UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

 

FORM 20-F

 

 

(Mark One)

¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

OR

 

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

 

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015

 

OR

 

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

 

OR

 

¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

Date of event requiring this shell company report __________

 

Commission File Number 001-36588

 

 

 

   Höegh LNG Partners LP
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

Republic of the Marshall Islands
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
Wessex House, 5th Floor
45 Reid Street
Hamilton, HM 12 Bermuda
(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Richard Tyrrell
Wessex House, 5th Floor
45 Reid Street
Hamilton, HM 12 Bermuda
Telephone: +441-295-6815
Facsimile: +441-295-6101

richard.tyrrell@hoeghlng.com

 

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

Common units representing limited partner interests   New York Stock Exchange

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

 

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None

 

 

 

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

 

13,156,060 common units representing limited partner interests
13,156,060 subordinated units representing limited partner interests

 

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

 

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. ¨  Yes  x  No

 

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.  x  Yes  ¨  No

 

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

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer   ¨ Accelerated filer   x Non-accelerated filer   ¨

 

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

U.S. GAAP   x International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the Other   ¨
  International Accounting Standards Board   ¨  

 

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow. ¨    Item 17    ¨ Item 18

 

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). ¨ Yes x No

 

 

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
INDEX TO FORM 20-F  

 

Presentation of Information in this Report 4
Forward-Looking Statements 4
   
Part I   7
Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers 7
Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable 7
Item 3. Key Information 7
A. Selected Financial Data 7
B. Capitalization and Indebtedness 11
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds 11
D. Risk Factors 12
Item 4. Information on the Partnership 40
A. History and Development of the Partnership 40
B. Business Overview 40
C. Organizational Structure 77
D. Property, Plant and Equipment 77
Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comment 78
Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects 78
A. Operating Results 88
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources 106
C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc. 119
D. Trend Information 119
E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 120
F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations 120
G. Safe Harbor 120
Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees 120
A. Directors and Senior Management 120
B. Compensation 123
C. Board Practices 126
D. Employees 127
E. Unit Ownership 127
Item 7. Major Unitholders and Related Party Transactions 127
A. Major Unitholders 127
B. Related Party Transactions 128
C. Interests of Experts and Counsel 140
Item 8. Financial Information 140
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information 140
B. Significant changes 144
Item 9. The Offer and Listing 144
A. Offer and Listing Details 144
B. Plan of Distribution 144
C. Markets 144
D. Selling Unitholders 144
E. Dilution 144
F. Expenses of the Issue 144
Item 10. Additional Information 145
A. Share Capital 145
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association 145
C. Material Contracts 145
D. Exchange Controls 148
E. Taxation 148
F. Dividends and Paying Agents 153

 

2  

 

 

G.

Statement by Experts 153
H. Documents on Display 154
I. Subsidiary Information 154
Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 154
Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities 155
     
Part II   156
Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies 156
Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Securities Holders and Use of Proceeds 156
Item 15. Controls and Procedures 156
Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert 158
Item 16B. Code of Ethics 158
Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services 158
Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees 158
Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers 159
Item 16F. Change in Registrants’ Certifying Accountant 159
Item 16G. Corporate Governance 159
Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure 160
     
Part III   161
Item 17. Financial Statements 161
Item 18. Financial Statements 161
Item 19. Exhibits 161
     
SIGNATURE   166
Index to Financial Statements of Höegh LNG Partners LP and SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. F-1

 

3  

 

 

Presentation of Information in this Report

 

This annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015 (this “Annual Report”) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and accompanying notes included in this Annual Report. Unless we otherwise specify, references in this Annual Report to “Höegh LNG Partners,” “we,” “our,” “us” and “the Partnership” refer to Höegh LNG Partners LP or any one or more of its subsidiaries, or to all such entities unless the context otherwise indicates. References in this Annual Report to “our general partner” refer to Höegh LNG GP LLC, the general partner of Höegh LNG Partners. References in this Annual Report to “our operating company” refer to Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Partnership. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh UK” refer to Höegh LNG Services Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Lampung” refer to Höegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh FSRU III” refer to Hoegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Cyprus” refer to Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited including its wholly owned branch, Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited Egypt Branch (“Egypt Branch”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh FSRU III and the owner of the Höegh Gallant . References in this Annual Report to “PT Höegh” refer to PT Höegh LNG Lampung, the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung . References in this Annual Report to our or the “joint ventures” refer to SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and/or SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., the joint ventures that own two of the vessels in our fleet, the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , respectively. References in this Annual Report to “GDF Suez” refer to GDF Suez LNG Supply S.A., a subsidiary of ENGIE. References in this Annual Report to “PGN LNG” refer to PT PGN LNG Indonesia, a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk (“PGN”).

 

References in this Annual Report to “Höegh LNG” refer, depending on the context, to Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. and to any one or more of its direct and indirect subsidiaries, other than us. References in this Annual Report to “EgyptCo” refer to Höegh LNG Egypt LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh LNG Management” refer to Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Maritime Management” refer to Höegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Norway” refer to Höegh LNG AS, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Asia” refer to Höegh LNG Asia Pte. Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Shipping” refer to Höegh LNG Shipping Services Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG. References in this Annual Report to “Leif Höegh UK” refer to Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This Annual Report contains certain forward-looking statements concerning future events and our operations, performance and financial condition. Forward-looking statements include, without limitation, any statement that may predict, forecast, indicate or imply future results, performance or achievements, and may contain the words “believe,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” “plan,” “intend” or words or phrases of similar meanings. These statements involve known and unknown risks and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially include, but are not limited to:

 

· FSRU and LNG carrier market trends, including hire rates and factors affecting supply and demand;

 

· our anticipated growth strategies;

 

· our anticipated receipt of dividends and repayment of indebtedness from joint ventures;
     
  · effects of volatility in global prices for crude oil and natural gas

  

  · the effect of the worldwide economic environment;

 

  · turmoil in the global financial markets;

 

  · fluctuations in currencies and interest rates;

 

  · general market conditions, including fluctuations in hire rates and vessel values;

 

  · changes in our operating expenses, including drydocking and insurance costs;

  

4  

 

 

  · our ability to make cash distributions on the units and the amount of any such distributions;

 

  · our ability to comply with financing agreements and the expected effect of restrictions and covenants in such agreements;

 

  · the future financial condition of our existing or future customers;

 

  · our ability to make additional borrowings and to access public equity and debt capital markets;

 

  · planned capital expenditures and availability of capital resources to fund capital expenditures;

 

  · the exercise of purchase options by our customers;

 

  · our ability to maintain long-term relationships with our customers;

 

  · our ability to leverage Höegh LNG’s relationships and reputation in the shipping industry;

 

  · our ability to purchase vessels from Höegh LNG in the future, including the Independence , the Höegh Grace or Höegh LNG’s other FSRU newbuildings;

 

. our ability to integrate and realize the anticipated benefits from the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant ;

 

· our continued ability to enter into long-term, fixed-rate charters;

 

· the operating performance of our vessels;

 

· our ability to maximize the use of our vessels, including the redeployment or disposition of vessels no longer under long-term charters;

 

  · expected pursuit of strategic opportunities, including the acquisition of vessels;

  

  · our ability to compete successfully for future chartering and newbuilding opportunities;

 

  · timely acceptance of our vessels by their charterers;

 

  · termination dates and extensions of charters;

 

  · the cost of, and our ability to comply with, governmental regulations and maritime self-regulatory organization standards, as well as standard regulations imposed by our charterers applicable to our business;

 

  · demand in the FSRU sector or the LNG shipping sector in general and the demand for our vessels in particular;

 

  · availability of skilled labor, vessel crews and management;

 

  · our incremental general and administrative expenses as a publicly traded limited partnership and our fees and expenses payable under our ship management agreements, the technical information and services agreement and the administrative services agreements;

 

  · the anticipated taxation of the Partnership and distributions to its unitholders;

 

  · estimated future maintenance and replacement capital expenditures;

 

  · our ability to retain key employees;

 

  · customers’ increasing emphasis on environmental and safety concerns;

 

  · potential liability from any pending or future litigation;

 

  · potential disruption of shipping routes due to accidents, political events, piracy or acts by terrorists;

 

5  

 

 

  · future sales of our common units in the public market;

 

  · our business strategy and other plans and objectives for future operations; and

 

  · our ability to successfully remediate any material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and our disclosure controls and procedures.

 

Forward-looking statements in this Annual Report are made based upon management’s current plans, expectations, estimates, assumptions and beliefs concerning future events impacting us and therefore involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including those risks discussed in “Item 3.D. Risk Factors.” The risks, uncertainties and assumptions involve known and unknown risks and are inherently subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control.

 

We caution that forward-looking statements are not guarantees and that actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement or statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of these factors. Further, we cannot assess the impact of each such factor on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to be materially different from those contained in any forward-looking statement. We make no prediction or statement about the performance of our common units. The various disclosures included in this Annual Report and in our other filings made with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) that attempt to advise interested parties of the risks and factors that may affect our business, prospects and results of operations should be carefully reviewed and considered.

 

6  

 

 

Part I

 

Item 1. Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 2. Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 3. Key Information

 

A. Selected Financial Data

 

The following table presents, in each case for the years and as of the dates indicated, our selected consolidated and combined carve-out financial and operating data, which includes, for periods prior to the closing of our initial public offering (“IPO”) on August 12, 2014, selected consolidated and combined carve-out financial and operating data of the Partnership and its subsidiaries that had interests in the PGN FSRU Lampung and the joint ventures that own the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . The transfer of these equity interests and related loans and promissory notes by Höegh LNG to the Partnership in connection with the IPO was recorded at Höegh LNG’s consolidated book values.

 

Pursuant to our partnership agreement, our general partner has irrevocably delegated to our board of directors the power to oversee and direct the operations of, manage and determine the strategies and policies of the Partnership. Four of the seven board members were elected by the common unitholders at our first annual meeting of unitholders. As a result, Höegh LNG, as the owner of our general partner, does not have the power to control our board of directors or the Partnership, and we are not considered to be under the control of Höegh LNG for accounting purposes. As a consequence, we account for acquisitions from Höegh LNG under the purchase method of accounting. An acquisition is included in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements from the date of the acquisition and there has been no retroactive restatement of our financial statements to reflect the historical results of the entity acquired.

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership closed the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant. The results of operations of the Höegh Gallant are included in our results from the acquisition date. 

 

Two of the vessels in our fleet (the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann ) are owned by our joint ventures, each of which is owned 50% by us. Under applicable accounting rules, we do not consolidate the financial results of these two joint ventures into our financial results. We account for our 50% equity interests in these two joint ventures as equity method investments in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. We derive cash flows from the operations of these two joint ventures from principal and interest payments on our shareholder loans to our joint ventures.

 

We have two segments, which are the “Majority held FSRUs” and the “Joint venture FSRUs.” As of December 31, 2015, Majority held FSRUs included the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Höegh Gallant. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Majority held FSRUs included the PGN FSRU Lampung and construction contract revenue and expenses of the mooring related to PGN FSRU Lampung (“the Mooring”) under construction. The Mooring project was completed in the fourth quarter of 2014. As of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, Joint venture FSRUs included two 50%-owned FSRUs, the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . We measure our segment profit based on segment EBITDA. Segment EBITDA is reconciled to net income for each segment in the segment table below. The accounting policies applied to the segments are the same as those applied in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements, except that Joint venture FSRUs are presented under the proportional consolidation method for the segment reporting and under the equity method in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Under the proportional consolidation method, 50% of the Joint venture FSRUs’ revenues, expenses and assets are reflected in the segment reporting. Management monitors the results of operations of our joint ventures under the proportional consolidation method and not the equity method.

 

You should read the following selected financial and operating data in conjunction with “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and the combined financial statements of the two joint ventures that own the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann and the related notes thereto included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

 

Our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could differ from those that would have resulted if we operated autonomously or as an entity independent of Höegh LNG in the periods prior to our IPO for which historical financial and operating data are presented below, and such data may not be indicative of our future operating results or financial performance.

 

7  

 

 

    Year Ended December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars, except per unit, information and fleet data)   2015     2014     2013     2012  
Statement of Income Data:                        
 Time charter revenues   $ 57,465     $ 22,227     $     $  
 Construction contract revenues           51,868       51,062       5,512  
 Other revenue           474       511        
 Total revenues     57,465       74,569       51,573       5,512  
 Voyage expenses           (1,139 )            
 Vessel operating expenses     (9,679 )     (6,197 )            
 Construction contract expenses           (38,570 )     (43,958 )     (5,512 )
 Administrative expenses     (8,733 )     (12,566 )     (8,043 )     (3,185 )
 Depreciation and amortization     (2,653 )     (1,317 )     (8 )      
 Total operating expenses     (21,065 )     (59,789 )     (52,009 )     (8,697 )
 Equity in earnings of joint ventures     17,123       (5,330 )     40,228       5,007  
 Operating income( loss)     53,523       9,450       39,792       1,822  
 Interest income     7,568       4,959       2,122       2,481  
 Interest expense     (17,770 )     (9,665 )     (352 )     (114 )
 Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     949       (161 )            
 Other items, net     (2,678 )     (2,788 )     (1,096 )     (1 )
 Income (loss) before tax     41,592       1,795       40,466       4,188  
 Income tax expense     (313 )     (481 )            
 Net income (loss)   $ 41,279     $ 1,314     $ 40,466     $ 4,188  
Earnings per unit                                
Common unit public (Basic and diluted)   $ 1.56     $ 0.50     $     $  
Common unit Höegh LNG (Basic and diluted)   $ 1.57     $ 0.50     $     $  
Subordinated units (Basic and diluted)   $ 1.57     $ 0.50     $     $  
Cash distributions declared per unit   $ 1.43     $ 0.52     $     $  
Balance Sheet Data (at end of period):                                
Assets:                                
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 32,868     $ 30,477     $ 108     $ 100  
Restricted cash     25,828       37,119       10,700       10,700  
Demand note due from owner           143,241              
Current portion of advances to joint ventures     7,130       6,665       7,112       6,675  
Long term advances to joint ventures     6,861       12,287       17,398       21,996  
Newbuilding                 122,572       86,067  
Net investment in direct financing lease     293,303       295,363              
Total assets (1)     763,743       549,418       217,767       133,640  
Liabilities and equity:                              
Accumulated losses of joint ventures     42,507       59,630       54,300       94,525  
Amount, loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates     10,891       6,486       208,637       91,585  
Long term debt (1)     330,635       179,141       (10,468 )     (1,485 )
Seller’s credit     47,000                    
Owner's equity                 (48,096 )     (53,229 )
Total partners' capital     257,039       244,553              
Total liabilities and equity   $ 763,743     $ 549,418     $ 217,767     $ 133,640  
Cash Flow Data:                                
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   $ 42,785     $ 27,976     $ (41,217 )   $ (7,635 )
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     15,455       (292,199 )     (30,781 )     (61,709 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     (55,849 )     294,592       72,006       69,444  
Fleet data                                
Number of vessels     4       3       2       2  
Average age (in years)     3.8       3.5       3.9       2.9  
Average charter length remaining excluding charterers’ options (in years)     14.1       16.7       16.1       17.1  
Average charter length remaining including charterers’ options (in years)     20.4       24.9       26.1       27.1  
Other Financial Data:                                
Segment EBITDA(2)   $ 72,258     $ 48,931     $ 31,919     $ 29,239  
Adjusted EBITDA(2)   $ 75,782     $ 50,272     $ 31,919     $ 29,239  
Capital expenditures                                
Expenditures for vessels and equipment     955       172,324       36,590       58,138  
Selected Segment Data:                                
Joint venture FSRUs (proportionate consolidation)(3)                                
Segment Statement of Income Data:                                
Time charter revenues   $ 42,698       41,319     $ 41,110     $ 41,076  
Segment EBITDA (2)     33,205       32,834       32,347       32,424  
Operating income   $ 23,978       23,686     $ 23,294     $ 23,364  
Segment Balance Sheet Data (at end of year)                                
Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation   $ 283,539       279,670     $ 286,460     $ 294,993  
Total assets   $ 303,390       300,327     $ 307,335     $ 315,566  
Segment Capital expenditures:                                
Expenditures for vessels and equipment   $ 13,095       2,358     $ 522     $ 1,435  

 

(1) In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued revised guidance for the classification of debt issuance cost; Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Cost . Under the new guidance, deferred debt issuance cost will no longer be classified as assets but presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the associated debt in the balance sheet. The presentation in the balance sheet has been adjusted on a retrospective basis. The amendments are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 31, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. We implemented the guidance as of December 31, 2015 and adjusted the balance sheet as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 on a retrospective basis. The deduction from the carrying amount of long-term debt for deferred debt issuance cost was $14.1 million, $10.5 million and $1.5 million as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, which reduced current assets by, $2.6 million, $2.8 million and $0.4 million, respectively, and long-term assets by $11.5 million, $7.7 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Please read note 2 c. of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

8  

 

  

(2) Please read “—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” below.
(3) Please read “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” below and note 5 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for information on the basis of presentation for the Joint venture FSRUs segment

 

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

 

Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA . EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization and taxes. Segment EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization, taxes and other financial items. Other financial items consist of gains and losses on derivative instruments and other items, net (including foreign exchange gains and losses and withholding tax on interest expenses). Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization, taxes, other financial items, cash collections on direct financing lease investments and amortization in revenues for above market contracts. Cash collections on direct financing lease investments consist of the difference between the payments under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter and the revenues recognized as a financing lease (representing the repayment of the principal recorded as a receivable). Amortization in revenues for above market contracts consists of the non-cash amortization of the intangible for the above market time charter contract related to the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant . Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are used as supplemental financial measures by management and external users of financial statements, such as the Partnership's lenders, to assess its financial and operating performance. The Partnership believes that Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA assist its management and investors by increasing the comparability of its performance from period to period and against the performance of other companies in the industry that provide Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA information. This increased comparability is achieved by excluding the potentially disparate effects between periods or companies of interest, other financial items, depreciation and amortization and taxes, which items are affected by various and possibly changing financing methods, capital structure and historical cost basis and which items may significantly affect net income between periods. The Partnership believes that including Segment EBITDA as a financial and operating measure benefits investors in (a) selecting between investing in it and other investment alternatives and (b) monitoring its ongoing financial and operational strength in assessing whether to continue to hold common units. The Partnership believes Adjusted EBITDA benefits investors in comparing its results to other investment alternatives that account for time charters as operating leases rather than financial leases. Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA should not be considered alternatives to net income, operating income, cash flow from operating activities or any other measure of financial performance presented in accordance with US GAAP. Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA exclude some, but not all, items that affect net income, and these measures may vary among other companies. Therefore, Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA as presented below may not be comparable to similarly titled measures of other companies. The following tables reconcile Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA for each of the segments and the Partnership as a whole (combined carve-out reporting) to net income (loss), the comparable US GAAP financial measure, for the periods presented:

 

9  

 

 

    Year ended December 31, 2015  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Majority
held FSRUs
    Joint venture
FSRUs
(proportional
consolidation
    Other     Total
Segment
 reporting
    Consolidated
 & combined
carve-out
reporting
 
Reconciliation to net income (loss)                                        
Net income (loss)   $ 24,807       17,123       (651 )     41,279     $ 41,279  
Interest income                 (7,568 )     (7,568 )     (7,568 )
Interest expense, net     15,617       16,113       2,153       33,883       17,770  
Depreciation and amortization     2,653       9,227             11,880       2,653  
Income tax (benefit) expense     333             (20 )     313       313  
Equity in earnings of JVs: Interest (income) expense, net                             16,113  
Equity in earnings of JVs: Depreciation and amortization                             9,227  
Other financial items (1)     1,709       (9,257 )     20       (7,528 )     1,729  
Equity in earnings of JVs: Other financial items (1)                             (9,257 )
Segment EBITDA     45,119       33,205       (6,066 )     72,258       72,258  
Cash collection/ principal payment on direct financing lease     2,919                   2,919       2,919  
Amortization in revenues for above market contracts     605                   605       605  
Adjusted EBITDA   $ 48,643       33,205       (6,066 )     75,782     $ 75,782  

 

    Year ended December 31, 2014  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Majority
held FSRUs
    Joint venture
FSRUs
 (proportional
 consolidation
    Other     Total
Segment
reporting
    Consolidated
& combined
 carve-out
 reporting
 
Reconciliation to net income (loss)                                        
Net income (loss)   $ 8,375       (5,330 )     (1,731 )     1,314     $ 1,314  
Interest income                 (4,959 )     (4,959 )     (4,959 )
Interest expense, net     9,198       17,121       467       26,786       9,665  
Depreciation and amortization     1,317       9,148             10,465       1,317  
Income tax (benefit) expense     505             (24 )     481       481  
Equity in earnings of JVs : Interest (income) expense, net                             17,121  
Equity in earnings of JVs : Depreciation and amortization                             9,148  
Other financial items (1)     2,915       11,895       34       14,844       2,949  
Equity in earnings of JVs : Other financial items (1)                             11,895  
Segment EBITDA     22,310       32,834       (6,213 )     48,931       48,931  
Cash collection/ principal payment on direct financing lease     1,341                   1,341       1,341  
Amortization in revenues for above market contracts                              
Adjusted EBITDA   $ 23,651       32,834       (6,213 )     50,272     $ 50,272  

 

10  

 

 

    Year ended December 31, 2013  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Majority
held FSRUs
    Joint venture
 FSRUs
 (proportional
 consolidation
    Other     Total
 Segment
 reporting
    Consolidated
& combined
 carve-out
 reporting
 
Reconciliation to net income (loss)                                        
Net income (loss)   $ 1,669       40,228       (1,431 )     40,466     $ 40,466  
Interest income                 (2,122 )     (2,122 )     (2,122 )
Interest expense, net     352       18,085             18,437       352  
Depreciation and amortization     8       9,053             9,061       8  
Income tax (benefit) expense                              
Equity in earnings of JVs: Interest (income) expense, net                             18,085  
Equity in earnings of JVs: Depreciation and amortization                             9,053  
Other financial items (1)     1,096       (35,019 )           (33,923 )     1,096  
Equity in earnings (losses) of JVs: Other financial items(1)                             (35,019 )
Segment EBITDA     3,125       32,347       (3,553 )     31,919       31,919  
Cash collection/ principal payment on direct financing lease                              
Adjusted EBITDA   $ 3,125       32,347       (3,553 )     31,919     $ 31,919  

 

    Year ended December 31, 2012  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Majority
 held FSRUs
    Joint venture
FSRUs
(proportional
consolidation)
    Other     Total
Segment
reporting
    Consolidated
 & combined
carve-out
 reporting
 
Reconciliation to net income (loss)                                        
Net income (loss)   $ (2,487 )     5,007       1,668       4,188     $ 4,188  
Interest income           (1 )     (2,481 )     (2,482 )     (2,481 )
Interest expense, net     114       19,033             19,147       118  
Depreciation and amortization           9,060             9,060        
Income tax (benefit) expense                              
Equity in earnings of JVs: Interest (income) expense, net                             19,033  
Equity in earnings of JVs: Depreciation and amortization                             9,060  
Other financial items (1)     1       (675 )           (674 )     1  
Equity in earnings of JVs: Other financial items (1)                             (675 )
Segment EBITDA     (2,372 )     32,424       (813 )     29,239       29,239  
Cash collection/ principal payment on direct financing lease                              
Adjusted EBITDA   $ (2,372 )     32,424       (813 )     29,239     $ 29,239  

 

(1) Other financial items consist of gains and losses on derivative instruments and other items, net including foreign exchange gains or losses and withholding tax on interest changes.

 

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

 

Not applicable.

 

C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

 

Not applicable.

 

11  

 

 

D. Risk Factors

 

Some of the following risks relate principally to the industry in which we operate and to our business in general. Other risks relate principally to the securities market and to ownership of our common units. The occurrence of any of the events described in this section could significantly and negatively affect our business, financial condition, operating results or cash available for distribution or the trading price of our common units.

 

Risks Inherent in Our Business

 

Our fleet consists of only four vessels. Any limitation on the availability or operation of those vessels could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and could significantly reduce our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.

 

Our fleet consists of four vessels. If any of these vessels is unable to generate revenues as a result of off-hire time, early termination of the applicable time charter, purchase of the vessel by the charterer or otherwise, our financial condition and ability to make distributions to unitholders could be materially and adversely affected.

 

The charters relating to our vessels permit the charterer to terminate the charter in the event that the vessel is off-hire for any extended period. The charters also allow the charterer to terminate the charter upon the occurrence of specified defaults by us or in certain other cases, including termination without cause, due to force majeure or disruptions caused by war. The termination of any of our charters could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and could significantly reduce our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. For further details regarding termination of our charters, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— GDF Suez Neptune Time Charter—Termination,” “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Termination” and “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Gallant Time Charter—Termination.” We may be unable to charter the applicable vessel on terms as favorable to us as those of the terminated charter.

 

We are dependent on GDF Suez, PGN LNG and EgyptCo as the sole customers for our vessels. A deterioration of the financial viability of GDF Suez, PGN LNG or EgyptCo or our relationship with GDF Suez, PGN LNG or EgyptCo or the loss of GDF Suez, PGN LNG or EgyptCo as a customer, would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, PGN LNG and EgyptCo accounted for all of the revenues in our consolidated and combined carve-out income statements and for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, PGN LNG accounted for all of such revenues. For each of the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, GDF Suez accounted for all of the revenues of our joint ventures from which we derived all of our equity in earnings of joint ventures. A deterioration in the financial viability of GDF Suez, PGN LNG or EgyptCo or the loss of GDF Suez, PGN LNG or EgyptCo as a customer, or a decline in payments under any of the related charters, would have a greater adverse effect on us than for a company with a more diverse customer base, and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

We or our joint ventures could lose a customer or the benefits of a charter as a result of a breach by the customer of a charter or other unanticipated developments, such as:

 

· the customer failing to make charter payments or reducing charter payments because of its financial inability, disagreements with us or our joint venture partners or otherwise;

 

· the customer exercising its right to terminate the charter in certain circumstances, such as: (i) defaults of our or our joint ventures’ obligations under the applicable charter, including breaches of performance standards or prolonged periods of off-hire; (ii) with respect to the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann and the Höegh Gallant , in the event of war that would materially interrupt the performance of the time charter; or (iii) with respect to the PGN FSRU Lampung , in the event of specified types of force majeure;

 

· with respect to the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , GDF Suez exercising its right to terminate the charter without cause at any time following the fourth and sixth years, respectively, of the charters’ effectiveness, in which case GDF Suez will be obligated to pay the vessel owner a previously agreed upon termination fee based on the date such charter is terminated;

 

· the charter terminating automatically if the vessel is lost or deemed a constructive loss;

 

· with respect to the PGN FSRU Lampung, PGN LNG exercising its option to purchase the vessel; or

 

· a prolonged force majeure event that materially interrupts the performance of the time charter.

 

12  

 

 

For further details regarding termination of our charters, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— GDF Suez Neptune Time Charter—Termination,” “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Termination” and Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Gallant Time Charter—Termination.” If any charter is terminated, we or our joint ventures, as applicable, may be unable to re-deploy the related vessel on terms as favorable as the current charters or at all. In addition, any termination fee payable to us may not adequately compensate us for the loss of the charter.

 

Any event, whether in our industry or otherwise, that adversely affects a customer’s financial condition, leverage, results of operations, cash flows or demand for our services may adversely affect our ability to sustain or increase cash distributions to our unitholders. Accordingly, we are indirectly subject to the business risks of our customers, including their level of indebtedness and the economic conditions and government policies in their areas of operation.

 

The ability of each of our customers to perform its obligations under its applicable charter depends on its future financial condition and economic performance, which, in turn, will depend on prevailing economic conditions and financial, business and other factors, many of which are beyond its control.

 

Due to our lack of diversification, adverse developments in our LNG transportation, storage and regasification businesses could reduce our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

We rely exclusively on the cash flows generated from our FSRUs. Due to our lack of diversification, an adverse development in the LNG transportation, storage and regasification industry could have a significantly greater impact on our financial condition and results of operations than if we maintained more diverse assets or lines of businesses.

 

We may not have sufficient cash from operations following the establishment of cash reserves and payment of fees and expenses to enable us to pay the minimum quarterly distribution on our common units.

 

We may not have sufficient cash from operations to pay the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3375 per unit on our common units. The amount of cash we can distribute on our units principally depends upon the amount of cash we generate from our operations. We generate cash from our operations and through distributions from our joint ventures, and as such our cash from operations are dependent on our operations and the cash distributions and operations of our joint ventures, each of which may fluctuate based on the risks described in this section, including, among other things:

 

  · the hire rates we and our joint ventures obtain from charters;

 

  · the level of operating costs and other expenses, such as the cost of crews and insurance;

 

  · the continued availability of natural gas production, liquefaction and regasification facilities;

 

  · demand for LNG;

 

  · supply and capacities of FSRUs and LNG carriers;

 

  · prevailing global and regional economic and political conditions;

 

  · currency exchange rate fluctuations;

 

  · interest rate fluctuations; and

 

  · the effect of governmental regulations and maritime self-regulatory organization standards on the conduct of our business.

 

In addition, the actual amount of cash we will have available for distribution will depend on other factors, including:

 

  · the level of capital expenditures we and our joint ventures make, including for maintaining or replacing vessels, building new vessels, acquiring existing vessels and complying with regulations;

  

  · the number of unscheduled off-hire days for our fleet and the timing of, and number of days required for, scheduled drydocking of our vessels;

 

13  

 

 

  · our and our joint ventures’ debt service requirements, minimum free liquid asset requirements under debt covenants, and restrictions on distributions contained in our and our joint ventures’ current and future debt instruments;

 

  · fluctuations in interest rates;

 

  · fluctuations in working capital needs;

 

  · variable tax rates;

 

  · our ability to make, and the level of, working capital borrowings; and

 

  · the amount of any cash reserves established by our board of directors.

 

In addition, each quarter we are required by our partnership agreement to deduct estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures from operating surplus, which may result in less cash available to unitholders than if actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures were deducted. Our ability to pay distributions will also be limited to the extent that we have sufficient cash after establishment of cash reserves and payments to our general partner.

 

The amount of cash we generate from our operations and the cash distributions received from our joint ventures may differ materially from our or their profit or loss for the period, which will be affected by non-cash items. As a result of this and the other factors mentioned above, we may make cash distributions during periods when we record losses and may not make cash distributions during periods when we record net income.

 

Our ability to grow and to meet our financial needs may be adversely affected by our cash distribution policy.

 

Our cash distribution policy, which is consistent with our partnership agreement, requires us to distribute all of our available cash (as defined in our partnership agreement) each quarter. Accordingly, our growth may not be as fast as businesses that reinvest their available cash to expand ongoing operations.

 

In determining the amount of cash available for distribution, our board of directors approves the amount of cash reserves to set aside, including reserves for future maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, working capital and other matters. We may also rely upon external financing sources, including commercial borrowings, to fund our capital expenditures. Accordingly, to the extent we do not have sufficient cash reserves or are unable to obtain financing, our cash distribution policy may significantly impair our ability to meet our financial needs or to grow.

 

We are a holding entity that has historically derived a significant amount of our income from equity interests in our joint ventures. Neither we nor our joint venture partners exercise affirmative control over our joint ventures. Accordingly, we cannot require our joint ventures to act in our best interests. Furthermore, our joint venture partners may prevent our joint ventures from taking action that may otherwise be beneficial to us, including making cash distributions to us. A deadlock between us and our joint venture partners could result in our exchanging equity interests in one of our joint ventures for the equity interests in our other joint venture held by our joint venture counterparties or in us or our joint venture partner selling shares in a joint venture to a third party.

 

We are a holding entity and conduct our operations and businesses through subsidiaries. We have historically derived a significant amount of our income from our 50% equity interests in our joint ventures that own the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements” for a description of the shareholders’ agreement governing our joint ventures. Our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders will depend on the performance of our joint ventures, subsidiaries and other investments. If our joint venture partners do not approve cash distributions or if they are not sufficient, we will not be able to make cash distributions unless we obtain funds from other sources. We may not be able to obtain the necessary funds from other sources on terms acceptable to us. The approval of a majority of the members of the board of directors is required to consent to any proposed action by such joint ventures and, as a result, we will be unable to cause our joint venture to act in our best interests over the objection of our joint venture partners or make cash distributions to us. Our inability to require our joint ventures to act in our best interests may cause us to fail to realize expected benefits from our equity interests and could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

Our joint venture partners for our joint ventures that own the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann are Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd (“MOL”) and Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd (“TLT”), whom we refer to in this Annual Report as our joint venture partners. These entities together exercise one half of the voting power on the board of directors of each joint venture. As such, our joint venture partners may prevent our joint ventures from making cash distributions to us or may act in a manner that would otherwise not be in our best interests.

 

14  

 

 

If the directors nominated by us and our joint venture partner are unable to reach agreement on any decision or action, then the issue will be resolved in accordance with the procedures set forth in the shareholders’ agreement. After the board of directors has met a second time to consider the decision or action, if the deadlock persists, one or more of our senior executives will meet with their counterpart(s) from our joint venture partners. Should, after no more than 60 days, these efforts be unsuccessful and we and our joint venture partners, on a combined basis, each own 50% of the shares in each joint venture or, when the shareholdings in each joint venture are aggregated by party, we and our joint venture partners, on a combined basis, each own 50% of the aggregate shares, we and our joint venture partners will attempt to agree within 30 days that our shareholdings be exchanged so that we own 100% of one joint venture and our joint venture partners own 100% of the other joint venture. If, however, the shareholdings are not as described in the previous sentence or we and our joint venture partners cannot agree within the specified time, we or our joint venture partners may sell our shares, including to a third party, in accordance with the procedures set forth in the shareholders’ agreement. If any of these forms of resolution were to occur, the diversity of our fleet would be reduced, and our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders may be adversely affected.

 

We must make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and replace the operating capacity of our fleet, which will reduce our cash available for distribution. In addition, each quarter we will be required, pursuant to our partnership agreement, to deduct estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures from operating surplus, which may result in less cash available to unitholders than if actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures were deducted.

 

We must make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and replace, over the long-term, the operating capacity of our fleet. Maintenance and replacement capital expenditures include capital expenditures associated with drydocking a vessel, including costs for inspection, maintenance and repair, modifying an existing vessel, acquiring a new vessel or otherwise replacing current vessels at the end of their useful lives to the extent these expenditures are incurred to maintain or replace the operating capacity of our fleet. These expenditures could vary significantly from quarter to quarter and could increase as a result of changes in:

 

  · the cost of labor and materials;

 

  · customer requirements;

 

  · fleet size;

 

  · length of charters;

 

  · vessel useful life;

 

  · the cost of replacement vessels;

 

  · re-investment rate of return;

 

  · resale or scrap value of existing vessels;

 

  · governmental regulations and maritime self-regulatory organization standards relating to safety, security or the environment; and

 

  · competitive standards.

 

Our partnership agreement requires our board of directors to deduct estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, instead of actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, from operating surplus each quarter in an effort to reduce fluctuations in operating surplus as a result of significant variations in actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures each quarter. The amount of estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures deducted from operating surplus is subject to review and change by our board of directors at least once a year (with the approval of the conflicts committee of our board of directors). In years when estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures are higher than actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, the amount of cash available for distribution to unitholders will be lower than if actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures were deducted from operating surplus. If our board of directors underestimates the appropriate level of estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, we may have less cash available for distribution in periods when actual capital expenditures exceed our previous estimates. Refer to “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—The Partnership’s Cash Distribution Policy—Estimated Maintenance and Replacement Capital Expenditures” for a description of our estimated annual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures.

 

15  

 

 

The required drydocking of our vessels could be more expensive and time consuming than we anticipate, which could adversely affect our cash available for distribution.

 

The drydocking of our vessels could require us to expend capital if the vessels are drydocked for longer than the allowable period under the time charters. Although each of our time charters, except for the Höegh Gallant time charter, requires the charterer to pay the hire rate for up to a specified number of days of scheduled drydocking and reimburse us for anticipated drydocking costs, any significant increase in the number of days of drydocking beyond the specified number of days during which the hire rate remains payable could have a material adverse effect on our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. A significant increase in the cost of repairs during drydocking could also adversely affect our cash available for distribution. We may underestimate the time required to drydock any of our vessels or unanticipated problems may arise. If more than one of our vessels is required to be out of service at the same time, if a vessel is drydocked longer than the permitted duration or if the cost of repairs during drydocking is greater than budgeted, our cash available for distribution could be adversely affected.

 

We may experience operational problems with vessels that could reduce revenue, increase costs or lead to termination of our time charters.

 

FSRUs are complex and their operations are technically challenging. The operations of our vessels may be subject to mechanical risks. Operational problems may lead to loss of revenue or higher than anticipated operating expenses or require additional capital expenditures. Moreover, pursuant to each time charter, the vessels in our fleet must maintain certain specified performance standards. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters”. If we fail to maintain these standards, we may be liable to our customers for damages and, in certain circumstances, our customers may terminate their respective time charters. Any of these results could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

If capital expenditures are financed through cash from operations or by issuing debt or equity securities, our ability to make cash distributions may be diminished, our financial leverage could increase or our unitholders may be diluted.

 

Use of cash from operations to expand our fleet will reduce cash available for distribution to unitholders. Our ability to obtain bank financing or to access the capital markets may be limited by our financial condition at the time of any such financing or offering as well as by adverse market conditions resulting from, among other things, general economic conditions, changes in the LNG industry and contingencies and uncertainties that are beyond our control. Our failure to obtain the funds for future capital expenditures could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. Even if we are successful in obtaining necessary funds, the terms of any debt financings could limit our ability to pay cash distributions to unitholders. In addition, incurring additional debt may significantly increase our interest expense and financial leverage, and issuing additional equity securities may result in significant unitholder dilution and would increase the aggregate amount of cash required to pay the minimum quarterly distribution to unitholders, which could have a material adverse effect on our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

We may be unable to make or realize expected benefits from acquisitions, which could have an adverse effect on our expected plans for growth.

 

Our growth strategy includes selectively acquiring FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets that are operating under long-term charters with stable cash flows. Any acquisition of a vessel or business may not be profitable to us at or after the time we acquire such vessel or business and may not generate cash flows sufficient to justify our investment. In addition, our acquisition growth strategy exposes us to risks that may harm our business, financial condition and results of operations, including risks that we may:

 

  · fail to realize anticipated benefits, such as new customer relationships, cost-savings or cash flows enhancements;

 

  · be unable to hire, train or retain qualified onshore and seafaring personnel to manage and operate our growing business and fleet;

 

  · decrease our liquidity by using a significant portion of our available cash or borrowing capacity to finance acquisitions;

 

  · significantly increase our interest expense or financial leverage if we incur additional debt to finance acquisitions;

 

  · incur or assume unanticipated liabilities, losses or costs associated with the business or vessels acquired; or

 

  · incur other significant charges, such as impairment of goodwill or other intangible assets, asset devaluation or restructuring charges.

 

16  

 

 

Fluctuations in overall LNG supply and demand growth could adversely affect our ability to secure future long-term charters.

 

Demand for LNG depends on a number of factors, including economic growth, the cost effectiveness of LNG compared to alternative fuels, environmental policy and the perceived need to diversify fuel mix for energy security reasons. The cost effectiveness of LNG compared to alternative fuels is also dependent on supply. A change in any of the factors influencing LNG demand, or an imbalance between supply and demand, could adversely affect the need for LNG infrastructure and our ability to secure additional long-term charters.

 

Our future performance and growth depend on continued growth in demand for the services we provide.

 

Our growth strategy focuses on expansion in the floating storage and regasification sector and the maritime transportation sector, each within the LNG transportation, storage and regasification industry. The rate of LNG growth has fluctuated due to several reasons, including the global economic crisis and the continued increase in natural gas production from unconventional sources, including hydraulic fracturing, in regions such as North America and the highly complex and capital intensive nature of new or expanded LNG projects. Accordingly, our growth depends on continued growth in world and regional demand for LNG, FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets, which could be negatively affected by a number of factors, including:

 

  · increases in the cost of LNG;

 

. increases in interest rates or other events that may affect the availability of sufficient financing for LNG projects on commercially reasonable terms;

 

· increases in the production levels of low-cost natural gas in domestic, natural gas-consuming markets, which could further depress prices for natural gas in those markets and make LNG uneconomical;

 

  · decreases in the cost, or increases in the demand for, conventional land-based regasification systems, which could occur if providers or users of regasification services seek greater economies of scale than FSRUs can provide or if the economic, regulatory or political challenges associated with land-based activities improve;

 

  · decreases in the cost of alternative technologies or development of alternative technologies for vessel-based LNG regasification;

 

  · increases in the production of natural gas in areas linked by pipelines to consuming areas, the extension of existing, or the development of new, pipeline systems in markets we may serve, or the conversion of existing non-natural gas pipelines to natural gas pipelines in those markets;

 

  · decreases in the consumption of natural gas due to increases in its price relative to other energy sources or other factors making consumption of natural gas less attractive;

 

  · availability of new, alternative energy sources, including compressed natural gas; and

 

  · negative global or regional economic or political conditions, particularly in LNG consuming regions, which could reduce energy consumption or its growth.

 

Reduced demand for LNG, FSRUs or LNG carriers would have a material adverse effect on our future growth and could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Growth of the LNG market may be limited by many factors, including infrastructure constraints and community and political group resistance to new LNG infrastructure over concerns about environmental, safety and terrorism.

 

A complete LNG project includes production, liquefaction, regasification, storage and distribution facilities and FSRUs or LNG carriers. Existing LNG projects and infrastructure are limited, and new or expanded LNG projects are highly complex and capital intensive, with new projects often costing several billion dollars. Many factors could negatively affect continued development of LNG infrastructure and related alternatives, including floating storage and regasification, or disrupt the supply of LNG, including:

 

  · the availability of sufficient financing for LNG projects on commercially reasonable terms;

 

  · decreases in the price of LNG, which might decrease the expected returns relating to investments in LNG projects;

 

  · the inability of project owners or operators to obtain governmental approvals to construct or operate LNG facilities;

 

  · local community resistance to proposed or existing LNG facilities based on safety, environmental or security concerns;

 

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  · any significant explosion, spill or similar incident involving an LNG facility or vessel involved in the LNG transportation, storage and regasification industry, including an FSRU or LNG carrier; and

 

  · labor or political unrest affecting existing or proposed areas of LNG production and regasification.

 

We expect that, in the event any of the factors discussed above negatively affect us, some of the proposals to expand existing or develop new LNG liquefaction and regasification facilities may be abandoned or significantly delayed. If the LNG supply chain is disrupted or does not continue to grow, or if a significant explosion, spill or similar incident occurs within the LNG transportation, storage and regasification industry, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

Demand for FSRUs or LNG shipping could be significantly affected by volatile natural gas prices and the overall demand for natural gas.

 

LNG prices are volatile and affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including, but not limited to, the following:

 

  · worldwide demand for natural gas and LNG;

 

  · the cost of exploration, development, production, transportation and distribution of natural gas;

 

  · expectations regarding future energy prices for both natural gas and other sources of energy;

 

  · the level of worldwide LNG production and exports;

 

  · government laws and regulations, including but not limited to environmental protection laws and regulations;

 

  · local and international political, economic and weather conditions;

 

  · political and military conflicts; and

 

  · the availability and cost of alternative energy sources, including alternate sources of natural gas.

 

In 2015, global crude oil prices were volatile and declined significantly. LNG prices also declined significantly – in part because of pricing links with crude oil and in part because of the increasing availability of spot cargos. Changes in demand for natural gas and the competitiveness of LNG between geographic regions impacted demand. Although utilization of FSRUs generally increased because of the availability of LNG at attractive prices, the utilization of LNG carriers decreased after the arrival of new capacity coincided with delays to LNG projects and the decline of arbitrage opportunities between geographic regions. The weak LNG shipping market could impact FSRUs given that FSRUs not operating in regasification mode are typically deployed as LNG carriers.

 

The weakness in the LNG market may adversely affect our future business, results of operations and financial condition and our ability to make cash distributions, as a result of, among other things:

 

· lower demand for LNG carriers, reducing available charter rates and revenue to us from short term redeployment of our vessels between FSRU projects or following expiration or termination of existing contracts;

 

· customers potentially seeking to renegotiate or terminate existing vessel contracts, or failing to extend or renew contracts upon expiration; or

 

· the inability or refusal of customers to make charter payments to us due to financial constraints or otherwise.

 

In general, reduced demand for LNG, FSRUs or LNG carriers would have a material adverse effect on our future growth and could harm our business, results of operations and financial condition.

 

PGN LNG has the option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung beginning in June 2018. If PGN LNG exercises this option, it could have a material adverse effect on our operating cash flows and our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

PGN LNG has the option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung beginning in June 2018, at a price specified in the time charter. Any compensation we receive for the purchase of the PGN FSRU Lampung may not adequately compensate us for the loss of the vessel and related time charter. If PGN LNG exercises this option, it would significantly reduce the size of our fleet, and we may be unable to identify or acquire suitable replacement vessel(s) with the proceeds of the option exercise because, among other things that are beyond our control, there may be no replacement vessel(s) that are readily available for purchase at a price that is equal to or less than the proceeds from the option exercise and on terms acceptable to us. Even if we find suitable replacement vessel(s), the hire rate(s) of such vessel(s) may be significantly lower than the hire rate under the current PGN FSRU Lampung time charter. Our inability to find suitable replacement vessel(s) or the chartering of replacement vessel(s) at lower hire rate(s) would have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, cash flows and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Termination.”

 

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The debt levels of us and our joint ventures may limit our and their flexibility in obtaining additional financing, refinancing credit facilities upon maturity or pursuing other business opportunities or our paying distributions to you.

 

As of December 31, 2015 we had total debt of $362.8 million and our joint ventures’ debt was $499.2 million, of which 50% is our share. In addition, we have the ability to incur additional debt, and we will have the ability to borrow an additional $85 million under our sponsor credit facility, subject to certain limitations. If we acquire additional vessels or businesses, our consolidated debt may significantly increase. We may incur additional debt under this or future credit facilities. Our joint ventures’ credit facilities will mature in 2022 and require an aggregate principal repayment of approximately $330 million, of which 50% is our share. A portion of the credit facility secured by the PGN FSRU Lampung will mature in 2021 and require that an aggregate principal amount of $16.5 million be refinanced. If such principal repayment is not refinanced, the export credit tranche of the PGN FSRU Lampung financing that will have an outstanding balance of $68.2 million at this time may be accelerated together with the attendant hedges. A portion of the credit facility secured by the Höegh Gallant will mature in 2019 and require that an aggregate principal amount of $106.5 million be refinanced. If such principal repayment is not refinanced, the export credit tranche of the Höegh Gallant financing that will have an outstanding balance of $26.6 million at this time may be accelerated. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Lampung Facility” and “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Gallant/Grace Facility.”

 

Our level of debt could have important consequences to us, including the following:

 

  · our ability to obtain additional financing, if necessary, for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions or other purposes may be limited or such financing may not be available on favorable terms;

 

  · we will need a substantial portion of our cash flows to make principal and interest payments on our debt, reducing the funds that would otherwise be available for operations, future business opportunities and distributions to unitholders;

 

  · our debt level will make us more vulnerable than our competitors with less debt to competitive pressures or a downturn in our business or the economy generally;

 

  · our debt level may limit our flexibility in responding to changing business and economic conditions; and

 

  · if we are unable to satisfy the restrictions included in any of our financing arrangements or are otherwise in default under any of those arrangements, as a result of our debt levels or otherwise, we will not be able to make cash distributions to you, notwithstanding our stated cash distribution policy.

 

Our ability to service or refinance our debt will depend on, among other things, our future financial and operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, regulatory and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. If our operating results are not sufficient to service or refinance our current or future indebtedness, we will be forced to take actions such as reducing distributions, reducing or delaying our business activities, acquisitions, investments or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring our debt, or seeking additional equity capital or bankruptcy protection. We may not be able to effect any of these remedies on satisfactory terms, or at all.

 

We have a revolving credit facility with Höegh LNG to provide us with liquidity, and as a result we will be exposed to the credit risk of Höegh LNG.

 

Upon consummation of the IPO, we entered into a three-year, $85 million revolving credit facility with Höegh LNG as our lender to be used to fund our general partnership purposes, including working capital and distributions. This revolving credit facility provides our primary source of liquidity other than our cash from operations distributed to us by our subsidiaries and joint ventures and payments made to us under our shareholder loans. Höegh LNG’s ability to make loans under the revolving credit facility may be affected by events beyond our and their control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate, our and their ability to comply with the terms of the revolving credit facility may be impaired. If we request a borrowing under the revolving credit facility, Höegh LNG may not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient funds to make loans under the revolving credit facility. In the event that Höegh LNG is unable to make loans to us pursuant to the revolving credit facility, or a default or other circumstance prohibits us from borrowing loans thereunder our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders could be materially adversely affected.

 

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The financing arrangements of us and our joint ventures are secured by our vessels and contain operating and financial restrictions and other covenants that may restrict our business and financing activities as well as our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

The operating and financial restrictions and covenants in the financing arrangements of us and our joint ventures, including lease agreements and any future financing agreements, could adversely affect our and their ability to finance future operations or capital needs or to engage, expand or pursue our business activities. For example, the financing agreements may restrict the ability of us and our subsidiaries to:

 

  · incur or guarantee indebtedness;

 

  · change ownership or structure, including mergers, consolidations, liquidations and dissolutions;

 

  · make dividends or distributions;

 

  · make certain negative pledges and grant certain liens;

 

  · sell, transfer, assign or convey assets;

 

  · make certain investments; and

 

  · enter into a new line of business.

 

In addition, our financing agreements require us and Höegh LNG to comply with certain financial ratios and tests, including maintaining a minimum liquidity, a minimum EBITDA to debt service ratio and a minimum book equity ratio and, with respect to the Lampung facility, ensuring that available cash flows exceeds interest and principal payable for a nine-month test period. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Lampung Facility” and “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Gallant/Grace Facility.”

 

Our joint ventures,’ Höegh LNG’s and our ability to comply with covenants and restrictions contained in financing arrangements may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate, our and their ability to comply with these covenants may be impaired. If restrictions, covenants, ratios or tests in debt instruments are breached, a significant portion of the obligations may become immediately due and payable, and the lenders’ commitment to make further loans may terminate. We and/or our joint ventures or Höegh LNG may not have, or be able to obtain, sufficient funds to make these accelerated payments. In addition, obligations under our and our joint ventures’ financing arrangements are secured by our vessels and, in some cases, guaranteed by us or Höegh LNG, and if we or they, as applicable, are unable to repay debt under our financing arrangements, the lenders could seek to foreclose on those assets. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

Restrictions in our debt agreements and local laws may prevent us from paying distributions.

 

The payment of principal and interest on our debt will reduce our cash available for distribution. Our and our joint ventures’ financing arrangements prohibit the payment of distributions upon the occurrence of certain events, including, but not limited to:

 

  · failure to pay any principal, interest, fees, expenses or other amounts when due;

 

  · certain material environmental incidents;

 

  · breach or lapse of insurance with respect to vessels securing the facilities;

 

  · breach of certain financial covenants;

 

  · failure to observe any other agreement, security instrument, obligation or covenant beyond specified cure periods in certain cases;

 

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  · default under other indebtedness (including certain hedging arrangements or other material agreements);

 

  · bankruptcy or insolvency events;

 

  · inaccuracy of any representation or warranty;

 

  · a change of ownership of the vessel-owning subsidiary, as defined in the applicable agreement; and

 

  · a material adverse change, as defined in the applicable agreement.

 

Furthermore, our financing arrangements require that we maintain minimum amounts of free liquid assets and our subsidiaries and joint ventures to hold cash reserves that are, in certain cases, held for specifically designated uses, including working capital, operations and maintenance and debt service reserves, and are generally subject to “waterfall” provisions that allocate project revenues to specified priorities of use (such as operating expenses, scheduled debt service, targeted debt service reserves and any other reserves) and the remaining cash is distributable to us only on certain dates and subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, including meeting a 1.20 historical and in some cases, projected, debt service coverage ratio. In addition, the laws governing our joint ventures and subsidiaries may prevent us from making dividend distributions. Our joint ventures are subject to restrictions under the laws of the Cayman Islands and may only pay distributions out of profits or capital reserves if the joint venture entity is solvent after the distribution Höegh Lampung is subject to Singapore laws and may make dividend distributions only out of profits. Dividends may only be paid by PT Höegh if its retained earnings are positive under Indonesian law. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, PT Höegh had negative retained earnings and therefore cannot make dividend payments to us under Indonesia law. However, subject to meeting a debt service ratio of 1.20 to 1.00, PT Höegh can distribute cash from its cash flow from operations to us as payment of intercompany accrued interest and / or intercompany debt, after quarterly payments of the Lampung facility and fulfilment of the “waterfall” provisions to meet operating requirements as defined by the Lampung facility. Under Cayman Islands law, FSRU III may only pay distributions out of profits or capital reserves if the entity is solvent after the distribution. Dividends from Höegh Cyprus may only be distributed (i) out of profits and not from the share capital of the company and (ii) if after the dividend payment, Höegh Cyprus would remain in compliance with the financial covenants under the Gallant/Grace facility. Please read “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—The Partnership’s Cash Distribution Policy—Limitations on Cash Distributions and Our Ability to Change Our Cash Distribution Policy.”

 

Höegh LNG’s failure to comply with certain obligations under the Lampung and Gallant/Grace facilities, and certain other events occurring at Höegh LNG, could result in cross-defaults or defaults under the Lampung or Gallant credit facilities, which could have a material adverse effect on us.

 

Höegh LNG guarantees the obligations of (i) PT Höegh, a company incorporated under the laws of the Republic of Indonesia and the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung , under the Lampung facility, and (ii) Höegh Cyprus, a company incorporated under the laws of Cyprus and the owner of the Höegh Gallant , under the Gallant/Grace facility (each such facility as described in “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt”). Pursuant to the terms of the Lampung and the Gallant/Grace facilities, Höegh LNG must, among other things, maintain minimum book equity and comply with certain minimum liquidity financial covenants. Failure by Höegh LNG to satisfy any of the covenants applicable to Höegh LNG would result in a default under the Lampung and Gallant/Grace facilities. The Gallant/Grace facility is secured by, among other things, a first priority mortgage of the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace , an FSRU owned by Höegh LNG . The tranches covering the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace are cross-defaulted, cross-collateralized (except that the banks cannot enforce any of their rights to the security provided by Höegh Cyprus, Höegh FSRU III, the Partnership or EgyptCo unless an event of default occurs directly and expressly with respect to the Partnership, its subsidiaries or EgyptCo and its direct shareholders), and cross-guaranteed (except that the Partnership does not guarantee the obligations of Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd. (“Höegh FSRU IV”), the owner of the Höegh Grace ). However, Höegh Cyprus is jointly and severally liable with Höegh FSRU IV under the Gallant/Grace facility, which includes the financing of the Höegh Grace. Furthermore, among other things, a default by Höegh LNG or Höegh FSRU IV on its indebtedness or the occurrence of certain other adverse events at Höegh LNG or Höegh FSRU IV may cause a default under the Lampung and the Gallant/Grace facilities. Any one of these events could result in the acceleration of the maturity of the Lampung and the Gallant/Grace facilities. The lenders of the Lampung facility may foreclose upon any collateral securing that debt, including arrest and seizure of the PGN FSRU Lampung , even if Höegh LNG were to subsequently cure its default. The lenders of the Gallant/Grace facility cannot enforce any of their rights to the security provided by Höegh Cyprus, including the seizure of the Höegh Gallant , Höegh FSRU III, the Partnership or EgyptCo unless an event of default occurs directly and expressly with respect to the Partnership, its subsidiaries or EgyptCo and its direct shareholders. In the event of such acceleration and foreclosure, PT Höegh or Höegh Cyprus, as the case may be, might not have sufficient funds or other assets to satisfy all of their obligations under the related credit facility, which would have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition and would significantly reduce our ability, or make us unable, to make cash distributions to our unitholders for so long as such default is continuing. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Lampung Facility” and “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt— Gallant/Grace Facility.”

 

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Our growth depends on our ability to expand relationships with existing customers and obtain new customers, for which we will face substantial competition.

 

One of our principal objectives is to enter into additional long-term time charters for FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets. The process of obtaining long-term charters for FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets is competitive and generally involves an intensive screening process and competitive bids, and often extends for several months. We believe FSRU and LNG carrier time charters are awarded based upon a variety of factors relating to the vessel operator, including:

 

  · FSRU and LNG carrier experience and quality of ship operations;

 

  · quality of vessels;

 

  · cost effectiveness;

 

  · shipping industry relationships and reputation for customer service and safety;

 

  · technical ability and reputation for operation of highly specialized vessels;

 

  · quality and experience of seafaring crew;

 

  · safety record;

 

  · the ability to finance vessels at competitive rates and financial stability generally;

 

  · relationships with shipyards and the ability to get suitable berths;

 

  · construction management experience, including the ability to obtain on-time delivery of new FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets according to customer specifications;

 

  · willingness to accept operational risks pursuant to the charter, such as allowing termination of the charter for force majeure events; and

 

  · competitiveness of the bid in terms of overall price.

 

We expect substantial competition for providing floating storage and regasification services and marine transportation services for potential LNG projects from a number of experienced companies, including state-sponsored entities and major energy companies. Many of these competitors have significantly greater financial resources and larger fleets than do we or Höegh LNG. We anticipate that an increasing number of marine transportation companies—including many with strong reputations and extensive resources and experience—will enter the FSRU or LNG carrier markets. This increased competition may cause greater price competition for time charters. As a result of these factors, we may be unable to expand our relationships with existing customers or to obtain new customers on a profitable basis, if at all, which would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

We may have more difficulty entering into long-term time charters in the future if an active short-term market for FSRUs develops.

 

One of our principal strategies is to enter into additional FSRU and LNG carrier time charters of five or more years. If a market for short-term time charters for FSRUs develops, we may have increased difficulty entering into long-term time charters upon expiration or early termination of the time charters for the FSRUs in our fleet or for any vessels that we acquire in the future. As a result, our cash flows may be less stable.

 

In the LNG carrier market, awards of LNG carrier time charters have historically been for five or more years, though the use of spot voyages and short-term time charters has grown in the past few years. This may impact our ability to identify attractive acquisition candidates in the LNG carrier market.

 

We may not be able to redeploy our FSRUs on terms as favorable as our or our joint venture’s current FSRU time charters or at all.

 

Due to the limitations on demand for FSRUs, in the event that any of the time charters on our vessels are terminated, we may be unable to recharter such vessel as an FSRU. While we may be able to employ such vessel as a traditional LNG carrier, the hire rates and/or other charter terms may not be as favorable to us as those in the existing time charter. If we acquire additional FSRUs and they are not, as a result of time charter termination or otherwise, subject to a long-term, profitable time charter, we may be required to bid for projects at unattractive rates in order to reduce our losses relating to the vessels.

 

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An increase in the global supply or aggregate capacities of FSRUs or LNG carriers, including conversion of existing tonnage, without a commensurate increase in demand may have an adverse effect on hire rates and the values of our vessels, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

The supply of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets in the industry is affected by, among other things, assessments of the demand for these vessels by charterers. Any over-estimation of demand for vessels may result in an excess supply of new vessels. This may, in the long term when existing contracts expire, result in lower hire rates and depress the values of our vessels. If hire rates are lower when we are seeking new time charters upon expiration or early termination of our current time charters, or for any new vessels we acquire beyond our contracted newbuildings, our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders may be adversely affected.

 

During periods of high utilization and high hire rates, industry participants may increase the supply of FSRUs and/or LNG carriers by ordering the construction of new vessels. This may result in an over-supply and may cause a subsequent decline in utilization and hire rates when the vessels enter the market. Lower utilization and hire rates could adversely affect revenues and profitability. Prolonged periods of low utilization and hire rates could also result in the recognition of impairment charges on our vessels if future cash flow estimates, based upon information available at the time, indicate that the carrying value of these vessels may not be recoverable. Such impairment charges may cause lenders to accelerate loan payments under our or our joint ventures’ financing agreements, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

Hire rates for FSRUs are not readily available and may fluctuate substantially. If rates are lower when we are seeking a new charter, our earnings and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders may decline.

 

Hire rates for FSRUs are not readily available and may fluctuate over time as a result of changes in the supply demand balance relating to current and future FSRU and capacity. This supply demand relationship largely depends on a number of factors outside our control. The LNG market is closely connected to world natural gas prices and energy markets, which we cannot predict. A substantial or extended decline in natural gas prices could adversely affect our ability to recharter our vessels at acceptable rates or to acquire and profitably operate new FSRUs. Our ability from time to time to charter or re-charter any vessel at attractive rates will depend on, among other things, the prevailing economic conditions in the LNG industry. Hire rates for newbuilding FSRUs are correlated with the price of FSRU newbuildings. Hire rates at a time when we may be seeking a new charter may be lower than the hire rates at which our vessels are currently chartered. If rates are lower when we are seeking a new charter, our earnings and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders may decline.

 

Vessel values may fluctuate substantially, and a decline in vessel values may result in impairment charges, the breach of our financial covenants or, if these values are lower at a time when we are attempting to dispose of vessels, a loss on the sale.

 

Vessel values for FSRUs and LNG carriers can fluctuate substantially over time due to a number of different factors, including:

 

  · prevailing economic conditions in the natural gas and energy markets;

 

  · a substantial or extended decline in demand for LNG;

 

  · increases in the supply of vessel capacity;

 

  · the size and age of a vessel;

 

  · the remaining term on existing time charters; and

  

  · the cost of retrofitting or modifying existing vessels, as a result of technological advances in vessel design or equipment, changes in applicable environmental or other regulations or standards, customer requirements or otherwise.

 

As our vessels age, the expenses associated with maintaining and operating them are expected to increase, which could have an adverse effect on our business and operations if we do not maintain sufficient cash reserves for maintenance and replacement capital expenditures. Moreover, the cost of a replacement vessel would be significant.

 

If a charter terminates, we may be unable to re-deploy the affected vessel at attractive rates and, rather than continue to incur costs to maintain and finance her, we may seek to dispose of her. Our inability to dispose of a vessel at a reasonable value could result in a loss on her sale and adversely affect our ability to purchase a replacement vessel, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. A decline in the value of our vessels may also result in impairment charges or the breach of certain of the ratios and financial covenants we are required to comply with in our credit facilities.

 

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We depend on Höegh LNG and its affiliates for the management of our fleet and to assist us in operating and expanding our business.

 

Our ability to enter into new charters and expand our customer relationships will depend largely on our ability to leverage our relationship with Höegh LNG and its reputation and relationships in the shipping industry. If Höegh LNG suffers material damage to its reputation or relationships, it may harm our ability to:

 

  · renew existing charters upon their expiration;

 

  · obtain new charters;

 

  · successfully interact with shipyards;

 

  · obtain financing on commercially acceptable terms;

 

  · maintain access to capital under the sponsor credit facility; or

 

  · maintain satisfactory relationships with suppliers and other third parties.

 

In addition, all our vessels are subject to management agreements with affiliates of Höegh LNG. The Höegh Gallant , GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann are subject to ship management agreements with Höegh LNG Management and commercial and administration management agreements with Höegh Norway, and the PGN FSRU Lampung is subject to a technical information and services agreement with Höegh Norway, a master spare parts supply agreement with Höegh Asia and a master maintenance agreement with Höegh Shipping. Pursuant to a secondment agreement, Höegh Maritime Management provides crew to the Höegh Gallant . In addition, pursuant to an administrative services agreement among us, our operating company and Höegh UK and an administrative services agreement between our operating company and Leif Höegh UK, Höegh UK and Leif Höegh UK provide us and our operating company with certain administrative, financial and other support services. Höegh UK subcontracts some of these services to Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK pursuant to separate administrative services agreements. Our operational success and ability to execute our growth strategy will depend significantly upon the satisfactory performance of these services. Our business will be harmed if our service providers fail to perform these services satisfactorily, if they cancel their agreements with us or if they stop providing these services to us. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions.”

 

The operation of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets is inherently risky, and an incident involving significant loss of life or property or environmental consequences involving any of our vessels could harm our reputation, business and financial condition.

 

Our vessels and their cargoes are at risk of being damaged or lost because of events such as:

 

  · marine disasters;

 

  · piracy;

 

  · environmental accidents;

 

  · bad weather;

 

  · mechanical failures;

 

  · grounding, fire, explosions and collisions;

 

  · human error; and

 

  · war and terrorism.

 

An accident involving any of our vessels could result in any of the following:

 

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  · death or injury to persons, loss of property or environmental damage, and associated costs;

 

  · delays in taking delivery of cargo or discharging LNG or regasified LNG, as applicable;

 

  · loss of revenues from or termination of time charters;

 

  · governmental fines, penalties or restrictions on conducting business;

 

  · higher insurance rates; and

 

  · damage to our reputation and customer relationships generally.

 

Any of these results could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

If our vessels suffer damage, they may need to be repaired. The costs of vessel repairs are unpredictable and can be substantial. We may have to pay repair costs that our insurance policies do not cover, for example, due to insufficient coverage amounts or the refusal by our insurance provider to pay a claim. The loss of earnings while these vessels are being repaired, as well as the actual cost of these repairs not otherwise covered by insurance, would decrease our results of operations. If any of our vessels are involved in an accident with the potential risk of environmental consequences, the resulting media coverage could have a material adverse effect on our business, our results of operations and cash flows, weaken our financial condition and negatively affect our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

Our insurance may be insufficient to cover losses that may occur to our property or result from our operations.

 

The operating of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets is inherently risky. Although we carry protection and indemnity insurance consistent with industry standards, all of the risks associated with operating FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets may not be adequately insured against, and any particular claim may not be paid. Any claims covered by insurance would be subject to deductibles, and since it is possible that a large number of claims may be brought, the aggregate amount of these deductibles could be material. Certain of our insurance coverage is maintained through mutual protection and indemnity associations, and as a member of such associations we may be required to make additional payments over and above budgeted premiums if member claims exceed association reserves.

 

We may be unable to procure adequate insurance coverage at commercially reasonable rates in the future. For example, more stringent environmental regulations have led in the past to increased costs for, and in the future may result in the lack of availability of, insurance against risks of environmental damage or pollution. A marine disaster could exceed our insurance coverage, which could harm our business, financial condition, results of operations, cash flows and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. Any uninsured or underinsured loss could harm our business and financial condition. In addition, our insurance may be voidable by the insurers as a result of certain of our actions, such as our ships failing to maintain certification with applicable maritime self-regulatory organizations.

 

Changes in the insurance markets attributable to terrorist attacks may also make certain types of insurance more difficult for us to obtain. In addition, upon renewal or expiration of our current policies, the insurance that may be available to us may be significantly more expensive than our existing coverage.

 

An increase in operating expenses could adversely affect our financial performance.

 

Our operating expenses and drydock capital expenditures depend on a variety of factors including crew costs, provisions, deck and engine stores and spares, lubricating oil, insurance, maintenance and repairs and shipyard costs, many of which are beyond our control and affect the entire shipping industry. While many of these costs are borne by the charterers under our time charters, there are some circumstance where this is not the case. For example, we bear the cost of fuel (bunkers) for the Höegh Gallant time charter, and fuel is a significant expense in our operations when our vessels are, for example, moving to or from drydock or when off-hire. The price and supply of fuel is unpredictable and fluctuates based on events outside our control, including geopolitical developments, supply and demand for oil and gas, actions by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and other oil and gas producers, war and unrest in oil-producing countries and regions, regional production patterns and environmental concerns. These may increase vessel operating costs further. If costs continue to rise, they could materially and adversely affect our results of operations.

  

A shortage of qualified officers and crew could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

 

FSRUs and LNG carriers require a technically skilled officer staff with specialized training. As the global FSRU fleet and LNG carrier fleet continues to grow, the demand for technically skilled officers and crew has been increasing, which has led to a more competitive recruiting market. Increases in our historical vessel operating expenses have been attributable primarily to the rising costs of recruiting and retaining officers for our fleet. Furthermore, each key officer crewing an FSRU or LNG carrier must receive specialized training related to the operation and maintenance of the regasification equipment. If Höegh LNG Management and Höegh Maritime Management are unable to employ technically skilled staff and crew, they will not be able to adequately staff our vessels. A material decrease in the supply of technically skilled officers or an inability of Höegh LNG Management or Höegh Maritime Management to attract and retain such qualified officers could impair our ability to operate or increase the cost of crewing our vessels, which would materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations and significantly reduce our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

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We may be unable to attract and retain key management personnel, which may negatively impact our growth, the effectiveness of our management and our results of operations.

 

Our success depends to a significant extent upon the abilities and the efforts of our senior executives. While we believe that we have an experienced management team, the loss or unavailability of one or more of our senior executives for any extended period of time could have an adverse effect on our growth, business and results of operations.

 

Exposure to currency exchange rate fluctuations could result in fluctuations in our cash flows and operating results.

 

Currency exchange rate fluctuations and currency devaluations could have an adverse effect on our results of operations from quarter to quarter. Historically, our revenue has been generated in U.S. Dollars, but we incur a minority of our operating expenses in other currencies. The revenues from the Höegh Gallant were denominated 90% in U.S. dollars and 10% in Egyptian pounds (“EGP”) from the acquisition date of October 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015. A limited amount of operating expenses from the Höegh Gallant was also denominated in EGP. Our revenues in EGP are greater than our operating expenses in EGP. Historically, the EGP has been subject to exchange restrictions and devaluation by the Egyptian authorities. Fluctuations in exchange rates could affect our cash flows and operating results. If the EGP should be devalued, we would recognize exchange losses for cash, net working capital positions and other net monetary assets denominated in EGP. Based on the outstanding balances of monetary assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2015, a 15% reduction in the EGP to U.S. dollar rate would result in a foreign exchange loss of approximately $0.1 million. Please read “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Critical Accounting Estimates—Use of Exchange Rates” and “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk—Foreign Currency Risk.”

 

Acts of piracy on any of our vessels or on oceangoing vessels could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Acts of piracy have historically affected oceangoing vessels trading in regions of the world such as the South China Sea and the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia. If such piracy attacks result in regions in which our vessels are deployed being named on the Joint War Committee Listed Areas, war-risk insurance premiums payable for such insurance coverage could increase significantly and such insurance coverage might become more difficult to obtain. In addition, crew costs, including costs that may be incurred to the extent we employ onboard security guards, could increase in such circumstances. We may not be adequately insured to cover losses from these incidents, which could have a material adverse effect on us. In addition, hijacking as a result of an act of piracy against our vessels, or an increase in cost or unavailability of insurance for our vessels, could have a material adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Terrorist attacks, increased hostilities, piracy or war could lead to further economic instability, increased costs and disruption of business.

 

Terrorist attacks may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, ability to raise capital and future growth. Continuing hostilities in the Middle East may lead to additional armed conflicts or to further acts of terrorism and civil disturbance in the United States or elsewhere, which may contribute further to economic instability and disruption of production and distribution of LNG, which could result in reduced demand for our services.

 

Terrorist attacks on vessels, such as the October 2002 attack on the m.v. Limburg and the July 2010 attack allegedly by Al-Qaeda on the m. Star , both very large crude carriers not related to us, may in the future adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operation. In addition, LNG facilities, shipyards, vessels, pipelines and natural gas fields could be targets of future terrorist attacks. Any such attacks could lead to, among other things, bodily injury or loss of life, vessel or other property damage, increased vessel operational costs, including insurance costs, and the inability to transport LNG to or from certain locations. Terrorist attacks, piracy, war or other events beyond our control that adversely affect the distribution, production or transportation of LNG to be shipped by us could entitle customers to terminate our charters, which would harm our cash flows and business. Terrorist attacks, or the perception that LNG facilities, FSRUs and LNG carriers are potential terrorist targets, could materially and adversely affect expansion of LNG infrastructure and the continued supply of LNG. Concern that LNG facilities may be targeted for attack by terrorists has contributed to a community and environmental resistance to the construction of a number of LNG facilities. In addition, the loss of a vessel as a result of terrorism or piracy would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

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We could be exposed to political, governmental and economic instability that could harm our operations.

 

We are affected by economic, political and governmental conditions in the countries where we are engaged in business or where our vessels are registered. Any disruption caused by these factors could harm our business. In particular, we derive a substantial portion of our revenues from shipping and regasifying LNG from politically unstable regions. Past political conflicts in these regions have included attacks on ships and other efforts to disrupt shipping in the area. In addition to acts of terrorism, vessels trading in these and other regions have also been subject, in limited instances, to piracy. Future hostilities or other political instability where we operate or may operate could have a material adverse effect on the growth of our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. In addition, tariffs, trade embargoes and other economic sanctions by the United States or other countries against countries in the Middle East, Southeast Asia or elsewhere as a result of terrorist attacks, hostilities or otherwise may limit trading activities with those countries, which could also harm our business and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

The LNG transportation, storage and regasification industry is subject to substantial environmental and other regulations, which may significantly limit our operations or increase our expenses.

 

Our operations are materially affected by extensive and changing international, national and local environmental protection laws, regulations, treaties, conventions and standards in force in international waters, the jurisdictional waters of the countries in which our vessels operate, as well as the countries of our vessels’ registration, including those relating to equipping and operating FSRUs and LNG carriers, providing security and minimizing the potential for impacts to the environment from their operations. We have incurred, and expect to continue to incur, substantial expenses in complying with these laws and regulations, including expenses for vessel modifications and changes in operating procedures. Additional laws and regulations may be adopted that could limit our ability to do business or further increase costs, which could harm our business. In addition, failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations may result in administrative and civil penalties, criminal sanctions or the suspension or termination of operations. We may become subject to additional laws and regulations if we enter new markets or trades.

 

These requirements can affect the resale value or useful lives of our vessels, require a reduction in cargo capacity, ship modifications or operational changes or restrictions, lead to decreased availability of insurance coverage for environmental matters or result in the denial of access to certain jurisdictional waters or ports or detention in certain ports.

 

The design, construction and operation of FSRUs and interconnecting pipelines and the transportation of LNG are subject to governmental approvals and permits. The length of time it takes to receive regulatory approval for offshore LNG operations is one factor that has affected our industry, including through increased expenses.

  

Our vessels operating in international waters, now or in the future, will be subject to various international conventions and flag state laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment.

 

Our vessels traveling in international waters are subject to various existing regulations published by the International Maritime Organization (the “IMO”), as well as marine pollution and prevention requirements imposed by the IMO International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships of 1975, as from time to time may be amended (the “MARPOL Convention”). In addition, our FSRUs may become subject to the International Convention on Liability and Compensation for Damage in Connection with the Carriage of Hazardous and Noxious Substances by Sea, as amended by the April 2010 Protocol to the HNS Convention (the “2010 HNS Convention”), if it is entered into force. If the 2010 HNS Convention were to enter into force, we cannot estimate with any certainty at this time the costs that may be needed to comply with any such requirements that may be adopted. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview – Environmental and Other Regulation” for a more detailed discussion on these topics.

 

Our vessels operating in U.S. waters now or in the future will be subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment.

 

Our vessels operating in U.S. waters now or in the future will be subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment, including the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (“OPA 90”), the U.S. Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”), the U.S. Clean Water Act (the “CWA”) and the U.S. Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended. In some cases, these laws and regulations require us to obtain governmental permits and authorizations before we may conduct certain activities. These environmental laws and regulations may impose substantial penalties for noncompliance and substantial liabilities for pollution. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in substantial civil and criminal fines and penalties. As with the industry generally, our operations will entail risks in these areas, and compliance with these laws and regulations, which may be subject to frequent revisions and reinterpretation, may increase our overall cost of business. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview – Environmental and Other Regulation” for a more detailed discussion on these topics.

 

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Our operations are subject to substantial environmental and other regulations, which may significantly increase our expenses.

 

Our operations are affected by extensive and changing international, national and local environmental protection laws, regulations, treaties and conventions in force in international waters, the jurisdictional waters of the countries in which our vessels operate, as well as the countries of our vessels’ registration, including those governing oil spills, discharges to air and water, and the handling and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes. These regulations include OPA 90, the CWA, the U.S. Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 and regulations of the IMO, including the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage of 1969, as from time to time amended, the MARPOL Convention, the International Convention for the Prevention of Marine Pollution of 1973, the IMO International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea of 1974, as from time to time amended (“SOLAS”), the IMO International Convention on Load Lines of 1966, as from time to time amended, and the International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution Prevention (the “ISM Code”).

 

Many of these requirements are designed to reduce the risk of oil spills and other pollution. In addition, we believe that the heightened environmental, quality and security concerns of insurance underwriters, regulators and charterers will lead to additional regulatory requirements, including enhanced risk assessment and security requirements and greater inspection and safety requirements on vessels. We expect to incur substantial expenses in complying with these laws and regulation, including expenses for vessel modifications and changes in operating procedures.

 

These requirements can affect the resale value or useful lives of our vessels, require ship modifications or operational changes or restrictions, lead to decreased availability of insurance coverage for environmental matters or result in the denial of access to certain jurisdictional waters or ports, or detention in, certain ports. Under local, national and foreign laws, as well as international treaties and conventions, we could incur material liabilities, including cleanup obligations, in the event that there is a release of hazardous substances from our vessels or otherwise in connection with our operations. We could also become subject to personal injury or property damage claims relating to the release of or exposure to hazardous materials associated with our operations. In addition, failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations may result in administrative and civil penalties, criminal sanctions or the suspension or termination of our operations, including, in certain instances, seizure or detention of our vessels.

 

Further changes to existing environmental legislation that is applicable to international and national maritime trade may have an adverse effect on our business.

 

We believe that the heightened environmental, quality and security concerns of insurance underwriters, regulators and charterers will generally lead to additional regulatory requirements, including enhanced risk assessment and security requirements and greater inspection and safety requirements on all vessels in the marine LNG transportation markets and offshore LNG terminals. These requirements are likely to add incremental costs to our operations and the failure to comply with these requirements may affect the ability of our vessels to obtain and, possibly, collect on insurance or to obtain the required certificates for entry into the different ports where we operate.

 

Further legislation, or amendments to existing legislation, applicable to international and national maritime trade are expected over the coming years in areas such as ship recycling, sewage systems, emission control (including emissions of greenhouse gases) and ballast treatment and handling. The United States has recently enacted legislation and regulations that require more stringent controls of air and water emissions from oceangoing vessels. Such legislation or regulations may require additional capital expenditures or operating expenses (such as increased costs for low-sulfur fuel) in order for us to maintain our vessels’ compliance with international and/or national regulations.

 

Climate change and greenhouse gas restrictions may adversely impact our operations and markets.

 

Due to concern over the risk of climate change, a number of countries and the IMO have adopted, or are considering the adoption of, regulatory frameworks to reduce greenhouse gas emission from vessel emissions. These regulatory measures may include, among others, adoption of cap and trade regimes, carbon taxes, increased efficiency standards and incentives or mandates for renewable energy. Although the emissions of greenhouse gases from international shipping currently are not subject to the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (the “Kyoto Protocol”) or the recently announced Paris Agreement, a new treaty may be adopted in the future that includes restrictions on shipping emissions. Compliance with changes in laws and regulations relating to climate change could increase our costs of operating and maintaining our vessels and could require us to make significant financial expenditures that we cannot predict with certainty at this time.

 

Adverse effects upon the oil and gas industry relating to climate change, including growing public concern about the environmental impact of climate change, may also have an effect on demand for our services. For example, increased regulation of greenhouse gases or other concerns relating to climate change may reduce the demand for oil and gas in the future or create greater incentives for use of alternative energy sources. Any long-term material adverse effect on the oil and gas industry could have a significant financial and operational adverse impact on our business that we cannot predict with certainty at this time.

 

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Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Environmental and Other Regulation—Regulation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions” below for a more detailed discussion.

 

Maritime claimants could arrest our vessels, which could interrupt our cash flows.

 

Crew members, suppliers of goods and services to our vessels, owners of cargo or other parties may be entitled to a maritime lien against one or more of our vessels for unsatisfied debts, claims or damages. In many jurisdictions, a maritime lien holder may enforce its lien by arresting a vessel through foreclosure proceedings. In a few jurisdictions, claimants could try to assert “sister ship” liability against one vessel in our fleet for claims relating to another of our vessels. The arrest or attachment of one or more of our vessels could interrupt our cash flows and require us to pay to have the arrest lifted.

 

Governments could requisition our vessels during a period of war or emergency, resulting in loss of earnings.

 

The government of a jurisdiction where one or more of our vessels are registered could requisition for title or seize our vessels. Requisition for title or seizure occurs when a government takes control of a vessel and becomes her owner. Also, a government could requisition our vessels for hire. Requisition for hire occurs when a government takes control of a vessel and effectively becomes the charterer at dictated hire rates. Generally, requisitions occur during a period of war or emergency, although governments may elect to requisition vessels in other circumstances. Although we would expect to be entitled to government compensation in the event of a requisition of one or more of our vessels, the amount and timing of payments, if any, would be uncertain. A government requisition of one or more of our vessels would result in off-hire days under our time charters and may cause us to breach covenants in certain of our credit facilities. Furthermore, a requisition for title of either the GDF Suez Neptune or the GDF Suez Cape Ann constitutes a total loss under the terms of the related facility agreements, in which case we would have to repay all loans. If a government requisition of one or more of our vessels were to occur, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, including cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

 

Compliance with safety and other vessel requirements imposed by classification societies may be very costly and may adversely affect our business.

 

The hull and machinery of every large, oceangoing commercial vessel must be classed by a classification society authorized by her country of registry. The classification society certifies that a vessel is safe and seaworthy in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations of the country of registry of the vessel and SOLAS. Each of our vessels is certified by Det Norske Veritas GL, compliant with the ISM Code and “in class.”

 

As part of the certification process, a vessel must undergo annual surveys, renewal surveys, intermediate surveys and special surveys. In lieu of a special survey, a vessel’s machinery may be on a continuous survey cycle, under which the machinery would be surveyed periodically over a five-year period. Each of the vessels in our fleet is on a planned maintenance system approval, and as such the classification society attends onboard once every year to verify that the maintenance of the equipment onboard is done correctly. For each of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , a renewal survey is conducted every five years and an intermediate survey is conducted every 30 months after a renewal survey. During the first 15 years of operation, the vessels have an approved extended drydock interval which allow them to be drydocked every 7.5 years, while intermediate surveys and certain renewal surveys occur while they are afloat, using an approved diving company in the presence of a surveyor from the classification society. After these vessels are 15 years old, they are drydocked both at each renewal survey and each intermediate survey, resulting in drydocking approximately every five years or pursuant to charterer’s requirements every 30 months. We do not anticipate drydocking the PGN FSRU Lampung for at least 20 years as certain inspections can be done without drydocking. For the Höegh Gallant a renewal survey is expected to be conducted every five years. During the first 15 years of operation, the vessel should qualify for an extended drydock interval which allows it to be drydocked every 7.5 years, and after the initial 15 year period we expect that the vessel will be drydocked every five years.

 

If any vessel does not maintain her class or fails any annual survey, renewal survey, intermediate survey or special survey, the vessel will be unable to trade between ports and will be unemployable. We would lose revenue while the vessel was off-hire and incur costs of compliance. This would negatively impact our revenues and reduce our cash available for distribution to unitholders.

 

Failure to comply with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, the UK Bribery Act, the anti-corruption provisions in the Norwegian Criminal Code and other anti-bribery legislation in other jurisdictions could result in fines, criminal penalties, contract termination and an adverse effect on our business.

 

We may operate in a number of countries throughout the world, including countries known to have a reputation for corruption. We are committed to doing business in accordance with applicable anti-corruption laws and have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics which is consistent and in full compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (the “FCPA”), the Bribery Act 2010 of the Parliament of the United Kingdom (the “UK Bribery Act”) and the anti-corruption provisions of the Norwegian Criminal Code of 1902 (the “Norwegian Criminal Code”), respectively. We are subject, however, to the risk that we, our affiliated entities or our or their respective officers, directors, employees and agents may take actions determined to be in violation of such anti-corruption laws, including the FCPA, the UK Bribery Act and the Norwegian Criminal Code. Any such violation could result in substantial fines, sanctions, civil and/or criminal penalties, curtailment of operations in certain jurisdictions, and might adversely affect our business, results of operations or financial condition. In addition, actual or alleged violations could damage our reputation and ability to do business. Furthermore, detecting, investigating, and resolving actual or alleged violations is expensive and can consume significant time and attention of our senior management.

  

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If in the future our business activities involve countries, entities and individuals that are subject to restrictions imposed by the U.S. or other governments, we could be subject to enforcement action and our reputation and the market for our common units could be adversely affected.

 

The tightening of U.S. sanctions in recent years has affected non-U.S. companies. In particular, sanctions against Iran have been significantly expanded. In 2012 the U.S. signed into law the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012 (“TRA”), which placed further restrictions on the ability of non-U.S. companies to do business or trade with Iran and Syria. A major provision in TRA is that issuers of securities must disclose to the SEC in their annual and quarterly reports filed after February 6, 2013 if the issuer or ‘‘any affiliate’’ has ‘‘knowingly’’ engaged in certain activities involving Iran during the timeframe covered by the report. This disclosure obligation is broad in scope in that it requires the reporting of activity that would not be considered a violation of U.S. sanctions as well as violative conduct, and is not subject to a materiality threshold. The SEC publishes these disclosures on its website and the President must initiate an investigation in response to all disclosures. It should be noted that the U.S. and various other nations entered into a Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (“JCPOA”) with Iran that provides for phased sanctions relief. On January 16, 2016, following verification that Iran had satisfied its commitments under the JCPOA, the U.S. lifted its nuclear-related “secondary” sanctions and the European Union also took action to lift its sanctions. As a result of sanctions relief non-U.S. persons will be able to engage in business with Iran. Sanctions relief will not impact the SEC reporting requirements discussed above.

 

In addition to the sanctions against Iran, the U.S. also has sanctions that target other countries, entities and individuals. These sanctions have certain extraterritorial effects that need to be considered by non-U.S. companies. It should also be noted that other governments have implemented versions of U.S. sanctions. We believe that we are in compliance with all applicable sanctions and embargo laws and regulations imposed by the U.S., the United Nations or European Union countries and intend to maintain such compliance. However, there can be no assurance that we will be in compliance in the future, particularly as the scope of certain laws may be unclear and may be subject to changing interpretations. Any such violation could result in fines or other penalties and could result in some investors deciding, or being required, to divest their interest, or not to invest, in our common units. Additionally, some investors may decide to divest their interest, or not to invest, in our common units simply because we may do business with companies that do business in sanctioned countries. Investor perception of the value of our common units may also be adversely affected by the consequences of war, the effects of terrorism, civil unrest and governmental actions in these and surrounding countries.

 

We face risks relating to our ineffective internal control over financial reporting.

 

During the past two years, we identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting. We identified a combination of control deficiencies that constituted a material weakness related to the accounting treatment for certain Indonesian value added tax and withholding tax transactions for the year ended December 31, 2014. As of December 31, 2015, we also identified several control deficiencies related to our accounting for the procurement of goods and services that constituted a material weakness.  Neither of these material weaknesses has been fully remediated.  See “Item 15. Controls and Procedures.” Under standards established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, a material weakness is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected or corrected on a timely basis. While we are working to remediate the material weaknesses, we cannot at this time estimate how long it will take, and our initiatives may not prove to be successful in remediating our material weaknesses. If our remedial measures are insufficient to address the material weaknesses, or if additional material weaknesses are discovered or occur in the future, then there is a risk that our financial statements may contain material misstatements that are unknown to us at that time, and such misstatements could require us to restate our financial results.

  

A cyber-attack could materially disrupt our business

We rely on information technology systems and networks, which are provided by Höegh LNG, in our operations and the administration of our business. Our operations could be targeted by individuals or groups seeking to sabotage or disrupt our information technology systems and networks, or to steal data. A successful cyber-attack could materially disrupt our operations, including the safety of our operations, or lead to unauthorized release of information or alteration of information on our systems. Any such attack or other breach of our information technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

 

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Risks Inherent in an Investment in Us

 

Höegh LNG and its affiliates may compete with us.

 

Pursuant to the omnibus agreement that we and Höegh LNG entered into in connection with the closing of the IPO, Höegh LNG and its controlled affiliates (other than us, our general partner and our subsidiaries) generally have agreed not to acquire, own, operate or charter certain FSRUs and LNG carriers operating under charters of five or more years. The omnibus agreement, however, contains significant exceptions that may allow Höegh LNG or any of its controlled affiliates to compete with us, which could harm our business. Additionally, the omnibus agreement contains no restrictions on Höegh LNG’s ability to own, operate or charter FSRUs and LNG carriers operating under charters of less than five years. Also, pursuant to the omnibus agreement, we have agreed not to acquire, own, operate or charter FSRUs and LNG carriers operating under charters of less than five years. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Omnibus Agreement—Noncompetition.”

 

Unitholders have limited voting rights, and our partnership agreement restricts the voting rights of the unitholders owning more than 4.9% of our common units.

 

Unlike the holders of common stock in a corporation, holders of common units have only limited voting rights on matters affecting our business. We will hold a meeting of the limited partners every year to elect one or more members of our board of directors and to vote on any other matters that are properly brought before the meeting. Common unitholders are entitled to elect only four of the seven members of our board of directors. The elected directors are elected on a staggered basis and will serve for staggered terms. Our general partner in its sole discretion appoints the remaining three directors and set the terms for which those directors will serve. Our partnership agreement also contains provisions limiting the ability of unitholders to call meetings or to acquire information about our operations, as well as other provisions limiting the unitholders’ ability to influence the manner or direction of management. Unitholders will have no right to elect our general partner, and our general partner may not be removed except by a vote of the holders of at least 75% of the outstanding common and subordinated units, including any units owned by our general partner and its affiliates, voting together as a single class.

 

Our partnership agreement further restricts unitholders’ voting rights by providing that if any person or group owns beneficially more than 4.9% of any class of units then outstanding, any such units owned by that person or group in excess of 4.9% may not be voted on any matter and will not be considered to be outstanding when sending notices of a meeting of unitholders, calculating required votes (except for purposes of nominating a person for election to our board of directors), determining the presence of a quorum or for other similar purposes, unless required by law. The voting rights of any such unitholders in excess of 4.9% will effectively be redistributed pro rata among the other common unitholders holding less than 4.9% of the voting power of all classes of units entitled to vote. Our general partner, its affiliates and persons who acquired common units with the prior approval of our board of directors will not be subject to this 4.9% limitation except with respect to voting their common units in the election of the elected directors.

 

Our general partner and its other affiliates own a significant interest in us and have conflicts of interest and limited fiduciary and contractual duties, which may permit them to favor their own interests to your detriment.

 

Höegh LNG owns approximately 16.1% of our common units and all of our subordinated units, which represent an aggregate approximate 58.0% limited partner interest in us. Certain of our directors will also serve as directors of Höegh LNG or its affiliates and, as such, they will have fiduciary duties to Höegh LNG that may cause them to pursue business strategies that disproportionately benefit Höegh LNG or its affiliates or which otherwise are not in the best interests of us or our unitholders.

 

Conflicts of interest may arise between Höegh LNG and its affiliates (including our general partner) on the one hand, and us and our unitholders, on the other hand. As a result of these conflicts, our general partner and its affiliates may favor their own interests over the interests of our unitholders. These conflicts include, among others, the following situations:

 

  · neither our partnership agreement nor any other agreement requires our general partner or Höegh LNG or its affiliates to pursue a business strategy that favors us or utilizes our assets, and Höegh LNG’s officers and directors have a fiduciary duty to make decisions in the best interests of the shareholders of Höegh LNG, which may be contrary to our interests;

 

  · our partnership agreement permits our general partner to make a number of decisions in its individual capacity, as opposed to in its capacity as our general partner. Specifically, our general partner will be considered to be acting in its individual capacity if it exercises its call right, pre-emptive rights or registration rights, consents or withholds consent to any merger or consolidation of the Partnership, appoints any directors or votes for the election of any director, votes or refrains from voting on amendments to our partnership agreement that require a vote of the outstanding units, voluntarily withdraws from the Partnership, transfers (to the extent permitted under our partnership agreement) or refrains from transferring its units or general partner interest or votes upon the dissolution of the Partnership;

 

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  · our general partner and our directors have limited their liabilities and restricted their fiduciary duties under the laws of the Marshall Islands, while also restricting the remedies available to our unitholders, and, as a result of purchasing common units, unitholders are treated as having agreed to the modified standard of fiduciary duties and to certain actions that may be taken by our general partner and our directors, all as set forth in our partnership agreement;

 

  · our general partner is entitled to reimbursement of all reasonable costs incurred by it and its affiliates for our benefit;

 

  · our partnership agreement does not restrict us from paying our general partner or its affiliates for any services rendered to us on terms that are fair and reasonable or entering into additional contractual arrangements with any of these entities on our behalf;

 

  · our general partner may exercise its right to call and purchase our common units if it and its affiliates own more than 80% of our common units; and

 

  · our general partner is not obligated to obtain a fairness opinion regarding the value of the common units to be repurchased by it upon the exercise of its limited call right.

 

Although a majority of our directors will over time be elected by common unitholders, our general partner will likely have substantial influence on decisions made by our board of directors.

 

Our officers may face conflicts in the allocation of their time to our business.

 

Our sole existing officer and any future officers may face conflicts in the allocation of their time to our business. The affiliates of our general partner, including Höegh LNG, conduct substantial businesses and activities of their own in which we have no economic interest. As a result, there could be material competition for the time and effort of our officers who also provide services to our general partner’s affiliates, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, while our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer is expected to devote the substantial majority of his time to our business, he may, from time to time, participate in business development activities for Höegh LNG that are linked to developing opportunities for us.

 

Our partnership agreement limits our general partner’s and our directors’ fiduciary duties to our unitholders and restricts the remedies available to unitholders for actions taken by our general partner or our directors.

 

Our partnership agreement provides that our general partner has irrevocably delegated to our board of directors the authority to oversee and direct our operations, management and policies on an exclusive basis, and such delegation will be binding on any successor general partner of the Partnership. Our partnership agreement also contains provisions that reduce the standards to which our general partner and directors may otherwise be held by Marshall Islands law. For example, our partnership agreement:

 

  · provides that our general partner may make determinations or take or decline to take actions without regard to our or our unitholders’ interests. Our general partner may consider only the interests and factors that it desires, and it has no duty or obligation to give any consideration to any interest of, or factors affecting us, our affiliates or our unitholders. Decisions made by our general partner will be made by its sole owner. Specifically, our general partner may decide to exercise its right to make a determination to receive common units in exchange for resetting the target distribution levels related to the incentive distribution rights, call right, pre-emptive rights or registration rights, consent or withhold consent to any merger or consolidation of the Partnership, appoint any directors or vote for the election of any director, vote or refrain from voting on amendments to our partnership agreement that require a vote of the outstanding units, voluntarily withdraw from the Partnership, transfer (to the extent permitted under our partnership agreement) or refrain from transferring its units, the general partner interest or incentive distribution rights or vote upon the dissolution of the Partnership;

 

  · provides that our general partner and our directors are entitled to make other decisions in “good faith” if they believe that the decision is in our best interests;

 

  · generally provides that affiliated transactions and resolutions of conflicts of interest not approved by the conflicts committee of our board of directors and not involving a vote of unitholders must be on terms no less favorable to us than those generally being provided to or available from unrelated third parties or be “fair and reasonable” to us and that, in determining whether a transaction or resolution is “fair and reasonable,” our board of directors may consider the totality of the relationships between the parties involved, including other transactions that may be particularly advantageous or beneficial to us; and

 

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  · provides that neither our general partner nor our officers or our directors will be liable for monetary damages to us, our limited partners or assignees for any acts or omissions unless there has been a final and non-appealable judgment entered by a court of competent jurisdiction determining that our general partner or directors or its officers or directors or those other persons engaged in actual fraud or willful misconduct.

 

By purchasing a common unit, a common unitholder is deemed to have agreed to become bound by the provisions of our partnership agreement, including the provisions discussed above.

 

Fees and expenses, which Höegh LNG determines for services provided to us and our joint ventures, are substantial, are payable regardless of our profitability and will reduce our cash available for distribution to you.

 

Pursuant to the ship management agreements, our joint ventures and Höegh Cyprus pay fees for services provided to them by Höegh LNG Management, and our joint ventures and Höegh Cyprus reimburse Höegh LNG Management for all expenses incurred on our behalf. These fees and expenses include all costs and expenses incurred in providing certain crewing and technical management services to the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann and the Höegh Gallant . In addition, pursuant to a technical information and services agreement, we reimburse Höegh Norway for expenses Höegh Norway incurs pursuant to the sub-technical support agreement that it is party to with Höegh LNG Management.

 

Moreover, pursuant to an administrative services agreement among us, our operating company and Höegh UK and an administrative services agreement between our operating company and Leif Höegh UK, Höegh UK and Leif Höegh UK provide us and our operating company with certain administrative, financial and other support services. We reimburse Höegh UK and Leif Höegh UK for their reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of these services. In addition, under our administrative services agreement with Höegh UK, we pay Höegh UK a service fee equal to 5.0% of its costs and expenses incurred in connection with providing services to us.

 

Pursuant to the above-mentioned administrative services agreement with Höegh UK, Höegh UK subcontracts to Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK certain administrative services provided to us pursuant to administrative services agreements with Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK. Höegh UK reimburses Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK for reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of these services. In addition, Höegh UK (i) pays to Höegh Norway a service fee equal to 3.0% of the costs and expenses incurred in connection with providing services and (ii) pays to Leif Höegh UK a service fee equal to 5.0% of the costs and expenses of certain secretarial services with all other services of Leif Höegh UK reimbursed at cost.

 

For a description of the ship management agreements, the technical information and services agreement and the administrative services agreements, please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions.” The fees and expenses payable pursuant to the ship management agreements, the technical information and services agreement and the administrative services agreements are payable without regard to our financial condition or results of operations. The payment of fees to and the reimbursement of expenses of Höegh LNG Management, Höegh UK, Leif Höegh UK and Höegh Norway could adversely affect our ability to pay cash distributions to you.

 

Our partnership agreement contains provisions that may have the effect of discouraging a person or group from attempting to remove our current management or our general partner, and even if public unitholders are dissatisfied, they will be unable to remove our general partner without Höegh LNG’s consent, unless Höegh LNG’s ownership interest in us is decreased, all of which could diminish the trading price of our common units.

 

Our partnership agreement contains provisions that may have the effect of discouraging a person or group from attempting to remove our current management or our general partner.

 

  ·

The unitholders are unable to remove our general partner without its consent because our general partner and its affiliates own sufficient units to be able to prevent its removal. The vote of the holders of at least 75% of all outstanding common and subordinated units voting together as a single class is required to remove the general partner. Höegh LNG owns approximately 58.0% of the outstanding common and subordinated units. Additionally, during the term of the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement, Höegh LNG has agreed to continue to own common units and subordinated units representing a greater than 25% limited partner interest in us in the aggregate.

 

  · If our general partner is removed without “cause” during the subordination period and units held by our general partner and its affiliates are not voted in favor of that removal, all remaining subordinated units will automatically convert into common units, any existing arrearages on the common units will be extinguished, and Höegh LNG will have the right to convert its incentive distribution rights into common units or to receive cash in exchange for those interests based on the fair market value of those interests at the time. A removal of our general partner under these circumstances would adversely affect the common units by prematurely eliminating their distribution and liquidation preference over the subordinated units, which would otherwise have continued until we had met certain distribution and performance tests. Any conversion of the incentive distribution rights would be dilutive to existing unitholders. Furthermore, any cash payment in lieu of such conversion could be prohibitively expensive. “Cause” is narrowly defined to mean that a court of competent jurisdiction has entered a final, non-appealable judgment finding our general partner liable for actual fraud or willful misconduct in its capacity as our general partner. Cause does not include most cases of charges of poor business decisions, such as charges of poor management of our business by the directors appointed by our general partner, so the removal of our general partner because of the unitholders’ dissatisfaction with the general partner’s decisions in this regard would most likely result in the termination of the subordination period.

 

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  · Common unitholders are entitled to elect only four of the seven members of our board of directors. Our general partner in its sole discretion appoints the remaining three directors.

 

  · Election of the four directors elected by unitholders is staggered, meaning that the members of only one of four classes of our elected directors will be selected each year. In addition, the directors appointed by our general partner will serve for terms determined by our general partner.

 

  · Our partnership agreement contains provisions limiting the ability of unitholders to call meetings of unitholders, to nominate directors and to acquire information about our operations as well as other provisions limiting the unitholders’ ability to influence the manner or direction of management.

 

  · Unitholders’ voting rights are further restricted by our partnership agreement provision providing that if any person or group owns beneficially more than 4.9% of any class of units then outstanding, any such units owned by that person or group in excess of 4.9% may not be voted on any matter and will not be considered to be outstanding when sending notices of a meeting of unitholders, calculating required votes (except for purposes of nominating a person for election to our board of directors), determining the presence of a quorum or for other similar purposes, unless required by law. The voting rights of any such unitholders in excess of 4.9% will effectively be redistributed pro rata among the other common unitholders holding less than 4.9% of the voting power of all classes of units entitled to vote. Our general partner, its affiliates (including Höegh LNG) and persons who acquired common units with the prior approval of our board of directors will not be subject to this 4.9% limitation except with respect to voting their common units in the election of the elected directors.

 

  · There are no restrictions in our partnership agreement on our ability to issue equity securities, including securities senior to the common units.

 

The effect of these provisions may be to diminish the price at which the common units will trade.

 

The control of our general partner may be transferred to a third party without unitholder consent.

 

Our general partner may transfer its non-economic general partner interest to a third party in a merger or in a sale of all or substantially all of its assets without the consent of the unitholders. In addition, our partnership agreement does not restrict the ability of the members of our general partner from transferring their respective membership interests in our general partner to a third party.

 

Substantial future sales of our common units in the public market could cause the price of our common units to fall.

 

We have granted registration rights to Höegh LNG and certain of its affiliates. These unitholders have the right, subject to some conditions, to require us to file registration statements covering any of our common, subordinated or other equity securities owned by them or to include those securities in registration statements that we may file for ourselves or other unitholders. Höegh LNG owns 2,116,060 common units and 13,156,060 subordinated units and all of the incentive distribution rights. Following their registration and sale under the applicable registration statement, those securities will become freely tradable. By exercising their registration rights and selling a large number of common units or other securities, these unitholders could cause the price of our common units to decline.

 

We are subject to Marshall Islands law, which lacks a bankruptcy statute or general statutory mechanism for insolvency proceedings.

 

We are a Marshall Islands limited partnership, and we have limited operations in the United States and maintain limited assets in the United States. Consequently, in the event of any bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, dissolution, reorganization or similar proceeding involving us, bankruptcy laws other than those of the United States could apply. The Republic of the Marshall Islands does not have a bankruptcy statute or general statutory mechanism for insolvency proceedings. If we become a debtor under U.S. bankruptcy law, bankruptcy courts in the United States may seek to assert jurisdiction over all of our assets, wherever located, including property situated in other countries. There can be no assurance, however, that we would become a debtor in the United States, or that a U.S. bankruptcy court would be entitled to, or accept, jurisdiction over such a bankruptcy case, or that courts in other countries that have jurisdiction over us and our operations would recognize a U.S. bankruptcy court’s jurisdiction, if any other bankruptcy court would determine it had jurisdiction. These factors may delay or prevent us from entering bankruptcy in the United States and may affect the ability of our unitholders to receive any recovery following our bankruptcy.

 

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We have been organized as a limited partnership under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which does not have a well-developed body of partnership law.

 

The Partnership’s affairs are governed by our partnership agreement and by the Marshall Island Limited Partnership Act (the “Marshall Islands Act”). The provisions of the Marshall Islands Act resemble provisions of the limited partnership laws of a number of states in the United States, most notably Delaware. The Marshall Islands Act also provides that it is to be applied and construed to make the laws of the Marshall Islands, with respect to the subject matter of the Marshall Islands Act, uniform with the laws of the State of Delaware and, so long as it does not conflict with the Marshall Islands Act or decisions of the High and Supreme Courts of the Marshall Islands, the non-statutory law (“case law”) of the State of Delaware is adopted as the law of the Marshall Islands. There have been, however, few, if any, court cases in the Marshall Islands interpreting the Marshall Islands Act, in contrast to Delaware, which has a fairly well-developed body of case law interpreting its limited partnership statute. Accordingly, we cannot predict whether Marshall Islands courts would reach the same conclusions as the courts in Delaware. For example, the rights of our unitholders and the fiduciary responsibilities of our general partner under Marshall Islands law are not as clearly established as under judicial precedent in existence in Delaware. As a result, unitholders may have more difficulty in protecting their interests in the face of actions by our general partner and its officers and directors than would unitholders of a similarly organized limited partnership in the United States.

 

Because we are organized under the laws of the Marshall Islands, it may be difficult to serve us with legal process or enforce judgments against us, our directors or our management.

 

We are organized under the laws of the Marshall Islands, and substantially all of our assets are located outside of the United States. In addition, our general partner is a Marshall Islands limited liability company, and a majority of our directors and officers generally are or will be non-residents of the United States, and all or a substantial portion of the assets of these non-residents are located outside the United States. As a result, it may be difficult or impossible for you to bring an action against us or against these individuals in the United States if you believe that your rights have been infringed under securities laws or otherwise. Even if you are successful in bringing an action of this kind, the laws of the Marshall Islands and of other jurisdictions may prevent or restrict you from enforcing a judgment against our assets or the assets of our general partner or our directors or officers.

 

Höegh LNG, as the initial holder of all of the incentive distribution rights, may elect to cause us to issue additional common units to it in connection with a resetting of the target distribution levels related to the incentive distribution rights without the approval of the conflicts committee of our board of directors or holders of our common units and subordinated units. This may result in lower distributions to holders of our common units in certain situations.

 

Höegh LNG, as the initial holder of all of the incentive distribution rights, has the right, at a time when there are no subordinated units outstanding and Höegh LNG has received incentive distributions at the highest level to which it is entitled (50.0%) for each of the prior four consecutive fiscal quarters (and the amount of each such total distribution did not exceed adjusted operating surplus for each such quarter), to reset the initial cash target distribution levels at higher levels based on the distribution at the time of the exercise of the reset election. Following a reset election, the minimum quarterly distribution amount will be reset to the reset minimum quarterly distribution amount, and the target distribution levels will be reset to correspondingly higher levels based on the same percentage increases above the reset minimum quarterly distribution amount.

 

In connection with resetting these target distribution levels, Höegh LNG will be entitled to receive a number of common units equal to that number of common units whose aggregate quarterly cash distributions equaled the average of the distributions to Höegh LNG on the incentive distribution rights in the prior fiscal quarter. We anticipate that Höegh LNG would exercise this reset right in order to facilitate acquisitions or internal growth projects that would not be sufficiently accretive to cash distribution per common unit without such conversion; however, it is possible that Höegh LNG could exercise this reset election at a time when it is experiencing, or may be expected to experience, declines in the cash distributions it receives related to its incentive distribution rights and may therefore desire to be issued our common units, rather than retain the right to receive incentive distributions based on the initial target distribution levels. As a result, a reset election may cause our common unitholders to experience dilution in the amount of cash distributions that they would have otherwise received had we not issued additional common units to Höegh LNG in connection with resetting the target distribution levels related to its incentive distribution rights.

 

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We may issue additional equity securities, including securities senior to the common units, without your approval, which would dilute your ownership interests.

 

We may, without the approval of our unitholders, issue an unlimited number of additional units or other equity securities. In addition, we may issue an unlimited number of units that are senior to the common units in right of distribution, liquidation and voting. The issuance by us of additional common units or other equity securities of equal or senior rank will have the following effects:

 

  · our unitholders’ proportionate ownership interest in us will decrease;

 

  · the amount of cash available for distribution on each unit may decrease;

 

  · because a lower percentage of total outstanding units will be subordinated units, the risk that a shortfall in the payment of the minimum quarterly distribution will be borne by our common unitholders will increase;

 

  · because the amount payable to holders of incentive distribution rights is based on a percentage of total available cash, the distributions to holders of incentive distribution rights will increase even if the per unit distribution on the common units remains the same;

 

  · the relative voting strength of each previously outstanding unit may be diminished; and

 

  · the market price of the common units may decline.

 

Upon the expiration of the subordination period, the subordinated units will convert into common units and will then participate pro rata with other common units in distributions of available cash.

 

During the subordination period, the common units will have the right to receive distributions of available cash from operating surplus in an amount equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3375 per unit, plus any arrearages in the payment of the minimum quarterly distribution on the common units from prior quarters, before any distributions of available cash from operating surplus may be made on the subordinated units. Distribution arrearages do not accrue on the subordinated units. The purpose of the subordinated units is to increase the likelihood that during the subordination period there will be available cash from operating surplus to be distributed on the common units. Upon the expiration of the subordination period, the subordinated units will convert into common units and will then participate pro rata with other common units in distributions of available cash.

 

In establishing cash reserves, our board of directors may reduce the amount of cash available for distribution to you.

 

Our partnership agreement requires our general partner to deduct from operating surplus cash reserves that it determines are necessary to fund our future operating expenditures. These reserves also will affect the amount of cash available for distribution to our unitholders. Our board of directors may establish reserves for distributions on the subordinated units, but only if those reserves will not prevent us from distributing the full minimum quarterly distribution, plus any arrearages, on the common units for the following four quarters. As described above in “—Risks Inherent in Our Business—We must make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and replace the operating capacity of our fleet, which will reduce our cash available for distribution. In addition, each quarter we will be required, pursuant to our partnership agreement, to deduct estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures from operating surplus, which may result in less cash available to unitholders than if actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures were deducted,” our partnership agreement requires our board of directors each quarter to deduct from operating surplus estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, as opposed to actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, which could reduce the amount of available cash for distribution. The amount of estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures deducted from operating surplus is subject to review and change by our board of directors at least once a year, with the approval of the conflicts committee of our board of directors.

 

Our general partner has a limited call right that may require you to sell your common units at an undesirable time or price.

 

If at any time our general partner and its affiliates own more than 80% of the common units, our general partner will have the right, which it may assign to any of its affiliates or to us, but not the obligation, to acquire all, but not less than all, of the common units held by unaffiliated persons at a price not less than the then-current market price of our common units. Our general partner is not obligated to obtain a fairness opinion regarding the value of the common units to be repurchased by it upon the exercise of this limited call right. As a result, you may be required to sell your common units at an undesirable time or price and may not receive any return on your investment. You may also incur a tax liability upon a sale of your units.

 

Höegh LNG, which owns and controls of our general partner, owns approximately 16.1% of our common units. At the end of the subordination period, assuming no additional issuances of common units, and the conversion of our subordinated units into common units, Höegh LNG will own approximately 58.0% of our common units.

 

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Unitholders may not have limited liability if a court finds that unitholder action constitutes control of our business.

 

As a limited partner in a limited partnership organized under the laws of the Marshall Islands, you could be held liable for our obligations to the same extent as a general partner if you participate in the “control” of our business. Our general partner generally has unlimited liability for the obligations of the Partnership, such as its debts and environmental liabilities, except for those contractual obligations of the Partnership that are expressly made without recourse to our general partner. In addition, the limitations on the liability of holders of limited partner interests for the obligations of a limited partnership have not been clearly established in some jurisdictions in which we do business.

 

We can borrow money to make cash distributions, which would reduce the amount of credit available to operate our business.

 

Our partnership agreement allows us to make working capital borrowings to make cash distributions. Accordingly, if we have available borrowing capacity, we can make cash distributions on all our units even though cash generated by our operations may not be sufficient to pay such distributions. Any working capital borrowings by us to make cash distributions will reduce the amount of working capital borrowings we can make for operating our business.

 

Increases in interest rates may cause the market price of our common units to decline.

 

An increase in interest rates may cause a corresponding decline in demand for equity investments in general and in particular for yield based equity investments such as our common units. Any such increase in interest rates or reduction in demand for our common units resulting from other relatively more attractive investment opportunities may cause the trading price of our common units to decline.

 

Unitholders may have liability to repay distributions.

 

Under some circumstances, unitholders may have to repay amounts wrongfully returned or distributed to them. Under the Marshall Islands Act, we may not make a distribution to you if the distribution would cause our liabilities, other than liabilities to partners on account of their partnership interest and liabilities for which the recourse of creditors is limited to specified property of ours, to exceed the fair value of our assets, except that the fair value of property that is subject to a liability for which the recourse of creditors is limited will be included in our assets only to the extent that the fair value of that property exceeds that liability. Marshall Islands law provides that for a period of three years from the date of the impermissible distribution, limited partners who received the distribution and who knew at the time of the distribution that it violated Marshall Islands law will be liable to the limited partnership for the distribution amount. Assignees who become substituted limited partners are liable for the obligations of the assignor to make contributions to the limited partnership that are known to the assignee at the time it became a limited partner and for unknown obligations if the liabilities could be determined from our partnership agreement.

 

We are an “emerging growth company” and we cannot be certain if the reduced disclosure requirements applicable to emerging growth companies will make our common units less attractive to investors.

 

We are an “emerging growth company,” as defined in the JOBS Act, and we may take advantage of certain exemptions from various reporting requirements that are applicable to other public companies that are not “emerging growth companies.” These provisions include an exemption from the auditor attestation requirement in the assessment of the emerging growth company’s internal control over financial reporting and an exemption from compliance with any new requirements adopted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board requiring mandatory audit firm rotation or a supplement to our auditor’s report in which the auditor would be required to provide additional information about the audit and our financial statements. For as long as we take advantage of the reduced reporting obligations, the information that we provide unitholders may be different than information provided by other public companies. We cannot predict if investors will find our common units less attractive because we may rely on these exemptions. If some investors find our common units less attractive as a result, there may be a less active trading market for our common units and our unit price may be more volatile. Furthermore, if we fail to successfully remediate the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting as described in “Item 15. Controls and Procedures” or to create and maintain an effective system of internal controls and disclosure controls in the future, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud. Please read “—Risks Related to Our Business—We face risks relating to our ineffective internal control over financial reporting.”

 

Tax Risks

 

In addition to the following risk factors, you should read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Taxation of Partnership” and “Item 10.E. Taxation” for a more complete discussion of the expected material U.S. federal and non-U.S. income tax considerations relating to us and the ownership and disposition of our common units.

 

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We are subject to taxes, which reduces our cash available for distribution to you.

 

Some of our subsidiaries will be subject to tax in the jurisdictions in which they are organized or operate, reducing the amount of cash available for distribution. In computing our tax obligation in these jurisdictions, we are required to take various tax accounting and reporting positions on matters that are not entirely free from doubt and for which we have not received rulings from the governing authorities. We cannot assure you that upon review of these positions the applicable authorities will agree with our positions. A successful challenge by a tax authority could result in additional tax imposed on our subsidiaries, further reducing the cash available for distribution. In addition, changes in our operations could result in additional tax being imposed on us, our operating company or our or its subsidiaries in jurisdictions in which operations are conducted. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Taxation of the Partnership.”

 

A change in tax laws in any country in which we operate could adversely affect us

 

Tax laws and regulations are highly complex and subject to interpretation. Consequently, we and our subsidiaries are subject to changing tax laws, treaties and regulations in and between countries in which we operate. Our tax expense is based on our interpretation of the tax laws in effect at the time the expense was incurred. A change in tax laws, treaties or regulations, or in the interpretation thereof, could result in a materially higher tax expense or a higher effective tax rate on our earnings. Such changes may include measures enacted in response to the ongoing initiatives in relation to fiscal legislation at an international level, such as the Action Plan on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development.

 

U.S. tax authorities could treat us as a “passive foreign investment company,” which would have adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. unitholders.

 

A non-U.S. entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes will be treated as a “passive foreign investment company” (“PFIC”) for U.S. federal income tax purposes for any taxable year in which at least 75.0% of its gross income consists of “passive income” or at least 50.0% of the average value of its assets (based on the average of the values at the end of each quarter) produce, or are held for the production of, “passive income.” For purposes of these tests, “passive income” includes dividends, interest, gains from the sale or exchange of investment property, and rents and royalties other than rents and royalties that are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of a trade or business. Income derived from the performance of services does not constitute “passive income.” U.S. shareholders of a PFIC are subject to a disadvantageous U.S. federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by the PFIC, certain distributions they receive from the PFIC, and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their interests in the PFIC.

 

Based on our current and projected method of operation, we believe that we were not a PFIC for any prior taxable year, and we expect that we will not be treated as a PFIC for the current or any future taxable year. We expect that more than 25.0% of our gross income for each taxable year was or will be nonpassive income, and more than 50.0% of the average value of our assets for each such year was or will be held for the production of such nonpassive income. This belief is based on certain valuations and projections regarding our assets, income and charters. While we believe these valuations and projections to be accurate, the shipping market is volatile and no assurance can be given that they will continue to be accurate at any time in the future.

 

Moreover, there are legal uncertainties involved in determining whether the income derived from time-chartering activities constitutes rental income or income derived from the performance of services. In Tidewater Inc. v. United States, 565 F.3d 299 (5th Cir. 2009), the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit (the “Fifth Circuit”) held that income derived from certain time-chartering activities should be treated as rental income rather than services income for purposes of a provision of the Code relating to foreign sales corporations. In that case, the Fifth Circuit did not address the definition of passive income or the PFIC rules; however, the reasoning of the case could have implications as to how the income from a time charter would be classified under such rules. If the reasoning of this case were extended to the PFIC context, the gross income we derive or are deemed to derive from our time-chartering activities may be treated as rental income, and we would likely be treated as a PFIC. In published guidance, the Internal Revenue Service, or IRS, stated that it disagreed with the holding in Tidewater, and specified that time charters similar to those at issue in the case should be treated as service contracts. We have not sought, and we do not expect to seek, an IRS ruling on the treatment of income generated from our time-chartering activities, and the opinion of our counsel is not binding on the IRS or any court. As a result, the IRS or a court could disagree with our position. No assurance can be given that this result will not occur.

 

In addition, although we intend to conduct our affairs in a manner to avoid, to the extent possible, being classified as a PFIC with respect to any taxable year, we cannot assure you that the nature of our operations will not change in the future and that we will not become a PFIC in the future. If the IRS were to find that we are or have been a PFIC for any taxable year (and regardless of whether we remain a PFIC for subsequent taxable years), our U.S. unitholders would face adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences. Please read “Item 10.E Taxation—U.S. Federal Income Taxation of U.S. Holders—PFIC Status and Significant Tax Consequences” for a more detailed discussion of the U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. unitholders if we are treated as a PFIC.

 

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We may have to pay tax on U.S. source income, which would reduce our cash flow.

 

Under the Code, U.S. source gross transportation income generally is subject to a 4.0% U.S. federal income tax without allowance for deduction of expenses unless an exemption from tax applies under Section 883 of the Code and the existing final and temporary regulations promulgated thereunder (“Treasury Regulations”). U.S. source gross transportation consists of 50.0% of the gross shipping income that a vessel-owning or chartering corporation, such as ourselves, derives (either directly or through one or more subsidiaries that are classified as partnerships or disregarded as entities separate from such corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) and that is attributable to transportation that either begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the United States.

 

We believe that we currently qualify and we expect that we will continue to qualify for the foreseeable future, for an exemption from U.S. tax on any U.S. source gross transportation income under Section 883 of the Code, and we expect to take this position for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Please read “Item 4.B— Business Overview—Taxation of the Partnership.” However, there are factual circumstances, including some that may be beyond our control, which could cause us to lose the benefit of this tax exemption. In addition, our position that we qualify for this exemption is based upon legal authorities that do not expressly contemplate an organizational structure such as ours; specifically, although we have elected to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we are organized as a limited partnership under Marshall Islands law. Therefore, we can give no assurance that the IRS will not take a different position regarding our qualification for this tax exemption.

 

If we are not entitled to this exemption under Section 883 of the Code for any taxable year, we generally would be subject to a 4.0% U.S. federal gross income tax on our U.S. source gross transportation income for such year. Our failure to qualify for the exemption under Section 883 of the Code could have a negative effect on our business and would result in decreased earnings available for distribution to our unitholders.

 

The vessels in our fleet do not currently engage, and we do not expect that they will in the future engage, in transportation that begins and ends in the United States or in the provision of regasification or storage services in the United States. If, notwithstanding this expectation, our subsidiaries earn income in the future from transportation that begins and ends in the United States, or from regasification or storage activities in the United States, that income would not be exempt from U.S. federal income tax under Section 883 of the Code and would be subject to a 35% net income tax in the United States (and the after-tax earnings attributable to such income may be subject to an additional 30% branch profits tax). Please read “Item 4.B Business Overview—Taxation of the Partnership—United States Taxation—The Section 883 Exemption” for a more detailed discussion of the rules relating to qualification for the exemption under Section 883 of the Code and the consequences for failing to qualify for such an exemption.

 

You may be subject to income tax in one or more non-U.S. jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom and Norway, as a result of owning our common units if, under the laws of any such jurisdiction, we are considered to be carrying on business there. Such laws may require you to file a tax return with, and pay taxes to, those jurisdictions.

 

We intend to conduct our affairs and cause or influence each of our subsidiaries to operate its business in a manner that minimizes income taxes imposed upon us and our subsidiaries and that may be imposed upon you as a result of owning our common units. However, because we are organized as a limited partnership, there is a risk in some jurisdictions, including the United Kingdom and Norway, that our activities or the activities of our subsidiaries may be attributed to our unitholders for tax purposes if, under the laws of such jurisdiction, we are considered to be carrying on business there. If you are subject to tax in any such jurisdiction, you may be required to file a tax return with, and to pay tax in, that jurisdiction based on your allocable share of our income. We may be required to reduce distributions to you on account of any tax withholding obligations imposed upon us by that jurisdiction in respect of such allocation to you. The United States may not allow a tax credit for any foreign income taxes that you directly or indirectly incur by virtue of an investment in us.

 

We believe we can conduct our affairs in a manner that does not result in our unitholders being considered to be carrying on business in the United Kingdom or Norway solely as a consequence of the acquisition, ownership, disposition or redemption of our common units. However, the question of whether either we or any of our subsidiaries will be treated as carrying on business in any jurisdiction, including the United Kingdom and Norway, will be largely a question of fact to be determined through an analysis of contractual arrangements, including the ship management agreements that our joint ventures and subsidiaries have entered into with Höegh LNG Management, the sub-technical support agreement that Höegh Norway has entered into with Höegh LNG Management, the administrative service agreement we have entered into with our operating company and Höegh UK, the administrative service agreement our operating company has entered into with Leif Höegh UK and the administrative service agreements Höegh UK has entered into with Höegh Norway and with Leif Höegh UK, as well as through an analysis of the manner in which we conduct business or operations, all of which may change over time. Furthermore, the laws of the United Kingdom, Norway or any other jurisdiction may also change, which could cause that jurisdiction’s taxing authorities to determine that we are carrying on business in such jurisdiction and that we or our unitholders are subject to its taxation laws. In addition to the potential for taxation of our unitholders, any additional taxes imposed on us or any of our subsidiaries will reduce our cash available for distribution.

 

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Item 4. Information on the Partnership

 

A. History and Development of the Partnership

 

Höegh LNG Partners LP is a publicly-traded limited partnership formed initially by Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. (Oslo Børs symbol: HLNG), a leading floating LNG service provider, to own, operate and acquire floating storage and regasification units (“FSRUs”), LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets under long-term charters, which we define as charters of five or more years.

 

At the closing of our initial public offering (“IPO”) in August 2014, Höegh LNG contributed interests in our initial fleet of three modern FSRUs to us.

 

On October 1, 2015, we acquired 100% of the shares of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the FSRU Höegh Gallant .

 

As of March 31, 2016, we had a fleet of four FSRUs. Our fleet consists of interests in the following vessels:

 

  · a 50% interest in the GDF Suez Neptune , an FSRU built in 2009 that is currently operating under a time charter with GDF Suez, a subsidiary of ENGIE, a French publicly listed, government-backed, electric utility company, that expires in 2029, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each;

 

  · a 50% interest in the GDF Suez Cape Ann , an FSRU built in 2010 that is currently operating under a time charter with GDF Suez that expires in 2030, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each;

 

  ·

a 100% economic interest in the PGN FSRU Lampung , an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with PGN LNG, a subsidiary of an Indonesian publicly listed, government-controlled, gas and energy company that constructs gas pipelines and infrastructure and distributes and transmits natural gas to industrial, commercial and household users. The time charter expires in 2034, with options to extend the time charter either for an additional 10 years or for up to two additional periods of five years each; and

 

  · a 100% interest in the Höegh Gallant , an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, that expires in 2020. In addition, we have an option agreement pursuant to which we have the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025.

 

We were formed on April 28, 2014 as a Marshall Islands limited partnership and have our principal executive offices at Wessex House, 5th Floor, 45 Reid Street, Hamilton, Bermuda.

 

Capital Expenditures

 

Our capital expenditures amounted to $1.0 million, $172.3 million and $36.6 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 respectively. The capital expenditures are mainly related to the PGN FSRU Lampung which was delivered from the shipyard in April 2014, after being under construction during 2013 and 2012.

 

B. Business Overview

 

General

 

We own and operate floating storage and regasification units (“FSRUs”), under long-term charters, which we define as charters of five or more years. Our primary business objective is to increase quarterly distributions per unit over time by making accretive acquisitions of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets with long-term charters.

 

We intend to leverage our relationship with Höegh LNG to make accretive acquisitions of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets with long-term charters from Höegh LNG and third parties. Pursuant to the omnibus agreement we have entered into with Höegh LNG, we have a right to purchase from Höegh LNG any FSRU or LNG carrier operating under a charter of five or more years. We cannot assure you that we will make any particular acquisition or that as a consequence we will successfully grow the amount of our per unit distributions. Among other things, our ability to acquire additional FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets will be dependent upon our ability to raise additional equity and debt financing.

 

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Natural Gas and Liquefied Natural Gas

 

Natural gas is used to generate electric power, for industrial use and it is finding increasing application as a transportation fuel. The low carbon intensity and clean burning characteristics of natural gas contribute to the view that natural gas has the lowest environmental impact of hydrocarbon fuels.

 

The LNG trade developed from a need to transport natural gas over long distances with greater flexibility than is allowed by its movement via pipelines. Condensing natural gas into liquid form reduces its volume by a factor of over 600, making LNG an efficient means of transporting and storing natural gas in significant quantities. LNG is natural gas (predominantly methane (CH4)) that has been converted to liquid form by cooling it to -160 degrees centigrade under compression.

 

The processing of natural gas, transportation of LNG and regasification process requires specialized technologies, complex liquefaction processes and cryogenic materials. The specially built carriers in which LNG is transported have heavily insulated cargo tanks that maintain cryogenic temperatures by allowing a small portion of LNG to evaporate as boil-off gas.

 

LNG projects are capital intensive. LNG project sponsors are typically large international oil and gas companies often partnering with national oil and gas companies on the export side of the chain. The importers of LNG are typically large, regulated natural gas companies or power utilities. The diagram below shows the flow of natural gas and LNG from production to regasification:

 

  

Floating Regasification Vessels

 

Traditionally, the import of LNG and its regasification has been done in land based terminals. However, the interest in and use of floating import and regasification solutions is increasing.

 

Floating regasification vessels may be called shuttle and regas vessels (“SRVs”) or LNG regas vessels (“LNGRVs”) but are more commonly referred to as FSRUs or Floating Storage and Regasification Units. FSRU technology represents a flexible, proven, expedient and cost effective means of allowing countries or regions to import LNG.

 

The underlying technology used in an FSRU is that of heat exchange between LNG and a warm fluid resulting in vaporization of the LNG into the gaseous state for delivery to shore. The fluid may either be seawater—often referred to as open loop vaporization—or recirculated water heated by a natural gas fired boiler on the FSRU itself—often referred to as closed loop vaporization. Vaporization capacity varies by vessel and is typically specified as a combination of continuous vaporization capacity (base capacity) and peak vaporization capacity (peak capacity). The vaporized LNG is replenished by delivery of LNG into the FSRU from feeder vessels.

 

Key benefits of FSRU technology include:

 

  · Speed . Planning, siting, permitting and constructing a traditional, land based LNG terminal typically requires five to six years. In comparison, FSRU projects typically take less than 24 months to execute, and have been implemented in as little as six months.

 

  · Reduced Costs . FSRUs are considerably less capital intensive than a land based LNG terminal, where even small terminals can cost upwards of $600 million. More importantly, the providers of FSRUs are prepared to retain ownership of their vessels and charter them to the importing company for a short, medium or long term period, avoiding the need for major capital outlays and corresponding financing requirements.

 

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  · Greater Cost Certainty . An importer has greater clarity on fees for regasification services and delivery of gas with an FSRU as compared to a land based LNG terminal, which may be more likely to face construction cost overruns and uncertainty around terminal throughput fees.

 

  · Operational Flexibility . FSRU operators have entered into agreements as short as three years, whereas land based LNG terminals often require long term commitments of 15 years or more.

 

  · Market Flexibility . Some FSRUs can also be operated as conventional LNG carriers and owners have been prepared to build such vessels on a speculative basis. This has made FSRU technology flexible in terms of being generic and able to meet different market needs and finding solutions to terminal location challenges.

 

However, FSRUs are not without limitations and constraints. Land-based terminals typically have larger storage capacity and potentially larger gas send out capacities than FSRUs, especially FSRUs that are a result of LNG carrier conversions. This disadvantage could be partially mitigated by using multiple FSRUs. Greater storage capacity of land-based terminals facilitate faster cargo offload in a situation when storage tanks are partially full. The boil-off rate of an FSRU is higher than that of a land based terminals, and boil-off gas that cannot be used for fuel or regas purposes has to be flared in the gas combustion unit. The limitations on the physical size of an FSRU prevent it from having as much redundancy of vaporization equipment as a land-based terminal. As a result, an FSRU is more vulnerable to equipment outages, and thus requires the FSRU provider to hold very high standards regarding operations and maintenance. A technical problem with an FSRU could require a visit to drydock, which would result in a loss of service.

 

Our Relationship with Höegh LNG

 

We believe that one of our principal strengths is our relationship with Höegh LNG (Oslo Børs symbol: HLNG). With a track record dating back to the delivery of the world’s first Moss-type LNG carrier in 1973, we believe that Höegh LNG is one of the most experienced operators of LNG carriers and one of only four operators of FSRUs in the world. Our affiliation with Höegh LNG gives us access to Höegh LNG’s long-standing relationships with leading oil and gas companies, utility companies, shipbuilders, financing sources and suppliers, which we believe will allow us to compete more effectively when seeking additional long-term charters for FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets. In addition, we believe Höegh LNG’s 40-year track record of providing LNG services and its technical, commercial and managerial expertise, including its leadership in the development of floating liquefaction solutions, will enable us to continue to maintain the high utilization of our fleet to preserve our stable cash flows. We cannot assure you that our relationship with Höegh LNG will lead to high fleet utilization rates or stable cash flows in the future.

 

Business Strategies

 

Our primary business objective is to increase quarterly distributions per unit over time by executing the following strategies:

 

  · Focus on FSRU Newbuilding Acquisitions . We intend to acquire newbuilding FSRUs on long-term charters, rather than FSRUs based on retrofitted, first-generation LNG carriers. We believe newbuilding vessels offer the greatest flexibility. Newbuilding FSRUs have superior fuel efficiency, improved storage performance and larger capacity than retrofitted, first-generation LNG carriers. Their larger capacity allows for a full cargo from a comparably sized, modern-day LNG carrier to be offloaded in a single transfer, and this streamlines logistics. In addition, Höegh LNG has strong customer relationships deriving from its ability to work alongside customers on their vessel design needs. Moreover, Höegh LNG pursues a strategy of maintaining one or more uncontracted newbuilding vessels on order so it can provide its customers an FSRU with minimum lead time. We believe that Höegh LNG’s ability to offer newbuild vessels promptly and its engineering expertise make it an operator of choice for projects that require rapid execution, complex engineering or unique specifications. This, in turn, enhances the growth opportunities available to us.

 

  · Pursue Strategic and Accretive Acquisitions of FSRUs, LNG Carriers and Other LNG Infrastructure Assets on Long-Term, Fixed-Rate Charters with Strong Counterparties . We will seek to leverage our relationship with Höegh LNG to make strategic and accretive acquisitions. Pursuant to the omnibus agreement that we have entered into with Höegh LNG, we have the right to purchase all or a portion of Höegh LNG’s interests in the Independence , as well as other FSRUs or LNG carriers under a charter of five or more years. We also intend to take advantage of business opportunities and market trends in the LNG transportation industry to grow our assets through third-party acquisitions of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets under long-term charters.

 

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  · Expand Global Operations in High-Growth Regions . We will seek to capitalize on opportunities emerging from the global expansion of LNG production activity and the need to provide flexible regasification solutions in areas which require natural gas imports. We believe that Höegh LNG’s position as one of four FSRU owners and operators in the world, 40-year operational track record and strong customer relationships will enable us to have early access to new projects worldwide.

 

  · Enhance and Diversify Customer Relationships Through Continued Operating Excellence and Technological Innovation . We intend to maintain and grow our cash flows by focusing on strong customer relationships and actively seeking the extension and renewal of existing charters, entering into new long-term charters with current customers, and identifying new business opportunities with other creditworthy charterers. We believe our customer relationships are enhanced by our ability to provide expert technical advice to our customers through Höegh LNG’s in-house engineering department, which in turn enables us to be directly involved in our customers’ project development processes. We will continue to incorporate safety, health, security and environmental stewardship into all aspects of vessel design and operation in order to satisfy our customers and comply with national and international rules and regulations. We believe that Höegh LNG’s operational expertise, recognized position, and track record in floating LNG infrastructure services will position us favorably to capture additional commercial opportunities in the FSRU and LNG sectors.

 

We can provide no assurance, however, that we will be able to implement our business strategies described above or that the business strategies discussed above will increase our quarterly distributions. For further discussion of the risks that we face, please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors.”

 

Our Fleet

 

Our Fleet

 

Our fleet consists of interests in the following vessels:

 

  · a 50% interest in the GDF Suez Neptune , an FSRU built in 2009 that is currently operating under a time charter with GDF Suez that expires in 2029, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each;

 

  · a 50% interest in the GDF Suez Cape Ann , an FSRU built in 2010 that is currently operating under a time charter with GDF Suez that expires in 2030, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each;

 

  ·

a 100% economic interest in the PGN FSRU Lampung , an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with PGN LNG that expires in 2034, with options to extend either for an additional 10 years or for up to two additional periods of five years each; and

 

  ·

a 100% interest in the Höegh Gallant , an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, that expires in 2020. EgyptCo has a time charter agreement with the government-owned Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (“EGAS”) that expires in 2020. In addition, we have an option agreement pursuant to which we have the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025.

 

 

Both the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann are owned in joint ventures with MOL and TLT, which own in the aggregate 50% of each joint venture. For a description of the joint venture agreements governing our joint ventures, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements.” The PGN FSRU Lampung is 49% owned by one of our subsidiaries and 51% owned by PT Bahtera Daya Utama (“PT Bahtera”), an Indonesian subsidiary of PT Imeco Inter Sarana, which provides products and services for various energy and infrastructure projects. Due to local Indonesian regulations, we are required to have a local Indonesian joint venture partner (e.g., PT Bahtera). However, we have a 100% economic interest in the PGN FSRU Lampung . For a description of the agreements related to this arrangement, please read “—Shareholder Agreements—PT Höegh Shareholders’ Agreement.”

 

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The following table provides information about our four FSRUs:

 

FSRU   Our
Economic
Interest
    Capacity
(cbm)
    Maximum
send out
capacity
(MMscf/d)
    Location of
operation
    Charter
commencement
  Charterer   Charter
Expiration
    Charter
extension
option period
GDF Suez Neptune     50 %     145,000       750       Various     November 2009   GDF Suez     2029     Five years plus five years
GDF Suez Cape Ann     50 %     145,000       750       China     June 2010   GDF Suez     2030     Five years plus five years
PGN FSRU Lampung     100 %     170,000       360       Indonesia     July 2014   PGN LNG     2034     Five or 10 years(1)
Höegh Gallant     100 %     170,000       550       Egypt     April 2015   EgyptCo (2)     2020     n/a

 

 

(1) After the initial term, PGN LNG has the choice to extend the term by either five years or 10 years. If PGN LNG extends the term by five years, it subsequently may extend the term by another five years.

 

(2) Pursuant to an option agreement, the Partnership has the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann , the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Höegh Gallant were approximately 6.2 years old, 5.6 years old, 1.8 years old and 1.2 years old, respectively. FSRUs are generally designed to have a lifespan of approximately 40 years.

 

The GDF Suez Neptune was intended to be used as a floating LNG import terminal in Boston. However, she has been used as an LNG carrier, delivering LNG from Trinidad to Boston, Spain, Asia and other locations. Since November 2013, the GDF Suez Cape Ann has been employed as China’s first FSRU, located in Tianjin outside Beijing. At the time of construction, both the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann were the most advanced FSRUs ever built in terms of regasification technology, power generation and thermal insulation. In addition, the vessels received the “Green Passport” from Det Norske Veritas GL certifying the environmental considerations taken when constructing, operating and ultimately when disposing of the vessel. Each vessel has a storage capacity of 145,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send-out capacity of 750 million standard cubic feet per day (“MMscf/d”) of regasified LNG.

 

The PGN FSRU Lampung is located offshore in the Lampung province at the southeast coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. The vessel is moored at a purpose-built mooring system built by a subcontractor of Höegh LNG, subsequently sold to PGN LNG and located approximately 16 kilometers offshore. The PGN FSRU Lampung has a storage capacity of 170,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send-out capacity of 360 MMscf/d of regasified LNG via subsea and onshore pipelines connecting to the existing grid in south Sumatra.

 

The FSRU Höegh Gallant is operating as an LNG import terminal at Ain Sokhna port, located on the Red Sea in Egypt. The Höegh Gallant was delivered from the shipyard in November 2014 and employed as an LNG carrier until mid-January 2015 when it entered the shipyard for minor modifications required for the contract with EGAS. The Höegh Gallant has a storage capacity of 170,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send-out capacity of 550 MMscf/d of regasified LNG.

 

Each of the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann , the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Höegh Gallant has a reinforced membrane-type cargo containment system that facilitates offshore loading operations.

 

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Additional FSRUs

 

Pursuant to the omnibus agreement we have entered into with Höegh LNG, we have the right to purchase all or a portion of Höegh LNG’s interests in an FSRU, the Independence , which was constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (“HHI”) and was delivered to Höegh LNG from the shipyard in May 2014. In November 2014, the Independence started operations under a time charter that expires in 2024 with AB Klaipèdos Nafta (“ABKN”). We have the right to purchase all or a portion of Höegh LNG’s interests in the Independence within 24 months after acceptance of such vessel by her charterer, subject to reaching an agreement with Höegh LNG regarding the purchase price and other terms in accordance with the provisions of the omnibus agreement and subject to consent of ABKN. We may exercise this option at one or more times during such 24-month period. We and Höegh LNG continue to pursue, but have not received, ABKN’s consent to the acquisition of the Independence by us.

 

The Independence is located in the port of Klaipeda and provides Lithuania with the ability to diversify its gas supply by giving it access to the world market for LNG. The Independence is moored adjacent to a purpose-built jetty and has a storage capacity of 170,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send-out capacity of 384 MMscf/d of regasified LNG via one pipeline connecting to the existing grid in Lithuania.

 

On November 1, 2014, Höegh LNG signed a contract with Sociedad Portuaria El Cayao S.A.E.S.P (“SPEC”) for the supply of an FSRU as a new LNG import terminal in Cartagena, on the Atlantic coast of Colombia. The FSRU contract is for up to twenty years, but includes options for SPEC to reduce the term to ten or fifteen years. SPEC will confirm the initial contract term before start of operations, which is expected mid-2016. Höegh LNG plans to employ the Höegh Grace for the project. The Höegh Grace has a storage capacity of 170,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send-out capacity of 500 MMscf/d of regasified LNG.

 

On May 26, 2015, Höegh LNG signed an FSRU contract with Octopus LNG SpA (“Octopus”) for the Penco-Lirquén LNG import terminal to be located in Conceptión Bay, Chile. The contract is for a period of 20 years. The contract is subject to Octopus completing financing and obtaining necessary environmental approvals, and the planned start-up is in the second quarter of 2018. Höegh LNG is expected to service the contract with Hull no. 2865 currently being constructed by HHI. Hull no. 2865 will have a storage capacity of 170,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send out capacity of 750 MMscf/d of regasified LNG.

 

Pursuant to the terms of the omnibus agreement, we will have the right to purchase the Höegh Grace and Hull no. 2865 following acceptance by the respective charterer of the related FSRU subject to reaching an agreement with Höegh LNG regarding the purchase price. There can be no assurance that we will purchase any of these additional FSRUs.

 

The following table provides information about the additional FSRUs that we will have the right to purchase from Höegh LNG pursuant to the omnibus agreement:

 

FSRU  

Capacity

(cbm)

   

Maximum

Send-Out

Capacity

(MMscf/d)

   

Location of

Operations

   

Charter

Commencement

  Charterer    

Charter

Expiration

   

Charter

Extension

Option

Periods

Independence     170,000       384       Lithuania     Fourth Quarter of 2014     ABKN       2024     n/a
                                                 
Höegh Grace     170,000       500       Colombia     Mid-2016(1)     SPEC       (2 )   n/a
                                                 
Hull no. 2865     170,000       750       Chile     Second Quarter of 2018(1)     Octopus       (3 )   n/a

 

(1) Expected charter commencement.
(2) Charter is for up to 20 years, but includes options for SPEC to reduce the term to ten or fifteen years.
(3) Charter is for a period of 20 years. The contract is subject to Octopus completing financing and obtaining environmental approvals.

 

If Höegh LNG secures a charter of five or more years for one additional newbuilding FSRU, Hull no. 2552 , that is also currently being constructed by HHI and is scheduled for delivery to Höegh LNG from the shipyard in mid-2017, we will have the right to purchase the FSRU from Höegh LNG following acceptance by the charterer pursuant to the omnibus agreement, subject to reaching an agreement with Höegh LNG regarding the purchase price. Hull no. 2552 will have storage capacity of 170,000 cbm of LNG and a maximum send-out capacity of 750 MMscf/d of regasified LNG.

 

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Technical Specifications

 

Each FSRU in our fleet, as well as the Independence the Höegh Grace , Hull no. 2865 and Hull no. 2552 , has or will have the following onboard equipment for the vaporization of LNG and delivery of high-pressure natural gas:

 

  · High-Pressure Cryogenic Pumps . Each FSRU has, or will have upon delivery from the shipyard, high-pressure cryogenic pumps, which pressurize the LNG prior to vaporization.

 

  · Vaporizers . Each FSRU has, or will have upon delivery from the shipyard, vaporizers, which convert the LNG back to vaporous natural gas using heat generated by either steam boilers or seawater.

 

  · Dual-Fuel Diesel Electric Propulsion Plant . Each FSRU has, or will have upon delivery from the shipyard, a dual-fuel diesel electric propulsion plant, which provides the power for the vessel’s regasification, propulsion and utility systems.

 

  · Mooring System . Each of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann is equipped with a submerged turret loading (“STL”) offshore mooring system and can also be moored to a jetty. The PGN FSRU Lampung is equipped for mooring to a tower yoke. The Independence , the Höegh Gallant, the Höegh Grace , Hull no. 2865 and Hull no. 2552 are or will be equipped for quay-side mooring.

 

  · Gas Export System . The PGN FSRU Lampung has an export pipeline on her bow, which is connected via jumper hoses to the tower yoke. The Independence , the Höegh Gallant , the Höegh Grace , Hull no. 2865 and Hull no. 2552 have or will have a high-pressure manifold on the side, to connect to the loading arms on the purpose-built jetties. The GDF Suez Cape Ann and GDF Suez Neptune have an STL buoy system, but have also been retrofitted with high-pressure gas manifold on the side, which can be connected to loading arms on a jetty.

 

Each of the Independence the Höegh Grace , Hull no. 2865 and Hull no. 2552 is or will be equipped with the same reinforced membrane-type cargo containment system as our current fleet.

 

Each of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann has a closed-loop regasification system, where heat for vaporization is generated by steam boilers. The PGN FSRU Lampung , the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace have open-loop regasification systems, where heat for vaporization is generated by pumping sea water. The Independence and Hull no. 2865 are equipped to operate using a regasification system that is closed-loop, open-loop or a combination of closed-loop and open-loop, i.e. any mix of seawater and steam heating. Hull no. 2552 will have an open loop regasification system but will be prepared for retrofitting with a closed and combined loop system .

 

Each of the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann , the Höegh Gallant , the Independence, the Höegh Grace , Hull no. 2865 and Hull no. 2552 is or will be capable of operating as a conventional LNG carrier.

 

Customers

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, total revenues in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income are from EgyptCo and PGN LNG. EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, has a charter with EGAS. PGN LNG is a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, an Indonesian publicly listed, government-controlled, gas and energy company that constructs gas pipelines and infrastructure and distributes and transmits natural gas to industrial, commercial and household users. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, total revenues in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income are from PGN LNG. GDF Suez accounted for 100% of our joint ventures’ time charter revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. GDF Suez is a subsidiary of ENGIE, a French publicly listed, government-backed, electric utility company.

 

Vessel Time Charters

 

Our vessels are provided to the applicable charterer by our joint venture or us, as applicable (each, a “vessel owner”), under separate time charters.

 

A time charter is a contract for the use of a vessel for a fixed period of time at a specified hire rate. Under a time charter, the vessel owner provides the crew, technical and other services related to the vessel’s operation, the majority or all of the cost of which is included in the hire rate, and the charterer generally is responsible for substantially all of the vessel voyage costs (including fuel, port and canal fees and LNG boil-off).

 

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GDF Suez Neptune Time Charter

 

Initial Term; Extensions

 

The GDF Suez Neptune time charter commenced upon acceptance of the vessel by the charterer in November 2009. The initial term of the GDF Suez Neptune time charter is 20 years. GDF Suez has the option to extend the time charter for up to two additional periods of five years each.

 

Performance Standards

 

Under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter, the vessel owner undertakes to ensure that the vessel meets specified performance standards at all times during the term of the time charter. The vessel must maintain a guaranteed speed, consume no more than a specified amount of fuel oil and not exceed a maximum average daily boil-off, all as specified in the time charter. In addition, the vessel owner undertakes that the vessel will be capable of discharging her cargo within a specified time and regasifying and discharging her cargo at not less than a specified rate.

 

Hire Rate

 

Under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter, hire is payable to the vessel owner monthly, in advance in U.S. Dollars. The hire rate under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter consists of three cost components:

 

  · Fixed Element . The fixed element is a fixed per day fee providing for ownership costs and all remuneration due to the vessel owner for use of the vessel and the provision of time charter services.

 

  · Variable (Operating Cost) Element . The variable (operating cost) element is a fixed per day fee providing for the operating costs of the vessel, which consists of (i) a cost pass-through sub-element, which covers the crew (excluding the extra cost associated with a U.S. crew requirement, which is invoiced separately), insurance, consumables, miscellaneous services, spares and damage deductible costs and is subject to annual adjustment and (ii) an indexed sub-element, which covers management and is subject to annual adjustment for changes in labor costs and the size of the fleet under management.

 

  · Optional (Capitalized Equipment Cost) Element . The optional (capitalized equipment cost) element consists of (i) costs associated with modifications to, changes in specifications of, structural changes in or new equipment for the vessel that become compulsory for the continued operation of the vessel by reason of new class requirements or national or international regulations coming into effect after the date of the time charter, subject to specified caps and (ii) costs associated with any new equipment or machinery that the owner and charterer have agreed should be capitalized. Such costs are distributed over the remaining term of the time charter.

 

While the hire rate under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter does not cover drydocking expenses or extra costs associated with a U.S. crew requirement, the charterer will reimburse the vessel owner on a cost pass-through basis.

 

If GDF Suez exercises its option to extend the GDF Suez Neptune time charter beyond its initial term, the hire rate will be determined as set forth above, provided that the fixed element will be reduced by approximately 30%.

 

The hire rate is subject to deduction by the charterer by, among other things, any sums due in respect of the vessel owner’s failure to satisfy the undertakings described under “— Performance Standards” and off-hire accruing during the period. The hire rate is also subject to deduction by the charterer if the vessel owner fails to maintain the vessel in compliance with the vessel’s specifications and contractual standards, provide the required crew, keep the vessel at the charterer’s disposal or comply with specified corporate organizational requirements and such failure increases the time taken by the vessel to perform her services or results in the charterer directly incurring costs.

 

Expenses

 

The vessel owner is responsible for providing certain items and services, which include the crew; drydocking, overhaul, maintenance and repairs; insurance; stores; necessary spare parts; water; inert gas and nitrogen; communication expenses and fees paid to the classification societies, regulatory authorities and consultants. The variable (operating cost) element of the hire rate is designed to cover these expenses. Except for when the vessel is off-hire, the charterer pays for bunker fuels, marine gas oil and boil-off if used or burned while steaming at a reduced rate. Additionally, except for when the vessel is off-hire, the charterer pays for boil-off used to provide power for discharge and regasification; and fuel for inert gas, nitrogen and diesel generators.

 

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Off-hire

 

Under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter, the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if she is not available for the charterer’s use for a specified amount of time due to, among other things:

 

  · failure of an inspection that prevents the vessel from performing normal commercial operations;

 

  · scheduled drydocking that exceeds allowances;

 

  · the vessel’s inability to discharge regasified LNG at normal performance;

 

  · requisition of the vessel; or

 

  · the vessel owner’s failure to maintain the vessel in compliance with her specifications and contractual standards or to provide the required crew.

 

In the event of off-hire, all hire will cease to be due or payable for the duration of off-hire. Notwithstanding the foregoing, hire is not reduced due to an event of off-hire if the event of off-hire does not exceed a specified number of days in any 12-month period.

 

Ship Management and Maintenance

 

Under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter, the vessel owner is responsible for the technical management of the vessel, including engagement and provision of a qualified crew, maintaining the vessel, arranging supply of stores and equipment, periodic drydocking and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, including licensing and certification requirements. These services are provided to the vessel owner by Höegh LNG Management pursuant to a ship management agreement.

 

Termination

 

Under the GDF Suez Neptune time charter, the vessel owner is entitled to terminate the time charter if the charterer fails to pay its debts, becomes insolvent or enters into bankruptcy or liquidation.

 

The charterer is entitled to terminate the time charter and, at its option, convert the time charter into a bareboat charter, if (i) either the vessel owner or any guarantor (a) fails to pay its debts or (b) becomes insolvent or enters into bankruptcy or liquidation or (ii) the vessel owner’s guarantee ceases to be in full force and effect. Furthermore, after the fourth anniversary of the delivery date of the vessel, the charterer has the option to terminate the time charter without cause by providing notice at least two years in advance of the charterer’s election. On the date of such termination, the charterer will pay the vessel owner a specified termination fee, which declines over time and is based upon the year in which the time charter is terminated. Furthermore, the charterer may terminate the time charter if any period of off-hire due to (i) the vessel owner’s failure to maintain the vessel in compliance with her specifications and contractual standards or to provide the required crew exceeds a specified number of days, (ii) damage to the vessel’s cargo containment system as a result of the vessel owner’s failure to comply with cargo and filling level restrictions exceeds a specified number of months or (iii) any reason other than scheduled drydocking or damage to the vessel’s cargo containment system exceeds a specified number of months, unless such period of off-hire is due to the vessel owner’s failure to comply with cargo and filling level restrictions.

 

After attempting to take mitigating steps for a specified number of days, both the vessel owner and the charterer have the right to terminate the time charter if war is declared in any location that materially interrupts the performance of the time charter. The time charter will terminate automatically if the vessel is lost, missing or a constructive or compromised total loss.

 

Indemnification

 

No liability is imposed upon the vessel owner for the death or personal injury of the charterer, its representatives or their estates (collectively, the “GDF Charterer’s Group”) while engaged in activities contemplated by the time charter unless such death or personal injury is by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the vessel owner, its employees or its agents. Additionally, no liability is imposed upon the vessel owner if any personal property of the GDF Charterer’s Group is damaged, lost or destroyed as a result of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the vessel owner, its employees or its agents. Similar provisions apply to the charterer in both cases.

 

However, if any of the charterer’s representatives dies or is personally injured while engaged in activities contemplated by the time charter and as a result of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the vessel owner, its employees or its agents, the vessel owner will indemnify the GDF Charterer’s Group, as applicable. Additionally, if any personal property of the GDF Charterer’s Group is damaged, lost or destroyed as a result of the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the vessel owner, its employees or its agents, the vessel owner will indemnify the GDF Charterer’s Group, as applicable. Reciprocal obligations are imposed on the charterer in both cases.

 

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The charterer will indemnify the vessel owner for losses associated with shipping documents to the extent they were signed as directed by the charterer or based upon information that it provided. In addition, the charterer will indemnify the vessel owner against taxes imposed on the vessel owner or the vessel in respect of hire by any country where loading or discharging of LNG takes place, where the vessel is located or through which she travels, where the charterer is organized, does business or has a fixed place of business or where the charterer makes payments under the time charter, subject to certain exceptions.

 

The vessel owner will indemnify the charterer, its servants and agents against all losses, claims, responsibilities and liabilities arising from the employment of pilots, tugboats or stevedores, subject to certain exceptions.

 

The vessel owner will indemnify the charterer against any claim by a third party alleging that the construction or operation of the vessel infringes any right claimed by such third party, including but not limited to patent rights, copyrights, trade secrets, industrial property or trademarks. The charterer will indemnify the vessel owner for all amounts properly payable to the vessel builder if the charterer takes, or requires the vessel owner to take, any action that puts the vessel owner in breach of its intellectual property rights obligations under the vessel building contract.

 

Guarantee

 

Pursuant to the GDF Suez Neptune time charter, both Höegh LNG Ltd. and MOL guarantee the performance and payment obligations of the vessel owner under the time charter. Such guarantee is joint and several as to performance obligations and several as to payment obligations. If the guarantee is not maintained, the charterer may terminate the time charter.

 

GDF Suez Cape Ann Time Charter

 

Initial Term; Extensions

 

The GDF Suez Cape Ann time charter commenced upon acceptance of the vessel by the charterer in June 2010. The initial term of the GDF Suez Cape Ann time charter is 20 years. GDF Suez has the option to extend the time charter for up to two additional periods of five years each. Since November 2013, the GDF Suez Cape Ann has been operating as an FSRU pursuant to a subcharter between GDF Suez and CNOOC Tianjin LNG Limited Company (“CNOOC TLNG”) and will do so until November 2016, with the possibility of an extended term.

 

GDF Suez entered into a subcharter with CNOOC TLNG, pursuant to which GDF Suez and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. amended the GDF Suez Cape Ann time charter in June 2012 and November 2013. Such amendments apply only during the term of the subcharter. Additionally, GDF Suez, CNOOC TLNG, CNOOC and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. entered into ancillary agreements, pursuant to which they allocated responsibility for liabilities associated with their activities at the Tianjin LNG terminal.

 

When the subcharter with CNOOC TLNG is not in effect, the terms of the GDF Suez Cape Ann time charter are substantially similar to those of the GDF Suez Neptune time charter while not under its subcharter with GLNS.

 

Subcharter Provisions

 

In connection with the subcharter, the charterer reimbursed the vessel owner for the costs of modifying the GDF Suez Cape Ann to an FSRU and, the charterer will after the expiration of the subcharter, reimburse the costs of reinstating the vessel in order for her to be in every way fitted for service under the charter, during which times the vessel will be on-hire. The charterer is also required to compensate the vessel owner for time spent and costs and expenses incurred in connection with the subcharter and arrange for the importation, stay and exportation into and from China of the GDF Suez Cape Ann and any materials or equipment needed for the vessel owner’s performance of the subcharter. The charterer will indemnify the vessel owner for costs, claims or losses that the vessel owner incurs as a consequence of the subcharter, except if such costs, claims or losses resulted directly from the vessel owner’s material failure to comply with the time charter, and for any Chinese tax implications.

 

During the term of the subcharter and while the vessel is not on a voyage as an LNG carrier, certain amendments to the time charter apply, including the following:

 

  · additional crew requirements, with the charterer responsible for providing and paying for any Chinese master, officer or crew required to be onboard;

 

· the charterer will provide port and marine facilities capable of receiving the vessel and berths and places that the vessel can safely reach and return from;

 

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· in lieu of the off-hire provision, hire will be reduced proportionately to the extent the vessel does not achieve the minimum discharge rate of regasified LNG;

 

· the maintenance provisions and allowances differ;

 

· performance standards different from those described under “— GDF Suez Neptune Time Charter—Performance Standards,” pursuant to which the vessel owner undertakes to ensure that the vessel consumes no more than a specified amount of fuel oil, delivers the nominated discharge rate in accordance with the daily curve agreed with the charterer, is capable of regasifying LNG in a closed-loop heating mode at a specified pressure and temperature and regasifies and discharges her cargo at not less than a regasified LNG discharge rate; and

 

· with respect to indemnification, the definition of the “GDF Charterer’s Group” includes CNOOC TLNG.

 

Guarantee

 

Pursuant to the GDF Suez Cape Ann time charter, both Höegh LNG Ltd. and MOL guarantee the performance and payment obligations of the vessel owner under the time charter. Such guarantee is joint and several as to performance obligations and several as to payment obligations. If the guarantee is not maintained, the charterer may terminate the time charter.

 

PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter

 

Under a lease, operation and maintenance agreement, which we refer to as a time charter, we provide to PGN LNG the services of the PGN FSRU Lampung , which is moored at the Mooring owned by PGN LNG and located approximately 16 kilometers off the shore of Labuhan Maringgai at the southeast coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. Also under the time charter, we operate and maintain the Mooring.

 

Initial Term; Extensions

 

The long-term time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung with PGN LNG has an initial term of 20 years from the acceptance date of October 30, 2014. The time charter hire payments began July 21, 2014 when the project was ready to begin commissioning. At any time on or before 17 years and 183 days after acceptance, PGN LNG may exercise its option to extend the time charter for either five or 10 years. If the term is extended for five years pursuant to such option, at any time on or before the date that is 22 years and 183 days after acceptance, PGN LNG may exercise its option to extend the time charter for a subsequent five years.

 

Performance Standards

 

Under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the vessel owner makes certain performance warranties for the term of the time charter, excluding time during which the vessel is off-hire or in lay-up or a failure to satisfy any such warranty due to a “Lampung Charterer Risk Event” (which includes, among other things, any breach, act, interference or omission by the charterer that prevents or interferes with the vessel owner’s performance under the time charter) or an event of force majeure, including the following:

 

· the management warranties, which consist of the following:

 

· the vessel complies with specifications; is classed by Det Norske Veritas GL; is in good order and condition and fit for service; and has onboard all certificates, documents, approvals, permits, permissions and equipment required by Det Norske Veritas GL or any law necessary for the vessel to carry out required operations on the Mooring;

 

· the vessel owner provides shipboard personnel in accordance with specified terms;

 

· the vessel owner loads LNG in accordance with specified procedures; operates all equipment in a safe and proper manner and as required by Indonesian law; keeps up-to-date records and logs; uses reasonable endeavors to cooperate with the charterer to comply with and satisfy any requirements of any governmental authority; stows LNG properly and keeps a strict account of all LNG loaded, boil-off and regasified LNG discharged; and exercises due diligence and good industry practice to minimize venting of boil-off; and

 

· the vessel owner provides and pays for all provisions, wages and discharging fees and all other expenses related to the master, officers and crew; insurance; spare parts and other necessary stores, including lubricating oil; drydocking in emergency cases, maintenance and repairs; certificates; customs or import duties arising in connection with any of the foregoing; and consents, licenses and permits required by governmental authorities to be in the vessel owner’s name (collectively, the “Lampung Vessel Owner Expenses”);

 

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· the vessel receives LNG in accordance with a specified nominating loading rate;

 

· the vessel consumes fuel at or below a specified amount;

 

· during a nomination period, the vessel delivers regasified LNG at a specified average rate;

 

· during a period in which there is no regasification send-out, no LNG transfer or cargo tank cool down ongoing and no LNG pump running in any cargo tank, the amount of boil-off does not exceed a specified percentage of cargo capacity per day;

 

· the boil-off recondenser is able to recondense boil-off gas for the days when the vessel is sending out regasified LNG; and

 

· the cargo capacity of the vessel does not exceed the aggregate volume of LNG that can be stored in the cargo tanks of the vessel.

