UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F
(Mark One)
☐ | REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR 12(g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
OR
☒ | ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021
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)
Canon’s Court
22 Victoria Street
Hamilton, HM 12 Bermuda
(Address of principal executive offices)
Håvard Furu
Canon’s Court
22 Victoria Street
Hamilton, HM 12 Bermuda
Telephone: +479-912-3443
Facsimile: +479-755-7401
havard.furu@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 |
| Trading Symbol(s) |
| Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered |
Common units representing limited partner interests | HMLP | New York Stock Exchange | ||
|
|
| ||
Series A cumulative redeemable preferred units representing limited partner interests | HMLP PRA | 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.
33,373,002 common units representing limited partner interests
7,089,325 Series A cumulative redeemable preferred 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 ☒ 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 ☒ 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. ☒ Yes ☐ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted 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 such files).
☒ Yes ☐ No
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐ | Accelerated filer ☒ | Non-accelerated filer ☐ | Emerging Growth Company ☐ |
If an emerging growth company that prepares its financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards+ provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
+ The term "new or revised financial accounting standard" refers to any update issued by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to its Accounting Standards Codification after April 5, 2012.
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management's assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP ☒ | International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board ☐ | Other ☐ |
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 ☒ No
HÖEGH LNG PARTNERS LP
INDEX TO FORM 20-F
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5 | ||
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| |
8 | ||
8 | ||
8 | ||
8 | ||
8 | ||
8 | ||
8 | ||
8 | ||
53 | ||
53 | ||
54 | ||
105 | ||
106 | ||
106 | ||
107 | ||
118 | ||
128 | ||
142 | ||
143 | ||
145 | ||
148 | ||
148 | ||
150 | ||
153 | ||
154 | ||
155 | ||
155 | ||
155 | ||
156 | ||
165 | ||
165 | ||
165 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
169 | ||
170 | ||
170 | ||
174 | ||
175 | ||
181 | ||
182 |
2
182 | ||
182 | ||
182 | ||
183 | ||
184 | ||
184 | ||
Material Modifications to the Rights of Securities Holders and Use of Proceeds | 184 | |
184 | ||
186 | ||
186 | ||
186 | ||
187 | ||
Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers | 187 | |
187 | ||
187 | ||
188 | ||
189 | ||
189 | ||
189 | ||
189 | ||
197 | ||
F-1 |
3
PRESENTATION OF INFORMATION IN THIS REPORT
This annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2021 (this “Annual Report”) should be read in conjunction with the consolidated 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 Lampung” refer to Hoegh LNG Lampung Pte Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh FSRU III” refer to Höegh LNG FSRU III Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company (which was formally dissolved on May 4, 2020). References in this Annual Report to “PT Höegh” refer to PT Hoegh LNG Lampung, the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung. 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 our operating company and the owner of the Höegh Gallant. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Colombia Holding” refer to Höegh LNG Colombia Holding Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh FSRU IV” refer to Höegh LNG FSRU IV Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh Colombia Holding and the owner of the Höegh Grace. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Colombia” refer to Höegh LNG Colombia S.A.S., a wholly owned subsidiary of Höegh Colombia Holding. References in this Annual Report to “Höegh Jamaica” refer to Höegh LNG Jamaica Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of our operating company. 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 Neptune and the Cape Ann, respectively. References in this Annual Report to “Global LNG Supply” refer to Global LNG Supply S.A., and references to “Total Gas & Power” refer to TotalEnergies Gas & Power Limited, a subsidiary of TotalEnergies SE (“Total”). References in this Annual Report to “PGN LNG” refer to PT PGN LNG Indonesia, a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk (“PGN”), a subsidiary of PT Pertamina. References in this Annual Report to “SPEC” refer to Sociedad Portuaria El Cayao S.A. E.S.P. References in this Annual Report to “New Fortress” refer to New Fortress Energy Inc. References in this Annual Report to the “NFE Subsidiaries” refer to NFE South Holdings Limited and NFE International Shipping LLC, subsidiaries of New Fortress.
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 “CharterCo” refer to Höegh LNG Chartering 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.
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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,” “future,” “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:
● | the effects of outbreaks of pandemic or contagious diseases, including the length and severity of the recent worldwide outbreak of COVID-19, including its impact on our business liquidity, cash flows and operations as well as operations of our customers, suppliers and lenders; |
● | market conditions and trends for floating storage and regasification units (“FSRUs”) and liquefied natural gas (“LNG”) carriers, including hire rates, vessel valuations, technological advancements, market preferences and factors affecting supply and demand of LNG, LNG carriers, and FSRUs; |
● | our distribution policy and ability to make cash distributions on our units or any changes in the quarterly distributions on our common units; |
● | restrictions in our debt agreements and pursuant to local laws on our joint ventures’ and our subsidiaries’ ability to make distributions; |
● | the ability of Höegh LNG to meet its financial obligations to us pursuant to the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements and the Suspended Gallant Charter (each, as defined below) and its guarantee and indemnification obligations; |
● | the change in the ability of Höegh LNG to compete with us as a result of its completion of the Amalgamation (as defined below); |
● | our ability to compete successfully for future chartering and newbuilding opportunities; |
● | the response to Hӧegh LNG’s non-binding proposal to acquire all of the Partnership’s publicly held common units; |
● | demand in the FSRU sector or the LNG shipping sector, including demand for our vessels; |
● | our ability to purchase additional vessels from Höegh LNG in the future; |
● | our ability to integrate and realize the anticipated benefits from acquisitions; |
● | our anticipated growth strategies, including the acquisition of vessels; |
● | our anticipated receipt of dividends and repayment of indebtedness from subsidiaries and 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; |
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● | fluctuations in currencies and interest rates; |
● | general market conditions, including fluctuations in hire rates and vessel values; |
● | changes in our operating expenses, including drydocking, on-water class surveys, insurance costs and bunker costs; |
● | our ability to comply with financing agreements and the expected effect of restrictions and covenants in such agreements; |
● | the financial condition liquidity and creditworthiness of our existing or future customers and their ability to satisfy their obligations under our contracts; |
● | our ability to replace existing borrowings, make additional borrowings and to access public equity and debt capital markets; |
● | the ability of our joint venture to close the new Cape Ann facility; |
● | planned capital expenditures and availability of capital resources to fund capital expenditures; |
● | the exercise of purchase options by our customers; |
● | our ability to perform under our contracts and maintain long-term relationships with our customers; |
● | our ability to leverage Höegh LNG’s relationships and reputation in the shipping industry; |
● | our continued ability to enter into long-term, fixed-rate charters and the hire rate thereof; |
● | the operating performance of our vessels and any related claims by Total, PGN LNG or other customers; |
● | our ability to maximize the use of our vessels, including the redeployment or disposition of vessels no longer under long-term charters; |
● | the results of the arbitration with the charterer of the PGN FSRU Lampung; |
● | timely acceptance of our vessels by their charterers; |
● | termination dates and extensions of charters; |
● | the impact of the recent Russian invasion of Ukraine; |
● | our ability to successfully remediate the material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting and our disclosure controls and procedures; |
● | 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; |
● | economic substance laws and regulations adopted or considered by various jurisdictions of formation or incorporation of us and certain of our subsidiaries; |
● | availability and cost of skilled labor, vessel crews and management, including possible disruptions, including but not limited to the supply chain of spare parts and service engineers, caused by the COVID-19 outbreak; |
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● | the number of off-hire days and drydocking requirements, including our ability to complete scheduled drydocking on time and within budget; |
● | our 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 agreement; |
● | the anticipated taxation of the Partnership, our subsidiaries and affiliates and distributions to our unitholders; |
● | estimated future maintenance and replacement capital expenditures; |
● | our ability to hire or retain key employees; |
● | customers’ increasing emphasis on environmental and safety concerns; |
● | potential liability from any pending or future litigation; |
● | risks inherent in the operation of our vessels including potential disruption due to accidents, political events, piracy or acts by terrorists; |
● | future sales of our common units, Series A preferred units or other securities in the public market; |
● | our business strategy and other plans and objectives for future operations; and |
● | our ability to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and effective 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.
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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.Reserved
Not applicable.
B.Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C.Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D.Risk Factors
The risk factors summarized and detailed below could materially and adversely affect our business, our financial condition, our operating results, cash available for distribution and the trading price of our preferred and common units. These material risks include, but are not limited to, those relating to:
● | Any limitation on the availability or operation of our 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. |
● | We are dependent on four customers as the sole customers for our vessels. A deterioration of the financial viability of, or our relationship with, or the loss of any of these customers, would have a material adverse effect. |
● | The inability of Höegh LNG to meet its financial obligations to us would have a material adverse effect. |
● | The reduction in our quarterly cash distribution to $0.01 may impact our ability to raise capital. |
● | Our growth depends on our ability to expand relationships with existing customers and obtain new customers. |
● | Höegh LNG and its affiliates may compete with us. |
● | We may not be able to redeploy FSRUs on favorable terms. |
● | Hire rates for FSRUs may fluctuate substantially. |
● | Fluctuations in overall LNG supply and demand growth could adversely affect our ability to secure future charters. |
● | The agreements governing certain of our indebtedness contain cross default provisions. |
● | If the PGN FSRU Lampung lease and maintenance agreement (“LOM”) is terminated, we may incur an impairment charge on the PGN FSRU Lampung financing lease. |
● | The unfavorable outcome of pending or future litigation could have an adverse impact on us. |
● | Outbreaks of epidemic and pandemic diseases and governmental responses thereto could adversely affect our business. |
● | PGN LNG and SPEC have options to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung and Höegh Grace, respectively. |
● | Due to our lack of diversification, adverse developments in our LNG transportation, storage and regasification businesses could reduce our ability to make distributions to our unitholders. |
8
● | 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 distributions on our Series A preferred units or our common units. |
● | Our ability to grow and to meet our financial needs may be adversely affected by our cash distribution policy. |
● | We cannot require our joint ventures to act in our best interests. |
● | We must make substantial capital expenditures to maintain and replace the operating capacity of our fleet. |
● | The drydocking or on-water surveys of our vessels could be more expensive and time consuming than expected. |
● | Operational problems could reduce our revenues, increase costs or lead to termination of our charters. |
● | If capital expenditures are financed through cash from operations or by issuing securities, our ability to make cash distributions may be diminished, our financial leverage could increase, or our unitholders may be diluted. |
● | We may be unable to make or realize expected benefits from acquisitions. |
● | Our future performance and growth depend on continued growth in demand for the services we provide. |
● | 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. |
● | Demand for FSRUs or LNG shipping could be affected by natural gas prices and the demand for natural gas. |
● | The debt levels of us and our joint ventures may limit our and their flexibility in obtaining additional financing, refinancing credit facilities upon maturity, pursuing other opportunities or paying distributions. |
● | Our financing arrangements of us and our joint ventures contain operating and financial restrictions and other covenants. |
● | Restrictions in our debt agreements and local laws may prevent us from paying distributions to our unitholders. |
● | Höegh LNG entered into a new pledge agreement in March 2022, pledging all its common units in us. |
● | An increase in the global supply or capacities of FSRUs or LNG carriers, including conversion of vessels, without a commensurate increase in demand may adversely affect hire rates and the vessel values. |
● | Vessel values may fluctuate substantially, and a decline in vessel values may result in impairment charges, the breach of our financial covenants or a loss on the sale. |
● | We depend on Höegh LNG and its affiliates for fleet management and to assist us in operating our business. |
● | An incident involving loss of life or property or environmental consequences involving any of our vessels could harm us. |
● | Our insurance may be insufficient to cover losses that may occur to our property or result from our operations. |
● | An increase in operating expenses could adversely affect our financial performance. |
● | A shortage of qualified officers and crew, including possible disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, could harm us. |
● | We may be unable to attract and retain key management personnel. |
● | Exposure to currency exchange rate fluctuations could result in fluctuations in our cash flows and operating results. |
● | Acts of piracy on any of our vessels or on oceangoing vessels could adversely affect us. |
● | Terrorist attacks, increased hostilities, piracy or war could lead to economic instability and increased costs. |
● | We are exposed to political, regulatory, and economic risks associated with doing business in different countries. |
● | 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 operations are subject to environmental and other regulations, which may significantly increase our expenses. |
● | Changes to existing environmental laws may adversely affect us. |
● | Climate change concerns and greenhouse gas regulations may adversely impact our operations and markets. |
● | Maritime claimants could arrest our vessels, which could interrupt our cash flows. |
● | Governments could requisition our vessels during a period of war or emergency, resulting in loss of earnings. |
● | Compliance with safety and other vessel requirements imposed by classification societies may adversely affect us. |
● | Failure to comply with anti-corruption and anti-bribery legislation could adversely affect our business. |
9
● | 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 could be adversely affected. |
● | We face risks relating to our ineffective internal control over financial reporting. |
● | A cyber-attack could materially disrupt our business. |
● | Changing laws and evolving reporting requirements could have an adverse effect on our business. |
● | We are exposed to market risks relating to the phase-out of the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). |
● | Unitholders have limited voting rights. |
● | 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. |
● | The transaction proposed by Höegh LNG may not occur, may increase the volatility of the market price of our common units and will result in certain costs and expenses. |
● | Our officers may face conflicts in the allocation of their time to our business. |
● | 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. |
● | Fees and expenses, which Höegh LNG determines for services provided to us and our joint ventures, are substantial. |
● | 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 control of our general partner may be transferred to a third party without unitholder consent. |
● | Substantial future sales of our common units in the public market could cause the price of our common units to fall. |
● | Our operations are subject to local economic substance regulations required by the European Union. |
● | Marshall Islands law lacks a bankruptcy statute or general statutory mechanism for insolvency proceedings. |
● | Our partnership agreement designates the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings unless otherwise provided for under the laws of the Marshall Islands. |
● | We rely on the master limited partnership (“MLP”) structure and its appeal to investors for accessing debt and equity markets to finance our growth and repay or refinance our debt. |
● | The Republic of the Marshall Islands does not have a well-developed body of partnership law. |
● | It may be difficult to serve us with legal process or enforce judgments against us, our directors or our management. |
● | Höegh LNG may elect to cause us to issue additional common units to it in connection with a resetting of the incentive distribution rights' target distribution levels. |
● | We may issue additional equity securities, including securities senior to the common units. |
● | Our board of directors may reduce the amount of cash available for distribution to unitholders. |
● | Our general partner’s limited call right may require unitholders to sell common units at an undesirable time or price. |
● | Unitholders may not have limited liability if a court finds that unitholder action constitutes control of our business. |
● | We can borrow money to make cash distributions, which would reduce the amount of credit available to us. |
● | Increases in interest rates may cause the market price of our units to decline. |
● | Unitholders may have liability to repay distributions. |
● | The Series A preferred units represent perpetual equity interests. |
● | The Series A preferred units have not been rated. |
● | Our Series A preferred units are subordinated to our debt obligations, and the interests of holders of Series A preferred units could be diluted by the issuance of additional limited partner interests and by other transactions. |
● | The Series A preferred units rank junior to any Senior Securities and pari passu with any Parity Securities. |
● | The Series A preferred units do not have an established trading market. |
● | The Series A preferred units are redeemable at our option. |
● | We are subject to taxes, which reduces our cash available for distribution to you. |
● | A change in tax laws in any country in which we operate could adversely affect us. |
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● | U.S. tax authorities could treat us as a “passive foreign investment company.” |
● | We may have to pay tax on U.S. source income, which would reduce our cash flow. |
● | You may be subject to income tax in one or more non-U.S. jurisdictions as a result of owning our common units. |
Risks Inherent in Our Business
Our fleet consists of five vessels as of March 31, 2022. 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 five 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. Furthermore, PGN LNG was granted an option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung at specified prices commencing in June 2018 and SPEC has the option to purchase the Höegh Grace in year 10, year 15 and year 20 of its charter. 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—Neptune Time Charter—Termination,” “—PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Termination and —Purchase Option,” “—Höegh Gallant Time Charter—Term and Termination,” “—Höegh Grace Charter—Term and Termination and —Purchase Option.” We may be unable to charter the applicable vessel, or replacement vessel, on terms as favorable to us as those of the terminated charter.
We are dependent on Total Gas & Power, PGN LNG, subsidiaries of New Fortress and SPEC as the sole customers for our vessels. A deterioration of the financial viability of such customers or our relationship with such customers or the loss of such customers, would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.
During the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, PGN LNG, Höegh LNG, New Fortress and SPEC accounted for all of the revenues in our consolidated income statement. On September 23, 2021, we entered into agreements with subsidiaries of New Fortress to charter the Höegh Gallant primarily for FSRU operations for a period of ten years, with FSRU operations commencing on March 20, 2022 (the “NFE Charter”). From November 26, 2021 until FSRU operations commenced, New Fortress chartered the vessel for LNG carrier operations. We have entered into an agreement to suspend the prior charter for the Höegh Gallant with a subsidiary of Hӧegh LNG, with effect from the commencement of the NFE Charter, and a make-whole agreement (together, the “Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements”), pursuant to which Höegh LNG's subsidiary will compensate us monthly for the difference between the charter rate earned under the NFE Charter and the charter rate earned under the prior charter with the addition of a modest increase until July 31, 2025, the original expiration date of the charter with a subsidiary of Hӧegh LNG. In addition, pursuant to the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements, certain capital expenditures incurred to ready and relocate the Höegh Gallant for performance under the NFE Charter will be shared 50/50 between Höegh LNG and the Partnership, subject to a maximum obligation of the Partnership.
For each of the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019, Total Gas & Power or Global LNG Supply accounted for all of the revenues of our joint ventures from which we derived all of our equity in earnings of joint ventures. Our joint ventures’ time charters were novated from Global LNG Supply to Total Gas & Power in February 2020. A deterioration in the financial viability of any of our customers or the loss of any of our customers, or a decline in payments under any of the related charters or the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements, 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.
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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 insolvency, bankruptcy or liquidation of a customer or termination of the charter as a result thereof; |
● | 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 Neptune and the Cape Ann, 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; |
● | the charter terminating automatically if the vessel is lost or deemed a constructive loss; |
● | with respect to the Höegh Gallant, the inability of Höegh LNG to perform under the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements or, if the NFE Charter were to be terminated, the lease and maintenance agreement entered on April 30, 2020 with CharterCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, to charter the Höegh Gallant from May 1, 2020 until July 31, 2025 (the “Suspended Gallant Charter”) |
● | with respect to the PGN FSRU Lampung or the Höegh Grace, the charterer exercising its option to purchase the vessel; or |
● | a prolonged force majeure event that materially interrupts the performance of the time charter. |
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. Furthermore, if there was a premature termination of our joint venture charters that does not result in termination fees, it would result in mandatory repayments of the outstanding balances under the loan facilities for the Neptune and the Cape Ann.
