UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM 10-K
☒ Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021
☐ Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from __________ to ___________
Commission file number: 001-31972
TELKONET, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
| Utah | 87-0627421 |
| (State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
| 20800 Swenson Drive Suite 175, Waukesha, WI | 53186 |
| (Address of Principal Executive Offices) | (Zip Code) |
(414) 302-2299
(Registrant’s Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
| Title of each class | Trading Symbol(s) | Name of each exchange on which registered |
| None | None | None |
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: Common Stock, $0.001 par value
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. ☐Yes ☒ No
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(b) of the Act. ☐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 and 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, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer”, “smaller reporting company”, and “emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
| Large accelerated filer | ☐ | Accelerated filer | ☐ |
| Non-accelerated filer | ☒ | Smaller reporting company | ☒ |
| Emerging growth company | ☐ |
If an emerging growth company, 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. ☐
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 whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act) ☐Yes ☒ No
Aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates (based upon the closing sale price of $0.05 per share on the Over the Counter Bulletin Board) of the registrant as of June 30, 2021: $6,136,325
Number of outstanding shares of the registrant’s par value $0.001 common stock as of March 24, 2022: .
Certain portions of the registrant’s definitive proxy statement, in connection with its 2021 annual meeting of stockholders, to be filed within 120 days of December 31, 2021, are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
TELKONET, INC.
FORM 10-K
INDEX
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PART I
ITEM 1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS.
Some of the statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K discuss future expectations, contain projections of results of operations or financial condition or state other “forward-looking” information. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of Telkonet, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company”) and our management team. Words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “targets,” “goals,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “continues,” “may,” and variations of these words, as well as similar expressions, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. In addition, any statements that refer to projections of our future financial performance, our anticipated growth, trends in our businesses, and other characterizations of future events or circumstances are forward-looking statements. Any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to those risks and uncertainties set forth in Item 1A of this report. In light of the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking statements included in this report, the inclusion of such statements should not be regarded as a representation by us or any other person that our objectives and plans will be achieved.
General Development of Business
Telkonet, Inc. (“we,” “us,” “our,” the “Company,” or “Telkonet”), formed in 1999 and incorporated under the laws of the state of Utah, is the creator of the EcoSmart and the Rhapsody Platforms of intelligent automation solutions designed to optimize energy efficiency, comfort and analytics in support of the emerging Internet of Things (“IoT”). The platforms are deployed primarily in the hospitality, educational, governmental and other commercial markets, and is specified by engineers, HVAC professionals, building owners, and building operators. We currently operate in a single reportable business segment.
In 2007, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Smart Systems International (“SSI”), which was a provider of energy management products and solutions to customers in the United States and Canada and the precursor to the Company’s EcoSmart Platform. In 2020, the Company launched the Rhapsody Platform, which simplifies the installation and setup of the Company’s newest products and integrations. Both platforms provide comprehensive savings, management reporting, analytics and virtual engineering of a customer’s portfolio and/or property’s room-by-room energy consumption. Telkonet has deployed more than a half million intelligent devices worldwide in properties within the hospitality, educational, governmental and other commercial markets. The platforms are recognized as solutions for reducing energy consumption, operational costs and carbon footprints, and eliminating the need for new energy generation in these marketplaces – all whilst improving occupant comfort and convenience.
The Company previously provided high-speed internet access services through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ethostream, LLC (“Ethostream”). In 2016, the Company decided to focus on its higher growth potential intelligent automation solutions for energy management and made the decision to sell Ethostream. On March 28, 2017, the Company sold substantially all of the assets of Ethostream to DCI-Design Communications LLC.
Recent Developments
VDA Transaction and Change of Control
As previously reported in our Current Reports on Form 8-K dated August 10, 2021, and January 13, 2022, on August 6, 2021, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with VDA Group S.p.A., an Italian joint stock company (“VDA”), pursuant to which VDA would, at the Closing (as defined in the Purchase Agreement), contribute $5 million to Telkonet (the “Financing”) and, in exchange, Telkonet would issue to VDA: (i) 162,900,947 shares of Company Common Stock (the “Issuance”); and (ii) a warrant to purchase 105,380,666 additional shares of Common Stock (the “Warrant”) (the Issuance and the Warrant referred to collectively herein as the “VDA Transaction”). The Closing occurred on January 7, 2022.
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Following the issuance of 162,900,947 shares of Common Stock to VDA upon the Closing, VDA owns 53% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis, resulting in a change of control of the Company. VDA could eventually own as much as 65% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis if it fully exercises the Warrant.
In connection with the VDA Transaction and pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, Arthur E. Byrnes, Peter T. Koss and Leland D. Blatt (collectively, the “Former Directors”) resigned from the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) and any respective committees of the Board to which they belonged effective as of the Closing. The vacancies resulting from the resignations of the Former Directors were filled by Piercarlo Gramaglia, Flavio De Paulis and Steven E. Quick, all of whom were appointed by the remaining Board members effective as of the resignations of the Former Directors, resulting in a change of control of the Board. Jason L. Tienor and Tim S. Ledwick, who were Board members prior to the Closing, remained on the Board after the Closing.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic
The Company’s operations and financial results have also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the health and economic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic are highly fluid and the future course of each is uncertain. We cannot predict whether the outbreak of COVID-19 will be effectively contained on a sustained basis. Depending on the length and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for our products, our customers’ ability to meet payment obligations to the Company, our supply chain and production capabilities, and our workforces’ ability to deliver our products and services could be impacted. Management is actively monitoring the impact of the global situation on the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, industry, and workforce. While we expect this disruption to continue to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and liquidity, the Company is unable to reasonably determine the full extent of the impact at this time.
Due to travel restrictions, social distancing edicts and overall fear, the hospitality industry, our largest market that generally accounts for a majority of our revenue, has suffered as much as any since the onset of the pandemic. While the industry is trending toward recovery, the situation remains fragile. The effects of supply-chain issues, inflation and labor shortages, and subsequent rising wages, all present some level of pandemic uncertainty for the foreseeable future. STR and Tourism Economics expect leisure travel to pace the recovery while commercial demand, the dominant segment, will remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels until there is a significant increase in the quantity of large group events, as well as the return of business travel.1 When adjusted for inflation, revenue per available room (RevPAR) will likely remain below 2019 levels until at least 2025.2
Perseveration of Liquidity and Expense Management
The Company is focused on preserving liquidity, managing expenses, and targeted sales and new product growth. The Company has taken, and is continuing to take, a number of actions to preserve cash. These actions include decreasing the use of engineering consultants, exploring cheaper alternatives for our facility leases, cancelling all non-essential travel and limiting the Company’s attendance at trade shows (implemented prior to applicable government stay-at-home orders being put in place). In early April of 2020, management made the decision to furlough certain employees, instituted pay cuts for certain other employees and suspended the Company’s 401(k) match through the end of 2020. With the receipt of a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) (discussed below), the Company was able to bring back the furloughed employees, restore payroll to prior levels and delay suspension of the 401(k) match. However, the pandemic continued to impact the Company’s operations and financial results, and consequently, in late June of 2020 management once again made the decision to furlough certain employees, instituted pay cuts for certain other employees and suspended the Company’s 401(k) match through the end of 2022. The furloughs and pay cuts continued through September 2020, at which time management determined it was necessary to discontinue the furloughs and pay cuts in order to retain necessary personnel for the Company’s ongoing operations.
In addition to the actions noted above, on April 21, 2020, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note, dated April 17, 2020, with Heritage Bank for a $913,063 loan under the PPP (“the PPP Loan”) . In January 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the PPP Loan. On February 16, 2021, the outstanding principal and interest accrued on the PPP Loan was fully forgiven.
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1O’Conner, Stefani C. “Industry’s recovery heats up-slowly.” Hotelbusiness.com January 2022:8A
2O’Conner, Stefani C. “Industry’s recovery heats up-slowly.” Hotelbusiness.com January 2022:14A.
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On April 27, 2021, the Company entered into a second unsecured promissory note, dated as of April 26, 2021, for a second PPP loan (“the Second PPP Loan” and, together with the PPP Loan, the “PPP Loans”), with Heritage Bank under a second draw of the PPP administered by the SBA and authorized by the Keeping American Workers Employed and Paid Act. In September 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the Second PPP Loan. On September 15, 2021, Heritage Bank confirmed that the Second PPP Loan granted to the Company, in the original principal amount of $913,063 plus accrued interest of $3,044 thereon, was forgiven in full.
See Note G – Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a summary of the terms of the PPP Loans.
The more recent actions described above are in addition to the cost elimination and liquidity management actions that the Company began implementing in the second half of 2019, including reviewing opportunities to decrease spend with third party consultants and providers, strategically reviewing whether or not to fill employee positions in the event of vacancies, and implementing sales campaigns to sell slow-moving inventory and reduce existing inventory volumes. There is no guarantee, however, that these actions, nor any other actions identified, will yield profitable operations in the foreseeable future.
Rhapsody Platform and Expanded Sales Through Value-Added Resellers
The Company remains focused on selling its EcoSmart Platform (discussed below) into its target markets, while also developing a new platform – Rhapsody. The Rhapsody Platform was launched in 2020. The Rhapsody Platform simplifies the installation and setup of Telkonet’s newest products and integrations. The key goals of the Rhapsody Platform are to open up Telkonet’s core products to distribution and additional resellers through expanded capabilities while also reducing the reliance on internal Telkonet resources for support.
The Rhapsody Platform focuses on utilizing WIFI and Bluetooth Low Energy (“BLE”) for mobile app based setup and configuration. By utilizing an installer’s smart phone, the barrier for technical training is reduced as well as the potential commissioning and support needs of Telkonet for its value-added resellers. With continued enhancements to the Rhapsody Platform, Telkonet hopes to further grow both domestic and international value added resellers.
Narrative Description of the Business
Telkonet is the creator of the EcoSmart and Rhapsody Platforms of intelligent automation solutions designed to optimize energy efficiency, comfort and analytics in support of the emerging IoT. The platforms are deployed primarily in the hospitality, educational, governmental and other commercial markets, and is specified by engineers, HVAC professionals, building owners, and building operators.
EcoSmart Platform
Telkonet’s EcoSmart Platform is comprised of four primary pillars:
| · | EcoSmart Product Suite: The suite of intelligent hardware products designed and developed to provide monitoring, management and reporting over individual and grouped energy consumption throughout building environments. Products include thermostats, sensors, switches, and outlets. |
| · | EcoCentral: The cloud-based dashboard that provides visualization and remote management of Telkonet’s monitoring, reporting and analytics through deployed EcoSmart and integrated products. EcoCentral is the intelligence behind the EcoSmart Platform. |
| · | EcoCare: Telkonet’s professional support and maintenance services including 24/7 monitoring, engineering, analytics, reporting, software and hardware updates, extended warranty, project and relationship management and onsite support. All professional support and maintenance staff reside in Telkonet’s headquarters. | |
| · | EcoSmart Mobile: iOS and Android applications provided by Telkonet to its partners, customers and end users and guests enabling provisioning, management, access and control over EcoSmart deployments and functionality. |
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The EcoSmart Platform provides comprehensive energy and operational savings, management monitoring, reporting, analytics of a property or individual room by adding intelligence to HVAC runtimes and through integrations with door locks, lighting, window coverings, and more end-user attributes. The EcoSmart Platform is a solution for reducing energy consumption, operational costs and carbon footprints, and eliminating the need for new energy generation in these markets – all while engaging and delighting guests.
Controlling energy consumption can make a significant impact on a building’s bottom line, as HVAC costs represent a substantial portion of a facility’s overall utility bill. Hospitality is a key market for Telkonet. U.S. hotels spend an average of $2,196 per room on energy costs each year. HVAC and lighting account for approximately 45% of hotel energy usage.3 Telkonet approaches the opportunity to reduce consumed energy by adding intelligence to a property’s HVAC and lighting systems.
Energy is often wasted through the lighting, powering, heating and cooling of unoccupied spaces. These spaces with intermittent occupancy constitute Telkonet’s target markets, and our experience, supported by independent research and customer data, suggests these rooms are unoccupied as much as 70% of the time.