 

Hire Rate

 

Under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, hire is payable to the vessel owner monthly, in arrears in U.S. Dollars. The hire rate under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter consists of three cost components:

 

· Capital Element . The capital element is a fixed per day fee, which is intended to cover remuneration due to the vessel owner for use of the vessel and the provision of time charter services.

 

· Operating and Maintenance Element . The operating and maintenance element is a fixed per day fee, subject to annual adjustment, which is intended to cover the operating costs of the vessel, including manning costs, maintenance and repair costs, consumables and stores costs, insurance costs, management and operational costs, miscellaneous costs and alterations not required by Det Norske Veritas GL to maintain class or the IMO.

 

· Tax Element . The tax element is a fixed per day fee, equal to the vessel owner’s reasonable estimate of the tax liability for that charter year divided by the number of days in such charter year. If the vessel owner receives a tax refund or credit, the vessel owner will pay such amount to the charterer. Similarly, if any audit required by the time charter reveals that the vessel owner’s reasonable estimate of the tax liability varied from the actual tax liability, the vessel owner or the charterer, as applicable, will pay to the other party the difference in such amount.

 

If PGN LNG exercises an option to extend the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter beyond its initial term, the hire rate will be determined as set forth above, provided that the capital element will be increased by 50% and the operating and maintenance element will equal cost pass-through.

 

The hire rate is subject to adjustment if any change in Indonesian law or tax occurs that alters the vessel owner’s performance of the time charter or the charterer requires the vessel owner to lay-up the vessel.

 

Furthermore, the hire rate is subject to deduction by the charterer for sums due in respect of the vessel owner’s failure to satisfy the performance warranties or if, as a result of an event of force majeure and subject to specified exceptions, the regasification flow rate is less than that required to meet the quantity nominated. However, any deduction for the vessel owner’s failure to satisfy the performance warranties may not exceed the aggregate of the capital element and the operating and maintenance element for that day; provided, that such cap does not apply to the vessel owner’s failure to satisfy specified fuel consumption or boil-off warranties.

 

The charterer will pay the vessel owner the hire rate for time lost due to a Lampung Charterer Risk Event.

 

Expenses

 

The vessel owner is responsible for providing certain items and services, which include the Lampung Vessel Owner Expenses and the supply of all LNG required for gassing up and cooling of the vessel. The vessel owner pays for non-Indonesian taxes and alterations required by Det Norske Veritas GL to maintain class or the IMO. The vessel owner also will provide, at its expense, accommodation space for at least two of the charterer’s employees responsible for coordinating terminal operations onshore and offshore, provided that the charterer reimburses the vessel owner for the cost of provisions supplied to such employees.

 

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The charterer pays for make-up of bunker fuels provided by the vessel owner and during tests; regasified LNG for use as fuel; port charges, pilotage, towing, mooring, agency fees or customs or import duties; duties, levies and taxes relating to unloading; costs and expenses relating to terminal security required by the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (the “ISPS Code”); and mooring, periodic maintenance, repairs, insurance, inspections and surveys beyond daily inspections and capital spares. The charterer also pays for Indonesian taxes and alterations not required by Det Norske Veritas GL to maintain class or the IMO.

 

Off-hire

 

Under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if she is not available for the charterer’s use for a specified amount of time due to, among other things:

 

  · drydocking that exceeds allowances;

 

  · the vessel failing to satisfy specified operational minimum requirements, except as a result of a Lampung Charterer Risk Event or an event of force majeure; or

 

  · the vessel owner’s failure to satisfy the management warranties described above under “—Performance Standards.”

 

In the event of off-hire, all hire will cease to be due or payable for the duration of off-hire. Notwithstanding the foregoing, hire is not reduced due to an event of off-hire if the event of off-hire does not exceed a specified number of hours in any 12-month period.

 

Technical Support

 

Under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the vessel owner is responsible for the technical support services with respect to the vessel, including engagement and provision of a qualified crew, maintaining the vessel, arranging supply of stores and equipment, periodic drydocking and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, including licensing and certification requirements. These services are provided by Höegh LNG Management pursuant to the technical information and services agreement between the vessel owner and Höegh Norway and the sub-technical support agreement between Höegh Norway and Höegh LNG Management.

 

Termination

 

Under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the charterer is entitled to terminate the time charter for the following reasons:

 

  · if, due to one of several specified events of force majeure (“Lampung Nongovernmental Force Majeure”) that results in physical damage to the vessel or the Mooring in respect of which insurance proceeds are payable under the loss of hire insurance and hull and machinery insurance (“Lampung Vessel Force Majeure”), the vessel owner is unable to comply with nominations for a specified number of days;

 

  · if, due to an event of force majeure that is not Lampung Nongovernmental Force Majeure or Lampung Vessel Force Majeure (“Lampung Other Force Majeure”), the vessel owner is unable to comply with nominations for a specified number of days; or

 

  · if there has been an event of force majeure caused by the Indonesian government (“Lampung Governmental Force Majeure”) during a specified number of days.

 

If the charterer terminates for Lampung Other Force Majeure or Lampung Governmental Force Majeure, the charterer will pay the vessel owner a specified termination fee based upon the year in which the time charter is terminated.

 

Additionally, after the occurrence of an event of default by the vessel owner, and while such event of default continues, the charterer may terminate the time charter. If the charterer terminates the time charter for certain events of default that the vessel owner intentionally or deliberately committed for the purpose of terminating the time charter so that the vessel owner could employ the vessel with a third party, the vessel owner will transfer the vessel’s title to the charterer.

 

The vessel owner may terminate the time charter after the occurrence of an event of default by the charterer while such event of default continues. If the charterer fails to pay invoiced amounts when due and such failure continues for a specified number of days following notice from the vessel owner, the vessel owner may suspend its performance and remain on-hire until such failure is corrected.

 

If the time charter is terminated by the vessel owner for an event of default of the charterer, the charterer will pay the vessel owner a specified termination fee based upon the year in which the time charter is terminated. Under such circumstances, as well as if the time charter is terminated by the charterer for Lampung Governmental Force Majeure, the vessel owner may require that the parties begin negotiation of terms under which the vessel owner would be willing to sell to the charterer a 50% ownership interest in the vessel for a specified amount that declines over time and is based upon the year in which the time charter is terminated. If the charterer terminates the time charter for force majeure other than Lampung Governmental Force Majeure or an event of default of the vessel owner, the charterer may require the parties to begin such negotiation.

 

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The time charter will terminate automatically if the vessel is lost or a constructive total loss.

 

Indemnification

 

For losses arising out of claims for illness or injuries to or death of any employees of the vessel owner, the vessel owner’s affiliates, certain subcontractors of the vessel owner, persons contracting with the vessel owner under the building contract or the Mooring contract and representatives of each of the foregoing (collectively, the “Lampung Owner’s Group”), the vessel owner will indemnify the charterer, certain affiliates and subcontractors of the charterer, persons executing tug charters and terminal use agreements, persons receiving regasified LNG delivered by the vessel and representatives of each of the foregoing (collectively, the “Lampung Charterer’s Group”). Reciprocal obligations are imposed on the charterer.

 

For losses arising out of claims for damage to or loss of the vessel or property, equipment or materials owned or leased by any member of the Lampung Owner’s Group, the vessel owner will indemnify the Lampung Charterer’s Group. Similarly, the charterer will indemnify the Lampung Owner’s Group for losses arising out of claims for damage to or loss of property, equipment or materials owned or leased by any member of the Lampung Charterer’s Group or LNG stored on the vessel or the Mooring.

 

For losses arising from pollution or contamination created by the vessel or the operation thereof or the Mooring, the vessel owner will indemnify the Lampung Charterer’s Group; provided, that the vessel owner’s aggregate liability for each applicable accident will not exceed $150,000,000. For losses arising from pollution or contamination created by, or directly related to, the operation of the downstream pipeline, any LNG carrier or any vessel operating under a tug charter, the charterer will indemnify the Lampung Owner’s Group.

 

Purchase Option

 

PGN LNG was granted an option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung at specified prices based upon the year in which the option is exercised. Such option to purchase may be exercised commencing in June 2018; however, it may not be exercised if either of the charter extension options has expired without exercise. The option is exercisable upon PGN LNG giving us notice specifying the time and date of delivery, which must be after the third anniversary of the date of delivery. The option to purchase survives termination of the time charter. While we currently believe that it is unlikely that the purchase option will be exercised and we believe that the compensation we would receive upon any exercise by PGN LNG of its purchase option would adequately compensate us for the loss of the PGN FSRU Lampung , there can be no assurance that any proceeds payable to us upon exercise of the option would adequately compensate us for the loss of the PGN FSRU Lampung . If PGN LNG exercises its option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung , we will attempt to acquire a replacement vessel with the proceeds from such exercise. However, we may be unable to acquire a suitable replacement vessel, because, among other things that are beyond our control, there may be no replacement vessels that are readily available for purchase at a price that is equal to or less than the proceeds from the option exercise and on terms acceptable to us, or the purchase price of a replacement vessel at the time we identify such replacement vessel may be greater than the proceeds we receive from the exercise of the option. In addition, the hire rate of any replacement vessel we are able to acquire may be lower than the hire rate under the charter. Our inability to find a suitable replacement vessel or the chartering of a replacement vessel at a lower hire rate would have a material adverse effect on our cash flow and on our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Inherent in Our Business—PGN LNG has the option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung beginning June 2018. If PGN LNG exercises this option, it could have a material adverse effect on our operating cash flows and our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.”

 

Guarantee

 

Pursuant to the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, Höegh LNG guarantees the due and proper performance by PT Höegh of all its obligations and liabilities under the time charter.

 

Höegh Gallant Time Charter

 

Term

 

The Höegh Gallant lease and maintenance agreement (the “ Höegh Gallant time charter”) commenced in April 2015. The term of the Höegh Gallant time charter is 5 years.

 

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Performance Standards

 

Under the Höegh Gallant time charter, the vessel owner undertakes to maintain the vessel in accordance with international standards, provide a suitably qualified marine crew and comply with applicable laws, rules and regulation at all times during the term of the time charter.

 

Hire Rate

 

Under the Höegh Gallant time charter, hire to the vessel owner is payable monthly, in arrears, with the rate denominated 90% in U.S. Dollars and 10% in EGP. The hire rate under the Höegh Gallant time charter has only one component, which is intended to cover remuneration due to the vessel owner for use of the vessel and the provision of time charter services as well as the operating and maintenance costs of the vessel, including manning costs, the cost of spare parts and any tax incurred.

  

The Höegh Gallant time charter does not have any pass-through provisions for drydocking expenses.

 

A price review of the hire rate may be conducted after three years, but a revised rate can only be implemented upon written agreement by both parties.

 

Höegh LNG guarantees the payment of hire by the charterer (EgyptCo) under the Höegh Gallant time charter but only to the extent that the failure of the charterer to pay such hire is caused by (a) the breach by EGAS of its obligation to pay hire under EgyptCo’s charter with EGAS (and the charterer is unable to draw upon EGAS’ performance guarantees) or (b) the certain force majeure events under the EGAS charter.

 

Expenses

 

The vessel owner is responsible for providing certain items and services, which include the crew; bunker fuel, drydocking, overhaul, maintenance and repairs; insurance; stores; necessary spare parts; communication expenses and fees paid to the classification societies, regulatory authorities and consultants. The hire rate is designed to cover these expenses except for when the vessel is off-hire. The charterer pays for port and light dues.

 

Off-hire

 

Under the Höegh Gallant time charter, the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if she is not available for the charterer’s use due to, among other things:

 

  · drydocking or other repairs and maintenance;

 

  · any damage, defect, breakdown or deficiency to the vessel;

 

  · any deficiency of crew, stores, repairs, surveys, or similar cause preventing the working of the vessel;

 

  · any labor dispute, failure or inability of the officers or crew to perform the required services; or

 

  · any failure to comply with laws, regulations or operational practices at the site of the vessel operations.

 

In the event of off-hire, all hire will cease to be due or payable for the duration of off-hire. Except for force majeure events and a specified maintenance allowance period, the vessel owner will be obligated to indemnify the charterer (up to a specified cap) for losses suffered during off-hire, including loss of earnings and certain liquidated damages payable under the charterer’s charter with EGAS.

 

Ship Management and Maintenance

 

Under the Höegh Gallant time charter, the vessel owner is responsible for the technical management of the vessel, including engagement and provision of a qualified crew, maintaining the vessel, arranging supply of stores and equipment, periodic drydocking and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, including licensing and certification requirements. The crew is provided to the vessel owner by Höegh Maritime Management pursuant to a secondment agreement. The remaining services are provided to the vessel owner by Höegh LNG Management pursuant to a ship management agreement.

 

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Termination

 

Under the Höegh Gallant time charter, the vessel owner is entitled to terminate the time charter if the charterer fails to pay its hire, debts, becomes insolvent, enters into bankruptcy or liquidation or otherwise materially breaches the terms of the charter.

 

The charterer is entitled to terminate the time charter if (i) the vessel owner (a) fails to pay its debts or is otherwise insolvent, (b) enters into bankruptcy or liquidation, (c) fails to maintain insurance or classification or (d) is otherwise in material breach of the terms of the agreement or (ii) the vessel is unavailable for the charterer for a specified period of days in any contract year. Furthermore, following the expiration of the third year of the contract term, the charterer may request to meet with the vessel owner to seek mutual agreement on terms for early termination of the time charter. After attempting to take mitigating steps, both the vessel owner and the charterer have the right to terminate the time charter if war is declared at the vessel site. The time charter will terminate automatically if the vessel is lost, missing or a constructive or compromised total loss.

 

Indemnification

 

The charterer will indemnify the vessel owner for any damage or loss of property, death or personal injury of the charterer, its affiliates or their contractors (collectively, the “Charterer Indemnified Parties”) regardless of cause or whether or not the negligence, omission or default of the vessel owner, its affiliates or their contractors (collectively, the “Owner Indemnified Parties”) caused or contributed to the damages. The charter will indemnify the Owner Indemnified Parties for (i) all damage and harm to the environment, including damages for control remediation and clean up of all pollution arising from pollution, which originates from the property of any Charterer Indemnified Parties, regardless of fault or whether or not the negligence, omission or default of the Owner Indemnified Parties caused or contributed to the damages and (ii) losses caused by any non-compliance with sanctions as a consequence of the charterer's use of the vessel.

 

The vessel owner will indemnify the charterer for any damage or loss of the vessel and of its property and any cargo on board, and any death or personal injury of the Owner Indemnified Parties regardless of cause or whether or not the negligence, omission or default of the Charterer Indemnified Parties caused or contributed to the damages. The vessel owner will indemnify the Charterer Indemnified Parties for all damage and harm to the environment, including damages for control remediation and clean up of all pollution arising from pollution, which originates from the vessel, regardless of fault or whether or not the negligence, omission or default of the Charterer Indemnified Parties caused or contributed to the damages.

 

Each of the vessel owner and the charterer will indemnify the other party for any loss, damage to any property or injury or death arising out of the time charter suffered by any third party, for which the vessel owner or charterer, as applicable, is responsible.

 

Shareholder Agreements

 

We hold our interests in two vessels in our fleet through the following joint ventures:

 

  · SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (owner of the GDF Suez Neptune ), a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, 50% of the equity interests of which are owned by our operating company, 48.5% of which are owned by MOL, and 1.5% of which are owned by TLT; and

 

  · SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (owner of the GDF Suez Cape Ann ), a limited liability company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, 50% of the equity interests of which are owned by our operating company, 48.5% of which are owned by MOL and 1.5% of which are owned by TLT.

 

We also own a 100% equity interest in Höegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd., which owns a 49% equity interest in PT Höegh LNG Lampung (the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung ). PT Bahtera, an Indonesian company established in February 2013, owns the remaining 51% equity interest in PT Höegh in order to comply with local Indonesian regulations. However, pursuant to the shareholders’ agreement between Höegh Lampung and PT Bahtera and the PT Höegh shareholder loan described under “—PT Höegh Shareholders’ Agreement,” we have a 100% economic interest in the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

The following provides a summary of the governance, distribution and other significant terms of the shareholders’ agreements.

 

SRV Joint Gas Shareholders’ Agreement

 

Both SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (collectively, the “SRV Joint Gas joint ventures”) are governed by the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement. As a result, the terms and conditions for each of the SRV Joint Gas joint ventures are substantially the same.

 

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The SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement provides that the management of each of the SRV Joint Gas joint ventures will be carried out by a board of directors consisting of four members. We have the right to appoint two members to each board of directors, and MOL has the right to appoint the remaining two members. Additionally, as long as TLT holds at least 1.5% of the shares in an SRV Joint Gas joint venture, it may appoint an observer to attend any meeting of the board of directors of such joint venture.

 

Pursuant to the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement, neither we nor our joint venture partners exercise affirmative control over either of the SRV Joint Gas joint ventures. The approval of a majority of the members of the board of directors of an SRV Joint Gas joint venture is required to consent to any proposed action by such joint venture and, as a result, we are unable to cause such joint venture to act in our best interests over the objection of our joint venture partners. Moreover, a deadlocked dispute that cannot be resolved by the board of directors or the senior executives of the applicable joint venture may result in the transfer of our interest in such joint venture to our joint venture partners or a third party. Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Inherent in Our Business—We are a holding entity that has historically derived a substantial majority of our income from equity interests in our joint ventures. Neither we nor our joint venture partners exercise affirmative control over our joint ventures. Accordingly, we cannot require our joint ventures to act in our best interests. Furthermore, our joint venture partners may prevent our joint ventures from taking action that may otherwise be beneficial to us, including making cash distributions to us. A deadlock between us and our joint venture partners could result in our exchanging equity interests in one of our joint ventures for the equity interests in our other joint venture held by our joint venture counterparties or in us or our joint venture partner selling shares in a joint venture to a third party.”

 

Additionally, certain matters relating to our joint venture partners require the unanimous approval of the board of directors of the applicable SRV Joint Gas joint venture, including:

 

  · agreement of any form of time charter to be entered into by such SRV Joint Gas joint venture and any material amendment to such time charter;

 

  · agreement of any form of ship management agreement to be entered into by such SRV Joint Gas joint venture;

 

  · agreement of the terms of any financing of the GDF Suez Neptune or the GDF Suez Cape Ann , as applicable, or any other financing exceeding $5,000,000;

 

  · investments exceeding $2,500,000 for an SRV Joint Gas joint venture or $5,000,000 for both SRV Joint Gas joint ventures;

 

  · amendment or change of the articles of association, business or composition of the board of directors of such SRV Joint Gas joint venture;

 

  · issuance of, or granting of options or rights to subscribe for, shares in such SRV Joint Gas joint venture, issuance of loan capital or convertible securities of such SRV Joint Gas joint venture, alteration of the share capital of such SRV Joint Gas joint venture or formation of any subsidiary;

 

  · granting any security over shares of such SRV Joint Gas joint venture other than in accordance with the applicable security documents;

 

  · acquisition of other companies;

 

  · entering into joint ventures and other long-term cooperation with third parties;

 

  · taking any action in respect of a significant contractual dispute, including commencement and defending any action or settling any dispute; and

 

  · sale of the GDF Suez Neptune or the GDF Suez Cape Ann .

 

Höegh LNG, MOL and TLT made loans to each of the SRV Joint Gas joint ventures, in part to finance the operations of such joint ventures. In connection with the IPO, Höegh LNG’s shareholder loans to each of the joint ventures were transferred to our operating company. For a description of the shareholder loans, please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Joint Ventures Debt—Loans Due to Owners (Shareholder Loans).”

 

Under the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement, the board of directors of an SRV Joint Gas joint venture is responsible for determining the amount of profits to be distributed each financial year. Distributions must first be used to repay the principal of the shareholder loans. Subsequent distributions are permitted but are subject to (i) preexisting financial agreements between such SRV Joint Gas joint venture and its lenders and (ii) prudent maintenance of reserve accounts.

 

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Pursuant to the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement, in order for a party to transfer its shares, it must provide written notice and establish a fair price evaluation of the shares proposed to be transferred. Additionally, such party must permit the remaining parties (excluding TLT) to acquire such shares or sell their shares to the proposed transferor at the same price as the proposed transfer.

 

The SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement also contemplates certain events that, upon occurrence and failure to cure, if a cure period is allowed, will give rise to a potential exchange of shares or a liquidation of such joint venture. These events include a party’s failure to make required payments, default in any material duties and/or obligations, insolvency and change of control, pursuant to which such party is acquired by a direct competitor. If one of these events occurs, we and our joint venture partners will attempt to exchange shares so that our operating company, on the one hand, will own 100% of one SRV Joint Gas joint venture, and MOL and TLT, on the other hand, will own 100% of the other SRV Joint Gas joint venture. If such an exchange cannot be agreed upon, then the party not in default, not insolvent or not undergoing a change of control may either purchase the shares and the shareholder loans from the other parties or demand termination of the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement and a liquidation of the applicable SRV Joint Gas joint venture.

 

Until the termination of the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement, Höegh LNG has agreed to continue to own common units and subordinated units representing a greater than 25% limited partner interest in us in the aggregate. In addition, Höegh LNG will be required to continue to directly or indirectly maintain the ability to control our general partner pursuant to an agreement with MOL.

 

The SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement terminates when one party holds a 100% interest in the SRV Joint Gas joint ventures or a party not in default, not insolvent or not undergoing a change of control elects to terminate the agreement.

 

PT Höegh Shareholders’ Agreement

 

We own a 100% equity interest in Höegh Lampung, which owns a 49% equity interest in PT Höegh (the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung ). PT Bahtera, an Indonesian company established in February 2013, owns the remaining 51% equity interest in PT Höegh in order to comply with local Indonesian regulations. However, pursuant the Shareholders’ Agreement, dated March 13, 2013, between Höegh Lampung and PT Bahtera (“the PT Höegh shareholders’ agreement”) and the PT Höegh shareholder loan, we have a 100% economic interest in the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

The board of directors of PT Höegh manages PT Höegh, whereas the board of commissioners of PT Höegh supervise the operation and management of PT Höegh. Both such board of directors and board of commissioners must consist of between three and five members. Furthermore, Höegh Lampung may appoint three members to each, whereas PT Bahtera may appoint one member. A majority of present members of the board of directors or the board of commissioners, respectively, is required to pass any resolution.

 

Höegh Lampung and PT Bahtera, in their capacity as shareholders, may also convene general meetings to consider resolutions. Resolutions concerning most matters require the approval of two-thirds of the issued shares for passage. However, resolutions concerning filing for bankruptcy, changes of control, disposal of certain assets or the creation of certain encumbrances require the approval of 75% of the issued shares for passage.

 

When deadlock (as defined below) occurs, Höegh Lampung has the right to provide notice to, and subsequently confer with, PT Bahtera to resolve the matters giving rise to deadlock. Deadlock occurs under the PT Höegh shareholders’ agreement if (i) a quorum is not present at a meeting of the board of directors of PT Höegh, the board of commissioners of PT Höegh or the shareholders as a result of the absence of PT Bahtera or (ii) any resolution proposed at a meeting of the board of directors of PT Höegh, the board of commissioners of PT Höegh and/or the shareholders of PT Höegh is approved by the directors appointed by Höegh Lampung, the commissioners appointed by Höegh Lampung or Höegh Lampung, as applicable, but is not passed.

 

The board of directors of PT Höegh is responsible for determining the amount of profits to be distributed each financial year. Once this determination is made, and prior to distributing net cash flow, the shares of Höegh Lampung are entitled to 65% of all dividends and distributions, and the shares of PT Bahtera are entitled to 35% of all dividends and distributions.

 

Höegh Lampung may transfer its shares in PT Höegh to anyone, subject only to the requirement that, upon the request of PT Bahtera, Höegh Lampung procures from the same transferee or an Indonesian entity an offer to purchase PT Bahtera’s shares. Conversely, PT Bahtera may transfer its shares only to an affiliate it wholly owns and only if both Höegh Lampung and any applicable lenders consent to the transfer.

 

At any time or in the event of a default, Höegh Lampung may require PT Bahtera to transfer its shares to Höegh Lampung or any other person it designates. Events of default only apply to PT Bahtera and occur if it fails to pay any amount due and payable under the shareholders’ agreement, becomes insolvent, materially breaches the shareholders’ agreement, becomes controlled by other people or breaches a financing requirement.

 

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Additionally, in association with the PT Höegh shareholders’ agreement, PT Imeco Inter Sarana has guaranteed the performance and obligations of PT Bahtera. Furthermore, pursuant to the PT Höegh shareholders’ agreement, Höegh Lampung indemnifies PT Bahtera against liabilities it may suffer as a result of a breach of statutory duty or infringement of laws committed by PT Höegh, a failure by PT Höegh to pay tax, a dispute, litigation or arbitration relating to PT Höegh and all costs, losses, liabilities and claims relating to the PGN FSRU Lampung as a result of environmental damage.

 

The PT Höegh shareholders’ agreement terminates when:

 

  · all of the shareholders agree in writing that the agreement should be terminated;

 

  · all of the issued shares in PT Höegh become directly or indirectly owned by the same person; or

 

  · Höegh Lampung requires the other shareholders to dissolve PT Höegh. PT Imeco Inter Sarana has guaranteed the obligations of PT Bahtera under the equity loan agreement pursuant to a deed of guarantee and indemnity.

 

PT Höegh Shareholder Loan

 

PT Bahtera, as borrower, entered into an equity loan agreement with Höegh Lampung, as lender, the proceeds of which were used to purchase PT Bahtera’s 51% interest in PT Höegh. In connection with this loan, as security, PT Bahtera collaterally assigned its equity interest and any dividends it may receive from PT Höegh to Höegh Lampung for as long as amounts remain outstanding. As a result of the above and the PT Höegh shareholders’ agreement, we will be entitled to all of the net cash flows from PT Höegh, after the payment of management, agency and local representation fees.

 

Employees

 

Other than our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we do not have any direct employees and rely on the key employees of Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK who perform services for us pursuant to the administrative services agreements. Höegh Norway and Höegh LNG Management also provide commercial and technical management services to our fleet pursuant to ship management agreements, the Gallant management agreement, a sub-technical support agreement and commercial and administration management agreements. Höegh Maritime Management also provides crew pursuant to a secondment agreement. Please read “—Maritime Personnel and Competence Development” and “Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management.”

 

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Competition

 

The FSRU and LNG carrier industries are capital-intensive and operational expertise is critical, which create high barriers to entry. These industries are viewed as an integral part of the LNG industry. A company with a solid track record, knowledge of the market and an experienced, well-trained crew is preferred to a new entrant since the cost and impact of vessel downtime is significant for the customer. Our competitors in the FSRU and LNG carrier industries include BW Maritime Pte. Ltd., Dynagas LNG Partners LP, Excelerate Energy L.P., Exmar NV, GasLog Ltd., GasLog Partners LP, Golar LNG Limited, Golar LNG Partners LP, MOL, OLT and Teekay LNG Partners L.P.

 

Classification, Inspection and Maintenance

 

Every large, commercial seagoing vessel must be “classed” by a classification society. The classification society certifies that the vessel is “in class,” signifying that the vessel has been built and maintained in accordance with the rules of the classification society and complies with applicable rules and regulations of that particular class of vessel as laid down by that society and the applicable flag state. In addition, where surveys are required by international conventions and corresponding laws and ordinances of a flag state, the classification society will undertake to conduct a survey on application or by official order, acting on behalf of the authorities concerned.

 

Our FSRUs are “classed” as LNG carriers with the additional class notation REGAS-2 signifying that the regasification installations are designed and approved for continuous operation. To ensure continuous compliance, regular and extraordinary surveys of hull and machinery, including the power plant and any special equipment classed, are required to be performed by a class surveyor. For inspection of the underwater parts and for repairs related to intermediate inspections, vessels generally are drydocked, pursuant to a drydock cycle determined by the classification society and the flag state concerned. However, with FSRUs, certain inspections can be done without drydocking, as special measures are available to inspect the underwater parts. If any defects are found, the class surveyor will issue a “recommendation” which must be rectified by the vessel owner within prescribed time limits. The classification society also undertakes other surveys on request of the flag state and checks that regulations and requirements of that flag state are complied with. These surveys are subject to agreements made for each individual survey and flag state concerned.

 

It is a condition for insurance coverage (i.e., the “seaworthiness” of the vessel) that the vessel is certified as “in class” with a member of the International Association of Classification Societies. Each of our vessels is certified by Det Norske Veritas GL, compliant with the ISM Code, and “in class.”

 

The ship manager carries out inspections of the ships on a regular basis; both at sea and while the vessels are in port, while the classification societies carry out inspections and ship audits to verify conformity with manager’s reports. The results of these inspections, which are conducted both in port and underway, are presented in a report containing recommendations for improvements to the overall condition of the vessel, maintenance, improvements to the safety and environmental protection system and to crew welfare. Among others, based on these evaluations, the ship manager creates and implements a program of continuous maintenance and improvement for its vessel and its systems.

 

Safety, Management of Ship Operations and Administration

 

Safety is a top priority. Our vessels are operated in a manner intended to protect the safety and health of employees, the general public and the environment. We actively manage the risks inherent in our business and are committed to eliminating incidents that threaten safety, such as groundings, collisions, loss of containment and fire. We are also committed to reducing emissions and waste generation. We have established key performance indicators to facilitate regular monitoring of our operational performance. We set targets on an annual basis to drive continuous improvement, and we review performance indicators monthly to determine if remedial action is necessary to reach our targets. Höegh LNG’s shore staff performs a full range of technical, commercial and business development services for us. This staff also provides administrative support to our operations in accounting, finance and cash management, legal, commercial insurance and general office administration and secretarial services.

 

Höegh LNG assists the vessel owners in managing ship operations and maintaining a technical department to monitor and audit ship manager operations. Höegh LNG hold its certifications for and works to the standards of ISO 9001 on Quality Management, ISO 14001 on Environmental Management and OHSAS 18001 Occupational Health and Safety Advisory Services. Additionally, Höegh LNG hold all compliance documents and permits needed to manage and operate LNG carriers and FSRUs. Through Det Norske Veritas GL, Höegh LNG Management has obtained approval of its safety management systems as being in compliance with the ISM Code, on behalf of the appropriate flag state for the vessels in our fleet, which are flagged in Norway and Indonesia. Our vessels’ safety management certificates are being maintained through ongoing internal audits performed by Höegh LNG Management and through intermediate audits performed by the flag states or recognized classification societies on its behalf. To supplement our operational experience, Höegh LNG provides expertise in various functions critical to our operations. This affords an efficient and cost-effective operation and, pursuant to commercial and administration management agreements with Höegh Norway and a technical information and services agreement with Höegh Norway, access to accounting, finance and cash management, legal, commercial insurance and general office administration and secretarial services. Critical ship management or technical support functions that will be provided by Höegh LNG Management through its various offices around the world include:

 

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  · technical management, maintenance and drydocking;

 

  · crew management;

 

  · procurement, purchasing and forwarding logistics;

 

  · marine operations;

 

  · oil major and terminal vetting compliance;

 

  · shipyard supervision;

 

  · insurance; and

 

  · financial services.

 

These functions are supported by onboard and onshore systems for maintenance, inventory, purchasing and budget management. In addition, Höegh LNG’s day-to-day focus on cost control will be applied to our operations. To some extent, the uniform design of some of our vessels and the adoption of common equipment standards should also result in operational efficiencies, including with respect to crew training and vessel management, equipment operation and repair and spare parts ordering.

 

Maritime Personnel and Competence Development

 

As of December 31, 2015, entities in the Höegh LNG group employed 494 maritime personnel who serve on our and Höegh LNG’s vessels. The Scandinavian employees are employed by Höegh LNG Management and non-Norwegian/Scandinavian employees, except Indonesian seafarers, are employed by Höegh Maritime Management. The Indonesian seafarers are employed by PT Höegh. Höegh LNG Management and Höegh Maritime Management will employ and train additional maritime personnel to assist us as we grow. Höegh LNG Management, the ISM-certified company, provides technical management services, including all necessary maritime personnel-related services, to the vessel owners pursuant to the ship management agreements. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Support Agreement.”

 

We regard attracting and retaining competent and motivated seagoing personnel as a top priority. Like Höegh LNG, we offer our seafarers competitive employment packages and opportunities for personal and career development, which relates to a philosophy of promoting internally. The officers and crew operating our vessels are employed on individual employment contracts, which are based on International Transport Federation-Approved Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAS) and include conditions determined both by the negotiating parties and the flag states. We believe our relationships with these labor unions are good. Höegh LNG currently is a member of the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and is participating in some of the collective bargaining agreement negotiations with trade unions.

 

Our commitment to training is fundamental to the development of the highest caliber of seafarers for our marine operations. Höegh LNG Management’s cadet training approach is designed to balance academic learning with hands-on training at sea. Höegh LNG Management uses only recognized training institutions in Norway and other countries. Höegh LNG Management has cadets from Europe, Asia and the United States. We believe that high-quality crew and training policies will play an increasingly important role in distinguishing the preferred LNG-experienced independent shipping companies from those that are newcomers to LNG and lacking in-house experienced staff and established expertise on which to base their customer service and safety operations.

 

Risk of Loss, Insurance and Risk Management

 

The operation of FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets has inherent risks. These risks include mechanical failure, personal injury, collision, property loss, vessel or cargo loss or damage and business interruption due to political circumstances in foreign countries or hostilities. In addition, there is always an inherent possibility of marine disaster, including explosion, spills and other environmental mishaps, and the liabilities arising from owning and operating vessels in international trade. We believe that our present insurance coverage is adequate to protect us against the accident-related risks involved in the conduct of our business and that we maintain appropriate levels of environmental damage and pollution insurance coverage consistent with standard industry practice. However, not all risks can be insured, and there can be no guarantee that any specific claim will be paid, or that we will always be able to obtain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable rates.

 

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We have obtained hull and machinery insurance on all our vessels against marine risks, which include the risks of damage to our vessels, including claims arising from collisions with other vessels or contact with jetties or wharves, salvage or towing costs and also insure against actual or constructive total loss of any of our vessels. However, our insurance policies contain deductible amounts for which we will be responsible.

 

We have also obtained loss of hire insurance to protect us against loss of income in the event the vessel cannot be employed due to damage that is covered under the terms of our hull and machinery insurance. Under our loss of hire policy, our insurer will pay us the hire rate agreed in respect of each vessel for each day, in excess of 20 deductible days, for the time that the vessel is out of service as a result of damage, for a maximum of 180 days.

 

Protection and indemnity insurance, which covers our third-party legal liabilities in connection with our shipping activities, is provided by a mutual P&I club. This includes third-party liability and other expenses related to the injury or death of crewmembers, passengers and other third-party persons, loss or damage to cargo and other damage to other third-party property, including pollution arising from oil or other substances, and other related costs, including wreck removal.

 

We have war risk insurance for all our vessels cover standard hull and machinery, protection and indemnity and loss of hire, if the event causing the damage is a war peril. In addition, war risk insurance will also compensate the owner for the total loss of the ship caused by intervention of a foreign state power, or if the ship is prevented from leaving a port or a similar limited area.

 

Our current protection and indemnity insurance coverage is limited to $3.08 billion for all liabilities, except for pollution, which is limited to $1 billion per vessel per incident. We are a member of the Gard P&I Club, which is one of the 13 P&I clubs that comprises the International Group. Members of the International Group insure approximately 90% of the world’s commercial tonnage, and they have entered into a pooling agreement to reinsure each P&I club’s liabilities. P&I clubs provide the basic layer of insurance, which is currently $10 million. For members of the International Group, the International Group provides the next layer of insurance, covering liability between $10 million and $30 million. For liabilities above $30 million, the International Group has one of the world’s largest reinsurance contracts, with the maximum liability per accident or occurrence currently set at $3 billion. As a member of the Gard P&I Club, we are subject to a call for additional premiums based on the clubs’ claims record, as well as the claims record of all other members of the P&I clubs comprising the International Group. However, our P&I club has reinsured the risk of additional premium calls to limit our additional exposure. This reinsurance is subject to a cap, and there is the risk that the full amount of the additional call would not be covered by this reinsurance.

 

The insurers providing the covers for hull and machinery, loss of hire and protection and indemnity have confirmed that they will consider the FSRUs as vessels for the purpose of providing insurance.

 

We will use in our operations Höegh LNG’s thorough risk management program that includes, among other things, computer-aided risk analysis tools, maintenance and assessment programs, a seafarers competence training program, seafarers workshops and membership in emergency response organizations. We expect to benefit from Höegh LNG’s commitment to safety and environmental protection as certain of its subsidiaries assist us in managing our vessel operations. Höegh LNG Management has been certified under the standards reflected in ISO 9001 for quality assurance and is certified in accordance with the International Marine Organization’s International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and Pollution Prevention on a fully integrated basis.

 

Environmental and Other Regulation

 

General

 

Governmental and international agencies extensively regulate the carriage, handling, storage and regasification of LNG. These regulations include international conventions and national, state and local laws and regulations in the countries where our vessels now or, in the future, will operate or where our vessels are registered. We cannot predict the ultimate cost of complying with these regulations or the impact that these regulations will have on the resale value or useful lives of our vessels. Various governmental and quasi-governmental agencies require us to obtain permits, licenses and certificates for the operation of our vessels.

 

We believe that we are substantially in compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations and have all permits, licenses and certificates required for our vessels. In many cases where permits are required from countries to whose jurisdictional waters our vessels have been deployed, the charter party or its customer is responsible for obtaining the permit. A variety of governmental and private entities inspect our vessels on both a scheduled and unscheduled basis. These entities, each of which may have unique requirements and each of which conducts frequent inspections, include classification societies, flag state, or the administration of the country of registry, charterers, terminal operators, LNG producers and local port authorities, such as the U.S. Coast Guard, harbor master or equivalent. Our vessels are subject to inspections on an unscheduled basis and we expect, in the future, they will also be subject to inspection by the applicable governmental and private entities on a scheduled basis. However, future noncompliance or failure to maintain necessary permits or approvals could require us to incur substantial costs or temporarily suspend operation of one or more of our vessels.

 

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Höegh LNG Management is operating in compliance with the ISO Environmental Standard for the management of the significant environmental aspects associated with the ownership and operation of a fleet of FSRUs and LNG carriers. Höegh Norway received its ISO 9001 certification (Quality Management Systems) in May 2008, which also includes certification of Höegh LNG Management. Höegh Norway also received its certification to the ISO 14001 Environmental Standard, which requires that we and Höegh LNG Management commit managerial resources to act on our environmental policy through an effective management system.

 

International Maritime Regulations of FSRUs and LNG Carriers

 

The IMO is the United Nations’ agency that provides international regulations governing shipping and international maritime trade. The requirements contained in the International Safety Management Code (“ISM Code”) promulgated by the IMO govern our operations. Among other requirements, the ISM Code requires the party with operational control of a vessel to develop an extensive safety management system that includes, among other things, the adoption of a policy for safety and environmental protection policy setting forth instructions and procedures for operating its vessels safely and also describing procedures for responding to emergencies. Höegh LNG Management holds a Document of Compliance under the ISM Code for operation of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , and PT Höegh holds a Document of Compliance under the ISM Code for operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung . All Documents of Compliance meet the standards set by the IMO.

 

Vessels that transport gas, including FSRUs and LNG carriers, are also subject to regulation under the International Gas Carrier Code (the “IGC Code”), published by the IMO. The IGC Code provides a standard for the safe carriage of LNG and certain other liquid gases by prescribing the design and construction standards of vessels involved in such carriage. Compliance with the IGC Code must be evidenced by a Certificate of Fitness for the Carriage of Liquefied Gases in Bulk. Each of our vessels is in compliance with the IGC Code, and each of our newbuildings contracts requires that the vessel receive certification of compliance with applicable regulations before she is delivered. Noncompliance with the IGC Code or other applicable IMO regulations may subject a vessel owner or a bareboat charterer to increased liability, may lead to decreases in available insurance coverage for affected vessels and may result in the denial of access to, or detention in, some ports.

 

The IMO also promulgates ongoing amendments to SOLAS. SOLAS provides rules for the construction of and equipment required for commercial vessels and includes regulations for safe operation. It requires the provision of lifeboats and other life-saving appliances, requires the use of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System, which is an international radio equipment and watchkeeping standard, afloat and at shore stations, and relates to the Treaty on the Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeeping Officers (“STCW”), also promulgated by the IMO. Flag states that have ratified SOLAS and STCW generally employ the classification societies, which have incorporated SOLAS and STCW requirements into their class rules, to undertake surveys to confirm compliance.

 

SOLAS and other IMO regulations concerning safety, including those relating to treaties on training of shipboard personnel, lifesaving appliances, radio equipment and the global maritime distress and safety system, are applicable to our operations. Noncompliance with these types of IMO regulations may subject us to increased liability or penalties, may lead to decreases in available insurance coverage for affected vessels and may result in the denial of access to, or detention in, some ports. For example, the U.S. Coast Guard and European Union authorities have indicated that vessels not in compliance with the ISM Code are prohibited from trading in U.S. and European Union ports.

 

In the wake of increased worldwide security concerns, the IMO amended SOLAS and added the ISPS Code as a new chapter to that convention. The objective of the ISPS Code, which came into effect on July 1, 2004, is to detect security threats and take preventive measures against security incidents affecting ships or port facilities. Höegh LNG Management has developed Security Plans and appointed and trained Ship and Office Security Officers, and all of our vessels have been certified to meet the ISPS Code. Please read “—Vessel Security Regulations” for a more detailed discussion about these requirements.

 

The IMO continues to review and introduce new regulations. It is impossible to predict what additional regulations, if any, may be passed by the IMO and what effect, if any, such regulation may have on our operations.

 

Air Emissions

 

The MARPOL Convention is the principal international convention negotiated by the IMO governing marine pollution prevention and response. The MARPOL Convention imposes environmental standards on the shipping industry relating to oil spills, management of garbage, the handling and disposal of noxious liquids, sewage and air emissions. MARPOL 73/78 Annex VI “Regulations for the Prevention of Air Pollution” (“Annex VI”) entered into force on May 19, 2005, and applies to all ships, fixed and floating drilling rigs and other floating platforms. Annex VI sets limits on sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from ship exhausts, emissions of volatile compounds from cargo tanks and incineration of specific substances, and prohibits deliberate emissions of ozone-depleting substances. Annex VI also includes a global cap on sulfur content of fuel oil and allows for special areas to be established in different regions of the world with more stringent controls on sulfur emissions. The certification requirements for Annex VI depend on size of the vessel and time of periodical classification survey. Ships more than 400 gross tons and engaged in international voyages involving countries that have ratified the conventions, or ships flying the flag of those countries, are required to have an International Air Pollution Certificate (an “IAPP Certificate”). Annex VI came into force in the United States on January 8, 2009. All of our vessels currently have IAPP Certificates.

  

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In March 2006, the IMO amended Annex I to the MARPOL Convention, including a new regulation relating to oil fuel tank protection, which became effective August 1, 2007. The new regulation applies to various ships delivered on or after August 1, 2010. It includes requirements for the protected location of the fuel tanks, performance standards for accidental oil fuel outflow, a tank capacity limit and certain other maintenance, inspection and engineering standards. IMO regulations also require owners and operators of vessels to adopt Ship Oil Pollution Emergency Plans. Periodic training and drills for response personnel and for vessels and their crews are required.

 

On July 1, 2010, amendments proposed by the United States, Norway and other IMO member states to Annex VI took effect that require progressively stricter limitations on sulfur emissions from ships. As of January 1, 2012, fuel used to power ships may not contain more than 3.5% sulfur, with this cap decreasing over time. For fuels used in Emission Control Areas (“ECAs”), the cap settled at 1% in January 2015. For fuels used in all seas, the cap will settle at 0.5% on January 1, 2020. The European Directive 2005/33/EU, which came into effect January 1, 2010, bans the use of fuel oils containing more than 0.1% sulfur by mass by any merchant vessel while at berth in any European Union country. The European Commission continues to review directive 2005/33/EU after adopting a proposal to amend it to bring it into alignment with the latest IMO provisions on the sulfur content of marine fuels. Annex VI Regulation 14, which came into effect on January 1, 2015, set the same 0.1% sulfur limit in the Baltic Sea, North Sea, North America, and United States Caribbean Sea ECAs. Our FSRUs have achieved compliance through use of gas boil-off and low sulfur marine diesel oil in their diesel generators and boilers. The amendments also establish new stringent standards for emissions of nitrogen oxides from new marine engines, depending on their date of installation.

 

Pursuant to further amendments adopted in April 2014, the Tier III Annex VI requirements for nitrogen oxides will apply to certain newbuild vessels with marine diesel engines that are constructed on or after January 1, 2016, and that operate in the North American or United States Caribbean Sea ECAs.

 

As discussed in “—U.S. Clean Air Act” below, U.S. air emissions standards are now equivalent to these amended Annex VI requirements. Additional or new conventions, laws and regulations may be adopted in the future and could require the installation of emission control systems. Because our vessels are largely powered by means other than fuel oil we do not anticipate that any emission limits that may be promulgated will require us to incur any material costs for the operation of our vessels but that possibility cannot be eliminated.

 

Ballast Water Management Convention

 

The IMO has negotiated international conventions that impose liability for oil pollution in international waters and the territorial waters of the signatory to such conventions. For example, the IMO adopted an International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships’ Ballast Water and Sediments (the “BWM Convention”) in February 2004. The BWM Convention’s implementing regulations call for a phased introduction of mandatory ballast water exchange requirements, to be replaced in time with a requirement for treatment. The BWM Convention will not become effective until 12 months after it has been adopted by 30 states, the combined merchant fleets of which represent not less than 35% of the gross tonnage of the world’s merchant shipping. Though this standard has not been met, the IMO has passed a resolution encouraging the ratification of the BWM Convention and calling upon those countries that have already ratified to encourage the installation of ballast water management systems (“BWMS”) on new ships. As referenced below, the U.S. Coast Guard issued new ballast water management rules on March 23, 2012, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) issued a new Vessel General Permit in March 2013 that contains numeric technology-based ballast water effluent limitations that will apply to certain commercial vessels with ballast water tanks. Under the requirements of the BWM Convention for units with ballast water capacity more than 5,000 cbm that were constructed in 2011 or before, ballast water management exchange or treatment will be accepted until 2016. From 2016 (or not later than the first intermediate or renewal survey after 2016), only ballast water treatment will be accepted by the BWM Convention. Once the convention has been ratified, installation of approved ballast water treatment systems will be required on the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann at the first drydocking after January 1, 2016. Given that ballast water treatment technologies are still at the developmental stage, at this time the additional costs of complying with these rules are unclear, but current estimates suggest that additional costs are not likely to be material.

 

Bunkers Convention/CLC State Certificate

 

The International Convention on Civil Liability for Bunker Oil Pollution 2001 (the “Bunker Convention”) entered into force in signatory states to the Convention on November 21, 2008. The Bunker Convention provides a liability, compensation and compulsory insurance system for the victims of oil pollution damage caused by spills of bunker oil. The Bunker Convention requires the vessel owner that is liable for pollution damage to pay compensation for such damage (including the cost of preventive measures) caused in the territory, including the territorial sea of a State Party, as well as its economic zone or equivalent area. Registered owners of any seagoing vessel and seaborne craft over 1,000 gross tonnage, of any type whatsoever, and registered in a State Party, or entering or leaving a port in the territory of a State Party, are required to maintain insurance that meets the requirements of the Bunker Convention and to obtain a certificate issued by a State Party attesting that such insurance is in force. The State Party-issued certificate must be carried onboard at all times.

 

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P&I clubs in the International Group issue the required Bunkers Convention “Blue Cards” to enable signatory states to issue certificates. All of our vessels have received “Blue Cards” from their P&I club and are in possession of a CLC State-issued certificate attesting that the required insurance coverage is in force.

 

Anti-Fouling Requirements

 

In 2001, the IMO adopted the International Convention on the Control of Harmful Anti-fouling Systems on Ships (the “Anti-fouling Convention”). The Anti-fouling Convention, which entered into force on September 17, 2008, prohibits the use of organotin compound coatings to prevent the attachment of mollusks and other sea life to the hulls of vessels after September 1, 2003. Vessels of over 400 gross tons engaged in international voyages must obtain an International Anti-fouling System Certificate and undergo a survey before the vessel is put into service or when the anti-fouling systems are altered or replaced. We have obtained Anti-fouling System Certificates for all of our vessels, and we do not believe that maintaining such certificates will have an adverse financial impact on the operation of our vessels.

 

Compliance Enforcement

 

The flag state, as defined by the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea, has overall responsibility for the implementation and enforcement of international maritime regulations for all ships granted the right to fly its flag. The “Shipping Industry Guidelines on Flag State Performance” evaluates flag states based on factors such as sufficiency of infrastructure, ratification of international maritime treaties, implementation and enforcement of international maritime regulations, supervision of surveys, casualty investigations and participation at the IMO meetings.

 

As of January 2016, auditing of flag states that are parties to the SOLAS convention is mandatory and will be conducted under the IMO Instruments Implementation Code (III Code), which provides guidance on implementation and enforcement of IMO policies by flag states. These audits may lead the various flag states to be more aggressive in their enforcement, which may in turn lead us to incur additional costs.

 

Criminal sanctions including fines and penalties and possible charges against company employees are possible under the laws of various countries. For instance, the European Union directive on ship source pollution imposes criminal sanctions for intentional, reckless or negligent pollution discharges by ships. Implementing laws in the EU could result in criminal liability for pollution from vessels in waters of European countries that adopt implementation legislation. Criminal liability for pollution may result in substantial penalties or fines and increased civil liability claims. Similar consequences are possible for spills in other countries that have enacted similar laws.

 

U.S. Environmental Regulation of FSRUs and LNG Carriers

 

Our vessels operating in U.S. waters now or, in the future, will be subject to various federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment. In some cases, these laws and regulations require governmental permits and authorizations before we may conduct certain activities. These environmental laws and regulations may impose substantial penalties for noncompliance and substantial liabilities for pollution that occurs. Failure to comply with these laws and regulations may result in substantial civil and criminal fines and penalties. As with the industry generally, our operations will entail risks in these areas, and compliance with these laws and regulations, which may be subject to frequent revisions and reinterpretation, increases our overall cost of business.

 

Oil Pollution Act and CERCLA

 

OPA 90 established an extensive regulatory and liability regime for environmental protection and clean-up of oil spills. OPA 90 affects all owners and operators whose vessels trade with the United States or its territories or possessions, or whose vessels operate in the waters of the United States, which include the U.S. territorial waters and the 200 nautical mile exclusive economic zone of the United States. CERCLA applies to the discharge of hazardous substances whether on land or at sea. While OPA 90 and CERCLA would not apply to the discharge of LNG, they may affect us because we carry oil as fuel and lubricants for our engines, and the discharge of these could cause an environmental hazard. Under OPA 90, vessel operators, including vessel owners, managers and bareboat or “demise” charterers, are “responsible parties” who are all liable regardless of fault, individually and as a group, for all containment and clean-up costs and other damages arising from oil spills from their vessels. These “responsible parties” would not be liable if the spill results solely from the act or omission of a third party, an act of God or an act of war. The other damages aside from clean-up and containment costs are defined broadly to include:

 

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  · natural resource damages and related assessment costs;

 

  · real and personal property damages;

 

  · net loss of taxes, royalties, rents, profits or earnings capacity;

 

  · net cost of public services necessitated by a spill response, such as protection from fire, safety or health hazards; and

 

  · loss of subsistence use of natural resources.

 

Effective as of July 31, 2009, the U.S. Coast Guard adjusted the limits of OPA 90 liability to the greater of $2,000 per gross ton or $17.088 million for any double-hull tanker that is over 3,000 gross tons (subject to possible adjustment for inflation) (relevant to our and Höegh LNG’s vessels). These limits of liability do not apply, however, where the incident is caused by violation of applicable U.S. federal safety, construction or operating regulations, or by the responsible party’s gross negligence or willful misconduct. These limits likewise do not apply if the responsible party fails or refuses to report the incident or to cooperate and assist in connection with the substance removal activities. This limit is subject to possible adjustment for inflation. OPA 90 specifically permits individual states to impose their own liability regimes with regard to oil pollution incidents occurring within their boundaries, and some states have enacted legislation providing for unlimited liability for discharge of pollutants within their waters. In some cases, states, which have enacted their own legislation, have not yet issued implementing regulations defining vessel owners’ responsibilities under these laws.

 

CERCLA, which also applies to owners and operators of vessels, contains a similar liability regime and provides for cleanup, removal and natural resource damages for releases of “hazardous substances.” Liability under CERCLA is limited to the greater of $300 per gross ton or $0.5 million for each release from vessels not carrying hazardous substances as cargo or residue, and $300 per gross ton or $5 million for each release from vessels carrying hazardous substances as cargo or residue. As with OPA 90, these limits of liability do not apply where the incident is caused by violation of applicable U.S. federal safety, construction or operating regulations, by the responsible party’s gross negligence or willful misconduct or if the responsible party fails or refuses to report the incident or to cooperate and assist in connection with the substance removal activities. OPA 90 and CERCLA each preserve the right to recover damages under existing law, including maritime tort law. We believe that we are in substantial compliance with OPA 90, CERCLA and all applicable state regulations in the ports where our vessels call.

 

OPA 90 requires owners and operators of vessels to establish and maintain with the U.S. Coast Guard evidence of financial responsibility sufficient to meet the limit of their potential strict liability under OPA 90/CERCLA. Under the regulations, evidence of financial responsibility may be demonstrated by insurance, surety bond, self-insurance or guaranty. Under OPA 90 regulations, an owner or operator of more than one vessel is required to demonstrate evidence of financial responsibility for the entire fleet in an amount equal only to the financial responsibility requirement of the vessel having the greatest maximum liability under OPA 90/CERCLA. We currently maintain U.S. Coast Guard National Pollution Funds Center-issued three-year Certificates of Financial Responsibility supported by guarantees that we purchased from an insurance-based provider for all of our vessels.

 

In response to the BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill, the U.S. Congress is currently considering a number of bills that could potentially increase or even eliminate the limits of liability under OPA 90. Compliance with any new requirements of OPA 90 may substantially impact our cost of operations or require us to incur additional expenses to comply with any new regulatory initiatives or statutes. Additional legislation or regulation applicable to the operation of our vessels that may be implemented in the future could adversely affect our business and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.

 

U.S. Clean Water Act

 

The CWA prohibits the discharge of oil or hazardous substances in U.S. navigable waters unless authorized by a permit or exemption, and imposes strict liability in the form of penalties for unauthorized discharges. The CWA also imposes substantial liability for the costs of removal, remediation and damages and complements the remedies available under OPA 90 and CERCLA. The EPA has enacted rules governing the regulation of ballast water discharges and other discharges incidental to the normal operation of vessels within U.S. waters. The rules require commercial vessels 79 feet in length or longer (other than commercial fishing vessels) (“Regulated Vessels”) to obtain a CWA permit regulating and authorizing such normal discharges. This permit, which the EPA has designated as the Vessel General Permit for Discharges Incidental to the Normal Operation of Vessels (the “VGP”), incorporates the current U.S. Coast Guard requirements for ballast water management, as well as supplemental ballast water requirements, and includes limits applicable to 26 specific discharge streams, such as deck runoff, bilge water and gray water. For each discharge type, among other things, the VGP establishes effluent limits pertaining to the constituents found in the effluent, including best management practices (the “BMPs”) designed to decrease the amount of constituents entering the waste stream. Unlike land-based discharges, which are deemed acceptable by meeting certain EPA-imposed numerical effluent limits, each of the 26 VGP discharge limits is deemed to be met when a Regulated Vessel carries out the BMPs pertinent to that specific discharge stream. The VGP imposes additional requirements on certain Regulated Vessel types that emit discharges unique to those vessels. Administrative provisions, such as inspection, monitoring, recordkeeping and reporting requirements, are also included for all Regulated Vessels.

 

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U.S. Ballast Water Regulation

 

In the United States, two federal agencies regulate ballast water discharges, the EPA, through the VGP, and the U.S. Coast Guard, through approved BWMS. On March 28, 2013, the EPA published a new VGP to replace the existing VGP when it expired in December 2013. The new VGP includes numeric effluent limits for ballast water expressed as the maximum concentration of living organisms in ballast water, as opposed to the current BMPs requirements. The new VGP also imposes a variety of changes for non-ballast water discharges including more stringent BMPs for discharges of oil-to-sea interfaces in an effort to reduce the toxicity of oil leaked into U.S. waters. For certain existing vessels, the EPA has adopted a staggered implementation schedule to require vessels to meet the ballast water effluent limitations by the first drydocking after January 1, 2014 or January 1, 2016, depending on the vessel size. Vessels that are constructed after December 1, 2013 are subject to the ballast water numeric effluent limitations immediately upon the effective date of the new VGP.

 

On June 20, 2012, the final rule issued by the U.S. Coast Guard establishing standards for the allowable concentration of living organisms in ballast water discharged in U.S. waters and requiring the phase-in of U.S. Coast Guard-approved BWMS went into effect. The final rule adopts ballast water discharge standards for vessels calling on U.S. ports and intending to discharge ballast water equivalent to those set in the BWM Convention. The final rule requires that ballast water discharge have fewer than 10 living organisms per milliliter for organisms between 10 and 50 micrometers in size. For organisms larger than 50 micrometers, the discharge must have fewer than 10 living organisms per cbm of discharge. The rule requires installation of U.S. Coast-Guard approved BWMs by new vessels constructed on or after December 1, 2013 and existing vessels as of their first drydocking after January 1, 2016. If U.S. Coast Guard-type approved technologies are not available by a vessel’s compliance date, the vessel may request an extension to the deadline from the U.S. Coast Guard. The U.S. Coast Guard expects to review the practicability of implementing a more stringent ballast water discharge standard.

 

U.S. Clean Air Act

 

The U.S. Clean Air Act of 1970, as amended, requires the EPA to promulgate standards applicable to emissions of volatile organic compounds and other air contaminants. Our vessels are subject to vapor control and recovery requirements for certain cargoes when loading, unloading, ballasting, cleaning and conducting other operations in regulated port areas and emission standards for so-called “Category 3” marine diesel engines operating in U.S. waters. The marine diesel engine emission standards are currently limited to new engines beginning with the 2004 model year. On April 30, 2010, the EPA promulgated final emission standards for Category 3 marine diesel engines equivalent to those adopted in the amendments to Annex VI. The emission standards apply in two stages: near-term standards for newly-built engines apply to engines installed beginning on January 1, 2011, and long-term standards requiring an 80% reduction in nitrogen dioxides apply to engines installed beginning on January 1, 2016. Aligned with the Annex VI Regulation 14 requirements, beginning in January 2015, the EPA emission standards also limit sulfur content in fuel used in Category 3 marine vessels operating in the North America ECA to 1,000 ppm (or 0.1% sulfur by mass). Compliance with these standards may cause us to incur costs to install control equipment on our vessels in the future.

 

Regulation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions

 

In February 2005, the Kyoto Protocol entered into force. Pursuant to the Kyoto Protocol, adopting countries are required to implement national programs to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. Currently, the emissions of greenhouse gases from international transport are not subject to the Kyoto Protocol. The Paris Agreement, which was announced by the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in December 2015, similarly does not cover international shipping. However, to the extent that individual countries increase their regulation of domestic greenhouse gas emissions as a result of the Paris Agreement, we may experience increased regulation of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from regasification activities. Further, the IMO has subsequently reaffirmed its strong commitment to work to address greenhouse gas emissions from ships engaged in international trade. The IMO is evaluating various mandatory measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping, which may include market-based instruments or a carbon tax. The European Commission is pursuing a strategy to integrate maritime emissions into the overall European Union strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In accordance with this strategy, in April 2015 the European Parliament and Council adopted regulations requiring large vessels using European Union ports to monitor, report and verify their carbon dioxide emissions beginning in January 2018.

 

On January 1, 2013, the IMO’s approved mandatory measures to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases from international shipping went into force. These include amendments to Annex VI for the prevention of air pollution from ships adding a new Chapter 4 to Annex VI on energy efficiency requiring the Energy Efficiency Design Index (the “EEDI”) for new ships, and the Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (the “SEEMP”) for all ships. Other amendments to Annex VI add new definitions and requirements for survey and certification, including the format for the International Energy Efficiency Certificate. The regulations apply to all ships of 400 gross tonnage and above. These new rules will likely affect the operations of vessels that are registered in countries that are signatories to Annex VI or vessels that call upon ports located within such countries. The implementation of the EEDI and the SEEMP standards could cause us to incur additional compliance costs. The IMO is also considering the development of a market-based mechanism for greenhouse gas emissions from ships, but it is impossible to predict the likelihood that such a standard might be adopted or its potential impact on our operations at this time.

  

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In the United States, the EPA issued a final finding that greenhouse gases threaten public health and safety and has promulgated regulations that regulate the emission of greenhouse gases, but not from ships. The EPA may decide in the future to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from ships and has already been petitioned by the California Attorney General to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from oceangoing vessels. Other federal and state regulations relating to the control of greenhouse gas emissions may follow, including climate change initiatives that have recently been considered in the U.S. Congress. Any passage of climate control legislation or other regulatory initiatives by the IMO, the European Union, the United States or other countries where we operate, or any treaty adopted at the international level, that restrict emissions of greenhouse gases could require us to make significant financial expenditures that we cannot predict with certainty at this time. In addition, even without such regulation, our business may be indirectly affected to the extent that climate change results in sea level changes or more intense weather events.

 

Other federal and state laws and regulations relating to the control of greenhouse gas emissions may come into effect, including climate change initiatives that have been considered in the U.S. Congress. Any passage of climate control legislation or other regulatory initiatives by the IMO, the European Union, the United States or other countries where we operate, or any treaty adopted at the international level to succeed the Kyoto Protocol, that restrict emissions of greenhouse gases could require us to make significant financial expenditures that we cannot predict with certainty at this time. In addition, even without such regulation, our business may be indirectly affected to the extent that climate change results in sea level changes or more intense weather events.

 

Vessel Security Regulations

 

Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, there have been a variety of initiatives intended to enhance vessel security. On November 25, 2002, the Maritime Transportation Act of 2002 (the “MTSA”) came into effect. To implement certain portions of the MTSA, in July 2003, the U.S. Coast Guard issued regulations requiring the implementation of certain security requirements aboard vessels operating in waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States. Similarly, in December 2002, amendments to SOLAS created a new chapter of the convention dealing specifically with maritime security. The new chapter became effective in July 2004 and imposed various detailed security obligations on vessels and port authorities, most of which are contained in the ISPS Code. The ISPS Code is designed to protect ports and international shipping against terrorism. After July 1, 2004, to trade internationally, a vessel must obtain an International Ship Security Certificate (an “ISSC”) from a recognized security organization approved by the vessel’s flag state.

 

Among the various requirements are:

 

· onboard installation of automatic identification systems to provide a means for the automatic transmission of safety-related information from among similarly equipped ships and shore stations, including information on a ship’s identity, position, course, speed and navigational status;

 

· onboard installation of ship security alert systems, which do not sound on the vessel but only alert the authorities onshore;

 

· the development of vessel security plans;

 

· ship identification number to be permanently marked on a vessel’s hull;

 

· a continuous synopsis record kept onboard showing a vessel’s history, including the name of the ship, the state whose flag the ship is entitled to fly, the date on which the ship was registered with that state, the ship’s identification number, the port at which the ship is registered and the name of the registered owner(s) and their registered address; and

 

· compliance with flag state security certification requirements.

 

The U.S. Coast Guard regulations, intended to align with international maritime security standards, exempt non-U.S. vessels from obtaining U.S. Coast Guard-approved MTSA vessel security plans provided such vessels have onboard an ISSC that attests to the vessel’s compliance with SOLAS security requirements and the ISPS Code.

 

Our ship manager has developed Security Plans and appointed and trained Ship and Office Security Officers, and each of the vessels in our fleet complies with the requirements of the ISPS Code, SOLAS and the MTSA.

 

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Other Regulations

 

International Conventions

 

Our vessels may also become subject to the 2010 HNS Convention, if it is adopted by a sufficient number of countries. The Convention creates a regime of liability and compensation for damage from hazardous and noxious substances (“HNS”), including liquefied gases. The 2010 HNS Convention sets up a two-tier system of compensation composed of compulsory insurance taken out by vessel owners and an HNS Fund which comes into play when the insurance is insufficient to satisfy a claim or does not cover the incident. Under the 2010 HNS Convention, if damage is caused by bulk HNS, claims for compensation will first be sought from the vessel owner up to a maximum of 100 million from the supplementary foreign exchange reserve assets defined and maintained by the International Monetary Fund called Special Drawing Rights (“SDR”). If the damage is caused by packaged HNS or by both bulk and packaged HNS, the maximum liability is 115 million SDR. Once the limit is reached, compensation will be paid from the HNS Fund up to a maximum of 250 million SDR. The 2010 HNS Convention has not been ratified by a sufficient number of countries to enter into force, and we cannot estimate the costs that may be needed to comply with any such requirements that may be adopted with any certainty at this time.

 

Indonesia Environmental Regulation of FSRUs

 

In Indonesia, the environmental requirements of downstream business activity for the gas industry are regulated and supervised by the Government of Indonesia and controlled through business and technical licenses issued by the Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources and BPH Migas, the regulatory agency for downstream oil and gas activity. Under Law 22, the Government of Indonesia has the exclusive rights to gas exploitation and activities carried out by private entities based on government-issued licenses. Companies engaging in downstream activities must comply with environmental management and occupational health and safety provisions related to operations. This includes obtaining environmental licenses and conducting environmental monitoring and reporting for activities that may have an impact on the environment such as the environmental impact assessment required under Law No. 32 of 2009 regarding Environmental Protection and Management. Failure to comply with these laws and obtain the necessary business and technical licenses may subject us to sanctions including suspension and/or freezing of the business and responsibility for all damages arising from any violation. We believe we are currently in compliance with these laws and hold all applicable licenses. However, these laws are subject to change, and we cannot predict any future changes in the regulatory environment, which could result in increased costs to our business.

 

China Environmental Regulation of FSRUs

 

Effective June 1, 2011, the Ministry of Transport of the People’s Republic of China (the “PRC”) promulgated regulations on Ship-Induced Marine Pollution Emergency Preparation and Response Management (the “Emergency Response Regulations 2011”) together with the Detailed Rules on the implementation of the Ship-Induced Pollution Response Agreement Regime issued by the Marine Safety Administration (the “MSA”) of the PRC. In addition, the Prevention and Control of Marine Pollution from Ships were implemented in 2010, which requires operators of (i) any ship carrying polluting and hazardous cargoes in bulk or (ii) any other ships above 10,000 gross tons to enter into a Ship Pollution Response Agreement with a pollution clean-up company approved by the MSA prior to the vessel entering any PRC port. Under the Emergency Response Regulations 2011, operators are liable for all costs and expenses for any pollution and must be paid or secured with a financial guarantee before the vessel leaves the port.

 

While we believe we are in compliance with these regulations and have a Ship Pollution Response Agreement in place for our vessels, we cannot predict whether any accidental pollution may occur, whether it will cause us to incur costs and/or penalties or what the amount of any such costs or penalties may be.  

 

Egyptian Environmental Regulation of FSRUs

 

The Egyptian Authority for Maritime Safety regulates vessels in the national waters of Egypt, including the Höegh Gallant . Emissions associated with the operation of the vessel may also be regulated by other agencies. To the extent that a change in law in Egypt (other than future laws requiring changes to the structure, machinery, boilers, appurtenances or spare parts of the Höegh Gallant ) has an identifiable financial impact on the economics of the Höegh Gallant time charter, the terms of the time charter require the owner and charterer to meet to discuss in good faith and agree upon the necessary actions and changes to offset such impact.

 

In-House Inspections

 

Höegh LNG Management, our ship manager, regularly inspects our vessels for compliance with laws of host countries; both at sea and while in port. We also inspect and audit our vessels regularly to verify conformity with manager’s reports. These inspections result in a report containing recommendations for improvements to the overall condition of the vessel, maintenance, safety and crew welfare. Based in part on these evaluations, we create and implement a program of continual maintenance for our vessels and their systems.

 

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Taxation of the Partnership

 

The following are discussions of the material tax considerations applicable to us under U.S., United Kingdom, Marshall Islands, Norway, Singapore, Indonesia, Cyprus and Egypt law, respectively. This discussion is based upon provisions of the applicable tax law as in effect on the date of this Annual Report, regulations and current administrative rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject to change or differing interpretation, possibly with retroactive effect. Changes in these authorities or their interpretation may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below.

 

United States Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to us. This discussion is based upon provisions of the Code as in effect on the date of this Annual Report, existing final and temporary Treasury Regulations thereunder, and current administrative rulings and court decisions, all of which are subject to change or differing interpretation, possibly with retroactive effect. Changes in these authorities or their interpretation may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to us.

 

Election to be Treated as a Corporation

 

We have elected to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As such, we are subject to U.S. federal income tax to the extent we earn income from U.S. sources or income that is treated as effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States, unless such income is exempt from tax under Section 883 of the Code or otherwise.

 

Taxation of Operating Income

 

Substantially all of our gross income is attributable, and we expect it will continue to be attributable, to the transportation, regasification and storage of LNG. Gross income generated from regasification and storage of LNG outside of the United States generally is not subject to U.S. federal income tax, and gross income generated from such activities in the United States generally is subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net basis plus a branch profits tax. Gross income that is attributable to transportation that either begins or ends, but that does not both begin and end, in the United States (“U.S. Source International Transportation Income”) is considered to be 50.0% derived from sources within the United States and may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on a gross basis as described below. Gross income attributable to transportation that both begins and ends in the United States (“U.S. Source Domestic Transportation Income”) is considered to be 100.0% derived from sources within the United States and generally is subject to U.S. federal income tax on a net basis plus a branch profits tax. Gross income attributable to transportation exclusively between non-U.S. destinations will be considered to be 100.0% derived from sources outside the United States and generally is not subject to U.S. federal income tax.

 

We are not permitted by law to engage in transportation that gives rise to U.S. Source Domestic Transportation Income, and we currently do not anticipate providing any regasification or storage services within the territorial seas of the United States. However, certain of our activities give rise to U.S. Source International Transportation Income, and future expansion of our operations could result in an increase in the amount of U.S. Source International Transportation Income, all of which could be subject to U.S. federal income taxation unless an exemption from U.S. taxation applies under Section 883 of the Code (the “Section 883 Exemption”).

 

The Section 883 Exemption

 

In general, the Section 883 Exemption provides that if a non-U.S. corporation satisfies the requirements of Section 883 of the Code and Treasury Regulations thereunder (the “Section 883 Regulations”), it will not be subject to the net basis and branch profits taxes or the 4.0% gross basis tax described below on its U.S. Source International Transportation Income. The Section 883 Exemption applies only to U.S. Source International Transportation Income and does not apply to U.S. Source Domestic Transportation Income. As discussed below, we believe that based on our current ownership structure, the Section 883 Exemption applies and we are not subject to U.S. federal income tax on our U.S. Source International Transportation Income.

 

We qualify for the Section 883 Exemption for a particular taxable year if, among other things, we meet the following three requirements:

 

  · we are organized in a jurisdiction outside the United States that grants an equivalent exemption from tax to corporations organized in the United States with respect to the types of U.S. Source International Transportation Income that we earn (an “Equivalent Exemption”);

 

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  · we satisfy the Publicly Traded Test (as described below) or the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test (as described below); and

 

  · we meet certain substantiation, reporting and other requirements.

 

In order for a non-U.S. corporation to meet the Publicly Traded Test, its equity interests must be “primarily traded” and “regularly traded” on an established securities market either in the United States or in a jurisdiction outside the United States that grants an Equivalent Exemption. The Section 883 Regulations provide, in pertinent part, that equity interests in a non-U.S. corporation will be considered to be “primarily traded” on an established securities market in a given country if, with respect to the class or classes of equity relied upon to meet the “regularly traded” requirement described below, the number of units of each such class that are traded during any taxable year on all established securities markets in that country exceeds the number of units in such class that are traded during that year on established securities markets in any other single country.

 

Equity interests in a non-U.S. corporation will be considered to be “regularly traded” on an established securities market under the Section 883 Regulations if one or more classes of such equity interests that, in the aggregate, represent more than 50.0% of the combined vote and value of all outstanding equity interests in the non-U.S. corporation satisfy certain listing and trading volume requirements. These listing and trading volume requirements will be satisfied with respect to a class of equity interests if trades in such class are effected, other than in de minimis quantities, on an established securities market on at least 60 days during the taxable year and the aggregate number of units in such class that are traded on such established securities market during the taxable year is at least 10.0% of the average number of units outstanding in that class during the taxable year (with special rules for short taxable years). In addition, a class of equity interests will be considered to satisfy these listing and trading volume requirements if the equity interests in such class are traded during the taxable year on an established securities market in the United States and are “regularly quoted by dealers making a market” in such class (within the meaning of the Section 883 Regulations).

 

Even if a class of equity interests satisfies the foregoing requirements, and thus generally would be treated as “regularly traded” on an established securities market, an exception may apply to cause the class to fail the regularly traded test for a taxable year if, for more than half of the number of days during the taxable year, one or more 5.0% unitholders (i.e., unitholders owning, actually or constructively, at least 5.0% of the vote and value of that class) own in the aggregate 50.0% or more of the vote and value of the class (which we refer to as the Closely Held Block Exception). For purposes of identifying its 5.0% unitholders, a non-U.S. corporation is entitled to rely on Schedule 13D and Schedule 13G filings with the SEC. In addition, an investment company that is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, is not treated as a 5.0% unitholder. The Closely Held Block Exception does not apply, however, in the event the corporation can establish that a sufficient proportion of such 5.0% unitholders are Qualified Shareholders (as defined below) so as to preclude other persons who are 5.0% unitholders from owning 50.0% or more of the value of that class for more than half the days during the taxable year.

 

As set forth above, as an alternative to satisfying the Publicly Traded Test, a non-U.S. corporation may qualify for the Section 883 Exemption by satisfying the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test. A corporation generally will satisfy the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test if more than 50.0% of the value of its outstanding equity interests is owned, or treated as owned after applying certain attribution rules, for at least half of the number of days in the taxable year by:

 

  · individual residents of jurisdictions that grant an Equivalent Exemption;

 

  · non-U.S. corporations organized in jurisdictions that grant an Equivalent Exemption and that meet the Publicly Traded Test; or

 

  · certain other qualified persons described in the Section 883 Regulations (which we refer to collectively as Qualified Shareholders).

 

We believe that we currently satisfy all of the requirements for the Section 883 Exemption, and we expect that we will continue to satisfy such requirements for all future taxable years. First, we are organized under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands. The U.S. Treasury Department has recognized the Republic of the Marshall Islands as a jurisdiction that grants an Equivalent Exemption with respect to the type of U.S. Source International Transportation Income we earn and are expected to earn in the future. Consequently, our U.S. Source International Transportation Income (including for this purpose, any such income earned by our joint ventures and subsidiaries) should be exempt from U.S. federal income taxation provided we meet either the Publicly Traded Test or the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test and we satisfy certain substantiation, reporting and other requirements.

 

Our common units are traded only on the New York Stock Exchange, which is considered to be an established securities market. Although the matter is not free from doubt, based upon our current and expected cash flow and distributions on our outstanding equity interests, we believe that our common units represent more than 50.0% of the total value of all of our outstanding equity interests and therefore our equity interests are “primarily traded” on an established securities market for purposes of the Publicly Traded Test.

 

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In addition, we believe that we satisfied the listing and trading volume requirements described previously for 2014 and 2015 and we expect that we will continue to satisfy such requirements for all future taxable years. Further, our partnership agreement provides that any person or group that beneficially owns more than 4.9% of any class of our units then outstanding generally will be treated as owning only 4.9% of such units for purposes of voting for directors. There can be no assurance that this limitation will be effective to eliminate the possibility that we will have any 5.0% unitholders for purposes of the Closely Held Block Exception. Nevertheless, we believe that our common units have not lost eligibility for the Section 883 Exemption as a result of the Closely Held Block Exception based upon the current ownership of our common units. Thus, although the matter is not free from doubt and is based upon our belief and expectations regarding our satisfaction of the factual requirements described above, we believe that we satisfied the Publicly Traded Test for 2014 and 2015, and we expect that we will satisfy the Publicly Traded Test for the current and all future taxable years.

 

The legal conclusions described above are based upon legal authorities that do not expressly contemplate an organizational structure such as ours. In particular, although we have elected to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we are organized as a limited partnership under Marshall Islands law. Accordingly, it is possible that the IRS would assert that our common units do not meet the “regularly traded” test. In addition, as described previously, our ability to satisfy the Publicly Traded Test depends upon factual matters that are subject to change. Should any of the factual requirements described above fail to be satisfied, we may not be able to satisfy the Publicly Traded Test. Furthermore, our board of directors could determine that it is in our best interests to take an action that would result in our not being able to satisfy the Publicly Traded Test in the future.

 

In the event we are not able to satisfy the Publicly Traded Test for a taxable year, we may be able to satisfy the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test for that year provided Höegh LNG owns more than 50.0% of the value of our outstanding equity interests for more than half of the days in such year, Höegh LNG itself met the Publicly Traded Test for such year and Höegh LNG provided us with certain information that we need in order to claim the benefits of the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test. Based on representations made by Höegh LNG with respect to its present share ownership, exchange-traded shares and trading volumes, we believe Höegh LNG presently meets the Publicly Traded Test, and Höegh LNG has agreed to provide the information referenced above. However, there can be no assurance that Höegh LNG will continue to meet the Publicly Traded Test or be able to provide the information we need to claim the benefits of the Section 883 Exemption under the Qualified Shareholder Ownership Test. Further, the relative values of our equity interests are uncertain and subject to change, and as a result Höegh LNG may not own more than 50.0% of the value of our outstanding equity interests for any future year. Consequently, there can be no assurance that we would meet the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test based upon the ownership by Höegh LNG of an indirect ownership interest in us.

 

The Net Basis Tax and Branch Profits Tax

 

If we earn U.S. Source International Transportation Income and the Section 883 Exemption does not apply, the U.S. source portion of such income would be treated as effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business in the United States (“Effectively Connected Income”) if we have a fixed place of business in the United States involved in the earning of U.S. Source International Transportation Income and substantially all of our U.S. Source International Transportation Income is attributable to regularly scheduled transportation or, in the case of vessel leasing income, is attributable to a fixed place of business in the United States. In addition, if we earn income from regasification or storage of LNG within the territorial seas of the United States, such income would be treated as Effectively Connected Income. Based on our current operations, substantially all of our potential U.S. Source International Transportation Income is not attributable to regularly scheduled transportation or is received pursuant to vessel leasing, and none of our regasification or storage activities occur within the territorial seas of the United States. As a result, we do not anticipate that any of our U.S. Source International Transportation Income or income earned from regasification or storage will be treated as Effectively Connected Income. However, there is no assurance that we will not earn income pursuant to regularly scheduled transportation or vessel leasing attributable to a fixed place of business in the United States (or earn income from regasification or storage activities within the territorial seas of the United States) in the future, which would result in such income being treated as Effectively Connected Income.

 

Any income we earn that is treated as Effectively Connected Income, net of applicable deductions, would be subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax (imposed at rates of up to 35.0%). In addition, a 30.0% branch profits tax could be imposed on any income we earn that is treated as Effectively Connected Income, as determined after allowance for certain adjustments, and on certain interest paid or deemed paid by us in connection with the conduct of our U.S. trade or business.

 

Taxation of Gain from the Sale of a Vessel

 

On the sale of a vessel that has produced Effectively Connected Income, we could be subject to the net basis U.S. federal corporate income tax as well as branch profits tax with respect to the gain recognized up to the amount of certain prior deductions for depreciation that reduced Effectively Connected Income. Otherwise, we would not be subject to U.S. federal income tax with respect to gain realized on the sale of a vessel, provided the sale is considered to occur outside of the United States under U.S. federal income tax principles. In general, a sale of vessel will be considered to occur outside of the United States for this purpose if title to the vessel, and risk of loss with respect to the vessel, pass to the buyer outside the United States. It is expected that any sale of a vessel by us will be considered to occur outside of the United States.

 

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The 4.0% Gross Basis Tax

 

If the Section 883 Exemption does not apply and the net basis tax does not apply, we would be subject to a 4.0% U.S. federal income tax on the U.S. source portion of our gross U.S. Source International Transportation Income, without benefit of deductions. Under the sourcing rules described above under “—Taxation of Operating Income”, 50.0% of our U.S. Source International Transportation Income would be treated as being derived from U.S. sources.

 

Marshall Islands Taxation

 

Because we, our operating subsidiary and our controlled affiliates do not, and do not expect to conduct business or operations in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, neither we nor our controlled affiliates will be subject to income, capital gains, profits or other taxation under current Marshall Islands law. As a result, distributions by our operating subsidiaries and our controlled affiliates to us will not be subject to Marshall Islands taxation.

 

Norway Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material Norwegian tax consequences applicable to us. This discussion is based upon existing legislation and current tax authority practice as of the date of this Annual Report. Changes in this legislation and practice may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the Norwegian tax considerations applicable to us.

 

As we do not have any Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries, there is no Norwegian taxation by virtue of being resident in Norway. We, our operating company, our joint ventures and our non-Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries do not contemplate to hold board meetings in Norway, to have a board consisting of a majority of Norwegian residents or to pass resolutions in any board with a majority of Norwegian resident directors.

 

Taxation of the Partnership and Non-Norwegian Incorporated Subsidiaries .

 

As we are a partnership and do not expect to be managed and controlled within Norway nor carrying out business in Norway, we do not expect to be subject to taxation in Norway. While certain of our joint ventures and non-Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries will enter into agreements with Höegh Norway and Höegh LNG Management, Norwegian incorporated and resident companies, for the provision of certain management and administrative services, we believe that the terms of these agreements will not result in us, our operating company or any of our non-Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries being treated as being resident in the Norway or having a permanent establishment or carrying out business in Norway. As a consequence, we expect that neither our profits, the profits of our operating company or any of our joint ventures and non-Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries will be subject to Norwegian corporation tax. We do not currently anticipate that any of our joint ventures and non-Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries will be controlled or managed in Norway or have a permanent establishment or otherwise carry on business in Norway. Accordingly, we do not anticipate that any of our joint ventures and non-Norwegian incorporated subsidiaries will be subject to Norwegian corporation tax.

 

United Kingdom Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material United Kingdom tax consequences applicable to us. This discussion is based upon existing legislation and current H.M. Revenue & Customs practice as of the date of this Annual Report. Changes in these authorities may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the United Kingdom tax considerations applicable to us.

 

Taxation of the Partnership and non-United Kingdom Incorporated Subsidiaries .

 

As we are a limited partnership and do not expect to be managed and controlled within the United Kingdom nor trade in the United Kingdom, we do not expect to be subject to taxation in the United Kingdom. While we and our operating company have entered into agreements with Höegh UK and Leif Höegh UK, companies incorporated and resident in the United Kingdom, for the provision of certain administrative services, we believe that the terms of these agreements will not result in us or our operating company being treated as being resident in the United Kingdom or having a permanent establishment or carrying on a trade in the United Kingdom. As a consequence, we expect that neither our profits nor the profits or our operating company will be subject to United Kingdom corporation tax. We do not currently anticipate that any of our other non-United Kingdom incorporated subsidiaries will be controlled or managed in the United Kingdom or have a permanent establishment or otherwise carry on a trade in the United Kingdom. Accordingly, we do not anticipate that any of our non-United Kingdom incorporated subsidiaries will be subject to United Kingdom corporation tax.

 

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Taxation of United Kingdom Incorporated Subsidiaries .

 

Höegh UK is incorporated in the UK and we anticipate will be centrally managed and controlled in the United Kingdom and therefore will be regarded for the purposes of United Kingdom tax as being resident in the United Kingdom and liable to United Kingdom corporation tax on its worldwide income and chargeable gains. As of December 31, 2015, the generally applicable rate of United Kingdom corporation tax was 20.0%. Höegh UK (and any other UK resident subsidiaries which we acquire) will generally be liable to tax at this rate on their income, profits and gains after deducting expenses incurred wholly and exclusively for the purposes of the business being undertaken. There is currently no United Kingdom withholding tax on distributions made by UK resident companies (such as Höegh UK).

 

Singapore Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material Singapore tax consequences applicable to us. This discussion is based upon existing legislation and current Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore practice as of the date of this Annual Report. Changes in the existing legislation and current practice may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the Singapore tax considerations applicable to us.

 

Taxation of the Partnership and non-Singapore Incorporated Subsidiaries .

 

As we are a limited partnership and do not expect to be managed and controlled within Singapore or carry on a trade or business in Singapore, we do not expect to be subject to taxation in Singapore. Similarly, as the non-Singapore incorporated subsidiaries are not managed and controlled within Singapore or carry on a trade or business in Singapore, the non-Singapore incorporated subsidiaries should not be subject to taxation in Singapore.

 

Taxation of the Singapore Incorporated Subsidiary .

 

Höegh Lampung is incorporated in Singapore, and we anticipate that it will be centrally managed and controlled in Singapore. As a result, Höegh Lampung will be regarded for the purposes of Singapore tax as being resident in Singapore and liable to Singapore corporate income tax on income accrued in or derived from Singapore or income received in Singapore from outside Singapore in respect of (i) gains or profits from any trade or business, (ii) income from investment such as dividends, interest and rental, (iii) royalties, premiums and any other profits from property and (iv) other gains of an income nature. The generally applicable rate of Singapore corporation tax is 17%. Höegh Lampung will generally be liable to tax at this rate on its income, profits and gains after deducting revenue expenses incurred wholly and exclusively for the purposes of the business being undertaken.

 

Under Section 12(6) of the Income Tax Act, Chapter 134 of Singapore (“ITA”), the following payments are deemed to be derived from Singapore:

 

· any interest, commission, fee or any other payment in connection with any loan or indebtedness or with any arrangement, management, guarantee, or service relating to any loan or indebtedness which is:

 

· borne, directly or indirectly, by a person resident in Singapore or a permanent establishment in Singapore (except in respect of any business carried on outside Singapore through a permanent establishment outside Singapore or any immovable property situated outside Singapore); or

  

· deductible against any income accruing in or derived from Singapore; or

 

· any income derived from loans where the funds provided by such loans are brought into or used in Singapore.

 

Payments falling within the two bullet points above and made by Höegh Lampung, would fall within Section 12(6) of the ITA. Unless exempted, such payments, where made to a person not known to Höegh Lampung to be a tax resident in Singapore, are generally subject to withholding tax in Singapore.

 

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Indonesian Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material Indonesia tax consequences applicable to us. This discussion is based upon existing legislation and current Directorate General of Taxes of Indonesia (“DGT”) practice as of the date of this Annual Report. Changes in the existing legislation and current practice may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the Indonesia tax considerations applicable to us.

 

Taxation of the Partnership and non-Indonesian Incorporated Subsidiaries

    

As we are a limited partnership and do not expect to be managed and controlled or domiciled within Indonesia or conduct business or carry out activities through a permanent establishment in Indonesia, we do not expect to be subject to taxation in the Indonesia.

 

We do not currently anticipate that any of our other non-Indonesian incorporated subsidiaries will be controlled, managed or domiciled in Indonesia or conduct business or carry out activities through a permanent establishment in Indonesia. Accordingly, we do not anticipate that any of our non-Indonesian incorporated subsidiaries will be subject to Indonesian corporate income tax.

 

Taxation of Operating Income

 

PT Höegh’s main business activity in Indonesia is to provide the lease, operation, and maintenance of the PGN FSRU Lampung to PGN LNG. As PT Höegh was established in Indonesia, it is a resident taxpayer. Under Law No. 36 Year 2008 regarding Income Tax (“Income Tax Law” or “ITL”), PT Höegh is subject to Corporate Income Tax (“CIT”) of 25% on taxable income derived from the business activities performed. Therefore, any income generated by PT Höegh from PGN LNG in regards to the lease, operation, and maintenance of the PGN FSRU Lampung is subject to CIT of 25% (after deductions for allowable expenses in accordance with the ITL provisions). PT Höegh’s income would include any gain derived from the sale of the Mooring to PGN LNG which occurred in 2014, as governed by the time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

Taxable income is calculated on the basis of accounting profits as modified by certain tax adjustments. Any tax loss can be carried forward for a maximum period of 5 years. Loss carry back is not permitted in Indonesia.

 

For tax purposes, costs incurred in relation to the acquisition of fixed assets are deductible (through depreciation) over a useful life of four to twenty years depending on the type of the fixed assets. In this regard, although the commercial useful life of a fixed asset is more than twenty years, such asset shall only be depreciated for a maximum of twenty years for tax purposes.

 

Depreciation commences in the month when expenditures are incurred. The annual depreciation can be calculated either using the straight line method or double declining balance method.

 

The ITL taxes the world-wide income of Indonesian tax residents; however, we do not anticipate that PT Höegh will generate income outside of Indonesia.

   

Taxation of the Sale of the PGN FSRU Lampung to PGN LNG

 

PGN LNG was granted an option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung from PT Höegh at specified prices as set out in the time charter for PGN FSRU Lampung . Any gain arising from the sale of the FSRU (i.e. sales price less tax book value) will be subject to CIT at the rate of 25% to PT Höegh.

 

Withholding Taxes (“WHT”)

 

PT Höegh is required to withhold:

 

· WHT under Article 23/26 of the ITL at the following rates:

· 2% on payments for rent (other than land and/or building), fees for technical, management and other services to another resident taxpayer;

· 15% on payments of dividends, interest and royalties to another resident taxpayer; and

· 20% (or a reduced tax treaty rate) on payments relating to services, dividends, interest and royalties to a non-resident taxpayer. The reduced tax treaty rate is also subject to the availability of the Certificate of Domicile of the counter party in the form prescribed by the Indonesian tax regulations.

· WHT under Article 4(2) of the ITL at the rate of 10% for rent of land and/or buildings and at 3% to 6% on payments for construction services to another resident; and.

· WHT under Article 15 of the ITL at the rate of 1.2% on payments related to domestic shipping services.

 

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Salaries and wages paid to resident employees are subject to Employee Income Tax (“EIT”) under Article 21 of the ITL at progressive rates of maximum 30%. Salaries paid to non-resident employees are subject to EIT under Article 26 of the ITL at the rate of 20% from the gross salary amount. PT Höegh is required to withhold and remit EIT on monthly basis.

  

Value Added Tax (“VAT”)

 

Any fees charged by PT Höegh for services provided to PGN LNG are subject to VAT at 10%. Such VAT on revenue is called Output VAT. The Output VAT can be offset with the VAT that PT Höegh pays for the procurement of goods and/or services (“Input VAT”). If the Output VAT exceeds the Input VAT in a particular month, the balance is required to be settled by PT Höegh. However, if the Input VAT exceeds the Output VAT, the VAT overpayment can be carried forward to the following month or a refund can be requested at year end.

 

VAT of 10% would also be charged on the sale of the FSRU to PGN LNG, if applicable.

 

Debt to Equity Ratio Requirement

 

Under Minister of Finance (“MoF”) Regulation No. 169/PMK.010/2015 (“PMK-169”) Indonesian corporate taxpayers are subject to a limit in claiming financing costs as tax deduction where their debt to equity ratio exceeds 4:1. PMK 169 was effective from fiscal year 2016 onwards.

 

PMK 169 stipulates that debt shall include long-term debt, short-term debt and trade payables which bear interest. Equity includes all items recorded under the equity section of the balance sheet based on the prevailing accounting standards and interest-free loans from related parties.

 

In case the balance of equity is zero or negative, no financing costs of the taxpayer can be deducted. In case the actual ratio of the debt and equity exceeds 4:1 the deductible financing costs must be adjusted to an allowable amount based on the 4:1 ratio.

 

Certain industries, including the infrastructure industry, are exempted from the debt to equity ratio requirements. The infrastructure industry is not defined in PMK-169, however, additional guidance is expected to be provided from the DGT in the future. Therefore it is not currently certain whether PT Hoegh will be classified as part of the infrastructure industry and be exempted from the requirements.

 

Cyprus Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material Cyprus tax consequences applicable to us. This discussion is based upon existing legislation and current tax practice as of the date of this Annual Report. Changes in the existing legislation and current practice may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the Cyprus tax considerations applicable to us.

 

Taxation of profits and deduction for losses

 

Höegh Cyprus, acting through its Egypt Branch, provides a FSRU on a time charter to EgyptCo. The time charter activities are operated in the Egypt Branch.

 

Cyprus tax law exempts foreign branch profits from Cyprus corporate income tax, subject to certain exceptions. We have received a ruling from the Cyprus tax authorities confirming that this exemption applies for the profits in the Egypt Branch.

 

Any tax losses incurred by the Egypt Branch can be used as a deduction against the taxable income of Höegh Cyprus for the same year. Any unutilized branch tax losses can be carried forward. A claw-back applies for previous losses utilized in the year in which the Egypt Branch becomes profitable. Losses clawed back through taxation of equal profits are restricted to losses offset with profits/losses being carried forward and exclude expired losses (i.e. exclude losses which were carried forward but not offset with profits due to the lapse of the 5 year carry forward period from the date the losses were incurred).

 

WHT

 

Cyprus does not levy any withholding taxes on interest and dividend payments to non-Cyprus tax residents (whether legal persons or individuals). As such, dividends and interest payments made by Höegh Cyprus should not be subject to WHT.

 

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VAT

 

Höegh Cyprus should not be subject to payable VAT on the time charter or on services sourced to the Egypt Branch. A ruling request has been submitted to the Cyprus tax authorities to confirm this point.

 

Egyptian Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material Egypt tax consequences applicable to us. This discussion is based upon existing legislation and current practice as of the date of this Annual Report. Changes in the existing legislation and current practice may cause the tax consequences to vary substantially from the consequences described below. The following discussion does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the Egypt tax considerations applicable to us.

 

Taxation of Höegh Cyprus in Egypt – CIT and free zone

 

The Egypt Branch is registered as a legal entity in Egypt in the Suez Public Free Zone. The Egypt Branch is subject to a 1% free zone fee on the revenues from activities permitted under its free zone license (e.g., the time charter hire paid by EgyptCo), but is exempt from CIT on profits from the same activities.

 

WHT

 

Profit repatriation from the Egypt Branch is exempt from WHT.

 

The Egypt Branch has not drawn down debt with maturity less than three years and, as such, interest payments are not subject to WHT.

 

Payments for services made to recipients that are not tax resident in Egypt are subject to 20% WHT, subject to reduction or elimination under applicable tax treaties.

 

Sales tax

 

As a free zone entity, the Egypt Branch is not subject to sales tax on the activities permitted under its free zone license and within the permitted location to operate (e.g., the time charter hire paid by EgyptCo and related acquired goods and services).

 

Exit taxation

 

The exit of the FSRU from Egypt after the end of the time charter would be considered a deemed sale of the FSRU for Egyptian tax purposes. The gains from the deemed sale would be subject to CIT (currently at 22.5%). The gain is calculated as the fair market value of the FSRU on the exit less the tax base value after deemed depreciation based on the assumption that it is considered as an asset.

 

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C. Organizational Structure

 

We are a publicly traded limited partnership formed on April 28, 2014. The diagram below depicts our simplified organizational and ownership structure.

 

 

We listed our common units on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) in August 2014 under the ticker symbol “HMLP.”

 

We were formed under the law of the Marshall Islands and maintain our principal executive headquarters at Wessex House, 5th Floor, 45 Reid Street, Hamilton HM12, Bermuda.

 

A full list of our significant operating and vessel-owning subsidiaries is included in Exhibit 8.1.

 

D. Property, Plant and Equipment

 

Other than the vessels in our fleet, we do not have any material property.

 

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Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comment

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

 

You should read the following discussion of our financial condition and results of operations in conjunction with “Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data” and “Item 4. Information on the Partnership” and the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and related notes of Höegh LNG Partners LP and the combined financial statements and related notes of our joint ventures owning the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , each included elsewhere in this Annual Report. We account for our equity interests in our joint ventures owning the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann as equity method investments in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Among other things, those financial statements include more detailed information regarding the basis of presentation for the following information. Such financial statements, including related notes thereto, have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP and are presented in U.S. Dollars.

  

The following discussion assumes that our business was operated as a separate entity prior to our IPO on August 12, 2014. The combined carve-out financial statements prior to our IPO have been carved out of the consolidated financial statements of Höegh LNG, which owned our interests in Höegh Lampung, PT Höegh (the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring) and our joint ventures, SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (the owner of the GDF Suez Neptune ) and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (the owner the GDF Suez Cape Ann ). Prior to the closing of the IPO, Höegh LNG contributed to us all of its equity interests in and promissory notes due to it from each of the entities owning the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann and the PGN FSRU Lampung (the “initial fleet”).The transfer was recorded at Höegh LNG’s consolidated book values, as converted to US GAAP.

 

Our financial position, results of operations and cash flows reflected in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements include all expenses allocable to our business, but may not be indicative of those that would have been achieved had we operated as a separate public entity for all periods presented or of future results.

 

Overview

 

We were formed on April 28, 2014 as a growth-oriented limited partnership by Höegh LNG, to own, operate and acquire FSRUs, LNG carriers and other LNG infrastructure assets under long-term charters, which we define as charters of five or more years.

 

On August 12, 2014, we completed our IPO. At the closing of the IPO, we sold 11,040,000 common units to the public for net proceeds, after deduction of underwriters’ discount and offering expenses, of $203.5 million. We also issued 2,116,060 common units and 13,156,060 subordinated units, representing approximately 58.0% of the limited partner interest in the Partnership, and 100% of the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) to Höegh LNG. A wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG owns a non-economic general partner interest in us.

 

On October 1, 2015, we purchased 100% of the shares of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the FSRU Höegh Gallant , which we accounted for as the acquisition of a business. Accordingly, the results of this acquisition are included in our results of operations from October 1, 2015.

 

Our Fleet

 

Our fleet consists of interests in the following vessels:

 

  · a 50% interest in the GDF Suez Neptune , an FSRU built in 2009 that is currently operating under a time charter with GDF Suez, a subsidiary of ENGIE, a French publicly listed, government-backed, electric utility company, that expires in 2029, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each;

 

  · a 50% interest in the GDF Suez Cape Ann , an FSRU built in 2010 that is currently operating under a time charter with GDF Suez that expires in 2030, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each; and

 

  · a 100% economic interest in the PGN FSRU Lampung , an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with PGN LNG, a subsidiary of an Indonesian publicly listed, government-controlled, gas and energy company that constructs gas pipelines and infrastructure and distributes and transmits natural gas to industrial, commercial and household users, that expires in 2034, with options to extend either for an additional 10 years or for up to two additional periods of five years each; and

 

  · a 100% interest in the Höegh Gallant , an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, that expires in 2020. EgyptCo has a time charter agreement with EGAS that expires in 2020. In addition, we have an option agreement pursuant to which we have the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025.

 

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For a description of our joint ventures and our shareholder agreements, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements.”

 

Pursuant to the omnibus agreement we entered into with Höegh LNG at the time of the IPO (i) Höegh LNG is obligated to offer to us any FSRU or LNG carrier operating under a charter of five or more years and (ii) we have a right to purchase from Höegh LNG all or a portion of its interests in the FSRU Independence within 24 months after the acceptance of the vessel by her charterer, ABKN subject to reaching an agreement with Höegh LNG regarding the purchase price and other terms of the transaction and subject to the consent of ABKN.

 

Accordingly, we have, or may in the future have, the opportunity to acquire the FSRUs listed below:

 

· On May 26, 2015, Höegh LNG signed a contract for a term of twenty years with Octopus to provide an FSRU to service for the Penco-Lirquén LNG import terminal to be located in Concepción Bay, Chile. The contract is subject to Octopus completing financing and obtaining necessary environmental approvals. Höegh LNG is expected to service the contract with Hull No. 2865 which is currently being constructed by HHI. The contract is expected to commence in the second quarter of 2018.

 

· On November 1, 2014, Höegh LNG signed a contract for a minimum term of ten years with SPEC to provide an FSRU (the Höegh Grace ) to service a new LNG import terminal in Colombia. The Höegh Grace was delivered by the shipyard in the first quarter of 2016, and its contract is expected to commence in the middle of 2016.

 

· On December 5, 2014, the Independence began operating under its time charter with ABKN. The Partnership and Höegh LNG continue to pursue, but have not received, ABKN’s consent to the acquisition of the Independence by the Partnership.

 

In addition to the FSRU being constructed for Octopus, Höegh LNG has one additional FSRU ( Hull No. 2552 ) on order which is scheduled to be delivered in mid-2017. This newbuilding has not yet been contracted.

 

We will have the right to purchase the Höegh Grace , Hull no. 2865 and, assuming a charter of five or more years is secured or assigned for Hull no. 2552 , Hull no. 2552 from Höegh LNG upon acceptance of such vessels by their respective charterers pursuant to the terms of the omnibus agreement. However, there can be no assurance that we will acquire any vessels from Höegh LNG.

 

Our Charters

 

We and our joint ventures generate revenues by chartering our vessels under long-term time charters. As of December 31, 2015, the average remaining term of the time charters for the vessels in our fleet was approximately 14.1 years, excluding the exercise of any customer options, and 20.4 years, assuming the exercise of all customer options.

 

Under our time charters for the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , the rate charged for the services of each vessel, which we call the “hire rate,” is paid monthly in advance. Under our time charters for the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Höegh Gallant , the hire rate is paid monthly in arrearsUnder certain time charters, hire payments may be reduced if the vessel does not perform to certain of her specifications, such as the amount of fuel consumed to power the vessel under normal circumstances exceeds a guaranteed amount.

 

Moreover, when a vessel is “off-hire”—or not available for service—the customer generally is not required to pay any hire rate, and the vessel owner is responsible for all costs. Prolonged off-hire may lead to termination of the time charter.

  

Under the time charters for the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , the hire rate includes the following three cost components:

 

  · Fixed Element . The fixed element is a fixed per day fee providing for ownership costs and all remuneration due to the vessel owner for use of the vessel and the provision of time charter services.

 

  · Variable (Operating Cost) Element . The variable (operating cost) element is a fixed per day fee providing for the operating costs of the vessel, which consists of (i) a cost pass-through sub-element, which covers the crew, insurance, consumables, miscellaneous services, spares and damage deductible costs and is subject to annual adjustment and (ii) an indexed sub-element, which covers management and is subject to annual adjustment for changes in labor costs and the size of the fleet under management.

 

  · Optional (Capitalized Equipment Cost) Element . The optional (capitalized equipment cost) element consists of (i) costs associated with modifications to, changes in specifications of, structural changes in or new equipment for the vessel that become compulsory for the continued operation of the vessel by reason of new class requirements or national or international regulations coming into effect after the date of the time charter, subject to specified caps and (ii) costs associated with any new equipment or machinery that the owner and charterer have agreed should be capitalized. Such costs are distributed over the remaining term of the time charter.

 

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Under the GDF Suez Neptune and GDF Suez Cape Ann time charters, a vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if she is not available for the charterer’s use for a specific amount of time due to, among other things:

 

  · failure of an inspection that prevents the vessel from performing normal commercial operations;

 

  · scheduled drydocking that exceeds allowances;

 

  · the vessel’s inability to discharge regasified LNG at normal performance;

 

  · requisition of the vessel; or

 

  · the vessel owner’s failure to maintain the vessel in compliance with her specifications and contractual standards or to provide the required crew.

 

The hire rate under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter consists of the following three cost components:

 

  · Capital Element . The capital element is a fixed per day fee, which is intended to cover remuneration due to the vessel owner for use of the vessel and the provision of time charter services.

 

  · Operating and Maintenance Element . The operating and maintenance element is a fixed per day fee, subject to annual adjustment, which is intended to cover the operating costs of the vessel, including manning costs, maintenance and repair costs, consumables and stores costs, insurance costs, management and operational costs, miscellaneous costs and alterations not required by Det Norske Veritas GL to maintain class or the IMO.

 

  · Tax Element . The tax element is a fixed per day fee, equal to the vessel owner’s reasonable estimate of the tax liability for that charter year divided by the number of days in such charter year. If the vessel owner receives a tax refund or credit, the vessel owner will pay such amount to the charterer. The tax liability includes Indonesian corporate income taxes, defined withholding taxes and all Indonesian taxes associated with the Mooring. The time charter requires an annual audit to determine the difference between the invoiced estimate of the tax liability and the actual tax liability. If the vessel owner’s reasonable estimate of the tax liability varied from the actual tax liability, the vessel owner or the charterer, as applicable, will pay to the other party the difference in such amount.

 

Under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if she is not available for the charterer’s use for a specified amount of time due to, among other things:

 

  · drydocking that exceeds allowances;

 

  · the vessel failing to satisfy specified operational minimum requirements, except as a result of a Lampung Charterer Risk Event (as defined under “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters—Item 4.B. PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Performance Standards”) or an event of force majeure; or

 

  · the vessel owner’s failure to satisfy the management warranties described under “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Performance Standards.”

 

The hire rate under the Höegh Gallant time charter is a fixed per day fee which is intended to cover remuneration due to the vessel owner for use of the vessel and the provision of time charter services as well as the operating and maintenance costs of the vessel, including manning costs, the cost of spare parts, bunker fuel and any tax incurred.

 

Under the Höegh Gallant time charter, the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if she is not available for the charterer’s use for a specified amount of time due to, among other things:

 

- drydocking or other repairs and maintenance;
- any force majeure event acting on the vessel; and
- every other occasion the vessel ceases to be at the disposal of the charterer, including due to damage, defect, deficiency of crew or spare parts, labor disputes, time in and waiting to enter dry dock for repairs or because of a failure to comply with laws, regulations, physical requirements or operational practices at the site of vessel operations.

 

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Additionally we have agreed to indemnify EgyptCo for any loss (up to a specified cap), including loss of earnings and certain liquidated damages payable under EgyptCo’s charter with EGAS, caused by an operational failure of the vessel.

 

We have obtained loss of hire insurance to protect us against loss of income in the event one of our vessels cannot be employed due to damage that is covered under the terms of our hull and machinery insurance. Please read “—Insurance.”

 

For more information on our time charters, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters.”

 

Impact of Our Interests in Joint Ventures on Our Financial Information

 

Two of the four vessels in our fleet are owned by our joint ventures, each of which is owned 50% by us. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements.” Under applicable accounting guidance, we do not consolidate the financial results of our joint ventures into our financial results, but we record our joint venture results using the equity method of accounting. The following provides a description of the impact of our interests in our joint ventures on select components of our statements of income in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

  · Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Joint Ventures . Consists of our 50% share of the combined net income of our joint ventures. The net income of our joint ventures gives effect to interest expense associated with payments on the shareholder loans to the owners of our joint ventures as described below. Equity in earnings of joint ventures also includes the unrealized gains or losses on adjusting the interest rate swap contracts to fair value in each period, which can result in significant volatility between years. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 there was no income tax expense for our joint ventures. The equity in earnings of joint ventures is a “one line” consolidation of the results of our joint ventures. Therefore, our joint venture’s revenues and expenses are not included in other lines of the consolidated and combined carve-out income statement.

 

  · Interest Income . Interest income represents our share of interest income accrued on the advances to our joint ventures (shareholder loans). The shareholder loans were originally issued by Höegh LNG to our joint ventures and were transferred to our operating company in connection with the IPO. For a description of the shareholder loans, please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Joint Ventures Debt—Loans Due to Owners (Shareholder Loans).”

 

The following provides a description of the impact of our interests in our joint ventures on selected components of our balance sheets in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

  · Advances to Joint Ventures . Represents our share of the advances to our joint ventures (shareholder loans). Please read note 14 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

  · Investment in (Accumulated Losses) of Joint Ventures . Represents our share of the net liabilities of our joint ventures. Our joint ventures entered into interest rate swap contracts, which historically have had unrealized mark-to-market losses on the interest rate swap contracts recorded as derivative financial instrument liabilities on the combined balance sheets. As a result, the liabilities exceed the assets for our joint ventures’ combined balance sheets and result in us having a net liability balance for our investment in our joint ventures. Please read note 17 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. The investment in (accumulated losses) of our joint ventures is a “one line” consolidation of the balance sheet of our joint ventures. Therefore, our joint ventures’ assets and liabilities are not included in other lines of the historical consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet.

 

We derive cash flows from the operations of our joint ventures from interest and principal payments on our share of the shareholder loans issued to such joint ventures. Under the terms of the shareholders’ agreement, the payments are prioritized over any dividend payment to the owners. Our joint ventures have not paid any dividends to date. The payments of principal and interest are made based upon available cash after servicing our joint ventures’ long-term bank debt. Therefore, the payments of interest have historically been less than interest income accrued for the period. The quarterly payments include a payment of interest for the first month of the quarter and interest is accrued for the last two months of the quarter for repayment in the latter years of the loans The following provides a description of the impacts of our interests in our joint ventures on select components of our statement of cash flows in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements:

 

  · Cash Flows Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities . Receipt of cash payments for interest income on the shareholder loans is reflected in cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, such payments amounted to $0.5 million, $0.6 million and $0.7 million, respectively. All other cash flows provided by (used in) operating activities relate to our other activities.

 

  · Cash Flows Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities . Receipts from repayment of principal of advances to joint ventures represent principal repayments paid by our joint ventures to us on its shareholder loans. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, such payments amounted to $5.8 million, $6.7 million and $5.5 million, respectively. All other cash flows provided by (used in) investing activities relate to our other activities.

 

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Please read our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and the combined financial statements of our joint ventures included elsewhere in this Annual Report for more detailed information.

 

Historical Employment of Our Fleet

 

The following table describes the operations of the vessels in our fleet. 

 

Vessel   Description of Historical Operations
GDF Suez Neptune   Delivered in November 2009. Has operated under a long-term time charter with GDF Suez, which commenced on delivery.
GDF Suez Cape Ann   Delivered in June 2010. Has operated under a long-term time charter with GDF Suez, which commenced on delivery.
PGN FSRU Lampung   Delivered in April 2014. Has operated under a long-term time charter with PGN LNG, which commenced on July 21, 2014.
Höegh Gallant   Delivered in November 2014. Acquired on October 1, 2015. Has operated under a long-term time charter with EgyptCo since acquisition date.  

 

Items You Should Consider When Evaluating Our Historical Financial Performance and Assessing Our Future Prospects

 

You should consider the following facts when evaluating our historical results of operations and assessing our future prospects:

 

  · The size of our fleet continues to change . Our historical results of operations reflect changes in the size and composition of our fleet due to certain vessel deliveries. The PGN FSRU Lampung was delivered from the shipyard in April 2014 and commenced operations in July 2014 and, as such, has had historical operations for part of 2014 and the year ended December 31, 2015. As of October 1, 2015, we increased our fleet with the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant which contributed to our results of operations commencing in the fourth quarter of 2015. In addition, pursuant to the omnibus agreement, we will have the right to purchase from Höegh LNG any FSRU or LNG carrier operating under a charter of five or more years, if the purchase price is agreed upon in accordance with the provisions of the omnibus agreement. Furthermore, we may grow through the acquisition in the future of additional vessels as part of our growth strategy.

 

  · We no longer own the Mooring and will not have construction contract revenue and expenses. Our historical results of operations up to and including the year ended December 31, 2014 include revenues and expenses related to the construction of the Mooring, an offshore installation that is used to moor the PGN FSRU Lampung . The construction of the Mooring was 100% complete in the fourth quarter of 2014 and the Mooring was transferred to the charterer. We do not expect to engage in the construction of moorings in the next few years. Höegh LNG may deliver mooring solutions prior to us acquiring FSRUs under the omnibus agreement. However, when time charters expire on existing vessels or if we acquire vessels from third parties, we may offer construction of moorings to new charterers.

 

  · Upon completion of the IPO until October 1, 2015, we had increased interest income . At the closing of the IPO, we lent $140 million to Höegh LNG in exchange for a note bearing interest at a rate of 5.88% per annum. The cancellation of the note was utilized as part of the purchase consideration for the acquisition of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant . Interest income attributable to the note was included in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements subsequent to the IPO until the demand note was cancelled on October 1, 2015.

  

  · Our historical results of operations are affected by significant gains and losses relating to derivative transactions . Our historical results of operations reflect significant gains and losses relating to interest rate swap contracts that impact our equity in earnings for our joint ventures and were entered into by our joint ventures. On October 1, 2015 we assumed the interest rate swap contracts related to the Gallant facility (as defined below) as part of the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant. On March 17, 2014, we entered into interest rate swap contracts related to the Lampung facility (as defined below). The interest rate swaps related to the Gallant facility and the Lampung facility are designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes, however, certain amortization and the ineffective portion of the hedge impacts the results of operations. Refer to note 20 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. We may enter into additional (i) interest rate swap contracts to economically hedge all or a portion of our exposure to floating interest rates and (ii) foreign currency swap contracts to economically hedge risk from foreign currency fluctuations.

 

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  · Our historical results of operations prior to the IPO reflect allocated administrative costs that may not be indicative of future administrative costs . The administrative costs included in our historical results of operations prior to the IPO on August 12, 2014 have been determined by allocating certain of Höegh LNG’s administrative costs, after deducting costs directly charged to Höegh LNG’s subsidiaries for services provided by the administrative staff, to us principally based on the size of our fleet (including newbuildings) in relation to the size of Höegh LNG’s fleet (including newbuildings). These allocated costs may not be indicative of our future administrative costs. In connection with the IPO, we and our operating company have entered into an administrative services agreement with Höegh UK and our operating company has entered into an administrative services agreement with Leif Höegh UK, pursuant to which Höegh UK and Leif Höegh UK provide us and our operating company with certain administrative services. Höegh UK also subcontracts certain of the administrative services provided under its administrative services agreement to Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK. Subsequent to the IPO, we reimburse Höegh UK and Leif Höegh UK, and Höegh UK reimburses Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh UK, for the reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of the services under such administrative services agreements. In addition, Höegh UK (i) pays to Höegh Norway a service fee equal to 3.0% of the costs and expenses incurred in connection with providing services and (ii) pays to Leif Höegh UK a service fee equal to 5.0% of the costs and expenses of certain secretarial services with all other services of Leif Höegh UK reimbursed at cost.

 

  · We incur additional general and administrative expense as a publicly traded limited partnership . Subsequent to our IPO in August 2014, we began to incur costs of being a publicly traded partnership as part of our general and administrative expenses. These costs include costs for implementing internal controls, preparing SEC filings including associated auditor and legal fees, holding the unitholder meetings, travelling for investor relations meetings, registrar and transfer agent fees, and incremental director and officer liability insurance costs and directors’ compensation.

 

  · Our results of operations are affected by accounting for the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter as a direct financing lease . When the PGN FSRU Lampung began operating under her charter, we recorded a receivable (net investment in direct financing lease) and removed the PGN FSRU Lampung from our balance sheet. The lease element of time charter payments under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter is split between revenues and the repayment of part of the receivable. The revenues are recorded using the effective interest method, which provides for a constant rate of return on the net investment. As a result, the revenues will decline over time as more of the time charter payments are treated as a repayment of the receivable. However, the cash flows from the PGN FSRU Lampung are not impacted by the accounting treatment. In addition, since the vessel is reclassified to the net investment in direct financing lease on the balance sheet, there is no charge for depreciation expense. In our consolidated and combined carve-out statements of cash flows, the time charter payments reflected as revenues are included under net cash provided by (used in) operating activities while the repayment of the receivable are included under net cash provided by (used in) investing activities.

 

Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations

 

We believe the principal factors that will affect our future results of operations include:

 

  · the number of vessels in our fleet;

 

  · our ability to successfully employ our vessels at economically attractive hire rates as long-term charters expire or are otherwise terminated;

  

  · our ability to maintain strong relationships with our existing customers and to increase the number of customer relationships;

 

  · our ability to acquire additional vessels, including the Independence, the Höegh Gallant or Höegh LNG’s other newbuildings;

 

  · our ability to raise capital to fund acquisitions;
     
  · the levels of demand for FSRU, LNG carrier services and other LNG infrastructure;

 

  · the hire rate earned by our vessels, unscheduled off-hire days and the level of our vessel operating expenses;

 

  · the effective and efficient technical and maritime management and crewing of our vessels;

 

  · economic, regulatory, political and governmental conditions that affect the floating LNG industry;

 

  · interest rate changes;

 

  · mark-to-market changes in interest rate swap contracts and foreign currency swap contracts;

 

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  · foreign currency exchange gains and losses;

 

  · our access to capital required to acquire additional vessels and/or to implement our business strategy;

 

  · variations in crewing and insurance costs;

 

  · the level of debt and the related interest expense; and

 

  · the level of any distribution on our common units.

 

Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors” for a discussion of certain risks inherent in our business.

 

Important Financial and Operational Terms and Concepts

 

We use a variety of financial and operational terms and concepts when analyzing our and our joint ventures’ performance. These include the following:

 

Time Charter Revenues . Revenues include fees for the right to use FSRUs for a stated period of time that meet the criteria for lease accounting, in addition to providing a time charter service element. Time charter revenues may consist of charter hire payments under time charters, fees for providing time charter services, fees for reimbursement for actual vessel operating expenses, certain tax elements and drydocking costs borne by the charterer on a pass-through basis, as well as fees for the reimbursement of certain vessel modifications or other costs borne by the charterer. Time charter revenues are presented net of any value added tax (“VAT”) or other tax.

 

The lease element of time charters that are accounted for as operating leases and any upfront payments for amounts reimbursed by the charterer are recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the charter. The time charter for the Höegh Gallant is accounted for as an operating lease.

 

The lease element of time charters that are accounted for as direct financing leases is recognized over the charter term using the effective interest rate method and is included in time charter revenues. Direct financing leases are reflected on the balance sheets as net investments in direct financing leases. The time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung is accounted for as a direct financing lease.

 

Revenues for the lease element of time charters are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off hire.

 

Fees for providing time charter services and reimbursements for actual vessel operating expenses or other costs are recognized as revenues as services are performed or the actual costs are incurred. Revenues for the time charter services element are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off-hire.

  

Fees for modifications or other additions to equipment are deferred and amortized over the shorter of the remaining charter period or the useful life of the additions. Upfront payments of fees for reimbursement of drydocking costs are recognized on a straight-line basis over the period to the next drydocking.

 

Revenues are affected by hire rates and the number of days a vessel operates.

 

Voyage Expenses . Under our time charters, the charterer typically pays the voyage expenses. We, as vessel owner, are responsible for any voyage expenses incurred during periods of off-hire under the time charter.

 

Vessel Operating Expenses . Vessel operating expenses, reflected in expenses in the income statement, include crewing, repairs and maintenance, insurance, stores, lube oils, communication expenses and management fees. Vessel operating expenses also include bunker fuel expenses when the vessel is on hire and the expenses are not paid by the charterers. When the vessel is on hire, vessel operating expenses are invoiced as fees to the charterer or are covered by time charter rates. When the vessel is off-hire, vessel operating expenses are not invoiced to the charterer.

 

Off-hire . Under our time charters, when the vessel is off-hire, or not available for service, the customer generally is not required to pay the hire rate, and the vessel owner is responsible for all costs. Prolonged off-hire may lead to a termination of the time charter. A vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if there is a loss of time due to, among other things, operational deficiencies; unscheduled drydocking for repairs, maintenance or inspection (typically only in excess of a specified period); equipment breakdowns; delays due to accidents, crewing strikes, certain vessel detentions or similar problems; or the vessel owner’s failure to maintain the vessel in compliance with her specifications and contractual standards or to provide the required crew. We have obtained loss of hire insurance to protect us against loss of income in the event one of our vessels cannot be employed due to damage that is covered under the terms of our hull and machinery insurance. Under our loss of hire policy, our insurer will pay us the hire rate agreed in respect of each vessel for each day, in excess of 20 deductible days, for the time that the vessel is out of service as a result of damage, for a maximum of 180 days.

 

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Drydocking . We must periodically have surveys, class renewals and drydocks of our vessels for inspection, repairs and maintenance and any modifications required to comply with industry certification or governmental requirements. For each of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann after the modifications and first drydocking completed in 2012 and 2015, respectively, the vessels are on an approved extended drydock interval. However, the class survey intervals are unchanged. The intermediate survey is carried out after 2.5 years and then every 5 years thereafter. A class renewal survey is conducted every five years. During the first 15 years of operation, the vessels have an approved extended drydock interval which allows them to be drydocked every 7.5 years. After the vessel reaches 15 years old, it must be drydocked every 5 years. Subject to the charterers’ requirements for Condition Assessment Programme (CAP), the drydocking schedule may be changed to every immediate and class renewals, which would require drydocking every 2.5 years. GDF Suez has subchartered the GDF Suez Cape Ann , which resulted in some modifications to the vessel. As a result, certain drydocking procedures were completed at the same time and in advance of the normally scheduled drydocking. As a result, the next scheduled drydocking for the GDF Suez Cape Ann is in 2017. The GDF Suez Neptune started modification and drydocking procedures in March 2015 which were completed in April 2015. The GDF Suez Neptune remained on hire during the drydocking. As a result, the next drydocking for the GDF Suez Neptune is expected to be in 2022. Our time charters for the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann require the charterer to pay the hire rate for up to a specified number of days of scheduled drydocking and reimburse us for anticipated drydocking costs. We do not anticipate drydocking the PGN FSRU Lampung for at least 20 years as certain inspections can be done without drydocking. For the Höegh Gallant a renewal survey is expected to be conducted every five years. During the first 15 years of operation, the vessel should qualify for an extended drydock interval which allows it to be drydocked every 7.5 years, and after the initial 15 year period we expect that the vessel will be drydocked every five years. The Höegh Gallant time charter does not cover the costs of drydocking. If drydocking is required during the term of the Höegh Gallant time charter, the vessel would be off-hire. For vessels, we capitalize the costs directly associated with the classification and regulatory requirements for inspection of the vessels or improving the vessel’s operating efficiency, functionality or safety during drydocking. We expense costs related to routine repairs and maintenance performed during drydocking or as otherwise incurred. The number of drydockings undertaken in a given period and the nature of the work performed determine the level of drydocking expenditures.

 

Depreciation and Amortization . Depreciation on vessels and equipment is calculated on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life of 35 years. Drydocking expenditures are capitalized when incurred and amortized over the period until the next anticipated drydocking. For vessels that are newly built, the "built-in overhaul" method of accounting is applied. Under the built-in overhaul method, costs of the newbuilding are segregated into costs that should be depreciated over the useful life of the vessel and costs that require drydocking at periodic intervals. The drydocking component is amortized until the date of the first drydocking following the delivery, upon which the actual drydocking cost is capitalized and the process is repeated. Costs of drydocking incurred to meet regulatory requirements or improve the vessel’s operating efficiency, functionality or safety are capitalized. Costs incurred related to routine repairs and maintenance performed during drydocking are expensed.

 

Amortization of definite lived intangible assets is calculated on a straight-line basis over an estimated useful life. We have two contract-related intangible assets acquired as part of the acquisition of the 100% interest in the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant . The intangible for the above market value of the time charter contract associated with the Höegh Gallant is amortized on a straight line basis over the remaining term of the contract. Pursuant to an option agreement, we have the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the existing charter in May 2020 until July 2025. The intangible for the option for time charter extension will be amortized on a straight line basis over the extension period starting in May 2020, subject to impairment testing for recoverability in the preceding periods.

  

Impairment of Long-Lived Asset s. Vessels, equipment, newbuildings and intangibles subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances are present, the recoverability of assets are assessed by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through undiscounted expected future cash flows. If the asset’s net carrying value exceeds the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated over its remaining useful life, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its estimated fair value. An impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the asset.

 

Interest Income and Interest Expense . Interest income principally includes interest income on advances to our joint ventures and demand note from Höegh LNG until October 1, 2015 when it was cancelled. Interest expense (including amortization of debt issuance cost and the fair value of debt assumed) principally relates to the financing of the Höegh Gallant , the PGN FSRU Lampung , the seller’s credit note, and, prior to July 3, 2014, the construction contract expense for the Mooring.

 

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Customers

 

For the years ended December 31, 2015, time charter revenues in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income are from PGN LNG, a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, an Indonesian publicly listed, government-controlled, gas and energy company that constructs gas pipelines and infrastructure and distributes and transmits natural gas to industrial, commercial and household users and EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG. For the years ended December 31, 2014, and 2013, all time charter and construction contract revenues are from PGN LNG. Revenues included as a component of equity in earnings of joint ventures are from GDF Suez and accounted for 100% of our joint ventures’ time charter revenues for all periods presented. GDF Suez is a subsidiary of ENGIE, a French publicly listed, government-backed, electric utility company.

 

Inflation and Cost Increases

 

Inflation has not had a significant impact on operating expenses, including crewing costs, for the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . FSRUs are specialized vessels, and there has been demand for experienced crew, which has led to higher crew costs. The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann time charters provide for operating cost pass-through, which means that we will be able to pass on the cost increases to the charterer.

 

A portion of the operating cost for the PGN FSRU Lampung will increase for inflation in Indonesia, including part of the crew and certain supplies. Indonesian inflation has ranged from approximately 4.0% to over 8.0% in recent years. The PGN FSRU Lampung time charter provides that the operating cost component of the hire rate, established at the beginning of the time charter, will increase by a fixed percentage per year for the first five years and be reset each fifth year based on the average increase over the previous five years, which is expected to mitigate to some extent cost increases.

 

The Höegh Gallant operates in Egypt which has inflation rates ranging from 10-11%; however, a limited amount of operating expenses related to the Höegh Gallant is denominated in EGP. Most costs are denominated in U.S. Dollars. The Höegh Gallant time charter does not have pass-through provisions for operating costs. As such, we bear the risk of cost increases due to inflation and exchange rates. A review of the hire rate under the Höegh Gallant time charter may be conducted in in approximately two years but a revised rate can only be implemented after written approval by both parties to the time charter.

 

Insurance

 

Hull and Machinery Insurance . We have obtained hull and machinery insurance on all our vessels against marine risks, which include the risks of damage to our vessels, including claims arising from collisions with other vessels or contact with jetties or wharves, salvage or towing costs and also insure against actual or constructive total loss of any of our vessels. However, our insurance policies contain deductible amounts for which we will be responsible.

 

Loss of Hire Insurance . We have also obtained loss of hire insurance to protect us against loss of income in the event the vessel cannot be employed due to damage that is covered under the terms of our hull and machinery insurance. Under our loss of hire policy, our insurer will pay us the hire rate agreed in respect of each vessel for each day, in excess of 20 deductible days, for the time that the vessel is out of service as a result of damage, for a maximum of 180 days.

 

Protection and Indemnity Insurance . Protection and indemnity insurance, which covers our third-party legal liabilities in connection with our shipping or floating regasification activities, is provided by a mutual protection and indemnity association (a “P&I club”). This includes third-party liability and other expenses related to the injury or death of crewmembers, passengers and other third-party persons, loss or damage to cargo and other damage to other third-party property, including pollution arising from oil or other substances, and other related costs, including wreck removal.

 

War risk . The war risk insurance arranged for all our vessels covers standard hull and machinery, protection and indemnity and loss of hire, if the event causing the damage is a war peril. In addition, war risk insurance will also compensate the owner for the total loss of the ship caused by intervention of a foreign state power, or if the ship is prevented from leaving a port or a similar limited area.

  

Our current protection and indemnity insurance coverage is limited to $3.08 billion for all liabilities, except for pollution, which is limited to $1 billion per vessel per incident. We are a member of the Gard P&I Club, which is one of the 13 P&I clubs that comprise the International Group of Protection and Indemnity Clubs (the “International Group”). Members of the International Group insure approximately 90% of the world’s commercial tonnage, and they have entered into a pooling agreement to reinsure each P&I club’s liabilities. P&I clubs provide the basic layer of insurance, which is currently $10 million. For members of the International Group, the International Group provides the next layer of insurance, covering liability between $10 million and $30 million. For liabilities above $30 million, the International Group has one of the world’s largest reinsurance contracts, with the maximum liability per accident or occurrence currently set at $3 billion. As a member of the Gard P&I Club, we are subject to a call for additional premiums based on the clubs’ claims record, as well as the claims record of all other members of the P&I clubs comprising the International Group. However, our P&I club has reinsured the risk of additional premium calls to limit our additional exposure. This reinsurance is subject to a cap, and there is the risk that the full amount of the additional call would not be covered by this reinsurance.

 

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The insurers providing the covers for hull and machinery, loss of hire and protection and indemnity have confirmed that they will consider the FSRUs as vessels for the purpose of providing insurance.

 

Environmental indemnifications. Under the omnibus agreement, Höegh LNG will indemnify the Partnership until August 12, 2019 against certain environmental and toxic tort liabilities with respect to the assets contributed or sold to the Partnership to the extent arising prior to the time they were contributed or sold to the Partnership. Liabilities resulting from a change in law are excluded from the environmental indemnity. There is an aggregate cap of $5.0 million on the amount of indemnity coverage provided by Höegh LNG for environmental and toxic tort liabilities. No claim may be made unless the aggregate dollar amount of all claims exceeds $500,000, in which case Höegh LNG is liable for claims only to the extent such aggregate amount exceeds $500,000.

 

Other indemnifications. Under the omnibus agreement, Höegh LNG will also indemnify the Partnership for losses:

 

  · related to certain defects in title to the assets contributed or sold to the Partnership and any failure to obtain, prior to the time they were contributed to the Partnership, certain consents and permits necessary to conduct the business, which liabilities arise within three years after the closing of the IPO;

 

  · related to certain tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the assets contributed or sold to the Partnership prior to the time they were contributed or sold;

 

  · in the event that the Partnership does not receive hire rate payments under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for the period commencing on August 12, 2014 through the earlier of (i) the date of acceptance of the PGN FSRU Lampung or (ii) the termination of such time charter. The Partnership was indemnified by Höegh LNG for the September 2014 and October 2014 invoices not paid by PGN LNG (refer to note 21 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements);

 

  · with respect to any obligation to pay liquidated damages to PGN LNG under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for failure to deliver the PGN FSRU Lampung by the scheduled delivery date set forth in the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter;

 

  · with respect to any non-budgeted expenses (including repair costs) incurred in connection with the PGN FSRU Lampung project (including the construction of the Mooring) occurring prior to the date of acceptance of the PGN FSRU Lampung pursuant to the time charter; and

 

· pursuant to a letter agreement dated August 12, 2015, Höegh LNG confirmed that the indemnification provisions of the omnibus agreement include indemnification for all non-budgeted, non-creditable Indonesian value added taxes and non-budgeted Indonesian withholding taxes, including any related impact on cash flow from PT Höegh and interest and penalties associated with any non-timely Indonesian tax filings related to the ownership or operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring whether incurred (i) prior to the closing date of the IPO, (ii) after the closing date of the IPO to the extent such taxes, interest, penalties or related impact on cash flows relate to periods of ownership or operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring and are not subject to prior indemnification payments or deemed reimbursable by the charterer under its audit of the taxes related to the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for periods up to and including June 30, 2015, or (iii) after June 30, 2015 to the extent withholding taxes exceed the minimum amount of withholding tax due under Indonesian tax regulations due to lack of documentation or untimely withholding tax filings. The Partnership is indemnified for recovery of the $6.2 million VAT liability related to a Mooring invoice.

 

The Partnership filed claims for indemnification with respect to non-budgeted expenses (including the warranty provision, value added tax, withholding tax and costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements filed with the SEC on November 30, 2015) of approximately $7.7 million and $0.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 and the first quarter of 2016, respectively. Indemnification payments received from Höegh LNG in 2015 of $6.6 million were recorded as a contribution to equity.

 

Please refer to “Item 5.A. Operating Results—Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with the Year ended December 31, 2013—PGN LNG Claims including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications” for additional discussion.

 

Under the contribution, purchase and sale agreement entered into with respect to the purchase of the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , Höegh LNG will indemnify the Partnership for:

 

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· losses from breach of warranty;
· losses related to certain environmental and tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the Höegh Gallant prior to the closing date;
· all capital gains tax or other export duty incurred in connection with the transfer of the Höegh Gallant outside of Höegh Cyprus ’s permanent establishment in a Public Free Zone in Egypt;
· any recurring non-budgeted costs owed to Höegh LNG Management with respect to payroll taxes;
· any non-budgeted losses suffered or incurred in connection with the commencement of services under the time charter with EgyptCo or EgyptCo’s time charter with EGAS; and
· liabilities under the Gallant/Grace facility not attributable to the Höegh Gallant .

 

Additionally, Höegh LNG has guaranteed the payment of hire by EgyptCo pursuant to the time charter for the Höegh Gallant under certain circumstances.

 

A. Operating Results

 

The following table summarizes our operating results for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013:

 

    Year ended December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Statement of Income Data:                  
Time charter revenues   $ 57,465     $ 22,227     $  
Construction contract revenues           51,868       51,062  
Other revenue           474       511  
Total revenues     57,465       74,569       51,573  
Voyage expenses           (1,139 )      
Vessel operating expenses     (9,679 )     (6,197 )      
Construction contract expenses           (38,570 )     (43,958 )
Administrative expenses     (8,733 )     (12,566 )     (8,043 )
Depreciation and amortization     (2,653 )     (1,317 )     (8 )
Total operating expenses     (21,065 )     (59,789 )     (52,009 )
Equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures     17,123       (5,330 )     40,228  
Operating income     53,523       9,450       39,792  
Interest income     7,568       4,959       2,122  
Interest expense     (17,770 )     (9,665 )     (352 )
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     949       (161 )      
Other items, net     (2,678 )     (2,788 )     (1,096 )
Income before tax     41,592       1,795       40,466  
Income tax expense     (313 )     (481 )      
Net income   $ 41,279       1,314       40,466  

 

Financial Highlights in 2015 and Early 2016

 

The following sets forth our significant developments for the year ended December 31, 2015 and early 2016:

 

  · Total time charter revenues were $57.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $22.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

  · Operating income was $53.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $9.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014; operating income was impacted by unrealized gain on derivative instruments on the Partnership’s share of equity in earnings of joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with losses for the year ended December 31, 2014;

 

  · Unrealized gain on derivative instruments was $9.3 million on the Partnership’s share of equity in earnings of joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with losses of $11.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014;

 

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  · Net income was $41.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014; net income was also impacted by changes in the unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments on the Partnership’s share of equity in earnings of joint ventures in 2015 and 2014;

 

  · On October 1, 2015, we closed the acquisition of the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant. The results of the Höegh Gallant contributed to the Partnership’s earnings for the full fourth quarter of 2015;

 

  · On February 15, 2016, we paid a $0.4125 per unit distribution with respect to the fourth quarter of 2016. This was an increase of approximately 22% from the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3325 per unit with respect to the third quarter of 2015; and

 

  · On February 28, 2016, we entered into agreements with Höegh LNG to extend the maturities of the $47 million seller’s credit note related to the Höegh Gallant and the currently undrawn $85 million revolving credit facility to January 1, 2020.

 

  · On April 22, 2016 we declared a quarterly cash distribution with respect to the quarter ended March 31, 2016 of $0.4125 per unit, to be paid on May 13, 2016 to all unitholders of record as of the close of the business on May 3, 2016.

 

Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2014

 

Time Charter Revenues . The following table sets forth details of our time charter revenues for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Time charter revenues   $ 57,465     $ 22,227     $ 35,238  

 

Time charter revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $57.5 million, an increase of $35.2 million from $22.2 million the year ended December 31, 2014. The time charter revenues related to the PGN FSRU Lampung, which was on-hire for the entire year ended December 31, 2015, and the Höegh Gallant , which we acquired on October 1, 2015. Excluding the revenues associated with the Höegh Gallant , the time charter revenues increased $23.4 million in 2015 because the time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung did not begin until July 21, 2014 when commissioning began. We were indemnified by Höegh LNG for the amount payable for the September 2014 and October 2014 hire invoices for the PGN FSRU Lampung . For additional discussion, refer to “—PGN LNG Claims including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications” below and note 21 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

Time charter revenues for the PGN FSRU Lampung consisted of the lease element of the time charter, accounted for as a direct financing lease using the effective interest rate method, as well as fees for providing time charter services, reimbursement for vessel operating expenses and withholding taxes borne by the charterer. Time charter revenues the Höegh Gallant consisted of the fixed daily hire rate which covers the operating lease and the provision of time charter services including the costs incurred to operate the vessel.

 

Construction Contract Revenues and Related Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our construction contract revenues and construction contract expenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Construction contract revenues   $     $ 51,868     $ (51,868 )
Construction contract expenses           (38,570 )     38,570  
Recognized contract margin   $     $ 13,298     $ (13,298 )

 

Construction contract revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $51.9 million. Construction contract expenses were $38.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The recognized contract margin for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $13.3 million. PGN LNG formally accepted the PGN FSRU Lampung and signed the Certificate of Acceptance on October 30, 2014 which was the condition for the final payment related to the Mooring. As such the Mooring project was completed as of December 31, 2014. As a result, there were no construction contract revenues or expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015. The Mooring is an offshore installation that is used to moor the PGN FSRU Lampung to offload natural gas into an offshore pipe that transports the gas to a land terminal for the charterer, PGN LNG.

 

PGN LNG issued invoices for delay liquidated damages of $7.1 million related to claims from PGN LNG on the project for the year ended December 31, 2014. Subsequent to the year ended December 31, 2014, an understanding with PGN LNG was reached under which no delay liquidated damages were payable. Due to this subsequent event, no delay liquated damages are reflected in the construction contract expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014. A warranty provision of $2.0 million was recorded for the year ended December 31, 2014 as part of the construction contract expenses for a warranty issue. As of December 31, 2015, approximately $1.0 million of the allowance had been used and the remaining warranty allowance was $1.0 million. Under the omnibus agreement, all costs incurred for repairs under the warranty will be indemnified by Höegh LNG. For additional discussion, refer to “—PGN LNG Claims including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications” below and note 21 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

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Other Revenue . The following table sets forth details of our other revenue for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     Variance  
Other income   $     $ 474     $ (474 )

 

Other revenue includes incidental revenues prior to the start of the time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

Voyage and Vessel Operating Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our voyage and vessel operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015       2014     variance  
Voyage expenses   $     $ (1,139 )   $ 1,139  
Vessel operating expenses   $ (9,679 )   $ (6,197 )   $ (3,482 )

 

There were no voyage expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015. Voyage expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $1.1 million. Voyage expenses are typically paid directly by the charterer. For year ended December 31, 2014 certain bunker fuel and use of LNG during the commissioning and testing of the PGN FSRU Lampung were borne by us. In addition, LNG quantities used in running our generators during the period where we had problems with the regasification system were for our own account in 2014. We did not incur any voyage expenses after October 2014 when the final testing of the PGN FSRU Lampung was complete. However, if an FSRU is off-hire, voyage expenses, principally fuel, may also be incurred and would be paid by us.

 

Vessel operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $9.7 million, an increase of $3.5 million from $6.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. This reflects that the PGN FSRU Lampung was in operation for the full year ended December 31, 2015 and the Höegh Gallant was in operations for the three months ended December 31, 2015, compared to the year ended December 31, 2014, when the PGN FSRU Lampung was not ready for its intended use before the middle of May 2014. Excluding the vessel operating expenses of the Höegh Gallant acquired on October 1, 2015, vessel operating expenses increased by $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with the year ended December 31, 2014. Although the PGN FSRU Lampung was not in operations for the full year of 2014, it incurred relatively high vessel operating costs during 2014 as a result of crew training costs and the ramp up of operations. Vessel operating expenses have on average reached a more normalized level during 2015.

 

Administrative Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Administrative expenses   $ (8,733 )   $ (12,566 )   $ 3,833  

 

Administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $8.7 million, a decrease of $3.8 million from $12.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The major reason for the decrease was lower administrative expenses associated with the PGN FSRU Lampung as a result of preparations and ramp up of operations and certain start up costs incurred in 2014.

 

Lower administrative costs in 2015 related to the PGN FSRU Lampung more than offset the increase in administrative expenses related to the Höegh Gallant acquired on October 1, 2015.

  

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Included in administrative expenses are the corporate costs of the Partnership which declined $0.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with the year ended December 31, 2014. Higher costs were incurred for preparation of external reporting, legal fees, audit fees, travel costs and consulting fees on implementation of internal controls under Sarbanes-Oxley to meet our publicly listed partnership requirements during the year ended December 31, 2015. In addition, certain audit and legal costs were incurred during the year ended December 31, 2015 associated with the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements 1 filed with the SEC on November 30, 2015. However, for the year ended December 31, 2014, administrative expenses were incurred for the IPO principally related to audit fees, legal fees and charges for hours incurred by Höegh LNG’s staff working on preparation on the IPO. There were no comparable expenses for year ended December 31, 2015 but the impact was largely offset by higher public company and restatement costs.  

 

Depreciation and Amortization . The following table sets forth details of our depreciation and amortization for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Depreciation and amortization   $ (2,653 )   $ (1,317 )   $ (1,336 )

 

Depreciation and amortization for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $2.7 million, an increase of $1.3 million from $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Depreciation for the year ended December 31, 2015 of $2.6 million related to the Höegh Gallant for the fourth quarter of 2015 and $0.03 million to office and IT equipment. For the year ended December 31, 2014, depreciation of $1.3 million and $0.02 million related to the PGN FSRU Lampung and to office and IT equipment, respectively. The PGN FSRU Lampung was depreciated from the time it was substantially complete in the middle of May 2014 until the start of the direct financing lease in July 2014.

 

Total Operating Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our total operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Total operating expenses   $ (21,065 )   $ (59,789 )   $ 38,724  

 

Total operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $21.1 million, a decrease of $38.7 million from $59.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding construction contract expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014, the total operating expenses decreased by of $0.1 million from $21.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Joint Ventures . The following table sets forth details of our equity in earnings of joint ventures for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures   $ 17,123     $ (5,330 )   $ 22,453  

 

Equity in earnings of joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $17.1 million, an increase of $22.4 million from equity in losses of $5.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The main reason for the increase was an unrealized gain on derivative financial instruments in our joint ventures in the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with an unrealized loss in the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Our share of our joint ventures’ operating income was $24.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared with $23.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Our share of other income (expense), net, principally consisting of interest expense, was $16.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, a reduction of $1.0 million from $17.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The reduction was mainly due to lower interest expense due to repayment of principal on debt between the years.

 

 

1 On November 30, 2015, we filed with the SEC a Form 20-F/A containing restated financial statements for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 and a Form 6-K for the quarter ended June 30, 2015 reporting restated historical results for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2014 and 2015. The restatement adjusted the Partnership’s financial statements for (i) certain Indonesian VAT and WHT that were not recorded correctly; (ii) recognition of related revenue for reimbursable tax amounts; and (iii) related adjustments to the Partnership’s direct financing lease for the PGN FSRU Lampung and amortization of deferred debt issuance costs.

 

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Our share of unrealized gain on derivative financial instruments was $9.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, an increase of $21.1 million compared to unrealized losses on derivative financial instruments of $11.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The variance in the unrealized gains and losses on derivative financial instruments is the main reason for the increase in our equity in earnings of joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared to the year ended December 31, 2014. The joint ventures utilize interest rate swap contracts to exchange floating interest rate payments for fixed interest rate payments to reduce the exposure to interest rate variability on their outstanding floating-rate debt. The interest rate swap contracts are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. As a result, there is volatility in earnings for the unrealized exchange gains and losses on the interest rate swap contracts. Historically, the joint ventures have accumulated unrealized losses on the interest rate swaps due to declining interest rates, which has resulted in liabilities for derivative financial instruments and an accumulated deficit in equity on their balance sheets.

 

There was no accrued income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. Our joint ventures did not pay any dividends for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

Operating Income . The following table sets forth details of our operating income for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Operating income   $ 53,523     $ 9,450     $ 44,073  

  

Operating income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $53.5 million, an increase of $44.1 million from $9.5 million for year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the impact of the unrealized gains and losses on derivatives for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 impacting the equity in earnings of joint ventures, operating income for the year ended December 31, 2015 would have been $44.3 million, an increase of $23.0 million from $21.3 million for year ended December 31, 2014. The increase is primarily as a result of the PGN FSRU Lampung being in operations for the full year ended December 31, 2015 and the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant that contributed to the results for the fourth quarter of 2015.

 

Interest Income . The following table sets forth details of our interest income for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Interest income   $ 7,568     $ 4,959     $ 2,609  

 

Interest income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $7.6 million, an increase of $2.6 million from $5.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Interest income of $6.3 million related to the $140 million demand note due from Höegh LNG and $1.3 million related to interest accrued on the advances to our joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2015, compared to $3.3 million and $1.7 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2014. The interest rate under the shareholder loans to our joint ventures is 8.0% per year. We provided $140 million to Höegh LNG from the net proceeds of the IPO pursuant to a demand note that bore interest at a rate of 5.88% per year. The note was utilized on October 1, 2015 as part of the purchase consideration for the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant.

 

Interest Expense . The following table sets forth details of our interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
    2015     2014     variance  
Interest expense   $ (14,099 )   $ (9,163 )   $ (4,936 )
Commitment fees     (1,191 )     (1,587 )     396  
Amortization of debt issuance cost and fair value of debt assumed     (2,480 )     (4,362 )     1,882  
Capitalized interest           5,447       (5,447 )
Total interest expense   $ (17,770 )   $ (9,665 )   $ (8,105 )

 

Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $17.8 million, an increase of $8.1 million from $9.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Interest expense consists of the interest incurred, commitment fees and amortization of debt issuance cost and the adjustment for the fair value of debt assumed less the interest capitalized for the period.

 

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The interest incurred of $14.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased by $4.9 million compared to $9.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, principally due to higher outstanding loan balances. On October 1, 2015, we assumed the debt under the Gallant facility as part of the purchase of the Höegh Gallant.

   

Commitment fees were $1.2 million and $1.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The commitment fees relate to the undrawn $85 million sponsor credit facility for the year ended December 31, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2014, commitment fees were incurred on the Lampung facility for undrawn balances as well as the undrawn $85 million sponsor credit facility from its inception on August 12, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Lampung facility was fully drawn and no commitment fees were incurred.

 

Amortization of debt issuance cost for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was $2.5 million and $4.4 million, respectively. As a result of the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant , the long term debt assumed under the Gallant facility was recognized at its fair value. The difference between the fair value and the outstanding principal of the debt as of October 1, 2015 of approximately $1.3 million is amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method. The impact for the fourth quarter of 2015 was to reduce interest expense by approximately $0.1 million. The higher amortization of debt issuance cost of $1.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 was primarily a result of the short amortization period for the Mooring tranche of the Lampung facility. The $32.1 million Mooring tranche was fully repaid on July 3, 2014 resulting in a $1.7 million amortization charge for the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, there was an early repayment of $7.9 million on the remaining tranches of the Lampung facility on December 29, 2014 which resulted in a write down of debt issuance cost of approximately $0.5 million.

 

There was no capitalized interest for year ended December 31, 2015 since there was no construction in progress. The PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring were under construction for the first quarter and part of the second quarter of 2014 and most interest incurred qualified for capitalization for this period. Capitalized interest was $5.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Capitalization of interest ceased in the middle of May, 2014 when the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring were substantially complete.

 

Gain (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments . The following table sets forth details of our gain/loss on derivative financial instruments for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments   $ 949     $ (161 )   $ 1,110  

 

Gain on derivative financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $0.9 million, an increase of $1.1 million from a loss on derivative financial instruments of $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Gain on derivative financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2015 related to the interest rate swaps for the Lampung facility and the Gallant facility, while the loss for the prior year related to the Lampung facility. The gain principally related to the amortization income on the amount excluded from hedge effectiveness, net of the amortization expense related to the interest rate swaps reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income and the loss on the ineffective portion of the cash flow hedges. The interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges of the variable interest payments on the Lampung and Gallant facilities and the effective portion of the changes in fair value of the hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income.

 

Other Items, Net . The following table sets forth details of our other items for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
    2015     2014     variance  
Foreign exchange gain (loss)   $ (16 )   $ 124     $ (140 )
Bank charges and fees     (77 )     (84 )     7  
Withholding tax on interest expense and other     (2,585 )     (2,828 )     243  
Total other items, net   $ (2,678 )   $ (2,788 )   $ 110  

 

Other items, net for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $2.7 million, a decrease of $0.1 million from $2.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. This is primarily due to withholding tax that is payable on interest expense to parties outside of Singapore and Indonesia.

 

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Income Before Tax . The following table sets forth details of our income before tax for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Income before tax   $ 41,592     $ 1,795     $ 39,797  

 

Income before tax for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $41.6 million, an increase of $39.8 million from $1.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase is primarily a result of the PGN FSRU Lampung being in operation for the year ended December 31 2015 compared with significant start up and construction activities for year ended December 31, 2014, the contribution from the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant and the unrealized gains on derivative instruments for the joint ventures and the Lampung and Gallant facilities for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with the unrealized loss on derivative instruments for the joint ventures and the Lampung facility for the year ended December 31, 2014.  

 

Income Tax Expense . The following table sets forth details of our income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Income tax expense   $ (313 )   $ (481 )   $ 168  

 

Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $0.3 million, a reduction of $0.2 million from $0.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. We are not subject to Marshall Islands corporate income taxes. However, we are subject to tax for earnings in Indonesia, Singapore, Cyprus and the UK. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the income tax expense primarily related to our Indonesian subsidiary and our Singapore subsidiary. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the tax expense largely related to the Singapore subsidiary. The Singapore subsidiary’s taxable income mainly arises from internal interest income. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Indonesian subsidiary incurred a tax loss for which a valuation allowance was recorded. The tax loss carryforward from 2014 for the Indonesian subsidiary was partly utilized in 2015.

 

Benefits of uncertain tax positions are recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position taken in a tax return will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position. In 2013, a tax loss was incurred in Indonesia principally due to unrealized losses on foreign exchange that does not impact the income statement prepared in the functional currency of U.S. dollars. In 2014, the Indonesia authorities approved the change of currency for tax reporting to U.S. dollars. Under existing tax law, it is not clear if the prior year tax loss carryforward from foreign exchange losses can be utilized when the tax reporting currency is subsequently changed. Due to the uncertainty of this tax position, a provision was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2013 and the resulting unrecognized tax benefit was $2.6 million. There was no change in the unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the generation of taxable income resulted in the utilization of $0.1 million of the 2013 tax loss carryforward which was not recognized due to the uncertainty of this tax position. As a result, the unrecognized tax benefit was $2.5 million as of December 31, 2015.

 

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is recorded when it is more-likely-than-not that some or all of the benefit will not be realized based on consideration of all the positive and negative evidence. Given the lack of historical operations in Indonesia, management of the Partnership concluded a valuation allowance should be established to reduce the deferred tax assets to the amount deemed more-likely-than-not of realization. A component of the deferred tax assets relates to the cash flow hedge of the Lampung facility interest rate swap with a term of over 11 years. Management concluded that approximately $2.0 million of the deferred tax asset was more-likely-than-not of realization over the term of the swap and recognized a deferred tax asset for that amount for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. A reduction in the valuation allowance of $4.1 million was recorded to income tax expense in the consolidated and combined statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2015. Deferred tax expenses for the change in the valuation allowance of $1.5 million and $0.4 million were recorded to income tax expense in the consolidated and combined statement of income and consolidated and combined statement of comprehensive income, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Net Income . The following table sets forth details of our net income for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Net income   $ 41,279     $ 1,314     $ 39,965  

 

As a result of the foregoing, net income for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $41.3 million, an increase of $40.0 million compared with net income of $1.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.  

 

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Segments

 

There are two operating segments. The segment profit measure is Segment EBITDA, which is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other financial items (gains and losses on derivative instruments and other items, net). Segment EBITDA is reconciled to operating income and net income in the segment presentation below. Please read “Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for a definition of Segment EBITDA and a reconciliation of Segment EBITDA to net income. The two segments are “Majority held FSRUs” and “Joint venture FSRUs.” In addition, unallocated corporate costs that are considered to benefit the entire organization and interest income from advances to joint ventures and the demand note due from Höegh LNG are included in “Other.”

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, Majority held FSRUs includes the direct financing lease related to the PGN FSRU Lampung and the operating lease related to the Höegh Gallant from the acquisition date of October 1, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2014, Majority held FSRUs includes the direct financing lease related to the PGN FSRU Lampung , and construction contract revenues and expenses of the Mooring. The Mooring was constructed on behalf of, and was sold to, PGN LNG and was accounted for using the percentage of completion method. The Mooring project was completed as of December 31, 2014.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, Joint venture FSRUs include two 50% owned FSRUs, the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , that operate under long term time charters with one charterer, GDF Suez.

 

The accounting policies applied to the segments are the same as those applied in the financial statements, except that Joint venture FSRUs are presented under the proportional consolidation method for the segment note in the Partnership's financial statements and under equity accounting for the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Under the proportional consolidation method, 50% of the Joint venture FSRUs' revenues, expenses and assets are reflected in the segment note. Management monitors the results of operations of joint ventures under the proportional consolidation method and not the equity method of accounting.

 

Majority Held FSRUs . The following table sets forth details of segment results for the Majority held FSRUs for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

    Year ended     Positive  
Majority Held FSRUs   December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Time charter revenues   $ 57,465     $ 22,227     $ 35,238  
Construction contract revenues           51,868       (51,868 )
Other revenues           474       (474 )
Total revenues     57,465       74,569       (17,104 )
Voyage & vessel operating expenses     (9,679 )     (7,336 )     (2,343 )
Administrative expenses     (2,667 )     (6,353 )     3,686  
Construction contract expense           (38,570 )     38,570  
Segment EBITDA     45,119       22,310       22,809  
Depreciation and amortization     (2,653 )     (1,317 )     (1,336 )
Operating income (loss)     42,466       20,993       21,473  
Financial income (expense), net     (17,326 )     (12,113 )     (5,213 )
Income (loss) before tax     25,140       8,880       16,260  
Income tax expense     (333 )     (505 )     172  
Net income (loss)   $ 24,807     $ 8,375     $ 16,432  

 

Time charter revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $57.5 million, an increase of $35.2 million from $22.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the time charter revenues of the Höegh Gallant from the acquisition date of October 1, 2015, time charter revenues increased by $23.4 million reflecting that the PGN FSRU Lampung was operating for the whole year of 2015, while the time charter revenues for 2014 only included the period subsequent to July 21, 2014. Construction contract revenues and construction contract expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $51.8 million and $38.6 million, respectively. Other revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $0.5 million.

 

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Voyage and vessel operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $9.7 million compared to $7.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the vessel operating expenses of the Höegh Gallant, the voyage and vessel operating expenses were at approximately the same level for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 reflecting higher cost levels during the ramp up stage of operations of the PGN FSRU Lampung in the second half of 2014.

 

Administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $2.7 million, a decrease of $3.7 million from $6.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Excluding the administrative expenses of the Höegh Gallant, the administrative expenses decreased $4.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with the year ended December 31, 2014. Higher administrative expenses in the year ended December 31, 2014 were due to activities for the preparation, start up and ramp up of operations of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the delivery of the Mooring, while the comparative period of 2015 had more routine operations.

 

Segment EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $45.1 million, an increase of $22.8 million from $22.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 mainly due to operations under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for the full year ended December 31, 2015 and the operations of the Höegh Gallant for the three months ended December 31, 2015.

 

Joint Venture FSRUs. The following table sets forth details of segment results for the Joint venture FSRUs for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

    Year ended     Positive  
Joint Venture FSRUs   December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Time charter revenues   $ 42,698     $ 41,319     $ 1,379  
Vessel operating expenses     (8,583 )     (7,514 )     (1,069 )
Administrative expenses     (910 )     (971 )     61  
Segment EBITDA     33,205       32,834       371  
Depreciation and amortization     (9,227 )     (9,148 )     (79 )
Operating income     23,978       23,686       292  
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     9,246       (11,879 )     21,125  
Other income (expense), net     (16,101 )     (17,137 )     1,036  
Income (loss) before tax     17,123       (5,330 )     22,453  
Income tax expense                  
Net income (loss)   $ 17,123     $ (5,330 )   $ 22,452  

  

The segment results for the Joint venture FSRUs are presented using the proportional consolidation method (which differs from the equity method used in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements).

 

Total time charter revenues were $42.7 million and $41.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Revenues for time charter payments, including fees for reimbursement of operating expenses, were $41.4 million and $40.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The increase in revenues for time charter payments in 2015 was principally due to higher fees for reimbursement of operating expenses. The remaining revenues principally related to the amortization of deferred revenues for upfront payments for modifications and drydocking payments from the charterer.

 

Vessel operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 were $8.6 million, an increase of $1.1 million compared to $7.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The increase in vessel operating expenses was largely due to increased payroll costs for the crew related to the operations in China.

 

Administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 declined slightly compared with the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Segment EBITDA was $33.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, an increase of $0.4 million compared with $32.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

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Other . The following table sets forth details of other results of Other for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

    Year ended     Positive  
Other   December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     variance  
Administrative expenses   $ (6,066 )   $ (6,213 )   $ 147  
Segment EBITDA     (6,066 )     (6,213 )     147  
Operating income (loss)     (6,066 )     (6,213 )     147  
Interest income (expense), net     5,395       4,458       937  
Income (loss) before tax     (671 )     (1,755 )     1,084  
Income tax expense     20       24       (4 )
Net income (loss)   $ (651 )   $ (1,731 )   $ 1,080  

 

Administrative expenses and Segment EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2015 for each was $6.1 million, a decrease of $0.1 million from $6.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015. During the year ended December 31, 2015, higher costs were incurred as a result of being a publicly listed partnership and for audit and legal costs were incurred associated with the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements. For the year ended December 31, 2014, administrative expenses of $3.5 million were incurred principally related to audit fees, legal fees and other charges of ours incurred by Höegh LNG’s staff working on preparation for the IPO. In addition, approximately $0.2 million of fees were incurred in establishing the Partnership’s new legal structure in conjunction with the IPO during 2014.

 

Interest income and expense, net, which is not part of the segment measure of profits, is related to the interest income on the advances to our joint ventures and our $140 million demand note from Höegh LNG until October 1, 2015, net of commitment fees on the undrawn $85 million sponsor credit facility and interest expense on the $47 million seller’s credit note which financed part of the acquisition of Höegh Gallant .  

 

Year Ended December 31, 2014 Compared with the Year Ended December 31, 2013

 

Time Charter Revenues . The following table sets forth details of our time charter revenues for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Time charter revenues   $ 22,227     $     $ 22,227  

 

Time charter revenues for year ended December 31, 2014 were $ 22.2 million, an increase of $22.2 million from the year ended December 31, 2013. The time charter hire payments for PGN FSRU Lampung began July 21, 2014 when the project was ready to begin commissioning. However, there were some technical problems with the regasification system of this vessel in September and October 2014. We were indemnified for the amount payable for the September 2014 and October 2014 invoices by Höegh LNG. For additional discussion, refer to “—PGN LNG Claims including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications” below and note 21 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

Time charter revenues consisted of the lease element of the time charter, accounted for as a direct financing lease using the effective interest rate method, as well as fees for providing time charter services, reimbursement for vessel operating expenses and value added and withholding taxes borne by the charterer.