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. Further, not all of our charters have parent company guarantees. For example, Total Gas & Power’s obligations under the Neptune and the Cape Ann charters are not guaranteed by its parent, Total.
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.
Höegh LNG has financial obligations to us pursuant to the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements, the Suspended Gallant Charter and its guarantee and indemnification obligations. The inability of Höegh LNG to meet its financial obligations to us would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.
Pursuant to an option agreement, we had the right to cause Höegh LNG to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration or termination of its prior charter until July 2025. On February 27, 2020, we exercised our option pursuant to the option agreement and we entered into the Suspended Gallant Charter with Höegh LNG for the Höegh Gallant. On September 23, 2021, we entered into the NFE Charter to charter the Höegh Gallant primarily for FSRU operations for a period of ten years, with FSRU operations commencing on March 20, 2022. We have entered into the Suspension and Make-
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Whole Agreements to suspend the Suspended Gallant Charter, with effect from the commencement of the NFE Charter, and pursuant to which Höegh LNG's subsidiary will compensate us monthly for the difference between the charter rate earned under the NFE Charter and the charter rate earned under the Suspended Gallant Charter with the addition of a modest increase until July 31, 2025, the original expiration date of the Suspended Gallant Charter. In addition, pursuant to the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements, certain capital expenditures incurred to ready and relocate the Höegh Gallant for performance under the NFE Charter will be shared 50/50 between Höegh LNG and the Partnership, subject to a maximum obligation of the Partnership.
We are indemnified by Höegh LNG for our 50% share of the cash impact of the settlement agreements, effective April 1, 2020, related to the boil-off claims against the joint ventures, the arbitration costs and any legal expenses, the technical modifications of the vessels and any prospective boil-off claims or other direct impacts of the settlement agreements.
Höegh LNG’s ability to make payments to us under the Suspension and Mark-Whole Agreements or, if the NFE Charter were to be terminated, the Suspended Gallant Charter may be affected by events beyond either of the control of Höegh LNG or us, including opportunities to obtain new employment for the vessel, and prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate, Höegh LNG’s ability to meet its obligations to us may be impaired. If Höegh LNG is unable to meet its obligations to us under the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements or, if the NFE Charter were to be terminated, the Suspended Gallant Charter or pursuant to its indemnification obligations, our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to unitholders could be materially adversely affected.
In 2021, we reduced our quarterly cash distribution rate on our common units to $0.01 per unit. We maintained this distribution rate throughout 2021 and may continue to do so for the foreseeable future; future distributions may remain at this level for an indefinite period or be eliminated entirely, which could impact our ability to raise capital.
Starting with the second quarter of 2021, we reduced our quarterly cash distributions on our common units to $0.01 per unit. We expect to use our internally generated cash flow to reduce our debt levels and strengthen our balance sheet. This could have a negative impact on our unit price. Any negative impact on our unit price could ultimately impact our ability to raise capital.
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 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 then often extends for several months. We believe FSRU and LNG carriers time charters are awarded based upon a variety of factors relating to the vessel operator, including:
● | FSRU or 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; |
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● | 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 face 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. As the FSRU market continues to grow and mature there are new competitors entering the market. Many of these competitors have significantly greater financial resources and larger fleets than we do. In particular, expectations of rapid growth in the FSRU market has given owners the confidence to place orders for FSRUs before securing charters. This has led to more competition for mid- and long-term FSRU charters. 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 has already and may in the future 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.
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 agreed not to acquire, own, operate or charter certain FSRUs and LNG carriers operating under charters of five or more years (“Five-Year Vessels”).
On March 8, 2021, Höegh LNG announced a recommended offer by Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. (“LHC”) and funds managed by Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners (“MSIP”) through a 50/50 joint venture, Larus Holding Limited (“JVCo”), to acquire the remaining issued and outstanding shares of Höegh LNG not currently owned by LHC or its affiliates (the “Amalgamation”). The Amalgamation was approved by Höegh LNG’s shareholders and bondholders and closed on May 4, 2021. Höegh LNG is now wholly owned by JVCo, and the common shares of Höegh LNG have been delisted from the Oslo Stock Exchange.
Following the consummation of the Amalgamation, some provisions of the omnibus agreement that we entered into with Höegh LNG in connection with the closing of the IPO terminated by their terms, including (i) the prohibition on Höegh LNG from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Five-Year Vessels, (ii) the prohibition on us from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Non-Five-Year Vessels, and (iii) the rights of first offer associated with those rights. As a consequence, following the consummation of the Amalgamation, Höegh LNG is not required to offer us Five-Year Vessels and is permitted to compete with us. Please read “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Omnibus Agreement.”
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 increased competition and 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
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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.
Requirements for some new LNG projects continue to be provided on a long-term basis, though the use of medium term charters of up to five years has increased in recent years. More frequent changes to vessel sizes and propulsion technology together with an increasing desire by charterers to access modern vessels could also reduce the appetite of charterers to commit to long-term charters that match their full requirement period, or to exercise options to extend their current charters. As a result, the duration of long-term charters could also decrease over time. We may also face increased difficulty entering into long-term time charters upon the expiration or early termination of our existing charters or of charters for any vessels that we acquire in the future. If as a result we contract our vessels on shorter term contracts, our earnings from these vessels are likely to become more volatile.
Hire rates for FSRUs may fluctuate substantially. If rates are lower when we are seeking a new charter, our earnings and ability to make distributions to our unitholders may decline.
Hire rates for FSRUs fluctuate over time as a result of changes in the supply-demand balance relating to current and future vessel supply. This supply-demand relationship largely depends on a number of factors outside our control. For example, driven in part by an increase in LNG production capacity, the market supply of FSRUs has been increasing as a result of the construction of new vessels before FSRU projects have matured to the point of entering FSRU contracts. The increase in supply has resulted in increased competition for FSRU contracts resulting in lower FSRU prices for recent contracts awarded.
As of December 31, 2021, the FSRU order book totaled 8 vessels and the delivered FSRU fleet stood at 40 vessels. We believe any future expansion of the FSRU fleet may have a negative impact on charter hire rates, vessel utilization and vessel values, which impact could be amplified if the expansion of LNG production capacity or the approval of FSRU projects does not keep pace with the growth of the global fleet. The LNG market is also closely connected to world natural gas prices and energy markets, which we cannot predict. An extended decline in natural gas prices that leads to reduced investment in new liquefaction facilities could adversely affect our ability to re-charter our vessels at acceptable rates or to acquire and profitably operate new FSRUs. Accordingly, this could have a material adverse effect on our earnings and our ability to make distributions to our unitholders.
Fluctuations in overall LNG supply and demand growth could adversely affect our ability to secure future 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 charters. Volatility in natural gas prices globally may limit the willingness and ability of developers of new LNG infrastructure projects to approve the development of such new projects. Delayed development decisions may materially adversely affect our growth prospects and results of operations.
The agreements governing certain of our indebtedness contain cross default provisions.
Our $85 million revolving credit facility with Höegh LNG, the facility financing the PGN FSRU Lampung (“Lampung facility”) and our $385 million credit facility contain cross default and cross acceleration provisions relating to other indebtedness of us or our subsidiaries, and any default under such indebtedness would also result in an event of default or declaration of acceleration of borrowings outstanding under the Lampung facility, the $85 million revolving credit facility and the $385 million credit facility. In the event that some or all of our or our subsidiaries’ indebtedness is accelerated and becomes immediately due and payable, we may not have sufficient funds available to repay such obligations or the ability to renegotiate or refinance such obligations, and our liquidity and financial position and ability to make distributions to unitholders would be materially adversely affected. For more information, please read “Item 5.B. “Operating and Financial Review and Prospects — Liquidity and Capital Resources — Liquidity and Cash Needs — Borrowing Activities.”
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Furthermore, if we suspend payment of our debts, are unable to pay our debts or are otherwise insolvent or enter into bankruptcy or liquidation, our charterparties may terminate their charters. For further details regarding termination of our charters, please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Vessel Time Charters—Neptune Time Charter—Termination,” “—PGN FSRU Lampung Time Charter—Termination”, “Höegh Gallant Time Charter—Termination,” “—Höegh Grace Charter—Term and Termination.”
If the PGN FSRU Lampung lease and maintenance agreement (“LOM”) is terminated, we may incur an impairment charge on the PGN FSRU Lampung financing lease.
The charterer of the PGN FSRU Lampung served a notice of arbitration on August 2, 2021 to declare the lease and maintenance agreement for the PGN FSRU Lampung (“LOM”) related to the PGN FSRU Lampung null and void, and/or terminate the LOM, and/or seek damages. Should the LOM for the PGN FSRU Lampung terminate prematurely for any reason (including if the arbitration is resolved unfavorably to us and the charterer terminates the LOM), we could incur an impairment charge on the PGN FSRU Lampung financing lease.
The unfavorable outcome of pending or future litigation could have an adverse impact on our operations and financial condition.
We are parties to several legal proceedings arising out of various aspects of our businesses, including the artibration with the charterer of the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Securities Class Action (as defined below), and we may also in the future become subject to other disputes, arbitration, claims and litigation. The outcome of these proceedings may not be favorable, and one or more unfavorable outcomes could have an adverse impact on our operations and financial condition.
Outbreaks of epidemic and pandemic diseases and governmental responses thereto could adversely affect our business.
Our operations are subject to risks related to outbreaks of infectious diseases. The COVID-19 outbreak has negatively affected economic conditions, in many parts of the world, which may impact our operations and the operations of our customers and suppliers. Governments in affected countries have imposed travel bans, quarantines and other emergency public health measures. Those measures, though temporary in nature, may continue and increase depending on developments in the virus’ outbreak. As a result of these measures, our vessels may not be able to call on ports or may be restricted from embarking and disembarking from ports, located in regions affected by COVID-19.
Although our operations have not been materially affected by the COVID-19 outbreak to date, the ultimate length and severity of the COVID-19 outbreak and its potential impact on our operations and financial condition is uncertain at this time which could be material and adverse.
We believe our primary risk and exposure related to uncertainty of cash flows from our long-term time charter contracts is due to the credit risk and counterparty risk associated with the individual charterers. Payments are due under time charter contracts regardless of the demand for the charterers’ gas output or the utilization of the FSRU. It is therefore possible that charterers may not make payments for time charter invoices in times of reduced demand. Furthermore, should there be an outbreak of COVID-19 on board one of our FSRUs or an inability to replace critical supplies or replacement parts due to disruptions to third-party suppliers, adequate crewing or supplies may not be available to fulfill our obligations under our time charter contracts. This could result in off-hire or warranty payments under performance guarantees which would reduce revenues for the impacted period. In addition, if financial institutions providing our interest rate swaps or lenders under our revolving credit facility are unable to meet their obligations, we could experience higher interest expense or be unable to obtain funding. If our charterers or lenders are unable to meet their obligations to us under their respective contracts or if we are unable to fulfill our obligations under our time charter contracts, our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to unitholders could be materially adversely affected.
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Failure to control the continued spread of COVID-19 could significantly impact economic activity and demand for our vessels, which could further negatively affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash available for distribution and could result in declines in our unit price.
PGN LNG and SPEC have options to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung and Höegh Grace, respectively. If either charterer exercises its 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 currently has the option to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung on June 1st of each year, at a price specified in the time charter. SPEC also has the option to purchase the Höegh Grace at a price specified in the Höegh Grace charter in year 10, year 15 and year 20 of such charter. Any compensation we receive for the purchase of the PGN FSRU Lampung or the Höegh Grace may not adequately compensate us for both the loss of the applicable vessel and related time charter. If either charterer exercises its 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 time charters. 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—Purchase Option” and “—Vessel Time Charters— Höegh Grace Charter—Purchase Option.”
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 business.
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 quarterly distribution on our Series A preferred units or the current distribution on our common units.
We may not have sufficient cash from operations to pay the quarterly distributions on our Series A preferred units or 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. On July 27, 2021, we reduced our quarterly common unit distribution to $0.01 per unit for the second quarter of 2021. We maintained this distribution rate throughout 2021 and may continue to do so for the foreseeable future. We generate cash from our operations and through distributions from our joint ventures, and as such our cash from operations is dependent on our operations and the cash distributions and operations of our joint ventures, each of which may fluctuate based on the risks described herein, 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, insurance, performance guarantees and liquidated damages; |
● | demand for LNG; |
● | supply and capacities of FSRUs and LNG carriers; |
● | prevailing global and regional economic and political conditions; |
● | currency exchange rate fluctuations; |
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● | 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 on our units 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 off-hire or reduced-hire days for our fleet and the timing of, and number of days required for, scheduled drydocking of our vessels; |
● | 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 corporate income tax rates, payroll taxes, value added taxes and withholding taxes and to the extent applicable, the ability to recover under charters; |
● | 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.
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.
At present, we have limited sources of available working capital borrowings. As of March 31, 2022, the Partnership has fully drawn on the $63 million revolving credit tranche of the $385 million facility and has an undrawn balance of $60.1 million on the $85 million revolving credit facility from Höegh LNG. However, we have received notice from Höegh LNG that it will not extend the $85 million revolving credit facility when it matures on January 1, 2023, and that it will have very limited capacity to extend any additional advances to us beyond what is currently drawn under such facility. Also, further drawdowns on the $85 million revolving credit facility may be subject to Höegh LNG’s consent because of the Notice of Arbitration (“NOA”) received from the charterer of PGN FSRU Lampung on August 2, 2021. With these recent changes, our liquidity and financial flexibility were reduced. Höegh LNG’s ability to make loans under the revolving credit facility may be further affected by events beyond its and our 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
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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.
If Höegh LNG is unable to meet its obligations under the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements or meet funding requests or indemnification obligations, our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to unitholders could be materially adversely affected.
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 pay the distribution on our Series A preferred units, which rank senior to our common units, and then distribute all of our available cash (as defined in our partnership agreement) to our common units 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 portion 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 portion of our income from our 50% equity interests in our joint ventures that own the Neptune and the Cape Ann. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Shareholder Agreements” for a description of the shareholders’ agreements 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 Neptune and the 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.
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
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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 for distribution 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
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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.
The required drydocking or on-water surveys of our vessels could be more expensive and time consuming than we anticipate, which could adversely affect our cash available for distribution.
The drydocking or on-water survey of our vessels could become longer and more costly than we expect, and in the case of the Neptune and the Cape Ann could be drydocked for longer than the allowable period under the time charters. Although the Neptune and Cape Ann time charters, 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, 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. Furthermore, under the PGN FSRU Lampung time charter, the vessel will be deemed to be off-hire if drydocking exceeds designated allowances, and under the Höegh Grace and the Höegh Gallant time charters, the vessels will be deemed to be off-hire during drydocking. There are no pass-through provisions for drydocking or on-water expenses for the PGN FSRU Lampung, the Höegh Grace or the Höegh Gallant. 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 or perform on-water surveys of 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, which may include a guaranteed speed or delivery rate of regasified natural gas, consumption of no more than a specified amount of fuel, not exceed a maximum average daily boil-off or energy balance, loss of earnings and certain liquidated damages payable under the charterer's charter and other performance failures. For example, we received and subsequently settled the boil-off performance claims related to the Neptune and the Cape Ann described in note 17 of our consolidated financial statements under “Joint ventures boil-off settlement.” 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 reduced hire, damages, loss of earnings and certain liquidated damages payable. Under the charterer’s charter 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 distributions to our unitholders.
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We may be unable to make or realize expected benefits from acquisitions, which could have an adverse effect on any future plans for growth.
The Partnership monitors the market for any new potential growth opportunity, including 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, any acquisition 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, 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. |
Our future performance and growth depend on continued growth in demand for the services we provide.
Our future performance and growth depend 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 global economic conditions, natural gas production from unconventional sources in certain regions, the relative competitiveness of alternative fossil fuels such as oil and coal, improvements in the competitiveness of renewable energy sources 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; |
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● | 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, regulation or other factors making consumption of natural gas less attractive; |
● | availability of new, alternative energy sources, including compressed natural gas and renewables; 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; |
● | the availability of long-term contracts that can support such financing; |
● | 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; |
● | 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.
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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. |
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. |
Weakness in demand for FSRUs or LNG carriers could come about because of excess capacity in the market, newly built vessels entering the market and existing vessels coming off contract.
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.
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, 2021, we had outstanding principal on long-term bank debt of $391.8 million, and revolving credit due to owners and affiliates of $24.9 million and our joint ventures had outstanding principal on long-term debt of $330.8 million, of which 50% is our share.
As of March 31, 2022, we had outstanding principal on long-term bank debt of $378.2 million and revolving credit due to owners and affiliates of $24.9 million and our 50% share of our joint ventures had outstanding principal on long-term debt of $323.6 million. As of March 31, 2022, the $63 million revolving credit tranche of the $385 million facility is fully drawn and we have no ability to incur additional debt on this facility. In July 2021, we received notice from Höegh LNG that the $85 million revolving credit facility will not be extended when it matures on January 1, 2023, and that
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Höegh LNG will have very limited capacity to extend any additional advances to us beyond what is currently drawn under such facility. Also, further drawdowns on the $85 million revolving credit facility may be subject to Höegh LNG’s consent because of the NOA received from the charterer of PGN FSRU Lampung.
If we acquire additional vessels or businesses, our consolidated debt may significantly increase. We may incur additional debt under these or future credit facilities. A portion of the $385 million facility secured by the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace will mature in 2026, and requires that an aggregate principal amount of $136.1 million be refinanced. If the principal repayment is not refinanced, the export credit tranche secured by the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace financing, that will have an outstanding balance of $9.5 million may be accelerated. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Lampung Facility” and “—$385 million 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 affect any of these remedies on satisfactory terms, or at all. Additionally, our customers may also fail to timely execute consents or other documents that may be required for financing or refinancing of our vessels, which may have a negative impact on our ability to refinance our debt or issue new debt.
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; |
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● | 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 and a minimum book equity ratio and require that our current assets exceed current liabilities, as defined by the financing agreements, and that our subsidiaries maintain minimum EBITDA to debt service ratios. Please read “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Borrowing Activities—Long-term Debt—Lampung Facility” and “—$385 million 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 the Lampung facility is guaranteed by Höegh LNG, and if they 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 to our unitholders.
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; |
● | 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. |
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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.