EcoSmart Product Suite:
| · | EcoInput: A lighting controller installed directly in line with existing light switches, making them intelligent and manageable. IoT solutions are no longer hindered by interior design requirements, often mandating specific light switches be featured in guest rooms, which can result in increased project costs. It is compatible with LED, CFL, and incandescent lighting for enhanced dimming controls. |
| · | EcoTouch Thermostat: An all touch capacitive thermostat interface available in wired and wireless models offering a premium aesthetic. The EcoTouch allows building owners to match the thermostat with the design of their room by changing the color of the outer edge and by selecting between black or white options. | |
| · | EcoInsight Thermostat: A programmable and controllable wired thermostat with over 125 configurable settings used to control the efficiency of HVAC through the use of environment variables and triggers. | |
| · | EcoAir Thermostat: A wireless thermostat mirroring the EcoInsight footprint while enabling the relocation of in room controls without the usual construction expense and downtime. | |
| · | EcoSource Controller: The remote HVAC control device associated with Telkonet’s thermostat interfaces allowing control while removing the need for expensive rewiring and construction. The EcoSource may also be used for third-party integrations, monitoring and control scenarios. | |
| · | EcoSmart VRF Controller: Works with most of the new variable refrigerant systems coming to market. The devices replace the EcoSource where discrete relays are not available. | |
| · | EcoConnect Bridge: An Ethernet to Zigbee bridge that serves as the coordinator for all EcoSmart devices connected to the intelligent automation network, managing approximately 30 - 70 device connections each. | |
| · | EcoCommander Gateway: EcoSmart’s network-edge gateway server that provides real-time proactive data aggregation, analytics, reporting and management of the EcoSmart product suite. |
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3 Lodging Staff, ‘Here’s Where Hotels Spend the Most on Energy’, Lodging Magazine.com, 2018,
https://lodgingmagazine.com/where-hotels-spend-most-energy/
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| · | EcoSense Occupancy Sensor: A remote occupancy sensor that monitors environments with ultra, high-sensitive sensors designed to detect motion or body heat. All sensors are programmed to ensure accurate occupancy detection. The EcoSense Occupancy Sensor may be hardwired or programmed to communicate wirelessly and may be battery operated or utilize external power. | |
| · | EcoSwitch Light Switch: An EcoSmart energy management product with the appearance of a traditional ‘rocker’ light switch. Turning lights off, even for a short time, saves energy and extends lamp life. The EcoSwitch can be used to compose and automate dramatic lighting scenes in a room. | |
| · | EcoGuard Outlet: An EcoSmart control that acts as the replacement for an in-wall outlet and has the ability to monitor and control the flow of power to one or both outlets. Based on occupancy, it can turn off lamps, televisions, appliances, and any other energy-consuming loads that are plugged in, preventing a property from consuming power in an empty room. The EcoGuard completely disconnects devices from the power supply, preventing lights and other in-room electronics from needlessly consuming energy as well as providing monitoring of energy flow and efficiency when a plug is enabled. | |
| · | EcoContact Door & Window Sensor: A remote, wireless door/window contact with the ability to provide additional occupancy data and control HVAC operability and other consumption measures when doors or windows are open. |
Several of these devices have been recently released in “Plus” models which provide greater functionality and increased capabilities.
EcoCentral
Telkonet’s EcoSmart Platform is a comprehensive solution for intelligent automation and energy management. The platform has a well-developed upgrade path with the final and complete version of the platform offering real-time control and analytics provided through a cloud computing platform called EcoCentral. EcoCentral derives its name through its ability to direct user resources to where they add the most value. From monitoring equipment operation and determining where engineering efforts are needed and notifying staff when performance is degrading, EcoCentral creates a comprehensive tool for providing insights and access for EcoSmart Platform deployments either individually or across an entire building portfolio.
EcoCare
EcoCare is Telkonet’s professional support services including call, email and chat support, repair and replacement services, periodic reporting, communication with customers’ utility and Internet Service Provider (“ISP”) partners and more. Telkonet provides three packages of EcoCare services as well as allows customers to create their own package of services ala carte. EcoCare allows EcoSmart customers to ensure that they continue to recognize the savings estimated and benefit from the intended return on investment (ROI). Typical EcoCare contracts range from one to five years and have automatic renewal terms built into each individual contract. All support staff are located at Telkonet’s Waukesha, Wisconsin headquarters.
EcoSmart Mobile
Telkonet’s EcoMobile tools provide iOS and Android applications for use by partners, customers, end users or guests. These mobile tools extend the value of the EcoSmart Platform and give greater functionality and more efficient commissioning and deployment abilities to the user. We have identified where, by providing more accessibility, we can create additional charged-for services that increase customer savings, improve guest experience and integrate more fully with customer environments to create a tight relationship with our customers.
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Rhapsody Platform
Telkonet launched a new platform in 2020 named Rhapsody. Although the Rhapsody Platform shares many similarities with EcoSmart Platform, it extends beyond some EcoSmart capabilities with native support for our new devices that use WIFI and BLE for configuration and setup. It also provides a more modern architecture to allow for enhanced scalability of real time IOT data. For example, data reporting is instantaneous with the Rhapsody Platform because it is based on data change instead of 15-minute interval reporting like the EcoSmart Platform. The main components that make up the Rhapsody Platform are:
| · | Composer: The cloud-based dashboard that provides remote management, monitoring and reporting capabilities of supported hardware. |
| · | Conductor: The mobile app that assists with the installation and configuration of all supported hardware. |
| · | Sonata: The mobile app for End Users to control the thermostat and pair a TouchCombo thermostat with a WIFI network. |
| · | Melody API: The collection of interfaces available for third party data and command access to products running on the Rhapsody Platform. These interfaces include BACnet, GoogleRPC, and Rest API options. |
Intelligent Energy Management
Telkonet’s energy management platforms apply and improve building intelligence to deliver energy and cost savings through controlling lighting, plugload and HVAC runtimes. Captured data may be presented on a grouped, property or room-by-room basis, allowing very granular management of in-room energy use and environmental conditions. Telkonet achieves this by leveraging our device platforms, including occupancy sensors and intelligent programmable thermostats connected with packaged terminal air conditioner (“PTAC”) controllers or any other terminal equipment HVAC products and managed wireless light switches and in wall electrical plugs to adjust and maintain energy consumption including a room’s temperature according to occupancy, eliminating wasteful heating and cooling of unoccupied rooms. All of these can be accomplished from the in-room devices or via any web-connected device, such as smart phones, tablets and laptop computers.
EcoSmart and Rhapsody are energy management platforms that deliver optimal, individual room energy savings without compromising occupant comfort, due to a proprietary technology named “Recovery Time”.
Recovery Time Technology
Telkonet’s HVAC controls feature Recovery Time, technology designed to maximize energy efficiency without sacrificing occupant comfort. When a room is occupied, the temperature selected by the occupant will be maintained by the Telkonet system. Once a Telkonet occupancy sensor determines that the room is unoccupied, the system adjusts the room temperature using Recovery Time. Unlike other systems, Recovery Time technology constantly performs calculations that evaluate how far each individual room’s temperature can drift from the occupant’s preferred setting (“set-point”), to harvest energy savings while still being able to return to the occupant’s set-point within a customer’s pre-defined period of time.
When determining the temperature setting, Recovery Time technology considers how long it will take to return the temperature to the occupant’s set-point once they return to their room. The temperature will only drift far enough to ensure the system will return to the occupant’s preferred temperature setting within minutes upon their return to the room. The specific length of recovery time is selected by property management at the time of the installation; however, it can be altered at any time by management.
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How Do Other Systems Work?
In competing systems the occupant chooses their preferred temperature. When the occupant leaves, the thermostat reverts to a set-point of a fixed number of degrees different than the preferred set temperature (lower in winter and higher in summer). In some products temperature gap is a fixed temperature selected by the property owner. Because each occupant room will require different lengths of time to return to the occupant’s desired temperature, based on room size and orientation, whether blinds are open, outdoor temperature, sun, and wind, the length of time required for the HVAC to return to temperature can vary dramatically and can often be prohibitive. Additionally, a dirty HVAC filter or coil will reduce heat transfer, increasing that recovery time.
EcoSmart and Rhapsody Deliver Room-by-Room Savings
Because each room’s environment is unique, Telkonet’s approach is likewise unique. Rooms are evaluated independently in real-time to determine its energy efficient temperature, or setback. Recovery Time technology constantly calculates in real-time how far the room temperature can drift, by taking into consideration the environmental characteristics that impact the temperature in the room, including:
| · | The occupant’s preferred temperature setting |
| · | The location of the room within the building |
| · | The window placement – facing the sun or shade |
| · | If the drapes are open or closed |
| · | If the climate is dry or humid |
| · | The varying weather conditions throughout the day |
| · | The condition of the HVAC unit, such as age and efficiency |
Through the constant monitoring of the HVAC unit’s ability to drive the temperature and the real-time adjustment of the setback temperature, rooms are never excessively hot or cold when an occupant returns to the room. The room will always be just minutes away from an occupant’s desired comfort setting. As a result, Recovery Time technology delivers room-by-room, occupant-by-occupant savings. The technology also significantly improves the guest experience, driving loyalty to the property and brand, and decreases service calls.
The EcoSmart and Rhapsody Platforms maximize energy reductions while at the same time ensuring occupant comfort, maximizing energy savings and extending equipment life expectancy. The technology is particularly attractive to customers in the hospitality industry, as well as the education, healthcare, public housing and government/military markets, who are constantly seeking ways to reduce costs and meet federal and state mandates without impacting building occupant comfort.
Using standard communication protocols, ensuring widespread adoption and a simple interface, Telkonet’s technology may also be integrated with utility controls, property management systems and building automation systems to be used in load shedding initiatives. This feature provides management companies and utilities enhanced opportunities for cost savings, environmental protections and energy management. Additionally, Telkonet’s energy management systems qualify for most state and federal energy efficiency and rebate programs.
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Competitive Advantages
We believe our intelligent automation platforms, with our proprietary Recovery Time technology, deliver extensive differentiation against competing products, including:
| · | Technology that evaluates each room’s environmental conditions results in maximum energy savings; |
| · | The ability to reduce HVAC runtimes increases overall equipment life; |
| · | Increased occupant control and comfort, driving brand and property loyalty; |
| · | Multiple thermostat options, including wired and wireless, to fit a brand’s image and application; |
| · | Backlight of thermostat improves the experience for the visually impaired; |
| · | Web-based access with extremely powerful and simple dashboard web interface; |
| · | Breadth of HVAC system compatibility; |
| · | Adaptive learning and system programming; |
| · | Utility-integrated events capabilities; |
| · | Remote HVAC control network; |
| · | Expert EcoCare support, staffed in the USA; |
| · | Plug load, lighting and HVAC controls; |
| · | Extensive 3rd-party integrations, including lighting, door locks, window treatments and building management systems; |
| · | Industry standard software and communication protocols, Linux and ZigBee; |
| · | ROI in as little as two years; and |
| · | Mobile applications provide installation, remote management and end-user accessibility. |
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Our open, scalable and standards-based architecture approach allows for truly custom deployments. The platforms integrate seamlessly with back-office management systems, property management systems, building automation systems, and utility demand/response programs, as well as additional third-party network architecture to recognize increased efficiency and savings.
Based on these platform features and capabilities, we’ve been awarded, and continue to receive, contracts in the hospitality, educational, governmental and other commercial markets. In addition, our relationships with utility-sponsored direct-install and rebate-funded programs provide us with a significant advantage over our competitors in the commercial space.
Given the population growth in the United States and the increasing demand for energy, we forecast additional energy-related infrastructure will be needed. We believe the use of Smart Grid technologies and energy efficiency management platforms are affordable alternatives to building additional power generation through leveraging existing resources and providing enhanced energy savings costs.
Target Markets
Rooms with intermittent occupancy are most commonly found in the following market sectors:
| · | Hospitality: hotels, motels, resorts, timeshares and casinos. |
| · | Educational: residence halls, dormitories and other campus living options. Also K-12 environments with distributed and portable classrooms. |
| · | Government: residence halls, barracks, military apartments and other campus living options. |
| · | Healthcare: medical office buildings, assisted and independent living facilities. |
| · | Multiple Dwelling Units (“MDUs”): apartments and other public living options. |
Industry and Market Overview
A significant amount of the energy consumed by commercial buildings in the United States is used to cool, heat, or light the buildings.4 In an effort to remain competitive and manage expenses, governments, building owners, building tenants, and companies in general are looking for ways to become more efficient both fiscally and environmentally. The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy reported that the cost of saving one unit of energy through energy efficiency is one-fifth (1/5) the cost required to generate that same unit of energy. As a result, we feel that the growth opportunities in the energy management market are in their infancy.
