -


 

(b) After receipt by Grantor of the notice referred to in Section 11(a) above that an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, all amounts and proceeds (including instruments) received by the Grantor in respect of the Accounts shall be received in trust for the benefit of Secured Party hereunder, shall be segregated from other funds of the Grantor, and shall promptly be paid over to Secured Party in the same form as so received (with any necessary indorsement) to be held as Collateral. Grantor shall not adjust, settle, or compromise the amount or payment of any Account, nor release wholly or partly any account debtor or obligor thereof, nor allow any credit or discount thereon.
Section 12. Application of Collateral . The proceeds of any sale, or other realization (other than that received from a sale or other realization permitted by the Export Loan Agreement or this Security Agreement) upon all or any part of the Collateral pledged by Grantor shall be applied by Secured Party to the Secured Obligations as the Secured Party may in its sole discretion elect.
Section 13. Secured Party as Attorney-in-Fact for Grantor . Grantor hereby constitutes and irrevocably appoints Secured Party and each successor or assign of Secured Party, the true and lawful attorney-in-fact of the Grantor, with full power and authority in the place and stead of the Grantor and in the name of the Grantor, Secured Party and enforce all rights, interests and remedies of the Grantor with respect to the Collateral, including the right:
(a) to ask, require, demand, receive and give acquittance for any and all moneys and claims for moneys due and to become due under or arising out of the any of the other Collateral;
(b) to elect remedies thereunder and to endorse any checks or other instruments or orders in connection therewith;
(c) to file any claims or take any action or institute any proceedings in connection therewith which Secured Party may deem to be necessary or advisable;
(d) to pay, settle or compromise all bills and claims which may be or become liens or security interests against any or all of the Collateral, or any part thereof, unless a bond or other security satisfactory to Secured Party has been provided; and
(e) upon foreclosure, to do any and every act which Grantor may do on its behalf with respect to the Collateral or any part thereof and to exercise any or all of the Grantor’s rights and remedies under any or all of the Collateral;
provided , however , that Secured Party shall not exercise any such rights except upon the occurrence and continuation of an Event of Default. This power of attorney is a power coupled with an interest and shall be irrevocable.
Section 14. Secured Party May Perform . Secured Party may from time-to-time perform any act which Grantor has agreed hereunder to perform and which the Grantor shall fail to perform after being requested in writing so to perform (it being understood that no such request need be given after the occurrence and during the continuance of any Event of Default and after notice thereof by Secured Party to Grantor) and Secured Party may from time-to-time take any other action which Secured Party deems necessary for the maintenance, preservation or protection of any of the Collateral or of its security interest therein, and the reasonable expenses of Secured Party incurred in connection therewith shall be part of the Secured Obligations and shall be secured hereby.

 

- 10 -


 

Section 15. Secured Party Has No Duty . The powers conferred on Secured Party hereunder are solely to protect its interest in the Collateral and shall not impose any duty on it to exercise any such powers. Except for reasonable care of any Collateral in its possession and the accounting for moneys actually received by it hereunder, Secured Party shall have no duty as to any Collateral or responsibility for taking any necessary steps to preserve rights against prior parties or any other rights pertaining to any Collateral.
Section 16. Reasonable Care . Secured Party shall be deemed to have exercised reasonable care in the custody and preservation of the Collateral in its possession if the Collateral is accorded treatment substantially equal to that which Secured Party accords its own Property.
Section 17. Payments Held in Trust . During the continuance of an Event of Default, all payments received by Grantor under or in connection with any Collateral shall be received in trust for the benefit of Secured Party, and shall be segregated from other funds of the Grantor and shall be forthwith paid over to Secured Party in the same form as received (with any necessary endorsement).
Section 18. Miscellaneous .
(a)  Expenses . Grantor will upon demand pay to Secured Party the amount of any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including the reasonable fees and disbursements of its counsel and of any experts, which Secured Party may incur in connection with (i) the custody, preservation, use, or operation of, or the sale, collection, or other realization of, any of the Collateral, (ii) the exercise or enforcement of any of the rights of Secured Party hereunder, and (iii) the failure by Grantor to perform or observe any of the provisions hereof.
(b)  Amendments; Etc . No amendment or waiver of any provision of this Security Agreement nor consent to any departure by Grantor herefrom shall be effective unless the same shall be in writing and authenticated by the affected Grantor and Secured Party, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the specific purpose for which given.
(c)  Addresses for Notices . All notices and other communications provided for hereunder shall be made in the manner and to the addresses set forth in the Export Loan Agreement.
(d)  Continuing Security Interest; Transfer of Interest . This Security Agreement shall create a continuing security interest in the Collateral and, unless expressly released by Secured Party, shall (a) remain in full force and effect until the indefeasible payment in full in cash of the Secured Obligations, (b) be binding upon Grantor and its successors, tranferees and assigns, and (c) inure, together with the rights and remedies of Secured Party hereunder and its successors, transferees, and assigns. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing clause, when Secured Party assigns or otherwise transfers any interest held by it under the Export Loan Agreement or other Financing Document to any other Person pursuant to the terms of the Export Loan Agreement or such other Financing Document, that other Person shall thereupon become vested with all the benefits held by Secured Party under this Security Agreement.