On December 24, 2021, we closed a refinancing of the Lampung facility’s commercial tranche’s outstanding amount of $15.5 million in full. The refinanced facility includes certain restrictions on the use of cash generated by the PGN FSRU Lampung as well as a cash sweep mechanism. Until the pending arbitration with the charterer of PGN FSRU Lampung has been terminated, cancelled or favorably resolved, no shareholder loans may be serviced and no dividends may be paid to the Partnership by the subsidiary borrowing under the Lampung facility, PT Höegh. Furthermore, each quarter, 50% of the PGN FSRU Lampung's generated cash flow after debt service must be applied to pre-pay outstanding loan amounts under the refinanced Lampung facility, applied pro rata across the commercial and export credit tranches. The remaining 50% will be retained by PT Höegh and pledged in favor of the lenders until the pending arbitration with the charterer of PGN FSRU Lampung has been terminated, cancelled or favorably resolved. As a consequence, no cash flow from the PGN FSRU Lampung will be available for the Partnership until the pending arbitration has been terminated, cancelled or favorably resolved.
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 and requirements are fulfilled under the Lampung facility. In addition, PT Höegh as an Indonesian incorporated company is required to establish a statutory reserve equal to 20% of its paid up capital. The dividend can only be distributed if PT Höegh’s retained earnings are positive after deducting the statutory reserve. PT Höegh is in the process of establishing the required statutory reserves as of December 31, 2021 and therefore cannot make dividend payments to us under Indonesia law. Under Cayman Islands law, Höegh FSRU IV and Höegh Colombia Holding 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 out of profits and not from the share capital of the company. Dividends and other distributions from Höegh Cyprus, Höegh Colombia and Höegh FSRU IV may only be distributed if after the dividend payment, the Partnership would remain in compliance with the financial covenants under the $385 million 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 has pledged as collateral under certain of its Norwegian Kroner (“NOK”) bonds all of its common units as security for the bonds. A default by Höegh LNG under the bonds which causes the collateral trustee to foreclose on such collateral would have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.
On March 22, 2022, Höegh LNG pledged all 15,257,498 of our common units that are owned by Höegh LNG as collateral under certain of its NOK bonds. A default by Höegh LNG under these bonds which causes the collateral trustee to foreclose on the collateral would cause an event of default under all of our long-term credit facilities and our joint venture shareholder agreements. Our long-term credit facilities and our joint venture shareholder agreements require Höegh LNG to own at least 25% of our common units. Höegh LNG’s ability to comply with the terms of these bonds may be affected by events beyond the control of Höegh LNG or us, including decreases in the trading price of our common units, our ability to maintain employment for our vessels and prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. If market or other economic conditions deteriorate and the trading price of our common units falls, Höegh LNG’s ability to meet its obligations under the bonds may be impaired. A default by Höegh LNG under the bonds which causes the collateral trustee to foreclose on the collateral and the corresponding default under our long-term credit facilities and joint venture shareholder agreements would have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to unitholders.
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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, 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.
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 the vessel, we may seek to dispose of the vessel. Our inability to dispose of a vessel at a reasonable value could result in a loss on the 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 revolving credit facility; or |
● | maintain satisfactory relationships with suppliers and other third parties. |
In addition, all our vessels are subject to management and services agreements with affiliates of Höegh LNG. Moreover, pursuant to an administrative services agreement, Höegh Norway provides us and our operating company with certain administrative, financial and other support services. Our operational success and ability to grow our business 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:
● | death or injury to persons, loss of property or damage to the environment, natural resources or protected species, and associated costs; |
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● | 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, on water survey costs 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 Grace 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
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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, including possible disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, 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 recruit and employ technically skilled staff and crew, they will not be able to adequately staff our vessels. Furthermore, should there be an outbreak of COVID-19 on board, adequate crewing my not be available to fulfill the obligations under the contract. In addition, the officers and crew work on a rotating schedule. Due to COVID-19, we could face (i) difficulty in finding healthy qualified replacement officers and crew; (ii) local quarantine restrictions limiting the ability to transfer infected crew members off the vessel or bring new crew on board, or (iii) restrictions in availability of supplies needed on board due to disruptions to third-party suppliers or transportation alternatives. 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, or rotate and replace virus infected crew, including as a result of the invasion of Ukraine by Russia and government responses thereto, 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.
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, the substantial majority of our revenue has been generated in U.S. Dollars, but we incur a minority of our operating expenses in other currencies. All of our long-term debt is U.S. dollar denominated, but we incur a minority of short-term liabilities in other currencies. Please read “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, the Gulf of Aden off the coast of Somalia and the Gulf of Guinea. 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.
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Terrorist attacks, increased hostilities, piracy or war could lead to further economic instability, increased costs and disruption of business.
Terrorist attacks, piracy and the current conflicts in Ukraine, the Middle East and elsewhere may adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations, ability to raise capital and future growth.
The recent Russian invasion of Ukraine may lead to further regional and international conflicts or armed action. It is possible that such conflict could disrupt supply chains and cause instability in the global economy. Additionally, the ongoing conflict could result in the imposition of further economic sanctions by the United States and the European Union against Russia. While much uncertainty remains regarding the global impact of the invasion, it is possible that such tensions could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operation and cash flows. Furthermore, it is possible that third parties with whom we have charter contracts may be impacted by events in Russia and Ukraine, which could adversely affect our operations.
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 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.
We are exposed to political, regulatory, and economic risks associated with doing business in different countries, including in emerging market countries.
We conduct all of our operations outside of the United States and expect to continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Some of the countries in which we are engaged in business or where our vessels are registered, for example, Indonesia, Colombia and Jamaica, are historically less developed and stable than the United States. We are affected by economic, political, and governmental conditions in the countries where we are engaged in business or where our vessels are registered. We are also affected by policies related to labor and the crewing of FSRUs. Any disruption caused by these factors could harm our business. Further, we derive a substantial portion of our revenues from shipping and regasifying LNG from politically unstable regions. 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. The recent Russian invasion of Ukraine, in addition to sanctions announced by President Biden and several European leaders against Russia and any forthcoming sanctions, may also adversely impact our business, given Russia’s role as a major global exporter of crude oil and natural gas. In addition, tariffs, trade embargoes and other economic sanctions by the United States or other countries against countries in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, South America or elsewhere as a result of terrorist attacks, hostilities or otherwise may limit trading activities with those countries, which could harm our business and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.
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 ("IMO"), as well as marine pollution and prevention requirements imposed by the IMO
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International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships of 1975, as from time to time has been or 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. In July 2019, South Africa became the 5th state to ratify the protocol, which must be ratified or acceded to by at least 7 more states to enter into effect. In 2020, the EU Ministers signed a declaration highlighting the importance of ratifying the 2010 HNS Convention. At least 6 states reported on significant progress toward implementation and ratification of the 2010 HNS Convention at the 2020 and 2021 sessions of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds. The 2010 HNS Convention is intended to put in place a comprehensive regime to address the risks of fire and explosion and to cover pollution damage from hazardous and noxious substances carried by ships, including loss of life, personal injury, and property loss of damage. 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 operations are subject to substantial environmental and other regulations, which may significantly 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 adverse impacts to the environment, natural resources and protected species from their operations. These include 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”) and national laws such as the U.S. 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. Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 and any counterpart laws in other jurisdictions with laws governing our operations. We may become subject to additional laws and regulations if we enter new markets or trades.
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 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.
The design, construction, and operation of FSRUs and interconnecting pipelines and the transportation of LNG are also subject to governmental approvals and permits. The permitting rules, and the interpretations of those rules, are complex, change frequently and are often subject to discretionary interpretations by regulators, all of which may make compliance more difficult or impractical and may increase the time it takes to secure needed approvals. 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.
Environmental and other regulatory 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 and national 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 oil or hazardous substances from our vessels or otherwise in connection with our operations. We could also become subject to personal injury, property or natural resource damage claims relating to the release of or exposure to hazardous materials associated with our operations. In
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addition, failure to comply with applicable laws and regulations may result in administrative or civil penalties, criminal sanctions or the suspension or termination of our operations, including, in certain instances, seizure or detention of our vessels.
Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Environmental and Other Regulation.”
Further changes to existing environmental laws 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. Such legislation or regulations may require additional capital expenditures or operating expenses for us to maintain our vessels’ compliance with international and/or national regulations.
Climate change concerns and greenhouse gas regulations and impacts 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 emissions from vessels. 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 international treaty on climate change known as the Paris Agreement, a new treaty or IMO regulations may be adopted in the future that includes restrictions on shipping emissions. In 2016, the IMO reaffirmed its strong commitment to continue to work to address greenhouse gas emissions from ships engaged in international trade. The IMO adopted an initial GHG reduction strategy in 2018 as a framework for further action with adoption of a revised IMO strategy targeted for 2023 (the “IMO GHG Strategy”). Consistent with the IMO GHG Strategy target of a 40% carbon reduction for international shipping by 2030, as compared to 2018, IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (“MEPC”) agreed upon draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI that would establish an enforceable regulatory framework to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping, consisting of technical and operational carbon reduction measures, including use of an Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index, an operational Carbon Intensity Indicator and an enhanced Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan.
These amendments were adopted at the June 2021 MEPC session and, are expected to enter into force on January 1, 2023. The relatively slow progress of the IMO in addressing emissions of greenhouse gases from shipping prompted the EU to proceed on a parallel path of regulation. In July 2021, the European Commission announced proposals that would put in place measures to address greenhouse gas emissions from shipping. 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. Further, our business may be adversely affected to the extent that climate change results in sea level changes or more intense weather events.
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,
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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 Neptune or the 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, compliant with the ISM Code and “in class.” In order to maintain valid certificates from the classification society, a vessel must undergo annual surveys, intermediate surveys and renewal surveys. 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 has implemented a certified planned maintenance system. The classification society attends onboard once every year to verify that the maintenance of the equipment onboard is done correctly. For each of the Neptune and the Cape Ann, a renewal survey is conducted every five years and an intermediate survey is conducted within 30 months after a renewal survey. During the first 15 years of operation, the vessels have an 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 expected to be drydocked every five years or, if required by the charterers, every 30 months. We do not anticipate drydocking of the PGN FSRU Lampung for the first 20 years as all the required surveys can be done afloat. In the first 15 years after its delivery from the shipyard, we expect the Höegh Gallant to have a renewal survey every five years and to be drydocked every 7.5 years. The Höegh Grace is also designed to carry out renewal surveys afloat which is conducted every five years and is not expected to go into drydocking for the duration of its current charter. The Höegh Grace is scheduled to carry out renewal survey afloat before the end of the second quarter of 2026. 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.
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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.
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 preferred and 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 and the recent sanctions against Russia have been significantly expanded. In 2012, for example, 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 the 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 of the United States must initiate an investigation in response to all disclosures.
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 (the “EU”) 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 units. Additionally, some investors may decide to divest their interest, or not to invest, in our units simply because we may do business with companies that do business in sanctioned countries. Investor perception of the value of our 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.
As of December 31, 2021, we had control deficiencies related to information technology general controls, which constituted a material weakness in internal control over financial reporting. 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 weakness, we cannot at this time estimate how long it will take, and our initiatives may not prove to be successful in remediating our material weakness. If our remedial measures are insufficient to address the material weakness, 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, to collect payments from customers and to pay agents, vendors and employees. Our data protection measures and measures taken by our customers, agents and vendors may not prevent unauthorized access of information technology systems. Threats to our information technology systems and the systems of our customers,
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agents and vendors associated with cybersecurity risks or attacks continue to grow. Threats to our systems and our customers’, agents’ and vendors’ systems may derive from human error, fraud or malice or may be the result of accidental technological failure. 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 and the availability of our vessels, or lead to unauthorized release of information or alteration of information on our systems. In addition, breaches to our systems and systems of our customers, agents and vendors could go unnoticed for some period of time. Any such attack or other breach of our information technology systems could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Most recently, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been accompanied by cyber-attacks against the Ukrainian government and other countries in the region. It is possible that these attacks could have collateral effects on additional critical infrastructure and financial institutions globally, which could adversely affect the Partnership’s operations. Further, we or our customers or suppliers may be subject to retaliatory cyberattacks perpetrated by Russia or others at its direction in response to economic sanctions and other actions taken against Russia as a result of its invasion of Ukraine. It is difficult to assess the likelihood of such threat and any potential impact at this time.
Changing laws and evolving reporting requirements could have an adverse effect on our business.
We are subject to laws, directives, and regulations relating to the collection, use, retention, disclosure, security and transfer of personal data. These laws, directives, and regulations, and their interpretation and enforcement continue to evolve and may be inconsistent from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. For example, the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”), which regulates the use of personally identifiable information, went into effect in the EU on May 25, 2018 and applies globally to all of our activities conducted from an establishment in the EU, to related products and services that we offer to EU customers and to non-EU customers which offer services in the EU. GDPR requires organizations to report on data breaches within 72 hours and be bound by more stringent rules for obtaining the consent of individuals on how their data can be used. Complying with GDPR and similar emerging and changing privacy and data protection requirements may cause us to incur substantial costs or require us to change our business practices. Noncompliance with our legal obligations relating to privacy and data protection could result in penalties, fines, legal proceedings by governmental entities or others, loss of reputation, legal claims by individuals and customers and significant legal and financial exposure and could affect our ability to retain and attract customers, which could have an adverse effect on our business, financial conditions, results of operations, cash flows and ability to pay distributions.
We are exposed to market risks relating to the phase-out of LIBOR.
We have floating rate debt, the interest rate of which is determined based on LIBOR. LIBOR and other “benchmark” rates are subject to ongoing national and international regulatory scrutiny and reform. For example, on July 27, 2017, the United Kingdom Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) announced that it will no longer persuade or compel banks to submit rates for the calculation of the LIBOR rates after 2021 (the “FCA Announcement”). On November 30, 2020, the administrator of LIBOR announced a delay in the phase out of a majority of the U.S. dollar LIBOR publications until June 30, 2023, although the remainder of LIBOR publications phased out at the end of 2021. The foregoing announcements indicate that the continuation of LIBOR on the current basis is not guaranteed after 2023. The impact of such transition away from LIBOR could be significant for us because of our substantial indebtedness based on LIBOR.
Various alternative reference rates are being considered in the financial community. The Secured Overnight Financing Rate has been proposed by the Alternative Reference Rates Committee, a committee convened by the U.S. Federal Reserve that includes major market participants and on which regulators participate, as an alternative rate to replace U.S. dollar LIBOR. However, it is not possible at this time to know the ultimate impact a phase-out of LIBOR may have. The changes may adversely affect the trading market for LIBOR based agreements, including our credit facilities and interest rate swaps. We may need to negotiate the replacement benchmark rate on our credit facilities and interest rate swaps and the use of an alternative rate or benchmark, may negatively impact our interest rate expense. Any other contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business which currently refer to, use or include LIBOR, may also be impacted.
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Further, if a LIBOR rate is not available on a determination date during the floating rate period for any of our LIBOR based agreements, the terms of such agreements will require alternative determination procedures which may result in interest payments differing from expectations and could affect our profit.
In addition, any changes announced by the FCA, the ICE Benchmark Administration Limited (the independent administrator of LIBOR) or any other successor governance or oversight body, or future changes adopted by such body, in the method pursuant to which LIBOR rates are determined may result in sudden or prolonged increase or decrease in reported LIBOR rates. If that were to occur, the level of interest during the floating rate period for our LIBOR based agreements would be affected and could affect our profit.
Risks Inherent in an Investment in Us
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 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. Holders of the Series A preferred units generally have no voting rights. However, in the event that six quarterly dividends, whether consecutive or not, payable on Series A preferred units or any other class or series of limited partner interests or other equity securities established after the original issue date of the Series A preferred units that is not expressly subordinated or senior to the Series A preferred units as to the payment of distributions and amounts payable upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up, whether voluntary or involuntary (“Parity Securities”) are in arrears, the holders of Series A preferred units will have the right, voting together as a class with all other classes or series of Parity Securities upon which like voting rights have been conferred and are exercisable, to replace one of the members of our board of directors appointed by our general partner with a person nominated by such holders (unless the holders of Series A preferred units and Parity Securities upon which like voting rights have been conferred, voting as a class, have previously elected a member of our board of directors, and such director continues then to serve on the board of directors). The right of such holders of Series A preferred units to elect a member of our board of directors will continue until such time as all accumulated and unpaid dividends on the Series A preferred units have been paid in full.
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.
As of March 31, 2022, Höegh LNG owns approximately 45.7% of our common units. 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
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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; |
● | 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 are elected by common unitholders, our general partner will likely have substantial influence on decisions made by our board of directors.
Furthermore, following the consummation of the Amalgamation, some provisions of the omnibus agreement that we entered into with Höegh LNG in connection with the IPO terminated by their terms, including (i) the prohibition on Höegh LNG from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Five-Year Vessels, (ii) the prohibition on us from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Non-Five-Year Vessels, and (iii) the rights of first offer associated with those rights. As a consequence, following the consummation of the Amalgamation, Höegh LNG is not required to offer us Five-Year Vessels and is permitted to compete with us.
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The transaction proposed by Höegh LNG may not occur, may increase the volatility of the market price of our common units and will result in certain costs and expenses.
On December 6, 2021, we announced that the board of directors of the Partnership (the “HMLP Board”) received an unsolicited non-binding proposal, dated December 3, 2021, from Höegh LNG pursuant to which Höegh LNG would acquire through a wholly owned subsidiary all our publicly held common units in exchange for $4.25 in cash per common unit. Hӧegh LNG has proposed that a transaction would be effectuated through a merger between the Partnership and a subsidiary of Hӧegh LNG (the “Offer”). The HMLP Board has authorized the Conflicts Committee of the HMLP Board, comprised only of non-Höegh LNG affiliated directors, to review and evaluate the Offer. The Conflicts Committee has retained advisors and discussions regarding a potential transaction are ongoing.
The proposed transaction is subject to a number of contingencies, including the approval by the Conflicts Committee, the HMLP Board and the Höegh LNG board of directors of any definitive agreement and, if a definitive agreement is reached, the approval by the holders of a majority of outstanding common units in the Partnership. The transaction would also be subject to customary closing conditions. There can be no assurance that definitive documentation will be executed or that any transaction will materialize.
The market price of our common units may reflect various assumptions as to whether the proposed transaction with Höegh LNG will occur. Variations in the market price of our common units may occur as a result of changing assumptions regarding the proposed transaction, independent of changes in our business, financial condition or prospects or changes in general market or economic conditions. As a result, a definitive agreement regarding a transaction, or a failure to reach a definitive agreement regarding a transaction, could result in a significant change in the market price of our common units.