Telkonet’s key industries are all prime candidates for energy management, in part due to their utilizing energy “on-demand” or intermittently. Providing energy, and engaging the equipment to supply it, to those rooms and spaces only when occupied results in significant energy savings in addition to affording longer life and reduced maintenance to the HVAC systems.
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4 https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/use-of-energy/commercial-buildings.php
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Hospitality Industry
There is a constant balancing act for hotel operators between managing guest comfort and operating margins. Telkonet’s Recovery Time allows operators to manage operation costs yet still provide for a comfortable and engaging guest experience. Through Telkonet’s platforms, individual hospitality brands and properties can create a desired guest environment and still allow for energy savings via the Recovery Time algorithm.
Educational Industry
Telkonet approaches the education industry with strategic relationships with enterprise energy service companies (“ESCOs’) throughout the USA. Telkonet partners with ESCOs to include our energy management platforms for deployment within residence halls on university campuses. The ESCOs bundle our technology with other facility improvement measures designed to reduce operating costs across the entire campus, bundling solutions with acceptable ROI and which meet state mandated guidelines. ESCOs also structure self-funding financial transactions called “Performance Contracts” in which the savings are greater than the repayment costs, typically guaranteeing the financial and operational performance in this type of engagement. This type of approach can remove any capital expense barriers and improve adoption.
During our history, deployments have occurred at the University of California-Davis, University of Miami, Kansas State University, North Carolina State University, University of Notre Dame, US Military Academy at West Point, New York University, and Texas A&M University-Commerce.
The opportunities in this market are not limited to higher education institutions. According to an NRG Business Energy Advisor report, schools in the United States spend $8 billion on energy costs annually, with 73% of natural gas use going towards heating and 35% of electricity consumption going towards cooling. While heating and cooling account for only 2 – 4% of district costs, it is an opportunity for significant impact and gain.
We believe that our platforms are important tools for participants in the education industry seeking to control student-related energy costs. We have focused our sales efforts on members of the education industry who are seeking to expand their energy efficiency initiatives as well as the ESCOs who target the educational marketplace and have thus far had success with at least one school district installing EcoSmart in each classroom throughout the district.
Governmental Industry
The Department of Defense (“DOD”) is the single largest energy consumer in the United States federal government – accounting for more than 76% of the entire federal government’s energy expenditures during FY2017.5 Thus, we view this market as strategically significant to Telkonet’s interests.
Our energy management platforms are already successfully incorporated into the energy initiatives in several military housing sites, military academies and barracks. Telkonet benefited from and continues to make use of government funding and other government contracts to provide our platforms for use on military bases and other facilities, helping both the DOD and the government as a whole achieve their long-term energy efficiency goals.
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5 https://fas.org/sgp/crs/natsec/R45832.pdf
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Healthcare Industry
Healthcare organizations currently spend over $6.5 billion on energy each year, a cost which continues to rise in an effort to meet patient needs.6 This is viewed as an emerging market for energy management systems. Although hospitals have many specific regulatory mandates, Telkonet has been working closely with operators and developers of healthcare support facilities, like medical office buildings, assisted living and other similar facilities, to integrate our energy management initiatives into efficiency opportunities supported by state and federal energy programs. For example, hospital energy managers can use energy efficiency strategies to offset high costs caused by growing plug loads and rising energy prices. A typical 200,000-square-foot, 50-bed hospital in the U.S. annually spends $680,000, or roughly $13,611 per bed on electricity and natural gas. By increasing energy efficiency, hospitals can improve the bottom line and free up funds to invest in new technologies and improve patient care.
These facilities offer a commercial environment similar to the hospitality or educational housing markets, and the increasing aging population and assisted living markets presents attractive potential for energy efficiency. This market is expected to grow rapidly over the next several years due to its energy savings capabilities and an aging population.
MDU Industry
Public housing, which are properties owned and managed by the government, is an additional emerging market for energy management solutions. The tenants occupying these properties must meet specific eligibility requirements, and their utility bills are typically paid for by government programs. Many of the ESCO clients that Telkonet supports today have dedicated teams pursuing opportunities with the owners and operators of government-subsidized housing. Telkonet’s platforms are an ideal solution for conserving energy, allowing remote monitoring, and improving tenant comfort.
Competition for Markets
We currently compete primarily within commercial and industrial markets, including the hospitality, education, healthcare, governmental and MDU sectors. Within each target market, we offer savings through our intelligent automation platforms. Our products offer significant competitive and complementary benefits when compared with alternative offerings including Building Automation Systems (“BAS”) or Building Management Systems (“BMS”), static temperature occupancy-based systems, scheduling/programmable thermostats and high-efficiency HVAC systems.
We participate in a relatively small competitive field within the hospitality industry, with the majority of the energy management sales handled by fewer than seven manufacturers. The key competitors in the market segment are Inncom by Honeywell and Schneider Electric, with each offering some level of comparable products to our standalone and/or networked products. Telkonet leverages the above-mentioned competitive advantages to successfully compete in these spaces and win business.
The educational space is new to adopt occupancy-based controls. Our platforms have been introduced for use within student dormitories, which traditionally had few, if any, controls. More recently we’ve also been requested to install our products into classrooms, which traditionally have been an environment for BAS/BMS. Since the dormitory environment is very similar to the hospitality market, we believe we offer similarly-scaled energy savings. Since the market is still in its infancy, very few comparable offerings have entered the market but competitors within the hospitality segment are beginning to respond. Again, our key differentiators allow us to compete and win business in this space.
The healthcare and governmental markets are very similar in scope, relative to energy management systems. A key differentiator in these environments is the specific implementation being considered. Each market utilizes BAS/BMS for wide scale energy management initiatives. When addressing housing environments, including elderly care and assisted living facilities and military dormitories or barracks, Telkonet’s platforms are able to provide increased energy savings and efficiency. Competitors operating in the BAS/BMS space include Honeywell, Schneider Electric, Johnson Controls, Siemens, Trane and others, many of whom Telkonet partners with to provide a comprehensive and integrated energy management solution to effectively address energy efficiency opportunities in all types of facilities. The MDU market is split into two distinct categories, public and upscale residential housing. Public housing benefits similarly to hospitality and educational housing where intelligent, occupancy-based automation reduces operating costs. Upscale residential facilities benefit from exclusive automation solutions and centralized data reporting resulting in maintenance efficiencies.
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6 https://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/publications/pubdocs/Healthcare.pdf
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Inventory
We are dependent on a limited number of vendors to provide certain inventory and components. We’ve not experienced significant problems or issues purchasing any essential materials, parts or components, but have experienced gross profit pressure as a result of price increases and the impact of tariffs (discussed below). We contract the majority of our inventory with ATR Manufacturing, based in China, which provides substantially all the manufacturing requirements for Telkonet’s energy management platforms. For the year ended December 31, 2021, 82% of our total purchases were from ATR Manufacturing.
Customers
We are neither limited to, nor reliant upon, a single or narrowly segmented customer base to derive our revenues. Our current focus includes the hospitality, educational, governmental, healthcare, and MDU markets, as well as expanding into the consumer market specifically through our resale channel as part of our long term strategic growth.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, one customer represented approximately 18% of total net revenues. For the year ended December 31, 2020, there were two customers each representing over 10%, accounting for approximately 28% of total net revenues.
Intellectual Property
Telkonet has acquired certain intellectual properties, including but not limited to, Patent No. D569,279, titled “Thermostat.” Patent No. D569,279 issued by the USPTO in May 2008 was granted on the ornamental design of a thermostat device and will expire in May of 2022. The expiration of this patent could allow third parties to launch competing products. While we viewed this patent as valuable, we do not view any single patent as material to the Company as a whole.
There can be no assurance that any of our current or future patent applications will be granted, or, if granted, that such patents will provide necessary protection for our technology or our product offerings, or be of commercial benefit to us.
In addition, on November 30, 2020, Telkonet entered into a Wireless Network Patent License Agreement (the “License Agreement”) with Sipco, LLC (“Sipco”) and IPCO, LLC dba IntusIQ (collectively, the “Licensors”) in order to settle a patent infringement lawsuit without the expense of costly litigation. Without admission as to infringement, validity, or enforceability of the Licensed Patents (as defined in the License Agreement) or liability with respect to any claims of the complaint filed in the patent infringement lawsuit, Telkonet has agreed to pay certain royalty fees to the Licensors in exchange for the right under the Essential Claims (as defined in the License Agreement) of the Licensed Patents (as defined in the License Agreement), including multiple essential wireless mesh (“EWM”) patents to manufacture, have manufactured, sell, offer to sell, import, export, and use the Licensed Products (as defined in the License Agreement). The EWM patent portfolio covers technologies used in multi-hop wireless networks utilizing wireless protocols such as, but not limited to, Zigbee. The portfolio also covers applications including, but not limited to, home and building automation and industrial controls.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company had a current liability of approximately $166,000, which $26,000 is included in accounts payable and $140,000 in other accrued liabilities (See Note F – Current Accrued Liabilities for further breakdown of accrued liabilities), along with a non-current liability of $360,000 included in accrued royalties – long-term recorded on its Consolidated Balance Sheet. The corresponding expense was recorded in 2020 in the selling, general and administrative line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The payment of the royalty fees is expected to have a material and adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations and liquidity. See Note M – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the patent infringement lawsuit and the License Agreement.
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Government Regulation
As discussed in Item IA – Risks Relating to Our Financial Results, given the fact that we purchase the majority of our inventory from a supplier based in China, we are subject to and have been adversely affected by the tariffs imposed by the United States Federal Government on imports of industrial sector products from China.
In addition, we are subject to regulation in the United States by the Federal Communications Commission (“FCC”). FCC rules permit the operation of unlicensed digital devices that radiate radio frequency emissions if the manufacturer complies with certain equipment authorization procedures, technical requirements, marketing restrictions and product labeling requirements.
Future products designed by us will require testing for compliance with FCC and European Commission (“EC”) standards. Moreover, if in the future, the FCC or EC changes its technical requirements, further testing and/or modifications may be necessary in order to achieve compliance.
Research & Development
During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company spent $1,129,957 and $1,177,282, respectively, on research and development activities. Telkonet continues to invest in research & development to maintain and grow our competitive differentiation and customer value.
Key initiatives for 2022 include:
| · | developing a new Rhapsody thermostat based on the popular ecoSmart EcoInsight thermostat to help contain costs caused by the global chip shortages, work with VDA on product design changes to allow for easier global manufacturing and reduction in tariff expenses, add more global product certifications for opening additional markets, |
| · | growing our Rhapsody platform with new software and providing interfaces to property management systems and door lock systems, |
| · | enhancing our current EcoSmart products with new wireless capabilities to communicate with additional hospitality vendors, and |
| · | building on the core pieces of the Rhapsody platform to continue the expanding deployments further into our core markets. |
Additional Information
Employees
As of March 24, 2022, we had 30 full-time and 1 part-time employee.
Environmental Matters
We do not anticipate any material effect on our capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position due to compliance with government regulations involving environmental matters.
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ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS.
Our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows can be adversely affected by various risks. These risks include, but are not limited to, the principal factors listed below and the other matters set forth in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. You should carefully consider all of these risks.
Risks Relating to Our Financial Results
We expect to continue to incur operating losses and have negative operating cash flows for the foreseeable future.
Since inception through December 31, 2021, we have incurred cumulative losses of $128,668,176 and have never generated enough funds through operations to support our business. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company had a cash flow deficit from operations of $1,699,615. The Company has made significant investments in the engineering, development and marketing of its intelligent automation platforms, including but not limited to, hardware and software enhancements, support services and applications. The funding for these development efforts has contributed to, and continues to contribute to, the ongoing operating losses and use of cash. Operating losses have been financed by debt and equity transactions, capacity under the Company’s $1 million revolving credit facility with Heritage Bank of Commerce (“Heritage Bank”), the sale of a wholly-owned subsidiary, and management of working capital levels.