 

- 11 -


 

(e)  Severability . Wherever possible each provision of this Security Agreement shall be interpreted in such manner as to be effective and valid under applicable law, but if any provision of this Security Agreement shall be prohibited by or invalid under such law, such provision shall be ineffective to the extent of such prohibition or invalidity, without invalidating the remainder of such provision or the remaining provisions of this Security Agreement.
(f)  Choice of Law . This Security Agreement shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of Connecticut, except to the extent that the validity or perfection of the security interests hereunder, or remedies hereunder, in respect of any particular Collateral are governed by the laws of a jurisdiction other than the state of Connecticut.
(g)  Counterparts . The parties may execute this Security Agreement in any number of duplicate originals, each of which constitutes an original, and all of which, collectively, constitute only one agreement. The parties may execute this Security Agreement in counterparts, each of which constitutes an original, and all of which, collectively, constitute only one agreement. Delivery of an executed counterpart signature page by facsimile is as effective as executing and delivering this Security Agreement in the presence of the other parties to this Security Agreement. In proving this Security Agreement, a party must produce or account only for the executed counterpart of the party to be charged.
(h)  Headings . Paragraph headings have been inserted in this Security Agreement as a matter of convenience for reference only and it is agreed that such paragraph headings are not a part of this Security Agreement and shall not be used in the interpretation of any provision of this Security Agreement.
(i)  Conflicts . In the event of any explicit or implicit conflict between any provision of this Security Agreement and any provision of the Export Loan Agreement, the terms of the Export Loan Agreement shall be controlling.
(j)  Entire Agreement . THIS SECURITY AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER FINANCING DOCUMENTS AND CREDIT DOCUMENTS, REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT AMONG THE PARTIES AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES.
THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS AMONG THE PARTIES HERETO.
[SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW]

 

- 12 -


 

The parties hereto have caused this Security Agreement to be duly executed as of the date first above written.
             
    GRANTOR :    
 
           
    FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.    
 
           
 
  By:   /s/ Joseph G. Mahler    
 
           
 
  Name:   Joseph G. Mahler    
 
           
 
  Title:   Sr. Vice President & CFO    
 
           
 
           
    SECURED PARTY :    
 
           
    JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.    
 
           
 
  By:   /s/ James P. Murphy    
 
           
 
  Name:   James P. Murphy    
 
           
 
  Title:   Authorized Signer    
 
           

 