We expect to incur costs in connection with the consideration of Höegh LNG’s proposal, including costs of financial and legal advisors to the Conflicts Committee of the HMLP Board. Mergers such as the one proposed in the Offer often attract litigation. If any litigation is commenced regarding the Offer, the Partnership will be required to expend additional resources defending such litigation. It is difficult to estimate the aggregate amount of such costs, although they could be substantial. In addition, uncertainly associated with the potential transaction could adversely affect our ability to attract, retain and motivate key employees, which could have a negative effect on our operations and business plans.
Our officers may face conflicts in the allocation of their time to our business.
Håvard Furu, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer also serves as the chief financial officer of Höegh LNG. He 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 substantial time to our business, he may participate in activities for Höegh LNG that are linked to opportunities or challenges 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, |
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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 |
● | 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 and related agreements, we and our joint ventures pay fees for services provided directly or indirectly by Höegh LNG Management, and we and our joint ventures 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 Neptune, the Cape Ann, the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace. In addition, pursuant to a technical information and services agreement for the PGN FSRU Lampung, 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, Höegh Norway provides us and our operating company with certain administrative, financial and other support services. We reimburse Höegh Norway for their reasonable costs and expenses incurred in connection with the provision of these services. In addition, under our administrative services agreement, we pay Höegh Norway a service fee equal to 3.0% of its costs and expenses incurred in connection with providing services to us.
For a description of the ship management agreements, the technical information and services agreement and the administrative services agreement, 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 agreement 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, and Höegh Norway could adversely affect our ability to pay cash distributions to you.
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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 units is required to remove the general partner. Höegh LNG owns approximately 45.7% of the outstanding common units. Additionally, during the term of the SRV Joint Gas shareholders’ agreement, Höegh LNG has agreed to continue to own common units representing a greater than 25% limited partner interest in us in the aggregate. |
● | 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 or other equity securities
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owned by them or to include those securities in registration statements that we may file for ourselves or other unitholders. As of March 31, 2022, Höegh LNG owns 15,257,498 common 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.
As a Marshall Islands partnership with principal executive offices in Bermuda, and also having subsidiaries in the Marshall Islands and the Cayman Islands, our operations are subject to local economic substance regulations required by the European Union, which could harm our business.
We are a Marshall Islands limited partnership with principal executive offices in Bermuda. Our operating company is also a Marshall Islands entity and several of our subsidiaries are organized in the Cayman Islands.
In December 1997, the Council of the EU (“Council”) adopted a resolution on a Code of Conduct for business taxation, with the objective of counteracting the effects of zero tax and preferential tax regimes around the world. In 2017 the Code of Conduct Group (“Code Group”) investigated the tax policies of both EU member states and third countries, assessing practices in the areas of: (i) tax transparency; (ii) fair taxation; and (iii) implementation of anti-base erosion and profit shifting measures. On December 5, 2017, following an assessment of the tax policies of various countries by the Code Group, the Council approved and published Council conclusions containing a list of “non-cooperative jurisdictions” for tax purposes”). On February 18, 2020, the Council adopted a revised list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. This revised list included the Cayman Islands. EU member states have agreed upon a set of measures, which they can choose to apply against the listed countries, including increased monitoring and audits, withholding taxes, special documentation requirements and anti-abuse provisions. The EU list of non-cooperative jurisdictions is reconsidered at least once a year, and generally at six monthly intervals. The Council also confirmed on February 18, 2020 that Bermuda and the Marshall Islands had implemented all the necessary reforms to comply with the Council’s tax good governance principles ahead of the agreed deadline and were therefore moved to the list of cooperative tax jurisdictions. The effect of the Cayman Islands or the Marshall Islands being included in the list of non-cooperative jurisdictions could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions and operating results.
In addition, the Marshall Islands, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands have enacted economic substance laws and regulations with which we are obligated to comply. Bermuda has adopted the Economic Substance Act 2018 (as amended) (the “Economic Substance Act”), and the Economic Substance Regulations 2018 (as amended) (“Economic Substance Regulations”). The Economic Substance Act requires each registered entity to maintain a substantial economic presence in Bermuda and provides that a registered entity that carries on a relevant activity complies with economic substance requirements if (i) it is directed and managed in Bermuda, (ii) its core income-generating activities (as are prescribed in the Economic Substance Regulations) are undertaken in Bermuda with respect to the relevant activity, (iii) it maintains adequate physical presence in Bermuda, (iv) it has adequate full time employees in Bermuda with suitable qualifications and (v) it incurs adequate operating expenditure in Bermuda in relation to the relevant activity. Due to our officers’ and directors’ inability to travel to Bermuda for meetings because of COVID-19 travel restrictions, it is possible that we did not fully comply with the Economic Substance Act in 2020 and 2021. We are seeking clarification from Bermuda as to whether we complied with the Economic Substance Act in such years and, if not, whether any exemption or dispensation can be provided due to COVID-19. Additionally, legislation has been adopted in the Cayman Islands (which came into force on January 1, 2019) which requires certain entities that carry out particular activities to comply with an economic substance test whereby the entity must show that it (i) carries out activities that are of central importance to the entity from the Cayman Islands, (ii) has held an adequate number of its board meetings in the Cayman Islands when judged against the level of decision-making required and (iii) has an adequate (a) amount of operating expenditures in the Cayman Islands, (b) physical presence in the Cayman Islands and (c) number of full-time employees in the Cayman Islands. Marshall Islands regulations require certain entities that carry out particular activities to comply with an economic substance test whereby the entity must show that it (i) is directed and managed in the Marshall Islands in relation to that relevant activity, (ii) carries out core income-generating activity in relation to that relevant activity in the Marshall Islands (although it is being understood and acknowledged by the regulators that income-generated activities for shipping companies will generally occur in international waters) and (iii) having regard to the level of relevant activity carried out in the Marshall Islands has (a) an adequate amount of
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expenditures in the Marshall Islands, (b) adequate physical presence in the Marshall Islands and (c) an adequate number of qualified employees in the Marshall Islands.
If we fail to comply with our obligations under this legislation or any similar law or regulations applicable to us in any other jurisdictions, we could be subject to financial penalties and spontaneous disclosure of information to foreign tax officials, or could be struck from the register of companies, in related jurisdictions. Any of the foregoing could be disruptive to our business and could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial conditions and operating results.
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.
Our partnership agreement designates the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our unitholders unless otherwise provided for under the laws of the Marshall Islands. This limits our unitholders’ ability to choose the judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors, officers or other employees.
Our partnership agreement provides that, with certain limited exceptions, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware is the exclusive forum for any claims, suits, actions or proceedings (1) arising out of or relating in any way to our partnership agreement (including any claims, suits or actions to interpret, apply or enforce the provisions of our partnership agreement or the duties, obligations or liabilities among limited partners or of limited partners to us, or the rights or powers of, or restrictions on, our limited partners or us); (2) brought in a derivative manner on our behalf; (3) asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any director, officer or other employee of us or our general partner, or owed by our general partner, to us or our limited partners; (4) asserting a claim arising pursuant to any provision of the Marshall Islands Act; and (5) asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine. This exclusive forum provision does not apply to actions arising under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) or the U.S. Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). Any person or entity purchasing or otherwise acquiring any interest in our units is deemed to have received notice of and consented to the foregoing provisions.
Although we believe these provisions will benefit us by providing increased consistency in the application of Delaware law for the specified types of actions and proceedings, the provisions may have the effect of discouraging lawsuits against our directors, officers, employees and agents. The enforceability of similar forum selection provisions in other companies’ certificates of incorporation or similar governing documents have been challenged in legal proceedings, and it is possible that, in connection with one or more actions or proceedings described above, a court could find that the forum selection provision contained in our partnership agreement is inapplicable or unenforceable in such action or actions. Limited partners will not be deemed, by operation of the forum selection provision alone, to have waived claims arising under the federal securities laws and the rules and regulations thereunder. If a court were to find this choice of forum provision inapplicable to, or unenforceable in respect of, one or more of the specified types of actions or proceedings, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving such matters in other jurisdictions, which could adversely affect our financial position, results of operations and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.
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We rely on the master limited partnership (“MLP”) structure and its appeal to investors for accessing debt and equity markets to finance our growth and repay or refinance our debt. The volatility in energy prices over the past few years has, among other factors, caused increased volatility and contributed to a dislocation in pricing for MLPs.
The volatility in energy prices and, in particular, the price of oil, among other factors, has contributed to increased volatility in the pricing of MLPs and the energy debt markets, as a number of MLPs and other energy companies may be adversely affected by a lower energy prices environment. A number of MLPs, including certain maritime MLPs, have reduced or eliminated their distributions to unitholders.
We rely on our ability to obtain financing and to raise capital in the equity and debt markets to fund our capital replacement, growth and investment expenditures, and to refinance our debt. A protracted deterioration in the valuation of our common units would increase our cost of capital, make any equity issuance significantly dilutive and may affect our ability to access capital markets and, as a result, our capacity to pay distributions to our unitholders and service or refinance our debt.
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, with respect to non-resident limited partnerships like us. 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. 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 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
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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.
We may issue additional equity securities, including securities senior to the common units with respect to distributions, liquidation and voting which would dilute the ownership interests of common unitholders.
We may, without the approval of our common unitholders, issue an unlimited number of additional units or other equity securities. In addition, we may issue units that are senior to the common units in right of distribution, liquidation and voting. For example, as of March 31, 2022 we have outstanding 7,089,325 8.75% Series A preferred units. The Series A preferred units rank senior to the Partnership’s common units as to the payment of distributions and amounts payable upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up but junior to all of the Partnership’s debt and other liabilities. 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; |
● | we will not be able to pay our distributions to common unitholders if we have failed to pay the distributions on our Series A preferred units; |
● | 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. |
In establishing cash reserves, our board of directors may reduce the amount of cash available for distribution to unitholders.
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. 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
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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 unitholders to sell 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, unitholders may be required to sell common units at an undesirable time or price and may not receive any return on their investment. Unitholders may also incur a tax liability upon a sale of their units.
As of March 31, 2022, Höegh LNG, which owns and controls our general partner, owns approximately 45.7% of our common units.
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. 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 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 units. Any such increase in interest rates or reduction in demand for our units resulting from other relatively more attractive investment opportunities may cause the trading price of our 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 unitholders if, after giving effect to the distribution, 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, 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.
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The Series A preferred units represent perpetual equity interests.
The Series A preferred units represent perpetual equity interests in us, and unlike our indebtedness, we will not give rise to a claim for payment of a principal amount at a particular date. As a result, holders of the Series A preferred units may be required to bear the financial risks of an investment in the Series A preferred units for an indefinite period of time. In addition, the Series A preferred units rank junior to all our indebtedness and other liabilities, and any senior securities we may issue in future with respect to assets available to satisfy claims against us.
The Series A preferred units have not been rated.
We did not obtain a rating for the Series A preferred units, and they may never be rated. It is possible, however, that one or more rating agencies might independently determine to assign a rating to the Series A preferred units or that we may elect to obtain a rating of our Series A preferred units in the future. In addition, we may elect to issue other securities for which we may seek to obtain a rating. If any ratings are assigned to the Series A preferred units in the future or if we issue other securities with a rating, such ratings, if they are lower than market expectations or are subsequently lowered or withdrawn, could adversely affect the market for or the market value of the Series A preferred units. Ratings only reflect the views of the issuing rating agency or agencies and such ratings could at any time be revised downward or withdrawn entirely at the discretion of the issuing rating agency. A rating is not a recommendation to purchase, sell or hold any particular security, including the Series A preferred units. Ratings do not reflect market prices or suitability of a security for a particular investor and any future rating of the Series A preferred units may not reflect all risks related to us and our business, or the structure or market value of the Series A preferred units.
We distribute all of our available cash to our limited partners and are not required to accumulate cash for the purpose of making distributions on units.
Subject to the limitations in our partnership agreement, we distribute all of our available cash each quarter to our limited partners. “Available cash” is defined in our partnership agreement, and it generally means, for each fiscal quarter, all cash on hand at the end of the quarter (including our proportionate share of cash on hand of certain subsidiaries we do not wholly own):
● | less the amount of cash reserves established by our board of directors to: |
o | provide for the proper conduct of our business (including reserves for future capital expenditures and for our anticipated credit needs); |
o | comply with applicable law, any debt instruments, or other agreements; |
o | provide funds for payments to holders of Series A preferred units; or |
o | provide funds for distributions to our limited partners for any one or more of the next four quarters; and |
o | plus, all cash on hand on the date of determination of available cash for the quarter resulting from working capital borrowings made after the end of the quarter. Working capital borrowings are generally borrowings that are made under our credit agreements and in all cases used solely for working capital purposes or to pay distributions to unitholders. |
As a result, we do not expect to accumulate significant amount of cash. Depending on the timing and amount of our cash distributions, these distributions could significantly reduce the cash available to us in subsequent periods to make payments on our units.
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Our Series A preferred units are subordinated to our debt obligations, and the interests of holders of Series A preferred units could be diluted by the issuance of additional limited partner interests, including additional Series A preferred units, and by other transactions.
Our Series A preferred units are subordinated to all of our existing and future indebtedness. As of December 31, 2021, our total outstanding principal amount of debt was $416.7 million. We may incur additional debt in the future. The payment of principal and interest on our debt reduces cash available for distribution to us and on our limited partner interests, including the Series A preferred units.
The issuance of additional limited partner interests on a parity with or senior to our Series A preferred units would dilute the interests of the holders of our Series A preferred units, and any issuance of Senior Securities (as defined) or Parity Securities or additional indebtedness could affect our ability to pay distributions on, redeem or pay the liquidation preference on our Series A preferred units. No provisions relating to our Series A preferred units protect the holders of our Series A preferred units in the event of a highly leveraged or other transaction, including a merger or the sale, lease or conveyance of all or substantially all our assets or business, which might adversely affect the holders of our Series A preferred units.
The Series A preferred units rank junior to any Senior Securities and pari passu with any Parity Securities.
Our Series A preferred units will rank junior to any class or series of limited partner interests or other equity securities expressly made senior to the Series A preferred units as to the payment of distributions and amounts payable upon liquidation, dissolution, or winding up, whether voluntary or involuntary (“Senior Securities”) and pari passu Parity Securities. If less than all distributions payable with respect to the Series A preferred units and any Parity Securities are paid, any partial payment shall be made pro rata with respect to Series A preferred units and any Parity Securities entitled to a distribution payment at such time in proportion to the aggregate amounts remaining due in respect of such units at such time.
The Series A preferred units do not have an established trading market, which may negatively affect their market value and ability of holders to transfer or sell Series A preferred units. In addition, the lack of a fixed redemption date for the Series A preferred units will increase unitholder reliance on the secondary market for liquidity purposes.
The Series A preferred units do not have a well-established trading market. In addition, since the Series A preferred units have no stated maturity date, investors seeking liquidity will be limited to selling their units in the secondary market absent redemption by us. The trading market for the Series A preferred units on the NYSE may not be active, in which case the trading price of the Series A preferred units could be adversely affected and the ability of holders to transfer such units will be limited. If an active trading market does develop on the NYSE, our Series A preferred units may trade at prices lower than the offering price. The trading price of the Series A preferred units depends on many factors, including:
● | prevailing interest rates; |
● | the market for similar securities; |
● | general economic and financial conditions; |
● | our issuance of debt or preferred equity securities; and |
● | our financial condition, results of operations and prospects. |
Market interest rates may adversely affect the value of our Series A preferred units.
One of the factors that will influence the price of our Series A preferred units will be the distribution yield on the Series A preferred units (as a percentage of the price of our Series A preferred units) relative to market interest rates. An
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increase in market interest rates, may lead prospective purchasers of our Series A preferred units to expect a higher distribution yield, and higher interest rates would likely increase our borrowing costs and potentially decrease funds available for distribution. Accordingly, higher market interest rates could cause the market price of our Series A preferred units to decrease.
The Series A preferred units are redeemable at our option.
We may, at our option, redeem all or, from time to time, part of the Series A preferred units on or after October 5, 2022. If we redeem Series A preferred units, holders will be entitled to receive a redemption price equal to $25.00 per unit plus accumulated and unpaid distributions to the date of redemption. It is likely that we would choose to exercise our optional redemption right only when prevailing interest rates have declined, which would adversely affect the ability of holders to reinvest their proceeds from the redemption in a comparable investment with an equal or greater yield to the yield on the Series A preferred units had such units not been redeemed. We may elect to exercise our partial redemption right on multiple occasions.
Tax Risks
In addition to the following risk factors, you should read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Taxation of the 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.
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. Moreover, tax regulation and reporting requirements for value added taxes, withholding taxes, property taxes and corporate income taxes are complex in Indonesia, Colombia, and many of the countries where we operate. Tax regulations, guidance and interpretation in emerging markets may not always be clear and may be subject to alternative interpretations or changes in interpretation over time. In particular, Indonesia and Colombia have complex tax regulations and reporting requirements, which if not properly applied, could result in penalties that could be significant, which could also harm our business and ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders. Please read “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Taxation of the Partnership,” “Item 5.D. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Trend Information” and note 17 under Indonesian corporate income tax, Indonesian property tax and Colombian Municipal Industry and Commerce Tax to our consolidated financial statements.
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. As a result of new regulations related to property taxes in Indonesia for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, retroactive property tax and penalties were assessed for the years from 2015 to 2019. Such changes may also 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.
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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. For purposes of these tests, 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 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 certain valuations and projections regarding our assets, income and charters, and its validity is conditioned on the accuracy of such valuations and projections. 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 Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (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 (“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. 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.
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 (the “Treasury Regulations”). U.S. source gross transportation consists of 50.0% of the gross shipping income that a non-U.S. 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.
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We believe that we and our vessel-owning subsidiaries 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 reporting 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 or our subsidiaries 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 21.0% net income tax in the United States (and the after-tax earnings attributable to such income may be subject to an additional 30.0% 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 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 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 units. However, because we are organized as a limited partnership, there is a risk in some jurisdictions, including 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 generally will 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 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 Norway, will be largely a question of fact to be determined through an analysis of the decisions made and powers exercised by our board of directors, the limitation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer's decisions making to day-to-day management for the purpose of implementing the decisions made by our board of directors, 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 and our operating company have entered into with Höegh Norway, 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 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.
The SEC maintains an Internet site at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC. The Partnership also maintains an Internet site at www.hoeghlngpartners.com.