 

Construction Contract Revenues and Related Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our construction contract revenues and construction contract expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Construction contract revenues   $ 51,868     $ 51,062     $ 806  
Construction contract expenses   $ (38,570 )   $ (43,958 )   $ 5,388  
Recognized contract margin   $ 13,298     $ 7,104     $ 6,194  

 

Construction contract revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $51.9 million, an increase of $0.8 million from $51.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Construction contract expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $38.6 million, a decrease of $5.4 million from $44.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The recognized contract margin for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $13.3 million, an increase of $6.2 million from $7.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

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The Mooring is an offshore installation that is being used to moor the PGN FSRU Lampung to offload the gas into an offshore pipe that transports the gas to a land terminal for the charterer. The Mooring was constructed in China, installed in Indonesia and sold to the charterer. Revenue was recognized on the Mooring based upon the percentage of completion method under which construction contract revenue is recognized using the ratio of costs incurred to estimated total costs multiplied by the total estimated contract revenue to determine revenue. The increase in construction contract revenue is primarily due to progress towards completion of the project for the Mooring, which was 100% as of December 31, 2014, compared with 52% as of December 31, 2013. PGN LNG formally accepted the PGN Lampung project effective October 30, 2014. During the second quarter of 2014, the initial 90% payment for the Mooring was received. During the fourth quarter of 2014, the final 10% payment for the Mooring was invoiced and received from PGN LNG.

 

PGN LNG issued invoices for delay liquidated damages of $7.1 million related to claims from PGN LNG on the project for the year ended December 31, 2014. Subsequent to December 31, 2014, an understanding with PGN LNG was reached under which no delay liquidated damages will be payable. Due to this subsequent event, no delay liquated damages are reflected in the construction contract expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014. Refer to “—PGN LNG Claims including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications” below and note 21 of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

A warranty provision of $2.0 million has been recorded for the year ended December 31, 2014 as part of the construction contract expenses. In ramping up operations, a technical issue was identified associated with the Mooring that requires attention. The technical issue requires replacement of equipment and repairs under our warranties for the functionality of the Mooring to PGN LNG. The warranty provision represents our best estimate of cost to obtain replacement parts and install them. Under the omnibus agreement, all costs incurred for repairs under the warranty will be indemnified by Höegh LNG. For additional discussion, refer to “—PGN LNG Claims including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications” below and note 21 of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

Other Revenue . The following table sets forth details of our other revenue for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Other revenue   $ 474     $ 511     $ (37 )

 

Other revenue for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $0.5 million, compared with $0.5 million from the year ended December 31, 2014. Other revenue includes incidental revenues prior to the start of the time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

Voyage and Vessel Operating Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our voyage and vessel operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Voyage expenses   $ (1,139 )   $     $ (1,139 )
Vessel operating expenses   $ (6,197 )   $     $ (6,197 )

 

Voyage expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $1.1 million, an increase of $1.1 million from year ended December 31, 2013. Voyage expenses are typically paid directly by the charterer. Certain bunker fuel and use of LNG during the commissioning and testing of PGN FSRU Lampung were borne by us. In addition, LNG quantities used in running our generators during the period where we had problems with the regasification system were for our own account.

 

Vessel operating expenses for year ended December 31, 2014 were $6.2 million, an increase of $6.2 million from the year ended December 31, 2014. This reflects operating costs from the start of the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter as well as crew training costs and certain expenses of the start-up of the time charter hire period beginning July 21, 2014.

 

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Administrative Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Administrative expenses   $ (12,566 )   $ (8,043 )   $ (4,523 )

 

Administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $12.6 million, an increase of $4.5 million from $8.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The major reasons for the increase were expenses incurred in preparation for the IPO, higher public company cost and higher activity related to the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

Administrative expenses related to the corporate costs of the Partnership were $6.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, an increase of $2.7 million from $3.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Expenses of $3.5 million were incurred principally related to audit fees, legal fees and other charges of ours incurred by Höegh LNG’s staff working on preparation for the IPO, an increase of $1.1 million from $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Approximately $0.2 million relates to fees in establishing the Partnership’s new legal structure in conjunction with the IPO during 2014. The remaining increase in administrative expense of approximately $1.4 million relates to higher costs of being a public partnership and includes charges for preparation of external reporting, legal fees, audit fees, travel costs and consulting fees on implementation of internal controls under Sarbanes-Oxley.

 

Administrative expenses related to the PGN FSRU Lampung for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $6.4 million, an increase of $1.9 million from $4.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The higher costs reflect greater required resources and other expenses in the ramp up phase of operations.

 

Depreciation and Amortization . The following table sets forth details of our depreciation and amortization for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

          Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Depreciation and amortization   $ (1,317 )   $ (8 )   $ (1,309 )

 

Depreciation and amortization for the year ended December 31, 2014 related to the PGN FSRU Lampung and for office and IT equipment. In the middle of May 2014, the PGN FSRU Lampung was deemed substantially complete to begin the commissioning under the time charter. The newbuilding was transferred on the balance sheet to vessels until such time as the time charter commenced when the vessel was transferred on the balance sheet to net investment in direct financing lease. However, due to delays unconnected to us and minor damage to the FSRU by a tugboat during the pipeline installation, the time charter hire did not commence until July 21, 2014. As a result, the vessel was depreciated until the start of the direct financing lease. The depreciation expense for the PGN FSRU Lampung for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $1.3 million. The remaining depreciation of $0.02 million relates to office and IT equipment, an increase of $0.01 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Total Operating Expenses . The following table sets forth details of our total operating expenses for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Total operating expenses   $ (59,789 )   $ (52,009 )   $ (7,780 )

 

Total operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $59.8 million, an increase of $7.8 million from $52.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Excluding construction contract expenses, the total operating expenses were $21.2 million, an increase of $13.1 million from $8.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase was due to higher voyage expenses and vessel operating expenses totaling $7.4 million due to the start of operations of the PGN FSRU Lampung , an increase of $4.5 million in administrative expenses reflecting the ramp up of the PGN FSRU Lampung , costs incurred to complete the IPO and higher public company costs and higher depreciation due to the delay in the commissioning of PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

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Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Joint Ventures . The following table sets forth details of our equity in earnings of joint ventures for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Equity in (losses) earnings of joint ventures   $ (5,330 )   $ 40,228     $ (45,558 )

 

Equity in losses of joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $5.3 million, a decrease of $45.5 million from equity in earnings of $40.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The reason for the decrease was an unrealized loss on derivative financial instruments in our joint ventures in the year ended December 31, 2014, compared with an unrealized gain in the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Our share of our joint ventures’ operating income was $23.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, compared with $23.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Our share of other income (expense), net, principally consisting of interest expense, was $17.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, a reduction of $1.0 million from $18.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The reduction was mainly due to lower interest expense due to repayment of principal on debt between the years.

 

Our share of unrealized loss on derivative financial instruments was $11.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, a decrease of $46.9 million compared to unrealized gain on derivative financial instruments of $35.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The variance in the unrealized gains and losses on derivative financial instruments is the reason for the decline in our equity in earnings of joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared to the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

There was no accrued income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013. Our joint ventures did not pay any dividends for the year ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.

 

Operating Income . The following table sets forth details of our operating income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Operating income   $ 9,450     $ 39,792     $ (30,342 )

 

Operating income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $9.5 million, a decrease of $30.3 million from the operating income of $39.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease in operating income was impacted by the decrease in the equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures of $45.6 million as a result of the unrealized loss on derivatives for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with an unrealized gain for the year ended December 31, 2013. This decrease was partially offset by the increase in recognized contract margin on the Mooring of $6.2 million, higher time charter revenues of $22.2 million due to the start-up of the PGN FSRU Lampung less the higher operating expenses of $13.1 million.

 

Interest Income . The following table sets forth details of our interest income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Interest income   $ 4,959     $ 2,122     $ 2,837  
                         

Interest income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $5.0 million, an increase of $2.8 million from $2.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Interest income of $3.3 million related to the demand note due from Höegh LNG and $1.7 million related to interest accrued on the advances to our joint ventures for the year ended December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the entire balance related to interest accrued on the advances to our joint ventures. The decrease in interest income from joint ventures is due to repayment by our joint ventures of a portion of the principal due under the shareholder loans between the periods. The interest rate under the shareholder loans is a rate of 8.0% per year. We lent $140 million to Höegh LNG from net proceeds of the IPO pursuant to a demand note. The note bears interest at a rate of 5.88% per annum.

 

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Interest Expense . The following table sets forth details of our interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Interest expense   $ (9,163 )   $ (6,110 )   $ (3,053 )
Commitment fees     (1,587 )     (2,162 )     575  
Amortization of debt issuance cost     (4,362 )     (379 )     (3,983 )
Capitalized interest     5,447       8,299       (2,852 )
Total interest expense   $ (9,665 )   $ (352 )   $ (9,313 )

 

Interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $9.7 million, an increase of $9.3 million from $0.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Interest expense consists of the interest incurred, commitment fees and amortization of debt issuance cost less the interest capitalized for the period.

 

The interest incurred of $9.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 increased by $3.1 million compared to $6.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013, principally due to higher outstanding loan balances. During 2013, loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates financed the construction of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the construction contract expenses of the Mooring. On March 4, 2014 and April 8, 2014, we drew $96 million and $161.1 million, respectively, on the Lampung facility. Following the drawdown of the external debt, $48.5 million was repaid on a promissory note to owners and affiliates. In July 3, 2014, the full principal amount of $32.1 million on the Mooring tranche and accrued interest was repaid. As of December 29, 2014, an early repayment of $7.9 million on the other tranches of the Lampung facility occurred and the regularly scheduled quarterly repayment began.

   

Commitment fees of $1.6 million and $2.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, were incurred on principally on the Lampung facility for undrawn balances. Although $12.1 million of the Lampung facility was not drawn, the last date for drawdowns expired in 2014. There will not be further commitment fees on the Lampung facility except fees related to the letter of credit facility which expired February 16, 2015.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the amortization of debt issuance cost was $4.4 million and $0.4 million, respectively. The increase of $4.0 million related to the start of amortization on the Lampung facility. The deferred debt issuance cost associated with the Mooring tranche of the Lampung facility was fully amortized by the repayment date of July 3, 2014 resulting in a $1.7 million amortization charge for the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, there was an early repayment of $7.9 million on the remaining tranches of the Lampung facility which resulted in a write down of debt issuance cost of approximately $0.5 million.

 

Capitalized interest for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $5.4 million, a decrease of $2.9 million from $8.3 million the year ended December 31, 2013. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring were under construction for the entire period and most interest incurred qualified for capitalization. Capitalization of interest ceased in the middle of May, 2014 when the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring were substantially complete.

 

Gain (Loss) on Derivative Financial Instruments . The following table sets forth details of our gain/loss on derivative financial instruments for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Loss on derivative financial instruments   $ (161 )   $     $ (161 )
                         

Loss on derivative financial instruments for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $0.2 million, an increase of $0.2 million the year ended December 31, 2014. This loss was primarily due to the ineffective portion of the hedge of the interest rate swaps and amortization of the amount excluded from hedge effectiveness related to the Lampung facility. The interest rate swaps are designated as cash flow hedges of the variable interest payments on the Lampung facility and the effective portion of the changes in fair value of the hedges are recorded in other comprehensive income.

 

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Other Items, Net . The following table sets forth details of our other items for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Other items, net   $ (2,788 )   $ (1,096 )   $ (1,692 )
                         

Other items, net for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $2.8 million, an increase of $1.7 million from $1.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. This is primarily due to withholding tax that is payable on interest expense to parties outside of Singapore and Indonesia. The reason for the increase in withholding taxes is primarily a result of the establishment of PT Höegh and Höegh Lampung as of October 1, 2013. Such withholding taxes were only payable on interest expense for three months in 2013.

 

Income (Loss) Before Tax . The following table sets forth details of our income before tax for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Income before tax   $ 1,795     $ 40,466     $ (38,671 )
                         

Income before tax for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $1.8 million, a decrease of $38.7 million from $40.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The decrease was largely due to the decrease in the equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures of $45.5 million.

 

Income Tax Expense . The following table sets forth details of our income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:  

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Income tax expense   $ (481 )   $     $ (481 )
                         

Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $0.5 million, an increase of $0.5 million compared with the year ended December 31, 2013. We are not subject to Marshall Islands income taxes. However, we are subject to tax for earnings in Indonesia and Singapore starting in the fourth quarter of 2013 and the UK starting in the third quarter of 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the income taxes expense primarily related to Höegh Lampung, our Singapore subsidiary, mainly as a result of internal interest income. For the year ended December 31, 2014, PT Höegh which is incorporated in Indonesia, incurred a tax loss. The tax loss carryforward of $1.3 million expires in 2019.

 

A deferred tax benefit of $2.0 million, net of valuation allowance of $0.4 million, related to the unrealized losses on interest rate swaps accounted for as a cash flow hedge was recorded as a component of other comprehensive income in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is recorded when it is more-likely-than-not that some or all of the benefit will not be realized. Given the lack of historical operations in Indonesia, management of the Partnership concluded a valuation allowance should be established to reduce the deferred tax assets on temporary differences and the tax loss carryforward for PT Höegh to the amount deemed more-likely-than-not of realization. A component of the deferred tax asset relates to the cash flow hedge of the interest rate swap. Management concluded that approximately $2.0 million of the deferred tax asset was more-likely-than-not to be realized over the 11 year term of the swap and recognized a deferred tax asset for that amount. Deferred tax expenses for the change in the valuation allowance of $1.5 million and $0.4 million were recorded to income tax expense in the consolidated and combined statement of income and consolidated and combined statement of comprehensive income, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Benefits of uncertain tax positions are recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position taken in a tax return will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position. In 2013, a tax loss was incurred in Indonesia principally due to unrealized losses on foreign exchange that does not impact the income statement prepared in the functional currency of U.S. dollars. In 2014, the Indonesia authorities have approved the change of currency for tax reporting to U.S. dollars. Under existing tax law, it is not clear if the prior year tax loss carryforward from foreign exchange losses can be utilized when the tax reporting currency is subsequently changed. Due to the uncertainty of this tax position, a provision was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2013 and the resulting unrecognized tax benefit was $2.6 million. There was no change in the unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2014.

 

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Pursuant to the terms of the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, we will be reimbursed, as a component of time charter revenues, for current income taxes arising in Indonesia related to time charter activities.

 

Net Income . The following table sets forth details of our net income for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:

 

                Positive  
    Year ended December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Net income   $ 1,314     $ 40,466     $ (39,152 )

 

As a result of the foregoing, net income for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $1.3 million, a decrease of $39.2 million compared with net income of $40.5 million the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

PGN LNG Claims Including Delay Liquidated Damages and Indemnifications

 

Following certain delays, the time charter hire on the PGN FSRU Lampung commenced July 21, 2014 for the start of commissioning. During the commissioning to test the PGN FSRU Lampung project (including the Mooring) and the pipeline functionality, technical problems were identified on August 29, 2014. Following the completion of the commissioning, PGN LNG formally accepted and signed the Certificate of Acceptance dated October 30, 2014.

 

The Partnership’s subsidiary, PT Höegh, had commitments to pay a day rate for delay liquidated damages to PGN LNG for delays in achieving the scheduled arrival date or acceptance by the scheduled delivery date. PGN LNG issued invoices for $7.1 million for delay liquidated damages. PGN LNG also did not pay its time charter hire for September 2014 or October 2014.

 

The Partnership was indemnified under the omnibus agreement by Höegh LNG for both delay liquidated damages and any hire rate payments not received under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for the period commencing on August 12, 2014 through the acceptance date of the PGN FSRU Lampung . The Partnership filed indemnification claims for the September and October 2014 invoices not paid by PGN LNG of $6.5 million and $6.7 million, respectively, and received payments from Höegh LNG in September and October 2014, respectively. Indemnification for hire rate payments was accounted for consistent with the accounting policies for loss of hire insurance, and was recognized when the proceeds were received. Therefore, the Partnership recognized the payments from Höegh LNG for September 2014 and October 2014 as revenue.

 

During March 2015, an understanding with PGN LNG and PT Höegh was reached. Under the main terms of this understanding, PGN LNG would not pay the time charter hire for September 2014 or October 2014 and PT Höegh would not pay the delay liquidated damages. The delay liquidated damages that had been recorded to construction contract expenses were reversed as a result of the understanding for the year ended December 31, 2014. Since PT Höegh did not pay any delay liquidated damages to PGN LNG, the Partnership’s claim for indemnification from Höegh LNG was cancelled. On June 30, 2015, the formal Settlement and Release Agreement was signed by PT Höegh and PGN LNG formalizing the understanding. As a result, the Partnership has no further exposure to claims from PGN LNG or other parties associated with the delivery commitments and it has been fully indemnified by Höegh LNG for the loss of time charter hire payments.

 

As of December 31, 2014, a warranty allowance of $2.0 million was recorded to construction contract expenses related to the Mooring. The Partnership filed indemnification claims for the warranty allowance of $2.0 million to be paid to the Partnership by Höegh LNG when costs are incurred for the warranty. As of December 31, 2015, approximately $1.0 million of the warranty allowance had been used and the remaining warranty allowance was $1.0 million. The Partnership has received indemnification payments for the warranty costs incurred during 2015 and the first quarter of 2016.

 

The Partnership was indemnified by Höegh LNG for non-budgeted expenses (including repair costs) incurred in connection with the PGN FSRU Lampung project prior to the date of acceptance and for certain costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements filed with the SEC on November 30, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Partnership filed claims for indemnification of non-budgeted expenses (including the warranty provision, value added tax, withholding tax and costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements) of $7.7 million, of which $6.6 million was paid. Indemnification payments received from Höegh LNG are recorded as a contribution to equity. No such indemnification claims were filed or paid during 2014. In the first quarter of 2016, the Partnership filed indemnification claims for non-budgeted expenses and costs of $0.8 million principally related to costs incurred in 2015 related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements.

 

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Segments

 

We have two segments, which are the “Majority held FSRUs” and the “Joint venture FSRUs.” In addition, unallocated corporate costs that are considered to benefit the entire organization and interest income from advances to our joint ventures and the demand note from Höegh LNG are included in “Other.” Refer to note 5 in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for additional information.

 

We measure our segment profit based on Segment EBITDA. Segment EBITDA is reconciled to operating income and net income for each segment in the segment tables below. Please read “Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for a definition of Segment EBITDA and a reconciliation of Segment EBITDA to net income.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014, Majority held FSRUs included the direct financing lease related to the PGN FSRU Lampung and construction contract revenue and expenses of the Mooring. The Mooring was constructed on behalf of, and was sold to, PGN LNG using the percentage of completion method of accounting. The Mooring project was completed as of December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2013, Majority held FSRUs includes a newbuilding, the PGN FSRU Lampung , and construction contract revenues and expenses of the Mooring under construction. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, Joint venture FSRUs include two 50% owned FSRUs, the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , that operate under long term time charters with one charterer, GDF Suez.

 

Majority Held FSRUs . The following table sets forth details of segment results for the Majority held FSRUs for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

    Years ended     Positive  
Majority Held FSRUs   December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Time charter revenues   $ 22,227     $     $ 22,227  
Construction contract revenues     51,868       51,062       806  
Other revenues     474       511       (37 )
Total revenues     74,569       51,573       22,996  
Voyage & vessel operating expenses     (7,336 )           (7,336 )
Construction contract expense     (38,570 )     (43,958 )     5,388  
Administrative expenses     (6,353 )     (4,490 )     (1,863 )
Segment EBITDA     22,310       3,125       19,185  
Depreciation and amortization     (1,317 )     (8 )     (1,309 )
Operating income     20,993       3,117       17,876  
Financial income (expense), net     (12,113 )     (1,448 )     (10,665 )
Income before tax     8,880       1,669       7,211  
Income tax expense     (505 )           (505 )
Net income   $ 8,375     $ 1,669     $ 6,706  

 

Total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $74.6 million, an increase of $23.0 million from $51.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The main reason for the increase was due to time charter revenues for PGN FSRU Lampung , which began July 21, 2014 when the project was ready to begin commissioning.

 

As discussed in more detail above, the construction contact revenues increased by $0.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with the year ended December 31, 2013 and reflected the completion of the Mooring project. Construction contract expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014, which included $2.0 million for a warranty allowance, decreased by $5.4 million compared with the year ended December 31, 2013. The recognized project margin was for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $13.3 million compared with $7.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Voyage expenses and vessel operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $7.3 million, an increase of $7.3 million from the year ended December 31, 2013. As discussed in more detail above, this reflects the start up of the time charter hire period beginning July 21, 2014 as well as certain bunker usage during the commissioning and testing of PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

Administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $6.4 million, an increase of $1.9 million from $4.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The higher costs in 2014 reflect greater required resources and other expenses in the ramp up phase of operations for the PGN FSRU Lampung .

 

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Segment EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2014 was $22.3 million, an increase of $19.2 million compared to $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. The increase was due mainly to the start of operations of PGN FSRU Lampung on July 21, 2014.

 

Joint Venture FSRUs the following table sets forth details of segment results for the Joint venture FSRUs for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

    Years ended     Positive  
Joint Venture FSRUs   December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Time charter revenues   $ 41,319     $ 41,110     $ 209  
Vessel operating expenses     (7,514 )     (7,702 )     188  
Administrative expenses     (971 )     (1,061 )     90  
Segment EBITDA     32,834       32,347       487  
Depreciation and amortization     (9,148 )     (9,053 )     (95 )
Operating income     23,686       23,294       392  
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     (11,879 )     35,038       (46,917 )
Other income (expense), net     (17,137 )     (18,104 )     967  
Net income (loss)   $ (5,330 )   $ 40,228     $ (45,558 )

  

The segment results for the Joint venture FSRUs are presented using the proportional consolidation method (which differs from the equity method used in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements).

 

Total time charter revenues were $41.3 million and $41.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Revenues for time charter payments, including fees for reimbursement of operating expenses, were $40.1 million and $40.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The decrease in revenues for time charter payments in 2014 was due to the decrease in fees for reimbursement of vessel operating expenses. The remaining revenues principally related to the amortization of deferred revenues for upfront payments for modifications and drydocking payments from the charterer.

  

Vessel operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 were $7.5 million, a decrease of $0.2 million compared to $7.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014 declined slightly compared with the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Segment EBITDA was $32.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with $32.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Other . The following table sets forth details of other results of Other for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013: 

 

    Years ended     Positive  
Other   December 31,     (negative)  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013     variance  
Administrative expenses   $ (6,213 )   $ (3,553 )   $ (2,660 )
Segment EBITDA     (6,213 )     (3,553 )     (2,660 )
Operating income (loss)     (6,213 )     (3,553 )     (2,660 )
Interest income     4,458       2,122       2,336  
Income (loss) before tax     (1,755 )     (1,431 )     (324 )
Income tax expense     24             24  
Net income (loss)   $ (1,731 )   $ (1,431 )   $ (300 )

 

Administrative expenses and Segment EBITDA for the year ended December 31, 2014 for each was $6.2 million, an increase of $2.6 million from $3.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Expenses of $3.5 million were incurred principally related to audit fees, legal fees and other charges of ours incurred by Höegh LNG’s staff working on preparation for the IPO, an increase of $1.1 million from $2.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Approximately $0.2 million relates to fees in establishing the new legal structure in conjunction with the IPO during 2014. The remaining negative variance of approximately $1.4 million relates to higher costs of being a public partnership and includes charges for preparation of external reporting, legal fees, audit fees, travel costs and consulting fees on implementation of internal controls under Sarbanes-Oxley.

 

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Interest income, which is not part of the segment measure of profits, is related to the interest accrued on the advances to our joint ventures for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 and interest income on the demand note due from Höegh LNG from the closing of the IPO on August 12, 2014.

 

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Liquidity and Cash Needs

 

We operate in a capital-intensive industry, and we expect to finance the purchase of additional vessels and other capital expenditures through a combination of cash from operations, the utilization of borrowings from commercial banks and debt and equity financings. Our liquidity requirements relate to paying our unitholder distributions, servicing interest and quarterly repayments on our debt (“debt amortization”), funding working capital and maintaining cash reserves against fluctuations in operating cash flows. The liquidity requirements of our joint ventures relate to the servicing of debt, including repayment of shareholder loans, funding working capital, including drydocking, and maintaining cash reserves against fluctuations in operating cash flows.

 

Our sources of liquidity include cash balances, cash flows from our operations, interest and repayment of principal from our advances to our joint ventures and our undrawn balance under the $85 million sponsor credit facility. Cash and cash equivalents are denominated primarily in U.S. dollars. We do not currently use derivative financial instruments for other purposes than managing interest rate risks. The advances to our joint ventures (shareholder loans) are subordinated to the joint ventures’ long-term bank debt, consisting of the Neptune facility and the Cape Ann facility. Under terms of the shareholder loan agreements, the repayments shall be prioritized over any dividend payment to the owners of the joint ventures. Dividend distributions from our joint ventures require a) agreement of the other joint venture owners; b) fulfilment of requirements of the long-term bank loans; and c) under Cayman Islands law may be paid out of profits or capital reserves subject to the joint venture being solvent after the distribution. Dividends from Höegh Lampung may only be paid out of profits under Singapore law. Dividends from PT Höegh may only be paid if its retained earnings are positive under Indonesian law and requirements are fulfilled under the Lampung facility. As of December 31, 2015, PT Höegh had negative retained earnings and therefore cannot make dividend payments under Indonesia law. However, subject to meeting a debt service ratio of 1.20 to 1.00, PT Höegh can distribute cash from its cash flow from operations to us as payment of intercompany accrued interest and/or intercompany debt, after quarterly payments of the Lampung facility and fulfilment of the “waterfall” provisions to meet operating requirements as defined by the Lampung facility. Under Cayman Islands law, FSRU III may only pay distributions out of profits or capital reserves if the entity is solvent after the distribution. Dividends from Höegh Cyprus may only be distributed (i) out of profits and not from the share capital of the company and (ii) if after the dividend payment, Höegh Cyprus would remain in compliance with the financial covenants under the Gallant/Grace facility.

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership financed part of the acquisition of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , with the seller’s credit note of $47 million and a liability for the working capital adjustment of $7.2 million. The $47 million seller’s credit note bears interest at 8% per annum which is paid on a quarterly basis. On February 28, 2016, the maturity of the seller’s credit note was extended to January 1, 2020. The fair value of the outstanding debt under the Gallant facility financing the Höegh Gallant was approximately $184.7 million upon the closing of the acquisition. The fair value of the Gallant facility has been determined based upon the margins, fixed interest rates and guarantee commission had the Gallant facility been entered on the acquisition date. Based upon its fair value, the weighted average effective interest rate for the Gallant facility, excluding the impact of the associated interest rate swaps, is 3.0%. Refer to “—Borrowing Activities—Long-Term Debt—Gallant/Grace Facility” for a description of the Gallant facility.

 

As of December 31, 2015, we do not have material commitments for capital expenditures for our current business. Our expected expenditures for our current business include funding repairs and replacement parts of approximately $1.0 million for the Mooring. This expenditure is indemnified by Höegh LNG under the omnibus agreement. Therefore, the funding for this expenditure will be provided by Höegh LNG.

 

We believe our cash flows from operations, including distributions to us from PT Höegh and Höegh Cyprus as payment of intercompany interest and/or intercompany debt, and repayment of principal from our advances to our joint ventures will be sufficient to meet our debt amortization and working capital needs and maintain cash reserves against fluctuations in operating cash flows. In addition, we require liquidity to pay distributions to our unitholders. In connection with the IPO, we entered into an $85 million sponsor credit facility with Höegh LNG, which we believe will provide us with adequate liquidity reserve to fund our distributions and other general liquidity needs. On February 28, 2016, the maturity of the undrawn $85 million sponsor credit facility was extended to January 1, 2020.

 

Generally, our long-term source of funds will be cash from operations, long-term bank borrowings and other debt and equity financings. Because we will distribute all of our available cash, we expect that we will rely principally upon external financing sources, including bank borrowings and the issuance of debt and equity securities, to fund acquisitions and other expansion capital expenditures.

 

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We have not made use of derivative instruments for currency risk management purposes. We have interest rate swap contracts for the Lampung facility (“Lampung swaps”) and the Gallant facility (“Gallant swaps”). As of December 31, 2015, we had outstanding interest rate swap agreements for a total notional amount of $193.3 million and $143.8 million to hedge against the interest rate risks of our long-term debt under the Lampung facility and Gallant facility, respectively. We apply hedge accounting for these interest rate swaps. We receive interest based on three month US dollar LIBOR and pay fixed rates of 2.8% on the Lampung swap and 1.9105% to 1.9145% on the Gallant swap. The Lampung swaps amortize over 12 years to match the outstanding balance of the Lampung facility. From their inception, the Gallant swaps amortize over 5 years to match the outstanding balance of the Gallant facility. Refer to “Item 5.F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations.” The carrying value of the liability for derivative financial instruments was $10.8 million as of December 31, 2015. In addition, our joint ventures have utilized interest rate swap contracts that are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes. Please read note 20 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. For information about our joint ventures’ derivative instruments, please read note 12 to our joint ventures’ combined financial statements.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the Partnership had cash and cash equivalents of $32.9 million and an undrawn sponsor credit facility of $85 million. Current restricted cash as of December 31, 2015 was $10.6 million of which $10.5 million and $0.1 million relates to operating obligations of the PGN FSRU Lampung and Höegh Gallant, respectively. Long-term restricted cash required under the Lampung facility was $14.8 million as of December 31, 2015. In addition $0.4 million of long-term restricted cash related to cash balances in EGP which are not readily exchangeable into other currencies. The Partnership’s total long-term debt was $362.8 million as of December 31, 2015, repayable in quarterly installments of $8.1 million. As of December 31, 2015, our total current liabilities exceeded total current assets by $5.5 million which is largely a result of mark-to market valuations of our interest rate swaps (derivative instruments) of $4.9 million. We do not plan to terminate the interest rate swaps before their maturity and, as a result, we will not realize these liabilities. We believe our current resources, including the sponsor credit facility, are sufficient to meet our working capital requirements for our current business for the next twelve months.

 

For information regarding estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, impacting our cash distributions, please read “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Estimated Maintenance and Replacement Capital Expenditures.”

 

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Cash Flows

 

Cash Flows for the Years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014

 

The following table summarizes our net cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities and our cash and cash equivalents for the years presented:

 

    Year ended December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 42,785     $ 27,976  
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     15,455       (292,199 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     (55,849 )     294,592  
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     2,391       30,369  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     30,477       108  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 32,868     $ 30,477  

 

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $42.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 compared with $27.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. Cash flows from operating activities reflect that the PGN FSRU Lampung was operating under the time charter for the full year ended December 31, 2015 and, due to the acquisition, the Höegh Gallant contributed cash flows from operations for the three months ended December 31, 2015. The net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2014 was mainly due to the receipt of the full Mooring payment and that the time charter hire commenced for the PGN FSRU Lampung on July 21, 2014. In addition, cash of $26.3 million was used to pay the tax authorities for a refundable value tax on the import of the PGN FSRU Lampung into Indonesia.

 

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities

 

Net cash provided by investing activities was $15.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2015 and net cash used in investing activities was $292.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. The cash provided by investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2015 primarily related to the receipt of $5.8 million for principal on advances to joint ventures, the receipt of $2.9 million in principal on the direct financing lease of the PGN FSRU Lampung and $7.7 million in cash acquired as part of the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant. This was partially offset by cash used for expenditure for equipment of $1.0 million. For the year ended December 31, 2014, net cash used in investing activities mainly related to expenditures for newbuildings for the final 60% payment and payments due for change orders due to the delivery of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the $140 million demand note lent to Höegh LNG following the closing of the IPO. This was partially offset by cash provided by the $1.1 million in principal payments on advances to joint ventures, the receipt of principal payment on the direct financing lease of $1.3 million and the release of restricted cash for a letter of credit of $10.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities

 

Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2015 was $55.8 million compared with net cash provided by financing activities of $294.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

Net cash used in financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2015 was mainly due to the repayment of $22.3 million on the Lampung and Gallant facilities, the repayment of $4.8 million for part of a customer loan that funded value added taxes for import of the PGN FSRU Lampung to Indonesia and our payment of $35.5 million of cash distributions to our unitholders. This was partially offset by the receipt of $6.6 million from Höegh LNG for the indemnification claim for non-budgeted expenses under the omnibus agreement.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2014 was impacted by the closing of our IPO and the application of the net proceeds and lending during the period. We received net proceeds, after deduction for the underwriters’ discounts and expenses of the offering, of $203.5 million. We distributed $43.5 million in cash from the proceeds to Höegh LNG. We drew $257.1 million on the Lampung facility that was used for payments for the contractual commitments for the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring construction contract expenses, paid $8.0 million in debt issuance cost related to the facility and received proceeds of $10.8 million from amounts, loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates. Part of the proceeds of the debt was used to repay $74.6 million of amounts, loans and promissory notes from owners and affiliates. Following the first Mooring payment, the full Mooring tranche of $32.1 million was repaid. Following the final Mooring payment, an early repayment of $7.9 million was made on the Lampung facility and a cash settlement of $1.1 million was made to reduce the amount of the interest rate swaps. On the import of the PGN FSRU Lampung into Indonesia during 2014, we obtained funding from PGN LNG of $26.3 million to pay for the refundable value added tax on import. Refer to “Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities” above. The net distributions to the owner were $11.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

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Cash Flows for the Years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013

 

The following table summarizes our net cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities and our cash and cash equivalents for the years presented:

 

    Year ended December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014     2013  
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities   $ 27,976     $ (41,217 )
Net cash used in investing activities     (292,199 )     (30,781 )
Net cash provided by financing activities     294,592       72,006  
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     30,369       8  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     108       100  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 30,477     $ 108  

 

Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities

 

Net cash provided by operating activities was $27.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 compared with net cash used in operating activities of $41.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2013. Cash flows from operating activities reflect that the full Mooring payment was received and the time charter hire commenced for the PGN FSRU Lampung during the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, cash of $26.3 million was used to pay the tax authorities for a refundable value tax on the import of the PGN FSRU Lampung into Indonesia. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the reason for the increased cash used in operating activities was because the PGN FSRU Lampung had not been delivered or started operations and high construction contract expenses were being incurred on the Mooring.

 

Net Cash Used in Investing Activities

 

Net cash used in investing activities was $292.2 million and $30.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Net cash used in investing activities increased by $261.4 million in 2014 compared with 2013 primarily due to expenditures for the newbuilding, the PGN FSRU Lampung and the demand note lent to Höegh LNG . Expenditures for the newbuilding increased by $134.6 million as the result of the final 60% payment and payments for change orders due to the delivery of the PGN FSRU Lampung . This was partially offset by cash provided by the $1.1 million increase in principal payments on advances to joint ventures, the receipt of principal payment on the direct financing lease of $1.3 million and the release of restricted cash for a letter of credit of $10.7 million during the year ended December 31, 2014. Following the closing of the IPO, we lent $140.0 million to Höegh LNG pursuant to an interest-bearing demand note from the net proceeds.

 

Net Cash Provided by Financing Activities

 

Net cash provided by financing activities was $294.6 million and $72.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

Net cash provided by financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2014 was impacted by the closing of the Partnership’s IPO and the application of the net proceeds. We received net proceeds from the IPO, after deduction for the underwriters’ discounts and expenses of the offering, of $203.5 million. We distributed $43.5 million in cash from the net proceeds to Höegh LNG. We kept $20.0 million of the IPO proceeds for general partnership purposes.

 

We received proceeds of $10.8 million from amounts, loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates during the year ended December 31, 2014. In addition, we drew $257.1 million on the Lampung facility that was used for payments for the contractual commitments for the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring construction contract expenses. We also paid $8.0 million in debt issuance cost related to the facility. Part of the proceeds of the debt and cash flows from operations was used to repay $74.6 million of amounts, loans and promissory notes from owners and affiliates. Following the first Mooring payment, the full Mooring tranche of $32.1 million was repaid on July 3, 2014. Following the final Mooring payment, an early repayment of $7.9 million was made on the Lampung facility and quarterly repayments commenced on December 29, 2014. In total, we repaid $44.8 million of long-term debt for the year ended December 31, 2014. As a result of the early repayment on long-term debt, a cash settlement of $1.1 million was made to reduce the amount of the interest rate swaps that are accounted for as cash flow hedges of the variable interest rate debt to match the outstanding debt balance. The restricted cash required by the Lampung facility of $15.2 million was also fully funded. Net distributions to the owner were $11.2 million.

 

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On the import of the PGN FSRU Lampung into Indonesia during 2014, we obtained funding from PGN LNG of $26.3 million to pay for the refundable value added tax on import. Refer to “—Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities” above.

 

During the fourth quarter of 2014, we paid our first cash distribution of $4.8 million to our unitholders for the prorated $0.1834 per unit distribution declared for the period from August 12, 2014 to September 30, 2014, which is equivalent to $0.3375 per unit per quarter.

 

During the year ended December 31, 2013, most of the funding was provided by $116.7 million drawn on amounts, loans and promissory notes from owners and affiliates. Debt issuance cost of $9.4 million was paid related to the Lampung facility and there were net distributions to the owner of $35.3 million.

 

As a result of the foregoing, cash and cash equivalents increased by $30.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2014 and by eight thousand dollars for the year ended December 31, 2013.

 

Borrowing Activities

 

Loans and Promissory Notes Due to Owners and Affiliates

 

The following table sets forth our loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates as of December 31, 2015 and 2014: 

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates   $ 287     $ 467  

 

In connection with the IPO, we entered into an $85 million sponsor credit facility with Höegh LNG. No amounts have been drawn under the facility. The balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 included in the table above reflect the accrued commitment fee

 

Sponsor Credit Facility with Höegh LNG

 

On February 28, 2016, the maturity of the $85 million sponsor credit facility with Höegh LNG was extended to January 1, 2020, unless otherwise terminated due to an event of default. Interest on drawn amounts is payable quarterly at LIBOR plus a margin of 4.0%. Additionally, we are required to pay a 1.4% annual commitment fee, payable quarterly, to Höegh LNG on undrawn available amounts under the sponsor credit facility. Drawings on the sponsor credit facility are subject to customary conditions precedent, including absence of a default or event of default and accuracy of representations and warranties in all material respects.

  

The sponsor credit facility identifies various events of default that may trigger acceleration and cancellation of the facility, such as:

 

  · failure to repay principal and interest;

 

  · inaccuracy of representations and warranties;

 

  · cross-default to other indebtedness held by us or our subsidiaries; and

 

  · bankruptcy and certain other insolvency events.

  

Seller’s Credit Note from Höegh LNG

 

The following table sets forth our seller’s credit note as of December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Seller’s credit note   $ 47,000     $  

 

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On October 1, 2015, the Partnership financed part of the acquisition of the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant with a seller’s credit note from a subsidiary of Höegh LNG.

   

The $47 million seller s credit note from Höegh LNG is unsecured and matures on January 1, 2020. Interest on the note is payable quarterly and bears interest at a rate of 8% per year. We may prepay the seller s credit note without penalty upon 10 business days notice to Höegh LNG. The seller s credit note is subordinated to the obligations under the Gallant/Grace facility. Höegh LNG may accelerate the seller s credit note upon any breach by us, and the maturity date of the note is deemed to occur immediately upon our bankruptcy and certain other insolvency events. On February 28, 2016, the maturity of the note was extended to January 1, 2020.

 

Long-term debt

 

The following table sets forth our long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Lampung facility:                
Export credit tranche   $ 153,755     $ 168,640  
FSRU tranche     39,517       43,693  
Gallant facility                
Commercial tranche     139,701        
Export credit tranche     40,333        
Outstanding principal     373,306       212,333  
Lampung facility unamortized debt issuance cost     (11,745 )     (14,130 )
Gallant facility unamortized fair value of debt assumed     1,282        
Total debt     362,843       198,203  
Less: Current portion of long-term debt     (32,208 )     (19,062 )
Long-term debt   $ 330,635     $ 179,141  

 

Refer to “Item 5.F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations” and note 15 in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for the maturity profile of the debt.

 

Lampung Facility

 

In September 2013, PT Höegh entered into a secured $299 million term loan facility and $10.7 million standby letter of credit facility (the “Lampung facility”) with a syndicate of banks and an export credit agency for the purpose of financing a portion of the construction of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring. The $10.7 million standby letter of credit facility supported guarantees to PGN LNG for delivery obligations of the PGN FSRU Lampung and Mooring under the time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung . Höegh LNG is the guarantor for the facility. The facility was drawn in installments as construction was completed. The term loan facility includes two commercial tranches, the FSRU tranche and the Mooring tranche, and the export credit tranche. The interest rates vary by tranche. The letter of credit facility expired and was never drawn.

 

On March 4, 2014, PT Höegh drew $96 million of the Lampung facility, of which $28.4 million, $32.1 million and $35.5 million were drawn on the FSRU tranche, the Mooring tranche and the export credit tranche, respectively. On April 8, 2014, PT Höegh drew $161.1 million of the Lampung facility, of which $18.0 million and $143.1 million were drawn on the FSRU tranche and export credit tranche, respectively. On July 3, 2014, the full principal amount of $32.1 million on the Mooring tranche and accrued interest was repaid. The final available commitment on the FSRU tranche of $12.1 million was never drawn. On December 29, 2014, PT Höegh made an early repayment of $7.9 million, of which $1.6 million and $6.3 million was repaid on the FSRU tranche and the export credit tranche, respectively. Following the acceptance by PGN LNG of the PGN FSRU Lampung , the quarterly repayments began on December 29, 2014.

 

The FSRU tranche has an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 3.4%. The interest rate for the export credit tranche is LIBOR plus a margin of 2.3%. The first repayment of both tranches occurred on December 29, 2014. The FSRU tranche is repayable quarterly over 7 years with a final balloon payment of $16.5 million. The export credit tranche is repayable in quarterly installments over 12 years assuming the balloon payment of the FSRU tranche is refinanced. If not, the export credit agent can exercise a prepayment right for repayment of the outstanding balance upon maturity of the FSRU tranche. The Mooring tranche of $61.9 million bore interest at a rate equal to LIBOR plus a margin of 2.5%. The Mooring tranche was fully repaid on July 3, 2014.

 

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Commitment fees were 1.4%, 0.9% and 1.0% of the undrawn portions of the FSRU tranche, the export credit tranche and the Mooring tranche, respectively.

 

The primary financial covenants under the Lampung facility are as follows:

 

  · PT Höegh must maintain a minimum debt service coverage ratio of 1.10 to 1.00 for the preceding nine-month period tested beginning from the second quarterly repayment date of the export credit tranche and on each quarterly repayment date thereafter;
  · Höegh LNG’s book equity must be greater than the higher of (i) $200 million and (ii) 25.0% of total assets; and
  · Höegh LNG’s free liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents or available draws on credit facilities) must be greater than $20 million.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the guarantor was in compliance with the financial covenants. The covenant for the borrower is effective from March 2015. As of December 31, 2015 and March 31, 2015, the borrower was in compliance with the financial covenants.

 

Höegh LNG, as guarantor, has issued the following guarantees related to the Lampung facility that remain in effect as of December 31, 2015: (a) an unconditional and irrevocable on-demand guarantee for the repayment of the balloon repayment installment of the FSRU tranche callable only at final maturity of the FSRU tranche; (b) an unconditional and irrevocable on-demand guarantee for all amounts due in respect of the export credit agent in the event that the export credit agent exercises its prepayment right for the export credit tranche if the FSRU tranche is not refinanced; and (c) undertaking that, if the time charter is terminated for an event of vessel force majeure, that under certain conditions, a guarantee will be provided for the outstanding debt, less insurance proceeds for vessel force majeure. In addition, all project agreements and guarantees are assigned to the bank syndicate and the export credit agent, all cash accounts and the shares in PT Höegh and Höegh Lampung are pledged in favor of the bank syndicate and the export credit agent.

 

The Lampung facility requires cash reserves that are held for specifically designated uses, including working capital, operations and maintenance and debt service reserves. Distributions are subject to “waterfall” provisions that allocate project revenues to specified priorities of use (such as operating expenses, scheduled debt service, targeted debt service reserves and any other reserves) with the remaining cash being distributable only on certain dates and subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, including meeting a 1.20 historical debt service coverage ratio, no default or event of default then continuing or resulting from such distribution and Höegh LNG not being in breach of the financial covenants applicable to it. The Lampung facility contains customary restrictions that limit, among other things, the ability of PT Höegh to change its business, sell or grant liens on its property including the PGN FSRU Lampung , incur additional indebtedness or guarantee other indebtedness, make investments or acquisitions, enter into intercompany transactions and make distributions.

 

The Lampung facility identifies various events that may trigger mandatory reduction, prepayment and cancellation of the facility, including total loss or sale of the PGN FSRU Lampung . The Lampung facility contains customary events of default such as:

 

  · change of ownership;

 

  · inaccuracy of representations and warranties;

 

  · failure to repay principal and interest;

 

  · failure to comply with the financial or insurance covenants;

 

  · cross-default to other indebtedness held by Höegh LNG or PT Höegh;

 

  · bankruptcy and other insolvency events at Höegh LNG or PT Höegh;

 

  · occurrence of certain litigation events at Höegh LNG or PT Höegh;

 

  · the occurrence of a material adverse effect in respect of Höegh LNG, PT Höegh or the charterer;

 

  · breach by the contractor of any technical services agreement, master maintenance agreement or a master parts agreement pertaining to the vessel;

 

  · termination or breach of the charter; and

 

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  · cross-default to certain material project contracts.

 

Gallant/Grace Facility

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership acquired Höegh FSRU III, the entity that owns Höegh Cyprus, which owns the Höegh Gallant. Höegh Cyprus, together with Höegh FSRU IV, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG and the owner of the FSRU Höegh Grace , are borrowers (the “Borrowers”) under a term loan facility (the “Gallant/Grace facility”) with a syndicate of banks and an export credit agency for the purpose of financing a portion of the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace . The facility is secured by, among other things, a first priority mortgage of the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace , an assignment of Höegh Cyprus’s rights under the time charter with EgyptCo, the assignment of EgyptCo’s rights under its time charter with EGAS, the assignment of a bank guarantee for the performance of EGAS under the time charter and a pledge of the Borrower’s and EgyptCo’s cash accounts. We have provided a pledge of shares in Höegh Cyprus and Höegh FSRU III, and Höegh LNG has provided a pledge of shares in EgyptCo as security for the facility. Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Colombia Holdings Ltd., a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, Höegh FSRU III and the Partnership are guarantors for the facility.

 

The Gallant/Grace facility includes two commercial tranches and the export credit tranche related to the Höegh Gallant (the “Gallant facility”) and a commercial tranche and the export credit tranche related to the Höegh Grace (the “Grace facility”). As of December 31, 2015, no amounts had been drawn related to the Höegh Grace. All of the tranches under the Gallant/Grace facility are cross-defaulted, cross-collateralized (except that the banks cannot enforce any of their rights to the security provided by Höegh Cyprus, Höegh FSRU III, the Partnership or EgyptCo unless an event of default occurs directly and expressly with respect to the Partnership, its subsidiaries or EgyptCo and its direct shareholders), and cross-guaranteed (except that the Partnership does not guarantee the obligations of Höegh FSRU IV). The obligations of the Borrowers are joint and several. The interest rates vary by tranche. The two commercial tranches related to the Gallant facility have an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.7% based on the facility agreement. The interest rate for the export credit tranche related to the Gallant facility has a fixed interest rate and guarantee commission of 4.18% based on the facility agreement. The commercial tranches are repayable quarterly with a final balloon payment of $106.5 million due in September 2019. The export credit tranche is repayable in quarterly installments with the final payment in October 2026 assuming the balloon payments of the commercial tranches are refinanced. If not, the export credit agent can exercise a prepayment right for repayment of the outstanding balance of $26.6 million upon maturity of the commercial tranches. The weighted average interest rate for the Gallant facility, excluding the impact of the associated interest rate swaps, for the three months ended December 31, 2015 was 3.4%.

 

The fair value of the Gallant facility as of the acquisition date of October 1, 2015 has been determined based upon margins, fixed interest rates and guarantee commission had the financing been entered on the acquisition date. Based upon its fair value, the weighted average effective interest rate for the Gallant facility, excluding the impact of the associated interest rate swaps, was 3.1% for the three months ended December 31, 2015.

 

The primary financial covenants under the Gallant/Grace facility are as follows:

· Höegh LNG must maintain
o Consolidated book equity (excluding hedge reserves and mark to market value of derivatives) equal to the greater of
§ $200 million, and
§ 25% of total assets
o Free liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents, publicly trade debt securities with an A rating with Standard & Poor’s and available draws under a bank credit facility for a term of more than 12 months) equal to the greater of
§ $20 million,
§ 5% of total consolidated indebtedness provided on a recourse basis, and
§ Any amount specified to be a minimum liquidity requirement under any legal obligation.

 

· The Partnership must maintain
o Consolidated book equity (excluding hedge reserves and mark to market value of derivatives) equal to the greater of
§ $150 million, and
§ 25% of total assets
o Free liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents, publicly trade debt securities with an A rating with Standard & Poor’s and available draws under a bank credit facility for a term of more than 12 months) equal to the greater of
§ $15 million, and
§ $3 million multiplied by the number of vessels owned or leased by the Partnership

 

· Each Borrower must maintain
o Current assets greater than current liabilities, and
o Solely with respect to Höegh Cyprus, a ratio of EBITDA to debt service (principal repayments, guarantee commission and interest expense) of a minimum of 115%

 

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In addition, a security maintenance ratio based on the aggregate market value of the Höegh Gallant , the Höegh Grace and any additional security must be at least 125% of the aggregate outstanding loan balance.

 

If the security maintenance ratio is not maintained, the relevant Borrower has 30 days to provide more security or to repay part of the loan to be in compliance with the ratio no later than 30 days after notice from the lenders

 

As of December 31, 2015, Höegh LNG, the Partnership and each Borrower were in compliance with the financial covenants.

 

Under the Gallant/Grace facility, cash accounts are freely available for the use of the Borrowers, unless there is an event of default. Cash can be distributed as dividends or to service loans of owners and affiliates provided that after the distribution the Borrowers would remain in compliance with the financial covenants and security maintenance ratio. The Gallant/Grace facility limits, among other things, the ability of the Borrowers to change its business, sell or grant liens on its property including the Höegh Gallant or the Höegh Grace , incur additional indebtedness or guarantee other indebtedness, make investments or acquisitions and enter into intercompany debt that is not subordinated to the Gallant/Grace facility.

 

The Gallant/Grace facility identifies various events that may trigger mandatory reduction, prepayment and cancellation of the facility, including total loss or sale of the Höegh Gallant or the Höegh Grace . The facility contains events of default such as:

 

  · change of control of the Borrowers or the Partnership;

 

  · inaccuracy of representations;

 

  · failure to repay principal and interest;

 

  · failure to comply with the financial or insurance covenants;

 

  · cross-default to other indebtedness held by the Partnership, Höegh LNG or any of their subsidiaries (including the Borrowers and EgyptCo);

 

  · bankruptcy and other insolvency events for the Partnership, Höegh LNG or any of their subsidiaries (including the Borrowers and EgyptCo); and

 

  · occurrence of certain litigation events for the Partnership, Höegh LNG or any of their subsidiaries (including the Borrowers and EgyptCo).

 

However, the banks cannot enforce any of their rights to the security provided by Höegh Cyprus Höegh FSRU III, the Partnership or EgyptCo unless an event of default occurs directly and expressly with respect to the Partnership, its subsidiaries or EgyptCo and its direct shareholders. However, should the Partnership ever acquire the Höegh Grace , the banks could enforce all their rights to security under the cross-collateral and cross-guarantee provisions of the Gallant/Grace facility.

 

Under the contribution, purchase and sale agreement entered into with respect to the purchase of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , Höegh LNG will indemnify us for liabilities under the Gallant/Grace facility not attributable to the Höegh Gallant .

 

On March 30, 2016, the Höegh Grace was delivered and $200 million was drawn on the Grace facility which was secured by a first security mortgage of the Höegh Grace and the assignment or pledge of certain other assets associated with the Höegh Grace .

 

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Joint Ventures Debt

 

The debt of our joint ventures is not consolidated on our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements, but it is included as a component in “Investment in and advances to joint ventures” on our combined carve-out balance sheet in accordance with the equity method of accounting.

 

Loans Due to Owners (Shareholder Loans)

 

The loans due to owners consist of shareholder loans where the principal amounts, including accrued interest, are repaid based on available cash after servicing of long-term bank debt. As of December 31, 2015, our 50.0% share of the outstanding balance was $14.0 million. The shareholder loans are due not later than the 12th anniversary of the delivery date of each FSRU. The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann were delivered November 30, 2009 and June 1, 2010, respectively. The shareholder loans are subordinated to the long-term bank debt, consisting of the Neptune facility and the Cape Ann facility (described below). Under terms of the shareholder loan agreements, the repayments shall be prioritized over any dividend payment to the owners of our joint ventures. The shareholder loans bear interest at a fixed rate of 8.0% per year. The Partnership is due 50.0% of the outstanding balance and the other joint venture partners have, on a combined basis, an equal amount of shareholder loans outstanding at the same terms to each of our joint ventures.

 

The shareholder loans have financed part of the construction of the vessels and operating expenses until the delivery and commencement of operations of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . In 2011, our joint ventures began repaying principal and a portion of the interest expense based on available cash after servicing of the external debt. The quarterly payments include a payment of interest for the first month of the quarter and a repayment of principal. Interest is accrued for the last two months of the quarter for repayment in the latter years of the loans. Since the shareholder loans are subordinated to long-term bank debt, the repayment plan is subject to quarterly discretionary revisions based on available cash after servicing of the long-term bank debt.

 

Neptune Facilit y

 

In December 2007, our joint venture owning the GDF Suez Neptune , as the borrower, entered into a $300 million secured facility with a syndicate of banks as long term financing of the construction of the GDF Suez Neptune (the “Neptune facility”). As of December 31, 2015, our 50.0% share of the outstanding balance, excluding deferred debt issuance cost, was $123.6 million. The Neptune facility is secured with a first priority mortgage of the GDF Suez Neptune , an assignment of its rights under the time charter and a pledge of the borrower’s cash accounts. We and the other owners of the borrower have provided a negative pledge of shares in the borrower as security for the facility. In addition, Höegh LNG and MOL guarantee funding of drydocking costs and remarketing efforts in the event of an early termination of the charter.

 

The Neptune facility is repayable in quarterly installments over 12 years with a final balloon payment of $165 million, of which $82.5 million is our share, due in April 2022. The Neptune facility bears interest at a rate equal to three month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.5%. The syndicate of banks also provides interest rate swap contracts to the borrower, which are not reflected in the LIBOR rate for the facility.

 

There are no financial covenants in the Neptune facility, but certain other covenants and restrictions apply. The borrower is required to maintain insurance coverage for damage to the FSRU equivalent to 120.0% of the aggregate outstanding loan balance and loss of hire insurance. The borrower must maintain cash accounts with the syndicate of banks for its operating account and restricted cash for debt service for the next 6 months, including interest payments on the facility and associated interest rate swap contracts and certain distribution accounts. Cash in the operating account from hire rates will be applied for the following purposes in the following order; first, to pay operating costs, insurance, taxes and technical management fees; second, to transfer funds to the restricted cash account for debt service until reserve requirements are met; finally, to transfer funds to certain distribution accounts. Certain conditions apply to making distributions from the distribution accounts, including meeting a 1.20 historical and projected debt service coverage ratio, no event of default then continuing and debt service reserve and retention accounts are fully funded. The facility agreement limits the borrower’s ability to raise additional debt, enter into certain material transactions and make guarantees.

 

The Neptune facility identifies various events that may trigger mandatory reduction, prepayment and cancellation of the facility, including total loss or sale of the GDF Suez Neptune . The Neptune facility contains customary events of default such as:

  

  · change of ownership;

 

  · inaccuracy of representations and warranties;

 

  · failure to repay principal and interest;

 

  · cross-default to other indebtedness held by the borrower;

 

  · bankruptcy and other insolvency events related to the borrower; and

 

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  · termination or breach of the charter.

 

Cape Ann Facility

 

In December 2007, our joint venture owning the GDF Suez Cape Ann , as the borrower, entered into a $300 million secured facility with a syndicate of banks as long term financing of the construction of the GDF Suez Cape Ann (the “Cape Ann facility”). As of December 31, 2015, our 50.0% share of the outstanding balance, excluding deferred debt issuance cost, was $127.1 million. The Cape Ann facility is secured with a first priority mortgage of the GDF Suez Cape Ann , an assignment of its rights under the time charter and a pledge of the borrower’s cash accounts. We and the other owners of the borrower have provided a negative pledge of shares in the borrower as security for the facility. In addition, Höegh LNG and MOL guarantee funding of drydocking costs and remarketing efforts in the event of an early termination of the charter.

 

The Cape Ann facility is repayable in quarterly installments over 12 years with a final balloon payment of $165 million, of which $82.5 million is our share, due in October 2022. The Cape Ann facility bears interest at a rate equal to three month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.5%. The syndicate of banks also provides interest rate swap contracts to the borrower, which are not reflected in the LIBOR rate for the facility.

 

There are no financial covenants in the Cape Ann facility, but certain other covenants and restrictions apply. The borrower is required to maintain insurance coverage for damage to the FSRU equivalent to 120.0% of the aggregate outstanding loan balance and loss of hire insurance. The borrower must maintain cash accounts with the syndicate of banks for its operating account and restricted cash for debt service for the next 6 months, including interest payments on the facility and associated interest rate swap contracts and certain distribution accounts. Cash in the operating account from hire rates will be applied for the following purposes in the following order; first, to pay operating costs, insurance, taxes and technical management fees; second, to transfer funds to the restricted cash account for debt service until reserve requirements are met; finally, to transfer funds to certain distribution accounts. Certain conditions apply to making distributions from the distribution accounts, including meeting a 1.20 historical and projected debt service coverage ratio, no event of default then continuing and debt service reserve and retention accounts are fully funded. The facility agreement limits the borrower’s ability to raise additional debt, enter into certain material transactions and make guarantees.

 

The Cape Ann facility identifies various events that may trigger mandatory reduction, prepayment and cancellation of the facility, including total loss or sale of the GDF Suez Cape Ann . The Cape Ann facility contains customary events of default such as:

 

  · change of ownership;

 

  · inaccuracy of representations and warranties;

 

  · failure to repay principal and interest;

 

  · cross-default to other indebtedness held by the borrower;

 

  · bankruptcy and other insolvency events related to the borrower; and

 

  · termination or breach of the charter.

 

Critical Accounting Estimates

 

The preparation of our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and of the combined financial statements of our joint ventures in accordance with US GAAP requires that management make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. The following is a discussion of the accounting policies applied by us that are considered to involve a higher degree of judgment in their application. Please read note 2 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and the combined financial statements of our joint ventures.

 

Time Charter Revenue Recognition

 

Revenue arrangements include the right to use FSRUs for a stated period of time that meet the criteria for lease accounting, in addition to providing a time charter service element. The lease element of time charters that are accounted for as operating leases. The Höegh Gallant’s time charter is accounted for as an operating lease. The lease element of time charters that are accounted for as direct financing leases is recognized over the charter term using the effective interest rate method and is included in time charter revenues. Direct financing leases are reflected on the balance sheets as net investments in direct financing leases. The PGN FSRU Lampung time charter is accounted for as a direct financing lease.

 

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Evaluation of whether a time charter should be accounted for as an operating or financial lease requires use of judgment. Our evaluations of each time charter require that we estimate the fair value of our FSRUs, the estimated useful lives of those vessels, whether the option price, if any, represents a bargain purchase option, whether options to extend the time charter are reasonably assured and other factors.

 

The impact of the change in such estimates could impact our evaluation of the accounting for the time charters as operating or financial leases.

 

Operating leases recognize revenues on a straight-line basis as time charters are paid while financial leases use the effective interest rate method. Under the effective interest rate method, part of the payment is reflected as a repayment of the net investment in the direct financing lease (receivable). As a result, the revenue component of a direct financial lease shows a declining profile over time. However, the cash flows from time charters are not impacted by the accounting treatment applied.

 

Fees for providing time charter services, reimbursements for actual vessel operating expenses or other costs are recognized as revenues as services are performed or the actual costs are incurred. Revenues for the time charter services element are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off-hire.

 

Our time charters may include provisions for the charterer to make upfront payments for fees for certain vessel modifications, drydocking costs, other additions to equipment or spare parts or estimates for certain reimbursable costs or taxes. Fees for modifications or other additions to equipment are deferred and amortized over the shorter of the remaining charter period or the useful life of the additions. Upfront payments of fees for reimbursement of drydocking costs are recognized on a straight line basis over the period to the next drydocking.

 

Construction Contract Revenue and Related Expenses

 

Revenue on construction contracts is recognized under the percentage of completion method using the ratio of costs incurred to estimated total costs. It is our judgment that until a construction contract reaches at least 25.0% completion, there may be insufficient information to determine the estimated profit with a reasonable level of certainty to recognize a margin on the contract. Revenue from contract change orders, if any, is recognized when the owner has agreed to the change order in writing. Provisions are recognized in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements of income for the full amount of estimated losses on uncompleted contracts whenever evidence indicates that the estimated total cost of a contract exceeds its estimated total revenue. All contract costs, including those associated with change orders, are recorded as incurred, and revisions to estimated total costs are reflected as soon as the obligation to perform is determined. Contract costs consist of direct costs on contracts, including labor and materials and amounts payable to subcontractors and interest.

 

The accuracy of our revenue and recognition of a margin in a given period is dependent on the accuracy of our estimates of the cost to complete each project. The main factors that can contribute to changes in estimates of contract cost include: a) the accuracy of the estimated costs in tendering the original bid at a fixed price, b) higher costs due to weather and other delays (including resulting delay liquidated damages) and c) subcontractor performance issues (including costs of warranty work, if any). These factors may cause fluctuations in the profit margin on the construction contract between periods. As the percentage of completion method relies on the substantial use of estimates, estimates may be revised throughout the life of a construction contract. The construction cost incurred and estimates to complete on construction contracts are reviewed, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis, as well as when information becomes available that would necessitate a review of the current estimate. Adjustments to estimates for a contract’s estimated costs at completion and estimated profit or loss often are required as experience is gained, and as more information is obtained, even though the scope of work required under the contract may not change. The impact of such changes to estimates is made on a cumulative basis in the period when such information has become known. Delays in delivery can result in delay liquidated damages that would be payable by us to our charterer.

 

Estimated Useful Lives

 

The estimated economic life of our FSRUs is 40 years. Depreciation of FSRUs is calculated on a straight-line basis using our estimated useful life, less the estimated residual value. Our estimated useful life represents our best estimate of the period we will use the vessel, while the estimated economic life may involve periods an asset will be used by others. Our business model is to provide time charters of five years or more. Charterers tend to prefer newer vessels for long-term charters. Accordingly, we have estimated that the estimated useful life, or depreciable life, to us is 35 years.

 

 

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Valuation of Derivative Financial Instruments

 

Under our risk management policies, we currently use of derivative financial instruments to manage interest rate risk. For interest rate swaps that are designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes, the changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps are recorded in other comprehensive income (OCI) for that portion that is effective. Amounts included in accumulated OCI are reclassified to earnings in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income when the hedged transaction is reflected in the statement of income. Ineffective portions of the cash flow hedges and amortization of amounts excluded form hedge effectiveness are recognized in statement of income as they occur or are amortized on a systematic basis, respectively. To qualify as a cash flow hedge, an assessment of whether the interest rate swap designated as a hedging instrument is highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items must be assessed at the designation date and over the life of the instrument. If a hedge is no longer highly effective, hedge accounting is discontinued on a prospective basis. Changes in fair value of interest rate swaps that are not designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes are recognized in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income.

 

The fair values of the interest rates swaps are estimated based on the present value of cash flows over the term of the instruments based on the relevant LIBOR interest rate curves, adjusted for the our credit worthiness given the level of collateral provided and the credit worthiness of the counterparty to the derivative. Determining credit worthiness is highly subjective and requires significant judgment.

 

Use of exchange rates

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the revenues from the Höegh Gallant were denominated 90% in U.S. dollars and 10% in EGP. A limited amount of operating expenses related to the Höegh Gallant was also denominated in EGP. Due to restrictions in Egypt, exchangeability between EGP and other currencies is more than temporarily lacking. There is a lack of authoritative guidance for how to re-measure a currency with potentially long term lack of exchangeability. However, US GAAP does not permit the use of black market exchange rates since such rates are not objective or determinable. There is only one official published rate for EGP. Therefore, we have concluded that the official rate should applied in the Partnership’s consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities. The Partnership classifies EGP cash in excess of EGP working capital needs as long-term restricted cash. As of December 31, 2015, long-term restricted cash in EGP was $0.4 million.

 

Egyptian authorities set the official published rates which are fixed to other currencies for a period of time until they are re-set to another level. As a result, EGP do not freely trade and are subject to periodic devaluation.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, the impact of EGP on total revenues and total operating cost was estimated to be 2% of consolidated revenues and 2% of consolidated total operating costs, respectively. This reflects that the Höegh Gallant operations were consolidated for the period from October 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015. We are in discussions with EgyptCo on further reducing the amount of revenues denominated in EGP to reduce the exchange rate risk for 2016.

 

Based on outstanding balances of monetary assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2015, we estimate that a 15% reduction in the EGP to U.S. dollar rate would result in a loss on foreign exchange of approximately $0.1 million.

 

Goodwill and intangible assets

 

We allocate the cost of acquired companies to the identifiable tangible and intangible assets and liabilities acquired, with the remaining amount being classified as goodwill. Certain intangible assets, such as above-market contracts, are being amortized over time. Our future operating performance will be affected by the amortization of intangible assets and potential impairment charges related to goodwill or intangible assets. Accordingly, the allocation of the purchase price to intangible assets and goodwill may significantly affect our future operating results.

 

The allocation of the purchase price requires management to make significant estimates and assumptions, including estimates of future cash flows expected to be generated by the acquired assets and the appropriate discount rate to value these cash flows. In addition, the process of evaluating the potential impairment of goodwill and intangible assets is highly subjective and requires significant judgment at many points during the analysis. The estimates and assumptions regarding expected future cash flows and appropriate discount rates are in part based upon existing contracts, anticipated future FSRU charter rates, historical experience, financial forecasts and industry trends and conditions.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance for the classification of debt issuance cost; Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Cost . Under the new guidance, deferred debt issuance cost will no longer be classified as assets but presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the associated debt in the balance sheet. The presentation in the balance sheet is required to be adjusted on a retrospective basis. The amendments are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 31, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. The Partnership is implementing the guidance as of December 31, 2015 and has adjusted the balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 on a retrospective basis. The deduction from the carrying amount of long-term debt for deferred debt issuance cost was $14.1 million as of December 31, 2014, which reduced current assets by $2.6 million and long-term assets by $11.5 million

 

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There are no other recent accounting pronouncements, whose adoption had a material impact on the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements in the current year.

 

In May 2014, a new accounting standard, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , was issued by the FASB. Under the new standard, revenue for most contracts with customers will be recognized when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects consideration that the entity expects to be entitled, subject to certain limitations. The scope of this guidance does not apply to leases, financial instruments, guarantees and certain non-monetary transactions. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and early adoption is not permitted. The Partnership is currently assessing the impact the adoption this standard will have on the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

In February 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance for consolidation; Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis . This guidance modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities or voting interest entities, eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, and affects the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with variable interest entities. The amendment is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. The adoption of the amendment is not expected to have a material impact on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance for the classification of deferred taxes, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes . The new guidance requires companies to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent on the balance sheet instead of separating deferred taxes into current and non-current amounts. The guidance is effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. The guidance may be adopted on either a prospective or retrospective basis. Early adoption is permitted. The Partnership is currently assessing whether to adopt the new guidance on a prospective or retrospective basis and the timing of its adoption.

 

C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc.

 

Not applicable.

 

D. Trend Information

 

Outlook and Trends

 

Our FSRUs operate under long-term fixed rate contracts. We believe lower LNG prices will positively impact demand for LNG and, as a result, the infrastructure necessary for its import. Pakistan, Egypt, Jordan and Poland have emerged as new sources of LNG demand in 2016. All such countries, except Poland, utilize FSRUs. A Höegh LNG FSRU is contracted to serve the Colombian market from 2016. Another FSRU is scheduled to start operations in Ghana. We believe that attractive LNG pricing and adoption of FSRU technology will result in new FSRU projects that may become potential opportunities for us in the future.

  

Höegh LNG is obligated to offer to the Partnership any FSRU or LNG carrier operating under a charter of five or more years. As discussed at “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Overview—Our Fleet,” Höegh LNG has entered into a time charter agreement for the Höegh Grace. The FSRU is contracted to serve in Colombia from the second half of 2016 for a minimum term of ten years. Höegh LNG has also entered into a 20 year time charter in Chile, expected to begin in the second quarter of 2018, which will be serviced with an FSRU from Höegh LNG’s newbuilding program.

 

Pursuant to the omnibus agreement, the Partnership has the right to purchase from Höegh LNG all or a portion of its interests in the FSRU Independence within 24 months after the acceptance of the vessel by her charterer, subject to reaching an agreement with Höegh LNG regarding the purchase price and other terms in accordance with the provisions of the omnibus agreement. The Partnership and Höegh LNG continue to pursue, but have not received, ABKN’s consent to the acquisition of the Independence by the Partnership. The Independence began operating under its time charter in December 2014.

 

We believe the time charters entered into by Höegh LNG may provide opportunities for us to acquire additional vessels. However, there can be no assurance that we will acquire any vessels from Höegh LNG.

 

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E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

As of December 31, 2015, there were no off-balance sheet arrangements.

 

F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

 

The following table sets forth our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2015: 

 

    Payments Due by Period  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Total     Less 
than 1 
Year
    1-3 
Years
    4-5 
Years
    More 
than 5 
Years
 
Long term debt   $ 373,306       32,208       64,416       178,721     $ 97,961  
Interest commitments on long-term debt and interest rate swaps(1)     77,849       17,840       30,861       18,172       10,976  
Other long-term liabilities(2)     17,428       2,795       14,633              
Total   $ 468,583       52,843       109,910       196,893     $ 108,937  

 

(1) Our interest commitments on long-term debt and interest rate swaps are calculated based upon the varying margins by tranche of the Lampung facility and the fixed interest rate of the interest rate swaps since we are fully hedged. We swap a floating LIBOR interest rate on our long-term debt for a fixed interest rate on our swaps.

 

(2) Our consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet includes other long-term liabilities for an advance provided by the charterer to fund refundable value added tax on the import of the FSRU. The current portion of the advance of $2.3 million is included in our consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet as accrued liabilities and other payables which is reflected in the table above.

 

G. Safe Harbor

 

Please read “Forward-Looking Statements.”

 

Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

Management of Höegh LNG Partners LP

 

Our partnership agreement provides that our general partner will irrevocably delegate to our board of directors the authority to oversee and direct our operations, management and policies on an exclusive basis, and such delegation will be binding on any successor general partner of the Partnership. Our general partner, Höegh LNG GP LLC, is wholly owned by Höegh LNG. Our officers will manage our day-to-day activities consistent with the policies and procedures adopted by our board of directors.

 

Employees of affiliates of Höegh LNG provide services to us under the Administrative Services Agreements. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Administrative Services Agreements.”

 

A. Directors and Senior Management

 

The following table provides information about our directors and executive officer. The business address for each of our directors and executive officer is Wessex House, 5th Floor, 45 Reid Street, Hamilton, HM12, Bermuda. 

 

Name

 

Age

 

Position

Sveinung Støhle   57   Chairman of the Board of Directors
Steffen Føreid   47   Director
Claibourne Harris   66   Director, Member of the Audit Committee, Member of the Conflicts Committee
Morten W. Høegh   42   Director
Andrew Jamieson   68   Director, Member of the Audit Committee
Robert Shaw   60   Director, Member of the Audit Committee, Chairman of the Conflicts Committee
David Spivak   48   Director, Chairman of the Audit Committee, Member of the Conflicts Committee
Richard Tyrrell   42   Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

 

Sveinung Støhle has served as our director and chairman of our board of directors since April 2014. Since 2005, Mr. Støhle has served as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Höegh LNG through his employment with Höegh Norway. He has more than 25 years of experience in the LNG industry with both shipping and oil and gas companies. Prior to his employment with Höegh LNG, Mr. Støhle held positions as President of Total LNG USA, Inc., Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Golar LNG Limited, General Manager Commercial of Nigeria LNG Limited and various positions with Elf Aquitaine. Mr. Støhle has a Master of Business Administration from the University of San Francisco and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from California State University.

 

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Steffen Føreid has served as our director since April 2014. Since 2010, Mr. Føreid has served as the Chief Financial Officer of Höegh LNG. From 2008 to 2010, Mr. Føreid was the Chief Financial Officer of and an advisor to Grenland Group ASA. From 2002 to 2007, Mr. Føreid held various positions at a corporate restructuring of Kværner ASA, including Executive Vice President during a management buy-out of Kværner ASA and Vice President of Group Business Development at Aker Kværner ASA. From 1996 to 2001, Mr. Føreid worked within Corporate and Investment Banking at JPMorgan Chase & Co. Mr. Føreid has a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Fribourg in Switzerland.

 

Claiborne Harris has served as our director since May 2014. Since May 2013, Mr. Harris has been a member of Gunung Bonito LLC, which provides energy advisory services and LNG consulting. From October 2012 to April 2013, Mr. Harris served as a consultant to GDF Suez Energy North America, advising the President and Chief Executive Officer. From January 2006 to September 2012, he was President and Chief Executive Officer of GDF Suez Gas North America, which was responsible for GDF Suez Energy North America’s natural gas activities. From December 2002 to December 2006, Mr. Harris served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Suez Global LNG, which developed and managed LNG shipping assets. Prior to joining Suez Global LNG, Mr. Harris held various positions at Tractebel LNG Ltd., Enron, VICO Indonesia and UNOCAL. Since 2015, Mr. Harris has served on the board of Freeport LNG-GP LLC. Mr. Harris holds a Bachelor of Science Geology from the University of Oklahoma.

 

Morten W. Høegh has served as our director since April 2014. Since 2006, Mr. Høegh has served as the Chairman of Höegh LNG, and he also serves as chairman of Leif Höegh UK. Since 2003, he has been a director of Höegh Autoliners Holdings AS (and its predecessors Leif Höegh & Co. ASA, Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. and Höegh Autoliners Ltd.). Mr. Høegh is a director of Höegh Eiendom AS and, until October 2014, was a director of Hector Rail AB. He is a director and member of the Executive Committee of Gard P&I (Bermuda) Ltd. and certain of its subsidiaries. He also serves as the Chairman of the Western Europe committee of DNV GL. From 1998 to 2000, Mr. Høegh worked as an investment banker with Morgan Stanley. He has a Master in Business Administration from Harvard Business School and a Master of Science in Ocean Systems Management and a Bachelor of Science in Ocean Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He also is a graduate of the Military Russian Program at the Norwegian Defense Intelligence and Security School.

  

Andrew Jamieson has served as our director since April 2014. He has extensive experience in the energy industry, in general, and in LNG, in particular. Since 2009, Mr. Jamieson has served as a director of Höegh LNG. From 1974 to 2009, Mr. Jamieson held various positions with Royal Dutch Shell plc in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Denmark, Australia and Nigeria. Specifically, from 2005 to 2009, he served as Executive Vice President Gas & Projects and Member of the Gas & Power Executive Committee. From 1999 to 2004, he was Managing Director of Nigeria LNG Limited and Vice President of Bonny Gas Transport Limited. While at Royal Dutch Shell plc, Mr. Jamieson also was in charge of the North West Shelf Project in Australia and served as a director on various Royal Dutch Shell plc companies. In 2006, he was made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for “services to British business and sustainable development in Nigeria”. Mr. Jamieson serves on the boards of GTT (Gaztransport & Technigaz) and Woodside Petroleum Ltd. and is chairman of the board of Seven Energy Limited. Prior to the expiration of his term in 2015, Mr. Jamieson also served on the board of Velocys PLC. Mr. Jamieson holds a Ph.D. degree from Glasgow University, is the current President of the Institute of Chemical Engineers and a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

 

Robert Shaw has served as our director since April 2014. Since 2008, Mr. Shaw has been an owner and a managing director of Mystras Ventures LLC, which makes dry bulk shipping industry-related investments. From 2001 to 2007, Mr. Shaw held various positions at Navios Maritime Holdings Inc., including board member, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and President. From 1985 to 2000, Mr. Shaw was a partner at Healy & Baillie LLP, a law firm specializing in shipping and international commercial law. Since 2013, Mr. Shaw has been a managing director of Sea Trade Holdings Inc. and its subsidiaries which own and operate dry bulk ships. Mr. Shaw also is the chairman of the board of the Carnegie Council for Ethics in International Affairs and a board member and the Vice President of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. Mr. Shaw was admitted to the Law Society of England and Wales in 1980 and the New York bar in 1981 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Jurisprudence from St John’s College, Oxford University.

 

David Spivak has served as our director since April 2014. Mr. Spivak is currently the Managing Director of Brockstreet Consulting, a strategic business and financial consulting firm he founded in 2013. From 1995 to 2012, Mr. Spivak worked at Citigroup as a capital markets professional and investment banker. He held a variety of positions at Citigroup, including serving as a Managing Director in the Investment Banking and Equity Capital Markets Divisions, as well as serving as the Canadian Head of Global Capital Structuring. From 2005 to 2009, Mr. Spivak was head of Citigroup’s shipping equity franchise in New York. Prior to joining Citigroup, Mr. Spivak worked at Coopers & Lybrand in the Financial Advisory Services Group. Mr. Spivak has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Manitoba. He also is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive) and member of the TSX Listings Advisory Committee.

 

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Richard Tyrrell joined Leif Höegh UK in January 2014 in readiness to serve as the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of us and Höegh UK. Prior to joining Leif Höegh UK, Mr. Tyrrell served as a Managing Director in the energy team of Perella Weinberg Partners, a global, independent advisory and asset management firm, from June 2009 until January 2014. From 2008 to February 2009, Mr. Tyrrell was an investment professional with Morgan Stanley Infrastructure, an infrastructure investment and management platform with $4 billion under management, where he evaluated principal investment opportunities. From 2003 to 2008, Mr. Tyrrell worked for various departments of Morgan Stanley’s Investment Banking Division, including its Global Energy and Utilities Group and its United Kingdom Mergers and Acquisitions Group. From 1994 to 2000, Mr. Tyrrell served as a technical manager and field engineer for Schlumberger Limited in Australia and Southeast Asia. Mr. Tyrrell has a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School and an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine.

 

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B. Compensation

 

Reimbursement of Expenses of Our General Partner

 

Our general partner does not receive compensation from us for any services it provides on our behalf, although it is entitled to reimbursement for expenses incurred on our behalf. In addition, PT Höegh, the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung , reimburses Höegh Norway pursuant to the technical information and services agreement for expenses Höegh Norway incurs pursuant to a sub-technical support agreement with Höegh LNG Management. Höegh Cyprus, the entity that owns of the Höegh Gallant , reimburses Höegh LNG Management for expenses incurred pursuant to a ship management agreement with Höegh LNG Management, Höegh Norway for expenses incurred pursuant to the Gallant management agreement and Höegh Maritime Management for expenses incurred pursuant to a secondment agreement for crew with Höegh Maritime Management. Our joint ventures reimburse Höegh LNG Management for expenses incurred pursuant to ship management agreements with Höegh LNG Management. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Support Agreement.” Our subsidiary, Höegh UK also reimburses each of Leif Höegh UK and Höegh Norway for expenses pursuant to administrative services agreements. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Administrative Services Agreements.”

  

Executive Compensation

 

We did not pay any compensation to our directors or our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer or accrue any obligations with respect to management incentive or retirement benefits for our directors and our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer prior to our IPO. Pursuant to the administrative services agreement that we and our operating company entered into with Höegh UK, Richard Tyrrell, as an officer of Höegh UK, provides executive officer functions for our benefit. Mr. Tyrrell is responsible for our day-to-day management subject to the direction of our board of directors. Our officers and employees and officers and employees of our subsidiaries and affiliates of Höegh LNG and our general partner may participate in employee benefit plans and arrangements sponsored by Höegh LNG, our general partner or their affiliates, including plans that may be established in the future. Under our administrative services agreement with Höegh UK, we paid $3.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, including $ 2.2 million for provision of services to Höegh UK from Höegh Norway under the Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement, under which Höegh UK has subcontracted provision of certain services to Höegh Norway. Höegh UK paid Richard Tyrrell’s compensation.

 

In connection with the IPO, Mr. Tyrrell entered into an employment agreement with Leif Höegh UK dated December 4, 2013 and effective on January 15, 2014, which was assigned from Leif Höegh UK to Höegh UK subsequent to the closing of our IPO. Pursuant to the employment agreement, Mr. Tyrrell serves as Höegh UK’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and is based in London. His annualized base salary was GBP 300,000 for the year ended December 31, 2015. In addition, the employment agreement also provides for a discretionary annual bonus (as determined by Höegh UK), participation in other employment benefits in which other senior executives of Höegh UK participate, 25 working days of paid vacation per year (plus public holidays), and up to 12 weeks of paid sick leave per year. Mr. Tyrrell’s employment may be terminated on three months’ prior written notice by either Mr. Tyrrell or Höegh UK. In addition, Mr. Tyrrell’s employment agreement provides Höegh UK with the option to make a payment in lieu of notice. Höegh UK may also terminate the employment agreement with immediate effect upon certain specified “cause” events. The employment agreement includes post-termination restrictive covenants prohibiting Mr. Tyrrell from competing or soliciting customers or employees for a period of six months after the termination of his employment. For the year ended December 31, 2015, Mr. Tyrrell received GBP 409,500 in total compensation from Höegh UK for his services to us. In addition, an accrual of GBP 101,000 for 2015 was made to the discretionary annual bonus which was paid in 2016.

  

Compensation of Directors

 

Directors receive compensation for attending meetings of our board of directors, as well as committee meetings. During the year ended December 31, 2015, directors each received a director fee of $50,000 per year. Chairpersons of the audit and conflicts committees each received a committee fee of $10,000 per year, and other committee members received a committee fee of $5,000 per year. In addition, each director is reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attending meetings of our board of directors or committees. Each director is fully indemnified by us for actions associated with being a director to the extent permitted under Marshall Islands law.

 

On February 28, 2016, we adopted an increase to the compensation for our board of directors, effective for the year ended December 31, 2016. Beginning in 2016, directors will each receive a director fee of $75,000 per year (payable half in cash and half in equity-based amounts), chairpersons of the audit and conflicts committees will each receive a committee fee of $20,000 per year, and other committee members will each receive a committee fee of $10,000 per year.

 

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2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan

 

In connection with our initial public offering, we adopted the Höegh LNG Partners LP 2014 Long-Term Incentive Plan, or the “LTIP,” for our employees, officers, consultants and directors who perform services for us and our subsidiaries. The LTIP provides for the grant of unit options, unit appreciation rights, restricted units, unit awards, phantom units, distribution equivalent rights, cash awards, performance awards, other unit-based awards and substitute awards (collectively, “awards”). These awards are intended to align the interests of employees, officers, consultants and directors with those of our unitholders and to give such individuals the opportunity to share in our long-term performance. During the year ended December 31, 2015, we granted no awards under the LTIP.

 

Administration

 

The LTIP is administered by our board of directors, or an alternative committee appointed by our board of directors, which we refer to together as the “committee” for purposes of this summary. The committee administers the LTIP pursuant to its terms and all applicable state, federal or other rules or laws. The committee has the power to determine to whom and when awards will be granted, determine the type and amount of awards (measured in cash or in common units), proscribe and interpret the terms and provisions of each award agreement (the terms of which may vary), accelerate the vesting provisions associated with an award, delegate duties under the LTIP and execute all other responsibilities permitted or required under the LTIP.

  

Securities to Be Offered

 

The maximum aggregate number of common units that may be issued pursuant to any and all awards under the LTIP shall not exceed 658,000 common units, subject to adjustment due to recapitalization or reorganization as provided under the LTIP. In addition, if any common units subject to any award are not issued or transferred, or cease to be issuable or transferable for any reason, including (but not exclusively) because units are withheld or surrendered in payment of taxes or any exercise or purchase price relating to an award or because an award is forfeited, terminated, expires unexercised, is settled in cash in lieu of common units or is otherwise terminated without a delivery of units, those common units will again be available for issue, transfer or exercise pursuant to awards under the LTIP, to the extent allowable by law. Common units to be delivered pursuant to awards under the LTIP may be newly issued common units or common units acquired in the open market, from any person, or any combination of the foregoing.

 

Awards

 

Unit Options . We may grant unit options to eligible persons. Unit options are rights to acquire common units at a specified price. The exercise price of each unit option granted under the LTIP will be stated in the unit option agreement and may vary; provided, however, that, the exercise price for a unit option must not be less than 100% of the fair market value per common unit as of the date of grant of the unit option. Unit options may be exercised in the manner and at such times as the committee determines for each unit option. The committee will determine the methods and form of payment for the exercise price of a unit option and the methods and forms in which common units will be delivered to a participant.

 

Unit Appreciation Rights . A unit appreciation right is the right to receive, in cash or in common units, as determined by the committee, an amount equal to the excess of the fair market value of one common unit on the date of exercise over the grant price of the unit appreciation right. The committee may make grants of unit appreciation rights and will determine the time or times at which a unit appreciation right may be exercised in whole or in part. The exercise price of each unit appreciation right granted under the LTIP will be stated in the unit appreciation right agreement and may vary; provided, however, that, the exercise price must not be less than 100% of the fair market value per common unit as of the date of grant of the unit appreciation right.

 

Restricted Units . A restricted unit is a grant of a common unit subject to a risk of forfeiture, performance conditions, restrictions on transferability and any other restrictions imposed by the committee in its discretion. Restrictions may lapse at such times and under such circumstances as determined by the committee. Cash distributions paid with respect to our common units will be paid to the holder of restricted units without restriction at the same time as such distributions are paid to unitholders generally, unless otherwise specified in the applicable award agreement governing the restricted units.

 

Unit Awards . The committee may grant common units that are not subject to restrictions to any eligible person in such amounts as the committee, in its sole discretion, may select.

 

Phantom Units . Phantom units are rights to receive common units, cash or a combination of both at the end of a specified period. The committee may subject phantom units to restrictions (which may include a risk of forfeiture) to be specified in the phantom unit agreement that may lapse at such times and under such circumstances as determined by the committee. Phantom units may be satisfied by delivery of common units, cash equal to the fair market value of the specified number of common units covered by the phantom unit or any combination thereof as determined by the committee. Distribution equivalent rights may be granted in tandem with a phantom unit award, which may provide that cash distribution equivalents will be paid during or after the vesting period with respect to a phantom unit, as determined by the committee.

 

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Distribution Equivalent Rights . The committee may grant distribution equivalent rights in tandem with awards under the LTIP (other than unit awards or an award of restricted units), or distribution equivalent rights may be granted alone. Distribution equivalent rights entitle the participant to receive cash equal to the amount of any cash distributions made by us during the period the distribution equivalent right is outstanding. Payment of cash distributions pursuant to a distribution equivalent right issued in connection with another award may be subject to the same vesting terms as the award to which it relates or different vesting terms, in the discretion of the committee.

  

Cash Awards . The committee may grant awards denominated in and settled in cash. Cash awards may be based, in whole or in part, on the value or performance of a common unit.

 

Performance Awards . The committee may condition the right to exercise or receive an award, or the settlement or vesting of an award, or may increase or decrease the amount payable with respect to an award, based on the attainment of one or more performance conditions deemed appropriate by the committee.

 

Other Unit-Based Awards . The committee may grant other unit-based awards under the LTIP, which are awards that may be based, in whole or in part, on the value or performance of a common unit or are denominated or payable in common units. Upon settlement, these other unit-based awards may be paid in common units, cash or a combination thereof, as provided in the award agreement.

 

Substitute Awards . The committee may grant awards in substitution for similar awards held by individuals who become employees, consultants or directors as a result of a merger, consolidation or acquisition by or involving us, an affiliate of another entity or the assets of another entity. Such substitute awards that are unit options or unit appreciation rights may have exercise prices less than 100% of the fair market value per common unit on the date of the substitution if such substitution complies with applicable laws and exchange rules.

 

Tax Withholding

 

At our discretion, and subject to conditions that the committee may impose, tax withholding obligations with respect to an award may be satisfied by withholding from any payment related to an award or by the withholding of common units issuable pursuant to the award based on the fair market value of the common units.

 

Anti-Dilution Adjustments and Change in Control

 

In the event of any “equity restructuring” event (such as a unit dividend, unit split, reverse unit split or similar event) with respect to the common units that may result in an additional compensation expense under Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 718 (“FASB ASC Topic 718”) if adjustments to awards in such event were discretionary, the committee will adjust the number and type of units covered by each outstanding award, the terms and conditions of each such award, the maximum number of units available under the LTIP and the kind of units or other securities available for grant under the LTIP, in each case, to equitably reflect the restructuring event. With respect to any similar event that would not result in a FASB ASC Topic 718 accounting charge if adjustments to awards were discretionary (such as certain recapitalizations, reclassifications, reorganizations, mergers, combinations, exchanges or other relevant changes in capitalization), adjustment will be made by the committee in its discretion in accordance with the terms of the LTIP with respect to, as appropriate, the maximum number of units available under the LTIP, the number of units that may be acquired with respect to an award and, if applicable, the exercise price of an award, in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of awards as a result of such events. Upon a “change in control” (as defined in the LTIP), the committee may, in its discretion, (i) remove any forfeiture restrictions applicable to an award, (ii) accelerate the time of exercisability or vesting of an award, (iii) require awards to be surrendered in exchange for a cash payment, (iv) cancel unvested awards without payment or (v) make adjustments to awards as the committee deems appropriate to reflect the change in control.

 

Termination of Employment or Service

 

The consequences on outstanding awards under the LTIP of the termination of a participant’s employment, consulting arrangement or membership on our board of directors will be determined by the committee in the terms of the relevant award agreement.

 

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C. Board Practices

 

General

 

Our partnership agreement provides that our general partner irrevocably delegates to our board of directors the authority to oversee and direct our operations, management and policies on an exclusive basis, and such delegation is binding on any successor general partner of the Partnership. Our general partner, Höegh LNG GP LLC, is wholly owned by Höegh LNG. Our officers manage our day-today activities consistent with the policies and procedures adopted by our board of directors.

  

Our current board of directors consists of seven members, three of whom were appointed by our general partner and four of whom were elected by our common unitholders. Sveinung Støhle, Steffen Føreid and Claibourne Harris were appointed by our general partner and will serve for terms as determined by our general partner. The directors elected by our common unitholders, Morten W. Høegh, Andrew Jamieson, David Spivak and Robert Shaw, are divided into four classes serving staggered terms. Mr. Jamieson is designated as our Class I elected director and will serve until our annual meeting of unitholders in 2019, Mr. Shaw is designated as our Class II elected director and will serve until our annual meeting of unitholders in 2016, Mr. Spivak is designated as our Class III elected director and will serve until our annual meeting of unitholders in 2017, and Mr. Høegh is designated as our Class IV elected director and will serve until our annual meeting of unitholders in 2018. At each subsequent annual meeting of unitholders, directors will be elected to succeed the class of director whose term has expired by a plurality of the votes of the common unitholders. Directors elected by our common unitholders may be nominated by our board of directors or by any limited partner or group of limited partners that holds at least 10% of the outstanding common units.

  

Each outstanding common unit is entitled to one vote on matters subject to a vote of common unitholders. However, to preserve our ability to claim an exemption from U.S. federal income tax under Section 883 of the Code, if at any time, any person or group owns beneficially more than 4.9% of any class of units then outstanding, any such units owned by that person or group in excess of 4.9% may not be voted (except for purposes of nominating a person for election to our board of directors). The voting rights of any such unitholders in excess of 4.9% will effectively be redistributed pro rata among the other common unitholders holding less than 4.9% of the voting power of such class of units. Our general partner, its affiliates and persons who acquired common units with the prior approval of our board of directors will not be subject to this 4.9% limitation except with respect to voting their common units in the election of the elected directors.

 

Committees

 

We have an audit committee that, among other things, reviews our external financial reporting, engages our external auditors and oversees our internal audit activities and procedures, if any, and the adequacy of our internal accounting controls. Our audit committee is comprised of four directors, Mr. Harris, Mr. Jamieson, Mr. Shaw and Mr. Spivak. Each of Mr. Harris, Mr. Jamieson, Mr. Shaw and Mr. Spivak satisfies the independence standards required for audit committee members of the SEC and the NYSE. Mr. Spivak qualifies as an “audit committee expert” for purposes of SEC rules and regulations.

 

We also have a conflicts committee comprised of three members of our board of directors. The conflicts committee will be available at our board of directors’ discretion to review specific matters that our board of directors believes may involve conflicts of interest. The conflicts committee will determine if the resolution of the conflict of interest is fair and reasonable to us. The members of the conflicts committee may not be officers or employees of us or directors, officers or employees of our general partner or its affiliates, and must meet the independence standards established by the NYSE to serve on an audit committee of a board of directors and certain other requirements. Any matters approved by the conflicts committee will be conclusively deemed to be fair and reasonable to us, approved by all of our partners and not a breach by our directors, our general partner or its affiliates of any duties any of them may owe us or our unitholders. Our conflicts committee is comprised of Mr. Harris, Mr. Shaw and Mr. Spivak.

 

Exemptions from Corporate Governance Rules

 

Because we qualify as a foreign private issuer under SEC rules, we are permitted to follow the corporate governance practices of the Marshall Islands (the jurisdiction in which we are organized) in lieu of certain of the corporate governance requirements that would otherwise be applicable to us. The NYSE rules do not require a listed company that is a foreign private issuer to have a board of directors that is comprised of a majority of independent directors. Under Marshall Islands law, we are not required to have a board of directors comprised of a majority of directors meeting the independence standards described in the NYSE rules. In addition, the NYSE rules do not require limited partnerships like us to have boards of directors comprised of a majority of independent directors.

  

NYSE rules do not require foreign private issuers or limited partnerships like us to establish a compensation committee or a nominating/corporate governance committee. Similarly, under Marshall Islands law, we are not required to have a compensation committee or a nominating/corporate governance committee. Accordingly, we do not have a compensation committee or a nominating/corporate governance committee. For a listing and further discussion of how our corporate governance practices differ from those required of U.S. companies listed on the NYSE, please read “Item 16G. Corporate Governance.”

 

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D. Employees

 

Employees of Höegh LNG’s affiliates provide administrative services to us pursuant to the administrative services agreements. Our board of directors has the authority to hire other employees as deemed necessary. Certain affiliates of Höegh LNG also provide commercial and technical management services to our fleet pursuant to ship management agreements, the Gallant management agreement, a sub-technical support agreement and commercial and administration management agreements. As of December 31, 2015, a total crew of approximately 200 people was employed by Höegh LNG’s subsidiaries to operate our FSRUs.

 

E. Unit Ownership

 

Please read “Item 7.A. Major Unitholders.”

    

Item 7. Major Unitholders and Related Party Transactions

 

A. Major Unitholders

 

The following table sets forth the beneficial ownership of our common units and subordinated units as of April 25, 2016, by each of our directors and executive officers and each person that we know to beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding common or subordinated units: 

 

    Common Units
Beneficially Owned
    Subordinated Units
Beneficially Owned
    Percentage of
Total Common
and
Subordinated
Units 
Beneficially
 
Name of Beneficial Owner   Number     Percent     Number     Percent     Owned  
Höegh LNG Holding Ltd.(1)     2,116,060       16.1 %     13,156,060       100 %     58.0 %
Clearbridge Investments, LLC(2)     669,744       5.1 %                 2.5 %
FMR LLC(3)     778,355       5.9 %                 3.0 %
Goldman Sachs Asset Management(4)     2,395,485       18.2 %                 9.1 %
Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors, L.P. and Richard A. Kayne(5)     952,034       7.2 %                 3.6 %
Oceanic Investment Management Limited(6)     1,970,274       15.0 %                 7.5 %
Sveinung Støhle (Chairman of the Board of Directors)     *       *                   *  
Steffen Føreid (Director)     *       *                   *  
Claiborne Harris (Director)     *       *                   *  
Morten W. Høegh (Director)(7)     332,500       2.5 %                 1.3 %
Andrew Jamieson (Director)     *       *                   *  
Robert Shaw (Director)     *       *                   *  
David Spivak (Director)     *       *                   *  
Richard Tyrell (Chief Financial Officer and Chief Financial Officer)     *       *                   *  
All directors and executive officers as a group (8 persons)     371,870       2.8 %                 1.4 %

  

* Less than 1%

(1) Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. is a public company listed on the Oslo Børs stock exchange. Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. is the largest shareholder of Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., holding a 41.6% ownership interest. Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. is indirectly controlled by Leif O. Høegh and a family trust under which Morten Høegh, one of our directors, is the primary beneficiary.
(2) This information is based on the Schedule 13G/A filed by Clearbridge Investments, LLC on February 16, 2016.
(3) This information is based on the Schedule 13G/A filed by FMR LLC on February 12, 2016.

 

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(4) Goldman Sachs Asset Management, L.P. and GS Investment Strategies, LLC (collectively, “Goldman Sachs Asset Management”) have shared voting power and shared dispositive power as to 2,395,485 units. This information is based on the Schedule 13G filed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management on February 4, 2016.
(5) Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors, L.P. and Richard A. Kayne have shared voting power as to 644,647 units and shared dispositive power as to 952,034 units. This information is based on the Schedule 13G/A filed by Kayne Anderson Capital Advisors, L.P. and Richard A. Kayne on January 29, 2016.
(6) Oceanic Hedge Fund, Oceanic Opportunities Master Fund, L.P., Oceanic CL Fund LP, Tufton Oceanic (Isle of Man) Limited, Oceanic Opportunities GP Limited, Oceanic CL GP Limited, Cato Brahde and Oceanic Investment Management Limited (collectively, “Oceanic Investment Management Limited”) each have shared voting power and shared dispositive power of up to 1,970,274 units. This information is based on the Schedule 13G/A filed by Oceanic Investment Management Limited on January 28, 2016.
(7) Morten W. Høegh may be deemed to have shared beneficial ownership of 332,500 common units through direct and indirect ownership interests in Leif Höegh & Co Ltd., Brompton Cross VI Limited and Brompton Cross VII Limited. Morten W. Høegh has an indirect minority ownership and voting interest in Fraternitas AS, which beneficially owns 50,000 common units. If the common units owned by Fraternitas AS were deemed to be beneficially owned by Mr. Høegh, then he would share beneficial ownership of a total of 382,500 common units, or 2.9% of the common units issued and outstanding as of April 25, 2016.

 

Each outstanding common unit is entitled to one vote on matters subject to a vote of common unitholders. However, to preserve our ability to claim an exemption from U.S. federal income tax under Section 883 of the Code, if at any time any person or group owns beneficially more than 4.9% of any class of units then outstanding, any units beneficially owned by that person or group in excess of 4.9% may not be voted on any matter and will not be considered to be outstanding when sending notices of a meeting of unitholders, calculating required votes (except for purposes of nominating a person for election to our board of directors), determining the presence of a quorum or for other similar purposes under our partnership agreement, unless otherwise required by law. The voting rights of any such unitholders in excess of 4.9% will effectively be redistributed pro rata among the other common unitholders holding less than 4.9% of the voting power of all classes of units entitled to vote. Our general partner, its affiliates and persons who acquired common units with the prior approval of our board of directors will not be subject to this 4.9% limitation except with respect to voting their common units in the election of the elected directors.

 

Höegh LNG exercises influence over the Partnership through our general partner, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG, which in its sole discretion appoints three directors to our board of directors. Please read “Item 6. Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Management of Höegh LNG Partners LP.” Höegh LNG also exercises influence over the Partnership through its ownership of all of our subordinated units. At the end of the subordination period, assuming no additional issuances of common units and the conversion of our subordinated units into common units, Höegh LNG will own approximately 58.0% of our common units.

 

B. Related Party Transactions

 

As a result of our relationships with Höegh LNG and its affiliates, we, our general partner and our subsidiaries have entered into various agreements that were not the result of arm’s length negotiations. A number of agreements were entered into in connection with our IPO. In addition, we may enter into new agreements in the future. We have established a conflicts committee that may review future related party transactions. Please refer to “Item 6.C. Board Practices—Committees.” The related party agreements that we have entered into or were party to since January 1, 2014 are discussed below.

 

Our partnership agreement sets forth procedures by which future related party transactions may be approved or resolved by our board of directors. Pursuant to our partnership agreement, our board of directors may, but is not required to, seek the approval of a related party transaction from the conflicts committee of our board of directors or from the common unitholders. Affiliated transactions that are not approved by the conflicts committee of our board of directors and that do not involve a vote of unitholders must be on terms no less favorable to us than those generally provided to or available from unrelated third parties or be “fair and reasonable” to us. In determining whether a transaction or resolution is “fair and reasonable,” our board of directors may consider the totality of the relationships between the parties involved, including other transactions that may be particularly advantageous or beneficial to us. If the above procedures are followed, it will be presumed that, in making its decision, our board of directors acted in good faith, and in any proceeding brought by or on behalf of any limited partner or the Partnership, the person bringing or prosecuting such proceeding will have the burden of overcoming such presumption. When our partnership agreement requires someone to act in good faith, it requires that person to believe that he is acting in the best interests of the Partnership, unless the context otherwise requires.

  

Our conflicts committee is comprised of at least two members of our board of directors. The conflicts committee is available at our board of directors’ discretion to review specific matters that our board of directors believes may involve conflicts of interest. The conflicts committee may determine if the resolution of the conflict of interest is fair and reasonable to us. The members of the conflicts committee may not be officers or employees of us or directors, officers or employees of our general partner or its affiliates, and must meet the independence standards established by the NYSE to serve on an audit committee of a board of directors and certain other requirements.

 

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Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

 

On August 8, 2014, in connection with the closing of our IPO, we entered into a contribution, purchase and sale agreement with Höegh LNG that effected the transfer of the ownership interests in the entities that owned the vessels in our initial fleet and related shareholder loans, promissory notes and accrued interest and the use of the net proceeds of our IPO. Please refer to note 3 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for additional information.

 

Omnibus Agreement

 

Upon completion of the IPO, we entered into an omnibus agreement with Höegh LNG, our general partner and certain of our other subsidiaries. The following discussion describes certain provisions of the omnibus agreement.

 

Noncompetition

 

Under the omnibus agreement, Höegh LNG agrees, and causes its controlled affiliates (other than us, our general partner and our subsidiaries) to agree, not to acquire, own, operate or charter any FSRU or LNG carrier operating under a charter for five or more years. For purposes of this section, we refer to these vessels, together with any related charters and ancillary installations or equipment covered by such charters, as “Five-Year Vessels” and to all other FSRUs and LNG carriers as “Non-Five-Year Vessels.” The restrictions in this paragraph will not prevent Höegh LNG or any of its controlled affiliates (other than us and our subsidiaries) from:

 

  (1) acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Non-Five-Year Vessel;

 

  (2) acquiring one or more Five-Year Vessels if Höegh LNG promptly offers to sell the vessel to us for the acquisition price plus any administrative costs (including re-flagging and reasonable legal costs) associated with the transfer to us at the time of the acquisition;

 

  (3) delivering a Non-Five-Year Vessel under charter for five or more years if Höegh LNG offers to sell the vessel to us for fair market value (x) promptly after the time she becomes a Five-Year Vessel and (y) at each renewal or extension of that charter for five or more years;

 

  (4) acquiring one or more Five-Year Vessels as part of the acquisition of a controlling interest in a business or package of assets and owning, operating or chartering those vessels; provided, however, that:

 

  (a) if less than a majority of the value of the business or assets acquired is attributable to Five-Year Vessels, as determined in good faith by Höegh LNG’s board of directors, Höegh LNG must offer to sell such Five-Year Vessels to us for their fair market value plus any additional tax or other similar costs Höegh LNG incurs in connection with the acquisition and the transfer of such vessels to us separate from the acquired business; and

 

  (b) if a majority or more of the value of the business or assets acquired is attributable to Five-Year Vessels, as determined in good faith by Höegh LNG’s board of directors, Höegh LNG must notify us of the proposed acquisition in advance. Not later than 10 days following receipt of such notice, we will notify Höegh LNG if we wish to acquire any of such vessels in cooperation and simultaneously with Höegh LNG acquiring the Non-Five-Year Vessels. If we do not notify Höegh LNG of our intent to pursue the acquisition within 10 days, Höegh LNG may proceed with the acquisition and then offer to sell such vessels to us as provided in clause (a) above;

  

  (5) acquiring a non-controlling interest in any company, business or pool of assets;

 

  (6) acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Five-Year Vessel if we do not fulfill our obligation to purchase such vessel in accordance with the terms of any existing or future agreement;

 

  (7) acquiring, owning, operating or chartering a Five-Year Vessel subject to the offers to us described in clauses (2), (3) and (4) above pending our determination whether to accept such offers and pending the closing of any offers we accept;

 

  (8) providing ship management services relating to any vessel;

 

  (9) owning or operating any Five-Year Vessel that Höegh LNG owned on the closing date of our IPO and that was not part of our initial fleet; or

 

  (10) acquiring, owning, operating or chartering a Five-Year Vessel if we have previously advised Höegh LNG that we consent to such acquisition, ownership, operation or charter.

 

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If Höegh LNG or any of its controlled affiliates (other than us or our subsidiaries) acquires, owns, operates or charters Five-Year Vessels pursuant to any of the exceptions described above, it may not subsequently expand that portion of its business other than pursuant to those exceptions. However, such Five-Year Vessels could eventually compete with our vessels upon their re-chartering.

 

In addition, under the omnibus agreement we agree, and cause our subsidiaries to agree, to acquire, own, operate or charter Five-Year Vessels only. The restrictions in this paragraph will not:

 

  (1) prevent us from owning, operating or chartering any Non-Five-Year Vessel that was previously a Five-Year Vessel while owned by us;

 

  (2) prevent us or any of our subsidiaries from acquiring Non-Five-Year Vessels as part of the acquisition of a controlling interest in a business or package of assets and owning, operating or chartering those vessels; provided, however, that:

 

  (a) if less than a majority of the value of the business or assets acquired is attributable to Non-Five-Year Vessels, as determined in good faith by us, we must offer to sell such vessels to Höegh LNG for their fair market value plus any additional tax or other similar costs that we incur in connection with the acquisition and the transfer of such vessels to Höegh LNG separate from the acquired business; and

 

  (b) if a majority or more of the value of the business or assets acquired is attributable to Non-Five-Year Vessels, as determined in good faith by us, we must notify Höegh LNG of the proposed acquisition in advance. Not later than 10 days following receipt of such notice, Höegh LNG must notify us if it wishes to acquire the Non-Five-Year Vessels in cooperation and simultaneously with us acquiring the Five-Year Vessels. If Höegh LNG does not notify us of its intent to pursue the acquisition within 10 days, we may proceed with the acquisition and then offer to sell such vessels to Höegh LNG as provided in clause (a) above;

 

  (3) prevent us or any of our subsidiaries from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Non-Five-Year Vessels subject to the offer to Höegh LNG described in clause (2) above, pending its determination whether to accept such offer and pending the closing of any offer it accepts; or

 

  (4) prevent us or any of our subsidiaries from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering Non-Five-Year Vessels if Höegh LNG has previously advised us that it consents to such acquisition, ownership, operation or charter.

  

If we or any of our subsidiaries acquires, owns, operates or charters Non-Five-Year Vessels pursuant to any of the exceptions described above, neither we nor such subsidiary may subsequently expand that portion of our business other than pursuant to those exceptions.

 

Upon a change of control of us or our general partner, the noncompetition provisions of the omnibus agreement will terminate immediately. Upon a change of control of Höegh LNG, the noncompetition provisions of the omnibus agreement applicable to Höegh LNG will terminate at the time that is the later of the date of the change of control and the date on which all of our outstanding subordinated units have converted to common units. On the date on which a majority of our directors ceases to consist of directors that were (i) appointed by our general partner prior to our first annual meeting of unitholders and (ii) recommended for election by a majority of our appointed directors, the noncompetition provisions applicable to Höegh LNG shall terminate immediately.

 

In the event that Höegh LNG is required to make an offer to sell to us a Five-Year Vessel, or we are required to make an offer to sell to Höegh LNG a Non-Five-Year Vessel, and we and Höegh LNG are unable to agree upon the fair market value of such vessel, the fair market value will be determined by a mutually acceptable investment banking firm, ship broker or other expert advisor, and we or Höegh LNG, as the case may be, will have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the vessel at such price.

 

Independence Purchase Option

 

Under the omnibus agreement, we have the right to purchase from Höegh LNG all or a portion of its interests in the Independence at a purchase price to be agreed upon by us and Höegh LNG at any time within 24 months after Höegh LNG notifies our board of directors of her acceptance by her charterer. We may exercise this option at one or more times during such 24-month period. If we and Höegh LNG are unable to agree upon the fair market value of the Independence , the fair market value will be determined by a mutually acceptable investment banking firm, ship broker or other expert advisor, and we will have the right, but not the obligation, to purchase the vessel at such price.

 

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On the date on which a majority of our directors ceases to consist of directors that were (i) appointed by our general partner prior to our first annual meeting of unitholders and (ii) recommended for election by a majority of our appointed directors, the Independence purchase option will terminate immediately.

 

Rights of First Offer on FSRUs and LNG Carriers

 

Under the omnibus agreement, we and our subsidiaries grant to Höegh LNG a right of first offer on any proposed sale, transfer or other disposition of any Five-Year Vessels or Non-Five-Year Vessels owned by us. Under the omnibus agreement, Höegh LNG agrees (and will cause its subsidiaries to agree) to grant a similar right of first offer to us for any Five-Year Vessels they might own. These rights of first offer will not apply to a (i) sale, transfer or other disposition of vessels between any affiliated subsidiaries or pursuant to the terms of any current or future charter or other agreement with a charter party or (ii) merger with or into, or sale of substantially all of the assets to, an unaffiliated third party.

 

Prior to engaging in any negotiation regarding any vessel disposition with respect to a Five-Year Vessel with a unaffiliated third party or any Non-Five-Year Vessel, we or Höegh LNG, as the case may be, will deliver a written notice to the other relevant party setting forth the material terms and conditions of the proposed transaction. During the 30-day period after the delivery of such notice, we and Höegh LNG, as the case may be, will negotiate in good faith to reach an agreement on the transaction. If we do not reach an agreement within such 30-day period, we or Höegh LNG, as the case may be, will be able within the next 180 calendar days to sell, transfer, dispose or re-charter the vessel to a third party (or to agree in writing to undertake such transaction with a third party) on terms generally no less favorable to us or Höegh LNG, as the case may be, than those offered pursuant to the written notice.

 

Upon a change of control of us or our general partner, the right of first offer provisions of the omnibus agreement will terminate immediately. Upon a change of control of Höegh LNG, the right of first offer provisions applicable to Höegh LNG under the omnibus agreement will terminate at the time that is the later of the date of the change of control and the date on which all of our outstanding subordinated units have converted to common units. On the date on which a majority of our directors ceases to consist of directors that were (i) appointed by our general partner prior to our first annual meeting of unitholders and (ii) recommended for election by a majority of our appointed directors, the provisions related to the rights of first offer granted to us by Höegh LNG shall terminate immediately.

 

Indemnification

 

Under the omnibus agreement, Höegh LNG indemnifies us after the closing of the IPO for a period of five years against certain environmental and toxic tort liabilities with respect to the assets contributed or sold to us to the extent arising prior to the time they were contributed or sold to us. Liabilities resulting from a change in law after the closing of the IPO are excluded from the environmental indemnity. There is an aggregate cap of $5.0 million on the amount of indemnity coverage provided by Höegh LNG for environmental and toxic tort liabilities. No claim may be made unless the aggregate dollar amount of all claims exceeds $500,000, in which case Höegh LNG is liable for claims only to the extent such aggregate amount exceeds $500,000.

 

Höegh LNG also indemnifies us for losses:

 

  · related to certain defects in title to the assets contributed or sold to us and any failure to obtain, prior to the time they were contributed to us, certain consents and permits necessary to conduct our business, which liabilities arise within three years after August 12, 2014;

 

  · related to certain tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the assets contributed or sold to us prior to the time they were contributed or sold;

 

  · in the event that we do not receive hire rate payments under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for the period commencing on the closing date of our IPO through the earlier of (i) the date of acceptance of the PGN FSRU Lampung or (ii) the termination of such time charter;

 

  · with respect to any obligation to pay liquidated damages to PGN LNG under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for failure to deliver the PGN FSRU Lampung by the scheduled delivery date set forth in the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter;

 

  · with respect to any non-budgeted expenses (including repair costs) incurred in connection with the PGN FSRU Lampung project (including the construction of the related tower yoke mooring system) occurring prior to the date of acceptance of the PGN FSRU Lampung pursuant to the time charter; and

 

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  ·

 pursuant to a letter agreement dated August 12, 2015, Höegh LNG confirmed that the indemnification provisions of the omnibus agreement include indemnification for all non-budgeted, non-creditable Indonesian value added taxes and non-budgeted Indonesian withholding taxes, including any related impact on cash flow from PT Höegh and interest and penalties associated with any non-timely Indonesian tax filings related to the ownership or operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring whether incurred (i) prior to the closing date of the IPO, (ii) after the closing date of the IPO to the extent such taxes, interest, penalties or related impact on cash flows relate to periods of ownership or operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring and are not subject to prior indemnification payments or deemed reimbursable by the charterer under its audit of the taxes related to the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for periods up to and including June 30, 2015, or (iii) after June 30, 2015 to the extent withholding taxes exceed the minimum amount of withholding tax due under Indonesian tax regulations due to lack of documentation or untimely withholding tax filings.

 

Amendments

 

The omnibus agreement may not be amended without the prior approval of the conflicts committee of our board of directors if the proposed amendment will, in the reasonable discretion of our board of directors, adversely affect holders of our common units.

 

Pursuant to our partnership agreement, our general partner, our board of directors and our conflicts committee are entitled to make decisions in “good faith” if they believe that the decision is in our best interests. Our partnership agreement permits our general partner, our board of directors and our conflicts committee to consult with advisors and consultants, such as, among others, appraisers and investment bankers, selected by either of them to assist them with, among other things, the determination of the fair market value of a vessel. Any act taken or omitted to be taken in reliance upon the advice or opinion such advisors as to matters that our general partner, our board of directors and our conflicts committee reasonably believes to be within such advisor’s professional or expert competence shall be conclusively presumed to have been done or omitted in good faith and in accordance with such advice.

 

Administrative Services Agreements

 

Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement

 

In connection with the IPO, we and our operating company entered into an administrative services agreement with Höegh UK (the “Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement”), pursuant to which Höegh UK will provide us and our operating company certain administrative services. The agreement has an initial term of five years. The services provided under the Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement will be provided in a diligent manner, as we or our operating company may reasonably direct.

 

The Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement may be terminated prior to the end of its term by us and our operating company upon 90 days’ written notice for any reason in the sole discretion of our and our operating company’s boards of directors. The Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement may also be terminated solely by Höegh UK upon 90 days’ written notice if:

  

  · there is a change of control of us or our general partner;

 

  · a receiver is appointed for all or substantially all of our property or our operating company’s property;

 

  · an order is made to wind up the Partnership or our operating company;

 

  · a final judgment, order or decree that materially and adversely affects our or our operating company’s ability to perform the agreement is obtained or entered and not vacated, discharged or stayed; or

 

  · we make a general assignment for the benefit of our creditors, file a petition in bankruptcy or for liquidation or commence any reorganization proceedings.

 

Under the Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement, Richard Tyrrell, as an officer of Höegh UK, provides executive officer functions for our benefit. Mr. Tyrrell is responsible for providing advice and recommendations to us, subject to the direction of our board of directors. Our board of directors has the ability to terminate the arrangement with Höegh UK regarding the provision of executive officer services to us with respect to Mr. Tyrrell at any time in its sole discretion.

 

The administrative services provided by Höegh UK to us include:

 

  · commercial management services : assisting with our commercial management and the execution of our business strategies and investment decisions, although Höegh UK will not make any strategic or investment decisions;

 

  · bookkeeping, audit and accounting services : assisting with the maintenance of our corporate books and records, assisting with the preparation of our tax returns and arranging for the provision of audit and accounting services;

 

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  · legal and insurance services : arranging for the provision of legal, insurance and other professional services and maintaining our existence and good standing in necessary jurisdictions;

 

  · administrative and clerical services : assisting with office space, arranging meetings for our common unitholders pursuant to our partnership agreement, arranging the provision of IT services, providing all administrative services required for subsequent debt and equity financings and attending to all other administrative matters necessary to ensure the professional management of our business;

  

  · banking and financial services : providing cash management including assistance with preparation of budgets, overseeing banking services and bank accounts, providing assistance and support with our capitalization, financing and future offerings, negotiating and arranging for hedging arrangements and monitoring and maintaining compliance with loan and credit terms;

 

  · advisory services : assisting in complying with U.S. and other applicable securities laws;

 

  · client and investor relations : providing advisory, clerical and investor relations services to assist and support us in our communications with our common unitholders; and

 

  · assisting with the integration of any acquired businesses.

 

The administrative services provided by Höegh UK to our operating company include:

 

  · advising on cash management and services;

 

  · arranging for the preparation and provision of accounting information; and

  

  · providing advice on financing and other agreements into which the operating company is considering entering.

 

Each month, we and our operating company reimburse Höegh UK for its reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of the services under the Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement. In addition, Höegh UK receives a service fee in U.S. Dollars equal to 5.0% of the costs and expenses incurred by them in connection with providing services. Amounts payable by us or our operating company must be paid promptly upon receipt of an invoice for such costs, expenses and supporting detail that may be reasonably required. Our operating company reimbursed Höegh UK approximately $3.1 million and $1.2 million in total under the Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Under the Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement, we and our operating company indemnify Höegh UK against all actions that may be brought against them as a result of their performance of the administrative services including, without limitation, all actions brought under the environmental laws of any jurisdiction, and against and in respect of all costs and expenses they may suffer or incur due to defending or settling such actions; provided, however, that such indemnity excludes any or all losses to the extent that they are caused by or due to the fraud, gross negligence or willful misconduct of the subcontractor or its officers, employees and agents.

 

Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement

 

Under the Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreement, Höegh UK is permitted to subcontract to Höegh Norway certain of the above-mentioned administrative services provided to us pursuant to an administrative services agreement with Höegh Norway (the “Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement”). This agreement has an initial term of five years. The services provided under the Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement, as amended, will be provided in a diligent manner, as Höegh UK may reasonably direct. The Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement may be terminated by Höegh UK for any reason in its sole discretion upon 90 days’ written notice. The Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement may also be terminated solely by Höegh Norway upon 90 days’ written notice if:

 

  · there is a change of control of us or our general partner;

 

  · a receiver is appointed for all or substantially all of our property;

 

  · an order is made to wind up the Partnership;

 

  · a final judgment, order or decree that materially and adversely affects the ability of us, our operating company or Höegh UK to perform the agreement is obtained or entered and not vacated, discharged or stayed; or

  

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  · we, our operating company or Höegh UK make or makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, file a petition in bankruptcy or for liquidation or commence any reorganization proceedings.

 

The administrative services provided by Höegh Norway to Höegh UK include:

 

  · bookkeeping, audit and accounting services: assisting with the maintenance of our corporate books and records, assisting with the preparation of our tax returns and arranging for the provision of audit and accounting services;

 

  · legal and insurance services: arranging for the provision of legal, insurance and other professional services and maintaining our existence and good standing in necessary jurisdictions;

 

  · administrative and clerical services: assisting with office space and arranging the provision of IT services;

 

  · advisory services: assisting in complying with U.S. and other applicable securities laws;

 

  · assisting with the integration of any acquired businesses.

  

Each month, Höegh UK reimburses Höegh Norway for its reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of the services under the Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement. In addition Höegh Norway receives a service fee in U.S. Dollars equal to 3.0% of the costs and expenses incurred by them in connection with providing services. Amounts payable by Höegh UK must be paid promptly upon receipt of an invoice for such costs, expenses and supporting detail that may be reasonably required. Höegh UK reimbursed Höegh Norway approximately $2.2 million and $0.6 million in total under the Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Under the Höegh Norway Administrative Services Agreement, Höegh UK will indemnify Höegh Norway against all actions that may be brought against them as a result of their performance of the administrative services including, without limitation, all actions brought under the environmental laws of any jurisdiction, and against and in respect of all costs and expenses they may suffer or incur due to defending or settling such actions; provided, however, that such indemnity excludes any or all losses to the extent that they are caused by or due to the fraud, gross negligence or willful misconduct of the subcontractor or its officers, employees and agents.

 

Leif Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreements

 

Our operating company and Höegh UK have entered into administrative services agreements with Leif Höegh UK (the “Leif Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreements”), pursuant to which Leif Höegh UK will provide certain administrative services for an indefinite term. The services provided under the Leif Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreements will be rendered using the competence and control systems used for similar third-party services performed for and by Leif Höegh UK. Each of the Leif Höegh UK Administrative Services Agreements may be terminated by either party thereto upon three months’ notice.

 

The administrative services provided by Leif Höegh UK to Höegh UK include:

 

  · administration and payroll services;

 

  · provision of office facilities; and

 

  · secretarial services.

 

Höegh UK reimburses Leif Höegh UK for its reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with its administrative services agreement with Höegh UK. In addition, Leif Höegh UK receives a services fee equal to 5% of the costs and expenses of secretarial services under the agreement. Höegh UK reimbursed Leif Höegh UK approximately $0.1 million and $0.1 million in total under this administrative services agreement for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

  

Leif Höegh UK occasionally performs certain administrative services directly for our operating company, for which it is reimbursed for its reasonable costs and expenses.

 

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Commercial and Administration Management Agreements

 

Each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh FSRU III has entered into a commercial and administration management agreement with Höegh Norway. Pursuant to each agreement, Höegh Norway provides the following services to SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh FSRU III, as applicable:

 

  · accounting, including budgeting, reporting and annual audited reports;

 

  · finance and cash management;

 

  · in-house legal;

 

  · commercial;

 

  · insurance; and

 

  · general office administration and secretary functions.

 

Each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. pays Höegh Norway an annual management fee equal to costs incurred plus 3%. Höegh FSRU III pays Höegh Norway a specified management fee with annual escalations of 3%. Höegh Norway was paid management fees of approximately $0.7 million, $0.7 million and $0.1 million under the commercial and administration management agreements with each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd and Höegh FSRU III, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2014, management fees of approximately $0.6 million, $0.7 million and $0.1 million were paid under the commercial and administration management agreements by each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh FSRU III, respectively.

 

Each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh FSRU III also will indemnify Höegh Norway and its employees and agents against claims brought against them under the applicable commercial and administration management agreement. The agreements may be terminated by either party upon 90 days’ written notice.

 

Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Support Agreement

 

In order to assist with the technical and maritime management of the vessels, each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh Cyprus has entered into a ship management agreement with Höegh LNG Management, and Höegh Norway has entered into a sub-technical support agreement with Höegh LNG Management for the technical management of the PGN FSRU Lampung . Höegh Cyprus has also entered into a separate secondment agreement with Höegh LNG Martime for the provision of crew. Please read “—Secondment Agreement.” Each of the ship management agreements and the sub-technical support agreement provides that Höegh LNG Management must use its best endeavors to provide technical services, including but not limited to the following:

 

  · crew management : except with respect to the ship management agreement with Höegh Cyprus, providing suitably qualified crew for each vessel, arranging for all transportation of the crew, ensuring the crew meets all medical requirements of the flag state, training the crew and conducting union negotiations;

 

  · technical management : providing competent personnel to supervise the maintenance and efficiency of the vessel, arranging and supervising drydockings, repairs, alterations and maintenance of the vessel and arranging and supplying the necessary stores, spares and lubricating oils;

 

  · provisions : arranging for the supply of provisions; and

 

  · accounting : establishing an accounting system that keeps true and correct accounts with respect to ship management services and maintains the records of all costs and expenditures incurred.

 

Either party may terminate the ship management agreements and the sub-technical support agreement upon 30 days’ notice (with respect to the ship management with Höegh Cyprus) or 90 days’ notice (with respect to the other agreements). Additionally, each of these agreements may be terminated by Höegh LNG Management if the vessel owner fails to pay any amount due under the agreement or employs the vessel in a hazardous or illegal manner. Each of these agreements also may be terminated by the vessel owner if Höegh LNG Management is in material breach of its obligations. If the vessel is sold, becomes a total loss or is requisitioned, or if an order or resolution is passed for the winding up, dissolution, liquidation or bankruptcy of either party or if a receiver is appointed for either party, the agreement terminates.

 

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Höegh LNG Management was paid an annual management fee of approximately $675,000, $675,000, $700,000 and $175,000 under the ship management agreements or sub-technical support agreement with each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., Höegh Norway and Höegh Cyprus, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2014, annual management fees of approximately $672,000, $672,000 and $424,000 were paid under the ship management agreements or sub-technical support agreement by each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd., SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh Norway, respectively. In addition, the vessel owner must indemnify Höegh LNG Management and its employees, agents and subcontractors against all actions, proceedings, claims, demands or liabilities arising in connection with the performance of the ship management agreement or the sub-technical support agreement, unless the same resulted solely from the negligence, gross negligence or willful default of Höegh LNG Management or its employees, agents and subcontractors. If a claim is the sole result of the negligence, gross negligence or willful default of Höegh LNG Management or its employees, agents and subcontractors, then Höegh LNG Management is liable in an amount up to 10 times the annual management fee.

 

Gallant Management Agreement

 

Höegh Cyprus is party to a management agreement with Höegh Norway, pursuant to which Höegh Norway provides administrative, commercial and technical management services, each as instructed from time to time by Höegh Cyprus. The services performed under the Gallant management agreement may include, but are not limited to:

 

· Administrative management services, including:

o provision of a person to be appointed as president or managing director of Höegh Cyprus;

o services relating to the day-to-day running of the business of Höegh Cyprus;

o management and provision of controller functions for financial matters;

o arranging entry into loan agreements, currency exchange agreements, interest hedging agreements, financial swap agreements, and other agreements in respect of futures and derivative instruments, each subject to the authorization of Höegh Cyprus’s board of directors;

o provision of budgets and financial statements, including long- and short-term budgets, long term financial forecasts, status reports and projections, annual reports and quarterly reports;

o handling and settling minor claims by third parties; and

o bringing or defend ingactions, suits and proceedings;

· commercial management services, including;

o chartering services, including seeking and negotiating employment for the Höegh Gallant , appointment of brokers and agents, and concluding charter contracts, subject to the authorization of Höegh Cyprus’s board of directors;

o arranging the provision of bunker fuel for the Höegh Gallant ;

o operation of the Höegh Gallant , including the provision of compatibility/interface studies, FSRU approval and vetting processes and voyage estimates and accounts and calculation of hire, freights, demurrage and dispatch moneys due from or due to the charterer, and the issuance of voyage instructions, appointing agents and stevedores and to arrange survey of cargoes; and

o freight management, including provision of freight estimates and accounts and calculation of hire and freights and/or demurrage and dispatch money due from or due to charterers and arranging proper payment of all hire and freight revenues; and

· technical management services, including arranging insurance and handling and settling all insurance, salvage and other claims.

 

The Gallant management agreement’s term is concurrent with the term of the Höegh Gallant time charter, and continues thereafter until either party terminates the agreement upon six months’ notice. Additionally, Höegh Norway may terminate or suspend performance under the agreement if Höegh Cyprus fails to pay any amount due under the agreement. If an order or resolution is passed for the winding up, dissolution, liquidation or bankruptcy of either party or if a receiver is appointed for either party, the agreement terminates.

 

Höegh Cyprus pays Höegh Norway an annual management fee in NOK of Höegh Norway’s documented costs plus 3%. An estimate of the annual management fee forms the basis of an amount payable by equal monthly instalments in arrears. Settlement of the discrepancy between the estimated management fee and the actual management fee takes place at the end of each calendar year. Höegh Cyprus paid Höegh Norway approximately $50,000 under Gallant management agreement for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

Höegh Cyprus must indemnify Höegh Norway and its employees, agents and subcontractors against all actions, proceedings, claims, demands or liabilities arising in connection with the performance of the Gallant management agreement, unless the same resulted solely from the negligence, gross negligence or willful default of Höegh Norway or its employees, agents and subcontractors. If a claim is the sole result of the negligence, gross negligence or willful default of Höegh Norway or its employees, agents and subcontractors, then Höegh Norway is liable in an amount up to NOK 500,000 per incident.

 

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Technical Information and Services Agreement

 

PT Höegh entered into a technical information and services agreement with Höegh Norway, pursuant to which Höegh Norway provides PT Höegh certain technical information and services. The technical information and services agreement’s term is concurrent with the term of the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, including any exercised extension options.

 

The technical information and services agreement may be terminated with immediate effect prior to the end of its term if either PT Höegh or Höegh Norway (i) fails to pay any amount due under the technical information and services agreement and such failure continues for more than 14 days after notice of such failure was given to the failing party, (ii) commits a material breach of the technical information and services agreement that remains unremedied for more than 30 days after the breaching party was notified of such material breach or (iii) suffers an insolvency event. The technical information and services agreement may also be terminated by PT Höegh or Höegh Norway upon 30 days’ written notice.

 

Pursuant to the technical information and services agreement, Höegh Norway provides technical information, consisting of data, commercial information and technical information, to PT Höegh relating to the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring. During the period of the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, including any exercised extension options, Höegh Norway also provides PT Höegh non-transferrable and non-exclusive intellectual property rights in respect of the technical information, along with the safety management system and certain databases, technology and software.

  

The services provided by Höegh Norway to PT Höegh include:

 

  · commercial support, including:

 

  · assisting in identifying suppliers, liaising with off-shore suppliers of goods and services, assisting in identifying insurance providers; and

 

  · assisting in identifying insurance providers; and

 

  · assisting in negotiations and reviewing contracts and insurance policies;

 

  · technical support and advice, including in relation to:

 

  · identification, assessment and resolution of technical issues;

 

  · information technology;

 

  · health, safety and the environment; and

  

  · maintaining, developing and improving a quality assurance system to ensure compliance with relevant mandatory international rules, regulations and standards;

 

  · financial and cash management support, including budgeting, reporting and preparation of annual audited reports;

 

  · in-house legal support;

 

  · general administrative and back-office support;

 

  · research and development; and

 

  · training for employees.

 

Each month, PT Höegh pays Höegh Norway a fee for the provision of the technical information, including the intellectual property rights, and the services. The monthly fee consists of (i) a license fee and (ii) a service fee consisting of a pro rata payment of the estimated annual costs incurred by Höegh Norway under the technical information and services agreement and a 5.0% fee on such payment. The service fee is reconciled annually with the actual costs incurred by Höegh Norway during the prior calendar year. Any amounts payable after such reconciliation must be paid by the owing party no later than 44 days after the end of each such calendar year. PT Höegh paid Höegh Norway approximately $0.05 million and $0.02 million under the technical information and services agreement for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

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Under the technical information and services agreement, PT Höegh indemnifies Höegh Norway against all losses arising under the technical information and services agreement in connection with (i) losses suffered by third parties, (ii) the personal injury, sickness or death of any person that itself or together with its affiliates holds more than half of PT Höegh’s issued share capital or any of PT Höegh’s officers, directors, employees, agents, representatives, advisors and contractors and (iii) loss of or damage to property owned or under the custody of PT Höegh or any party listed above in section (ii) of this paragraph.

 

Master Spare Parts Supply Agreement

 

PT Höegh and Höegh Asia entered into a master spare parts supply agreement, pursuant to which Höegh Asia supplies certain spare parts and supplies for the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring to PT Höegh. PT Höegh, from time to time, submits an order, which may be freely accepted or declined, to Höegh Asia for the supply of spare parts, lubricating oils and other provisions. In respect of each accepted order, Höegh Asia submits an invoice to PT Höegh consisting of the actual cost of the supplied services and a 5.0% fee on the cost of such supplied services, which must be paid by PT Höegh no more than 14 days after receipt of such invoice.

 

Master Maintenance Agreement

 

PT Höegh and Höegh Shipping entered into a master maintenance agreement, pursuant to which Höegh Shipping provides certain maintenance services to PT Höegh. PT Höegh, from time to time, submits an order, which may be freely accepted or declined, to Höegh Shipping for the supply of services, including maintenance of the PGN FSRU Lampung , its systems and equipment and the Mooring. In respect of each accepted order, Höegh Shipping submits an invoice to PT Höegh consisting of the actual cost of the supplied services and a 5.0% fee on the cost of such supplied services, which must be paid by PT Höegh no more than 14 days after receipt of such invoice.

 

Secondment Agreement

 

Höegh Cyprus has entered into a secondment agreement with Höegh Maritime Management pursuant to which Höegh Maritime Management provides crew to the Höegh Gallant . During their period of service, the crew members remain employees of Höegh Maritime Management, but are seconded to, and operate under the instruction and supervision of, Höegh Cyprus. Either party may terminate the secondment agreement upon six months’ written notice to the other party or upon a material breach by the other party (not cured within 10 days). Höegh Cyprus reimburses Höegh Maritime Management for the salaries and other expenses of the seconded employees. Höegh Cyprus also reimburses Höegh Maritime Management for any amount paid to manning agents used for hiring crew, plus a service fee equal to 5.0% of such amount and an administration fee of up to $5,000, with all payments made in U.S. Dollars. During the year ended December 31, 2015, Höegh Maritime Management charged approximately $2.1 million to Höegh Cyprus pursuant to the secondment agreement.

 

Sponsor Credit Facility with Höegh LNG

 

In connection with the closing of the IPO, we entered into a $85 million revolving credit facility with Höegh LNG, to be used to fund acquisitions and our working capital requirements. The sponsor credit facility is for a term of three years and is unsecured. Interest on drawn amounts is payable quarterly at LIBOR plus a margin of 4.0%. Additionally, we pay a 1.4% quarterly commitment fee to Höegh LNG on undrawn available amounts under the sponsor credit facility. On February 28, 2016, the parties amended the sponsor credit facility to extend its availability to January 1, 2020.

 

For a more detailed description of this credit facility, please read “Item 5.B —Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities— Loans and Promissory Notes Due to Owners and Affiliates—Sponsor Credit Facility with Höegh LNG.”

 

Demand Note

 

At the closing of the IPO, we lent $140 million to Höegh LNG, which was repayable on demand. The note was utilized on October 1, 2015 as part of the purchase consideration for the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant . The note bore interest at a rate of 5.88% per year.

 

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License Agreement

 

At the closing of the IPO, we entered into a license agreement with Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd., pursuant to which Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. granted to us a worldwide, nonexclusive, royalty-free license to use the name and unregistered trademark “Höegh LNG” and a flag and funnel mark. The license agreement will terminate, upon the election of Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd., if Höegh LNG ceases to control our general partner or Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. beneficially owns less than 34% of the issued shares of Höegh LNG.

 

Acquisition of the Höegh Gallant

 

On October 1, 2015, we closed the acquisition of 100% of the shares of Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , for a total consideration of $194.2 million. The Höegh Gallant is currently operating under a time charter with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, that expires in 2020. EgyptCo has a charter that expires in April 2020 with EGAS. The purchase price for the Höegh Gallant consisted of the cancellation of the $140 million demand note due from Höegh LNG, the issuance by Höegh LNG of a seller’s credit note of $47 million and the establishment of a liability for a working capital adjustment of $7.2 million.

 

Additionally, we have entered into an option agreement with Höegh LNG pursuant to which we have the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025 at a rate equal to 90% of the rate payable pursuant to the current charter with EgyptCo, plus any incremental taxes or operating expenses as a result of the new charter.

 

Höegh Cyprus, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh FSRU III, together with the entity that owns the Höegh Grace are borrowers under a term loan facility which is secured with a first priority mortgage of the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace . Höegh LNG, Höegh FSRU III and the Partnership are guarantors for the facility. All of the tranches under the Gallant/Grace facility are cross-defaulted, cross-collateralized (except that the banks cannot enforce any of their rights to the security provided by Höegh Cyprus, Höegh FSRU III, the Partnership or EgyptCo unless an event of default occurs directly and expressly with respect to the Partnership, its subsidiaries or EgyptCo or its direct shareholders), and cross-guaranteed (except that the Partnership does not guarantee the obligations of Höegh FSRU IV). The obligations of the Borrowers are joint and several.

 

Under the contribution purchase and sale agreement entered into with respect to the purchase of the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , Höegh LNG will indemnify us for:

 

· losses from breach of warranty;
· losses related to certain environmental and tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the Höegh Gallant prior to the closing date;
· all capital gains tax or other export duty incurred in connection with the transfer of the Höegh Gallant outside of Höegh Cyprus ’s permanent establishment in a Public Free Zone in Egypt;
· any recurring non-budgeted costs owed to Höegh LNG Management with respect to payroll taxes;
· any non-budgeted losses suffered or incurred in connection with the commencement of services under the time charter with EgyptCo or EgyptCo’s time charter with EGAS; and
· liabilities under the Gallant/Grace facility not attributable to the Höegh Gallant .

 

Pursuant to a letter agreement entered into on the acquisition date, Höegh LNG guarantees the payment of hire by the charterer (EgyptCo) under the Höegh Gallant time charter but only to the extent that the failure of the charterer to pay such hire is caused by (a) the breach by EGAS of its obligation to pay hire under EgyptCo’s charter with EGAS (and the charterer is unable to draw upon EGAS’ performance guarantees) or (b) the certain force majeure events under the EGAS charter. Under the letter agreement, Höegh LNG may not amend EgyptCo’s charter with EGAS without our consent, and we have the right to participate in any discussions with EGAS regarding its charter or the Höegh Gallant .

 

For a more detailed description of the Höegh Gallant time charter with EgyptCo, the Gallant/Grace facility and the seller’s credit note, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Gallant Time Charter,” “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Gallant/Grace Facility” and “Item 5.B —Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Seller’s Credit Note from Höegh LNG,” respectively.

 

Other Related Party Transactions

 

Our activities were an integrated part of Höegh LNG until the closing of the IPO on August 12, 2014 and for the year ended December 31, 2013. We entered into several agreements with Höegh LNG (and certain of its subsidiaries) for the provision of services. Refer to note 3 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for additional information. As such, Höegh LNG has provided general and corporate management services to us. As described in note 2 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements, prior to August 12, 2014, certain administrative expenses have been included in the historical combined carve-out financial statements based on actual hours incurred. In addition, management has allocated remaining administrative expenses and Höegh LNG management’s share based payment costs based on the number of vessels, newbuildings and business development projects of Höegh LNG prior to the closing of the IPO. A subsidiary of Höegh LNG provided the building supervision of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring and ship management for PGN FSRU Lampung and Höegh Gallant . Refer to notes 3, 4 and 18 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for additional information.

 

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Amounts included in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 or capitalized or recorded in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

    Year ended  
Statement of income:   December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Revenues                        
Time charter and construction contract revenues indemnified by Höegh LNG   $       13,269        
Time charter revenue Höegh Gallant     12,575              
Vessel operating and administrative expenses     (8,507 )     (12,036 )     (6,348 )
Construction contract expenses           (1,451 )     (3,738 )
Interest income from joint ventures and demand note     7,568       4,959       2,122  
Interest expense and commitment fees     (2,151 )     (998 )     (352 )
Total   $ 9,485       3,743       (8,316 )

 

Balance sheet   As of December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Newbuilding                
Newbuilding supervision cost   $     $ 1,228  
Interest expense capitalized from Höegh LNG           1,464  
Equity : Cash contribution for indemnifications payments from Höegh LNG     6,596        
Total   $ 6,956     $ 2,692  

  

Our trade liabilities, seller’s credit note and shareholder loans to Höegh LNG and affiliates were $57.9 million and $6.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The weighted average interest rates on the outstanding balances on the seller’s credit note and shareholder loans were 8.2% and 4.48% for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

Distributions to Höegh LNG

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, we paid quarterly distributions totaling $35.5 million, $20.6 million of which were paid to Höegh LNG. Subsequent our IPO in August 2014 for the year ended December 31, 2014, we paid quarterly distributions totaling $4.8 million, $2.8 million of which were paid to Höegh LNG.

 

C. Interests of Experts and Counsel

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 8. Financial Information

  

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

 

Please read Item 18—Financial Statements below for additional information required to be disclosed under this item.

 

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Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time we have been, and expect to continue to be, subject to legal proceedings and claims in the ordinary course of our business, principally personal injury and property casualty claims. These claims, even if lacking merit, could result in the expenditure of significant financial and managerial resources. We are not aware of any legal proceedings or claims that we believe will have, individually or in the aggregate, a material adverse effect on us.

 

The Partnership’s Cash Distribution Policy

 

Rationale for Our Cash Distribution Policy

 

Our cash distribution policy reflects a judgment that our unitholders will be better served by our distributing our available cash (after deducting expenses, including estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures and reserves) rather than retaining it. Because we believe we will generally finance any expansion capital expenditures from external financing sources, we believe that our unitholders are best served by our distributing all of our available cash. Our cash distribution policy is consistent with the terms of our partnership agreement, which requires that we distribute all of our available cash quarterly (after deducting expenses, including estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures and reserves).

  

Limitations on Cash Distributions and Our Ability to Change Our Cash Distribution Policy

 

There is no guarantee that unitholders will receive quarterly distributions from us. Our distribution policy is subject to certain restrictions and may be changed at any time, including:

  

  · Our unitholders have no contractual or other legal right to receive distributions other than the obligation under our partnership agreement to distribute available cash on a quarterly basis, which is subject to the broad discretion of our board of directors to establish reserves and other limitations.

 

  · We will be subject to restrictions on distributions under our financing agreements. Our financing agreements contain material financial tests and covenants that must be satisfied in order to pay distributions. If we are unable to satisfy the restrictions included in any of our financing agreements or are otherwise in default under any of those agreements, as a result of our debt levels or otherwise, we will not be able to make cash distributions to unitholders, notwithstanding our stated cash distribution policy. These financial tests and covenants are described in this Annual Report in “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources.”

 

  · A substantial majority of our business is currently conducted through our joint ventures. Under the joint venture agreement that governs our joint ventures that own the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , our joint ventures are prohibited from making distributions under certain circumstances, including when they have outstanding shareholder loans. In addition, we are unable to cause our joint ventures to make distributions without the agreement of our joint venture partners. If our joint ventures are unable to make distributions to us, it could have a material adverse effect on our ability to pay cash distributions to unitholders in accordance with our stated cash distribution policy.

 

  · We are required to make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and replace our fleet. These expenditures may fluctuate significantly over time, particularly as our vessels near the end of their useful lives. In order to minimize these fluctuations, our partnership agreement requires us to deduct estimated, as opposed to actual, maintenance and replacement capital expenditures from the amount of cash that we would otherwise have available for distribution to our unitholders. In years when estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures are higher than actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, the amount of cash available for distribution to unitholders will be lower than if actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures were deducted.

 

  · Although our partnership agreement requires us to distribute all of our available cash, our partnership agreement, including provisions contained therein requiring us to make cash distributions, may be amended. During the subordination period, with certain exceptions, our partnership agreement may not be amended without the approval of non-affiliated common unitholders. After the subordination period has ended, our partnership agreement can be amended with the approval of a majority of the outstanding common units. Höegh LNG owns approximately 16.1% of our common units and all of our subordinated units.

 

  · Even if our cash distribution policy is not modified or revoked, the amount of distributions we pay under our cash distribution policy and the decision to make any distribution is determined by our board of directors, taking into consideration the terms of our partnership agreement.

 

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  · Under Section 51 of the Marshall Islands Act, we may not make a distribution to unitholders if the distribution would cause our liabilities, other than liabilities to partners on account of their partnership interest and liabilities for which the recourse of creditors is limited to specified property of ours, to exceed the fair value of our assets, except that the fair value of property that is subject to a liability for which the recourse of creditors is limited shall be included in our assets only to the extent that the fair value of that property exceeds that liability.

 

  · PT Höegh is subject to restrictions on distributions under Indonesian laws due to its formation under the laws of Indonesia. Under Article 71.3 of the Indonesian Company Law (Law No. 40 of 2007), dividend distributions may be made only if PT Höegh has positive retained earnings. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, PT Höegh had negative retained earnings and therefore could not make dividend payments under Indonesia law. However, subject to meeting a debt service ratio of 1.20 to1.00, PT Höegh can distribute cash from its cash flow from operations to us as payment of intercompany accrued interest and / or intercompany debt, after quarterly payments of the Lampung facility and fulfilment of the “waterfall” provisions to meet operating requirements as defined by the Lampung facility. Höegh Lampung, our subsidiary holding the ownership interest in PT Höegh, is subject to restrictions under Singapore law due to its formation under Singapore law. Under Section 403(1) of the Companies Act (Cap. 50) of Singapore, no dividends may be paid to the shareholders of any company except out of profits.

 

  · Under Cayman Islands law, FSRU III may only pay dividends distributions out of profits or capital reserves if the entity is solvent after the distribution. Dividends from Höegh Cyprus may only be distributed out of profits and not from the share capital of the company.

 

  · Our joint ventures for the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann are subject to restrictions on distributions under the laws of the Cayman Islands due to their formation under the laws of the Cayman Islands. Under such laws, a dividend distribution may only be paid out of profits or capital reserves if the entity is solvent after the distribution.

 

  · We may lack sufficient cash to pay distributions to our unitholders due to decreases in total operating revenues, decreases in hire rates, the loss of a vessel, increases in operating or general and administrative expenses, principal and interest payments on outstanding debt, taxes, working capital requirements, maintenance and replacement capital expenditures or anticipated cash needs. Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors” for a discussion of these factors.

 

Estimated Maintenance and Replacement Capital Expenditures

 

Our partnership agreement requires our board of directors to deduct from operating surplus each quarter estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, as opposed to actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures, in order to reduce disparities in operating surplus caused by fluctuating maintenance and replacement capital expenditures. Because under both our joint ventures’ time charters and the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the charterer reimburses our joint venture or us, as applicable, for anticipated drydocking expenses, these are excluded from maintenance capital expenditures.

 

Following our acquisition of a 100% interest in Höegh FSRU III, the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant on October 1, 2015, our initial estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditure for us and our joint ventures was revised by our board of directors, with the approval of the conflicts committee, to be $15.5 million per year for future vessel replacement and drydocking. The $15.5 million is based on assumptions regarding the remaining useful life of the vessels in our fleet, a net investment rate equivalent to our current expected long-term borrowing costs, vessel replacement values based on current market conditions, the residual value of the vessels at the end of their useful lives based on current steel prices, estimated expenditures for drydocking not reimbursable under time charters and an assumed level of inflation. The actual cost of replacing the vessels in our fleet will depend on a number of factors, including prevailing market conditions, hire rates and the availability and cost of financing at the time of replacement.

 

Our board of directors, with the approval of the conflicts committee, may from time to time determine that one or more of our assumptions should be revised, which could cause our board of directors to adjust the amount of estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures. Furthermore, we may elect to finance some or all of our maintenance and replacement capital expenditures through the issuance of additional common units, which could be dilutive to existing unitholders.

 

Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Inherent in Our Business—We must make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and replace the operating capacity of our fleet, which will reduce our cash available for distribution. In addition, each quarter we will be required, pursuant to our partnership agreement, to deduct estimated maintenance and replacement capital expenditures from operating surplus, which may result in less cash available to unitholders than if actual maintenance and replacement capital expenditures were deducted.” 

 

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Minimum Quarterly Distribution

 

Common unitholders are entitled under our partnership agreement to receive a quarterly distribution of $0.3375 per unit, or $1.35 per unit per year, prior to any distribution on the subordinated units to the extent we have sufficient cash on hand to pay the distribution, after establishment of cash reserves and payment of fees and expenses. There is no guarantee that we will pay the minimum quarterly distribution on the common units and subordinated units in any quarter. Even if our cash distribution policy is not modified or revoked, the amount of distributions paid under our policy and the decision to make any distribution is determined by our board of directors, taking into consideration the terms of our partnership agreement. We are prohibited from making any distributions to unitholders if it would cause an event of default, or an event of default is then existing, under our financing arrangements. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities” for a discussion of the restrictions contained in our credit facilities.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, the aggregate amount of cash distributions paid was $35.5 million and $4.8 million, respectively.

 

On February 15, 2016, we paid a $0.4125 per unit distribution with respect to the fourth quarter of 2015. The aggregate amount of the cash distribution paid was $10.9 million, including $0.1 million paid to the holder of the incentive distribution rights.

 

Subordination Period

 

During the subordination period applicable to the subordinated units currently held by Höegh LNG, the common units will have the right to receive distributions of available cash from operating surplus in an amount equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3375 per unit, plus any arrearages in the payment of the minimum quarterly distribution on the common units from prior quarters, before any distributions of available cash from operating surplus may be made on the subordinated units. Distribution arrearages do not accrue on the subordinated units. The purpose of the subordinated units is to increase the likelihood that during the subordination period there will be available cash from operating surplus to be distributed on the common units.

 

Incentive Distribution Rights

 

Incentive distribution rights represent the right to receive an increasing percentage of quarterly distributions of available cash from operating surplus after the minimum quarterly distribution and the target distribution levels have been achieved. Höegh LNG currently holds the incentive distribution rights. The incentive distribution rights may be transferred separately from any other interest, subject to restrictions in our partnership agreement. Except for transfers of incentive distribution rights to an affiliate or another entity as part of a merger or consolidation with or into, or sale of substantially all of its assets to such entity, the approval of a majority of our common units (excluding common units held by our general partner and its affiliates), voting separately as a class, generally is required for a transfer of the incentive distribution rights to a third party prior to June 30, 2019. Any transfer by Höegh LNG of the incentive distribution rights would not change the percentage allocations of quarterly distributions with respect to such rights.

 

The following table illustrates the percentage allocations of the additional available cash from operating surplus among the unitholders and the holders of the incentive distribution rights up to the various target distribution levels. The amounts set forth under “Marginal Percentage Interest in Distributions” are the percentage interests of the unitholders and the holders of the incentive distribution rights in any available cash from operating surplus we distribute up to and including the corresponding amount in the column “Total Quarterly Distribution Target Amount,” until available cash from operating surplus we distribute reaches the next target distribution level, if any. The percentage interests shown for the unitholders and the holders of the incentive distribution rights for the minimum quarterly distribution are also applicable to quarterly distribution amounts that are less than the minimum quarterly distribution.

  

    Total Quarterly Distribution   Marginal Percentage Interest
in Distributions
 
    Target Amount   Unitholders     Holders of IDRs  
Minimum Quarterly Distribution   $0.3375     100.0 %     0 %
First Target Distribution   up to $0.388125     100.0 %     0 %
    above $0.388125                
Second Target Distribution   up to $0.421875     85.0 %     15.0 %
    above $0.421875                
Third Target Distribution   up to $0.50625     75.0 %     25.0 %
Thereafter   above $0.50625     50.0 %     50.0 %

 

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B. Significant changes

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9. The Offer and Listing

 

A. Offer and Listing Details

 

The high and low sales prices of our common units as reported by the NYSE, for the periods indicated, are as follows:

 

    High     Low  
Year ended December 31, 2016(1)     $ 19.32       $ 11.50  
Year ended December 31, 2015     23.97       12.50  
Year ended December 31, 2014(2)     26.50       16.26  
                 
Second quarter 2016(3)      19.32        16.51  
First quarter 2016     18.45       11.50  
Fourth quarter 2015     18.82       12.50  
Third quarter 2015     21.80       15.70  
Second quarter 2015     23.46       19.01  
First quarter 2015     23.97       17.80  
Fourth quarter 2014     24.73       16.26  
Third quarter 2014(4)     26.50       21.75  
                 
Month ended April 30, 2016(3)      19.32        16.51  
Month ended March 31, 2016     17.50       15.28  
Month ended February 29, 2016     15.60       12.40  
Month ended January 31, 2016     18.45       11.50  
Month ended December 31, 2015     18.82       12.50  
Month ended November 30, 2015     16.87       13.96  
Month ended October 31, 2015     16.97       14.84  

 

(1) For the period from January 1, 2016 through April 27, 2016.
(2) For the period from August 7, 2014 through December 31, 2014.
(3) For the period from April 1, 2016 through April 27, 2016.
(4) For the period from August 7, 2014 through September 30, 2014.

 

B. Plan of Distribution

 

Not applicable.

 

C. Markets

 

Our common units started trading on the NYSE under the symbol “HMLP” on August 8, 2014.

 

D. Selling Unitholders

 

Not applicable.

 

E. Dilution

 

Not applicable.

 

F. Expenses of the Issue

 

Not applicable.

 

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Item 10. Additional Information

 

A. Share Capital

 

Not applicable.

 

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

 

The information required to be disclosed under Item 10B is incorporated by reference to our Registration Statement on Form 8-A filed with the SEC on August 4, 2014.

 

C. Material Contracts

 

The following is a summary of each material contract, other than material contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business, to which we or any of our subsidiaries is a party, for the two years immediately preceding the date of this Annual Report, each of which is included in the list of exhibits in “Item 19. Exhibits”:

 

  (1) Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 8, 2014, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG GP LLC and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement.”

 

  (2) Omnibus Agreement, dated August 12, 2014, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG GP LLC and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, as supplemented by a letter agreement dated August 12, 2015. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Omnibus Agreement.”

 

  (3) 2014 Höegh LNG Partners LP Long-Term Incentive Plan

 

  (4) Höegh LNG Partners LP Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan

 

 

(5)

 

(6)

Höegh LNG Partners LP Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan

 

Employment Contract, dated November 26, 2013, between Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited and Richard Tyrrell.

 

  (7) Administrative Services Agreement, dated July 2, 2014, among Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC and Höegh LNG Services Ltd., as amended. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Administrative Service Agreements–Höegh UK Administrative Service Agreement.”

 

  (8) Administrative Services Agreement, dated July 2, 2014, between Höegh LNG Services Ltd and Höegh LNG AS, as amended. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Administrative Service Agreements—Höegh Norway Administrative Service Agreement.”

 

  (9) Administrative Services Agreement, dated October 28, 2014, between Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC. “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Administrative Service Agreements—Leif Höegh UK Administrative Service Agreements.”

 

  (10) Administrative Services Agreement, dated October 28, 2014, between Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited and Höegh LNG Services Ltd. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Administrative Service Agreements—Leif Höegh UK Administrative Service Agreements.”

 

  (11) Commercial and Administration Management Agreement, dated November 24, 2009, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Höegh LNG AS ( GDF Suez Neptune ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Commercial and Administration Management Agreements.”

 

  (12)

Commercial and Administration Management Agreement, dated May 19, 2010, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh LNG AS ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Commercial and Administration Management Agreements.”

  

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  (13) Commercial and Administration Management Agreement, dated May 31, 2010, between Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. (as successor to HöeghStream LNG Ltd.) and Höegh LNG AS ( Höegh Gallant ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Commercial and Administration Management Agreements.”

 

  (14)

Management Agreement, dated March 27, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG AS ( Höegh Gallant ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Gallant Management Agreement.”

     

(15) Baltic and International Maritime Council Standard Ship Management Agreement, dated April 23, 2014, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS ( GDF Suez Neptune ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Agreements.”

 

  (16) Baltic and International Maritime Council Standard Ship Management Agreement, dated April 23, 2014, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Agreements.”
     
  (17) Baltic and International Maritime Council Standard Ship Management Agreement, dated March 24, 2015, between Höegh LNG Cyprus and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS ( Höegh Gallant ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Agreements.”

 

  (18) Technical Information and Services Agreement, dated April 2, 2014, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and Höegh LNG AS ( PGN FSRU Lampung ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Agreements.”

 

  (19) Master Spare Parts Supply Agreement, dated April 2, 2014, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and Höegh LNG Asia Pte. Ltd. ( PGN FSRU Lampung ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Master Spare Parts Supply Agreement.”

   

  (20) Master Maintenance Agreement, dated April 2, 2014, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and Höegh LNG Shipping Services Pte Ltd ( PGN FSRU Lampung ). Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Master Maintenance Agreement.”

 

  (21) Sub-Technical Support Agreement, dated April 11, 2014, between Höegh LNG AS and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Agreements.”
     
  (22) Intercompany Agreement Regarding Secondment of Employees, dated March 31, 2015, between Höegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd. and Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, as amended by Addendum No.1, dated November 17, 2015. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Secondment Agreement.”

 

  (23) SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty, dated March 20, 2007, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Suez LNG Trading SA, as novated by the Novation Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, among SRV Joint Gas Ltd., GDF Suez LNG Trading SA (formerly known as Suez LNG Trading SA) and GDF Suez Global LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 1, dated February 23, 2015, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 2, dated February 23, 2015, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 3, dated April 23, 2014, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA ( GDF Suez Neptune ). Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— GDF Suez Neptune Time Charter.”

 

  (24) SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty, dated March 20, 2007, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Suez LNG Trading SA, as novated by the Novation Agreement, dated December 20, 2007, among SRV Joint Gas Ltd., Suez LNG Trading SA and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., as novated by the Novation Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, among SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., GDF Suez LNG Trading SA (formerly known as Suez LNG Trading SA) and GDF Suez Global LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 1, dated June 20, 2012, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 2, dated June 20, 2012, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as supplemented by the Side Letter, dated November 17, 2013, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 3, dated April 23, 2014, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA. ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ). Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters.”

 

  (25) Amendment and Restatement Agreement of the Original Lease, Operation and Maintenance Agreement, dated January 25, 2012, between Höegh LNG Ltd. and PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, as novated by the Novation Agreement for Amended & Restated Lease, Operation & Maintenance Agreement, dated September 18, 2013, among PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, Höegh LNG Ltd. and PT Höegh LNG Lampung, as novated by the Novation Agreement for Amended & Restated Lease, Operation & Maintenance Agreement, dated February 21, 2014, among PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, PT PGN LNG Indonesia and PT Höegh LNG Lampung ( PGN FSRU Lampung ). Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter.”

  

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  (26) Lease and Maintenance Agreement, dated April 15, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, acting through its Egypt Branch, and Höegh LNG Egypt LLC ( Höegh Gallant ). Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Gallant Time Charter.”

 

  (27) Second Amended and Restated Shareholders’ Agreement, dated July 18, 2014, among Mitsui O.S.K Lines, Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC and Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements.”
     
  (28) Shareholders’ Agreement, dated March 13, 2013, between Höegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd. and PT Bahtera Daya Utama. Please read Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements.”

 

  (29) Novation Deed, dated August 31, 2010, among Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Ltd.

 

  (30) Novation Deed, dated August 31, 2010, among Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd.

 

  (31) Amendment and Restatement Agreement, dated October 9, 2013, among Höegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd., PT Bahtera Daya Utama and PT Imeco Inter Sarana.

 

  (32) Revolving Loan Agreement, dated August 12, 2014, between Höegh LNG Partners LP and Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. in the amount of $85,000,000, as amended by Amendment No. 1, dated February 28, 2016. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Sponsor Credit Facility with Höegh LNG.”

 

  (33) Demand Note, dated August 12, 2014, issued by Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. in favor of Höegh LNG Partners LP in the amount of $140,000,000. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Demand Note.”

 

  (34) Neptune Facility Agreement, dated December 20, 2007, among SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and the other parties thereto, as amended by the Amendment Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated August 26, 2010, the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated July 25, 2014 and the Amendment Agreement, dated February 24, 2015. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Joint Ventures Debt—Neptune Facility.”

 

  (35) Cape Ann Facility Agreement, dated December, 20, 2007, among SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and the other parties thereto, as amended by the Amendment Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated August 26, 2010, the Amendment Agreement, dated June 29, 2012 and the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated July 25, 2014. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Joint Ventures Debt—Cape Ann Facility.”

 

  (36) $299 Million Lampung Facility Agreement, dated September 12, 2013, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and the other parties thereto, as amended by the Second Side Letter, dated December 18, 2014. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Lampung Facility.”
     
  (37) $412 Million Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated March 17, 2016, between Höegh LNG Cyprus and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., as borrowers, and the other parties thereto. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Gallant/Grace Facility.”

 

  (38) License Agreement, between Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. and Höegh LNG Partners LP. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—License Agreement.”
     
  (39) Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 12, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Acquisition of the Höegh Gallant .”
     
  (40) Letter Agreement, dated October 1, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Egypt LLC, Höegh LNG Partners LP and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Acquisition of the Höegh Gallant .”

 

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  (41) Option Agreement, dated October 1, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and Höegh LNG Partners LP. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Acquisition of the Höegh Gallant .”
     