Exhibit 10.63
INTRACREDITOR SUBORDINATION AND CONFIRMATION AGREEMENT
This INTRACREDITOR SUBORDINATION AND CONFIRMATION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is made and effective as of the 4th day of January, 2011, by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (“ Lender ”), and is acknowledged by the Person identified as Borrower (“ Borrower ”) on the signature page hereof.
WHEREAS, pursuant to that certain Export Loan Agreement of even date herewith by and between Borrower and Lender (said Agreement, as it may be amended, modified, renewed and extended, the “ Export Loan Agreement ”), Lender extended to Borrower a pre-export working capital credit facility (said credit facility, as it may be amended, modified, renewed and extended, the “ Export Loan ”) to finance the cost of manufacturing, producing, purchasing and selling of Borrower’s finished goods and services which are intended for export (“ Export Purpose ”);
WHEREAS, the Export Loan and Borrower’s Obligations related thereto (collectively, “ Borrower’s Export Obligations ”) are secured by Liens in and upon Collateral in favor of Lender created and granted by the Financing Documents, including without limitation the security interest created by the Security Agreement of even date herewith executed by Borrower in favor of Lender, as secured party (said agreement, as it may be amended, modified, renewed and extended, the “ Security Agreement ”);
WHEREAS, the Collateral includes, but is not limited to, Export-Related Collateral;
WHEREAS, the Export Loan has been made pursuant to Lender’s delegated authority from Ex-Im Bank, and it is intended that Borrower’s Export Obligations be guaranteed by Ex-Im Bank pursuant to the Ex-Im Bank Guarantee;
WHEREAS, to satisfy Ex-Im Bank’s requirement that Borrower’s Export Obligations be secured by a first priority Lien (subject only to Permitted Liens) in Borrower’s Export-Related Collateral, Lender desires to subordinate its Liens in Borrower’s Export-Related Collateral, to the extent they secure Other Indebtedness, to Lender’s Liens in Borrower’s Export-Related Collateral securing Borrower’s Export Obligations; and
WHEREAS, to satisfy Ex-Im Bank’s requirement that Borrower’s Export Obligations be secured by a junior Lien in and upon Collateral other than Export-Related Collateral (such Collateral other than Export-Related Collateral, the “ Other Collateral ”), Lender desires to confirm that its Liens in and upon the Other Collateral secure Borrower’s Export Obligations but that such Liens are subject and inferior to Lender’s Liens in and upon the Other Collateral securing Other Indebtedness.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises, Lender hereby agrees, confirms and certifies as follows:
1.  Subordination Agreement . Lender’s Liens in and upon the Export-Related Collateral, to the extent they secure Other Indebtedness, are and shall hereafter be and remain subject, junior and subordinate to Lender’s Liens in and upon such Export-Related Collateral securing Borrower’s Export Obligations.

 

 


 

2.  Confirmation . Except as provided in Section 5 hereof, Lender’s Liens in and upon Other Collateral secure Borrower’s Export Obligations and are and shall hereafter be and remain subject, junior and subordinate to Lender’s Liens in and upon such Other Collateral to the extent they secure Other Indebtedness.
3.  Remedies . Notwithstanding the subordinations and priorities provided herein, Lender’s Liens in and upon the Collateral shall secure Borrower’s Export Obligations and Other Indebtedness to the full extent provided for in the Financing Documents, including without limitation the Security Agreement. The exercise by Lender of any rights or remedies under the Financing Documents in connection with a default in the payment or performance of either (a) Borrower’s Export Obligations or (b) Other Indebtedness shall not limit or impair Lender’s rights or remedies under the Financing Documents with respect to a default in the payment or performance of Borrower’s other obligations to Lender. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, in the event Lender sells, leases, transfers, or otherwise disposes of any Collateral or Proceeds thereof pursuant to the Financing Documents, including without limitation the Security Agreement, to satisfy either (i) Borrower’s Export Obligations or (ii) Other Indebtedness and, after application of all amounts received from the exercise of Lender’s rights provided in the Financing Documents and in accordance with the subordinations and priorities hereby effected, there remains outstanding any of Borrower’s Export Obligations or Other Indebtedness, Lender shall continue to have and hold all rights and remedies provided for under the Financing Documents (including, without limitation, the right to sell, lease, transfer or otherwise dispose of any other Collateral or Proceeds thereof) in satisfaction of all outstanding obligations secured by such Collateral to Lender prior to any rights of Borrower or any other Person in or to any such Collateral or Proceeds.
4.  Extent of Subordination Agreement . The subordinations and priorities specified herein shall remain in full force and effect, regardless of whether Lender rescinds, amends, waives any provision of, terminates or reforms, by litigation or otherwise, any of the Financing Documents, including without limitation the Security Agreement, in connection with Borrower’s Export Obligations or Other Indebtedness. No delay or waiver on the part of Lender in exercising any right, power or privilege granted under the Export Loan Agreement or any other Financing Document shall have any effect on the subordinations and priorities specified herein.
5. [RESERVED].
6.  Term . This Agreement will be for a term beginning on the effective date hereof and continuing through the payment and performance in full of all of Borrower’s Export Obligations.
7.  Amendment . This Agreement shall not be amended except in writing by Lender and acknowledged by Borrower.