We were formed on April 28, 2014 as a Marshall Islands limited partnership and have our principal executive offices at Canon's Court, 22 Victoria Street, Hamilton, Bermuda (Telephone: +479-912-3443). 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 the entity that indirectly owned the FSRU Höegh Gallant. On January 3, 2017, we closed the acquisition of a 51% ownership interest in the Höegh Grace entities. On December 1, 2017, we closed the acquisition of the remaining 49% ownership interest in the Höegh Grace entities.
As of March 31, 2022, we had a fleet of five FSRUs. Our fleet consists of interests in the following vessels:
● | a 50% interest in the Neptune, an FSRU built in 2009 that is currently operating under a time charter with Total Gas & Power a subsidiary of Total, a French publicly listed company, that produces and markets fuels, natural gas and low-carbon electricity, that expires in 2029, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each; |
● | a 50% interest in the Cape Ann, an FSRU built in 2010 that is currently operating under a time charter with Total Gas & Power, 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 PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, a subsidiary of PT Pertamina, government-controlled, Indonesian oil and gas producer, natural gas transportation and distribution company. 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; |
● | a 100% interest in the Höegh Gallant, an FSRU built in 2014. Previously, the Höegh Gallant operated under a long-term time charter which started in 2015 and expired in 2020 with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG. On February 27, 2020, we exercised our right pursuant to an option agreement to cause Höegh LNG or its subsidiary to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025. On April 30, 2020, we entered into a lease and maintenance agreement with another subsidiary of Höegh LNG for the time charter of the Höegh Gallant (“the Suspended Gallant Charter”). On September 23, 2021, we entered into agreements with subsidiaries of New Fortress to charter the Höegh Gallant primarily for FSRU operations for a period of ten years, with FSRU operations commencing on March 20, 2022 (the “NFE Charter”). From November 26, 2021 until the FSRU operations commenced, New Fortress chartered the vessel for LNG carrier operations. We have entered into an agreement to suspend the Suspended Gallant Charter, with effect from the commencement of the NFE Charter, and a make-whole agreement (together, the “Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements”), pursuant to which Höegh LNG's subsidiary will compensate us monthly for the difference between the charter rate earned under the NFE Charter and the charter rate earned under the Suspended Gallant Charter with the addition of a modest increase until July 31, 2025, the original expiration date of the Suspended Gallant Charter. Afterwards, we will continue to receive the charter rate agreed with New Fortress for the remaining term of the NFE Charter. In addition, pursuant to the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements, |
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certain capital expenditures incurred to ready and relocate the Höegh Gallant for performance under the NFE Charter will be shared 50/50 between Höegh LNG and the Partnership, subject to a maximum obligation of the Partnership; and |
● | a 100% interest in Höegh Grace, an FSRU built in 2016 that is currently operating under a time charter with SPEC. SPEC is owned 51% by Promigas S.A. ESP, a Colombian company focused on the transportation and distribution of natural gas, and 49% by private equity investors. The non-cancellable charter period is 10 years. The initial term of the charter is 20 years. However, each party has an unconditional option to cancel the charter after 10 and 15 years without a penalty. However, if SPEC waives its right to terminate in year 10 within a certain deadline, we will not be able to exercise our right to terminate in year 10. |
Capital Expenditures
Our capital expenditures amounted to $3.1 million, $0.0 million and $0.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019 respectively.
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. One of our principal strengths is our relationship with Höegh LNG. With a 40-year 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 a few 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 our FSRUs.
Natural Gas and Liquefied Natural Gas
Natural gas is used to generate electric power, has residential and 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,
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regulated natural gas companies or power utilities. The diagram below shows the flow of natural gas and LNG from production to regasification and consumption:
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 by LNG carriers serving as 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. |
● | 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 two years, whereas land-based LNG terminals often require long term commitments of 15 years or more. |
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● | 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. FSRU technology has the flexibility to meet different market needs and 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 facilitates 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 terminal, 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. 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 a few operators of FSRUs in the world, excluding FSRUs owned by companies dedicated to single projects, and has one of the largest FSRU fleets in operation. 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 more than 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.
On March 8, 2021, Höegh LNG announced a recommended offer by Leif Höegh & Co. Ltd. (“LHC”) and funds managed by Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners (“MSIP”) through a 50/50 joint venture, Larus Holding Limited (“JVCo”), to acquire the remaining issued and outstanding shares of Höegh LNG not currently owned by LHC or its affiliates (the “Amalgamation”). The Amalgamation was approved by Höegh LNG’s shareholders and bondholders and closed on May 4, 2021. Höegh LNG is now wholly-owned by JVCo, and the common shares of Höegh LNG have been delisted from the Oslo Stock Exchange. Following the Amalgamation, some provisions of the omnibus agreement terminated by their terms, including (i) the prohibition on Höegh LNG from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Five-Year Vessels, (ii) the prohibition on us from acquiring, owning, operating or chartering any Non-Five-Year Vessels, and (iii) the rights of first offer associated with those rights. As a consequence, unless otherwise agreed between the parties, Höegh LNG will not be required to offer us Five-Year Vessels and is permitted to compete with us.
On December 6, 2021, we announced that the HMLP Board received an unsolicited non-binding proposal, dated December 3, 2021, from Höegh LNG pursuant to which Höegh LNG would acquire through a wholly owned subsidiary all our publicly held common units in exchange for $4.25 in cash per common unit. Hӧegh LNG has proposed that a transaction would be effectuated through a merger between the Partnership and a subsidiary of Hӧegh LNG (the “Offer”). The HMLP Board has authorized the Conflicts Committee of the HMLP Board, comprised only of non-Höegh LNG affiliated directors, to review and evaluate the Offer. The Conflicts Committee has retained advisors and discussions regarding a potential transaction are ongoing.
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Business Strategies
● | Pursue Strategic Acquisitions of FSRUs, LNG Carriers and Other LNG Infrastructure Assets on Long-Term, Fixed-Rate Charters with Strong Counterparties. We may seek to leverage our relationship with Höegh LNG to make strategic acquisitions. We may also 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. We intend to primarily focus on modern assets if making acquisitions in the future. |
● | Expand Global Operations in High-Growth Regions. We may 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 a few FSRU owners and operators in the world, more than 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 potentially 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. For further discussion of the risks that we face, please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors.”
Our Fleet
Our Current Fleet
As of March 31, 2022, our fleet consists of interests in the following vessels:
● | a 50% interest in the Neptune, an FSRU built in 2009 that is currently operating under a time charter with Total Gas & Power that expires in 2029, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each; |
● | a 50% interest in the Cape Ann, an FSRU built in 2010 that is currently operating under a time charter with Total Gas & Power 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; |
● | a 100% interest in the Höegh Gallant, an FSRU built in 2014 that is currently operating under a time charter with subsidiaries of New Fortress that expires in 2031, with option to extend for up to one additional year; and |
● | a 100% interest in Höegh Grace, an FSRU built in 2016 that is currently operating under a time charter with SPEC. The non-cancellable charter period is 10 years. The initial term of the charter is 20 years. However, each party has an unconditional option to cancel the charter after 10 and 15 years without penalty. However, if SPEC |
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waives its right to terminate in year 10 within a certain deadline, we will not be able to exercise our right to terminate in year 10. |
Both the Neptune and the 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.”
The following table provides information about our five FSRUs:
(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) | The non-cancellable term is 10 years. The initial term is 20 years. However, each party has an unconditional option to cancel the charter after 10 and 15 years without penalty. However, if SPEC waives its right to terminate in year 10 within a certain deadline, we will not be able to exercise our right to terminate in year 10. |
As of December 31, 2021, the Neptune, the Cape Ann, the PGN FSRU Lampung, the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace were approximately 12.2 years old, 11.6 years old, 7.8 years old, 7.2 years old and 5.8 years old, respectively. FSRUs are generally designed to have a lifespan of approximately 40 years.
From December 2016 until June 2019, the Neptune operated as the first FSRU in the Turkish market at the Etki Terminal near the port of Aliaga in Izmir province on the west coast of Turkey. Neptune has been trading as LNG carrier since leaving Turkey. From October 2017 to March 2018, the Cape Ann was sub-chartered as an FSRU, located in Tianjin outside Beijing, China. From April 2018 to June 2021, the Cape Ann has served as an LNG carrier. Commencing in July 2021, the Cape Ann has operated as an FSRU in Tianjin,China.
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.
In October 2018, the Höegh Gallant commenced operating as an LNG carrier for EgyptCo's charter with a third party with a term until April 2020. The FSRU Höegh Gallant operated as an LNG import terminal at Ain Sokhna port, located on the Red Sea in Egypt, until October 2018. On April 30, 2020, we entered into the Suspended Gallant Charter with CharterCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG, which commenced on May 1, 2020 and was subsequently suspended. The Partnership has entered into agreements with subsidiaries of New Fortress to charter the vessel primarily for FSRU operations for a period of ten years, with FSRU operations commencing March 20, 2022. The vessel is located outside
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the port of Kingston, Jamaica. From November 26, 2021 until the FSRU operations commenced, New Fortress chartered the vessel for LNG carrier operations.
The Höegh Grace is operating as an LNG import terminal in the port of Cartagena on the Atlantic coast of Colombia. The Höegh Grace was delivered from the shipyard in March 2016 and employed as an LNG carrier by SPEC from June to October 2016.
Each of the Neptune, the Cape Ann, the PGN FSRU Lampung, the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace has a reinforced membrane-type cargo containment system that facilitates offshore loading operations.
Technical Specifications
Each FSRU in our fleet has the following onboard equipment for the vaporization of LNG and delivery of high-pressure natural gas:
● | High-Pressure Cryogenic Pumps. Each FSRU has high-pressure cryogenic pumps, which pressurize the LNG prior to vaporization. |
● | Vaporizers. Each FSRU has 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 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 Neptune and the 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 Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace are 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 Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace have a high-pressure manifold on the side, to connect to the loading arms on the purpose-built jetties. The Neptune and the Cape Ann 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 Neptune and the Cape Ann has a closed-loop regasification system, where heat for vaporization is generated by steam boilers. Because of the closed-loop regasification system, the Neptune and the Cape Ann are capable of operating the regasification system in cold climate where the seawater temperature is low. 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. Consequently, these vessels are not capable of operating the regasification system in cold climate where the seawater temperature is low.
Each of the Neptune, the Cape Ann, the Höegh Gallant and the Höegh Grace is capable of operating as a conventional LNG carrier. The PGN FSRU Lampung has insufficient propulsion power to operate as a conventional LNG carrier.
Customers
For the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019 the total revenues in the consolidated statements of income are from PGN LNG, EgyptCo and CharterCo (both subsidiaries of Höegh LNG), NFE South Holdings Limited and NFE International Shipping LLC, subsidiaries of New Fortress, and SPEC. PGN LNG is a subsidiary of PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, a subsidiary of PT Pertamina, a government-controlled, Indonesian oil and gas producer, natural gas transportation and distribution company. SPEC is owned 51% by Promigas S.A. ESP, a Colombian company focused on the transportation and distribution of natural gas, and 49% by private equity investors. NFE South Holdings Limited and NFE International Shipping LLC are subsidiaries of New Fortress, a U.S. publicly listed gas-to-power
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infrastructure company. Total Gas & Power (formerly Global LNG Supply), accounted for 100% of our joint ventures’ time charter revenues for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. During 2018, Global LNG Supply was acquired by Total, a French publicly listed company, that produces and markets fuels, natural gas and low-carbon electricity, from ENGIE. In February 2020, our joint ventures’ time charters were novated from Global LNG Supply to Total Gas & Power, a subsidiary of Total.
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).
Neptune Time Charter
Initial Term; Extensions
The Neptune time charter commenced upon acceptance of the vessel by the charterer in November 2009. The initial term of the Neptune time charter is 20 years. Total Gas & Power has the option to extend the time charter for up to two additional periods of five years each.
Performance Standards
Under the 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. On April 1, 2020, as part of the settlement of the boil-off claim with the charterer, the vessel owner and the charterer entered into an amendment to the Neptune time charter specifying a new procedure with respect to the calculation of excess boil-off under the time charter’s performance standards. 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 Neptune time charter, hire is payable to the vessel owner monthly, in advance in U.S. Dollars. The hire rate under the 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 |
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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 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 Total Gas & Power exercises its option to extend the 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.
Off-hire
Under the Neptune time charter, the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire if the vessel 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 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.
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Termination
Under the 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, 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 “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 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 Charterer’s Group, as applicable. Additionally, if any personal property of the 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 Charterer’s Group, as applicable. Reciprocal obligations are imposed on the charterer in both cases.
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 the vessel 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.
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Guarantee
Pursuant to the 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.
Subcharter Provisions
The charterer entered into a subcharter to provide the Neptune as an FSRU for the Etki Terminal in Izmir province on the west coast of Turkey, pursuant to which Global LNG Supply and SRV Joint Gas Ltd. amended the Neptune time charter in December 2016 (the “Neptune charter amendments”). The subcharter terminated in June 2019. The Neptune charter amendments applied only during the term of the subcharter.
Cape Ann Time Charter
Initial Term; Extensions
The Cape Ann time charter commenced upon acceptance of the vessel by the charterer in June 2010. The initial term of the Cape Ann time charter is 20 years. Total Gas & Power has the option to extend the time charter for up to two additional periods of five years each. Commencing July 2021, Total Gas & Power subchartered the Cape Ann to PipeChina Tianjin LNG Limited for a period of two years as an FSRU in China, pursuant to which Total Gas & Power and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. amended the Cape Ann time charter to allow for the use of the Cape Ann at the Tianjin FSRU terminal in China. Such amendments apply only during the term of the subcharter.
On April 1, 2020, as part of the settlement of the boil-off claim with the charterer, the vessel owner and the charterer entered into an amendment to the Cape Ann time charter specifying a new procedure with respect to the calculation of excess boil-off under the time charter’s performance standards.
The terms of the Cape Ann time charter are substantially similar to those of the Neptune time charter unmodified by the Neptune charter amendments.
Subcharter Provisions
In connection with the subcharter, 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 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 taxes. The subcharter also includes an option for the vessel to operate as an LNG carrier.
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; |
● | the parties waive any consequential damages arising out of or related to the use or operation of the Tianjin FSRU terminal; |
● | performance standards different from those described under “—Neptune Time Charter—Performance Standards,” pursuant to which the vessel owner undertakes to ensure that the vessel maintains a maximum daily boil-off, 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 “Charterer’s Group” includes PipeChina Tianjin LNG Limited. |
Guarantee
Pursuant to the 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: |
o | 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; |
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o | the vessel owner provides shipboard personnel in accordance with specified terms; |
o | 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 |
o | 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”); |
● | 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.
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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.
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.
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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 (including if the vessel owner or Höegh LNG fails to pay its debts, becomes insolvent or enters into bankruptcy or liquidation or if Höegh LNG’s guarantee becomes unenforceable, and either such default is not timely cured), 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 (including if the charterer fails to pay its debts, becomes insolvent or enters into bankruptcy or liquidation and such default is not timely cured) 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.
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.
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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. PGN LNG has discussed alternatives regarding the option, among other contractual provisions. However, no notice has been provided to indicate an intention of exercising this option as of March 31, 2022. Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Inherent in Our Business—PGN LNG and SPEC have options to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung and Höegh Grace, respectively. If either charterer exercises its 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
The Höegh Gallant is subject to two material agreements with subsidiaries of New Fortress: an International Charter Agreement, pursuant to which the Partnership charters the vessel to a subsidiary of New Fortress (the “ICA”) and the FSRU Operation and Services Agreement, pursuant to which our operating company provides certain operational services to a subsidiary of New Fortress with respect to the vessel (the “OSA”). The ICA and the OSA are collectively referred to as the “Höegh Gallant charter.”
Term and Termination
The Höegh Gallant charter has a term of 10 years. The charterer has the option to extend the term of the Höegh Gallant charter for an additional year.
There are certain conditions under which the Höegh Gallant charter could terminate prior to its expiration date. The charter will terminate automatically upon the loss of the vessel. Either party may also terminate the charter for force majeure after a specified period. Additionally, either party may elect to terminate the charter upon the occurrence of specified events of default which, in the case of a termination by the charterer, include (i) the vessel owner ceases to be a member of the Partnership group or the Höegh LNG group in a manner in violation of the Höegh Gallant charter; (ii) the vessel owner (a) fails to pay its debts or is otherwise insolvent, or (b) enters into bankruptcy or liquidation; or (iii) unless such defaults are timely cured (if capable of cure), without charterer’s consent (a) the vessel ceases to be registered under the laws of the agreed flag state, (b) the vessel ceases to hold a classification certificate with the agreed classification society, (c) the vessel owner effects a lien or other mortgage over the vessel (other than permitted liens), or (d) the vessel owner fails to maintain insurance. The charterer also has the right to terminate the charter in the event of a prolonged off-hire period. If the ICA is terminated for any reason, the OSA will automatically terminate as well.
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Performance Standards
Under the Höegh Gallant charter, the vessel owner undertakes to ensure that the vessel meets specified performance standards at all times during the term of the charter. The charterer is permitted to reduce the hire rate or service fee, as applicable, under the Höegh Gallant charter in the event that the Höegh Gallant is unable to timely accept all or part of a delivered LNG cargo, is unable to deliver the specified amount of regasified natural gas, consumes more than a specified amount of fuel or suffers other performance failures.
Hire Rate and Service Fees
Under the Höegh Gallant charter, hire is payable monthly, in arrears, in U.S. Dollars. The charterer pays a fixed daily rate of hire (with respect to the ICA) and service fees (with respect to the OSA), as set forth in the Höegh Gallant charter.
Expenses
The vessel owner is responsible for providing certain items and services, which include, among other things, provisions and wages of the crew; bunker fuel, drydocking, overhaul, maintenance and repairs; insurance; stores; necessary spare parts; communication expenses and fees paid to the classification societies and regulatory authorities. The hire rate is designed to cover these expenses except for when the vessel is off-hire. The charterer pays for fuel oil and port expenses.
Off-hire
Except for force majeure events, events that are excusable events (as defined in the Höegh Gallant charter) and maintenance of the vessel (other than actions required due to a change in law of a jurisdiction other than the jurisdiction in which the vessel is operating in FSRU mode or where charterer is incorporated, domiciled or located), under the Höegh Gallant charter the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire during any time in which the vessel is either unable to meet a defined threshold of nominated volume of daily regasified LNG, ceases completely or is incapable or unable to send out any regasified LNG, or completely ceases to be at the charterer’s disposal during the charter period
Ship Management and Maintenance
Under the Höegh Gallant charter, the vessel owner is responsible for the technical management of the vessel, including 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 split in two. One Crew recruitment services agreement and one Professional Payment Services agreement.