We have a limited number of shares of common stock available for future issuance which could adversely affect our ability to raise capital or consummate strategic transactions.
We are currently authorized to issue 475,000,000 shares of common stock under our Amended Restated and Articles of Incorporation. As of March 24, 2022, we have issued 299,212,282 shares of common stock and have approximately 113,528,621 shares of common stock committed for issuance giving effect to the assumed exercise of all outstanding warrants and options and assumed conversion of preferred stock.
If we fail to remain current on our reporting requirements, we could be removed from the OTC Bulletin Board, which would limit the ability of broker-dealers to sell our securities and the ability of stockholders to sell their securities in the secondary market.
Companies trading on the OTC Bulletin Board, such as us, must be reporting issuers under Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “Exchange Act”), and must be current in their reports under Section 13 of the Exchange Act in order to maintain price quotation privileges on the OTC Bulletin Board. If we fail to remain current on our reporting requirements, we could be removed from the OTC Bulletin Board. As a result, the market liquidity for our securities could be adversely affected by limiting the ability of broker-dealers to sell our securities and the ability of stockholders to sell their securities in the secondary market.
Risks Related to Our Business and Operations
The Company’s operations, financial results, and liquidity have been materially and adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Company’s operations and financial results have also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the health and economic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic are highly fluid and the future course of each is uncertain. We cannot predict whether the outbreak of COVID-19 will be effectively contained on a sustained basis. Depending on the length and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for our products, our customers’ ability to meet payment obligations to the Company, our supply chain and production capabilities, and our workforces’ ability to deliver our products and services could be impacted. Management is actively monitoring the impact of the global situation on the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, industry, and workforce. While we expect this disruption to continue to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and liquidity, the Company is unable to reasonably determine the full extent of the impact at this time.
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Due to travel restrictions and social distancing edicts, the hospitality industry, our largest market that generally accounts for a majority of our revenue, has suffered as much as any. For a more detailed discussion of the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry, see Item 1 – Recent Developments – Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic.
Further, both the health and economic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic are highly fluid and the future course of each is uncertain. We cannot predict whether the outbreak of COVID-19 will be effectively contained on a sustained basis. Depending on the length and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for our products, our customers’ ability to meet payment obligations to the Company, our supply chain and production capabilities, and our workforces’ ability to deliver our products and services could be impacted. Management is actively monitoring the impact of the global situation on its financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, industry, and workforce. While we expect this disruption to continue to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows, the Company is unable to reasonably determine the full extent of the impact at this time.
Tariffs have had, and continued tariffs and evolving trade policy between the United States and China may have, a material adverse effect on our business.
During 2018, the United States Federal Government imposed significant tariffs on imports from numerous countries, including China. Subsequent to this, the Office of the United States Trade Representative (“USTR”) announced an initial proposed list of imports from China that could be subject to additional tariffs. The list of imports for which Customs and Border Protection began collecting additional duties during July 2018, focuses on the industrial sector. The Company’s main supplier, accounting for approximately 82% of total purchases in 2021, is located in China. The products that the Company purchases from the supplier are subject to up to 25% tariffs. As a result of the tariffs, our cost of sales has increased.
The Biden administration has not stated whether it will ultimately remove or alter any of the tariffs. There continues to be significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United States and other countries with respect to the trade policies, treaties, taxes, government regulations and tariffs that would be applicable. It is unclear what changes might be considered or implemented and what response to any such changes may be by the governments of other countries. These changes have created significant uncertainty about the future relationship between the United States and China, as well as other countries, including with respect to the trade policies, treaties, government regulations and tariffs that could apply to trade between the United States and other nations. If additional tariffs or other restrictions are placed on Chinese imports or any related counter-measures are taken by China, our revenue and results of operations may be materially harmed. Even in the absence of further tariffs, the related uncertainty and the market's fear of an escalating trade war might create forecasting difficulties for us and cause our customers and business partners to place fewer orders for our products and services, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, liquidity, financial condition, and/or results of operations.
These developments, or the perception that any of them could occur, may have a material adverse effect on global economic conditions and the stability of global financial markets, and may significantly reduce global trade and, in particular, trade between these nations and the United States. Any of these factors could depress economic activity and restrict our access to suppliers or customers and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations and affect our strategy in China and elsewhere around the world. Given the relatively fluid regulatory environment in China and the United States and uncertainty how the U.S. Administration or foreign governments will act with respect to tariffs, international trade agreements and policies, a trade war, further governmental action related to tariffs or international trade policies, or additional tax or other regulatory changes in the future could directly and adversely impact our financial results and results of operations.
We rely on a limited number of third party suppliers. If these companies fail to perform or experience delays, shortages, or increased demand for their products or services, we may face shortages, increased costs, and may be required to suspend deployment of our products and services.
We depend on a limited number of third party suppliers to provide the components and the equipment required to deliver our solutions, with purchases from one supplier comprising approximately 82% of total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2021. If these providers fail to perform their obligations under our agreements with them or we are unable to renew these agreements, we may be forced to suspend the sale and deployment of our products and services and enrollment of new customers, which would have an adverse effect on our business, prospects, financial condition and operating results.
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The industry within which we operate is intensely competitive and rapidly evolving.
We operate in a highly competitive, quickly changing environment, and our future success will depend on our ability to develop and introduce new products and product enhancements that achieve broad market acceptance in the markets within which we compete. We will also need to respond effectively to new product announcements by our competitors by quickly developing and introducing competitive products.
Delays in product development and introduction could result in:
| · | loss of or delay in revenue and loss of market share; |
| · | negative publicity and damage to our reputation and the reputation of our product offerings; and |
| · | decline in the average selling price of our products. |
The Company recently settled a patent infringement lawsuit and recorded a contingent liability of $600,000; actual expenses may exceed this amount.
On June 30, 2020, Sipco filed a patent infringement lawsuit against the Company (the “Sipco Lawsuit”) alleging infringement on multiple EWM patents held by Sipco. On November 30, 2020, the Company entered into the License Agreement in order to settle the Sipco Lawsuit, without the expense of costly litigation. As of December 31, 2021, the Company has a current liability of approximately $166,000, which $26,000 is included in accounts payable and $140,000 in other accrued liabilities (See Note F – Current Accrued Liabilities for further breakdown of accrued liabilities), along with a non-current liability of $360,000 included in accrued royalties – long-term recorded on its Consolidated Balance Sheet. The corresponding expense was recorded in 2020 in the selling, general and administrative line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The payment of the royalty fees is expected to have a material and adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations and liquidity. See Note M – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the patent infringement lawsuit and the License Agreement.
We may incur substantial damages due to other litigation.
We cannot be certain that our products do not and will not infringe issued patents or other intellectual property rights of others. If it were determined that our products infringe the intellectual property rights of another, we could be required to pay substantial damages or be enjoined from licensing or using the infringing products or technology. Additionally, if it were determined that our products infringe the intellectual property rights of others, we would need to obtain licenses from these parties or substantially re-engineer our products in order to avoid infringement. We might not be able to obtain the necessary licenses on acceptable terms or at all, or to re-engineer our products successfully. Similar to the Sipco Lawsuit and License Agreement discussed above, any of the foregoing could cause us to incur significant costs and prevent us from selling our products.
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We have identified material weaknesses in our internal controls as of December 31, 2021 that, if not properly remediated, could result in material misstatements in our financial statements.
Based on an evaluation of our disclosure of internal controls and procedures as of December 31, 2021, our management has concluded that, as of such date, there were material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting related to a lack of segregation of duties due to the limited size of the Company’s accounting department, a failure to implement adequate internal control over financial reporting including in our IT general control environment and the need for a stronger internal control environment particularly in our financial reporting and close process. A material weakness is a control deficiency, or a combination of control deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a more than a remote likelihood that a material misstatement of annual or interim financial statements would not be prevented or detected in a timely manner. As disclosed in Item 9A of Part II of this report, because of the material weaknesses identified by the Company, our consolidated financial statements may contain material misstatements that would require restatement of the Company’s financial results in this report. Management of the Company believes that these material weaknesses are due to the small size of the Company’s accounting staff. The small size of the Company’s accounting staff may prevent adequate controls in the future, such as segregation of duties, due to the cost/benefit of such remediation. At present, the Company does not expect to hire additional personnel to remediate these control deficiencies in the near future.
Until and if these material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting are remediated, there is a reasonable possibility that material misstatements of our annual or interim consolidated financial statements could occur and not be prevented or detected by our internal controls in a timely manner. Material misstatements in our financial statements could result in litigation or regulatory enforcement actions, which would require additional financial and management resources; loss of investor confidence; and delays in filing required financial disclosures, one or more of which could have a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition. The Company believes the consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 are free of material misstatements.
Government regulation of our products could impair our ability to sell such products in certain markets.
The rules of the FCC permit the operation of unlicensed digital devices that radiate radio frequency emissions if the manufacturer complies with certain equipment authorization procedures, technical requirements, marketing restrictions and product labeling requirements. Differing technical requirements apply to “Class A” devices intended for use in commercial settings, and “Class B” devices intended for residential use to which more stringent standards apply. An independent, FCC-certified testing lab has verified that our product suite complies with the FCC technical requirements for Class A and Class B digital devices. No further testing of these devices is required, and the devices may be manufactured and marketed for commercial and residential use. Additional devices designed by us for commercial and residential use will be subject to the FCC rules for unlicensed digital devices. Moreover, if in the future, the FCC changes its technical requirements for unlicensed digital devices, further testing and/or modifications of devices may be necessary. Failure to comply with any FCC technical requirements could impair our ability to sell our products in certain markets and could have a negative impact on our business and results of operations.
Products sold by our competitors could become more popular than our products or render our products obsolete.
The market for our products and services is highly competitive. Some of our competitors have longer operating histories, greater name recognition and substantially greater financial, technical, sales, marketing and other resources. These competitors may, among other things, undertake more extensive marketing campaigns, adopt more aggressive pricing policies, obtain more favorable pricing from suppliers and manufacturers and exert more influence on the sales channel than we can. As a result, we may not be able to compete successfully with these competitors, and these competitors may develop or market technologies and products that are more widely accepted than those being developed by us or that would render our products obsolete or noncompetitive. We anticipate that competitors will also intensify their efforts to penetrate our target markets. These competitors may have more advanced technology, more extensive distribution channels, stronger brand names, bigger promotional budgets and larger customer bases than we do. These companies could devote more capital resources to develop, manufacture and market competing products than we could. If any of these companies are successful in competing against us, our sales could decline, our margins could be negatively impacted, and we could lose market share, any of which could seriously harm our business, results of operations, and prospects.
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We depend on a small team of senior management and may have difficulty attracting and retaining additional personnel.
Our future success will depend in large part upon the continued services and performance of senior management and other key personnel. If we lose the services of any member of our senior management team, our overall operations could be materially and adversely affected. In addition, our future success will depend on our ability to identify, attract, hire, train, retain and motivate other highly skilled technical, managerial, marketing, purchasing and customer service personnel when they are needed. Competition for these individuals is intense. We cannot ensure that we will be able to successfully attract, integrate or retain sufficiently qualified personnel when the need arises. Any failure to attract and retain the necessary technical, managerial, marketing, purchasing and customer service personnel could have a negative effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
We may be affected if the United States participates in wars or other military action or by international terrorism.
Involvement in a war or other military action or acts of terrorism may cause significant disruption to commerce throughout the world and may cause people to limit travel. To the extent that such disruptions result in (i) delays or cancellations of customer orders, (ii) declines in spending in the hospitality industry, our largest market that generally accounts for a majority of our revenue, (iii) a general decrease in consumer spending on information technology, (iv) our inability to effectively market and distribute our services or products or (v) our inability to access capital markets, our business and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected. We are unable to predict whether the involvement in a war or other military action will result in any long-term commercial disruptions or if such involvement or responses will have any long-term material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, or financial condition.
Cyber security risks and cyber incidents could adversely affect our business and disrupt operations.