 

-2-


 

8.  Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon Lender and each acknowledgment party and their respective successors and assigns. References herein to any Person shall be deemed to refer to such entity and its successors and assigns.
9.  Definitions . All capitalized terms used and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Export Loan Agreement.
[Remainder of page intentionally left blank]

 

-3-


 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been duly authorized and executed by Lender and duly authorized and acknowledged by each acknowledgment party as of the date first above written.
         
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.    
 
       
By:
  /s/ James P. Murphy     
Name:
  James P. Murphy     
Title:
  Authorized Signer    
 
       
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.
Global Trade Services
   
 
       
By:
  /s/ Randall Mascorro     
Name:
 
 
Randall Mascorro
   
Title:
  Vice President    
 
       
ACKNOWLEDGED:    
 
       
BORROWER    
 
       
FUELCELL ENERGY, INC.    
 
       
By:
  /s/ Joseph G. Mahler      
Name:
  Joseph G. Mahler    
Title:
  Sr. Vice President & CFO     

 

-4-

Exhibit 10.64
(CHASE LOGO)
Promissory Note
$5,000,000.00
Date: January 4, 2011
Promise to Pay. For value received, at the times set forth in the Loan Agreement described herein, FuelCell Energy, Inc. (the “ Borrower ”) promises to pay to JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (the “ Bank ”) or order, in lawful money of the United States of America, the sum of Five Million and 00/100 Dollars ($5,000,000.00) or so much thereof as may be advanced and outstanding as a “Disbursement” under the Loan Agreement, plus interest on the unpaid principal balance hereof outstanding from time to time at the rate and times set forth in the Loan Agreement.
Definitions. As used in this Note, the following terms have the respective meanings set forth below. Other capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined have the meanings given such terms in the Loan Agreement.
“Business Day” means a day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks generally are open in Connecticut and/or New York for the conduct of substantially all of their commercial lending activities and on which dealings in United States dollars are carried on in the London interbank market.
Credit Facility. The Borrower acknowledges and agrees that this Note evidences the outstanding “Disbursements” made pursuant to the terms of the Export Loan Agreement between the Borrower and the Bank dated as of January 4, 2011 (as amended, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with its terms, the “ Loan Agreement ”) and is the “Note” described in the Loan Agreement and is subject to all of the terms and conditions set forth therein.
Remedies. If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing the Bank may exercise any and all rights and remedies set forth in the Loan Documents or otherwise permitted by applicable law or agreement, in equity or otherwise.
Reinstatement. The Borrower agrees that to the extent any payment or transfer is received by the Bank in connection with the Borrower’s Obligations evidenced by this Note, and all or any part of the payment or transfer is subsequently invalidated, declared to be fraudulent or preferential, set aside or required to be transferred or repaid by the Bank or transferred or paid over to a trustee, receiver or any other Person, whether under any bankruptcy act or otherwise (any of those payments or transfers is hereinafter referred to as a “ Preferential Payment ”), then this Note shall continue to be effective or shall be reinstated, as the case may be, even if all those Borrower’s Obligations have been paid in full and whether or not the Bank is in possession of this Note, or whether the Note has been marked paid, released or canceled, or returned to the Borrower and, to the extent of the payment, repayment or other transfer by the Bank, the Borrower’s Obligations or part intended to be satisfied by the Preferential Payment shall be revived and continued in full force and effect as if the Preferential Payment had not been made.
Governing Law. This Note shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Connecticut (without giving effect to its laws of conflicts).
Miscellaneous. The rights of the Bank under this Note and the other Loan Documents are in addition to other rights (including without limitation, other rights of setoff) the Bank may have contractually, by law, in equity or otherwise, all of which are cumulative and hereby retained by the Bank. If any provision of this Note cannot be enforced, the remaining portions of this Note shall continue in effect.
                 
 
  Borrower:      
 
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.      
 