  (42)

Amended and Restated Seller’s Credit Note, dated February 28, 2016, issued by Höegh LNG Partners LP in favor of Höegh LNG Ltd. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Acquisition of the Höegh Gallant .”

 

D. Exchange Controls

 

We are not aware of any governmental laws, decrees, regulations or other legislation, including foreign exchange controls, in the Republic of the Marshall Islands that may affect the import or export of capital, including the availability of cash and cash equivalents for use by the Partnership, or the remittance of dividends, interest or other payments to non-resident holders of our securities.

 

E. Taxation

 

The following is a discussion of the material U.S. federal income tax considerations that may be relevant to prospective unitholders.

 

This discussion is based upon provisions of the Code, Treasury Regulations and current administrative rulings and court decisions, all as in effect or existence on the date of this Annual Report and all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. Changes in these authorities may cause the tax consequences of unit ownership to vary substantially from the consequences described below.The following discussion applies only to beneficial owners of common units that own the common units as “capital assets” within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (i.e., generally, for investment purposes) and is not intended to be applicable to all categories of investors, such as unitholders subject to special tax rules (e.g., financial institutions, insurance companies, broker dealers, tax-exempt organizations, retirement plans or individual retirement accounts or former citizens or long-term residents of the United States), persons who will hold the units as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion, constructive sale or other integrated transaction for U.S. federal income tax purposes, or persons that have a functional currency other than the U.S. Dollar, each of whom may be subject to tax rules that differ significantly from those summarized below. If a partnership or other entity or arrangement classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds our common units, the tax treatment of its partners generally will depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. If you are a partner in a partnership holding our common units, you should consult your own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences to you of the partnership’s ownership of our common units.

  

No ruling has been or will be requested from the IRS regarding any matter affecting us or prospective unitholders. The statements made herein may be challenged by the IRS and, if so challenged, may not be sustained upon review in a court. This discussion does not contain information regarding any U.S. state or local, estate, gift or alternative minimum tax considerations concerning the ownership or disposition of common units. This discussion does not comment on all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be important to particular unitholders in light of their individual circumstances, and each prospective unitholder is urged to consult its own tax advisor regarding the U.S. federal, state, local and other tax consequences of the ownership or disposition of common units.

 

Election to be Treated as a Corporation

 

We have elected to be treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Consequently, among other things, U.S. Holders (as defined below) will not be directly subject to U.S. federal income tax on our income, but rather will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on distributions received from us and dispositions of units as described below.

 

U.S. Federal Income Taxation of U.S. Holders

 

As used herein, the term “U.S. Holder” means a beneficial owner of our common units that owns (actually or constructively) less than 10.0% of the value or voting power of our equity and that is:

 

  · an individual U.S. citizen or resident (as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes),

 

  · a corporation (or other entity that is classified as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) organized under the laws of the United States or any of its political subdivisions,

 

  · an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source, or

 

148  

 

 

  · a trust if (i) a court within the United States is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (ii) the trust has a valid election in effect to be treated as a U.S. person for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

U.S. Federal Taxation of Distributions

 

Subject to the discussion below of the rules applicable to PFICs, any distributions to a U.S. Holder made by us with respect to our common units generally will constitute dividends, which may be taxable as ordinary income or “qualified dividend income” as described in more detail below, to the extent of our current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. Distributions in excess of our earnings and profits will be treated first as a nontaxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s tax basis in its common units and thereafter as capital gain. U.S. Holders that are corporations generally will not be entitled to claim a dividends received deduction with respect to distributions they receive from us because we are not a U.S. corporation. Dividends received with respect to our common units generally will be treated as “passive category income” for purposes of computing allowable foreign tax credits for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

Dividends received with respect to our common units by a U.S. Holder that is an individual, trust or estate (a “U.S. Individual Holder”) generally will be treated as “qualified dividend income” that is taxable to such U.S. Individual Holder at preferential capital gain tax rates provided that: (i) our common units are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States (such as the NYSE on which our common units are traded); (ii) we are not a PFIC for the taxable year during which the dividend is paid or the immediately preceding taxable year (which we do not believe we are, have been or will be, as discussed below under “—PFIC Status and Significant Tax Consequences”); (iii) the U.S. Individual Holder has owned the common units for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the date on which the common units become ex-dividend (and has not entered into certain risk limiting transactions with respect to such common units); and (iv) the U.S. Individual Holder is not under an obligation to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. In addition, the preferential tax rate on dividends does not apply to dividends received by a U.S. Individual Holder to the extent that the U.S. Individual Holder elects to treat such dividends as investment income that may be offset by investment expenses. There is no assurance that any dividends paid on our common units will be eligible for these preferential rates in the hands of a U.S. Individual Holder, and any dividends paid on our common units that are not eligible for these preferential rates will be taxed as ordinary income to a U.S. Individual Holder.

  

Special rules may apply to any amounts received in respect of our common units that are treated as “extraordinary dividends.” In general, an extraordinary dividend is a dividend with respect to a common unit that is equal to or in excess of 10.0% of the unitholder’s adjusted tax basis (or fair market value upon the unitholder’s election) in such common unit. In addition, extraordinary dividends include dividends received within a one year period that, in the aggregate, equal or exceed 20.0% of a unitholder’s adjusted tax basis (or fair market value). If we pay an “extraordinary dividend” on our common units that is treated as “qualified dividend income,” then any loss recognized by a U.S. Individual Holder from the sale or exchange of such common units will be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of the amount of such dividend.

 

Sale, Exchange or Other Disposition of Common Units

 

Subject to the discussion of PFIC status below, a U.S. Holder generally will recognize capital gain or loss upon a sale, exchange or other disposition of our units in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized by the U.S. Holder from such sale, exchange or other disposition and the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in such units. The U.S. Holder’s initial tax basis in its units generally will be the U.S. Holder’s purchase price for the units and that tax basis will be reduced (but not below zero) by the amount of any distributions on the units that are treated as non-taxable returns of capital (as discussed above under “—U.S. Federal Taxation of Distributions”. Such gain or loss will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. Holder’s holding period is greater than one year at the time of the sale, exchange or other disposition. Certain U.S. Holders (including individuals) may be eligible for preferential rates of U.S. federal income tax in respect of long-term capital gains. A U.S. Holder’s ability to deduct capital losses is subject to limitations. Such capital gain or loss generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss, as applicable, for U.S. foreign tax credit purposes.

 

Medicare Tax on Net Investment Income

 

Certain U.S. Holders, including individuals, estates and trusts, will be subject to an additional 3.8% Medicare tax on, among other things, dividends and capital gains from the sale or other disposition of equity interests. For individuals, the additional Medicare tax applies to the lesser of (i) “net investment income” or (ii) the excess of “modified adjusted gross income” over $200,000 ($250,000 if married and filing jointly or $125,000 if married and filing separately). “Net investment income” generally equals the taxpayer’s gross investment income reduced by deductions that are allocable to such income. Unitholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the implications of the additional Medicare tax resulting from their ownership and disposition of our common units.

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PFIC Status and Significant Tax Consequences

 

Adverse U.S. federal income tax rules apply to a U.S. Holder that owns an equity interest in a non-U.S. corporation that is classified as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In general, we will be treated as a PFIC with respect to a U.S. Holder if, for any taxable year in which the holder held our units, either:

 

  · at least 75.0% of our gross income (including the gross income of our vessel-owning subsidiaries) for such taxable year consists of passive income (e.g., dividends, interest, capital gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents derived other than in the active conduct of a rental business); or

 

  · at least 50.0% of the average of the values of the assets held by us (including the assets of our vessel-owning joint ventures and subsidiaries) at the end of each quarter during such taxable year produce, or are held for the production of, passive income.

 

Income earned, or treated as earned (for U.S. federal income tax purposes), by us in connection with the performance of services would not constitute passive income for PFIC purposes. By contrast, rental income generally would constitute “passive income” unless we were treated as deriving that rental income in the active conduct of a trade or business under the applicable rules.

   

Based on our current and projected methods of operation, we believe that we were not a PFIC for any prior taxable year, and we expect that we will not be a PFIC for the current and any future taxable year. We believe that more than 25.0% of our gross income for each taxable year was or will be nonpassive income, and more than 50.0% of the average value of our assets for each such year was or will be held for the production of such nonpassive income. This belief is based on valuations and projections regarding our assets, income and charters. While we believe these valuations and projections are accurate, the shipping market is volatile, and no assurance can be given that they will continue to be accurate at any time in the future.

 

Moreover, there are legal uncertainties in determining whether the income from our time-chartering activities constitutes rental income or income derived from the performance of services While there is legal authority supporting our conclusions, including IRS pronouncements concerning the characterization of income derived from time charters as services income, the Fifth Circuit held in Tidewater Inc. v. United States, 565 F.3d 299 (5th Cir. 2009) that income derived from certain marine time charter agreements should be treated as rental income rather than services income for purposes of a “foreign sales corporation” provision of the Code. In that case, the Fifth Circuit did not address the definition of passive income or the PFIC rules; however, the reasoning of the case could have implications as to how the income from a time charter would be classified under such rules. If the reasoning of this case were extended to the PFIC context, the gross income we derive or are deemed to derive from our time chartering activities may be treated as rental income, and we would likely be treated as a PFIC. The IRS has announced its nonacquiescence with the court’s holding in the Tidewater case and, at the same time, announced the position of the IRS that the marine time charter agreements at issue in that case should be treated as service contracts.

 

Distinguishing between arrangements treated as generating rental income and those treated as generating services income involves weighing and balancing competing factual considerations, and there is no legal authority under the PFIC rules addressing our specific method of operation. Conclusions in this area therefore remain matters of interpretation. We are not seeking a ruling from the IRS on the treatment of income generated from our time chartering operations. Thus, it is possible that the IRS or a court could disagree with our position. In addition, although we intend to conduct our affairs in a manner to avoid being classified as a PFIC with respect to any taxable year, we cannot assure you that the nature of our operations will not change in the future and that we will not become a PFIC in any future taxable year.

 

As discussed more fully below, if we were to be treated as a PFIC for any taxable year (and regardless of whether we remain a PFIC for subsequent taxable years), a U.S. Holder would be subject to different taxation rules depending on whether the U.S. Holder makes an election to treat us as a “Qualified Electing Fund,” which we refer to as a “QEF election.” As an alternative to making a QEF election, a U.S. Holder should be able to make a “mark-to-market” election with respect to our common units, as discussed below. If we are a PFIC, a U.S. Holder will be subject to the PFIC rules described herein with respect to any of our subsidiaries that are PFICs. However, the mark-to-market election discussed below will likely not be available with respect to shares of such PFIC subsidiaries. In addition, if a U.S. Holder owns our common units during any taxable year that we are a PFIC, such holder must file an annual report with the IRS.

 

Taxation of U.S. Holders Making a Timely QEF Election

 

If a U.S. Holder makes a timely QEF election (an “Electing Holder”), then, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, that holder must report as income for its taxable year its pro rata share of our ordinary earnings and net capital gain, if any, for our taxable years that end with or within the taxable year for which that holder is reporting, regardless of whether or not the Electing Holder received distributions from us in that year. The Electing Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common units will be increased to reflect taxed but undistributed earnings and profits. Distributions of earnings and profits that were previously taxed will result in a corresponding reduction in the Electing Holder’s adjusted tax basis in common units and will not be taxed again once distributed. An Electing Holder generally will recognize capital gain or loss on the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common units. A U.S. Holder makes a QEF election with respect to any year that we are a PFIC by filing IRS Form 8621 with its U.S. federal income tax return. If contrary to our expectations, we determine that we are treated as a PFIC for any taxable year, we will provide each U.S. Holder with the information necessary to make the QEF election described above.

 

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Taxation of U.S. Holders Making a “Mark-to-Market” Election

 

If we were to be treated as a PFIC for any taxable year and, as we anticipate, our units were treated as “marketable stock,” then, as an alternative to making a QEF election, a U.S. Holder would be allowed to make a “mark-to-market” election with respect to our common units, provided the U.S. Holder completes and files IRS Form 8621 in accordance with the relevant instructions and related Treasury Regulations. If that election is made, the U.S. Holder generally would include as ordinary income in each taxable year the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the U.S. Holder’s common units at the end of the taxable year over the holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common units. The U.S. Holder also would be permitted an ordinary loss in respect of the excess, if any, of the U.S. Holder’s adjusted tax basis in the common units over the fair market value thereof at the end of the taxable year, but only to the extent of the net amount previously included in income as a result of the mark-to-market election. A U.S. Holder’s tax basis in its common units would be adjusted to reflect any such income or loss recognized. Gain recognized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of our common units would be treated as ordinary income, and any loss recognized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of the common units would be treated as ordinary loss to the extent that such loss does not exceed the net mark-to-market gains previously included in income by the U.S. Holder. Because the mark-to-market election only applies to marketable stock, however, it would not apply to a U.S. Holder’s indirect interest in any of our subsidiaries that were determined to be PFICs.

 

Taxation of U.S. Holders Not Making a Timely QEF or Mark-to-Market Election

 

If we were to be treated as a PFIC for any taxable year, a U.S. Holder that does not make either a QEF election or a “mark-to-market” election for that year (a “Non-Electing Holder”) would be subject to special rules resulting in increased tax liability with respect to (i) any excess distribution (i.e., the portion of any distributions received by the Non-Electing Holder on our common units in a taxable year in excess of 125.0% of the average annual distributions received by the Non-Electing Holder in the three preceding taxable years, or, if shorter, the Non-Electing Holder’s holding period for the common units) and (ii) any gain realized on the sale, exchange or other disposition of the units. These special rules would apply for all periods in which the Non-Electing Holder holds its common units, even if we ceased to be a PFIC. Under these special rules:

 

  · the excess distribution or gain would be allocated ratably over the Non-Electing Holder’s aggregate holding period for the common units;

 

  · the amount allocated to the current taxable year and any taxable year prior to the taxable year we were first treated as a PFIC with respect to the Non-Electing Holder would be taxed as ordinary income in the current year; and

 

  · the amount allocated to each of the other taxable years would be subject to tax at the highest rate of tax on ordinary income in effect for the applicable class of taxpayers for that year, and an interest charge for the deemed tax deferral benefit would be imposed with respect to the resulting tax attributable to each such other taxable year.

 

These penalties would not apply to a qualified pension, profit sharing or other retirement trust or other tax-exempt organization that did not borrow money or otherwise utilize leverage in connection with its acquisition of our common units. If we were treated as a PFIC for any taxable year and a Non-Electing Holder who is an individual dies while owning our common units, such holder’s successor generally would not receive a step-up in tax basis with respect to such units.

 

U.S. Federal Income Taxation of Non-U.S. Holders

 

A beneficial owner of our common units (other than a partnership or an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) that is not a U.S. Holder is referred to as a Non-U.S. Holder. If you are a partner in a partnership (or an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holding our common units, you should consult your own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences to you of the partnership’s ownership of our common units.

 

Distributions

 

Distributions we pay to a Non-U.S. Holder will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax or withholding tax if the Non-U.S. Holder is not engaged in a U.S. trade or business. If the Non-U.S. Holder is engaged in a U.S. trade or business, our distributions will be subject to U.S. federal income tax in the same manner as a U.S. Holder to the extent they constitute income effectively connected with the Non-U.S. Holder’s U.S. trade or business. Effectively connected dividends received by a corporate Non-U.S. Holder may also be subject to an additional U.S. branch profits tax at a 30% rate (or, if applicable, a lower treaty rate). However, distributions paid to a Non-U.S. Holder that is engaged in a U.S. trade or business may be exempt from taxation under an applicable income tax treaty if the income arising from the distribution is not attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment maintained by the Non-U.S. Holder.

 

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Disposition of Units

 

In general, a Non-U.S. Holder is not subject to U.S. federal income tax or withholding tax on any gain resulting from the disposition of our common units provided the Non-U.S. Holder is not engaged in a U.S. trade or business. A Non-U.S. Holder that is engaged in a U.S. trade or business will be subject to U.S. federal income tax in the same manner as a U.S. Holder in the event the gain from the disposition of units is effectively connected with the conduct of such U.S. trade or business (provided, in the case of a Non-U.S. Holder entitled to the benefits of an income tax treaty with the United States, such gain also is attributable to a U.S. permanent establishment). However, even if not engaged in a U.S. trade or business, individual Non-U.S. Holders may be subject to tax on gain resulting from the disposition of our common units if they are present in the United States for 183 days or more during the taxable year in which those units are disposed and meet certain other requirements.

 

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

 

In general, payments to a non-corporate U.S. Holder of distributions or the proceeds of a disposition of common units will be subject to information reporting. These payments to a non-corporate U.S. Holder also may be subject to backup withholding if the non-corporate U.S. Holder:

 

  · fails to provide an accurate taxpayer identification number;

 

  · is notified by the IRS that it has failed to report all interest or corporate distributions required to be reported on its U.S. federal income tax returns; or

 

  · in certain circumstances, fails to comply with applicable certification requirements.

 

Non-U.S. Holders may be required to establish their exemption from information reporting and backup withholding by certifying their status on IRS Form W-8BEN, W-BEN-E, W-8ECI or W-8IMY, as applicable.

 

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Rather, a unitholder generally may obtain a credit for any amount withheld against its liability for U.S. federal income tax (and obtain a refund of any amounts withheld in excess of such liability) by timely filing a U.S. federal income tax return with the IRS.

 

In addition, individual citizens or residents of the United States holding certain “foreign financial assets” (which generally includes stock and other securities issued by a foreign person unless held in an account maintained by a financial institution) that exceed certain thresholds (the lowest being holding foreign financial assets with an aggregate value in excess of (i) $50,000 on the last day of the taxable year or (ii) $75,000 at any time during the taxable year) are required to report information relating to such assets. Significant penalties may apply for failure to satisfy these reporting obligations. U.S. Holders should consult their tax advisors regarding their obligations, if any, under this legislation that would result from their purchase, ownership or disposition of our units.

 

Non-United States Tax Consequences

 

The following is a discussion of the material non-U.S. tax considerations that may be relevant to prospective unitholders. Unless the context otherwise requires, references in this section to “we,” “our” or “us” are references to Höegh LNG Partners LP.

 

Marshall Islands Tax Consequences

 

The following discussion is based on the current laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands applicable to persons who are not citizens of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and do not reside in, maintain offices in or engage in business in the Republic of the Marshall Islands.

   

Because we and our subsidiaries do not and do not expect to conduct business or operations in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, under current Marshall Islands law you will not be subject to Marshall Islands taxation or withholding on distributions, including upon distribution treated as a return of capital, we make to you as a unitholder. In addition, you will not be subject to Marshall Islands stamp, capital gains or other taxes on the purchase, ownership or disposition of common units, and you will not be required by the Republic of the Marshall Islands to file a tax return relating to your ownership of common units.

 

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Norway Tax Consequences

 

The following is a discussion of the material Norwegian tax consequences that may be relevant to prospective unitholders who are persons not resident in Norway for taxation purposes, which we refer to as “Non-Norwegian Holders”. Prospective unitholders who are resident in Norway for taxation purposes are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the potential Norwegian tax consequences to them of an investment in our common units. For this purpose, a company incorporated outside of Norway will be treated as resident in Norway in the event its central management and control is carried out in Norway.

 

Under the Tax Act on Income and Wealth, Non-Norwegian Holders will not be subject to any taxes in Norway on income or profits in respect of the acquisition, holding, disposition or redemption of the common units, provided that we are not treated as carrying on business in Norway, and the Non-Norwegian Holder is not engaged in a Norwegian trade or business to which the common units are effectively connected, or if the Non-Norwegian Holder is resident in a country that has an income tax treaty with Norway, such holder does not have a permanent establishment in Norway to which the common units are effectively connected.

 

We believe that we will be able to conduct our affairs so that Non-Norwegian Holders should not be subject to Norwegian tax on the acquisition, holding, disposition or redemption of the common units. However, this determination is dependent upon the facts existing at such time, including (but not limited to) the place where our board of directors meets and the place where our management makes decisions or takes certain actions affecting our business. We intend to conduct our affairs in a manner consistent with our Norwegian tax practice so that our business should not be treated as managed from or carried on in Norway for taxation purposes, and consequently, Non-Norwegian Holders should not be subject to tax in Norway solely by reason of the acquisition, holding, disposition or redemption of their common units. Nonetheless, there is no legal authority addressing our specific circumstances, and conclusions in this area remain matters of interpretation. Thus, it is possible that the Norwegian taxation authority could challenge, or a court could disagree with, our position.

 

While we do not expect it to be the case, if the arrangements we propose to enter into result in our being considered to carry on business in Norway for the purposes of the Tax Act on Income and Wealth, unitholders would be considered to be carrying on business in Norway and would be required to file tax returns with the Norwegian Tax Administration and, subject to any relief provided in any relevant double taxation treaty (including, in the case of holders resident in the United States, the U.S.-Norway Tax Treaty), would be subject to taxation in Norway on any income considered to be attributable to the business carried on in Norway.

 

United Kingdom Tax Consequences

 

The following is a discussion of the material United Kingdom tax consequences that may be relevant to prospective unitholders who are persons not resident or not domiciled in the United Kingdom for taxation purposes and who do not acquire their units as part of a trade, profession or vocation carried on in the United Kingdom, which we refer to as “Non-UK Holders.”

 

Prospective unitholders who are resident or domiciled in the United Kingdom for taxation purposes, or who hold their units through a trade, profession or vocation in the United Kingdom are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the potential United Kingdom tax consequences to them of an investment in our common units and are responsible for filing their own UK tax returns and paying any applicable UK taxes (which may be due on amounts received by us but not distributed). The discussion that follows is based upon current United Kingdom tax law and what is understood to be the current practice of HM Revenue and Customs as at the date of this document, both of which are subject to change, possibly with retrospective effect.

   

Taxation of income and disposals . We expect to conduct our affairs so that Non-UK Holders should not be subject to United Kingdom income tax, capital gains tax or corporation tax on income or gains arising from the Partnership. Distributions may be made to Non-UK Holders without withholding or deduction for or on account of United Kingdom income tax.

 

Stamp taxes . No liability to United Kingdom stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax should arise in connection with the issue of units to unitholders or the transfer of units in the Partnership.

 

F. Dividends and Paying Agents

 

Not applicable.

 

G. Statement by Experts

 

Not applicable.

 

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H. Documents on Display

 

Documents concerning us that are referred to in this Annual Report may be inspected at our offices at Wessex House, 5th Floor, 45 Reid Street, Hamilton, HM12, Bermuda. Those documents electronically filed via the SEC’s Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval system may also be obtained from the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov, free of charge, or from the SEC’s Public Reference Section at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates. Further information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Section may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.

 

I. Subsidiary Information

 

Not applicable.

    

Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

We are exposed to various market risks, including interest rate and foreign currency exchange risks.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate swap contracts can be utilized to exchange a receipt of floating interest for a payment of fixed interest to reduce the exposure to interest rate variability on our outstanding floating rate debt. As of December 31, 2015, there are interest rate swap agreements on the Lampung and Gallant facilities’ floating rate debt that are designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. Please read notes 15 and 20 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the following interest rate swap agreements were outstanding: 

 

              Fair            
              value         Fixed  
    Interest         carrying         interest  
    rate   Notional     amount         rate  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   index   amount     liability     Term   (1)  
LIBOR-based debt                                
Lampung interest rate swaps (2)    LIBOR   $ 193,272       (8,704 )   Sept 2026     2.8 %
Gallant interest rate swaps (2)    LIBOR   $ 143,812       (2,063 )   Sept 2019     1.9 %

  

1) Excludes the margins paid on the floating-rate debt.
2) All interest rate swaps are U.S. dollar denominated and principal amount reduces quarterly.

  

The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to interest rates:

 

Liabilities   2016     2017     2018     2019     2020     Thereafter     Total     Fair value     Rate(1)  
Long-term Debt                                                                        
Fixed rate   $ 3,667       3,667       3,667       29,333                   40,334     $ 40,324       4.2 %
                                                                         
Variable rate     28,541       28,541       28,541       130,326       19,062       97,961       332,972       343,057       3.2 %
                                                                         
Interest Rate Swaps                                                                        
Variable to fixed   $ 3,864       3,536       3,213       1,772       937       1,995       15,317     $ 10,767       2.4 %

 

(1) Rate refers to the weighted-average interest rate for our variable long-term debt, including the margin we pay on our floating-rate debt. The average variable to fixed rate for our interest rate swaps excludes the margin we pay on our drawn floating-rate debt. Please read note 15 to our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

Our joint ventures have utilized interest rate swap contracts as described in note 12 to our joint ventures’ combined financial statements.

 

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Foreign Currency Risk

 

All financing, interest expenses from financing and most of our revenue and expenditures for newbuildings are denominated in U.S. dollars. Certain operating expenses can be denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, no derivative financial instruments have been used to manage foreign exchange risk. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the revenues from the Höegh Gallant were 90% denominated in U.S. dollars and 10% denominated in EGP. A limited amount of operating expenses related to the Höegh Gallant was also denominated in EGP. Due to restrictions in Egypt, exchangeability between EGP and other currencies was more than temporarily lacking during 2015. There is only one official published rate for the EGP which is applied in our consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities as required by US GAAP guidance. Egyptian authorities set the official published rates which are subject to devaluation. We classify EGP cash in excess of EGP working capital needs as long-term restricted cash. As of December 31, 2015, long-term restricted cash in EGP was $0.4 million. Monetary assets denominated in EGP are subject to devaluation risk. We are in discussions with EgyptCo on further reducing the amount of revenues denominated in EGP to reduce the exchange rate risk in 2016. On March 14, 2016, the Egyptian authorities devalued the EGP to U.S. dollar by approximately 14%. Based on the outstanding balances of monetary assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2015, a 15% reduction in the EGP to U.S. dollar rate would result in a foreign exchange loss of approximately $0.1 million.

  

Credit risk

 

Credit risk is the exposure to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the counterparties related to cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables and interest rate swap agreements, if applicable. In order to minimize counterparty risk, bank relationships are established with counterparties with acceptable credit ratings at the time of the transactions. Credit risk related to receivables is limited by performing ongoing credit evaluations of the customers’ financial condition. In addition, Höegh LNG guarantees the payment of Höegh Gallant time charter hire under certain circumstances. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Gallant Time Charter—Hire Rate.”

 

Concentration of Risk

 

Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Partnership to significant concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables and derivative contracts (interest rate swaps). The maximum exposure to loss due to credit risk is the book value at the balance sheet date. The Partnership does not have a policy of requiring collateral or security. Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash are placed with qualified financial institutions. Periodic evaluations are performed of the relative credit standing of those financial institutions. In addition, exposure is limited by diversifying among counterparties. There are two charterers so there is a concentration of risk related to trade receivables. Credit risk related to trade receivables is limited by performing ongoing credit evaluations of the customer’s financial condition. In addition, Höegh LNG guarantees the payment of Höegh Gallant time charter hire under certain circumstances. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Gallant Time Charter—Hire Rate.” No allowance for doubtful accounts was recorded for the year ended December 31, 2015 or 2014. While the maximum exposure to loss due to credit risk is the book value of trade receivables at the balance sheet date, should the time charter for PGN FSRU Lampung terminate prematurely, there could be delays in obtaining a new time charter and the rates could be lower depending upon the prevailing market conditions.

 

Item 12. Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

 

Not applicable.

 

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 Part II

 

Item 13. Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

 

As of December 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all applicable covenants under our debt agreements.

 

Item 14. Material Modifications to the Rights of Securities Holders and Use of Proceeds

 

Not applicable.  

 

Item 15. Controls and Procedures

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) as of December 31, 2015. Disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that (i) information required to be disclosed in our reports that are filed or submitted under the Exchange Act, are recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms, and (ii) information required to be disclosed by us in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that, as of December 31, 2015, our disclosure controls and procedures were not effective as a result of the material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting described below.

 

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting 

 

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting. Internal controls are designed to provide reasonable assurance as to the reliability of the financial reporting and the preparation and presentation of the financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. Internal controls over financial reporting include those policies and procedures that:

 

i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of our assets;
ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of our financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that our receipts and expenditures are being made in accordance with authorizations of our management and directors; and
iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of our assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

In connection with the preparation of this Form 20-F, Management, under the supervision and with the participation of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria described in Internal Control — Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”).

 

A material weakness is a deficiency, or a combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of the annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.

 

As of December 31, 2015, management determined that we have not maintained effective controls over accounting for procurement of goods and services. Several control deficiencies were identified:

· We did not maintain effective manual controls to compensate for inadequate systems solutions to perform an appropriate three way match of the purchase order, delivery confirmation and invoice to detect errors in supplier invoicing.
· We did not design or implement effective controls over the review and approval of supplier contracts.
· We did not maintain effective controls over segregation of duties in relation to the initiation and approval of new suppliers.

 

Our management has determined that these control deficiencies constitute a material weakness.

 

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Due to this material weakness, management concluded that the Partnership did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2015, based on the criteria in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the COSO. To address this material weakness, we are implementing certain remedial actions as set forth in “Subsequent Remediation Efforts.”

 

As discussed in greater detail in Item 15 of our Annual Report on Form 20-F/A for the year ended December 31, 2014, during 2015, management identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting related to a combination of control deficiencies related to the accounting treatment for certain Indonesian value added tax (“VAT”) and withholding tax (“WHT”) transactions for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

With respect to the material weakness related to the errors in accounting for Indonesian VAT and WHT, we implemented the following remedial measures: (i) hired additional qualified personnel to perform controls over VAT and WHT in Indonesia; (ii) trained Indonesian resources in our internal control requirements; (iii) designed and implemented reconciliation controls of our accounting records to information provided to tax advisors and Indonesian VAT and WHT filings; (iv) designed and began implementing management oversight controls over tax reporting in foreign jurisdictions by a newly hired tax compliance officer; and (v) increased local management involvement with accounting personnel in local tax issues.

 

Based on our evaluation in accordance with the COSO criteria, we consider the material weakness related to the accounting for Indonesian VAT and WHT has not been fully remediated and to be present at December 31, 2015. The reconciliation controls implemented in Indonesia have not operated for a sufficient period of time for management to conclude, through testing, that the applicable controls have operated effectively as of December 31, 2015. In addition, due to the need to recruit additional resources, the management oversight controls have not been fully implemented as of December 31, 2015.

 

Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

This Annual Report does not include an attestation report of the Partnership’s registered public accounting firm due to a transition period established by rules of the SEC for emerging growth companies.

 

Subsequent Remediation Efforts

 

Subsequent to December 31, 2015, we have taken or are planning to take the remedial actions set forth below to address the combination of deficiencies resulting in material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting related to the accounting for Indonesian VAT and WHT transactions and procurement transactions:

 

· Complete the implementation and testing of management oversight controls over accounting for Indonesian VAT and WHT transactions;
· Complete the testing of reconciliations controls over accounting for Indonesian VAT and WHT transactions for a sufficient number of periods to conclude on the effectiveness of the controls;
· Reassess, redesign, if necessary, and implement controls for three way match of invoices;
· Implement the review and approval controls for supplier contracts; and
· Additional training of purchasing personnel to assure segregation of duties between the initiation and approval of new suppliers.

 

We believe the remediation actions described above will remediate the material weaknesses we have identified. We are committed to continuing to improve our internal control processes and will continue to review our financial reporting controls and procedures. Our remediation efforts, including re-design, if necessary, implementation and testing of our remediation measures will continue to be given significant time and attention in 2016. As we continue to evaluate and work to improve our internal control over financial reporting, we may determine to take additional measures to address control deficiencies or determine to modify certain of the remediation measures described above. In addition to completing our planned actions above, the material weaknesses cannot be considered remediated until the applicable enhancements to our internal control process operate for a sufficient period of time and management has concluded, through testing, that internal controls are operating effectively.

 

Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Except for those changes as described above under “Subsequent Remediation Efforts”, there have been no significant changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the year ended December 31, 2015 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

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Inherent Limitations of Disclosure Controls and Procedures in Internal Control over Financial Reporting

 

Our system of controls is designed to provide reasonable, not absolute, assurance regarding the reliability and integrity of accounting and financial reporting. Our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer does not expect that our disclosure controls and internal controls will prevent all errors and fraud. Because of inherent limitations in any such control system (e.g. faulty judgments, human error, information technology system error, or intentional circumvention), there can be no assurance that the objectives of a control system will be met under all circumstances. A control system, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assurance that the objectives of the control system will be met. In addition, expectations related to any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risks that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. The benefits of a control system also must be considered relative to the costs of the system and our judgment regarding the likelihood of potential events.

 

Item 16A. Audit Committee Financial Expert

 

Our board of directors has determined that David Spivak qualifies as an audit committee financial expert and is independent under applicable NYSE and SEC standards.

  

Item 16B. Code of Ethics

 

We have adopted the Höegh LNG Partners LP Code of Business Conduct and Ethics that applies to all of our employees, officers and directors. This document is available under the “Governance” section of our website (www.hoeghlngpartners.com). We intend to disclose, under this section of our website, any waivers to or amendments of the Höegh LNG Partners LP Corporate Code of Business Ethics and Conduct for the benefit of any of our directors and executive officers.

 

Item 16C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Our principal accountant for 2015 was Ernst & Young AS.

 

The audit committee of our board of directors has the authority to pre-approve permissible audit-related and non-audit services not prohibited by SEC and PCAOB standards to be performed by our independent auditors and associated fees. Engagements for proposed services either may be separately pre-approved by the audit committee or entered into pursuant to detailed pre-approval policies and procedures established by the audit committee, as long as the audit committee is informed on a timely basis of any engagement entered into on that basis. The audit committee separately pre-approved all engagements and fees paid to our principal accountant in 2015.

 

Fees Incurred by the Partnership for Ernst & Young AS’ Services

 

(In thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Audit Fees   $ 1,429     $ 714  
Audit-Related Fees           319  
Tax Fees            
All Other Fees            
    $ 1,429     $ 1,033  

 

Audit Fees

 

Audit fees for 2015 and 2014 are the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the Partnership’s annual financial statements and services normally provided by the principal accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for the two most recent fiscal years.

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

Audit-related fees for 2014 are the aggregate fees billed for professional services rendered by the principal accountant related to assurance work in connection with the comfort letter and review of the prospectus associated with our IPO in August 2014 that have not been reported under “—Audit Fees” above.

 

Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

 

Not applicable.

 

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Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 16F. Change in Registrants’ Certifying Accountant

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 16G. Corporate Governance

 

Overview

 

Pursuant to an exemption under the NYSE listing standards for foreign private issuers, the Partnership is not required to comply with the corporate governance practices followed by U.S. companies under the NYSE listing standards. However, pursuant to Section 303A.11 of the New York Stock Exchange Listed Company Manual, we are required to state any significant differences between our corporate governance practices and the practices required by the NYSE for U.S. companies. We believe that our established practices in the area of corporate governance are in line with the spirit of the NYSE standards and provide adequate protection to our unitholders. The significant differences between our corporate governance practices and the NYSE standards applicable to listed U.S. companies are set forth below.

 

Independence of Directors

 

The NYSE rules do not require a listed company that is a foreign private issuer to have a board of directors that is comprised of a majority of independent directors. Under Marshall Islands law, we are not required to have a board of directors comprised of a majority of directors meeting the independence standards described in the NYSE rules. In addition, the NYSE rules do not require limited partnerships like us to have boards of directors comprised of a majority of independent directors. However, our board of directors has determined that each of Mr. Harris, Mr. Jamieson, Mr. Shaw and Mr. Spivak satisfies the independence standards established by the NYSE as applicable to us.

 

Executive Sessions

 

The NYSE requires that non-management directors of a listed U.S. company meet regularly in executive sessions without management. The NYSE also requires that all independent directors of a listed U.S. company meet in an executive session at least once a year. As permitted under Marshall Islands law and our partnership agreement, our non-management directors do not regularly hold executive sessions without management and we do not expect them to do so in the future.

 

Nominating/Corporate Governance Committee

 

The NYSE requires that a listed U.S. company have a nominating/corporate governance committee of independent directors and a committee charter specifying the purpose, duties and evaluation procedures of the committee. As permitted under Marshall Islands law and our partnership agreement, we do not currently have a nominating or corporate governance committee.

 

Compensation Committee

 

The NYSE requires that a listed U.S. company have a compensation committee of independent directors and a committee charter specifying the purpose, duties and evaluation procedures of the committee. As permitted under Marshall Islands law and our partnership agreement, we do not currently have a compensation committee.

 

Corporate Governance Guidelines

 

The NYSE requires U.S. companies to adopt and disclose corporate governance guidelines. The guidelines must address, among other things: director qualification standards, director responsibilities, director access to management and independent advisers, director compensation, director orientation and continuing education, management succession and an annual performance evaluation. We are not required to adopt such guidelines under Marshall Islands law, and we have not adopted such guidelines.

 

We make available a statement of significant differences on our website (www.hoeghlngpartners.com) in the governance section.

 

We believe that our established corporate governance practices satisfy the NYSE listing standards.

 

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Item 16H. Mine Safety Disclosure

 

Not applicable. 

 

160  

 

 

Part III

 

Item 17. Financial Statements

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 18. Financial Statements

 

The consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements of Höegh LNG Partners LP and schedule set forth on pages F-1 through F-53 and Exhibit 15.1 and the combined financial statements of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. set forth on pages F-54 through F-74, together with the related reports of Ernst & Young AS, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm thereon, are filed as part of this Annual Report:

 

All other schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting regulations of the SEC are not required, are inapplicable or have been disclosed in the notes to the financial statements and therefore have been omitted.

 

Item 19. Exhibits

 

The following exhibits are filed as part of this Annual Report:

 

Exhibit  
Number Description
   
1.1 Certificate of Limited Partnership of Höegh LNG Partners LP (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
1.2 First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership of Höegh LNG Partners LP, dated August 12, 2014, between Höegh LNG GP LLC and Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 1.2 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.1 Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 8, 2014, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG GP LLC and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.2 Omnibus Agreement, dated August 12, 2014, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG GP LLC and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.2.1 Letter Agreement, dated August 12, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG GP LLC and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.32 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F/A, filed on November 30, 2015)
   
4.3 2014 Höegh LNG Partners LP Long-Term Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.4

Höegh LNG Partners LP Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)

 

4.5*

 

4.6

Höegh LNG Partners LP Amended and Restated Non-Employee Director Compensation Plan

 

Employment Contract, dated November 26, 2013, between Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited and Richard Tyrrell (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)

   
4.7 Administrative Services Agreement, dated July 2, 2014, among Höegh LNG Partners LP, Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC and Höegh LNG Services Ltd., as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.8 Administrative Services Agreement, dated July 2, 2014, between Höegh LNG Services Ltd and Höegh LNG AS, as amended (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)

  

161  

 

  

Exhibit  
Number Description
   
4.9 Administrative Services Agreement, dated October 28, 2014, between Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.30 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.10 Administrative Services Agreement, dated October 28, 2014, between Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited and Höegh LNG Services Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.31 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.11 Commercial and Administration Management Agreement, dated November 24, 2009, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Höegh LNG AS ( GDF Suez Neptune ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.12 Commercial and Administration Management Agreement, dated May 19, 2010, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh LNG AS ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.13* Commercial and Administration Management Agreement, dated May 31, 2010, between Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. (as successor to HöeghStream LNG Ltd.) and Höegh LNG AS ( Höegh Gallant )
   
4.14* Management Agreement, dated March 27, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG AS ( Höegh Gallant )
   
4.15 Baltic and International Maritime Council Standard Ship Management Agreement, dated April 23, 2014, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS ( GDF Suez Neptune ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to Amendment No. 4 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on August 6, 2014)
   
4.16 Baltic and International Maritime Council Standard Ship Management Agreement, dated April 23, 2014, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 to Amendment No. 4 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on August 6, 2014)
   
4.17* Baltic and International Maritime Council Standard Ship Management Agreement, dated March 24, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS ( Höegh Gallant )
   
4.18 Technical Information and Services Agreement, dated April 2, 2014, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and Höegh LNG AS ( PGN FSRU Lampung ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.12 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.19 Master Spare Parts Supply Agreement, dated April 2, 2014, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and Höegh LNG Asia Pte. Ltd. ( PGN FSRU Lampung ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.13 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.20 Master Maintenance Agreement, dated April 2, 2014, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and Höegh LNG Shipping Services Pte Ltd ( PGN FSRU Lampung ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.21 Sub-Technical Support Agreement, dated April 11, 2014, between Höegh LNG AS and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.22* Intercompany Agreement Regarding Secondment of Employees, dated March 31, 2015, between Höegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd. and Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, as amended by Addendum No. 1 dated November 17, 2015.
   
4.23† SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty, dated March 20, 2007, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Suez LNG Trading SA, as novated by the Novation Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, among SRV Joint Gas Ltd., GDF Suez LNG Trading SA (formerly known as Suez LNG Trading SA) and GDF Suez Global LNG Supply SA ( GDF Suez Neptune ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)

 

162  

 

 

Exhibit  
Number Description
   
4.23.1† Amendment No 1. to the SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty, dated February 23, 2015, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA ( GDF Suez Neptune ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.16.1 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.23.2† Amendment No 2. to the SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty, dated February 23, 2015, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA ( GDF Suez Neptune ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.16.2 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.23.3† Amendment No. 3, dated April 23, 2014, to the SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty ( GDF Suez Neptune ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16.1 to Amendment No. 4 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on August 6, 2014)
   
4.24† SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty, dated March 20, 2007, between SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and Suez LNG Trading SA, as novated by the Novation Agreement, dated December 20, 2007, among SRV Joint Gas Ltd., Suez LNG Trading SA and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., as novated by the Novation Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, among SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., GDF Suez LNG Trading SA (formerly known as Suez LNG Trading SA) and GDF Suez Global LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 1, dated June 20, 2012, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as amended by Amendment No. 2, dated June 20, 2012, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA, as supplemented by the Side Letter, dated November 17, 2013, between SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and GDF Suez LNG Supply SA ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.24.1† Amendment No. 3, dated April 23, 2014, to the SRV LNG Carrier Time Charterparty ( GDF Suez Cape Ann ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17.1 to Amendment No. 4 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on August 6, 2014)
   
4.25† Amendment and Restatement Agreement of the Original Lease, Operation and Maintenance Agreement, dated January 25, 2012, between Höegh LNG Ltd. and PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, as novated by the Novation Agreement for Amended & Restated Lease, Operation & Maintenance Agreement, dated September 18, 2013, among PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, Höegh LNG Ltd. and PT Höegh LNG Lampung, as novated by the Novation Agreement for Amended & Restated Lease, Operation & Maintenance Agreement, dated February 21, 2014, among PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, PT PGN LNG Indonesia and PT Höegh LNG Lampung ( PGN FSRU Lampung ) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.18 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.26*†† Lease and Maintenance Agreement, dated April 15, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, acting through its Egypt Branch, and Höegh LNG Egypt LLC ( Höegh Gallant )
   
4.27 Second Amended and Restated Shareholders’ Agreement, dated July 18, 2014, among Mitsui O.S.K Lines, Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC and Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.19 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.28 Shareholders’ Agreement, dated March 13, 2013, between Höegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd. and PT Bahtera Daya Utama (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.29 Novation Deed, dated August 31, 2010, among Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.30 Novation Deed, dated August 31, 2010, among Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd., Tokyo LNG Tanker Co., Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)
   
4.31 Amendment and Restatement Agreement, dated October 9, 2013, among Höegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd., PT Bahtera Daya Utama and PT Imeco Inter Sarana (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 3, 2014)

 

163  

 

 

Exhibit  
Number Description
   
4.32 Revolving Loan Agreement, dated August 12, 2014, between Höegh LNG Partners LP and Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. in the amount of $85,000,000 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.24 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.32.1* Amendment No. 1 to the Revolving Loan Agreement, dated February 28, 2016
   
4.33 Demand Note, dated August 12, 2014, issued by Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. in favor of Höegh LNG Partners LP in the amount of $140,000,000 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.25 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.34 Neptune Facility Agreement, dated December 20, 2007, among SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and the other parties thereto, as amended by the Amendment Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated August 26, 2010, the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated July 25, 2014 and the Amendment Agreement, dated February 24, 2015 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.26 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.35 Cape Ann Facility Agreement, dated December, 20, 2007, among SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. and the other parties thereto, as amended by the Amendment Agreement, dated March 25, 2010, the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated August 26, 2010, the Amendment Agreement, dated June 29, 2012 and the Letter from the Agent for the Lenders, dated July 25, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.27 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.36 $299 Million Lampung Facility Agreement, dated September 12, 2013, between PT Höegh LNG Lampung and the other parties thereto, as amended by the Second Side Letter, dated December 18, 2014 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.28 to the registrant’s Annual Report on Form 20-F, filed on April 24, 2015)
   
4.37* $412 Million Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated March 17, 2016, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., as borrowers, and the other parties thereto
   
4.38 License Agreement, between Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. and Höegh LNG Partners LP (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 to Amendment No. 1 to the registrant’s Form F-1 Registration Statement (333-197228), filed on July 17, 2014)
   
4.39* Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 12, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Partners LP and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC
   
4.40* Letter Agreement, dated October 1, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG Egypt LLC, Höegh LNG Partners LP and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC
   
4.41* Option Agreement, dated October 1, 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and Höegh LNG Partners LP
   
4.42* Amended and Restated Seller’s Credit Note, dated February 28, 2016, issued by Höegh LNG Partners LP in favor of Höegh LNG Ltd.
   
8.1* Subsidiaries of Höegh LNG Partners LP
   
12.1* Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer
   
13.1* Certification under Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of the Principal Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer
   
15.1* Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

  

164  

 

 

Exhibit  
Number Description
   
101.INS* XBRL Instance Document
   
101.SCH* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
   
101.CAL* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Calculation Linkbase
   
101.DEF* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Definition Linkbase
   
101.LAB* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Label Linkbase
   
101.PRE* XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Presentation Linkbase

  

* Filed herewith.
Certain portions have been omitted pursuant to a confidential treatment order. Omitted information has been filed separately with the SEC.
†† Confidential treatment has been requested for portions of this exhibit. These portions have been omitted from the Annual Report and submitted separately to the Securities and Exchange Commission.

  

165  

 

 

  SIGNATURE

 

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this Annual Report on its behalf.

 

  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By: /s/ RICHARD TYRRELL
  Name:  Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

 

Date: April 28, 2016 

   

166  

 

   

INDEX TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

Höegh LNG Partners LP  
Audited Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Financial Statements  
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm F-2
Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-3
Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-4
Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 F-5
Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Statements of Changes In Partners’ Capital/Owner’s Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-7
Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-8
Notes to the Consolidated and Combined Carve-Out Financial Statements F-10
   
SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd.  
Audited Combined Financial Statements  
Report of Independent Auditors F-54
Combined Statements of Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-55
Combined Statements of Comprehensive Income for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-56
Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 F-57
Combined Statements of Changes in Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-58
Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 F-59
Notes to the Combined Financial Statements F-60
   
Exhibit 15.1 Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of Registrant  

 

 

 

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Shareholders of Höegh LNG Partners LP

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets of Höegh LNG Partners LP as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in partners’ capital / owner’s equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015. Our audit also included the financial statement schedule listed in the Index at Item 18. These financial statements and schedule are the responsibility of the Partnership’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. We were not engaged to perform an audit of the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Partnership’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes 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. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated and combined carve-out financial position of Höegh LNG Partners LP at December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the consolidated and combined carve-out results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also, in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young AS

 

Oslo, Norway

 

April 28, 2016

 

F- 2  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, except per unit amounts)

 

    Notes   2015     2014     2013  
REVENUES                            
Time charter revenues   6,18,21   $ 57,465       22,227   $  
Construction contract revenues   7,18           51,868       51,062  
Other revenue               474       511  
Total revenues   6     57,465       74,569       51,573  
OPERATING EXPENSES                            
Voyage expenses               (1,139 )      
Vessel operating expenses   18     (9,679 )     (6,197 )      
Construction contract expenses   7,21           (38,570 )     (43,958 )
Administrative expenses         (8,733 )     (12,566 )     (8,043 )
Depreciation and amortization   11,12     (2,653 )     (1,317 )     (8 )
Total operating expenses         (21,065 )     (59,789 )     (52,009 )
Equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures   5,17     17,123       (5,330 )     40,228  
Operating income (loss)   5     53,523       9,450       39,792  
FINANCIAL INCOME (EXPENSE), NET                            
Interest income   18     7,568       4,959       2,122  
Interest expense   18     (17,770 )     (9,665 )     (352 )
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments   20     949       (161 )      
Other items, net         (2,678 )     (2,788 )     (1,096 )
Total financial income (expense), net   8     (11,931 )     (7,655 )     674  
Income (loss) before tax         41,592       1,795       40,466  
Income tax expense   9     (313 )     (481 )      
Net income (loss)   5   $ 41,279       1,314   $ 40,466  
                             
Earnings per unit   23                        
Common unit public (basic and diluted)       $ 1.56       0.50        
Common unit Höegh LNG (basic and diluted)       $ 1.57       0.50        
Subordinated unit (basic and diluted)       $ 1.57       0.50        

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 3  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    Notes   2015     2014     2013  
Net income (loss)       $ 41,279       1,314     $ 40,466  
Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedge   20     1,329       (10,159 )      
Income tax (benefit) expense   9,20     (395 )     1,984        
Other comprehensive income (loss)         934       (8,175 )      
Comprehensive income (loss)       $ 42,213       (6,861 )   $ 40,466  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 4  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT BALANCE SHEETS

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    Notes   2015     2014  
ASSETS                    
Current assets                    
Cash and cash equivalents   19   $ 32,868     $ 30,477  
Restricted cash   19     10,630       21,935  
Trade receivables   19     8,200       6,189  
Amounts due from affiliates   18,19     4,239        
Demand note due from owner   18,19           143,241  
Advances to joint ventures   14,19     7,130       6,665  
Inventory         767        
Current portion of net investment in direct financing lease   6     3,192       2,894  
Current deferred tax assets   9     381       343  
Prepaid expenses and other receivables         528       564  
Total current assets   2c     67,935       212,308  
Long-term assets                    
Restricted cash   19     15,198       15,184  
Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation   12     353,078        
Other equipment         119       54  
Intangibles and goodwill   13     18,646        
Advances to joint ventures   14,19     6,861       12,287  
Net investment in direct financing lease   6     290,111       292,469  
Long-term deferred tax assets   9     1,645       1,667  
Other long-term assets   10     10,150       15,449  
Total long-term assets   2c     695,808       337,110  
Total assets       $ 763,743     $ 549,418  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 5  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT BALANCE SHEETS

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    Notes   2015     2014  
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY                    
Current liabilities                    
Current portion of long-term debt   15,19   $ 32,208     $ 19,062  
Trade payables         1,350       864  
Amounts due to owners and affiliates   18,19     10,604       6,019  
Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates   18,19     287       467  
Value added and withholding tax liability         2,078       3,066  
Derivative financial instruments   19,20     4,912       4,676  
Current deferred tax liability   9     450        
Accrued liabilities and other payables   16     20,782       13,365  
Total current liabilities         72,671       47,519  
Long-term liabilities                    
Accumulated losses of joint ventures   5,17     42,507       59,630  
Long-term debt   2c,15,19     330,635       179,141  
Seller’s credit note   18,19     47,000        
Derivative financial instruments   19,20     5,855       4,544  
Long-term deferred tax liability   9     644        
Other long-term liabilities   10     14,633       22,206  
Total long-term liabilities         441,274       265,521  
Total liabilities         513,945       313,040  
EQUITY   2a,3                
Common units public         209,372       207,004  
Common units Höegh LNG         6,604       5,202  
Subordinated units         41,063       32,347  
Total partners' capital         257,039       244,553  
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)         (7,241 )     (8,175 )
Total equity         249,798       236,378  
Total liabilities and equity       $ 763,743     $ 549,418  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 6  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT STATEMENTS OF

CHANGES IN PARTNERS’ CAPITAL/OWNER’S EQUITY

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

          Partners' Capital              
    Owner's
Equity
    Common
Units
Public
    Common
Units
Höegh
LNG
    Sub-ordinated
Units
    Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
    Total
Equity
 
Combined carve-out balance as of December 31, 2012   $ (53,229 )                           $ (53,229 )
Carve-out net income     40,466                               40,466  
Carve-out distributions to owner, net     (35,333 )                             (35,333 )
Combined carve-out balance as of December 31, 2013     (48,096 )                             (48,096 )
Carve-out net loss (January 1- August 12, 2014)     (11,941 )                             (11,941 )
Other comprehensive loss                             (5,900 )     (5,900 )
Conversion of promissory note to equity     101,500                               101,500  
Carve-out distributions to owner, net     (11,039 )                             (11,039 )
Combined carve-out balance as of August 12, 2014     30,424                         (5,900 )     24,524  
Elimination of equity (note 2)     45,799                               45,799  
Allocation of partnership capital to unitholders August 12, 2014     (76,223 )           10,561       65,662              
Net proceeds from IPO net of underwriters' discounts, fees and expenses of offering (note 3)           203,467                         203,467  
Cash distribution of initial public offering proceeds to Höegh LNG                 (6,023 )     (37,444 )           (43,467 )
Post-initial public offering net income (note 3)           5,562       1,066       6,627             13,255  
Cash distributions to unitholders           (2,025 )     (388 )     (2,413 )           (4,826 )
Other comprehensive loss                             (2,275 )     (2,275 )
Distributions to owner, net                 (14 )     (85 )           (99 )
Consolidated balance as of December 31, 2014           207,004       5,202       32,347       (8,175 )     236,378  
Net income           17,273       3,326       20,680             41,279  
Cash distributions to unitholders           (14,905 )     (2,857 )     (17,762 )           (35,524 )
Cash contribution from Höegh LNG                 914       5,682             6,596  
Other comprehensive income                             934       934  
Contributions from owner                 19       116             135  
Consolidated balance as of December 31, 2015   $       209,372       6,604       41,063       (7,241 )   $ 249,798  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 7  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

  

    2015     2014     2013  
OPERATING ACTIVITIES                  
Net income (loss)   $ 41,279     1,314     $ 40,466  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:                        
Depreciation and amortization     2,653       1,317       8  
Equity in losses (earnings) of joint ventures     (17,123 )     5,330       (40,228 )
Changes in accrued interest income on advances to joint ventures and demand note     2,406       (4,349 )     (1,381 )
Amortization and write off of deferred debt issuance cost     2,480       4,362       379  
Amortization in revenue for above market contract     605              
Changes in accrued interest expense     (162 )     1,146       352  
Refundable value added tax on import           (26,298 )      
Net currency exchange losses (gains)     102       (271 )      
Unrealized loss (gain) on financial instruments     (949 )     161        
Deferred tax expense     (1,033 )     (24 )      
Other adjustments     135       59       (38 )
Changes in working capital:                        
Restricted cash     10,007       (22,180 )      
Trade receivables     (2,011 )     (6,115 )     (58 )
Unbilled construction contract income           55,174       (51,062 )
Inventory     271              
Prepaid expenses and other receivables     235       26       (530 )
Trade payables     154       864       (212 )
Amounts due to owners and affiliates     (3,486 )     6,019        
Value added and withholding tax liability     2,892       7,660       4,614  
Accrued liabilities and other payables     4,330       3,781       6,473  
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities     42,785       27,976       (41,217 )
                         
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                        
Expenditure for vessels, newbuildings and other equipment     (955 )     (170,906 )     (36,323 )
Demand note made to Höegh LNG           (140,000 )      
Receipts from repayment of principal on advances to joint ventures     5,796       6,666       5,542  
Receipts from repayment of principal on direct financing lease     2,919       1,341        
Cash acquired in the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant     7,695              
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash           10,700        
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities   $ 15,455     (292,199 )   $ (30,781 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 8  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    2015     2014     2013  
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                        
Proceeds from long-term debt   $     $ 257,099     $  
Proceeds from amounts due to owners and affiliates           10,193       15,207  
Proceeds from loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates           650       101,493  
Repayment of long-term debt     (22,348 )     (44,766 )      
Repayment of amounts due to owners and affiliates           (25,400 )      
Repayment of loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates           (49,150 )      
Contributions from (distributions to) owner           (11,198 )     (35,333 )
Customer loan for funding of value added liability on import     (4,769 )     26,297        
Payment of debt issuance cost     (189 )     (8,023 )     (9,361 )
Proceeds from initial public offering, net of underwriters' discounts and expenses           203,467        
Cash from proceeds of initial public offering distributed to Höegh LNG           (43,467 )      
Cash distributions to unitholders     (35,524 )     (4,826 )      
Proceeds from indemnifications received from Höegh LNG     6,596              
Cash settlement of derivative financial instruments           (1,100 )      
Decrease (increase) in restricted cash     385       (15,184 )      
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     (55,849 )     294,592       72,006  
                         
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     2,391       30,369       8  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     30,477       108       100  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 32,868     $ 30,477     $ 108  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

F- 9  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

1. Description of business

 

Höegh LNG Partners LP (the “Partnership”) was formed under the laws of the Marshall Islands on April 28, 2014 as an indirect 100% owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. (“Höegh LNG”) for the purpose of acquiring Höegh LNG’s interests in Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd., PT Hoegh LNG Lampung (the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Tower Yoke Mooring System), SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (the owner of the GDF Suez Neptune ), and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (the owner of the GDF Suez Cape Ann ) in connection with the Partnership’s initial public offering of its common units (the “IPO”).

 

On August 12, 2014, the Partnership completed its IPO. Prior to the closing of the IPO, Höegh LNG contributed to the Partnership all of its equity interests and loans and promissory notes due to it and affiliates in each of the entities owning the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann and the PGN FSRU Lampung . The transfer of the interests was recorded at Höegh LNG’s consolidated book values. At the closing of the IPO (including the exercise by the underwriters of the option to purchase an additional 1,440,000 common units), (i)11,040,000 common units were sold to the public for net proceeds, after deduction of offering expenses, of $203.5 million; (ii) Höegh LNG owned 2,116,060 common units and 13,156,060 subordinated units, representing approximately 58% of the limited partner interests in the Partnership, and 100% of the incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”) and (iii) a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG owned the non-economic general partner interest in the Partnership, as further described in note 3.

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership closed the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a Cayman Islands company, that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , for a total consideration of $194.2 million, as further described in note 4. The Höegh Gallant was constructed by Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd. (“HHI”) and was delivered to Höegh LNG in November 2014.

 

The interests in SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., collectively, are referred to as the “joint ventures” and the remaining entities owned by the Partnership, as reflected in the table below are, collectively, referred to as the “subsidiaries” in these consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd., PT Hoegh LNG Lampung and the joint ventures are, collectively, referred to as the “Combined Entities” in the combined carve-out financial statements. The PGN FSRU Lampung , the Höegh Gallant , the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann are floating storage regasification units (“FSRUs”) and, collectively, referred to in these consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements as the vessels or the “FSRUs.” The Tower Yoke Mooring System (the “Mooring”) is an offshore installation that is used to moor the PGN FSRU Lampung to offload the gas into an offshore pipe that transports the gas to a land terminal. PT Hoegh LNG Lampung, Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, the owner of the Höegh Gallant , and the two joint ventures, SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., are collectively referred to as the “FSRU-owning entities.”

 

The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann operate under long-term time charters with expiration dates in 2029 and 2030, respectively, and, in each case, with an option for the charterer to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each. The PGN FSRU Lampung , operates under a long term time charter which started in July 2014 with an expiration date in 2034 (with an option for the charterer to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each) and uses the Mooring that was constructed and installed and sold to the charterer, PT PGN LNG Indonesia (“PGN LNG”), a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk (“PGN”). The Höegh Gallant operates under a long term time charter which started in April 2015 with an expiration date in April 2020 with Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC (“EgyptCo”), a subsidiary of Höegh LNG. EgyptCo has a charter with the government-owned Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company (“EGAS”). Pursuant to an option agreement, the Partnership has the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025.

  

F- 10  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The following table lists the entities included in these consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements and their purpose as of December 31, 2015.

 

    Jurisdiction of    
    Incorporation    
Name   or Registration   Purpose
Höegh LNG Partners LP   Marshall Islands   Holding Company
Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC (100% owned)   Marshall Islands   Holding Company
Hoegh LNG Services Ltd (100% owned)   United Kingdom   Administration Services Company
Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. (100% owned)   Singapore   Owns 49% of PT Hoegh LNG Lampung
PT Hoegh LNG Lampung (49% owned) (1)   Indonesia   Owns PGN FSRU Lampung
SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (50% owned) (2)   Cayman Islands   Owns GDF Suez Neptune
SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (50% owned) (2)   Cayman Islands   Owns GDF Suez Cape Ann
Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. (100% owned) (3)   Cayman Islands   Owns 100% of Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited
Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited (100% owned) (3)   Cyprus   Owns Höegh Gallant
Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited Egypt Branch (100% owned) (3)   Egypt   Branch of Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited

 

 

(1) PT Hoegh LNG Lampung is a variable interest entity, which is controlled by Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. and is, therefore, 100% consolidated in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

(2) The remaining 50% interest in each joint venture is owned by Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. and Tokyo LNG Tanker Co.

(3) The ownership interests were acquired on October 1, 2015.

 

2. Significant accounting policies

 

  a. Basis of presentation

 

The consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements are prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”). All inter-company balances and transactions are eliminated.

 

As of August 13, 2014, financial statements of the Partnership are consolidated since it was a separate legal entity owning the interests in the subsidiaries and joint ventures. At the closing of the IPO, the transfer of the interests was recorded at Höegh LNG’s consolidated book values. Prior to that date, the income statement, balance sheet and cash flows, as converted to US GAAP, have been carved out of the consolidated financial statements of Höegh LNG and are presented on a combined carve-out basis for the Combined Entities. The combined carve-out financial statements include the related assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows directly attributable to Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung. In addition, the investment in 50% of the joint ventures using the equity method of accounting, and the related advances to joint ventures and interest income on the advances, are included in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. The combined carve-out financial statements prior to August 13, 2014, also include allocations of certain administrative expenses.

 

Included in the combined carve-out equity as of August 12, 2014, were amounts related to promissory notes and related accrued interest due to Höegh LNG. Höegh LNG’s receivables for the promissory notes and related accrued interest of the Partnership’s subsidiaries were contributed to the Partnership as part of the formation transactions. Refer to note 3 for additional discussion of the contribution. As a result, the liabilities of the Partnership’s subsidiaries are eliminated on consolidation since they were no longer external liabilities to the Partnership. Accordingly, this is equivalent to not transferring the subsidiaries’ liabilities to the Partnership. Therefore, the corresponding amounts have been eliminated for the Partnership’s opening equity position as of August 12, 2014. Details of the liabilities eliminated are as follows:

 

F- 11  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

   

As of

August 12,

 
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2014  
Accrued interest on $48.5 million Promissory note due to Höegh LNG transferred to Partnership   $ (1,684 )
Accrued interest on $101.5 million Promissory note due to Höegh LNG transferred to Partnership     (2,947 )
$40.0 million Promissory note and accrued interest due to Höegh LNG transferred to Partnership     (41,168 )
Elimination to equity as of August 12, 2014   $ 45,799  

 

It has been determined that PT Hoegh LNG Lampung, SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. are variable interest entities. A variable interest entity (“VIE”) is defined by US GAAP as a legal entity where either (a) the voting rights of some investors are not proportional to their rights to receive the expected residual returns of the entity, their obligations to absorb the expected losses of the entity, or both, and substantially all of the entity's activities either involve or are conducted on behalf of an investor that has disproportionately few voting rights, or (b) the equity holders have not provided sufficient equity investment to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support, or (c) equity interest holders as a group lack the characteristics of a controlling financial interest, including decision making ability and an interest in the entity's residual risks and rewards. The guidance requires a VIE to be consolidated if any of its interest holders are entitled to a majority of the entity's residual returns or are exposed to a majority of its expected losses.

 

Based upon the criteria set forth in US GAAP, the Partnership has determined that PT Hoegh LNG Lampung is a VIE, as the equity holders, through their equity investments, may not participate fully in the entity's expected residual returns and substantially all of the entity's activities either involve, or are conducted on behalf of, the Partnership. The Partnership is the primary beneficiary, as it has the power to make key operating decisions considered to be most significant to the VIE and receives all the expected benefits or expected losses. Therefore, 100% of the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of PT Hoegh LNG Lampung are included in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Dividends may only be paid if the retained earnings are positive under Indonesian law and requirements are fulfilled under the Lampung facility. Refer to note 15. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, PT Hoegh LNG Lampung had negative retained earnings and therefore cannot make dividend payments under Indonesia law. Under the Lampung facility, there are limitations on cash dividends and loans that can be made to the Partnership. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, restricted net assets of the consolidated subsidiaries were $119.8 million and $113.4 million, respectively.

 

 In addition, the Partnership has determined that the two joint ventures, SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., are VIEs since each entity did not have a sufficient equity investment to permit the entity to finance its activities without additional subordinated financial support at the time of its initial investment. The entities have been financed with third party debt and subordinated shareholders loans. The Partnership is not the primary beneficiary, as the Partnership cannot make key operating decisions considered to be most significant to the VIEs, but has joint control with the other equity holders. Therefore, the joint ventures are accounted for under the equity method of accounting as the Partnership has significant influence. The Partnership's carrying value is recorded in advances to joint ventures and accumulated losses of joint ventures in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets. For SRV Joint Gas Ltd., the Partnership had a receivable for the advances of $7.2 million and $9.8 million, respectively, and the Partnership’s accumulated losses or its share of net liabilities were $19.8 million and $28.4 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. The Partnership's carrying value for SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., consists of a receivable for the advances of $6.8 million and $9.1 million, respectively, and the Partnership’s accumulated losses or its share of net liabilities of $22.7 million and $31.2 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. The major reason that the Partnership’s accumulated losses in the joint ventures are net liabilities is due to the fair value adjustments for the interest rate swaps recorded as liabilities on the combined balance sheets of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. The maximum exposure to loss is the carrying value of the receivables, which is subordinated to the joint ventures’ long-term bank debt, the investments in the joint ventures (accumulated losses), as the shares are pledged as security for the joint ventures’ long-term bank debt and Höegh LNG’s commitment under long-term bank loan agreements to fund its share of drydocking costs and remarketing efforts in the event of an early termination of the charters. Dividend distributions require a) agreement of the other joint venture owners; b) fulfilment of requirements of the long-term bank loans; c) and under Cayman Islands law may be paid out of profits or capital reserves subject to the joint venture being solvent after the distribution.

  

F- 12  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

  b. Carve-out principles

 

For the period from January 1, 2014 to August 12, 2014 (the date of the IPO) and for the year ended December 31, 2013, the combined carve-out financial statements presented herein have been carved out of the consolidated financial statements of Höegh LNG and adjusted to be in accordance with US GAAP.

 

These combined carve-out financial statements include the assets, liabilities, revenues, expenses and cash flows directly attributable to Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung. In addition, the investment in 50% of the joint ventures, the related advances to joint ventures and interest income on the advances are included in the combined carve-out financial statements.

 

The combined carve-out financial statements include the financial statements of Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung since the dates of their inception. Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung were incorporated on May 31, 2013 and December 10, 2012, respectively. Prior to October 1, 2013, the investment in the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring were not included in a single purpose entity or accounted for as a discrete unit, but held by a subsidiary of Höegh LNG. From October 1, 2013, the PGN FSRU Lampung , the Mooring and all associated contracts are included in PT Hoegh Lampung Pte. Ltd.

 

Höegh LNG’s accounting system tracks capital expenditures and expenses by project code, including the capitalized cost of newbuilding and projects under construction, administration costs for those working on such projects through Höegh LNG’s time-write system, commitment fees and deferred debt issuance cost for related financing and certain deferred charges related to contracts. Höegh LNG’s time-write system records project team and administration staff hours worked on specific vessels or by project code for purposes on recording associated staff costs and overhead. Accordingly, for periods prior to October 1, 2013, the capitalized cost of the newbuilding, construction contract revenues related to the Mooring, associated costs and related balances have been specifically identified based on project codes for purpose of preparing the combined carve-out financial statements.

 

Cash, working capital items, amounts due to owners and affiliates and equity balances are not tracked by project code. Cash and restricted cash were not allocated to the carve-out financial statements unless specific accounts were identified specifically related to the project. Working capital items and accruals were reviewed at the transaction level to identify those specifically related to the newbuilding, the Mooring or the associated contracts. The share of loans due to owners and affiliates related to the financing of the construction in progress and the related interest expense have been allocated to the combined carve-out financial statements.

  

In addition, there were administrative expenses of Höegh LNG that were attributed to a specific vessel or project directly. The administrative expenses included undistributed corporate and segment management and administrative staffs’ salary expenses and benefits, and general and administrative expenses. These administrative expenses were allocated to the combined carve-out financial statements based on the number of vessels, newbuildings and business development projects in Höegh LNG’s fleet, joint ventures and operations. Related parties provided the commercial and technical services for the FSRUs, including supervision of newbuilding, and employ the crews that work on the FSRUs. Accordingly, neither the Combined Entities nor the Partnership were liable for any pension or post retirement benefits, since they had no direct employees.

 

Income tax expense was allocated to the Combined Entities on a separate returns basis.

 

Management deemed the allocations reasonable to present the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows of the Partnership on a stand-alone basis. However, the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Partnership may differ from those that would have been achieved had the Partnership operated autonomously for periods prior to August 12, 2014 as the Partnership would have had additional administrative expenses, including legal, accounting, treasury and regulatory compliance and other costs normally incurred by a listed public entity and it would not have had the allocated expenses of Höegh LNG. Accordingly, the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements prior to August 12, 2014 do not purport to be indicative of the future financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Partnership.

 

F- 13  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

  c. Significant accounting policies

 

  Foreign currencies

 

The reporting currency in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements is the U.S. dollar, which is the functional currency of the FSRU-owning entities. Nearly all revenues are received in U.S. dollars and a majority of the Partnership's expenditures for investments and all of the long-term debt are denominated in U.S. dollars. Transactions denominated in other currencies during the year are converted into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates in effect at the time of the transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Egyptian pounds are translated at the single official published rate available. Resulting gains or losses are reflected in the accompanying consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income.

 

Business combinations

 

Business combinations are accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. Under this method, the purchase price is allocated to identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their fair values as of the acquisition date. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair values of net assets is recognized as goodwill. Acquisition related costs are expensed as incurred. The results of entity acquired are included in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements from the date of acquisition.

 

Time charter revenues and related expenses

 

Time charter revenues :

 

Revenue arrangements may include the right to use FSRUs for a stated period of time that meet the criteria for lease accounting, in addition to providing a time charter service element. Time charter revenues may consist of charter hire payments under time charters, fees for providing time charter services, fees for reimbursement for actual vessel operating expenses, certain tax elements and drydocking costs borne by the charterer on a pass through basis, as well as fees for the reimbursement of certain vessel modifications or other costs borne by the charterer. Time charter revenues are presented net of any value added tax (“VAT”) or other tax.

 

The lease element of time charters accounted for as operating leases and any upfront payments for amounts reimbursed by the charterer are recognized on a straight line basis over the term of the charter. The time charter for the Höegh Gallant is accounted for as an operating lease.

 

The lease element of time charters that are accounted for as direct financing leases is recognized over the lease term using the effective interest rate method and is included in time charter revenues. Direct financing leases are reflected on the balance sheets as net investments in direct financing leases. The time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung is accounted for as a direct financing lease.

 

Revenues for the lease element of time charters are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off hire.

 

Fees for providing time charter services, reimbursements for actual vessel operating expenses or other costs are recognized as revenues as services are performed or the actual costs are incurred. Revenues for the time charter services element are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off-hire.

 

Fees for modifications or other additions to equipment are deferred and amortized over the shorter of the remaining charter period or the useful life of the additions. Upfront payments of fees for reimbursement of drydocking costs are recognized on a straight line basis over the period to the next drydocking.

 

Related expenses :

 

Voyage expenses include bunker fuel expenses, port fees, cargo loading and unloading expenses, canal tolls and agency fees. Voyage expenses are all expenses unique to a particular voyage and when a vessel is on hire under time charters are generally the responsibility of, and paid directly by the charterers and not included in the income statement. When the vessel is off-hire, voyage expenses, principally fuel, may also be incurred and are paid by the FSRU-owning entity.

  

F- 14  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Vessel operating expenses, reflected in expenses in the income statement, include crewing, repairs and maintenance, insurance, stores, lube oils, communication expenses and management fees. Vessel operating expenses also include bunker fuel expenses when the vessel is on hire and the expenses are not directly paid and owned by the charterers. When the vessel is on hire, vessel operating expenses are invoiced as fees to the charterer or are covered by time charter rates. When the vessel is off-hire, vessel operating expenses are not invoiced to the charterer.

 

Voyage expenses, if applicable, and vessel operating expenses are expensed when incurred.

 

Construction revenues and related expenses

 

For fixed price construction contracts, when the outcome can be estimated reliably, construction contract revenues are recognized based on the percentage of completion method using the ratio of costs incurred to estimated total costs multiplied by the total estimated contract revenue. Revenue from change orders, if any, is not recognized until agreed in writing by the owner. As the percentage of completion method relies on the substantial use of estimates, estimates may be revised throughout the life of a construction contract. The construction cost incurred and estimates to complete on construction contracts are reviewed, at a minimum, on a quarterly basis, as well as when information becomes available that would necessitate a review of the current estimate. Adjustments to estimates for a contract's estimated costs at completion and estimated profit or loss often are required as experience is gained, and as more information is obtained, even though the scope of work required under the contract may not change. The impact of such changes to estimates is made on a cumulative basis in the period when such information has become known. Expected losses on contracts are fully recognized as soon as they are identified.

 

Construction contract expenses include direct costs on contracts, including project management, labor and materials, amounts payable to subcontractors and capitalized interest.

 

Insurance and other claims

 

Insurance claims for property damage are recorded, net of any deductible amounts, for recoveries up to the amount of loss recognized when the claims submitted to insurance carriers are probable of recovery. Claims for property damage in excess of the loss recognized and for loss of revenue during off-hire, whether from insurance providers or indemnification from Höegh LNG, are considered gain contingencies, which are recognized when the proceeds are received.

 

Indemnification proceeds from Höegh LNG that cover the Partnership’s costs are accounted for following the guidance of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) Topic 1.B and SAB Topic 5. T. SAB Topic 1.B provides that the separate financial statements of a subsidiary should reflect any costs of its operations which are incurred by the owner on its behalf. SAB Topic 5.T provides that costs should be reflected as an expense in the subsidiary's financial statements with a corresponding credit to contributed equity.

 

Income taxes

 

Income taxes are based on a separate return basis. Income taxes are accounted for using the liability method.

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the tax consequences of temporary differences between the tax and the book bases of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are reduced by a valuation allowance when, in the opinion of management, it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. 

 

Benefits of uncertain tax positions are recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position taken in a tax return will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position. If the more-likely-than-not recognition criterion is met, a tax position is measured based on the cumulative amount that is more-likely-than-not of being sustained upon examination by tax authorities to determine the amount of benefit to be recognized in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions is recognized in income tax expense in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income.

 

F- 15  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash, banks deposits, time deposits and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less are recognized as cash and cash equivalents.

 

Restricted cash

 

Restricted cash includes balances deposited with a bank as required under debt facilities to settle withholding and other tax liabilities and other current obligations of the entity, principal and interest payments as required by the debt facilities and Egyptian pound balances in excess of Egyptian pound working capital needs. Due to restrictions in Egypt, exchangeability between the Egyptian pound and other currencies is more than temporarily lacking. Restricted cash is classified as long-term when the settlement is more than 12 months from the balance sheet date or exchangeability with other currencies is more than temporarily lacking. Classification of restricted cash in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of cash flows is as an operating, investing or financing activity when the purpose of the restriction is directly related to operations, an investment or as collateral for borrowings, respectively.

 

Trade receivables and allowance for doubtful accounts

 

Trade receivables are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is management’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in existing accounts receivable based on historical write-off experience and customer economic data. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when management believes that the receivable will not be recovered. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $0 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

  

Deferred charges

 

Deferred charges consist primarily of contract origination costs related directly to the negotiation and consummation of the time charter and are amortized over the term of the time charter. For direct financing leases, origination costs related to the time charter are reclassified to net investment in direct financing lease and amortized over the lease term using the effective interest method.

 

Investments in (accumulated losses) and advances to joint ventures

 

Investments in joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method of accounting. Under the equity method of accounting, investments are stated at initial cost and are adjusted for the Partnership’s proportionate share of earnings or losses and dividend distributions. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Partnership had an accumulated share of losses and the balance is classified on the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet as a liability on the line accumulated losses of joint ventures.

 

Advances to joint ventures represent loan receivables due from the joint ventures and are recorded at cost. Interest on the advances to joint ventures is recorded to interest income in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income as incurred. Payments of interest are treated as return on investment and included as a component of net cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements cash flow. Payments of principal are included as a component of net cash provided by investing activities in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements cash flow.

 

Investments in joint ventures are evaluated for impairment when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such investments may have experienced an other-than-temporary decline in value below its carrying value. If the estimated fair value is less than the carrying value, the carrying value is written down to its estimated fair value and the resulting impairment is recorded in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income.

 

Loan receivables are impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the full amount of the receivable will not be collected. The amount of the impairment is measured as the difference between the present value of expected future cash flows discounted at the loan’s effective interest rate and the carrying amount. The resulting impairment amount is recognized in earnings.

 

F- 16  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Inventory

 

Inventory consists of bunker fuel maintained on the FSRU, if it is owned by the FSRU-owning entity. Inventory is stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the first-in, first-out method.

 

Vessels

 

All costs incurred during the construction of newbuildings, including interest and supervision and technical costs, are capitalized. The cost of an acquired vessel is the fair value. Vessels are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over a vessel’s estimated useful life, less an estimated residual value. Depreciation is calculated using an estimated useful life of 35 years for the FSRUs.

 

Modifications to the vessels, including the addition of new equipment, which improves or increases the operational efficiency, functionality or safety of the vessels, are capitalized. These expenditures are amortized over the estimated useful life of the modification.

 

Expenditures covering recurring routine repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.

 

Drydocking expenditures are capitalized when incurred and amortized over the period until the next anticipated drydocking. For vessels that are newly built, the "built-in overhaul" method of accounting is applied. Under the built-in overhaul method, costs of the newbuilding are segregated into costs that should be depreciated over the useful life of the vessel and costs that require drydocking at periodic intervals. The drydocking component is amortized until the date of the first drydocking following the delivery, upon which the actual drydocking cost is capitalized and the process is repeated. Costs of drydocking incurred to meet regulatory requirements or improve the vessel’s operating efficiency, functionality or safety are capitalized. Costs incurred related to routine repairs and maintenance performed during drydocking are expensed.

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

 

Vessels are assessed for impairment when events or circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable. When such events or changes in circumstances are present, the recoverability of vessels are assessed by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through undiscounted expected future cash flows. If the vessel’s net carrying value exceeds the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated over its remaining useful life, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its estimated fair value. An impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the vessel.

 

Intangibles and goodwill

 

Intangible assets are initially measured at their fair value as of the acquisition date of a business combination. All intangible assets of the Partnership have a definite life. Intangible assets with a definite life are amortized over their useful life. Intangible assets with a definite life are tested for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset.

 

In determining the useful lives of intangible assets, the expected use of the assets, the contractual provisions that limit the useful life and other economic factors are considered. The contract related intangibles and their useful lives are as follows:

 

    Useful life
Intangible category   (Years)
Above market time charter   4.6
Option for time charter extension   5.4

 

The intangible for the above market value of the time charter contract associated with the Höegh Gallant is amortized on a straight line basis over the remaining term of the contract. Höegh LNG and the Partnership have entered into an option agreement pursuant to which the Partnership has the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the existing charter in May 2020 until July 2025. The intangible for the option for time charter extension will be amortized on a straight line basis over the extension period starting in May 2020, subject to impairment testing for recoverability in the preceding periods.

 

F- 17  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Goodwill arises when an acquisition is accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their fair values as of the acquisition date. Any excess of the consideration over the net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Goodwill is not amortized and is tested annually for impairment of value and whenever events or circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.

 

Derivative instruments

 

Interest rate swaps are used for the management of interest rate risk exposure. The interest rate swaps have the effect of converting a portion of the outstanding debt from a floating to a fixed rate over the life of the transactions.

 

All derivative instruments are initially recorded at fair value as either assets or liabilities in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet and are subsequently remeasured to fair value, regardless of the purpose or intent for holding the derivative. The method of recognizing the resulting gain or loss is dependent on whether the contract qualifies for hedge accounting.

 

For derivative financial instruments that are not designated or that do not qualify for hedge accounting, the changes in the fair value of the derivative financial instruments are recognized in earnings. In order to designate a derivative as a cash flow hedge, formal documentation of the relationship between the derivative and the hedged item is required. This documentation includes the strategy and risk management objective for undertaking the hedge and the method that will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedge.

 

For derivative financial instruments qualifying as cash flow hedges, changes in the fair value of the effective portion of the derivative financial instruments are initially recorded in other comprehensive income as a component of total equity. Any hedge ineffectiveness is recognized immediately in earnings, as are any gains and losses or amortization on the derivative that are excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness. In the periods when the hedged items affect earnings, the associated fair value changes on the hedging derivatives are transferred from accumulated other comprehensive income to the gain (loss) on derivative instruments line in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income. If a cash flow hedge is terminated and the originally hedged item is still considered probable of occurring, the gains and losses initially recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income remain there until the hedged item impacts earnings, at which point they are amortized or transferred to gain (loss) on derivative instruments in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income. If the hedged items are no longer considered probable of occurring, amounts recognized in total equity are immediately transferred to the gain (loss) on derivative instruments in the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income.

 

Prepaid and deferred revenue

 

Prepaid revenue includes prepayments of fees for charter hire, vessel operating expenses or other future services. Deferred revenues include payments from charterers for certain vessel modifications which is amortized over the charter or other reimbursements not meeting revenue recognition criteria.

 

Deferred debt issuance costs and fair value of debt assumed

 

Debt issuance costs, including arrangement fees and legal expenses, are deferred and presented as a direct deduction from the outstanding principal of the related debt in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet and amortized on an effective interest rate method over the term of the relevant loan. Amortization of debt issuance costs is included as a component of interest expense. If a loan or part of a loan is repaid early, any unamortized portion of the deferred debt issuance costs is recognized as interest expense proportionate to the amount of the early repayment in the period in which the loan is repaid.

 

The discount or premium arising in a business combination for the difference in the fair value of the debt assumed compared to the outstanding principal is reported in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet as a direct adjustment to the outstanding principal of the related debt and amortized on an effective interest rate method over the term of the relevant loan. Amortization of fair value of the debt assumed is included as a component of interest expense. If a loan or part of a loan is repaid early, any unamortized portion of the discount or premium is recognized as interest expense proportionate to the amount of the early repayment in the period in which the loan is repaid.

  

F- 18  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Use of estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP requires that management make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates subject to such estimates and assumptions include revenue recognition, purchase price allocation, the useful lives of vessels, drydocking and the percentage of completion related to the Mooring.

 

Recent accounting pronouncements

 

In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued revised guidance for the classification of debt issuance cost; Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Cost . Under the new guidance, deferred debt issuance cost will no longer be classified as assets but presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the associated debt in the balance sheet. The presentation in the balance sheet is required to be adjusted on a retrospective basis. The amendments are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 31, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. The Partnership is implementing the guidance as of December 31, 2015 and has adjusted the balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 on a retrospective basis. The deduction from the carrying amount of long-term debt for deferred debt issuance cost was $14.1 million as of December 31, 2014, which reduced current assets by $2.6 million and long-term assets by $11.5 million.

 

There are no other recent accounting pronouncements, whose adoption had a material impact on the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements in the current year.

 

In May 2014, a new accounting standard, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , was issued by the FASB. Under the new standard, revenue for most contracts with customers will be recognized when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects consideration that the entity expects to be entitled, subject to certain limitations. The scope of this guidance does not apply to leases, financial instruments, guarantees and certain non-monetary transactions. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and early adoption is not permitted. The Partnership is currently assessing the impact the adoption this standard will have on the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements.

 

In February 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance for consolidation; Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis . This guidance modifies the evaluation of whether limited partnerships and similar legal entities are variable interest entities or voting interest entities, eliminates the presumption that a general partner should consolidate a limited partnership, and affects the consolidation analysis of reporting entities that are involved with variable interest entities. The amendment is effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2015, with early adoption permitted. All legal entities are subject to reevaluation under the revised consolidation model. The adoption of the amendment is not expected to have a material impact on the Partnership’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In November 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance for the classification of deferred taxes, Balance Sheet Classification of Deferred Taxes . The new guidance requires companies to classify all deferred tax assets and liabilities as noncurrent on the balance sheet instead of separating deferred taxes into current and non-current amounts. The guidance is effective for financial statements issued for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2016 and interim periods within those annual periods. The guidance may be adopted on either a prospective or retrospective basis. Early adoption is permitted. The Partnership is currently assessing whether to adopt the new guidance on a prospective or retrospective basis and the timing of its adoption.

 

3. Formation transactions and Initial Public Offering

 

During August 2014, the following transactions in connection with the transfer of equity interests, shareholder loans and promissory notes and accrued interest to the Partnership and the IPO occurred:

 

Capital contribution

 

Höegh LNG contributed the following to the Partnership:

 

  (i) Its interests in Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd., PT Hoegh LNG Lampung, SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd.;

 

F- 19  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

  (ii) Its shareholder loans made by Höegh LNG to each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., in part to finance the operations of such joint ventures; and

 

  (iii) Its receivables for the $40 million promissory note due to Höegh LNG as well as accrued interest on such note and two other promissory notes relating to Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd.;

 

These transactions have been accounted for as a capital contribution by Höegh LNG to the Partnership. However, for purposes of the combined carve-out financial statements, the (i) net assets of the entities and the (ii) shareholder loans to the joint ventures are included in the combined carve-out balance sheet as of December 31, 2013 and June 30, 2014.

 

Recapitalization of the Partnership

 

  (i) The Partnership issued to Höegh LNG 2,116,060 common units and 13,156,060 subordinated units and 100% of incentive distribution rights (“IDRs”), which will entitle Höegh LNG to increasing percentages of the cash the Partnership distributes in excess of $0.388125 per unit per quarter.

 

  (ii) The Partnership issued to Höegh LNG GP LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG, a non-economic general partner interest in the Partnership.

 

Initial Public Offering

 

  (i) The Partnership issued and sold through the underwriters to the public 11,040,000 common units (including 1,440,000 common units exercised pursuant to the underwriters’ option to purchase additional common units), representing approximately 42% limited partnership interest in the Partnership. The common units were sold for $20.00 per unit resulting in gross proceeds of $220.8 million. The net proceeds of the offering were approximately $203.5 million. Net proceeds is after deduction of underwriters’ discounts, structuring fees and reimbursements and the incremental direct costs attributable to the IPO that were deferred and charged against the proceeds of the offering.

 

  (ii) The Partnership applied the net proceeds of the offering as follows: (i) $140 million to make a loan to Höegh LNG in exchange for a note bearing interest at a rate of 5.88% per annum, (ii) $20 million for general partnership purposes and (iii) the remainder of approximately $43.5 million to make a cash distribution to Höegh LNG.

 

Proceeds from IPO and application of funds      
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)      
Gross proceeds from IPO   $ 220,800  
Underwriters' discounts, structuring fees and incremental direct IPO expenses     (17,333 )
Net proceeds from IPO     203,467  
Loan of initial public offering proceeds to Höegh LNG for demand note     (140,000 )
Cash distribution of initial public offering proceeds to Höegh LNG     (43,467 )
Cash retained for general partnership purposes   $ 20,000  

 

At the completion of the IPO, Höegh LNG owned 2,116,060 common units and 13,156,060 subordinated units, representing an approximate 58% limited partnership interest in the Partnership.

 

Agreements

 

In connection with the IPO the Partnership entered into several agreements including:

 

  (i) A $85 million revolving credit facility with Höegh LNG, which was undrawn at the closing of the IPO;

 

  (ii) An omnibus agreement with Höegh LNG, the general partner, and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC (the “operating company”) governing, among other things:

 

F- 20  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

  a. To what extent the Partnership and Höegh LNG may compete with each other;

 

  b. The Partnership’s option to purchase from Höegh LNG all or a portion of its interests in an additional FSRU, the Independence , within 24 months after acceptance of such vessel by her charterer, subject to reaching an agreement with Höegh LNG regarding the purchase price and other terms in accordance with the provisions of the omnibus agreement and any rights AB Klaipèdos Nafta has under the related time charter, which the Partnership may exercise at one or more times during such 24-month period;

 

  c. The Partnership’s rights of first offer on certain FSRUs and LNG carriers operating under charters of five or more years; and

 

  d. Höegh LNG’s provision of certain indemnities to the Partnership.

 

  (iii) An administrative services agreement with Höegh LNG Services Ltd., UK (“Höegh UK”), pursuant to which Höegh UK provides certain administrative services to the Partnership; and

 

  (iv) Höegh UK has entered into administrative services agreements with Höegh LNG AS (“Höegh Norway”) and Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited, pursuant to which Höegh Norway and Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited provide Höegh UK certain administrative services. Additionally, the operating company has entered into an administrative services agreement with Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited to allow Leif Höegh (U.K.) Limited to provide services directly to the operating company.

 

Existing agreements remain in place for provision of certain services to the Partnership’s vessel owning joint ventures or entity, of which the material agreements are as follows:

  

  The joint ventures are parties to ship management agreements with Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS (“Höegh LNG Management”) pursuant to which Höegh LNG Management provides the joint ventures with technical and maritime management and crewing of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , and Höegh Norway is a party to a sub-technical support agreement with Höegh LNG Management pursuant to which Höegh LNG Management provides technical support services with respect to the PGN FSRU Lampung ; and

 

  The joint ventures are parties to commercial and administration management agreements with Höegh Norway, and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung is a party to a technical information and services agreement with Höegh Norway.

 

4. Purchase price allocation

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership closed the acquisition of 100% of the shares in Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a Cayman Islands company, that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant, for a total consideration of $194.2 million. The Höegh Gallant was constructed by HHI and was delivered to Höegh LNG in November 2014. In April 2015, the Höegh Gallant began operating under a charter that expires in 2020 with EgyptCo. EgyptCo has a charter with EGAS that expires in April 2020. Additionally, Höegh LNG and the Partnership have entered into an option agreement pursuant to which the Partnership has the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025 at a rate equal to 90% of the rate payable pursuant to the current charter with EgyptCo, plus any incremental taxes or operating expenses as a result of the new charter.

 

The purchase price consisted of the cancellation of the $140 million interest-bearing demand note due from Höegh LNG, the issuance of a seller’s credit note of $47 million and the establishment of a liability for a working capital adjustment of $7.2 million. Pursuant to the partnership agreement, the general partner has irrevocably delegated to the Partnership’s board of directors the power to oversee and direct the operations of, manage and determine the strategies and policies of the Partnership. Four of the seven board members were elected by the common unitholders at the Partnership’s first annual meeting of unitholders. As a result, Höegh LNG, as the owner of the general partner, does not have the power to control the Partnership’s board of directors or the Partnership, and the Partnership is not considered to be under the control of Höegh LNG for US GAAP purposes. Therefore, the sale of 100% interests in a business from Höegh LNG to the Partnership is a change of control. As a result, the acquisition of Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. was accounted for under the purchase method of accounting. Under this method, the purchase price is allocated to assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their fair values as of the acquisition date. Any excess of the purchase price over the fair values is recognized as goodwill. The business is consolidated as of October 1, 2015 and part of the Majority held FSRUs segment.

 

F- 21  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The following table summarizes the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed:

 

(in thousands of US dollars)            
Consideration            
Cancellation of demand note   $ 140,000        
Seller's credit note     47,000          
Working capital adjustment     7,160          
            $ 194,160  
                 
Assets acquired                
Cash and cash equivalents     7,695          
Amounts due from affiliates     4,101          
Inventory     1,038          
Prepaid expenses and other receivables     199          
Vessel     355,700          
Intangibles: Above market time charter     11,000          
Intangibles: Option for time charter extension     8,000          
Other long term assets     86          
Total assets excluding goodwill             387,819  
Liabilities assumed                
Trade payables     (311 )        
Amounts due from owners and affiliates     (773 )        
Accrued liabilities and other payables     (4,304 )        
Total long term debt     (184,698 )        
Derivative instruments     (3,824 )        
Total liabilities assumed             (193,910 )
Total identifiable net assets             193,909  
Goodwill             251  
Total consideration           $ 194,160  

 

Two contract related intangibles were identified. The Partnership recorded $11.0 million for the favorable time charter contract with EgyptCo and $8.0 million for the option for the time charter extension until 2025. Refer to note 2. c. Significant accounting policies; Intangibles and goodwill for information on the useful life and timing of amortization of the intangibles and note 13 for additional information. The fair value of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed approximated the total consideration therefore the residual amount of $251, was recognized as goodwill.

 

Total revenues of $11.8 million and net income of $5.0 million have been included in the Partnership’s consolidated statement of income from the acquisition date of October 1, 2015 through December 31, 2015.

 

The following unaudited pro forma information assumes the acquisition of the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant occurred as of January 1, 2014. The unaudited information is for illustration purposes only. The Höegh Gallant did not begin operations under the time charter until April 2015. Periods prior to that date reflect only costs incurred during the construction and pre-contract period of operations and would not be indicative of the results that the Partnership will experience going forward.

 

F- 22  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

    Years ended  
Unaudited pro forma information   December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Total revenues   $ 78,483     $ 75,855  
Net income (loss)   $ 32,592     $ (9,179 )

 

Existing agreements remain in place for the time charter of the Höegh Gallant and receipt of certain services, of which the material agreements are as follows:

 

· Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited acting through its Egyptian Branch has a Lease and Maintenance Agreement (the “time charter”) with EgyptCo for the lease and maintenance of the Höegh Gallant and the provision of crew and certain ship management services for a combined daily hire rate. The time charter started in April 2015 with an expiration date in April 2020; and
· Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited acting through its Egyptian Branch is party to a ship management agreement with Höegh LNG Management pursuant to which Höegh LNG Management provides the technical management of the Höegh Gallant , and Hoegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd. (“Höegh Maritime Management”) is a party to a secondment agreement, as amended, with Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited pursuant to which Höegh Maritime Management provides qualified crew for the Höegh Gallant .

 

5. Segment information

 

There are two operating segments. The segment profit measure is Segment EBITDA, which is defined as earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and other financial items (gains and losses on derivative instruments and other items, net). Segment EBITDA is reconciled to operating income and net income in the segment presentation below. The two segments are “Majority held FSRUs” and “Joint venture FSRUs.” In addition, unallocated corporate costs that are considered to benefit the entire organization and interest income from advances to joint ventures and the demand note due from Höegh LNG are included in “Other.”

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, Majority held FSRUs includes the direct financing lease related to the PGN FSRU Lampung and the operating lease related to the Höegh Gallant from the acquisition date of October 1, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2014, Majority held FSRUs includes the direct financing lease related to the PGN FSRU Lampung , and construction contract revenues and expenses of the Mooring. The Mooring was constructed on behalf of, and was sold to, PGN LNG and was accounted for using the percentage of completion method. The Mooring project was completed as of December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2013, Majority held FSRUs included a newbuilding, the PGN FSRU Lampung , and construction contract revenues and expenses of the Mooring under construction.

 

As of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, Joint venture FSRUs include two 50% owned FSRUs, the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann , that operate under long term time charters with one charterer, GDF Suez Global LNG Supply SA, a subsidiary of ENGIE.

 

The accounting policies applied to the segments are the same as those applied in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements, except that Joint venture FSRUs are presented under the proportional consolidation method for the segment note and under equity accounting for the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements. Under the proportional consolidation method, 50% of the Joint venture FSRUs’ revenues, expenses and assets are reflected in the segment note. Management monitors the results of operations of joint ventures under the proportional consolidation method and not the equity method of accounting.

 

In time charters, the charterer, not the Partnership, controls the choice of locations or routes the FSRUs serve. Accordingly, the presentation of information by geographical region is not meaningful. The following tables include the results for the segments for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

 

F- 23  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

    Year ended December 31, 2015  
                                     
              Joint venture                               Consolidated  
      Majority       FSRUs               Total               and combined  
      held       (proportional               Segment       Elimin-       carve-out  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)     FSRUs       consolidation)       Other       reporting       ations       reporting  
Time charter revenues   $ 57,465       42,698             100,163       (42,698 )   $ 57,465  
Total revenues     57,465       42,698             100,163               57,465  
Operating expenses     (12,346 )     (9,493 )     (6,066 )     (27,905 )     9,493       (18,412 )
Equity in earnings of joint ventures                             17,123       17,123  
Segment EBITDA     45,119       33,205       (6,066 )     72,258                  
Depreciation and amortization     (2,653 )     (9,227 )           (11,880 )     9,227       (2,653 )
Operating income (loss)     42,466       23,978       (6,066 )     60,378               53,523  
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     949       9,246             10,195       (9,246 )     949  
Other financial income (expense), net     (18,275 )     (16,101 )     5,395       (28,981 )     16,101       (12,880 )
Income (loss) before tax     25,140       17,123       (671 )     41,592             41,592  
Income tax benefit (expense)     (333 )           20       (313 )           (313 )
Net income (loss)   $ 24,807       17,123       (651 )     41,279           $ 41,279  

 

    As of December 31, 2015  
              Joint venture                               Consolidated  
      Majority       FSRUs               Total               and combined  
      held       (proportional               Segment       Elimin-       carve-out  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)     FSRUs       consolidation)       Other       reporting       ations       reporting  
Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation   $ 353,078       283,539             636,617       (283,539 )   $ 353,078  
Net investment in direct financing lease     293,303                   293,303             293,303  
Goodwill     251                   251             251  
Advances to joint ventures                 13,991       13,991             13,991  
Total assets     736,108       303,390       27,635       1,067,133       (303,390 )     763,743  
Accumulated losses of joint ventures                 50       50       (42,557 )     (42,507 )
Expenditures for newbuildings, vessels & equipment     955       11,431             12,386       (11,431 )     955  
Expenditures for drydocking           1,664             1,664       (1,664 )      
Principal repayment direct financing lease     2,919                   2,919             2,919  
Amortization of above market contract   $ 605                   605           $ 605  

 

F- 24  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

    Year ended December 31, 2014  
          Joint venture                       Consolidated  
    Majority     FSRUs           Total           and combined  
    held     (proportional           Segment     Elimin-     carve-out  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   FSRUs     consolidation)     Other     reporting     ations     reporting  
Time charter revenues   $ 22,227       41,319             63,546       (41,319 )   $ 22,227  
Construction contract revenues     51,868                   51,868             51,868  
Other revenue     474                   474             474  
Total revenues     74,569       41,319             115,888               74,569  
Operating expenses     (13,689 )     (8,485 )     (6,213 )     (28,387 )     8,485       (19,902 )
Construction contract expenses     (38,570 )                 (38,570 )           (38,570 )
Equity in earnings of joint ventures                             (5,330 )     (5,330 )
Segment EBITDA     22,310       32,834       (6,213 )     48,931                  
Depreciation and amortization     (1,317 )     (9,148 )           (10,465 )     9,148       (1,317 )
Operating income (loss)     20,993       23,686       (6,213 )     38,466               9,450  
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     (161 )     (11,878 )           (12,039 )     11,878       (161 )
Other financial income (expense), net     (11,952 )     (17,138 )     4,458       (24,632 )     17,138       (7,494 )
Income (loss) before tax     8,880       (5,330 )     (1,755 )     1,795             1,795  
Income tax benefit (expense)     (505 )           24       (481 )           (481 )
Net income (loss)   $ 8,375       (5,330 )     (1,731 )     1,314           $ 1,314  

 

    As of December 31, 2014  
          Joint venture                       Consolidated  
    Majority     FSRUs           Total           and combined  
    held     (proportional           Segment     Elimin-     carve-out  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   FSRUs     consolidation)     Other     reporting     ations     reporting  
Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation   $       279,670             279,670       (279,670 )   $  
Net investment in direct financing lease     295,363                   295,363             295,363  
Advances to joint ventures                 18,952       18,952             18,952  
Total assets     358,800       299,059       190,618       848,477       (299,059 )     549,418  
Accumulated losses of joint ventures                 50       50       (59,680 )     (59,630 )
Expenditures for newbuildings, vessels & equipment     172,324       2,358             174,682       (2,358 )     172,324  
Expenditures for drydocking                                    
Principal repayment direct financing lease   $ 1,341                   1,341           $ 1,341  

 

 

F- 25  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

    Year ended December 31, 2013  
          Joint venture                       Consolidated  
    Majority     FSRUs           Total           and combined  
    held     (proportional           Segment     Elimin-     carve-out  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   FSRUs     consolidation)     Other     reporting     ations     reporting  
Time charter revenues   $       41,110             41,110       (41,110 )   $  
Construction contract revenues     51,062                   51,062             51,062  
Other revenues     511                   511             511  
Total revenues     51,573       41,110             92,683               51,573  
Operating expenses     (4,490 )     (8,763 )     (3,553 )     (16,806 )     8,763       (8,043 )
Construction contract expenses     (43,958 )                 (43,958 )           (43,958 )
Equity in earnings of joint ventures                             40,228       40,228  
Segment EBITDA     3,125       32,347       (3,553 )     31,919                  
Depreciation and amortization     (8 )     (9,053 )           (9,061 )     9,053       (8 )
Operating income (loss)     3,117       23,294       (3,553 )     22,858               39,792  
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments           35,038             35,038       (35,038 )      
Other financial income (expense), net     (1,448 )     (18,104 )     2,122       (17,430 )     18,104       674  
Income (loss) before tax     1,669       40,228       (1,431 )     40,466             40,466  
Income tax expense                                    
Net income (loss)   $ 1,669       40,228       (1,431 )     40,466           $ 40,466  

 

For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the percentage of consolidated and combined carve-out total revenues from the following customers accounted for over 10% of the consolidated and combined carve-out total revenues:

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
PT PGN LNG Indonesia     79 %     100 %     100 %
Höegh LNG Egypt LLC     21 %            

 

6. Time charter revenues and net investment in direct financing lease

 

As of December 31, 2015, the minimum contractual future revenues to be received under the time charters for the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Höegh Gallant during the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

 

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Total  
2016   $ 88,748  
2017     88,748  
2018     88,748  
2019     88,748  
2020     55,670  
Thereafter     541,479  
Total   $ 952,141  

 

F- 26  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The long-term time charter for the PGN FSRU Lampung with PGN LNG has an initial term of 20 years from the acceptance date of October 30, 2014 and the contract expires in 2034. The time charter hire payments began July 21, 2014 when the project was ready to begin commissioning. The lease element of the time charter is accounted for as a direct financing lease. The minimum contractual future revenues in the table above include the fixed payments for the lease and services elements for the initial term but exclude the variable fees from the charterer for vessel operating expenses, taxes and drydocking costs. The charterer has an option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung, which can be exercised after the third anniversary of the commencement of the charter until the twentieth anniversary, at stated prices in the time charter. The minimum contractual future revenues do not include the option price. The time charter also provides options for the charterer to extend the lease term for two five year periods. Unexercised option periods are excluded from the minimum contractual future revenues.

 

The long-term time charter for the Höegh Gallant with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, has an initial term of five years from April 2015 and the contract expires in 2020. The lease element of the time charter is accounted for as an operating lease. The minimum contractual future revenues in the table above include the fixed payments for the lease element and the services element which also covers the vessel operating expenses and taxes. Pursuant to an option agreement, the Partnership has the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025 at a rate equal to 90% of the rate payable pursuant to the current charter with EgyptCo, plus any incremental taxes or operating expenses as a result of the new charter. Unexercised option periods are excluded from the minimum contractual future revenues.

 

The lease element of time charter hire for the PGN FSRU Lampung is recognized over the lease term using the effective interest rate method and is included in time charter revenues. The direct financing lease is reflected on the balance sheets as net investment in direct financing lease, a receivable, as follows:

 

    As of
December 31,
 
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Minimum lease payments     $ 589,074     $ 589,074  
Unguaranteed residual value     146,000       146,000  
Unearned income       (440,606 )     (441,465 )
Initial direct cost, net     3,095       3,095  
Net investment in direct financing lease       297,563       296,704  
Principal repayment and amortization     (4,260 )     (1,341 )
Net investment in direct financing lease at December 31       293,303       295,363  
Less: Current portion     (3,192 )     (2,894 )
Long term net investment in direct financing lease     $ 290,111     $ 292,469  

 

There was no allowance for doubtful accounts as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

7. Construction contract revenues

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Construction contract revenue   $       51,868     $ 51,062  
Construction contract expenses           (38,570 )     (43,958 )
Recognized contract margin   $       13,298     $ 7,104  

  

F- 27  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

PGN LNG formally accepted the PGN FSRU Lampung and signed the Certificate of Acceptance on October 30, 2014 which was the condition for the final payment related to the Mooring. As such the Mooring project was 100% completed as of December 31, 2014. PGN LNG issued invoices for delay liquidated damages of $7.1 million related to claims from PGN LNG on the project for the year end December 31, 2014. Subsequent to December 31, 2014, an understanding with PGN LNG was reached under which no delay liquidated damages were payable. Due to this subsequent event, no delay liquated damages were reflected in the construction contract expenses for the year ended December 31, 2014. Refer to note 21. As of December 31, 2014 the Partnership recorded a warranty allowance of $2.0 million for technical issues that requires the replacement of equipment parts for the Mooring. Refer to note 21. As of December, 2015, approximately $1.0 million of the allowance had been used and the remaining warranty allowance was $1.0 million.

 

As of December 31, 2013, the Mooring project was estimated to be 52% completed.

 

8. Financial income (expense), net

 

The components of financial income (expense), net are as follows:

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Interest income   $ 7,568       4,959     $ 2,122  
Interest expense:                        
Interest expense     (14,099 )     (9,163 )     (6,110 )
Commitment fees     (1,191 )     (1,587 )     (2,162 )
Amortization of debt issuance cost and fair value of debt assumed     (2,480 )     (4,362 )     (379 )
Capitalized interest           5,447       8,299  
Total interest expense     (17,770 )     (9,665 )     (352 )
Gain (loss) on derivative instruments     949       (161 )      
Other items, net:                        
Foreign exchange gain (loss)     (16 )     124       9  
Bank charges, fees and other     (77 )     (84 )      
Withholding tax on interest expense and other     (2,585 )     (2,828 )     (1,105 )
Total other items, net     (2,678 )     (2,788 )     (1,096 )
Total financial income (expense), net   $ (11,931 )     (7,655 )   $ 674  

 

Interest income related to the demand note due from Höegh LNG from its inception date of August 12, 2014 until its cancellation on October 1, 2015 and the advances to the joint ventures for each of the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. Interest expense related to the seller’s credit note (notes 4 and 18) and the Gallant facility (note 15) from the acquisition date on October 1, 2015, the Lampung facility (note 15) from its initial drawdown on March 4, 2014 and loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates until the closing date of the IPO on August 12, 2014 and for the year ended December 31, 2013. Refer to note 18.

 

F- 28  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

9. Income tax

 

The components of the disclosures of the deferred tax (benefit) expense and the deferred tax assets in the tables below have been restated for the year ended December 31, 2014 to reflect an error in the tax depreciation rate applied to the Indonesian subsidiary’s 2014 tax return and for the Partnership’s preliminary reporting for 2015. The error has no impact on the prior year presentation of the consolidated and combined carve-out statement of income or the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the impact of the higher tax deduction was to increase the deferred tax asset for the tax loss carryforward and reduce the deferred tax asset for temporary differences related to the direct financing lease by a corresponding amount. As a result, there was no change in the total deferred tax benefit or the total deferred tax assets for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

The components of income tax expense recognized in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income are as follows:

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
          (Restated)        
Total current tax (benefit) expense   $ 136       505     $  
Deferred tax (benefit) expense for                        
Change in temporary differences     4,388       1,878       (6,788 )
Tax loss and tax credit carry forward     (153 )     (3,390 )      
Change in valuation allowance     (4,058 )     1,488       6,788  
Total deferred tax (benefit) expense     177       (24 )      
Total income tax (benefit) expense   $ 313       481     $  

 

The reconciliation of the income before tax at the statutory rate in the Marshall Islands to the actual income tax expense for each year is as follows:

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
          (Restated)        
Income (loss) before tax   $ 41,592       1,795     $ 40,466  
At applicable statutory tax rate                        
Amount computed at corporate tax of 0%                  
Foreign tax rate differences     3,960       (1,429 )     44  
Permanent differences:                        
Tax deduction foreign exchange losses in local currency                 (2,535 )
Non deductible withholding taxes     777       905       189  
Tax exemptions     (27 )     (29 )      
Non deductible other financial items     580       286        
Non deductible (taxable) foreign exchange loss (gain)     32       61        
Other non deductible costs     102       198       60  
Tax credits     (1,053 )     (999 )      
Deferred tax asset not probable of realization                 2,626  
Adjustment for valuation allowance     (4,058 )     1,488       (384 )
Tax expense (benefit) for year recognized in net income   $ 313       481     $  

  

F- 29  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Deferred tax (benefit) expense recognized in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of comprehensive income as a component of other comprehensive income (“OCI”) are as follows:

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Cash flow hedge derivative financial instruments   $ 395       (2,374 )   $  
Valuation allowance           390        
Deferred tax (benefit) expense recognized in OCI   $ 395       (1,984 )   $  

 

Deferred income tax assets (liabilities) are summarized as follows:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
          (Restated)  
Current deferred tax assets:            
Direct financing lease   $ 23     $ 70  
Accrued liabilities and other payables     279       524  
Derivative financial instruments     873       1,170  
Tax credits carried forward     512        
Current valuation allowance     (777 )     (1,388 )
Long-term deferred tax assets:                
Direct financing lease     2,105       5,446  
Derivative financial instruments     1,106       1,205  
Other equipment     11       6  
Tax credits carried forward     732       975  
Tax loss carryforward     2,317       2,415  
Long-term valuation allowance     (3,824 )     (7,256 )
Current deferred tax liabilities:                
Accrued interest income     (962 )     (975 )
Accrued liabilities and other receivables     (18 )     (33 )
Long-term deferred tax liabilities:                
Accrued interest income     (1,376 )      
Deferred debt issuance cost     (69 )     (149 )
Deferred tax assets (liabilities), net   $ 932     $ 2,010  

 

The Partnership is not subject to Marshall Islands corporate income taxes. The Partnership is subject to tax for earnings of its subsidiaries incorporated in Singapore, Indonesia, Cyprus and the UK. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the tax expense principally related to Indonesia and Singapore. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the tax expense largely related to the Singapore subsidiary. The Singapore subsidiary’s taxable income mainly arises from internal interest income. For the year ended December 31, 2014, the Indonesian subsidiary incurred a tax loss for which a valuation allowance was recorded. The tax loss carryforward from 2014 for the Indonesian subsidiary was partly utilized in 2015.

 

F- 30  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Benefits of uncertain tax positions are recognized when it is more-likely-than-not that a tax position taken in a tax return will be sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the position. In 2013, a tax loss was incurred in Indonesia principally due to unrealized losses on foreign exchange that does not impact the income statement prepared in the functional currency of U.S. dollars. In 2014, the Indonesia authorities approved the change of currency for tax reporting to U.S. dollars. Under existing tax law, it is not clear if the prior year tax loss carryforward from foreign exchange losses can be utilized when the tax reporting currency is subsequently changed. Due to the uncertainty of this tax position, a provision was recognized for the year ended December 31, 2013 and the resulting unrecognized tax benefit was $2,626. There was no change in the unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31, 2014. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the generation of taxable income resulted in the utilization of $126 of the 2013 tax loss carryforward which was not recognized due to the uncertainty of this tax position. As a result, the unrecognized tax benefit was $2,500 as of December 31, 2015.

 

A valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is recorded when it is more-likely-than-not that some or all of the benefit will not be realized based on consideration of all the positive and negative evidence. Given the lack of historical operations in Indonesia, management of the Partnership concluded a valuation allowance should be established to reduce the deferred tax assets to the amount deemed more-likely-than-not of realization. A component of the deferred tax assets relates to the cash flow hedge of the interest rate swaps related to the Lampung facility with a term of over 11 years. Management concluded that $1,979 and $1,985 of the deferred tax assets were more-likely-than-not of realization over the term of the swap and recognized deferred tax assets for those amounts for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. A reduction in the valuation allowance of $4,058 was recorded to income tax expense in the consolidated and combined statement of income for the year ended December 31, 2015. Deferred tax expenses for the change in the valuation allowance of $1,488 and $390 were recorded to income tax expense in the consolidated and combined statement of income and consolidated and combined statement of comprehensive income, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2014.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the net deferred tax liability related to other entities was $1,047 compared with a net deferred tax asset of $25 for the year ended December 31, 2014. There were no valuation allowances related to the other entities for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

Tax loss carryforward of $2,317 expires in 2019. Tax credits carried forward of $512 and $732 expire in 2016 and 2017, respectively.

 

10. Other long-term assets and other long-term liabilities

 

The components other long-term assets are as follows:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Refundable value added tax on import   $ 10,064     $ 15,449  
Other long-term assets     86        
Total other long-term assets     $ 10,150     $ 15,449  

 

Refundable value added tax was paid in Indonesia in local currency on the import of PGN FSRU Lampung into the country in 2014. The original balance was reduced for net value added tax incurred for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The receivable can be recovered by requesting a refund from the tax authorities for the net outstanding balance as of a given date or applying future periods net value added tax liabilities against the receivable. The process to obtain a refund takes more than twelve months. The Partnership is evaluating whether to request a refund or continue to apply value added tax liabilities as incurred against the receivable. The charterer provided an advance for the funding of the refundable value added tax on import.

 

F- 31  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The current portion and long term advance for refundable value added tax, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 exchange rates, were as follows:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
    2015     2014  
Total advance for refundable value added tax on import     $ 17,428     $ 24,524  
Less: Current portion of advance for refundable value added tax (note 16)     (2,795 )     (2,318 )
Long term advances for value added tax recorded in Other long-term liabilities   $ 14,633     $ 22,206  

 

During 2015, repayments of $4.7 million were made to PGN LNG for the advance. No repayments were made during 2014.

 

11. Newbuildings

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Newbuilding beginning of period   $     $ 122,572  
Additions           169,003  
Capitalized interest           3,292  
Transfer to vessel/ net investment in direct financing lease           (294,867 )
Newbuilding end of period   $     $  

 

In the middle of May 2014, the PGN FSRU Lampung was deemed substantially complete to begin the commissioning under the time charter contract. The newbuilding was transferred on the balance sheet to vessels until such time as the time charter commenced. The vessel was transferred on the balance sheet to net investment in direct financing lease at the start of the time charter. However, due to certain delays, the time charter did not commence until July 21, 2014. As a result, the vessel was depreciated until the start of the direct financing lease. The depreciation expense for the PGN FSRU Lampung for the year ended 2014 was $1,286.

 

12. Vessel and other equipment

 

          Dry-        
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Vessel     docking     Total  
Historical cost December 31, 2014   $           $  
Additions     352,433       3,267       355,700  
Disposals                  
Historical cost December 31, 2015     352,433       3,267       355,700  
Accumulated depreciation December 31, 2014                  
Depreciation for the year     (2,422 )     (200 )     (2,622 )
Accumulated depreciation December 31, 2015     (2,422 )     (200 )     (2,622 )
Vessel, net December 31, 2015   $ 350,011       3,067     $ 353,078  

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, other equipment consists principally of office equipment and computers. Other equipment of $189 is recorded net of accumulated depreciation of $70 in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet as of December 31, 2015. Depreciation expense was $31, $31 and $8 for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

 

F- 32  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

13. Intangibles and goodwill

 

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Above
market
time
charter
    Option for
time
charter
extension
    Total
Intangibles
    Goodwill     Total  
Historical cost, December 31, 2014   $                       $  
Additions     11,000       8,000       19,000       251       19,251  
Disposals                              
Historical cost, December 31, 2015     11,000       8,000       19,000       251       19,251  
Accumulated amortization, December 31, 2014                              
Amortization for the year     (605 )           (605 )           (605 )
Accumulated depreciation, December 31, 2015     (605 )           (605 )           (605 )
Intangibles and goodwill, December 31, 2015   $ 10,395       8,000       18,395       251     $ 18,646  

 

The intangible for the above market value of the time charter contract associated with the Höegh Gallant is amortized on a straight line basis over the remaining term of the contract. Höegh LNG and the Partnership have entered into an option agreement pursuant to which the Partnership has the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of the existing charter in May 2020 until July 2025. The intangible for the option for time charter extension will be amortized on a straight line basis over the extension period starting in May 2020, subject to impairment testing for recoverability in the preceding periods. 

 

The following table presents estimated future amortization expense for the intangibles:

 

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Total  
2016   $ 2,405  
2017     2,398  
2018     2,398  
2019     2,398  
2020   $ 1,786  

 

Goodwill is not amortized.

 

14. Advances to joint ventures

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Current portion of advances to joint ventures     $ 7,130     $ 6,665  
Long-term advances to joint ventures     6,861       12,287  
Advances/shareholder loans to joint ventures     $ 13,991     $ 18,952  

 

The Partnership had advances of $7.2 million and $9.8 million due from SRV Joint Gas Ltd. as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The Partnership had advances of $6.8 million and $9.1 million due from SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

 

F- 33  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The advances consist of shareholder loans where the principal amounts, including accrued interest, are repaid based on available cash after servicing of long-term bank debt. The shareholder loans are due not later than the 12th anniversary of delivery date of each FSRU. The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann were delivered on November 30, 2009 and June 1, 2010, respectively. The shareholder loans are subordinated to the joint ventures’ long-term bank debt. Under terms of the shareholder loan agreements, the repayments shall be prioritized over any dividend payment to the owners of the joint ventures. The shareholder loans bear interest at a fixed rate of 8.0% per year. The other joint venture partners have, on a combined basis, an equal amount of shareholder loans outstanding at the same terms to each of the joint ventures.

 

The shareholder loans financed part of the construction of the vessels and operating expenses until the delivery and commencement of the operations of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . In 2011, the joint ventures began repaying principal and a portion of the interest expense based on available cash after servicing of the external debt. The quarterly payments include a payment of interest for the first month of the quarter and a repayment of principal. Interest is accrued for the last two months of the quarter for repayment in the latter years of the loans. Since the shareholder loans are subordinated to long-term bank debt, the repayment plan is subject to quarterly discretionary revisions based on available cash after servicing of the long-term bank debt.

 

15. Long-term debt

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Lampung facility:                
Export credit tranche   $ 153,755     $ 168,640  
FSRU tranche     39,517       43,693  
Gallant facility                
Commercial tranche     139,701        
Export credit tranche     40,333        
Outstanding principal     373,306       212,333  
Lampung facility unamortized debt issuance cost     (11,745 )     (14,130 )
Gallant facility unamortized fair value premium of debt assumed     1,282        
Total debt     362,843       198,203  
Less: Current portion of long-term debt     (32,208 )     (19,062 )
Long-term debt   $ 330,635     $ 179,141  

 

Lampung facility

 

In September 2013, PT Hoegh LNG Lampung (the “Borrower”) entered into a secured $299 million term loan facility and $10.7 million standby letter of credit facility (the “Lampung facility”) with a syndicate of banks and an export credit agency for the purpose of financing a portion of the construction of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring. The $10.7 million standby letter of credit facility supported guarantees to PGN LNG for delivery obligations of the FSRU and Mooring under the lease, operation and maintenance agreement (the “time charter”). Höegh LNG is the guarantor for the Lampung facility. The facility was drawn in installments as construction was completed. The term loan facility includes two commercial tranches, the FSRU tranche and the Mooring tranche, and the export credit tranche. The interest rates vary by tranche. The letter of credit facility expired and was never drawn.

 

On March 4, 2014, the Borrower drew $96 million of the Lampung facility, of which $28.4 million, $32.1 million and $35.5 million were drawn on the FSRU tranche, the Mooring tranche and the export credit tranche, respectively. On April 8, 2014, the Borrower drew $161.1 million of the Lampung facility, of which $18.0 million and $143.1 million were drawn on the FSRU tranche and export credit tranche, respectively. On July 3, 2014, the full principal amount of $32.1 million on the Mooring tranche and accrued interest was repaid. The final available commitment on the FSRU tranche of $12.1 million was never drawn. On December 29, 2014, the Borrower made an early repayment of $7.9 million, of which $1.6 million and $6.3 million was repaid on the FSRU tranche and the export credit tranche, respectively. Following the acceptance by PGN LNG of the PGN FSRU Lampung , the quarterly repayments began on December 29, 2014.

  

F- 34  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The FSRU tranche has an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 3.4%. The interest rate for the export credit tranche is LIBOR plus a margin of 2.3%. The first repayment of both tranches occurred on December 29, 2014. The FSRU tranche is repayable quarterly over 7 years with a final balloon payment of $16.5 million. The export credit tranche is repayable in quarterly installments over 12 years assuming the balloon payment of the FSRU tranche is refinanced. If not, the export credit agent can exercise a prepayment right for repayment of the outstanding balance upon maturity of the FSRU tranche. The Mooring tranche of $61.9 million bore interest at a rate equal to LIBOR plus a margin of 2.5%. The tranche was fully repaid on July 3, 2014. The weighted average interest rate for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 was 4.09% and 6.46%, respectively.

   

Commitment fees were 1.4%, 0.9% and 1.0% of the undrawn portions of the FSRU tranche, the export credit tranche and the Mooring tranche, respectively.

 

The primary financial covenants under the Lampung facility are as follows:

 

· Borrower must maintain a minimum debt service coverage ratio of 1.10 to 1.00 for the preceding nine-month period tested beginning from the second quarterly repayment date of the export credit tranche and on each quarterly repayment date thereafter;
· Guarantor’s book equity must be greater than the higher of (i) $200 million and (ii) 25% of total assets; and
· Guarantor’s free liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents or available draws on credit facilities) must be greater than $20 million.

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the guarantor was in compliance with the financial covenants. The covenant for the borrower was effective from March 31, 2015. As of December 31, 2015 and March 31, 2015, the borrower was in compliance with the financial covenants.

 

Höegh LNG, as guarantor, has issued the following guarantees related to the Lampung facility that remain in effect as of December 31, 2015: (a) an unconditional and irrevocable on-demand guarantee for the repayment of the balloon repayment installment of the FSRU tranche callable only at final maturity of the FSRU tranche; (b) an unconditional and irrevocable on-demand guarantee for all amounts due in respect of the export credit agent in the event that the export credit agent exercises its prepayment right for the export credit tranche if the FSRU tranche is not refinanced; and (c) undertaking that, if the time charter is terminated for an event of vessel force majeure, that under certain conditions, a guarantee will be provided for the outstanding debt, less insurance proceeds for vessel force majeure. In addition, all project agreements and guarantees are assigned to the bank syndicate and the export credit agent, all cash accounts and the shares in PT Hoegh LNG Lampung and Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte. Ltd. are pledged in favor of the bank syndicate and the export credit agent.

 

The Lampung facility requires cash reserves that are held for specifically designated uses, including working capital, operations and maintenance and debt service reserves. Distributions are subject to “waterfall” provisions that allocate revenues to specified priorities of use (such as operating expenses, scheduled debt service, targeted debt service reserves and any other reserves) with the remaining cash being distributable only on certain dates and subject to satisfaction of certain conditions, including meeting a 1.20 historical debt service coverage ratio, no default or event of default then continuing or resulting from such distribution and the Guarantor not being in breach of the financial covenants applicable to it. The Lampung facility contains customary restrictions that limit, among other things, the ability of the Borrower change its business, sell or grant liens on its property including the PGN FSRU Lampung , incur additional indebtedness or guarantee other indebtedness, make investments or acquisitions, enter into intercompany transactions and make distributions.

 

$288 million facility

 

In June 2011, Höegh LNG entered into a $288 million facility for the purpose of providing up to 50% of the financing for two newbuildings, including the PGN FSRU Lampung . Fifty percent of the debt issuance cost on the $288 facility, or $1.9 million, was included in the consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements until September, 2013. In addition, the commitment fees of 1.2% on 50% of the outstanding balance have been included in interest expense until September, 2013. The facility was never drawn for the PGN FSRU Lampung and was replaced by the $299 million Lampung facility, described above, as financing for the PGN FSRU Lampung in September, 2013.

 

F- 35  

 

   

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Gallant/Grace facility

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership acquired Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., the entity that owns Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, which owns the Höegh Gallant . Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, together with Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., a subsidiary of Höegh LNG and the owner of the FSRU Höegh Grace , are borrowers (the “Borrowers”) under a term loan facility (the “Gallant/Grace facility”) with a syndicate of banks and an export credit agency for the purpose of financing a portion of the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace . The facility is secured by, among other things, a first priority mortgage of the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace , an assignment of the Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited’s rights under the time charter with EgyptCo, the assignment of EgyptCo’s rights under its time charter with EGAS, the assignment of a bank guarantee for the performance of EGAS under the time charter and a pledge of the Borrower’s and EgyptCo’s cash accounts. The Partnership has provided a pledge of shares in Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. and Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, and Höegh LNG has provided a pledge of shares in EgyptCo as security for the facility. Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Colombia Holdings Ltd., a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. and the Partnership are guarantors for the facility.

 

The Gallant/Grace facility includes two commercial tranches and the export credit tranche related to the Höegh Gallant (the “Gallant facility”) and a commercial tranche and the export credit tranche related to the Höegh Grace (the “Grace facility”). As of December 31, 2015, no amounts had been drawn related to the Höegh Grace. All of the tranches under the Gallant/Grace facility are cross-defaulted, cross-collateralized (except that the banks cannot enforce any of their rights to the security provided by Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., the Partnership or EgyptCo unless an event of default occurs directly and expressly with respect to the Partnership, its subsidiaries or EgyptCo and its direct shareholders) and cross-guaranteed (except that the Partnership does not guarantee the obligations of Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd). The obligations of the Borrowers are joint and several. The interest rates vary by tranche. The two commercial tranches related to the Gallant facility have an interest rate of LIBOR plus a margin of 2.7% based on the facility agreement. The interest rate for the export credit tranche related to the Gallant facility has a fixed interest rate and guarantee commission of 4.18% based on the facility agreement. The commercial tranches are repayable quarterly with a final balloon payment of $106.5 million due in September 2019. The export credit tranche is repayable in quarterly installments with the final payment in October 2026 assuming the balloon payments of the commercial tranches are refinanced. If not, the export credit agent can exercise a prepayment right for repayment of the outstanding balance of $26.6 million upon maturity of the commercial tranches. The weighted average interest rate for the Gallant facility, excluding the impact of the associated interest rate swaps, for the three months ended December 31, 2015 was 3.4%.

 

The fair value of the Gallant facility as of the acquisition date of October 1, 2015 has been determined based upon margins, fixed interest rates and guarantee commission had the financing been entered on the acquisition date. Based upon its fair value, the weighted average effective interest rate for the Gallant facility, excluding the impact of the associated interest rate swaps, was 3.1% for the three months ended December 31, 2015.

 

The primary financial covenants under the Gallant/Grace facility are as follows:

· Höegh LNG must maintain
o Consolidated book equity (excluding hedge reserves and mark to market value of derivatives) equal to the greater of
§ $200 million, and
§ 25% of total assets
o Free liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents, publicly trade debt securities with an A rating with Standard & Poor’s and available draws under a bank credit facility for a term of more than 12 months) equal to the greater of
§ $20 million,
§ 5% of total consolidated indebtedness provided on a recourse basis, and
§ Any amount specified to be a minimum liquidity requirement under any legal obligation.

 

· The Partnership must maintain
o Consolidated book equity (excluding hedge reserves and mark to market value of derivatives) equal to the greater of
§ $150 million, and
§ 25% of total assets
o Free liquid assets (cash and cash equivalents, publicly trade debt securities with an A rating with Standard & Poor’s and available draws under a bank credit facility for a term of more than 12 months) equal to the greater of
§ $15 million, and
§ $3 million multiplied by the number of vessels owned or leased by the Partnership

 

F- 36  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

· Each Borrower must maintain
o Current assets greater than current liabilities, and
o Solely with respect to Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, a ratio of EBITDA to debt service (principal repayments, guarantee commission and interest expense) of a minimum of 115%

 

In addition, a security maintenance ratio based on the aggregate market value of the Höegh Gallant , the Höegh Grace and any additional security must be at least 125% of the aggregate outstanding loan balance.

 

If the security maintenance ratio is not maintained, the relevant Borrower has 30 days to provide more security or to repay part of the loan to be in compliance with the ratio no later than 30 days after notice from the lenders.

 

As of December 31, 2015 Höegh LNG, the Partnership and each Borrower were in compliance with the financial covenants.

 

Under the Gallant/Grace facility, cash accounts are freely available for the use of the Borrowers, unless there is an event of default. Cash can be distributed as dividends or to service loans of owners and affiliates provided that after the distribution the Borrowers would remain in compliance with the financial covenants and security maintenance ratio. The Gallant/Grace facility limits, among other things, the ability of the Borrowers to change its business, sell or grant liens on its property including the Höegh Gallant or the Höegh Grace , incur additional indebtedness or guarantee other indebtedness, make investments or acquisitions and enter into intercompany debt that is not subordinated to the Gallant/Grace facility.

 

Under the contribution, purchase and sale agreement entered into with respect to the purchase of Höegh FSRU III Ltd., the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant , Höegh LNG will indemnify the Partnership for liabilities under the Gallant/Grace facility not attributable to the Höegh Gallant .

 

 The outstanding long-term debt as of December 31, 2015 is repayable as follows:

 

  (in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Total  
2016   $ 32,208  
2017     32,208  
2018     32,208  
2019     159,659  
2020     19,062  
2021 and thereafter     97,961  
Total   $ 373,306  

 

16. Accrued liabilities and other payables

 

    As of  
    December 31  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Accrued administrative expenses     $ 1,067     $ 400  
Accrued operating expense     3,242       2,247  
Current tax payable       136       505  
Warranty provision (notes 6, 17 and 20)     929       2,000  
Current portion of advance for refundable value added tax (note 10)       2,795       2,318  
Other accrued liabilities     1,998       339  
Other payables       10,615       5,556  
Total accrued liabilities and other payables   $ 20,782     $ 13,365  

  

F- 37  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

17. Investments in joint ventures

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Accumulated losses of joint ventures     $ 42,507     $ 59,630  

 

The Partnership has a 50% interest in each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (owner of GDF Suez Neptune ) and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (owner of GDF Suez Cape Ann ). The following table presents the summarized financial information for 100% of the combined joint ventures on an aggregated basis.

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Time charter revenues   $ 85,396       82,638     $ 82,220  
Operating expenses     (18,986 )     (16,970 )     (17,526 )
Depreciation and amortization     (19,070 )     (18,912 )     (18,722 )
Operating income     47,340       46,756       45,972  
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments     18,492       (23,757 )     70,075  
Other financial expense, net     (32,202 )     (34,275 )     (36,207 )
Net income (loss)   $ 33,630       (11,276 )   $ 79,840  
Share of joint ventures owned     50 %     50 %     50 %
Share of joint ventures net income (loss) before eliminations     16,815       (5,638 )     39,920  
Eliminations     308       308       308  
Equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures   $ 17,123       (5,330 )   $ 40,228  

 

 

F- 38  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

    Years ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Cash and cash equivalents   $ 4,197     $ 2,315  
Restricted cash     8,444       8,404  
Other current assets     1,957       2,953  
Total current assets     14,598       13,672  
Restricted cash     25,104       25,104  
Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation     585,017       577,897  
Total long-term assets     610,121       603,001  
Current portion of long-term debt     22,093       20,768  
Amounts and loans due to owners and affiliates     14,795       14,516  
Derivative financial instruments     20,239       23,887  
Other current liabilities     11,067       8,278  
Total current liabilities     68,194       67,449  
Long-term debt     477,102       498,831  
Loans due to owners and affiliates     13,722       24,575  
Derivate financial liabilities     87,065       101,910  
Other long-term liabilities     45,710       24,612  
Total long-term liabilities     623,599       649,928  
Net liabilities   $ (67,074 )   $ (100,704 )
Share of joint ventures owned     50 %     50 %
Share of joint ventures net liabilities before eliminations     (33,537 )     (50,352 )
Eliminations     (8,970 )     (9,278 )
Accumulated losses of joint ventures   $ (42,507 )   $ (59,630 )

 

18. Related party transactions

 

Income (expenses) from related parties

 

The Combined Entities were an integrated part of Höegh LNG until the close of the IPO on August 12, 2014 and for the year ended December 31, 2013. In connection with the IPO, the Partnership entered into several agreements with Höegh LNG (and certain of its subsidiaries) for the provision of services. Refer to note 3 for additional information. As such, Höegh LNG and its subsidiaries have provided general and corporate management services to the Partnership and the Combined Entities. As described in note 2, certain administrative expenses have been included in the combined carve-out financial statements of the Combined Entities based on actual hours incurred. In addition, management has allocated remaining administrative expenses and Höegh LNG management’s share based payment costs based on the number of vessels, newbuildings and business development projects of Höegh LNG prior to the closing of the IPO. Subsidiaries of Höegh LNG have provided the building supervision of the newbuilding and Mooring and ship management for PGN FSRU Lampung (note 3) and ship management of the Höegh Gallant (note 4).

 

Amounts included in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 or capitalized in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

F- 39  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

 

    Year ended  
Statement of income:   December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Revenues                        
Time charter and construction contract revenues indemnified by Höegh LNG (1)   $       13,269     $  
Time charter revenue Höegh Gallant (2)     12,575              
Operating expenses                        
Vessel operating expenses (3)     (6,505 )     (5,297 )      
Hours, travel expenses and overhead (4)     (2,002 )     (2,016 )     (2,088 )
Allocated administrative expenses (5)           (4,723 )     (4,260 )
Construction contract expense: supervision cost (6)           (761 )     (2,559 )
Construction contract expense: capitalized interest (7)           (690 )     (1,179 )
Financial (income) expense                        
Interest income from joint ventures and demand note (8)     7,568       4,959       2,122  
Interest expense and commitment fees (9)     (2,151 )     (998 )     (352 )
Total   $ 9,485       3,743     $ (8,316 )

 

Balance sheet   As of December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Newbuilding                
 Newbuilding supervision cost (6)   $     $ 1,228  
 Interest expense capitalized from Höegh LNG (7)           1,464  
Equity : Cash contribution from Höegh LNG (10)     6,596        
    $ 6,596     $ 2,692  

 

1) Time charter revenues indemnified by Höegh LNG: Höegh LNG made payments of $6.5 million and $6.7 million for September and October 2014 invoices, respectively, for hire rate payments not received for the PGN FSRU Lampung pursuant to its agreement to indemnify the Partnership under the omnibus agreement. Refer to Indemnifications below and note 21. For the year ended December 31, 2014, revenue was recognized for the full amount of these payments.
2) Time charter revenue Höegh Gallant: A subsidiary of Höegh LNG, EgyptCo, leases the Höegh Gallant .
3) Vessel operating expenses: Subsidiaries of Höegh LNG provides ship management of vessels, including crews and the provision of all other services and supplies.
4) Hours, travel expenses and overhead: Subsidiaries of Höegh LNG provide management, accounting, bookkeeping and administrative support. These services are charges based upon the actual hours incurred for each individual as registered in the time-write system based on a rate which includes a provision for overhead and any associated travel expenses. Subsequent to the closing of the IPO, this includes services under administrative service agreements.
5) Allocated administrative expenses: As described in note 2 until the closing of the IPO on August 12, 2014, administrative expenses of Höegh LNG that could not be attributed to a specific vessel or project based upon the time-write system were allocated to the consolidated and combined carve-out income statement based on the number of vessels, newbuildings and certain business development projects of Höegh LNG. For the period from January 1, 2014 to August 12, 2014 and for the year ended December 31, 2013, the allocated expenses also include cost incurred in preparation for the IPO.
6) Supervision cost: Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS managed the newbuilding process including site supervision including manning for the services and direct accommodation and travel cost. Manning costs are based upon actual hours incurred. Such costs, excluding overhead charges, were capitalized as part of the cost of the newbuilding and included in the construction contract expense for the Mooring.

 

F- 40  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

7) Interest expense capitalized from Höegh LNG and affiliates : As described under 9) below, Höegh LNG and its affiliates have provided funding for the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring (a component of the construction contract expense), which qualify under US GAAP as capitalized interest for the construction in progress.
8) Interest income from joint ventures and demand note: The Partnership and its joint venture partners have provided subordinated financing to the joint ventures as shareholder loans. The Partnership’s share of interest on the shareholder loans to the joint ventures is recorded as interest income. In the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of cash flows, the interest paid from joint ventures is treated as a return on investment and included in net cash flows from operating activities. Interest income also included interest on the $140 million demand note due from Höegh LNG. Refer to “Demand note due from owner below.
9) Interest expense and commitment fees charged from Höegh LNG and affiliates: Höegh LNG and its affiliates provided an undrawn $85.0 million revolving credit facility for general partnership purposes which incurs a commitment fee and a $47 million seller’s credit note to finance part of the Höegh Gallant acquisition which incurs interest expense. Höegh LNG and its affiliates have provided loans and promissory notes and intercompany funding for the construction of the PGN FSRU Lampung , and the construction contract expense of the Mooring. Refer to “Amounts, loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates” below. Prior to transfer of the newbuilding and contracts to PT Hoegh LNG Lampung and the establishment of the promissory notes in October 2013, the carve-out financial statements include an allocation of debt and interest expense from Höegh LNG for the funding of construction of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the construction contract expense of the Mooring. Refer to 7) above which describes the interest expense, which was capitalized.
10) Cash contribution from Höegh LNG : As described under “Indemnifications” below, Höegh LNG made indemnification payments to the Partnership of $6.6 million which were recorded as a contribution to equity.

 

Receivables and payables from related parties

 

Amounts due from affiliates

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Amounts due from affiliates   $ 4,239     $  

 

The amount due from affiliates is a receivable for time charter hire from a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, EgyptCo, for the Höegh Gallant time charter. The time charter hire is due 18 days from the receipt of the invoice. Time charter hire is invoiced at the end of the month in arrears.

 

Demand note due from owner

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Demand note due from owner   $     $ (143,241 )

 

The Partnership lent $140 million to Höegh LNG from the net proceeds of the IPO. The note had an interest rate of 5.88% per annum. The demand note was cancelled on October 1, 2015 as part of the consideration for the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant . The balance in the table above includes outstanding principal and accrued interest of $3,241 as of December 31, 2014.

 

Refer to note 14 for advances to joint ventures.

 

F- 41  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Amounts, loans and promissory note due to owners and affiliates

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Amounts due to owners and affiliates   $ 10,604     $ 6,019  

 

Amounts due to owners and affiliates principally relate to the liability for the working capital adjustment established following the Höegh Gallant acquisition on October 1, 2015 and trade payables for services provided by subsidiaries of Höegh LNG as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. The balance does not bear interest. When the Lampung facility was drawn (note 15), the outstanding amount related to short-term funding of capital expenditures of $25.4 million was repaid on March 5, 2014.

 

Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates consist of the following:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates   $ 287     $ 467  

  

In August 2014, upon the closing of the IPO, the Partnership entered into an $85 million revolving credit facility with Höegh LNG, to be used to fund acquisitions and working capital requirements of the Partnership. The credit facility is unsecured and any outstanding balance is due January 1, 2020. Refer to note 24. Interest on drawn amounts is payable quarterly at LIBOR plus a margin of 4.0%. Additionally, a 1.4% quarterly commitment fee is due to Höegh LNG on undrawn available amounts. The balances as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, relate to accrued commitment fees. No amount was drawn on the revolving credit facility as of December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

Seller’s credit note

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Seller’s credit note   $ 47,000     $  

 

On October 1, 2015, the Partnership financed part of the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant with a seller’s credit note from a subsidiary of Höegh LNG (note 4). The unsecured seller’s credit note is subordinated to the obligations of the Partnership and the Borrower under the Gallant facility, bears interest at 8% and matures on January 1, 2020. Refer to note 24.

 

The outstanding seller’s credit note and loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates had a weighted average interest rate for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 of 8.2% and 4.48%, respectively.

 

Indemnifications

 

Environmental indemnifications:

 

Under the omnibus agreement, Höegh LNG will indemnify the Partnership until August 12, 2019 against certain environmental and toxic tort liabilities with respect to the assets contributed or sold to the Partnership to the extent arising prior to the time they were contributed or sold to the Partnership. Liabilities resulting from a change in law are excluded from the environmental indemnity. There is an aggregate cap of $5.0 million on the amount of indemnity coverage provided by Höegh LNG for environmental and toxic tort liabilities. No claim may be made unless the aggregate dollar amount of all claims exceeds $0.5 million, in which case Höegh LNG is liable for claims only to the extent such aggregate amount exceeds $0.5 million.

 

F- 42  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Other indemnifications:

 

Under the omnibus agreement Höegh LNG will also indemnify the Partnership for losses:

 

  1. related to certain defects in title to the assets contributed or sold to the Partnership and any failure to obtain, prior to the time they were contributed to the Partnership, certain consents and permits necessary to conduct the business, which liabilities arise within three years after the closing of the IPO;

 

  2. related to certain tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the assets contributed or sold to the Partnership prior to the time they were contributed or sold;

 

  3. in the event that the Partnership does not receive hire rate payments under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for the period commencing on August 12, 2014 through the earlier of (i) the date of acceptance of the PGN FSRU Lampung or (ii) the termination of such time charter. The Partnership was indemnified by Höegh LNG for the September and October 2014 invoices not paid by PGN LNG (refer to note 21);

 

  4. with respect to any obligation to pay liquidated damages to PGN LNG under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for failure to deliver the PGN FSRU Lampung by the scheduled delivery date set forth in the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter. The Partnership filed a claim in 2014 for indemnification for PGN’s claims for delay liquidated damages in the total amount of $7.1 million which were not paid as a result of the settlement with PGN LNG (refer to note 21);

 

  5. with respect to any non-budgeted expenses (including repair costs) incurred in connection with the PGN FSRU Lampung project (including the construction of the Mooring) occurring prior to the date of acceptance of the PGN FSRU Lampung pursuant to the time charter; and

 

  6.

pursuant to a letter agreement dated August 12, 2015, Höegh LNG confirmed that the indemnification provisions of the omnibus agreement include indemnification for all non-budgeted, non-creditable Indonesian value added taxes and non-budgeted Indonesian withholding taxes, including any related impact on cash flow from PT Hoegh LNG Lampung and interest and penalties associated with any non-timely Indonesian tax filings related to the ownership or operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring whether incurred (i) prior to the closing date of the IPO, (ii) after the closing date of the IPO to the extent such taxes, interest, penalties or related impact on cash flows relate to periods of ownership or operation of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Mooring and are not subject to prior indemnification payments or deemed reimbursable by the charterer under its audit of the taxes related to the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for periods up to and including June 30, 2015, or (iii) after June 30, 2015 to the extent withholding taxes exceed the minimum amount of withholding tax due under Indonesian tax regulations due to lack of documentation or untimely withholding tax filings. The Partnership is indemnified for recovery of the $6.2 million VAT liability related to a Mooring invoice.

 

The Partnership filed claims for indemnification with respect to non-budgeted expenses (including the warranty provision, value added tax, withholding tax and costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements filed with the SEC on November 30, 2015) of approximately $7.7 million and $0.8 million in the year ended December 31, 2015 and the first quarter of 2016, respectively. Indemnification payments of $6.6 million received from Höegh LNG in 2015 are recorded as a contribution to equity. Refer to note 21.

 

Under the contribution, purchase and sale agreement entered into with respect to the purchase of Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., the entity that indirectly owns the Höegh Gallant, Höegh LNG will indemnify the Partnership for:

 

  1. losses from breach of warranty;

 

  2. losses related to certain environmental and tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the Höegh Gallant prior to the closing date;

 

  3. all capital gains tax or other export duty incurred in connection with the transfer of the Höegh Gallant outside of Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited’s permanent establishment in a Public Free Zone in Egypt;

 

  4. any recurring non-budgeted costs owed to Höegh LNG Management with respect to payroll taxes;

 

  5. any non-budgeted losses suffered or incurred in connection with the commencement of services under the time charter with EgyptCo or EgyptCo’s time charter with EGAS; and

 

  6. liabilities under the Gallant/Grace facility not attributable to the Höegh Gallant.

 

 

F- 43  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Additionally, Höegh LNG has guaranteed the payment of hire by EgyptCo pursuant to the time charter for the Höegh Gallant under certain circumstances.

 

19. Financial Instruments

 

Fair value measurements

 

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument:

 

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash – The fair value of the cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash approximates its carrying amounts reported in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets.

 

Amounts due from (to) owners and affiliates – The fair value of the non-interest bearing receivables or payables approximates their carrying amounts reported in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets since the receivables or payables are to be settled consistent with trade receivables and payables.

 

Derivative financial instruments – The fair values of the interest rates swaps are estimated based on the present value of cash flows over the term of the instruments based on the relevant LIBOR interest rate curves, adjusted for the subsidiary’s credit worthiness given the level of collateral provided and the credit worthiness of the counterparty to the derivative.

 

Advances (shareholder loans) to joint ventures – The fair values of the fixed rate subordinated shareholder loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on rates currently available for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities and the current credit worthiness of the joint ventures.

 

Demand note due from owner – The fair value of the fixed rate demand note approximates the carrying amount of the receivable and accrued interest reported in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets since the amount is payable on demand. Refer to note 18.

 

Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates – The fair values of the variable rate and the fixed rate loans and promissory notes approximates their carrying amounts of the accrued commitment fees reported in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets since the amounts are to be settled in the following month. Refer to note 18.

 

Lampung and Gallant facilities – The fair values of the variable rate debt are estimated based on the present value of cash flows over the term of the instruments based on the estimated currently available margins and LIBOR interest rates as of the balance sheet date for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities and the current credit worthiness of the Partnership.

 

Seller’s credit note The fair value of the fixed rate debt is estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on rates currently available for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities and the current credit worthiness of the Partnership.

 

The fair value estimates are categorized by a fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the reliability of the inputs used to determine fair value as follows:

 

Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets;

Level 2: Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and

Level 3: Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

 

F- 44  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The following table includes the estimated fair value and carrying value of those assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis, as well as the estimated fair value of the financial instruments that are not accounted for at a fair value on a recurring basis. Trade payables and receivables for which the estimated fair values are equivalent to carrying values are not specified below.

 

          As of     As of  
          December 31, 2015     December 31, 2014  
          Carrying     Fair     Carrying     Fair  
          amount     value     amount     value  
          Asset     Asset     Asset     Asset  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Level     (Liability)     (Liability)     (Liability)     (Liability)  
Recurring:                                        
Cash and cash equivalents     1     $ 32,868       32,868       30,477     $ 30,477  
Restricted cash     1       25,828       25,828       37,119       37,119  
Amounts due from affiliate     2       4,239       4,239              
Derivative financial instruments     2       (10,767 )     (10,767 )     (9,220 )     (9,220 )
Other:                                        
Advances (shareholder loans) to joint ventures     2       13,991       14,329       18,952       19,629  
Demand note due from owner     2                   143,241       143,241  
Current amounts due to owners and affiliates     2       (10,604 )     (10,604 )     (6,019 )     (6,019 )
Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates     2       (287 )     (287 )     (467 )     (467 )
Lampung facility     2       (181,527 )     (202,017 )     (198,203 )     (214,363 )
Gallant facility     2       (181,316 )     (181,364 )            
Seller’s credit note     2     $ (47,000 )     (47,000 )         $  

 

Financing Receivables

 

The following table contains a summary of the loan receivables by type of borrower and the method by which the credit quality is monitored on a quarterly basis:

 

              As of  
Class of Financing Receivables             December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Credit Quality Indicator   Grade     2015     2014  
Trade receivables   Payment activity     Performing     $ 8,200     $ 6,189  
Amounts due from affiliate   Payment activity     Performing       4,239        
Advances/shareholder loans to joint ventures   Payment activity     Performing       13,991       18,952  
Demand note due from owner   Payment activity     Settled     $     $ 143,241  

 

The Partnership is indemnified for approximately $6.2 million of the trade receivable balance as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. Refer to note 18. The shareholder loans to joint ventures are classified as advances to joint ventures in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet. Refer to note 14.

 

F- 45  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

20. Risk management and concentrations of risk

 

Derivative instruments can be used in accordance with the overall risk management policy.

 

Foreign exchange risk

 

All financing, interest expenses from financing and most of the Partnership’s revenue and expenditures for newbuildings are denominated in U.S. dollars. Certain operating expenses can be denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, no derivative financial instruments have been used to manage foreign exchange risk. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the revenues from the Höegh Gallant were denominated 90% in U.S. dollars and 10% in Egyptian pounds. A limited amount of operating expenses was also denominated in Egyptian pounds. Due to restrictions in Egypt, exchangeability between Egyptian pounds and other currencies was more than temporarily lacking during 2015. There is only one official published rate for the Egyptian pound which is applied in the Partnership’s consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements for revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities as required by US GAAP guidance. Egyptian authorities set the official published rates which are subject to devaluation. The Partnership classifies cash in Egyptian pounds in excess of working capital needs in Egyptian pounds as long-term restricted cash. As of December 31, 2015, long-term restricted cash in Egyptian pounds was $0.4 million. Monetary assets denominated in Egyptian pounds are subject to devaluation risk. On March 14, 2016, the Egyptian authorities devaluated the Egyptian pounds to U.S. dollar by approximately 14%. Based on the outstanding balances of monetary assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2015, a 15% reduction in the Egyptian pound to U.S. dollar rate would result in a foreign exchange loss of approximately $0.1 million.

 

Interest rate risk

 

Interest rate swaps are utilized to exchange a receipt of floating interest for a payment of fixed interest to reduce the exposure to interest rate variability on its outstanding floating-rate debt. As of December 31, 2015, there are interest rate swap agreements on the Lampung and Gallant facilities’ floating rate debt that are designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. As of December 31, 2014, the interest rate swap agreements on the Lampung facility floating rate debt were designated as cash flow hedges. As of December 31, 2015, the following interest rate swap agreements were outstanding:

 

                Fair              
                value           Fixed  
    Interest           carrying           interest  
    rate     Notional     amount           rate  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   index     amount     liability     Term     (1)  
LIBOR-based debt                                        
Lampung interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR     $ 193,272       (8,704 )     Sept 2026       2.8 %
 Gallant interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR     $ 143,812       (2,063 )     Sept 2019       1.9 %

 

1) Excludes the margins paid on the floating-rate debt.

2) All interest rate swaps are U.S. dollar denominated and principal amount reduces quarterly.

 

The Borrower under the Lampung facility entered five forward starting swap agreements with identical terms for a total notional amount of $237.1 million with an effective date of March 17, 2014. The swaps amortize over 12 years to match the outstanding balance of the Lampung facility and exchange 3 month USD LIBOR variable interest payments for fixed rate payments at 2.8%. The interest rate swaps were designated for accounting purposes as cash flow hedges of the variable interest for $237.1 million of the Lampung facility. As of December 29, 2014, a prepayment of $7.9 million on the Lampung facility occurred. The notional amount of the interest rate swaps was higher than the outstanding balance on the Lampung facility. Therefore, it was decided that the amount of the over hedge of the interest rate swaps would be settled with a cash payment of $1.1 million. This resulted in the amendment of the original interest rate swaps and the hedge was de-designated for accounting purposes. The effective date of the settlement was December 29, 2014. The other terms of the interest rate swaps did not change but the nominal amount of the interest rate swap were reduced to match the outstanding debt. The amended interest rate swaps were re-designated as a cash flow hedge for accounting purposes.

 

F- 46  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

As of October 1, 2015, the Partnership acquired the entity owning the Höegh Gallant which has outstanding debt under the Gallant facility and three associated interest rate swap agreements with a total notional amount of $146.3 million. The swaps amortize to match the debt amortization of the Gallant facility until the repayment date in September, 2019. The swaps exchange 3 month USD LIBOR variable interest payments for fixed rate payments ranging from 1.9105% to 1.9145%. As of the acquisition date of October 1, 2015, the interest rate swaps were designated for accounting purposes as cash flow hedges of the variable interest for $146.3 million of the commercial tranches of the Gallant facility.

 

The following table presents the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments, segregated by type of contract, on the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheets.

 

    Current     Long-term  
    liabilities:     liabilities:  
    derivative     derivative  
    financial     financial  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   instruments     instruments  
As of December 31, 2015            
Interest rate swaps   $ (4,912 )   $ (5,855 )
As of December 31, 2014                
Interest rate swaps   $ (4,676 )   $ (4,544 )

 

The following effects of cash flow hedges relating to interest rate swaps are included in gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. There were no realized or unrealized gains or losses on derivative financial instruments for the years ended December 31, 2013.

 

    Year ended December 31, 2015  
    Realized     Unrealized        
    gains     gains        
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   (losses)     (losses)     Total  
Interest rate swaps:                        
Ineffective portion of cash flow hedge   $       (84 )   $ (84 )
Amortization of amount excluded from hedge effectiveness           1,888       1,888  
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income           (855 )     (855 )
Gain on derivative financial instruments   $       949     $ 949  

  

F- 47  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

    Year ended December 31, 2014  
    Realized     Unrealized        
    gains     gains        
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   (losses)     (losses)     Total  
Interest rate swaps:                        
Ineffective portion of cash flow hedge   $       (145 )   $ (145 )
Amortization of amount excluded from hedge effectiveness           (11 )     (11 )
Reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income           (5 )     (5 )
Loss on derivative financial instruments   $       (161 )   $ (161 )

 

The effect of cash flow hedges relating to interest rate swaps and the related tax effects on other comprehensive income included in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of other comprehensive income and changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (“OCI”) in the consolidated and combined carve-out statements of changes in partner’s capital/ owner’s equity is as follows for the year ended and as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. 

 

    Cash Flow Hedge        
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Before tax gains (losses)     Tax benefit (expense)     Net of tax     Accumulated OCI  
Balance as of December 31, 2013   $                 $  
Effective portion of unrealized loss on cash flow hedge     (10,164 )     1,984       (8,180 )     (8,180 )
Reclassification of amortization of cash flow hedge to earnings     5             5       5  
Other comprehensive income for period   $ (10,159 )     1,984       (8,175 )        
Balance as of December 31, 2014                           $ (8,175 )
                                 
Balance as of December 31, 2014   $ (10,159 )     1,984       (8,175 )   $ (8,175 )
Effective portion of unrealized loss on cash flow hedge     474             474       474  
Reclassification of amortization of cash flow hedge to earnings     855       (395 )     460       460  
Other comprehensive income for period   $ 1,329       (395 )     934          
Balance as of December 31, 2015                           $ (7,241 )

 

Refer to note 9 for additional information on the tax effects included in other comprehensive income.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the estimated amounts to be reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to earnings during the next twelve months is $855 for amortization of accumulated other comprehensive income for losses on the de-designated interest rate swap.

 

Credit risk

 

Credit risk is the exposure to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the counterparties related to cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables and interest rate swap agreements. In order to minimize counterparty risk, bank relationships are established with counterparties with acceptable credit ratings at the time of the transactions. Credit risk related to receivables is limited by performing ongoing credit evaluations of the customers’ financial condition. In addition, Höegh LNG guarantees the payment of the Höegh Gallant time charter hire by EgyptCo under certain circumstances.

  

F- 48  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Concentrations of risk

 

Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Partnership to significant concentrations of credit risk, consist principally of cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables and derivative contracts (interest rate swaps). The maximum exposure to loss due to credit risk is the book value at the balance sheet date. The Partnership does not have a policy of requiring collateral or security. Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash are placed with qualified financial institutions. Periodic evaluations are performed of the relative credit standing of those financial institutions. In addition, exposure is limited by diversifying among counterparties. There are two charterers so there is a concentration of risk related to trade receivables. Credit risk related to trade receivables is limited by performing ongoing credit evaluations of the customer’s financial condition. In addition, Höegh LNG guarantees the payment of the Höegh Gallant time charter hire by EgyptCo under certain circumstances. No allowance for doubtful accounts was recorded for the year ended December 31, 2015 or 2014. While the maximum exposure to loss due to credit risk is the book value of trade receivables at the balance sheet date, should the time charter for PGN FSRU Lampung terminate prematurely, there could be delays in obtaining a new time charter and the rates could be lower depending upon the prevailing market conditions.

 

21. Commitments and contingencies

 

Contractual commitments

 

As of December 31, 2015, there were no material contractual commitments.

 

Claims and Contingencies

 

Joint venture corporate income tax

 

The GDF Suez Cape Ann is operating in China on a sub-charter entered into by GDF Suez. GDF Suez has informed SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. that the sub-charterer is covering any potential corporate income taxes directly with the authorities on the joint venture’s behalf. To the extent that income tax liabilities would arise, the joint venture would be compensated by GDF Suez under terms of the time charter.

  

PGN LNG claims including delay liquidated damages

 

Following certain delays, the time charter hire on the PGN FSRU Lampung commenced July 21, 2014 for the start of commissioning. During the commissioning to test the PGN FSRU Lampung project (including the Mooring) and the pipeline functionality, technical problems were identified on August 29, 2014. Following the completion of the commissioning, PGN LNG formally accepted and signed the Certificate of Acceptance dated October 30, 2014.

 

PT Hoegh LNG Lampung had commitments to pay a day rate for delay liquidated damages to PGN LNG for delays in achieving the scheduled arrival date or acceptance by the scheduled delivery date. PGN LNG issued invoices for $7.1 million for delay liquidated damages. PGN LNG also did not pay its time charter hire for September 2014 or October 2014.

 

The Partnership was indemnified under the omnibus agreement by Höegh LNG for both delay liquidated damages and any hire rate payments not received under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter for the period commencing on August 12, 2014 through the acceptance date of the PGN FSRU Lampung . The Partnership filed indemnification claims for the September and October 2014 invoices not paid by PGN LNG of $6.5 million and $6.7 million, respectively, and received payments from Höegh LNG in September and October 2014, respectively. Indemnification for hire rate payments was accounted for consistent with the accounting policies for loss of hire insurance, and was recognized when the proceeds were received. Therefore, the Partnership recognized the payments from Höegh LNG for September 2014 and October 2014 as revenue.

 

During March 2015, an understanding with PGN LNG and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung was reached. Under the main terms of this understanding, PGN LNG would not pay the time charter hire for September 2014 or October 2014 and PT Hoegh LNG Lampung would not pay the delay liquidated damages. The delay liquidated damages that had been recorded to construction contract expenses were reversed as a result of the understanding for the year ended December 31, 2014. Since PT Hoegh LNG Lampung did not pay any delay liquidated damages to PGN LNG, the Partnership’s claim for indemnification from Höegh LNG was cancelled. On June 30, 2015, the formal Settlement and Release Agreement was signed by PT Hoegh LNG Lampung and PGN LNG formalizing the understanding. As a result, the Partnership has no further exposure to claims from PGN LNG or other parties associated with the delivery commitments and it has been fully indemnified by Höegh LNG for the loss of time charter hire payments.

  

F- 49  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

As of December 31, 2014, a warranty allowance of $2.0 million was recorded to construction contract expenses related to the Mooring. The Partnership filed indemnification claims for the warranty allowance of $2.0 million to be paid to the Partnership by Höegh LNG when costs are incurred for the warranty. As of December 31, 2015, approximately $1.1 million of the warranty allowance had been used and the remaining warranty allowance was $0.9 million. The Partnership has received indemnification payments for the warranty costs incurred during 2015 and the first quarter of 2016.

 

The Partnership was indemnified by Höegh LNG for non-budgeted expenses (including repair costs) incurred in connection with the PGN FSRU Lampung project prior to the date of acceptance and for certain costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements filed with the SEC on November 30, 2015. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Partnership filed claims for indemnification of non-budgeted expenses (including the warranty provision, value added tax, withholding tax and costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements) of $7.7 million, of which $6.6 million was paid. Indemnification payments received from Höegh LNG are recorded as a contribution to equity. No such indemnification claims were filed or paid during 2014. In the first quarter of 2016, the Partnership filed indemnification claims for non-budgeted expenses and costs of $0.8 million principally related to costs related to the restatement of the Partnership’s financial statements incurred in 2015.