Cyber incidents can result from deliberate attacks or unintentional events. These incidents can include, but are not limited to, gaining unauthorized access to digital systems for purposes of misappropriating assets or sensitive information, corrupting data, or causing operational disruption. The result of these incidents could include, but are not limited to, disrupted operations, misstated financial data, liability for stolen assets or information, increased cyber-security protection costs, litigation and reputational damage adversely affecting customer or investor confidence. We have implemented systems and processes to focus on identification, prevention, mitigation and resolution. However, these measures cannot provide absolute security, and our systems may be vulnerable to cyber-security breaches such as viruses, hacking, and similar disruptions from unauthorized intrusions. In addition, we rely on third party service providers to perform certain services, such as payroll and tax services. Any failure of our systems or third party systems may compromise our sensitive information and/or personally identifiable information of our employees. While we have secured cyber insurance to potentially cover certain risks associated with cyber incidents, there can be no assurance the insurance will be sufficient to cover any such liability.
Our exposure to the credit risk of our customers and suppliers may adversely affect our financial results.
We sell our products to customers that have in the past, and may in the future, experience financial difficulties. If our customers experience financial difficulties, we could have difficulty recovering amounts owed to us from these customers. While we perform credit evaluations and adjust credit limits based upon each customer’s payment history and credit worthiness, such programs may not be effective in reducing our exposure to credit risk. We evaluate the collectability of accounts receivable, and based on this evaluation make adjustments to the allowance for doubtful accounts for expected losses. Actual bad debt write-offs may differ from our estimates, which may have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, operating results and cash flows.
Our suppliers may also experience financial difficulties, which could result in our having difficulty sourcing the materials and components we use in producing our products and providing our services. This risk is increased given we depend on a limited number of third party suppliers to provide the components and the equipment required to deliver our solutions, with purchases from one supplier comprising approximately 82% of total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2021. If we encounter such difficulties, we may not be able to produce our products for our customers in a timely fashion which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
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Changes in the economy and credit markets may adversely affect our future results of operations.
Our operations and performance depend to some degree on general economic conditions and their impact on our customers’ finances and purchase decisions, particularly given the hospitality industry generally accounts for a majority of our revenue. As a result of economic events, potential customers may elect to defer purchases of capital equipment items, such as the products we manufacture and supply. Additionally, the credit markets and the financial services industry are subject to change. While the ultimate outcome of these events cannot be predicted, it may have a material adverse effect on our customers’ ability to fund their operations thus adversely impacting their ability to purchase our products or to pay for our products on a timely basis, if at all. These and other economic factors could have a material adverse effect on demand for our products, the collection of payments for our products and on our financial condition and operating results.
We may not be able to obtain payment and performance bonds, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Our ability to deploy our suite of products into the energy management initiatives in federally funded or assisted projects may rely on our ability to obtain payment and performance bonds which may be an essential element to work orders for the installation of our products and services. If we are unable to obtain payment and performance bonds in a timely fashion as required by an applicable work order, we may not be entitled to payment under the work order until such bonds have been provided or until such a requirement is expressly waived. In addition, any delays due to a failure to furnish bonds may not entitle us to a price increase for the work or an extension of time to complete the work and may entitle the other party to terminate our work order without liability and to indemnify such party from damages suffered as a result of our failure to deliver the bonds and the termination of the work order. As a result, the failure to obtain bonds where required could negatively impact our business, results of operations, and prospects.
Risks Relating to the Ownership of Our Common Stock
Our common stock is thinly traded and there may not be an active trading market for our common stock.
Our common stock is currently quoted on the OTCQB, operated by the OTC Markets Group. However, there is no guarantee that our common stock will be actively traded on the OTCQB, or that the volume of trading will be sufficient to allow for timely trades. Investors may not be able to sell their shares quickly or at the latest market price if trading in our stock is not active or if trading volume is limited. In addition, if trading volume in our common stock is limited, trades of relatively small numbers of shares may have a disproportionate effect on the market price of our common stock.
The market price of our common stock has been and may continue to be volatile.
The trading price of our common stock has been and may continue to be highly volatile and could be subject to wide fluctuations in response to various factors. Some of the factors that may cause the market price of our common stock to fluctuate include:
| · | fluctuations in our quarterly financial and operating results or the quarterly financial results of companies perceived to be similar to us; |
| · | changes in estimates of our financial results or recommendations by securities analysts; |
| · | potential deterioration of investor confidence resulting from material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting; |
| · | our ability to raise and generate working capital to meet our obligations in the ordinary course of business; |
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| · | changes in general economic, industry and market conditions; |
| · | failure of any of our products to achieve or maintain market acceptance; |
| · | changes in market valuations of similar companies; |
| · | failure of our products to operate as advertised; |
| · | success of competitive products; |
| · | changes in our capital structure, such as future issuances of securities or the incurrence of additional debt; |
| · | announcements by us or our competitors of significant products, contracts, acquisitions or strategic alliances; |
| · | regulatory developments in the United States, foreign countries or both; |
| · | litigation involving our Company, our general industry or both; |
| · | additions or departures of key personnel; and |
| · | investors’ general perception of us. |
In addition, if the market for technology stocks or the stock market in general experiences a loss of investor confidence, the trading price of our common stock could decline for reasons unrelated to our business, financial condition or results of operations. If any of the foregoing occurs, it could cause our stock price to fall and may expose us to class action lawsuits that, even if unsuccessful, could be costly to defend and a distraction to management.
Anti-takeover provisions in our charter documents and Utah law could discourage, delay or prevent a change of control of our Company and may affect the trading price of our common stock.
We are a Utah corporation and the anti-takeover provisions of the Utah Control Shares Acquisition Act may discourage, delay or prevent a change of control by limiting the voting rights of control shares acquired in a control share acquisition. In addition, our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws may discourage, delay or prevent a change in our management or control over us that shareholders may consider favorable. Among other things, our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws:
| · | authorize the issuance of “blank check” preferred stock that could be issued by our board of directors in response to a takeover attempt; |
| · | provide that vacancies on our board of directors, including newly created directorships, may be filled only by a majority vote of directors then in office, except a vacancy occurring by reason of the removal of a director without cause shall be filled by vote of the shareholders; and |
| · | limit who may call special meetings of shareholders. |
These provisions could have the effect of delaying or preventing a change of control, whether or not it is desired by, or beneficial to, our shareholders.
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We do not currently intend to pay dividends on our common stock
We do not expect to pay cash dividends on our common stock. Any future dividend payments are within the absolute discretion of our board of directors and will depend on, among other things, our results of operations, working capital requirements, capital expenditure requirements, financial condition, contractual restrictions, business opportunities, anticipated cash needs, provisions of applicable law and other factors that our board of directors may deem relevant. We may not generate sufficient cash from operations in the future to pay dividends on our common stock.
Our common stock is subject to “Penny Stock” restrictions.
As long as the price of our common stock remains at less than $5 per share, we will be subject to so-called “penny stock rules” which could decrease our stock’s market liquidity. The Security and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) has adopted regulations which define a “penny stock” to include any equity security that has a market price of less than $5 per share or an exercise price of less than $5 per share, subject to certain exceptions. For any transaction involving a penny stock, unless exempt, the rules require the delivery to and execution by the retail customer of a written declaration of suitability relating to the penny stock, which must include disclosure of the commissions payable to both the broker/dealer and the registered representative and current quotations for the securities. Finally, the broker/dealer must send monthly statements disclosing recent price information for the penny stocks held in the account and information on the limited market in penny stocks. Those requirements could adversely affect the market liquidity of our common stock. There can be no assurance that the price of our common stock will rise above $5 per share so as to avoid these regulations.
Further issuances of equity securities may be dilutive to current stockholders.
It is possible that we will be required to seek additional capital in the near term. This capital funding could involve one or more types of equity securities, including convertible debt, common or convertible preferred stock and warrants to acquire common or preferred stock. Such equity securities could be issued at or below the then-prevailing market price for our common stock. Any issuance of additional shares of our common stock will be dilutive to existing stockholders and could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
The exercise of conversion rights, options and warrants outstanding and available for issuance may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
As of December 31, 2021, we had outstanding employee options to purchase a total of 3,349,793 shares of common stock at exercise prices ranging from $0.14 to $1.00 per share, with a weighted average exercise price of $0.16. As of December 31, 2021, there were no warrants outstanding. The exercise of outstanding options and warrants and the sale in the public market of the shares purchased upon such exercise could be dilutive to existing stockholders and could adversely affect the market price of our common stock.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS.
None.
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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES.
In October 2013, the Company entered into a lease agreement for 6,362 square feet of commercial office space in Waukesha, Wisconsin for its corporate headquarters. On April 7, 2017, the Company executed an amendment to the existing lease to expand another 3,982 square feet, bringing the total leased space to 10,344 square feet, and extending the lease term for the total leased space from May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2026. The commencement date for this amendment was July 15, 2017.
In May 2017, the Company entered into a lease agreement for 5,838 square feet of floor space in Waukesha, Wisconsin for its inventory warehousing operations. The Waukesha lease expires in May 2024.
In November 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement for 425 square feet of commercial office space in Gaithersburg, Maryland. It expires on November 30, 2022.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.
On June 30, 2020, Sipco filed a lawsuit against the Company in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin (Case No. 20-CV-00981) alleging infringement on multiple EWM patents held by Sipco. See Note M – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the License Agreement entered into on November 30, 2020 by and among the Company, Sipco, and IPCO, LLC dba IntusIQ in order to settle the Sipco Lawsuit, without the expense of costly litigation. Pursuant to the terms of the License Agreement, on November 30, 2020, Sipco and the Company filed a Stipulation of Dismissal in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin to stipulate to the dismissal of the Sipco Lawsuit in its entirety, with prejudice.
The Company is subject to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of its business. Although occasional adverse decisions or settlements may occur, other than the Sipco Lawsuit discussed above and which has been terminated, the Company believes that the final disposition of such matters should not have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
ITEM 4. MINE SAFETY DISCLOSURES.
None.
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PART II
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES.
Our common stock is currently quoted on the OTC Bulletin Board under the symbol “TKOI.” The OTC Bulletin Board is not a stock exchange and any over-the-counter market quotations reflect inter-dealer prices, without retail mark-up, mark-down or commission and may not necessarily represent actual transactions.
Record Holders
As of March 24, 2022, we had 208 holders of record of our common stock and 299,212,282 shares of our common stock issued and outstanding.
Dividend Policy
The Company has never paid dividends on its common stock and does not anticipate paying dividends in the foreseeable future. It is also subject to certain contractual restrictions on paying dividends on its common stock under the terms of its Series A and B preferred stock.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
See Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters for information about securities authorized for issuance under the Company’s equity compensation plans.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
None.
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
None.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
This item is not applicable.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.
The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the accompanying financial statements and related notes thereto.
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Recent Developments
VDA Transaction and Change of Control
As previously reported in our Current Reports on Form 8-K dated August 10, 2021, and January 13, 2022, on August 6, 2021, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with VDA Group S.p.A., an Italian joint stock company (“VDA”), pursuant to which VDA would, at the Closing (as defined in the Purchase Agreement), contribute $5 million to Telkonet (the “Financing”) and, in exchange, Telkonet would issue to VDA: (i) 162,900,947 shares of Company Common Stock (the “Issuance”); and (ii) a warrant to purchase 105,380,666 additional shares of Common Stock (the “Warrant”) (the Issuance and the Warrant referred to collectively herein as the “VDA Transaction”). The Closing occurred on January 7, 2022.
Following the issuance of 162,900,947 shares of Common Stock to VDA upon the Closing, VDA owns 53% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis, resulting in a change of control of the Company. VDA could eventually own as much as 65% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis if it fully exercises the Warrant.
In connection with the VDA Transaction and pursuant to the Purchase Agreement, Arthur E. Byrnes, Peter T. Koss and Leland D. Blatt (collectively, the “Former Directors”) resigned from the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) and any respective committees of the Board to which they belonged effective as of the Closing. The vacancies resulting from the resignations of the Former Directors were filled by Piercarlo Gramaglia, Flavio De Paulis and Steven E. Quick, all of whom were appointed by the remaining Board members effective as of the resignations of the Former Directors, resulting in a change of control of the Board. Jason L. Tienor and Tim S. Ledwick, who were Board members prior to the Closing, remained on the Board after the Closing.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic
As discussed above, the Company’s operations and financial results have also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the health and economic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic are highly fluid and the future course of each is uncertain. We cannot predict whether the outbreak of COVID-19 will be effectively contained on a sustained basis. Depending on the length and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for our products, our customers’ ability to meet payment obligations to the Company, our supply chain and production capabilities, and our workforces’ ability to deliver our products and services could be impacted. Management is actively monitoring the impact of the global situation on the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, industry, and workforce. While we expect this disruption to continue to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition, cash flows, and liquidity, the Company is unable to reasonably determine the full extent of the impact at this time.