               
    By:   /s/ Joseph G. Mahler    
             
        Printed Name: Joseph G. Mahler
   
        Title: Sr VP & CFO
   

 

Exhibit 10.65
(FUELCELL ENERGY LOGO)
January 28, 2010
Mr. Arthur Bottone
Dear Chip,
On behalf of the entire management team, I am pleased to offer you the position of Sr. Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer. In this position you will report to Mr. Dan Brdar, President and Chief Executive Officer. Based upon our meetings and the requirements of FuelCell Energy, Inc. (the “Company”) we believe you will find your experience to be exciting, challenging and rewarding. The terms of the compensation package are described below.
Annualized Base Salary : Your base pay will be $9,615.38 per pay period (equivalent to $250,000 annual), payable on a bi-weekly basis as is customary for exempt employees of the Company and in accordance with normal payroll practices. Annual increases are awarded at the discretion of the compensation committee of the Board of Directors.
Bonus : You will be eligible for an annual bonus with a target award equal to 30% of your base salary, payable in accordance with the terms of the Management Incentive Plan for Fiscal Year 2010. The actual amount of your bonus may be more or less than the target award, based upon your achievement of written performance objectives (Operating Milestones and Strategic Initiatives) as determined by the CEO and approved by the Board of Directors. The terms of the Management Incentive Plan are subject to change, at the discretion of the compensation committee of the Board of Directors, and any changes made to the Plan will be communicated to you in advance.
Sign On Bonus : FuelCell Energy will pay to you $20,000.00 as a sign on bonus. This bonus will be paid after 30 successful days of employment. This bonus is subject to payroll taxes and withholding.
Equity : An initial grant of restricted stock valued at $200,000 has been approved by the compensation committee of the Board of Directors, subject to your acceptance of the terms of this offer and your execution of this offer letter. The number of shares will be based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the date of grant in accordance with our Equity Grant Policy. Restricted stock awards for new hires are granted and valued on the last trading day of the month in which you begin your employment. This grant will vest over a four-year period at the rate of 25 percent per year on each anniversary of the grant date provided that you remain continuously employed with the Company through each vesting date. The terms of the grant will be governed by the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan and the Restricted Share Agreement, both of which will be issued to you.
         
 
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.   phone 203 825.6000
 
  3 Great Pasture Road   fax 203 825.6100
 
  Danbury, CT 06813-1305   www .fuelcellenergy.com

 

 


 

(FUELCELL ENERGY LOGO)
You will be eligible for additional long-term incentive awards beginning in fiscal year 2011 based on your performance and other factors, at the discretion of the CEO and the compensation committee of the Board of Directors.
Change of Control : Any stock options and restricted stock granted to you by the Company shall accelerate and immediately vest upon a Change of Control (as defined herein) provided however that an involuntary termination of your employment occurs within 12 months following the effective date of the Change of Control, unless such termination is for Cause.
Change of Control Defined . For purposes of this Agreement, a “Change of Control” shall be deemed to have occurred if the transaction is of a nature that would be required to be reported to Item 1(a) of the Current Report on Form 8-K, pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”); provided that, without limitation, such a “Change of Control” shall be deemed to have occurred if: (i) a third Person, including a “group” as such term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act, other than the trustee of any employee benefit plan of the Corporation, becomes the beneficial owner, directly or indirectly, of 50% or more of the combined voting power of the Corporation’s outstanding voting securities ordinarily having the right to vote for the election of directors of the Corporation; (ii) during any period of twenty-four (24) consecutive months individuals who, at the beginning of such consecutive twenty-four (24) month period, constitute the Board of Directors of the Corporation (the “Board”) cease for any reason (other than retirement upon reaching a normal retirement age, disability or death) to constitute at least a majority of the Board; provided that any person becoming a director subsequent to the date hereof whose election, or nomination for election by the Corporation’s shareholders, was approved by a vote of a majority of the directors comprising the Incumbent Board shall be, for purposes of this Agreement, considered as though such person were a member of the Incumbent Board; or (iii) the Corporation shall cease to be a publicly owned corporation having its outstanding Common Stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange or quoted in the NASDAQ National or Small Cap Market System, except where the delisting is related to a private purchase of the Corporation’s stock by a group consisting of the Corporation’s current officers.
         