 

22. Supplemental cash flow information

 

    Year ended December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing activities                  
Non-cash acquisition of total assets excluding goodwill of the Höegh Gallant (note 4); less cash acquired of $7,695   $ (380,124 )         $  
Non-cash acquisition of total liabilities of the Höegh Gallant (note 4)     193,910              
Non-cash acquisition of goodwill in the Höegh Gallant (note 4)     (251 )            
Total non-cash acquisition of net assets     (186,465 )            
Non-cash cancellation of demand note due from Höegh LNG     140,000              
Non-cash capitalized interest for newbuilding           1,418        
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash financing activities                        
Non-cash seller’s credit note for the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant     47,000              
Non-cash working capital adjustment for the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant     7,160              
Total non-cash consideration (note 4)     194,160              
Non-cash capital contribution from conversion of debt           101,500        
Non-cash elimination to equity at IPO (note 2)   $       45,799     $  

 

F- 50  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

23. Earning per unit and cash distributions

 

The calculation of basic and diluted earnings per unit are presented below

 

    Year ended
December 31,
    August 12
to
December 31,
 
(in thousands of U.S. dollars, except per unit numbers)   2015     2014  
Post IPO net income attributable to the unitholders of Höegh LNG Partners LP   $ 41,279     $ 13,255  
Less: Dividends paid or to be paid (1)     (37,609 )     (13,707 )
Over (under) distributed earnings     3,670       (452 )
Over (under) distributed earnings attributable to:                
Common units public     (1,540 )     (190 )
Common units Höegh LNG     (295 )     (36 )
Subordinated units Höegh LNG     (1,835 )     (226 )
      (3,670 )     (452 )
Basic and diluted weighted average units outstanding (in thousands)                
Common units public     11,040       11,040  
Common units Höegh LNG     2,116       2,116  
Subordinated units Höegh LNG     13,156       13,156  
Basic and diluted earnings per unit:                
Common units public   $ 1.56     $ 0.50  
Common units Höegh LNG (2)   $ 1.57     $ 0.50  
Subordinated units Höegh LNG (2)   $ 1.57     $ 0.50  

 

(1) Includes all distributions paid or to be paid in relationship to the period, regardless of whether the declaration and payment dates were prior to the end of the period, and is based the number of units outstanding at the period end.

 

(2) Includes total incentive distributions rights of $113,181, of which $15,682 was attributed to common units owned by Höegh LNG and $97,499 was attributed to subordinated units owned by Höegh LNG.

 

Earnings per unit information for the period ended December 31, 2014 is for the period from August 12, 2014 (the date of the Partnership’s IPO) to December 31, 2014. Earnings per unit information has not been presented for any period prior to the Partnership’s IPO as the information is not comparable due to changes in the basis of preparation of the financial statements (refer to note 2) and the Partnership’s structure (refer to note 3).

 

As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the total number of units outstanding was 26,312,120. Common units outstanding were 13,156,060 of which 11,040,000 common units were held by the public and 2,116,060 common units were held by Höegh LNG. Höegh LNG owned 13,156,060 subordinated units. Subordinated units are not entitled to vote for the four elected directors to the Partnership’s board of directors. The general partner has a non-economic interest and has no units.

  

F- 51  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Earnings per unit is calculated by dividing net income by the weighted average number of units outstanding during the applicable period.

 

The common unitholders’ and subordinated unitholders’ interest in net income are calculated as if all net income were distributed according to terms of the Partnerships’ First Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership (the “Partnership Agreement”), regardless of whether those earnings would or could be distributed. The Partnership Agreement does not provide for the distribution of net income; rather, it provides for the distribution of available cash. Available cash, a contractual defined term, generally means all cash on hand at the end of the quarter after deduction for cash reserves established by the board of directors and the Partnership’s subsidiaries to i) provide for the proper conduct of the business (including reserves for future capital expenditures and for the anticipated credit needs); ii) comply with applicable law, any of the debt instruments or other agreements; and iii) provide funds for distributions to the unitholders for any one or more of the next four quarters. Therefore, the earnings per unit is not indicative of future cash distributions that may be made. Unlike available cash, net income is affected by non-cash items, such as depreciation and amortization, unrealized gains or losses on derivative financial instruments and unrealized gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions.

 

During the subordination period, the common units will have the right under the Partnership Agreement to receive distributions of available cash from operating surplus in an amount equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3375 per unit, plus any arrearages in the payment of the minimum quarterly distribution on the common units from prior quarters, before any distributions of available cash from operating surplus may be made on the subordinated units. Distribution arrearages do not accrue on the subordinated units.

 

Distributions of available cash from operating surplus are to be made in the following manner for any quarter during the subordination period:

 

  first , 100.0% to the common unitholders, pro rata, until the Partnership distributes for each outstanding common unit an amount equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3375 for that quarter;

 

  second , 100.0% to the common unitholders, pro rata, until the Partnership distributes for each outstanding common unit an amount equal to any arrearages in payment of the minimum quarterly distribution on the common units for any prior quarters during the subordination period; and

 

  third , 100.0% to the subordinated unitholders, pro rata, until the Partnership distributes for each subordinated unit an amount equal to the minimum quarterly distribution of $0.3375 for that quarter.

 

In addition, Höegh LNG currently holds all of the IDRs in the Partnership. IDRs represent the rights to receive an increasing percentage of quarterly distributions of available cash for operating surplus after the minimum quarterly distribution and the target distribution levels have been achieved.

 

If for any quarter during the subordination period:

 

  the Partnership has distributed available cash from operating surplus to the common and subordinated unitholders in an amount equal to the minimum quarterly distribution; and

 

  the Partnership has distributed available cash from operating surplus on outstanding common units in an amount necessary to eliminate any cumulative arrearages in payment of the minimum quarterly distribution;

 

then, the Partnership will distribute any additional available cash from operating surplus for that quarter among the unitholders and the holders of the IDRs in the following manner:

 

  first , 100.0% to all unitholders, pro rata, until each unitholder receives a total of $0.388125 per unit for that quarter (the “first target distribution”);

 

  second , 85.0% to all unitholders, pro rata, and 15.0% to the holders of the IDRs, pro rata, until each unitholder receives a total of $0.421875 per unit for that quarter (the “second target distribution”);

 

  third , 75.0% to all unitholders, pro rata, and 25.0% to the holders of the IDRs, pro rata, until each unitholder receives a total of $0.50625 per unit for that quarter (the “third target distribution”); and

  

  thereafter , 50.0% to all unitholders, pro rata, and 50.0% to the holders of the IDRs, pro rata.

 

F- 52  

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED AND COMBINED CARVE-OUT FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

In each case, the amount of the target distribution set forth above is exclusive of any distributions to common unitholders to eliminate any cumulative arrearages in payment of the minimum quarterly distribution. The percentage interests set forth above assume that the Partnership does not issue additional classes of equity securities.

 

24. Subsequent events

 

On February 15, 2016, the Partnership paid a $0.4125 per unit distribution with respect to the fourth quarter of 2015. The total amount of distributions was $10.9 million.

 

On February 28, 2016, the Partnership entered into agreements with Höegh LNG to extend the maturities of the $47 million seller’s credit note related to the Höegh Gallant and the currently undrawn $85 million revolving credit facility to January 1, 2020.

 

On April 22, 2016 the Partnership declared a quarterly cash distribution with respect to the quarter ended March 31, 2016 of $0.4125 per unit, to be paid on May 13, 2016 to all unitholders of record as of the close of the business on May 3, 2016.

  

F- 53  

 

   

Report of Independent Auditors

 

The Board of Directors of Höegh LNG Partners LP

 

We have audited the accompanying combined financial statements of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., which comprise the combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the related combined statements of income, comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, and the related notes to the combined financial statements.

 

Management’s Responsibility for the Financial Statements

 

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these combined financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; this includes the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free of material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

 

Auditor’s Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.

 

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.

 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

 

Opinion

 

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the combined financial position of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. at December 31, 2015 and 2014, and the combined results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

/s/ Ernst & Young AS

Oslo, Norway

April 28, 2016

 

F- 54  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    Notes   2015     2014     2013  
REVENUES                            
Time charter revenues   3   $ 85,396       82,638     $ 82,220  
Total revenues         85,396       82,638       82,220  
OPERATING EXPENSES                            
Vessel operating expenses   10     (17,166 )     (15,026 )     (15,404 )
Administrative expenses   10     (1,820 )     (1,944 )     (2,122 )
Depreciation and amortization   5     (19,070 )     (18,912 )     (18,722 )
Total operating expenses         (38,056 )     (35,882 )     (36,248 )
Operating income         47,340       46,756       45,972  
FINANCIAL INCOME (EXPENSES), NET                            
Interest income   4                  
Interest expense   4,9,10     (32,226 )     (34,241 )     (36,169 )
Gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments   4,12     18,492       (23,757 )     70,075  
Other financial items, net   4     24       (34 )     (38 )
Total financial income (expense), net         (13,710 )     (58,032 )     33,868  
Income before tax         33,630       (11,276 )     79,840  
Income tax expense                      
Net income (loss)       $ 33,630       (11,276 )   $ 79,840  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements.

 

F- 55  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    2015     2014     2013  
Net income (loss)   $ 33,630       (11,276 )   $ 79,840  
Other comprehensive income                  
Comprehensive income (loss)   $ 33,630       (11,276 )   $ 79,840  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements.

  

F- 56  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2015 AND 2014

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

    Notes   2015     2014  
ASSETS                    
Current assets                    
Cash and cash equivalents   11   $ 4,197     $ 2,315  
Restricted cash   9,11     8,444       8,404  
Trade receivables               154  
Prepaid expenses         1,957       2,799  
Total current assets         14,598       13,672  
Long-term assets                    
Restricted cash   9,11     25,104       25,104  
Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation   5,10,13     585,017       577,897  
Total long-term assets         610,121       603,001  
Total assets       $ 624,719     $ 616,673  
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY                    
Current liabilities                    
Current portion of long-term debt   9,11   $ 22,093     $ 20,768  
Trade payables         64       40  
Amounts due to owners and affiliates   6     14,795       14,516  
Derivative financial instruments   12     20,239       23,887  
Prepaid and deferred revenue   7     4,123       1,652  
Accrued liabilities   8     6,880       6,586  
Total current liabilities         68,194       67,449  
Long-term liabilities                    
Long-term debt   2b,9,11     477,102       498,831  
Loans due to owners   6,11     13,722       24,575  
Derivative financial instruments   12     87,065       101,910  
Prepaid and deferred revenue   7     45,710       24,612  
Total long-term liabilities         623,599       649,928  
Total liabilities         691,793       717,377  
EQUITY                    
Paid in capital         100       100  
Retained deficit         (67,174 )     (100,804 )
Total equity         (67,074 )     (100,704 )
Total liabilities and equity       $ 624,719     $ 616,673  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements.

 

F- 57  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 AND 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

                Accumulated        
                Other        
    Paid in     Retained     Comprehensive     Total  
    Capital     Deficit     Income     Equity  
Balance as of December 31, 2012   $ 100       (169,368 )         $ (169,268 )
Net income           79,840             79,840  
Other comprehensive income                        
Balance as of December 31, 2013   $ 100       (89,528 )         $ (89,428 )
Net income (loss)           (11,276 )           (11,276 )
Other comprehensive income                        
Balance as of December 31, 2014     100       (100,804 )           (100,704 )
Net income           33,630             33,630  
Other comprehensive income                        
Balance as of December 31, 2015   $ 100       (67,174 )         $ (67,074 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements.

 

F- 58  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)

 

 

    2015     2014     2013  
OPERATING ACTIVITIES                        
Net income (loss)   $ 33,630       (11,276 )   $ 79,840  
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:                        
Depreciation and amortization     19,070       18,912       18,722  
Unrealized (gain) loss on derivative financial instruments     (18,492 )     23,757       (70,075 )
Accrued interest expense on loans to owners     1,669       2,217       2,763  
Amortization of deferred revenue     (2,686 )     (1,718 )     (942 )
Amortization of deferred debt issuance cost     364       368       371  
Expenditure for drydocking     (3,328 )            
Cash received and recorded as deferred revenue     26,147       4,992       722  
Other adjustments                 (86 )
Changes in working capital:                        
Trade receivables     154       (123 )     154  
Prepaid expenses     952       (668 )     (842 )
Amounts due to owners and affiliates     (651 )     165       (177 )
Trade payables     24       40        
Accrued liabilities     291       45       312  
Net cash provided by operating activities     57,144       36,711       30,762  
                         
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                        
Expenditure for vessel modification and equipment     (22,862 )     (4,717 )     (1,043 )
Net cash (used) in investing activities     (22,862 )     (4,717 )     (1,043 )
                         
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                        
Repayment of long-term debt     (20,768 )     (19,521 )     (18,350 )
Repayment of principal of loans due to owners     (11,592 )     (13,332 )     (11,084 )
(Increase) decrease in restricted cash     (40 )     (88 )     94  
Net cash (used in) financing activities     (32,400 )     (32,941 )     (29,340 )
                         
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     1,882       (947 )     379  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year     2,315       3,262       2,883  
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year   $ 4,197       2,315     $ 3,262  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the combined financial statements.

 

F- 59  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

1. Description of business

 

Höegh LNG Partners LP (the “Partnership”) was formed under the laws of the Marshall Islands on April 28, 2014 as an indirect 100% owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. (“Höegh LNG”) for the purpose of acquiring certain of Höegh LNG’s interests in entities including SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (the owner of the GDF Suez Neptune) , and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (the owner of the GDF Suez Cape Ann ) in connection with the Partnership’s initial public offering of its common units (the “IPO”). On August 12, 2014, the Partnership completed its IPO. Prior to the closing of the IPO, Höegh LNG contributed to the Partnership its 50% equity in each of the entities owning the GDF Suez Neptune , the GDF Suez Cape Ann and the shareholder loans due to it from those entities.

 

These combined financial statements which include the individual financial statements of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”) for the purpose of meeting the requirements of Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 3-09 of Regulation S-X. The Partnership owns 50% in each of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., and the remaining 50% ownership interests are held by joint venture partners, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. and Tokyo LNG Tanker Co. The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Anne are floating storage regasification units (“FSRUs”) and are collectively referred to in these combined financial statements as the vessels or the “FSRUs.” SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. are referred to in these combined financial statements individually as the “joint venture” and together as the “joint ventures.”

 

The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann operate under long-term time charters with GDF Suez Global LNG Supply S.A.(“GDF Suez”), a subsidiary of ENGIE, with expiration dates in 2029 and 2030, respectively, and, in each case, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each. In the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, 100% of the joint ventures’ total revenues were derived from GDF Suez.

 

Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, provided commercial and technical operations of the FSRUs for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.

 

The following table lists the entities combined in these combined financial statements and their purpose as of December 31, 2015.

 

Name   Jurisdiction of
Incorporation
  Purpose
SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (50% ownership)    Cayman Islands   Owns GDF Suez Neptune
SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (50% ownership)    Cayman Islands   Owns GDF Suez Cape Ann

 

2. Significant accounting policies

 

a. Basis of presentation

 

The combined financial statements include the financial statements of SRV Joint Gas Ltd. and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd., which are under common management. The combined financial statements are prepared in accordance with the US GAAP policies of the Partnership. All inter-company balances and transactions are eliminated.

 

b. Accounting policies

 

Foreign currencies

 

The reporting currency in the combined financial statements is the U.S. dollar, which is the functional currency of each of the joint ventures. All revenues are received in U.S. dollars and a majority of the expenditures for investments and all of the long-term debt and shareholder loans are denominated in U.S. dollars. Transactions denominated in other currencies during the year are converted into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates in effect at the time of the transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities that are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar are translated at the exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date. Resulting gains or losses are reflected in the accompanying combined statements of income.

 

F- 60  

 

  

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Time charter revenues and related expenses

 

Time charter revenues :

 

Revenue arrangements may include the right to use FSRUs for a stated period of time that meet the criteria for operating lease accounting, in addition to providing a time charter service element. Time charter revenues consist of charter hire payments under time charters, fees for providing time charter services, fees for reimbursement for actual vessel operating expenses and drydocking costs borne by the charterer on a pass through basis; as well as fees for the reimbursement of certain vessel modifications or other costs borne by the charterer.

 

The lease element of time charters accounted for as operating leases and any upfront payments for amounts reimbursed by the charterer are recognized on a straight line basis over the term of the charter.

 

Revenues for the lease element of time charters are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off-hire.

 

Fees for providing time charter services and reimbursements for actual vessel operating expenses are recognized as revenues as services are performed. Revenues for the time charter services element are not recognized for days that the FSRUs are off-hire.

 

Fees for modifications or other additions to equipment are deferred and amortized over the shorter of the remaining charter period or the useful life of the additions. Upfront payments of fees for reimbursement of drydocking costs are recognized on a straight line basis over the period to the next drydocking, which is generally between five and seven years.

 

Related expenses :

Voyage expenses include bunker fuel expenses, port fees, cargo loading and unloading expenses, canal tolls and agency fees. Voyage expenses are all expenses unique to a particular voyage and when a vessel is on hire under time charters are the responsibility of, and paid directly by the charterers and not included in the income statement. When the vessel is off-hire, voyage expenses, principally fuel, may also be incurred and are paid by the joint venture.

 

Vessel operating expenses, reflected in expenses in the income statement, include crewing, repairs and maintenance, insurance, stores, lube oils, communication expenses and technical management fees. Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS provides the technical operation services of the FSRUs. Therefore, the joint ventures have no employees. When the vessel is on hire, vessel operating expenses are invoiced as fees to the charterer. When the vessel is off-hire, vessel operating expenses are not invoiced to the charterer.

 

Voyage expenses, if applicable, and vessel operating expenses are expensed when incurred.

 

Insurance claims

 

Insurance claims for property damage are recorded, net of any deductible amounts, for recoveries up to the amount of loss recognized when the claims submitted to insurance carriers are probable of recovery. Claims for property damage in excess of the loss recognized and for loss off hire are considered gain contingencies, which are recognized when the proceeds are received.

 

Income taxes

 

The joint ventures are not liable for income taxes to the Cayman Islands and therefore would only incur income tax liabilities to the extent assessed by countries in which they operate. As of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, the joint ventures believe that they incurred no income tax expenses or liabilities.

 

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SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Pursuant to Section 883 of the Internal Revenue Code of the United States (the "Code"), U.S. source income earned by a non-U.S. company from the operation of ships in international transportation is generally exempt from U.S. tax if the company operating the ships meets, among other things, the following three requirements: (1) the company is organized in a country which grants an equivalent exemption from income taxes to U.S. corporations with respect to that type of international transportation income; (2) the company is more than 50% owned, or is treated as owned after applying certain attribution rules, by individuals who are residents, as defined, in such country or another foreign country that grants an equivalent exemption to U.S. corporations; and (3) the company meets certain substantiation, reporting and other requirements. The joint ventures believe that they qualified for the exemption for 2015, 2014 and 2013 and, therefore, they were not subject to tax on their U.S. source income.

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

Cash, banks deposits, time deposits and highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less are recognized as cash and cash equivalents.

 

Restricted cash

 

Restricted cash consist of bank deposits, which may only be used to settle payments as required by loan agreements. Restricted cash is classified as long-term when the settlement or required loan agreement period is more than 12 months from the balance sheet date.

 

Trade receivables and allowance for doubtful accounts

 

Trade receivables are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is management’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses in existing accounts receivable based on historical write-off experience and customer economic data. Account balances are charged off against the allowance when management believes that the receivable will not be recovered. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $0 for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

 

Vessels

 

All costs incurred during the construction of newbuildings, including interest and supervision and technical costs, are capitalized. Vessels are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over a vessel’s estimated useful life, less an estimated residual value. Depreciation is calculated using an estimated useful life of 35 years for the FSRUs.  

 

Modifications to the vessels, including the addition of new equipment, which improves or increases the operational efficiency, functionality or safety of the vessels are capitalized. These expenditures are amortized over the estimated useful life of the modification.

 

Expenditures covering recurring routine repairs and maintenance are expensed as incurred.

 

Drydocking expenditures are capitalized when incurred and amortized over the period until the next anticipated drydocking. For vessels that are newly built, the "built-in overhaul" method of accounting is applied. Under the built-in overhaul method, costs of the newbuilding are segregated into costs that should be depreciated over the useful life of the vessel and costs that require drydocking at periodic intervals. The drydocking component is amortized until the date of the first drydocking following the delivery, upon which the actual drydocking cost is capitalized and the process is repeated. Costs of drydocking incurred to meet regulatory requirements or improve the vessel’s operating efficiency, functionality or safety are capitalized. Costs incurred related to routine repairs and maintenance performed during drydocking are expensed.

 

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SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Impairment of long-lived assets

 

Vessels are assessed for impairment when events or circumstances indicate the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable.  When such events or changes in circumstances are present, the recoverability of vessels are assessed by determining whether the carrying value of such assets will be recovered through undiscounted expected future cash flows. If the vessel’s net carrying value exceeds the net undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated over its remaining useful life, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its estimated fair value. An impairment loss is recognized based on the excess of the carrying amount over the fair value of the vessel.

 

Derivative instruments

 

Derivatives are entered into to reduce market risks associated with its operations. The joint ventures have interest rate swaps for the management of interest rate risk exposure. The interest rate swaps have the effect of converting a portion of the outstanding debt from a floating to a fixed rate over the life of the transactions. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the interest rate swaps were not designated as hedges for accounting purposes.

 

All derivative instruments are initially recorded at fair value as either current or long-term assets or liabilities as derivative financial instruments in the combined balance sheet and are subsequently remeasured to fair value. The changes in the fair value of the derivative financial instruments are recognized in earnings under financial income (expenses), net as gain (loss) on derivative instruments.

 

Prepaid and deferred revenue

 

Prepaid revenue includes prepayments of fees for charter hire, vessel operating expenses or other future services. Deferred revenues include payments from charterers for certain vessel modifications and upfront payments for drydocking costs which is amortized over the charter term or until the next planned drydocking, respectively.

 

Deferred debt issuance costs

 

Debt issuance costs, including arrangement fees and legal expenses, are deferred and presented as a direct reduction from the outstanding principal of the related debt in the consolidated and combined carve-out balance sheet and amortized on an effective interest rate method over the term of the relevant loan. Amortization of debt issuance costs is included as a component of interest expense. If a loan or part of a loan is repaid early, any unamortized portion of the deferred debt issuance costs is recognized as interest expense proportionate to the amount of the early repayment in the period in which the loan is repaid.

 

Use of estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with US GAAP requires that management make estimates and assumptions affecting the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates subject to such estimates and assumptions include the useful lives of vessels, drydocking and the valuation of derivatives.

 

F- 63  

 

   

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Recent accounting pronouncements

 

In April 2015, the FASB issued revised guidance for the classification of debt issuance cost; Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Cost. Under the new guidance, deferred debt issuance cost will no longer be classified as assets but presented as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the associated debt in the balance sheet. The presentation in the balance sheet has been adjusted on a retrospective basis. The amendments are effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 31, 2015 and early adoption is permitted. The joint ventures are implementing the guidance as of December 31, 2015 and have adjusted the balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 on a retrospective basis. The deduction from the carrying amount of long-term debt for deferred debt issuance was $2.5 million as of December 31, 2014 which reduced current assets by $0.4 million and long-term assets by $2.1 million.

 

There are no other recent accounting pronouncements, whose adoption would have a material impact on the combined financial statements in the current year.

 

In May 2014, a new accounting standard, Revenue from Contracts with Customers , was issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Under the new standard, revenue for most contracts with customers will be recognized when promised goods or services are transferred to customers in an amount that reflects consideration that the entity expects to be entitled, subject to certain limitations. The scope of this guidance does not apply to leases, financial instruments, guarantees and certain non-monetary transactions. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2017 and early adoption is not permitted. The joint ventures are currently assessing the impact the adoption this standard will have on the combined financial statements.

 

F- 64  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

3. Time charter revenues

 

As at December 31, 2015, the minimum contractual future revenues to be received under the time charters as of December 31, 2015, during the next five years and thereafter are as follows:

 

(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Total  
2016   $ 65,375  
2017     65,375  
2018     65,375  
2019     65,375  
2020     65,375  
Thereafter     599,089  
Total   $ 925,964  

 

The long-term time charters for the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann with GDF Suez have initial terms of 20 years expiring in 2029 and 2030, respectively. The time charters are accounted for as operating leases. The minimum contractual future revenues include the fixed payments for the lease and services elements for the 20 year period but exclude the variable fees from the charterer for vessel operating costs, and the subsequent modification and drydocking costs. Additionally, each time charter has options to extend the contract term for two five-year periods. Payments for option periods are not included in minimum contractual future revenues until such time as the options are exercised.

 

4. Financial income (expense)

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Interest income   $           $  
Interest expense:                        
Interest expense     (31,862 )     (33,873 )     (35,798 )
Amortization of deferred debt issuance cost     (364 )     (368 )     (371 )
Total interest expense     (32,226 )     (34,241 )     (36,169 )
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments     18,492       (23,757 )     70,075  
Other financial items, net     24       (34 )     (38 )
Total financial income (expense), net   $ (13,710 )     (58,032 )   $ 33,868  

 

Interest expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 included interest expense of $2,597, $3,439 and $4,243, respectively, on the subordinated shareholders loans from the Partnership and other joint venture owners (note 10). The unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments related to the mark to market adjustment on the interest rate swaps (note 12).

 

F- 65  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

5. Vessels, net of accumulated depreciation

 

          Dry-        
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Vessel     docking     Total  
Historical cost December 31, 2013   $ 655,456       8,443     $ 663,899  
Additions     4,717             4,717  
Disposals                  
Historical cost December 31, 2014     660,173       8,443       668,616  
Accumulated depreciation  December 31, 2013     (66,499 )     (5,308 )     (71,807 )
Depreciation for the year     (17,561 )     (1,351 )     (18,912 )
Accumulated depreciation  December 31, 2014     (84,060 )     (6,659 )     (90,719 )
Vessel, net  December 31, 2014   $ 576,113       1,784     $ 577,897  

 

          Dry-        
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Vessel     docking     Total  
Historical cost December 31, 2014   $ 660,173       8,443     $ 668,616  
Additions     22,862       3,328       26,190  
Disposals                  
Historical cost December 31, 2015     683,035       11,771       694,806  
Accumulated depreciation  December 31, 2014     (84,060 )     (6,659 )     (90,719 )
Depreciation for the year     (18,109 )     (961 )     (19,070 )
Accumulated depreciation  December 31, 2015     (102,169 )     (7,620 )     (109,789 )
Vessel, net December 31, 2015   $ 580,866       4,151     $ 585,017  

 

6. Amounts and loans due to owners and affiliates

 

Amounts due to owners and affiliates include trade liabilities and the current portion of the long-term loans due to owners. Trade liabilities due to owners and affiliates principally relate to short term funding of operations by affiliates and do not bear interest.

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Trade liabilities due to owners and affiliates   $ 535     $ 1,186  
Current portion of long-term loans due to owners     14,260       13,330  
Amounts due to owners and affiliates   $ 14,795     $ 14,516  

 

The current portion of long-term loans, included in the table above, and long-term loans due to owners and affiliates are as follows:

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Current portion of long-term loans due to owners   $ 14,260     $ 13,330  
Long-term loans due to owners     13,722       24,575  
Total loans due to owners   $ 27,982     $ 37,905  

 

F- 66  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

The loans due to owners consist of shareholders loan where the principal amounts, including accrued interest, are repaid based on available cash after servicing of long-term bank debt. The shareholder loans are due not later than the 12th anniversary of delivery date of each FSRU. The GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann were delivered November 30, 2009 and June 1, 2010, respectively. The shareholder loans are subordinated to the long-term bank debt, consisting of the Neptune facility and the Cape Ann facility described in note 9. Under terms of the shareholder loan agreements, the repayments shall be prioritized over any dividend payment to the owners of the joint ventures. The shareholder loans bear interest at a fixed rate of 8.0% per year. The Partnership is due 50% of the outstanding balance and the other joint venture partners have, on a combined basis, an equal amount of shareholder loans outstanding at the same terms to each of the joint ventures.

 

The shareholder loans have financed part of the construction of the vessels and operating expenses until the delivery and commencement of operations of the GDF Suez Neptune and the GDF Suez Cape Ann . In 2011, the joint ventures began repaying principal and a portion of the interest expense based on available cash after servicing of the external debt. The quarterly payments include a payment of interest for the first month of the quarter and a repayment of principal. Interest is accrued for the last two months of the quarter for repayment in the latter years of the loans. However, there is no fixed repayment schedule. Since the shareholder loans are subordinated to long-term bank debt, the repayment plan is subject to quarterly discretionary revisions based on available cash after servicing of the long-term bank debt.

 

7. Prepaid and deferred revenue

 

    As of  
  December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Current deferred revenue   $ 4,123     $ 1,652  
Long-term deferred revenue     45,710       24,612  
Total prepaid and deferred revenue   $ 49,833     $ 26,264  

 

8. Accrued liabilities

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Accrued external interest expense   $ 4,878     $ 4,998  
Other accruals     2,002       1,588  
Accrued liabilities   $ 6,880     $ 6,586  

 

F- 67  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

9. Debt

 

    As of  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
$300 million Neptune facility   $ 247,162     $ 257,604  
$300 million Cape Ann facility     254,207       264,533  
Outstanding principal     501,369       522,137  
Unamortized debt issuance cost     (2,174 )     (2,538 )
Total debt     499,195       519,599  
Less: Current portion of long-term debt     (22,093 )     (20,768 )
Long-term debt   $ 477,102     $ 498,831  

 

Neptune facility

 

In December 2007, the joint venture owning GDF Suez Neptune , as the borrower, entered into a $300 million secured facility with a syndicate of banks as long term financing of the construction the GDF Suez Neptune (the “Neptune facility”). The facility is secured with a first priority mortgage of the GDF Suez Neptune , an assignment of its rights under the time charter and a pledge of the borrower’s cash accounts. The Partnership and the other owners of the borrower have provided a negative pledge of shares in the borrower as security for the facility. In addition, Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. and MOL guarantee funding of drydocking costs and remarketing efforts in the event of an early termination of the charter.

 

The Neptune facility is repayable in quarterly installments over twelve years with a final balloon payment of $165 million due in April 2022. The Neptune facility bears interest at a rate equal to three month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.5%. The syndicate of banks also provides interest rate swaps to the borrower (see note 12), which are not reflected in the LIBOR rate for the facility.

 

There were no financial covenants in the Neptune facility as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, but certain other covenants and restrictions apply. The borrower is required to maintain insurance coverage for damage to the FSRU equivalent to 120% of the aggregate outstanding loan balance and loss of hire insurance. The borrower must maintain cash accounts with the syndicate of banks for its operating account, restricted cash for debt service for the next six months including interest payment on the facility and associated interest rate swap agreements and certain distribution accounts. Cash in the operating account from charter hire will be applied for the following purposes in the following order; first, to pay operating costs, insurance, taxes and technical management fees; second, to transfer to the debt service retention account on each debt service retention date all or part of the debt service retention amount for such debt service retention date; third, to transfer funds to the restricted cash account for debt service until reserve requirements are met; finally, to transfer funds to certain distribution accounts. Certain conditions apply to making disbursements or paying dividends from the distribution accounts, including meeting a 1.20 historical and projected debt service coverage ratio, no event of default then continuing and debt service reserve, retention accounts are fully funded, or the written consent of the lenders. The facility agreement limits the borrower’s ability to incur additional debt, enter into certain material transactions and make guarantees.

 

F- 68  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Cape Ann facility

 

In December 2007, the joint venture owning GDF Suez Cape Ann , as the borrower, entered into a $300 million secured facility with a syndicate of banks as long term financing of the construction the GDF Suez Cape Ann (the “Cape Ann facility”). The facility is secured with a first priority mortgage of the GDF Suez Cape Ann , an assignment of its rights under the time charter and a pledge of the borrower’s cash accounts. The Partnership and the other owners of the borrower have provided a negative pledge of shares in the borrower as security for the facility. In addition, Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. and MOL guarantee funding of drydocking costs and remarketing efforts in the event of an early termination of the charter.

 

The Cape Ann facility is repayable in quarterly installments over twelve years with a final balloon payment of $165 million due in October 2022. The Cape Ann facility bears interest at a rate equal to three month LIBOR plus a margin of 0.5%. The syndicate of banks also provides interest rate swaps to the borrower (see note 12), which are not reflected in the LIBOR rate for the facility.

 

There are no financial covenants in the Cape Ann facility as of December 31, 2015 and 2014, but certain other covenants and restrictions apply. The borrower is required to maintain insurance coverage for damage to the FSRU equivalent to 120% of the aggregate outstanding loan balance and loss of hire insurance. The borrower must maintain cash accounts with the syndicate of banks for its operating account, restricted cash for debt service for the next six months including interest payment on the facility and associated interest rate swap agreements and certain distribution accounts. Cash in the operating account from charter hire will be applied for the following purposes in the following order; first, to pay operating costs, insurance, taxes and technical management fees; second, to transfer to the debt service retention account on each debt service retention date all or part of the debt service retention amount for such debt service retention date; third, to transfer funds to the restricted cash account for debt service until reserve requirements are met; finally, to transfer funds to certain distribution accounts. Certain conditions apply to making disbursements or paying dividends from the distribution accounts, including meeting a 1.20 historical and projected debt service coverage ratio, no event of default then continuing and debt service reserve, retention accounts are fully funded, or the written consent of the lenders. The facility agreement limits the borrower’s ability to incur additional debt, enter into certain material transactions and make guarantees.

 

The debt is denominated in U.S. dollars and bears interest at floating rates at a weighted average interest rate for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 of 0.84%, 0.80% and 0.90 % respectively.

 

The outstanding debt as of December 31, 2015 is repayable as follows:

 

Year Ending December 31,      
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)      
2016   $ 22,093  
2017     23,503  
2018     25,003  
2019     26,599  
2020     28,297  
2021 and thereafter     375,874  
Total   $ 501,369  

 

F- 69  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

10. Related party transactions

 

The joint ventures are single purpose joint ventures owning and operating the FSRUs. See note 6 for amounts and loans due to owners and affiliates. The joint ventures do not have any employees. As described in note 1, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG has charged the joint ventures for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 for the provision of technical and commercial management of the FSRUs. Amounts included in the combined statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 or capitalized in the combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2015 and 2014 are as follows:

 

    Year ended  
Statement of income:   December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Vessel operating expenses:                        
Technical management fees for FSRUs (1)     $ 1,350       1,344     $ 1,300  
Other vessel operating expenses (2)     15,816       13,682       14,104  
Administrative expenses:                          
Commercial management fees for FRSUs (1)     630       570       750  
Other fees (3)       740       755       749  
Financial income (expense):                        
Interest expense from shareholder loans (4)     2,597       3,439       4,243  
Total   $ 21,133       19,790     $ 21,146  

 

    As of  
Balance sheet   December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Vessels                  
Supervision cost for modifications (5)   $ 174     $ 203  
Total long-term assets     $ 174     $ 203  

 

1) Technical and commercial management fees for FSRUs: Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, provided commercial and technical operations of the FSRUs as well as bookkeeping and administrative support for which it was paid a fixed annual fee as agreed with the charterer and other owners, respectively.
2) Other vessel operating expenses: In addition to the technical management fees, Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS, invoices the joint ventures for the actual costs incurred for vessel operating expenses such as crewing, repairs and maintenance, insurance, stores, lube oils and communication expenses.
3) Other fees : In addition to the commercial management fees, Höegh LNG charges an annual fee to the joint ventures in accordance with agreements with the joint venture owners.
4) Interest expense from shareholder loans: The Partnership and the other owners have provided subordinated financing to the joint ventures as shareholder loans. Interest expense is accrued monthly for the shareholder loans and recorded to interest expense. Under terms of the shareholders’ loan agreement, the principal and interest is repaid based upon available cash after servicing long-term bank debt (note 9) and, accordingly, only a portion of the accrued interest expense has been paid for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. In the combined statements of cash flows, the interest expense paid for the period is included in net cash flows provided from operating activities.
5) Supervision cost for modifications: Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS manages the process for major modifications to vessels including site supervision at the shipyard. Costs include manning for the services and direct accommodation and travel cost. Manning costs are based upon actual hours incurred. Such costs, excluding overhead charges, are capitalized as part of the cost of the modification of the vessel.

 

F- 70  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

11. Financial Instruments

 

Fair value measurements

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instrument:

 

Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash – The fair value of the cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash approximates its carrying amounts reported in the combined carve-out balance sheets.

 

Loan due to owners – The fair values of the fixed rate subordinated shareholder loans are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on rates currently available for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities and the current credit worthiness of the joint ventures.

 

Total debt – The fair values of the variable-rate debt are estimated using discounted cash flow analyses based on rates currently available for debt with similar terms and remaining maturities and the current credit worthiness of the joint ventures.

 

Derivative financial instruments– The fair values of the interest rates swaps are estimated based on the present value of cash flows over the term of the instrument based on the relevant LIBOR interest rate curves, adjusted for the joint ventures’ credit worthiness given the level of collateral provided and the credit worthiness of the counterparty to the derivative, as appropriate.

 

The fair value estimates are categorized by a fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy has three levels based on the reliability of the inputs used to determine fair value as follows:

Level 1: Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets;

Level 2: Inputs, other than the quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and

Level 3: Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

 

The following table includes the estimated fair value and carrying value of those assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring and non-recurring basis, as well as the estimated fair value of the financial instruments that are not accounted for at a fair value on a recurring basis.  

 

          As of     As of  
          December 31, 2015     December 31, 2014  
          Carrying     Fair     Carrying     Fair  
          amount     value     amount     value  
          Asset     Asset     Asset     Asset  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Level     (Liability)     (Liability)     (Liability)     (Liability)  
Recurring:                                        
Cash and cash equivalents     1     $ 4,197       4,197       2,315     $ 2,315  
Restricted cash     1       33,548       33,548       33,508       33,508  
Interest rate swaps     2       (107,304 )     (107,304 )     (125,797 )     (125,797 )
Other:                                        
Loans due to owners     2       (27,982 )     (28,656 )     (37,905 )     (39,258 )
Total debt     2     $ (499,195 )     (467,920 )     (522,137 )   $ (468,916 )

 

F- 71  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

12. Risk management and concentrations of risk

 

Derivative instruments can be used in accordance with the overall risk management policy. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, there are no derivative instruments designated as hedges for accounting purposes.

 

Foreign Exchange Risk

 

All revenues, financing, interest expenses from financing and most expenditures for newbuildings and vessel modifications are denominated in U.S. dollars. Certain operating expenses can be denominated in currencies other than U.S. dollars. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, no derivative financial instruments have been used to manage foreign exchange risk.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Interest rate swaps can be utilized to exchange a receipt of floating interest for a payment of fixed interest to reduce the exposure to interest rate variability on its outstanding floating-rate debt. As at December 31, 2015 and 2014, there were interest rate swap agreements on the floating rate debt that are not designated as hedges for accounting purposes.

 

As of December 31, 2015, the following interest rate swap agreements were outstanding:

 

                Fair              
                value           Fixed  
    Interest           carrying           interest  
    rate     Notional     amount           rate  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   index     amount     liability     Term     (1)  
LIBOR-based debt                                        
 Interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR     $ 24,488     $ 5,108       Oct 2029       5.345 %
 Interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR       35,386       7,765       Oct 2029       5.353 %
 Interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR       176,848       39,178       Oct 2029       5.363 %
 Interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR       25,030       5,691       Apr 2030       5.385 %
 Interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR       36,168       8,248       Apr 2030       5.389 %
 Interest rate swaps (2)     LIBOR     $ 180,757       41,314       Apr 2030       5.399 %
                    $ 107,304                  

 

(1) Excludes the margins paid on the floating-rate loans of 0.5%
(2) All interest rate swaps are U.S. dollar denominated and principal amount reduces quarterly

 

The following table presents the location and fair value amounts of derivative instruments, segregated by type of contract, on the combined balance sheets.

 

    Current     Long-term  
    liabilities:     liabilities:  
    derivative     derivative  
    financial     financial  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   instruments     instruments  
As of December 31, 2015            
Interest rate swaps   $ 20,239     $ 87,065  
As of December 31, 2014                
Interest rate swaps   $ 23,887     $ 101,910  

 

F- 72  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

Unrealized and realized gains (losses) of the interest rate swap are recognized in earnings and reported in gain (loss) on derivative instruments in the combined statements of income.

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014     2013  
Realized gains (losses)   $ -       -     $ -  
Unrealized gains (losses)     18,492       (23,757 )     70,075  
Total   $ 18,492       (23,757 )   $ 70,075  

 

Credit risk and concentrations of risk

Credit risk is the exposure to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the counterparties related to cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, trade receivables and interest rate swap agreements. In order to minimize counterparty risk, bank relationships are established with counterparties with acceptable credit ratings at the time of the transactions. Periodic evaluations are performed of the relative credit standing of those financial institutions. In addition, exposure is limited by diversifying among counter parties. There is a single charterer for both vessels so there is a concentration of risk related to trade receivables. Credit risk related to trade receivables is limited by performing ongoing credit evaluations of the charterer's financial condition. In addition, time charters generally require the payment of the time charter rates on the first banking day of the month of hire which limits the risk of non-performance. Accordingly, no collateral or other security is required. No losses were incurred relating to the charterer for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013. While the maximum exposure to loss due to credit risk is the book value at the balance sheet date, should the time charter terminate prematurely, there could be delays in obtaining a new time charter and the rates could be lower depending upon the prevailing market conditions.

 

13. Commitments and contingencies

 

Assets Pledged

 

The following table summarizes the assets pledged for debt facilities as of December 31, 2015 and 2014:

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Book value of vessel secured against long-term loans   $ 585,017     $ 577,897  

 

Contingencies:

 

The GDF Suez Cape Ann is operating in China on a sub-charter entered into by GDF Suez. GDF Suez has informed SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. that the sub-charterer is covering any potential corporate income taxes directly with the authorities on the joint venture’s behalf. To the extent that income tax liabilities would arise, the joint venture would be compensated by GDF Suez under terms of the time charter.

 

F- 73  

 

 

SRV JOINT GAS LTD. AND SRV JOINT GAS TWO LTD.

NOTES TO THE COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(in thousands of U.S. dollars, unless otherwise indicated)

 

14. Supplemental cash flow information

 

    Year ended  
    December 31,  
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Supplemental cash flow information:                
Interest paid   $ 31,982     $ 34,060  

 

15. Subsequent events

 

Management evaluated subsequent events through April 28, 2016.

 

F- 74  

Exhibit 4.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
AMENDED AND RESTATED NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTOR COMPENSATION PLAN
(Effective as of February 28, 2016)

 

 

The non-employee members of the Board of Directors (the “ Board ”) of Höegh LNG Partners LP (the “ Partnership ”) will be entitled to receive the following compensation:

 

1. Retainer Fees

 

    Each non-employee director will receive an annual cash retainer fee of USD 37,500 (subject to adjustment from time to time, as determined by the Board) for each year of service as a director.

 

    The Chairs of the Audit and Conflict Committees will each receive an annual cash retainer fee of USD 20,000 (subject to adjustment from time to time, as determined by the Board) for each year of service in such capacity.

 

    Other committee members will receive an annual cash retainer fee of USD 10,000 (subject to adjustment from time to time, as determined by the Board)  for each year of service in such capacity.

 

2. Equity Awards

 

   

Each non-employee director will receive an annual equity-based award (with award type, vesting and all other terms and conditions to be determined by the Board for any given year), valued at USD 37,500 (subject to adjustment from time to time, as determined by the Board) on the applicable date of grant, for each year of service as a director, which such award will be granted under the Höegh LNG Partners LP Long Term Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time (the “ Plan ”), or a successor plan, program or arrangement.

 

  3. Expense Reimbursement

 

    Each non-employee director will be reimbursed for travel and miscellaneous expenses to attend meetings and activities of the Board or its committees and related to the director’s participation in the Partnership’s general education and orientation programs for directors.

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 4.13

 

COMMERCIAL AND ADMINISTRATION
MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

 

between

 

HöeghStream LNG Ltd.

 

and

 

HÖEGH LNG AS

 

This Management Agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is made as of 31 May 2010 between;

 

HöeghStream LNG Ltd. (the “ Disponent Owner ”) of c/o Appleby Corporate Services (Cayman) Limited, P.O. Box 1350 GT, Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands; and

 

Höegh LNG AS (the “ Manager ”) of P.O. Box 4 Skøyen, Drammensveien 134, 0212 Oslo, Norway.

 

1. The Manager hereby undertakes to provide the Disponent Owner with the following services (the “ Services ”):

 

a) accounting, including budgeting, reporting and annual audited reports

 

b) finance and cash management

 

c) legal (in house)

 

d) commercial

 

e) insurance

 

f) general office administration and secretary functions

 

2. The Disponent Owner shall pay to the Manager for the Services an annual management fee of USD 50,000 per annum (pro rata 2010). The fee is to be escalated with 3% per annum, with first adjustment 1 January 2011 (the “ Management Fee ”).

 

3. The Management Fee shall not include e.g. external legal costs, corporate fees in Cayman Islands and auditors fees, which will be invoiced directly to the Disponent Owner.

 

4. This Agreement shall come into force as of 31 May 2010.

 

5. The Disponent Owner hereby ratifies and confirms and agrees to ratify and confirm whatsoever the Manager shall do or purport to do properly and lawfully under or pursuant to this Agreement.

 

6. It is hereby agreed and declared that the Manager shall not be:

 

a) restricted from rendering services similar to the services to be rendered hereunder, to other companies or from carrying on or being concerned or interested (whether as manager, agent, buyer, operator, charterer or otherwise) in any business or activity which is or may be similar to or competitive with the business or activities now or at any time hereafter carried on by the Disponent Owner; or

 

 

 

  

b) liable or answerable for the consequences of any decision or judgement taken or made honestly, lawfully and in good faith by the Manager in or about the performance or exercise of any of its obligations, duties, powers or discretions under or pursuant to this Agreement.

 

7. The Disponent Owner shall indemnify and hold the Manager, its employees, servants, agents and sub-contractors free and harmless from all and any claims of whatsoever kind or nature for any damage, loss, expenses or costs whatsoever and howsoever caused to, suffered or incurred by the Disponent Owner and/or to any third party whosoever arising out of or in connection with the performance of the duties of the Manager.

 

8. It is hereby expressly agreed that no employee, servant, agent or sub-contractor of the Manager shall in any circumstances whatsoever be under any liability whatsoever to the Disponent Owner for any loss, damage or delay of whatsoever kind arising or resulting directly or indirectly from any act, neglect or default on his part while acting in the course of or in connection with his employment and without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provisions in this Clause, every exemption, limitation, condition and liberty herein contained and every right, exemption from liability, defense and immunity of whatsoever nature applicable to the Manager or to which the Manager is entitled hereunder shall also be available and shall extend to protect every such employee, servant, agent or sub-contractor of the Manager.

 

9. This Agreement may be terminated by either party giving 90 days written notice.

 

10. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law. Any claim, dispute or controversy arising among the parties out of or in relation to this Agreement, shall be settled pursuant to the procedure set out in Clause 19.1 of the Bimco Shipman 98 template.

 

This Agreement has been executed in 2 original counterparts, one to each of the parties.

 

HöeghStream LNG Ltd.   Höegh LNG AS
         
/s/ Stephan Tschudi-Madsen   /s/ Sveinung Støhle
Name: Stephan Tschudi-Madsen   Name: Sveinung Støhle
Title: Director   Title: President and CEO

 

 

Exhibit 4.14

 

Execution version

 

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

 

between

 

Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited

 

and

 

Höegh LNG AS 

 

  Page 1 of 9  
 

   

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

    Page
     
1 BACKGROUND 3
     
2 APPOINTMENT OF THE MANAGER 3
     
3 MANAGEMENT SERVICES 4
     
4 ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT SERVICES 4
     
5 COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES 5
     
6 TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES 6
     
7 OTHER SERVICES SPECIFICALLY AUTHORISED 6
     
8 THE MANAGERS’ SUB-CONTRACTING 6
     
9 OWNERSHIP 6
     
10 RESPONSIBILITIES 6
     
11 ACCOUNTING 7
     
12 AUDITING 8
     
13 MANAGEMENT FEE 8
     
14 SUSPENSION OF MANAGERS’ PERFORMANCES UNDER THE AGREEMENT 8
     
15 DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THE AGREEMENT 8
     
16 LAW AND ARBITRATION 9
     
17 NOTICES 9

 

* * *

 

  Page 2 of 9  
 

   

MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

 

This agreement (the “ Agreement ”) is entered into between:

 

(1) Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited , company registration no. HE-339342, of Profiti Ilia, 4, Kanika International Business Centre, 6 th Floor, Flag 4, Germasogeia, 4046, Limassol, Cyprus (“ Owner ”), and

 

(2) Höegh LNG AS , company registration no. 989 837 877, Drammensveien 134, 0277 Oslo, Norway (“ Manager ”).

 

IT IS HEREBY AGREED as follows:

 

1 BACKGROUND

 

Both the Owner and the Manager are companies in the Höegh LNG Group, with ultimate owner Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. and are subject to the prevailing Decision Guides and Manuals of the Höegh LNG Group. The Höegh LNG Group has a fleet consisting of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) carriers and Floating Storage and Regasification Units (FSRUs) (the “ Höegh LNG Fleet ”).

 

The Owner will enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (the “ MOA ”) with Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. whereby the Owner will take title to the FSRU Höegh Gallant , IMO No. 9653678 (the “ FSRU ”), and will require certain services to be provided by the Manager as defined below.

 

The Owner will further assign all the economic ownership of the FSRU to its branch in Egypt, Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, Egypt Branch (the “ Branch ”), in order for the Branch to lease out the FSRU under a lease and maintenance agreement (the “ LMA ”) with Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC (“ Charterers ”) for the provision of FSRU and certain services and, following which the Charterers will be the disponent owner of the FSRU. Reference to the Owner in this Agreement includes the Branch and any other branches the Owner may establish.

 

The Owner wish to use the management services of the Manager as described herein and the Manager is willing to perform the services under this Agreement.

 

2 APPOINTMENT OF THE MANAGER

 

(a) With effect from time and date of commencement of the LMA, the Manager will act as manager for the Owner. The Owner hereby confirms the appointment of the Manager and the Manager hereby agrees to act as Manager for the Owner.

 

(b) The Manager undertakes to use its best endeavors to provide the management services specified herein to the Owner in accordance with sound management practice and to protect and promote the interests of the Owner in all matters relating to the provision of services hereunder.

 

(c) In the exercise of its duties hereunder, the Manager, to the extent practicable and subject to sound management practices, shall act in accordance with the policies and instructions that from time to time shall be communicated to it by the Owner, and the Manager shall at all times serve the Owner faithfully and diligently.

 

  Page 3 of 9  
 

  

3 MANAGEMENT SERVICES

 

Subject to the terms and conditions herein provided, during the term of this Agreement, the Manager shall carry out, as representative for and on behalf of the Owner, those of the following functions as the Owner shall instruct the Manager to provide from time to time:

 

a) Administrative Management Services (see Clause 4);

 

b) Commercial Management Services (see Clause 5);

 

c) Technical Management Services (see Clause 6).

 

Jointly referred to as the “ Services ”).

 

4 ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT SERVICES

 

The Manager shall provide Administrative Management Services to the Owner, which includes, but is not limited to, the following functions:

 

(a) If required, the provision of a person to be appointed as President (and/or managing director or similar position) of the Owner up until the Owner has appointed such capacity locally.

 

(b) The provision of services relating to the day-to-day running of the business of the Owner, up until the Owner has appointed such capacity locally, which are normally performed by the managing director of a limited company in accordance with Norwegian law (cf. Norwegian Limited Companies Act § 6-14) and to represent the Owner in such matters where the Manager is authorized to act on behalf of the Owner.

 

(c) The provision of management of the financial matters of the Owner, including but not limited to the opening and closing of bank accounts and to provide cash management and fund management services.

 

The cash management and fund management shall also include the arrangement of the entry into currency exchange agreements, interest hedging agreements, financial swap agreements, and other agreements in respect of futures and derivative instruments, always subject to the authorization of the Board of Directors of the Owner in any case or in accordance with the applicable Decision Guides and Manuals of the Höegh LNG Group.

 

All moneys collected by the Manager under the terms of this Agreement and any interest thereon shall be held to the credit of the Owner in a separate bank account. All expenses incurred by the Manager under the terms of this Agreement on behalf of the Owner, shall be payable by the Owner to the Manager on demand.

 

(d) As part of the services described in Clause c) above, the Manager shall negotiate Loan Agreements on behalf of the Owner and shall sign Loan Agreements after having been so authorized in advance by the Board of Directors of the Owner. The Manager shall with the prior approval of the Board of Directors of the Owner, be authorized to enter into Loan Agreements.

 

Guarantees and other financial commitments can only be given and entered into with the prior approval of the Board of Directors of the Owner.

 

  Page 4 of 9  
 

  

(e) The provision of such budgets and financial statements as the Owner may instruct, including long- and short-term budgets, long term financial forecasts, status reports and projections, statutory annual reports and quarterly reports including a statement of income and balance sheet for the relevant period, all as instructed by the Board of Directors of the Owner from time to time.

 

(f) The provision of the controller functions in respect of the financial matters of the Owner.

 

(g) The Manager shall handle and settle minor claims by third parties arising out of the Services provided under this Agreement and keep the Owner informed regarding any incident of which the Manager becomes aware and which gives or may give rise to claims or disputes involving third parties. The Manager shall as instructed by the Owner bring or defend actions, suits and proceedings in connection with matters entrusted to the Manager according to this Agreement.

 

(j) Coordination of the secretarial and corporate administrative services with Orangefield Cyprus, including assisting the secretary in performing these services.

 

(k) All such matters that are delegated to the Manager in accordance with the applicable Decision Guides and Manuals of the Höegh LNG Group.

 

5 COMMERCIAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES

 

The Manager shall provide Commercial Management Services to the Owner which includes, but is not limited to the following functions:

 

(a) The provision in accordance with the instructions of the Board of Directors of the Owner for chartering services, which includes but is not limited to seek and negotiate employment for the FSRU, to appoint and use brokers and agents as appropriate and the conclusion (including the execution thereof) of charter parties, freight contracts or other contracts relating to the employment of the FSRU, provided that the prior approval, authorization or endorsement of the Board of Directors of Owner shall be obtained in respect of such charter parties;

 

(b) Arrangement of the provision of bunker fuel of the quality as required for the trade of the FSRU;

 

(c) The operation of the FSRU as required by the Owner, which includes but is not limited to the provision of compatibility/interface studies, FSRU approval and vetting processes and voyage estimates and accounts and calculation of hire, freights, demurrage and dispatch moneys due from or due to the charterer of the FSRU, to issue voyage instructions, to appoint agents and stevedores and to arrange survey of cargoes;

 

(d) To provide freight management including provision of freight estimates and accounts and calculation of hire and freights and/or demurrage and dispatch money due from or due to charterers of the FSRU and to arrange proper payment of all hire and freight revenues and other moneys of what-so-ever kind under contracts for employment of the FSRU;

 

(e) All such other matters that are delegated to the Manager in accordance with the applicable Decision Guides and Manuals of the Höegh LNG Group.

 

  Page 5 of 9  
 

  

6 TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT SERVICES

 

(a) To arrange insurances acceptable to the Owner on the best terms reasonably available in the market with reputable underwriters and otherwise upon terms and conditions in line with sound insurance practices, but always in accordance with the Owner’s instructions (in respect of the insured values, deductibles, etc.) including the entry of vessels in Protection and Indemnity Clubs and Defence Clubs and to maintain Hull and War risk insurance at proper terms and premia as shall be agreed between the Owner and the Manager. Arrangement of insurances shall include all necessary and customary insurances of the vessels.

 

Such insurances to be maintained by the Manager in the joint names of the relevant company in the Owner Group and the Manager and any sub-contractors of Manager as their interest may appear (and upon request of the interest of any mortgagee).

 

(b) To handle and settle all insurance, average (particular and general) salvage and other claims in connection with vessels owned or chartered by the Owner Group and to appoint in Manager’s discretion, average adjusters and other professional advisors when such services are appropriate or required

 

7 OTHER SERVICES SPECIFICALLY AUTHORISED

 

(a) The Manager, or the person whom it may appoint, shall be authorized (through a power of attorney or such other instruments as are necessary for and on behalf of the Owner) to negotiate, approve, enter into, execute (under hand or under the Common Seal of the Owner and to affirm the use of such Common Seal) and deliver all such agreements, documents, certificates or instruments which may be required pursuant to or in connection with the performance of its Services hereunder;

 

(b) The Manager may take such other action for and on behalf of the Owner, in addition to the powers conferred upon it by this Agreement, as shall be authorized from time to time by a resolution of the Board of Directors of the Owner.

 

8 THE MANAGERS’ SUB-CONTRACTING

 

The Manager shall not have the right to sub-contract any of the obligations or rights hereunder to a third party without the prior written consent of the Owner, except to Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS and the Manager’s associated companies.

 

9 OWNERSHIP

 

The ownership to assets, including but not limited to documents of any nature, know-how, intellectual property and any other tangible or intangible assets, rights or privileges (the “ IPR ”), which are acquired or developed by the Manager related to the Manager’s Services provided to the Owner shall solely lie with the Owner. The Manager shall not acquire any ownership or title to such IPR.

 

10 RESPONSIBILITIES

 

(a) Neither the Owner nor the Manager shall be liable for any failure to perform any of their obligations hereunder by reason of any cause whatsoever by any nature and kind beyond their reasonable control.

 

  Page 6 of 9  
 

  

(b) Without prejudice to Clause 10 (a), the Manager shall not be liable whatsoever to the Owner for any loss, damage, delay or expense of whatsoever nature, whether direct or indirect (including but not limited to loss of profit arising out of or in connection with detention of or delay of the FSRU) and howsoever arising in the course of performance of the Services under this Agreement, unless such liability is proven to result solely from the negligence, gross negligence or wilful default of the Manager or their employees or agents or sub-contractors employed by them in connection with the Services under this Agreement in which case the Manager’s liability for each incident or series of incident that gives rise to a claim or claims, shall never exceed a total amount of NOK 500,000.

 

(c) Except to the extent and solely for the amount that the Manager will be liable as set out in Clause 10 (b), the Owner hereby undertakes to keep the Manager and their employees, agents and sub-contractors indemnified and to hold them harmless against all actions, proceedings, claims, demands and liabilities whatsoever or howsoever arising, which may be brought against them or incurred or suffered by them arising out of or in connection with the performance of the Services under this Agreement, and against and in respect of all costs, losses, damages and expenses, including legal costs and expenses on a full indemnity basis, which the Manager may suffer or incur (either directly or indirectly) in the course of the performance of the Services under this Agreement.

 

(d) It is hereby expressly agreed that no employee or agent of the Manager (including every sub-contractor from time to time employed by the Manager) shall in any circumstances whatsoever be under any liability whatsoever to the Owner for any loss, damage or delay of whatsoever kind arising or resulting directly or indirectly from any act, neglect or default on his part while acting in the course of or in connection with his employment and, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provisions in this Clause 9, every exemption, limitation, condition and liberty herein contained and every right, exemption from liability, defense and immunity of whatsoever nature applicable to the Manager or to which the Manager are entitled hereunder shall also be available and shall extend to protect every such employee or agent of the Manager acting as aforesaid and for the purpose of all the foregoing provisions of this Clause the Manager are or shall be deemed to be acting as agent or trustee on behalf of and for the benefit of all persons who are or might be his servants or agents from time to time (including sub-contractors as aforesaid) and all such persons shall to this extent be or be deemed to be parties to this Agreement.

 

11 ACCOUNTING

 

The Manager shall:

 

(a) Establish an accounting system, which meets the requirements of the Owner and provide regular accounting services, supply regular reports and records in accordance therewith;

 

(b) Maintain the records of all costs and expenditures incurred hereunder as well as any data necessary or proper for the settlement of accounts between the parties.

 

Manager shall ensure that the accounts of the Owner are prepared and maintained in accordance with applicable legislation and regulations.

 

The Manager shall also prepare and deliver to the Owner’s registered office quarterly Management accounts in respect of the Owner to be supplied within 30 days of the end of each financial quarter.

 

  Page 7 of 9  
 

  

12 AUDITING

 

The Manager shall at all times maintain and keep true and correct accounts of the Owner and shall make the same available for inspection and auditing by the Owner or its appointed auditor at such time as the Owner may determine.

 

13 MANAGEMENT FEE

 

(a) The Owner shall pay to the Manager for its services as Manager under this Agreement an annual management fee in NOK to be calculated by the Manager’s documented cost plus 3%. An estimate of the annual Management Fee shall form the basis of an amount, which shall be payable by equal monthly instalments in arrears, the first instalment being payable on the commencement of this Agreement and subsequent installments being payable monthly in arrears. The estimated Management Fee may be adjusted to reflect any changes in the amount of services provided hereunder. Settlement of the discrepancy between the estimated Management Fee and the actual Management Fee shall take place at the end of each calendar year. The Manager shall charge an overhead to cover its own office accommodation, office staff and stationery. The Owner shall reimburse the Manager for its postage and communication expenses, travelling expenses, and other out of pocket expenses properly incurred by the Manager in pursuance of the Services.

 

(b) The costs, which the Manager is entitled to be reimbursed for, shall be budgeted on an annual basis and be paid monthly in advance according to the budget approved by the Board of Directors of the Owner. Any deviation from budget shall be settled in the next monthly payment due.

 

(c) In the event of the appointment of the Manager being terminated by the Owner or the Manager in accordance with the provisions of Clause 15 (Duration and Termination of the Agreement) other than by reason of default by the Manager, the Management Fee payable to the Manager according to the provisions of Clause 13 (a), shall continue to be payable for a further period of 6 – six – calendar months.

 

14 SUSPENSION OF MANAGERS’ PERFORMANCES UNDER THE AGREEMENT

 

The Manager shall be entitled to suspend performances under this Agreement by notice in writing if any moneys payable by the Owner under the Agreement, shall not have been received in the Manager’s nominated account within 7 days of payment having been requested in writing by the Manager.

 

15 DURATION AND TERMINATION OF THE AGREEMENT

 

(a) This Agreement shall come into effect on the date stated in Clause 2 (a) (Appointment of the Manager), and shall continue for the duration of the LMA. Thereafter it shall continue until terminated by either party giving to the other notice in writing, in which case the Agreement shall terminate upon the expiration of a period of six months from the date upon which such notice was given.

 

(b) The Manager shall be entitled to terminate the Agreement by notice in writing if any moneys payable by the Owner under this Management Agreement, shall not have been received in the Manager’s nominated account within ten days of payment having been requested in writing by the Manager.

 

(c) The Agreement shall terminate forthwith in the event of an order being made or resolution passed for the winding up, dissolution, liquidation or bankruptcy of either party (otherwise than for the purpose of reconstruction or amalgamation) or if a receiver is appointed, or if it suspends payment, ceases to carry on business or makes any special arrangement or composition with its creditors.

 

  Page 8 of 9  
 

  

(d) The termination of this Agreement shall be without prejudice to all rights accrued due between the parties prior to the date of termination.

 

(e) Upon termination of this Agreement the Manager shall transfer and deliver to the Owner all assets, including but not limited to documents of any nature, know-how, intellectual property and any other tangible or intangible assets, rights or privileges that is the property of the Owner, ref. Clause 9 (Ownership) above.

 

16 LAW AND ARBITRATION

 

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with the Arbitration Act 1996 or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof save to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions of this Clause 16.

 

The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) Terms current at the time when the arbitration proceedings are commenced. On the receipt by one party of the nomination in writing of the other parties’ arbitrator, that party shall appoint their arbitrator within 14 days, failing which the decision of the single arbitrator appointed shall apply. Two arbitrators properly appointed shall appoint a third arbitrator who shall be the chairman of the Arbitration Panel. Should the two arbitrators fail to appoint the third arbitrator, any party can request that the appointment be made by the Oslo City Court. The parties agree that no Party shall appeal to the court on a question of law arising out of an award made in the proceedings.

 

The arbitration hearings, any submissions to the court and the award or ruling passed by the court shall be treated as confidential.

 

17 NOTICES

 

All notices, requests, demands and other communications given or made in accordance with the provisions of the Agreement, shall be in writing and shall be given either by registered or recorded mail or by fax and shall be deemed to have been given when actually received.

 

* * *

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed the day and year first above written.

 

Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited   Höegh LNG AS
         
  /s/ Veronica B. Sandnes     /s/ Sveinung Støhle
Name: Veronica B. Sandnes   Name: Sveinung Støhle
Title: Attorney-in-fact   Title: General Manager
Date: 27/03/2015   Date: 27/03/2015

 

  Page 9 of 9  

 

 

Exhibit 4.17

 

Copyright, published by BIMCO   Explanatory Notes for SHIPMAN 2009 are available from BIMCO at www.bimco.org  First published 1988. Revised 1998 and 2009   Approved by the International Ship Managers’ Association  

 

Printed by BIMCO's idea

 

SHIPMAN 2009

STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

 

PART I

1.     Place and date of Agreement

 

24 March 2015

     Vessel: Höegh Gallant, IMO No. 9653678

 

2.     Date of commencement of Agreement (Cls. 2 , 12 , 21 and 25 )

 

The date of delivery of the Vessel under the memorandum of agreement dated on or about the date hereof and made between the Owners as buyers and Höeg hLNG FSRU III Ltd. as sellers

3.     Owners (name, place of registered office and law of registry) ( Cl. 1 )

 

(i)     Name: Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited

 

(ii)     Place of registered office: Profiti llia, 4, Kanika International Business Centre, 6th Floor, Flat 4, Germasogeia, 4046 Limassol, Cyprus

 

(iii)     Law of registry: Cyprus

 

4.     Managers (name, place of registered office and law of registry) ( Cl. 1 )

 

(i)     Name: Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS

 

(ii)     Place of registered office: Drammensveien 134, 0277 Oslo, Norway

 

(iii)     Law of registry: Norway

5.     The Company (with reference to the ISM/ISPS Codes) (state name and IMO Unique Company Identification number. If the Company is a third party then also state registered office and principal place of business) (Cls. 1 and 9(c)(i) )

 

(i)     Name: Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS

 

(ii)     IMO Unique Company Identification number: 5479796

 

(iii)     Place of registered office: Drammensveien 134, 0277 Oslo, Norway

 

(iv)     Principal place of business: Norway

 

6.     Technical Management (state "yes” or “no” as agreed) ( Cl. 4 )
Yes

 

 

7.     Crew Management (state “yes” or “no” as agreed) ( Cl. 5(a) )
No

 

 

8.     Commercial Management (state "yes" or “no” as agreed) ( Cl. 6 )
No

 

 

9.     Chartering Services period (only to be filled in if “yes” stated in Box 8 ) ( Cl.6(a) )

No

10.     Crew Insurance arrangements (state “yes” or “no” as agreed)

 

(i)     Crew Insurances* ( Cl. 5(b) ): No

 

(ii)     Insurance for persons proceeding to sea onboard ( Cl. 5(b)(i) ): No

 

     *only to apply if Crew Management ( Cl. 5(a) ) agreed (see Box 7 )

 

11.     Insurance arrangements (state “yes” or “no” as agreed) ( Cl. 7 )

Yes

 

 

12.     Optional Insurances (state optional insurance(s) as agreed, such as piracy, kidnap and ransom, loss of hire and FD & D) ( CI. 10(a)(iv) )

Piracy, kidnap and ransom, loss of hire and FD&D

13.     Interest (state rate of interest to apply after due date to outstanding sums) ( Cl. 9(a) )

2%

14.     Annual management fee (state annual amount) ( Cl. 12(a) )

USD 700,000

 

15.     Manager's nominated account ( C1.12(a) )

16.     Daily rate (state rate for days in excess of those agreed in budget) ( Cl. 12(c) )

N/A

 

17.     Lay-up period / number of months ( CI.12(d) )

 

 

18.     Minimum contract period (state number of months) ( Cl. 21(a) )

N/A

 

19.     Management fee on termination (state number of months to apply) ( Cl. 22(g) )

 

 

20.     Severance Costs (state maximum amount) (Cl. 22(h)(ii))

N/A

21.     Dispute Resolution (state alternative Cl. 23(a) , 23(b) or 23(c) ; if Cl. 23(c) place of arbitration must be stated) ( Cl. 23 )

London Clause 23 (a)

 

22.     Notices (state full style contact details for serving notice and communication to the Owners) ( Cl. 24 )

Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited., c/o Höegh LNG AS, Drammensveien 134, PO Box 4 Skoyen, NO 0212 Oslo, Norway. Tel: +47 9755 7400.

Fax: +47 9755 7401

 

23.     Notices (state full style contact details for serving notice and communication to the Managers) Cl. 24 )

Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS, Drammensveien 134, PO Box 4 Skoyen, NO 0212 Oslo, Norway. Tel: +47 9755 7400, Fax: +47 9755 7401

 

It is mutually agreed between the party stated in Box 3 and the party stated in Box 4 that this Agreement consisting of PART I and PART II as well as Annexes “A” (Details of Vessel or Vessels), “B” (Details of Crew), “C” (Budget), “D” (Associated Vessels) and “E” (Fee Schedule) attached hereto, shall be performed subject to the conditions contained herein. In the event of a conflict of conditions, the provisions of PART I and Annexes “A”, “B”, “C”, “D” and “E” shall prevail over those of PART II to the extent of such conflict but no further.

 

Signature(s) (Owners)

/s/ Veronica B. Sandnes

Veronica B. Sandnes

Attorney-in-Fact

Signature(s) (Managers)

/s/ Gorm O. Hillgaar

Gorm O. Hillgaar

General Manager

 

Continued

This document is a computer generated SHIPMAN 2009 form printed by authority of BIMCO. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the pre-printed text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original BIMCO approved document shall apply. BIMCO assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage or expense as a result of discrepancies between the original BIMCO approved document and this computer generated document.

 

 

 

 

Copyright, published by BIMCO   Explanatory Notes for SHIPMAN 2009 are available from BIMCO at www.bimco.org  First published 1988. Revised 1998 and 2009   Approved by the International Ship Managers’ Association  

 

Printed by BIMCO's idea

 

ANNEX “A” (DETAILS OF VESSEL OR VESSELS)

TO THE BIMCO STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
CODE NAME: SHIPMAN 2009

 

Date of Agreement: 24 March 2015

 

Name of Vessel(s): Höegh Gallant

 

Particulars of Vessel(s):

 
IMO: 9653678
Call Sign: LAUI7
Flag: Norwegian
Ship Builder: Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. Ltd.
Classification Society: DNV GL
Built: 21 January 2013 (keel laid)
Classification designation: 1A1 Tanker for Liquefied Gas, Ship Type 2G, NAUTICUS (Newbuilding), REGAS•2, E0, NAUT•OC, CLEAN, BIS, CSA•FLS2, PLUS, COAT•PSPC(B), Recyclable, Gas Fuelled, TMON, OPP•F
Length: 294.0m
Breadth: 46.0m
Depth: 26.0m
Gross Tonnage (International): 109.793
Net Tonnage (International):  
Engine: Dual Fuel Diesel Generator

 

Continued

This document is a computer generated SHIPMAN 2009 form printed by authority of BIMCO. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the pre-printed text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original BIMCO approved document shall apply. BIMCO assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage or expense as a result of discrepancies between the original BIMCO approved document and this computer generated document.

 

 

 

  

Copyright, published by BIMCO   Explanatory Notes for SHIPMAN 2009 are available from BIMCO at www.bimco.org  First published 1988. Revised 1998 and 2009   Approved by the International Ship Managers’ Association  

 

Printed by BIMCO's idea

 

 

ANNEX “B" (DETAILS OF CREW)
TO THE BIMCO STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
CODE NAME: SHIPMAN 2009

 

Date of Agreement:

 

Details of Crew:

 

Number          Rank             Nationality

 

Continued

This document is a computer generated SHIPMAN 2009 form printed by authority of BIMCO. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the pre-printed text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original BIMCO approved document shall apply. BIMCO assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage or expense as a result of discrepancies between the original BIMCO approved document and this computer generated document.

 

 

 

 

Copyright, published by BIMCO   Explanatory Notes for SHIPMAN 2009 are available from BIMCO at www.bimco.org  First published 1988. Revised 1998 and 2009   Approved by the International Ship Managers’ Association  

 

Printed by BIMCO's idea

 

ANNEX “C" (BUDGET)
TO THE BIMCO STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
CODE NAME: SHIPMAN 2009

 

Date of Agreement: 24 March 2015

 

Managers’ initial budget with effect from the commencement date of this Agreement (see Box 2 ):

 

 

USD
Services: 848,000
Spares: 600,000
Consumables: 395,000
Technical/Management Fee: 936,000
   
Based on 365 days / 12 months  
   
TOTAL: 7,614/day

 

Vessel insurance to be arranged by Owner in accordance with Clause 10.

 

In the event that the Höegh Gallant is positioned for lay•up or similar for extended period (30 days +), the Owner reserves the right to re-negotiate the budget figures to reflect the actual operating mode.

 

Continued

This document is a computer generated SHIPMAN 2009 form printed by authority of BIMCO. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the pre-printed text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original BIMCO approved document shall apply. BIMCO assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage or expense as a result of discrepancies between the original BIMCO approved document and this computer generated document.

 

 

 

 

Copyright, published by BIMCO   Explanatory Notes for SHIPMAN 2009 are available from BIMCO at www.bimco.org  First published 1988. Revised 1998 and 2009   Approved by the International Ship Managers’ Association  

 

Printed by BIMCO's idea

  

ANNEX “D” (ASSOCIATED VESSELS}
TO THE BIMCO STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
CODE NAME: SHIPMAN 2009
 

  

NOTE: PARTIES SHOULD BE AWARE THAT BY COMPLETING THIS ANNEX "D" THEY WILL BE SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF SUB-CLAUSE 22(b)(i) OF THIS AGREEMENT.

 

Date of Agreement:

 

Details of Associated Vessels:

 

Continued

This document is a computer generated SHIPMAN 2009 form printed by authority of BIMCO. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the pre-printed text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original BIMCO approved document shall apply. BIMCO assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage or expense as a result of discrepancies between the original BIMCO approved document and this computer generated document.

 

 

 

 

Copyright, published by BIMCO   Explanatory Notes for SHIPMAN 2009 are available from BIMCO at www.bimco.org  First published 1988. Revised 1998 and 2009   Approved by the International Ship Managers’ Association  

 

Printed by BIMCO's idea

 

 

ANNEX "E" (FEE SCHEDULE)

TO THE BIMCO STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT
CODE NAME: SHIPMAN 2009

 

Continued

This document is a computer generated SHIPMAN 2009 form printed by authority of BIMCO. Any insertion or deletion to the form must be clearly visible. In the event of any modification made to the pre-printed text of this document which is not clearly visible, the text of the original BIMCO approved document shall apply. BIMCO assumes no responsibility for any loss, damage or expense as a result of discrepancies between the original BIMCO approved document and this computer generated document.

 

 

 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

 

SECTION 1 – Basis of the Agreement

 

1. Definitions

1
   
In this Agreement save where the context otherwise requires, the following words and expressions shall have 2
the meanings hereby assigned to them: 3
   
"Company" (with reference to the ISM Code and the ISPS Code) means the organization identified in Box 5 4
or any replacement organization appointed by the Owners from time to time (see Sub- clauses 9(b)(i) or 9(c) 5
(ii) , whichever is applicable). 6
   
"Crew" means the Master, and the officers as provided by the Owner to the Vessel at any time and ratings personnel of the numbers, 7
rank and nationality as per the Manager's at any time current crewing procedures and manuals specified in Annex "B" hereto .  
   
"Crew Insurances" means insurance of liabilities in respect of crew risks which shall include but not be limited 8
to death, permanent disability, sickness, injury, repatriation, shipwreck unemployment indemnity and loss 9
of personal effects (see Sub- clause 5(b) (Crew Insurances) and Clause 7 (Insurance Arrangements) and 10
Clause 10 (Insurance Policies) and Boxes 10 and 11 ). 11
   
"Crew Support Costs" means all expenses of a general nature which are not particularly referable to any 12
individual vessel for the time being managed by the Managers and which are incurred by the Managers for the 13
purpose of providing an efficient and economic management service and, without prejudice to the generality 14
of the foregoing, shall include the cost of crew standby pay, training schemes for officers and ratings, cadet 15
training schemes, sick pay, study pay, recruitment and interviews. 16
   
“Flag State" means the State whose flag the Vessel is flying. 17
   
"ISM Code" means the International Management Code for the Safe Operation of Ships and for Pollution 18
Prevention and any amendment thereto or substitution therefor. 19
   
"ISPS Code" means the International Code for the Security of Ships and Port Facilities and the relevant 20
amendments to Chapter XI of SOLAS and any amendment thereto or substitution therefor. 21
   
"Managers" means the party identified in Box 4 . 22
   
"Management Services" means the services specified in SECTION 2 - Services ( Clauses 4 through 7 ) as 23
indicated affirmatively in Boxes 6 through 8 , 10 and 11 , and all other functions performed by the Managers 24
under the terms of this Agreement. 25
   
"Owners" means the party identified in Box 3 . 26
   
"Severance Costs" means the costs which are legally required to be paid to the Crew as a result of the early 27
termination of any contracts for service on the Vessel. 28
   
"SMS" means the Safety Management System (as defined by the ISM Code). 29
   
"STCW 95" means the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping 30
for Seafarers, 1978, as amended in 1995 and any amendment thereto or substitution therefor. 31
   
"Vessel” means the vessel or vessels details of which are set out in Annex "A" attached hereto. 32
   
2. Commencement and Appointment 33
   
With effect from the date stated in Box 2 for the commencement of the Management Services and continuing 34
unless and until terminated as provided herein, the Owners hereby appoint the Managers and the Managers 35
hereby agree to act as the Managers of the Vessel in respect of the Management Services. 36
   
3. Authority of the Managers 37
   
Subject to the terms and conditions herein provided, during the period of this Agreement the Managers shall 38
carry out the Management Services in respect of the Vessel as agents for and on behalf of the Owners. The 39
Managers shall have authority to take such actions as they may from time to time in their absolute discretion 40
consider to be necessary to enable them to perform the Management Services in accordance with sound 41
ship management practice, including but not limited to compliance with all relevant rules and regulations. 42

 

  1  
 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

  

SECTION 2 – Services

 

4. Technical Management 43
   
  (only applicable if agreed according to Box 6 ). 44
  The Managers shall provide technical management which includes, but is not limited to, the following 45
  services: 46
       
  (a) ensuring that the Vessel complies with the requirements of the law of the Flag State; 47
       
  (b) ensuring compliance with the ISM Code; 48
       
  (c) ensuring compliance with the ISPS Code; 49
       
  (d) providing competent personnel to supervise the maintenance and general efficiency of the Vessel; 50
       
  (e) arranging and supervising dry dockings, repairs, alterations and the maintenance of the Vessel to the 51
  standards agreed with the Owners provide that the Managers shall be entitled to incur the necessary 52
  expenditure to ensure that the Vessel will comply with all requirements and recommendations of the 53
  classification society, and with the law of the Flag State and of the places where the Vessel is required to 54
  trade;   55
       
  (f) arranging the supply of necessary stores, spares and lubricating oil; 56
       
  (g) appointing surveyers and technical consultants as the Managers may consider form time to time to be 57
  necessary; 58
       
  (h) in accordance with the Owners’ instructions, supervising the sale and physical delivery of the Vessel 59
  under the sale agreement.  However services under this Sub-clause 4(h) shall not include negotiation of the 60
  sale agreement or transfer of ownership of the Vessel; 61
       
  (i) arranging for the supply of provisions unless provided by the Owners; and 62
       
  (j) arranging for the sampling and testing of bunkers. 63
       
5. Crew Management and Crew Insurances 64
   
  (a) Crew Management 65
  (only applicable if agreed according to Box 7 ) 66
  The Managers Owner shall provide suitably qualified Crew who shall comply with the requirements of STCW 95 and the 67
  requirements from of the Manager. When on board the Vessel the Crew shall be under the instruction of the Manager for the purposes of the ISM Code.  
     
  The provision of such crew management services includes, but is not limited to, the following services: 68
       
  (i) selecting, engaging and providing for the administration of the Crew, including, as applicable, payroll 69
    arrangements, pension arrangements, tax, social security contributions and other mandatory dues related 70
    to their employment payable in each Crew member’s country of domicile; 71
       
  (ii) ensuring that the applicable requirements of the law of the Flag State in respect of rank, qualification 72
    and certification of the Crew and employment regulations, such as Crew’s tax and social insurances, are 73
    satisfied; 74
       
  (iii) ensuring that all Crew have passed a medical examination with a qualified doctor certifying that they are 75
    fit for the duties for which they are engaged and are in possession of valid medical certificates issued in 76
    accordance with appropriate Flag State requirements or such higher standard of medical examination 77
    as may be agreed with the Owners. In the absence of applicable Flag State requirements the medical 78
    certificate shall be valid at the time when the respective Crew member arrives on board the Vessel and 79
    shall be maintained for the duration of the service on board the Vessel; 80
       
  (iv) ensuring that the Crew shall have a common working language and a command of the English language 81
    of a sufficient standard to enable them to perform their duties safely; 82
       
  (v) arranging transportation of the Crew, including repatriation; 83

 

  2  
 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

 

  (vi) training of the Crew; 84
       
   (vii) conducting union negotiations; and 85
       
  (viii) if the Managers are the Company, ensuring that the Crew, on joining the Vessel, are given proper 86
    familiarisation with their duties in relation to the Vessel’s SMS and that instructions which are essential 87
    to the SMS are identified, documented and given to the Crew prior to calling. 88
       
  (ix) if the Managers are not the Company: 89
         
    (1) ensuring that the Crew, before joining the Vessel, are given proper familiarisation with their duties 90
      in relation to the ISM Code; and 91
         
    (2) instructing the Crew to obey all reasonable orders of the Company in connection with the operation 92
      of the SMS. 93
       
  (x) Where Managers are not providing technical management services in accordance with Clause 4 94
    (Technical Management): 95
       
  (1) ensuring that no person connected to the provision and the performance of the crew management 96
    services shall proceed to sea on board the Vessel without the prior consent of the Owners (such consent) 97
    not to be unreasonably withheld); and 98
       
  (2) ensuring that in the event that the Owners’ drug and alcohol policy requires measures to be taken 99
    prior to the Crew joining the Vessel, implementing such measures; 100
         
  (b) Crew Insurances 101
  (only applicable if Sub-clause 5(a) applies and if agreed according to Box 10) 102
  The Managers shall throughout the period of this Agreement provide the following services: 103
         
  (i) arranging Crew Insurances in accordance with the best practice of prudent managers of vessels of a 104
    similar type to the Vessel, with sound and reputable insurance companies, underwriters or associations. 105
    insurance for any other persons proceeding to sea onboard the Vessel may be separately agreed by 106
    the Owners and the Managers (see Box 10); 107
       
  (ii) ensuring that the Owners are aware of the terms, conditions, exceptions and limits of liability of the 108
    insurances in Sub-clause 5(b)(i); 109
       
  (iii) ensuring that all premiums or calls in respect of the insurances in Sub-clause 5(b)(i) are paid by their 110
    due date; 111
       
  (iv) if obtainable at no additional cost, ensuring that insurance in Sub-clause 5(b)(i) name the Owners as 112
    a joint assured with full cover and, unless otherwise agreed, on terms such that Owners shall be under 113
    no liability in respect of premiums or calls arising in connection with such insurances. 114
       
  (v) providing written evidence, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Owners, of the Managers’ compliance with 115
    their obligations under Sub-clauses 5(b)(ii), and 5(b)(iii) within a reasonable time of the commencement 116
    of this Agreement, and of each renewal date and, if specifically requested, of each payment date of the 117
    insurances in Sub-clause 5(b)(i). 118
       
6. Commercial Management 119
   
  (only applicable if agreed according to Box 8). 120
  The Managers shall provide the following services for the Vessel in accordance with the Owners' instructions, 121
  which shall include but not be limited to: 122
     
  (a) seeking and negotiating employment for the Vessel and the conclusion (including the execution thereof) 123
  of charter parties or other contracts relating to the employment of the Vessel.  If such a contract exceeds the 124
  period states in Box 9, consent thereto in writing shall first be obtained from the Owners; 125
     
  (b) arranging for the provision of bunker fuels of the quality specified by the Owners as required for the 126
  Vessel’s trade; 127
     
  (c) voyage estimating and accounting and calculation of hire, freights, demurrage and/or despatch monies 128
  due from or due to the charterers of the Vessel; assisting in the collection of any sums due to the Owners 129

 

  3  
 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

 

  related to the commercial operation of the Vessel in accordance with Clause 11 (Income Collected and 130
     
  Expenses Paid on Behalf of Owners); 131
     
  If any of the services under Sub-clauses 6(a), 6(b) and 6(c) are to be excluded from the Management Fee, remuneration 132
  for these services must be stated in Annex E (Fee Schedule). See Sub-clause 12(e). 133
       
  (d) issuing voyage instructions; 134
       
  (e) appointing agents; 135
       
  (f) appointing stevedores; and 136
       
  (g) arranging surveys associated with the commercial operation of the Vessel. 137
       
7. Insurance Arrangements 138
   
  (only applicable if agreed according to Box 11 ) . 139
  The Managers shall arrange insurances in accordance with Clause 10 (Insurance Policies), on such terms as 140
  the Owners shall have instructed or agreed, in particular regarding conditions, insured values, deductibles, 141
  franchises and limits of liability. 142

 

  4  
 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

 

SECTION 3 – Obligations

 

8. Managers' Obligations 143
   
  (a) The Managers undertake to use their best endeavours to provide the Management Services as agents 144
  for and on behalf of the Owners in accordance with sound ship management practice and to protect and 145
  promote the interests of the Owners in all matters relating to the provision of services hereunder. 146
     
  Provided however, that in the performance of their management responsibilities under this Agreement, the 147
  Managers shall be entitled to have regard to their overall responsibility in relation to all vessels as may from 148
  time to time be entrusted to their management and in particular, but without prejudice to the generality of 149
  the foregoing, the Managers shall be entitled to allocate available supplies, manpower and services in such 150
  manner as in the prevailing circumstances the Managers in their absolute discretion consider to be fair and 151
  reasonable. 152
     
  (b) Where the Managers are providing technical management services in accordance with Clause 4 (Technical 153
  Management), they shall procure that the requirements of the Flag State are satisfied and they shall agree 154
  to be appointed as the Company, assuming the responsibility for the operation of the Vessel and taking over 155
  the duties and responsibilities imposed by the ISM Code and the ISPS Code, if applicable. 156
       
9. Owners' Obligations 157
   
  (a) The Owners shall pay all sums due to the Managers punctually in accordance with the terms of this 158
  Agreement. In the event of payment after the due date of any outstanding sums the Manager shall be entitled 159
  to charge interest at the rate stated in Box 13 . 160
     
  (b) Where the Managers are providing technical management services in accordance with Clause 4 (Technical 161
  Management), the Owners shall: 162
       
  (i) report (or where the Owners are not the registered owners of the Vessel procure that the registered 163
    owners report) to the Flag State administration the details of the Managers as the Company as required 164
    to comply with the ISM and ISPS Codes; 165
       
  (ii) procure that any officers and ratings supplied by them or on their behalf comply with the requirements 166
    of STCW 95; and 167
       
  (iii) instruct such officers and ratings to obey all reasonable orders of the Managers (in their capacity as the 168
    Company) in connection with the operation of the Managers’ safety management system. 169
       
  (c) Where the Managers are not providing technical management services in accordance with Clause 4 170
  (Technical Management), the Owners shall:  
       
  (i) procure that the requirements of the Flag State are satisfied and notify the Managers upon execution of 172
    this Agreement of the name and contact details of the organization that will be the Company by completing 173
    Box 5 ; 174
       
  (ii) if the Company changes at any time during this Agreement, notify the Managers in a timely manner of 175
    the name and contact details of the new organization; 176
       
  (iii) procure that the details of the Company, including any change thereof, are reported to the Flag State 177
    administration as required to comply with the ISM and ISPS Codes. The Owners shall advise the Managers 178
    in a timely manner when the Flag State administration has approved the Company; and 179
       
  (iv) unless otherwise agreed, arrange for the supply of provisions at their own expense. 180
       
  (d) Where the Managers are providing crew management services in accordance with Sub-clause 5(a) the 181
  Owners shall: 182
       
  (i) inform the Managers prior to ordering the Vessel to any excluded or additional premium area under 183
    any of the Owners’ Insurance by reason of war risks and/or piracy or like perils and pay whatever 184
    additional costs may property be incurred by the Managers as a consequence of such orders including, 185
    if necessary, the costs of replacing any member of the Crew.  Any delays resulting from negotiation 186
    with or replacement of any member of the Crew as a result of the Vessel being ordered to such an area 187

 

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    shall be for the Owners’ account.  Should the Vessel be within an area which becomes an excluded or 188
    additional premium area the above provisions relating to cost and delay shall apply; 189
       
  (ii) agree with the Managers prior to any change of flag of the Vessel and pay whatever additional costs 190
    may properly be incurred by the Managers as a consequence of such change.  If agreement cannot be 191
    reached then either party may terminate this Agreement in accordance with Sub-clause 22(e); and 192
       
  (iii) provide, at no cost to the Managers, in accordance with the requirements of the law of the Flag State, 193
    or higher standard, as mutually agreed, adequate Crew accommodation and living standards. 194
       
  (e) Where the Managers are not the Company, the Owners shall ensure that Crew are property familiarised 195
  with their duties in accordance with the Vessel’s SMS and that instructions which are essential to the SMS 196
  are identified, documented and given to the Crew prior to sailing. 197

 

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SECTION 4 – Insurance, Budgets, Income, Expenses and Fees

 

10. Insurance Policies 198
   
  The Owners shall procure, whether by instructing the Managers under Clause 7 (Insurance Arrangements) 199
  or otherwise, that throughout the period of this Agreement: 200
     
  (a) at the Owners' expense, the Vessel is insured for not less than its sound market value or entered for its 201
  full gross tonnage, as the case may be for: 202
     
  (i) hull and machinery marine risks (including but not limited to crew negligence) and excess liabilities; 203
     
  (ii) protection and indemnity risks (including but not limited to pollution risks, diversion expenses and, 204
  except to the extent insured separately by the Managers in accordance with Sub- clause 5(b)(i) , Crew 205
  Insurances); 206
     
  NOTE: If the Managers are not providing crew management services under Sub- clause 5(a) (Crew 207
  Management) or have agreed not to provide Crew Insurances separately in accordance with Sub-clause 208
  5(b)(i) , then such insurances must be included in the protection and indemnity risks cover for the Vessel (see 209
  Sub- clause 10(a)(ii) above). 210
     
  (iii) war risks (including but not limited to blocking and trapping, protection and indemnity, terrorism and crew 211
    risks); and 212
       
  (iv) such optional insurances as may be agreed (such as piracy, kidnap and ransom, loss of hire and 213
    FD & D) (see Box 12 ) 214
     
  Sub- clauses 10(a)(i) through 10(a)(iv) all in accordance with the best practice of prudent owners of vessels 215
  of a similar type to the Vessel, with sound and reputable insurance companies, underwriters or associations 216
  ("the Owners' Insurances"); 217
     
  (b) all premiums and calls on the Owners' Insurances are paid by their due date; 218
  (c) the Owners' Insurances name the Managers and, subject to underwriters' agreement, any third party 219
  designated by the Managers as a joint assured, with full cover. It is understood that in some cases, such as 220
  protection and indemnity, the normal terms for such cover may impose on the Managers and any such third 221
  party a liability in respect of premiums or calls arising in connection with the Owners' Insurances. 222
     
  If obtainable at no additional cost, however, the Owners shall procure such insurances on terms such that 223
  neither the Managers nor any such third party shall be under any liability in respect of premiums or calls arising 224
  in connection with the Owners' Insurances. In any event, on termination of this Agreement in accordance 225
  with Clause 21   (Duration of the Agreement) and Clause 22 (Termination), the Owners shall procure that the 226
  Managers and any third party designated by the Managers as joint assured shall cease to be joint assured 227
  and, if reasonably achievable, that they shall be released from any and all liability for premiums and calls 228
  that may arise in relation to the period of this Agreement; and 229
     
  (d) written evidence is provided, to the reasonable satisfaction of the Managers, of the Owners' compliance 230
  with their obligations under this Clause 10 within a reasonable time of the commencement of the Agreement, 231
  and of each renewal date and, if specifically requested, of each payment date of the Owners' Insurances. 232
     
11. Income Collected and Expenses Paid on Behalf of Owners 233
   
  (a) Except as provided in Sub- clause 11(c) all monies collected by the Managers under the terms of this 234
  Agreement (other than monies payable by the Owners to the Managers) and any interest thereon shall be 235
  held to the credit of the Owners in a separate bank account. 236
     
  (b) All expenses incurred by the Managers under the terms of this Agreement on behalf of the Owners 237
  (including expenses as provided in Clause 12(c) ) may be debited against the Owners in the account referred to 238
  under Sub- clause 11(a) but shall in any event remain payable by the Owners to the Managers on demand. 239
     
  (c) All monies collected by the Managers under Clause 6 (Commercial Management) shall be paid into a 240
  bank account in the name of the Owners or as may be otherwise advised by the Owners in writing. 241
   
12. Management Fee and Expenses 242

 

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  (a) The Owners shall pay to the Managers an annual management fee as stated in Box 14 for their services 243
  as Managers under this Agreement, which shall be payable in equal monthly instalments in advance, the first 244
  instalment (pro rata if appropriate) being payable on the commencement of this Agreement (see Clause 2 245
  (Commencement and Appointment) and Box 2 ) and subsequent instalments being payable at the beginning 246
  of every calendar month. The management fee shall be payable to the Managers' nominated account stated 247
  in Box 15 . 248
     
  (b) The management fee shall be subject to an annual review and the proposed fee shall be presented in 249
  the annual budget in accordance with Sub- clause 13 (a). 250
     
  (c) The Managers shall, at no extra cost to the Owners, provide their own office accommodation, office staff, 251
  facilities and stationery. Without limiting the generality of this Clause 12 (Management Fee and Expenses) the 252
  Owners shall reimburse the Managers for postage and communication expenses, travelling expenses, and 253
  other out of pocket expenses properly incurred by the Managers in pursuance of the Management Services. 254
  Any days used by the Managers' personnel travelling to or from or attending on the Vessel or otherwise used 255
  in connection with the Management Services in excess of those agreed in the budget shall be charged at 256
  the daily rate stated in Box 16. 257
     
  (d) If the Owners decide to layup the Vessel and such layup lasts for more than the number of months 258
  stated in Box 17 , an appropriate reduction of the Management Fee for the period exceeding such period 259
  until one month before the Vessel is again put into service shall be mutually agreed between the parties. If 260
  the Managers are providing crew management services in accordance with Sub-clause 5(a), consequential 261
  costs of reduction and reinstatement of the Crew shall be for the Owners' account. If agreement cannot be 262
  reached then either party may terminate this Agreement in accordance with Sub- clause 22(e) . 263
     
  (e) Save as otherwise provided in this Agreement, all discounts and commissions obtained by the Managers 264
  in the course of the performance of the Management Services shall be credited to the Owners. 265
     
13. Budgets and Management of Funds 266
   
  (a) The Managers' initial budget is set out in Annex "C" hereto. Subsequent budgets shall be for the following 267
  calendar year twelve  
  month periods and shall be prepared by the Managers and presented to the Owners not less than three 268
  months before commencement of the budget year the end of the budget year . 269
     
  (b) The Owners shall state to the Managers in a timely manner, but in any event within one month of 270
  presentation, whether or not they agree to each proposed annual budget. The parties shall negotiate in good 271
  faith and if they fail to agree on the annual budget, including the management fee, either party may terminate 272
  this Agreement in accordance with Sub- clause 22(e) . 273
     
  (c) Following the agreement of the budget, the Managers shall prepare and present to the Owners their 274
  estimate of the working capital requirement for the Vessel and shall each month request the Owners in writing 275
  to pay the funds required to run the Vessel for the ensuing month, including the payment of any occasional or 276
  extraordinary item of expenditure, such as emergency repair costs, additional insurance premiums, bunkers 277
  or provisions. Such funds shall be received by the Managers within ten running days after the receipt by the 278
  Owners of the Managers' written request and shall be held to the credit of the Owners in a separate bank 279
  account. 280
     
  (d) The Managers shall at all times maintain and keep true and correct accounts in respect of the Management 281
  Services in accordance with the relevant International Financial Reporting Standards or such other standard 282
  as the parties may agree, including records of all costs and expenditure incurred, and produce a comparison 283
  between budgeted and actual income and expenditure of the Vessel in such form and at such intervals as 284
  shall be mutually agreed. 285
     
  The Managers shall make such accounts available for inspection and auditing by the Owners and/or their 286
  representatives in the Managers' offices or by electronic means, provided reasonable notice is given by the 287
  Owners. 288
     
  (e) Notwithstanding anything contained herein, the Managers shall in no circumstances be required to use 289
  or commit their own funds to finance the provision of the Management Services. 290

 

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SECTION 5 – Legal, General and Duration of Agreement

 

14. Trading Restrictions 291
  If the Managers are providing crew management services accordance with Sub-clause 5(a) (Crew 292
  Management), the Owners and the Managers will, prior to the commencement of this Agreement, agree on any 293
  trading restrictions to the Vessel that may result from the terms and conditions of the Crew's employment. 294
     
15. Replacement 295
   
  If the Managers are providing crew management services in accordance with Sub-clause 5(a) (Crew 296
  Management), the Owners may require the replacement, at their own expense, at the next reasonable 297
  opportunity, of any member of the Crew found on reasonable grounds to be unsuitable for service. If the 298
  Managers have failed to fulfil their obligations in providing suitable qualified Crew within the meaning of Sub- 299
  clause 5(a) (Crew Management), then such replacement shall be at the Managers' expense. 300
     
16. Managers' Right to Sub-Contract 301
   
  The Managers shall not subcontract any of their obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of 302
  the Owners which shall not be unreasonably withheld.  In the event of such a sub-contract the Managers 303
  shall remain fully liable for the due performance of their obligations under this Agreement. 304
     
17. Responsibilities 305
   
  (a ) Force Majeure  
      306
  Neither party shall be liable for any loss, damage or delay due to any of the following force majeure events 307
  and/or conditions to the extent that the party invoking force majeure is prevented or hindered from 308
  performing any or all of their obligations under this Agreement, provided they have made all 309
  reasonable efforts to avoid, minimize or prevent the effect of such events and/or conditions: 310
       
  (i) acts of God; 311
       
  (ii) any Government requisition, control, intervention, requirement or interference; 312
       
  (iii) any circumstances arising out of war, threatened act of war or warlike operations, acts of terrorism, 313
    sabotage or piracy, or the consequences thereof; 314
       
  (iv) riots, civil commotion, blockades or embargoes; 315
       
  (v) epidemics; 316
       
  (vi) earthquakes, landslides, floods or other extraordinary weather conditions; 317
       
  (vii) strikes, lockouts or other industrial action, unless limited to the employees (which shall not include the 318
    Crew) of the party seeking to invoke force majeure; 319
       
  (viii) fire, accident, explosion except where caused by negligence of the party seeking to invoke force majeure; 320
    and 321
       
  (ix) any other similar cause beyond the reasonable control of either party. 322
       
  (b) Liability to Owners 323
       
  (i) Without prejudice to Sub- clause 17(a) , the Managers shall be under no liability whatsoever to the Owners 324
    for any loss, damage, delay or expense of whatsoever nature, whether direct or indirect, (including but 325
    not limited to loss of profit arising out of or in connection with detention of or delay to the Vessel) and 326
    howsoever arising in the course of performance of the Management Services UNLESS same is proved 327
    to have resulted solely from the negligence, gross negligence or wilful default of the Managers or their 328
    employees or agents, or sub-contractors employed by them in connection with the Vessel, in which case 329
    (save where loss, damage, delay or expense has resulted from the Managers' personal act or omission 330
    committed with the intent to cause same or recklessly and with knowledge that such loss, damage, 331
    delay or expense would probably result) the Managers' liability for each incident or series of incidents 332
    giving rise to a claim or claims shall never exceed a total of ten (10) times the annual management fee 333
    payable hereunder. 334
       
  (ii) Acts or omissions of the Crew - Notwithstanding anything that may appear to the contrary in this 335

 

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  Agreement, the Managers shall not be liable for any acts or omissions of the Crew, even if such acts 336
  or omissions are negligent, grossly negligent or wilful, except only to the extent that they are shown to 337
  have resulted from a failure by the Managers to discharge their obligations under Clause 5(a) (Crew 338
  Management), in which case their liability shall be limited in accordance with the terms of this Clause 339
  17 (Responsibilities). 340
     
  (c) Indemnity 341
     
  Except to the extent and solely for the amount therein set out that the Managers would be liable under 342
  Sub- clause 17(b) , the Owners hereby undertake to keep the Managers and their employees, 343
  agents and sub-contractors indemnified and to hold them harmless against all actions, proceedings, claims, 344
  demands or liabilities whatsoever or howsoever arising which may be brought against them or incurred or 345
  suffered by them arising out of or in connection with the performance of this Agreement, and against and in 346
  respect of all costs, loss, damages and expenses (including legal costs and expenses on a full indemnity 347
  basis) which the Managers may suffer or incur (either directly or indirectly) in the course of the performance 348
  of this Agreement. 349
     
  (d) “Himalaya" 350
     
  It is hereby expressly agreed that no employee or agent of the Managers (including every 351
  sub-contractor from time to time employed by the Managers) shall in any circumstances whatsoever be 352
  under any liability whatsoever to the Owners for any loss, damage or delay of whatsoever kind arising or 353
  resulting directly or indirectly from any act, neglect or default on his part while acting in the course of or in 354
  connection with his employment and, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing provisions in this 355
  Clause 17 (Responsibilities), every exemption, limitation, condition and liberty herein contained and every 356
  right, exemption from liability, defence and immunity of whatsoever nature applicable to the Managers or to 357
  which the Managers are entitled hereunder shall also be available and shall extend to protect every such 358
  employee or agent of the Managers acting as aforesaid and for the purpose of all the foregoing provisions 359
  of this Clause 17 (Responsibilities) the Managers are or shall be deemed to be acting as agent or trustee 360
  on behalf of and for the benefit of all persons who are or might be their servants or agents from time to time 361
  (including sub-contractors as aforesaid) and all such persons shall to this extent be or be deemed to be 362
  parties to this Agreement. 363
     
18. General Administration 364
     
  (a) The Managers shall keep the Owners and, if appropriate, the Company informed in a timely manner of 365
  any incident of which the Managers become aware which gives or may give rise to delay to the Vessel or 366
  claims or disputes involving third parties. 367
     
  (b) The Managers shall handle and settle all claims and disputes arising out of the Management Services 368
  hereunder, unless the Owners instruct the Managers otherwise. The Managers shall keep the Owners 369
  appropriately informed in a timely manner throughout the handling of such claims and disputes. 370
     
  (c) The Owners may request the Managers to bring or defend other actions, suits or proceedings related 371
  to the Management Services, on terms to be agreed. 372
     
  (d) The Managers shall have power to obtain appropriate legal or technical or other outside expert advice in 373
  relation to the handling and settlement of claims in relation to Sub- clauses 18(a) and 18(b) and disputes and 374
  any other matters affecting the interests of the Owners in respect of the Vessel, unless the Owners instruct 375
  the Managers otherwise. 376
     
  (e) On giving reasonable notice, the Owners may request, and the Managers shall in a timely manner make 377
  available, all documentation, information and records in respect of the matters covered by this Agreement 378
  either related to mandatory rules or regulations or other obligations applying to the Owners in respect of 379
  the Vessel (including but not limited to STCW 95, the ISM Code and ISPS Code) to the extent permitted by 380
  relevant legislation. 381
     
  On giving reasonable notice, the Managers may request, and the Owners shall in a timely manner make 382
  available, all documentation, information and records reasonably required by the Managers to enable them 383
  to perform the Management Services. 384
     
  (f) The Owners shall arrange for the provision of any necessary guarantee bond or other security. 385

 

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  (g) Any costs incurred by the Managers in carrying out their obligations according to this Clause 18 (General Administration) shall be 386
  reimbursed by the Owners. 387
  (h) the Managers shall, as instructed by Owners, provide Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in the  
  Agreed format (see Annex E). These KPIs to be provided to the Owners by the 10 th of each month. The format  
  is to be reviewed annually or as necessary.  
     
19. Inspection of Vessel 388
   
  The Owners may at any time after giving reasonable notice to the Managers inspect the Vessel for any reason 389
  they consider necessary. 390
     
20. Compliance with Laws and Regulations 391
   
  The parties will not do or permit to be done anything which might cause any breach or infringement of the 392
  laws and regulations of the Flag State, or of the places where the Vessel trades. 393
     
21. Duration of the Agreement 394
   
  (a) This Agreement shall come into effect at the date stated in Box 2 and shall continue until terminated by 395
  either party by giving notice to the other; in which event this Agreement shall terminate upon the expiration 396
  of the later of the number of months stated in Box 18 or a period of thirty (30) days or as otherwise agreed two (2) 397
  months from the date on which  
  such notice is received, unless terminated earlier in accordance with Clause 22 (Termination). 398
       
  (b) Where the Vessel is not at a mutually convenient port or place on the expiry of such period, this Agreement 399
  shall terminate on the subsequent arrival of the Vessel at the next mutually convenient port or place. 400
     
22. Termination 401
   
  (a) Owners' or Managers' default 402
       
  If either party fails to meet their obligations under this Agreement, the other party may give notice to the 403
  party in default requiring them to remedy it. In the event that the party in default fails to remedy it within a 404
  reasonable time to the reasonable satisfaction of the other party, that party shall be entitled to terminate this 405
  Agreement with immediate effect by giving notice to the party in default. 406
       
  (b ) Notwithstanding Sub-clause 22(a) : 407
       
  (i) The Managers shall be entitled to terminate the Agreement with immediate effect by giving notice to the 408
    Owners if any monies payable by the Owners under this Agreement and/or the owners of any associated vessel, 409
    details of  
    which are listed in Annex "D" , shall not have been received in the Managers' nominated account within 410
    ten days (10) of receipt by the Owners of the Managers' written request, or if the Vessel is repossessed by 411
    the Mortgagee(s). 412
       
  (ii) If the Owners proceed with the employment of or continue to employ the Vessel in the carriage of 413
    contraband, blockade running, or in an unlawful trade, or on a voyage which in the reasonable opinion 414
    of the Managers is unduly hazardous or improper, the Managers may give notice of the default to the 415
    Owners, requiring them to remedy it as soon as practically possible. In the event that the Owners fail to 416
    remedy it within a reasonable time to the satisfaction of the Managers, the Managers shall be entitled 417
    to terminate the Agreement with immediate effect by notice. 418
       
  (iii) If either party fails to meet their respective obligations under Sub- clause 5(b) (Crew Insurances) and 419
    Clause 10 (Insurance Policies), the other party may give notice to the party in default requiring them to 420
    remedy it within ten (10) days, failing which the other party may terminate this Agreement with immediate 421
    effect by giving notice to the party in default. 422
       
  (c) Extraordinary Termination 423
     
  This Agreement shall be deemed to be terminated in the case of the sale of the Vessel or, if the Vessel 424
  becomes a total loss or is declared as a constructive or compromised or arranged total loss or is requisitioned 425
  or has been declared missing or, if bareboat chartered, unless otherwise agreed, when the bareboat charter 426
  comes to an end. 427
     
  (d) For the purpose of Sub- clause 22(c) hereof : 428
       
  (i) the date upon which the Vessel is to be treated as having been sold or otherwise disposed of shall be 429
    the date on which the Vessel's owners cease to be the registered owners of the Vessel; 430
       
  (ii) the Vessel shall be deemed to be lost either when it has become an actual total loss or agreement has 431

 

 

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    been reached with the Vessel's underwriters in respect of its constructive total loss or if such agreement 432
    with the Vessel's underwriters is not reached it is adjudged by a competent tribunal that a constructive 433
    loss of the Vessel has occurred; and 434
       
  (iii) the date upon which the Vessel is to be treated as declared missing shall be ten (10) days after the Vessel 435
    was last reported or when the Vessel is recorded as missing by the Vessel's underwriters, whichever 436
    occurs first. A missing vessel shall be deemed lost in accordance with the provisions of Sub- clause 22(d) 437
    (ii) 438
       
  (e) In the event the parties fail to agree the annual budget in accordance with Sub- clause 13(b) or to agree 439
  a change of flag in accordance with Sub- clause 9(d)(ii) or to agree to a reduction in the Mangement Fee in 440
  accordance with Sub- clause 12(d) , either party may terminate this Agreement by giving the other party not 441
  less than one month's notice, the result of which will be the expiry of the Agreement at the end of the current 442
  budget period or on expiry of the notice period, whichever is the later. 443
     
  (f) This Agreement shall terminate forthwith in the event of an order being made or resolution passed 444
  for the winding up, dissolution, liquidation or bankruptcy of either party (otherwise than for the purpose of 445
  reconstruction or amalgamation) or if a receiver or administrator is appointed, or if it suspends payment, 446
  ceases to carry on business or makes any special arrangement or composition with its creditors. 447
     
  (g) In the event of the termination of this Agreement for any reason other than default by the Managers the 448
  management fee payable to the Managers according to the provisions of Clause 12 (Management Fee and 449
  Expenses), shall continue to be payable for a further period of the number of months stated in Box 19 as 450
  from the effective date of termination. If Box 19 is left blank then ninety (90) days shall apply. 451
     
  (h) In addition, where the Managers provide Crew for the Vessel in accordance with Clause 5(a) (Crew 452
  Management): 453
     
  (i) the Owners shall continue to pay Crew Support Costs during the said further period of the number of 454
  months stated in Box 19; and 455
     
  (ii) the Owners shall pay an equitable proportion of any Severance Costs which may be incurred, not 456
  exceeding the amount stated in Box 20. The Managers shall use their reasonable endeavours to minimise 457
  such Severance Costs. 458
     
  (i) On the termination, for whatever reason, of this Agreement, the Managers shall release to the Owners, 459
  if so requested, the originals where possible, or otherwise certified copies, of all accounts and all documents 460
  specifically relating to the Vessel and its operation. 461
     
  (j) The termination of this Agreement shall be without prejudice to all rights accrued due between the parties 462
  prior to the date of termination. 463
     
23. BIMCO Dispute Resolution Clause 464
   
  (a) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law and any dispute 465
  arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be referred to arbitration in London in accordance with 466
  the Arbitration Act 1996 or any statutory 467
  modification or re-enactment thereof save to the extent necessary to give effect to the provisions of this Clause. 468
     
  The arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the London Maritime Arbitrators Association (LMAA) 469
  Terms current at the time when the arbitration proceedings are commenced. 470
     
  The reference shall be to three arbitrators. A party wishing to refer a dispute to arbitration shall appoint its 471
  arbitrator and send notice of such appointment in writing to the other party requiring the other party to appoint 472
  its own arbitrator within 14 calendar days of that notice and stating that it will appoint its arbitrator as sole 473
  arbitrator unless the other party appoints its own arbitrator and gives notice that it has done so within the 474
  14 days specified. If the other party does not appoint its own arbitrator and give notice that it has done so 475
  within the 14 days specified, the party referring a dispute to arbitration may, without the requirement of any 476
  further prior notice to the other party, appoint its arbitrator as sole arbitrator and shall advise the other party 477
  accordingly. The award of a sole arbitrator shall be binding on both parties as if he had been appointed by 478
  agreement. 479
     
  Nothing herein shall prevent the parties agreeing in writing to vary these provisions to provide for the 480

 

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  appointment of a sole arbitrator. 481
     
  In cases where neither the claim nor any counterclaim exceeds the sum of USD50,000 (or such other sum 482
  as the parties may agree) the arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the LMAA Small Claims 483
  Procedure current at the time when the arbitration proceedings are commenced. 484
     
  (b) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Title 9 of the United States Code 485
  and the Maritime Law of the United States and any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement 486
  shall be referred to three persons at New York, one to be appointed by each of the parties hereto, and the 487
  third by the two so chosen, their decision or that of any two of them shall be final, and for the purposes of 488
  enforcing any award, judgment may be entered on an award by any court of competent jurisdiction.  The 489
  proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with the rules of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. 490
     
  In cases where neither the claim nor any counterclaim exceeds the sum of USD50,000 (or such other sum 491
  as the parties may agree) the arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the Shortened Arbitration 492
  Procedure of the Society of Maritime Arbitrators, Inc. current at the time when the arbitration proceedings 493
  are commenced. 494
     
  (c) This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the place mutually 495
  agreed by the parties and any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement shall be referred 496
  to arbitration at a mutually agreed place, subject to the procedures applicable there. 497
     
  (d) Notwithstanding Sub- clauses 23(a) , 23(b) or 23(c) above, the parties may agree at any time to refer to 498
  mediation any difference and/or dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement. 499
       
  (i) In the case of a dispute in respect of which arbitration has been commenced under Sub-clause s 23(a) ; 500
    23(b) or 23(c) above, the following shall apply: 501
       
  (ii) Either party may at any time and from time to time elect to refer the dispute or part of the dispute to 502
    mediation by service on the other party of a written notice (the "Mediation Notice") calling on the other 503
    party to agree to mediation. 504
       
  (iii) The other party shall thereupon within 14 calendar days of receipt of the Mediation Notice confirm that 505
    they agree to mediation, in which case the parties shall thereafter agree a mediator within a further 14 506
    calendar days, failing which on the application of either party a mediator will be appointed promptly by 507
    the Arbitration Tribunal ("the Tribunal") or such person as the Tribunal may designate for that purpose. 508
    The mediation shall be conducted in such place and in accordance with such procedure and on such 509
    terms as the parties may agree or, in the event of disagreement, as may be set by the mediator. 510
       
  (iv) If the other party does not agree to mediate, that fact may be brought to the attention of the Tribunal 511
    and may be taken into account by the Tribunal when allocating the costs of the arbitration as between 512
    the parties. 513
       
  (v) The mediation shall not affect the right of either party to seek such relief or take such steps as it considers 514
    necessary to protect its interest. 515
       
  (vi) Either party may advise the Tribunal that they have agreed to mediation. The arbitration procedure shall 516
    continue during the conduct of the mediation but the Tribunal may take the mediation timetable into 517
    account when setting the timetable for steps in the arbitration. 518
       
  (vii) Unless otherwise agreed or specified in the mediation terms, each party shall bear its own costs incurred 519
    in the mediation and the parties shall share equally the mediator's costs and expenses. 520
       
  (viii) The mediation process shall be without prejudice and confidential and no information or documents 521
    disclosed during it shall be revealed to the Tribunal except to the extent that they are disclosable under 522
    the law and procedure governing the arbitration. 523
       
  (Note: The parties should be aware that the mediation process may not necessarily interrupt time limits.) 524
     
  (e) If Box 21 in Part I is not appropriately filled in, Sub- clause 23(a) of this Clause shall apply. 525
     
  Note: Sub- clauses 23(a) , 23(b) and 23(c) are alternatives; indicate alternative agreed in Box 21 . Sub-clause 526

 

  13  
 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

 

  23(d) shall apply in all cases. 527
   
24. Notices 528
   
  (a) All notices given by either party or their agents to the other party or their agents in accordance with the 529
  provisions of this Agreement shall be in writing and shall, unless specifically provided in this Agreement to 530
  the contrary, be sent to the address for that other party as set out in Boxes 22 and 23 or as appropriate or 531
  to such other address as the other party may designate in writing. 532
     
  A notice may be sent by registered or recorded mail, facsimile, electronically or delivered by hand in accordance 533
  with this Sub- clause 24(a) 534
     
  (b) Any notice given under this Agreement shall take effect on receipt by the other party and shall be deemed 535
  to have been received: 536
       
  (i) if posted, on the seventh (7th) day after posting; 537
       
  (ii) if sent by facsimile or electronically, on the day of transmission; and 538
       
  (iii) if delivered by hand, on the day of delivery. 539
     
  And in each case proof of posting, handing in or transmission shall be proof that notice has been given, 540
  unless proven to the contrary. 541
     
25. Entire Agreement 542
   
  This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and no promise, undertaking, 543
  representation, warranty or statement by either party prior to the date stated in Box 2 shall affect this 544
  Agreement. Any modification of this Agreement shall not be of any effect unless in writing signed by or on 545
  behalf of the parties. 546
     
26. Third Party Rights 547
   
  Except to the extent provided in Sub- clauses 17(c) (Indemnity) and 17(d) (Himalaya), no third parties may 548
  enforce any term of this Agreement. 549
     
27. Partial Validity 550
   
  If any provision of this Agreement is or becomes or is held by any arbitrator or other competent body to be 551
  illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any respect under any law or jurisdiction, the provision shall be deemed 552
  to be amended to the extent necessary to avoid such illegality, invalidity or unenforceability, or, if such 553
  amendment is not possible, the provision shall be deemed to be deleted from this Agreement to the extent 554
  of such illegality, invalidity or unenforceability, and the remaining provisions shall continue in full force and 555
  effect and shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby. 556
     
28. Interpretation 557
   
  In this Agreement: 558
     
  (a) Singular/Plural 559
  The singular includes the plural and vice versa as the context admits or requires. 560
     
  (b) Headings 561
  The index and headings to the clauses and appendices to this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not affect 562
  its construction or interpretation. 563
     
  (c) Day 564
  "Day" means a calendar day unless expressly stated to the contrary. 565

 

29. BIMCO MLC Clause for SHIPMAN 2009:  
  For the purposes of this Clause:  
     
  "MLC” means the International Labour Organisation (ILO) Maritime Labour Convention (MLC 2006) and any amendment thereto or substitution thereof.  
     
  "Shipowner” shall mean the party named as "shipowner" on the Maritime Labour Certificate for the Vessel.  
     
  (a) Subject to Clause 3 (Authority of the Managers), the Managers shall, to the extent of their Management Services, assume the Shipowner's duties and responsibilities imposed by the MLC for the Vessel, on behalf of the Shipowner.  

 

  14  
 

 

PART II

SHIPMAN 2009

Standard ship management agreement

 

  (b)   The Owners shall ensure compliance with the MLC in respect of any crew members supplied by them or on their behalf.  
     
  (c)   The Owners shall procure, whether by instructing the Managers under Clause 7 (Insurance Arrangements) or  
  otherwise, insurance cover or financial security to satisfy the Shipowners financial security obligations under the MLC.  

 

  15  
 

  

ANNEX E TO

 

THE BALTIC AND INTERNATIONAL MARITIME COUNCIL (BIMCO)

 

STANDARD SHIP MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT — CODE NAME: SHIPMAN 2009

 

Date of Agreement:

 

24 March 2015

 

Name of Vessel:

 

Höegh Gallant, IMO No. 9653678, Call Sign: LAUI7

 

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

See Separate Form to use in Appendix 1 “Marine Accidents 2015: Höegh Gallant” to Annex E.

 

 

  1  
 

  

Appendix 1 “Marine Accidents 2015: Independence” to Annex “E”
Shipman 98 dated 23 March 2015

 

Marine Accidents 2015: HÖEGH GALLANT, IMO NO. 9653678

 

 

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct. Nov Dec
N° of Lost Workday Cases (LWC) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Restricted Work Cases (RWC) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Medical Treatment Cases (MTC) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of First Aid Cases (FAC) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Fatalities 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Permanent Total Disability (PTD) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Permanent Partial Disability (PPD) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Near Misses 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Exposure Hours 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00
N° of Lost Time Injuries (LTIs) 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00 0,00

 

Date and place:
Observation title:
Description:
Root Cause
Direct Cause
Consequenses
Immediate Action
Preventive action

 

  1  

Exhibit 4.22

 

INTERCOMPANY AGREEMENT REGARDING SECONDMENT OF EMPLOYEES

 

This intercompany agreement regarding secondment of employees (the “ Agreement ”) is entered into on 31 March 2015, by and between:

 

Höegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd. , a company incorporated and organised under the laws of Singapore with registration no. 201400632E, having its registered office at 4 Robinson Road #05-01 The House of Eden, Singapore 048543 (the “ Contractor ”); and

 

Höegh LNG Cyprus Ltd. , a company incorporated and organized under the laws of Cyprus with registration no. 339342, having its registered office at Kanika International Business Centre, 6th Floor, Flat 4, Germasogeia, 4046, Limassol, Cyprus (the “ Client ”).

 

The Contractor and the Client are hereinafter collectively referred to as the " Parties " and

each individually as a " Party ".

 

1. DEFINITIONS

 

"Company" (with reference to the ISM Code and the ISPS Code) means organization complying with the ISM and ISPS Codes.
   
"Crew/Employee Insurances" means insurances of liabilities in respect of Crew/Employee risks which shall include but not be limited to death, permanent disability, sickness, injury repatriation, shipwreck unemployment indemnity and loss of personal effects.
   
“Employees” means seafarers comprised by the Agreement as being seconded by the Contractor to the Client.
   
"The Effective Date" means the date of this Agreement.
   
"Requirement Specifications" means the requirements set by the Client regarding qualifications for the Employee(s).
   
Secondment Order means the agreement entered into for secondment of Employee(s).
   
"Vessel" means the Höegh Gallant, IMO No. 9653678 which, at the date of this Agreement, is flagged under Norwegian flag.

 

2. PURPOSE

 

The Contractor is an international employment company which holds a Certificate of Authorisation to Operate A Seafarer Recruitment and Placement Service issued by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (Certificate number COA/2014/000111) and which has access to Employees trained as seafarers. The Contractor has employed seafarers mainly through crewing agreements with third party companies.

 

The Client is a company, which will provide pursuant to the terms of a lease and maintenance agreement, a vessel with trained crew to another entity of the Höegh LNG Group.

 

  1  
 

  

The Contractor intends to second its Employees who trained as seafarers to the Client and the Client wants to contract Employees trained as seafarers.

 

3. THE SCOPE OF THE AGREEMENT

 

Subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Contractor agrees to make available to the Client (via a secondment) such Employees trained as seafarers to serve on the Vessel.

 

4. SECONDMENT ORDER

 

The Secondment Order shall consist of a list of the positions required (crew complement). Changes in the crew complement list can be agreed per e-mail.

 

5. THE WORKING ARRANGEMENT

 

The Employees are employed by the Contractor pursuant to their individual employment contracts, and the Contractor shall continue to be the employer, even during the period of secondment. The Employees shall not at any time during the secondment be construed as being employed by the Client.

 

During the period of secondment, the Employees shall be under the instruction and supervision of the Client and Contractor shall procure that the Employees comply with all reasonable orders of the Client including, but not limited to, orders in connection with safety and navigation, avoidance of pollution and protection of the environment. During the period of secondment, the Employee(s) shall be bound by the rules and guidelines laid down by the Client and work under the management of the Client.

 

6. OBLIGATIONS OF THE CONTRACTOR

 

The Contractor shall be responsible for conducting an adequate selection of Employee(s) by verifying that the Employee(s) formal qualifications and other specific criteria as requested by the Client is in accordance with the Client's request. The Contractors responsibility in relation to the Employee(s) formal qualification and other specific criteria as requested by the Client is limited to the exercise of due diligence in the selection process which can be documented.

 

The Contractor shall provide to the Client such Employee(s) fulfilling the Client’s Requirement Specifications as stated in the Secondment Order. If the Employee(s) seconded do not in fact meet such Requirement Specifications as requested by the Client, the Contractor shall as soon as possible upon request provide the Client with new qualified Employee(s) fulfilling such Requirement Specifications. The Contractor shall have a quality system verifying that the Contractor’s services satisfy the Client's needs and requirements. The Contractor is not responsible towards the Client, if a matter for which the Client is responsible prevents the Employee(s) from conducting the work in a satisfying manner. The same applies for matters for which a third party is responsible.

 

The Contractor shall provide the Client with information and documentation necessary in order for the Client to fulfil its obligations according to this Agreement. The Contractor shall as soon as possible provide the Client with such information and documentation as requested by the Client.

 

The Contractor shall ensure that Crew/Employee Insurances name the Client as a joint assured with full cover and, unless otherwise agreed, on terms such that Client shall be under no liability in respect of premiums or calls arising in connection with such insurances.

 

7. OBLIGATIONS OF THE CLIENT

 

The Client shall be responsible for the daily management and guidance of the Employee(s) and the work to be conducted.

 

  2  
 

 

The Client is responsible for the working conditions on the work place being in compliance with applicable rules and regulations and that the work conditions are arranged in order for the Employee(s) to be able to conduct their work.

 

The Client shall ensure that the requirements of the law of the Vessel’s flag state are satisfied (including compliance with all Maritime Labour Convention provisions which are applicable to the secondment) and that they, or such other entity as may be appointed for the Vessel, are identified to Contractor as the Company. If the Company changes at any time during this Agreement, the Client shall notify the Contractor in a timely manner of the name and contact details of the new organization.

 

The Client shall ensure that the Employee(s), before joining the Vessel, are properly familiarised with their duties in accordance with the ISM Code and the Vessel’s SMS and that instructions which are essential to the SMS are identified, documented and given to the Employee(s) prior to sailing.

 

The Employee(s) shall be bound by the Client's safety instructions and work regulations and other regulations relevant for the work place and the work to be performed. The Client shall be responsible for providing the Employee(s) with relevant training and information on necessary HSSEQ rules applicable for the work place and the work to be performed.

 

The Client shall be solely responsible for damage/loss/lack of work performance caused by any act or omission of the Employee(s) during the performance of the work, causing the Client or a third party damage or loss.

 

The Client is responsible for compliance with applicable rules and regulations relevant for the Employee(s) and the work to be conducted. The Client is responsible for correct reporting and where relevant, payment of applicable taxes and other charges which are to be covered by the employer (such as e.g. employers' national insurance contributions and so on) relevant for the Employee(s) and the work to be conducted.

 

The Client is responsible for paying salary to the Employee(s) in accordance with each Employee's employment agreement (which is entered into between the Employee and the Contractor) and/or the secondment agreement and particular regulations regarding compensation applicable in each individual case. In case payroll is handled by a third party, the Client shall have the right to overlook such payroll and the underlying calculations.

 

The Client shall provide the Contractor with information and documentation necessary in order for the Contractor to fulfil its obligations according to this Agreement. The Client shall as soon as possible provide the Contractor with such information and documentation as requested by the Contractor.

 

The Client's rights and obligations according to this Agreement may partly or in its entirety be transferred to a third party. In case of such transfer, the Client would still be responsible towards the Contractor for fulfilment of this Agreement. In case of such transfer, the Client is responsible for making sure that the undertaking third party fulfils the conditions stated in this Agreement.

 

8. CONTRACTOR'S FEE

 

The Contractor's fee shall be an amount equal to the amount paid by the Contractor to any manning agent used for hiring of the relevant Employee(s) plus five percent (5.00%). The calculation of the fee is based on an arm’s lengths principle.

 

The Contractor may also claim an administration fee of USD 5,000.

 

  3  
 

 

9. CLIENT'S PAYMENTS

 

Specified invoices shall be submitted monthly for Employee(s) seconded, in the preceding calendar month. All undisputed invoices shall be paid within ten (10) days of receipt of such invoice by transfer to Contractor's bank account specified by the Contractor on the invoice. All payments to the Contractor shall be made in USD.

 

If the Client fails to pay at the agreed time, the Contractor shall be entitled to claim interest in the amount of three months LIBOR plus 2.00 per cent. per annum on any overdue amount.

 

10. CONFIDENTIALITY

 

Information that comes into the possession of the Parties in connection with the Agreement and the implementation of the Agreement shall be kept confidential, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the consent of the other Party.

 

The confidentiality obligation shall apply to the Parties’ employees, subcontractors and other third parties who act on behalf of the Parties in connection with the implementation of the Agreement. The Parties may only transmit confidential information to such subcontractors and third parties to the extent necessary for the implementation of the Agreement, and provided that they are subjected to confidentiality obligation corresponding to that stipulated in this Clause 10.

 

The confidentiality obligation shall continue to apply after the expiry of the Agreement.

 

11. TERM AND TERMINATION

 

This Agreement shall come into effect from the date of signing of the Agreement by both Parties (the "Effective Date") and shall continue until terminated by either Party in accordance with this Section 11.

 

This Agreement shall be terminated by either Party upon giving six month prior written notice to the other Party.

The Parties are entitled to terminate this Agreement with immediate effect if the other Party is in material breach of this Agreement, and the Party in breach has not rectified the situation within 10 days after receiving a written notice from the Party claiming the breach.

 

Termination of this Agreement shall not affect any accrued rights of either Party nor shall it affect the coming into force or the continuance in force of any provision of this Agreement which is expressly or by implication intended to come into or continue in force on or after such termination.

 

12. MISCELLANEOUS

 

If any provision of this Agreement should be found to be illegal or invalid, such provision shall form no part of this Agreement, and the other provisions shall remain unaffected by such circumstances. The Parties shall in such case in good faith use all reasonable efforts to agree a different term which is not illegal or invalid and which as nearly as possible reflects the intentions of the Parties.

 

This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and shall not be altered, modified or amended except in writing executed by both Parties.

 

13. EVENTS OF DEFAULT

 

There is an event of default if either Party fails to perform its duties under the Agreement. Events of default shall be notified to the Party in default by a written complaint without undue delay after the event of default has been discovered or ought to have been discovered.

 

  4  
 

 

Each Party may claim damages in respect of any direct loss arising from events of default in accordance with Clause 13.

 

14. FORCE MAJEURE

 

Neither Party shall be liable for any loss, damage or delay due to any of the following force majeure events and/or conditions to the extent that the Party invoking force majeure is prevented or hindered from performing any or all of their obligations under this Agreement, provided they have made all reasonable efforts to avoid, minimise or prevent the effect of such events and/or conditions:

 

- acts of good;
- any Government requisition, control, intervention, requirement or interference;
- any circumstances arising out of war, threatened act of war of warlike operations, acts of terrorism, sabotage or piracy, or the consequences thereof;
- riots, civil commotion, blockades or embargoes;
- epidemics;
- earthquakes, landslides, floods or other extraordinary weather conditions;
- strikes, lockouts or other industrial action, unless limited to the employees (which shall not include the Crew) of the Party seeking to invoke force majeure;
- fire, accident explosion except where caused by negligence of the Party seeking to invoke force majeure; and
- any other similar cause beyond the reasonable control of either Party.

 

15. GOVERNING LAW AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION

 

This Agreement is governed by and shall be construed in accordance with Norwegian law.

 

The Parties hereto irrevocably submit to the jurisdiction of the courts in Oslo, Norway.

 

***

 

This Agreement has been prepared in 2 originals, of which each Party has received one.

 

Hoegh LNG Maritime Management Pte Ltd.

 

By:   /s/ Øivind Stærn  
     
Name: Øivind Stærn  
Title:   H. of Maritime P. /POA  
Date:   31.03.2015  

 

Höegh LNG Cyprus Ltd.

 

By:   /s/ Cathinka K. Rognsvåg  
     
Name: Cathinka K. Rognsvåg  
Title: Attorney-in-fact  
Date: 31 March 2015  

 

  5  
 

 

 

 

 

ADDENDUM TO THE INTERCOMPANY AGREEMENT REGARDING SECONDMENT OF EMPLOYEES

 

This addendum to the agreement regarding secondment of employees, dated 31 March 2015 (the “ Addendum ”) is entered into with effect from 1April 2015, by and between:

 

Hoegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd. , a company incorporated and organised under the laws of Singapore with registration no. 201400632E, having its registered office at 4 Robinson Road #05-01 The House of Eden, Singapore 048543 (the “ Contractor ”); and

 

Höegh LNG Cyprus Ltd , a company incorporated and organized under the laws of Cyprus with registration no. 339342, having its registered office at Kanika International Business Centre, 6 th Floor, Flat 4, Germasogeia, 4046, Limassol, Cyprus (the “ Client ”).

 

The Contractor and the Client are hereinafter collectively referred to as the " Parties " and each individually as a " Party ".

 

1. BACKGROUND

 

In order to clarify the structure of the secondment of the Employees from the Contractor to the Client, the Contractor and the Client have agreed to make the following amendments to the Parties’ Intercompany Agreement Regarding Secondment of Employees dated 31 March 2015:

 

2. AMENDMENT OF CLAUSE 7

 

The following text of Clause 7 shall be deleted:

 

The Client is responsible for correct reporting and where relevant, payment of applicable taxes and other charges which are to be covered by the employer (such as e.g. employers’ national insurance contributions and so on) relevant for the Employee(s) and the work to be conducted.

 

The Client is responsible for paying the salary to the Employee(s) in accordance with each Employee’s employment agreement (which is entered into between the Employee and the Contractor) and/or the secondment agreement and particular regulations regarding compensation applicable in each individual case. In case payroll is handled by a third party, the Client shall have the right to overlook such payroll and the underlying calculations.

 

3. AMENDMENT OF CLAUSE 6

 

The following text shall be added to Clause 6:

 

The Contractor is responsible for paying the salary to the Employee(s) in accordance with each Employee’s employment agreement (which is entered into between the Employee and the Contractor) and/or the secondment agreement and particular regulations regarding compensation applicable in each individual case.

 

    ( 1 )
 

  

The Contractor is responsible for correct reporting and where relevant, payment of applicable taxes and other charges which are to be covered by the employer (such as e.g. employers’ national insurance contributions and so on) relevant for the Employee(s) and the work to be conducted.

 

4. AMENDMENT OF CLAUSE 8

 

The following text shall be deleted from Clause 8:

 

The Contractor’s fee shall be an amount equal to the amount paid by the Contractor to any manning agent used for hiring of the relevant Employee(s) plus five percent (5.00%).

 

The following text shall be added to Clause 8:

 

Contractor's fee comprises coverage of salaries and other expenses related to the Employee(s) covered by the Contractor. In addition, the Contractor’s fee shall cover the amount paid by the Contractor to any manning agent used for hiring of the relevant Employee(s) plus five percent (5.00%).

 

5. MISCELLANEOUS

 

The present Addendum should be interpreted in the context of the Parties’ Intercompany Agreement Regarding Secondment of Employees dated 31 March 2015 and assumes no other amendments to said Agreement than the amendments that follows from the present Addendum.

 

***

 

This Addendum has been prepared in 2 originals, of which each Party has received one.

 

    ( 2 )
 

 

Höegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd

 

By:   /s/ Øivind Stærn  
     
Name: Øivind Stærn  
Title: Attorney-in-fact  
Date: Nov 17 2015  

 

Höegh LNG Cyprus Ltd.

 

By:   /s/ Veronica B. Sandnes  
     
Name: Veronica B. Sandnes  
Title: Attorney-in-fact  
Date: 17/11/2015  

 

    ( 3 )

 

 

Exhibit 4.26

 

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

Lease and Maintenance Agreement

 

Between

 

Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited Acting through its Egypt Branch

 

And

 

Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC

 

DATED 15 April 2015

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Clause   Page No.
     
1. DEFINITIONS, HEADINGS AND INTERPRETATION 1
     
2. PROVISION OF VESSEL 5
     
3. TERM 5
     
4. COMMENCEMENT AND REDELIVERY 5
     
5. BUNKERS 7
     
6. OWNER TO PROVIDE 7
     
7. CHARTERER TO PROVIDE 8
     
8. SHIPBOARD PERSONNEL AND THEIR DUTIES 8
     
9. OPERATION 9
     
10. HIRE 9
     
11. SUBSTITUTION OF VESSEL 10
     
12. CHANGE OF FLAG OR OWNERSHIP 11
     
13. MAINTENANCE 11
     
14. FAILURE OF THE VESSEL 11
     
15. FUELS 12
     
16. DEFAULT, REMEDIES AND RIGHT OF TERMINATION 12
     
17. SUB-CONTRACTORS 15
     
18. LIENS AND MORTGAGE 15
     
19. FORCE MAJEURE 15
     
20. TAXES 18
     
21. POLLUTION AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE 18
     
22. REQUISITION 18
     
23. WAR 18
     
24. INDEMNIFICATION 19
     
25. EXCLUSIONS, LIMITATION OF LIABILITY AND LIQUIDATED DAMAGES 20
     
26. CONFIDENTIALITY 22
     
27. NOVATION, ASSIGNMENT AND TRANSFER 22
     
28. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES 23
     
29. NON-WAIVER 23
     
30. NOTICES 24
     
31. GOVERNING LAW AND ARBITRATION 25
     
32. WAIVER OF IMMUNITY 25
     
SCHEDULE I - DESCRIPTION AND SPECIFICATION OF THE VESSEL (HOEGH GALLANT) 1
   
SCHEDULE II – MARINE CREW 1

 

 

 

 

LEASE AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT

 

THIS LEASE AND MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT (this " Agreement ") is dated 15 April, 2015 and is made by and between:

 

(1) Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited acting through its Egypt Branch , registered under the laws of Egypt (hereinafter referred to as the “Owner”) represented herein by Mr. Kjell Olav Halsen in his capacity as the manager of the Egypt branch; and

 

(2) Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC , a company organized and existing under the laws of Egypt having its registered office at Rooms  No. 401 and 402 of apartment No.(4) in building No. (21), El Gabarty Street, Bab Charky, Alexandria Governorate, Egypt (hereinafter referred to as the “ Charterer ”);

 

The Owner and Charterer are together referred to herein as the “ Parties ” and each a “ Party ”.

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS:

 

(A) Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited (“HLNG Cyprus”) is the registered owner of the vessel Höegh Gallant (the “ Vessel ”) and through its branch in Egypt, the Owner, HLNG Cyprus is willing to lease the Vessel to Charterer and to provide a Marine Crew and to maintain the Vessel on the terms and subject to the conditions contained in this Agreement;

 

(B) Charterer wishes to charter the Vessel together with the Marine Crew from Owner on the terms and subject to the conditions contained in this Agreement.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual covenants herein contained, the Parties agree as follows:

 

1. Definitions, Headings and Interpretation

 

1.1 Definitions

 

In this Agreement and the Schedules save where the context otherwise requires, the following words and expressions shall have the meanings respectively ascribed to them in this Clause:

 

Affiliate ” means with respect to any Person, any other Person which directly or indirectly Controls, or is under Common Control with, or is Controlled by, such Person. For the purposes of this definition, “control” means the right to cast fifty percent (50%) or more of the votes exercisable at an annual general meeting (or its equivalent) of the entity concerned or, if there are no such rights, ownership of fifty percent (50%) or more of the equity share capital of or other ownership interests in such entity, or the right to direct the policies, decisions or operations of such entity.

 

Annual Maintenance Allowance ” has the meaning set out in Clause 13.2.

 

1

 

  

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

Approved Mortgage ” means any Encumbrance or lease structure on the Vessel, her earnings and/or insurances, Owner’s rights under this Agreement, that is or will be entered into in favor of an Approved Mortgagee for itself and/or for the benefit of one or more other financiers to Owner as security for the financing of the Vessel and for no other purpose.

 

Approved Mortgagee ” means any holder of an Approved Mortgage, provided that such holder is either: (i) an international bank or other financial institution; or (ii) a controlled affiliate of an international bank or other financial institution.

 

Change in Law ” means the occurrence of any of the following after the date of execution of this Agreement:

 

(a) the enactment of any new Egyptian law (but excluding any such new Law enacted but not yet put into force at the date of execution of this Agreement), or the imposition of authorizations not required as at the date of execution of this Agreement; or

 

(b) the modification or repeal of any existing Egyptian law; or

 

(c) a change in the interpretation or application by any Egyptian Governmental Authority of any Law.

 

Charterer Indemnified Parties ” means Charterer and all Charterer’s Affiliates, contractors, servants and subcontractors (of any tier) and any such Person’s directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives, accountants, consultants, attorneys and advisors.

 

Classification Society ” means DNV- GL.

 

Commencement Date ” means the date on which Commencement occurs or is deemed to have occurred in accordance with Clause 4.3.

 

Contract Year ” means each calendar year (being the twelve (12) month period from 1 January to the next following 31 December); provided , however , that (a) the first Contract Year shall commence on the Commencement Date and end on the next following 31 December, and (b) the final Contract Year shall start on 1 January immediately preceding the end of the Term and end on the last day of the Term.

 

Damages ” means collectively, all claims, liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, deficiencies, assessments, judgments, penalties, actions, suits, expenses and disbursements of any kind or nature whatsoever (including, without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs and expenses).

 

Default Rate ” means LIBOR plus *****%.

 

Delivery ” has the meaning set out in Clause 4.2(a).

 

Delivery Date ” has the meaning set out in Clause 4.2(c).

 

Delivery Window ” has the meaning set out in Clause 4.2(a).

 

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Encumbrance ” means any mortgage, charge (whether fixed or floating), pledge, lien, hypothecation, assignment, security interest, or other encumbrance of any kind securing or any right conferring a priority of payment in respect of any obligation of any person.

 

Event of Charterer Default ” has the meaning set out in Clause 16.2.

 

Event of Owner Default ” has the meaning set out in Clause 16.1.

 

Flag State ” means Marshall Islands or Norway (NIS).

 

Governmental Authority ” means (i) any national, regional, municipal, local or other government authority, including any subdivision, agency, board, department, commission or authority thereof, of Egypt; (ii) any maritime and other applicable authorities of the country of the Registry; (iii) any maritime and other applicable authorities at the Vessel Site; (iv) the International Maritime Organization (IMO); and (v) any other governmental, maritime, port, terminal or other applicable authority having jurisdiction over the Vessel or as the case may require, the Owner or Charterer or any Affiliates or agents thereof.

 

Jetty ” means the jetty located in the Vessel Site.

 

Law ” means any law (including, without limitation, any zoning law or ordinance or any environmental law), treaty, statute, rule, regulation, ordinance, order, directive, code, interpretation, judgment, decree, injunction, writ, determination, award, permit, license, authorization, direction, requirement, decision or agreement of, with or by any Governmental Authority, including without limitation any Law relating to Taxes.

 

LIBOR ” means the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate for United States Dollars per annum which appears on the Telerate Monitor (page 248/249 or any replacement of such page) determined at or about 11:00 a.m. London time, as quoted on the date from which interest is accrued under this Agreement for a three month period.

 

Marine Crew ” means the crew with sufficient experience, training and knowledge operate the Vessel, as listed in Schedule II;

 

Owner Indemnified Parties ” means, Owner and all Owner’s Affiliates, contractors, servants and subcontractors (of any tier), and any such Person’s directors, officers, employees, agents, representatives, accountants, consultants, attorneys and advisors.

 

Person ” includes any natural person, firm, corporation, company, limited liability company, trust or partnership (general or limited and whether or not having separate legal personality), unincorporated entity or other entity or association.

 

Prolonged Failure ” has the meaning set out in Clause 14.2.

 

Redelivery ” means the re-delivery of the Vessel to Owner in accordance with Clause 4.5.

 

" Sanctions " means the economic or financial sanctions laws and/or regulations, trade embargoes, prohibitions, restrictive measures, decisions, executive orders or notices from regulators implemented, adapted, imposed, administered, enacted and/or enforced by any Sanctions Authority;

 

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" Sanctions Authority " means the Norwegian State, the United Nations, the European Union, the member states of the European Union, the United States of America and any authority acting on behalf of any of them in connection with Sanctions;

 

Sanctions Exposure ” means the exposure of a Party or an Affiliate of a Party to Sanctions and/or to risks or penalties consequent upon the imposition of Sanctions.

 

Taxes ” means any taxes, levies, imposts, duties, or withholdings imposed by any country or any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof or therein in accordance with applicable law in force from time to time in the relevant taxing jurisdiction.

 

Term ” has the meaning set out in Clause 3.1.

 

Vessel ” has the meaning set out in the Recitals.

 

Vessel Contract ” means a contract between Charterer and third Party under which Charterer undertakes to operate, carry out and to provide services using the Vessel.

 

Vessel Failure ” has the meaning set out in Clause 14.1.

 

Vessel Site ” means Al Sokhna port located in Al Ain Al Sokhna, Gulf of Suez, Egypt.

 

1.2 Headings and interpretation

 

Unless the context requires otherwise:

 

(a) a Party to this Agreement or any other agreement ancillary thereto shall be deemed to include its permitted successors and assigns;

 

(b) words denoting the singular shall include the plural and vice versa and any reference to the neuter gender shall include a reference to the masculine and feminine genders;

 

(c) words denoting persons shall include trusts, state agencies, associations, corporations and partnerships;

 

(d) the words " written " and " in writing " include facsimile, printing, engraving, lithography, photography or other means of visible reproduction;

 

(e) references to any ordinance or statute shall be deemed to be references to that ordinance or statute as from time to time amended or re-enacted and shall include subsidiary legislation made thereunder;

 

(f) references to Clauses and Paragraphs are to be construed as references to clauses and paragraphs of this Agreement;

 

(g) an " order " includes any judgment, injunction, decree, determination, declaration or award of any court or arbitral or administrative tribunal;

 

(h) words ‘ include ’ or ‘ including ’ shall be deemed to be followed by ‘without limitation’ or ‘but not limited to’ whether or not they are followed by such words;

 

(i) a reference to a “ day ” shall be construed as reference to a calendar day;

 

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(j) a reference to the calendar shall be construed as a reference to the Gregorian calendar;

 

(k) a “ month ” means a period commencing on a day in a calendar month and ending on the day before the corresponding day in the next calendar month or, if there is none, ending on the last day of the next calendar month;

 

(l) the expression “ this Agreement ” shall mean this Agreement as amended, supplemented or modified from time to time with the agreement of Contractor and EGAS at any relevant time and any reference to any other document or agreement is a reference to that other document or agreement as amended, supplemented or novated from time to time; and

 

(m) the headings of the clauses in this Agreement are inserted for convenience of reference only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

1.3 Schedules

 

The Schedules attached to this Agreement shall form part of and be construed as an integrated part of this Agreement, but in the event of conflict between the provisions contained in the body of this Agreement and the Schedules, the provisions of the body of this Agreement shall prevail.

 

2. Provision of Vessel

 

From the Commencement Date and throughout the Term, the Owner agrees to make the Vessel and Marine Crew available to the Charterer, subject to the terms and conditions set out herein.

 

3. Term

 

3.1 Subject to Clause 4, Owner agrees to provide and maintain the Vessel for a period of five (5) years commencing from the Commencement Date as specified under Clause 4 and ending when the Vessel is redelivered to Owner in accordance with Clause 4 on the fifth (5 th ) anniversary of the Commencement Date (the “ Term ”) unless terminated earlier in accordance with the provisions hereof.

 

3.2 The Term may be subject to extension in the following circumstances:

 

(a) by Charterer for a period of up to forty five (45) days, by written notice to the Owner, where reasonably necessary for compliance by Charterer of any contractual obligations to third parties relating to the Vessel;

 

(b) by the mutual agreement of both Parties.

 

4. Commencement and Redelivery

 

4.1 Documentation

 

The Vessel shall be properly documented on Delivery in accordance with the laws of the Flag State, the requirements of the Classification Society and applicable Egyptian law.

 

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SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

4.2 Delivery Date

 

(a) Save as otherwise agreed, the Vessel shall be delivered by Owner to Charterer (“ Delivery ”), at the Vessel Site on a date falling between March 28 th , 2015 and April 30t th , 2015 (“ Delivery Window ”).

 

(b) Owner shall keep Charterer regularly informed as to the day which Owner will tender the Vessel for Delivery.

 

(c) The day on which actual Delivery of the Vessel takes place shall be the “ Delivery Date ”.

 

4.3 Commencement Date

 

Unless otherwise agreed between the Parties, Charterer shall have ***** days to inspect the Vessel following the Delivery Date. Unless Charterer notifies Owner of any deficiency in the Vessel, the Commencement Date shall be the date falling ***** days after the Delivery Date. In case Charterer notifies Owner of any deficiency in the Vessel, the Commencement Date shall be postponed until such deficiency has been rectified to the reasonable satisfaction of the Charterer. Charterer shall provide Owner with written notice to confirm the Commencement Date upon achievement thereof.

 

4.4 Delay of Delivery and the Commencement Date

 

(a) If Delivery is not achieved before the end of the Delivery Window, Owner shall indemnify Charterer in respect of any liquidated damages payable by Charterer under any Vessel Contract, up to a cap of USD *****; for each day of delay from the day following the end of the Delivery Window until the Delivery Date.

 

(b) If the Commencement Date is delayed by more than ***** days after the Delivery Date due to deficiencies in the Vessel, Owner shall indemnify Charterer in respect of any liquidated damages payable by Charterer under any Vessel Contract, up to a cap of USD *****; for each day of delay from the date falling ***** days following the end of the Delivery Window until the Commencement Date.

 

(c) The aggregate total amount of liquidated damages payable by Owner under Clauses 4.4(a) and/or 4.4 (b) shall not exceed Dollars ***** ($*****), which amount shall represent Owner’s sole and exclusive remedy for the delay by Contractor in achieving Delivery and/or the Commencement Date.

 

(d) If such delay in Delivery and/or achieving the Commencement Date continues for a period exceeding, in the aggregate, ***** days, and notwithstanding the payment of any amount by Owner to Charterer under Clauses 4.4(a) and/or 4.4(b), Charterer may, at its option:

 

(i) terminate this Agreement with immediate effect, in which case Owner's liability to compensate Charterer for any liquidated damages, as provided under Clauses 4.4(a) and/or 4.4(b) shall represent Charterer’s sole and exclusive remedy for such delay and in respect of such termination; or

 

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(ii) accept a new date for Delivery or a new Commencement Date (as the case may be) to be mutually agreed by the Parties.

  

4.5 Redelivery

 

At the expiration of the Term the Vessel shall be redelivered by Charterer to Owner at the Vessel Site (" Redelivery "). Charterer shall keep Owner regularly informed as to the scheduled date of redelivery.

 

4.6 Early Redelivery

 

If this Agreement is terminated prior to the expiration of the Term in accordance with any provision of this Agreement or applicable Law, Charterer shall pay to Owner the value of any Hire earned but not paid and Owner shall pay to Charterer any sums Charterer is entitled to receive under this Agreement.

 

5. Bunkers

 

5.1 Bunkers at Delivery and Redelivery

 

Owner shall provide, and pay for, all bunkers (which shall include low sulphur diesel oil) on board the Vessel from the time of Delivery, until the time of Redelivery (whether it occurs at the end of the Term or on the early termination of the Agreement).

 

5.2 Redelivery Condition

 

Charterer shall use all reasonable efforts to ensure that the Vessel shall be redelivered to Owner in accordance with the applicable international practice for similar vessels and in accordance with the instructions notified by the Owner to the Charterer in writing at the time of redelivery. Owner shall pay to Charterer any cost incurred for complying with its instructions.

 

6. Owner to Provide

 

6.1 Owner shall be responsible for the following:

 

(a) delivering the Vessel to Charterer within the Delivery Window in accordance with the specifications listed in Schedule I and in good working condition;

 

(b) maintain the Vessel in accordance with the applicable international standards, such that it remains in good working condition;

 

(c) provide suitably qualified Marine Crew, in accordance with Schedule II;

 

(d) keep and maintain all necessary certificates as may be under this Agreement;

 

(e) comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations;

 

(f) keep and maintain safety, security and environmental records;

 

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(g) maintain, and submit to Charterer upon request, all insurance policies required under Clause 24 hereof. All insurance policies should include provisions for waiver of the insurers’ rights of subrogation against Charterer; and

 

(h) Owner shall be responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and approvals related to Owner’s personnel.

 

7. Charterer to Provide

 

7.1 Charterer shall be responsible for the following:

 

(a) making the payments to Owner as provided in this Agreement;

 

(b) obtaining local port authorization to move the Vessel from the pilot boarding station at Al Sokhna port inbounds into the Vessel Site, unless by applicable law or regulations only Owner can seek and obtain such authorization. Owner shall provide all necessary support to Charterer to obtain such authorization in a timely manner;

 

(c) arranging for the provision, at Owner's expense, of pilot, fire boats, tugs, escort vessels, security measures and any other assistance required in order for the Vessel to reach and be properly moored, stay at and leave the Vessel Site, save where the Vessel is instructed by Charterer to leave the Jetty for any reason other than those attributable to Owner in which case any of the foregoing will be at Charterer’s expense;

 

(d) during the period of Hire, the berthing dues as well as Port and light dues are to be for Charterer's account.

 

8. Shipboard Personnel and their Duties

 

8.1 From the Delivery Date:

 

(a) the Vessel shall have a full and efficient complement of Marine Crew, consisting of master, officers and experienced crew for a vessel of her type as may be required for the marine operations. The Marine Crew shall be not less than the number required by the laws of the Flag State and shall be trained to operate the Vessel and her equipment competently and safely, with the ability, experience, licenses and training commensurate with internationally accepted standards and as required by applicable governmental authorities;

 

(b) all shipboard personnel shall hold valid certificates of competence in accordance with the requirements of the laws of the Vessel’s Flag State;

 

(c) shipboard main personnel shall have good working knowledge of written and spoken English language;

 

(d) the Marine Crew shall act according to the instructions of the Charterer, provided always that the Master shall always be entitled to exercise his discretion where reasonably necessary to protect the Vessel, any cargo and personnel on board.

 

(e) Owner shall comply with Egyptian laws to the extent such laws are applicable to the Owner.

 

8

 

  

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

9. Operation

 

9.1 Change in Law

 

In the event of a Change in Law which has an effect on any of the costs borne by Owner in Egypt or the amounts payable to Owner in a way resulting in either (i) an identifiable financial negative impact on the economics of the Agreement for the Owner; or (ii) an identifiable financial positive impact (savings) on the economics of the Agreement for the Owner, then the Parties shall meet to discuss in good faith and shall agree upon the necessary actions and changes (if applicable) to mitigate or reflect such negative or positive impact (as the case may be) to restate Owner's position to be the same as if no Change in Law has occurred. In case of failure to agree, either Party may refer the issue for resolution by Arbitration in accordance with Clause 31.2.

 

9.2 Changes to the Vessel

 

Any structural changes in the Vessel or changes in the machinery, boilers, appurtenances or spare parts required by virtue of future Laws shall not be deemed to be a Change in Law for the purpose of Clause 09.1.

 

10. Hire

 

10.1 Rate of Hire

 

(a) Subject to paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Clause 10.1, Charterer shall pay a daily Hire for the Vessel (“ Hire ”) of USD ***** per day, from the Commencement Date until the time and date of Redelivery to Contractor. For the avoidance of doubt, subject to the provisions of this Agreement, Hire is inclusive of all Taxes in accordance with Clause 20.

 

(b) The Hire shall be payable in 90 % United States Dollars, and 10% Egyptian Pounds, or as otherwise agreed between the Parties from time to time The Egyptian Pounds equivalent to United States Dollars for all purposes under this Agreement shall be computed at the official rate of exchange for buyer transfer published by the Central Bank of Egypt on its website on the first day of the month in which payment is made by EGAS.

 

(c) During the period between Delivery and the Commencement Date, Charterer shall pay to Owner as Hire, the amount of any earning received in respect of the Vessel under a Vessel Contract, if applicable.

 

(d) A price review of the Hire may be conducted after three (3) years from the Commencement Date, but a revised rate can only be implemented upon both Parties’ written approval and agreement.

 

10.2 Deductions

 

Payment of the Hire shall be made by wire transfer in immediately available funds to Owner’s designated bank account less any disbursements made by Charterer for Owner’s or the Vessel’s account, including commissions, overheads and handling charges when such disbursements are permitted to be made by Charterer under this Agreement.

 

9

 

  

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

(a) Owner may dispute a deduction under Clause 10.2 where the deduction is disputed in good faith by Owner by written notice thereof to Charterer providing full detail and substantiation. In such event Charterer shall deduct only the amount not disputed by Owner. Promptly after resolution of any such dispute the amount agreed to be deducible shall be paid by Owner to Charterer, together with interest thereon at the Default Rate from the original deduction date to the date of payment of the due amount.  In the event the Parties are unable to resolve such dispute the matter shall be referred to arbitration in accordance with Clause 31.2.

 

(b) No failure by Charterer to make any deduction shall prejudice her rights and entitlement to any such deduction.

 

(c) Charterer shall not be responsible for any delay or error by Owner’s bank in crediting Owner’s account provided that Charterer has given proper and timely payment instructions.

 

10.3 Payment Dates

 

(a) Charterer shall pay Owner monthly, all the undisputed amounts, within ***** days from receipt of Owner's invoice covering the Hire due pursuant to Clauses 10 as of the last day of each calendar month.

 

(b) The first payment of Hire shall cover the period from the Delivery Date up to the last day of the month in which the Commencement Date occurs. Thereafter, Hire shall be paid in accordance with Clause 10.3(a) in arrears.

 

(c) If a due date for the payment of Hire should fall on a day on which banks are not open for business at the place of payment, Hire which would have been due shall instead be due on the immediately following day on which the banks are open for business.

 

10.4 Delayed Payment

 

(a) Any delay in payment of Hire shall entitle Owner to interest at the Default Rate.

 

(b) Payment of interest due under Clause 10.4(a) shall be made within ***** running days of the date of Owner’s invoice specifying the amount payable or, in the absence of an invoice, at the time of the next Hire payment date.

 

11. Substitution of Vessel

 

Subject to Charterer's prior written consent and approval, Owner shall have the right to deploy a substitute vessel under this Agreement provided that such substitute vessel shall meet the same particulars and specifications (or better) of the Vessel and other obligations and criterion as set forth in this Agreement.

 

10

 

  

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

12. Change of Flag or Ownership

 

Owner shall have the right to change flag and/or ownership of the Vessel subject to the prior written consent of Charterer, which shall not be unreasonably withheld. All costs and expenses related to such change of flag of the Vessel shall be for the sole account of Owner. Any transfer of the ownership of the Vessel by Owner shall be subject to the new Owner assuming all of the rights and obligations of Owner under this Agreement on terms and conditions reasonably acceptable to Charterer.

 

13. Maintenance

 

13.1 Owner shall whenever the passage of time, wear and tear or any event requires steps to be taken to maintain or restore the Vessel, exercise due diligence so as to maintain or restore the Vessel.

 

13.2 During each Contract Year starting from year 2016, but proportionally for the final Contract Year, Owner shall be entitled to a maximum of ***** unpaid days in which maintenance and/or repairs may be undertaken on the Vessel (“ Annual Maintenance Allowance ”).

 

13.3 For the avoidance of doubt, Hire shall cease during Annual Maintenance Allowance to the extent that the Charterer is unable to operate the Vessel and/or comply with its obligations under any applicable Vessel Contract. In the event that the Annual Maintenance Allowance (or any part thereof) in any particular Contract Year is not used, Owner shall not have the right to carry forward the same to any successive Contract Year.

 

13.4 Owner shall exert its best endeavours not to conduct the Annual Maintenance Allowance during the summer time. Owner shall liaise with Charterer and use reasonable endeavours to accommodate any requests as to when not to schedule Annual Maintenance Allowance.

 

13.5 Owner shall advise Charterer at least ***** days prior to the commencement of any Contract Year of indicative scheduled time of the Annual Maintenance Allowance for such Contract Year.

 

14. Failure of the Vessel

 

14.1 Vessel Failure

 

(a) Except if due to a Force Majeure event (where the provisions of Clause 19 shall apply), use of the Annual Maintenance Allowance (where the provisions of Clause 13.3 shall apply), or to an action attributable to a Charterer Indemnified Party, on each and every occasion where the Vessel otherwise ceases to be at the disposal of the Charterer in accordance with the terms of this Charter for whatsoever reason including, but not limited to:

 

(i) any damage, defect, breakdown, deficiency (whether partial or total) of, or accident to, any part of the Vessel; or

 

(ii) due to deficiency of personnel or stores; repairs; time in and waiting to enter dry dock for repairs; overhaul, maintenance or survey; collision, stranding, accident or damage to the Vessel; or any other similar cause preventing the working of the Vessel; or

 

11

 

  

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

(iii) due to industrial action, or any labour disputes attributable to deficiency of Contractor, or the failure or refusal or inability of the officers and/or crew to perform the services required under this Agreement or breach of orders or neglect of duty on the part of the officers or crew; or

 

(iv) due to a failure by the Vessel to comply with Laws, regulations, physical requirements or operational practices at the Vessel Site,

 

The Vessel shall be deemed to be subject to a Vessel Failure.