Due to travel restrictions, social distancing edicts and overall fear, the hospitality industry, our largest market that generally accounts for a majority of our revenue, has suffered as much as any since the onset of the pandemic. While the industry is trending toward recovery, the situation remains fragile. The effects of supply-chain issues, inflation and labor shortages, and subsequent rising wages, all present some level of pandemic uncertainty for the foreseeable future. STR and Tourism Economics expect leisure travel to pace the recovery while commercial demand, the dominant segment, will remain significantly below pre-pandemic levels until there is a significant increase in the quantity of large group events, as well as the return of business travel 7 When adjusted for inflation, revenue per available room (RevPAR) will likely remain below 2019 levels until at least 2025. 8
_________________
7 O’Conner, Stefani C. “Industry’s recovery heats up-slowly.” Hotelbusiness.com January 2022:8A
8 O’Conner, Stefani C. “Industry’s recovery heats up-slowly.” Hotelbusiness.com January 2022:14A.
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Sipco License Agreement
In addition, on November 30, 2020, the Company entered into the License Agreement with Sipco and IPCO, LLC dba IntusIQ in order to settle a patent infringement lawsuit without the expense of costly litigation. As of December 31, 2021, we had $526,000 in liabilities recorded on our Consolidated Balance Sheet for future royalty fees ($26,000 accounts payable, $140,000 in accrued liabilities and $360,000 long-term liability). The corresponding expense was recorded in 2020 in the selling, general and administrative line of the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The payment of the royalty fees is expected to have a material and adverse impact on the Company’s results of operations and liquidity. See Note M – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a discussion of the patent infringement lawsuit and the License Agreement.
See Part I, Item 1. “Business” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Liquidity and Capital Resources” section below for a discussion of the steps the Company has and is continuing to take to focus on preserving liquidity, managing expenses, and targeted sales and new product growth.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the consolidated financial statements and accompanying notes. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates significant estimates used in preparing its consolidated financial statements including those related to revenue recognition and allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable, inventory obsolescence, recovery of long-lived assets, income tax provisions and related valuation allowance, stock-based compensation, and contingencies. The Company bases its estimates on historical experience, underlying run rates and various other assumptions that the Company believes to be reasonable, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from these estimates. The following are critical judgments, assumptions, and estimates used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606, the Standard”) supersedes nearly all legacy revenue recognition guidance. ASC 606, the Standard outlines a comprehensive five-step revenue recognition model based on the principle that an entity should recognize revenue based on when it satisfies its performance obligations by transferring control of promised goods or services in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for said goods or services.
Identify the customer contracts
The Company accounts for a customer contract under ASC 606 when the contract is legally enforceable. A contract is legally enforceable when all of the following criteria are met: (1) the contract has been approved by the Company and the customer and both parties are committed to perform their respective obligations, (2) the Company can identify each party’s rights regarding goods or services transferred, (3) the Company can identify payment terms for goods or services transferred, (4) the contract has commercial substance, and (5) collectability of all the consideration to which the Company is entitled in exchange for the goods or services transferred is probable.
A contract does not exist if each party to the contract has the unilateral right to terminate a wholly unperformed contract without compensating the other party (or parties). Nearly all of the Company’s contracts do not contain such mutual termination rights for convenience. All contracts are in written form.
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Identify the performance obligations
The Company will enter into product only contracts that contain a single performance obligation related to the transfer of products to a customer.
The Company will also enter into certain customer contracts that encompass product and installation services, referred to as “turnkey” solutions. These contracts ultimately provide the customer with a solution that enhances the functionality of the customer’s existing equipment. For this reason, the Company has determined that the product and installation services are not separately identifiable performance obligations, but in essence represent one, combined performance obligation (“turnkey”).
The Company also offers post-installation support services to customers. Support services are considered a separate performance obligation.
Determine the transaction price
The Company generally enters into contracts containing fixed prices. It is not customary for the Company to include contract terms that would result in variable consideration. In the rare situation that a contract does include this type of provision, it is not expected to result in a material adjustment to the transaction price. The Company regularly extends pricing discounts; however, they are negotiated up front and adjust the fixed transaction price set out in the contract.
Customer contracts will typically contain upfront deposits that will be applied against future invoices, as well as customer retainage. The intent of any required deposit or retainage is to ensure that the obligations of either party are honored and follow customary industry practices. In addition, the Company will typically be paid in advance at the beginning of any support contracts, consistent with industry practices. None of these payment provisions are intended to represent significant implicit financing. The Company’s standard payment terms are thirty days from invoice date. Products are fully refundable when returned in their original packaging without damage or defacing less a restocking fee. Historical returns have shown to be immaterial. The Company offers a standard one-year assurance warranty. However customers can purchase an extended warranty. Under the revenue standard, extended warranties are accounted for as a service warranty, requiring the revenue to be recognized over the extended service periods. Contracts involving an extended warranty are immaterial and will continue to be combined with support revenue and recognized on a straight-line basis over the support revenue term.
Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations
Revenues from customer contracts are allocated to the separate performance obligations based on their relative stand-alone selling price (“SSP”) at contract inception. The SSP is the price at which the Company would sell a promised good or service separately. The best evidence of an SSP is the observable price of a good or service when the entity sells that good or service separately in similar circumstances and to similar customers. However, turnkey solutions are sold for a broad range of amounts resulting from, but not limited to, tiered discounting for value added resellers (“VAR”) based upon committed volumes and other economic factors. Due to the high variability of our pricing, the Company cannot establish a reliable SSP using observable data. Accordingly, the Company uses the residual approach to allocate the transaction price to performance obligations related to its turnkey solutions. When support services are not included within the turnkey solution, the residual method is not utilized and no allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligation is necessary.
All support service agreements, whether single or multi-year terms, automatically renew for one-year terms at a suggested retail price (“SRP”), unless terminated by either party. Support service renewals are consistently priced and therefore would support the use of SRP as the best estimate of an SSP for such performance obligations.
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Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues from product only sales at a point in time when control over the product has transferred to the customer. As the Company’s principal terms of sale are FOB shipping point, the Company primarily transfers control and records revenue for product only sales upon shipment.
A typical turnkey project involves the installation and integration of 200-300 rooms in a customer-controlled facility and usually takes sixty days to complete. Since control over goods and services transfers to a customer once a room is installed, the Company recognizes revenue for turnkey solutions over time. The Company uses an outputs measure based on the number of rooms installed to recognize revenues from turnkey solutions.
Revenues from support services are recognized over time, in even daily increments over the term of the contract, and are presented as “Recurring Revenue” in the Statements of Operations.
Contracts are billed in accordance with the terms and conditions, either at periodic intervals or upon substantial completion. This can result in billing occurring subsequent to revenue recognition, resulting in contract assets. Contract assets are presented as current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Contract liabilities include monthly support service fees, customer deposits, and billings in advance of revenue recognition. The long term portion of these liability balances represent the amount of revenues that will be recognized after December 31, 2022.
Contract Fulfillment Cost
The Company recognizes related costs of the contract over time in relation to the revenue recognition. Costs included within the projects relate to the cost of material, direct labor and costs of outside services utilized to complete projects. These are presented as “Contract assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are uncollateralized customer obligations due under normal trade terms. The Company records allowances for doubtful accounts based on customer-specific analysis and general matters such as current assessment of past due balances and economic conditions. The Company writes off accounts receivable when they become uncollectible. Management identifies a delinquent customer based upon the delinquent payment status of an outstanding invoice, generally greater than 30 days past due date. The delinquent account designation does not trigger an accounting transaction until such time the account is deemed uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined by examining the reserve history and any outstanding invoices that are over 30 days past due as of the end of the reporting period. Accounts are deemed uncollectible on a case-by-case basis, at management’s discretion based upon an examination of the communication with the delinquent customer and payment history. Typically, accounts are only escalated to “uncollectible” status after multiple attempts at collection have proven unsuccessful.
Inventory Obsolescence
Inventories consist of thermostats, sensors and controllers for Telkonet’s product platforms. These inventories are purchased for resale and do not include manufacturing labor and overhead. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value determined by the first in, first out (FIFO) method. The Company’s inventories are subject to technological obsolescence. Management evaluates the net realizable value of its inventories on a quarterly basis and when it is determined that the Company’s carrying cost of such excess and obsolete inventories cannot be recovered in full, a charge is taken against income for the difference between the carrying cost and the estimated realizable amount.
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Guarantees and Product Warranties
The Company records a liability for potential warranty claims. The amount of the liability is based on the trend in the historical ratio of claims to sales. The products sold are generally covered by a warranty for a period of one year. In the event the Company determines that its current or future product repair and replacement costs exceed its estimates, an adjustment to these reserves would be charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company experienced approximately between 1% and 3% of returns related to product warranties. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded warranty liabilities in the amount of $46,650 and $45,328, respectively, using this experience factor range.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740-10. Under this method, deferred income taxes (when required) are provided based on the difference between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities and net operating losses at the statutory rates enacted for future periods. The Company has a policy of establishing a valuation allowance when it is more likely than not that the Company will not realize the benefits of its deferred income tax assets in the future.
Stock Based Compensation
We account for our stock based awards in accordance with ASC 718, which requires a fair value measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to our employees and directors, including employee stock options and restricted stock awards.
We estimate the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes valuation model. This model requires us to make estimates and assumptions including, among other things, estimates regarding the length of time an employee will retain vested stock options before exercising them and the estimated volatility of our common stock price. The fair value is then amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period. Changes in these estimates and assumptions can materially affect the determination of the fair value of stock-based compensation and consequently, the related amount recognized in our consolidated statements of operations.
Recovery of Long -Lived Assets
We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with ASC 360-10. Recoverability is measured by comparison of the carrying amount to the future net undiscounted cash flows which the assets are expected to generate. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds its fair value.
Sales Tax
Unless provided with a resale or tax exemption certificate, the Company assesses and collects sales tax on sales transactions and records the amount as a liability. It is recognized as a liability until remitted to the applicable state. Total revenues do not include sales tax as the Company is considered a pass through conduit for collecting and remitting sales taxes.
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Results of Operations
Year Ended December 31, 2021 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2020
The Company’s operations and financial results have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Further, significant uncertainty remains regarding the full impact of the COVID-19 pandemic – both in terms of the health and economic aspects – and the timing of any recovery in markets such as hospitality, our largest market that generally accounts for a majority of our revenue.
Revenues
The table below outlines our product versus recurring revenues from operations for comparable periods:
| Year Ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Product | $ | 5,542,404 | 88% | $ | 5,742,251 | 88% | $ | (199,847 | ) | (3%) | ||||||||||||||
| Recurring | 731,995 | 12% | 751,619 | 12% | (19,624 | ) | (3%) | |||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 6,274,399 | 100% | $ | 6,493,870 | 100% | $ | (219,471 | ) | (3%) | ||||||||||||||
Product Revenue
Product revenue principally arises from the sale and installation of energy management platforms. The suite of products consists of thermostats, sensors, controllers, wireless networking products, switches, outlets and a control platform.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, product revenues decreased by 3% or $0.20 million when compared to the prior year. Hospitality revenues decreased 4% to $4.72 million, government revenues decreased 10% to $0.19 million, education revenues decreased 37% to $0.28 million while MDU revenues increased 106% to $0.30 million and healthcare revenues increased 100% to $0.05 million. Product revenues derived from value-added resellers and distribution partners were $4.56 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, an increase of 1% compared to the prior year period. For the year ended December 31, 2021, international revenues decreased 7% to $0.71 million when compared to the prior year period. The decrease in international revenues was primarily driven by the loss of one customer.
Backlogs were approximately $2.39 million and $2.64 million at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Beginning in the third quarter, global supply chain disruptions have created delays in our order fulfillment. These disruptions are ongoing and order cancellations could result if these issues persist.