 
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.   phone 203 825.6000
 
  3 Great Pasture Road   fax 203 825.6100
 
  Danbury, CT 06813-1305   www .fuelcellenergy.com

 

 


 

(FUELCELL ENERGY LOGO)
For these purposes, Incumbent Board means the Board as in existence twenty-four (24) months prior to the date the action is being considered. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Incumbent Board specifically determines that any transaction does not constitute a “Change of Control” for purposes of this Agreement such determination shall be conclusive and binding.
For these purposes, the term “Person” means any individual, corporation, association, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, limited liability partnership organization, business, joint venture, sole proprietorship, governmental agency, entity or subdivision or other entity of any kind or nature.
Vacation : Your annual vacation benefit will be 15 days per calendar year, pro-rated during your first year of employment. Please note all vacation time is accrued on a monthly basis. Please see the attached benefit highlights for 2010.
Sick/Personal : Your sick/personal time benefit will be based on forty hours per calendar year. Effective the first day of the month following 30 days of continuous service you will be eligible for 40 hours of sick/personal time pro-rated for your first year of service. Please see the attached benefit highlights for 2010.
Benefits : You will be eligible to participate in the Company’s standard employee benefit plans, as may be in effect from time to time, for which you qualify. You will be eligible for group health benefits as of the first day of the month following 30 days of employment. Please note you will be responsible for providing proof of marriage or civil union status as well as proof of dependency to enroll your eligible dependents.
Short and Long-term disability benefits are effective as of the first day of the month following your 1-year employment anniversary.
Retirement Plan : Upon hire, you will be eligible to participate in the Company’s 401(k) retirement plan per the plan provisions. You may contribute to our retirement plan from 1% to 50% of your base pay on a pay period basis. The plan is subject to certain IRS limitations.
Employment at Will : This offer is not intended to create any contractual obligations of employment and there is no guarantee of continued employment for any specific period of time. Employment is at will and you or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time, for any reason with or without cause.
         
 
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.   phone 203 825.6000
 
  3 Great Pasture Road   fax 203 825.6100
 
  Danbury, CT 06813-1305   www .fuelcellenergy.com

 

 


 

(FUELCELL ENERGY LOGO)
Severance Benefit : If (i) your employment is terminated by the Company or (ii) a material diminution in responsibility or a reduction in your compensation in bad faith occurs and you resign as a result of any of the above, the Company will continue to pay your then current base salary in accordance with regular payroll practices and continue your current benefit coverage and premium contributions for six (6) months following the termination date; provided that no severance payments will be made if your employment with the Company is terminated for “Cause.” “Cause” shall mean you have (i) been convicted of or entered a plea of no contest relating to any illegal act that materially and adversely reflects upon the business, affairs or reputation of the Company; (ii) by reason of Employee’s deliberate injury or attempted injury to the Company; (iii) by reason of Employee’s failure to perform for the Company the normal duties related to his job position (other than failure resulting from incapacity due to disability or death) which failure continues for ten (10) days following the Employee’s receipt of written notice of such failure to perform, specifying the nature of the failure and the means by which it can be remedied, (iv) by reason of Employee’s engaging in misconduct which is injurious to the Company, or (v) by reason of Employee’s willful breach of this Agreement in any material respect.
It is further agreed that, in order to receive this severance benefit, a signed and fully executed separation agreement and release of claims in a form determined by FuelCell Energy, Inc. and in accordance with law, in its discretion, will be provided.
Proprietary Information Agreement : Employee will enter into the standard form of FuelCell Energy Agreement for Assignment, Confidentiality and Non-solicitation, and otherwise comply with the Corporation’s employee policies and procedures.
This offer is contingent upon satisfactory completion of a drug test. We have completed your employment/education and background check. The fee for your drug test is fully paid by FuelCell Energy Inc. Please contact Ms. Ana Venancio at (203) 825-6082 for assistance on the nearest location for your drug test once you have accepted this offer.
It is anticipated you will begin your employment with us as soon as can be arranged, tentatively set for Monday, February 8, 2010. This position will be based in Danbury, Connecticut.
Office : You will maintain an office at your home address for purposes of performing the requirements for your position and conducting company business. We will provide you with the necessary office equipment. (This may include a dedicated telephone line, appropriate internet connection, laptop computer, supplies, etc.) You will be reimbursed for supplies and reasonable operating expenses (e.g. monthly phone, internet charges) related to the office. Our IT department will assist you with identifying your needs and coordinating the set-up.
         
 
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.   phone 203 825.6000
 
  3 Great Pasture Road   fax 203 825.6100
 
  Danbury, CT 06813-1305   www .fuelcellenergy.com

 

 


 

(FUELCELL ENERGY LOGO)
If these terms are acceptable to you, please sign, date and return one copy of this letter by 5:00 PM Tuesday, February 2, 2010. Should you have any questions, please call me at (203) 825-6085 or contact me via e-mail at dbradford@fce.com . We look forward to you joining FuelCell Energy.
     