 

(b) In case of a Vessel Failure, Owner shall be obliged to indemnify Charterer for of any loss suffered by the Charterer, including without limitation any loss of earnings, liquidated damages or other expenses borne or reimbursed by Charterer under the terms of the Vessel Contract, if applicable.

 

14.2 Termination for Extended Vessel Failure

 

In the event that in any Contract Year, the Vessel is subject to a Vessel Failure for any period exceeding i) ***** consecutive days, or ii) ***** non-consecutive days (“ Prolonged Failure ”), then Charterer shall have the option to terminate this Agreement by giving notice in writing to Owner, provided that if Charterer elects to terminate this Agreement, Owner shall pay Charterer the amount of any Damages that may be due to Charterer pursuant to Clause 14.1 at the date of such termination.  This Clause 14.2 is without prejudice to any other rights or obligations of Owner or Charterer under this Agreement. 

 

14.3 Owner’s Maximum Liability for Vessel Failure

 

The Owner's liability in respect of Charterer's loss of earning and/or any liquidated damages under Clause 14.1(b) shall in any event be limited to an aggregate maximum amount of USD ***** per Contract Year and to be calculated proportionally for the first and final Contract Years. For the avoidance of doubt, subject to Clause 14.2, the Owner's liability under Clause 14.1(b) shall be the sole and exclusive remedy of Charterer in respect of any event of Vessel Failure.

 

15. Not in Use

 

16. Default, Remedies and Right of Termination

 

16.1 Event of Owner’s Default

 

Each of the following events shall be an event of Owner’s default (“ Event of Owner’s Default ”):

 

(a) there is any change in the legal or disponent ownership of the Vessel other than as permitted hereunder;

 

(b) Owner suspends payment of its debts or is unable to pay its debts or is otherwise insolvent;

 

(c) Owner passes a resolution, commences proceedings, or has proceedings commenced against it, in the nature of bankruptcy or reorganization resulting from insolvency, liquidation or the appointment of a receiver, trustee in bankruptcy or liquidator of its undertakings or assets;

 

12

 

 

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

(d) Owner enters into any composition or scheme or general arrangement with its creditors in circumstances where Clauses 16.1 (b) and (c) apply;

 

(e) Without Charterer's prior written consent:

 

(i) the Vessel ceases to be registered under the laws of the Flag State (or such other country where it has otherwise been registered by mutual agreement of the Parties) and such default is not cured within ***** days after Owner becoming aware thereof;

 

(ii) the Vessel ceases to hold a classification certificate with the Classification Society and Owner has not exercised due diligence in curing such within ***** days after Owner becoming aware thereof;

 

(iii) except as expressly permitted hereunder, Owner effects a mortgage, charge, lien, encumbrance, security or third party right on or over the Vessel, any insurance and any rights to receive any payment in relation to the Vessel and shall have failed to cure such breach within ***** days after becoming aware of such breach;

 

(iv) Owner makes an assignment, transfer or novation prohibited by this Agreement;

 

(f) The Vessel shall be arrested other than as a result of acts, deeds or omission of any Charterer Indemnified Party and is not released for any reason from such arrest within ***** days after being arrested provided that any days in which the Vessel remains at the disposal of the Charterer, notwithstanding such arrest, shall not be counted;

 

(g) Owner is in material breach of any term or provision of this Agreement (which shall include any payment obligation) and has failed to cure such breach within a reasonable period of time, but in no event longer than ***** days after receipt of notice of such breach from Charterer;

 

(h) Prolonged Failure as provided in Clause 14.2 occurs; or

 

(i) Owner fails to maintain any of the insurances it is obliged to maintain in accordance with Clause 6(g) and such default is not cured within ***** days after becoming aware thereof.

 

16.2 Event of Charterer’s Default

 

Each of the following events shall be an event of Charterer’s default (“ Event of Charterer’s Default ”):

 

(a) Charterer suspends payment of its debts or is unable to pay its debts when due or is otherwise insolvent;

 

(b) Charterer passes a resolution, commences proceedings, or has proceedings commenced against it, in the nature of bankruptcy or reorganization resulting from insolvency, liquidation or the appointment of a receiver, trustee in bankruptcy or liquidator of its undertakings or assets;

 

13

 

  

SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

(c) Charterer enters into any composition or scheme or arrangement with its creditors in circumstances where Clauses 16.2 (a) and (b) apply;

 

(d) Charterer is in material breach of any term or provision of this Agreement (other than the obligation to pay Fees or other amounts when due) and has failed to cure such breach within a reasonable period of time, but in no event longer than ***** days after receipt of notice of such breach from Owner as applicable;

 

(e) Charterer fails to maintain any of the insurances it is obliged to maintain in accordance with Clause 29 and such default is not cured within ***** days after becoming aware thereof;

 

(f) Charterer makes an assignment, transfer or novation prohibited by this Agreement; and

 

(g) Charterer fails to pay Hire or other amounts when due and payable for any reason, and such amount remains unpaid for a period of ***** calendar days after receipt of such final notice to pay such outstanding amount plus accrued interest in full.

 

16.3 Right of Termination and Liquidated Damages

 

(a) Upon the occurrence of an Event of Owner’s Default, Charterer may terminate this Agreement by issuing a termination notice with immediate effect upon Owner’s receipt of Charterer’s notice, provided (for the avoidance of doubt) that such notice may only be served after any specified cure period.  If this Agreement is terminated under this Clause 16.3(a), Owner shall, if requested to do so by Charterer in the termination notice, as soon as reasonably practical, and in compliance with safety and other applicable regulations, remove the Vessel from the Vessel Site.

 

(b) Upon the occurrence of any Event of Charterer’ Default, Owner may terminate this Agreement by issuing a termination notice with immediate effect upon Charterer’s receipt of Owner’s notice, provided (for the avoidance of doubt) that such notice may only be served after any specified cure period.

 

16.4 Accrued Rights

 

The exercise by either Party of their respective rights to terminate this Agreement under this Clause 16 shall be without prejudice to any other rights or remedies that each may have accrued prior to the effective date of such termination, and any provisions of this Agreement necessary for the exercise of such accrued rights and remedies shall survive termination of this Agreement to the extent so required.

 

16.5 Termination for Charterer's convenience and consequence.

 

(1) At any time following the expiry of the first three (3) years of the Term, Charterer may request to meet with Owner to seek agreement on terms for an early termination of this Agreement. In such case, the Parties shall endeavor to meet at their earliest convenience and shall discuss in good faith and seek to agree to mutually acceptable terms and conditions for such a termination.

 

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(2) Upon and subject to mutual agreement between the Parties as to such terms and conditions of early termination, the Parties shall enter into a termination agreement and, save as provided therein, all obligations of Charterer and Owner under this Agreement shall terminate, except such obligations which are, by their terms, express or implied, to continue after the termination.

 

(3) Nothing in this Clause 16.5 shall affect Charterer’s right to terminate this Agreement as provided elsewhere herein.

 

17. Sub-Contractors

 

Owner shall not subcontract the maintenance or any part thereof without the prior written consent of Charterer which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. Owner shall be responsible for the acts or omissions of any of its sub-contractors as if they were the acts or omissions of the Owner itself.

 

18. Liens and Mortgage

 

Owner shall not have a lien upon any cargoes, fuel, freights, sub-freights and/or sub-hires and demurrage except to the extent that any such lien arises by operation of law.

 

Charterer shall not have, or allow others (in their dealings with Charterer) a lien on the Vessel except to the extent that any such lien arises by operation of law.

 

In the event that any lien shall attach by operation of Law or in violation of this Clause 18, Owner or Charterer, as the case may be, shall take such steps as reasonably necessary to ensure that the lien does not interfere with the Vessel’s operations or with Charterer's right to the Vessel and to effect prompt release of such lien prior to the enforcement thereof.

 

19. Force Majeure

 

19.1 Force Majeure

 

Subject to Clause 19.2, whether expressly provided or not in this Agreement, a Party shall not be responsible for (i) any failure to perform any of its obligations or undertakings under this Agreement or (ii) for any loss or damage or delay arising from a failure, delay or omission in performing its obligations hereunder, due to or arising or resulting from any of the following events to the extent beyond the reasonable control of the Party to avoid, prevent or overcome and that does not result from the fault or negligence of, or the failure to avoid or overcome by the exercise of reasonable diligence by, the Party (each an event of “ Force Majeure ”):

 

(a) fire, explosion, atmospheric disturbance, lightning, earthquake, tidal wave, tsunami, tsunami warning, typhoon, tornado, hurricane or named storms, flood, landslide, soil erosion, subsidence, washout, perils of the sea or other acts of God;

 

(b) war (whether declared or undeclared), blockade, civil war, act of terrorism, invasion, revolution, insurrection, acts of public enemies, mobilization, civil commotion, riots, sabotage or assailing thieves;

 

(c) acts of princes or rulers or acts of any Governmental Authority, or compliance with such acts, that directly affect such Party’s ability to perform its obligations hereunder;

 

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SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

(d) plague or other epidemics or quarantines;

 

(e) freight or other embargo or trade sanctions or Sanctions Exposure;

 

(f) strike, lockout or industrial disturbance at the Vessel Site (excluding that of the Parties, their Affiliates or their subcontractors); or

 

(g) chemical or radioactive contamination or ionizing radiation.

 

19.2 Events Not Force Majeure

 

The following events shall not constitute Force Majeure:

 

(a) a Party's inability to finance its obligations under this Agreement or the unavailability of funds to pay amounts when due in the currency of payment;

 

(b) the withdrawal, denial or expiration of or failure to obtain any approval, permit, license or consent of any Governmental Authority caused by a Party's: (i) actions, including a violation of or breach of the terms and conditions of any existing approval, permit, license or consent or other requirement of applicable Law; or (ii) the failure to apply for or follow the necessary procedures to obtain any approval, permit, license or consent or request, acquire or take all commercially reasonable actions to obtain the maintenance, renewal or reissuance of the same;

 

(c) changes in a Party's market factors, default of payment obligations or other commercial, financial or economic conditions; and

 

(d) the breakdown or failure of machinery caused by normal wear and tear that should have been avoided or the failure to use due diligence to comply with the manufacturer's recommended maintenance and operating procedures.

 

19.3 Notice, Resumption of Normal Performance

 

As soon as possible upon the occurrence of an event that a Party considers may result in an event of Force Majeure, and in any event within ***** calendar days from the date of the occurrence of an event of Force Majeure, such Party shall give notice thereof to the other Party describing in reasonable detail:

 

(a) the event giving rise to the potential or actual Force Majeure claim, including but not limited to the place and time such event occurred;

 

(b) to the extent known or ascertainable, the obligations which may be or have actually been delayed or prevented in performance and the estimated period during which such performance may be suspended or reduced, including the estimated extent of such reduction in performance; and

 

(c) the particulars of the program to be implemented to ensure full resumption of normal performance hereunder.

 

Such notices shall thereafter be supplemented and updated from time to time as may be necessary, or requested by the other Party, during the period of such claimed Force Majeure specifying the actions being taken to remedy the circumstances causing such Force Majeure and the date on which such Force Majeure and its effects end.

 

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SPECIFIC TERMS IN THIS EXHIBIT HAVE BEEN REDACTED BECAUSE CONFIDENTIAL TREATMENT FOR THOSE TERMS HAS BEEN REQUESTED. THE REDACTED MATERIAL HAS BEEN SEPARATELY FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, AND THE TERMS HAVE BEEN MARKED AT THE APPROPRIATE PLACE WITH FIVE ASTERISKS (*****).

 

19.4 Examination

 

(a) The Party invoking Force Majeure shall, at the request of the other Party, give or procure access if they are able to do so (at the expense and risk of the other Party) at all reasonable times for a reasonable number of representatives of such Party to examine the scene of the event and the facilities affected which gave rise to the Force Majeure claim.

 

(b) In case of a Force Majeure event, the Party invoking Force Majeure shall take all measures reasonable in the circumstances to overcome or rectify the event of Force Majeure and its consequences and resume normal performance of this Agreement as soon as reasonably possible once the event of Force Majeure has passed or been remedied; provided, however, that the settlement of any strike, lockout or industrial disturbance shall be in the sole discretion of such Party. To the extent that the Party invoking Force Majeure fails to use reasonable efforts to overcome or mitigate the effects of an event of Force Majeure, it shall not be excused for any delay or failure in performance that would have been avoided by using such commercially reasonable efforts.

 

19.5 Hire during events of Force Majeure

 

In case of Force Majeure acting on the Vessel; no Hire shall be payable to the extent that the Charterer is unable to operate the Vessel and/or comply with its obligations under any applicable Vessel Contract.

 

In case of Force Majeure acting on anything other than the Vessel, Hire shall be reduced to ***** percent (*****%) of the rate specified in Clause 10.1(a), save where Charterer continues to receive payment under a Vessel Contract, in which case any reduction in Hire under this Agreement shall correspond only to the reduction in payment under such Vessel Contract.

 

19.6 Termination for Force Majeure Delay

 

Either Party shall have the right to terminate this Agreement if a Force Majeure event lasts for a period more than ***** consecutive days, by providing the other Party with ***** days prior written notice thereof. The termination of this Agreement under this Clause 19.6 shall be without any liability on either Party and without prejudice to any other rights of either Party that may have accrued prior to the effective date of such termination, and any provisions of this Agreement necessary for the exercise of such accrued rights shall survive termination of this Agreement to the extent so required.

 

Notwithstanding the other provisions of this Clause 19, in case of Sanctions, either Party shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement, without any liability on either Party(subject to the Parties' indemnity obligations under Clause 24), upon written notice to the other Party, where such termination is reasonably necessary to avoid Sanctions Exposure; or breach of Sanctions Laws.

 

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19.7 Limitations on Force Majeure

 

The occurrence of Force Majeure events shall not affect any of the Parties' obligations to indemnify, reimburse, hold harmless or otherwise pay the other under Clause 24 or elsewhere in this Agreement, and the Parties’ options to otherwise terminate this Agreement in accordance with its terms.

 

20. Taxes

 

Owner is responsible for paying all applicable taxes related to the provision of Vessel and marine crew by Owner, including but not limited to, Taxes related to Owner Indemnified Parties’ personnel, properties and equipment, or any taxes relating to any importation or exportation of the Vessel into or out of Egypt under this Agreement.

 

Owner shall indemnify and hold Charterer harmless against any and all costs including fines, interest, penalties and legal costs suffered or incurred by Charterer resulting from the breach by Owner of any of Owner’s obligations under this Clause 20 or from the non-compliance by Owner Indemnified Parties with relevant taxation and duty requirements imposed by any Governmental Authority in respect of the provision of the Vessel and marine crew hereunder.

 

21. Pollution and Emergency Response

 

Compliance with Pollution Regulations

 

Owner shall exercise all due diligence to ensure that no oil, gas or harmful or hazardous substances of any description shall be discharged or escape accidentally or otherwise from the Vessel; and that the Vessel, its officers and crew shall comply with all applicable marine and air pollution and environmental Laws, conventions or regulations (“ Pollution Regulations ”). 

 

22. Requisition

 

In the event of requisition for hire is made, during the Term, by any Governmental Authority of Egypt and irrespective of the date when such requisition for hire may occur and irrespective of the length thereof and whether or not it be for an indefinite or a limited period of time, and irrespective of whether it may or will remain in force for the remainder of the Term, the Vessel shall remain ‘on-hire’ for the purposes of this Agreement and (for the avoidance of doubt) Charterer shall be required to continue to pay Hire in the manner provided by this Agreement, provided that Owner shall reimburse Charterer with any amounts or compensation received or receivable by Owner in connection with such requisition during the remainder of the Term or the period of the requisition for hire whichever be the shorter.

 

23. War

 

23.1 The Vessel shall not be required to continue to or remain at the Vessel Site nor be used for any service which will cause the Vessel to be within a zone which is dangerous (" Risk Zone ") as a result of any actual or threatened act of war, hostilities, warlike operations, acts of piracy by any Person whatsoever, or by revolution, civil war or civil commotion.

 

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23.2 Should the Vessel be in, or approach, or be brought or ordered within any such Risk Zone (even though it may already be at the Vessel Site), or be exposed in any way to those risks, the Parties shall, to the extent reasonably practicable meet to agree to mutually acceptable mitigating actions, failing which either Party shall be entitled to terminate this Agreement with immediate effect by giving written notice of such termination to the other Party, without liability for either of the Parties. In such event Hire shall continue to be payable in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement up to the date of such termination.

 

24. Indemnification

 

24.1 Indemnification by Owner

 

Owner shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold Charterer harmless from and against any and all Damages (whether based on applicable Law, contract, equitable cause or otherwise) that may be imposed on, incurred by, or asserted against any Charterer Indemnified Party arising out of, attributable to or in connection with any of the following:

 

(i) any damage to or loss of the Vessel and of its property and any cargo on board or that of any Charterer Indemnified Party, and personal injury or death (including fatal injury, illness or disease) of its employees or its servants, or those of any Owner Indemnified Party, regardless of cause or whether or not the negligence, act, omission, default, error or breach by any Charterer Indemnified Party caused or contributed to such Damages; and

 

(ii) any and all damage or harm to the environment, including fines imposed by a Governmental Authority, including Damages for control, removal, remediation, restoration and clean-up of all pollution or contamination, arising from or on account of pollution or contamination resulting from fire, blowout, cratering, seepage, leakage or any other uncontrolled or unlawful flow of liquids, gas, water or other substances, which originates from the Vessel or the property of any Owner Indemnified Party used in direct connection with the operation of the Vessel under this Agreement, including spills or leaks of fuel, lubricants, oils, pipe dope, paints, solvents, ballasts, bilge, garbage, sewerage, or from any other equipment or materials in the possession or control of any Owner Indemnified Party, regardless of fault or whether or not the negligence, act, omission, default, error or breach by any Charterer Indemnified Party caused or contributed to such Damages.

 

24.2 Indemnification by Charterer

 

Charterer shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold Owner harmless from and against any and all Damages (whether based on applicable Law, contract, equitable cause, Sanctions or otherwise) that may be imposed on, incurred by, or asserted against any Owner Indemnified Party arising out of, attributable to or in connection with any of the following:

 

(i) any damage to or loss of its property, or that of any Charterer Indemnified Party, and personal injury or death (including fatal injury, illness or disease) of its employees or its servants, or those of any Charterer Indemnified Party, regardless of cause or whether or not the negligence, act, omission, default, error or breach by any Owner Indemnified Party caused or contributed to such Damages;

 

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(ii) any and all damage or harm to the environment, including fines imposed by a Governmental Authority, including claims for control, removal, remediation, restoration and clean-up of all pollution or contamination, arising from or on account of pollution or contamination resulting from fire, blowout, cratering, seepage, leakage or any other uncontrolled or unlawful flow of liquids, gas, water or other substances, which originates from the property of any Charterer Indemnified Party used in connection with this Agreement, including spills or leaks of fuel, lubricants, oils, pipe dope, paints, solvents, ballasts, bilge, garbage, sewerage, or from any other equipment or materials in the possession or control of any Charterer Indemnified Party, or any other source than Vessel or the property of any Owner Indemnified Party used in direct connection with the provision of the Vessel by Owner and/or use of the Vessel by Charterer, regardless of fault or whether or not the negligence, act, omission, default, error or breach by any Owner Indemnified Party caused or contributed to such Damages; and

 

(iii) any breach of or non-compliance with Sanctions imposed on the Owner or any Affiliate of the Owner as a consequence of Charterer's use and operation of the Vessel, including Charterer's use and operation of the Vessel under the Vessel Contract.

 

24.3 Third Party Liability

 

(a) Each of Owner and Charterer shall be responsible for and shall assume its legal liability for any one accident or occurrence arising out of or in any way connected with the performance of this Agreement which results in loss, or damage to any property of, or injury or death suffered by any person belonging to any third party outside the Owner Indemnified Parties or Charterer Indemnified Parties.

 

(b) Each of Owner and Charterer shall hold harmless and indemnify Owner Indemnified Parties and Charterer Indemnified Parties respectively, for all losses, expenses and claims for which Owner Indemnified Parties or Charterer Indemnified Parties respectively are responsible in accordance with this Clause 24.3.

 

24.4 No Limitation

 

The aggregate payment due by either Party under this Clause 24 shall be without monetary limitation. The Parties shall procure and maintain, at their own cost, valid and enforceable insurances at reasonable commercial levels to cover their obligations under Clause 24.1 and Clause 24.2 respectively.

 

25. Exclusions, Limitation of Liability and Liquidated Damages

 

25.1 No consequential losses

 

Except as expressly set forth in this Agreement, neither Party shall be liable for any consequential loss or damage or for special or punitive damages or loss of profits or business interruption, suffered or incurred by the other Party resulting from a breach or failure to perform this Agreement or the breach of any representation or warranty hereunder, whether express or implied. For purposes of this Agreement, “ consequential loss or damage ” means any and all incidental, consequential, indirect, special, punitive or exemplary damages of whatever kind and nature arising under or in connection with this Agreement, howsoever caused (including by the default or negligence of a Party or breach of any duty owned at law by a Party) and whether or not foreseeable at the date of this Agreement, including those (whether direct or indirect) relating to:

 

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(a) loss, termination, cancellation or non-renewal of any contract;

 

(b) Damages incurred under or in connection with any other contracts between either of the Parties and third parties, as applicable;

 

(c) claims for loss of production, profit or revenue;

 

(d) loss of use of or damage to property or machinery (including Vessel, pipelines or storage tanks); and

 

(e) partial or total failure in performance or delayed performance under any contract, including any non-delivery, under delivery or off-specification delivery,

 

provided always that "consequential loss or damage" shall not include any liquidated damages expressly set forth in this Agreement.

 

25.2 Limitation of Liability

 

(a) Owner’s aggregate liability under, relating to or connected with this Agreement shall not under any circumstances whatsoever exceed USD forty (45) Million excluding any express liability to indemnify Charterer and liability in respect of the payment or non-payment of excess fuel loss and the value of LNG onboard the Vessel pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement. Such aggregate liability shall also exclude Owner’s liabilities under Clause 25.

 

(b) Charterer’s aggregate liability under, relating to or connected with this Agreement shall not under any circumstances whatsoever exceed USD forty five (45) Million, excluding any express liability to indemnify Owner and liability in respect of the payment or non-payment of Hire. Such aggregate liability shall also exclude Charterer’s liabilities under Clause 25.

 

25.4 Charterer's Termination Damages

 

If this Agreement is terminated by Charterer pursuant to Clause 16.1, Owner shall, subject to the applicable limitation provisions in this Agreement, compensate Charterer for its loss of bargain/opportunity.

 

25.3 Owner’s Termination Damages

 

If this Agreement is terminated by Owner pursuant to Clause 16.2, Charterer shall, subject to the applicable limitation provisions in this Agreement, compensate Owner for its loss of bargain/opportunity.

 

25.5 Loss of Vessel

 

Should the Vessel be lost, be a constructive or compromised total loss, or be missing, this Agreement shall terminate and Hire shall cease at the time on which the Vessel was lost, unless otherwise agreed between the Parties. Any Hire paid in advance and not earned shall be returned to Charterer.

 

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25.6 Total Loss

 

(a) Should the Vessel become an actual, constructive, compromised or agreed total loss, all insurance payment for such loss shall be paid to Owner, who shall distribute the moneys between themselves and Charterer according to their respective interests.

 

(b) Charterer shall upon the request of Owner, promptly execute such documents as may be required to enable Owner to abandon the Vessel to the insurers and claim a constructive total loss.

 

26. Confidentiality

 

The Parties agree to keep the terms and conditions of, and any information obtained by a Party from the other in connection with, this Agreement (the “ Confidential Information ”) strictly confidential; provided, however, that a Party (“ Disclosing Party ”) may disclose Confidential Information in the following cases:

 

(a) it is already known to the public or becomes available to the public other than through the act or omission of the Disclosing Party;

 

(b) it is required to be disclosed under applicable law or by a governmental order, decree, regulation or rule (provided that the Disclosing Party shall give written notice of such required disclosure to the other Party prior to the disclosure);

 

(c) in filings with a court or arbitral body in proceedings in which the Confidential Information is relevant and in discovery arising out of such proceedings; or

 

(d) to any of the following persons on a need to know basis:

 

(i) an Affiliate;

 

(ii) contractors or subcontractors of either Party in connection with this Agreement;

 

(iii) employees, officers, directors and agents of the Disclosing Party or an Affiliate;

 

(iv) professional consultants retained by a Disclosing Party; or

 

(v) financial institutions advising on, providing or considering the provision of financing to the Disclosing Party or an Affiliate;

 

provided, however, that the Disclosing Party shall exercise due diligence to ensure that no such person shall disclose Confidential Information to any unauthorized person or under any unauthorized circumstances.

 

27. Novation, Assignment and Transfer

 

Owner shall not, without the prior written consent of Charterer, which shall not be unreasonably withheld:

 

(a) sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of the Vessel;

 

(b) save in connection with any Approved Mortgage, novate, assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights, benefits or obligations under this Agreement.

 

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28. Representations and Warranties

 

28.1 Owner’s Representations

 

Owner hereby represents and warrants to Charterer that, as at the date hereof:

 

(i) it is a company duly incorporated and validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the country of its incorporation and has a duly registered branch in Egypt and has the corporate power and authority to enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement and all necessary corporate, shareholder and other action, whether on the level of the Registered Owner or the Egyptian branch has been taken to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of the same;

 

(ii) this Agreement constitutes legal, valid and binding obligations applicable to it and the obligations are in full force and effect in accordance with their terms, and the delivery and performance by Owner of this Agreement will not contravene any Law of any Governmental Authority, having jurisdiction over Owner or the Vessel;

 

(iii) it has not taken nor to its knowledge has it omitted to take any actions which would adversely affect the enforceability of this Agreement against it or the rights of Charterer under the terms of this Agreement; and

 

(iv) this Agreement, its execution and delivery will not conflict with or result in any breach of any terms of, or constitute a default under, any agreement or other instrument to which Owner is a party or its property is bound.

 

28.2 Charterer’s Representations

 

Charterer hereby represents and warrants to Owner that, as at the date hereof:

 

(i) it is a corporation duly incorporated and validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the country of its incorporation and has the corporate power and authority to enter into and perform its obligations under this Agreement and all necessary corporate, shareholder and other action has been taken to authorize the execution, delivery and performance of the same;

 

(ii) this Agreement constitutes legal, valid and binding obligations applicable to it and the obligations are in full force and effect in accordance with their terms, and the delivery and performance by Charterer of this Agreement will not contravene any Law of any Governmental Authority, having jurisdiction over Charterer;

 

(iii) it has not taken nor to its knowledge has it omitted to take any actions which would adversely affect the enforceability of this Agreement against it or the rights of Owner under the terms of this Agreement; and

 

(iv) this Agreement, its execution and delivery will not conflict with or result in any breach of any terms of, or constitute a default under, any agreement or other instrument to which Charterer is a party or its property is bound.

 

29. Non-Waiver

 

No act, omission, course of dealing, forbearance, indulgence, approval or delay by Owner or Charterer in exercising their rights hereunder (whether pursuant to any default of the other Party or otherwise), or in enforcing any of the terms or conditions of this Agreement, nor any granting of time, shall prejudice or affect or be in derogation of the rights and remedies of such Party hereunder and no such matter shall be treated as evidence, or constitute a waiver, of any rights of Owner or Charterer as the case may be.

 

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No waiver of any breach or failure to enforce any right shall be valid or binding unless such waiver has been made in writing and signed by the Party granting or consenting to such waiver. No waiver shall affect or alter this Agreement, but each and every covenant, agreement, term and condition of this Agreement shall continue in full force and effect with respect to any other then existing or subsequent breach thereof.

 

30. Notices

 

30.1 Address for Notices

 

Any notice to be given, or required to be given, by either Party to the other Party hereunder, shall be sent by fax, registered mail, e-mail or registered airmail to the following addresses:

 

(A) For Owner

 

HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED EGYPT BRANCH

 

Kjell Olav Halsen

Mail address : Plot No. 28, Block E, The Public Free Zone at Attaqa, Suez

 

Email address : kjell.olav.halsen@hoeghlng.com

FAX No. : +4797557401

 

(B) For Charterer

 

HOEGH LNG EGYPT LLC

 

Rune Karlsen

Mail address : Rooms No. 401 and 302, Apartment No 4, Building No 21 El Gabarty

Street, Bab Charky, Alexandria

Email address : rune.karlsen@hoeghlng.com

FAX No. : +4797557401

 

30.2 Receipt of Notices

 

Any notice required to be given pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to be duly received only:

 

(a) In the case of a letter, whether delivered in course of the post or by hand or by courier, at the date and time of its actual delivery if within normal business hours on a working day at the place of receipt, otherwise at the commencement of normal business on the next such working day; and

 

(b) In the case of a facsimile or e-mail, at the time of transmission recorded on the message if such time is within normal business hours in the country of receipt, otherwise at the commencement of normal business hours on the next working day at the place of receipt, provided that a notice given by e-mail should be confirmed by fax within 24 hours from the time it was given.

 

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30.3 Communications

 

Unless otherwise expressly provided in this Agreement, all notices, approvals, agreements, rejections, requests, consents, elections, instructions, designations, authorizations, responses, and all other communications required to be given by either Owner or Charterer to the other one under or in connection with this Agreement shall be in writing and in the English language

 

31. Governing Law and Arbitration

 

31.1 Governing Law

 

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of England and Wales.

 

31.2 Arbitration

 

(a) Any dispute, controversy or claim which may arise out of or in connection with the Agreement or the implementation, breach, termination, validity or existence thereof which cannot be amicably settled by the Parties shall be referred to arbitration in London. Arbitration shall be conducted in accordance with the LMAA Terms current at the date of commencement of the arbitration proceedings decided by arbitration held in London.

 

(b) The arbitral panel shall issue its reasoned award in writing, and is authorized to award costs and attorneys’ fees to the prevailing Party as part of its award.

 

(c) Any award shall be final, binding and enforceable against the Parties in any court of competent jurisdiction.

 

(d) The Parties shall continue to perform this Agreement during arbitration proceedings and the arbitral panel shall have the authority to determine the validity of this Agreement and to arbitrate any dispute submitted to it.

 

32. Waiver of immunity

 

Each Party irrevocably waives any claim to immunity in relation to any arbitration or court proceedings arising out of or connected with this Agreement, including without limitation immunity from:

 

(a) jurisdiction of any court or tribunal;

 

(b) service of process;

 

(c) injunctive or other interim relief, or any order for specific performance or recovery of land; and

 

(d) any process for execution of any award or judgment against its property.

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the Parties have executed this Agreement in duplicate as of the date above first written.

 

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For and on behalf of Owner:   For and on behalf of Charterer:
       
/s/ Kjell Olav Halsen   /s/ Kjell Olav Halsen /s/ Rune Karlsen
       
Name: Kjell Olav Halsen   Name: Kjell Olav Halsen /Rune Karlsen
       
Title: Branch Manager   Title: Manager /Manager

 

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Schedule I - Description and Specification of the Vessel (HOEGH GALLANT)

 

(i) Length, overall: about 294 m.

 

(ii) Breadth moulded: about 46 m.

 

(iii) Cargo tank volume: about 170 000 m 3 (100% filling ratio).

 

(v) Flag: Marshall Islands or Norway (NIS).

 

(vi) Classification Society: DNV-GL.

 

(vii) Draft (scantling): about 12.6 m.

 

(x) Vessel’s name /Builder’s hull no.: Hoegh Gallant / HN2550.

 

(xiii) For more details, refer to the Vessel VPQ.

 

Schedule I - Description And Specification Of The Vessel   Page 1
 

  

Schedule II – Marine Crew

 

The Vessel will be operating with a minimum daily complement of 12 officers (see list below). The total complement of Marine Crew onboard will usually vary between 28 and 32 people, but Owner shall be flexible to man the vessel according to what it deems to be prudent from time to time (provided that they always comply with class and flag state requirements).

 

1. Officers

 

- Master

 

- Chief Officer

 

- 2nd officer (Class D2)

 

- 3rd Officer (Class D4) x 2

 

- Chief Engineer

 

- Cargo Engineer x 2

 

- 2nd Engineer

 

- Duty (3rd) Engineers x 2

 

- Electro Technical Officer (ETO)

 

2. Other Marine Crew

 

The Vessel shall also be manned with various rankings to ensure that key functions are covered for the various departments. This shall include (but not be limited to) position such as:

 

- Bosun

 

- Wiper

 

- Fitter

 

- Able Seaman

 

- Ordinary Seaman

 

- Chief Cook

 

- 2nd Cook

 

- Messman

 

Schedule II – Marine Crew

  Page 1

Exhibit 4.32.1

 

AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO REVOLVING LOAN AGREEMENT

 

This Amendment No. 1 to Revolving Loan Agreement dated as of February 28, 2016 (this “ Amendment ”) is between Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Borrower ”), and Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda company (the “ Lender ”).

 

INTRODUCTION

 

A.           The Borrower and the Lender have entered into the Revolving Loan Agreement dated as of August 12, 2014 (as amended, restated, amended and restated or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ Revolving Loan Agreement ”).

 

B.           The Borrower and the Lender wish to amend the Revolving Loan Agreement on the terms, and subject to the conditions, set forth below.

 

THEREFORE, in fulfillment of the foregoing, the Borrower and the Lender hereby agree as follows:

 

Section 1.           Definitions; References . Unless otherwise defined in this Amendment, each term used in this Amendment which is defined in the Revolving Loan Agreement has the meaning assigned to such term in the Revolving Loan Agreement.

 

Section 2.           Amendment . Upon the satisfaction of the conditions specified in Section 4 of this Amendment, and effective as of the date set forth above, the Revolving Loan Agreement is amended to replace the term “Maturity Date” in Section 1.1 thereof with the following:

 

Maturity Date ” shall mean January 1, 2020.

 

Section 3.           Representations and Warranties . The Borrower represents and warrants to the Lender that:

 

(a)          the representations and warranties set forth in the Revolving Loan Agreement are true and correct in all material respects as of the date of this Amendment (except to the extent such representations and warranties relate to an earlier date, in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct in all material respects as of such earlier date);

 

(b)           (i) the execution, delivery, and performance of this Amendment are within the company power and authority of the Borrower and have been duly authorized by appropriate proceedings and (ii) this Amendment constitutes a legal, valid, and binding obligation of the Borrower, enforceable against the Borrower in accordance with its terms, except as limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium, or similar laws affecting the rights of creditors generally and general principles of equity; and

 

(c)          as of the date of this Amendment and after giving effect hereto, no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.

 

 

 

 

Section 4.           Effectiveness . This Amendment shall become effective as of the date hereof, and the Revolving Loan Agreement shall be amended as provided herein, upon the occurrence of all of the following: (a) the Borrower’s and the Lender’s duly and validly executing originals of this Amendment and delivery thereof to the Lender; and (b) the representations and warranties in this Amendment being true and correct in all material respects before and after giving effect to this Amendment.

 

Section 5.           Effect on Revolving Loan Agreement . Except as amended herein, the Revolving Loan Agreement remains in full force and effect as originally executed, and nothing herein shall act as a waiver of any of the Lender’s rights under the Revolving Loan Agreement, as amended. Any breach of representations, warranties, and covenants under this Amendment may be a Default or Event of Default under the Revolving Loan Agreement.

 

Section 6.           Choice of Law . This Agreement shall be governed by and construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.

 

Section 7.           Counterparts . This Agreement may be signed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be an original.

 

[The remainder of this page has been left blank intentionally.]

 

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THIS WRITTEN AMENDMENT AND THE REVOLVING LOAN AGREEMENT REPRESENT THE FINAL AGREEMENT AMONG THE PARTIES HERETO AND MAY NOT BE CONTRADICTED BY EVIDENCE OF PRIOR, CONTEMPORANEOUS, OR SUBSEQUENT ORAL AGREEMENTS OF THE PARTIES HERETO. THERE ARE NO UNWRITTEN ORAL AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE PARTIES HERETO.

 

EXECUTED as of the date first set forth above.

 

  BORROWER :
   
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
   
  By: /s/ Richard Tyrrell
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
     
  LENDER :
   
  HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.
     
  By: /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Authorized Signatory

 

[ Signature Page to First Amendment]

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 4.37

 

Execution Version

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED FACILITIES AGREEMENT

for up to

US$412,000,000

 

Dated 17 March 2016

 

for

 

HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED

HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD.

as Borrowers

 

with

 

HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.

HÖEGH LNG LTD.

HÖEGH LNG FSRU III LTD.

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

HÖEGH LNG COLOMBIA HOLDING LTD.

as Corporate Guarantors

 

with

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

as Agent, Security Trustee and Account Bank

 

arranged by

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH, CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH, CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, DANSKE BANK A/S, DNB BANK ASA, NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA AND SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

as Mandated Lead Arrangers and Bookrunners

 

with

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH, CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, DANSKE BANK A/S, DNB BANK ASA, NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC AND SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

as Swap Banks

 

with

 

EKSPORTKREDITT NORGE AS

as ECA Lender

 

and

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH, CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH, CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, DANSKE BANK, NORWEGIAN BRANCH, DNB BANK ASA, NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC or NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA AND SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

as Bank Guarantors and Commercial Lenders

 

 

 

 

Execution Version

 

CONTENTS

 

Clause   Page
     
SECTION 1 INTERPRETATION 2
     
1. Definitions and Interpretation 2
     
SECTION 2 THE FACILITIES 32
     
2. The Facilities 32
     
3. Purpose 35
     
4. Conditions of Utilisation 35
     
SECTION 3 UTILISATION 38
     
5. Utilisation 38
     
6. Bank Guarantees 39
     
SECTION 4 REPAYMENT, PREPAYMENT AND CANCELLATION 42
     
7. Repayment 42
     
8. Prepayment and cancellation 43
     
SECTION 5 COSTS OF UTILISATION 48
     
9. Interest 48
     
10. Interest Periods 49
     
11. Changes to the calculation of interest 49
     
12. Fees 51
     
SECTION 6 ADDITIONAL PAYMENT OBLIGATIONS 52
     
13. Tax gross up and indemnities 52
     
14. Increased costs 56
     
15. Other indemnities 57
     
16. Mitigation by the Finance Parties 60
     
17. Costs and expenses 60
     
SECTION 7 CORPORATE GUARANTEE 61
     
18. Corporate Guarantee and Indemnity 61

 

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Execution Version

 

SECTION 8 REPRESENTATIONS, UNDERTAKINGS AND EVENTS OF DEFAULT 64
     
19. Representations 64
     
20. Information Undertakings 69
     
21. Accounts 72
     
22. Financial Covenants 73
     
23. Vessel Covenants 76
     
24. Insurance Covenants 80
     
25. Security Undertakings 82
     
26. Security Maintenance 83
     
27. General Undertakings 85
     
28. Subordination of Swap Liabilities 92
     
29. Events of Default 93
     
SECTION 9 CHANGES TO PARTIES 98
     
30. Changes to the Lenders, Bank GuArantors and Swap Banks 98
     
31. Restriction on debt purchase transactions 102
     
32. Changes to the Obligors 103
     
33. Role of the Agent and the Mandated Lead Arranger 104
     
34. Conduct of business by the Finance Parties 113
     
35. Sharing among the Finance Parties 113
     
SECTION 11 ADMINISTRATION 115
     
36. Payment mechanics 115
     
37. Set-off 118
     
38. Notices and publications 118
     
39. Calculations and certificates 121
     
40. Partial invalidity 121
     
41. Remedies, waivers and conflicts 121
     
42. Amendments and waivers 122

 

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Execution Version

 

43. Confidentiality 125
     
44. Counterparts 128
     
45. Joint and Several Liability 128
     
SECTION 12 GOVERNING LAW AND ENFORCEMENT 130
     
46. Governing law 130
     
47. Enforcement 130
     
SCHEDULE 1 132
   
Part I The Original Lenders 132
   
Commercial Facility 132
   
Eksportkreditt Facility 132
   
Part II – Bank Guarantors 133
   
SCHEDULE 2 CONDITIONS PRECEDENT 134
   
Part I – Conditions to Signing 134
   
Part II – Conditions to Closing and Delivery of Utilisation Request 136
   
Part III – Conditions to each Pre-Delivery Loan 138
   
Part IV – Conditions to Delivery Loan 139
   
Part V – Conditions to Time Charter Vessel 2 141
   
Part VI – Conditions to Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification/Modification Loan 142
   
Part VII – Conditions to Höegh MLP Effective Date 144
   
SCHEDULE 3 REQUESTS 145
   
Part I Utilisation Request 145
   
Part II Selection Notice 146
   
SCHEDULE 4 VESSELS 147
   
SCHEDULE 5 FORM OF TRANSFER CERTIFICATE 148
   
SCHEDULE 6 TIMETABLES 150
   
SCHEDULE 7 FORM OF COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATES 151
   
SCHEDULE 8 FORM OF INCREASE CONFIRMATION 156
   
SCHEDULE 9 FORM OF HÖEGH MLP ACCESSION DEED 158
   
SCHEDULE 10 FORM OF BANK GUARANTEE 161

 

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THIS AGREEMENT is dated 17 March 2016 and made between:

 

1. HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED , a company incorporated in Cyprus having its registered office at 4 Sotiri Tofini, 2 nd Floor, 4102 Agios Athanasios, Limassol, Cyprus (“ HLNG Cyprus ”) and HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD. a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands having its registered office address at Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, PO Box 1350, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands, as borrowers (“ FSRU IV ”) (together with HLNG Cyprus jointly and severally, the " Borrowers " and each a “ Borrower ”);

 

2. HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD., a company incorporated in Bermuda having its registered office address at Canon’s Court, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda, HÖEGH LNG LTD. , a company incorporated in Bermuda having its registered office address at Canon’s Court, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda and HÖEGH LNG FSRU III LTD., a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands having its registered office address at Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, PO Box 1350, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands (“ FSRU III ”), HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP, as master limited partnership duly formed under the laws of the Marshall Islands having its registered office address at Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Island, Ajeltake Road, Majuro, Marshall Islands MH96960 (“ Höegh MLP ”) and HÖEGH LNG COLOMBIA HOLDING LTD a company incorporated in the Cayman Islands having its registered office address at Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, PO Box 1350, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands (“ HLNG Colombia HoldCo ”) as guarantors (together, the “ Corporate Guarantors ” and each a “ Corporate Guarantor ”);

 

3. ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH, CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH, CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, DANSKE BANK A/S, DNB BANK ASA, NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA and SWEDBANK AB (PUBL) as mandated lead arrangers (whether acting individually or together, the " Mandated Lead Arranger ");

 

4. THE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS listed in Schedule 1, Part IA as lenders (the " Commercial Lenders ");

 

5. EKSPORTKREDITT NORGE AS as ECA lender (the “ ECA Lender ” and together with the Commercial Lenders, the “ Original Lenders ”);

 

6. NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA acting through its office at Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway as agent for the other Finance Parties (the “ Agent ”);

 

7. NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA acting through its office at Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway as security trustee for the Secured Parties (the “ Security Trustee ”);

 

8. NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA acting through its office at Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway as account bank (the “ Account Bank ”);

 

9. THE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS listed in Schedule 1, Part II as bank guarantors (the " Original Bank Guarantors "); and

 

10. ABN AMRO BANK, N.V., CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH, CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK, DANSKE BANK A/S, DNB BANK ASA, NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC and SWEDBANK AB (PUBL) as swap banks (the “ Swap Banks ”).

 

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IT IS AGREED as follows:

SECTION 1
INTERPRETATION

 

1. Definitions and Interpretation

 

1.1 Definitions

 

In this Agreement:

 

Account ” means each Earnings Account;

 

Account Security Deed” means each of the deeds executed or to be executed by each Borrower in favour of the Security Trustee granting security in respect of an Account, in agreed form;

 

Additional Corporate Guarantor ” means Höegh MLP, which became a Corporate Guarantor in accordance with Clause 32 ( Changes to the Obligors ) on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date;

 

“Affiliate " means, in relation to any person, a Subsidiary of that person or a Holding Company of that person or any other Subsidiary of that Holding Company;

 

Approved Broker ” means EA Gibson Shipbrokers Ltd., Braemar Seascope Ltd., Fearnleys A/S and RS Platou ASA or such other brokers as may be approved by the Agent;

 

Approved Flag ” means Norway, Singapore, Cayman Islands, Bahamas, Marshall Islands or such other flag as may be approved by the Lenders;

 

" Authorisation " means an authorisation, consent, approval, resolution, licence, exemption, filing, notarisation or registration;

 

" Available Commitment " means, in relation to a Commercial Facility Tranche, a Commercial Lender's Commitment minus:

 

(a) the amount of its participation in, as applicable, any outstanding Loans under that Commercial Facility Tranche; and

 

(b) in relation to any proposed Loan, the amount of its participation in any other Utilisations that are due to be made under that Commercial Facility Tranche on or before the proposed Utilisation Date;

 

Available Facility ” means,

 

(a) in relation to a Facility Tranche, the aggregate for the time being of, as applicable, each Commercial Lender’s Available Commitment in respect of that Facility Tranche or the ECA Lender’s Commitment in respect of that Facility Tranche; and

 

(b) in relation to the Bank Guarantee Facility, each Bank Guarantor’s Bank Guarantee Facility Commitment;

 

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Availability Period ” means:

 

(a) for the Utilisation of a Commercial Loan other than the Vessel 1 Modification Loan, the period from and including the date of this Agreement to and including the date which is the earlier of: (i) for Vessel 1, 270 days after the relevant Scheduled Delivery Date and for Vessel 2, the relevant Scheduled Delivery Date ; (ii) the date the relevant Building Contract has been terminated or (iii) the date on which the Total Commitments are reduced to zero; or

 

(b) for the Utilisation of the Vessel 1 Modification Loan, the period from and including the Delivery Date of Vessel 1 to and including the earlier of (i) 30 June 2016; or (ii) the date on which the Total Commitments are reduced to zero; or

 

(c) for the Utilisation of an ECA Loan or a Bank Guarantee, the period from and including the Delivery Date for the Vessel to which that ECA Loan or Bank Guarantee relates to and including the date which is the earlier of: (i) for Vessel 1, 270 days after the relevant Scheduled Delivery Date and for Vessel 2, the relevant Schedule Delivery Date; or (ii) the date on which the Total Commitments are reduced to zero;

 

“Bank Guarantee ” means a guarantee from a Bank Guarantor in favour of the ECA Lender in relation to an ECA Loan, substantially in the form of Schedule 10;

 

Bank Guarantee Facility ” means the guarantee facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.3 ( Bank Guarantee Facility );

 

“Bank Guarantee Facility Commitment” means in relation to a Bank Guarantor, the amount set opposite its name under the heading “Bank Guarantee Facility Commitment” in Schedule 1, Part II ( Bank Guarantors ) and the amount of any other Bank Guarantee Facility Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement to the extent not cancelled, reduced or transferred by it under this Agreement;

 

“Bank Guarantors” means:

 

(a) any Original Bank Guarantor; and

 

(b) any bank, financial institution, trust, fund or other entity which has become a Party as a Bank Guarantor in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ) or Clause 30 ( Changes to the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors ),

 

which in each case has not ceased to be a Bank Guarantor in accordance with the terms of this Agreement;

 

“Borrower Shares Security Deed” means each of the deeds executed or to be executed by (i) FSRU III in respect of HLNG Cyprus and (ii) HLNG Colombia HoldCo in respect of FSRU IV and any replacement Borrower Shares Security Deed in respect of FSRU IV to be executed by Höegh MLP or a wholly owned Subsidiary of Höegh MLP on a Höegh MLP Effective Date in favour of the Security Trustee granting Security in respect of all its shares in FSRU IV;

 

" Break Costs " means:

 

(a) in respect of a Commercial Loan made, the amount (if any) by which:

 

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the interest (less the Margin) which a Lender should have received for the period from the date of receipt of all or any part of its participation in a Loan or an Unpaid Sum to the last day of the current Interest Period in respect of that Loan or Unpaid Sum, had the principal amount or Unpaid Sum received been paid on the last day of that Interest Period;

exceeds:

 

the amount which that Lender would be able to obtain by placing an amount equal to the principal amount or Unpaid Sum received by it on deposit with a leading bank in the London Interbank Market for a period starting on the Business Day following receipt or recovery and ending on the last day of the current Interest Period;

or

 

(b) in respect of an ECA Loan, the amount (if any) determined by the ECA Lender by which:

 

the value of the interest amount which the ECA Lender should have received by applying the CIRR Interest Rate on the ECA Loan or part thereof for the period from the date of receipt of the ECA Loan or part thereof to (and including) the applicable Maturity Date (calculation of such amount to take into account the agreed repayment schedule of the ECA Loan, as if the ECA Loan had been repaid on all of the scheduled instalment repayment dates to (and including) the applicable Maturity Date);

exceeds

 

the value of the interest amount the ECA Lender would be able to obtain if placing an amount equal to the ECA Loan or party thereof at the Prepayment Swap Rate for a period starting on the Business Day following receipt or recovery of the ECA Loan or part thereof to (and including) the applicable Maturity Date (calculation of such amount to take into account the agreed repayment schedule of the ECA Loan, as if the ECA Loan had been repaid on all of the scheduled instalment repayment dates to (and including the applicable Maturity Date),

 

and for the purpose of this paragraph;

 

Prepayment Swap Rate ” means the fixed interbank interest swap rate quoted by a reputable capital market information provider (i.e. Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters, etc.) for a period starting on the Business Day following receipt of the ECA Loan or a part thereof and ending on the applicable Maturity Date for the ECA Loan, such rate to take into account all of the scheduled instalment repayment dates to (and including) the Maturity Date for the ECA Loan.

 

The Prepayment Swap Rate will also be used as discount factor to calculate the net present value of any positive difference between (i) and (ii) above. The calculation shall be determined by the ECA Lender;

 

Builder ” means Hyundai Heavy Industries Co., Ltd of 1 Cheonha-Dong, Ulsan, Korea;

 

“Builder Warranties ” means the warranties from the Builder to the Original Shareholder under each Building Contract, to be assigned to the relevant Borrower on the sale of each Vessel;

 

“Building Contract” means the Vessel 1 Building Contract or the Vessel 2 Building Contract;

 

" Business Day " means a day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks are open for general business in London, New York City and Oslo;

 

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Certified Copy ” means in relation to any document delivered or issued by or on behalf of any company, a copy of such document certified as a true, complete and up to date copy of the original by any of the directors or officers for the time being of such company or by such company’s attorneys or solicitors or, if a Finance Party so requires, by a notary or lawyer acceptable to it;

 

Charged Property ” means all of the assets which from time to time are, or are expressed to be, the subject of the Transaction Security;

 

CIRR Interest Rate ” means the Commercial Interest Reference Rate determined by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) according to the “Arrangement on Officially Supported Export Credit” as further described in Clause 9.1 ( Calculation of Interest );

 

“Classification ” means, in relation to a Vessel, the highest class available for the vessel of her type with the relevant Classification Society;

 

Classification Society ” means DNV GL, Lloyds Register, ABS, Bureau Veritas or such other classification society which the Agent shall, at the request of the Borrowers and acting on the instructions of the Lenders, have agreed in writing shall be treated as the Classification Society in relation to a Vessel;

 

Code ” means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986;

 

Commercial Facility ” means the term loan facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.1 ( Commercial Facility );

 

Commercial Facility Tranche ” means a Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche, a Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche or the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche;

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Commitment” means:

 

(a) in relation to an Original Lender, the amount set opposite its name under the heading “Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Commitment” in Schedule 1, Part IA (The Original Lenders ) and the amount of any other Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement or assumed by it in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ); and

 

(b) in relation to any other Commercial Lender, the amount of any Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement or assumed by it in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ),

 

to the extent:

 

(i) not cancelled, reduced or transferred by it under this Agreement; and

 

(ii) not deemed to be zero pursuant to Clause 31.2 (Disenfranchisement on Debt Purchase Transaction entered into by Group or Sponsor Affiliates contrary to Clause 31.1).

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche” means that part of the Commercial Facility made available under this Agreement as described in 2.1(c);

 

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Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Loan” means a loan made or to be made under the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of the loan;

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment” means:

 

(a) in relation to an Original Lender, the amount set opposite its name under the heading “Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment” in Schedule 1, Part IA (The Original Lenders ) and the amount of any other Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement or assumed by it in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ); and

 

(b) in relation to any other Commercial Lender, the amount of any Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement or assumed by it in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ),

 

to the extent:

 

(i) not cancelled, reduced or transferred by it under this Agreement; and

 

(ii) not deemed to be zero pursuant to Clause 31.2 (Disenfranchisement on Debt Purchase Transaction entered into by Group or Sponsor Affiliates contrary to Clause 31.1) .

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche” means that part of the Commercial Facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.1(a);

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Loan” means a loan made or to be made under the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of that loan;

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche” means that part of the Commercial Facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.1(b);

 

“Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment” means:

 

(a) in relation to an Original Lender, the amount set opposite its name under the heading “Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment” in Schedule 1, Part IA (The Original Lenders ) and the amount of any other Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement or assumed by it in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ); and

 

(b) in relation to any other Commercial Lender, the amount of any Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment transferred to it under this Agreement or assumed by it in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ),

 

to the extent:

 

(i) not cancelled, reduced or transferred by it under this Agreement; and

 

(ii) not deemed to be zero pursuant to Clause 31.2 (Disenfranchisement on Debt Purchase Transaction entered into by Group or Sponsor Affiliates contrary to Clause 31.1) .

 

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“Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan” means a loan made or to be made under the Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of that loan;

 

Commercial Lenders ” means the Lenders under the Commercial Facility;

 

“Commercial Loan” means a Loan made or to be made under the Commercial Facility, or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of that loan;

 

“Commitment " means a Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment, a Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment, the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Loan Commitment, the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment, the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment or a Bank Guarantee Facility Commitment;

 

“Commitment Fee” means any amount payable under Clause 12.1 (Commitment Fee) or Clause 12.4.2, as applicable ;

 

“Compliance Certificate” means a certificate substantially in the form set out in Schedule 7 ( Form of Compliance Certificates );

 

Confidential Information ” means all information relating to the Parent Company, any Obligor, Höegh MLP, the Group, the Finance Documents or a Facility of which a Finance Party becomes aware in its capacity as, or for the purpose of becoming, a Finance Party or which is received by a Finance Party in relation to, or for the purpose of becoming a Finance Party under, the Finance Documents or a Facility from either:

 

(a) any member of the Group or any of its advisers; or

 

(b) another Finance Party, if the information was obtained by that Finance Party directly or indirectly from any member of the Group or any of its advisers,

 

in whatever form, and includes information given orally and any document, electronic file or any other way of representing or recording information which contains or is derived or copied from such information but excludes information that:

 

(i) is or becomes public information other than as a direct or indirect result of any breach by that Finance Party of Clause 43 (Confidentiality) ; or

 

(ii) is identified in writing at the time of delivery as non-confidential by any member of the Group or any of its advisers; or

 

(iii) is known by that Finance Party before the date the information is disclosed to it in accordance with paragraphs (a) or (b) above or is lawfully obtained by that Finance Party after that date, from a source which is, as far as that Finance Party is aware, unconnected with the Group and which, in either case, as far as that Finance Party is aware, has not been obtained in breach of, and is not otherwise subject to, any obligation of confidentiality;

 

" Confidentiality Undertaking " means a confidentiality undertaking substantially in a recommended form of the LMA or in any other form agreed between the Obligors and the Agent;

 

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Contract Price ” means the price payable to the Builder for a Vessel under the relevant Building Contract, as such may be adjusted from time to time in accordance with the terms of that Building Contract;

 

“Corporate Guarantor Shares Security Deed” means each of the deeds executed or to be executed by (i) OPCO in respect of FSRU III and (ii) the Original Shareholder in respect of HLNG Colombia HoldCo and, in respect of (ii), any replacement Corporate Guarantor Shares Security Deed which may be executed by Höegh MLP or a wholly owned Subsidiary of Höegh MLP on a Höegh MLP Effective Date in favour of the Security Trustee granting Security in respect of all the shares in HLNG Colombia HoldCo;

 

Debt Purchase Transaction ” means, in relation to a person, a transaction where such person:

 

(a) purchases by way of assignment or transfer;

 

(b) enters into any sub-participation in respect of; or

 

(c) enters into any other agreement or arrangement having an economic effect substantially similar to a sub-participation in respect of,

 

any Commitment or amount outstanding under this Agreement;

 

Deed of Covenant ” means, in relation to each Vessel, a deed of covenant collateral to a Mortgage and creating charges over that Vessel, its Earnings, Insurances, any Requisition Compensation, if relevant, and the Builder Warranties required to be executed hereunder by the relevant Borrower in favour of the Security Trustee in the agreed form;

 

" Default " means an Event of Default or any event or circumstance specified in Clause 29 ( Events of Default ) which would (with the expiry of a grace period, the giving of notice, the making of any determination under the Finance Documents or any combination of any of the foregoing) be an Event of Default;

 

“Defaulting Lender ” means any Lender or Bank Guarantor (other than a Lender or Bank Guarantor which is a Sponsor Affiliate):

 

(a) which has failed to make its participation in a Loan or Bank Guarantee available or has notified the Agent that it will not make its participation in a Loan or Bank Guarantee available by the Utilisation Date of that Loan or Bank Guarantee in accordance with Clause 5.4.1 ( Lenders Participation ) or Clause 5.5 ( Bank Guarantors’ participation ), as applicable;

 

(b) which has otherwise rescinded or repudiated a Finance Document; or

 

(c) with respect to which an Insolvency Event has occurred and is continuing,

 

unless, in the case of paragraph (a) above:

 

(i) its failure to pay is caused by:

 

(ii) administrative or technical error; or

 

(iii) a Disruption Event; and

 

  8  
 

 

payment is made within five (5) Business Days of its due date; or

 

(iv) the Lender or Bank Guarantor is disputing in good faith whether it is contractually obliged to make the payment in question.

 

“Delegate” means any delegate, agent, attorney or co-trustee appointed by the Security Trustee;

 

Delivered Cost ” means the aggregate of the Contract Price and the Project Costs for a Vessel;

 

Delivery Date ” means the date on which a Vessel is delivered to the relevant Borrower in accordance with the relevant Building Contract;

 

Delivery Loan ” means a Loan to be made available on a Delivery Date;

 

Disclosure Letter ” means the letter dated 10 April 2014 from Höegh LNG AS to the Lenders, in form and substance accepted by the Lenders, in relation to potential litigation against members of the Group;

 

" Disruption Event " means either or both of:

 

(a) a material disruption to those payment or communications systems or to those financial markets which are, in each case, required to operate in order for payments to be made in connection with a Facility (or otherwise in order for the transactions contemplated by the Finance Documents to be carried out) which disruption is not caused by, and is beyond the control of, any of the Parties; or

 

(b) the occurrence of any other event which results in a disruption (of a technical or systems-related nature) to the treasury or payments operations of a Party preventing that, or any other Party:

 

(i) from performing its payment obligations under the Finance Documents; or

 

(ii) from communicating with other Parties in accordance with the terms of the Finance Documents,

 

and which (in either such case) is not caused by, and is beyond the control of, the Party whose operations are disrupted;

 

Dropdown Borrower” means:

 

(a) FSRU IV after its share capital has been transferred to Höegh MLP or a wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP on a Höegh MLP Effective Date; or

 

(b) HLNG Cyprus after the share capital in FSRU III has been transferred to Höegh MLP or a wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP on a Höegh MLP Effective Date;

 

“Dropdown Vessel” means a Vessel owned by a Dropdown Borrower;

 

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Earnings ” means, in relation to a Vessel, all moneys whatsoever which are now, or later become, payable (actually or contingently) to the relevant Borrower or EgyptCo or, in accordance with the Security Documents, to the Security Trustee and which arise out of the use of or operation of that Vessel, including (but not limited to) all freight, hire and passage moneys, Insurances and Requisition Compensation payable to the relevant Borrower or EgyptCo or, in accordance with the Security Documents, to the Security Trustee, remuneration of salvage and towage services, demurrage and detention moneys and damages for breach (or payments for variation or termination) of any charterparty or other contract for the employment of such Vessel;

 

“Earnings Account” means the Vessel 1 Earnings Account or the Vessel 2 Earnings Account or the EgyptCo Earnings Account or the OSA Earnings Account and includes any sub-accounts thereof and any other account designated in writing by the Agent to be an Earnings Account for the purposes of this Agreement;

 

“Earnings Account Security Deeds” means each of the deeds executed or to be executed by a Borrower in favour of the Security Trustee creating security in respect of the relevant Earnings Account, in agreed form;

 

“ECA Lender” means Eksportkreditt Norge AS of Hieronymus Heyerdahls gate 1, NO-0160 Oslo, Norway;

 

ECA Loan ” means a Loan made or to be made under the Eksportkreditt Facility or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of that loan;

 

EGAS ” means the Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company of El Nasr Road, 1st District, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt;

 

EGAS Contract ” means the regasification service agreement in respect of the Vessel 1 dated 3 November 2014 and made between the Original Shareholder and EGAS as novated or to be novated out of the name of the Original Shareholder and into the name of EgyptCo by a novation agreement to be entered into between the Original Shareholder, EgyptCo and EGAS;

 

EGAS Contract Earnings ” means all hire payable to EgyptCo by EGAS pursuant to the EGAS Contract;

 

EGAS Contract Earnings Assignment ” means a first priority assignment by EgyptCo of the EGAS Contract Earnings in favour of the Security Trustee;

 

EGAS Guarantee” means the guarantee dated 28 January 2015 granted by Commercial International Bank in favour of EgyptCo in support of EGAS’ obligations under the EGAS Contract;

 

EGAS Guarantee Assignment ” means a first priority assignment by EgyptCo of the EGAS Guarantee granted by EgyptCo in favour of the Security Trustee;

 

Egypt Branch of HLNG Cyprus ” means the branch office in Egypt of HLNG Cyprus located at Attaga Free Zone, Zuours, Egypt;

 

“EgyptCo” means Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC, a company incorporated in Egypt and with its registered office at Rooms nos. 401 and 402 of Apartment No. 4, Building No. 2, fourth floor, El Gabarty St., Bab Charky, Alexandria, Egypt;

 

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EgyptCo Earnings Account ” means each account or accounts to be opened in the name of EgyptCo with (i) in respect of any EGAS Contract Earnings in Dollar, the Account Bank and (ii) if requested by the Agent in respect of any EGAS Earnings in Egyptian Pounds, an Egyptian bank reasonably acceptable to the Agent, which EgyptCo and the Agent agree shall be the EgyptCo Earnings Account for the purpose of this Agreement;

 

EgyptCo Lease ” means the lease and maintenance agreement in respect of Vessel 1 made or to be made between the Egypt Branch of HLNG Cyprus and EgyptCo;

 

EgyptCo Lease Assignment ” means a first priority assignment by HLNG Cyprus of the EgyptCo Lease in favour of the Security Trustee;

 

EgyptCo Quota Pledge Security ” means the pledge of quotas executed by the Quotaholders in favour of the Security Trustee granting Security in respect of all of the quotas in EgyptCo;

 

Egypt Holding I” means Höegh LNG Egypt Holding I Ltd., a company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands with its registered office at P.O. 1350, Klef House,75 Fort Street, Grand Cayman KY 1-1108 , Cayman Islands;

 

Egypt Holding II” means Höegh LNG Egypt Holding II Ltd., a company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands with its registered office at P.O. 1350, Klef House,75 Fort Street, Grand Cayman KY 1-1108 , Cayman Islands;

 

Eksportkreditt Facility” means the term loan facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.2 ( Eksportkreditt Facility );

 

“Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche” means that part of the Eksportkreditt Facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.2(a);

 

“Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment” means in relation to the ECA Lender, the amount set opposite its name under the heading “Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitment” in Schedule 1, Part IB (The Original Lenders ) to the extent not cancelled, reduced or transferred by it under this Agreement;

 

“Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Loan” means a loan made or to be made under the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of that loan;

 

“Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche” means that part of Eksportkreditt Facility made available under this Agreement as described in Clause 2.2(b);

 

“Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment” means in relation to the ECA Lender, the amount set opposite its name under the heading “Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitment” in Schedule 1, Part IB (The Original Lenders ) to the extent not cancelled, reduced or transferred by it under this Agreement;

 

“Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan” means a loan made or to be made under the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche or the principal amount outstanding for the time being of that loan;

 

Environmental Affiliate ” means any agent or employee of a Borrower or an Operator;

 

Environmental Approvals ” means all authorisations, consents, licences, permits, exemptions or other approvals whatsoever required by an Obligor or an Operator in connection with the Vessels under applicable Environmental Laws;

 

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Environmental Claim ” means (i) any claim by, or directive from, any applicable Government Entity alleging breach of, or non-compliance with, any Environmental Laws or Environmental Approvals or otherwise howsoever relating to or arising out of an Environmental Incident or (ii) any claim by any other third party howsoever relating to or arising out of an Environmental Incident (and, in each such case, “claim” shall include a claim for damages and/or direction for and/or enforcement relating to clean-up costs, removal, compliance, remedial action or otherwise) or (iii) any Proceedings arising from any of the foregoing but excluding any claim of a vexatious or frivolous nature which is being contested in good faith;

 

Environmental Incident ” means, regardless of cause, (i) any actual discharge or release of Environmentally Sensitive Material from a Vessel; (ii) any incident in which Environmentally Sensitive Material is discharged or released from a vessel other than a Vessel which involves collision between such Vessel and such other vessel or some other incident of navigation or operation, in either case, where a Vessel, its Manager and/or an Obligor and/or an Operator are actually, contingently or allegedly at fault or otherwise howsoever liable (in whole or in part) or (iii) any incident in which Environmentally Sensitive Material is discharged or released from a vessel other than a Vessel and where that Vessel is actually or potentially liable to be arrested as a result and/or where an Obligor and/or the Operator are actually, contingently or allegedly at fault or otherwise howsoever liable;

 

Environmental Laws ” means all laws, regulations, conventions and agreements whatsoever applicable to an Obligor, an Operator or a Vessel in a jurisdiction where an Obligor is incorporated or operates or an Operator operates or to which a Vessel trades and relating to pollution, human or wildlife well-being or protection of the environment (including, without limitation, the United States Oil Pollution Act of 1990 and any comparable laws of the individual States of the United States of America);

 

Environmentally Sensitive Material ” means oil, oil products or any other products or substance which are polluting, toxic or hazardous or any substance the release of which into the environment is howsoever regulated, prohibited or penalised by or pursuant to any Environmental Law;

 

“Event of Default " means any event or circumstance specified as such in Clause 29 ( Events of Default );

 

Facility ” means the Commercial Facility, the Eksportkreditt Facility or the Bank Guarantee Facility;

 

" Facility Office " means the office or offices notified by a Lender or a Bank Guarantor or a Swap Bank to the Agent in writing on or before the date it becomes a Lender or a Bank Guarantor or a Swap Bank (or, following that date, by not less than five Business Days' written notice) as the office or offices through which it will perform its obligations under this Agreement;

 

Facility Tranche ” means a Commercial Facility Tranche, an Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche or an Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche;

 

" FATCA " means:

 

(a) sections 1471 to 1474 of the Code or any associated regulations or other official guidance;

 

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(b) any treaty, law, regulation or other official guidance enacted in any other jurisdiction, or relating to an intergovernmental agreement between the US and any other jurisdiction, which (in either case) facilitates the implementation of paragraph (a) above; or

 

(c) any agreement pursuant to the implementation of paragraphs (a) or (b) above with the US Internal Revenue Service, the US government or any governmental or taxation authority in any other jurisdiction.

 

" FATCA Application Date " means:

 

(a) in relation to a "withholdable payment" described in section 1473(1)(A)(i) of the Code (which relates to payments of interest and certain other payments from sources within the US), 1 July 2014;

 

(b) in relation to a "withholdable payment" described in section 1473(1)(A)(ii) of the Code (which relates to "gross proceeds" from the disposition of property of a type that can produce interest from sources within the US), 1 January 2017; or

 

(c) in relation to a "passthru payment" described in section 1471(d)(7) of the Code not falling within paragraphs (a) or (b) above, 1 January 2017,

 

or, in each case, such other date from which such payment may become subject to a deduction or withholding required by FATCA as a result of any change in FATCA after the date of this Agreement.

 

" FATCA Deduction " means a deduction or withholding from a payment under a Finance Document required by FATCA.

 

" FATCA Exempt Party " means a Party that is entitled to receive payments free from any FATCA Deduction.

 

" Fee Letter " means any letter or letters setting out any of the fees referred to in this Clause 1.1( Definitions ), Clause 2.6 ( Increase ) or Clause 12 ( Fees );

 

" Finance Document " means:

 

(a) this Agreement;

 

(b) any Bank Guarantee;

 

(c) any Fee Letter;

 

(d) any Security Document;

 

(e) any Selection Notice;

 

(f) any Swap Contract;

 

(g) the Trust Agreement;

 

(h) any Utilisation Request; or

 

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(i) any other document designated in writing as such by the Agent and the Borrowers;

 

"Finance Party" means the Agent, the Bank Guarantors, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Security Trustee, the Account Bank, a Swap Bank or a Lender;

 

"Financial Indebtedness" means any indebtedness for or in respect of:

 

(a) moneys borrowed and debit balances at banks or other financial institutions;

 

(b) any acceptance under any acceptance credit or bill discounting facility or dematerialised equivalent;

 

(c) any note purchase facility or the issue of bonds, notes, debentures, loan stock or any similar instrument;

 

(d) the amount of any liability in respect of any lease or hire purchase contract which would, in accordance with IFRS, be treated as a finance or capital lease;

 

(e) receivables sold or discounted (other than any receivables to the extent they are sold on a non-recourse basis);

 

(f) any derivative transaction (and, when calculating the value of that derivative transaction, only the marked to market value (or, if any actual amount is due as a result of the termination or close-out of that transaction, that amount) shall be taken into account);

 

(g) any counter-indemnity obligation in respect of a guarantee, bond, standby or documentary letter of credit or any other instrument issued by a bank or financial institution;

 

(h) any amount classified as borrowings under IFRS;

 

(i) any amount of any liability under an advance or deferred purchase agreement if (i) one of the primary reasons behind entering into the agreement is to raise finance or to finance the acquisition or construction of the asset or service in question or (ii) the agreement is in respect of the supply of assets or services and payment is due more than 30 days after the date of supply;

 

(j) any amount raised under any other transaction (including any forward sale or purchase, sale and sale back or sale and leaseback agreement) having the commercial effect of a borrowing; and

 

(k) the amount of any liability in respect of any guarantee for any of the items referred to in paragraphs (a) to (j) above;

 

“Flag State” means the state or territory of the Approved Flag;

 

“General Assignment ” means, in relation to each Vessel, a deed of assignment of the Earnings, Insurances, any Requisition Compensation and, if relevant, the Builder Warranties required to be executed hereunder by each of the relevant Borrower, EgyptCo or HCOL in favour of the Security Trustee in the agreed form;

 

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“Government Entity” means any national or local government body, tribunal, court or regulatory or other agency and any organisation of which such body, tribunal, court or agency is a part or to which it is subject;

 

“Group” means the Parent Company, its Subsidiaries from time to time and, following the Höegh MLP IPO, the Höegh MLP Group;

 

Guarantee Commission ” means 1.80 per cent. per annum on the outstanding amount of the Bank Guarantee;

 

HCOL ” means Höegh LNG Colombia SAS, a simplified corporation formed or to be formed in Colombia;

 

HCOL Share Pledge ” means the deed executed or to be executed by HLNG Colombia HoldCo in respect of HCOL;

 

Höegh MLP Accession Deed ” means the Höegh MLP Accession Deed in the form set out at Schedule 9;

 

Höegh MLP Effective Date ” means each date on which the share capital of FSRU III and/or FSRU IV and/or a Quotaholder and/or HLNG Colombia Holdco is transferred to Höegh MLP or OPCO or another wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP (and in relation to which the Parent Company shall have provided not less than 20 days written notice to the Agent), which shall occur prior to three (3) Months before the Maturity Date of the relevant Dropdown Borrower’s Loan;

 

Höegh MLP Group ” means Höegh MLP and its Subsidiaries from time to time;

 

Höegh MLP IPO ” means the initial public offering of the common units of Höegh MLP on the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ or such other reputable stock exchange as is acceptable to the Majority Lenders;

 

“Höegh MLP Revolver ” means the revolving credit facility between the Parent Company as lender and Höegh MLP as borrower to be entered into in connection with the Höegh MLP IPO;

 

"Holding Company" means, in relation to a company or corporation, any other company or corporation in respect of which it is a Subsidiary;

 

"IFRS" means international accounting standards within the meaning of the IAS Regulation 1606/2002;

 

“ILA” means the international lease agreement dated 1 November 2014 and made between FSRU IV as owner and SPEC as lessee;

 

ILA Securities means any security provided to FSRU IV in respect of the ILA;

 

ILA Securities Assignment means a first priority assignment by FSRU IV of the ILA Securities in favour of the Security Trustee;

 

Increase Lender ” has the meaning given to that term in Clause 2.6 ( Increase)

 

" Insolvency Event " in relation to a Finance Party means that the Finance Party:

 

  15  
 

 

(a) is dissolved (other than pursuant to a consolidation, amalgamation or merger);

 

(b) becomes insolvent or is unable to pay its debts or fails or admits in writing its inability generally to pay its debts as they become due;

 

(c) makes a general assignment, arrangement or composition with or for the benefit of its creditors;

 

(d) institutes or has instituted against it, by a regulator, supervisor or any similar official with primary insolvency, rehabilitative or regulatory jurisdiction over it in the jurisdiction of its incorporation or organisation or the jurisdiction of its head or home office, a proceeding seeking a judgment of insolvency or bankruptcy or any other relief under any bankruptcy or insolvency law or other similar law affecting creditors' rights, or a petition is presented for its winding-up or liquidation by it or such regulator, supervisor or similar official;

 

(e) has instituted against it a proceeding seeking a judgment of insolvency or bankruptcy or any other relief under any bankruptcy or insolvency law or other similar law affecting creditors' rights, or a petition is presented for its winding-up or liquidation, and, in the case of any such proceeding or petition instituted or presented against it, such proceeding or petition is instituted or presented by a person or entity not described in paragraph (d) above and:

 

(i) results in a judgment of insolvency or bankruptcy or the entry of an order for relief or the making of an order for its winding-up or liquidation; or

 

(ii) is not dismissed, discharged, stayed or restrained in each case within 90 days of the institution or presentation thereof;

 

(f) has a resolution passed for its winding-up, official management or liquidation (other than pursuant to a consolidation, amalgamation or merger);

 

(g) seeks or becomes subject to the appointment of an administrator, provisional liquidator, conservator, receiver, trustee, custodian or other similar official for it or for all or substantially all its assets (other than, for so long as it is required by law or regulation not to be publicly disclosed, any such appointment which is to be made, or is made, by a person or entity described in paragraph (d) above);

 

(h) has a secured party take possession of all or substantially all its assets or has a distress, execution, attachment, sequestration or other legal process levied, enforced or sued on or against all or substantially all its assets and such secured party maintains possession, or any such process is not dismissed, discharged, stayed or restrained, in each case within 90 days thereafter;

 

(i) causes or is subject to any event with respect to it which, under the applicable laws of any jurisdiction, has an analogous effect to any of the events specified in paragraphs (a) to (h) above; or

 

(j) takes any action in furtherance of, or indicating its consent to, approval of, or acquiescence in, any of the foregoing acts;

 

  16  
 

 

“Insurances” means all policies and contracts of insurance (which expression includes all entries of a Vessel in a protection and indemnity or war risks association) which are from time to time during the Security Period in place or taken out or entered into by or for the benefit of the Borrower owning a Vessel (whether in the sole name of that Borrower or in the joint names of that Borrower and the Security Trustee or otherwise) in respect of a Vessel and her Earnings or otherwise howsoever in connection with that Vessel and all benefits thereof (including claims of whatsoever nature and return of premiums);

 

"Interest Period" means, in relation to a Loan, each period determined in accordance with Clause 10 ( Interest Periods ) and, in relation to an Unpaid Sum, each period determined in accordance with Clause 9.3 ( Default interest );

 

Interpolated Screen Rate ” means, in relation to LIBOR for any Loan, the rate (rounded to the same number of decimal places as the two relevant Screen Rates) which results from interpolating on a linear basis between:

 

(a) the applicable Screen Rate for the longest period (for which that Screen Rate is available) which is less than the Interest Period of that Loan; and

 

(b) the applicable Screen Rate for the shortest period (for which that Screen Rate is available) which exceeds the Interest Period of that Loan,

 

each as of the Specified Time Quotation Day for the currency of that Loan.

 

“ISM Code” means the International Safety Management Code (including the guidelines on its implementation), adopted by the International Maritime Organisation Assembly as Resolutions A.741(18) and A.788 (19), as the same may be amended or supplemented from time to time);

 

“ISM Code Documentation” means the document of compliance (DOC) and safety management certificate (SMC) issued by a Classification Society pursuant to the ISM Code in relation to a Vessel within the periods specified by the ISM Code;

 

“ISM SMS” means the safety management system which is required to be developed, implemented and maintained under the ISM Code;

 

“ISPS Code” means the International Ship and Port Security Code of the International Maritime Organisation and includes any amendments or extensions thereto and any regulations issued pursuant thereto;

 

“ISSC” means an International Ship Security Certificate issued in respect of a Vessel pursuant to the ISPS Code;

 

“Legal Reservation” means:

 

(a) the principle that equitable remedies may be granted or refused at the discretion of a court and the limitation of enforcement by laws relating to insolvency, reorganisation and other laws generally affecting the rights of creditors;

 

(b) the time barring of claims under the Limitation Acts, the possibility that an undertaking to approve liability for or indemnifying a person against non-payment of UK stamp duty may be void and defences of set-off or counterclaims;

 

(c) similar principles, rights and defence under the laws of any Relevant Jurisdiction; and

 

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(d) any matters which are set out as qualifications or reservations as to matters of law of general application in any of the legal opinions delivered pursuant to Clause 4 ( Conditions of Utilisation ) (including but not limited to any Authorisation deemed to be required or desirable);

 

"Lender" means:

 

(a) any Original Lender; and

 

(b) any bank, financial institution, trust, fund or other entity which has become a Party as a Lender in accordance with Clause 2.6 ( Increase ) or Clause 30 ( Changes to the Lenders ),

 

which in each case has not ceased to be a Lender in accordance with the terms of this Agreement;

 

"LIBOR" means, in relation to any Loan:

 

(a) the applicable Screen Rate; or

 

(b) (if no Screen Rate is available for the Interest Period of the Loan) the Interpolated Screen Rate for the Loan; or

 

(c) if:

 

(i) no Screen Rate is available for the currency of that Loan; or

 

(ii) no Screen Rate is available for the Interest Period of that Loan and it is not possible to calculate an Interpolated Screen Rate for that Loan,

 

the Reference Bank Rate, as of the Specified Time on the Quotation Day for the currency of that Loan and for a period equal in length to the Interest Period of that Loan and, if such rate is below zero, LIBOR will be deemed to be zero;

 

“Loan” means a Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Loan, a Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan, a Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Loan, an Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Loan or an Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan;

 

"LMA" means the Loan Market Association;

 

“Loss Payable Clauses” has the meaning given to that expression in the Deed of Covenant;

 

Major Casualty Amount ” means US$2,500,000 (or the equivalent in any other currency) with respect to each Vessel;

 

"Majority Lenders" means:

 

(a) at all times before the second Delivery Date or if there are no Loans then outstanding, a Commercial Lender or Commercial Lenders whose Commitments under the Commercial Facility and a Bank Guarantor’s Commitments under the Bank Guarantee Facility aggregate more than 66⅔% of the Total Commitments under the Commercial Facility and the Bank Guarantee Facility (or, if the Total Commitments under the Commercial Facility and the Bank Guarantee Facility have been reduced to zero, aggregated more than 66⅔% of the Total Commitments under the Commercial Facility and the Bank Guarantee Facility immediately prior to the reduction); or

 

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(b) at any other time a Commercial Lender or Commercial Lenders whose participations in the Loans then outstanding and Bank Guarantees issued aggregate more than 66⅔% of all Loans then outstanding and Bank Guarantees issued;

 

“Management Agreement” means each agreement to be made between the relevant Borrower, EgyptCo or HCOL and a Manager in relation to the management of a Vessel, in form and substance acceptable to the Agent;

 

“Management Agreement Assignment” means an assignment of any Management Agreement required to be executed hereunder by the relevant Borrower, EgyptCo or HCOL in connection with the relevant Vessel in favour of the Security Trustee in agreed form;

 

“Manager” means a Subsidiary or Subsidiaries of the Parent Company and appointed by the relevant Borrower, as the commercial and/or technical manager of the Vessel owned by it;

"Margin" means, in respect of the Commercial Facility, 2.70 per cent.;

 

“Market Value” means, at any relevant time, the value of a Vessel most recently determined in accordance with Clause 26.2 ( Valuation of Vessels );

 

"Material Adverse Effect" means a material adverse effect:

 

(a) on the property, assets, nature of assets, operations, liabilities or condition (financial or otherwise) of the Group taken as a whole;

 

(b) on the ability of an Obligor to perform its obligations under the Finance Documents; or

 

(c) on the validity or enforceability of the Finance Documents or on the rights or remedies of any Finance Party under the Finance Documents;

 

“Maturity Date” means:

 

(a) in respect of a Commercial Loan or a Bank Guarantee, the earlier of:

 

(i) the date falling 5 years after the Delivery Date to which such Commercial Loan or Bank Guarantee relates; and

 

(ii) 30 June 2020; or

 

(b) in respect of an ECA Loan, the date falling 12 years after the Delivery Date to which such ECA Loan relates;

 

Month ” means a period starting on one day in a calendar month and ending on the numerically corresponding day in the next calendar month, except that:

 

(a) subject to paragraph (c) below if the numerically corresponding day is not a Business Day, that period shall end on the next Business Day in that calendar month in which that period is to end if there is one, or if there is not, on the immediately preceding Business Day;

 

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(b) if there is no numerically corresponding day in the calendar month in which that period is to end, that period shall end on the last Business Day in that calendar month; and

 

(c) if an Interest Period begins on the last Business Day of a calendar month, that Interest Period shall end on the last Business Day in the calendar month in which that Interest Period is to end.

 

The above rules will only apply to the last Month of any period;

 

“Mortgage” means the first priority mortgage of each Vessel required to be executed and recorded hereunder by the relevant Borrower in favour of the Security Trustee, in agreed form;

 

“Non-Consenting Lender ” has the meaning given to that term in Clause 42.3.3;

 

“Norwegian Content” means the proportion of equipment and supplies provided in respect of the construction of a Vessel which qualifies as being of Norwegian origin in accordance with the policy of the ECA Lender;

 

“Obligor” means a Borrower, EgyptCo, a Corporate Guarantor or, after delivery of Vessel 2 under the relevant Time Charter, HCOL;

 

“OPCO” means Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP, incorporated in the Marshall Islands and having its registered office at Trust Company Complex, Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro, Marshall Islands MH 96960;

 

“OPCO Promissory Notes” means the promissory notes issued or to be issued by OPCO in favour of the Original Shareholder in consideration of certain assets of the Original Shareholder transferred or to be transferred by the Original Shareholder to OPCO;

 

“Operator” means the Manager and/or any other person who is from time to time during the Security Period concerned in the operation of a Vessel and falls within the definition of “Company” set out in rule 1.1.2 of the ISM Code;

 

“Original Financial Statements” means the audited consolidated financial statements of the Parent Company and the pro-forma unaudited financial statements of the Borrowers (consisting of a profit and loss statement, a balance sheet, a cashflow statement and an equity statement of the Borrowers and each to be signed by the chief financial officer of the Borrowers) for the financial year ended 31 December 2013;

 

Original Shareholder ” means Höegh LNG Ltd.;

 

OSA ” means the FSRU operation and services agreement dated 1 November 2014 and originally made between SPEC as customer and the Parent Company as contractor to be transferred by the Parent Company to HCOL;

 

OSA Assignment ” means the first priority assignment by HCOL of the OSA in favour of the Security Trustee;

 

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OSA Account Security Deed ” means a deed executed or to be executed by HCOL in favour of the Security Trustee granting security in respect of the OSA Earnings Account, if required by the Lenders;

 

“OSA Earnings Account” means the Account to be opened in the name of HCOL with an account bank which HCOL and the Agent agree shall be the OSA Earnings Account for the purposes of this Agreement

 

“Parent Company ” means Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.;

 

“Participating Member State ” means any member state of the European Union that has the euro as its lawful currency in accordance with legislation of the European Union relating to Economic and Monetary Union;

 

"Party" means a party to this Agreement;

 

“Permitted Liens” means:

 

(a) Security created by the Finance Documents;

 

(b) liens for unpaid master's and crew's wages in accordance with maritime practice;

 

(c) liens for salvage;

 

(d) liens for master's disbursements incurred in the ordinary course of trading and any other lien arising by operation of law or otherwise in the ordinary course of the operation, repair or maintenance of a Vessel, provided such liens do not secure amounts more than 30 days overdue;

 

(e) Security created in favour of a plaintiff or defendant in any proceedings or arbitration as security for costs and expenses while an Obligor is actively prosecuting or defending such proceedings or arbitration in good faith by appropriate steps and in respect of which appropriate reserves have been made provided that such proceedings or the continued existence of such Security shall not, and may not reasonably be considered likely to, result in the arrest, sale, forfeiture or loss of a Vessel or any interest in a Vessel;

 

(f) Security arising by operation of law in respect of Taxes which are not overdue for payment or in respect of Taxes being contested in good faith by appropriate steps and in respect of which appropriate reserves have been made provided that such proceedings or the continued existence of such Security shall not, and may not reasonably be considered likely to, result in the arrest, sale, forfeiture or loss of a Vessel or any interest in a Vessel; and

 

(g) any other lien, the creation of which has been expressly disclosed in writing to the Agent prior to the date of this Agreement and confirmed in writing by the Agent as acceptable;

 

“Permitted Security” means any Security in favour of the Secured Parties or any of them created pursuant to the Security Documents and Permitted Liens;

 

“Pre-Delivery Loan” means a Commercial Loan to be made available before the Delivery Date;

 

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“Pre-Delivery Security Assignment” means, in relation to each Vessel, an assignment of a relevant Building Contract and the relevant Refund Guarantee required to be executed hereunder by the relevant Obligor in favour of the Security Trustee in agreed form;

 

“Proceedings” means any litigation, arbitration, legal action or judicial, quasi-judicial or administrative proceedings whatsoever arising or instigated by anyone in any court, tribunal, public office or other forum whatsoever and wheresoever (including, without limitation, any action for provisional or permanent attachment of any thing or for injunctive remedies or interim relief and any action instigated on an ex parte basis);

 

“Project Costs” means, for a Vessel, the aggregate at any time of costs (incurred in relation to the construction and delivery of the relevant Vessel) then due or already paid in respect of:

 

(a) plan approved costs, research and development costs, supervision costs, positioning costs, re-gas commissioning costs, commissioning and other costs incurred in connection with the construction, delivery and outfitting of the Vessel;

 

(b) costs of training and familiarisation of persons to be employed as crew on the Vessel;

 

(c) fees including legal fees in connection with the Transaction Documents;

 

(d) financing costs (including interest); or

 

(e) any other cost which the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Lenders) and the Borrowers agree are to be included within the definition of Project Costs;

 

“Qualified Subsidiary ” means any member of the Höegh MLP Group and any Subsidiary of the Parent Company, other than any member of the Höegh MLP Group or any Subsidiary of the Parent Company that may be excluded at the request of the Borrowers and subject to the approval of the Majority Lenders;

 

Quotaholders ” means each of Egypt Holding I and Egypt Holding II;

 

Quotaholder Share Pledge ” means the deed executed or to be executed by the Original Shareholder in respect of each Quotaholder and (after its share capital has been transferred to Höegh MLP or a wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP) any replacement Quotaholder Share Pledge in respect of each Quotaholder to be executed by Höegh MLP or a wholly owned Subsidiary of Höegh MLP on a Höegh MLP Effective Date in favour of the Security Trustee granting Security in respect of all their respective shares in each Quotaholder;

 

“Quotation Day" means, in relation to any period for which an interest rate is to be determined, two Business Days before the first day of that period unless market practice differs in the London Interbank Market in which case the Quotation Day will be determined by the Agent in accordance with market practice in the London Interbank Market (and if quotations would normally be given by leading banks in the London Interbank Market on more than one day, the Quotation Day will be the last of those days);

 

“Receiver” means a receiver or receiver and manager or administrative receiver of the whole or any part of the Charged Property;

 

“Reference Bank Rate” means the arithmetic means of the rates (rounded upwards to four decimal places) as supplied to the Agent at its request by the Reference Banks in relation to LIBOR, as the rate at which the relevant Reference Bank could borrow funds in the London interbank market;

 

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"Reference Banks" means the principal London offices of Nordea Bank Norge ASA, DNB Bank ASA and such other banks as may be appointed by the Agent in consultation with the Borrowers;

 

“Refund Guarantee” means, in relation to each Vessel, the letter of guarantee issued by the relevant Refund Guarantor in favour of the Original Shareholder in respect of the Builder’s obligations under the relevant Building Contract, in form and substance acceptable to the Lenders;

 

“Refund Guarantor” means:

 

(a) in relation to Vessel 1, Kookmin Bank of 9-1 Namdiemunno 2-Ga, Jung-Gu, Seoul 100-092, South Korea;

 

(b) in relation to Vessel 2, Nonghyup Bank of NACF Headquarters bldg. Saemunan-ro 16, Chung-gu, Seoul, South Korea;

 

or any other first-class international bank acceptable to the Lenders;

 

“Related Fund” in relation to a fund (the “ first fund ”), means a fund which is managed or advised by the same investment manager or investment adviser as the first fund or, if it is managed by a different investment manager or investment adviser, a fund whose investment manager or investment adviser is an Affiliate of the investment manager or investment adviser of the first fund;

 

“Relevant Jurisdiction” means, in relation to an Obligor, any jurisdiction in which it is incorporated, resident, domiciled, has a permanent establishment or material assets or has a place of business;

 

“Repayment Date” shall have the meaning as defined in Clause 7.1 ( Repayment of Loans );

 

“Repayment Instalments” shall have the meaning as defined in Clause 7.1 ( Repayment of Loans );

 

“Repeating Representations” means each of the representations set out in Clause 19.1 ( Status ), Clause 19.3 ( Binding Obligations ) to Clause 19.7 ( Governing law and enforcement ), Clause 19.10 ( No Default ), Clause 19.11 ( No misleading information ), Clause 19.12 ( Financial Statements ), Clause 19.16 ( Ranking ) to Clause 19.18 ( Legal and beneficial ownership) and Clause 19.26 (Sanctions);

 

“Representative” means any delegate, agent, manager, administrator, nominee, attorney, trustee or custodian;

 

“Requisition” means the requisition for title or other compulsory acquisition, requisition, appropriation, expropriation, deprivation, forfeiture or confiscation howsoever for any reason of a Vessel by any Government Entity or other competent authority, whether de jure or de facto, but shall exclude requisition for use or hire not involving requisition of title;

 

“Requisition Compensation” means all sums of money or other compensation from time to time payable during the Security Period by reason of Requisition;

 

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" Restricted Party " means a person:

 

(a) that is listed on any Sanctions List (whether designated by name or by reason of being included in a class of person);

 

(b) that is domiciled, registered as located or having its main place of business in, or is incorporated under the laws of, a country which is subject to Sanctions Laws; or

 

(c) that is directly or indirectly owned or controlled by a person referred to in (i) and/or (ii) above ; or

 

(d) with which any Lender is prohibited from dealing or otherwise engaging in a transaction with by any Sanctions Laws;

 

" Sanctions Authority " means the Norwegian State, the United Nations, the European Union, the member states of the European Union, the United States of America and any authority acting on behalf of any of them in connection with Sanctions Laws;

 

" Sanctions Laws " means the economic or financial sanctions laws and/or regulations, trade embargoes, prohibitions, restrictive measures, decisions, executive orders or notices from regulators implemented, adapted, imposed, administered, enacted and/or enforced by any Sanctions Authority;

 

" Sanctions List " means any list of persons or entities published in connection with Sanctions Laws by or on behalf of any Sanctions Authority;

 

Scheduled Delivery Date ” means (i) for Vessel 1, 30 June 2014 and (ii) for Vessel 2, 30 April 2016;

 

Screen Rate ” means in relation to LIBOR the London interbank offered rate administered by ICE Benchmark Administration Limited (or any other person which takes over the administration of that rate) for dollars for the relevant period displayed on pages LIBOR01 or LIBOR02 of the Reuters screen (or any replacement Reuters page which displays that rate) or on the appropriate page of such other information service which publishes that rate from time to time in place of Reuters. If such page or service ceases to be available, the Agent may specify another page or service displaying the relevant rate after consultation with the Borrower and the Lenders;

 

“Secured Party” means each Finance Party from time to time party to this Agreement or a Receiver or Delegate;

 

"Security" means a mortgage, charge, pledge, lien or other security interest securing any obligation of any person or any other agreement or arrangement having a similar effect;

 

“Security Documents” means

 

(a) the Account Security Deeds;

 

(b) the Borrower Shares Security Deeds;

 

(c) the Corporate Guarantor Shares Security Deeds;

 

(d) the Quotaholder Share Pledge;

 

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(e) any Deeds of Covenant;

 

(f) any General Assignment;

 

(g) any Management Agreement Assignment;

 

(h) the Mortgages;

 

(i) the Pre-Delivery Security Assignments;

 

(j) any Time Charter Assignment;

 

(k) the Swap Contract Assignments;

 

(l) the EgyptCo Lease Assignment;

 

(m) the EgyptCo Quota Pledge Security;

 

(n) the EGAS Contract Earnings Assignment;

 

(o) the EGAS Guarantee Assignment;

 

(p) the ILA Securities Assignment;

 

(q) the OSA Assignment;

 

(r) the Trust Agreement;

 

(s) the HCOL Share Pledge;

 

(t) the OSA Account Security Deed; and

 

(u) any other documents as may have been or shall from time to time after the date of this Agreement be executed to guarantee and/or to govern and/or secure all or any part of the Loans, interest thereon and other moneys from time to time owing by the Borrowers pursuant to this Agreement (whether or not any such document also secures moneys from time to time owing pursuant to any other document or agreement);

 

“Security Maintenance Ratio” shall have the meaning as defined in Clause 26.1 ( Security cover );

 

“Security Party” means each party to a Security Document other than a Finance Party;

 

“Security Period” means the period commencing on the date of this Agreement and continuing for so long as any moneys are owing actually or contingently under the Finance Documents and while any Loan and/or any Swap Liabilities remain outstanding;

 

"Selection Notice" means a notice substantially in the form set out in Part II of Schedule 3 ( Requests ) given in accordance with Clause 10 ( Interest Periods );

 

“Shareholder” means, until the relevant Höegh MLP Effective Date, (i) in respect of HLNG Cyprus, FSRU III, (ii) in respect of FSRU IV and HCOL, HLNG Colombia HoldCo; (iii) in respect of FSRU III, OPCO, (iv) in respect of the Quotaholders, the Original Shareholder and (v) in respect of HLNG Colombia HoldCo, the Original Shareholder, and, following the relevant Höegh MLP Effective Date, means in respect of FSRU IV and/or HLNG Colombia HoldCo, Höegh MLP or OPCO, or another wholly-owned Subsidiary of Höegh MLP ;

 

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SPEC ” means Sociedad Portuaria El Cayao S.A. E.S.P.;

 

“Specified Time" means a time determined in accordance with Schedule 6 ( Timetables );

 

" Sponsor Affiliate " means Leif Höegh & Co Limited (“ Leif Höegh & Co ”), each of its Affiliates, any trust of which Leif Höegh & Co or any of its Affiliates is a trustee, any partnership of which Leif Höegh & Co or any of its Affiliates is a partner and any trust, fund or other entity which is managed by, or is under the control of, Leif Höegh & Co or any of its Affiliates provided that any such trust, fund or other entity which has been established for at least 6 months solely for the purpose of making, purchasing or investing in loans or debt securities and which is managed or controlled independently from all other trusts, funds or other entities managed or controlled by Leif Höegh & Co or any of its Affiliates which have been established for the primary or main purpose of investing in the share capital of companies shall not constitute a Sponsor Affiliate.

 

"Subsidiary" means a subsidiary within the meaning of section 1159 of the Companies Act 2006;

 

“Swap Confirmation ” in relation to any Swap Transaction, shall have the meaning given in the relevant Swap Contract;

 

“Swap Contract” means a master agreement for any Swap Transactions entered into or to be entered into between an Obligor and a Swap Bank and includes all Swap Confirmations from time to time exchanged under a Swap Contract;

 

“Swap Contract Assignment ” means the assignment of a Swap Contract required to be executed hereunder by an Obligor in favour of the Security Trustee in agreed form;

 

“Swap Liabilities” means indebtedness incurred by an Obligor under a Swap Contract;

 

“Swap Payment” means each periodic payment or termination payment payable under a Swap Contract by an Obligor to the relevant Swap Bank or by the relevant Swap Bank to an Obligor;

 

“Swap Transaction” means a transaction entered into by an Obligor pursuant to a Swap Contract for the purpose of hedging the Borrowers’ exposure under this Agreement to interest rate changes;

 

"Tax" means any tax, levy, impost, duty or other charge or withholding of a similar nature (including any penalty or interest payable in connection with any failure to pay or any delay in paying any of the same);

 

“Time Charter ” means any time charterparty of a Vessel for a period exceeding 12 Months (including optional extensions) entered into by the relevant Borrower in relation to the Vessel owned by it including, in the case of Vessel 1, the charter between the Egypt Branch of HLNG Cyprus and Egypt Co and the EGAS Contract and, in the case of Vessel 2, the ILA and the OSA;

 

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“Time Charter Assignment ” means an assignment of a Time Charter required to be executed hereunder by the relevant Group member party to it in favour of the Security Trustee in agreed form (but without any restrictions in such assignment on amendments or variation of the Time Charter) and subject to the execution of a quiet enjoyment agreement (where required by a charterer and in a form reasonably acceptable to the Lenders);

 

“Total Bank Guarantee Facility Commitments” means the aggregate amount of the Bank Guarantee Facility Commitments being an amount of up to US$80,000,000 at the date of this Agreement ;

 

"Total Commitments" means the aggregate of the Total Commercial Facility Commitments and the Total Eksportkreditt Facility Commitments and the Total Bank Guarantee Facility Commitments;

 

“Total Commercial Facility Commitments ” means the aggregate of the Total Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitments, the Total Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitments and the Total Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Commitments, being an amount of up to US$332,000,000 at the date of this Agreement;

 

“Total Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitments” means the aggregate of the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitments, being an amount of up to US$156,000,000 at the date of this Agreement;

 

“Total Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Commitments ” means an amount of us to US$12,000,000 at the date of this Agreement;

 

“Total Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitments” means the aggregate of the Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitments, being an amount of up to US$164,000,000 at the date of this Agreement;

 

“Total Eksportkreditt Facility Commitments” means the aggregate of the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Commitments and the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Commitments, being an amount of up to US$80,000,000 at the date of this Agreement;

 

“Total Loss” means in relation to a Vessel:

 

(a) the actual, constructive, compromised or arranged total loss of that Vessel; or

 

(b) the Requisition of that Vessel; or

 

(c) the hijacking, theft, condemnation, capture, seizure, arrest, detention or confiscation of that Vessel (other than Requisition) by any Government Entity, or by persons allegedly acting or purporting to act on behalf of any Government Entity, unless the Vessel will be released and restored to the relevant Borrower within twelve Months after such incident;

 

“Transaction Documents” means the Finance Documents and the Underlying Documents;

 

“Transaction Security” means the security constituted or intended to be constituted by the Security Documents;

 

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"Transfer Certificate" means a certificate substantially in the form set out in Schedule 5 ( Form of Transfer Certificate ) or any other form agreed in writing between the Agent and the Borrowers;

 

"Transfer Date" means, in relation to a transfer, the later of:

 

(a) the proposed Transfer Date specified in the Transfer Certificate; and

 

(b) the date on which the Agent executes the Transfer Certificate;

 

“Trust Agreement” means the agreement required to be executed hereunder between the Borrowers, the Bank Guarantors, the Corporate Guarantors, the Lenders, the Swap Banks, the Agent, the Account Bank and the Security Trustee, in agreed form;

 

“Underlying Documents” means:

 

(a) the Building Contracts;

 

(b) the Insurances;

 

(c) the Management Agreements; and

 

(d) the Refund Guarantees.

 

"Unpaid Sum" means any sum due and payable but unpaid by an Obligor under the Finance Documents;

 

“US GAAP ” means the generally accepted accounting principles of the United States of America;

 

“US Tax Obligor ” means:

 

(a) an Obligor which is resident for tax purposes in the United States of America; or

 

(b) an Obligor some or all of whose payments under the Finance Documents are from sources within the United States for US federal income tax purposes;

 

"Utilisation" means the making of a Loan or the issuance of a Bank Guarantee under a Facility;

 

"Utilisation Date" means the date of a Utilisation, being the date on which the relevant Loan is to be made or the relevant Bank Guarantee is to be issued;

 

"Utilisation Request" means a notice substantially in the form set out in Part I of Schedule 3 ( Requests );

 

" VAT " means:

 

(a) any tax imposed in compliance with the Council Directive of 28 November 2006 on the common system of value added tax (EC Directive 2006/112); and

 

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(b) any other tax of a similar nature, whether imposed in a member state of the European Union in substitution for, or levied in addition to, such tax referred to in paragraph (a) above, or imposed elsewhere;

 

“Vessel” means Vessel 1 or Vessel 2;

 

“Vessel 1” means the floating, storage and regasification unit being built by the Builder as described in Schedule 4, (Vessels) pursuant to the relevant Building Contract delivered to the Original Shareholder and originally sold to FSRU III on the relevant Delivery Date and on-sold to HLNG Cyprus and registered in the relevant Borrower’s name under an Approved Flag;

 

“Vessel 1 Building Contract” means, in relation to Vessel 1, the building contract dated 13 February 2012 and as amended by Addendum No. 1 dated 13 February 2012, an Addendum dated 26 March 2012 and Addendum No. 3 dated 14 November 2012 entered into between the Builder and the Original Shareholder as may be amended and supplemented and novated to the relevant Borrower after the date of this Agreement;

 

“Vessel 1 Earnings Account” means each account to be opened in the name of the relevant Borrower with (i) the Account Bank and (ii) if requested by the Agent in respect of any Earnings in Egyptian Pounds payable to the Egypt Branch of HLNG Cyprus under the EgyptCo Lease, an Egyptian bank reasonably acceptable to the Agent, which such Borrower and the Agent agree shall be the Vessel 1 Earnings Account for the purpose of this Agreement;

 

Vessel 1 Modification ” means the addition of a fourth LNG train to Vessel 1 to be carried out following the Vessel 1 Delivery Date at the Vessel 1 Modification Yard;

 

Vessel 1 Modification Cost ” means US$19,000,000;

 

Vessel 1 Modification Yard ” means the shipyard carrying out the Vessel 1 Modification, being the Builder or as may be approved by the Lenders (such approval not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed);

 

Vessel 2 ” means the floating, storage and regasification unit being built by the Builder as described in Schedule 4 (Vessels) pursuant to the relevant Building Contract to be delivered to the Original Shareholder who will sell to the relevant Borrower on the relevant Delivery Date and registered in the relevant Borrower’s name under an Approved Flag;

 

Vessel 2 Earning Account ” means the account to be opened in the name of the relevant Borrower with the Account Bank which such Borrower and the Agent agree shall be the Vessel 1 Earnings Account for the purpose of this Agreement; and

 

“Vessel 2 Building Contract” means, in relation to Vessel 2, the building contract dated 8 October 2012 entered into between the Builder and the Shareholder as may be amended and supplemented and novated to the relevant Borrower after the date of this Agreement.

 

1.2 Construction

 

1.2.1 Unless a contrary indication appears, any reference in this Agreement to:

 

(a) the " Agent ", the “ Bank Guarantors ”, the " Mandated Lead Arranger ", any " Finance Party ", any " Lender ", either “ Borrower ”, any “ Corporate Guarantor ”, any “ Obligor ”, any “ Swap Bank ”, any “ Security Party ”, the “ Security Trustee ” or any " Party " shall be construed so as to include its successors in title, permitted assigns and permitted transferees;

 

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(b) a document in “ agreed form ” is a document which is previously agreed in writing by or on behalf of, the Borrowers and the Agent acting on the instructions of the Lenders, or, if not so agreed, is in the form specified by the Agent acting on the instructions of the Lenders;

 

(c) " assets " includes present and future properties, revenues and rights of every description;

 

(d) a “ Finance Document ” or " Transaction Document " or any other agreement or instrument is a reference to that Finance Document, that Transaction Document or other agreement or instrument as amended, novated, supplemented, extended or restated;

 

(e) " indebtedness " includes any obligation (whether incurred as principal or as surety) for the payment or repayment of money, whether present or future, actual or contingent;

 

(f) a " person " includes any individual, firm, company, corporation, government, state or agency of a state or any association, trust, joint venture, consortium, partnership or other entity (whether or not having separate legal personality);

 

(g) a " regulation " includes any regulation, rule, official directive, request or guideline (whether or not having the force of law) of any governmental, intergovernmental or supranational body, agency, department or regulatory, self-regulatory or other authority or organisation;

 

(h) a “ provision of law ” is a reference to that provision as amended or re-enacted; and

 

(i) a “ time of day ” is a reference to Oslo time;

 

(j) any reference to “ NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA ” and/or NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC” (either directly or indirectly in its capacity as Lender, Agent, Security Trustee, Account Bank, Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank (as relevant) or any other capacity) in the Finance Documents shall be automatically construed as a reference to “ NORDEA BANK AB” in the event of any corporate reconstruction, merger, amalgamation, consolidation between NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA and/or NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC (as relevant) and NORDEA BANK AB where NORDEA BANK AB is the surviving entity and acquires all the rights of and assumes all the obligations of NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA and/or NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC (as relevant) and nothing in the Finance Documents shall be construed so as to restrict, limit or impose any notification or other requirement or condition on either NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA and/or NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC (as relevant) or NORDEA BANK AB in respect of the acquisition of rights to or assumption of obligations by NORDEA BANK AB hereunder or under any other Finance Documents pursuant to such corporate reconstruction, merger, amalgamation or consolidation.

 

1.2.2 Section, Clause and Schedule headings are for ease of reference only.

 

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1.2.3 A term defined in Clause 1.1 ( Definitions ) in the singular shall include the plural and in the plural shall include the singular.

 

1.2.4 Unless a contrary indication appears, a term used in any other Finance Document or in any notice given under or in connection with any Finance Document has the same meaning in that Finance Document or notice as in this Agreement.

 

1.2.5 A Default or an Event of Default is " continuing " if it has not been remedied or waived.

 

1.3 Currency Symbols and Definitions

 

1.3.1 dollars ” and “ US$ ” denote the lawful currency of the United States of America.

 

1.4 Third party rights

 

Unless expressly provided to the contrary in a Finance Document, a person who is not a Party has no right under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 to enforce or enjoy the benefit of any term of this Agreement.

 

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SECTION 2
THE FACILITIES

 

2. The Facilities

 

2.1 Commercial Facility

 

Subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Commercial Lenders make available to the Borrowers a dollar term loan facility in three tranches in an aggregate amount of up to the Total Commercial Facility Commitments being:

 

(a) the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche in an aggregate amount which is the lesser of:

 

(i) US$156,000,000; and

 

(ii) an amount which, together with the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche, does not exceed 65 per cent. of the Delivered Cost of Vessel 1;

 

(b) the Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche in an aggregate amount which is the lesser of:

 

(i) US$164,000,000; and

 

(ii) an amount which, together with the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche, does not exceed 65 per cent. of the Delivered Cost of Vessel 2;

 

(c) the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche, in an aggregate amount which is the lesser of:

 

(i) US$12,000,000; and

 

(ii) 65 per cent of the Vessel 1 Modification Cost.

 

2.2 Eksportkreditt Facility

 

Subject to the terms of this Agreement, the ECA Lender makes available to the Borrowers a dollar term loan facility in two tranches in an aggregate amount of up to the Total Eksportkreditt Facility Commitments being:

 

(a) in respect of Vessel 1, the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche in an aggregate amount which is the lesser of:

 

(i) US$44,000,000; and

 

(ii) an amount which, together with the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche does not exceed 65 per cent. of the amount of the Delivered Cost of Vessel 1; and

 

(b) in respect of Vessel 2, Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche in an aggregate amount which is the lesser of:

 

(i) US$36,000,000; and

 

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(ii) an amount which, together with the Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche does not exceed 65 per cent. of the Delivered Cost of Vessel 2.

 

2.3 Bank Guarantee Facility

 

Subject to the terms of this Agreement, the Bank Guarantors make available to the Borrowers a guarantee facility in an aggregate amount of up to the Total Bank Guarantee Facility Commitments being:

 

(a) in respect of Vessel 1, an amount equal to the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche:

 

(b) in respect of Vessel 2, an amount equal to the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche.

 

2.4 Consolidation of Loans

 

The first Interest Period applicable to the second and any subsequent Loan under each Facility shall end on the last day of the Interest Period applicable to the Loan then current under the relevant Facility and, following the second Höegh MLP Effective Date, those Loans will be consolidated into, and treated as, a single Loan under the relevant Facility.

 

2.5 Finance Parties' rights and obligations

 

2.5.1 The obligations of each Finance Party under the Finance Documents are several. Failure by a Finance Party to perform its obligations under the Finance Documents does not affect the obligations of any other Party under the Finance Documents. No Finance Party is responsible for the obligations of any other Finance Party under the Finance Documents.

 

2.5.2 The rights of each Finance Party under or in connection with the Finance Documents are separate and independent rights and any debt arising under the Finance Documents to a Finance Party from an Obligor shall be a separate and independent debt.

 

2.5.3 A Finance Party may, except as otherwise stated in the Finance Documents, separately enforce its rights under the Finance Documents.

 

2.6 Increase

 

2.6.1 The Borrowers may by giving prior notice to the Agent by no later than the date falling three (3) Business Days after the effective date of a cancellation of:

 

(a) the Available Commitments of a Defaulting Lender in accordance with Clause 8.13 ( Right of cancellation in relation to a Defaulting Lender ); or

 

(b) the Commitments of a Lender or Bank Guarantor in accordance with Clause 8.1 ( Illegality ),

 

request that the Total Commitments be increased (and the Total Commitments under that Facility shall be so increased) in an aggregate amount of up to the amount of the Available Commitments or Commitments so cancelled as follows:

 

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(c) the increased Commitments will be assumed by one or more Lenders, Bank Guarantors or other banks, financial institutions, trusts, funds or other entities (each an " Increase Lender ") selected by the Borrowers (each of which shall not be a member of the Group or a Sponsor Affiliate and which is further acceptable to the Agent, and the other Bank Guarantors (each acting reasonably)) and each of which confirms its willingness to assume and does assume all the obligations of a Lender and/or Bank Guarantor corresponding to that part of the increased Commitments which it is to assume, as if it had been an Original Lender and Original Bank Guarantor provided that, no Lender or Bank Guarantor shall be under any obligation to increase its Commitment under this Clause 2.6;

 

(d) an Increase Lender which assumes the cancelled Commitments of a Lender under the Commercial Facility shall also assume the cancelled Commitments of that Lender under the Bank Guarantee Facility;

 

(e) each of the Obligors and any Increase Lender shall assume obligations towards one another and/or acquire rights against one another as the Obligors and the Increase Lender would have assumed and/or acquired had the Increase Lender been an Original Lender and/or Original Bank Guarantor;

 

(f) each Increase Lender shall become a Party as a "Lender" and/or “Bank Guarantor” and any Increase Lender and each of the other Finance Parties shall assume obligations towards one another and acquire rights against one another as that Increase Lender and those Finance Parties would have assumed and/or acquired had the Increase Lender been an Original Lender and/or Original Bank Guarantor;

 

(g) the Commitments of the other Lenders and Bank Guarantors shall continue in full force and effect; and

 

(h) any increase in the Total Commitments shall take effect on the date specified by the Borrowers in the notice referred to above or any later date on which the conditions set out in Clause 2.6.2 below are satisfied.

 

2.6.2 An increase in the Total Commitments will only be effective on:

 

(a) the execution by the Agent of an Increase Confirmation from the relevant Increase Lender;

 

(b) in relation to an Increase Lender which is not a Lender and/or a Bank Guarantor immediately prior to the relevant increase:

 

(i) the Increase Lender entering into a Security Party Accession Deed; and

 

(ii) the performance by the Agent of all necessary "know your customer" or other similar checks under all applicable laws and regulations in relation to the assumption of the increased Commitments by that Increase Lender, the completion of which the Agent shall promptly notify to the Borrowers and the Increase Lender;

 

2.6.3 Each Increase Lender, by executing the Increase Confirmation, confirms (for the avoidance of doubt) that the Agent has authority to execute on its behalf any amendment or waiver that has been approved by or on behalf of the requisite Lender or Lenders in accordance with this Agreement on or prior to the date on which the increase becomes effective.

 

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2.6.4 Unless the Agent otherwise agrees or the increased Commitment is assumed by an existing Lender, the Borrowers shall, on the date upon which the increase takes effect, pay to the Agent (for its own account) a fee of US$3,500 and the Borrowers shall promptly on demand pay the Agent and the Security Trustee the amount of all costs and expenses (including legal fees) reasonably incurred by either of them and, in the case of the Security Trustee, by any Receiver or Delegate in connection with any increase in Commitments under this Clause 2.6.

 

2.6.5 The Borrowers may pay to the Increase Lender a fee in the amount and at the times agreed between the Borrowers and the Increase Lender in a Fee Letter.

 

2.6.6 Clause 30.4 ( Limitation of responsibility of Existing Lenders ) shall apply mutatis mutandis in this Clause 2.6 in relation to an Increase Lender as if references in that Clause to:

 

(a) an " Existing Lender " where references to all the Lenders and Bank Guarantors immediately prior to the relevant increase;

 

(b) the " New Lender " were references to that " Increase Lender "; and

 

(c) a " re-transfer " and " re-assignment " were references to respectively a " transfer " and " assignment ".

 

3. Purpose

 

3.1 Purpose

 

3.1.1 The Borrowers agree that all amounts borrowed under the Commercial Facility shall be applied towards financing or refinancing part of the Contract Price, the Project Costs or the Vessel 1 Modification Cost.

 

3.1.2 The Borrowers agree that all amounts borrowed under the Eksportkreditt Facility shall be applied towards financing or refinancing part of the Contract Price.

 

3.1.3 The Borrowers agree that the Bank Guarantees shall be issued under the Bank Guarantee Facility to guarantee obligations in respect of Loans borrowed under the Eksportkreditt Facility.

 

3.2 Monitoring

 

No Finance Party is bound to monitor or verify the application of any amount borrowed pursuant to this Agreement.

 

4. Conditions of Utilisation

 

4.1 Initial conditions precedent

 

4.1.1 Prior to the execution of this Agreement, the Agent shall have received, all the documentation and other evidence listed in Part I of Schedule 2 ( Conditions Precedent ) in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent. The Agent shall notify the Borrowers and the Finance Parties promptly upon being so satisfied.

 

4.1.2 The Borrowers may not deliver a Utilisation Request in respect of the first Utilisation unless the Agent has received all the documentation and other evidence listed in Part II of Schedule 2 ( Conditions Precedent ) in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent. The Agent shall notify the Borrowers and the Lenders promptly upon being so satisfied.

 

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4.1.3 Subject to Clause 4.1.1 and 4.1.2, the Commercial Lenders will only be obliged to comply with Clause 5.4 ( Lenders’ Participation ) in relation to a Utilisation in respect of a Pre-Delivery Loan if, on the proposed Utilisation Date for that Utilisation, the Agent has received all of the documents and other evidence listed in Part III of Schedule 2 (Conditions Precedent) in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent. The Agent shall notify the Borrowers and the Commercial Lenders promptly upon being so satisfied.

 

4.1.4 Subject to Clause 4.1.1 and 4.1.2, the Lenders will only be obliged to comply with Clause 5.4 ( Lenders’ Participation ) in relation to a Utilisation in respect of a Delivery Loan and the Bank Guarantors shall only be obliged to comply with Clause 5.5 (Bank Guarantors’ Participation) in relation to a Utilisation in respect of a Bank Guarantee related to a Delivery Loan, if, on the proposed Utilisation Date, the Agent has received all of the documents and other evidence listed in Part IV of Schedule 2 ( Conditions Precedent) in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent, provided that each Lender shall make its participation in each Loan available for transfer to an account at the Builder’s bank three (3) Business Days in advance of the relevant Delivery Date, such funds to be held to the order of the Agent and released in accordance with the Borrowers’ instructions contained in the relevant Utilisation Request upon satisfaction of the conditions precedent for a Delivery Loan set out in this Clause 4. The Agent shall notify the Borrowers, the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors promptly upon being so satisfied.

 

4.1.5 Subject to Clause 4.1.1 and 4.1.2, the Commercial Lenders will only be obliged to comply with Clause 5.4 ( Lenders’ Participation ) in relation to a Utilisation in respect of a Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Loan, if, on the proposed Utilisation Date, the Agent has received all of the documents and other evidence listed in Part VI of Schedule 2 ( Conditions Precedent) in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent. The Agent shall notify the Borrowers and the Lenders promptly upon being so satisfied.

 

4.1.6 Other than to the extent that the Majority Lenders notify the Agent in writing to the contrary before the Agent gives the notifications described above, the Lenders authorise (but do not require) the Agent to give those notifications. The Agent shall not be liable for any damages, costs or losses whatsoever as a result of giving any such notification.

 

4.2 Further conditions precedent

 

4.2.1 The Lenders will only be obliged to comply with Clause 5.4 ( Lenders' Participation ) and the Bank Guarantors shall only be obliged to comply with Clause 5.5 (Bank Guarantors’ Participation) if on the proposed Utilisation Date:

 

(a) no Default is continuing or would result from the proposed Loan;

 

(b) all representations and warranties set forth in Clause 19 ( Representations ) shall be true and correct on and as of the Utilisation Date (although any representations and warranties which expressly relate to a given date or period shall be required to be true and correct only as of the respective date or for the respective period, as the case may be), before and after giving effect to such Utilisation and to the application of proceeds therefrom, as though made on and as of such date;

 

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(c) no mandatory prepayment event as set out in Clause 8 (Prepayment and Cancellation) has occurred or would result from the proposed Loan; and

 

(d) in the case of any Loan to be made under the Eksportkreditt Facility (i) the Norwegian Content (certified by the exporters’ declarations in a form and substance acceptable to the ECA Lender) is at least 125 per cent. of the aggregate of the amount of that Loan and (ii) a Bank Guarantee is to be issued on the same Utilisation Date in the same amount as the Loan.

 

4.2.2 Prior to Vessel 2 commencing service under the Time Charter, the Borrowers will provide to the Agent all of the relevant documents and evidence listed in Part V of Schedule 2 ( Conditions Precedent ) in a form and substance satisfactory to the Agent.

 

4.3 Conditions subsequent

 

4.3.1 The Borrowers, the Parent Company, FSRU III, HLNG Colombia HoldCo, the Original Shareholder and Höegh MLP (each as relevant) each undertake to provide to the Agent, on or before each Höegh MLP Effective Date, the documents set out in Part VII of Schedule 2 with respect to FSRU IV and/or FSRU III and/or HLNG Colombia Holdco and/or Quotaholders whose share capital is transferred on such Höegh MLP Effective Date;

 

4.3.2 On each Höegh MLP Effective Date, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

 

4.3.3 If, on a Delivery Date, the Borrowers do not request a Utilisation in respect of a Delivery Loan but there is then a Pre-Delivery Loan outstanding, the Borrowers shall be obliged to provide to the Agent all of the documents and evidence listed in Part IV of Schedule 2 ( Conditions Precedent ) in a form and substance satisfactory to the Agent.

 

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SECTION 3
UTILISATION

 

5. Utilisation

 

5.1 Delivery of a Utilisation Request

 

The Borrowers may utilise a Facility by delivery to the Agent of a duly completed Utilisation Request not later than the Specified Time.

 

5.2 Completion of a Utilisation Request

 

5.2.1 Each Utilisation Request is irrevocable and will not be regarded as having been duly completed unless:

 

(a) it identifies the Facility to be utilised;

 

(b) the proposed Utilisation Date is a Business Day within the relevant Availability Period;

 

(c) the currency and amount of the Utilisation comply with Clause 5.3 ( Currency and amount ); and

 

(d) the proposed Interest Period complies with Clause 10 ( Interest Periods ).

 

5.2.2 Only one Utilisation may be requested in each Utilisation Request;

 

5.3 Currency and amount

 

5.3.1 The currency specified in a Utilisation Request must be dollars.

 

5.3.2 The amount of a proposed Utilisation shall be an amount which is not more than the relevant Available Facility.

 

5.3.3 Pre-Delivery Loans shall each be in a minimum amount of US$1,000,000 and in an aggregate amount of up to the lesser of:

 

(a) US$15,000,000; and

 

(b) 5 per cent. of the relevant Vessel’s Delivered Cost prior to the relevant Delivery Date,

 

and are subject to the condition that 35 per cent. of the relevant Vessel’s Delivered Cost shall have been paid by an Obligor to the Builder by the time such Pre-Delivery Loan is made.

 

5.3.4 The Utilisation under the Vessel 1 Modification Loan shall be in one amount being the lesser of:

 

(a) US$12,000,000; and

 

(b) 65 per cent. of the Vessel 1 Modification Cost.

 

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5.4 Lenders' participation

 

5.4.1 If the conditions set out in this Agreement have been met, each Lender shall make its participation in each Loan available by the Utilisation Date through its Facility Office.

 

5.4.2 The amount of each Lender's participation in each Loan will be equal to the proportion borne by its Available Commitment, in the case of a Commercial Lender, or Commitment, in the case of the ECA Lender, to the Available Facility immediately prior to making the Loan.

 

5.4.3 The Agent shall notify each Lender of the amount of each Loan and the amount of its participation in that Loan by the Specified Time.

 

5.5 Bank Guarantors’ participation

 

5.5.1 If the conditions set out in this Agreement have been met, each Bank shall issue its Bank Guarantee through its Facility Office and deliver it to the Agent (for delivery by the Agent to the ECA Lender) on the same Utilisation Date as the relevant Delivery Loan.

 

5.5.2 The amount of each Bank Guarantee will be equal to the proportion borne by the relevant Bank Guarantor’s Commitment to the Available Facility immediately prior to the issuance of the Bank Guarantee.

 

5.5.3 The Agent shall notify each Bank Guarantor of the amount of each Loan to be made under the Eksportkreditt Facility and the amount of the Bank Guarantee to be issued by the Bank Guarantor by the Specified Time.

 

5.6 Cancellation of Commitments

 

5.6.1 The Commitments which are unutilised at the end of the relevant Availability Period shall be immediately cancelled on such date.

 

6. Bank Guarantees

 

6.1 Demands under Bank Guarantees

 

6.1.1 If the ECA Lender makes a demand under a Bank Guarantee or the Bank Guarantor incurs in connection with a Bank Guarantee any other liability, cost, claim, loss or expense which is to be reimbursed pursuant to this Agreement, the Borrower shall immediately on demand pay the Agent (for further distribution to the Bank Guarantors) an amount equal to the amount demanded by the ECA Lender or such liability, cost, claim, loss or expense, provided that the Borrower shall be obliged only to pay these amounts in the same instalments permitted under the terms of the Bank Guarantee unless either: (a) the Agent has given notice to the Obligors pursuant to Clause 29.19 ( Acceleration ); or (b) the Borrowers are obliged to make a mandatory prepayment pursuant to Clause 8.8 ( Mandatory prepayment – payment under Bank Guarantee ), in which cases the Borrower shall be obliged to pay these amounts in the same lump sum permitted under the terms of the Bank Guarantee.

 

6.1.2 If the ECA Lender, following an Event of Default, wishes to make a demand for payment under a Bank Guarantee, such demand must be made pro rata under each Bank Guarantee issued in relation to the relevant Loan.

 

6.1.3 The ECA Lender shall be entitled to make demands under a Bank Guarantee for a period of up to three months after the Maturity Date of the Bank Guarantee, which in no way shall limit the obligations of the Borrowers under Clause 6.1.1.

 

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6.2 Borrowers’ liabilities in relation to Bank Guarantees

 

6.2.1 The obligations of the Borrowers set out in Clause 6.1.1 shall be in addition to and independent of every other Security which the Bank Guarantors (or the Security Trustee on their behalf) may at any time hold in respect of the Borrowers’ obligations hereunder.

 

6.2.2 Any settlement or discharge between a Borrower and a Bank Guarantor shall be conditional upon no security or payment to the Bank Guarantor by the Borrower, or any other person on behalf of the Borrower, being avoided or reduced by virtue of any laws relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation or similar laws of general application and, if any such security or payment is so avoided or reduced, the Bank Guarantor shall be entitled to recover the value or amount of such security or payment from the Borrower subsequently as if such settlement or discharge had not occurred.

 

6.2.3 A Bank Guarantor shall be entitled to make any payment in accordance with the terms of a Bank Guarantee without any reference to or further authority from the Borrowers or any other investigation or enquiry, provided that a Bank Guarantor may only pay its guarantee liability before a claim has been made by the ECA Lender if an Event of Default has occurred which is continuing and the other Bank Guarantors pay their guarantee liabilities in pro rata amounts at the same time.

 

6.2.4 The Borrowers irrevocably authorise the Bank Guarantors to comply with any demand under a Bank Guarantee which is valid on its face and to make any other payment the Bank Guarantors are obliged or entitled to make under the terms of the Bank Guarantees.

 

6.3 Reduction of Bank Guarantees

 

6.3.1 To the extent that an ECA Loan is repaid or prepaid by the Borrowers, the relevant Bank Guarantees shall be reduced proportionately.

 

6.3.2 Any amounts owing in respect of the Bank Guarantees (but which have not already become due and payable pursuant to Clause 6.1 ( Demands under Bank Guarantees ) shall become due and payable on the Maturity Date of the Bank Guarantee.

 

6.4 Subrogation

 

6.4.1 The relevant Bank Guarantor shall, when all or a part of the amounts have been paid under the respective Bank Guarantee, automatically without any notice or formalities of any kind, have the right of subrogation, corresponding to the amounts paid under the respective Bank Guarantees, into the rights of the ECA Lender under the Finance Documents. The Borrowers waive any right to dispute or delay a subrogation or the rights of the ECA Lender under the Finance Documents to the Bank Guarantors, and the Borrowers undertake to sign and execute any document reasonably required by the Bank Guarantors in connection with a subrogation as aforesaid.

 

6.4.2 In the event that a subrogation right should occur and all the Eksportkreditt Facility and all amounts outstanding in relation to Eksportkreditt Facility have been paid to the ECA Lender, the ECA Lender shall assign its right pursuant to the Finance Documents to the Bank Guarantors (or whomsoever they choose to nominate), who shall become party to the Finance Documents and thereby replacing the ECA Lender in all respects, and any settlement in case of realisation of the assets of the Borrowers shall be made between the Bank Guarantors (or whomsoever they choose to nominate) on a pari passu basis based on such parties’ proportionate shares subject always to Clause 36.5 ( Application of Payments ).

 

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6.4.3 This Clause 6.4 takes effect subject to Clause 6.1.1.

 

6.5 No double liability

 

No Obligor shall be obliged to make a payment under or pursuant to this Clause 6 if a corresponding payment has previously been made by an Obligor in respect of the Eksportkreditt Facility under or pursuant to the other provisions of this Agreement.

 

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SECTION 4
REPAYMENT, PREPAYMENT AND CANCELLATION

 

7. Repayment

 

7.1 Repayment of Loans

 

7.1.1 The Borrowers shall repay the Loans made in respect of each Facility in consecutive quarterly instalments as follows:

 

(a) in the case of the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche and Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche, one sixty-fourth of the amount of such Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche or Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche, as applicable, drawn down;

 

(b) in the case of the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche, one sixtieth of the amount of the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche drawn down; and

 

(c) in the case of the Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche and Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche, one forty-eighth of the amount of such Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche or Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche, as applicable, drawn down,

 

in each case other than the final such instalment which shall be in an amount which reduces the amount outstanding under each Facility to zero on the relevant Maturity Date (each a “ Repayment Instalment ”).

 

(a) The first Repayment Instalment of the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche shall become due on 1 December 2014 and the following Repayment Instalment shall become due 3-Monthly thereafter, with the final Repayment Instalment becoming due on the Maturity Date (each a “ Repayment Date ”);

 

(b) The first Repayment Instalment for the Export Credit Facility Vessel 1 Tranche shall become due on the date falling 3-Months after the Delivery Date for Vessel 1 and the following Repayment Instalment shall become due 3-Monthly thereafter, with the final Repayment Instalment becoming due on the Maturity Date (each a “ Repayment Date ”);

 

(c) The first Repayment Instalment for the Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche shall become due on the date falling 3-Months after the Utilisation Date on the Vessel 1 Modification Tranche Loan and the following Repayment Instalment shall become due 3-Monthly thereafter, with the final Repayment Instalment becoming due on the Maturity Date (each a “ Repayment Date ”); and

 

(d) The first Repayment Instalment for each of the Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche and the Export Credit Facility Vessel 2 Tranche shall become due on the date falling 3-Months after the Delivery Date for Vessel 2 and the following Repayment Instalment shall become due 3-Monthly thereafter, with the final Repayment Instalment becoming due on the Maturity Date (each a “ Repayment Date ”).

 

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7.1.2 Any payment made by the Borrower to the Agent pursuant to Clause 6.1.1, shall reduce the amount due to the ECA Lender under the relevant ECA Loan.

 

7.2 Reborrowing

 

The Borrowers may not reborrow any part of a Facility which is repaid.

 

8. Prepayment and cancellation

 

8.1 Illegality

 

If it becomes unlawful in any applicable jurisdiction for a Lender or a Bank Guarantor to perform any of its obligations as contemplated by this Agreement or to fund or maintain its participation in any Loan or to issue any Bank Guarantee (as applicable):

 

(a) that Lender or a Bank Guarantor (as applicable) shall promptly notify the Agent upon becoming aware of that event;

 

(b) upon the Agent notifying the Borrowers, the Available Commitment of that Lender or Commitment of that Bank Guarantor (as applicable) will be immediately cancelled; and

 

(c) the Borrowers shall replace the relevant Bank Guarantee with alternative security acceptable to the ECA Lender (if the corresponding portion of the ECA Loan guaranteed by such Bank Guarantee has not been repaid) and/or shall repay that Lender’s participation in the Loans on the last day of the Interest Period for each Loan occurring after the Agent has notified the Borrowers or, if earlier, the date specified by the Lender in the notice delivered to the Agent (being no earlier than the last day of any applicable grace period permitted by law).

 

8.2 Mandatory Prepayment – Sale or Total Loss

 

8.2.1 On the date of sale of a Vessel or on the date falling 180 days after that on which a Vessel becomes a Total Loss (or, if earlier, on the date upon which the relevant insurance proceeds are, or Requisition Compensation is, received by the relevant Borrower (or the Security Trustee or any other Finance Party pursuant to the Security Documents)), the Borrowers shall prepay the Loans relating to that Vessel in an amount equal to the higher of (a) the outstanding amount of any Loans relating to that Vessel and (b) the Market Value of that Vessel (based on valuations provided by an Approved Broker not less than 90 days before such prepayment) divided by the Market Value of both Vessels multiplied by the total amount of Loans then outstanding under this Agreement.

 

8.2.2 For the purpose of this Agreement, a Total Loss shall be deemed to have occurred:

 

(a) in the case of an actual total loss of a Vessel, on the actual date and at the time such Vessel was lost or, if such date is not known, on the date on which such Vessel was last reported;

 

(b) in the case of a constructive total loss of a Vessel, upon the date and at the time notice of abandonment of such Vessel is given to the then insurers of such Vessel (provided a claim for total loss is admitted by such insurers) or, if such insurers do not immediately admit such a claim, at the date and at the time at which either a total loss is subsequently admitted by such insurers or a total loss is subsequently adjudged by a competent court of law or arbitration tribunal to have occurred;

 

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(c) in the case of a compromised or arranged total loss of a Vessel, on the date upon which a binding agreement as to such compromised or arranged total loss has been entered into by the then insurers of such Vessel;

 

(d) in the case of Requisition, on the date upon which the relevant requisition of title or other compulsory acquisition occurs; and

 

(e) in the case of hijacking, theft, condemnation, capture, seizure, arrest, detention or confiscation of a Vessel (other than where the same amounts to Requisition of such Vessel) by any Government Entity, or by persons allegedly acting or purporting to act on behalf of any Government Entity, which deprives the Borrower of the use of the Vessel for more than 30 days, upon the expiry of the period of twelve Months after the date upon which the relevant incident occurred.

 

8.3 Mandatory Prepayment – termination of Building Contract or Refund Guarantee

 

8.3.1 If a Building Contract is cancelled, terminated or rescinded for any reason other than by expiry in accordance with its terms, the Borrowers shall prepay the Loans relating to such Vessel.

 

8.3.2 If a Refund Guarantee is cancelled, terminated or rescinded for any reason other than by expiry in accordance with its terms and such Refund Guarantee has not been immediately replaced by a new refund guarantee on terms acceptable by the Lenders and from a guarantor acceptable to the Lenders, the Borrowers shall prepay the Loans relating to such Vessel.

 

8.4 Mandatory Prepayment - Change of control

 

In the event that:

 

8.4.1 a Borrower (directly or indirectly) ceases to be a wholly owned subsidiary of the Original Shareholder or Höegh MLP (following the Höegh MLP Effective Date with respect to such Borrower);

 

8.4.2 Leif O. Høegh, Morten W. Høegh and each of their direct descendants (the “ Individuals ”) and trusts of which the Individuals are respectively principal beneficiaries individually or together:

 

(a) cease to beneficially own and control (directly or indirectly) in excess of one third of the entire issued share capital and voting rights of the Parent Company, other than as a result of:

 

(i) a dilution following an issuance of new equity; or

 

(ii) a conversion by Mitsui OSK Lines, Limited, Statoil ASA and/or Tokyo LNG Tanker Co. Ltd. of their ownership share in a joint venture existing on the date of this Agreement to shares in the Parent Company; or

 

(b) are no longer the largest shareholder of the Parent Company;

 

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8.4.3 the Parent Company and/or companies directly owned 100 per cent. and controlled by the Parent Company individually or together:

 

(a) cease to own beneficially 100 per cent. of the share capital of the Original Shareholder; or

 

(b) following the first Höegh MLP Effective Date, cease to own beneficially an ownership interest of at least 25 per cent. of the Höegh MLP and 50 per cent. of the general partner of Höegh MLP; or

 

(c) following the first Höegh MLP Effective Date, cease to control directly or indirectly the general partner of Höegh MLP.

 

8.4.4 following the first Höegh MLP Effective Date, a majority of the board of directors of Höegh MLP cease to consist of directors that were:

 

(a) appointed by the general partner of Höegh MLP prior to the first annual meeting of its unitholders; and/or

 

(b) recommended for election by a majority of the appointed directors of Höegh MLP,

 

the Borrowers shall prepay all of the Loans within 60 days.

 

8.5 Mandatory prepayment – cessation of guarantees

 

If, for any reason whatsoever, a Bank Guarantee ceases to be legally valid and binding or have full force and effect, the ECA Lender may cancel its Commitment and declare all outstanding indebtedness relating to the Eksportkreditt Facility immediately due and payable.

 

8.6 Mandatory Prepayment – rating downgrade of a Bank Guarantor

 

If at any time the credit rating of a Bank Guarantor falls below Baa2 by Moody’s, BBB by Standard & Poor’s and/or BBB by Fitch (as applicable) the ECA Lender is entitled to demand that the Borrowers substitute that Bank Guarantor with a guarantor acceptable to the ECA Lender within sixty (60) days after a demand by the ECA Lender. If the Borrowers fail to replace the Bank Guarantor, the ECA Lender may cancel its Commitment and declare all outstanding indebtedness relating to the Eksportkreditt Facility immediately due and payable.

 

8.7 Mandatory prepayment – no refinancing of Bank Guarantors’ Guarantees

 

If the refinancing of a Bank Guarantee is not secured by the Borrowers on terms acceptable to the ECA Lender within three (3) months prior to the Maturity Date of the Bank Guarantee, all outstanding amounts under the Eksportkreditt Facility shall be repaid on or prior to the Maturity Date of the Bank Guarantee.

 

8.8 Mandatory prepayment – payment under Bank Guarantee

 

If a demand has been made under a Bank Guarantee pursuant to Clause 6.1 ( Demands under Bank Guarantees ) and the Borrowers do not refinance the Commercial Loans within three (3) months prior to the first Maturity Date of the Commercial Loans on terms acceptable to the Bank Guarantors, all outstanding amounts under the Commercial Facility and the Eksportkreditt Facility shall be repaid on or prior to the first Maturity Date of the Commercial Loans.

 

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8.9 Voluntary cancellation

 

The Borrowers may, if they give the Agent not less than 3 Business Days' (or such shorter period as the Majority Lenders may agree) prior notice, cancel the whole or any part (being a minimum amount of US$5,000,000 and, if more, in multiples of US$1,000,000) of an Available Facility. Any cancellation under this Clause 8.8 shall reduce the Commitments of the Lenders rateably under each Facility. The Commitments of the Bank Guarantors under the Bank Guarantee Facility shall be reduced in proportion to the reduction of the Commitment of the ECA Lender under the Eksportkreditt Facility.

 

8.10 Voluntary prepayment of Loans

 

8.10.1 The Borrowers may, if they give the Agent not less than 3 Business Days' (or such shorter period as the Majority Lenders may agree) prior written notice, prepay the whole or any part of any Facility (but, if in part, being an amount that reduces the amount of the applicable Facility by a minimum amount of US$5,000,000 (or such lower amount as agreed by the Agent) and, if more, in multiples of US$1,000,000).

 

8.10.2 Any prepayment under this Clause 8.10 shall satisfy the obligations under Clause 7.1 ( Repayment of Loans ) by being applied against the Repayment Instalments of the applicable Facility in inverse order of maturity, including any balloon payment of the Commercial Facility. Any prepayment under this Clause 8.10 shall be applied pro rata across the Loans under the applicable Facility for each Vessel.

 

8.11 Right of repayment and cancellation in relation to a single Lender

 

8.11.1 If:

 

(a) any sum payable to any Lender by an Obligor is required to be increased under Clause 13.2 ( Tax Gross-up) ; or

 

(b) any Lender claims indemnification from an Obligor under Clause 13.3 ( Tax indemnit y) or Clause 14 ( Increased Costs ),

 

the Borrowers may, whilst the circumstance giving rise to the requirement for indemnification continues, give the Agent notice of cancellation of the Commitment of that Lender and its intention to procure the repayment of that Lender's participation in the Loans.

8.11.2 On receipt of a notice referred to in Clause 8.11.1, the Commitment of that Lender shall immediately be reduced to zero.

 

8.11.3 On the last day of the then current Interest Period which ends after the Borrowers have given notice under Clause 8.11.1 (or, if earlier, the date specified by the Borrowers in that notice), the Borrowers shall repay that Lender's participation in that Loan.

 

8.12 Effect on Swap Contract

 

On or prior to any repayment or prepayment of any part of a Loan, or if any part of a Facility in respect of which a Swap Transaction has been entered into is not utilised under this Agreement prior to the end of the applicable Availability Period, the Borrowers shall wholly or partially reverse, unwind, offset or terminate (and settle at the then mark-to-market valuation) one or more of the Swap Transactions forming part of the relevant Swap Contract so that the net aggregate notional principal amount of the continuing Swap Transactions does not exceed the aggregate amount of the Loans for the relevant Facility.

 

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8.13 Right of cancellation in relation to a Defaulting Lender

 

8.13.1 If any Lender becomes a Defaulting Lender, the Borrowers may, at any time whilst the Lender continues to be a Defaulting Lender, give the Agent 5 Business Days' notice of cancellation of each Available Commitment of that Lender.

 

8.13.2 On the notice referred to in Clause 8.13.1 above becoming effective, each Available Commitment of the Defaulting Lender shall immediately be reduced to zero.

 

8.13.3 The Agent shall as soon as practicable after receipt of a notice referred to in Clause 8.13.1 above, notify all the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors.

 

8.14 Restrictions

 

8.14.1 Any notice of cancellation or prepayment given by any Party under this Clause 8 ( Prepayment and Cancellation ) shall be irrevocable and, unless a contrary indication appears in this Agreement, shall specify the date or dates upon which the relevant cancellation or prepayment is to be made and the amount of that cancellation or prepayment.

 

8.14.2 Any prepayment under this Agreement shall be made together with accrued interest on the amount prepaid and, subject to any Break Costs, without premium or penalty.

 

8.14.3 The Borrowers shall not repay or prepay all or any part of a Loan or cancel all or any part of the Commitments except at the times and in the manner expressly provided for in this Agreement.

 

8.14.4 Subject to Clause 2.6 ( Increase ), no amount of the Total Commitments cancelled under this Agreement may be subsequently reinstated.

 

8.14.5 If the Agent receives a notice under this Clause 8 ( Prepayment and Cancellation ) it shall promptly forward a copy of that notice to either the Borrowers or the affected Lender, as appropriate and provide a copy of such notice to the Bank Guarantors.

 

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SECTION 5
COSTS OF UTILISATION

 

9. Interest

 

9.1 Calculation of interest

 

The rate of interest on each Loan for each Interest Period is the percentage rate per annum which is either:

9.1.1 in the case of a Loan under the Commercial Facility, the aggregate of the applicable:

 

(a) Margin; and

 

(b) LIBOR; or

 

9.1.2 in the case of a Loan under the Eksportkreditt Facility, the CIRR Interest Rate of:

 

(a) 2.38 per cent. per annum for an Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Loan; or

 

(b) 2.27 per cent. per annum for an Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan.

 

9.2 Payment of interest

 

The Borrower shall pay accrued interest on each Loan on the last day of each Interest Period (and, if the Interest Period is longer than three Months, on the dates falling at three-Monthly intervals after the first day of the Interest Period).

 

9.3 Default interest

 

9.3.1 If an Obligor fails to pay any amount payable by it under a Finance Document on its due date, interest shall accrue on the overdue amount from the due date, up to the date of actual payment (both before and after judgment) at a rate which, subject to Clause 9.3.2 below, is (i) in the case of a Commercial Loan, two percentage points higher than the rate which would have been payable if the overdue amount had, during the period of non-payment, constituted a Commercial Loan in the currency of the overdue amount for successive Interest Periods, each of a duration selected by the Agent (acting reasonably); or (ii) in the case of an ECA Loan, the higher of (a) the CIRR Interest Rate plus 2.00 per cent. per annum or (b) three months LIBOR plus 2.00 per cent. per annum. Any interest accruing under this Clause 9.3 ( Default Interest ) shall be immediately payable by the Obligor on demand by the Agent.

 

9.3.2 If any overdue amount consists of all or part of a Loan which became due on a day which was not the last day of an Interest Period:

 

(a) the first Interest Period for that overdue amount shall have a duration equal to the unexpired portion of the current Interest Period relating to that Loan; and

 

(b) the rate of interest applying to the overdue amount during that first Interest Period shall be two percentage points higher than the rate which would have applied if the overdue amount had not become due.

 

9.3.3 Default interest (if unpaid) arising on an overdue amount will be compounded daily with the overdue amount at the end of each Interest Period applicable to that overdue amount but will remain immediately due and payable.

 

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9.4 Notification of rates of interest

 

The Agent shall promptly notify the Lenders and the Borrowers of the determination of a rate of interest under this Agreement.

 

10. Interest Periods

 

10.1 Selection of Interest Periods

 

10.1.1 The Borrowers may select an Interest Period for a Loan in the Utilisation Request for that Loan or (if the Loan has already been borrowed) in a Selection Notice.

 

10.1.2 Each Selection Notice for a Loan is irrevocable and must be delivered to the Agent by the Borrowers not later than the Specified Time.

 

10.1.3 If the Borrowers fail to select an Interest Period in the Utilisation Request or fail to deliver a Selection Notice to the Agent in accordance with Clause 10.1.2 above, the relevant Interest Period will, subject to Clause 10.2 ( Changes to Interest Periods ), be three Months.

 

10.1.4 Subject to this Clause 10 ( Interest Periods ), the Borrowers may select an Interest Period for a Commercial Loan of three Months or any other period agreed between the Borrowers and the Agent (acting on the instructions of all the Commercial Lenders) and for an ECA Loan of three Months. In addition the Borrowers may select an Interest Period of less than one Month, if necessary to ensure that the Loan has an Interest Period ending on a Repayment Date.

 

10.1.5 An Interest Period for a Loan shall not extend beyond the relevant Maturity Date.

 

10.1.6 Each Interest Period for a Loan shall start on the Utilisation Date or (if already made) on the last day of its preceding Interest Period.

 

10.2 Changes to Interest Periods

 

If any Interest Period would otherwise overrun a Repayment Date, then, in the case of the last Repayment Date, such Interest Period shall end on such Repayment Date, and in the case of any other Repayment Date or Repayment Dates the relevant Loan shall be divided into parts so that there is one part in the amount of the Repayment Instalment due on each Repayment Date falling during that Interest Period and having an Interest Period ending on the relevant Repayment Date and another part in the amount of the balance of the relevant Loan having an Interest Period ascertained in accordance with Clause 10.1 and the other provisions of this Clause 10.

 

10.3 Non-Business Days

 

If an Interest Period would otherwise end on a day which is not a Business Day, that Interest Period will instead end on the next Business Day in that calendar month (if there is one) or the preceding Business Day (if there is not).

 

11. Changes to the calculation of interest

 

11.1 Absence of quotations

 

Subject to Clause 11.2 ( Market disruption ), if LIBOR is to be determined by reference to the Reference Banks but a Reference Bank does not supply a quotation by the Specified Time on the Quotation Day, LIBOR shall be determined on the basis of the quotations of the remaining Reference Banks.

 

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11.2 Market disruption

 

11.2.1 If a Market Disruption Event occurs in relation to a Loan for any Interest Period, then the rate of interest on each Commercial Lender's share of that Loan for the Interest Period shall be the percentage rate per annum which is the sum of:

 

(a) the Margin; and

 

(b) the rate notified to the Agent by that Lender as soon as practicable and in any event before interest is due to be paid in respect of that Interest Period, to be that which expresses as a percentage rate per annum the cost to that Lender of funding its participation in that Loan from whatever source it may reasonably select.

 

11.2.2 In this Agreement " Market Disruption Event " means:

 

(a) at or about noon on the Quotation Day for the relevant Interest Period LIBOR is to be determined by reference to the Reference Banks and none or only one of the Reference Banks supplies a rate to the Agent to determine LIBOR for dollars for the relevant Interest Period; or

 

(b) before close of business in London on the Quotation Day for the relevant Interest Period, the Agent receives notifications from a Commercial Lender or Commercial Lenders whose participations in a Loan exceed 50 per cent. of that Loan that the cost to it or them of obtaining matching deposits in the London Interbank Market would be in excess of LIBOR.

 

11.3 Alternative basis of interest or funding

 

11.3.1 If a Market Disruption Event occurs and the Agent or the Borrowers so require, the Agent and the Borrowers shall enter into negotiations (for a period of not more than thirty (30) days) with a view to agreeing a substitute basis for determining the rate of interest.

 

11.3.2 Any alternative basis agreed pursuant Clause 11.3.1 above shall, with the prior consent of all the Lenders and the Borrowers, be binding on all Parties.

 

11.4 Break Costs

 

11.4.1 The Borrowers shall, within three Business Days of demand by a Finance Party, pay to that Finance Party its Break Costs attributable to all or any part of a Loan or Unpaid Sum being paid by the Borrowers on a day other than the last day of an Interest Period for that Loan or Unpaid Sum.

 

11.4.2 Each Lender shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after a demand by the Agent, provide a certificate confirming the amount of its Break Costs for any Interest Period in which they accrue.

 

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12. Fees

 

12.1 Commitment fee

 

12.1.1 The Borrowers shall pay to the Agent (for the account of each Commercial Lender) a fee in respect of the Commercial Facility computed at the rate per annum equal to 40 per cent. of the Margin on the daily unutilised Commitment of such Lender under that Facility for the period which commenced on the date of this Agreement and shall end at the end of the Availability Period applicable to that Facility.

 

12.1.2 The accrued Commitment Fee is payable on each date on which interest is due under Clause 9.2 ( Payment of Interest ), on the last day of the relevant Availability Period and, if cancelled in full, on the cancelled amount of the relevant Lender's Commitments at the time the cancellation is effective.

 

12.1.3 No Commitment Fee is payable hereunder to the Agent (for the account of a Lender) on any Available Commitment of that Lender for any day on which that Lender is a Defaulting Lender.

 

12.2 Agency Fee

 

The Borrowers shall pay to the Agent, on the date of this Agreement and annually thereafter, an agency fee in the amount and at the times agreed in a Fee Letter.

 

12.3 Arrangement fee

 

The Borrowers shall pay to the Agent (for the account of each Mandated Lead Arranger) an arrangement fee in the amount and at the times agreed in a Fee Letter.

 

12.4 Guarantee Commission and Commitment Fee

 

12.4.1 The Borrowers shall pay to the Agent (for the account of each Bank Guarantor) on each date on which interest is due under Clause 9.2 ( Payment of Interest ) in respect of the Loan guaranteed, the Guarantee Commission on the then outstanding stated amount of the Bank Guarantees issued by the Bank Guarantors under the Eksportkreditt Facility.

 

12.4.2 The Borrowers shall pay to the Agent (for the account of each Bank Guarantor) a fee in respect of the Bank Guarantee Facility computed at the rate per annum equal to 40 per cent. of the Guarantee Commission on the daily unutilised Bank Guarantee Facility Commitment of such Bank Guarantor under the Bank Guarantee Facility for the period which commenced on the date of this Agreement to and including the date of issuance of the Bank Guarantee, payable on each date on which interest is due under Clause 9.2 ( Payment of Interest ), on the last day of the relevant Availability Period and, if cancelled in full, on the cancelled amount of the relevant Bank Guarantor’s Commitments at the time the cancellation is effective.

 

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SECTION 6
ADDITIONAL PAYMENT OBLIGATIONS

 

13. Tax gross up and indemnities

 

13.1 Definitions

 

13.1.1 In this Agreement:

 

Tax Credit ” means a credit against, relief or remission for, or repayment or refund of any Tax.

 

Tax Deduction ” means a deduction or withholding for or on account of Tax from a payment under a Finance Document (other than a Swap Contract), other than a FATCA Deduction.

 

Tax Payment ” means either the increase in a payment made by an Obligor to a Finance Party under Clause 13.2 ( Tax gross-up ) or a payment under Clause 13.3 ( Tax indemnity ).

 

13.1.2 Unless a contrary indication appears, in this Clause 13 a reference to "determines" or "determined" means a determination made in the absolute discretion of the person making the determination.

 

13.2 Tax gross-up

 

13.2.1 Each Obligor shall make all payments to be made by it without any Tax Deduction, unless a Tax Deduction is required by law.

 

13.2.2 An Obligor shall promptly upon becoming aware that it must make a Tax Deduction (or that there is any change in the rate or the basis of a Tax Deduction) notify the Agent accordingly. Similarly, a Lender and/or Bank Guarantor and/or Swap Bank shall notify the Agent on becoming so aware in respect of a payment payable to that Lender and/or Bank Guarantor and/or Swap Bank. If the Agent receives such notification from a Lender and/or Bank Guarantor it shall notify that Obligor and/or Swap Bank.

 

13.2.3 If a Tax Deduction is required by law to be made by an Obligor, the amount of the payment due from that Obligor shall be increased to an amount which (after making any Tax Deduction) leaves an amount equal to the payment which would have been due if no Tax Deduction had been required.

 

13.2.4 If an Obligor is required to make a Tax Deduction, that Obligor shall make that Tax Deduction and any payment required in connection with that Tax Deduction within the time allowed and in the minimum amount required by law.

 

13.2.5 Within thirty (30) days of making either a Tax Deduction or any payment required in connection with that Tax Deduction, the Obligor making that Tax Deduction shall deliver to the Agent for the Finance Party entitled to the payment evidence reasonably satisfactory to that Finance Party that the Tax Deduction has been made or (as applicable) any appropriate payment has been paid to the relevant taxing authority.

 

13.2.6 The Agent, the Lenders, Bank Guarantors, the Swap Banks and the Obligors shall cooperate in completing any procedural formalities necessary for an Obligor to make payments to all Lenders, Bank Guarantors and Swap Banks without a Tax Deduction.

 

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13.3 Tax indemnity

 

13.3.1 The Obligors shall (within three Business Days of demand by the Agent) pay to a Finance Party an amount equal to the loss, liability or cost which that Finance Party determines will be or has been (directly or indirectly) suffered for or on account of Tax by that Finance Party in respect of a Finance Document.

 

13.3.2 Clause 13.3.1 shall not apply:

 

(a) with respect to any Tax assessed on a Finance Party:

 

(i) under the law of the jurisdiction in which that Finance Party is incorporated or, if different, the jurisdiction (or jurisdictions) in which that Finance Party is treated as resident or is engaged or deemed to be engaged in a trade or a business or has a presence for tax purposes; or

 

(ii) under the law of the jurisdiction in which that Finance Party's Facility Office is located in respect of amounts received or receivable in that jurisdiction,

 

if that Tax is imposed on or calculated by reference to the net income received or receivable (but not any sum deemed to be received or receivable) by that Finance Party;

 

(b) to the extent a loss, liability or cost is compensated for by an increased payment under Clause 13.2 ( Tax gross-up ); or

 

(c) to the extent a loss, liability or cost relates to a FATCA Deduction required to be made by a Party.

 

13.3.3 A Finance Party making, or intending to make a claim under Clause 13.3.1 shall promptly notify the Agent of the event which will give, or has given, rise to the claim, following which the Agent shall notify the Obligors.

 

13.3.4 A Finance Party shall, on receiving a payment from an Obligor under this Clause 13.3, notify the Agent.

 

13.4 Tax Credit

 

If an Obligor makes a Tax Payment and the relevant Finance Party determines that:

 

(a) a Tax Credit is attributable either to an increased payment of which that Tax Payment forms part, or to that Tax Payment; and

 

(b) that Finance Party has obtained, utilised and retained that Tax Credit,

 

the Finance Party shall pay an amount to that Obligor which that Finance Party determines will leave it (after that payment) in the same after-Tax position as it would have been in had the Tax Payment not been required to be made by that Obligor.

 

13.5 Stamp taxes

 

The Borrowers shall pay and, within three Business Days of written demand, indemnify each Finance Party against any cost, loss or liability that Finance Party incurs in relation to all stamp duty, registration and other similar Taxes payable in respect of any Finance Document.

 

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13.6 Value added tax

 

13.6.1 All amounts expressed to be payable under a Finance Document by any Party to a Finance Party which (in whole or in part) constitute the consideration for any supply for VAT purposes are deemed to be exclusive of any VAT which is chargeable on that supply. Accordingly, if VAT is or becomes chargeable on any supply made by any Finance Party to any Party in connection with a Finance Document and such Finance Party is required to account to the relevant tax authority for the VAT, that Party must pay to such Finance Party (in addition to and at the same time as paying the consideration for such supply) an amount equal to the amount of the VAT (and such Finance Party must promptly provide an appropriate VAT invoice to that Party).

 

13.6.2 Where a Finance Document requires any Party to reimburse a Finance Party for any costs or expenses, that Party shall also at the same time pay and indemnify the Finance Party against all VAT incurred by the Finance Party in respect of the costs or expenses to the extent that the Finance Party reasonably determines that it is not entitled to credit or repayment or refund of the VAT from the relevant tax authority.

 

13.6.3 In relation to any supply made by a Finance Party to any Party under a Finance Document, if reasonably requested by such Finance Party, that Party must promptly provide such Finance Party with details of that Party's VAT registration and such other information as is reasonably requested in connection with such Finance Party's VAT reporting requirements in relation to such supply.

 

13.7 FATCA Information

 

13.7.1 Subject to Clause 13.7.3 below, each Party shall, within ten (10) Business Days of a reasonable request by another Party:

 

(a) confirm to that other Party whether it is:

 

(i) a FATCA Exempt Party; or

 

(ii) not a FATCA Exempt Party; and

 

(b) supply to that other Party such forms, documentation and other information relating to its status under FATCA (including its applicable "passthru payment percentage" or other information required under the US Treasury Regulations or other official guidance including intergovernmental agreements) as that other Party reasonably requests for the purposes of that other Party's compliance with FATCA.

 

13.7.2 If a Party confirms to another Party pursuant to Clause (i) above that it is a FATCA Exempt Party and it subsequently becomes aware that it is not, or has ceased to be a FATCA Exempt Party, that Party shall notify that other Party reasonably promptly.

 

13.7.3 Clause 13.7.1 above shall not oblige any Finance Party to do anything which would or might in its reasonable opinion constitute a breach of:

 

(a) any law or regulation;

 

(b) any fiduciary duty; or

 

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(c) any duty of confidentiality.

 

13.7.4 If a Party fails to confirm its status or to supply forms, documentation or other information requested in accordance with Clause 13.7.1 above (including, for the avoidance of doubt, where Clause 13.7.3 above applies), then:

 

(a) if that Party failed to confirm whether it is (and/or remains) a FATCA Exempt Party then such Party shall be treated for the purposes of the Finance Documents as if it is not a FATCA Exempt Party; and

 

(b) if that Party failed to confirm its applicable "passthru payment percentage" then such Party shall be treated for the purposes of the Finance Documents (and payments made thereunder) as if its applicable "passthru payment percentage" is 100%,

 

until (in each case) such time as the Party in question provides the requested confirmation, forms, documentation or other information.

 

13.7.5 If a Borrower is a US Tax Obligor, or where the Agent reasonably believes that its obligations under FATCA require it, each Lender and Bank Guarantor shall, within ten (10) Business Days of:

 

(a) where a Borrower is a US Tax Obligor and the relevant Lender is an Original Lender and the relevant Bank Guarantor is an Original Bank Guarantor the date of this Agreement;

 

(b) where a Borrower is a US Tax Obligor and the relevant Lender is a New Lender, the relevant Transfer Date; or

 

(c) the date a new US Tax Obligor accedes as a Borrower; or

 

(d) where a Borrower is not a US Tax Obligor, the date of a request from the Agent,

 

supply to the Agent:

 

(a) a withholding certificate on Form W-8 or Form W-9 (or any successor form) (as applicable); or

 

(b) any withholding statement and other documentation, authorisations and waivers as the Agent may require to certify or establish the status of such Lender under FATCA.

 

The Agent shall provide any withholding certificate, withholding statement, documentation, authorisations and waivers it receives from a Lender and Bank Guarantor pursuant to this Clause 13.7.5 to a Borrower and shall be entitled to rely on any such withholding certificate, withholding statement, documentation, authorisations and waivers provided without further verification. The Agent shall not be liable for any action taken by it under or in connection with this Clause 13.7.5.

 

13.7.6 Each Lender and Bank Guarantor agrees that if any withholding certificate, withholding statement, documentation, authorisations and waivers provided to the Agent pursuant to Clause 13.7.5 above is or becomes materially inaccurate or incomplete, it shall promptly update such withholding certificate, withholding statement, documentation, authorisations and waivers or promptly notify the Agent in writing of its legal inability to do so. The Agent shall provide any such updated withholding certificate, withholding statement, documentation, authorisations and waivers to a Borrower. The Agent shall not be liable for any action taken by it under or in connection with this Clause 13.7.6.