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Recurring Revenue
Recurring revenue is attributed to our call center support services. The Company recognizes revenue ratably over the service period for monthly support revenues and defers revenue for annual support services over the term of the service period. Recurring revenue consists of Telkonet’s EcoCare service and support program.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, recurring revenue decreased by 3% or $0.02 million when compared to the prior year period. The decrease was related to decreased unit sales of call center support services.
Cost of Sales
The tables below outline product versus recurring cost of sales, along with respective amounts of those costs as a percentage of revenue for the comparable periods:
| Year ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Product | $ | 2,978,886 | 54% | $ | 3,527,977 | 61% | $ | (549,091 | ) | (16%) | ||||||||||||||
| Recurring | 52,774 | 7% | 80,580 | 11% | (27,806 | ) | (35%) | |||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 3,031,660 | 48% | $ | 3,608,557 | 56% | $ | (576,897 | ) | (16%) | ||||||||||||||
Costs of Product Revenue
Costs of product revenue include materials and installation labor related to Telkonet’s platform technology. For the year ended December 31, 2021, product costs decreased 16% compared to the prior year period based upon lower revenues. The variance was primarily attributable to decreases in material costs of $0.43 million, logistical expenses of $0.14 million, inclusive of import tariffs and inventory adjustments of $0.20 million, offset by increases in product surcharges of $0.25 million resulting from global chip shortages, supply chain challenges and inflationary pressures. Material costs as a percentage of product revenues were 39%, a decrease of 1%, compared to the prior year period.
Costs of Recurring Revenue
Recurring revenue costs are comprised primarily of call center support labor. For the year ended December 31, 2021, recurring revenue costs decreased by 35% when compared to the prior year period. The variance was primarily due to decreases in call center staffing.
Gross Profit
The tables below outline product versus recurring gross profit, along with respective actual gross profit percentages for the comparable periods:
| Year ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Product | $ | 2,563,518 | 46% | $ | 2,214,274 | 39% | $ | 349,244 | 16% | |||||||||||||||
| Recurring | 679,221 | 93% | 671,039 | 89% | 8,182 | 1% | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 3,242,739 | 52% | $ | 2,885,313 | 44% | $ | 357,426 | 12% | |||||||||||||||
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Gross Profit on Product Revenue
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased 16% or $0.35 million when compared to the prior year period. The variance was primarily attributable to decreases in material costs of $0.43 million, logistical expenses of $0.14 million, inclusive of import tariffs and inventory adjustments of $0.20 million, offset by increases in product surcharges of $0.25 million resulting from global chip shortages, supply chain challenges and inflationary pressures. Material costs as a percentage of product revenues were 39%, a decrease of 1%, compared to the prior year period. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the actual gross profit percentage increased by 7% to 46% compared to the prior year period. Tariffs imposed on Chinese imports resulted in an adverse impact of approximately 4% on the actual gross profit percentage for the year ended December 31, 2021, compared to approximately 7% for the year ended December 31, 2020.
Gross Profit on Recurring Revenue
Gross profit for the year ended December 31, 2021 increased 1% when compared to the prior year period. The increase was primarily due to decreases in call center staffing offset by a decline in revenues.
Operating Expenses
The tables below outline operating expenses for the comparable periods, along with percentage change:
| Year ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 5,463,348 | $ | 5,990,918 | $ | (527,570 | ) | (9%) | ||||||||
The Company’s operating expenses are comprised of research and development, selling, general and administrative expenses and depreciation and amortization expense. During the year ended December 31, 2021, operating expenses decreased by 9% when compared to the prior year as outlined below.
Research and Development
| Year ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 1,129,957 | $ | 1,177,282 | $ | (47,325 | ) | (4%) | ||||||||
Research and development costs are related to both present and future products and are expensed in the period incurred. Current research and development costs are associated with product development and integration. For the year ended December 31, 2021, research and development costs decreased by 4% when compared to the prior year period. The variance is primarily attributable to decreases in expenses incurred with third-party consultants of $0.58 million.
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Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
| Year ended December 31, | ||||||||||||||||
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 4,289,920 | $ | 4,754,783 | $ | (464,863 | ) | (10%) | ||||||||
For the year ended December 31, 2021, selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by 10% compared to the prior year period.
The variance is primarily attributable to decreases in royalty fees of $0.50 million, a 401(k) employer match of $0.05 million and payroll taxes of $0.44 million, partially offset by increased trade shows of $0.10 million, public company fees of $0.14 million and legal fees of $0.30 million. The payroll tax decrease was primarily the result of an Employee Retention Credit (“ERC”), allowed under the CARES Act, which is a refundable payroll tax credit that encouraged businesses to keep employees on the payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic. The royalty fees were made under the License Agreement entered into on November 30, 2020. See Note I – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 1 of Part I of this Form 10-Q for summary of the terms of the License Agreement, including future payment obligations.
Operating Loss
Operating loss for the year ended December 31, 2021 improved 28.5% to $2.22 million compared to the prior year of $3.11 million. This improvement is primarily due to an increase in gross profit and a decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses discussed above.
Net Loss
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company had a net loss of $0.41 million compared to a net loss of $3.15 million during the prior year. This net loss variance is primarily due to a $1.84 million non-cash gains on debt extinguishment in connection with full forgiveness of the PPP Loans, an increase in gross profit, and a relatively unchanged selling, general and administrative expenses discussed above.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Management believes that certain non-GAAP financial measures may be useful to investors in certain instances to provide additional meaningful comparisons between current results and results in prior operating periods. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (“Adjusted EBITDA”) is a metric used by management and frequently used by the financial community. Adjusted EBITDA provides insight into an organization’s operating trends and facilitates comparisons between peer companies, since interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation can differ greatly between organizations as a result of differing capital structures and tax strategies. Adjusted EBITDA is one of the measures used for determining our debt covenant compliance. Adjusted EBITDA excludes certain items that are unusual in nature or not comparable from period to period. While management believes that non-GAAP measurements are useful supplemental information, such adjusted results are not intended to replace our GAAP financial results. Adjusted EBITDA is not, and should not be considered, an alternative to net income (loss), operating income (loss), or any other measure for determining operating performance or liquidity, as determined under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (GAAP). In assessing the overall health of its business for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company excluded items in the following general categories described below:
| · | Stock-based compensation: The Company believes that because of the variety of equity awards used by companies, varying methodologies for determining stock-based compensation and the assumptions and estimates involved in those determinations, the exclusion of non-cash stock-based compensation enhances the ability of management and investors to understand the impact of non-cash stock-based compensation on our operating results. Further, the Company believes that excluding stock-based compensation expense allows for a more transparent comparison of its financial results to the previous year. |
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RECONCILIATION OF NET LOSS
TO ADJUSTED EBITDA
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net loss | $ | (412,785 | ) | $ | (3,149,852 | ) | ||
| Gain on debt extinguishment | (1,836,780 | ) | – | |||||
| Interest expense, net | 21,067 | 21,645 | ||||||
| Income tax provision | 7,889 | 22,602 | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 43,471 | 58,853 | ||||||
| EBITDA | (2,177,138 | ) | (3,046,752 | ) | ||||
| Adjustments: | ||||||||
| Stock-based compensation | 7,262 | 7,262 | ||||||
| Adjusted EBITDA | $ | (2,169,876 | ) | $ | (3,039,490 | ) | ||
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As previously reported in our Current Reports on Form 8-K dated August 10, 2021, and January 13, 2022, on August 6, 2021, the Company entered into a Purchase Agreement with VDA pursuant to which VDA contributed $5 million to the Company in exchange for the issuance of 162,900,947 shares of Company common stock and a warrant to purchase 105,380,666 additional shares of Company common stock. For a more detailed discussion of the VDA Transaction, please see Item 1 – Description of Business – Recent Developments.
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company reported a net loss of $412,785 and had cash used in operating activities of $1,699,615, and ended the year with an accumulated deficit of $128,668,176 and total current assets in excess of current liabilities of $1,209,361. At December 31, 2021, the Company had $2,361,059 of cash and approximately $460,000 of availability on its Credit Facility. The Credit Facility is a $1,000,000 line of credit, which is subject to a borrowing base calculation based on the Company’s eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory, each multiplied by an applicable advance rate, with an overall limitation tied to the Company’s eligible accounts receivable as well as financial covenants including a requirement to maintain a minimum unrestricted cash balance of $1,000,000. As of December 31, 2021, we had a total borrowing base of approximately $913,000, an outstanding balance of $403,089, and a cash management services reserve of $50,000, resulting in the availability of approximately $460,000 on the Credit Facility.
Since inception through December 31, 2021, we have incurred cumulative losses of $128,668,176 and have never generated enough cash through operations to support our business. For the year ended December 31, 2021, we had a cash flow deficit from operations of $1,699,615. The Company has made significant investments in the engineering, development and marketing of its intelligent automation platforms, including but not limited to, hardware and software enhancements, support services and applications. The funding for these development efforts has contributed to, and continues to contribute to, the ongoing operating losses and use of cash. Operating losses have been financed by debt and equity transactions, Credit Facility capacity, the sale of a wholly-owned subsidiary, and the management of working capital levels.
As discussed above, the Company’s operations and financial results have also been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Both the health and economic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic are highly fluid and the future course of each is uncertain. We cannot predict whether the outbreak of COVID-19 will be effectively contained on a sustained basis. Depending on the length and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for our products, our customers’ ability to meet payment obligations to the Company, our supply chain and production capabilities, and our workforces’ ability to deliver our products and services could be impacted. Management is actively monitoring the impact of the global situation on the Company’s financial condition, liquidity, operations, suppliers, industry, and workforce. While we expect this disruption to continue to have a material adverse impact on our results of operations, financial condition cash flows, and liquidity, the Company is unable to reasonably determine the full extent of the impact at this time.
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The Company’s sales and gross profits have decreased significantly resulting from a contraction in commercial demand for our products, a lower revenue conversion rate in our existing pipeline and significant one-off transactions from customers in 2020 were not repeated in 2021. Due to travel restrictions, social distancing and shelter at home edicts, the hospitality industry, our largest market that generally accounts for a majority of our revenue, has suffered as much as any. For a more detailed discussion of the impact of COVID-19 on the hospitality industry, see Item 1 – Recent Developments – Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic.
The more recent actions described above are in addition to the cost elimination and liquidity management actions that the Company began implementing in the second half of 2019, including reviewing opportunities to decrease spend with third party consultants and providers, strategically reviewing whether or not to fill employee positions in the event of vacancies, and implementing sales campaigns to sell slow-moving inventory and reduce existing inventory volumes. There is no guarantee, however, that these actions, nor any other actions identified, will yield profitable operations in the foreseeable future.
In addition to the actions noted above, on April 21, 2020, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note, dated April 17, 2020 (“the First PPP Loan”), with Heritage Bank, a California state chartered bank (“Heritage Bank”) for a $913,063 loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”). In January 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the First PPP Loan. On February 16, 2021, the outstanding principal and interest accrued on the First PPP Loan was fully forgiven.
On April 27, 2021, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note, dated as of April 26, 2021, for a second PPP loan (“the Second PPP Loan” and together with the First PPP Loan, the “PPP Loans”), with Heritage Bank under a second draw of the PPP administered by the SBA and authorized by the Keeping American Workers Employed and Paid Act. In September 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the Second PPP Loan. On September 15, 2021, Heritage Bank confirmed that the Second PPP Loan granted to the Company, in the original principal amount of $913,063 plus accrued interest of $3,044 thereon, was forgiven in full. See Note G – Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a summary of the terms of the PPP Loan.
Revolving Credit Facility
On September 30, 2014, the Company entered into a loan and security agreement (the “Heritage Bank Loan Agreement”) with Heritage Bank governing a revolving credit facility in a principal amount not to exceed $2,000,000 (the “Credit Facility”). Availability of borrowings under the Credit Facility is subject to a borrowing base calculation based on the Company’s eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory each multiplied by an applicable advance rate, with an overall limitation tied to the Company’s eligible accounts receivable. The Credit Facility is secured by all of the Company’s assets. The Credit Facility is available for working capital and other general business purposes.