Indemnification
The charterer will indemnify the vessel owner for any damage or loss to the charterer’s vessel interconnection infrastructure, to the connecting pipeline and onshore receiving system and any property owned, leased, chartered or hired by charterer (except the Höegh Gallant), or for any 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 vessel owner will indemnify the charterer for any damage or loss of the vessel and of its property, 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 damages arising out of, attributable to or in connection with pollution emanating from the Höegh Gallant (or its equipment), including spills or leaks of fuel,
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lubricants, oils, paints, solvents, ballasts, bilge, garbage, or sewerage, regardless of fault. The charterer will indemnify the Owner Indemnified Parties for all damages arising out of, attributable to or in connection with pollution in connection with the Höegh Gallant charter, other than damages covered by the previous sentence, regardless of fault.
Each of the vessel owner and the charterer will indemnify the other party for any loss, damage to any property or injury or death suffered by any third party, caused by the negligence of an Owner Indemnified Party or Charterer Indemnified Party, as applicable.
Guarantee
The Partnership guarantees the performance of Höegh Gallant under the Höegh Gallant charter, subject to a cap on its total liability. NFE Atlantic Holdings LLC, a subsidiary of New Fortress, guarantees the performance of the charterer under the Höegh Gallant charter, subject to a cap on its total liability.
Suspended Gallant Charter
Previously, the Höegh Gallant operated under a long-term time charter which started in 2015 and expired in 2020 with EgyptCo, a subsidiary of Höegh LNG. On February 27, 2020, the Partnership exercised its right pursuant to an option agreement to cause Höegh LNG or its subsidiary to charter the Höegh Gallant from the expiration of the EgyptCo charter until July 2025. On April 30, 2020, we entered into a lease and maintenance agreement with another subsidiary of Höegh LNG for the time charter of the Höegh Gallant (the “Suspended Gallant Charter”). On September 23, 2021, we entered into the Höegh Gallant charter. From November 26, 2021 until the FSRU operations commenced in March 2022, New Fortress chartered the vessel for LNG carrier operations. We have entered into the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements to suspend the Suspended Gallant Charter, with effect from the commencement of the Höegh Gallant charter, and pursuant to which Höegh LNG's subsidiary will compensate us monthly for the difference between the charter rate earned under the Höegh Gallant charter and the charter rate earned under the Suspended Gallant Charter with the addition of a modest increase until July 31, 2025, the original expiration date of the Suspended Gallant Charter. Afterwards, we will continue to receive the charter rate agreed with New Fortress for the remaining term of the Höegh Gallant charter. In addition, pursuant to the Suspension and Make-Whole Agreements, certain capital expenditures incurred to ready and relocate the Höegh Gallant for performance under the Höegh Gallant charter will be shared 50/50 between Höegh LNG and the Partnership, subject to a maximum obligation of the Partnership.
Höegh Grace Charter
The Höegh Grace is subject to two material agreements with SPEC: an International Leasing Agreement, pursuant to which Höegh FSRU IV leases the vessel to SPEC (the “ILA”) and the FSRU Operation and Services Agreement, pursuant to which Höegh Colombia provides certain operational services to SPEC with respect to the vessel (the “OSA”). The ILA and the OSA are collectively referred to herein as the “Höegh Grace charter.”
Term and Termination
The Höegh Grace charter has a term of 20 years. Each party has an unconditional option to cancel the Höegh Grace charter after 10 and 15 years without a penalty. However, if the charterer waives its right to terminate in year 10 within a certain deadline, the vessel owner will not be able to exercise its right to terminate in year 10. Accordingly, the non-cancellable charter period is for 10 years.
There are certain conditions under which the Höegh Grace charter could terminate prior to its expiration date. The charter will terminate automatically upon the loss of the vessel. Either party may also terminate the charter for force majeure after a specified period. Additionally, either party may elect to terminate the charter upon the occurrence of specified events of default, which, in the case of a termination by the charterer, include:
(i) if there is a change in the legal or disponoent ownership of the vessel other than as permitted under the Höegh Grace charter;
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(ii) the vessel owner or the Partnership;
(a) fails to pay its debts or is otherwise insolvent, or
(b) enters into bankruptcy or liquidation; or
(iii) unless such defaults are timely cured (if capable of cure);
(a) the vessel ceases to be registered under the laws of the agreed flag state
(b) the classification society suspends or removes the vessel’s class,
(c) the vessel owner effects a lien or other mortgage over the vessel (other than permitted liens), or
(d) the vessel owner fails to maintain insurance.
The charterer also has the right to terminate the charter in the event of a prolonged off-hire period. If the ILA is terminated for any reason, the OSA will automatically terminate as well.
Performance Standards
Under the Höegh Grace charter, the vessel owner undertakes to ensure that the vessel meets specified performance standards at all times during the term of the charter. The vessel owner is required to pay liquidated damages in the event that the Höegh Grace is unable to accept all or part of a delivered LNG cargo, is unable to deliver the specified amount of regasified natural gas, exceeds a maximum average daily boil-off, consumes more than a specified amount of fuel or suffers other performance failures, which damages are subject to various caps per cargo, per year and in the aggregate for the term of the Höegh Grace charter.
Hire Rate
Under the Höegh Grace charter, hire is payable monthly, in arrears, in U.S. Dollars. The charterer pays a fixed daily rate of hire (with respect to the ILA) and operating fees (with respect to the OSA), as set forth in the Höegh Grace charter. Under the OSA, the operating fees are escalated yearly by a fixed percentage, and the OSA provides for a review and reasonable adjustment by the parties if the actual operating costs increase by more than such percentage over a period of three consecutive years.
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 and regulatory authorities. The hire rate is designed to cover these expenses except for when the vessel is off-hire. The charterer pays for fuel oil and port expenses.
Off-hire
Except for force majeure events and a specified maintenance allowance period, under the Höegh Grace charter the vessel generally will be deemed off-hire:
● | if the vessel is not able to discharge regasified LNG at a specified rate; |
● | if the vessel owner breaches its warranties related to international sanctions; or |
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● | if the vessel is not available for the charterer’s use due to, among other things: |
o | any damage, defect, breakdown or deficiency to the vessel; |
o | any deficiency of crew, stores, repairs, surveys, or similar cause preventing the working of the vessel; |
o | any labor dispute, failure or inability of the officers or crew to perform the required services; or |
o | 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.
Ship Management and Maintenance
Under the Höegh Grace 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 vessel owner has entered into services agreements with affiliates of Höegh LNG and Höegh Autoliners Ltd. to provide certain of these services. See “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Ship Management Agreements and Sub-Technical Support Agreement” and “— Höegh Grace Services Agreements.”
Indemnification
The charterer will indemnify the vessel owner for any damage or loss to the charterer’s vessel interconnection infrastructure, including the jetty and interconnection pipeline, or to any other property, and any 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 charterer will indemnify the Owner Indemnified Parties for all damage and harm to the environment, including fines imposed by a governmental authority, including damages for control, remediation and clean-up of all pollution or contamination that originates from the charterer’s vessel interconnection infrastructure, including the jetty and interconnection pipeline, or any other property of any Charterer Indemnified Parties, regardless of fault.
The vessel owner will indemnify the charterer for any damage or loss of the vessel and of its property, 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 fines imposed by a governmental authority, including damages for control, remediation and cleanup of all pollution or contamination that originates from the vessel, regardless of fault.
Each of the vessel owner and the charterer will indemnify the other party for any loss, damage to any property or injury or death suffered by any third party, caused by the vessel owner or charterer, as applicable.
Purchase Option
Pursuant to the Höegh Grace charter, the charterer has the option to purchase the Höegh Grace in year 10, year 15 and year 20 at a price specified in the Höegh Grace charter. The option is exercisable upon the charterer giving notice at the end of the applicable term and survives any early termination of the charter in year 10 or year 15 thereof. Please read “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Inherent in Our Business—PGN LNG and SPEC have options to purchase the PGN FSRU Lampung and Höegh Grace, respectively. If either charterer exercises its option, it could have a material adverse effect on our operating cash flows and our ability to make cash distributions to our unitholders.”
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Guarantee
The Partnership guarantees the performance of Höegh FSRU IV and Höegh Colombia under the Höegh Grace charter.
Shareholder Agreements
The following provides a summary of the governance, distribution and other significant terms of our shareholders’ agreements.
SRV Joint Gas Shareholders’ Agreement
We hold our interests in two vessels in our fleet through the following joint ventures (collectively, the “SRV Joint Gas joint ventures”):
● | SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (owner of the 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 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. |
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.
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 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.”
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; |
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● | agreement of the terms of any financing of the Neptune or the Cape Ann, as applicable, or any other financing exceeding $5,000,000; |
● | investments exceeding $2,500,000 for a 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 Neptune or the Cape Ann. |
Our operating company, MOL and TLT have made loans to each of the SRV Joint Gas joint ventures, in part to finance the operations of such joint ventures. 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.
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 representing a greater than 25% limited partner interest in us in the aggregate. In addition, Höegh LNG
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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.
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.
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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 certain administrative staff in foreign subsidiaries, we do not have other direct employees and rely on the key employees of Höegh Norway who perform services for us pursuant to the administrative services agreement. 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, the Höegh Grace Services Agreements, a sub-technical support agreement and commercial and administration management agreements. Höegh Maritime Management also provides crew pursuant to a secondment agreement. Our crew may be employed by our or Höegh LNG’s subsidiaries. Please read “—Maritime Personnel and Competence Development” and “Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management.”
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 sector include BW LNG, Dynagas Ltd, Excelerate Energy L.P., Golar LNG Limited, New Fortress, MOL and Maran Gas Maritime. Certain terminal operators have also ordered FSRUs directly from shipyards for specific projects. Our competitors in the LNG carrier universe is more diverse and, while we compete with this group when operating in LNG carrier mode, few have entered the FSRU market.
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
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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 aim to be compliant with ISO 45001 on Occupational Safety and Health Management during 2022. Additionally, Höegh LNG holds all compliance documents and permits needed to manage and operate LNG carriers and FSRUs except for the PGN FSRU Lampung, which is held by PT Höegh. 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 or 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:
● | technical management, maintenance and drydocking; |
● | crew management; |
● | procurement, purchasing and forwarding logistics; |
● | marine operations; |
● | oil major and terminal vetting compliance; |
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● | 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 March 31, 2022, entities in the Höegh LNG group employed approximately 697 maritime personnel who serve on our and Höegh LNG’s vessels. The Scandinavian employees are employed by Höegh LNG Management. Non-Scandinavian employees, except for seafarers operating the PGN FSRU Lampung and the Höegh Grace, are employed by Höegh Maritime Management. The seafarers operating the PGN FSRU Lampung are employed by PT Höegh. The seafarers operating the Höegh Grace are employed by Höegh Colombia. The seafarers operating the Höegh Gallant are employed by Höegh Jamaica. 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.
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.
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
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disaster, including explosions, 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.
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 20/21 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 an approved 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 damage is a war peril. In addition, war risk insurance will also compensate the owner for loss of the ship caused by intervention of a foreign state power, or if the ship is prevented from leaving a port or similar limited area.
Our current protection and indemnity insurance coverage for all vessels is limited to $8.2 billion for all liabilities. For all vessels except PGN FSRU Lampung the limits set are $3 billion per incident. Limit for seafarers is $3 billion and limit for pollution is $1 billion per vessel per incident. For PGN FSRU Lampung each category of liability is limited to $500 million.
We are a member of the Gard P&I Club, which is among the 13 P&I clubs that comprise the International Group of P&I Clubs. Members of the International Group of P&I Clubs 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. Each P&I club provide the basic layer of insurance, which is currently $10 million. Members of the International Group of P&I Clubs provide the next layer of insurance, covering liability between $10 million and $100 million. For liabilities above $100 million, the International Group of P&I Clubs 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 club’s 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 with interests and loss of hire have confirmed that they consider the FSRUs as conventional vessels for the purpose of providing insurance. For protection and indemnity insurance the same applies for all vessels except PNG FSRU Lampung which has a protection and indemnity insurance for mobile offshore units in order to incorporate the tower yoke mooring system.
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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, the 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.
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 ISO 14001 Environmental Management Standard certification, 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 setting forth instructions and procedures for operating its vessels safely and also describing procedures for responding to emergencies. Höegh LNG holds a valid Document of Compliance (“DOC”) for each flag in the fleet; Norway (the Neptune, the Cape Ann and the Höegh Gallant) and Marshall Islands (the Höegh Grace). PT Höegh holds a valid DOC for the flag in Indonesia (the PGN FRSU Lampung). Each DOC meets the requirements of 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
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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 2017, the IMO's Maritime Safety Committee (“MSC”) adopted Resolution MSC.428(98), Maritime Cyber Risk Management in Safety Management Systems, embracing guidelines on maritime cyber risk management approved by the MSC. This resolution affirmed the MSC's view that the ISM Code requires mitigation of cyber risk as part of the safety management system, and effectively provides that a vessel's safety management system must account for cyber risks in compliance with the ISM Code no later than the vessel's first annual compliance verification after January 1, 2021.
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 regulations 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 weighing 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.
Annex I to the MARPOL Convention 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 to Annex VI took effect that impose progressively stricter limitations on sulfur oxide (SOx) emissions from ships. As of January 1, 2020, the ultimate limit of 0.5% sulfur content for fuel used to power ships
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outside of the four designated Emission Control Areas (“ECAs”) for SOx took effect. Pursuant to Annex VI Regulation 14, for fuels used in the four ECAs, i.e., the Baltic Sea, North Sea, North America, and United States Caribbean Sea ECAs, the cap settled at 0.1% in January 2015. The 0.5% sulfur cap is generally referred to IMO 2020 and applies absent the installation of expensive sulfur scrubbers to meet reduced emission requirements for sulfur. New Annex VI requirements for the sampling, testing and verification of the sulfur content of onboard fuel oil are scheduled to enter into force April 1, 2022. 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 or anchored in any European Union country port. Our FSRUs have achieved compliance with applicable low sulfur fuel requirements through use of gas boil-off and low sulfur marine diesel oil in their diesel generators and boilers.
MARPOL Annex VI regulations also establish progressively more stringent standards for emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) from new and certain modified marine engines, depending on their date of installation or the date of ship construction. Engine standards required under Annex VI to limit NOx emissions in designated areas are referred to as “Tier III” controls. Pursuant to amendments adopted in April 2014, the Tier III Annex VI requirements for NOx apply to certain newbuild vessels with marine diesel engines constructed on or after January 1, 2016, and that operate in the North American or United States Caribbean Sea NOx Tier III ECAs. And, pursuant to amendments adopted in July 2017 and entered into force on January 1, 2019, the Baltic Sea and North Sea ECAs have been designated as NOx Tier III ECAs, with NOx Tier III Annex VI requirements applying to certain newbuild vessels with marine diesel engines constructed on or after January 1, 2021 that operate in the Baltic Sea or North Sea NOx Tier III 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, which is being replaced with a requirement for treatment. The BWM Convention was ratified by a sufficient number of countries in September 2016 and the requirement to install ballast water management systems (“BWMS”) on new ships became effective in September 2017. Although neither the United Kingdom nor the United States has ratified the BWM Convention yet, both jurisdictions are implementing ballast water management requirements. As referenced below, the U.S. Coast Guard issued ballast water management rules on March 23, 2012, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) issued a five-year Vessel General Permit (VGP) in March 2013 that contains numeric technology-based ballast water effluent limitations that apply to certain commercial vessels with ballast water tanks. The VPG program is in the process of being phased out and replaced with National Standards of Performance (NSP) to be developed by EPA and implemented and enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard. On October 26, 2020, EPA issued proposed regulations to establish NSPs, including general discharge standards of performance, covering general operation and maintenance, biofouling management, and oil management, and specific discharge standards applicable to specified pieces of equipment and systems. Final regulations are expected in late 2022. 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. Installation of approved ballast water treatment systems will be required on the Neptune and the Cape Ann in order to call on ports in jurisdictions requiring treatment systems. The Neptune would require retrofitting to meet the BWMS requirements no later than November 30, 2022 based on the drydock schedule. The Cape Ann was not retrofitted to meet the BWMS requirements during the drydock in 2018 and, therefore, cannot call on ports in countries that have ratified the BWM Convention or on United Kingdom or US ports. The charterer would cover the cost of complying with the rules and, therefore, makes the decision on whether retrofit to meet the BWMS requirements based upon their plans for the use of the vessels.
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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. The Bunker Convention complements the international regime of liability, limitation and mandatory insurance in place with respect to spills of persistent oils from tankers under the International Convention on Civil Liability for Oil Pollution Damage, 1992 (CLC). The CLC and the Bunker Convention do not overlap; in circumstances where the CLC applies, the Bunker Convention does not apply.
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 compounds in coatings applied to vessels to prevent the attachment of mollusks and other sea life to the hulls of vessels and establishes a mechanism to prevent the potential future use of other harmful substances in anti-fouling systems. 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 actions required to maintain 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 are 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.
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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, rather than oil, 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 and subject us to liability under these laws. 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:
● | 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 November 12, 2019, the U.S. Coast Guard adjusted the limits of OPA 90 liability to the greater of $2,300 per gross ton or $19,943,400 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). The liability limits are subject to possible further adjustment for inflation in the future. These limits of liability do not apply 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. 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 liability regime similar to OPA 90 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
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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.
Compliance with any new requirements of OPA 90 or other laws and regulations relating to oil spill liability 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 historically have required 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”), incorporated the current U.S. Coast Guard requirements for ballast water management, as well as supplemental ballast water requirements including 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.
In December 2018, the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act (“VIDA”) was signed into law and restructured the EPA and the U.S. Coast Guard programs for regulating incidental discharges from vessels. Rather than requiring CWA permits, the discharges will be regulated under a new CWA Section 312(p) establishing Uniform National Standards for Discharges Incidental to Normal Operation of Vessels. Under VIDA, VGP provisions and existing U.S. Coast Guard regulations will be phased out over a period of approximately four years from December 2018 and replaced with National Standards of Performance (NSPs) to be developed by EPA and implemented and enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard. On October 26, 2020, EPA issued proposed regulations to establish NSPs, including general discharge standards of performance, covering general operation and maintenance, biofouling management, and oil management, and specific discharge standards applicable to specified pieces of equipment and systems. Final regulations are expected in late 2022. The scheduled expiration date of the 2013 VGP was December 18, 2018, but under VIDA the provisions of the VGP will remain in place until the new regulations are in place.