Sincerely,
   
 
   
/s/ Darrell Bradford
   
Darrell Bradford
   
Vice President, Human Resources
   
             
Agreed to:        
 
           
/s/ Arthur (Chip) Bottone   2/8/10    
Arthur (Chip) Bottone   (Date)    
 
           
2/8/10
Start Date
 
 
* Social Security Number
 
06/25/60
* Date of Birth
   
     
*  
Please complete only if you have accepted the position
         
 
  FuelCell Energy, Inc.   phone 203 825.6000
 
  3 Great Pasture Road   fax 203 825.6100
 
  Danbury, CT 06813-1305   www .fuelcellenergy.com

 

 

Exhibit 21
FuelCell Energy, Inc
Subsidiaries of the Registrant
     
Entity Name   State / Country of Incorporation
FuelCell Energy, Ltd.
  Canada
Alliance Monterey, LLC *
  California
Alliance Star Energy, LLC *
  California
Alliance TST Energy, LLC *
  California
Bridgeport Fuel Cell Park, LLC
  Connecticut
ERG-Milford, LLC
  Connecticut
ERG-Connecticut, LLC
  Connecticut
Star Energy East, LLC
  Connecticut
Long Beach Clean Energy, LLC
  New York
FCE Korea, Ltd
  South Korea
     
*   These entities are joint ventures with Alliance Power, Inc. FuelCell Energy, Inc. has an 80% ownership interest in these entities.

 

 

Exhibit 23.1
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors
FuelCell Energy, Inc:
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the registration statements on Form S-8 (No. 333-68866, 333-166164 and No. 333-140168), Form S-3 (No. 333-164412, No. 333-166565, No. 333-164410, No. 333-164411, No. 333-146151, No. 333-140165, No. 333-125933 and No. 333-128088) and on Form S-1 (No. 333-146935) of FuelCell Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries of our report dated January 14, 2011, with respect to the consolidated balance sheets of FuelCell Energy, Inc. and subsidiaries as of October 31, 2010 and 2009 and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended October 31, 2010 and the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of October 31, 2010, which report appears in the October 31, 2010 annual report on Form 10-K of FuelCell Energy, Inc.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Hartford, Connecticut
January 14, 2011

 

 

Exhibit 31.1
CERTIFICATIONS
I, R. Daniel Brdar, certify that:
  1.   I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Fuel Cell Energy, Inc.;
 
  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 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 auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
  (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.
             
Dated: January 11, 2011
  By:   /s/ R. Daniel Brdar
 
R. Daniel Brdar
   
 
      Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer    
 
      (Principal Executive Officer)    

 

 

Exhibit 31.2
CERTIFICATIONS
I, Joseph G. Mahler, certify that:
  1.   I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Fuel Cell Energy, Inc.;
 
  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 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 auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
  (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.
             
Dated: January 11, 2011
  By:   /s/ Joseph G. Mahler
 
Joseph G. Mahler
   
 
      Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer,    
 
      Treasurer and Corporate Secretary    
 
      (Principal Financial Officer and    
 
      Principal Accounting Officer)    

 

 

Exhibit 32.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of FuelCell Energy, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2010 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, R. Daniel Brdar, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted 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 (15 U.S.C 78m or 78o(d)); and
 
  (2)   The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
             
 
  By:   /s/ R. Daniel Brdar
 
R. Daniel Brdar
   
 
      Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer    
 
      (Principal Executive Officer)    
 
      January 11, 2011    
A signed original of this written statement has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the SEC or its staff upon request.

 

 

Exhibit 32.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the annual report of FuelCell Energy, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended October 31, 2010 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Joseph G. Mahler, Chief Financial Officer of the Company, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350, as adopted 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(15 U.S.C 78m or 78o(d)); and
 
  (2)   The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
             
 
  By:   /s/ Joseph G. Mahler
 
Joseph G. Mahler
   
 
      Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer,    
 
      Treasurer and Corporate Secretary    
 
      (Principal Financial Officer and    
 
      Principal Accounting Officer)    
 
      January 11, 2011    
A signed original of this written statement has been provided to the Company and will be retained by the Company and furnished to the SEC or its staff upon request.