 

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13.8 FATCA Deduction

 

13.8.1 Each Party may make any FATCA Deduction it is required to make by FATCA, and any payment required in connection with that FATCA Deduction, and no Party shall be required to increase any payment in respect of which it makes such a FATCA Deduction or otherwise compensate the recipient of the payment for that FATCA Deduction.

 

13.8.2 Each Party shall promptly upon becoming aware that it must make a FATCA Deduction (or that there is any change in the rate or the basis of such FATCA Deduction), notify the Party to whom it is making the payment and, in addition, shall notify the Borrowers, the Agent, and the other Finance Parties.

 

14. Increased costs

 

14.1 Increased costs

 

14.1.1 Subject to Clause 14.3 ( Exceptions ) the Borrowers shall, within three Business Days of a written demand by the Agent, pay for the account of a Finance Party the amount of any Increased Costs incurred by that Finance Party or any of its Affiliates as a result of (i) the introduction of or any change in (or in the interpretation, administration or application of) any law or regulation or (ii) compliance with any law or regulation made after the date of this Agreement.

 

14.1.2 In this Agreement:

 

(a) " Increased Costs " means:

 

(i) a reduction in the rate of return from a Facility or on a Finance Party's (or its Affiliate's) overall capital;

 

(ii) an additional or increased cost; or

 

(iii) a reduction of any amount due and payable under any Finance Document,

 

which is incurred or suffered by a Finance Party or any of its Affiliates to the extent that it is attributable to that Finance Party having entered into its Commitments or funding or performing its obligations under any Finance Document.

 

(b) Basel III " means:

 

(i) the agreements on capital requirements, a leverage ratio and liquidity standards contained in "Basel III: A global regulatory framework for more resilient banks and banking systems", "Basel III: International framework for liquidity risk measurement, standards and monitoring" and "Guidance for national authorities operating the countercyclical capital buffer" published by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision in December 2010, each as amended, supplemented or restated;

 

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(ii) the rules for global systemically important banks contained in “Global Systemically important banks: assessment methodology and the additional loss absorbency requirement – Rules text” published by Basel Committee on Bank Systems in November 2011, as amended, supplemented or restated; and

 

(iii) any further guidance or standards published by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision relating to "Basel III”.

 

14.2 Increased cost claims

 

14.2.1 A Finance Party intending to make a claim pursuant to Clause 14.1 ( Increased costs ) shall notify the Agent of the event giving rise to the claim, following which the Agent shall promptly notify the Borrowers.

 

14.2.2 Each Finance Party shall, as soon as practicable after a demand by the Agent, provide a certificate confirming the amount of its increased costs and providing reasonable detail as to the computation of such amount.

 

14.3 Exceptions

 

14.3.1 Clause 14.1 ( Increased costs ) does not apply to the extent any Increased Cost is:

 

(a) attributable to a Tax Deduction required by law to be made by an Obligor;

 

(b) compensated for by Clause 13.3 ( Tax indemnity ) (or would have been compensated for under Clause 13.3 ( Tax indemnity ) but was not so compensated solely because any of the exclusions in Clause 13.3.2 applied);

 

(c) attributable to a FATCA Deduction required to be made by a Party;

 

(d) attributable to breach by, the relevant Finance Party or its Affiliates of any law or regulation, which breach is wilful or attributable to the gross negligence of that party; or

 

(e) attributable to the implementation or application of or compliance with the "International Convergence of Capital Measurement and Capital Standards, a Revised Framework" published by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision in June 2004 in the form existing on the date of this Agreement (but excluding any amendment arising out of Basel III) (" Basel II ") or any other law or regulation which implements Basel II (whether such implementation, application or compliance is by a government, regulator, Finance Party or any of its Affiliates)

 

14.3.2 In this Clause 14.3, a reference to a " Tax Deduction " has the same meaning given to the term in Clause 13.1 ( Definitions ).

 

15. Other indemnities

 

15.1 Currency indemnity

 

15.1.1 If any sum due from an Obligor under the Finance Documents (a " Sum "), or any order, judgment or award given or made in relation to a Sum, has to be converted from the currency (the " First Currency ") in which that Sum is payable into another currency (the " Second Currency ") for the purpose of:

 

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(a) making or filing a claim or proof against that Obligor;

 

(b) obtaining or enforcing an order, judgment or award in relation to any litigation or arbitration proceedings,

 

that Obligor shall as an independent obligation, within three Business Days of demand, indemnify each Finance Party to whom that Sum is due against any cost, loss or liability arising out of or as a result of the conversion including any discrepancy between (i) the rate of exchange used to convert that Sum from the First Currency into the Second Currency and (ii) the rate or rates of exchange available to that person at the time of its receipt of that Sum.

 

15.1.2 Each Obligor waives any right it may have in any jurisdiction to pay any amount under the Finance Documents in a currency or currency unit other than that in which it is expressed to be payable.

 

15.2 Other indemnities

 

15.2.1 The Borrowers shall, within five Business Days of demand, indemnify each Finance Party against any cost, loss or liability incurred by that Finance Party as a result of:

 

(a) the occurrence of any Event of Default;

 

(b) a failure by an Obligor to pay any amount due under a Finance Document on its due date, including without limitation, any cost, loss or liability arising as a result of Clause 35 ( Sharing among the Finance Parties );

 

(c) funding, or making arrangements to fund, its participation in a Loan requested by the Borrowers in a Utilisation Request but not made by reason of the operation of any one or more of the provisions of this Agreement (other than by reason of default or negligence by that Finance Party alone);

 

(d) a Loan (or part of a Loan) not being prepaid in accordance with a notice of prepayment given by the Borrowers; or

 

(e) the conduct of any Obligor or any of their partners, directors, officers, employees, agents or advisors that violates any Sanctions Law.

 

15.2.2 The Obligors hereby indemnify and agree to hold harmless each of the Finance Parties and in each case each of its and their Affiliates and each of their respective officers, directors, employees, agents, advisors and representatives (each, an " Indemnified Party ") from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, legal expenses and expenses (altogether “ Losses ”), joint or several, that may be incurred by or asserted or awarded against any Indemnified Party, in each case arising out of or in connection with or relating to any claim, investigation, litigation or proceeding (or the preparation of any defence with respect thereto) commenced or threatened in relation to a Finance Document (or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby) any use made or proposed to be made with the proceeds of a Facility or in connection with any law relating to the safety at sea, the ISM Code or any Sanctions Laws. This indemnity shall apply whether or not such claims, investigation, litigation or proceeding is brought by an Obligor, an Obligor’s shareholder or creditor, an Indemnified Party or any other person, or an Indemnified Party is otherwise a party thereto, except to the extent such Losses are found in a final, non-appealable judgment by a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from such Indemnified Party's gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

 

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15.3 Indemnity to the Agent

 

The Borrowers shall promptly indemnify the Agent against any cost, loss or liability incurred by the Agent (acting reasonably) as a result of:

 

(a) investigating any event which it reasonably believes is a Default; or

 

(b) acting or relying on any notice, request or instruction which it reasonably believes to be genuine, correct and appropriately authorised; or

 

(c) instructing lawyers, accountants, tax advisers, surveyors or other professional advisers or experts as permitted under this Agreement; and

 

(d) any cost, loss or liability (including, without limitation, for negligence or any other category of liability whatsoever) incurred by the Agent (otherwise than by reason of the Agent's gross negligence or wilful misconduct) (or, in the case of any cost, loss or liability pursuant to Clause 36.9 ( Disruption to Payment Systems etc .) notwithstanding the Agent's negligence, gross negligence or any other category of liability whatsoever but not including any claim based on the fraud of the Agent) in acting as Agent under the Finance Documents.

 

15.4 Environmental indemnity

 

The Borrowers shall indemnify each Finance Party on demand and hold it harmless from and against all costs, claims, expenses, payments, charges, losses, demands, liabilities, actions, Proceedings (civil or criminal), penalties, fines, damages, judgements, orders or sanctions which may be incurred or made or asserted whensoever against such Finance Party at any time, whether before or after the repayment in full of principal and interest under this Agreement, arising howsoever out of an Environmental Claim made or asserted against such Finance Party which would not have been, or been capable of being, made or asserted against such Finance Party had it not entered into any of the Finance Documents or been involved in any of the resulting or associated transactions.

 

15.5 Exclusions

 

The indemnities contained in this Clause 15 shall not extend to any claim or liability of a Finance Party to the extent that such claim or liability:

 

(a) is one in respect of which the Finance Party is expressly and specifically indemnified and has received and is entitled to retain such indemnity under any other provision of this Agreement or any other Finance Document; or

 

(b) is a cost or expense (including but not limited to normal administrative costs or overhead expenses) which the Finance Parties have agreed to bear under this Agreement or any other Finance Document; or

 

(c) is directly and exclusively caused by any material failure on the part of that Finance Party to comply with any of its obligations under the Finance Documents.

 

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16. Mitigation by the Finance Parties

 

16.1 Mitigation

 

16.1.1 Each Finance Party shall, in consultation with the Borrowers, take all reasonable steps to mitigate any circumstances which arise and which would result in any amount becoming payable under or pursuant to, or cancelled pursuant to, any of Clause 8.1 ( Illegality ), Clause 13 ( Tax gross-up and indemnities ) or Clause 14 ( Increased costs ) including (but not limited to) transferring its rights and obligations under the Finance Documents to an Affiliate or another Facility Office or to another financial institution reasonably acceptable to the Borrowers and the Agent.

 

16.1.2 Clause 16.1.1 above does not in any way limit the obligations of any Obligor under the Transaction Documents.

 

16.2 Limitation of liability

 

16.2.1 The Borrowers shall promptly indemnify each Finance Party for all costs and expenses reasonably incurred by that Finance Party as a result of steps taken by it under Clause 16 ( Mitigation by the Finance Parties ).

 

16.2.2 A Finance Party is not obliged to take any steps under Clause 16 ( Mitigation by the Finance Parties ) if, in the opinion of that Finance Party (acting reasonably), to do so might be prejudicial to it.

 

17. Costs and expenses

 

17.1 Transaction expenses

 

The Borrowers shall within three Business Days of demand pay the Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger and the Bank Guarantors the amount of all costs and expenses (including external legal fees) reasonably incurred by any of them in connection with the negotiation, preparation, printing, execution and syndication of:

 

(a) this Agreement and any other documents referred to in this Agreement; and

 

(b) any other Finance Documents executed after the date of this Agreement.

 

17.2 Amendment costs

 

If an Obligor requests an amendment, waiver or consent, the Borrowers shall, within three Business Days of demand, reimburse the Agent, the Bank Guarantors, the Lenders and the Swap Banks for the amount of all costs and expenses (including external legal fees) reasonably incurred by the Agent, the Bank Guarantors, the Lenders and the Swap Banks in responding to, evaluating, negotiating or complying with that request or requirement.

 

17.3 Enforcement costs

 

The Borrowers shall, within three Business Days of demand, pay to each Finance Party the amount of all costs and expenses (including legal fees) incurred by that Finance Party in connection with the enforcement of, or the preservation of any rights under, any Finance Document.

 

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SECTION 7
CORPORATE GUARANTEE

 

18. Corporate Guarantee and Indemnity

 

18.1 Guarantee and indemnity

 

18.1.1 Subject to Clause 18.1.2, each Corporate Guarantor irrevocably and unconditionally:

 

(a) guarantees to each Finance Party the punctual performance by the other Obligors of all such Obligors’ obligations under the Finance Documents;

 

(b) undertakes with each Finance Party that whenever an Obligor does not pay any amount when due under or in connection with any Finance Document, that Corporate Guarantor shall immediately on demand pay that amount as if it was the principal obligor; and

 

(c) agrees with each Finance Party that it will, as an independent and primary obligation, indemnify that Finance Party immediately on demand against any cost, loss or liability it incurs (a) if any obligation guaranteed by it is or becomes unenforceable, invalid or illegal or (b) as a result of an Obligor not paying any amount which would, but for such unenforceability, invalidity or illegality, have been payable by it under any Finance Document on the date when it would have been due. The amount payable by a Corporate Guarantor under this indemnity will not exceed the amount it would have had to pay under this Clause 18 if the amount claimed had been recoverable on the basis of a guarantee.

 

18.1.2 During the period commencing on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date and ending on the second Höegh MLP Effective Date, the guarantee, undertaking and indemnity of the Additional Corporate Guarantor under Clause 18.1.1 above, shall be limited by reference to the obligations of the Dropdown Borrower under the Finance Documents in relation to the financing and the chartering of the Dropdown Vessel.

 

18.2 Continuing guarantee

 

This guarantee is a continuing guarantee and will, extend to the ultimate balance of sums payable by any Obligor under the Finance Documents, regardless of any intermediate payment or discharge in whole or in part.

 

18.3 Reinstatement

 

If any discharge, release or arrangement (whether in respect of the obligations of any Obligor or any security for those obligations or otherwise) is made by a Finance Party in whole or in part on the basis of any payment, security or other disposition which is avoided or must be restored in insolvency, liquidation, administration or otherwise, without limitation, then the liability of a Corporate Guarantor under this Clause 18 will continue or be reinstated as if the discharge, release or arrangement had not occurred.

 

18.4 Waiver of defences

 

The obligations of a Corporate Guarantor under this Clause 18 will not be affected by an act, omission, matter or thing which, but for this Clause would reduce, release or prejudice any of its obligations under this Clause 18 (without limitation and whether or not known to it or any Finance Party) including:

 

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(a) any time, waiver or consent granted to, composition with, any Obligor or other person:

 

(b) the release of any other Obligor or any other person under the terms of any composition or arrangement with any creditor of any member of the Group;

 

(c) the taking, variation, compromise, exchange, renewal or release of, or refusal or neglect to perfect, take up or enforce, any rights against, or security over assets of, any Obligor or other person or any non-presentation or non-observance of any formality or other requirement in respect of any instrument or any failure to realise the full value of any security;

 

(d) any incapacity or lack of power, authority or legal personality of or dissolution or change in the members or status of an Obligor or any other person;

 

(e) any amendment, novation, supplement, extension, restatement (however fundamental and whether or not more onerous) or replacement of any Finance Document or any other document or security including without limitation any change in the purpose of, any extension of or any increase in any facility or the addition of any new facility under any Finance Document or other document or security;

 

(f) any unenforceability, illegality or invalidity of any obligation of any person under any Finance Document or any other document or security; or

 

(g) any insolvency or similar proceedings.

 

18.5 Immediate recourse

 

Each Corporate Guarantor waives any right it may have of first requiring any Finance Party (or any trustee or agent on its behalf) to proceed against or enforce any other rights or security or claim payment from any person before claiming from that Corporate Guarantor under this Clause 18. This waiver applies irrespective of any law or any provision of a Finance Document to the contrary.

 

18.6 Appropriation

 

Until all amounts which may be or become payable by the Obligors under or in connection with the Finance Documents have been irrevocably paid in full, each Finance Party (or any trustee or agent on its behalf) may:

 

(a) refrain from applying or enforcing any other moneys, security or rights held or received by that Finance Party (or any trustee or agent on its behalf) in respect of those amounts, or apply and enforce the same in such manner and order as it sees fit (whether against those amounts or otherwise) and no Corporate Guarantor shall be entitled to the benefit of the same; and

 

(b) hold in an interest-bearing suspense account any moneys received from any Corporate Guarantor or on account of the Corporate Guarantor’s liability under this Clause 18.

 

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18.7 Deferral of Corporate Guarantors’ rights

 

18.7.1 Until all amounts which may be or become payable by the Obligors under or in connection with the Finance Documents have been irrevocably paid in full and unless the Agent otherwise directs, no Corporate Guarantor will exercise any rights which it may have by reason of performance by it of its obligations under the Finance Documents or by reason of any amount being payable, or liability arising under this Clause 18:

 

(a) to be indemnified by an Obligor;

 

(b) to claim any contribution from any other guarantor of any Obligor’s obligations under the Finance Documents;

 

(c) to take the benefit (in whole or in part and whether by way of subrogation or otherwise) of any rights of the Finance Parties under the Finance Documents or of any other guarantee or security taken pursuant to, or in connection with, the Finance Documents by any Finance Party;

 

(d) to bring legal or other proceedings for an order requiring any Obligor to make any payment, or perform any obligation, in respect of which any Corporate Guarantor has given a guarantee, undertaking or indemnity under Clause 18.1 ( Guarantee and Indemnity );

 

(e) to exercise any right of set-off against any Obligor; and/or

 

(f) to claim or prove as a creditor of any Obligor in competition with any Finance Party.

 

18.7.2 If a Corporate Guarantor receives any benefit, payment or distribution in relation to such rights it shall hold that benefit, payment or distribution to the extent necessary to enable all amounts which may be or become payable to the Finance Parties by the Obligors under or in connection with the Finance Documents to be repaid in full on trust for the Finance Parties and shall promptly pay or transfer the same to the Agent or as the Agent may direct for application in accordance with Clause 36 (Payment Mechanics) .

 

18.7.3 In no event shall a Corporate Guarantor have any rights to make a demand under a Bank Guarantee for any reason including but not limited to on the basis that that Bank Guarantor has performed its guarantee obligations or that that Bank Guarantor has acquired the rights of subrogation from an Obligor or the Lenders.

 

18.8 Additional Security

 

This guarantee is in addition to and is not in any way prejudiced by any other guarantee or security now or subsequently held by any Finance Party.

 

18.9 Additional Corporate Guarantor

 

Höegh MLP became an Additional Corporate Guarantor on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date in accordance with Clause 32 ( Changes to Obligors ) and, therefore, all references to a Corporate Guarantor (and all definitions incorporating such reference) are to be read and construed as including Höegh MLP as an Additional Corporate Guarantor (subject to Clause 18.1.2).

 

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SECTION 8
REPRESENTATIONS, UNDERTAKINGS AND EVENTS OF DEFAULT

 

19. Representations

 

Each Obligor makes the representations and warranties set out in this Clause 19 to each Finance Party on the date of this Agreement.

 

19.1 Status

 

19.1.1 It is a corporation, duly incorporated, validly existing and in good standing under the law of its jurisdiction of incorporation.

 

19.1.2 It has the power to own its assets and carry on its business as it is being conducted.

 

19.2 Share capital and ownership

 

19.2.1 Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited has an authorised share capital of US$10,000 divided into 10,000 ordinary shares with a par value of US$1 each, of which 1,000 ordinary shares have been issued fully paid and the legal title and beneficial ownership of all those shares is held, free of any Security or other claim, by FSRU III.

 

19.2.2 Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd. has an authorised share capital of US$25,000 divided into 25,000 ordinary shares with a par value of US$1 each, of which 25,000 ordinary shares have been issued fully paid and the legal title and beneficial ownership of all those shares is held, free of any Security or other claim, by HLNG Colombia HoldCo.

 

19.2.3 The Original Shareholder has an authorised share capital of US$20,000,000 divided into 20,000,000 ordinary shares with a par value of US$1 each, of which 15,000,000 ordinary shares have been issued fully paid and the legal title and beneficial ownership of all those shares is held, free of any Security or other claim, by the Parent Company.

 

19.2.4 EgyptCo has an authorised share capital of 100 quota/allotments with a par value of EGP100 per quota/allotments each, the legal title and beneficial ownership of all those quota/allotments is held, free of any Security or other claim, by the Quotaholders as to 30 per cent by Egypt Holding I and as to 70 per cent by Egypt Holding II.

 

19.2.5 Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. has an authorised share capital of US$50,000 divided into 50,000 ordinary shares with a par value of US$1 each, of which 1,000 ordinary shares have been issued fully paid and the legal title and beneficial ownership of all those shares is held, free of any Security or other claim, by the Original Shareholder.

 

19.2.6 Each Quotaholder has an authorised share capital of US$50,000 divided into 50,000 ordinary shares with a par value of US$1 in each, of which 100 ordinary shares have been issued fully paid and the legal title and beneficial ownership of all those shares is held, free of any Security or other claim, by the Original Shareholder.

 

19.3 Binding obligations

 

The obligations expressed to be assumed by it in each Transaction Document are, subject to the Legal Reservations, legal, valid, binding and enforceable obligations and each Security Document to which it is a party creates the security interests which that Security Document purports to create and those security interests are valid and effective.

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19.4 Non-conflict with other obligations

 

The entry into it of, and performance by it of, the transactions contemplated by, the Transaction Documents, and the granting of the Transaction Security, do not and will not conflict with:

(a) any law or regulation applicable to it;

 

(b) its constitutional documents; or

 

(c) any agreement or instrument binding upon it or, in any material respect, any agreement or instrument binding upon any member of the Group or any of their assets.

 

19.5 Power and authority

 

It has the power to enter into, perform and deliver, and has taken all necessary action to authorise its entry into, performance and delivery of, the Transaction Documents to which it is a party and the transactions contemplated by those Transaction Documents, and no limit on its powers will be exceeded as a result of the borrowing, grant of Security, or giving of guarantees or indemnities contemplated by the Transaction Documents to which it is a party.

 

19.6 Validity and admissibility in evidence

 

Any Authorisations required or desirable:

(a) to enable it lawfully to enter into, exercise its rights and comply with its obligations under the Transaction Documents to which it is a party;

 

(b) to make the Transaction Documents to which it is a party admissible in evidence in any Relevant Jurisdiction; and

 

(c) to enable it to create the Security to be created under the Security Documents and to ensure that such Security has the priority and ranking it is expressed to have,

 

have been obtained or effected and are in full force and effect, except any Authorisations referred to in Clause 19.9 ( No filing or stamp taxes ).

 

19.7 Governing law and enforcement

 

19.7.1 The choice of English law as the governing law of such of the Finance Documents as are expressed to be subject to English law will be recognised and enforced in the Relevant Jurisdictions.

 

19.7.2 Any judgment obtained in England in relation to a Finance Document will be recognised and enforced in the Relevant Jurisdictions (other than the Marshall Islands and the United States of America).

 

19.8 Deduction of Tax

 

It is not required to make any deduction for or on account of Tax from any payment it may make under any Finance Document.

 

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19.9 No filing or stamp taxes

 

Subject to any Legal Reservations, under the law of the Relevant Jurisdictions it is not necessary that the Finance Documents be filed, recorded or enrolled with any court or other authority in that jurisdiction or that any stamp, registration or similar tax be paid on or in relation to the Finance Documents or the transactions contemplated by the Finance Documents except for the registration of the Mortgages which will be completed at each Delivery Date.

 

19.10 No default

 

19.10.1 No Event of Default and, on the date of this Agreement, no Default is continuing or might reasonably be expected to result from the making of any Utilisation or the entry into, or performance of, or any transaction contemplated by, the Transaction Documents.

 

19.10.2 No other event or circumstance is outstanding which constitutes a default under any other agreement or instrument which is binding on it or to which its assets are subject which might have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

19.11 No misleading information

 

19.11.1 Any factual information provided by or on behalf of any member of the Group to a Finance Party in connection with the Facility (including information provided in the Disclosure Letter) was true, complete and accurate in all material respects as at the date it was provided or as at the date (if any) at which it is stated.

 

19.11.2 Any financial projections provided by any member of the Group to a Finance Party in connection with the Facility have been prepared on the basis of recent historical information and on the basis of reasonable assumptions.

 

19.11.3 Nothing has occurred or been omitted from the information so provided and no information has been given or withheld that results in the information so provided being untrue or misleading in any material respect.

 

19.12 Financial Statements

 

19.12.1 The Original Financial Statements were prepared in accordance with IFRS consistently applied unless expressly disclosed to the Agent in writing to the contrary before the date of this Agreement.

 

19.12.2 The Original Financial Statements accurately represent the Group’s financial condition and operations during the relevant financial year.

 

19.13 No proceedings pending or threatened

 

Other than has been disclosed to the Lenders in the Disclosure Letter, no litigation, arbitration or administrative proceedings of or before any court, arbitral body or agency which, if adversely determined, might reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect have (to the best of its knowledge and belief, having made due and careful enquiry) been started or threatened against any member of the Group.

 

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19.14 No breach of laws

 

It has not breached any law, statute or regulation which breach will have or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

19.15 Security

 

No Security exists over the Charged Property other than Permitted Security.

 

19.16 Ranking

 

The Transaction Security has or will have first ranking priority subject to Permitted Liens and it is not subject to any prior ranking or pari passu ranking Security other than Permitted Liens.

 

19.17 Good title to assets

 

It has a good, valid and marketable title to, or valid leases or licences of, and all appropriate Authorisations to use, the assets necessary to carry on its business as presently conducted.

 

19.18 Legal and beneficial ownership

 

Each Obligor is the sole legal and beneficial owner of the respective assets over which it purports to grant Security.

 

19.19 Environmental Matters

 

Except as may already have been disclosed by the Obligors in writing to, and acknowledged in writing by, the Agent, to the best knowledge and belief of each Obligor (having made due enquiry):

 

(a) the Obligors and the Operator and their respective Environmental Affiliates have each complied with the provisions of all Environmental Laws in relation to the Vessel;

 

(b) the Obligors and the Operator and their respective Environmental Affiliates have each obtained all Environmental Approvals in relation to the Vessel and are in compliance with all such Environmental Approvals;

 

(c) no Environmental Claim has been made or threatened or pending against an Obligor, the Operator or, any of their respective Environmental Affiliates, the effect of which has had or is likely to have a Material Adverse Effect; and

 

(d) there has been no Environmental Incident, the effect of which has had or is likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

19.20 Taxation

 

19.20.1 It has duly and punctually paid and discharged all Taxes imposed upon it or its assets within the time period allowed without incurring penalties save to the extent that (i) payment is being contested in good faith, (ii) it has maintained adequate reserves for those Taxes and (iii) payment can be lawfully withheld.

 

19.20.2 It is not materially overdue in the filing of any Tax returns.

 

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19.21 Compliance with Money Laundering Regulation

 

On the date hereof and on each day throughout the Security Period, in relation to the borrowing by the Borrowers of the Loans, the performance and discharge of its obligations and liabilities under this Agreement or any of the other Finance Documents and the transactions and other arrangements effected or contemplated by this Agreement or any of the other Finance Documents to which each Borrower is a party, it is acting for its own account and that the foregoing will not involve or lead to a contravention of any law, official requirement or other regulatory measure or procedure which has been implemented to combat “money laundering” (as defined in Article 1 of the Directive (91/308/EEC), as amended, of the Council of the European Communities).

 

19.22 No Winding-up

 

It has not taken any corporate action nor have any other steps been taken or legal proceedings been started or (to the best of its knowledge and belief) threatened against it for winding-up, dissolution, administration or otherwise for the appointment of a receiver, administrator, administrative receiver, conservator, custodian, trustee or similar officer of it or of any or all of its assets or revenues.

 

19.23 No material adverse change

 

Since the date of the Original Financial Statements, nothing shall have occurred (and neither the Agent nor any of the Lenders shall have become aware of any condition or circumstance not previously known to it or them) which the Lenders, acting reasonably, shall determine has had, or could reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

19.24 Underlying Documents

 

19.24.1 The Certified Copies or originals of the Underlying Documents delivered or to be delivered to the Agent pursuant to Clause 4.1 ( Initial Conditions Precedent ):

 

(a) are, or will when delivered be, true and complete copies or, as the case may be, originals of such documents;

 

(b) subject to any Legal Reservations, constitute valid and binding obligations of the parties thereto enforceable in accordance with their respective terms; and

 

(c) comprise the entire agreement between the parties to such documents and there have been no amendments or variations thereof.

 

19.24.2 All conditions precedent to the effectiveness of the Underlying Documents and of the obligations of the parties thereunder, have been fulfilled.

 

19.24.3 The Borrowers are in compliance with all its obligations under the Underlying Documents and, to its knowledge, no other party to an Underlying Document is in material default of its obligations thereunder.

 

19.25 Anti-corruption law

 

Each Obligor has conducted its businesses in compliance with applicable anti-corruption laws and has instituted and maintained policies and procedures designed to promote and achieve compliance with such laws.

 

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19.26 Sanctions

 

19.26.1 Each Obligor and each other member of the Group, their joint ventures, and their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives is in compliance with Sanctions Laws;

 

19.26.2 No Obligor, nor any other member of the Group, their joint ventures, and their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives:

 

(a) is a Restricted Party, or is involved in any transaction through which it is likely to become a Restricted Party; or

 

(b) is subject to or involved in any inquiry, claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation against it with respect to Sanctions Laws by any Sanctions Authority.

 

19.27 Application of Proceeds

 

All amounts borrowed pursuant to the terms of this Agreement, shall be applied by the Borrowers in accordance with Clause 3 (Purpose).

 

19.28 Repetition

 

19.28.1 The Repeating Representations are deemed to be made by each Obligor by reference to the facts and circumstances then existing on the date of each Utilisation Request, on the first day of each Interest Period and on each Höegh MLP Effective Date.

 

19.28.2 The relevant Borrower shall, on the Delivery Date of the Vessel owned by it, be deemed to represent that save for Permitted Liens the Vessel is in the sole, unencumbered legal and beneficial ownership of the Borrower, operationally seaworthy and in every way fit for service and is classed with the Classification, free of all requirements and overdue recommendations of the Classification Society.

 

20. Information Undertakings

 

The undertakings in this Clause 20 remain in force from the date of this Agreement for so long as any amount is outstanding under the Finance Documents or any Commitment is in force.

 

20.1 Financial statements

 

20.1.1 The Parent Company, the Borrowers and Höegh MLP (after the first Höegh MLP Effective Date) shall supply to the Agent in sufficient copies for all the Lenders, as soon as the same become available, but in any event within 180 days after the end of each of its financial years, its audited (consolidated in the case of the Parent Company) financial statements for that financial year;

 

20.1.2 The Parent Company, the Borrowers and Höegh MLP (after the first Höegh MLP Effective Date) shall supply to the Agent in sufficient copies for all the Lenders, as soon as the same become available, but in any event within 60 days after the end of each quarterly period of each of its financial years, its unaudited (consolidated in the case of the Parent Company and, in the case of the Borrowers, consisting only of a profit and loss statement, a balance sheet, a cashflow statement and an equity statement) financial statements for that quarterly period;

 

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20.2 Compliance Certificates

 

20.2.1 The Parent Company shall supply to the Agent, (a) with each set of financial statements delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) and (b) prior to each Utilisation, a Compliance Certificate setting out (in reasonable detail) computations as to compliance with Clause 22 ( Financial covenants )(provided that prior to and on the Delivery Date, computations as to compliance with Clause 22.2.1 only shall be required) and, as from the Delivery Date, compliance with Clause 22.2.2 and Clause 26.1 ( Security Cover ) shall also be required.

 

20.2.2 Höegh MLP shall supply to the Agent with each set of financial statements delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ), a Compliance Certificate setting out (in reasonable detail) computations as to compliance with Clause 22 ( Financial Covenants ) and Clause 26.1 ( Security Cover ).

 

20.2.3 Each Compliance Certificate shall be, as applicable (i) signed by the Chief Executive Officer or the Chief Financial Officer of the Parent Company or Höegh LNG AS or (ii) the Chief Financial Officer of Höegh MLP.

 

20.3 Requirements as to financial statements

 

20.3.1 Each set of financial statements delivered by the relevant Obligor pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial statements ) shall be certified by a director of the relevant Obligor as fairly representing its financial condition as at the date as at which those financial statements were drawn up.

 

20.3.2 Each Obligor shall procure that each set of financial statements delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) is prepared using IFRS or US GAAP, as applicable.

 

20.3.3 The Obligors shall procure that each set of financial statements delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) has been audited by Ernst & Young AS or any other internationally recognised firm of independent auditors.

 

20.3.4 Each Obligor shall procure that each set of financial statements delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) are in English or accompanied by a certified translation into English.

 

20.4 Information: miscellaneous

 

20.4.1 The Borrowers and the Original Shareholder shall each supply to the Agent all documents dispatched to its shareholders (or any class of them) or its creditors generally at the same time as they are dispatched;

 

20.4.2 Each Obligor shall supply to the Agent:

 

(a) promptly upon becoming aware of them, the details of any litigation, arbitration or administrative proceedings which are current, threatened or pending against an Obligor, and which might, if adversely determined, have a Material Adverse Effect;

 

(b) promptly, all such information as any Finance Party may from time to time reasonably require regarding the relevant Vessel, her employment, position and engagements, particulars of all towages and salvages, and copies of all charters and other contracts for her employment, or otherwise howsoever concerning her;

 

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(c) promptly, such further information and/or documents as any Finance Party (through the Agent) may reasonably request so as to enable such Finance Party to comply with any laws applicable to it (including, without limitation, compliance with FATCA); and

 

(d) promptly upon becoming aware of them, the details of:

 

(i) any damage to a Vessel (and any insurance claim made in respect thereof) requiring repairs the cost of which will or is reasonably likely to exceed the Major Casualty Amount;

 

(ii) any occurrence in consequence of which a Vessel has or may become a Total Loss;

 

(iii) any requisition of a Vessel for hire;

 

(iv) any requirement or recommendation made by any insurer or the Classification Society or by any competent authority which is not, or cannot be, complied with in accordance with its terms;

 

(v) any arrest or detention of a Vessel or any exercise or purported exercise of a lien or other claim on a Vessel or its Earnings or Insurances or any part thereof;

 

(vi) any petition or notice of meeting to consider any resolution to wind up an Obligor (or any event analogous thereto under the laws of the place of its incorporation); or

 

(vii) the making of any Environmental Claim against an Obligor or the Operator or any of its Environmental Affiliates or of the occurrence of any Environmental Incident which may give rise to any such Environmental Claim;

 

(e) as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event within 150 days of the end of each of its financial years, the Parent Company and Höegh MLP after the first Höegh MLP Effective Date, shall provide financial projections for itself and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) for the following two financial years;

 

(f) promptly, such further information regarding the financial condition, business and operations of an Obligor and/or any member of the Group, including (for the avoidance of doubt) the issues set out in the Disclosure Letter, as any Finance Party (through the Agent) may reasonably request;

 

(g) promptly, information regarding any material development directly relating to the matters covered by the Disclosure Letter;

 

(h) on a semi-annual basis and within 60 days of the end of the relevant period, an appraisal report from two Approved Brokers stating the Market Value of each Vessel and, if a Default has occurred, such report shall be provided at any time as requested by the Agent; and

 

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(i) with such financial, commercial and technical data that the Agent may reasonably require, including information regarding minimum liquidity covenants on any legal obligations entered into by the Parent Company.

 

20.5 Notification of default

 

20.5.1 Each Obligor shall notify the Agent of any Default (and the steps, if any, being taken to remedy it) promptly upon becoming aware of its occurrence (unless that Obligor is aware that a notification has already been provided by another Obligor).

 

20.5.2 Promptly upon a request by the Agent, each Obligor shall supply to the Agent a certificate signed by two of its directors or senior officers on its behalf certifying that no Default is continuing (or if a Default is continuing, specifying the Default and the steps, if any, being taken to remedy it).

 

20.6 “Know your customer” checks

 

If a Lender (or any prospective new Lender) or a Bank Guarantor is obliged to comply with “know your customer” or similar identification procedures in circumstances where the necessary information is not already available to it, each Obligor shall promptly upon the request of the Agent or any Lender or a Bank Guarantor supply, or procure the supply of, such documentation and other evidence as is reasonably requested by the Agent (for itself or on behalf of the Lender) or any Lender (for itself or on behalf of any prospective new Lender) in order for the Agent or any Lender or any prospective new Lender to carry out and be satisfied it has complied with all necessary “know your customer” or other similar checks under all applicable laws and regulations pursuant to the transactions contemplated in the Finance Documents.

 

21. Accounts

 

21.1 General

 

21.1.1 Each Borrower undertakes with each Finance Party that it will on or before issue of the Utilisation Request for the first Utilisation, open the relevant Accounts.

 

21.1.2 Unless and until an Event of Default shall occur and be continuing and the Agent shall direct to the contrary, the Earnings payable to the Borrower and EgyptCo with respect to the Vessel owned by it (or in the case of EgyptCo, leased by it pursuant to the EgyptCo Lease) shall be paid to the relevant Earnings Account always provided that in respect of (i) any EGAS Contract Earnings, the twenty-five per cent of any hire payable to EgyptCo in Egyptian Pounds pursuant to clause 10.1 of the EGAS Contract or (ii) Earnings payable under the EgyptCo Lease, the 10 per cent of such hire payable to the Egypt Branch of HLNG Cyprus in Egyptian Pounds pursuant to Clause 10.1 of the EgyptCo Lease, shall not fall within the definition of Earnings for the purposes of this clause 21.

 

21.1.3 The Earnings Accounts shall be maintained with the Account Bank or, if required by applicable law, any other bank acceptable to the Agent.

 

21.2 Earnings Accounts

 

Each Borrower and EgyptCo agree that, following an Event of Default which is continuing, if any of the moneys paid to an Earnings Account are payable in a currency other than US$, the Account Bank shall (and each Borrower and EgyptCo hereby irrevocably instructs the Account Bank to) convert such moneys into US$ at the Account Bank’s spot rate of exchange at the relevant time for the purchase of US$ with such currency and the term “spot rate of exchange” shall include any costs of exchange payable in connection with the purchase of US$ with such currency.

 

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21.3 Borrower withdrawals

 

21.3.1 Unless and until an Event of Default shall occur and be continuing and the Agent shall direct to the contrary, amounts standing to the credit of each Earnings Account shall be available to the relevant Borrower and EgyptCo.

 

21.4 Application of accounts

 

At any time after the occurrence of an Event of Default, which is continuing, the Agent may (and on the instructions of the Majority Lenders shall), without notice to the Borrowers and EgyptCo, instruct the Account Bank:

 

(a) that no moneys may be withdrawn from any Account other than in accordance with the instructions of the Agent; and

 

(b) to apply all moneys then standing to the credit of any Account (together with interest from time to time accruing or accrued thereon) in or towards satisfaction of any sums due to the Finance Parties or any of them under the Finance Documents in accordance with Clause 36.5.2.

 

21.5 Charging of accounts

 

The Accounts and all amounts from time to time standing to the credit thereof shall be subject to the security constituted and the rights conferred by the Account Security Deeds.

 

22. FINANCIAL COVENANTS

 

22.1 Financial definitions

 

" Available Drawings " means, at any date for determination under this Agreement, the total amount which, as at such time, the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) or the Höegh MLP Group (as applicable) is entitled to draw under any credit facility with a major international bank or financial institution for a term of more than 12 months and not subject to any conditions with which it or any other relevant party would not be able to comply at such time.

 

" Book Equity " means, at any date for determination under this Agreement, the value of the capital and reserves of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) or the Höegh MLP Group (as applicable) determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with IFRS or US GAAP, as applicable, and as shown in the Latest Balance Sheet (but excluding any hedging reserve as shown in the relevant consolidated equity statement and the mark-to-market value of any financial derivatives).

 

" Current Assets " means, at any date of determination under this Agreement, the amount of the current assets of a Borrower determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with IFRS or US GAAP, as applicable and as shown in the Latest Balance Sheet;

 

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" Current Liabilities " means, at any date of determination under this Agreement, the amount of the current liabilities of a Borrower determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with IFRS or US GAAP, as applicable and as shown in the Latest Balance Sheet;

 

Debt Service ” means, at any time, the aggregate amount of (i) the Repayment Instalments, (ii) accrued interest due to the Lenders, (iii) any Guarantee Commission due and (iv) any Commitment Fee, payable during the previous 12 Months;

 

" EBITDA " means, in respect of any Relevant Period, the consolidated earnings of a Borrower before (a) deducting any provision on account of taxation, (b) deducting any interest, discounts, or other fees incurred or payable in respect of Financial Indebtedness, (c) taking into account any items treated as exceptional or extraordinary items; and (d) any amount attributable to the amortisation of intangible assets and the depreciation of tangible assets.

 

" Free Liquid Assets " means, at any date of determination under this Agreement, the aggregate value of the following for Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) or the Höegh MLP Group (as applicable):

 

(a) cash in hand;

 

(b) deposits in banks (including any amounts credited to the Accounts) and financial institutions;

 

(c) debt securities which are publicly traded on a major stock exchange or investment market (valued as at any applicable date of determination) and rated at least "A" with Standard and Poor's; and

 

(d) Available Drawings,

 

but excluding any of those assets subject to a Security at any time;

 

Höegh MLP Demand Note ” means the promissory note issued in connection with the Höegh MLP IPO pursuant to which loans are made to the Parent Company by Höegh MLP and repayments are made by the Parent Company to Höegh MLP;

 

" Latest Balance Sheet " means the consolidated balance sheet of the Parent Company or Höegh MLP (as applicable) most recently delivered to the Agent pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) and/or most recently made publicly available;

 

“Relevant Period” means the financial year of the Parent Company ending 31 December 2013, each subsequent financial year of the Parent Company or Höegh MLP (as applicable) and each quarterly period beginning on 1 January 2014;

 

“Total Assets” means the total book value of all the assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) or the Höegh MLP Group (as applicable) which would, in accordance with the IFRS or US GAAP, as applicable, be classified as assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) or the Höegh MLP Group (as applicable) (excluding the marked to market value of any derivative transactions);

 

“Total Funded Indebtedness” means at any time the aggregate Financial Indebtedness of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis), but excluding any Financial Indebtedness of Parent Company or any Subsidiary provided on a non-recourse basis.

 

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22.2 Financial condition and testing

 

22.2.1 The Parent Company shall ensure that its consolidated financial position shall at all times during the Security Period be such that:

 

(a) Book Equity of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) equals or exceeds the higher of (i) US$200,000,000 and (ii) 25 per cent. of the Total Assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis); and

 

(b) Free Liquid Assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) less the amounts outstanding under the Höegh MLP Demand Note if Höegh MLP is not a Subsidiary of the Parent Company, equal or exceed the higher of:

 

(i) US$20,000,000;

 

(ii) 5 per cent. of Total Funded Indebtedness (excluding amounts outstanding under the Höegh MLP Demand Note if Höegh MLP is not a Subsidiary of the Parent Company); and

 

(iii) any amount specified to be a minimum liquidity requirement under any legal obligation entered into by the Parent Company.

 

22.2.2 Each Borrower shall ensure that its financial position shall at all times during the Security Period be such that:

 

(a) Current Assets exceed Current Liabilities; and

 

(b) following the Höegh MLP Effective Date with respect to such Borrower, the ratio of EBITDA to Debt Service is a minimum of 115%

 

provided that:

 

(i) if the Borrowers, pursuant to IFRS or US GAAP (as applicable), are required to reclassify any charter as a financial lease and/or are deconsolidated, the Borrowers shall within 30 days of such event produce pro-forma financial statements reflecting such reclassification and/or deconsolidation (as applicable) and the subsequent financial statements of each Borrower delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) shall be prepared on the same basis;

 

(ii) following any reclassification and/or deconsolidation referred to in (i) above, the test in Clause 22.2.2(b) shall be reset to reflect the effect of the reclassification and/or deconsolidation as shown in the pro-forma financial statements of each Borrower delivered pursuant to Clause 20.1 ( Financial Statements ) and the subsequent financial statements of each Borrower delivered pursuant to (i) above.

 

22.2.3 Following the first Höegh MLP Effective Date, Höegh MLP shall ensure that the consolidated financial position of the Höegh MLP Group shall at all times during the Security Period be such that:

 

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(a) Book Equity of the Höegh MLP Group equals or exceeds the higher of (i) US$150,000,000 and (ii) 25 per cent. of the Total Assets of the Höegh MLP Group; and

 

(b) Free Liquid Assets of the Höegh MLP Group equal or exceed the higher of:

 

(i) US$15,000,000; and

 

(ii) the product of US$3,000,000 and the number of vessels owned or leased by Höegh MLP.

 

22.3 The financial covenants set out in this Clause 22, shall be tested by reference to each Compliance Certificate delivered pursuant to Clause 20.2 ( Compliance Certificate ).

 

23. Vessel Covenants

 

The undertakings in this Clause 23 will become effective in respect of each Vessel on the relevant Delivery Date (unless stated otherwise) and shall remain in force from that date for so long as any amount is outstanding under the Finance Documents or any Commitment is in force.

 

23.1 Name and registration

 

23.1.1 The relevant Borrower agrees in relation to the Vessel owned by it:

 

(a) not to change the name of such Vessel without prior notification to the Agent;

 

(b) to keep such Vessel registered in its name under the laws of an Approved Flag; and

 

(c) not to change the registration of such Vessel under any other flag or at any other port without the prior written consent of the Lenders.

 

23.1.2 If the Flag State of a Vessel becomes involved in war or civil war or there is a seizure of power in that Flag State by unconstitutional means the Agent may notify the Borrowers that it requires the flag and registry of the relevant Vessel to be changed to another Approved Flag whereupon, the relevant Borrower shall promptly implement such change.

 

23.2 Repair and Classification

 

Each Borrower, in relation to the Vessel owned by it agrees:

 

(a) to keep such Vessel in a good and efficient state of repair and ensure that all repairs and replacements of parts are made in such manner as not to reduce the value of the Vessel and in particular to maintain the Classification as the class of that Vessel and to submit that Vessel to continuous surveys and such periodical or other surveys as may be required for classification purposes and to provide the Agent, upon request, with copies of all survey reports issued in respect of such surveys; and

 

(b) not to change the Classification Society without the prior written consent of the Lenders.

 

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23.3 Modification; removal of parts; equipment owned by third parties

 

23.3.1 The relevant Borrower agrees in relation to the Vessel owned by it, not without the prior written consent of the Agent to, or allow any other person to:

 

(a) make any modification to such Vessel in consequence of which her structure, type or performance characteristics would be materially altered or her value materially reduced; or

 

(b) remove any material part of such Vessel or any equipment the value of which is such that its removal from such Vessel would materially reduce the value of such Vessel without replacing the same with equivalent parts or equipment which are owned by the relevant Borrower free from Security; or

 

(c) install on such Vessel any equipment owned by a third party which cannot be removed without causing damage to the structure or fabric of the Vessel,

 

provided that in relation to Vessel 1, the relevant Borrower may carry out the Vessel 1 Modification subject to Clause 4.1.5.

 

23.4 Inspection

 

The relevant Borrower agrees to ensure that the Agent, by surveyors or other persons appointed by the Agent for such purpose, may board the Vessel owned by it at all reasonable times for the purpose of inspecting her and to afford all proper facilities for such inspections and for this purpose to give the Agent reasonable advance notice of any intended drydocking of the Vessel owned by it; prior to an Event of Default which is continuing, such inspections shall be carried out at the cost of the Lenders and so as not to interfere with or delay the operation of the Vessel owned by it.

 

23.5 Arrest

 

The relevant Borrower will promptly pay and discharge:

 

(a) all liabilities which give or may give rise to maritime or possessory liens on or claims enforceable against the Vessel owned by it, its Earnings or its Insurances, except for Permitted Security;

 

(b) all tolls, taxes, dues, fines, penalties and other amounts charged in respect of the Vessel owned by it, the Earnings or the Insurances (unless disputed in good faith and in respect of which security has been provided or financial reserves maintained); and

 

(c) all other costs and expenses whatsoever in respect of the Vessel owned by it, its Earnings or its Insurances,

 

and, within thirty days of receiving notice of the arrest of the Vessel, or of its detention in exercise or purported exercise of any lien or claim, the relevant Borrower shall procure its release by providing bail or procuring the provision of security or otherwise as the circumstances may require.

 

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23.6 Accounts

 

The relevant Borrower agrees to keep proper books of account in respect of the Vessel owned by it and her Earnings and operating expenses and as and when the Agent may so require, to make such books available for inspection on behalf of the Lenders.

 

23.7 Employment

 

23.7.1 Each Borrower agrees not to employ the Vessel owned by it or permit her employment:

 

(a) in any manner, trade or business which is forbidden by international law, in violation of Sanctions or which is unlawful or illicit under the law of any Relevant Jurisdiction;

 

(b) in the event of hostilities in any part of the world (whether war be declared or not), not to employ the Vessel owned by it or permit her employment in carrying any contraband goods, or enter or trade to or to continue to trade in any zone which has been declared a war zone by any Government Entity or by that Vessel's war risks insurers unless such special insurance cover as the Agent may require shall have been effected by relevant Borrower at the Borrower’s expense; the relevant Borrower shall give the Agent as much notice as practicable of the Vessel trading to such a zone and shall inform and consult with the Agent in relation thereto and in relation to the special insurances;

 

(c) under a bareboat charter for any period other than to a member of the Group where the rights of the bareboat charterer are subordinated to the rights of the Finance Parties and the rights of the relevant Borrower are assigned to the Security Trustee.

 

23.7.2 If at any time during the Security Period, a Vessel shall be subject to a Time Charter, the relevant Obligor will promptly inform the Agent and provide a Time Charter Assignment in relation to such Vessel in favour of the Security Trustee, save that any assignment granted by an Obligor in favour of the Security Trustee in relation to the EGAS Contract shall be an EGAS Contract Earnings Assignment.

 

23.8 Manager

 

The relevant Borrower agrees in respect of the Vessel owned by it that it shall not without the prior consent of the Agent:

 

(a) appoint a manager other than the Manager; or

 

(b) materially amend the terms of the Management Agreement; or

 

(c) terminate the Management Agreement unless such agreement is replaced immediately by an agreement acceptable to the Agent (such agreement not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed).

 

23.9 Compliance with Regulations

 

The relevant Borrower will and shall procure that the Manager and/or any Operator of the Vessel owned by it will:

 

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(a) maintain at all times a valid and current ISSC respect of the Vessel;

 

(b) immediately notify the Agent in writing of any actual or threatened withdrawal, suspension, cancellation or modification of the ISSC in respect of the Vessel;

 

(c) procure that the Vessel will comply at all times with the ISPS Code;

 

(d) at all times comply with the requirements of the ISM Code including (but not limited to) the maintenance and renewal of valid certificates pursuant thereto and all other statutory and other requirements relative to its business and/or the Vessel;

 

(e) promptly inform the Agent upon the issue of any ISM Code Documentation in respect of the Vessel or its Operator or the receipt by the relevant Borrower or any Operator of notification that its application for the same has been refused;

 

(f) immediately inform the Agent if there is any threatened or actual withdrawal of their or any Operator’s ISM Code Documentation for the Vessel;

 

(g) to take all necessary and proper precautions to prevent any infringements of the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1986 of the United States of America or any similar legislation applicable to that Vessel in any jurisdiction in or to which the Vessel shall be employed or located or which may otherwise be applicable to that Vessel and/or that Borrower;

 

(h) and to comply with and ensure that that Vessel at all times complies with the provisions of all relevant legislation and all regulations and requirements (statutory or otherwise) from time to time applicable to vessels registered under the relevant Approved Flag or otherwise applicable to that Vessel; and

 

(i) at all times comply with all applicable laws and procedures implemented to contract money laundering as defined in Article 1 of the Directive (91/308EEC) of the Council of the European Communities.

 

23.10 Sale or other disposal

 

Neither Borrower will without the prior written consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors) and subject to such conditions as the Agent may impose, sell, agree to sell, transfer, abandon or otherwise dispose of the Vessel owned by it or any share or interest therein, unless, in respect of the sale of that Vessel, the Loans have been prepaid in the amount required under Clause 8.2 ( Mandatory Prepayment - Sale or Total Loss ) on or before the occurrence of the sale.

 

23.11 EGAS Contract

 

Neither the Borrowers nor EgyptCo will register, and shall procure that EGAS shall not register, the EGAS Contract under the registration of the Vessel under an Approved Flag or otherwise.

 

23.12 Sharing of Earnings

 

Neither Borrower will without the prior consent of the Agent (and then only subject to such conditions as the Agent may impose) enter the Vessel owned by it into any pool or enter any agreement or arrangement whereby the Earnings of that Vessel may be shared with any other person.

 

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24. INSURANCE COVENANTS

 

The undertakings in this Clause 24 will become effective in respect of a Vessel on the Delivery Date (unless stated otherwise) and shall remain in force from that date for so long as any amount is outstanding under the Finance Documents or any Commitment is in force.

 

24.1 Obligatory insurances

 

The relevant Borrower shall keep the Vessel owned by it insured at its expense against:

 

(a) usual marine risks (including Hull and Machinery, Hull Interest, freight interest, other Total Loss interests, loss of hire and war risks (including acts of terrorism and piracy)) in an amount equal to or more than the greater of (i) the Market Value of such Vessel and (ii) the amount which, together with the insured value of the other Vessel, equals 120 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the Total Commitments for the Commercial Facility and the Eksportkreditt Facility at any time, provided that the Hull and Machinery element of such insurances shall always be at least 80 per cent. of the Market Value of the Vessel and the aggregate Hull and Machinery insured value of all Vessels shall be equal to or greater than Total Commitments for the Commercial Facility and the Eksportkreditt Facility, with the remaining cover being taken out by way of Hull and Freight Interest Insurances; and

 

(b) protection and indemnity risks in respect of the full tonnage of the Vessel (including insurance for oil pollution risk at the highest level of cover available),

 

such insurances to be in dollars and effected on such contractual terms and through such brokers, insurers and war risks and protection and indemnity associations as the Agent may approve.

 

24.2 Fleet cover

 

If a Vessel is insured under a fleet policy, the relevant Borrower shall procure that the relevant insurer provides an undertaking to the Agent that it shall not set off against any claim, any premium due in respect of other vessels in the fleet policy or any premiums due for other insurances, nor cancel the insurance for reason of non-payment of premiums for other vessels in the fleet policy or of premiums for such other insurances, and shall undertake to issue a separate policy in respect of such Vessel if so requested by the Agent.

 

24.3 Payment of premiums

 

The relevant Borrower shall punctually pay all premiums, calls or other sums payable in respect of the Insurances and produce all relevant receipts when so required by the Agent.

 

24.4 Policy documents and letters of undertaking

 

24.4.1 The relevant Borrower shall ensure that the Agent is provided with a letter of undertaking from each broker on behalf of each insurer or protection and indemnity or war risks association giving undertakings to the Agent that:

 

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(a) a Loss Payable Clause (including a discretion to pay proceeds in excess of the Major Casualty Amount to the Security Trustee) has been endorsed on each policy on terms required by the Agent;

 

(b) any material change to the terms of the Insurances shall be notified to the Agent; and

 

(c) they will notify the Agent at least 14 days (or 7 days in the case of war risk insurances) before the expiry or cancellation for any reason of the Insurances.

 

24.4.2 The Agent shall be furnished with copies of the relevant policy documents, including cover notes, letters of undertaking and certificates of entry relating to the Insurances, upon request.

 

24.5 Renewal

 

The relevant Borrower shall, at least 7 days before expiry of any Insurances, notify the Agent of the names of the brokers (or other insurers) and any protection and indemnity or war risks association intended to be employed by the Borrower for the purposes of renewal of such Insurances and of the intended terms of renewal.

 

24.6 Guarantees

 

The relevant Borrower will ensure that any guarantees required by a protection and indemnity or war risks association are promptly issued and delivered.

 

24.7 Compliance

 

The relevant Borrower will take all necessary action and comply with all requirements which may be applicable to the Insurances (including the payment of any additional premiums or calls of the Vessel owned by it) so as to ensure that the Insurances are not made subject to any exclusions or qualifications to which the Agent has not given its approval and are otherwise maintained on terms and conditions approved by the Agent.

 

24.8 Collection of claims

 

The relevant Borrower will not settle, compromise or abandon any claim for Total Loss or for a figure in excess of the Major Casualty Amount, and that Borrower shall do all things necessary and provide all documents, evidence and information to enable the Agent to collect or recover any moneys which shall at any time become payable in respect of the Insurances for the Vessel owned by it.

 

24.9 Communications

 

The relevant Borrower shall provide the Agent, upon its reasonable request, with copies of all written communications with brokers, underwriters, insurance companies and protection and indemnity and war risks associations which relate to compliance with requirements applicable to the Insurances for the Vessel owned by it.

 

24.10 Mortgagee's interest insurance

 

The Agent may (and shall acting upon the instructions of the Majority Lenders) effect (for the cost of the Borrowers) mortgagee's interest insurance (“ MII ”) (including mortgagee's interest additional perils insurance (“ MAP ”)) in respect of each Vessel in an amount of up to 120 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the Loans related to the relevant Facility upon such terms and through such insurers as the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Majority Lenders) may deem appropriate.

 

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24.11 Independent report

 

The Agent may obtain (for the cost of the Borrowers) on or before the Delivery Date of a Vessel and annually thereafter (or at any time after a change in the Insurances) a detailed report signed by an independent firm of marine insurance brokers appointed by the Agent stating the opinion of such firm as to the adequacy of the Insurances then maintained on each Vessel.

 

24.12 Collection of claims

 

The Borrowers agree to do all things necessary and provide all documents, evidence and information to enable the Agent to collect or recover any moneys which shall at any time become due in respect of the Insurances.

 

24.13 Application of recoveries

 

The Borrowers agree to apply all sums receivable under the Insurances which are paid to it in accordance with the Loss Payable Clauses in repairing all damage and/or in discharging the liability in respect of which such sums shall have been received.

 

25. Security Undertakings

 

25.1 Security Documents

 

Each Security Party undertakes with the Lenders to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under the Security Documents, and to procure the execution and delivery by other parties to the Security Documents, so that at all times during the Security Period the Security Documents shall be enforceable in accordance with their terms.

 

25.2 Title

 

Each Security Party will hold the legal title to and own the entire beneficial interest in the relevant Charged Property, free from all security and other interests and rights of every kind, except for those created by the Security Documents and the effect of assignments contained in the Security Documents and except for Permitted Liens.

 

25.3 Negative Pledges

 

Each Borrower shall not without prior written consent of the Lenders:

 

(a) create or permit to subsist any Security over the Vessel owned by it or any other existing or future asset except for Permitted Security, or;

 

(b) give any pledge or undertaking to any other party not to create or permit to subsist any Security over the Vessel owned by it or any other existing or future asset, provided that it may give such an undertaking to a Time Charterer in relation to Security other than Permitted Security.

 

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25.4 Notice of Mortgages

 

If required by the laws of the Approved Flag, the relevant Borrower agrees to place and retain a properly Certified Copy of the Mortgage and any Deed of Covenant (which shall form part of the Vessel's documents) on board the Vessel owned by it with her papers and to place and keep prominently displayed in the navigation room and in the Master's cabin of that Vessel a framed printed notice in plain type reading as follows:

 

NOTICE OF MORTGAGE

 

This ship is subject to a first priority mortgage and collateral deed of covenant in favour of Nordea Bank Norge ASA of Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway. Under the said mortgage and collateral deed, neither the owner nor any charterer nor the Master of this ship has any right, power or authority to create, incur or permit to be imposed upon this ship any commitments or encumbrances whatsoever other than for crew's wages and salvage and it is hereby agreed that save and subject as otherwise herein provided, neither the owner nor any charterer nor the Master of the ship nor any other person has any right, power or authority to create, incur or permit to be imposed upon the ship any lien whatsoever other than for crew's wages and salvage.

 

25.5 Further assurance

 

25.5.1 Each Obligor shall promptly do all such acts or execute all such documents (including assignments, transfers, mortgages, charges, notices and instructions) as the Agent may reasonably specify (and in such form as the Agent may reasonably require) in favour of the Agent or its nominee(s):

 

(a) to perfect the Transaction Security (which may include the execution of a mortgage, charge, assignment or other Security over all or any of the Charged Property) or for the exercise of any rights, powers and remedies of the Agent or the Finance Parties provided by or pursuant to the Finance Documents or by law; and/or

 

(b) to facilitate the realisation of the Charged Property, including, in particular, by executing a bill of sale of a Vessel in such form as the Agent may require in the event that such Vessel is to be sold in exercise of any power contained in the Security Documents.

 

25.5.2 Each Obligor shall take all such action as is available to it (including making all filings and registrations in its jurisdiction of incorporation) as may be necessary for the purpose of the creation, perfection, protection or maintenance of any Security conferred or intended to be conferred on the Agent or the Finance Parties by or pursuant to the Security Documents.

 

26. Security Maintenance

 

26.1 Security cover

 

If the Agent notifies the Borrowers that:

 

(a) the aggregate Market Value of the Vessels then delivered; plus

 

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(b) the aggregate market value of any additional security previously provided under this Clause 26;

 

is below 125 per cent of the aggregate principal amount outstanding of the Loans;

 

(the " Security Maintenance Ratio ")

 

the relevant Borrower upon the written demand of the Lenders shall, within 30 days of the breach of the Security Maintenance Ratio either:

 

(i) provide, such additional security acceptable to the Lenders which has a market value sufficient to enable compliance with the Security Maintenance Ratio (and is documented upon such terms as the Agent may approve); or

 

(iii) prepay such part of the Loans (in inverse order of maturity) as will enable compliance with the Security Maintenance Ratio.

 

26.2 Valuation of Vessels

 

The Market Value of the Vessels (or any additional vessel security provided under Clause 26.1 above) shall be determined on or after the Delivery Date by the average of two valuations (provided that if the higher of such valuations exceeds the lower of such valuations by more than 10 per cent., it shall be the average of three valuations) prepared, semi-annually (or, following an Event of Default, at such times as may be required by the Majority Lenders):

 

(a) by two Approved Brokers selected by the Borrowers (or, as applicable, a third Approved Broker selected by the Agent);

 

(b) without physical inspection of a Vessel (unless the Agent may so require); and

 

(c) on the basis of a sale for prompt delivery for case at arm's length on normal commercial terms as between a willing seller and a willing buyer, without taking into account any existing charter or other contract of employment; and after deducting the estimated amount of the usual and reasonable expenses which would be incurred in connection with the sale,

 

which valuation (as evidenced by the certificates of the relevant Approved Brokers) shall be binding as regards the Borrowers.

 

26.3 Information

 

The Borrowers shall promptly provide the Agent and any shipbroker or expert carrying out the valuation with any information which the Agent or the shipbroker or expert may reasonably request for the proposes of the valuation and, if the Borrowers fail to provide the information by the date specified in the request, the valuation may be made on assumptions which the Agent and any shipbroker or expert appointed by it, considers prudent.

 

26.4 Costs

 

The Borrowers shall bear the costs in connection with the Agent obtaining valuations of the Vessels (or of any additional security provided under Clause 26.1):

 

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(a) if any Event of Default has not occurred, once every six Months; and

 

(b) following an Event of Default, at all times.

 

27. General Undertakings

 

27.1 Authorisations

 

27.1.1 Each Obligor shall promptly:

 

(a) obtain, comply with and do all that is necessary to maintain in full force and effect; and

 

(b) supply certified copies to the Agent of,

 

any Authorisation required under any law or regulation of a Relevant Jurisdiction to:

 

(i) enable it to perform its obligations under the Finance Documents;

 

(ii) ensure the legality, validity, enforceability or admissibility in evidence of any Finance Document; and

 

(iii) carry on its business where failure to do so has or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

27.2 Compliance with Laws

 

Each Obligor shall comply in all respects with all laws, statutes and regulations to which it may be subject.

 

27.3 Environmental Compliance

 

27.3.1 Each Obligor shall:

 

(a) comply with all Environmental Laws; and

 

(b) implement procedures to monitor compliance with and to prevent liability under any Environmental Law,

 

where failure to do so has or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

27.3.2

 

(a) Within three (3) months after a Borrower has entered into a contract for the employment of its Vessel, the ECA Lender shall receive a report from a third party, reviewing the performance of the Vessel against the relevant International Finance Corporations Performance Standards (“ IFC PS ”) and Environmental, Health, and Safety Guidelines (“ EHS Guidelines ”). The EHS Guidelines contain the performance levels and measures that are generally considered to be achievable in new facilities by existing technology at reasonable costs. The report must be acceptable to the ECA Lender.

 

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(b) In the event that the findings from the third party report indicate non-compliance with the IFC PS and EHS Guidelines, an action plan addressing the issues raised must be established within the following 3 months. If less stringent levels or measures than those provided for in the EHS Guidelines are appropriate a full and detailed justification for any proposed alternatives is needed as part of the site-specific environmental assessment. This justification should demonstrate that the choice for any alternate performance levels is protective of human health and the environment.

 

(c) The Borrowers shall facilitate for the ECA Lender, or any person the ECA Lender chooses to appoint, a site visit of the Vessels, if deemed necessary by the ECA Lender, so as to adequately assess follow-up of the action plan and remediation in the event of non-compliance.

 

(d) Furthermore the Borrowers and the Operator will need to document appropriate management systems for the environment, health and safety, and labour and working conditions on board the vessel (i.e. ISO 14001 and ILO MLC 2006 compliance).

 

27.4 Environmental Claims

 

Each Obligor shall promptly upon becoming aware of the same, inform the Agent in writing of:

 

(a) the suspension, revocation or modification of any Environmental Approval;

 

(b) any Environmental Claim against it which is current, pending or threatened; and

 

(c) any facts or circumstances which are reasonably likely to result in any Environmental Claim being commenced or threatened against it,

 

where the claim, if determined against it has or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

27.5 Taxation

 

Each Obligor shall pay and discharge all Taxes imposed upon it or its assets within the time period allowed without incurring penalties unless and only to the extent that:

 

(a) such payment is being contested in good faith;

 

(b) adequate reserves are being maintained for those Taxes and the costs required to contest them; and

 

(c) such payment can be lawfully withheld and failure to pay those Taxes does not have or is not reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

27.6 Merger

 

27.6.1 Subject to Clause 27.6.2, an Obligor shall not without the prior written consent of the Lenders (which shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed) enter into any amalgamation, demerger, merger, consolidation or corporate reconstruction.

 

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27.6.2 The restriction in Clause 27.6.1 shall not be applicable to:

 

(a) the establishment of Höegh MLP as a Master Limited Partnership, the Höegh MLP IPO and transactions taking place in connection therewith (and including, for the avoidance of doubt, the transfer of assets other than the shares in FSRU III and/or FSRU IV to Höegh MLP or a wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP) and, subject to and in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement, the transfer of shares in the Borrowers and/or FSRU III and/or Quotaholders and/or HLNG Colombia Holdco to a wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh MLP on each Höegh MLP Effective Date; or

 

(b) the restructuring of the Group in respect of the transfer of the FLNG business to Höegh FLNG Ltd.

 

27.7 Change of Business

 

The Obligors shall procure that no substantial change is made to the general nature of the business of the Obligors from that carried on by the Obligors at the date of this Agreement, without the prior written consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Lenders).

 

27.8 Acquisitions and Investments

 

No Borrower shall make any further investments or acquire any further assets other than its Vessel and rights arising under contracts entered into by or on behalf of the relevant Borrower in the ordinary course of owning, operating and chartering the Vessel owned by it.

 

27.9 Swap Contracts

 

No Obligor shall assign (other than by a Swap Contract Assignment), novate, or in any other way transfer any of its rights or obligations under or pursuant to a Swap Contract, nor make any amendment or supplement to the Swap Contract or any transaction entered into under it, except as envisaged by Clause 8.12 ( Effect on Swap Contract ) or pursuant to any transaction permitted under this Agreement.

 

27.10 Transaction Documents

 

An Obligor shall not without the prior written consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Lenders (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed)) amend, vary, novate, supplement, supersede or waive any material term of the Building Contract (apart from the novation to the relevant Borrower) or any term of any other Underlying Document.

 

27.11 Loans or credit

 

27.11.1 Except as permitted under Clause 27.11.2 below, a Borrower shall not be a creditor in respect of any Financial Indebtedness.

 

27.11.2 Clause 27.11.1 above does not apply to:

 

(a) any creditor relationship entered into with the consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Majority Lenders); or

 

(b) normal trade credit in the ordinary course of business.

 

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27.12 No Guarantees or indemnities

 

27.12.1 Except as permitted under Clause 27.12.2 below, a Borrower shall not incur or allow to remain outstanding any guarantee in receipt of any obligation of any person.

 

27.12.2 Clause 27.12.1 above does not apply to a guarantee which is:

 

(a) entered into with the consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Majority Lenders);

 

(b) from time to time required in the ordinary course by any protection and indemnity or war risks association with which the Vessel is entered, guarantees required to procure the release of that Vessel from any arrest, detention, attachment or levy or guarantees required for the salvage of the Vessel;

 

(c) otherwise required in the ordinary course of business of a Borrower or any of its Subsidiaries; or

 

(d) in the Security Documents.

 

27.13 Financial Indebtedness restriction

 

27.13.1 Except as permitted under Clause 27.13.2 below, a Borrower shall not incur or allow to remain outstanding any Financial Indebtedness.

 

27.13.2 Clause 27.13.1 above does not apply to Financial Indebtedness which is:

 

(a) related to normal trade debt incurred in the ordinary course of the business of owning, operating and chartering a Vessel;

 

(b) incurred under the Finance Documents;

 

(c) entered into with the consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the  Majority Lenders); or

 

(d) subject to Clause 27.16, an intra-Group borrowing.

 

27.14 Dividends and share redemption

 

27.14.1 The Parent Company and any Borrower owned by the Parent Company may:

 

(a) declare, make or pay any dividend, charge, fee or other distribution (or interest on any unpaid dividend, charge, fee or other distribution and whether in cash or in kind) to its shareholders on or in respect of its share capital (or any class of its share capital);

 

(b) repay or distribute any dividend or share premium reserve;

 

(c) service loans from shareholders;

 

(d) pay any management, advisory or other fee to or to the order of any of its respective shareholders; or

 

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(e) redeem, repurchase, defease, retire, cancel or repay any of its share capital or resolve to do so

 

provided that no Default has occurred and is continuing and after giving effect to any payments made with respect to (a) – (e) above, the Parent Company and any Borrower owned by the Parent Company would remain in compliance with the financial covenants set out in Clause 22 and Clause 26.1.

 

27.14.2 Höegh MLP and any Borrower owned by Höegh MLP, following the first Höegh MLP Effective Date may:

 

(a) declare, make or pay any dividend, charge, fee or other distribution (or interest on any unpaid dividend, charge, fee or other distribution and whether in cash or in kind) to its shareholders on or in respect of its share capital (or any class of its share capital);

 

(b) repay or distribute any dividend or share premium reserve;

 

(c) service loans from shareholders;

 

(d) pay any management, advisory or other fee to or to the order of any of its respective shareholders; or

 

(e) redeem, repurchase, defease, retire, cancel or repay any of its share capital or resolve to do so,

 

provided that no Default has occurred and is continuing directly and expressly with respect to a member of the Höegh MLP Group or the chartering of the Dropdown Vessel, including EgyptCo and the Quotaholders, and after giving effect to any payments made with respect to (a) – (e) above, Höegh MLP and any Borrower owned (in the case of HLNG Cyprus through FSRU III) by Höegh MLP would remain in compliance with the financial covenants set out in Clause 22 and Clause 26.1.

 

27.15 Anti-corruption law

 

(a) No Obligor shall (and the Parent Company shall ensure that no other member of the Group will) directly or indirectly use the proceeds of the Facilities for any purpose which would breach the Norwegian Penal Code, the Bribery Act 2010, the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 or other similar legislation in other jurisdictions.

 

(b) Each Obligor shall (and the Parent Company shall ensure that each other member of the Group will):

 

(i) conduct its businesses in compliance with applicable anti-corruption laws; and

 

(ii) maintain policies and procedures designed to promote and achieve compliance with such laws.

 

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27.16 Intra-Group Loans

 

27.16.1 Subject to Clause 27.16.3 and Clause 27.16.4, payments due under any shareholder loans or intra-Group borrowings where an Obligor is the debtor shall be fully subordinated to the rights of the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors.

 

27.16.2 Subject to Clause 27.16.3 and Clause 27.16.4, any payments due to the Parent Company from another Obligor or claims made by the Parent Company against another Obligor, shall be fully subordinated to the rights of the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors.

 

27.16.3 Payments made under the Höegh MLP Demand Note shall not be subordinated by operation of Clause 27.16.1 or Clause 27.16.2 and payments due under the Höegh MLP Revolver shall only be subordinated if a Default has occurred and is continuing (and the Parent Company undertakes to incorporate subordination provisions with respect to this Clause 27.16 in the Höegh MLP Revolver).

 

27.16.4 Payments due to the Parent Company in respect of certain intra-group borrowings by the Original Shareholder in an amount equal to the face value of the OPCO Promissory Notes as the same have been or will be transferred by the Original Shareholder to the Parent Company shall not be subordinated by operation of Clause 27.6.1 or Clause 27.6.2 and shall be cancelled by the Parent Company in exchange for the transfer of the OPCO Promissory Notes by the Original Shareholder to the Parent Company.

 

27.17 Transactions with Affiliates

 

27.17.1 An Obligor shall not enter into any transaction with an affiliated company unless such transaction is on market terms and otherwise on an arm’s length basis.

 

27.17.2 Clause 27.17.1 shall not apply to transactions which are permitted by Clause 27.6.2.

 

27.18 Pari Passu ranking

 

Each Obligor shall ensure that at all times any unsecured and unsubordinated claims of a Finance Party against it under the Finance Documents rank at least pari passu with the claims of all its other unsecured and unsubordinated creditors except those creditors whose claims are preferred by laws of general application to companies and except for Permitted Liens.

 

27.19 Ownership of Original Shareholder and Borrowers

 

(a) The Parent Company shall directly or indirectly maintain an ownership of no less than 100 per cent of the Original Shareholder; and

 

(b) The Parent Company shall directly or indirectly maintain an ownership of no less than 100 per cent of each Borrower prior to the Höegh MLP Effective Date on which the share capital of that Borrower is transferred and following that date that Borrower shall be 100 per cent owned directly or indirectly by Höegh MLP.

 

27.20 Control of Höegh MLP

 

As from the establishment of Höegh MLP, the Parent Company shall own beneficially an ownership interest of at least 50 per cent. of the general partner of Höegh MLP.

 

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27.21 Ownership of Vessels

 

Each Vessel shall remain wholly owned by the relevant Borrower.

 

27.22 Financial Year End

 

The Parent Company, the Borrowers and Höegh MLP shall not change their financial year end date.

 

27.23 Stock listing

 

27.23.1 The Parent Company shall remain stock listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (or such other stock exchange acceptable to the Lenders).

 

27.23.2 Following the Höegh MLP IPO, Höegh MLP shall remain a Master Limited Partnership listed on the New York Stock Exchange or NASDAQ (or such other reputable stock exchange acceptable to the Majority Lenders).

 

27.24 Sanctions

 

27.24.1 No proceeds of any Loan shall be made available, directly or indirectly, to or for the benefit of a Restricted Person nor shall they otherwise be applied in a manner or for a purpose prohibited by Sanctions Laws.

 

27.24.2 The Obligors shall supply to the Agent:

 

(a) promptly upon becoming aware of them, the details of any inquiry, claim, action, suit, proceeding or investigation pursuant to Sanctions Laws by any Sanctions Authority against it, any of its direct or indirect owners, any other member of the Group, any of their joint ventures or any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives, as well as information on what steps are being taken with regards to answer or oppose such; and

 

(b) promptly upon becoming aware that it, any of its direct or indirect owners, any other member of the Group, any of their joint ventures or any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives has become or is likely to become a Restricted Party.

 

27.24.3 The Obligors shall (and shall ensure that each other member of the Group, as well as any Manager and charterer of a Vessel),:

 

(a) comply with all laws or regulations:

 

(i) applicable to its business; and

 

(ii) applicable to a Vessel, its ownership, employment, operation, management and registration,

 

including the ISM Code, the ISPS Code, all Environmental Laws, all Sanctions Laws and the laws of the Approved Flag;

 

(b) obtain, comply with and do all that is necessary to maintain in full force and effect any Environment Approvals; and

 

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without limiting paragraph (a) above, not employ a Vessel nor allow its employment, operation or management in any manner contrary to any law or regulation including but not limited to the ISM Code, the ISPS Code, all Environmental Laws and all Sanctions Laws.

 

27.24.4 Each Obligor shall ensure that none of them, nor any other member of the Group, respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives or any other persons acting on any of their behalf, is or will become a Restricted Person.

 

28. Subordination of Swap Liabilities

 

28.1 Each of the Obligors and each Swap Bank agree and covenant, as separate covenants, with each of the other Finance Parties and, separately with each other, that, until the end of the Security Period, the payment and performance of the Swap Liabilities shall be in all respects subordinated to and rank in priority subsequent to the payment and performance of the obligations of the Obligors under the Finance Documents (other than the Swap Contracts).

 

28.2 A Swap Bank shall pay an amount equal to any payment or other asset received or recovered by it or a third party in contravention of Clause 28.1 to the Agent for application in accordance with Clause 36.5 ( Application of Payments) ; and, for this purpose, where any set-off or similar right has been exercised in contravention of any of such clause, the amount by which the Swap Liabilities may have been reduced shall be deemed to be a payment received in contravention of such clause provided always that unless an Event of Default under Clause 29.1 shall have occurred and is continuing a Swap Bank shall have the right to receive payments under the relevant Swap Contract out of the usual and customary settlements on the settlement dates.

 

28.3 Until the end of the Security Period, a Swap Bank will not, without the prior written consent of the Agent (acting on the instructions of the Lenders), take any step to exercise or enforce any right or remedy which the Security Trustee now or at any later time has under or in connection with the Finance Documents or otherwise against the Borrowers.

 

28.4 A Swap Bank will not (other than on the instructions of the Agent), in any proceedings or otherwise, claim:

 

28.4.1 that the subordination arrangements between the Lenders and the Swap Banks provided for in the Finance Documents are invalid, should be set aside or adjusted or lack the priority which they were intended to have; or

 

28.4.2 that any payment made to any of the Lenders in accordance with Clause 28.2 was invalid or should be set aside or adjusted.

 

28.5 No Lender will, until the end of the Security Period, enter into any arrangement with any Security Party or any of their Affiliates or do any other thing which would or could reasonably be expected to lead to the priority or effectiveness of the subordination arrangements provided for in this Agreement being impaired.

 

28.6 A Swap Bank will, subject to being indemnified to its satisfaction for all costs and expenses to be incurred thereby, enter into such documents with the Security Trustee and the Security Parties as may be necessary or desirable to:

 

28.6.1 maintain the subordination and priorities provided for by this Agreement; or

 

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28.6.2 enable the Lenders or the Security Trustee to exercise any right or remedy which the Lenders or the Security Trustee have against the Security Parties under or in connection with the Finance Documents and/or this Agreement.

 

28.7 Prior to the end of the Security Period, a Swap Bank will promptly vote or otherwise act in relation to:

 

28.7.1 any actual or proposed arrangement with creditors or other reorganisation of or involving a Borrower;

 

28.7.2 any actual or proposed administration of an Obligor;

 

28.7.3 any actual or proposed administrative receivership of an Obligor; and

 

28.7.4 any actual or proposed liquidation of an Obligor,

 

as the Security Trustee (acting on the instructions of the Majority Lenders) may direct, provided that any such direction is in accordance with and consistent with the provisions of this Agreement.

 

Nothing in this Clause 28 shall in any way impair or reduce the obligations of the Obligors under the Finance Documents.

 

29. Events of Default

 

Each of the events or circumstances set out in Clause 29 is an Event of Default (save for Clause 29.19 ( Acceleration )).

 

29.1 Non-payment

 

An Obligor does not pay on the due date any principal, interest or other amount payable pursuant to a Finance Document at the place and in the currency in which it is expressed to be payable unless its failure to pay is caused by an administrative or technical error or by a Disruption Event and payment is made within 3 Business Days of its due date.

 

29.2 Financial covenants and Insurance covenants

 

29.2.1 Clause 22.2.1, Clause 22.2.2 or Clause 22.2.3 is not satisfied or an Obligor does not comply with the provisions of Clause 24 ( Insurance Covenants ).

 

29.2.2 No Event of Default under Clause 29.2.1 above will occur if the failure to comply is remedied within 5 Business Days of the earlier of (i) the Agent giving notice to the relevant Obligor and (ii) the relevant Obligor becoming aware of the failure to comply.

 

29.3 Other obligations

 

29.3.1 An Obligor does not comply with any provision of the Finance Documents (other than those referred to in Clause 29.1 ( Non-payment ) and Clause 29.2 ( Financial covenants and Insurance covenants) ).

 

29.3.2 No Event of Default under Clause 29.3.1 above will occur if the failure to comply is capable of remedy and is remedied within 5 Business Days of the earlier of (i) the Agent giving notice to the relevant Obligor and (ii) the relevant Obligor becoming aware of the failure to comply.

 

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29.4 Misrepresentation

 

Any representation or statement made or deemed to be made by an Obligor in the Finance Documents or any other document delivered by or on behalf of an Obligor under or in connection with any Finance Document is or proves to have been incorrect or misleading in any material respect when made or deemed to be made.

 

29.5 Cross default

 

29.5.1 Any Financial Indebtedness of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary is not paid when due nor within any originally applicable grace period.

 

29.5.2 Any Financial Indebtedness of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary is declared to be or otherwise becomes due and payable prior to its specified maturity as a result of an event of default (however described).

 

29.5.3 Any commitment for any Financial Indebtedness of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary is cancelled or suspended by a creditor of the Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary as a result of an event of default (however described).

 

29.5.4 Any creditor of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary becomes entitled to declare any Financial Indebtedness of the Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary due and payable prior to its specified maturity as a result of an event of default (however described).

 

29.5.5 No Event of Default will occur under this Clause 29.5 if the aggregate amount of Financial Indebtedness or commitment for Financial Indebtedness falling within sub-clauses 29.5.1 to 29.5.4 above is less than US$8,000,000 (or its equivalent in any other currency or currencies).

 

29.6 Insolvency

 

29.6.1 An Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary is unable or admits inability to pay its debts as they fall due, suspends making payments on any of its debts or, by reason of actual or anticipated financial difficulties, commences negotiations with one or more of its creditors with a view to rescheduling any of its indebtedness.

 

29.6.2 The value of the assets of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary is less than its liabilities (taking into account contingent and prospective liabilities).

 

29.6.3 A moratorium is declared in respect of any indebtedness of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary.

 

29.7 Insolvency proceedings

 

Any corporate action, legal proceedings or other procedure or step is taken in relation to:

 

29.7.1 the suspension of payments, a moratorium of any indebtedness, winding-up, dissolution, administration or reorganisation (by way of voluntary arrangement, scheme of arrangement or otherwise) of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary;

 

29.7.2 a composition, compromise, assignment or arrangement with any creditor of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary;

 

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29.7.3 the appointment of a liquidator, receiver, administrative receiver, administrator, compulsory or other similar officer in respect of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary or any of its assets; or

 

29.7.4 enforcement of any Security over any assets of any Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary,

 

or any analogous procedure or step is taken in any jurisdiction.

 

29.8 Creditors' process

 

Any expropriation, attachment, sequestration, distress or execution affects any asset or assets of an Obligor or any Qualified Subsidiary and is not discharged within 30 days except for any of the foregoing falling within the scope of what is permitted under Clause 23.5 ( Arrest ).

 

29.9 Cessation of business

 

An Obligor suspends or threatens (in writing) to suspend or cease to carry on its business.

 

29.10 Unlawfulness and invalidity

 

It is or becomes unlawful for an Obligor or a Refund Guarantor or any other Security Party to perform any of its obligations under the Finance Documents or a Refund Guarantee or any Transaction Security or a Refund Guarantee is not in full force and effect or does not create in favour of the Security Trustee for the benefit of the Finance Parties the Security which it is expressed to create with the ranking and priority it is expressed to have.

 

29.11 Environmental Incidents

 

An Environmental Incident occurs which gives rise, or may give rise, to an Environmental Claim which would, in the reasonable opinion of the Majority Lenders be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

29.12 Repudiation and rescission of agreements

 

An Obligor (or any other relevant party) rescinds or purports to rescind or repudiates or purports to repudiate a Finance Document or any of the Transaction Security or evidences an intention to rescind or repudiate a Finance Document or any Transaction Security.

 

29.13 Underlying Documents

 

29.13.1 Subject to Clauses 29.13.2, any Underlying Document (other than the Insurances) is cancelled, prematurely terminated, frustrated or rescinded for any reason whatsoever and such Underlying Document has not been immediately replaced by a new document on similar terms to such Underlying Document and which terms are acceptable to the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors or any party is in breach of its obligations under an Underlying Document and such breach could allow such party to exercise a right of termination or could in the reasonable opinion of the Majority Lenders have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

29.13.2 Any default by an Obligor occurs under a Building Contract, a Refund Guarantee or any related contract, which would impair the ability of any Obligor to perform its obligations under the Finance Documents.

 

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29.14 Arrest

 

A Vessel is arrested or detained and not released in accordance with Clause 23.5 ( Arrest ).

 

29.15 Litigation

 

Any litigation, arbitration, administrative, governmental, regulatory or other investigations, proceedings or disputes, other than as has been disclosed in the Disclosure Letter, are commenced or threatened in relation to the Transaction Documents or the transactions contemplated in the Transaction Documents or against any member of the Group or its assets which has or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect or where there is an unsatisfied uninsured material judgment against any of the Obligors following a final appeal equal to or exceeding US$8,000,000.

 

29.16 Material Adverse Change

 

29.16.1 Any event or circumstance occurs which the Majority Lenders reasonably believe might have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

29.16.2 For the avoidance of doubt, an event or circumstance referred to in Clause 29.16.1 may include any judgment, decision or ruling (which is not capable of appeal) or any settlement in relation to the litigation disclosed in the Disclosure Letter if the Majority Lenders reasonably believe such judgment, decision, ruling or settlement might have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

29.17 Authorisations

 

An Authorisation which was required:

 

(a) to enable it lawfully to enter into, exercise its rights and comply with its obligations under the Transaction Documents to which it is a party;

 

(b) to make the Transaction Documents to which it is a party admissible in evidence in any Relevant Jurisdiction; and

 

(c) to enable it to create the Security to be created under the Security Documents and to ensure that such Security has the priority and ranking it is expressed to have,

 

is no longer in full force and effect.

 

29.18 Sanctions

 

Any Obligor, any Affiliate of any Obligor, any of their joint ventures or any of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents or representatives or any other persons acting on any of their behalf, becomes a Restricted Party or otherwise acts in violation of any Sanctions.

 

29.19 Acceleration

 

On and at any time after the occurrence of an Event of Default which is continuing the Agent may, and shall if so directed by the Majority Lenders, by notice to the Obligors:

 

(a) cancel the Total Commitments for each Facility whereupon they shall immediately be cancelled;

 

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(b) declare that all or part of the Loans, together with accrued interest, and all other amounts accrued or outstanding under the Finance Documents be immediately due and payable, whereupon they shall become immediately due and payable;

 

(c) declare that all or part of the Loans be payable on demand, whereupon they shall immediately become payable on demand by the Agent on the instructions of the Majority Lenders; and/or

 

(d) exercise or direct the Security Trustee to exercise any or all of the rights, remedies, powers or discretions under the Finance Documents provided that, during the period commencing on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date and ending on the second Höegh MLP Effective Date, the Agent shall not exercise any or all of the rights, remedies, powers, or discretions under the Finance Documents against the Dropdown Borrower or Höegh MLP or otherwise in relation to the Dropdown Vessel, and the chartering thereof, including EgyptCo and the Quotaholders unless such Event of Default has occurred directly and expressly with respect to a member of the Höegh MLP Group or the chartering of the Dropdown Vessel, including EgyptCo and the Quotaholders.

 

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SECTION 9
CHANGES TO PARTIES

 

30. Changes to the Lenders, Bank GuArantors and Swap Banks

 

30.1 Assignments and transfers by the Lenders, Bank Guarantors and Swap Banks

 

Subject to this Clause 30, a Commercial Lender and/or Bank Guarantor and/or Swap Bank (the " Existing Finance Party ") may:

 

(a) assign any of its rights; or

 

(b) transfer by novation any of its rights and obligations,

 

under any Finance Document to another bank or financial institution or to a trust, fund or other entity which is regularly engaged in or established for the purpose of making, purchasing or investing in loans, securities or other financial assets (the " New Finance Party ").

 

30.2 Conditions of assignment or transfer

 

30.2.1 An assignment or transfer under Clause 30.1 above shall be subject to:

 

(a) the prior written consent of the Borrowers (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed), other than:

 

(i) in the case of a transfer by a Commercial Lender and/or Bank Guarantor and/or Swap Bank to an Affiliate of that Commercial Lender and/or Bank Guarantor and/or Swap Bank (provided that such transfer does not result in any additional or increased cost to the Borrowers); or

 

(ii) following the occurrence of a Default which is continuing; or

 

(b) a minimum transfer amount of US$10,000,000; and

 

30.2.2 The Existing Finance Party assigning or transferring its rights and obligations under the Commercial Facility shall also assign and transfer its rights and obligations under the Bank Guarantee Facility, subject to the prior written consent of the ECA Lender being provided by the Agent.

 

30.2.3 The consent of the Borrowers to an assignment or transfer must not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The Borrowers will be deemed to have given their consent 5 Business Days after the Existing Finance Party has requested it unless consent is expressly refused by the Borrowers within that time.

 

30.2.4 An assignment will only be effective on:

 

(a) receipt by the Agent of written confirmation from the New Finance Party (in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent) that the New Finance Party will assume the same obligations to the other Finance Parties as it would have been under if it was an original party to the relevant Finance Document; and

 

(b) performance by the Agent of all necessary "know your customer" or other similar checks under all applicable laws and regulations in relation to such assignment to a New Finance Party, the completion of which the Agent shall promptly notify to the Existing Finance Party and the New Finance Party.

 

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30.2.5 A transfer will only be effective if the procedure set out in Clause 30.5 ( Procedure for transfer ) is complied with.

 

30.2.6 If:

 

(a) a Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank assigns or transfers any of its rights or obligations under the Finance Documents or changes its Facility Office; and

 

(b) as a result of circumstances existing at the date the assignment, transfer or change occurs, an Obligor would be obliged to make a payment to the New Finance Party or Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank acting through its new Facility Office under Clause 13 ( Tax gross-up and indemnities ) or Clause 14 ( Increased Costs ),

 

then the New Finance Party or Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank acting through its new Facility Office is only entitled to receive payment under those Clauses to the same extent as the Existing Finance Party or Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank acting through its previous Facility Office would have been if the assignment, transfer or change had not occurred.

 

30.2.7 Each New Finance Party, by executing the relevant Transfer Certificate or Assignment Agreement, confirms, for the avoidance of doubt, that the Agent has authority to execute on its behalf any amendment or waiver that has been approved by or on behalf of the requisite Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank in accordance with this Agreement on or prior to the date on which the transfer or assignment becomes effective in accordance with this Agreement and that it is bound by that decision to the same extent as the Existing Finance Party would have been had it remained a Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank.

 

30.3 Assignment or transfer fee

 

30.3.1 Subject to Clause 30.3.2, the New Finance Party shall, on the date upon which an assignment or transfer takes effect, pay to the Agent (for its own account) a fee of US$3,500;

 

30.3.2 The fee set out in Clause 30.3.1 shall not be payable in the case of an assignment or transfer to a New Finance Party notified to the Agent prior to the date of this Agreement provided that such assignment or transfer takes effect within 10 Business Days of the date of this Agreement.

 

30.4 Limitation of responsibility of Existing Finance Parties

 

30.4.1 Unless expressly agreed to the contrary, an Existing Finance Party makes no representation or warranty and assumes no responsibility to a New Finance Party for:

 

(a) the legality, validity, effectiveness, adequacy or enforceability of the Transaction Documents, the Transaction Security or any other documents;

 

(b) the financial condition of an Obligor;

 

(c) the performance and observance by any Obligor of its obligations under the Transaction Documents or any other documents; or

 

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(d) the accuracy of any statements (whether written or oral) made in or in connection with any Transaction Document or any other document,

 

and any representations or warranties implied by law are excluded.

 

30.4.2 Each New Finance Party confirms to the Existing Finance Party, the other Finance Parties and the Secured Parties that it:

 

(a) has made (and shall continue to make) its own independent investigation and assessment of the financial condition and affairs of each Obligor and its related entities in connection with its participation in this Agreement and has not relied exclusively on any information provided to it by the Existing Finance Party or any other Finance Party in connection with any Transaction Document or the Transaction Security; and

 

(b) will continue to make its own independent appraisal of the creditworthiness of each Obligor and its related entities whilst any amount is or may be outstanding under the Finance Documents or any Commitment is in force.

 

30.4.3 Nothing in any Finance Document obliges an Existing Finance Party to:

 

(a) accept a re-transfer from a New Finance Party of any of the rights and obligations assigned or transferred under this Clause 30; or

 

(b) support any losses directly or indirectly incurred by the New Finance Party by reason of the non-performance by an Obligor of its obligations under the Transaction Documents or otherwise.

 

30.5 Procedure for transfer

 

30.5.1 Subject to the conditions set out in Clause 30.2 ( Conditions of assignment or transfer ) a transfer is effected in accordance with Clause 30.5.2 below when the Agent executes an otherwise duly completed Transfer Certificate delivered to it by the Existing Finance Party and the New Finance Party. The Agent shall, subject to Clause 30.5.2 below, as soon as reasonably practicable after receipt by it of a duly completed Transfer Certificate appearing on its face to comply with the terms of this Agreement and delivered in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, execute that Transfer Certificate.

 

30.5.2 The Agent shall only be obliged to execute a Transfer Certificate delivered to it by the Existing Finance Party and the New Finance Party once it is satisfied it has complied with all necessary "know your customer" or other similar checks under all applicable laws and regulations in relation to the transfer to such New Finance Party.

 

30.5.3 On the Transfer Date:

 

(a) to the extent that in the Transfer Certificate the Existing Finance Party seeks to transfer by novation its rights and obligations under the Finance Documents and in respect of the Transaction Security each of the Obligors and the Existing Finance Party shall be released from further obligations towards one another under the Finance Documents and in respect of the Transaction Security and their respective rights against one another under the Finance Documents and in respect of the Transaction Security shall be cancelled (being the " Discharged Rights and Obligations ");

 

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(b) each of the Obligors and the New Finance Party shall assume obligations towards one another and/or acquire rights against one another which differ from the Discharged Rights and Obligations only insofar as that Obligor or other member of the Group and the New Finance Party have assumed and/or acquired the same in place of that Obligor and the Existing Finance Party;

 

(c) the Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Security Trustee, the New Finance Party, the other Lenders, and the other Swap Banks shall acquire the same rights and assume the same obligations between themselves and in respect of the Transaction Security as they would have acquired and assumed had the New Finance Party been an original party to the relevant Finance Documents with the rights, and/or obligations acquired or assumed by it as a result of the transfer and to that extent the Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Security Trustee and the Existing Finance Party shall each be released from further obligations to each other under the Finance Documents; and

 

(d) the New Finance Party shall become a Party as a "Lender".

 

30.6 Copy of Transfer Certificate or Increase Confirmation to Borrowers

 

30.6.1 The Agent shall, as soon as reasonably practicable after it has executed a Transfer Certificate or an Increase Confirmation, send to the Borrowers a copy of that Transfer Certificate or an Increase Confirmation.

 

30.7 Security over Finance Parties’ rights

 

In addition to the other rights provided to Lenders, Bank Guarantors and Swap Banks under this Clause 30, each Lender, Bank Guarantor and Swap Bank may, without consulting with or obtaining consent from any Obligor, at any time charge, assign or otherwise create Security in or over (whether by way of collateral or otherwise) all or any of its rights under any Finance Document to secure obligations of that Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank including, without limitation:

 

(a) any charge, assignment or other Security to secure obligations to a federal reserve or central bank; and

 

(b) in the case of any Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank which is a fund, any charge, assignment or other Security granted to any holders (or trustee or representatives of holders) of obligations owned, or securities issued, by that Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank as security for those obligations or securities,

 

except that no such charge, assignment or Security shall:

 

(i) release a Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank from any of its obligations under the Finance Documents or substitute the beneficiary of the relevant charge, assignment or Security for the Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank as a party to any of the Finance Documents; or

 

(ii) require any payments to be made by an Obligor other than or in excess of, or grant to any person any more extensive rights than, those required to be made or granted to the relevant Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank under the Finance Documents.

 

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30.8 Disclosure of information

 

30.8.1 Any Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank may disclose to its professional advisers (including, if relevant, any ratings agency), to any of its Affiliates and any other person:

 

(a) to (or through) whom that Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank assigns or transfers (or may potentially assign or transfer) all or any of its rights and obligations under this Agreement;

 

(b) with (or through) whom that Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank enters into (or may potentially enter into) any sub-participation in relation to, or any other transaction under which payments are to be made by reference to, this Agreement or an Obligor; or

 

(c) to whom, and to the extent that, information is required to be disclosed by any applicable law or regulation,

 

any information about an Obligor, the Group and the Finance Documents as that Lender or Bank Guarantor or Swap Bank shall consider appropriate if, in relation to paragraphs (a) and (b) above, the person to whom the information is to be given has entered into a Confidentiality Undertaking.

 

31. Restriction on debt purchase transactions

 

31.1 Prohibition on Debt Purchase Transactions by the Group and Sponsor Affiliates

 

The Obligors shall not, and shall ensure that each other member of the Group or any Sponsor Affiliate shall not, enter into any Debt Purchase Transaction or beneficially own in excess of 1 per cent. of the share capital of a company that is a Lender and/or a Bank Guarantor or a party to a Debt Purchase Transaction of the type referred to in paragraphs (b) or (c) of the definition of Debt Purchase Transaction.

 

31.2 Disenfranchisement on Debt Purchase Transactions entered into by the Group or Sponsor Affiliates contrary to Clause 31.1

 

For the avoidance of doubt, for so long as a member of the Group or a Sponsor Affiliate, contrary to the provisions of Clause 31.1 of this Agreement, (i) beneficially owns a Commitment or (ii) has entered into a sub-participation agreement relating to a Commitment or other agreement or arrangement having a substantially similar economic effect and such agreement or arrangement has not been terminated:

 

(a) in ascertaining the Majority Lenders or whether any given percentage (including, for the avoidance of doubt, unanimity) of the Total Commitments has been obtained to approve any request for a consent, waiver, amendment or other vote under the Finance Documents such Commitment shall be deemed to be zero; and

 

(b) for the purposes of Clause 14.3 ( Exceptions ), such Sponsor Affiliate or the person with whom it has entered into such sub-participation, other agreement or arrangement shall be deemed not to be a Lender and/or a Bank Guarantor (unless in the case of a person not being a Sponsor Affiliate it is a Lender and/or a Bank Guarantor by virtue otherwise than by beneficially owning the relevant Commitment).

 

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31.3 Sponsor Affiliates' notification to other Lenders and Bank Guarantors of Debt Purchase Transactions

 

Any Sponsor Affiliate which is or becomes a Lender and/or Bank Guarantor and which enters into a Debt Purchase Transaction as a purchaser or a participant shall, by 4.00 pm on the Business Day following the day on which it entered into that Debt Purchase Transaction, notify the Agent of the extent of the Commitment(s) or amount outstanding to which that Debt Purchase Transaction relates. The Agent shall promptly disclose such information to the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors.

 

32. Changes to the Obligors

 

32.1 Assignments and transfers

 

Without the prior consent of the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors, no Obligor may assign any of its rights or transfer any of its rights or obligations under the Finance Documents.

 

32.2 Additional Corporate Guarantor

 

32.2.1 Subject to compliance with the provisions of Clause ‎20.6 (" Know your customer" checks ) and the conditions set out in Schedule 2, Part VI, Höegh MLP shall become a Corporate Guarantor on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date.

 

32.2.2 The Parent Company shall ensure that Höegh MLP shall grant the relevant Transaction Security with respect to a Borrower on or prior to the Höegh MLP Effective Date for such Borrower.

 

32.2.3 Höegh MLP shall:

 

(a) deliver to the Agent on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date a duly completed and executed Höegh MLP Accession Deed in the form set out in Schedule 9;

 

(b) deliver to the Security Trustee on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date a duly completed and executed Höegh MLP Accession Deed (as defined in the Trust Agreement); and

 

(c) ensure the Agent has received on each Höegh MLP Effective Date all of the documents and other evidence listed in Part VI of Schedule 2 ( Conditions precedent ), each in form and substance satisfactory to the Agent.

 

32.2.4 The Agent shall notify the Parent Company, the Lenders and the Bank Guarantors promptly upon being satisfied that it has received (in form and substance satisfactory to it) all the documents and other evidence listed in Part VI of Schedule 2 ( Conditions precedent ).

 

32.2.5 Other than to the extent that the Majority Lenders notify the Agent in writing to the contrary before the Agent gives the notification described in Clause 32.2.4 above, the Lenders authorise (but do not require) the Agent to give that notification. The Agent shall not be liable for any damages, costs or losses whatsoever as a result of giving any such notification.

 

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SECTION 10
THE FINANCE PARTIES

 

33. Role of the Agent and the Mandated Lead Arranger

 

33.1 Appointment of the Agent

 

33.1.1 Each other Finance Party appoints the Agent to act as its agent under and in connection with the Finance Documents.

 

33.1.2 Each other Finance Party authorises the Agent to perform the duties, obligations and responsibilities and to exercise the rights, powers, authorities and discretions specifically given to the Agent under or in connection with the Finance Documents together with any other incidental rights, powers, authorities and discretions.

 

33.2 Instruction

 

33.2.1 The Agent shall:

 

(a) unless a contrary indication appears in a Finance Document, exercise or refrain from exercising any right, power, authority or discretion vested in it as Agent in accordance with any instructions given to it by:

 

(i) all Lenders if the relevant Finance Document stipulates the matter is an all Lender decision; and

 

(ii) in all other cases, the Majority Lenders; and

 

(iii) not be liable for any act (or omission) if it acts (or refrains from acting) in accordance with paragraph (i) above.

 

(b) The Agent shall be entitled to request instructions, or clarification of any instruction, from the Majority Lenders (or, if the relevant Finance Document stipulates the matter is a decision for any other Lender or group of Lenders, from that Lender or group of Lenders) as to whether, and in what manner, it should exercise or refrain from exercising any right, power, authority or discretion and the Agent may refrain from acting unless and until it receives those instructions or that clarification.

 

(c) Save in the case of decisions stipulated to be a matter for any other Lender or group of Lenders under the relevant Finance Document and unless a contrary indication appears in a Finance Document, any instructions given to the Agent by the Majority Lenders shall override any conflicting instructions given by any other Parties and will be binding on all Finance Parties save for the Agent.

 

(d) The Agent may refrain from acting in accordance with any instructions of any Lender or group of Lenders until it has received any indemnification and/or security that it may in its discretion require (which may be greater in extent than that contained in the Finance Documents and which may include payment in advance) for any cost, loss or liability which it may incur in complying with those instructions.

 

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(e) In the absence of instructions, the Agent may act (or refrain from acting) as it considers to be in the best interest of the Lenders.

 

(f) The Agent is not authorised to act on behalf of a Lender (without first obtaining that Lender's consent) in any legal or arbitration proceedings relating to any Finance Document. This paragraph (f) shall not apply to any legal or arbitration proceeding relating to the perfection, preservation or protection of rights under the Security Documents or enforcement of the Transaction Security or Security Documents.

 

33.3 Duties of the Agent

 

33.3.1 The Agent’s duties under the Finance Documents are solely mechanical and administrative in nature.

 

33.3.2 Subject to Clause 33.3.3 below, the Agent shall promptly forward to a Party the original or a copy of any document which is delivered to the Agent for that Party by any other Party.

 

33.3.3 Without prejudice to Clause 30.6 ( Copy of Transfer Certificate or Increase Confirmation ), Clause 33.3.2 above shall not apply to any Transfer Certificate or Increase Confirmation.

 

33.3.4 Except where a Finance Document specifically provides otherwise, the Agent is not obliged to review or check the adequacy, accuracy or completeness of any document it forwards to another Party.

 

33.3.5 If the Agent receives notice from a Party referring to this Agreement, describing a Default and stating that the circumstance described is a Default, it shall promptly notify the Finance Parties.

 

33.3.6 If the Agent is aware of the non-payment of any principal, interest, Commitment Fee, Guarantee Commission or other fee payable to a Finance Party (other than the Agent or the Mandated Lead Arranger) under this Agreement it shall promptly notify the other Finance Parties.

 

33.3.7 The Agent may disclose the identity of a Defaulting Lender to other Finance Parties and the Borrowers and shall disclose the same upon the written request of the Borrowers or the Majority Lenders.

 

33.3.8 The Agent shall have only those duties, obligations and responsibilities expressly specified in the Finance Documents to which it is expressed to be a party (and no others shall be implied).

 

33.4 Particular duties and liabilities of the Agent in relation to the ECA Lender

 

33.4.1 The Agent shall as Agent for the ECA Lender have the following duties:

 

(a) to inform the Borrowers of interest, instalments and other amounts due from the Borrowers to the ECA Lender (other than Break Costs), and Guarantee Commission due from the Borrowers to the Bank Guarantors under the Finance Documents;

 

(b) to notify the ECA Lender and the Bank Guarantors of any non-payment of any principal, interest, fees or other amount payable to the ECA Lender and/or the Bank Guarantors (other than Break Costs) under this Agreement;

 

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(c) to notify the ECA Lender and the Bank Guarantors (i) of any failure by the Borrowers to deliver the documents required to be delivered under Clause 20.1 (Financial statements) or Clause 20.2 (Compliance Certificate) , (ii) in the event any of the insurances required to be maintained under Clause 24 (Insurance) reaches its expiry date without relevant evidence of renewal being presented to it as Agent, and (iii) to forward to the ECA Lender the original or a copy of any document which is delivered to it as Agent by or on behalf of the insurers to satisfy the obligations undertaken by the insurers under the its letter of undertaking issued by them to the Agent in accordance with the Finance Documents, hereunder any notice of non-renewal of the relevant insurances;

 

(d) to forward to the ECA Lender the original or a copy of any document which is delivered to the Agent for ECA Lender by the Borrowers;

 

(e) unless otherwise instructed by the Majority Lenders, request from the Borrowers that any non-compliance contemplated by (b) or (c) above be immediately remedied (if capable of remedy), and

 

(f) to keep and hold the originals of the Security Documents.

 

33.4.2 Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of Clause 33.12.1 ( Exclusion of Liability ) and without limiting paragraph (b) of Clause 33.12.1 ( Exclusion of Liability ), the Agent will not be liable to the ECA Lender for any failure to perform its duties as Agent under this Agreement, unless directly caused by its negligence or wilful misconduct.

 

33.5 Role of the Mandated Lead Arranger

 

Except as specifically provided in the Finance Documents, the Mandated Lead Arranger has no obligations of any kind to any other Party under or in connection with any Finance Document.

 

33.6 No fiduciary duties

 

33.6.1 Nothing in any Finance Document constitutes the Agent or the Mandated Lead Arranger as a trustee or fiduciary of any other person.

 

33.6.2 Neither the Account Bank, the Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Security Trustee nor the Swap Banks shall be bound to account to any Lender for any sum or the profit element of any sum received by it for its own account.

 

33.7 Business with the Group

 

Any of the Agent, the Account Bank, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Security Trustee and the Swap Banks may accept deposits from, lend money to and generally engage in any kind of banking or other business with the Group.

 

33.8 Rights and discretions of the Agent

 

33.8.1 The Agent may:

 

(a) rely on any representation, communication, notice or document believed by it to be genuine, correct and appropriately authorised; and

 

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(b) assume that:

 

(i) any instructions received by it from the Majority Lenders, any Lenders or any group of Lenders are duly given in accordance with the terms of the Finance Documents; and

 

(ii) unless it has received notice of revocation, that those instructions have not been revoked; and

 

(c) rely on a certificate from any person:

 

(i) as to any matter of fact or circumstance which might reasonably be expected to be within the knowledge of that person; or

 

(ii) to the effect that such person approves of any particular dealing, transaction, step, action or thing,

 

as sufficient evidence that that is the case and, in the case of paragraph (a) above, may assume the truth and accuracy of that certificate.

 

33.8.2 The Agent may each assume (unless it has received notice to the contrary in its capacity as agent for the Lenders) that:

 

(a) no Default has occurred (unless it has actual knowledge of a Default arising under Clause 29.1 ( Non-payment ));

 

(b) any right, power, authority or discretion vested in any Party or the Majority Lenders has not been exercised; and

 

(c) any notice or request made by the Borrowers (other than a Utilisation Request or Selection Notice) is made on behalf of and with the consent and knowledge of all the Obligors.

 

33.8.3 The Agent may engage and pay for the advice or services of any lawyers, accountants, tax advisers, surveyors or other professional advisers or experts.

 

33.8.4 Without prejudice to the generality of Clause 33.8.3 above or 33.8.5 below, the Agent may at any time engage and pay for the services of any lawyers to act as independent counsel to the Agent (and so separate from any lawyers instructed by the Lenders) if the Agent in its reasonable opinion deems this to be desirable.

 

33.8.5 The Agent may rely on the advice or services of any lawyers, accountants, tax advisers, surveyors or other professional advisers or experts (whether obtained by the Agent or by any other Party) and shall not be liable for any damages, costs or losses to any person, any diminution in value or any liability whatsoever arising as a result of its so relying.

 

33.8.6 The Agent may act in relation to the Finance Documents through its officers, employees and agents and the Agent shall not:

 

(a) be liable for any error of judgment made by any such person; or

 

(b) be bound to supervise, or be in any way responsible for, any loss incurred by reason of misconduct, omission or default on the part, of any such person,

 

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unless such error or such loss was directly caused by the Agent's gross negligence or wilful misconduct.

 

33.8.7 The Agent may each act in relation to the Finance Documents and any Eksportkreditt Bank Guarantees (as applicable) through its personnel and agents.

 

33.8.8 Unless a Finance Document expressly provides otherwise, the Agent may each disclose to any other Party any information it reasonably believes it has received as agent under this Agreement.

 

33.8.9 Notwithstanding any other provision of any Finance Document to the contrary, neither the Agent, the Account Bank, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Security Trustee nor the Swap Banks is obliged to do or omit to do anything if it would or might in its reasonable opinion constitute a breach of any law or regulation or a breach of a fiduciary duty or duty of confidentiality.

 

33.8.10 Notwithstanding any provision of any Finance Document to the contrary, the Agent is not obliged to expend or risk its own funds or otherwise incur any financial liability in the performance of its duties, obligations or responsibilities or the exercise of any right, power, authority or discretion if it has grounds for believing the repayment of such funds or adequate indemnity against, or security for, such risk or liability is not reasonably assured to it.

 

33.9 Majority Lenders' instructions

 

33.9.1 Unless a contrary indication appears in a Finance Document, the Agent shall (i) exercise any right, power, authority or discretion vested in it as Agent in accordance with any instructions given to it by the Majority Lenders (or, if so instructed by the Majority Lenders, refrain from exercising any right, power, authority or discretion vested in it as Agent and (ii) not be liable for any act (or omission) if it acts (or refrains from taking any action) in accordance with an instruction of the Majority Lenders.

 

33.9.2 Unless a contrary indication appears in a Finance Document, any instructions given by the Majority Lenders will be binding on all the Finance Parties other than the Security Trustee.

 

33.9.3 The Agent may each refrain from acting in accordance with the instructions of the Majority Lenders (or, if appropriate, the Lenders) until it has received such security as it may require for any cost, loss or liability (together with any associated VAT) which it may incur in complying with the instructions.

 

33.9.4 In the absence of instructions from the Majority Lenders, (or, if appropriate, the Lenders) the Agent may act (or refrain from taking action) as it considers to be in the best interest of the Lenders.

 

33.9.5 The Agent is not authorised to act on behalf of a Lender (without first obtaining that Lender's consent) in any legal or arbitration proceedings relating to any Finance Document. This Clause 33.9.5 shall not apply to any legal or arbitration proceeding relating to the perfection, preservation or protection of the rights under the Security Documents or enforcement of the Transaction Security or the Security Documents.

 

33.10 Responsibility for documentation

 

Neither the Agent, the Account Bank, the Mandated Lead Arranger nor any Swap Bank is responsible or liable for:

 

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(a) the adequacy, accuracy or completeness of any information (whether oral or written) supplied by the Account Bank, the Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Swap Bank, an Obligor or any other person given in or in connection with any Transaction Document or any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, made or executed in anticipation of, under or in connection with any Finance Document; or

 

(b) is responsible for the legality, validity, effectiveness, adequacy or enforceability of any Transaction Document, or the Transaction Security or any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, made or executed in anticipation of or in connection with any Transaction Document.

 

33.11 No duty to monitor

 

The Agent shall not be bound to enquire:

 

(a) whether or not any Default has occurred;

 

(b) as to the performance, default or any breach by any Party of its obligations under any Finance Document; or

 

(c) whether any other event specified in any Finance Document has occurred.

 

33.12 Exclusion of liability

 

33.12.1 Without limiting Clause 33.12.2 (and without prejudice to any other provision of any Finance Document excluding or limiting the liability of the Agent, the Account Bank, the Mandated Lead Arranger or the Swap Banks), none of the Agent, the Account Bank, the Mandated Lead Arranger or any Swap Bank will be liable (including, without limitation, for negligence or any other category of liability whatsoever) for:

 

(a) any damages, costs or losses to any person, any diminution in value, or any liability whatsoever arising as a result of taking or not taking any action under or in connection with any Finance Document or the Transaction Security, unless directly caused by its gross negligence or wilful misconduct;

 

(b) exercising, or not exercising, any right, power, authority or discretion given to it by, or in connection with, any Finance Document, the Transaction Security or any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, made or executed in anticipation of, under or in connection with, any Finance Document or the Transaction Security; or

 

(c) without prejudice to the generality of paragraphs (i) and (ii) above, any damages, costs or losses to any person, any diminution in value or any liability whatsoever arising as a result of:

 

(i) any act, event or circumstance not reasonably within its control; or

 

(ii) the general risks of investment in, or the holding of assets in, any jurisdiction,

 

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including (in each case and without limitation) such damages, costs, losses, diminution in value or liability arising as a result of: nationalisation, expropriation or other governmental actions; any regulation, currency restriction, devaluation or fluctuation; market conditions affecting the execution or settlement of transactions or the value of assets (including any Disruption Event); breakdown, failure or malfunction of any third party transport, telecommunications, computer services or systems; natural disasters or acts of God; war, terrorism, insurrection or revolution; or strikes or industrial action.

 

33.12.2 No Party (other than the Account Bank, the Agent or a Swap Bank) may take any proceedings against any officer, employee or the agent of the Account Bank, the Agent or a Swap Bank in respect of any claim it might have against the Account Bank, the Agent, or a Swap Bank or in respect of any act or omission of any kind by that officer, employee or agent in relation to any Finance Document and any officer, employee or agent of the Account Bank, the Agent, or the Swap Bank may rely on this Clause subject to Clause 1.4 ( Third Party Rights ) and the provisions of the Third Parties Act.

 

33.12.3 The Agent will not be liable for any delay (or any related consequences) in crediting an account with an amount required under the Finance Documents to be paid by the Agent if the Agent has taken all necessary steps as soon as reasonably practicable to comply with the regulations or operating procedures of any recognised clearing or settlement system used by the Agent for that purpose.

 

33.12.4 Nothing in this Agreement shall oblige the Agent, or the Mandated Lead Arranger to carry out any "know your customer" or other checks in relation to any person or any check on the extent to which any transaction contemplated by this Agreement might be unlawful for any Lender and each Lender confirms to the Agent and the Mandated Lead Arranger that it is solely responsible for any such checks it is required to carry out and that it may not rely on any statement in relation to such checks made by the Agent or the Mandated Lead Arranger.

 

33.12.5 Without prejudice to any provision of any Finance Document excluding or limiting the Agent's liability, any liability of the Agent arising under or in connection with any Finance Document or the Transaction Security shall be limited to the amount of actual loss which has been finally judicially determined to have been suffered (as determined by reference to the date of default of the Agent or, if later, the date on which the loss arises as a result of such default) but without reference to any special conditions or circumstances known to the Agent at any time which increase the amount of that loss. In no event shall the Agent be liable for any loss of profits, goodwill, reputation, business opportunity or anticipated saving, or for special, punitive, indirect or consequential damages, whether or not the Agent has been advised of the possibility of such loss or damages.

 

33.13 Lenders' and Bank Guarantors’ indemnity to the Agent

 

33.13.1 Each Lender and/or Bank Guarantor (as applicable) shall (in proportion to its share of the Total Commitments or, if the Total Commitments are then zero, to its share of the Total Commitments immediately prior to their reduction to zero) indemnify the Agent, within three Business Days of demand, against any cost, loss or liability (including, without limitation, for negligence or any other category of liability whatsoever) incurred by the Agent (as applicable) (otherwise than by reason of its gross negligence or wilful misconduct) (or, in the case of any cost, loss or liability pursuant to Clause 36.9 ( Disruption to Payment Systems etc .) notwithstanding its negligence, gross negligence or any other category of liability whatsoever but not including any claim based on the fraud of the Agent) in acting as Agent under the Finance Documents (unless the Agent has been reimbursed by an Obligor pursuant to a Finance Document).

 

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33.13.2 Subject to Clause 33.13.3, the Borrowers shall immediately on demand reimburse any Lender and/or Bank Guarantor (as applicable) for any payment that Lender and/or Bank Guarantor (as applicable) makes to the Agent pursuant to Clause 33.13.1 above.

 

33.13.3 Clause 33.13.2 shall not apply to the extent that the indemnity payment in respect of which the Lender and/or Bank Guarantor (as applicable) claims reimbursement relates to a liability of the Agent to an Obligor.

 

33.14 Resignation of the Agent

 

33.14.1 The Agent may resign and appoint one of its Affiliates as successor by giving notice to the other Finance Parties and the Borrowers.

 

33.14.2 Alternatively the Agent may resign by giving notice to the other Finance Parties and the Borrowers, in which case the Majority Lenders (after consultation with the Borrowers) may appoint a successor Agent.

 

33.14.3 If the Majority Lenders have not appointed a successor Agent in accordance with Clause 33.14.2 within 30 days after notice of resignation was given, the Agent may, with the consent of the Borrowers (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed beyond 30 days) appoint a successor Agent.

 

33.14.4 The retiring Agent shall, at its own cost, make available to the successor Agent such documents and records and provide such assistance as the successor Agent may reasonably request for the purposes of performing its functions as Agent under the Finance Documents.

 

33.14.5 The Agent's resignation notice shall only take effect upon the appointment of a successor.

 

33.14.6 Upon the appointment of a successor, the retiring Agent shall be discharged from any further obligation in respect of the Finance Documents (other than its obligation under 33.14.4 above) but shall remain entitled to the benefit of Clause 15.3 ( Indemnity to the Agent ) and this Clause 33 (and any agency fees for the account of the retiring Agent shall cease to accrue from (and shall be payable on) that date). Its successor and each of the other Parties shall have the same rights and obligations amongst themselves as they would have had if such successor had been an original Party.

 

33.14.7 After consultation with the Borrowers, the Majority Lenders may, by notice to the Agent, require it to resign in accordance with Clause 33.14.2. In this event, the Agent shall resign in accordance with Clause 33.14.2.

 

33.15 Confidentiality

 

33.15.1 In acting as agent for the Finance Parties, the Agent shall be regarded as acting through its agency division which shall be treated as a separate entity from any other of its divisions or departments.

 

33.15.2 If information is received by another division or department of the Agent, it may be treated as confidential to that division or department and the Agent shall not be deemed to have notice of it.

 

33.15.3 Notwithstanding any other provision of any Finance Document to the contrary, neither the Agent, nor the Mandated Lead Arranger is obliged to disclose to any other person (i) any confidential information or (ii) any other information if the disclosure would or might in its reasonable opinion constitute a breach of any law or regulation or a breach of a fiduciary duty.

 

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33.16 Relationship with the Lenders and Bank Guarantors

 

33.16.1 The Agent may treat each Lender or Bank Guarantor as a Lender or Bank Guarantor, entitled to payments under this Agreement and acting through its Facility Office unless it has received not less than five Business Days prior notice from that Lender or Bank Guarantor to the contrary in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

33.16.2 Each Lender and/or Bank Guarantor (as applicable) shall supply the Agent with any information that the Agent may reasonably specify (through the Agent) as being necessary or desirable to enable the Agent to perform its functions as Security Trustee. Each Lender and/or Bank Guarantor (as applicable) shall deal with the Security Trustee exclusively through the Agent and shall not deal directly with the Security Trustee.

 

33.17 Credit appraisal by the Lenders and Bank Guarantors

 

Without affecting the responsibility of any Obligor for information supplied by it or on its behalf in connection with any Finance Document, each Lender and each Bank Guarantor confirms to the Account Bank, Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger and the Swap Banks that it has been, and will continue to be, solely responsible for making its own independent appraisal and investigation of all risks arising under or in connection with any Finance Document including but not limited to:

 

(a) the financial condition, status and nature of each member of the Group;

 

(b) the legality, validity, effectiveness, adequacy or enforceability of any Finance Document, the Transaction Security and any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, made or executed in anticipation of, under or in connection with any Finance Document or the Transaction Security

 

(c) whether that Lender and Bank Guarantor has recourse, and the nature and extent of that recourse, against any Party or any of its respective assets under or in connection with any Finance Document, the Transaction Security, the transactions contemplated by the Finance Documents or any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, made or executed in anticipation of, under or in connection with any Finance Document or the Transaction Security; and

 

(d) the adequacy, accuracy or completeness of any information provided by the Agent, any Party or by any other person under or in connection with any Finance Document, the transactions contemplated by any Finance Document or any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, made or executed in anticipation of, under or in connection with any Finance Document; and

 

(e) the right or title of any person in or to or the value or sufficiency of any part of the Charged Property, the priority of any of the Transaction Security or the existence of any Security affecting the Charged Property.

 

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33.18 Reference Banks

 

If a Reference Bank (or, if a Reference Bank is not a Lender, the Lender of which it is an Affiliate) ceases to be a Lender, the Agent shall (in consultation with the Borrowers) appoint another Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender to replace that Reference Bank.

 

33.19 Deduction from amounts payable by the Agent

 

If any Party owes an amount to the Agent under the Finance Documents the Agent may, after giving notice to that Party, deduct an amount not exceeding that amount from any payment to that Party which the Agent would otherwise be obliged to make under the Finance Documents and apply the amount deducted in or towards satisfaction of the amount owed. For the purposes of the Finance Documents that Party shall be regarded as having received any amount so deducted.

 

34. Conduct of business by the Finance Parties

 

No provision of this Agreement will:

 

(a) interfere with the right of any Finance Party to arrange its affairs (tax or otherwise) in whatever manner it thinks fit;

 

(b) oblige any Finance Party to investigate or claim any credit, relief, remission or repayment available to it or the extent, order and manner of any claim; or

 

(c) oblige any Finance Party to disclose any information relating to its affairs (tax or otherwise) or any computations in respect of Tax.

 

35. Sharing among the Finance Parties

 

35.1 Payments to Finance Parties

 

If a Finance Party (a " Recovering Finance Party ") receives or recovers any amount from an Obligor other than in accordance with Clause 36 ( Payment mechanics ) and applies that amount to a payment due under the Finance Documents then:

 

(a) the Recovering Finance Party shall, within three Business Days, notify details of the receipt or recovery, to the Agent;

 

(b) the Agent shall determine whether the receipt or recovery is in excess of the amount the Recovering Finance Party would have been paid had the receipt or recovery been received or made by the Agent and distributed in accordance with Clause 36 ( Payment mechanics ), without taking account of any Tax which would be imposed on the Agent in relation to the receipt, recovery or distribution; and

 

(c) the Recovering Finance Party shall, within three Business Days of demand by the Agent, pay to the Agent an amount (the " Sharing Payment ") equal to such receipt or recovery less any amount which the Agent determines may be retained by the Recovering Finance Party as its share of any payment to be made, in accordance with Clause 36.5 ( Application of payments ).

 

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35.2 Redistribution of payments

 

The Agent shall treat the Sharing Payment as if it had been paid by the relevant Obligor and distribute it between the Finance Parties (other than the Recovering Finance Party) in accordance with Clause 36.5 ( Application of payments ).

 

35.3 Recovering Finance Party's rights

 

35.3.1 On a distribution by the Agent under Clause 35.2 ( Redistribution of payments ), the Recovering Finance Party will be subrogated to the rights of the Finance Parties which have shared in the redistribution.

 

35.3.2 If and to the extent that the Recovering Finance Party is not able to rely on its rights under Clause 35.3.1, the relevant Obligor shall be liable to the Recovering Finance Party for a debt equal to the Sharing Payment which is immediately due and payable.

 

35.4 Reversal of redistribution

 

If any part of the Sharing Payment received or recovered by a Recovering Finance Party becomes repayable and is repaid by that Recovering Finance Party, then:

 

(a) each Finance Party which has received a share of the relevant Sharing Payment pursuant to Clause 35.2 ( Redistribution of payments ) shall, upon request of the Agent, pay to the Agent for account of that Recovering Finance Party an amount equal to the appropriate part of its share of the Sharing Payment (together with an amount as is necessary to reimburse that Recovering Finance Party for its proportion of any interest on the Sharing Payment which that Recovering Finance Party is required to pay); and

 

(b) that Recovering Finance Party's rights of subrogation in respect of any reimbursement shall be cancelled and the relevant Obligor will be liable to the reimbursing Finance Party for the amount so reimbursed.

 

35.5 Exceptions

 

35.5.1 This Clause 35.5.1 shall not apply to the extent that the Recovering Finance Party would not, after making any payment pursuant to this Clause, have a valid and enforceable claim against relevant Obligor.

 

35.5.2 A Recovering Finance Party is not obliged to share with any other Finance Party any amount which the Recovering Finance Party has received or recovered as a result of taking legal or arbitration proceedings, if:

 

(a) it notified that other Finance Party of the legal or arbitration proceedings; and

 

(b) that other Finance Party had an opportunity to participate in those legal or arbitration proceedings but did not do so as soon as reasonably practicable having received notice and did not take separate legal or arbitration proceedings.

 

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SECTION 11
ADMINISTRATION

 

36. Payment mechanics

 

36.1 Payments to the Agent

 

36.1.1 On each date on which an Obligor or a Lender is required to make a payment under a Finance Document, that Obligor or Lender shall make the same available to the Agent (unless a contrary indication appears in a Finance Document) for value on the due date at the time and in such funds specified by the Agent as being customary at the time for settlement of transactions in the relevant currency in the place of payment.

 

36.1.2 Payment shall be made to such account in the principal financial centre of the country of that currency with such bank as the Agent specifies.

 

36.2 Distributions by the Agent

 

Each payment received by the Agent under the Finance Documents for another Party shall, subject to Clause 36.3 ( Distributions to an Obligor ) and Clause 36.4 ( Clawback ) be made available by the Agent as soon as practicable after receipt to the Party entitled to receive payment in accordance with this Agreement (in the case of a Lender, for the account of its Facility Office), to such account as that Party may notify to the Agent by not less than five Business Days' notice with a bank specified by that Party in the principal financial centre of the country of that currency.

 

36.3 Distributions to an Obligor

 

The Agent may (with the consent of an Obligor or in accordance with Clause 37 ( Set-off )) apply any amount received by it for that Obligor in or towards payment (on the date and in the currency and funds of receipt) of any amount due from that Obligor under the Finance Documents or in or towards purchase of any amount of any currency to be so applied.

 

36.4 Clawback

 

36.4.1 Where a sum is to be paid to the Agent under the Finance Documents for another Party, the Agent is not obliged to pay that sum to that other Party (or to enter into or perform any related exchange contract) until it has been able to establish to its satisfaction that it has actually received that sum.

 

36.4.2 Unless Clause 36.4.3 below applies, if the Agent pays an amount to another Party and it proves to be the case that the Agent had not actually received that amount, then the Party to whom that amount (or the proceeds of any related exchange contract) was paid by the Agent shall on demand refund the same to the Agent together with interest on that amount from the date of payment to the date of receipt by the Agent, calculated by the Agent to reflect its cost of funds.

 

36.4.3 If the Agent has notified the Lenders that it is willing to make available amounts for the account of a Borrower before receiving funds from the Lenders then if and to the extent that the Agent does so but it proves to be the case that it does not then receive funds from a Lender in respect of a sum which it paid to a Borrower:

 

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(a) the Agent shall notify the Parent Company of that Lender's identity and] the Borrower to whom that sum was made available shall on demand refund it to the Agent; and

 

(b) the Lender by whom those funds should have been made available or, if that Lender fails to do so, the Borrower to whom that sum was made available, shall on demand pay to the Agent the amount (as certified by the Agent) which will indemnify the Agent against any funding cost incurred by it as a result of paying out that sum before receiving those funds from that Lender.

 

36.5 Application of payments

 

36.5.1 All moneys received by the Agent under or pursuant to any of the Finance Documents and expressed to be applicable in accordance with the provision of this clause shall be applied in the order set out in Clause 36.5.2 and/or Clause 36.5.3 and/or Clause 36.5.4 (as applicable) and the surplus (if any) shall be paid to the Borrowers or to whoever else may appear to the Agent to be entitled to receive the surplus.

 

36.5.2 Subject to Clause 36.5.4, the order of application is as follows:

 

(a) first , in or towards payment pro rata of any unpaid amounts arising to the Agent and the Security Trustee under the Finance Documents;

 

(b) secondly , in or towards payment pro rata between each Facility of any accrued interest, fees or commission due but unpaid under this Agreement;

 

(c) thirdly , in or towards payment pro rata between each Facility of any principal due but unpaid under this Agreement;

 

(d) fourthly , in or towards payment pro rata of any other sum due but unpaid under the Finance Documents other than a Swap Contract;

 

(e) fifthly, in or towards payment pro rata of any periodic Swap Payment due to the Swap Banks but unpaid under a Swap Contract; and

 

(f) sixthly, in or towards payment pro rata of any termination Swap Payment due to the Swap Banks but unpaid under a Swap Contract.

 

36.5.3 The Agent shall, if so directed by (i) all Lenders and (ii) each Bank Guarantor, vary the order set out in Clause 36.5.2 (b) to (f) above.

 

36.5.4 During the Period commencing on the first Höegh MLP Effective Date and ending in the second Höegh MLP Effective Date, all moneys received by the Agent under or pursuant to any of the Finance Documents from Höegh MLP, the Dropdown Borrower or any other Security Party related to the financing of the Dropdown Vessel and expressed to be applicable in accordance with the provisions of this Clause, shall be applied in the order set out in Clause 36.5.2 but only to the extent necessary to discharge the obligations of such Parties under such Finance Documents and in relation to the financing of the Dropdown Vessel.

 

36.5.5 Clauses 36.5.1, 36.5.2 and 36.5.4 above will override any appropriation made by an Obligor.

 

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36.6 No set-off by an Obligor

 

All payments to be made by an Obligor under the Finance Documents shall be calculated and be made without (and free and clear of any deduction for) set-off or counterclaim.

 

36.7 Business Days

 

36.7.1 Any payment under the Finance Documents which is due to be made on a day that is not a Business Day shall be made on the next Business Day in the same calendar month (if there is one) or the preceding Business Day (if there is not).

 

36.7.2 During any extension of the due date for payment of any principal or Unpaid Sum under this Agreement interest is payable on the principal or Unpaid Sum at the rate payable on the original due date.

 

36.8 Currency of account

 

36.8.1 Subject to Clauses 36.8.2 and 36.8.3 below, dollars is the currency of account and payment for any sum due from an Obligor under any Finance Document.

 

36.8.2 Each payment in respect of costs, expenses or Taxes shall be made in the currency in which the costs, expenses or Taxes are incurred.

 

36.8.3 Any amount expressed to be payable in a currency other than dollars shall be paid in that other currency.

 

36.9 Disruption to Payment Systems etc.

 

If either the Agent determines (in its discretion) that a Disruption Event has occurred or the Agent is notified by the Borrowers that a Disruption Event has occurred:

 

(a) the Agent may, and shall if requested to do so by the Borrowers, consult with the Borrowers with a view to agreeing with the Borrowers such changes to the operation or administration of a Facility as the Agent may deem necessary in the circumstances;

 

(b) the Agent shall not be obliged to consult with the Borrowers in relation to any changes mentioned in paragraph (a) if, in its opinion, it is not practicable to do so in the circumstances and, in any event, shall have no obligation to agree to such changes;

 

(c) the Agent may consult with the Finance Parties in relation to any changes mentioned in paragraph (a) but shall not be obliged to do so if, in its opinion, it is not practicable to do so in the circumstances;

 

(d) any such changes agreed upon by the Agent and the Borrowers shall (whether or not it is finally determined that a Disruption Event has occurred) be binding upon the Parties as an amendment to (or, as the case may be, waiver of) the terms of the Finance Documents notwithstanding the provisions of Clause 42 ( Amendments and Waivers );

 

(e) the Agent shall not be liable for any damages, costs or losses to any person, any diminution in value or any liability whatsoever (including, without limitation for negligence, gross negligence or any other category of liability whatsoever but not including any claim based on the fraud of the Agent) arising as a result of its taking, or failing to take, any actions pursuant to or in connection with this Clause 36.9; and

 

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(f) the Agent shall notify the Finance Parties of all changes agreed pursuant to paragraph (d) above.

 

37. Set-off

 

A Finance Party may set off any matured obligation due from an Obligor under the Finance Documents (to the extent beneficially owned by that Finance Party) against any matured obligation owed by that Finance Party to that Obligor, regardless of the place of payment, booking branch or currency of either obligation. If the obligations are in different currencies, the Finance Party may convert either obligation at a market rate of exchange in its usual course of business for the purpose of the set-off. For the purpose of this clause the term “Finance Party” includes each of the relevant Finance Party’s holding companies and subsidiaries and each subsidiary of each of the relevant Finance Party’s holding companies (as defined in the Companies Act 2006).

 

38. Notices and publications

 

38.1 Communications in writing

 

Any communication to be made under or in connection with the Finance Documents shall be made in writing and, unless otherwise stated, may be made by fax or letter.

 

38.2 Addresses

 

The address and fax number (and the department or officer, if any, for whose attention the communication is to be made) of each Party for any communication or document to be made or delivered under or in connection with the Finance Documents is:

 

(a) in the case of an Obligor, that identified with its name below;

 

(b) in the case of an Original Lender, that identified with its name below or in the case of each other Lender, that notified in writing to the Agent on or prior to the date on which it becomes a Party; and

 

(c) in the case of the Agent or the Account Bank or a Bank Guarantor or the Security Trustee or the Swap Bank, that identified with its name below,

 

or any substitute address or fax number or department or officer as the Party may notify to the Agent (or the Agent may notify to the other Parties, if a change is made by the Agent) by not less than five Business Days' notice.

 

38.3 Delivery

 

38.3.1 Any communication or document made or delivered by one person to another under or in connection with the Finance Documents will only be effective:

 

(a) if by way of fax, when received in legible form; or

 

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(b) if by way of letter, when it has been left at the relevant address or five Business Days after being deposited in the post postage prepaid in an envelope addressed to it at that address;

 

and if a particular department or officer is specified as part of its address details provided under Clause 38.2 ( Addresses ), if addressed to that department or officer.

 

38.3.2 Any communication or document to be made or delivered to the Agent will be effective only when actually received by the Agent (as applicable) and then only if it is expressly marked for the attention of the department or officer identified with the Agent's signature below (or any substitute department or officer as the Agent shall specify for this purpose).

 

38.3.3 All notices from or to an Obligor shall be sent through the Agent.

 

38.3.4 Any communication or document which becomes effective, in accordance with Clauses 38.3.1 to 38.3.3, after 4.00 p.m. in the place of receipt shall be deemed only to become effective on the following day.

 

38.4 Notification of address and fax number

 

Promptly upon receipt of notification of an address or fax number or change of address or fax number pursuant to Clause 38.2 ( Addresses ) or changing its own address or fax number, the Agent shall notify the other Parties.

 

38.5 Electronic communication

 

38.5.1 Any communication to be made between any two Parties under or in connection with the Finance Documents may be made by electronic mail or other electronic means to the extent that those two Parties agree that, unless and until notified to the contrary, this is to be an accepted form of communication, if those two Parties:

 

(a) notify each other in writing of their electronic mail address and/or any other information required to enable the sending and receipt of information by that means; and

 

(b) notify each other of any change to their address or any other such information supplied by them by not less than five Business Days’ Notice.

 

38.5.2 Any electronic communication made between those two Parties will be effective only when actually received in readable form and in the case of any electronic communication made by a Party only if it is addressed in such a manner as the Agent shall specify for this purpose.

 

38.5.3 Any electronic communication which becomes effective, in accordance with Clause 38.5.2 above, after 4.00 p.m. in the place of receipt shall be deemed only to become effective on the following day.

 

38.6 Use of websites

 

38.6.1 An Obligor may satisfy its obligation under this Agreement to deliver any information in relation to those Lenders ( the " Website Lenders ") who accept this method of communication by posting this information onto an electronic website designated by that Obligor and the Agent (the " Designated Website ") if:

 

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(a) the Agent expressly agrees (after consultation with each of the Lenders) that it will accept communication of the information by this method;

 

(b) both that Obligor and the Agent are aware of the address of and any relevant password specifications for the Designated Website; and

 

(c) the information is in a format previously agreed between that Obligor and the Agent.

 

If any Lender (a " Paper Form Lender ") does not agree to the delivery of information electronically then the Agent shall notify that Obligor accordingly and that Obligor shall supply the information to the Agent (in sufficient copies for each Paper Form Lender) in paper form. In any event that Obligor shall supply the Agent with at least one copy in paper form of any information required to be provided by it.

 

38.6.2 The Agent shall supply each Website Lender with the address of and any relevant password specifications for the Designated Website following designation of that website by an Obligor and the Agent.

 

38.6.3 An Obligor shall promptly upon becoming aware of its occurrence notify the Agent if:

 

(a) the Designated Website cannot be accessed due to technical failure;

 

(b) the password specifications for the Designated Website change;

 

(c) any new information which is required to be provided under this Agreement is posted onto the Designated Website;

 

(d) any existing information which has been provided under this Agreement and posted onto the Designated Website is amended; or

 

(e) that Obligor becomes aware that the Designated Website or any information posted onto the Designated Website is or has been infected by any electronic virus or similar software.

 

If that Obligor notifies the Agent under Clause 38.6.3(a) or Clause 38.6.3(e) above, all information to be provided by that Obligor under this Agreement after the date of that notice shall be supplied in paper form unless and until the Agent and each Website Lender is satisfied that the circumstances giving rise to the notification are no longer continuing.

 

38.6.4 Any Website Lender may request, through the Agent, one paper copy of any information required to be provided under this Agreement which is posted onto the Designated Website. The Borrowers shall comply with any such request within ten Business Days.

 

38.7 English language

 

38.7.1 Any notice given under or in connection with any Finance Document must be in English.

 

38.7.2 All other documents provided under or in connection with any Finance Document must be:

 

(a) in English; or

 

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(b) if not in English, and if so required by the Agent, accompanied by a certified English translation and, in this case, the English translation will prevail unless the document is a constitutional, statutory or other official document.

 

38.8 Publications

 

The Agent, the Mandated Lead Arranger, the ECA Lender and each Bank Guarantor may, each at its own expense, publish information about its participation in and the agency and arrangement of the facilities, and for such purpose may use the Borrowers’ and/or Parent Company’s logo and trademark provided that no details of the terms of the Facility shall be disclosed other than those disclosed by the Parent Company to the Oslo Stock Exchange unless approved in writing by the Parent Company.

 

39. Calculations and certificates

 

39.1 Accounts

 

In any litigation or arbitration proceedings arising out of or in connection with a Finance Document, the entries made in the accounts maintained by a Finance Party are prima facie evidence of the matters to which they relate.

 

39.2 Certificates and Determinations

 

Any certification or determination by a Finance Party of a rate or amount under any Finance Document is, in the absence of manifest error, prima facie evidence of the matters to which it relates.

 

39.3 Day count convention

 

Any interest, commission or fee accruing under a Finance Document will accrue from day to day and is calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed and a year of 360 days or, in any case where the practice in the London Interbank Market differs, in accordance with that market practice.

 

40. Partial invalidity

 

If, at any time, any provision of a Finance Document is or becomes illegal, invalid or unenforceable in any respect under any law of any jurisdiction, neither the legality, validity or enforceability of the remaining provisions nor the legality, validity or enforceability of such provision under the law of any other jurisdiction will in any way be affected or impaired.

 

41. Remedies, waivers and conflicts

 

41.1.1 No failure to exercise, nor any delay in exercising, on the part of any Finance Party, any right or remedy under a Finance Document shall operate as a waiver, of any right or remedy or constitute an election to affirm any Finance Document. No election to affirm any Finance Document on the part of any Finance Party shall be effective unless it is in writing. No single or partial exercise of any right or remedy shall prevent any further or other exercise or the exercise of any other right or remedy. The rights and remedies provided in each Finance Document are cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law.

 

41.1.2 In the event of any conflict between this Agreement and any of the other Finance Documents, the provisions of this Agreement shall prevail.

 

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42. Amendments and waivers

 

42.1 Required consents

 

42.1.1 Subject to Clause 42.2 ( All Lender matters ) any term of the Finance Documents may be amended or waived only with the consent of the Majority Lenders and the Obligors and any such amendment or waiver will be binding on all Parties.

 

42.1.2 The Agent may effect, on behalf of any Finance Party, any amendment or waiver permitted by this Clause.

 

42.1.3 Without prejudice to the generality of Clauses ‎33.8.4 to 33.8.6 ( Rights and discretions ), the Agent may engage, pay for and rely on the services of lawyers in determining the consent level required for and effecting any amendment, waiver or consent under this Agreement.

 

42.2 All Lender Matters

 

42.2.1 An amendment or waiver that has the effect of changing or which relates to:

 

(a) the definition of "Majority Lenders" in Clause 1.1 ( Definitions );

 

(b) an extension of the date of payment of any amount under the Finance Documents;

 

(c) a reduction in the Margin or a reduction in the amount of any payment of principal, interest, fees or commission payable;

 

(d) an increase in any Commitment or the Total Commitments, an extension of any Availability Period or any requirement that a cancellation of Commitment reduces the Commitment of the Lender rateably under the relevant Facility;

 

(e) a change to an Obligor;

 

(f) any provision which expressly requires the consent of all the Lenders;

 

(g) Clause 2.5 ( Finance Parties' rights and obligations ), Clause 30 ( Changes to the Lenders ) or this Clause 42, Clause 46 (Governing law ) or Clause 47.1 ( Jurisdiction );

 

(h) the nature or scope of the Charged Property or the manner in which the proceeds of enforcement of the Transaction Security are distributed; or

 

(i) the release of any Security Document other than, the release of security in respect of the sale of a Vessel in accordance with Clause 23.10 ( Sale or other Disposal );

 

shall not be made or given without the prior consent of all the Commercial Lenders and, in relation to (a) – (g) above, without the consent of all the Lenders (provided that the consent of the ECA Lender shall only be required if such amendment or waiver affects the Eksportkreditt Facility).

 

42.2.2 An amendment or waiver which relates to the rights or obligations of the Account Bank, the Swap Banks, the ECA Lender, the Agent, the Security Trustee, the Mandated Lead Arranger or the Bank Guarantors may not be effected without the consent of the Account Bank, the Swap Banks, the ECA Lender, the Agent, the Security Trustee, the Mandated Lead Arranger or the Bank Guarantors as the case may be.

 

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42.3 Replacement of Lender

 

42.3.1 If at any time any Lender becomes a Non-Consenting Lender (as defined in Clause 42.3.3 below) then the Borrowers may, on 10 Business Days' prior written notice to the Agent and such Lender, replace such Lender by requiring such Lender to (and such Lender shall) transfer pursuant to Clause 30 ( Changes to the Lenders ) all (and not part only) of its rights and obligations under this Agreement to a Lender or other bank, financial institution, trust, fund or other entity (a " Replacement Lender ") selected by the Borrowers, and which is acceptable to the Agent and the Bank Guarantors (acting reasonably) and, which confirms its willingness to assume and does assume all the obligations of the transferring Lender in accordance with Clause 30 ( Changes to the Lenders) for a purchase price in cash payable at the time of transfer equal to the outstanding principal amount of such Lender's participation in the outstanding Utilisations and all accrued interest and/or Break Costs and other amounts payable in relation thereto under the Finance Documents.

 

42.3.2 The replacement of a Lender pursuant to this Clause shall be subject to the following conditions:

 

(a) the Borrowers shall have no right to replace the Agent or the Security Trustee;

 

(b) neither the Agent nor the Lender shall have any obligation to the Borrowers to find a Replacement Lender;

 

(c) in the event of a replacement of a Non-Consenting Lender such replacement must take place no later than 10 Business Days after the date on which that Lender is deemed a Non-Consulting Lender; and

 

(d) in no event shall the Lender replaced under this Clause 42.3.2 be required to pay or surrender to such Replacement Lender any of the fees received by such Lender pursuant to the Finance Documents.

 

(e) Without prejudice to the generality of Clauses 33.8.4 to 33.8.6 ( Rights and discretions of the Agent ), the Agent may engage, pay for and rely on the services of lawyers in determining the consent level required for and effecting any amendment, waiver or consent under this Agreement.

 

(f) Each Obligor agrees to any such amendment or waiver permitted by this Clause ‎42 which is agreed to by the Parent Company. This includes any amendment or waiver which would, but for this paragraph (f), require the consent of all of the Corporate Guarantors.

 

42.3.3 In the event that:

 

(a) the Borrowers or the Agent (at the request of the Borrowers) has requested the Lenders to give a consent in relation to, or to agree to a waiver or amendment of, any provisions of the Finance Documents;

 

(b) the consent, waiver or amendment in question requires the approval of all the Lenders; and

 

(c) the Majority Lenders have consented or agreed to such waiver or amendment, then any Lender who does not and continues not to consent or agree to such waiver or amendment shall be deemed a " Non-Consenting Lender ".

 

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42.4 Disenfranchisement of Defaulting Lenders

 

42.4.1 For so long as a Defaulting Lender has any Available Commitment, in ascertaining the Majority Lenders or whether any given percentage (including, for the avoidance of doubt, unanimity) of the Total Commitments has been obtained to approve any request for a consent, waiver, amendment or other vote under the Finance Documents, that Defaulting Lender's Commitments will be reduced by the amount of its Available Commitments.

 

42.4.2 For the purposes of this Clause 42.4 the Agent may assume that the following Lenders are Defaulting Lenders:

 

(a) any Lender which has notified the Agent that it has become a Defaulting Lender;

 

(b) any Lender in relation to which it is aware that any of the events or circumstances referred to in paragraphs (a), (b) or (c) of the definition of " Defaulting Lender " has occurred,

 

unless it has received notice to the contrary from the Lender concerned (together with any supporting evidence reasonably requested by the Agent) or the Agent is otherwise aware that the Lender has ceased to be a Defaulting Lender.

 

42.5 Replacement of a Defaulting Lender

 

42.5.1 The Borrowers may, at any time a Lender has become and continues to be a Defaulting Lender, by giving five Business Days' prior written notice to the Agent and such Lender replace such Lender by requiring such Lender to (and to the extent permitted by law) such Lender shall) transfer pursuant to Clause 30 ( Changes to the Lenders ) all (and not part only) of its rights and obligations under this Agreement to a Lender or other bank, financial institution, trust, fund or other entity (a " Replacement Lender ") selected by the Borrowers, and which is acceptable to the Agent and the Bank Guarantors (acting reasonably) and which confirms its willingness to assume and does assume all the obligations or all the relevant obligations of the transferring Lender (including the assumption of the transferring Lender's participations or unfunded participations (as the case may be) on the same basis as the transferring Lender) for a purchase price in cash payable at the time of transfer equal to the outstanding principal amount of such Lender's participation in the outstanding Utilisations and all accrued interest and/or Break Costs and other amounts payable in relation thereto under the Finance Documents.

 

42.5.2 Any transfer of rights and obligations of a Defaulting Lender pursuant to this Clause shall be subject to the following conditions:

 

(a) the Borrowers shall have no right to replace the Agent or Security Agent;

 

(b) neither the Agent nor the Defaulting Lender shall have any obligation to the Borrowers to find a Replacement Lender;

 

(c) the transfer must take place no later than five Business Days after the notice referred to in Clause 42.5.1 above;

 

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(d) in no event shall the Defaulting Lender be required to pay or surrender to the Replacement Lender any of the fees received by the Defaulting Lender pursuant to the Finance Documents; and

 

(e) the Defaulting Lender shall only be obliged to transfer its rights and obligations pursuant to paragraph (a) above once it is satisfied that it has complied with all necessary "know your customer" or other similar checks under all applicable laws and regulations in relation to that transfer to the Replacement Lender.

 

42.5.3 The Defaulting Lender shall perform the checks described in Clause 42.5.2(e) above as soon as reasonably practicable following delivery of a notice referred to in Clause 42.5.2 and shall notify the Agent and the Parent when it is satisfied that it has complied with those checks.

 

43. Confidentiality

 

43.1 Confidential Information

 

Each Finance Party agrees to keep all Confidential Information confidential and not to disclose it to anyone, save to the extent permitted by Clause 43.2 (Disclosure of Confidential Information) and to ensure that all Confidential Information is protected with security measures and a degree of care that would apply to its own confidential information.

 

43.2 Disclosure of Confidential Information

 

Any Finance Party may disclose:

 

(a) to any of its Affiliates and Related Funds and any of its or their officers, directors, employees, professional advisers, auditors, partners and Representatives such Confidential Information as that Finance Party shall consider appropriate if any person to whom the Confidential Information is to be given pursuant to this paragraph (a) is informed in writing of its confidential nature and that some or all of such Confidential Information may be price-sensitive information except that there shall be no such requirement to so inform if the recipient is subject to professional obligations to maintain the confidentiality of the information or is otherwise bound by requirements of confidentiality in relation to the Confidential Information;

 

(b) to any person:

 

(i) to (or through) whom it assigns or transfers (or may potentially assign or transfer) all or any of its rights and/or obligations under one or more Finance Documents or which succeeds (or which may potentially succeed) it as Agent or Security Trustee and, in each case, to any of that person's Affiliates, Related Funds, Representatives and professional advisers;

 

(ii) with (or through) whom it enters into (or may potentially enter into), whether directly or indirectly, any sub-participation in relation to, or any other transaction under which payments are to be made or may be made by reference to, one or more Finance Documents and/or one or more Obligors and to any of that person's Affiliates, Related Funds, Representatives and professional advisers;

 

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(iii) appointed by any Finance Party or by a person to whom sub-paragraphs (i) or (ii) of paragraph (b) above applies to receive communications, notices, information or documents delivered pursuant to the Finance Documents on its behalf (including, without limitation, any person appointed under Clause 33.16 (Relationship with the Lenders and Bank Guarantors) );

 

(iv) who invests in or otherwise finances (or may potentially invest in or otherwise finance), directly or indirectly, any transaction referred to in sub-paragraph (i) or (ii) of paragraph (b) above;

 

(v) to whom information is required or requested to be disclosed by any court of competent jurisdiction or any governmental, banking, taxation or other regulatory authority or similar body, the rules of any relevant stock exchange or pursuant to any applicable law or regulation;

 

(vi) to whom information is required to be disclosed in connection with, and for the purposes of, any litigation, arbitrations, administrative or other investigations, proceedings or disputes;

 

(vii) to whom or for whose benefit that Finance Party charges, assigns or otherwise creates Security (or may do so) pursuant to Clause 30.7 (Security over Lenders' rights) ;

 

(viii) who is a Party, a member of the Group or any related entity of an Obligor;

 

(ix) as a result of the registration of any Finance Document as contemplated by any Finance Document or any legal opinion obtained in connection with any Finance Document; or

 

(x) with the consent of the Parent Guarantor;

 

in each case, such Confidential Information as that Finance Party shall consider appropriate if:

 

(A) in relation to sub-paragraphs (i), (ii) and (iii) of paragraph (b) above, the person to whom the Confidential Information is to be given has entered into a Confidentiality Undertaking except that there shall be no requirement for a Confidentiality Undertaking if the recipient is a professional adviser and is subject to professional obligations to maintain the confidentiality of the Confidential Information;

 

(B) in relation to sub-paragraph (iv) of paragraph (b) above, the person to whom the Confidential Information is to be given has entered into a Confidentiality Undertaking or is otherwise bound by requirements of confidentiality in relation to the Confidential Information they receive and is informed that some or all of such Confidential Information may be price-sensitive information;

 

(C) in relation to sub-paragraphs (v), (vi) and (vii) of paragraph (b) above, the person to whom the Confidential Information is to be given is informed of its confidential nature and that some or all of such Confidential Information may be price-sensitive information except that there shall be no requirement to so inform if, in the opinion of that Finance Party, it is not practicable so to do in the circumstances;

 

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(D) to any person appointed by that Finance Party or by a person to whom sub-paragraph (i) or (ii) of paragraph (b) above applies to provide administration or settlement services in respect of one or more of the Finance Documents including without limitation, in relation to the trading of participations in respect of the Finance Documents, such Confidential Information as may be required to be disclosed to enable such service provider to provide any of the services referred to in this paragraph (c) if the service provider to whom the Confidential Information is to be given has entered in to a confidentiality agreement substantially in the form of the LMA Master Confidentiality Undertaking for Use With Administration/Settlement Service Providers or such other form of confidentiality undertaking agreed between the Borrowers and the relevant Finance Party;

 

(E) to any rating agency (including its professional advisers) such Confidential Information as may be required to be disclosed to enable such rating agency to carry out its normal rating activities in relation to the Finance Documents and/or the Obligors if the rating agency to whom the Confidential Information is to be given is informed of its confidential nature and that some or all of such Confidential Information may be price-sensitive information.

 

43.3 Entire agreement

 

This Clause 43 (Confidentiality) constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties in relation to the obligations of the Finance Parties under the Finance Documents regarding Confidential Information and supersedes any previous agreement, whether express or implied, regarding Confidential Information.

 

43.4 Inside information

 

Each of the Finance Parties acknowledges that some or all of the Confidential Information is or may be price-sensitive information and that the use of such information may be regulated or prohibited by applicable legislation including securities law relating to insider dealing and market abuse and each of the Finance Parties undertakes not to use any Confidential Information for any unlawful purpose.

 

43.5 Notification of disclosure

 

Each of the Finance Parties agrees (to the extent permitted by law and regulation) to inform the Borrowers:

 

(a) of the circumstances of any disclosure of Confidential Information made pursuant to sub-paragraph (v) of paragraph (b) of Clause 43.2 (Disclosure of Confidential Information) except where such disclosure is made to any of the persons referred to in that paragraph during the ordinary course of its supervisory or regulatory function; and

 

(b) upon becoming aware that Confidential Information has been disclosed in breach of this Clause 43 (Confidentiality) .

 

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43.6 Continuing obligations

 

The obligations in this Clause 43 (Confidentiality) are continuing and, in particular, shall survive and remain binding on each Finance Party for a period of 12 months from the earlier of:

 

(a) the date on which all amounts payable by the Obligors under or in connection with this Agreement have been paid in full and all Commitments have been cancelled or otherwise cease to be available; and

 

(b) the date on which such Finance Party otherwise ceases to be a Finance Party.

 

44. Counterparts

 

Each Finance Document may be executed in any number of counterparts, and this has the same effect as if the signatures on the counterparts were on a single copy of that Finance Document.

 

45. Joint and Several Liability

 

45.1 Nature of liability

 

The representations, warranties, covenants, obligations and undertakings of the Borrowers contained in this Agreement shall be joint and several so that each Borrower shall be jointly and severally liable with all the Borrowers for all of the same and such liability shall not in any way be discharged, impaired or otherwise affected by:

 

45.1.1 any forbearance (whether as to payment or otherwise) or any time or other indulgence granted to any other Borrower or any other Security Party under or in connection with any Finance Document;

 

45.1.2 any amendment, variation, novation or replacement of any other Finance Document;

 

45.1.3 any failure of any Finance Document to be legal valid binding and enforceable in relation to any other Borrower or any other Security Party for any reason;

 

45.1.4 the winding-up or dissolution of any other Borrower or any other Security Party;

 

45.1.5 the release (whether in whole or in part) of, or the entering into of any compromise or composition with, any other Borrower or any other Security Party; or

 

45.1.6 any other act, omission, thing or circumstance which would or might, but for this provision, operate to discharge, impair or otherwise affect such liability.

 

45.2 No rights as surety

 

Until all amounts outstanding under the Finance Documents have been unconditionally and irrevocably paid and discharged in full, each Borrower agrees that it shall not, by virtue of any payment made under this Agreement on account of any amounts outstanding under the Finance Documents or by virtue of any enforcement by a Finance Party of its rights under this Agreement or by virtue of any relationship between, or transaction involving, the relevant Borrower and any other Borrower or any other Security Party:

 

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45.2.1 exercise any rights of subrogation in relation to any rights, security or moneys held or received or receivable by a Finance Party or any other person; or

 

45.2.2 exercise any right of contribution from any other Borrower or any other Security Party under any Finance Document; or

 

45.2.3 exercise any right of set-off or counterclaim against any other Borrower or any other Security Party; or

 

45.2.4 receive, claim or have the benefit of any payment, distribution, security or indemnity from any other Borrower or any other Security Party; or

 

45.2.5 unless so directed by the Agent (when the relevant Borrower will prove in accordance with such directions), claim as a creditor of any other Borrower or any other Security Party in competition with any Finance Party

 

and each Borrower shall hold in trust for the Finance Parties and forthwith pay or transfer (as appropriate) to the Agent any such payment (including an amount equal to any such set-off), distribution or benefit of such security, indemnity or claim in fact received by it.

 

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SECTION 12
GOVERNING LAW AND ENFORCEMENT

 

46. Governing law

 

This Agreement and any non-contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with this Agreement is/are governed by English law.

 

47. Enforcement

 

47.1 Jurisdiction

 

47.1.1 The courts of England have exclusive jurisdiction to settle any dispute arising out of or in connection with this Agreement (including a dispute regarding the existence, validity or termination of this Agreement or any non-contractual obligation arising out of or in connection with this Agreement) (a " Dispute ").

 

47.1.2 The Parties agree that the courts of England are the most appropriate and convenient courts to settle Disputes and accordingly no Party will argue to the contrary.

 

47.1.3 This Clause 47.1 is for the benefit of the Finance Parties only. As a result, no Finance Party shall be prevented from taking proceedings relating to a Dispute in any other courts with jurisdiction. To the extent allowed by law, the Finance Parties may take concurrent proceedings in any number of jurisdictions.

 

47.2 Service of process

 

47.2.1 Without prejudice to any other mode of service allowed under any relevant law, each Obligor:

 

(a) irrevocably appoints Leif Höegh (UK) Limited of 5 Young Street, London, W8 5EH, United Kingdom as its agent for service of process in relation to any proceedings before the English courts in connection with any Finance Document; and

 

(b) agrees that failure by a process agent to notify the relevant Obligor of the process will not invalidate the proceedings concerned.

 

47.2.2 If any person appointed as agent for service of process is unable for any reason to act as agent for service of process, the relevant Obligor shall immediately appoint another agent on terms acceptable to the Agent, failing this, the Agent may appoint another agent for this purpose.

 

47.3 Contractual recognition of bail-in

 

Notwithstanding any other term of any Finance Document or any other agreement, arrangement or understanding between the Parties, each Party acknowledges and accepts that any liability of any Party to any other Party under or in connection with the Finance Documents may be subject to Bail-In Action by the relevant Resolution Authority and acknowledges and accepts to be bound by the effect of:

 

(a) any Bail-In Action in relation to any such liability, including (without limitation):

 

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(i) a reduction, in full or in part, in the principal amount, or outstanding amount due (including any accrued but unpaid interest) in respect of any such liability;

 

(ii) a conversion of all, or part of, any such liability into shares or other instruments of ownership that may be issued to, or conferred on, it; and

 

(iii) a cancellation of any such liability; and

 

(b) a variation of any term of any Finance Document to the extent necessary to give effect to any Bail-In Action in relation to any such liability.

 

Definitions for LMA Bail-In Clause

 

" Bail-In Action " means the exercise of any Write-down and Conversion Powers.

 

" Bail-In Legislation " means:

 

(a) in relation to an EEA Member Country which has implemented, or which at any time implements, Article 55 of Directive 2014/59/EU establishing a framework for the recovery and resolution of credit institutions and investment firms, the relevant implementing law or regulation as described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule from time to time ; and

 

(b) in relation to any other state, any analogous law or regulation from time to time which requires contractual recognition of any Write-down and Conversion Powers contained in that law or regulation.