In addition to the requirements in the VGP (to be replaced by the NSPs established under VIDA), vessel owners and operators must potentially meet 25 sets of state-specific requirements under the CWA’s § 401 certification process. Because the CWA § 401 process allows tribes and states to impose their own requirements for vessels operating within
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their waters, vessels operating in multiple jurisdictions could face potentially conflicting conditions specific to each jurisdiction that they travel through.
U.S. Ballast Water Regulation
In the United States, two federal agencies regulate ballast water discharges, the EPA, currently through the VGP, and the U.S. Coast Guard, through approved BWMS. The 2013 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 2013 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 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 became subject to the ballast water numeric effluent limitations immediately upon the 2013 VGP effective date.
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. The rule also provides for the use of an interim alternative management system (“AMS”), which is a BWMS approved pursuant to the BWM Convention standards by a foreign administration and determined by the U.S. Coast Guard to be at least as effective as ballast water exchange. AMSs can be used for up to five years following the compliance date for a vessel. Effective February 2016, the U.S. Coast Guard amended ballast water management recordkeeping requirements to require. Effective February 22, 2016, vessels with ballast tanks operating exclusively on voyages between ports or places within a single Captain of the Port zone to submit an annual report of their ballast water management practices.
As discussed above, under VIDA, existing U.S. Coast Guard ballast water management regulations will be phased out over a period of approximately four years from December 2018 and replaced with NSPs to be developed by EPA and implemented and enforced by the U.S. Coast Guard.
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. 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. These emission standards require an 80% reduction in nitrogen dioxides for newly-built engines effective January 1, 2016. Aligned with the Annex VI Regulation 14 requirements, as of January 2015, the EPA emission standards also limit sulfur content in fuel used in Category 3 marine vessels operating in the North American ECA to 1,000 ppm (or 0.1% sulfur by mass). Compliance with EPA standards may cause us to incur costs to install control equipment on our vessels in the future.
Regulation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Pursuant to the Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which entered into force in 2005, adopting countries were required to implement national programs to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. The emissions of greenhouse gases from international transport were not subject to the Kyoto Protocol. The Paris Agreement, which entered into force in November 2016 and replaces the Kyoto Protocol, similarly does not cover international shipping. However, to the extent that individual countries increase their regulation of domestic greenhouse
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gas emissions as a result of the Paris Agreement, we may experience increased regulation of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from regasification activities.
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. Although it is no longer a part of the EU MRV regime, the United Kingdom retained in domestic law the EU regulation establishing the EU MRV, subject to amendments required to make the regulation applicable in a United Kingdom-only context. Operators of ships over 5,000 gross tons using ports in the United Kingdom are expected to begin collecting emissions data for their ships commencing January 1, 2022 for the 2022 reporting period. The relatively slow progress of the IMO in addressing emissions of greenhouse gases from vessels prompted the EU to proceed on a parallel path of regulation. In July 2021, the European Commission announced proposals that would put in place measures to address greenhouse gases from shipping, including the phased inclusion of GHG emissions from large vessels in the EU emissions trading system beginning in 2023 and the inclusion of methane emissions in monitoring, reporting and verification requirements applicable to vessels. The United Kingdom put in place its own emissions trading system, which came into force on January 1, 2021 to replace participation in the EU emissions trading system, and the United Kingdom Department of Transport has confirmed it is considering including shipping in that system. The European Parliament has also called for binding carbon dioxide reduction targets for shipping companies, which would require reduction of annual average carbon dioxide emissions of all ships during operation by at least 40% by 2030 as compared to 2018 levels.
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 been considered from time to time by the U.S. Congress. Any passage of climate control legislation or other regulatory initiatives by the IMO, the European Union, the United Kingdom, 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.
On January 1, 2013, the mandatory measures approved by the IMO 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. The IMO also adopted a mandatory requirement in October 2016 that ships of 5,000 gross tonnage and above record and report their fuel oil consumption. The requirement entered into force in March 2018. These 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. In November 2020, the MEPC adopted further amendments to MARPOL Annex VI intended to significantly strengthen the EEDI “phase 3” requirements. These amendments accelerate the entry into effect date of phase 3 from 2025 to 2022 for several ship types, including gas carriers, general cargo ships and LNG carriers and require new ships built from that date to be significantly more energy efficient. The MEPC also is looking into the possible introduction of a phase 4 of EEDI requirements. The implementation of the EEDI and the SEEMP standards could cause us to incur additional compliance costs.
The IMO has reaffirmed its strong commitment to work to address greenhouse gas emissions from ships engaged in international trade. At the October 2016 Marine Environmental Protection Committee (the “MEPC”) session, the IMO adopted a roadmap for developing a comprehensive IMO strategy on reduction of GHG emissions. In April 2018, the MEPC adopted an initial strategy designed to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases from vessels, including short-term, mid-term and long-term candidate measures with a vision of reducing and phasing out greenhouse gas emissions from vessels as soon as possible in the 21st Century. The mid-term measures under consideration by IMO include the
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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 the potential impact of this or other IMO measures under consideration on our future operations at this time. According to the “Roadmap” approved by IMO Member States in 2016, the initial strategy is due to be revised by 2023.
In June 2021, the MEPC adopted amendments to MARPOL Annex VI that enter into force on November 1, 2022 and establish an enforceable regulatory framework to reduce GHG emissions from international shipping, consisting of technical and operational carbon reduction measures. These measures include use of an Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (“EEXI”), an operational Carbon Intensity Indicator (“CII”) and an enhanced SEEMP to drive carbon intensity reductions. A vessel’s attained EEXI will be calculated in accordance with values established based on type and size category, which compares the vessels' energy efficiency to a baseline. A vessel is then required to meet a specific EEXI based on a required reduction factor expressed as a percentage relative to the EEDI baseline. Under the MARPOL VI amendments, vessels with a gross tonnage of 5,000 or greater must determine their required annual operational CII and their annual carbon intensity reduction factor needed to ensure continuous improvement of the vessel's CII. On an annual basis, the actual annual operational CII achieved must be documented and verified against the vessel's required annual operational CII to determine the vessel's operational carbon intensity rating on a performance level scale of A (major superior) to E (inferior). The performance level is required to be recorded in the vessel's SEEMP. A vessel with an E rating, or three consecutive years of a D (minor inferior) rating, would be required to submit a corrective action plan showing how the vessel would achieve a C (moderate) rating. The requirements for EEXI and CII certification included in the MARPOL Annex VI amendments take effect January 1, 2023, which means the first annual reporting will be completed in 2023 and the first rating given in 2024. This regulatory approach is consistent with the IMO GHG Strategy target of a 40% carbon intensity reduction for international shipping by 2030, as compared to 2008.
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. Since 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 |
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● | 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.
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. At least 12 states must ratify or accede to the 2010 HNS Protocol for it to enter into effect. In July 2019, South Africa became the 5th state to ratify the protocol. At least 7 more states must ratify or accede to the protocol for it to enter into effect. In 2020, the EU Ministers signed a declaration highlighting the importance of ratifying the 2010 HNS Convention. And at least 6 states reported on significant progress toward implementation and ratification of the 2010 HNS Convention at the 2020 and 2021 sessions of the International Oil Pollution Compensation Funds. 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.
Colombia Environmental Regulation of FSRUs
While Colombia has a comprehensive suite of environmental regulations, there are currently no regulatory requirements specific to activities associated with the importation of LNG. In 2011, the Energy and Gas Regulatory Commission passed Resolution 106, which recognized that Colombia’s demand for natural gas could be met through LNG imports and proposed technical requirements for, among other things, the construction of LNG import plants. The Mines and Energy Ministry in 2015 subsequently proposed a resolution regarding those technical requirements, but it has not yet
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passed the resolution. In the meantime, we have obtained a port concession from the Colombian National Infrastructure Agency, as well as an environmental license from the National Authority for Environmental Licenses, each with respect to the FSRU Höegh Grace. Our operations in Colombia may also be subject to other permits to be issued by various entities, including the General Maritime Director of the Ministry of Defense.
We are unable to predict the impacts that any Colombian regulations will have on our business. The adoption of national and local laws or regulations and additional international treaties or conventions could materially increase our costs of operation and materially impact our ability to operate in Colombian waters.
United Kingdom Environmental Regulation
Although the EU regulations will no longer directly apply in the United Kingdom as a consequence of Brexit, the “level playing field” provisions in the United Kingdom/EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement (“TCA”) cover requires “non regression” in the level of environmental protection by the United Kingdom from the harmonized standards that were in effect in the EU on December 31, 2020. This means that the United Kingdom should not attempt to undo these standards, but under the TCA harmonization of standards is not required on a going forward basis. The TCA also includes a commitment for the EU and the United Kingdom to cooperate on trade-related aspects of climate change and to work with the IMO to achieve greenhouse gas emission reductions and promote low carbon technologies and sustainable transport. The United Kingdom has begun to take measures to put environmental regulations in place that would affect the shipping industry. In July 2019, the Department of Transport and the Maritime and Coast Guard Agency published Maritime 2050, a plan for the transition to zero emissions from shipping by 2050. On May 27, 2021, the Department of Transport published draft regulations that would amend the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships) Regulations 2008 to implement air quality measures to control sulphur and nitrogen oxide (SOx and NOx) emissions from ships, including setting the maximum sulfur content of marine fuels used by ships at 0.5% and applying stricter NOx Tier III limit for new ships operating in the North Sea and English Channel. On February 7, 2022, the United Kingdom Department for Transport issued a call for feedback on the priorities to be addressed in its development of a long-term low carbon fuels strategy for the transport sector.
If more stringent requirements are put in effect in the future in the United Kingdom, they may, individually or in the aggregate, result in increased costs to our business.
Jamaica Environmental Regulation on FSRUs
In Jamaica, the Ministry of Transport and Mining has responsibility for the provision of a safe and efficient transport system, including sea transport. This responsibility covers air emissions and pollution from vessels. The Maritime Authority of Jamaica (MAJ) is an agency of the Ministry of Transport and Mining established under the Shipping Act of 1998. Section 8(a) of the Shipping Act provides that MAJ has the duty to “inspect ships for the purposes of maritime safety and prevention of marine pollution.” In addition, the Maritime Areas Act, administered by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, makes it an offense to discharge any polluting substance contrary to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, known as the Montego Bay Convention. The Port Authority of Jamaica was established under the Port Authority Act 1972 and regulates the country’s port and shipping industry, with responsibility for the safety of all vessels navigating Jamaica’s ports of entry. Port management and security regulations adopted by the Port Authority implement SOLAS and incorporate the ISPS Code with respect to port facilities.
Jamaica is a party to various IMO conventions relating to the marine environment and marine safety, including MARPOL Annex VI, SOLAS and the BWM Convention, and to the Paris Agreement. Jamaica also is a party to the Convention for the Protection and Development of the Marine Environment in the Wider Caribbean Region, known as the Cartagena Convention, which is a regional legal agreement intended to protect the Caribbean Sea. The Cartagena Convention addresses prevention, control, and reduction of pollution from, among other sources, discharges from ships and also requires states who are parties to the convention to put in place measures to protect rare and fragile ecosystems and habitats of endangered species and establish protected areas.
Jamaica acceded to the Ballast Water Management Convention in 2017 and passed its own Ballast Water Management Act in 2018. The Jamaican law prohibits any ship operating in Jamaican waters from discharging untreated ballast water, with limited exceptions. A ship that has installed a ballast water-management system approved by MAJ. Port
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state control inspectors have authority to board ships to check for an approved BWM system or, if there is not an approved system, review a ship’s logs to confirm the ballast water was exchanged prior to entering Jamaican waters. Failure to comply with the BWM law can result in substantial fines and port state control inspectors have the authority to detain ships for infractions. The Höegh Gallant, which is located outside the port of Kingston, Jamaica, has an approved BWM system.
In July 2021, the Government of Jamaica released an Emissions Policy Framework document intended to provide a coordinated and structured approach and dynamic framework aimed (among other things) at ensuring Jamaica will meet its GHG targets. The goals contained in the framework document include supporting and complying with global initiatives to reduce emissions from sea transport and amending the Shipping Act to include regulation of emissions and fuel quality. In a statement made at the opening of the IMO’s 32nd assembly in December 2021, the Minister of Transport and Mining pledged that Jamaica would continue to support the IMO in efforts to reduce and eliminate GHG emissions from ships and address climate change.
We are unable to predict the impacts that Jamaican regulations will have on our business. The adoption or amendment of national and local laws or regulations and additional international treaties or conventions could materially increase our costs of operation and materially impact our ability to operate in Jamaican waters.
China Environmental Regulation of FSRUs
The Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People's Republic of China (“PRC”) and five other agencies issued China’s first Five-Year Plan focused on marine environment protection in early 2022 for China’s 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). Among the key tasks identified for the planning period are building capacity for response to marine emergencies and ecological disasters and coordination of climate response and marine environmental protection. In 2010, the PRC put in place a comprehensive regulatory system addressing oil pollution prevention, response, clean up and compensation set forth in the Regulations on the Prevention and Control of Marine Pollution from Ships. Among other requirements, these regulations require 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 an MSA-approved ship pollution response organization prior to the vessel entering any PRC port. The Marine Safety Administration (the “MSA”) of the PRC issued the Detailed Rules on the implementation of the Ship-Induced Pollution Response Agreement Regime effective January 1, 2012. The Ministry of Transport of the PRC promulgated regulations on Ship-Induced Marine Pollution Emergency Preparation and Response Management effective June 1, 2011 (the “Emergency Response Regulations 2011”). 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.
The Ministry of Transport has designated a coastal domestic emission control area (“DECA”) extending 12 nautical miles off China’s coastline. Effective January 1, 2019, ships operating inside this coastal DECA are required to burn low-sulfur fuel at all times, with a maximum sulfur content of 0.5%. Effective January 1, 2022, the sulfur cap for ships operating inside Hainan waters was lowered to 0.1%.
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.
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., Marshall Islands, Norway, Singapore, Indonesia, Cyprus, Colombia and Jamaica respectively. These discussions are 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 as described below. 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 as described below. 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, the U.S. source portion 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 the U.S. source portion of 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
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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”); |
● | 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 (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 to a class of units, 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.
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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 requirement for the Section 883 Exemption, and we expect that we will continue to satisfy such requirements. First, we are organized under 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 expect 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 wither the Publicly Traded Test or the Qualified Shareholder Stock Ownership Test and we satisfy certain substantiation, reporting and other requirements.
Our common units and our Series A preferred units are traded only on the New York Stock Exchange, which is considered to be an established securities market. Thus, the number of our common units and our Series A preferred units that is traded on the New York Stock Exchange exceeds the number of each class that is traded on any other securities market, and this is not expected to change. Therefore, we believe that our equity interests are “primarily traded” on an established securities market for purposes of the Publicly Traded Test. Although the matter is not free from doubt, based upon our analysis of our current and expected cash flow and distributions on our outstanding equity interests, we believe that (i) our common units and Series A preferred units represent more than 50.0% of the total value of all of our outstanding equity interests and (ii) our common units and our Series A preferred units represent more than 50.0% of the total combined voting power of our equity interests. In addition, we believe that our common units and our Series A preferred units each currently satisfy, and expect that our common units and our Series A preferred units each will continue to satisfy, the listing and trading volume requirements described previously. Therefore, we believe that our equity interests are “primarily traded” on an established securities market for purposes of the Publicly Traded Test.
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 2021, 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, while we believe that, assuming the factual requirements described above are satisfied, our common units and Series A preferred units should be considered to be “regularly traded” on an established securities market and that we satisfy the requirements of the Section 883 Exemption, 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
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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. Please read “—The Net Basis and Branch Profits Tax” and “—The 4.0% Gross Basis Tax” below for a discussion of the tax consequences in the event we do not qualify for the Section 883 Exemption.
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 and is not 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 activities would 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 taxed as Effectively Connected Income if the Section 883 Exemption does not apply.
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 (currently imposed at a rate of 21.0%). In addition, a 30.0% branch profits tax could be imposed on the after-tax amount of 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.
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 assuming we continue not to, carry on business or conduct transactions 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, other than taxes, fines or fees due to (i) the incorporation, dissolution, continued existence, merger, domestication (or similar concepts) of legal entities registered in the Republic of the Marshall Islands, (ii) filing certificates (such as certificates of
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incumbency, merger, or redomiciliation) with the Marshall Islands registrar, (iii) obtaining certificates of good standing from, or certified copies of documents filed with, the Marshall Islands registrar, (iv) compliance with Marshall Islands law concerning books and records and vessel ownership, such as tonnage tax, or (v) non-compliance with economic substance requirements or with requests made by the Marshall Islands Registrar of Corporations relating to our books and records and the books and records of our subsidiaries. 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 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.
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
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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.
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 profit derived from the business activities performed. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Indonesian Government issued the Law No. 2 Year 2020 which reduced the applicable CIT rate to be as follows:
● | 22% for the Fiscal Year (“FY”) 2020 and FY2021; and |
● | 20% for FY2022 onwards |
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The Indonesian Government passed the Tax Regulations Harmonization Law (“HPP Law”) on October 7, 2021 and it became Law No 7/2021on October 29, 2021.The changes under the HPP Law are very significant and wide-reaching. There are changes not only to administrative matters but to key aspects of Income Tax, including a cancellation of the previously regulated CIT reduction to 20%, so that the CIT rate remains at 22% FY2022.
Therefore, any income generated by PT Höegh from PGN LNG in regard to the lease, operation, and maintenance of the PGN FSRU Lampung is subject to the above applicable CIT rate of 22% (after deductions for allowable expenses in accordance with the ITL provisions).
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 five 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 20 years depending on the type of the fixed assets. In this regard, although the commercial useful life of a fixed asset is more than 20 years, such asset shall only be depreciated for a maximum of 20 years for tax purposes.
Depreciation commences in the month when expenditures are incurred. The 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 the applicable CIT rate 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; |
● | 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 and fulfilment of Indonesian Tax Treaty use requirements. |
● | 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 taxpayer; |
● | WHT under Article 15 of the ITL at the rate of 1.2% on payments related to domestic shipping services. |
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.
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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. A VAT refund request will automatically trigger a tax audit.
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 (“MoF -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.
MoF-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 MoF-169, and there has been no further guidance issued by the DGT regarding this matter. The DGT issued Regulation No. PER-25/PJ/2017 (“PER-25”) in 2017 which provides information in relation to the implementation of MoF-169. PER-25 provides guidance that interest is not deductible on any debt for which the existence cannot be formally verified and specifies reporting requirements on the corporate income tax return to comply with the regulation.