 

" EEA Member Country " means any member state of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.

 

" EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule " means the document described as such and published by the Loan Market Association (or any successor person) from time to time.

 

" Resolution Authority " means any body which has authority to exercise any Write-down and Conversion Powers.

 

" Write-down and Conversion Powers " means:

 

(a) in relation to any Bail-In Legislation described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule from time to time, the powers described as such in relation to that Bail-In Legislation in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule; and

 

(b) in relation to any other applicable Bail-In Legislation:

 

(i) any powers under that Bail-In Legislation to cancel, transfer or dilute shares issued by a person that is a bank or investment firm or other financial institution or affiliate of a bank, investment firm or other financial institution, to cancel, reduce, modify or change the form of a liability of such a person or any contract or instrument under which that liability arises, to convert all or part of that liability into shares, securities or obligations of that person or any other person, to provide that any such contract or instrument is to have effect as if a right had been exercised under it or to suspend any obligation in respect of that liability or any of the powers under that Bail-In Legislation that are related to or ancillary to any of those powers; and

 

(ii) any similar or analogous powers under that Bail-In Legislation.

 

This Agreement has been entered into on the date stated at the beginning of this Agreement.

 

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SCHEDULE 1

 

Part I
The Original Lenders

 

Commercial Facility

 

NAME OF ORIGINAL
LENDER
 

COMMERCIAL
FACILITY VESSEL 1
TRANCHE
COMMITMENT

(US$)

    COMMERCIAL
FACILITY VESSEL 2
TRANCHE
COMMITMENT
(US$)
   

COMMERCIAL
FACILITY VESSEL 1
MODIFICATION
TRANCHE

COMMITMENT
(US$)

 
ABN Amro Bank N.V., Oslo Branch     22,285,714.32       23,428,571.44       1,714,285.74  
Citibank NA, London Branch     22,285,714.28       23,428,571.43       1,714,285.71  
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank     22,285,714.28       23,428,571.43       1,714,285.71  
Danske Bank, Norwegian Branch     22,285,714.28       23,428,571.43       1,714,285.71  
DNB Bank ASA     22,285,714.28       23,428,571.43       1,714,285.71  
Nordea Bank Norge ASA     22,285,714.28       23,428,571.43       1,714,285.71  
Swedbank AB (publ)     22,285,714.28       23,428,571.43       1,714,285.71  
TOTAL     156,000,000.00       164,000,000.00       12,000,000.00  

 

Eksportkreditt Facility

 

 

NAME OF ORIGINAL
LENDER
 

VESSEL 1 TRANCHE
COMMITMENT

(US$)

   

VESSEL 2 TRANCHE
COMMITMENT

(US$)

 
Eksportkreditt Norge ASA     44,000,000.00       36,000,000.00  

 

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Part II – Bank Guarantors

 

NAME OF BANK
GUARANTOR
 

BANK GUARANTEE VESSEL
1 FACILITY COMMITMENT

(US$)

   

BANK GUARANTEE VESSEL
2 FACILITY COMMITMENT

(US$)

 
ABN Amro Bank N.V., Oslo Branch     6,285,714.32       5,142,857.16  
Citibank NA, London Branch     6,285,714.28       5,142,857.14  
Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank     6,285,714.28       5,142,857.14  
Danske Bank, Norwegian Branch     6,285,714.28       5,142,857.14  
DNB Bank ASA     6,285,714.28       5,142,857.14  
Nordea Bank Finland Plc     6,285,714.28       5,142,857.14  
Swedbank AB (publ)     6,285,714.28       5,142,857.14  
TOTAL     44,000,000.00       36,000,000.00  

 

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SCHEDULE 2
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT

 

Part I – Conditions to Signing

 

1. The Obligors

 

(a) A Certified Copy of the constitutional documents of each Obligor (attached to a notarised Officer’s Certificate of each Obligor).

 

(b) A Certified Copy of a resolution of the board of directors of each Obligor (attached to a notarised Officer’s Certificate of each Obligor):

 

(i) approving the terms of, and the transactions contemplated by, the Finance Documents to which it is a party and resolving that it execute the Finance Documents to which it is a party;

 

(ii) authorising a specified person or persons to execute the Finance Documents to which it is a party on its behalf; and

 

(iii) authorising a specified person or persons, on its behalf, to sign and/or despatch all documents and notices (including, if relevant, any Utilisation Request and Selection Notice) to be signed and/or despatched by it under or in connection with the Finance Documents to which it is a party.

 

(c) A certificate of each Obligor (signed by a director or officer) confirming that borrowing or guaranteeing, as appropriate, the Total Commitments would not cause any borrowing, guaranteeing or similar limit binding on that Obligor to be exceeded.

 

2. Further documents and evidence

 

(a) Evidence that any process agent referred to in Clause 47.2 ( Service of process ), has accepted its appointment.

 

(b) A Certified Copy of any other Authorisation or other document, opinion or assurance which the Agent considers to be necessary or desirable (if it has notified the Borrowers accordingly) in connection with the entry into and performance of the transactions contemplated by any Transaction Document or for the validity and enforceability of any Transaction Document.

 

(c) A Certified Copy of each of the Original Financial Statements;

 

(d) All documents as may be required by the Agent and the Lenders to comply with ‘know your customer’ or similar identification procedures in relation to the Obligors;

 

(e) Evidence that the fees, costs and expenses then due from the Borrowers pursuant to Clause 12 ( Fees ) and Clause 17 ( Costs and expenses ) have been paid or will be paid by the first Utilisation Date.

 

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(f) A Certified Copy of each Building Contract, in addition to Certified Copies of all invoices received thereunder.

 

3. Legal opinions

 

An English legal opinion from Ince & Co LLP, addressed to the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Agent and the Original Lenders.

 

4. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

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Part II – Conditions to Closing and Delivery of Utilisation Request

 

1. Documents and evidence

 

(a) A Certified Copy of any other Authorisation or other document, opinion or assurance which the Agent considers to be necessary or desirable (if it has notified the Borrowers accordingly) in connection with the entry into and performance of the transactions contemplated by any Transaction Document or for the validity and enforceability of any Transaction Document.

 

(b) If any withholding Tax is payable in relation to the Finance Documents, evidence that such Tax has been or will be paid by its due date.

 

(c) The original letters authenticating the Refund Guarantees sent by Swift message by the Refund Guarantors with enclosed Refund Guarantees issued by the Refund Guarantors and a confirmation (by Swift message or original letter) from the Refund Guarantor confirming that the Refund Guarantee has been assigned to the Security Trustee on behalf of the Lenders pursuant to the Pre-delivery Security Assignment.

 

(d) If required by the Lenders, environmental due diligence reports in form and substance acceptable to the Agent.

 

(e) Evidence that the Accounts have been established and duly completed mandate forms in respect thereof have been delivered to the Account Bank.

 

(f) A Compliance Certificate (confirming compliance only with Clause 20.2.1).

 

(g) The original of the Disclosure Letter.

 

2. Finance Documents

 

Duly executed originals of the following documents with respect to the relevant Borrower:

 

(a) this Agreement;

 

(b) the Account Security Deeds;

 

(c) each Pre-Delivery Security Assignment (and the notices and acknowledgements to be executed thereunder in accordance with its terms);

 

(d) the Borrower Shares Security Deeds;

 

(e) any Swap Contract and any Swap Contract Assignment (and the notices and acknowledgements to be executed thereunder in accordance with its terms); and

 

(f) the Trust Agreement.

 

3. Legal opinions

 

(a) An English legal opinion from Ince & Co LLP, addressed to the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Agent and the Original Lenders.

 

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(b) A Bermuda legal opinion from MJM Limited, addressed to the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Agent and the Original Lenders.

 

(c) Such other legal opinions as the Agent may reasonably require in relation to any other Finance Document.

 

4. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

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Part III – Conditions to each Pre-Delivery Loan

 

1. Invoices

 

A copy of the invoices received from the Builder under the relevant Building Contract.

 

2. Evidence of payments

 

2.1 Evidence acceptable to the Agent that all preceding contract instalments for the relevant Vessel which have become due for payment have been paid in full and such payments constitute at least 35 per cent. of the Delivered Cost.

 

2.2 Evidence acceptable to the Agent that any existing Financial Indebtedness related to the relevant Vessel (other than subordinated shareholder loans acceptable to the Lenders and/or Financial Indebtedness permitted in accordance with Clause 27.13.2) has been repaid in full and all related security has been discharged.

 

3. Borrower's Certificate

 

A certificate from the relevant Borrower to the Agent confirming that:

 

(a) the Builder does not have any outstanding claims against the relevant Borrower or any other Security Party; and

 

(b) there have been no material amendments or variations agreed to the Building Contract or relevant Refund Guarantee that have not been agreed by the Agent and that no action has been taken by either the Builder, the Refund Guarantor or that Borrower which might in any way render the Building Contract or the Refund Guarantee inoperative or unenforceable, in whole or in any part; and

 

(c) there is no Security (except for Permitted Security) of any kind created or permitted by any person on or relating to the Building Contract or the Refund Guarantee or in relation to the relevant Vessel.

 

4. Project Costs

 

4.1 A statement from the Parent Company confirming the amount of the current Project Costs together with each cost incorporated therein.

 

4.2 Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

  138  
 

 

Part IV – Conditions to Delivery Loan

 

1. Invoice and Delivered Cost Schedule

 

A Certified Copy of the Builder’s final invoice for the relevant Vessel and a schedule of the Delivered Cost as at the Delivery Date in form acceptable to the Agent.

 

2. Evidence of payments

 

Evidence acceptable to the Agent that:

 

(a) all preceding contract instalments for the relevant Vessel which have become due for payment have been paid in full;

 

(b) the part of the relevant delivery contract instalment payable to the Builder which is not being funded by the proposed Loan has been deposited with the Agent with instructions for onward payment to the Builder;

 

(c) the aggregate amount of the payments made by the relevant Borrower to the Builder in respect of the Contract Price of the relevant Vessel and the payment made to the Agent referred to in (b) above, is equal to at least 35 per cent. of the Delivered Cost.

 

3. Title Documents

 

A Certified Copy of the Builder’s certificate issued to the Original Shareholder and Certified Copies of the memorandum of agreement and bill of sale evidencing transfer of title to the relevant Borrower.

 

4. Finance Documents

 

Duly executed originals of the following with respect to the relevant Borrower:

(a) the Mortgage;

 

(b) the Deed of Covenant and/or General Assignment (as applicable) (and the notices and acknowledgements to be executed thereunder in accordance with its terms); and

 

(c) the Management Agreement Assignment (and the notices and acknowledgements to be executed thereunder in accordance with its terms).

 

5. Evidence that :

 

(a) the relevant Vessel is, or immediately following the Utilisation will be, registered in the name of the relevant Borrower under an Approved Flag;

 

(b) the relevant Vessel is, or immediately following the Utilisation will be, in the absolute and unencumbered ownership of the relevant Borrower save for Permitted Security;

 

(c) the Mortgage is, or immediately following the Utilisation will be, registered in favour of the Security Trustee with first ranking priority under an Approved Flag;

 

(d) the relevant Vessel is, or immediately following the Utilisation will be, insured in accordance with the covenants given under this Agreement;

 

(e) the relevant Vessel maintains the Classification with the Classification Society free of all overdue recommendations and conditions.

 

  139  
 

 

6. The Agent shall have received the search results of the registry of the Approved Flag with respect to the relevant Vessel and such results shall be acceptable to the Lenders.

 

7. Evidence acceptable to the Agent that the Manager and/or Operator and the relevant Vessel are in compliance with the ISM Code and the ISPS Code, by providing up-to-date copies of:

 

(a) The document of compliance (“ DOC ”) for the Manager and/or Operator;

 

(b) The safety management certificate (“ SMC ”) for the relevant Vessel; and

 

(c) The international ship security certificate (“ ISSC ”) for the relevant Vessel; and

 

8. Evidence acceptable to the Agent that the relevant Vessel is certificated in accordance with the requirements of the Maritime Labour Convention 2006.

 

9. A Compliance Certificate (confirming compliance only with Clause 20.2.1 and the Security Maintenance Ratio, along which appraisal reports dated not more than 30 days previously, in form and substance acceptable to the Agent, and from two Approved Brokers appointed by the Original Shareholder, stating the current Market Value of the relevant Vessel).

 

10. A certificate from the ECA Lender evidencing compliance with Clause 4.2.1(d).

 

11. A favourable opinion from an independent insurance consultant appointed by the Agent on such matters relating to the insurances for the relevant Vessel as the Agent may require, including an opinion that the MII and MAP cover complies with the requirements of Clause 24.10 ( Mortgagee’s interest insurance ).

 

12. Favourable legal opinions from lawyers appointed by the Agent on such matters concerning the laws of the jurisdiction of the Approved Flag and such other relevant jurisdictions as the Agent may require.

 

13. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

  140  
 

 

Part V – Conditions to Time Charter Vessel 2

 

1. D ocuments and evidence

 

(a) A Certified Copy of any other Authorisation or other document, opinion or assurance which the Agent considers to be necessary or desirable (if it has notified the Borrowers accordingly) in connection with the entry into and performance of the transactions contemplated by the ILA, OSA and ILA Securities or for the validity and enforceability of the ILA, OSA and ILA Securities.

 

(b) If any withholding Tax is payable in relation to the Finance Documents, evidence that such Tax has been or will be paid by its due date.

 

(c) Evidence that the OSA Earnings Account has been established .

 

(d) A Compliance Certificate (confirming compliance only with Clause 20.2.1).

 

2. Finance Documents

 

Duly executed originals of the following documents:

 

(a) the OSA Account Security Deed;

 

(b) the Time Charter Assignment;

 

(c) the ILA Securities Assignment;

 

(d) the OSA Assignment;

 

(e) the HCOL Share Pledge;

 

(f) the General Assignment by HCOL;

 

(g) the Management Agreement Assignment by HCOL; and

 

(h) an Accession Deed of HCOL to the Trust Agreement.

 

3. Legal opinions

 

(a) An English legal opinion from Ince & Co LLP, addressed to the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Agent and the Original Lenders;

 

(b) A Cayman Island legal opinion from Cayman Island counsel to the Agent, addressed to the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Agent and the Original Lenders; and

 

(c) A Colombian legal opinion from Parra Rodriguez Abogados, addressed to the Mandated Lead Arranger, the Agent and the Original Lenders.

 

4. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

  141  
 

 

Part VI – Conditions to Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification/Modification Loan

 

Part A

 

In respect of the Vessel 1 Modification:

 

1. a Certified Copy of the agreement with the Builder (the “Modification Agreement”) for the Vessel 1 Modification, the terms of which shall be reasonably satisfactory to the Agent, no later than 30 Business Days prior to the commencement of the Vessel 1 Modification;

 

2. evidence acceptable to the Agent that the registration of Vessel 1 and the Mortgage with respect to Vessel 1 will not be affected by the Vessel 1 Modification, by providing an up-to-date copy of the Certificate of Ownership and Encumbrance for Vessel 1;

 

3. evidence acceptable to the Agent that Vessel 1 will be insured for the relevant marine risks (including builder’s risks) and otherwise in accordance with the covenants given under the Facility Agreement during the period of the Vessel 1 Modification;

 

4. confirmation from the insurers that the existing letters of undertaking will continue to be valid and effective;

 

5. if required by the Agent, a favourable opinion from an independent insurance consultant appointed by the Agent on such matters relating to the insurances for Vessel 1 as the Agent may require; and

 

6. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

Part B

 

In respect of the Vessel 1 Modification Loan:

 

1. evidence acceptable to the Agent that the Vessel 1 Modification has been completed pursuant to and in accordance with the Modification Agreement substantially as presented to the Agent prior to the commencement of the Vessel 1 Modification and without any material alteration or changes, save as agreed by the Majority Lenders;

 

2. evidence acceptable to the Agent that the payment of the equity instalment to the builder pursuant to the Modification Agreement has, or will be paid in full to the builder prior to the drawing of the Vessel 1 Modification Loan;

 

3. a Certified Copy of the Builder’s final invoice for the Vessel 1 Modification;

 

4. evidence acceptable to the Agent that Vessel 1 is insured for the relevant marine risks in order to operate in accordance with the covenants given under the Facility Agreement;

 

5. confirmation from the insurers that the existing letter of undertaking will continue to be valid and effective;

 

6. if required by the Agent, a favourable opinion from an independence insurance consultant appointed by the Agent on such matters relating to the insurances for Vessel 1 as the Agent may require;

 

7. evidence acceptable to the Agent that Vessel 1 maintains the highest class with the Classification Society free from all recommendations and conditions;

 

  142  
 

 

8. evidence acceptable to the Agent that Vessel 1 is adequately flagged with an Approved Flag and that the Mortgage does not require any amendments following the Vessel 1 Modification.

 

9. evidence acceptable to the Agent the Vessel 1 is free of any liens or encumbrances relating to the Vessel 1 Modification, save for any Permitted Liens;

 

10. evidence acceptable to the Agent that the Manager and/or Operator and Vessel 1 are in compliance with the ISM Code and the ISPS Code, by provided up-to-date copies of:

 

(a) The document of compliance (“ DOC ”) for the Manager and/or Operator;

 

(b) The safety management certificate (“ SMC ”) for Vessel 1; and

 

(c) The international ship security certificate (“ ISSC ”) for Vessel 1; and

 

10. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

  143  
 

 

Part VII – Conditions to Höegh MLP Effective Date

 

1. The Agent and the Lenders shall have received such documentation and information as is reasonably requested to evidence the Höegh MLP structure, including copies of the structure chart, documentation of ownership, and all relevant corporate and constitutional documents.

 

2. Evidence that the Höegh MLP IPO has been effected and that all conditions precedent to the effectiveness of the IPO have been satisfied or permanently waived and that the Höegh MLP IPO has been effected in accordance with the documentation and all applicable laws.

 

3. Evidence acceptable to the Agent that the legal and beneficial ownership of the relevant Borrower has been transferred from the Parent Company to Höegh MLP or its wholly owned direct subsidiary, including (if requested) copies of any purchase agreements or other documents evidencing such transaction.

 

4. The Agent shall receive a duly completed Höegh MLP Effective Date notice in a form and substance satisfactory to the Lenders with respect to the relevant Borrower.

 

5. Höegh MLP shall have acceded to this Agreement as Additional Corporate Guarantor and to the Trust Agreement as an Obligor, and the Shareholder of the Borrower or FSRU III (if relevant) directly or indirectly owned by Höegh MLP on such Höegh MLP Effective Date shall have executed a Borrower Shares Security Deed in respect of the shares in such Borrower or FSRU III (if relevant).

 

6. The Shareholder of each Quotaholder (if relevant) directly or indirectly owned by Höegh MLP on such Höegh MLP Effective Date shall have executed a Quotaholder Share Pledge in respect of the shares in such Quotaholder (if relevant).

 

7. Evidence that the fees, costs and expenses then due from the Borrowers pursuant to Clause 12 ( Fees ) and Clause 17 ( Costs and expenses ) have been paid or will be paid by the Höegh MLP Effective Date.

 

8. Favourable legal opinions from lawyers appointed by the Agent on such matters concerning the laws of the jurisdiction of incorporation of Höegh MLP and such other relevant jurisdictions as the Agent may require.

 

9. Such other documents and evidence in relation to such conditions as reasonably may be required by the Agent.

 

  144  
 

 

SCHEDULE 3
REQUESTS

 

Part I
Utilisation Request

 

From: HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED
HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD.

 

To: Nordea Bank Norge ASA

 

Dated: [ l ] 2016

 

Dear Sirs

 

US$412,000,000 Facilities Agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the “Agreement”)

 

1. We refer to the Agreement. This is a Utilisation Request. Terms defined in the Agreement have the same meaning in this Utilisation Request unless given a different meaning in this Utilisation Request.

 

2. We wish to borrow a [Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche/Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche/ Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche/Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche/ Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche] Loan on the following terms:

 

Proposed Utilisation Date: [●] (or, if that is not a Business Day, the next Business Day);
   
Amount: [●];
   
Interest Period: [●] months.

 

3. [We wish to request a Bank Guarantee to be issued by the Bank Guarantors in favour of the ECA Lender in an aggregate amount equal to the [Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche Loan] / [Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan] requested above on the same Utilisation Date.]

 

4. We confirm that each condition specified in Clause 4.2 ( Further conditions precedent ) is satisfied on the date of this Utilisation Request.

 

5. The proceeds of this [Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche/Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche/ Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche/Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche Loan/Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Modification Tranche] Loan should be credited to [●]

 

6. This Utilisation Request is irrevocable.

 

Yours faithfully

 

…………………………………

 

authorised signatory for
[ l ] [ l ]

 

  145  
 

 

Part II
Selection Notice

 

From: HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED
HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD.

 

To: Nordea Bank Norge ASA

 

Dated: [ l ] 2016

 

Dear Sirs

 

US$412,000,000 Facilities Agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the “Agreement”)

 

1. We refer to the Agreement. This is a Selection Notice. Terms defined in the Agreement have the same meaning in this Selection Notice unless given a different meaning in this Selection Notice.

 

2. We request that the next Interest Period for the [Commercial Facility Vessel 1 Tranche/Commercial Facility Vessel 2 Tranche/ Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 1 Tranche/ Eksportkreditt Facility Vessel 2 Tranche /Vessel 1 Modification Facility] Loan outstanding under the Agreement is [●] months.

 

3. This Selection Notice is irrevocable.

 

Yours faithfully

 

.....................................

 

authorised signatory for
HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED
HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD.

 

  146  
 

 

SCHEDULE 4
VESSELS

 

 

  Hull Number   Borrower  

Flag 

VESSEL 1   HHI 2550   HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED   Norwegian International Register
VESSEL 2   HHI 2551   HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD.   Marshall Islands Register

 

  147  
 

 

SCHEDULE 5
FORM OF TRANSFER CERTIFICATE

 

To: [●] as Agent

 

From: [ The Existing Lender/Bank Guarantor/Swap Bank ] (the “ Existing Finance Party ”) and [ The New Lender/Bank Guarantor/Swap Bank ] (the “ New Finance Party ”)

 

Dated:

 

US$412,000,000 Facilities Agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the “Facilities Agreement”)

 

1. We refer to the Facilities Agreement. This is a Transfer Certificate. Terms defined in the Facility Agreement have the same meaning in this Transfer Certificate unless given a different meaning in this Transfer Certificate.

 

2. We refer to Clause 30.5 (Procedure for transfer):

 

(a) The Existing Finance Party and the New Finance Party agree to the Existing Finance Party transferring to the New Finance Party by novation and in accordance with Clause 30.5 ( Procedure for transfer ) all or part of the Existing Finance Party’s [Commitment], rights and obligations referred to in the Schedule, all of the Existing Finance Party’s rights and obligations under the Facilities Agreement and the other Finance Documents [which relate to that portion of the Existing Finance Party’s Commitments(s) and participations in Utilisations under the Facilities Agreement as specified in the Schedule].

 

(b) The proposed Transfer Date is [ l ].

 

(c) The Facility Office and address, fax number and attention details for notices of the New Finance Party for the purposes of Clause 38.2 ( Addresses ) are set out in the Schedule.

 

3. The New Finance Party expressly acknowledges the limitations on the Existing Lender’s obligations set out in of Clause 30.4 ( Limitation of responsibility of Existing Finance Parties ).

 

4. The New Finance Party confirms for the benefit of the Agent and without liability to any Obligor that it is a Treaty Lender.]

 

5. This Transfer Certificate may be executed in any number of counterparts and this has the same effect as if the signatures on the counterparts were on a single copy of this Transfer Certificate.

 

6. [The New Finance Party confirms that it [is]/[is not] *** a Sponsor Affiliate].

 

7. This Transfer Certificate (and any non-contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with that) shall be governed by English law.

 

 

*** Delete as applicable.

 

  148  
 

 

THE SCHEDULE

 

Commitment/rights and obligations to be transferred

 

[insert relevant details]

 

[Facility Office address, fax number and attention details for notices and account details for payments,]

 

[Existing Finance Party]   [New Finance Party]
     
By:   By:
     
This Transfer Certificate is accepted by the Agent and the Transfer Date is confirmed as [     ].
     
[Agent]    
     
By:    

 

NOTE: The execution of this Transfer Certificate may not transfer a proportionate share of the Existing Finance Party’s interest in the Transaction Security in all jurisdictions. It is the responsibility of the New Finance Party to ascertain whether any documents or other formalities are required to perfect a transfer of such a share in the Existing Finance Party’s Transaction Security in any jurisdiction, and, if so, to arrange for execution of those documents and completion of those formalities.

 

  149  
 

 

SCHEDULE 6
TIMETABLES

 

Unless otherwise set forth herein, times refer to Oslo time

 

Delivery of a duly completed Utilisation Request (Clause 5.1 (Delivery of a Utilisation Request)) or a Selection Notice (Clause 10.1 (Selection of Interest

Periods))

 

U – 3

9.30 am

     

Agent notifies the Lenders of the Loan in accordance with Clause 5.4 ( Lenders’ participation)

 

U – 3

3 pm

     
Agent notifies the Bank Guarantors in accordance with Clause 5.5 (Bank Guarantors’ Participation)  

U – 3

3 pm

     
LIBOR is fixed   Quotation Day as of 11:00 a.m. London time

 

“U” equals date of Utilisation

“U – X” equals X Business Days prior to the date of Utilisation

 

  150  
 

 

SCHEDULE 7
FORM OF COMPLIANCE CERTIFICATES

 

To: Nordea Bank Norge ASA

Essendrops gate 7

P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum

NO-0107 Oslo

Norway

 

From: [ Höegh LNG AS]/[Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.]

 

DIRECTOR’S CERTIFICATE

 

This Certificate is rendered pursuant to Clause 20.2 of the facilities agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the “ Facilities Agreement ”) made between Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd. as Borrowers, Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. as Corporate Guarantors, Nordea Bank Norge ASA as Agent, Account Bank and Security Trustee and the financial institutions defined therein as Lenders, Swap Banks and Bank Guarantors. Words and expressions defined in the Facility Agreement shall have the same meanings when used herein

 

I, [●], the [Chief Executive Officer][Chief Financial Officer] of [Höegh LNG AS]/[Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.] hereby certify that:

 

1. Attached to this Certificate [are][is] the latest [audited consolidated accounts of the Parent Company for the financial year ending on [ · ]] [audited consolidated accounts of the Parent Company in relation to the [first] [second] six months of the financial year ending on [ · ]] (the "Accounts").

 

2. Set out below are the respective amounts, in US Dollars, of the Available Drawings, Book Equity, Free Liquid Assets and Total Assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) as at [ · ]:

 

  US Dollars
   
Available Drawings [ · ]
   
Book Equity [●]
   
Free Liquid Assets [ · ]
   
Total Assets [●]
   
Total Funded Indebtedness [●]

 

3. Set out below are the respective amounts, in US Dollars, of the Current Assets, Current Liabilities, Debt Service and EBITDA of [each Borrower][name of Borrower owned by Parent Company] as at [ · ]:

 

  151  
 

 

  US Dollars
   
Current Assets [●]
   
Current Liabilities [●]
   
Debt Service [●]
   
EBITDA [●]

 

4. Accordingly, as at the date of this Certificate the financial covenants set out in Clause 22.2 of the Facilities Agreement [are] [are not] complied with, in that as at [ · ]:

 

Parent Company:

 

(a) Book Equity [does]/[does not] exceed the higher (i) US$200,000,000 and (ii) 25 per cent. of the Total Assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis);

 

(b) Free Liquid Assets of the Parent Company and its Subsidiaries (on a consolidated basis) (excluding payments received under the Höegh MLP Demand Note) is [ l ] and [does]/[does not] exceed the higher of:

 

(i) US$20,000,000; and

 

(ii) 5 per cent. of Total Funded Indebtedness (excluding loans borrowed under the Höegh MLP Demand Note); and

 

(iii) any amount specified to be a minimum liquidity requirement under any legal obligation entered into by the Parent Company

 

[Borrower]:

 

Current Assets [exceed]/[do not exceed] Current Liabilities; and

 

The ratio of EBITDA to Debt Service is [●].]

 

5. As at [ · ] no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.

 

[ or, specify/identify any Event of Default ]

 

6. The Market Value of each Vessel determined in accordance with Clause 26.2 ( Valuation of Vessels ) by valuations dated [●] and[●] is US$[●] (Vessel 1) and US$[ l ] (Vessel 2). Each valuation is attached hereto as Schedule 1.

 

7. The aggregate amount of the Loans is US$[●].

 

8. Accordingly, as at the date of this Certificate the Security Maintenance Ratio set out in Clause 26.1 of the Facilities Agreement is [ l ] and [is]/[is not] complied with as the Market Value of the Vessels [plus the Market Value of [●]] [is]/[is not] below 125 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the Loans.

 

  152  
 

 

…………………………………

 

Chief Executive Officer/Chief Financial Officer
[HÖEGH LNG AS]/[HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.]

 

Notes:

 

1. In accordance with Clause 20.2 ( Compliance Certificate ), a Compliance Certificate provided prior to or on the Delivery Date will not include Current Assets, Current Liabilities and Debt Service in 3 above and will not include computations for 4(a),(b), 6, 7 and 8 above.

 

  153  
 

 

To: Nordea Bank Norge ASA

Essendrops gate 7

P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum

NO-0107 Oslo

Norway

 

From: Höegh MLP

 

DIRECTOR’S CERTIFICATE

 

This Certificate is rendered pursuant to Clause 20.2 of the facilities agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the “ Facilities Agreement ”) made between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd. as Borrowers, Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd. as Corporate Guarantors, Nordea Bank Norge ASA as Agent, Account Bank and Security Trustee and the financial institutions defined therein as Lenders, Swap Banks and Bank Guarantors. Words and expressions defined in the Facility Agreement shall have the same meanings when used herein.

 

I, [●], the Chief Financial Officer of Höegh MLP hereby certify that:

 

1. Attached to this Certificate [are][is] the latest audited accounts of Höegh MLP for the financial year ending on [ · ]] [audited accounts of Höegh MLP in relation to the [first] [second] six months of the financial year ending on [ · ]] (the "Accounts").

 

2. Set out below are the respective amounts, in US Dollars, of the Available Drawings, Book Equity, Debt Service, Free Liquid Assets and Total Assets of the Höegh MLP Group as at [ · ]:

 

  US Dollars
   
Available Drawings [ · ]
   
Book Equity [●]
   
Free Liquid Assets [ · ]
   
Total Assets [●]
   
Total Funded Indebtedness [●]

 

3. Set out below are the respective amounts, in US Dollars, of the Current Assets, Current Liabilities, Debt Service and EBITDA of [each Borrower][name of Borrower owned by Höegh MLP] as at [ · ]:

 

  US Dollars
   
Current Assets [●]
   
Current Liabilities [●]
   
Debt Service [●]
   
EBITDA [●]

 

  154  
 

 

4. Accordingly, as at the date of this Certificate the financial covenants set out in Clause 22.2 of the Facilities Agreement [are] [are not] complied with, in that as at [ · ]:

 

Höegh MLP:

 

(a) Book Equity of the Höegh MLP Group [does]/[does not] exceed the higher (i) US$150,000,000 and (ii) 25 per cent. of the Total Assets of the Höegh MLP Group; and

 

(b) Free Liquid Assets of the Höegh MLP Group equal or exceed the higher of:

 

(i) US$15,000,000; and

 

(ii) the product of US$3,000,000 and the number of vessels owned or leased by Höegh MLP.

 

[Borrower]:

 

Current Assets [exceed]/[do not exceed] Current Liabilities; and

 

The ratio of EBITDA to Debt Service is [●].]

 

5. As at [ · ] no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing.

 

[ or, specify/identify any Event of Default ]

 

6. The Market Value of each Dropdown Vessel determined in accordance with Clause 26.2 ( Valuation of Vessels ) by valuations dated [●] and[●] is US$[●] (Vessel 1) and US$[ l ] (Vessel 2). Each valuation is attached hereto as Schedule 1.

 

7. The aggregate amount of the Loans is US$[●].

 

8. Accordingly, as at the date of this Certificate the Security Maintenance Ratio set out in Clause 26.1 of the Facilities Agreement is [ l ] and [is]/[is not] complied with as the Market Value of the Vessels [plus the Market Value of [●]] [is]/[is not] below 125 per cent. of the aggregate amount of the Loans.

 

…………………………………

 

Chief Financial Officer
HÖEGH MLP

 

  155  
 

 

SCHEDULE 8
FORM OF INCREASE CONFIRMATION

 

To: [   ] as Agent, [          ] as Security Trustee, [                      ] as Borrowers

 

From: [the Increase Lender ] (the " Increase Lender ")

 

Dated:

 

US$412,000,000 Facilities Agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the "Facilities Agreement")

 

We refer to the Facilities Agreement. This agreement (the " Agreement ") shall take effect as an Increase Confirmation for the purpose of the Facilities Agreement. Terms defined in the Facilities Agreement have the same meaning in this Agreement unless given a different meaning in this Agreement.

 

We refer to Clause 2.6 ( Increase ) of the Facilities Agreement.

 

The Increase Lender agrees to assume and will assume all of the obligations corresponding to the Commitment specified in the Schedule (the " Relevant Commitment ") as if it was an Original Lender under the Facilities Agreement.

 

The proposed date on which the increase in relation to the Increase Lender and the Relevant Commitment is to take effect (the " Increase Date ") is [●].

 

On the Increase Date, the Increase Lender becomes party to the relevant Finance Documents as a Lender; and

 

The Facility Office and address, fax number and attention details for notices to the Increase Lender for the purposes of Clause 38.2 ( Addresses ) are set out in the Schedule.

 

The Increase Lender expressly acknowledges the limitations on the Lenders' obligations referred to in Clause 2.6.6.

 

The New Lender confirms that it [is]/[is not] *** a Sponsor Affiliate.

 

This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts and this has the same effect as if the signatures on the counterparts were on a single copy of this Agreement.

 

This Agreement and any non-contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with it is/are governed by English law.

 

This Agreement has been entered into on the date stated at the beginning of this Agreement.

 

 

*** Delete as applicable.

 

  156  
 

 

THE SCHEDULE

 

Relevant Commitment/rights and obligations to be assumed by the Increase Lender

 

[ insert relevant details ]

[ Facility office address, fax number and attention details for notices and account details for payments ]

 

[Increase Lender]
By:

 

This Agreement is accepted as an Increase Confirmation for the purposes of the Facilities Agreement by the Agent and the Increase Date is confirmed as [     ].

 

Agent
By:

 

  157  
 

 

SCHEDULE 9
FORM OF HÖEGH MLP ACCESSION DEED

 

To: Nordea Bank Norge ASA for itself and each of the other parties to the Facilities Agreement referred to below

 

From: Höegh MLP (“ Höegh MLP ”) and Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.

 

Dated: [ l ]

 

Dear Sirs

 

US$412,000,000 Facilities Agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the "Facilities Agreement")

 

1. We refer to the Facilities Agreement. This deed (the " Accession Deed ") shall take effect as an Accession Deed for the purposes of the Facilities Agreement. Terms defined in the Facilities Agreement have the same meaning in paragraphs 1-4 of this Accession Deed unless given a different meaning in this Accession Deed.

 

2. Höegh MLP agrees to become an Additional Corporate Guarantor and to be bound by the terms of the Facilities Agreement and the other Finance Documents as an Additional Corporate Guarantor pursuant to Clause 32.2 ( Additional Corporate Guarantor) of the Facilities Agreement. Höegh MLP is a master limited partnership duly incorporated under the laws of the Marshall Islands.

 

3. The Parent Company confirms that no Default is continuing or would occur as a result of Höegh MLP becoming an Additional Corporate Guarantor.

 

4. Höegh MLP administrative details for the purposes of the Facilities Agreement are as follows:

 

Address:

 

Fax No.:

 

Attention:

 

5. Höegh MLP (for the purposes of this paragraph 5, the " Acceding Debtor ") intends to give a guarantee and indemnity under the terms of Clause 18.1 ( Guarantee and Indemnity ) of the Facilities Agreement.

 

IT IS AGREED as follows:

 

6. Terms defined in the Trust Agreement shall, unless otherwise defined in this Accession Deed, bear the same meaning when used in this paragraph 5.

 

7. The Acceding Debtor and the Agent agree that the Security Trustee shall hold:

 

(a) any Security in respect of Secured Obligations created or expressed to be created pursuant to the Finance Documents;

 

(b) all proceeds of that Security; and

 

  158  
 

 

(c) all obligations expressed to be undertaken by the Acceding Debtor to pay amounts in respect of the Secured Obligations to the Agent as trustee for the Secured Parties (in the Finance Documents or otherwise) and secured by the Transaction Security together with all representations and warranties expressed to be given by the Acceding Debtor (in the Finance Documents or otherwise) in favour of the Security Agent as trustee for the Secured Parties,

 

on trust for the Secured Parties on the terms and conditions contained in the Trust Agreement.

 

8. The Acceding Debtor confirms that it intends to be party to the Trust Agreement as a Debtor, undertakes to perform all the obligations expressed to be assumed by a Debtor under the Trust Agreement and agrees that it shall be bound by all the provisions of the Trust Agreement as if it had been an original party to the Trust Agreement.

 

9. This Accession Deed and any non-contractual obligations arising out of or in connection with it is governed by English law.

 

THIS ACCESSION DEED has been signed on behalf of the Agent (for the purposes of paragraph 5 above only), signed on behalf of the Parent Company and executed as a deed by Höegh MLP and is delivered on the date stated above.

 

HÖEGH MLP

 

EXECUTED AS A DEED )
   
By: HÖEGH MLP )

 

    Director
     
    Director/Secretary
     
    Signature of witness
     
    Name of witness
     
    Address of witness
     
    Occupation of witness]

 

HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD

 

 
 
By:
 
Date:

 

  159  
 

 

THE AGENT

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

 

By:

 

Date:

 

  160  
 

 

SCHEDULE 10
FORM OF BANK GUARANTEE

 

ON DEMAND GUARANTEE (NO. PÅKRAVSGARANTI) (hereinafter the "Guarantee")

 

Whereas Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd. (each a “ Borrower ” and, together, the “ Borrowers ”) have entered into a senior secured facilities agreement originally dated 1 April 2014 as amended and restated on 1 April 2015 and on [●] March 2016 (the “ Facilities Agreement ”) with, inter alia, (i) ABN Amro Bank NV, Oslo Branch, Citibank NA, London Branch, Credit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank, Danske Bank, Norwegian Branch, DNB Bank ASA, Nordea Bank Norge ASA and Swedbank AB (PUBL) (the “ Commercial Lenders ”) and (ii) Eksportkreditt Norge AS (“ Eksportkreditt ”) pursuant to which (i) the Commercial Lenders have made available to the Borrowers a term loan facility in a total amount of up to US$332,000,000 and (ii) Eksportkreditt has made available to the Borrowers a term loan facility in a total amount of up to US$80,000,000 and under which a Loan has been made of US$[●] (the "Principal Amount ”).

 

Definitions used in the Facilities Agreement shall have the same meaning when used herein.

 

We [ l ] (the "Guarantor") hereby unconditionally and irrevocably guarantee, as for our own debt, the due and punctual repayment to Eksportkreditt the amount of [ l ] equal to [ l ] per cent. ([ l ] %) of the Principal Amount outstanding at any time, plus [ l ] per cent. ([ l ] %) of all incurred and outstanding

 

(i) interest,

 

(ii) default interest, and

 

(iii) all other amounts

 

payable by the Borrower to Eksportkreditt in accordance with the Facilities Agreement.

 

[ l ]] per cent. ([ l ]%) of the Principal Amount outstanding at any time and items i) - iii) above collectively referred to as the Guaranteed Amounts.

 

This Guarantee shall be payable immediately upon written demand (No. påkravsgaranti).

 

Eksportkreditt may make a written demand under this Guarantee if (i) the Borrowers in the opinion of Eksportkreditt do not fulfil their payment obligations and/or (ii) any event occurs which in the opinion of Eksportkreditt after consultation with the Guarantor constitutes an Event of Default under the Facilities Agreement.

 

Following a demand under this Guarantee for the whole or part of the Principal Amount, the Guarantor has the option to pay its guarantee liability (i) in a lump sum, or (ii) in the amount of [ l ]] per cent. ([ l ]%) of each instalment remaining outstanding under the Facilities Agreement, together with any other Guaranteed Amounts payable on the ordinary due date for each instalment.

 

If option (i) above is chosen, the Guarantor shall compensate Eksportkreditt for Break Costs.

 

The Guarantor agrees that, except for a notice of demand, Eksportkreditt is not obliged to give notice of any kind hereunder.

 

  161  
 

 

The Guarantor agrees that any conflict or dispute of whatsoever nature (including but not limited to) between Eksportkreditt and the Borrowers, or between the Builder and the Borrowers, has no impact on the Guarantor’s obligation to pay under this Guarantee.

 

All payments under this Guarantee shall be made in full without any deduction or withholding (whether in respect of set off, counterclaim, duties, present or future taxes, charges or otherwise whatsoever) unless such deduction or withholding is required by law, in which case the Guarantor shall pay such additional amount as will ensure that Eksportkreditt receives the amount which it would have received but for such deduction or withholding.

 

This Guarantee is valid until the first to occur of the Bank Guarantee Maturity Date and the date the Guaranteed Amounts have been paid in full. Notwithstanding the foregoing Eksportkreditt may make a claim (which claim shall not be unduly delayed) under this Guarantee until the date falling three (3) months after the Bank Guarantee Maturity Date. If the Guarantor becomes aware of an Event of Default under the Facilities Agreement, the Guarantor in consultation with Eksportkreditt may pay its guarantee liability to Eksportkreditt hereunder before such claim is made.

 

This Guarantee shall be governed by and construed in accordance with Norwegian law, and the Guarantor submits to the jurisdiction of the Norwegian Courts, with Oslo City Court as due venue.

 

Place _____________________ Date _____________________

 

GUARANTOR
 
 
(authorised signatory)
 
 
(Signatures in block letters)

 

  162  
 

 

THE BORROWERS

 

HOEGH LNG CYPRUS LIMITED

 

By: /s/ Gareth Lond
  Gareth Lond
  Attorney-in-Fact
Address: 4 Sotiri Tofini, 2 nd Floor, 4102 Agios Athanasios, Limassol, Cyprus

 

Fax:

 

In the presence of:

 

/s/ Ee Ling Goh    
Witness name:   Ee Ling Goh
Witness address:   London EC2A 2HB
Witness title/occupation:   Trainee Solicitor

 

HÖEGH LNG FSRU IV LTD.

 

By: /s/ Gareth Lond
  Gareth Lond
  Attorney-in-Fact
Address: Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, PO Box 1350, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands
   
Fax: +1441 295 9216

 

In the presence of:

 

/s/ Ee Ling Goh    
Witness name:   Ee Ling Goh
Witness address:   London EC2A 2HB
Witness title/occupation:   Trainee Solicitor

 

THE CORPORATE GUARANTORS

 

HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.

 

By: /s/ Gareth Lond
  Gareth Lond
  Attorney-in-Fact
Address: Canon’s Court, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda
   
Fax: +1441 295 9216

 

In the presence of:

 

/s/ Ee Ling Goh    
Witness name:   Ee Ling Goh
Witness address:   London EC2A 2HB
Witness title/occupation:   Trainee Solicitor

 

  163  
 

 

HÖEGH LNG LIMITED

 

By: /s/ Gareth Lond
  Gareth Lond
  Attorney-in-Fact
Address: Canon’s Court, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda
   
Fax: +1441 295 9216

 

In the presence of:

 

/s/ Ee Ling Goh    
Witness name:   Ee Ling Goh
Witness address:   London EC2A 2HB
Witness title/occupation:   Trainee Solicitor

 

HÖEGH LNG FSRU III LTD.

 

By: /s/ Gareth Lond
  Gareth Lond
  Attorney-in-Fact
Address: Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, PO Box 1350, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands
   
Fax: +1441 295 9216

 

In the presence of:

 

/s/ Ee Ling Goh    
Witness name:   Ee Ling Goh
Witness address:   London EC2A 2HB
Witness title/occupation:   Trainee Solicitor

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP

 

By: /s/ Richard Tyrrell
   
Address: Ajeltake Road, Ajeltake Island, Majuro, Marshall Islands MH96960
   
Fax: +1441 295 9216

 

In the presence of:

 

  /s/ Andrew MacIntosh    
Witness name:   Andrew MacIntosh
Witness address:   Flat 3, 22 Stonefield Street London N1 0HW
Witness title/occupation:   Associate

 

  164  
 

 

HÖEGH LNG COLOMBIA HOLDING LTD

 

By: /s/ Gareth Lond
  Gareth Lond
  Attorney-in-Fact
  Address:Clifton House, 75 Fort Street, PO Box 1350, Grand Cayman KY1-1108, Cayman Islands
   
Fax: +1441 295 9216

 

In the presence of:

 

/s/ Ee Ling Goh    
Witness name:   Ee Ling Goh
Witness address:   London EC2A 2HB
Witness title/occupation:   Trainee Solicitor

 

THE AGENT

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

 

THE SECURITY TRUSTEE

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

 

  165  
 

 

THE MANDATED LEAD ARRANGERS

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Olav V’s gate 5, NO-0161 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Asja Pellinen
   
Fax: +47 23 11 49 40

 

CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH

 

By: /s/ George Clayton
   
Address: Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5LR, United Kingdom
   
Attn: George Clayton
   
Fax: +44 207 986 6545

 

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: 9, quai du Président Paul Donmer, F-92920, Paris La Défense Cedex, France
   
Attn: Loan Administration - Shipping
   
Fax: +33 1 41 89 1934

 

DNB BANK ASA
   
By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Dronning Eufemias gate 30, NO-0191 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Credit Administration Shipping
   
Fax: +47 22 48 28 94

 

  166  
 

 

DANSKE BANK A/S

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: P.O. Box 1170 Sentrum, NO-0107, Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Stian Fjellsøy / Stian Hjelmeland, Corporates & Institutions
   
Fax: N/A

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

 

SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Large Corporates & Institutions, SE-105 34 Stockholm, Sweden

 

Attn:

Loan Agency

 

Fax: +46 8 700 84 09

 

THE SWAP BANKS

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V.
   
By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Gustav Mahlerlaan 10, 1082 PP Amsterdam, The Netherlands

 

Attn: MDU (Legal notices in respect of ISDA)
   
Fax: +31 10 459 05 38
   
Address:

Olav V’s gate 5, NO-0161 Oslo, Norway

 

Attn: Bjørn Kaaber / Ewa Wallace (all other swap related matters)
   
Fax: +47 23 11 49 40

 

  167  
 

 

CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH

 

By: /s/ George Clayton
   
Address: Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5LR, United Kingdom
   
Attn: George Clayton
   
Fax: +44 207 986 6545

 

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: 9, quai du Président Paul Donmer, F-92920, Paris La Défense Cedex, France
   
Attn: Loan Administration - Shipping
   
Fax: +33 1 41 89 1934

 

DANSKE BANK A/S

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: P.O. Box 1170 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Stian Fjellsøy / Stian Hjelmeland, Corporates & Institutions
   
Fax: N/A

 

DNB BANK ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Dronning Eufemias gate 30, NO-0191 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Credit Administration Shipping
   
Fax: +47 22 48 28 94

 

  168  
 

 

NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

 

SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Large Corporates & Institutions, SE-105 34 Stockholm, Sweden

 

Attn:

Loan Agency

 

Fax: +46 8 700 84 09

 

THE ACCOUNT BANK

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

 

THE COMMERCIAL LENDERS

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Olav V’s gate 5, NO-0161 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Asja Pellinen
   
Fax: +47 23 11 49 40

 

  169  
 

 

CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH

 

By: /s/ George Clayton
   
Address: Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5LR, United Kingdom
   
Attn: George Clayton
   
Fax: +44 207 986 6545

 

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: 9, quai du Président Paul Donmer, F-92920, Paris La Défense Cedex, France
   
Attn: Loan Administration - Shipping
   
Fax: +33 1 41 89 1934

 

DANSKE BANK, NORWEGIAN BRANCH

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Bryggetorget 4, NO-0250, Oslo, Norway

 

Attn:

Corporates & Institutions – Shipping

 

Fax: +47 85 40 78 90

 

DNB BANK ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Dronning Eufemias gate 30, NO-0191 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Credit Administration Shipping
   
Fax: +47 22 48 28 94

 

  170  
 

 

NORDEA BANK NORGE ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

   

SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Large Corporates & Institutions, SE-105 34 Stockholm, Sweden

 

Attn:

Loan Agency

 

Fax: +46 8 700 84 09

 

THE ECA LENDER

 

EKSPORTKREDITT NORGE AS

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Hieronymus Heyerdahls gate 1, P.O. Box 1315 Vika, NO-0112 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Loan Administration
   
Fax: +47 22 31 35 01

 

THE BANK GUARANTORS

 

ABN AMRO BANK N.V., OSLO BRANCH

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Olav V’s gate 5, NO-0161 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Asja Pellinen
   
Fax: +47 23 11 49 40

 

  171  
 

 

CITIBANK NA, LONDON BRANCH

 

By: /s/ George Clayton
   
Address: Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5LR, United Kingdom
   
Attn: Jon Beasley
   
Fax: +44 207 986 8295

 

CREDIT AGRICOLE CORPORATE AND INVESTMENT BANK

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: 9, quai du Président Paul Donmer, F-92920, Paris La Défense Cedex, France
   
Attn: Loan Administration - Shipping
   
Fax: +33 1 41 89 1934

 

DANSKE BANK, NORWEGIAN BRANCH

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Bryggetorget 4, NO-0250, Oslo, Norway

 

Attn:

Corporates & Institutions – Shipping

 

Fax: +47 85 40 78 90

 

DNB BANK ASA

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Dronning Eufemias gate 30, NO-0191 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Credit Administration Shipping
   
Fax: +47 22 48 28 94

 

  172  
 

 

NORDEA BANK FINLAND PLC

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address: Essendrops gate 7, P.O. Box 1166 Sentrum, NO-0107 Oslo, Norway
   
Attn: Shipping, Offshore & Oil Services – Shipping Oslo
   
Fax: +47 22 48 66 68

 

SWEDBANK AB (PUBL)

 

By: /s/ Joseph Snell
  Joseph Snell
  Attorney-in-fact
Address:

Large Corporates & Institutions, SE-105 34 Stockholm, Sweden 

   
Attn:

Loan Agency 

   
Fax: +46 8 700 84 09

 

  173  

 

Exhibit 4.39

 

Execution Version

 

 

 

CONTRIBUTION, PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT

 

Dated as of August 12, 2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

Article I
 
DEFINITIONS
     
Section 1.1 Definitions 2
     
Article II
 
The Contributions, Purchases and sales
     
Section 2.1 Purchase and Sale of FSRU III 6
Section 2.2 Transfer of the Purchase Note to Höegh LNG 6
Section 2.3 Cancellation of the Purchase Note and the $140 Million Demand Note 7
Section 2.4 Contribution of FSRU III to the Operating Company 7
Section 2.5 Closing 7
Section 2.6 Purchase Price Adjustment 7
     
Article III
 
Representations and Warranties of THE SELLER COMPANIES
     
Section 3.1 Representations and Warranties 7
     
Article IV
 
Representations and Warranties of THE BUYER COMPANIES
     
Section 4.1 Representations and Warranties 12
     
Article V
 
PRE-CLOSING MATTERS
     
Section 5.1 Covenants of the Seller Companies Prior to the Closing Date 13
Section 5.2 Covenant of the Buyer Companies Prior to the Closing Date 14
     
Article VI
 
Conditions OF Closing
     
Section 6.1 Conditions to the Obligations of the Parties 15
Section 6.2 Conditions to the Obligations of the Seller Companies 15
Section 6.3 Conditions to the Obligations of the Buyer Companies 16

 

i  

 

 

Article VII
 
Termination, Amendment and Waiver
     
Section 7.1 Termination of this Agreement 17
Section 7.2 Amendments and Waivers 17
     
Article VIII
 
Indemnification
     
Section 8.1 Indemnification by the Seller Companies 17
Section 8.2 Indemnification by the Buyer Companies 18
Section 8.3 Indemnification by the Seller Companies for Certain Liabilities Arising under the Vessel Credit Facility 18
Section 8.4 Indemnification by the Buyer Companies for Certain Liabilities Arising under the Vessel Credit Facility 19
     
Article IX
 
FURTHER ASSURANCES
     
Section 9.1 Further Assurances 19
Section 9.2 Power of Attorney 19
     
Article X
 
Miscellaneous
     
Section 10.1 Survival of Representations and Warranties 20
Section 10.2 Headings; References, Interpretation 21
Section 10.3 Successors and Assigns 21
Section 10.4 No Third Party Rights 21
Section 10.5 Counterparts 21
Section 10.6 Governing Law 21
Section 10.7 Dispute Resolution 21
Section 10.8 Severability 22
Section 10.9 Deed; Bill of Sale; Assignment 22
Section 10.10 Integration 22
     
Exhibit I Form of Seller’s Credit  
Exhibit II Form of Letter Agreement  
Exhibit III Form of Option Agreement  
     
Schedule A Insurance Policies  

 

ii  

 

 

CONTRIBUTION, PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT

 

This CONTRIBUTION, PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of August 12, 2015 is made by and among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG ”), Höegh LNG Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG Ltd. ”), Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a Marshall Islands limited liability company (the “ Operating Company ”). The above-named entities are sometimes referred to in this Agreement each as a “ Party and collectively as the “ Parties .”

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , on the date hereof:

 

1. Höegh LNG Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG;

 

2. Höegh LNG, as lender, and Höegh LNG Ltd., as borrower, are parties to an Inter-Company Loan Agreement, dated January 30, 2009, as amended by Amendment No. 1, dated August 9, 2010, Amendment No. 2, dated September 13, 2011, Amendment No. 3, dated August 15, 2012, Amendment No. 4, dated May 22, 2013 and Amendment No. 5, dated December 18, 2013 (as amended, the “ Intercompany Debt ”);

 

3. Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a Cayman Islands company (“ FSRU III ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Ltd.;

 

4. Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, a Cyprus company (“ CyprusCo ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of FSRU III;

 

5. CyprusCo is the record owner of the floating storage and regasification unit Höegh Gallant ( the “ Vessel ) ; and

 

6. The Operating Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Partnership;

 

WHEREAS , by a Lease and Maintenance Agreement, dated April 15, 2015 (the “ Lease and Maintenance Agreement ”), CyprusCo, acting through its Egyptian Branch, chartered the Vessel to Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC, an Egyptian company and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Ltd. (“ EgyptCo ”);

 

WHEREAS , the Vessel is subject to a Regasification Service Agreement, dated November 3, 2014, between Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company, an Egyptian company (the “ Charterer ”), and Höegh LNG Ltd., as amended pursuant to the Novation Agreement (as defined below) (the “ Regasification Service Agreement ”);

 

WHEREAS , Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., EgyptCo and the Charterer have entered into a Novation Agreement, dated March 29, 2015 (the “ Novation Agreement ”), whereby Höegh LNG Ltd. transferred to EgyptCo, and EgyptCo accepted, all of Höegh LNG Ltd.’s rights, interests, duties and obligations under the Regasification Service Agreement;

 

  1  

 

 

WHEREAS , Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., a Cayman Islands company (“ FSRU IV ”), and CyprusCo, as borrowers, Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and FSRU III, as corporate guarantors, and the banks and other financial institutions named therein as lenders and swap banks have entered into a $412 million Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated April 1, 2015, with respect to the Vessel (the “ Vessel Credit Facility ”);

 

WHEREAS , pursuant to this Agreement, each of the following will occur on the Closing Date in the order set forth below:

 

1.          Höegh LNG Ltd. sells, assigns and transfers 100% of the outstanding shares of FSRU III to the Partnership in exchange for (a) an interest-free promissory note, dated the Closing Date, from the Partnership payable to Höegh LNG Ltd. in the amount of $140.0 million (the “ Purchase Note ”) and (b) a promissory note, dated the Closing Date, from the Partnership payable to Höegh LNG Ltd. in the amount of $47.0 million, substantially in the form of Exhibit I hereto (the “ Seller’s Credit ”).

 

2.          Höegh LNG Ltd. transfers the Purchase Note to Höegh LNG in exchange for a reduction of the Intercompany Debt in an amount of $140.0 million.

 

3.          The $140,000,000 Demand Note, dated August 12, 2014, evidencing a loan by the Partnership to Höegh LNG (the “ $140 Million Demand Note ”) will be cancelled in exchange for the cancellation of the Purchase Note.

 

4.          The Partnership contributes 100% of the outstanding shares of FSRU III to the Operating Company, in exchange for 500 units representing limited liability company interests in the Operating Company.

 

agreement

 

NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

Article I

 

DEFINITIONS

 

Section 1.1         Definitions.    The following defined terms will have the meanings given below:

 

$140 Million Demand Note ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

1934 Act Filings ” means the filings made by the Partnership with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

Agreement ” means this Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement.

 

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Buyer Attorney-in-Fact ” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.2(a) .

 

Buyer Companies ” means, collectively, the Partnership and the Operating Company.

 

Buyer Financing Indemnitees ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.3 .

 

Buyer Indemnitees ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1 .

 

Charterer ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Closing Date ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.5 .

 

Covered Assets ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.1(b) .

 

Covered Environmental Losses ” means all Losses suffered or incurred by the Buyer Companies by reason of, arising out of or resulting from:

 

(a)         any violation or correction of violation of Environmental Laws with regard to the ownership or operation by the Seller Companies, EgyptCo or the Transferred Subsidiaries of the Covered Assets; or

 

(b)         any event or condition relating to environmental or human health and safety matters, in each case, associated with the ownership or operation by the Seller Companies, EgyptCo or the Transferred Subsidiaries of the Covered Assets (including, without limitation, the presence of Hazardous Substances on, under, about or migrating to or from the Covered Assets or the disposal or release of, or exposure to, Hazardous Substances generated by or otherwise related to operation of the Covered Assets), including, without limitation, the reasonable and documented cost and expense of (i) any investigation, assessment, evaluation, monitoring, containment, cleanup, repair, restoration, remediation or other corrective action required or necessary under Environmental Laws, (ii) the preparation and implementation of any closure, remedial, corrective action or other plans required or necessary under Environmental Laws and (iii) any environmental or toxic tort (including, without limitation, personal injury or property damage claims) pre-trial, trial or appellate legal or litigation support work, but only to the extent that such violation complained of under clause (a), or such events or conditions included in clause (b), occurred before the Closing Date; and, provided that in no event shall Losses to the extent arising from a change in any Environmental Law after the Closing Date be deemed “ Covered Environmental Losses .”

 

CyprusCo ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

EgyptCo ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Encumbrance ” means any mortgage, maritime or other lien, charge, assignment, adverse claim, hypothecation, restriction, option, covenant, voting trust arrangement, adverse claim, condition, encumbrance or right, whether fixed or floating, on, or any security interest in, any property whether real, personal or mixed, tangible or intangible, any pledge or hypothecation of any property, any deposit arrangement, priority, conditional sale agreement, other title retention agreement or equipment trust, capital lease or other security arrangements of any kind.

 

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Environmental Laws ” means all international, federal, state, foreign and local laws, statutes, rules, regulations, treaties, conventions, orders, judgments and ordinances having the force and effect of law and relating to protection of natural resources, health and safety and the environment, each in effect and as amended through the Closing Date.

 

FSRU III ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

FSRU IV ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Governmental Authority ” means any domestic or foreign government, including federal, provincial, state, municipal, county or regional government or governmental or regulatory authority, domestic or foreign, and includes any department, commission, bureau, board, administrative agency or regulatory body of any of the foregoing and any multinational or supranational organization.

 

Höegh LNG ” has the meaning set forth in the opening paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Höegh LNG Ltd. ” has the meaning set forth in the opening paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Insolvency Event ” means, with respect to any Person, that any of the following actions has occurred in relation to it:

 

(a)         an order has been made or an effective resolution passed or other proceedings or actions taken (including the presentation of a petition) with a view to its administration, bankruptcy, winding-up, liquidation or dissolution; or

 

(b)         it has had a receiver, administrative receiver, manager or administrator appointed over all or any substantial part of its undertaking or assets; or

 

(c)         any event has occurred or situation arisen in any jurisdiction that has a substantially similar effect to any of the foregoing.

 

Intercompany Debt ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Laws ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.1(c) .

 

Lease and Maintenance Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

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Losses ” means, with respect to any matter, all losses, claims, damages, liabilities, deficiencies, costs, expenses (including all costs of investigation, legal and other professional fees and disbursements, interest, penalties and amounts paid in settlement) or diminution of value, whether or not involving a claim from a third party, however specifically excluding consequential, special and indirect losses, loss of profit and loss of opportunity, provided that, in no event will losses to the extent arising from a change in any Law after the Closing Date be deemed “ Losses ” for purposes of this Agreement.

 

Novation Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Omnibus Agreement ” means the Omnibus Agreement, dated August 12, 2014, among Höegh LNG, the Partnership, Höegh LNG GP LLC and the Operating Company.

 

Operating Company ” has the meaning set forth in the opening paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Organizational Documents ” means, with respect to any entity, its articles of association, articles of incorporation and/or bylaws, certificate of formation and/or limited liability company agreement, certificate of limited partnership and/or agreement of limited partnership and/or other organizational documents.

 

Partnership ” has the meaning set forth in the opening paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Party ” or “ Parties ” has the meaning set forth in the opening paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Person ” means an individual, legal personal representative, corporation, body corporate, firm, limited liability company, partnership, trust, trustee, syndicate, joint venture, unincorporated organization or Governmental Authority.

 

Purchase Note ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Purchase Price ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1 .

 

Purchase Price Adjustment ” has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6 .

 

Regasification Service Agreement ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Rules ” has the meaning set forth in Section 10.7 .

 

Secondment Agreement ” means the Intercompany Agreement Regarding Secondment of Employees, dated March 31, 2015, between CyprusCo and Höegh LNG Maritime Management Pte. Ltd.

 

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Seller Attorney-in-Fact ” has the meaning set forth in Section 9.2(b) .

 

Seller Companies ” means, collectively, Höegh LNG and Höegh LNG Ltd.

 

Seller Financing Indemnitees ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.4 .

 

Seller Indemnitees ” has the meaning set forth in Section 8.2 .

 

Seller’s Credit ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Ship Management Agreement ” means the Ship Management Agreement, dated March 24, 2015, between CyprusCo and Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS.

 

Taxes ” means all income, franchise, business, property, sales, use, goods and services or value added, withholding, excise, alternate minimum capital, transfer, excise, customs, anti-dumping, countervail, net worth, stamp, registration, payroll, employment, health, education, business, school, property, local improvement, development and occupation taxes, surtaxes, import taxes, duties, levies, imposts, rates, fees, assessments, dues and charges and other charges of any kind imposed by, or required to be reported or paid to, any Governmental Authority and all interest and penalties thereon.

 

Transferred Subsidiaries ” means, collectively, FSRU III and CyprusCo.

 

Vessel ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Vessel Contracts ” has the meaning set forth in Section 3.1(m) .

 

Vessel Credit Facility ” has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

Article II

 

The Contributions, Purchases and sales

 

On the Closing Date, the Parties agree that the following transactions shall be completed in the order set forth below.

 

Section 2.1         Purchase and Sale of FSRU III. Höegh LNG Ltd. shall sell, assign and transfer 100% of the outstanding shares of FSRU III to the Partnership in exchange for (a) the Purchase Note and (b) the Seller’s Credit (the “ Purchase Price ”).

 

Section 2.2         Transfer of the Purchase Note to Höegh LNG. Höegh LNG Ltd. shall transfer the Purchase Note to Höegh LNG in exchange for a reduction of the Intercompany Debt in an amount of $140.0 million.

 

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Section 2.3         Cancellation of the Purchase Note and the $140 Million Demand Note. Höegh LNG shall cancel the Purchase Note in exchange for the cancellation by the Partnership of the $140 Million Demand Note.

 

Section 2.4         Contribution of FSRU III to the Operating Company. The Partnership shall contribute 100% of the outstanding shares of FSRU III to the Operating Company, in exchange for 500 units representing limited liability company interests in the Operating Company.

 

Section 2.5         Closing. On the terms and subject to the conditions of this Agreement, the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Section 2.1 through Section 2.4 shall take place on September 30, 2015, or on such other date as may be agreed upon by the Parties (the “ Closing Date ”).

 

Section 2.6         Purchase Price Adjustment. The Purchase Price shall be increased or decreased by an amount equal to the amount by which all net working capital reflected on the books and records of CyprusCo as of the Closing Date either exceeds or is less than $50,000 (the “ Purchase Price Adjustment ”). Within 30 days following the Closing Date, Höegh LNG and the Partnership shall agree on the amount of the Purchase Price Adjustment pursuant to this Section 2.6 , and Höegh LNG and the Partnership shall make settlement of the Purchase Price Adjustment in cash within 30 days thereafter.

 

Article III

 

Representations and Warranties of THE SELLER COMPANIES

 

Section 3.1         Representations and Warranties. The Seller Companies hereby represent and warrant to the Buyer Companies as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date, that:

 

(a)        Each of the Seller Companies and the Transferred Subsidiaries has been duly formed or incorporated and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of its respective jurisdiction of formation or incorporation and has all requisite power and authority to operate its assets and conduct its business as it is now being conducted. No Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the Seller Companies or the Transferred Subsidiaries and no events or circumstances have arisen that entitle or could entitle any person to take any action, appoint any person, commence proceedings or obtain any order instigating an Insolvency Event;

 

(b)        Each of the Seller Companies has the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Seller Companies and the execution and delivery of all documents, instruments and agreements required to be executed and delivered by each of the Seller Companies pursuant to this Agreement in connection with the completion of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of each of the Seller Companies and this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Seller Companies and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller Companies, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

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(c)        The execution, delivery and performance by each of the Seller Companies of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder will not conflict with or result in any violation of or constitute a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or result in the acceleration of any obligation under, or constitute a default under any provision of: (i) the Seller Companies’ or the Transferred Subsidiaries’ Organizational Documents; (ii) any lien, encumbrance, security interest, pledge, mortgage, charge, other claim, bond, indenture, agreement, contract, franchise license, permit or other instrument or obligation to which any of the Seller Companies or the Transferred Subsidiaries is a party or is subject or by which any of the Seller Companies’ or the Transferred Subsidiaries’ assets or properties may be bound; (iii) any applicable laws, statutes, ordinances, rules or regulations promulgated by a Governmental Authority, orders of a Governmental Authority, judicial decisions, decisions of arbitrators or determinations of any Governmental Authority or court (“ Laws ”); or (iv) the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, the Vessel Credit Facility or any material provision of any material contract to which any of the Seller Companies or the Transferred Subsidiaries is a party or by which the assets of any of the Seller Companies or the Transferred Subsidiaries are bound;

 

(d)        Except as have already been obtained or that will be obtained in the ordinary course of business, no consent, permit, approval or authorization of, notice or declaration to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, is required in connection with the execution and delivery by the Seller Companies of this Agreement or the consummation by each of the Seller Companies and the Transferred Subsidiaries of the transactions contemplated hereunder, and any consent required for the transactions contemplated hereunder pursuant to the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement and/or the Vessel Credit Facility has been duly obtained;

 

(e)        As of the date hereof, Höegh LNG Ltd. owns all of the outstanding shares of FSRU III and has good and marketable title thereto, free and clear of any and all Encumbrances, other than those arising under the Vessel Credit Facility; and as of the date hereof, FSRU III owns all of the outstanding shares of CyprusCo and has good and marketable title thereto, free and clear of any and all Encumbrances, other than those arising under the Vessel Credit Facility;

 

(f)        All of the issued and outstanding equity interests of each Transferred Subsidiary have been duly authorized and are validly issued in accordance with the Organizational Documents of such Transferred Subsidiary and are fully paid and non-assessable;

 

(g)        Other than as set forth in the Omnibus Agreement and the Vessel Credit Facility, there are not outstanding (i) any options, warrants or other rights to purchase any equity interests or assets of any Transferred Subsidiary, (ii) any securities convertible into or exchangeable for equity interests or assets of any Transferred Subsidiary, or (iii) any other commitments of any kind for the issuance of equity interests of any Transferred Subsidiary or options, warrants or other securities of any Transferred Subsidiary;

 

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(h)        Other than as set forth in the Omnibus Agreement and the Vessel Credit Facility, there is no outstanding agreement, contract, option, commitment or other right or understanding in favor of, or held by, any person to acquire any assets of the Transferred Subsidiaries;

 

(i)        Correct and complete copies of the organizational documents of each Transferred Subsidiary (as amended to the date of this Agreement), the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, the Secondment Agreement and the Ship Management Agreement have been made available to the Buyer Companies;

 

(j)        A correct and complete copy of the Vessel Credit Facility has been made available to the Partnership. The Vessel Credit Facility is a valid and binding agreement of each of Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and each of the Transferred Subsidiaries, enforceable against each of Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and each Transferred Subsidiary in accordance with its terms and, to the knowledge of the Seller Companies, the Vessel Credit Facility is a valid and binding agreement of each of the other parties thereto enforceable against each of such parties in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(k)        Except for such liabilities, debts obligations, encumbrances, defects, restrictions or claims of a general nature and magnitude that would arise in connection with the operation of floating storage and regasification units of the same type as the Vessel in the ordinary course of business, there are no liabilities, debts or obligations of, encumbrances, defects or restrictions of any nature, whether absolute, accrued, contingent or otherwise, and whether due or to become due (including any liability for Taxes and interest, penalties and other charges payable with respect to any such liability or obligation) with respect to, or claims against the Transferred Subsidiaries or any of the assets owned by the Transferred Subsidiaries, including the Vessel, other than those arising under or in connection with Vessel Credit Facility, the Regasification Service Agreement or the Lease and Maintenance Agreement;

 

(l)        The Seller Companies have disclosed to the Buyer Companies all material information on, and about, each of the Transferred Subsidiaries and the Vessel and all such information is true, accurate and not misleading in any material respect. Nothing has been omitted or withheld from any materials provided by the Seller Companies to the Buyer Companies in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement that would render such information untrue or misleading;

 

(m)        The Seller Companies have disclosed to the Buyer Companies all material contracts and agreements, written or oral, to which any of the Transferred Subsidiaries is a party or by which any of their assets are bound, including the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, the Vessel Credit Facility, the Secondment Agreement and the Ship Management Agreement (the “ Vessel Contracts ”);

 

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(n)        Each of the Vessel Contracts is a valid and binding agreement of the Transferred Subsidiaries party thereto, Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG or EgyptCo, as applicable, enforceable against such Transferred Subsidiary, Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG or EgyptCo, as applicable, in accordance with its terms, and to the knowledge of the Seller Companies, each of the Vessel Contracts is a valid and binding agreement of all other parties thereto enforceable against such parties in accordance with their terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(o)        Each of the Transferred Subsidiaries, Höegh LNG Ltd., Höegh LNG or EgyptCo, as applicable, has fulfilled all material obligations required pursuant to the Vessel Contracts to which it is a party to have been performed by it prior to the date hereof and has not waived any material rights thereunder;

 

(p)        There has not occurred any material default on the part of any Transferred Subsidiary, Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. or EgyptCo under any Vessel Contracts to which it is a party, or to the knowledge of the Seller Companies, on the part of any other party thereto, nor has any event occurred that with the giving of notice or the lapse of time, or both, would constitute any material default on the part of any Transferred Subsidiary, Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. or EgyptCo under any of the Vessel Contracts to which it is a party nor, to the knowledge of the Seller Companies, has any event occurred that with the giving of notice or the lapse of time, or both, would constitute any material default on the part of any other party to any of the Vessel Contracts;

 

(q)        CyprusCo now has, and at the Closing Date will have, good and marketable title to the Vessel and its equipment, free and clear of any and all Encumbrances, other than those arising under the Vessel Credit Facility and permitted encumbrances under the Vessel Credit Facility. As of September 30, 2015, there will be $183.0 million of borrowings outstanding under the Vessel Credit Facility;

 

(r)        There is no action, suit or proceeding to which any of the Transferred Subsidiaries is a party (either as a plaintiff or defendant), or to which the Vessel is subject, pending before any court or governmental agency, authority or body or arbitrator; there is no action, suit or proceeding threatened against any of the Transferred Subsidiaries or the Vessel; and, to the knowledge of the Seller Companies, there is no basis for any such action, suit or proceeding;

 

(s)        Neither of the Transferred Subsidiaries has been permanently or temporarily enjoined by any order, judgment or decree of any court or any governmental agency, authority or body from engaging in or continuing any conduct or practice in connection with its business, assets or properties;

 

(t)        There is not in existence any order, judgment or decree of any court or other tribunal or other agency enjoining or requiring any of the Transferred Subsidiaries to take any action of any kind with respect to their respective business, assets or properties;

 

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(u)        Neither of the Transferred Subsidiaries is now or will be at the Closing Date indebted, directly or indirectly, to any person who is an officer, director, stockholder or employee of such Transferred Subsidiary or any spouse, child, or other relative or any affiliate thereof, nor shall any such officer, director, stockholder, employee, relative or affiliate be indebted to such Transferred Subsidiary;

 

(v)        Höegh LNG Ltd. will cause each of the Transferred Subsidiaries to timely elect to be classified for U.S. federal income tax purposes as an entity disregarded as separate from its owner on a properly-completed Form 8832 filed with the Internal Revenue Service. These elections for the Transferred Subsidiaries have been or will be made with an effective date prior to the transactions described in Section 2.1 . Once these elections have been made, none of Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. or the Transferred Subsidiaries will take any action to change the U.S. federal income tax classification of the Transferred Subsidiaries from an entity disregarded as separate from its owner;

 

(w)        Other than as set forth in the Secondment Agreement, none of the Transferred Subsidiaries have any employees. All crew members with respect to the Vessel are provided directly or indirectly by subsidiaries of Höegh LNG pursuant to services agreements with the Transferred Subsidiaries;

 

(x)        The Vessel is insured in accordance with the provisions and requirements of the Vessel Credit Facility and any ship mortgage thereon, and the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement and any other charter thereof, and all requirements and conditions of such insurance have been complied with, and a list of the insurance policies relating to the Vessel is set forth on Schedule A hereto, each of which is in full force and effect and, to the knowledge of the Seller Companies, not subject to being voided or terminated for any reason;

 

(y)        The Vessel (i) is adequate and suitable for use by CyprusCo in its business as presently conducted by it in all material respects, ordinary wear and tear excepted; (ii) is in good running order and repair; (iii) is in compliance with applicable Laws and regulations (including without limitation, the Laws of Egypt and Cyprus and Laws applicable to vessels registered under the laws and flag of the jurisdictions in which the Vessel is currently registered and in which it operates); (iv) is duly registered under the flag of Norway (Norwegian International Ships Register); (v) is in compliance in all material respects with the requirements of its classification society DNV GL and has the highest classification rating; (vi) has class certificates that are clean and valid and free of recommendations or notations as to class or other requirement of DNV GL; (vii) is not subject to any charter other than the Regasification Service Agreement and the Lease and Maintenance Agreement; and (viii) has been maintained in a proper and efficient manner in accordance with internationally accepted standards for good ship maintenance, is in good operating order, condition and repair and is seaworthy and all repairs made to the Vessel since its delivery from the shipyard and all known scheduled repairs due to be made and all known deficiencies have been disclosed to the Buyer Companies;

 

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(z)        The Vessel is not (i) under arrest or otherwise detained; (ii) other than in the ordinary course of business, in the possession of any Person (other than each Vessel’s master and crew); or (iii) subject to any possessory lien;

 

(aa)        No blacklisting or boycotting of any type has been applied or currently exists against, or in respect of, the Vessel; and

 

(bb)        the Vessel is supplied with valid and up-to-date safety construction, safety equipment, radio, loadline, health, tonnage, trading and other certificates or documents as may for the time being be prescribed by the laws of Egypt, Cyprus, Norway or of any other pertinent jurisdiction, or that would otherwise be deemed necessary by a shipowner acting in accordance with internationally accepted standards for good ship management and operations.

 

Article IV

 

Representations and Warranties of THE BUYER COMPANIES

 

Section 4.1         Representations and Warranties. The Buyer Companies hereby represent and warrant to the Seller Companies as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date, that:

 

(a)        Each of the Buyer Companies has been duly formed and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and has all requisite power and authority to operate its assets and conduct its business as it is now being conducted and, in the case of the Partnership, as described in the Partnership’s 1934 Act Filings. No Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the Buyer Companies and no events or circumstances have arisen that entitle or could entitle any person to take any action, appoint any person, commence proceedings or obtain any order instigating an Insolvency Event;

 

(b)        Each of the Buyer Companies has the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Buyer Companies and the execution and delivery of all documents, instruments and agreements required to be executed and delivered by each of the Buyer Companies pursuant to this Agreement in connection with the completion of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of each of the Buyer Companies party hereto or thereto, and this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Buyer Companies and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Buyer Companies, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(c)        The execution, delivery and performance by each of the Buyer Companies, as applicable, of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder will not conflict with or result in any violation of or constitute a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or result in the acceleration of any obligation under, or constitute a default under any provision of: (i) such Party’s Organizational Documents; (ii) any lien, encumbrance, security interest, pledge, mortgage, charge, other claim, bond, loan agreement, indenture, agreement, contract, franchise license, permit or other instrument or obligation to which either of the Buyer Companies is a party or is subject or by which any of its assets or properties may be bound; or (iii) any applicable Laws; and

 

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(d)        Except as have already been obtained or that will be obtained in the ordinary course of business, no consent, permit, approval or authorization of, notice or declaration to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, is required in connection with the execution and delivery by the Buyer Companies of this Agreement or the consummation by each of the Buyer Companies of the transactions contemplated hereunder.

 

Article V

 

PRE-CLOSING MATTERS

 

Section 5.1         Covenants of the Seller Companies Prior to the Closing Date. From the date of this Agreement to the Closing Date, the Seller Companies shall cause each of the Transferred Subsidiaries and EgyptCo to conduct their business in the usual, regular and ordinary course in substantially the same manner as previously conducted. None of the Seller Companies shall permit any of the Transferred Subsidiaries or EgyptCo to enter into any material contracts or other material written or oral agreements prior to the Closing Date, other than such contracts and agreements as have been disclosed to the Partnership prior to the date of this Agreement, without the prior consent of the Partnership (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). In addition, the Seller Companies shall not permit any of the Transferred Subsidiaries or EgyptCo to take any action that would result in any of the conditions to the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Article II not being satisfied. Furthermore, each of the Seller Companies hereby agrees and covenants that it:

 

(a)        shall cooperate with the Buyer Companies and use its reasonable best efforts to obtain, at or prior to the Closing Date, any consents required from the counterparties to each of the Vessel Contracts as a result of the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Article II ;

 

(b)        shall use its reasonable best efforts to take or cause to be taken promptly all actions and to do or cause to be done all things necessary, proper and advisable to consummate and make effective as promptly as practicable the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and to cooperate with the Buyer Companies in connection with the foregoing, including using all reasonable best efforts to obtain all necessary consents, approvals and authorizations from any Governmental Authority and each other Person that are required to consummate the transactions contemplated under this Agreement;

 

(c)        shall take or cause to be taken all necessary corporate action, steps and proceedings to approve or authorize validly and effectively the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Article II and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and the other agreements and documents contemplated hereby;

 

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(d)        shall not amend, alter or otherwise modify or permit any amendment, alteration or modification of any material provision of or terminate any Vessel Contract or Organizational Document of a Transferred Subsidiary prior to the Closing Date without the prior written consent of the Buyer Companies;

 

(e)        shall not exercise or permit any exercise of any rights or options contained in the Regasification Service Agreement or the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, without the prior written consent of the Buyer Companies, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed;

 

(f)        shall provide prompt notice to the Partnership of the exercise of any rights or options by any Seller Company or Transferred Subsidiary under the Vessel Contracts;

 

(g)        shall observe and perform in a timely manner, all of its covenants and obligations under the Vessel Contracts, if any, and in the case of a default by another party thereto, it shall forthwith advise the Buyer Companies of such default and shall, if requested by the Buyer Companies, enforce all of its rights under such Vessel Contracts, as applicable, in respect of such default;

 

(h)        Höegh LNG Ltd. will cause each of the Transferred Subsidiaries to timely elect to be classified for U.S. federal income tax purposes as an entity disregarded as separate from its owner on a properly-completed Form 8832 filed with the Internal Revenue Service. These elections for the Transferred Subsidiaries have been or will be made with an effective date prior to the transactions described in Section 2.1 . Once these elections have been made, none of Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. or the Transferred Subsidiaries will take any action to change the U.S. federal income tax classification of the Transferred Subsidiaries from an entity disregarded as separate from its owner;

 

(i)        shall not cause or, to the extent reasonably within its control, permit any Encumbrances to attach to the Vessel other than in connection with the Vessel Credit Facility; and

 

(j)        shall permit representatives of the Buyer Companies to make, prior to the Closing Date, at their risk and expense, such searches, surveys, tests and inspections of the Vessel as the Buyer Companies may deem desirable; provided , however , that such surveys, tests or inspections shall not damage the Vessel or interfere with the activities of CyprusCo, EgyptCo or the Charterer thereon and that the Buyer Companies shall furnish the Seller Companies with evidence that the Buyer Companies have adequate liability insurance in full force and effect.

 

Section 5.2 Covenant of the Buyer Companies Prior to the Closing Date. Each of the Buyer Companies hereby agrees and covenants that during the period of time after the date of the Agreement and prior to the Closing Date, it shall, in respect of the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations to be effected hereunder at the Closing Date, take, or cause to be taken, to the extent not already taken, all necessary corporate limited partnership or limited liability company action, steps and proceedings to approve or authorize validly and effectively the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations, and the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement and any other agreements and documents contemplated hereby.

  

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Article VI

 

Conditions OF Closing

 

Section 6.1         Conditions to the Obligations of the Parties. The obligation of the Parties to effect the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Article II is subject to the satisfaction (or waiver by each of the Parties) on or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions:

 

(a)        The Seller Companies and the Transferred Subsidiaries, as applicable, shall have received any and all written consents, permits, approvals or authorizations of any Governmental Authority or any other Person (including, to the extent applicable, with respect to the Vessel Contracts) and shall have made any and all notices or declarations to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other Person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, required in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions contemplated hereunder;

 

(b)        No legal or regulatory action or proceeding shall be pending or threatened by any Governmental Authority or any other Person to enjoin, restrict or prohibit the transactions contemplated hereunder;

 

(c)        Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., the Partnership, the Operating Company and EgyptCo shall have entered into a letter agreement substantially in the form attached as Exhibit II hereto; and

 

(d)        Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and the Partnership shall have entered into an option agreement substantially in the form attached as Exhibit III hereto.

 

Section 6.2         Conditions to the Obligations of the Seller Companies. The obligations of the Seller Companies to effect the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Article II are subject to the satisfaction (or waiver by each of the Seller Companies) on or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions:

 

(a)        The representations and warranties of the Buyer Companies made in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date as though made at Closing Date, except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date (in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct in all material respects, on and as of such earlier date);

 

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(b)        Each of the Buyer Companies shall have performed or complied in all material respects with all obligations and covenants required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by it by the Closing Date; and

 

(c)        All proceedings to be taken in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and all documents incidental thereto shall be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Seller Companies, and the Seller Companies shall have received copies of all such documents and other evidence as they may reasonably request in order to establish the consummation of such transactions and the taking of all proceedings in connection therewith.

 

Section 6.3         Conditions to the Obligations of the Buyer Companies. The obligations of the Buyer Companies to effect the contributions, purchases, sales, transfers and cancellations set forth in Article II are subject to the satisfaction (or waiver by each of the Buyer Companies) on or prior to the Closing Date of the following conditions:

 

(a)        The representations and warranties of the Seller Companies made in this Agreement shall be true and correct in all material respects as of the Closing Date as though made on the Closing Date, except to the extent such representations and warranties expressly relate to an earlier date (in which case such representations and warranties shall be true and correct in all material respects, on and as of such earlier date);

 

(b)        Each of the Seller Companies and the Transferred Subsidiaries shall have performed or complied in all material respects with all obligations and covenants required by this Agreement to be performed or complied with by them by the Closing Date;

 

(c)        The results of the searches, surveys, tests and inspections of the Vessel referred to in Section 5.1(j) are reasonably satisfactory to the Buyer Companies;

 

(d)        Höegh LNG Ltd. will have caused each of the Transferred Subsidiaries to timely elect to be classified for U.S. federal income tax purposes as an entity disregarded as separate from its owner on a properly-completed Form 8832 filed with the Internal Revenue Service and these elections for the Transferred Subsidiaries will have been made with an effective date prior to the transactions described in Section 2.1 ; and

 

(e)        All proceedings to be taken in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and all documents incidental thereto shall be reasonably satisfactory in form and substance to the Buyer Companies, and the Buyer Companies shall have received copies of all such documents and other evidence as they or their counsel may reasonably request in order to establish the consummation of such transaction and the taking of all proceedings in connection therewith.

 

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Article VII

 

Termination, Amendment and Waiver

 

Section 7.1         Termination of this Agreement. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement, this Agreement may be terminated and the transactions contemplated by this Agreement abandoned at any time prior to the Closing Date:

 

(a)        by mutual written consent of the Parties;

 

(b)        by the Seller Companies if any of the conditions set forth in Section 6.1 or Section 6.2 shall have become incapable of fulfillment, and shall not have been waived by the Seller Companies; or

 

(c)        by the Buyer Companies if any of the conditions set forth in Section 6.1 or Section 6.3 shall have become incapable of fulfillment, and shall not have been waived by the Buyer Companies;

 

provided , however , that the Parties seeking termination pursuant to clause (b) or (c) is not then in material breach of any of their representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained in this Agreement.

 

Section 7.2         Amendments and Waivers. This Agreement may not be amended except by an instrument in writing signed on behalf of each Party hereto. Only an instrument in writing by the Buyer Companies, on the one hand, or the Seller Companies, on the other hand, may waive compliance by the other with any term or provision of this Agreement that such other Party was or is obligated to comply with or perform.

 

Article VIII

 

Indemnification

 

Section 8.1         Indemnification by the Seller Companies. Following the Closing Date, the Seller Companies shall be liable for, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Buyer Companies and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the “ Buyer Indemnitees ”) from and against:

 

(a)        any Losses suffered or incurred by such Buyer Indemnitee by reason of, arising out of or otherwise in respect of any inaccuracy in, breach of any representation or warranty, or a failure to perform or observe fully any covenant, agreement or obligation of the Seller Companies in or under this Agreement or in or under any document, instrument or agreement delivered pursuant to this Agreement by the Seller Companies;

 

(b)        any Covered Environmental Losses relating to the Transferred Subsidiaries or the Vessel (the “ Covered Assets ”) to the extent that the Seller Companies are notified by the Partnership of any such Covered Environmental Losses within five (5) years after the Closing Date;

 

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(c)        any Losses (other than Covered Environmental Losses) suffered or incurred by such Buyer Indemnitee in relation to the Vessel, including any claim for the repayment of hire or damages or repair costs, for periods prior to the Closing Date;

 

(d)        all Tax liabilities attributable to the operation of the Covered Assets prior to the Closing Date, including any such Tax liabilities of the Seller Companies that may result from the consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, but excluding any federal, state, foreign and local income taxes reserved on the books of the Transferred Subsidiaries on the Closing Date;

 

(e)        all capital gains tax or other export duty incurred by such Buyer Indemnitee in connection with the transfer of the Vessel outside of CyprusCo’s permanent establishment in a Public Free Zone in Egypt;

 

(f)        any recurring non-budgeted costs owed by such Buyer Indemnitee to Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS with respect to payroll taxes;

 

(g)        any non-budgeted Losses suffered or incurred by such Buyer Indemnitee in connection with the commencement of Vessel services under the Lease and Maintenance Agreement or the Regasification Services Agreement; and

 

(h)        any fees, expenses or other payments incurred or owed by any of the Seller Companies to any brokers, financial advisors or comparable other persons retained or employed by it in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.

 

Section 8.2 Indemnification by the Buyer Companies. Following the Closing Date, the Buyer Companies shall be liable for, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Seller Companies and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the “ Seller Indemnitees ”) from and against any Losses, suffered or incurred by such Seller Indemnitee by reason of, arising out of or otherwise in respect of any inaccuracy in, breach of any representation or warranty, or a failure to perform or observe fully any covenant, agreement or obligation of, the Buyer Companies in or under this Agreement or in or under any document, instrument or agreement delivered pursuant to this Agreement by the Buyer Companies.

 

Section 8.3         Indemnification by the Seller Companies for Certain Liabilities Arising under the Vessel Credit Facility. Following the Closing Date, the Seller Companies shall be liable for, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Buyer Companies, the Transferred Subsidiaries and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the “ Buyer Financing Indemnitees ”) from and against any (i) any payments of, or obligations with respect to, principal, interest, fees, costs, expenses, indemnities, or other amounts required to be made by such Buyer Financing Indemnitees under the Vessel Credit Facility under or with respect to any loans thereunder other than those made in connection with the Vessel or the Transferred Subsidiaries, and (ii) Losses, suffered or incurred by such Buyer Financing Indemnitees by reason of, arising out, of or otherwise in respect of any inaccuracy in, breach of any representation or warranty, or a failure to perform or observe fully any covenant, agreement or obligation, of the Vessel Credit Facility, excluding any such Losses caused by either Transferred Subsidiary or relating to the ownership or operation by the Partnership, the Operating Company or any Transferred Subsidiary of the Covered Assets.

 

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Section 8.4         Indemnification by the Buyer Companies for Certain Liabilities Arising under the Vessel Credit Facility . Following the Closing Date, the Buyer Companies shall be liable for, and shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the Seller Companies, FSRU IV and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and representatives (the “ Seller Financing Indemnitees ”) from and against any (i) any payments of, or obligations with respect to, principal, interest, fees, costs, expenses, indemnities, or other amounts required to be made by such Seller Financing Indemnitees under the Vessel Credit Facility under or with respect to any loans thereunder in connection with the Vessel or the Transferred Subsidiaries, and (ii) Losses, suffered or incurred by such Seller Financing Indemnitees by reason of, arising out, of or otherwise in respect of any inaccuracy in, breach of any representation or warranty, or a failure to perform or observe fully any covenant, agreement or obligation, of the Vessel Credit Facility caused by either Transferred Subsidiary or relating to the ownership or operation by the Partnership, the Operating Company or any Transferred Subsidiary of the Covered Assets.

  

Article IX

 

FURTHER ASSURANCES

 

Section 9.1         Further Assurances. From time to time after the date of this Agreement, and without any further consideration, the Parties agree to execute, acknowledge and deliver all such additional deeds, assignments, bills of sale, conveyances, instruments, notices, releases, acquittances and other documents, and will do all such other acts and things, all in accordance with applicable Law, as may be necessary or appropriate (a) to more fully to assure that the applicable Parties own all of the properties, rights, titles, interests, estates, remedies, powers and privileges granted by this Agreement, or which are intended to be so granted, (b) to more fully and effectively to vest in the applicable Parties and their respective successors and assigns beneficial and record title to the interests contributed and assigned by this Agreement or intended so to be and (c) to more fully and effectively carry out the purposes and intent of this Agreement.

 

Section 9.2         Power of Attorney.

 

(a)        Each of the Buyer Companies hereby constitutes and appoints Richard Tyrrell (the “ Buyer Attorney-in-Fact ”) as its true and lawful attorney-in-fact with full power of substitution for it and in its name, place and stead or otherwise on behalf of each of the Buyer Companies and their successors and assigns, and for the benefit of the Buyer Attorney-in-Fact to demand and receive from time to time the interests contributed, conveyed, purchased, sold or issued pursuant to this Agreement (or intended so to be) and to execute in the name of the Buyer Companies and their successors and assigns instruments of conveyance, instruments of further assurance and to give receipts and releases in respect of the same, and from time to time to institute and prosecute in the name of the Buyer Companies for the benefit of the Buyer Attorney-in-Fact, any and all proceedings at law, in equity or otherwise which the Buyer Attorney-in-Fact may deem proper in order to (i) collect, assert or enforce any claims, rights or titles of any kind in and to the interests contributed, conveyed, assigned, assumed, purchased, sold or issued pursuant to this Agreement, (ii) defend and compromise any and all actions, suits or proceedings in respect of any of the interests contributed, conveyed, assigned, assumed, purchased, sold or issued pursuant to this Agreement (or intended so to be), and (iii) do any and all such acts and things in furtherance of this Agreement as the Buyer Attorney-in-Fact shall deem advisable. Each of the Buyer Companies hereby declares that the appointment hereby made and the powers hereby granted are coupled with an interest and are and shall be irrevocable and perpetual and shall not be terminated by any act of the Buyer Companies or their successors or assigns or by operation of law.

 

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(b)        Each of the Seller Companies hereby constitutes and appoints Sveinung J. S. Støhle (the “ Seller Attorney-in-Fact ”) as its true and lawful attorney in fact with full power of substitution for it and in its name, place and stead or otherwise on behalf of the Seller Companies and their successors and assigns, and for the benefit of the Seller Attorney-in-Fact to demand and receive from time to time the interests contributed, conveyed, purchased, sold or issued pursuant to this Agreement (or intended so to be) and to execute in the name of the Seller Companies and their successors and assigns instruments of conveyance, instruments of further assurance and to give receipts and releases in respect of the same, and from time to time to institute and prosecute in the name of Seller Companies for the benefit of the Seller Attorney-in-Fact, any and all proceedings at law, in equity or otherwise which the Seller Attorney-in-Fact may deem proper in order to (i) collect, assert or enforce any claims, rights or titles of any kind in and to the interests contributed, conveyed, assigned, assumed, purchased, sold or issued pursuant to this Agreement, (ii) defend and compromise any and all actions, suits or proceedings in respect of any of the interests contributed, conveyed, assigned, assumed, purchased, sold or issued pursuant to this Agreement, and (iii) do any and all such acts and things in furtherance of this Agreement as the Seller Attorney-in-Fact shall deem advisable. Each of the Seller Companies hereby declares that the appointment hereby made and the powers hereby granted are coupled with an interest and are and shall be irrevocable and perpetual and shall not be terminated by any act of the Seller Companies or their successors or assigns or by operation of law.

 

Article X

 

Miscellaneous

 

Section 10.1         Survival of Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties of the Seller Companies contained in this Agreement and in or under any documents, instruments and agreements delivered pursuant to this Agreement, will survive the completion of the transactions contemplated hereby regardless of any independent investigations that the Buyer Companies may make or cause to be made, or knowledge it may have, prior to the date of this Agreement and will continue in full force and effect for a period of one year from the date of this Agreement. At the end of such period, such representations and warranties will terminate, and no claim may be brought by the Buyer Companies against the Seller Companies thereafter in respect of such representations and warranties, except for claims that have been asserted by the Buyer Companies prior to the date of this Agreement.

 

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Section 10.2         Headings; References, Interpretation. All amounts referred to herein are in United States dollars. All Article and Section headings in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be deemed to control or affect the meaning or construction of any of the provisions hereof. The words “hereof,” “herein” and “hereunder” and words of similar import, when used in this Agreement, shall refer to this Agreement as a whole, including, without limitation, all Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto, and not to any particular provision of this Agreement. All references herein to Articles, Sections, Exhibits and Schedules shall, unless the context requires a different construction, be deemed to be references to the Articles and Sections of this Agreement and the Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto, and all such Exhibits and Schedules attached hereto are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes. All personal pronouns used in this Agreement, whether used in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender, shall include all other genders, and the singular shall include the plural and vice versa. The use herein of the word “including” following any general statement, term or matter shall not be construed to limit such statement, term or matter to the specific items or matters set forth immediately following such word or to similar items or matters, whether or not non-limiting language (such as “without limitation,” “but not limited to” or words of similar import) is used with reference thereto, but rather shall be deemed to refer to all other items or matters that could reasonably fall within the broadest possible scope of such general statement, term or matter.

 

Section 10.3         Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective successors and assigns.

 

Section 10.4         No Third Party Rights. The provisions of this Agreement are intended to bind the Parties as to each other and are not intended to and do not create rights in any other person or confer upon any other person any benefits, rights or remedies, and no person is or is intended to be a third party beneficiary of any of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

Section 10.5         Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if all signatory Parties had signed the same document. All counterparts shall be construed together and shall constitute one and the same instrument. The delivery of an executed counterpart copy of this Agreement by facsimile or electronic transmission in PDF format shall be deemed to be the equivalent of delivery of the originally executed copy thereof.

 

Section 10.6         Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

 

Section 10.7 Dispute Resolution. Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, or the breach thereof, shall be determined by arbitration administered by the International Centre for Dispute Resolution of the American Arbitration Association in accordance with its International Arbitration Rules (the “ Rules ”). The arbitration tribunal shall be composed of three neutral arbitrators. The claimant shall appoint an arbitrator with its notice of arbitration, the respondent shall appoint an arbitrator with its answer, and within 20 days of the appointment of the second arbitrator the two party-appointed arbitrators shall appoint a third arbitrator to chair the tribunal. Any arbitrator not appointed as set forth in the preceding sentence shall be appointed according to the Rules. The seat of the arbitration shall be London, England. The arbitration shall be conducted in the English language. The award will be final and binding, and a judgment upon the award may be made by any court of competent jurisdiction.

 

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Section 10.8         Severability. If any of the provisions of this Agreement are held by any court of competent jurisdiction to contravene, or to be invalid under, the laws of any governmental body having jurisdiction over the subject matter hereof, such contravention or invalidity shall not invalidate the entire Agreement. Instead, this Agreement shall be construed as if it did not contain the particular provision or provisions held to be invalid and an equitable adjustment shall be made and necessary provision added so as to give effect, as nearly as possible, to the intention of the Parties as expressed in this Agreement at the time of execution of this Agreement.

 

Section 10.9         Deed; Bill of Sale; Assignment. To the extent required and permitted by applicable law, this Agreement shall also constitute a “deed,” “bill of sale” or “assignment” of the interests referenced herein.

 

Section 10.10         Integration. This Agreement and the instruments referenced herein supersede all previous understandings or agreements among the Parties, whether oral or written, with respect to the subject matter of this Agreement and such instruments. This Agreement and such instruments contain the entire understanding of the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and thereof. No understanding, representation, promise or agreement, whether oral or written, is intended to be or shall be included in or form part of this Agreement unless it is contained in a written amendment hereto executed by the Parties after the date of this Agreement.

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties to this Agreement have caused it to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

  HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.
     
  By: /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
     
  HÖEGH LNG LTD.
     
  By: /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
     
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By: /s/ Richard Tyrrell
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and
    Chief Financial Officer
     
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS OPERATING LLC
     
  By: /s/ Richard Tyrrell
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and
    Chief Financial Officer

 

Signature Page
To
Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

  

 

 

 

EXHIBIT I

FORM OF SELLER’S CREDIT

 

[attached]

 

Exhibit I to
Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

 

 

 

   

THIS NOTE HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED PURSUANT TO THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (AS AMENDED, THE “ SECURITIES ACT ”) OR QUALIFIED PURSUANT TO ANY APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAW. THIS NOTE MAY BE RESOLD ONLY IF REGISTERED PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND QUALIFIED PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR IF AN EXEMPTION FROM SUCH REGISTRATION AND QUALIFICATION IS AVAILABLE, EXCEPT UNDER CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE NONE OF SUCH REGISTRATION, QUALIFICATION NOR EXEMPTION IS REQUIRED BY LAW.

 

SELLER CREDIT NOTE

 

$47,000,000

 

[●], 2015

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (together with its successors and permitted assigns, “ Payor ”), for value received, hereby promises to pay to Höegh LNG Ltd. (“ Payee ”), or its registered assigns, the principal sum of forty-seven million and no/100 Dollars ($47,000,000) payable [●] 1 (such date, the “ Maturity Date ”); provided that, notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) Payee may, in its sole and absolute discretion, elect to accelerate the Maturity Date upon any breach by Payor of any provision of this Note (including, without limitation, any failure by Payor to pay any amount owing under this Note when due and in the manner required by this Note) and (ii) the Maturity Date shall be deemed to have occurred immediately upon the occurrence of any Insolvency Event without any further act on the part of any Person. This Note shall accrue interest at a rate of 8% per annum which interest shall be payable as provided below; provided, however , that Payor agrees to pay interest at a rate of 10% per annum on all amounts under this Note not paid when due which interest shall be payable promptly after demand of Payee. Interest on this Note shall be calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed and a year of 360 days. Accrued and unpaid interest shall be paid by Payor on the last Business Day of each March, June, September and December. Payment of principal, interest and any other amounts in respect of this Note shall be made in Dollars, in immediately-available funds, by wire-transfer to the payment office most recently notified to Payor in writing by Payee.

 

1.            DEFINED TERMS

 

Capitalized terms used in this Note shall have the meanings set forth herein, and the following capitalized terms shall have the following meanings:

 

Bankruptcy Code ” shall mean Title 11 of the United States Code entitled “Bankruptcy,” as now and hereafter in effect, or any successor statute.

 

 

1 To be 18 months after the date of the note.

  

 

 

 

Business Day ” shall mean a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or any other day on which commercial banks in London, New York, the Marshall Islands, Norway or Bermuda are authorized or required by law to close.

 

Dollars ” and “ $ ” shall mean the lawful currency of the United States of America.

 

Insolvency Proceeding ” shall mean (a) any case, action or proceeding before any court or other Governmental Authority or authority relating to bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, liquidation, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or relief of debtors, or (b) any general assignment for the benefit of creditors, composition, marshalling of assets for creditors, or other, similar arrangement in respect of its creditors generally or any substantial portion of its creditors, in each case undertaken under United States federal, state or foreign law, including the Bankruptcy Code.

 

Material Adverse Effect ” shall mean a material adverse effect on (a) the business, assets, liabilities, operations or condition (financial or otherwise) of Payor and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, (b) the ability of Payor to perform its obligations under this Note or (c) the ability of Payee to enforce this Note.

 

Person ” shall mean an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, business trust, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated association, joint venture, Governmental Authority or other entity of whatever nature.

 

2.            PREPAYMENT

 

The outstanding principal amount of this Note may be prepaid in whole or in part at any time by Payor, without premium or penalty, upon ten (10) Business Days’ (or such shorter period as Payee shall accept) prior written notice to Payee, which notice shall be irrevocable once delivered. Any prepayment of this Note shall be accompanied by all accrued and unpaid interest on the amount so prepaid. In the event this Note is prepaid in part, a new Note or Notes of like tenor for the outstanding principal amount hereof will be issued in the name of the Payee upon request of the Payee. Amounts in respect of this Note which are prepaid may not be reborrowed.

 

3.            REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

Payor represents and warrants to Payee that:

 

(a) Payor (i) has been duly formed and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the Marshall Islands and (ii) is qualified to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the ownership of its properties or the conduct of its business requires such qualification except where the failure so to qualify would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(b) The execution, delivery and performance by Payor of this Note have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action of Payor and do not and will not: (i) contravene the terms of the organizational documents of Payor; (ii) result in a breach of, or constitute a default under, any lease, instrument, contract or other agreement to which Payor is a party or by which it or its properties may be bound or affected that would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; or (iii) violate any provision of any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment, decree or the like binding on or affecting Payor.

 

 

 

 

(c) This Note constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Payor, enforceable against Payor in accordance with its terms, subject to the effect of applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and equitable principles of general applicability.

 

(d) No authorization, consent, approval, license, exemption of, or filing or registration with, any Person is required for the due execution, delivery or performance by Payor of this Note.

 

(e) The making of the loan evidenced by this Note does not require any authorization, consent or approval of, registration or filing with, or any other action by, any Person (including shareholders or any class of directors, whether interested or disinterested, of Payor or any other Person), nor is any such authorization, consent, approval, registration, filing or other action necessary for the validity or enforceability of this Note, except such as have been obtained or made and are in full force and effect.

 

4.            INSOLVENCY EVENTS

 

Any of the following events which shall occur shall constitute an “ Insolvency Event ”:

 

(a) (i) Payor shall be dissolved, liquidated, wound up or cease its corporate existence or cease to conduct its business in the ordinary course; or (ii) Payor (1) shall make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, or shall generally fail to pay, or admit in writing its inability to pay, its debts as they become due, subject to applicable grace periods, if any, whether at stated maturity or otherwise; (2) shall commence any voluntary Insolvency Proceeding; or (3) shall take any action to effectuate or authorize any of the foregoing; or

 

(b) (i) Any involuntary Insolvency Proceeding is commenced or filed against Payor, or any writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process is issued or levied against a substantial part of Payor’s properties and such Insolvency Proceeding shall not be dismissed, or such writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process shall not be released, vacated or fully bonded within sixty (60) days after commencement, filing or levy; (ii) Payor admits the material allegations of a petition against it in any Insolvency Proceeding, or an order for relief (or similar order under non-United States law) is ordered in any Insolvency Proceeding; or (iii) Payor acquiesces in the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, conservator, liquidator, mortgagee in possession (or agent therefor), or other similar Person for itself or a substantial portion of its property or business.

 

 

 

 

5.            SUBORDINATION

 

Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained in this Note, payments under this Note (the “ Junior Obligations ”) shall be subordinated to the prior payment in full of the principal, interest, fees and any other amounts (the “ Senior Obligations ”) outstanding under the Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated April 1, 2015, among Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., as borrowers, the guarantors, financial institutions and agents party thereto from time to time and Nordea Bank Norge ASA as Agent, Security Trustee and Account Bank (as the same may be further amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ MUSD 412 Facility ”). Holders of the Senior Obligations will be entitled to receive payment in full of all Senior Obligations before Payee will be entitled to receive any payment with respect to the Junior Obligations in the event of any distribution to creditors of Payor: (i) in a liquidation or dissolution of Payor; (ii) in a bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, receivership or similar proceeding relating to Payor and its properties; (iii) in an assignment for the benefit of creditors; (iv) in any marshalling of the assets and liabilities of Payor; or (v) at any time during which a Default (as defined in the MUSD 412 Facility) has occurred and is continuing. For so long as no Default (as defined in the MUSD 412 Facility) has occurred and is continuing at such time, Payor may make (and Payee may receive and retain and apply in satisfaction of the Junior Obligations) payments of the Junior Obligations from time to time in its sole and absolute discretion. Amounts received by Payee in respect of the Junior Obligations when payment thereof is prohibited by this Section 5 shall be held by Payee in trust for the benefit of the holders of the Senior Obligations and turned over to the holders of the Senior Obligations upon the written request of the Security Trustee (as defined under the MUSD 412 Facility).

 

6.            MISCELLANEOUS

 

Payor agrees to pay on demand all the losses, costs, and expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements) which Payee incurs in connection with enforcement of this Note, or the protection or preservation of Payee’s rights under this Note, whether by judicial proceedings or otherwise. Such costs and expenses include, without limitation, those incurred in connection with any workout or refinancing, or any bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation or similar proceedings.

 

No single or partial exercise of any power under this Note shall preclude any other or further exercise of such power or exercise of any other power. No delay or omission on the part of Payee in exercising any right under this Note shall operate as a waiver of such right or any other right hereunder.

 

 

 

 

This Note shall be binding on each of Payor and Payee and their respective successors and assigns. Payor may not assign or transfer this Note or any of its obligations hereunder without Payee’s prior written consent; Payee may assign or transfer this Note to any other Person in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

No provision of this Note shall alter or impair the obligation of Payor, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and any premium and interest on this Note at the times, place and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed, subject to Payor’s right to redeem all or a portion of this Note as provided herein or as otherwise agreed to by the parties.

 

This Note shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

 

The remainder of this page intentionally left blank.

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Payor has caused this instrument to be duly executed this [ · ] day of [ · ], 2015.

 

  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
   
  By  
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chief
    Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT II

FORM OF LETTER AGREEMENT

 

[attached]

 

Exhibit II to
Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

 

 

 

  

 Höegh LNG Partners LP
Wessex House, 5th Floor

45 Reid Street
Hamilton, HM 12
Bermuda

[________], 2015

 

 

Höegh LNG Ltd.

Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.

Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC

c/o Höegh LNG AS

Drammensveien 134

N-0277 Oslo, Norway

 

Reference is made to (i) the Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2015 (the “ Agreement ”), by and among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG ”), Höegh LNG Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG Ltd. ” and, collectively with Höegh LNG, the “ Seller Companies ”), Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a Marshall Islands limited liability company (the “ Operating Company ”), (ii) the Lease and Maintenance Agreement (the “ Lease and Maintenance Agreement ”), dated April 15, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, a Cyprus company (“ CyprusCo ”), acting through its Egyptian Branch, and Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC, an Egyptian company (“ EgyptCo ”) and (iii) the Regasification Service Agreement (the “ Regasification Service Agreement ”), dated November 3, 2014, between Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company, an Egyptian company (the “ Charterer ”), and Höegh LNG Ltd., as amended pursuant to the Novation Agreement, dated March 29, 2015, among Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC (“ EgyptCo ”) and the Charterer, whereby Höegh LNG Ltd. transferred to EgyptCo, and EgyptCo accepted, all of Höegh LNG Ltd.’s rights, interests, duties and obligations under the Regasification Service Agreement. Capitalized terms used in this letter agreement and not otherwise defined herein will have the meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

The undersigned parties hereby agree that:

 

1. The Partnership may participate with Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and EgyptCo (collectively, the “ RSA Parties ”) in all discussions with the Charterer regarding the Regasification Service Agreement or the Vessel. Upon request by the Partnership, the RSA Parties shall promptly provide copies of any correspondence with the Charterer or any other materials related to the Regasification Service Agreement or the Vessel.

 

2. None of the RSA Parties shall amend, alter or otherwise modify, or permit any amendment, alteration or modification of, or terminate the Regasification Service Agreement without the prior written consent of the Partnership.

 

3. Any extension or renewal of the Regasification Services Agreement or the Lease and Maintenance Agreement shall require approval of a majority of each of (a) the board of directors of the Partnership and (b) the Conflicts Committee thereof.

 

 

 

 

4. The Seller Companies hereby jointly and severally guarantee the payment by EgyptCo of Hire (as defined in the Lease and Maintenance Agreement) pursuant to the Lease and Maintenance Agreement (including any interest incurred by EgyptCo pursuant to Clause 10.4 of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement), but only to the extent that the failure of EgyptCo to pay such Hire is caused by (a) the breach by the Charterer of its obligation to pay hire pursuant to Clause 10 of the Regasification Service Agreement and EgyptCo is unable to draw upon EGAS’ Performance Guarantee (as defined in the Regasification Service Agreement) or (b) the Charterer’s claim of a force majeure event pursuant to Clause 21.1 (b), (c), (f) or (h) of the Regasification Service Agreement, or chemical or radioactive contamination or ionizing radiation resulting from any of the Force Majeure Events in such clauses. To the extent EgyptCo shall fail to pay Hire when due, the Seller Companies shall pay such Hire within 45 days of receipt of a notice from CyprusCo requesting payment.

 

5. This letter agreement is incorporated by reference into the Agreement, and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective successors and assigns. Any disputes arising hereunder shall be resolved in the manner set forth in Section 10.7 of the Agreement.

 

Please confirm your acceptance and agreement of this letter agreement by signing in the space provided below. Upon your execution of this letter agreement (or counterpart copies hereof), this letter agreement shall become binding on the parties hereto.

 

[Signature page follows]

 

 

 

 

  Very truly yours,
   
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
   
  By:
    Name:  
    Title:  
   
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS OPERATING LLC
   
  By:  
    Name:  
    Title:  

 

Signature Page to Letter Agreement

 

 

 

 

Confirmed and agreed:  
   
Höegh LNG HOLDINGS Ltd.  
   
By:    
  Name:    
  Title:    
   
Höegh LNG Ltd.  
   
By:    
  Name:    
  Title:    
   
Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC  
   
By:    
  Name:    
  Title:    

 

Signature Page to Letter Agreement

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT III

FORM OF OPTION AGREEMENT

 

[attached]

 

Exhibit III to
Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

 

 

 

 

OPTION AGREEMENT

 

This OPTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of [●], 2015 is made by and among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG ”), Höegh LNG Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG Ltd. ” and, collectively with Höegh LNG, the “ Seller Companies ”) and Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”). The above-named entities are sometimes referred to in this Agreement each as a “ Party and collectively as the “ Parties .”

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , on the date hereof:

 

7. Höegh LNG Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG;

 

8. Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a Cayman Islands company (“ FSRU III ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Ltd.;

 

9. Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, a Cyprus company (“ CyprusCo ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of FSRU III;

 

10. CyprusCo is the record owner of the floating storage and regasification unit Höegh Gallant ( the “ Vessel ) ; and

 

11. Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a Marshall Islands limited liability company (the “ Operating Company ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Partnership;

 

WHEREAS , by a Lease and Maintenance Agreement, dated April 15, 2015 (the “ Lease and Maintenance Agreement ”), CyprusCo, acting through its Egyptian Branch, chartered the Vessel to Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC, an Egyptian company and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Ltd. (“ EgyptCo ”);

 

WHEREAS , the Vessel is subject to a Regasification Service Agreement, dated November 3, 2014, between Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company, an Egyptian company (the “ Charterer ”), and Höegh LNG Ltd., as amended pursuant to the Novation Agreement (as defined below) (the “ Regasification Service Agreement ”);

 

WHEREAS , Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., EgyptCo and the Charterer have entered into a Novation Agreement, dated March 29, 2015 (the “ Novation Agreement ”), whereby Höegh LNG Ltd. transferred to EgyptCo, and EgyptCo accepted, all of Höegh LNG Ltd.’s rights, interests, duties and obligations under the Regasification Service Agreement;

 

WHEREAS , Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., a Cayman Islands company, and CyprusCo, as borrowers, Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and FSRU III, as corporate guarantors, and the banks and other financial institutions named therein as lenders and swap banks (collectively, the “ Lenders ”) have entered into a $412 million Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated April 1, 2015, with respect to the Vessel (the “ Vessel Credit Facility ”);

 

  1  

 

 

WHEREAS , pursuant to a Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 12, 2015 among Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., the Partnership and the Operating Company (the “ Contribution Agreement ”), it has been agreed that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Contribution Agreement, the Partnership will (1) acquire all of the outstanding shares of FSRU III from Höegh LNG Ltd. and (2) contribute such shares to the Operating Company; and

 

WHEREAS , the Seller Companies have agreed to grant the Partnership an option whereby the Partnership can require the Seller Companies to enter into a new charter with respect to the Vessel upon the expiration of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement on substantially the same terms as those in the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, and this Agreement sets out the terms of such option.

 

agreement

 

NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

Article XI

DEFINITIONS

 

Section 11.1 Definitions. Defined terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Contribution Agreement.

 

Article XII

OPTION

 

Section 12.1 Grant of Option. In consideration of the agreement of the Partnership to purchase the shares of FSRU III, the Seller Companies hereby grant to the Partnership the right to require Höegh LNG Ltd. (or an affiliate) to enter into a new charter with respect to the Vessel (the “ Subsequent Charter ”) upon the expiration or termination of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement substantially in the form of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement (together with customary performance guarantees to be agreed between the parties thereto) with Höegh LNG Ltd. (or an affiliate) as charterer, except that the Vessel shall be chartered from the date on which the Lease and Maintenance Agreement expires or terminates, as applicable, until July 31, 2025 (with no option to extend) at a rate of hire which is (a) ninety per cent. (90%) of the rate payable pursuant to Clause 10.1 of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement per day, or pro rata for any day thereof, plus (b) any incremental payroll, income, withholding, value-added or other taxes born by the Partnership and its affiliates as a result of the Subsequent Charter, including any taxes born by entities created to facilitate the Subsequent Charter and any incremental operating expenses incurred as a result of the relocation of the Vessel, each, payable by such charterer for the use and hire of the Vessel. The option granted pursuant to this Section 2.1 is referred to herein as the “ Option .” Any Subsequent Charter shall require approval of a majority of each of (1) the board of directors of the Partnership and (2) the Conflicts Committee thereof.

 

  2  

 

  

Section 12.2         Option Notice. Unless another charter satisfactory to the Partnership has been entered into in respect of the Vessel, the Option may be exercised by the Partnership by serving an irrevocable option notice substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit I no later than the earlier of the date which is (a) 30 days before the expiration of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement or (b) if the Lease and Maintenance Agreement is terminated before the expiration of its Term (as defined therein), 30 days after such termination.

 

Section 12.3         Lenders’ Requirements. Each of the Seller Companies will execute and provide all corporate authorities, certificates, notices and other documentation required by the Lenders (or any other third party) in connection with any new charter pursuant to the exercise by the Partnership of the Option.

 

Article XIII

Representations and Warranties of THE SELLER COMPANIES

 

Section 13.1         Representations and Warranties. The Seller Companies hereby represent and warrant to the Partnership as of the date hereof, that:

 

(a)        Each of the Seller Companies has been duly incorporated and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Bermuda and has all requisite power and authority to operate its assets and conduct its business as it is now being conducted. No Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the Seller Companies or the Transferred Subsidiaries and no events or circumstances have arisen that entitle or could entitle any person to take any action, appoint any person, commence proceedings or obtain any order instigating an Insolvency Event;

 

(b)        Each of the Seller Companies has the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Seller Companies have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of each of the Seller Companies and this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Seller Companies and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller Companies, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(c)        The execution, delivery and performance by each of the Seller Companies of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder will not conflict with or result in any violation of or constitute a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or result in the acceleration of any obligation under, or constitute a default under any provision of: (i) the Organizational Documents of either of the Seller Companies; (ii) any lien, encumbrance, security interest, pledge, mortgage, charge, other claim, bond, indenture, agreement, contract, franchise license, permit or other instrument or obligation to which any of the Seller Companies is a party or is subject or by which any of the Seller Companies’ assets or properties may be bound; (iii) any applicable laws, statutes, ordinances, rules or regulations promulgated by a Governmental Authority, orders of a Governmental Authority, judicial decisions, decisions of arbitrators or determinations of any Governmental Authority or court (“ Laws ”); or (iv) the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, the Vessel Credit Facility or any material provision of any material contract to which any of the Seller Companies is a party or by which the assets of any of the Seller Companies are bound; and

 

  3  

 

 

(d)        Except as have already been obtained or that will be obtained in the ordinary course of business, no consent, permit, approval or authorization of, notice or declaration to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, is required in connection with the execution and delivery by the Seller Companies of this Agreement or the consummation by each of the Seller Companies of the transactions contemplated hereunder, and any consent required for the transactions contemplated hereunder pursuant to the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement and/or the Vessel Credit Facility has been duly obtained.

 

Article XIV

Representations and Warranties of THE PARTNERSHIP

 

Section 14.1         Representations and Warranties. The Partnership hereby represents and warrants to the Seller Companies as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date, that:

 

(a)        The Partnership has been duly formed and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and has all requisite power and authority to operate its assets and conduct its business as it is now being conducted. No Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the Partnership and no events or circumstances have arisen that entitle or could entitle any person to take any action, appoint any person, commence proceedings or obtain any order instigating an Insolvency Event;

 

(b)        The Partnership has the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Partnership have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of the Partnership, and this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Partnership and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Partnership, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(c)        The execution, delivery and performance by the Partnership, as applicable, of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder will not conflict with or result in any violation of or constitute a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or result in the acceleration of any obligation under, or constitute a default under any provision of: (i) the Partnership’s Organizational Documents; (ii) any lien, encumbrance, security interest, pledge, mortgage, charge, other claim, bond, loan agreement, indenture, agreement, contract, franchise license, permit or other instrument or obligation to which the Partnership is a party or is subject or by which any of its assets or properties may be bound; or (iii) any applicable Laws; and

 

  4  

 

 

(d)        Except as have already been obtained or that will be obtained in the ordinary course of business, no consent, permit, approval or authorization of, notice or declaration to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, is required in connection with the execution and delivery by the Partnership of this Agreement or the consummation by the Partnership of the transactions contemplated hereunder.

 

Article XV

FURTHER ASSURANCES

 

Section 15.1         Further Assurances. From time to time after the date of this Agreement, and without any further consideration, the Parties agree to execute, acknowledge and deliver all such additional assignments, agreements and other documents, including any assignment of services agreements pertaining to the Vessel, and will do all such other acts and things, all in accordance with applicable Law, as may be necessary or appropriate to more fully and effectively carry out the purposes and intent of this Agreement.

 

Article XVI

Miscellaneous

 

Section 16.1         Survival of Representations and Warranties. The representations and warranties given in Article III and Article IV shall survive the execution of this Agreement.

 

Section 16.2         Headings; References, Interpretation. All amounts referred to herein are in United States dollars. All Article and Section headings in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be deemed to control or affect the meaning or construction of any of the provisions hereof. The words “hereof,” “herein” and “hereunder” and words of similar import, when used in this Agreement, shall refer to this Agreement as a whole, including, without limitation, all Exhibits attached hereto, and not to any particular provision of this Agreement. All references herein to Articles, Sections and Exhibits shall, unless the context requires a different construction, be deemed to be references to the Articles and Sections of this Agreement and the Exhibits attached hereto, and all such Exhibits attached hereto are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes. All personal pronouns used in this Agreement, whether used in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender, shall include all other genders, and the singular shall include the plural and vice versa. The use herein of the word “including” following any general statement, term or matter shall not be construed to limit such statement, term or matter to the specific items or matters set forth immediately following such word or to similar items or matters, whether or not non-limiting language (such as “without limitation,” “but not limited to” or words of similar import) is used with reference thereto, but rather shall be deemed to refer to all other items or matters that could reasonably fall within the broadest possible scope of such general statement, term or matter.

 

  5  

 

  

Section 16.3         Successors and Assigns. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective successors and assigns .

 

Section 16.4         No Third Party Rights. The provisions of this Agreement are intended to bind the Parties as to each other and are not intended to and do not create rights in any other person or confer upon any other person any benefits, rights or remedies, and no person is or is intended to be a third party beneficiary of any of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

Section 16.5         Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if all signatory Parties had signed the same document. All counterparts shall be construed together and shall constitute one and the same instrument. The delivery of an executed counterpart copy of this Agreement by facsimile or electronic transmission in PDF format shall be deemed to be the equivalent of delivery of the originally executed copy thereof.

 

Section 16.6         Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

 

Section 16.7         Dispute Resolution. Any disputes arising hereunder shall be resolved in the manner set forth in Section 10.7 of the Contribution Agreement.

 

Section 16.8         Severability. If any of the provisions of this Agreement are held by any court of competent jurisdiction to contravene, or to be invalid under, the laws of any governmental body having jurisdiction over the subject matter hereof, such contravention or invalidity shall not invalidate the entire Agreement. Instead, this Agreement shall be construed as if it did not contain the particular provision or provisions held to be invalid and an equitable adjustment shall be made and necessary provision added so as to give effect, as nearly as possible, to the intention of the Parties as expressed in this Agreement at the time of execution of this Agreement.

 

[THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK]

 

  6  

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties to this Agreement have caused it to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

  HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.
     
  By:  
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
     
  HÖEGH LNG LTD.
     
  By:  
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
     
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By:  
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and
    Chief Financial Officer

 

Signature Page
To
Option Agreement

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT I

FORM OF OPTION NOTICE

 

 

To:     Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.

 

and:   Höegh LNG Ltd.

 

Dated: [●]

 

Option Agreement, dated [●] 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and Höegh LNG Partners LP

 

We refer to the Option Agreement.  Words defined in the Option Agreement shall have the same meanings when used in this Notice.

 

We understand from you that the Lease and Maintenance Agreement [is due to expire on]/[terminated on] [ date ].

 

We give you notice that we wish to exercise the Option.

 

Please confirm that you will arrange for any necessary documentation to be prepared and agreed.

 

Yours faithfully,  
   
   
for and on behalf of  
HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP  

 

 

 

 

SCHEDULE A

INSURANCE POLICIES

 

 

Hull & Machinery insurance:

 

All insurances carried, or to be carried, by the owner of the Vessel are placed as part of Höegh LNG’s fleet placements in the international insurance markets.

 

With effect from December 1, 2014, for 12 months, the Vessel is insured for the following insured values:

 

- Hull & Machinery (H&M)   USD 272,000,000  
- Hull Interest (HI)   USD 68,000,000  
- Freight Interest(FI)   USD 68,000,000  
    USD 408,000,000  

 

The insurances are placed on insurance conditions as per the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan of 2013 in accordance with Part one and Chapters 10–13, “on full conditions” as per the Nordic Plan 2013 Clause 10-4, and as per Owner’s Special Conditions and Clauses.

 

The Nordic Plan 2013 provides cover on an "all risks" basis.

 

The Nordic Plan 2013 includes under Chapter 13 coverage for liability of the assured arising from collision with another ship (Running Down Clause "RDC") or striking against Fixed and Floating Objects ("FFO") – on 4/4ths basis in both respects. RDC and FFO thus being excluded under the P&I cover.

 

Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd. (H&M)

 

Brokers   Underwriters   S&P
rating
  Share  
Willis, Oslo   Norwegian Hull Club   A-     10.0 %
    Gard Marine & Energy   A+     15.0 %
    Swedish Club, Gothenburg   BBB +     7.5 %
    Alandia Marine, Åland   BBB +     5.0 %
    Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance   A+     5.5 %
    Codan, Bergen   A     7.5 %
Willis, London   Lloyds (12,5%) / RSA (10%)   A / A     22.5 %
Gr. Eyssautier, Paris   AXA Corporate Solution   AA-     10.0 %
    Allianz Global Corporate & Speciality   AA     10.0 %
    Generali Assurances lard   A     7.0 %
              100.0 %

 

As Claims Leader for 100% placement is appointed Norwegian Hull Club.

 

Schedule A to
Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

 

 

 

 

Deductible for Particular Average (damage to own vessel) is USD 473,000 .

Deductible for Damage Done (collision liability) is USD 50,000 .

 

Assureds :  
   
Assureds: Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited (Owner)
  Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited, Egypt Branch
  Höegh LNG Egypt LLC (Lessee and Commercial Manager)
  Höegh LNG Holding Ltd, Bermuda
  Höegh LNG Fleet Management AS (Manager)
   
Co-assured: Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company as Charterer, as per requirement in Regasification Service Agreement dated 03.10.2014.
   
Mortgagee: Nordea Bank Norge ASA, Oslo

 

Loss of Hire insurance

 

The Vessel is covered in accordance with the Nordic Marine Insurance Plan 2013, Chapter 16, with daily amount USD 166,500, deductible 20 days and max cover 180 days per incident.

 

War risk insurance

 

The Vessel is entered with Den Norske Krigsforsikring for Skib (DNK - The Norwegian Shipowners' Mutual War Risk Insurance Association) for continuous membership until terminated, with anniversary date January 1 each year, for the same insured values as under marine risks insurances.

 

Protection & Indemnity Insurance (P&I)

 

The Vessel is entered with the P&I Club Gard, Norway, for continuous membership until terminated, with anniversary date February 20 each year.

 

Gard is a member of the International Group of P&I Clubs.

 

The deductibles are specially agreed and apply to claims including any legal and other costs:

 

-    Crew: USD 10,000 per port of call
-    Cargo and General Average: USD 50,000 per cargo carrying voyage
-    Other P&I Liabilities: USD   5,500 per event

 

Schedule A to
Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement

 

 

 

Exhibit 4.40

 

Höegh LNG Partners LP
Wessex House, 5th Floor

45 Reid Street
Hamilton, HM 12
Bermuda

 

October 1, 2015

 

Höegh LNG Ltd.

Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.

Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC

c/o Höegh LNG AS

Drammensveien 134

N-0277 Oslo, Norway

 

Reference is made to (i) the Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated as of August 12, 2015 (the “ Agreement ”), by and among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG ”), Höegh LNG Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG Ltd. ” and, collectively with Höegh LNG, the “ Seller Companies ”), Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), and Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a Marshall Islands limited liability company (the “ Operating Company ”), (ii) the Lease and Maintenance Agreement (the “ Lease and Maintenance Agreement ”), dated April 15, 2015, between Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, a Cyprus company (“ CyprusCo ”), acting through its Egyptian Branch, and Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC, an Egyptian company (“ EgyptCo ”) and (iii) the Regasification Service Agreement (the “ Regasification Service Agreement ”), dated November 3, 2014, between Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company, an Egyptian company (the “ Charterer ”), and Höegh LNG Ltd., as amended pursuant to the Novation Agreement, dated March 29, 2015, among Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC (“ EgyptCo ”) and the Charterer, whereby Höegh LNG Ltd. transferred to EgyptCo, and EgyptCo accepted, all of Höegh LNG Ltd.’s rights, interests, duties and obligations under the Regasification Service Agreement. Capitalized terms used in this letter agreement and not otherwise defined herein will have the meanings ascribed to them in the Agreement.

 

The undersigned parties hereby agree that:

 

1. The Partnership may participate with Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and EgyptCo (collectively, the “ RSA Parties ”) in all discussions with the Charterer regarding the Regasification Service Agreement or the Vessel. Upon request by the Partnership, the RSA Parties shall promptly provide copies of any correspondence with the Charterer or any other materials related to the Regasification Service Agreement or the Vessel.

 

2. None of the RSA Parties shall amend, alter or otherwise modify, or permit any amendment, alteration or modification of, or terminate the Regasification Service Agreement without the prior written consent of the Partnership.

 

3. Any extension or renewal of the Regasification Services Agreement or the Lease and Maintenance Agreement shall require approval of a majority of each of (a) the board of directors of the Partnership and (b) the Conflicts Committee thereof.

 

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4. The Seller Companies hereby jointly and severally guarantee the payment by EgyptCo of Hire (as defined in the Lease and Maintenance Agreement) pursuant to the Lease and Maintenance Agreement (including any interest incurred by EgyptCo pursuant to Clause 10.4 of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement), but only to the extent that the failure of EgyptCo to pay such Hire is caused by (a) the breach by the Charterer of its obligation to pay hire pursuant to Clause 10 of the Regasification Service Agreement and EgyptCo is unable to draw upon EGAS’ Performance Guarantee (as defined in the Regasification Service Agreement) or (b) the Charterer’s claim of a force majeure event pursuant to Clause 21.1 (b), (c), (f) or (h) of the Regasification Service Agreement, or chemical or radioactive contamination or ionizing radiation resulting from any of the Force Majeure Events in such clauses. To the extent EgyptCo shall fail to pay Hire when due, the Seller Companies shall pay such Hire within 45 days of receipt of a notice from CyprusCo requesting payment.

 

5. This letter agreement is incorporated by reference into the Agreement, and shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective successors and assigns. Any disputes arising hereunder shall be resolved in the manner set forth in Section 10.7 of the Agreement.

 

Please confirm your acceptance and agreement of this letter agreement by signing in the space provided below. Upon your execution of this letter agreement (or counterpart copies hereof), this letter agreement shall become binding on the parties hereto.

 

[Signature page follows]

 

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  Very truly yours,
   
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By:   /s/ Richard Tyrrell
    Name:   Richard Tyrrell
    Title: Chief Executive Officer and
      Chief Financial Officer
   
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS OPERATING LLC
     
  By:   /s/ Richard Tyrrell
    Name:   Richard Tyrrell
    Title: Chief Executive Officer and
      Chief Financial Officer

 

Signature Page to Letter Agreement

 

 

 

  

Confirmed and agreed:
 
Höegh LNG HOLDINGS Ltd.
   
By:   /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name:   Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
   
Höegh LNG Ltd.
 
By:   /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name:   Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
   
Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC
   
By:   /s/ Cathinka Kahrs Rognsvåg
  Name:   Cathinka Kahrs Rognsvåg
  Title: Attorney-in-fact

 

Signature Page to Letter Agreement

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 4.41

 

OPTION AGREEMENT

 

This OPTION AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”), dated as of October 1, 2015 is made by and among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG ”), Höegh LNG Ltd., a Bermuda exempted company (“ Höegh LNG Ltd. ” and, collectively with Höegh LNG, the “ Seller Companies ”) and Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”). The above-named entities are sometimes referred to in this Agreement each as a “ Party and collectively as the “ Parties .”

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS , on the date hereof:

 

1. Höegh LNG Ltd. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG;

 

2. Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a Cayman Islands company (“ FSRU III ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Ltd.;

 

3. Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited, a Cyprus company (“ CyprusCo ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of FSRU III;

 

4. CyprusCo is the record owner of the floating storage and regasification unit Höegh Gallant ( the “ Vessel ) ; and

 

5. Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC, a Marshall Islands limited liability company (the “ Operating Company ”), is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Partnership;

 

WHEREAS , by a Lease and Maintenance Agreement, dated April 15, 2015 (the “ Lease and Maintenance Agreement ”), CyprusCo, acting through its Egyptian Branch, chartered the Vessel to Hoegh LNG Egypt LLC, an Egyptian company and an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Höegh LNG Ltd. (“ EgyptCo ”);

 

WHEREAS , the Vessel is subject to a Regasification Service Agreement, dated November 3, 2014, between Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company, an Egyptian company (the “ Charterer ”), and Höegh LNG Ltd., as amended pursuant to the Novation Agreement (as defined below) (the “ Regasification Service Agreement ”);

 

WHEREAS , Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., EgyptCo and the Charterer have entered into a Novation Agreement, dated March 29, 2015 (the “ Novation Agreement ”), whereby Höegh LNG Ltd. transferred to EgyptCo, and EgyptCo accepted, all of Höegh LNG Ltd.’s rights, interests, duties and obligations under the Regasification Service Agreement;

 

WHEREAS , Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., a Cayman Islands company, and CyprusCo, as borrowers, Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd. and FSRU III, as corporate guarantors, and the banks and other financial institutions named therein as lenders and swap banks (collectively, the “ Lenders ”) have entered into a $412 million Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated April 1, 2015, with respect to the Vessel (the “ Vessel Credit Facility ”);

 

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WHEREAS , pursuant to a Contribution, Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated August 12, 2015 among Höegh LNG, Höegh LNG Ltd., the Partnership and the Operating Company (the “ Contribution Agreement ”), it has been agreed that, subject to the terms and conditions of the Contribution Agreement, the Partnership will (1) acquire all of the outstanding shares of FSRU III from Höegh LNG Ltd. and (2) contribute such shares to the Operating Company; and

 

WHEREAS , the Seller Companies have agreed to grant the Partnership an option whereby the Partnership can require the Seller Companies to enter into a new charter with respect to the Vessel upon the expiration of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement on substantially the same terms as those in the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, and this Agreement sets out the terms of such option.

 

agreement

 

NOW THEREFORE , in consideration of the foregoing and other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound hereby, the Parties hereby agree as follows:

 

Article I

DEFINITIONS

 

Section 1.1           Definitions . Defined terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Contribution Agreement.

 

Article II

OPTION

 

Section 2.1           Grant of Option . In consideration of the agreement of the Partnership to purchase the shares of FSRU III, the Seller Companies hereby grant to the Partnership the right to require Höegh LNG Ltd. (or an affiliate) to enter into a new charter with respect to the Vessel (the “ Subsequent Charter ”) upon the expiration or termination of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement substantially in the form of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement (together with customary performance guarantees to be agreed between the parties thereto) with Höegh LNG Ltd. (or an affiliate) as charterer, except that the Vessel shall be chartered from the date on which the Lease and Maintenance Agreement expires or terminates, as applicable, until July 31, 2025 (with no option to extend) at a rate of hire which is (a) ninety per cent. (90%) of the rate payable pursuant to Clause 10.1 of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement per day, or pro rata for any day thereof, plus (b) any incremental payroll, income, withholding, value-added or other taxes born by the Partnership and its affiliates as a result of the Subsequent Charter, including any taxes born by entities created to facilitate the Subsequent Charter and any incremental operating expenses incurred as a result of the relocation of the Vessel, each, payable by such charterer for the use and hire of the Vessel. The option granted pursuant to this Section 2.1 is referred to herein as the “ Option .” Any Subsequent Charter shall require approval of a majority of each of (1) the board of directors of the Partnership and (2) the Conflicts Committee thereof.

 

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Section 2.2           Option Notice . Unless another charter satisfactory to the Partnership has been entered into in respect of the Vessel, the Option may be exercised by the Partnership by serving an irrevocable option notice substantially in the form set forth in Exhibit I no later than the earlier of the date which is (a) 30 days before the expiration of the Lease and Maintenance Agreement or (b) if the Lease and Maintenance Agreement is terminated before the expiration of its Term (as defined therein), 30 days after such termination.

 

Section 2.3           Lenders’ Requirements . Each of the Seller Companies will execute and provide all corporate authorities, certificates, notices and other documentation required by the Lenders (or any other third party) in connection with any new charter pursuant to the exercise by the Partnership of the Option.

 

Article III

Representations and Warranties of THE SELLER COMPANIES

 

Section 3.1           Representations and Warranties . The Seller Companies hereby represent and warrant to the Partnership as of the date hereof, that:

 

(a)          Each of the Seller Companies has been duly incorporated and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of Bermuda and has all requisite power and authority to operate its assets and conduct its business as it is now being conducted. No Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the Seller Companies or the Transferred Subsidiaries and no events or circumstances have arisen that entitle or could entitle any person to take any action, appoint any person, commence proceedings or obtain any order instigating an Insolvency Event;

 

(b)          Each of the Seller Companies has the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Seller Companies have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of each of the Seller Companies and this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Seller Companies and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Seller Companies, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(c)          The execution, delivery and performance by each of the Seller Companies of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder will not conflict with or result in any violation of or constitute a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or result in the acceleration of any obligation under, or constitute a default under any provision of: (i) the Organizational Documents of either of the Seller Companies; (ii) any lien, encumbrance, security interest, pledge, mortgage, charge, other claim, bond, indenture, agreement, contract, franchise license, permit or other instrument or obligation to which any of the Seller Companies is a party or is subject or by which any of the Seller Companies’ assets or properties may be bound; (iii) any applicable laws, statutes, ordinances, rules or regulations promulgated by a Governmental Authority, orders of a Governmental Authority, judicial decisions, decisions of arbitrators or determinations of any Governmental Authority or court (“ Laws ”); or (iv) the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement, the Vessel Credit Facility or any material provision of any material contract to which any of the Seller Companies is a party or by which the assets of any of the Seller Companies are bound; and

 

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(d)          Except as have already been obtained or that will be obtained in the ordinary course of business, no consent, permit, approval or authorization of, notice or declaration to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, is required in connection with the execution and delivery by the Seller Companies of this Agreement or the consummation by each of the Seller Companies of the transactions contemplated hereunder, and any consent required for the transactions contemplated hereunder pursuant to the Regasification Service Agreement, the Lease and Maintenance Agreement and/or the Vessel Credit Facility has been duly obtained.

 

Article IV

Representations and Warranties of THE PARTNERSHIP

 

Section 4.1           Representations and Warranties . The Partnership hereby represents and warrants to the Seller Companies as of the date hereof and as of the Closing Date, that:

 

(a)          The Partnership has been duly formed and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and has all requisite power and authority to operate its assets and conduct its business as it is now being conducted. No Insolvency Event has occurred with respect to the Partnership and no events or circumstances have arisen that entitle or could entitle any person to take any action, appoint any person, commence proceedings or obtain any order instigating an Insolvency Event;

 

(b)          The Partnership has the full right, power and authority to enter into this Agreement and to perform its obligations hereunder. The execution and delivery of this Agreement by the Partnership have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of the Partnership, and this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by the Partnership and constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of the Partnership, enforceable in accordance with its terms, except as may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, reorganization, reconstruction and other similar laws of general application affecting the enforceability of remedies and rights of creditors and except that equitable remedies such as specific performance and injunction are in the discretion of a court;

 

(c)          The execution, delivery and performance by the Partnership, as applicable, of this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereunder will not conflict with or result in any violation of or constitute a breach of any of the terms or provisions of, or result in the acceleration of any obligation under, or constitute a default under any provision of: (i) the Partnership’s Organizational Documents; (ii) any lien, encumbrance, security interest, pledge, mortgage, charge, other claim, bond, loan agreement, indenture, agreement, contract, franchise license, permit or other instrument or obligation to which the Partnership is a party or is subject or by which any of its assets or properties may be bound; or (iii) any applicable Laws; and

 

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(d)          Except as have already been obtained or that will be obtained in the ordinary course of business, no consent, permit, approval or authorization of, notice or declaration to or filing with any Governmental Authority or any other person, including those related to any Environmental Laws or regulations, is required in connection with the execution and delivery by the Partnership of this Agreement or the consummation by the Partnership of the transactions contemplated hereunder.

 

Article V

FURTHER ASSURANCES

 

Section 5.1           Further Assurances . From time to time after the date of this Agreement, and without any further consideration, the Parties agree to execute, acknowledge and deliver all such additional assignments, agreements and other documents, including any assignment of services agreements pertaining to the Vessel, and will do all such other acts and things, all in accordance with applicable Law, as may be necessary or appropriate to more fully and effectively carry out the purposes and intent of this Agreement.

 

Article VI

Miscellaneous

 

Section 6.1           Survival of Representations and Warranties . The representations and warranties given in Article III and Article IV shall survive the execution of this Agreement.

 

Section 6.2           Headings; References, Interpretation . All amounts referred to herein are in United States dollars. All Article and Section headings in this Agreement are for convenience only and shall not be deemed to control or affect the meaning or construction of any of the provisions hereof. The words “hereof,” “herein” and “hereunder” and words of similar import, when used in this Agreement, shall refer to this Agreement as a whole, including, without limitation, all Exhibits attached hereto, and not to any particular provision of this Agreement. All references herein to Articles, Sections and Exhibits shall, unless the context requires a different construction, be deemed to be references to the Articles and Sections of this Agreement and the Exhibits attached hereto, and all such Exhibits attached hereto are hereby incorporated herein and made a part hereof for all purposes. All personal pronouns used in this Agreement, whether used in the masculine, feminine or neuter gender, shall include all other genders, and the singular shall include the plural and vice versa. The use herein of the word “including” following any general statement, term or matter shall not be construed to limit such statement, term or matter to the specific items or matters set forth immediately following such word or to similar items or matters, whether or not non-limiting language (such as “without limitation,” “but not limited to” or words of similar import) is used with reference thereto, but rather shall be deemed to refer to all other items or matters that could reasonably fall within the broadest possible scope of such general statement, term or matter.

 

Section 6.3           Successors and Assigns . This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties and their respective successors and assigns.

 

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Section 6.4           No Third Party Rights . The provisions of this Agreement are intended to bind the Parties as to each other and are not intended to and do not create rights in any other person or confer upon any other person any benefits, rights or remedies, and no person is or is intended to be a third party beneficiary of any of the provisions of this Agreement.

 

Section 6.5           Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if all signatory Parties had signed the same document. All counterparts shall be construed together and shall constitute one and the same instrument. The delivery of an executed counterpart copy of this Agreement by facsimile or electronic transmission in PDF format shall be deemed to be the equivalent of delivery of the originally executed copy thereof.

 

Section 6.6           Governing Law . This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

 

Section 6.7           Dispute Resolution . Any disputes arising hereunder shall be resolved in the manner set forth in Section 10.7 of the Contribution Agreement.

 

Section 6.8           Severability . If any of the provisions of this Agreement are held by any court of competent jurisdiction to contravene, or to be invalid under, the laws of any governmental body having jurisdiction over the subject matter hereof, such contravention or invalidity shall not invalidate the entire Agreement. Instead, this Agreement shall be construed as if it did not contain the particular provision or provisions held to be invalid and an equitable adjustment shall be made and necessary provision added so as to give effect, as nearly as possible, to the intention of the Parties as expressed in this Agreement at the time of execution of this Agreement.

 

[THE REMAINDER OF THIS PAGE IS LEFT INTENTIONALLY BLANK]

 

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties to this Agreement have caused it to be duly executed as of the date first above written.

 

  HÖEGH LNG HOLDINGS LTD.
     
  By: /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
     
  HÖEGH LNG LTD.
     
  By: /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller
  Title: Attorney-in-fact
     
  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By: /s/ Richard Tyrrell
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and
    Chief Financial Officer

 

Signature Page
To
Option Agreement

 

 

 

 

EXHIBIT I

 

FORM OF OPTION NOTICE

 

To:    Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd.

 

and:   Höegh LNG Ltd.

 

Dated: [●]

 

Option Agreement, dated [●] 2015, among Höegh LNG Holdings Ltd., Höegh LNG Ltd. and Höegh LNG Partners LP

 

We refer to the Option Agreement.  Words defined in the Option Agreement shall have the same meanings when used in this Notice.

 

We understand from you that the Lease and Maintenance Agreement [is due to expire on]/[terminated on] [ date ].

 

We give you notice that we wish to exercise the Option.

 

Please confirm that you will arrange for any necessary documentation to be prepared and agreed.

 

Yours faithfully,  
   
   
for and on behalf of  
HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP  

 

Exhibit I to
Option Agreement

 

 

 

Exhibit 4.42

 

THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED SELLER CREDIT NOTE (THIS “ NOTE ”) HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED PURSUANT TO THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 (AS AMENDED, THE “ SECURITIES ACT ”) OR QUALIFIED PURSUANT TO ANY APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAW. THIS NOTE MAY BE RESOLD ONLY IF REGISTERED PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE SECURITIES ACT AND QUALIFIED PURSUANT TO APPLICABLE STATE SECURITIES LAWS OR IF AN EXEMPTION FROM SUCH REGISTRATION AND QUALIFICATION IS AVAILABLE, EXCEPT UNDER CIRCUMSTANCES WHERE NONE OF SUCH REGISTRATION, QUALIFICATION NOR EXEMPTION IS REQUIRED BY LAW.

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED
SELLER CREDIT NOTE

 

$47,000,000

 

Original Dated October 1, 2015
Amended and Restated February 28, 2016

 

HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (together with its successors and permitted assigns, “ Payor ”), for value received, hereby promises to pay to Höegh LNG Ltd. (“ Payee ”), or its registered assigns, the principal sum of forty-seven million and no/100 Dollars ($47,000,000) payable January 1, 2020 (such date, the “ Maturity Date ”); provided that, notwithstanding the foregoing, (i) Payee may, in its sole and absolute discretion, elect to accelerate the Maturity Date upon any breach by Payor of any provision of this Note (including, without limitation, any failure by Payor to pay any amount owing under this Note when due and in the manner required by this Note) and (ii) the Maturity Date shall be deemed to have occurred immediately upon the occurrence of any Insolvency Event without any further act on the part of any Person. This Note shall accrue interest at a rate of 8% per annum which interest shall be payable as provided below; provided, however , that Payor agrees to pay interest at a rate of 10% per annum on all amounts under this Note not paid when due which interest shall be payable promptly after demand of Payee. Interest on this Note shall be calculated on the basis of the actual number of days elapsed and a year of 360 days. Accrued and unpaid interest shall be paid by Payor on the last Business Day of each March, June, September and December. Payment of principal, interest and any other amounts in respect of this Note shall be made in Dollars, in immediately-available funds, by wire-transfer to the payment office most recently notified to Payor in writing by Payee.

 

1.             DEFINED TERMS

 

Capitalized terms used in this Note shall have the meanings set forth herein, and the following capitalized terms shall have the following meanings:

 

Bankruptcy Code ” shall mean Title 11 of the United States Code entitled “Bankruptcy,” as now and hereafter in effect, or any successor statute.

 

 

 

 

Business Day ” shall mean a day other than a Saturday, Sunday or any other day on which commercial banks in London, New York, the Marshall Islands, Norway or Bermuda are authorized or required by law to close.

 

Dollars ” and “ $ ” shall mean the lawful currency of the United States of America.

 

Insolvency Proceeding ” shall mean (a) any case, action or proceeding before any court or other Governmental Authority or authority relating to bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, liquidation, receivership, dissolution, winding-up or relief of debtors, or (b) any general assignment for the benefit of creditors, composition, marshalling of assets for creditors, or other, similar arrangement in respect of its creditors generally or any substantial portion of its creditors, in each case undertaken under United States federal, state or foreign law, including the Bankruptcy Code.

 

Material Adverse Effect ” shall mean a material adverse effect on (a) the business, assets, liabilities, operations or condition (financial or otherwise) of Payor and its subsidiaries taken as a whole, (b) the ability of Payor to perform its obligations under this Note or (c) the ability of Payee to enforce this Note.

 

Person ” shall mean an individual, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, business trust, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated association, joint venture, Governmental Authority or other entity of whatever nature.

 

2.             PREPAYMENT

 

The outstanding principal amount of this Note may be prepaid in whole or in part at any time by Payor, without premium or penalty, upon ten (10) Business Days’ (or such shorter period as Payee shall accept) prior written notice to Payee, which notice shall be irrevocable once delivered. Any prepayment of this Note shall be accompanied by all accrued and unpaid interest on the amount so prepaid. In the event this Note is prepaid in part, a new Note or Notes of like tenor for the outstanding principal amount hereof will be issued in the name of the Payee upon request of the Payee. Amounts in respect of this Note which are prepaid may not be reborrowed.

 

3.             REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

 

Payor represents and warrants to Payee that:

 

(a) Payor (i) has been duly formed and is validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the Marshall Islands and (ii) is qualified to do business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction in which the ownership of its properties or the conduct of its business requires such qualification except where the failure so to qualify would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(b) The execution, delivery and performance by Payor of this Note have been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action of Payor and do not and will not: (i) contravene the terms of the organizational documents of Payor; (ii) result in a breach of, or constitute a default under, any lease, instrument, contract or other agreement to which Payor is a party or by which it or its properties may be bound or affected that would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; or (iii) violate any provision of any law, rule, regulation, order, judgment, decree or the like binding on or affecting Payor.

 

 

 

 

(c) This Note constitutes the legal, valid and binding obligation of Payor, enforceable against Payor in accordance with its terms, subject to the effect of applicable bankruptcy, insolvency or similar laws affecting creditors’ rights generally and equitable principles of general applicability.

 

(d) No authorization, consent, approval, license, exemption of, or filing or registration with, any Person is required for the due execution, delivery or performance by Payor of this Note.

 

(e) The making of the loan evidenced by this Note does not require any authorization, consent or approval of, registration or filing with, or any other action by, any Person (including shareholders or any class of directors, whether interested or disinterested, of Payor or any other Person), nor is any such authorization, consent, approval, registration, filing or other action necessary for the validity or enforceability of this Note, except such as have been obtained or made and are in full force and effect.

 

(f) As of February 28, 2016, the outstanding principal amount of this Note is $47,000,000 and the outstanding accrued and unpaid interest under this Note is $616,222.

 

4.             INSOLVENCY EVENTS

 

Any of the following events which shall occur shall constitute an “ Insolvency Event ”:

 

(a) (i) Payor shall be dissolved, liquidated, wound up or cease its corporate existence or cease to conduct its business in the ordinary course; or (ii) Payor (1) shall make a general assignment for the benefit of creditors, or shall generally fail to pay, or admit in writing its inability to pay, its debts as they become due, subject to applicable grace periods, if any, whether at stated maturity or otherwise; (2) shall commence any voluntary Insolvency Proceeding; or (3) shall take any action to effectuate or authorize any of the foregoing; or

 

(b) (i) Any involuntary Insolvency Proceeding is commenced or filed against Payor, or any writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process is issued or levied against a substantial part of Payor’s properties and such Insolvency Proceeding shall not be dismissed, or such writ, judgment, warrant of attachment, execution or similar process shall not be released, vacated or fully bonded within sixty (60) days after commencement, filing or levy; (ii) Payor admits the material allegations of a petition against it in any Insolvency Proceeding, or an order for relief (or similar order under non-United States law) is ordered in any Insolvency Proceeding; or (iii) Payor acquiesces in the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, conservator, liquidator, mortgagee in possession (or agent therefor), or other similar Person for itself or a substantial portion of its property or business.

 

 

 

  

5.             SUBORDINATION

 

Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary contained in this Note, payments under this Note (the “ Junior Obligations ”) shall be subordinated to the prior payment in full of the principal, interest, fees and any other amounts (the “ Senior Obligations ”) outstanding under the Amended and Restated Facilities Agreement, dated April 1, 2015, among Höegh LNG Cyprus Limited and Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., as borrowers, the guarantors, financial institutions and agents party thereto from time to time and Nordea Bank Norge ASA as Agent, Security Trustee and Account Bank (as the same may be further amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time, the “ MUSD 412 Facility ”). Holders of the Senior Obligations will be entitled to receive payment in full of all Senior Obligations before Payee will be entitled to receive any payment with respect to the Junior Obligations in the event of any distribution to creditors of Payor: (i) in a liquidation or dissolution of Payor; (ii) in a bankruptcy, reorganization, insolvency, receivership or similar proceeding relating to Payor and its properties; (iii) in an assignment for the benefit of creditors; (iv) in any marshalling of the assets and liabilities of Payor; or (v) at any time during which a Default (as defined in the MUSD 412 Facility) has occurred and is continuing. For so long as no Default (as defined in the MUSD 412 Facility) has occurred and is continuing at such time, Payor may make (and Payee may receive and retain and apply in satisfaction of the Junior Obligations) payments of the Junior Obligations from time to time in its sole and absolute discretion. Amounts received by Payee in respect of the Junior Obligations when payment thereof is prohibited by this Section 5 shall be held by Payee in trust for the benefit of the holders of the Senior Obligations and turned over to the holders of the Senior Obligations upon the written request of the Security Trustee (as defined under the MUSD 412 Facility).

 

6.             MISCELLANEOUS

 

Payor agrees to pay on demand all the losses, costs, and expenses (including, without limitation, attorneys’ fees and disbursements) which Payee incurs in connection with enforcement of this Note, or the protection or preservation of Payee’s rights under this Note, whether by judicial proceedings or otherwise. Such costs and expenses include, without limitation, those incurred in connection with any workout or refinancing, or any bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation or similar proceedings.

 

No single or partial exercise of any power under this Note shall preclude any other or further exercise of such power or exercise of any other power. No delay or omission on the part of Payee in exercising any right under this Note shall operate as a waiver of such right or any other right hereunder.

 

 

 

 

This Note shall be binding on each of Payor and Payee and their respective successors and assigns. Payor may not assign or transfer this Note or any of its obligations hereunder without Payee’s prior written consent; Payee may assign or transfer this Note to any other Person in its sole and absolute discretion.

 

No provision of this Note shall alter or impair the obligation of Payor, which is absolute and unconditional, to pay the principal of and any premium and interest on this Note at the times, place and rate, and in the coin or currency, herein prescribed, subject to Payor’s right to redeem all or a portion of this Note as provided herein or as otherwise agreed to by the parties.

 

This Note represents an amendment and restatement of that certain Seller Credit Note, dated October 1, 2015, made by Payor in favor of Payee, in the original principal amount of $47,000,000 (the “ Prior Note ”). Any indebtedness under the Prior Note continues under this Note, and the execution of this Note does not indicate a payment, satisfaction, novation or discharge of such indebtedness.

 

This Note shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York.

 

The remainder of this page intentionally left blank.

 

 

 

 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Payor has caused this instrument to be duly executed this 28 day of February, 2016.

 

  HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
   
  By:   /s/ Richard Tyrrell
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer

 

ACKNOWLEDGED AND AGREED:

 

HÖEGH LNG LTD.  
   
By:    /s/ Camilla Nyhus-Møller  
Name: Camilla Nyhus-Møller  
Title: Authorized Signatory  

 

Signature Page to “Seller Credit”

 

 

 

Exhibit 8.1

 

Subsidiaries of Höegh LNG Partners LP

 

Subsidiary   Ownership Interest   Jurisdiction of Formation
Höegh LNG Partners Operating LLC   100%   Republic of the Marshall Islands
SRV Joint Gas Ltd.   50%   Cayman Islands
SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd.   50%   Cayman Islands
Höegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd.   100%   Singapore
Höegh LNG Services Ltd.   100%   United Kingdom
PT Hoegh LNG Lampung   49%   Indonesia
Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd.   100%   Cayman Islands
Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited   100%   Cyprus
Hoegh LNG Cyprus Limited Egypt Branch   100%   Egypt

 

 

Exhibit 12.1

 

Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b)  

and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. 1350)

 

I, Richard Tyrrell, certify that:

 

1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Höegh LNG Partners LP (the “registrant”);

 

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. I am 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 my 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 my 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 my 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 period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5. I have disclosed, based on my most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

 

(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date: April 28, 2016 HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By: /s/ Richard Tyrrell
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Principal Executive Officer
    and Principal Financial Officer

 

 

Exhibit 13.1

 

Certification Pursuant to 

18 U.S.C. 1350

 

Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. 1350), as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the undersigned officer of Höegh LNG Partners LP, a Marshall Islands limited partnership (the “ Partnership ”), certifies, to such officer’s knowledge, that:

 

The annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015 of the Partnership (the “ Report ”) fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Partnership.

 

Date: April 28, 2016   HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
     
  By: /s/ RICHARD TYRRELL
  Name: Richard Tyrrell
  Title: Principal Executive Officer
    and Principal Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exhibit 15.1

 

Schedule I- Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

  

CONDENSED STATEMENT OF INCOME AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Year ended
December 31,
    April 28 to December 31,  
    2015     2014  
Total revenue   $     $ 13,269  
EXPENSES                
Administrative expenses     (6,089 )     (1,718 )
Equity in earnings of subsidiaries     26,118       1,086  
Equity in earnings (losses) of joint ventures     17,123       (2,158 )
Interest income     6,267       3,243  
Interest expense     (2,140 )     (467 )
Net income     41,279       13,255  
Share of subsidiaries unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow hedges     1,329       (2,293 )
Share of subsidiaries income tax benefit (expense)     (395 )     17  
Comprehensive income   $ 42,213     $ 10,979  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed financial statements.

 

CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
    As of
December 31,
 
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   2015     2014  
Current assets                
Cash   $ 13,082     $ 27,155  
Promissory note to subsidiaries     123,248       123,248  
Demand note due from owner           143,241  
Prepaid expenses and other receivables     96        
Total current assets     136,426       293,644  
Investments in subsidiaries     204,249       3,199  
Total assets   $ 340,675     $ 296,843  
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS’ CAPITAL                
Trade Payables     283       155  
Amounts due to owners and affiliates     560       213  
Loans and promissory notes due to owners and affiliates     47,287       467  
Accrued liabilities and other payables     240        
Total current liabilities   $ 48,370     $ 835  
Accumulated losses of joint ventures     42,507       59,630  
Total liabilities     90,877       60,465  
Total partners' capital     249,798       236,378  
Total liabilities and partners' capital   $ 340,675     $ 296,843  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed financial statements.

 

 

 

 

Schedule I- Condensed Financial Information of Registrant

  

Exhibit 15.1

  

CONDENSED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(in thousands of U.S. dollars)   Year ended
December 31,
    April 28 to December 31,  
    2015     2014  
Net cash provided by operating activities   $ 10,252     $ 11,981  
                 
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                
Demand note due from owner           (140,000 )
Proceeds from investment in subsidiaries     4,600          
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities     4,600       (140,000 )
                 
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                
Proceeds from initial public offering, net of underwriters' discounts and expenses of offering           203,467  
Cash from proceeds of initial public offering distributed to Höegh LNG           (43,467 )
Proceeds from indemnifications received from Höegh LNG     6,596        
Cash distributions to unitholders     (35,524 )     (4,826 )
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities     (28,928 )     155,174  
                 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents     (14,076 )     27,155  
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period     27,155          
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period   $ 13,079     $ 27,155  

 

See accompanying notes to condensed financial statements.

 

1. Basis of presentation

 

Höegh LNG Partners LP – Parent company is a Marshall Islands limited partnership formed on April 28, 2014.

 

In the parent-only financial statements, the investment in subsidiaries and investment in joint ventures are stated at cost plus equity in undistributed earnings of subsidiaries and accumulated losses in joint ventures since the date of acquisition and the closing of the initial public offering of Höegh LNG Partners LP (the “Partnership”) on August 12, 2014. The Partnership’s share of net income of its unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures is included in the condensed income statement using the equity method. The Parent company’s financial statements should be read in conjunction with the Partnership’s consolidated and combined carve-out financial statements contained elsewhere in the Partnership’s Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2015.

 

2. Dividends

 

A cash dividend of $8.4 million was paid to the Parent company from its consolidated subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2015. No dividend was paid for the year ended December 31, 2014.