Land and Building Tax (“Property tax”)
On December 10, 2019 the MoF issued regulation No. 186/PMK.03/2019 (“MoF-186”) regarding the following changes in relation to the application of Property tax. These changes are:
● | an updated classification of “Tax Objects”; and |
● | new procedures to determine the Sale Value of these Tax Objects |
The regulation is effective from January 1, 2020.
Under MoF-186, the definition of “building” extends to technical constructions planted or attached permanently on “land” within Indonesia’s territorial waters. This includes pipelines, cable networks, toll roads and, most importantly, industry-relevant storage and processing facilities (i.e. Floating storage and offloading vessels (“FSOs”), Floating production system (“FPS”), Floating storage unit (“FSUs”), Floating, production, storage and offloading vessels (“FPSOs”) and FSRUs).
In addition, while the DGT considers an FSRU as a building for Property tax purposes, it continues to be considered a non-building for CIT purposes. Therefore, the income from FSRU operations is still subject to CIT at the prevailing rate on taxable income, rather than a 10% income tax on rental income from a building.
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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
2021
Höegh Cyprus used the Höegh Gallant as an LNG carrier for 2021 and thus it was subject to the Tonnage Tax (“TT”) system in Cyprus for the whole year.
2022
For tax year 2022, Höegh Cyprus has used /will use the Höegh Gallant as follows:
From January 1, 2022 to March 19, 2022, the Höegh Gallant was used as an LNG carrier (same activities carried out as from April 30, 2020) and thus its results were subject to TT in line with tax year 2021. From March 20, 2022 onwards, Höegh Cyprus has entered into the International Charter Agreement, a bareboat charter contract with a US entity (the “Contract”), which subsequently subcharters the Höegh Gallant to a Jamaican entity to be used as a regasification terminal in Jamaica. The usage of the Höegh Gallant as a regasification terminal does not constitute a qualifying maritime transportation activity and as a result, from March 20, 2022 onwards, Höegh Cyprus will be subject to Corporate Income Tax (“CIT”) on the income generated (as it will no longer be eligible to be taxed under TT). The usage of the Höegh Gallant as a regasification terminal does not create a Permanent Establishment (“PE”) for Höegh Cyprus in Jamaica, and therefore the remainder of this discussion does not address any PE issues.
Taxation method
General Comments
(i) Cyprus Tonnage Tax Regime - General comments
The Merchant Shipping Law (“MSL”) in Cyprus provides full exemption of qualifying shipowners from all profit CIT and instead imposes TT on the net tonnage of the vessels.
The exemption is granted provided that they carry out a qualifying activity, that is maritime transportation of goods and/or people using a qualifying vessel that is a sea-going vessel.
The EU Commission has recently approved the new Cyprus TT System for another 10 years (up to December 31, 2029). TT is calculated by reference to the net tonnage stated on the International Tonnage Certificate (not profits of the company).
The tax exemption covers:
● | Profits from the use of a qualifying vessel; |
● | Profits from the disposal of a qualifying vessel and/or share and/or interest in it; |
● | Profits from the disposal of shares in a shipowning company; |
● | Dividends paid out of the above profits at all levels of distribution; |
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● | Interest income relating to the financing/maintenance/use of a qualifying vessel and the working capital; excluding interest on capital used for investments. |
● | Certain Ancillary Activities, provided certain conditions are met. |
(ii) Cyprus CIT and Notional Interest Deduction (“NID”) - General Comments
Cyprus CIT
Income falling within Article 5 of the Cyprus Income Tax Law (“CITL”) is taxed at a rate of 12.5% net of any tax allowable expenses.
In order for expenses to be treated as tax allowable, these, according to Article 9(1) of the CITL should be incurred wholly and exclusively for the production of taxable income.
Fixed assets used for the production of taxable income qualify for Wear and Tear (“W&T”) allowances. The percentage of W&T is determined by the nature of the asset.
Companies incurring tax losses may transfer such losses for a maximum period of 5 years according to Article 13 of the CITL.
Further to the above, as things stand, Article 33 of the CITL provides that all transactions with related parties should be conducted at an arm’s length basis. The Cyprus Tax Authorities (“CTA”) do not provide any definition of what is considered as arm’s length basis other than that the transaction should take place at a price as if third party participants are involved.
Extended Transfer Pricing rules are expected to be introduced during 2022 which will require transactions with related parties over a certain threshold should be accompanied by a formal Transfer Pricing Study.
NID
In addition to the tax deduction provided for expenses and related W&T allowances, Article 9(B) of the CITL provides for a NID, which is a notional deduction provided to companies which raise capital to finance their assets used for taxable activities and can result in an effective tax rate of as low as 2.5%.
NID is calculated as the lower of:
a) New Equity (share capital and share premium) injected x NID Reference rate (the government bond yield of the country where the funds are deployed plus 5%); and
b) 80% of the taxable profit generated from these assets.
(iii) Cyprus Tonnage Tax Regime - Specific comments
2021
Höegh Cyprus, during tax year 2021 was engaged in qualifying shipping activities and thus was subject to TT for the full year.
For tax year 2021, Höegh Cyprus has filed the relevant Declaration Form to the DMS and settled the relevant TT liability for tax year 2021 (Eur 7.669,05).
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2022
Höegh Cyprus, from January 1, 2022 up to March 19, 2022 has been engaged in qualifying shipping activities and thus was subject to TT for such period. The relevant TT liability will be settled once the Declaration Form (along with the letter explained below) is filed with the DMS.
From the date the Contract entered into force (i.e., March 20, 2022 onwards), Höegh Cyprus would no longer be eligible to be taxed under TT since the Höegh Gallant will no longer be used for maritime transportation activities.
Höegh Cyprus will need to file a letter with the DMS to inform them of the change in the activities performed by the vessel (due to the change of the contract) and confirm that Höegh Cyprus can exit the TT system without attracting any penalties.
Moreover, the letter should request from the DMS to review the declarations of Höegh Cyprus up to the date of the signing of the Contract and confirm that Höegh Cyprus has no outstanding liabilities with the DMS and also state the requirement of Höegh Cyprus to continue filing Nil TT Declaration Form for a period of 3 years.
(iv) Cyprus CIT and NID - Specific comments
2022
From March 20, 2022, Höegh Cyprus will be subject to CIT at the rate of 12.5%.
Any expenses incurred by Höegh Cyprus for the production of taxable income will be treated as tax deductible in the tax computation of the company.
With respect to W&T allowances, the rate used will be determined by the remaining economic life of the Höegh Gallant in accordance with the relevant tax circular issued by the CTA.
Furthermore, we understand that the US entity is not considered as a related party to Höegh Cyprus and therefore it is not expected that any arm’s length considerations will need to take place.
Höegh Cyprus is currently in the process of converting the borrowings (from its parent entity) that was initially used to finance the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant into share capital and share premium. As a result of the conversion, Höegh Cyprus would be eligible to claim NID on the new share capital issued by claiming that this was essentially used to finance the acquisition of the Höegh Gallant and consequently the taxable activities of Höegh Cyprus.
The amount of the NID will be calculated as the lower of:
a) The share capital and share premium issued as part of the conversion (the amount as per the latest audited financial statements provided of 2020 shall be US$228m x 6.512% ( yield on US 10 year bond * as at December 31, 2021 plus 5%); and
b) 80% of taxable profit generated for the activities performed by the Höegh Gallant.
*Note: the government bond to be used as per the practice followed by the CTA, is the bond of the country where the charterer is located or where the charterer has created a permanent establishment (if applicable). In this respect, and on the basis that the charterer will be located in the US, the 2021 US rate (which will be applicable for tax year 2022) has been included in the above indicative calculations (i.e. 1,512% plus the 5% premium). It is noted that the rate will change from year to year (published by the CTA on an annual basis)
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CIT Annual Compliance
As a result of the above, Höegh Cyprus will be subject to the compliance procedures pertaining to the CIT, more specifically we include below a table summarizing the CIT Compliance Cycle:
Compliance Task | Deadline |
Provisional Tax Compliance - Computation of provisional income tax liabilities during the corresponding tax year settled in two installments | By July 31 and December 31 |
Settlement of final tax liability for a corresponding year | By July 31 of the following year (i.e. for tax year 2022 on July 31, 2023) |
Annual Tax Return - Form TD4 | 15 months after the corresponding year end (i.e. for December 31, 2022 on March 31, 2024) |
(vi) Interaction of CIT and TT
The TT system allows for companies undertaking mixed activities to benefit from the TT regime, to this respect the MSL imposes an obligation to qualifying owner to " maintain such books and records so that it will be possible to determine the income subject to the tonnage tax system and the other income separately and prepare separate accounts".
Taking the above into consideration, for tax year 2021, Höegh Cyprus was taxed solely under the TT and, thus, did not conduct mixed activities. However, for tax year 2022, Höegh Cyprus needs to maintain separate books and records for the two activities performed which have different tax treatment:
● | Period from January 1, 2022 through March 19, 2022: LNG Carrier - Exempt from CIT and Taxed under TT. |
● | Period from March 20, 2022 onwards: Regasification terminal in Jamaica - Subject to CIT. |
The above allocation will be reflected in the tax computation of Höegh Cyprus.
WHT
Cyprus, with the exception of newly introduced withholding tax (“WHT”) on outbound payments of dividends, interest and royalties made to EU ”blacklisted” jurisdictions which will be effective from December 31, 2022, does not levy any WHT 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 to non-EU ”blacklisted” jurisdiction entities should not be subject to WHT.
Exit Taxation
Exit tax provisions of the EU Anti-Tax Avoidance Directive have been transposed to Cyprus legislation and have an effect as from January 1, 2020. With reservation on Goodwill on suspension/disposal of contracts, the expectation is that these provisions will not capture transactions that are anyway exempt from CIT (i.e. disposal of qualifying vessels). Having said that, this will only be clarified with the Circular to be published by the Cyprus Tax Authorities.
VAT
As per the ruling obtained with the Cyprus Tax Authority, Höegh Cyprus does not have an obligation to register for value added tax (“VAT”) purposes in Cyprus. Any income generated by Höegh Cyprus through the Egypt Branch from the time charter or any services (ship management, commercial management, crew management, etc.) received by the Egypt Branch will not trigger an obligation to account for Cypriot VAT.
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Colombian Taxation
The following is a discussion of the material Colombian 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 Colombian tax considerations applicable to us.
Taxation of profits of Höegh FSRU IV
Höegh FSRU IV leases the Höegh Grace to a charterer in Colombia. The lease agreement is regarded as a financial lease for Colombian tax purposes. Höegh FSRU IV would not have a permanent establishment in Colombia and therefore would not be subject to Colombian corporate income tax (“CIT”), VAT or Industry and Trade Tax (“ITT”). The financial component of the financial lease paid to Höegh FSRU IV would be subject to 1% withholding tax in lieu of corporate income tax in Colombia.
Taxation of profits of Höegh Colombia
Höegh Colombia provides services to the charterer in Colombia. Höegh Colombia is subject to CIT levied on its worldwide income at a rate of 33% for fiscal year 2019, 32% for fiscal year 2020, 31% for fiscal year 2021 and 35% for fiscal year 2022 and onwards. The taxable basis will be the net taxable income (gross revenues less allocable cost and expenses).
In addition, to the ordinary taxation system, a presumptive tax system applies. Under the presumptive tax system, Colombian rules provide that net taxable income cannot be less than a cap calculated as 0.5% of the company’s net equity as of December 31 of the previous year. Accordingly, if net taxable income is lower than the cap, the ordinary taxation will be disregarded and the presumptive tax system considerations will apply. However, such system will not apply from fiscal year 2021 and onwards, since the percentage to determine the presumptive income will be set to 0%.
WHT
Dividends paid out of profits that are subject to tax at the Colombian corporate level (CIT) have a 10.0% WHT rate (dividend tax), when distributed to foreign non-resident shareholders. Otherwise, a 38.8%, 37.9% and 37.0% WHT rate applies for the dividends on profits not subject to CIT for the years ended December 31, 2020, 2021 and 2022 onwards, respectively. Höegh Colombia expects to pay dividends from retained profits that were subject to Colombian CIT.
VAT
The services rendered by Höegh Colombia are subject to 19% VAT.
Financial Transaction Tax
Financial Transaction Tax is levied on the transfers from Colombian bank accounts at a rate of 0.4% of the amount transferred. A 50% share of the Financial Transaction Tax is deductible for CIT purposes.
ITT
ITT will be applicable in Cartagena for the services provided through the Cartagena office and services provided on-shore or within the boundaries of the Cartagena District. Up to 50% of the ITT paid by the Company will be a tax credit for CIT purposes, or alternatively, 100% of the ITT paid can be treated as a deduction for CIT purposes. In 2022, the tax credit will increase to 100% for CIT purposes.
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Capital gains taxation
Starting in 2019, the sale of Colombian assets (i.e. shares) by a foreign non-resident is subject to a 10% capital gains tax provided the seller possessed the assets for two years or longer. If the assets are held for less than two years, the gain is subject to the ordinary corporate income tax rate at a rate of 32% for taxable year 2020 (31% on 2021 and 30% from 2022 onwards).
Jamaican Taxation
Taxation of profits of Höegh Jamaica
Höegh Jamaica provides services to the charterer in Jamaica. Höegh Jamaica is subject to Jamaican CIT levied on its worldwide income at a rate of 25% for fiscal year 2022. The taxable basis will be the net taxable income (gross revenues less allocable cost and expenses).
WHT
Dividends paid out of profits that are subject to tax at the Jamaican corporate level (CIT) have a 33.33% WHT rate (dividend tax), when distributed to foreign non-resident shareholders. Höegh Jamaica expects to pay dividends from retained profits that were subject to Jamaican CIT.
GCT
The services rendered by Höegh Jamaica are subject to 15% General Consumption Tax (GCT).
C.Organizational Structure
We are a publicly traded limited partnership formed on April 28, 2014. The diagram below depicts our simplified organizational structure as of March 31, 2022. As of March 31, 2022, we have issued and outstanding 33,373,002
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common units, 7,089,325 Series A preferred units and incentive distribution rights, and as of March 31, 2022 Höegh LNG owns 15,257,498 of our common units and all of our incentive distribution rights issued and outstanding.
We listed our common units on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) in August 2014 under the ticker symbol “HMLP.” Our preferred units are listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol “HMLP-A.”
We were formed under the law of the Marshall Islands and maintain our principal executive headquarters at Canon's Court, 22 Victoria 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.
Item 4A. Unresolved Staff Comment
Not applicable.
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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 4. Information on the Partnership” and the consolidated financial statements and related notes of Höegh LNG Partners LP, included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Such financial statements, including related notes thereto, have been prepared in accordance with US GAAP and are presented in U.S. Dollars.
Prior to the closing of the IPO on August 12, 2014, Höegh LNG contributed to us all of its equity interests in and promissory notes due to it from Höegh Lampung, PT Höegh (the owner of the PGN FSRU Lampung) and our joint ventures, SRV Joint Gas Ltd. (the owner of the Neptune) and SRV Joint Gas Two Ltd. (the owner the Cape Ann) (the “initial fleet”).
Overview
We were formed on April 28, 2014 as a Marshall Islands 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 owned the FSRU Höegh Gallant, which we accounted for as the acquisition of a business. Accordingly, the results of this acquisition are included in our earnings from October 1, 2015.
In December 2016, we completed a 6,588,389 common unit offering raising approximately $111.5 million in net proceeds, after deduction of underwriters’ discount and offering expenses to be used primarily to fund the purchase price of the acquisition of a 51% ownership interest in Höegh Colombia Holding, the owner of Höegh FSRU IV and Höegh Colombia, the entities that own and operate the Höegh Grace (the “Höegh Grace entities”).
On January 3, 2017, we closed the acquisition of a 51% ownership interest in the Höegh Grace entities for cash consideration of $91.8 million, excluding the working capital adjustment. On January 1, 2017, we entered into an agreement with Höegh LNG, under which Höegh LNG granted us the authority to make decisions about operations of Höegh Colombia Holding from January 1, 2017 to the closing date of the acquisition. Accordingly, the results of the Höegh Grace are included in our earnings from January 1, 2017.
On October 5, 2017, we issued to the public 4,600,000 8.75% Series A cumulative redeemable preferred units (the “Series A preferred units”) for proceeds, net of underwriting discounts and expenses, of $110.9 million. A portion of the net proceeds was used to repay outstanding debt under the seller’s credit note related to the Höegh Gallant acquisition and outstanding debt under the revolving credit facility and the remainder of the net proceeds were used to fund the acquisition of the remaining 49% ownership interest in the Höegh Grace entities.
On December 1, 2017, we closed the acquisition of the remaining 49% ownership interest in the Höegh Grace entities. From January 1, 2017 until November 30, 2017, the results of the Höegh Grace entities were reduced by non-controlling interest and until December 1, 2017 total equity was split between partners’ capital and the non-controlling interest.
On January 26, 2018, the Partnership entered into sales agreement with B. Riley FBR Inc. (the “Agent”). Under the terms of the sales agreement, the Partnership could offer and sell up to $120 million aggregate offering amount of common units and 8.75% Series A cumulative redeemable preferred units (“Series A preferred units”) through the Agent, acting as agent for the Partnership (the “Prior ATM Program”).
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On October 18, 2019, the Partnership entered into a sales agreement with the Agent for a new ATM program and terminated the Prior ATM Program. Under the terms of the new sales agreement, the Partnership may offer and sell up to $120 million aggregate offering amount of common units and Series A preferred units, from time to time, through the Agent, acting as an agent for the Partnership. Sales of such units may be made in negotiated transactions that are deemed to be “at the market” offerings, including sales made directly on the New York Stock Exchange or through a market maker other than on an exchange.
Our Fleet
Our fleet consisted of interests in the following vessels as of December 31, 2021:
● | a 50% interest in the Neptune, an FSRU built in 2009 that is currently operating under a time charter with Total Gas & Power, a subsidiary of Total, that expires in 2029, with an option to extend for up to two additional periods of five years each; |
● | a 50% interest in the Cape Ann, an FSRU built in 2010 that is currently operating under a time charter with Total Gas & Power 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 PT Perusahaan Gas Negara (Persero) Tbk, a subsidiary of PT Pertamina, a government controlled Indonesian oil and gas producer, natural gas transportation and distribution company, 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; |
● | a 100% interest in the |