The outstanding principal balance of the Credit Facility bears interest at the Prime Rate plus 3.00%, which was 6.25% at December 31, 2021 and 7.75% at December 31, 2020. On October 9, 2014, as part of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement, Heritage Bank was granted a warrant to purchase 250,000 shares of Telkonet common stock. The warrant has an exercise price of $0.20 and expired October 9, 2021. On November 6, 2019, the Eleventh Amendment to the Credit Facility was executed to extend the maturity date to September 30, 2021, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement, and eliminate the maximum EBITDA loss covenant. The eleventh amendment was effective as of September 30, 2019.
On September 30, 2021, the Company entered into a twelfth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement to extend the revolving maturity date to December 31, 2021, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement. In addition, subject to certain conditions as specified in the Twelfth Amendment, Heritage Bank consented to the VDA Transaction (as described above under the “Business and Basis of Presentation” section in Note A – Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies) between the Company and VDA, and acknowledged and agreed that certain events occurring in connection with the Transaction, including the change of control of the Company resulting from the Transaction, do not constitute Events of Default as defined in the Loan Agreement.
On December 13, 2021, the Company entered into a thirteenth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment to extend the revolving maturity date to March 31, 2022, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement. In addition, the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment reduced the credit extension amount to $1,000,000 and reduced unrestricted cash maintained in the Company’s accounts at Bank to be at least $1,000,000.
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On March 10, 2022, the Company entered into a fourteenth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment to extend the revolving maturity date to June 30, 2023, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement.
The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement contains covenants that place restrictions on, among other things, the incurrence of debt, granting of liens and sale of assets. The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement also contains financial covenants. As discussed above, the EBITDA loss covenant was eliminated in the eleventh amendment to the Credit Facility. The sole remaining financial covenants are a minimum asset coverage ratio and a minimum unrestricted cash balance of $1 million, both of which are measured at the end of each month. A violation of either of these covenants could result in an event of default under the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement. Upon the occurrence of such an event of default or certain other customary events of defaults, payment of any outstanding amounts under the Credit Facility may be accelerated and Heritage Bank’s commitment to extend credit under the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement may be terminated. The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement contains other representations and warranties, covenants, and other provisions customary to transactions of this nature.
The outstanding balance on the Credit Facility was $403,089 and $267,289 at December 31, 2021 and 2020 and the remaining available borrowing capacity was approximately $460,000 and $442,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants.
See the “Liquidity and Capital Resources” section above for a discussion of a potential default under the Credit Facility.
Paycheck Protection Program
The Company has received two loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) administered by the United States Small Business Administration (the “SBA”) and authorized by the Keeping American Workers Employed and Paid Act, which is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, enacted on March 27, 2020.
On April 17, 2020, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note for $913,063 (“the First PPP Loan”). In January 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the First PPP Loan. On February 16, 2021, Heritage Bank confirmed that the First PPP Loan granted to the Company, in the original principal amount of $913,063 plus accrued interest of $7,610 thereon, was forgiven in full.
On April 27, 2021, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note, dated as of April 26, 2021, for a second PPP loan (“the Second PPP Loan” and together with the First PPP Loan, the “PPP Loans”), with Heritage Bank under a second draw of the PPP administered by the SBA and authorized by the Keeping American Workers Employed and Paid Act. In September 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the Second PPP Loan. On September 15, 2021, Heritage Bank confirmed that the Second PPP Loan granted to the Company, in the original principal amount of $913,063 plus accrued interest of $3,044 thereon, was forgiven in full.
See Note G – Debt in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a summary of the terms of the PPP Loans.
Cash Flow from Operations Analysis
Cash used in operating activities of operations was $1,699,615 and $844,794 during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, our primary capital needs included costs incurred to increase energy management sales, inventory procurement, and managing current liabilities. The working capital changes during the year ended December 31, 2021 were primarily related to an approximate $823,000 increase in accounts payable, a $563,000 decrease in net inventories, a $155,000 net increase in accrued liabilities, which includes an $11,000 decrease for interest forgiven on the PPP Loans, partially offset by an approximate $592,000 increase in prepaid expenses, a $161,000 increase in contract assets, and a $145,000 increase in accounts receivable. The primary working capital change during the year ended December 31, 2020 were primarily related to an approximate $1,418,000 decrease in net accounts receivable, a $235,000 increase in current contract liabilities, partially offset by an approximate $223,000 decrease in accounts payable. Accounts receivable fluctuates based on the negotiated billing terms with customers and collections. We purchase inventory based on forecasts and orders, and when those forecasts and orders change, the amount of inventory may also fluctuate. Accounts payable fluctuates with changes in inventory levels, volume of inventory purchases, and negotiated supplier and vendor terms.
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There was no cash used in investing activities during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
Cash provided by financing activities was $1,048,863 and $556,005 during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Proceeds from the Second PPP loan were $913,063, proceeds borrowed from the line of credit were $6,764,968 and cash used for payments on the line of credit were $6,629,168 during the year ended December 31, 2021. Proceeds from the First PPP loan were $913,063, proceeds borrowed from the line of credit were $5,835,000 and cash used for payments on the line of credit were $6,192,058 during the year ended December 31, 2020.
See the “Liquidity and Capital Resources” section above for a discussion of a potential default under the Credit Facility.
Inflation
We do not believe that inflation has had a material effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations. If our costs were to become subject to significant inflationary pressures, we may not be able to fully offset such higher costs through price increases. Our inability or failure to do so could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
The Company has no material off-balance sheet arrangements.
New Accounting Pronouncements
See Note B – New Accounting Pronouncements in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 15 of Part IV of this Annual Report on Form 10-K for a description of new accounting pronouncements.
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
This item is not applicable.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA.
See the Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto commencing on Page F-1.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE.
This item is not applicable.
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ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that material information required to be disclosed in our periodic reports filed under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and to ensure that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. The Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer each evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of December 31, 2021. Based on these evaluations, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures required by paragraph (b) of Rule 13a-15 and 15d-15 were not effective as of December 31, 2021 as a result of the material weaknesses discussed below.
Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Exchange Act. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurances regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the financial statements of the Company in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, or GAAP. Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree or compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
With the participation of our Chief Executive Officer, our management conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021 based on the framework in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on our evaluation and the material weaknesses described below, management concluded that the Company did not maintain effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2021 based on the COSO framework criteria.
Management did not properly design or maintain effective controls over certain aspects of the control environment and monitoring components of COSO. We did not have a sufficient complement of accounting and financial personnel with an appropriate level of knowledge to address technical accounting and financial reporting matters in accordance with GAAP and the Company’s overall financial reporting requirements. We also lack sufficient information technology resources to address our IT general control environment requirements. The failures within the control environment and monitoring components contributed to the following control activity level material weaknesses:
| · | Revenues – We did not properly design or maintain effective controls over the recording of revenue recognition for contracts whose performance obligations are fulfilled over time. | |
| · | Financial Statement Close and Reporting – We did not properly design or maintain effective controls over the period end financial close and reporting process. Specifically, we lacked control over the review of account reconciliations, journal entries, identification of related party transactions, and reporting of our financial results and disclosures. | |
| · | Information Technology – We did not properly design or maintain effective controls to prevent unauthorized access to certain systems, programs and data, and provide for periodic review and monitoring of access and changes in programs, including review of security logs and analysis of segregation of duties conflicts. | |
| · | Segregation of Duties – We did not maintain adequate segregation of duties within the Company’s business processes, financial applications, and IT systems. Specifically, we did not have appropriate controls in place to adequately assess the segregation of job responsibilities and system user access for initiating, authorizing, and recording transactions. |
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These control deficiencies could result in a misstatement of account balances resulting in a more than remote likelihood that a material misstatement to our financial statements may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Accordingly, we have determined that these control deficiencies as described above constitute material weaknesses.
As we continue to evaluate and work to improve our internal controls over financial reporting, our senior management may determine to take additional measures to address deficiencies or modify the remediation efforts. Until the remediation efforts that our senior management may identify as necessary, are completed, tested and determined effective, the material weaknesses described above will continue to exist. At present, the Company does not expect to hire additional personnel to remediate these control deficiencies in the near future.
In light of these material weaknesses, we performed additional analyses and procedures in order to conclude that our consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2021 included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K were fairly stated in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Notwithstanding the identified material weaknesses, our management has concluded that the audited financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2021 fairly state, in all material respects, our financial position, results of operations, cash flows, and changes in stockholders’ equity as of and for the periods presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
Under applicable Securities Law, the Company is not required to obtain an attestation report from the Company's independent registered public accounting firm regarding internal control over financial reporting, and accordingly, such an attestation has not been obtained or included in this Annual Report.
Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
Not applicable.
Changes in Internal Controls
Other than the material weaknesses discussed above, during the year ended December 31, 2021, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal controls over financial reporting.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION.
None.
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PART III
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE.
Pursuant to General Instruction G(3), information on directors and executive officers of the Registrant and corporate governance matters is incorporated by reference from our definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A in connection with our 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed within 120 days after December 31, 2021 (the “2021 Proxy Statement”).
Code of Ethics
The Board has approved, and Telkonet has adopted, a Code of Ethics that applies to all directors, officers and employees of the Company. A copy of the Company’s Code of Ethics was filed as Exhibit 14 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-KSB for the year ended December 31, 2003 (filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 30, 2004). In addition, the Company will provide a copy of its Code of Ethics free of charge upon request to any person submitting a written request to the Company’s Chief Executive Officer.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.
Pursuant to General Instruction G(3), information on executive compensation is incorporated by reference from the Company’s 2021 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2021.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.
Pursuant to General Instructions G(3), information on security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management and related stockholder matters are incorporated by reference from the Company’s 2021 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2021.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
The following table provides information concerning securities authorized for issuance pursuant to equity compensation plans approved by the Company’s stockholders and equity compensation plans not approved by the Company’s stockholders as of December 31, 2021.
| Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights | Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under equity compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a) | |||||||||||
| (a) | (b) | (c) | |||||||||||
| Equity compensation plans approved by security holders | 3,349,793 | (1) | $ | 0.16 | 10,000,000 | (2) | |||||||
| Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders | – | – | – | ||||||||||
| Total | 3,349,793 | (1) | $ | 0.16 | 10,000,000 | (2) | |||||||
| (1) | 3,349,793 shares of common stock to be issued upon exercise of options and warrants issued under the 2010 Amended and Restated Stock Option and Incentive Plan, as amended. | |
| (2) | 10,000,000 shares of common stock available for future issuance under the 2021 Stock Option and Incentive Plan. |
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ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.
Pursuant to General Instruction G(3), information on certain relationships and related transactions and director independence is incorporated by reference from the Company’s 2022 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31, 2021.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.
Pursuant to General Instruction G(3), information on principal accounting fees and services is incorporated by reference from the Company’s 2021 Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC within 120 days after December 31.
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PART IV
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.
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EXHIBIT INDEX
The following exhibits are included herein or incorporated by reference:
| 2.1 | Asset Purchase Agreement by and among EthoStream, LLC, Telkonet, Inc., and DCI-Design Communications, dated as of March 28, 2017 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 2.1 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on March 31, 2017) | |
| 2.2 | Stock Purchase Agreement, dated August 6, 2021, between Telkonet, Inc. and VDA Group S.p.A. (incorporated by reference to our Form 8-K (File No. 000-31972) filed August 10, 2021) | |
| 3.1 | Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to our Form S-8 (File No. 333-47986), filed on October 16, 2000) | |
| 3.2 | Bylaws of the Company (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.2 to our Registration Statement on Form S-1(File No. 333-108307), filed on August 28, 2003 | |
| 3.3 | Amendment to Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of Telkonet, Inc. (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.5 to Telkonet, Inc.’s Annual Report on Form 10-K (File No. 001-31972), filed on March 30, 2011) | |
| 3.4 | Amendment to Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Company (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 3.1 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on April 13, 2011) | |
| 4.1 | Form of Warrant to Purchase Common Stock (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on November 18, 2009) | |
| 4.2 | Form of Warrant to Purchase Common Stock (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.3 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on August 9, 2010) | |
| 4.3 | Form of Warrant to Purchase Common Stock (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.1 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on April 13, 2011) | |
| 4.4 | Description of the Registrant’s Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 4.4 to our Form 10-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on March 30, 2020) | |
| 10.1 | Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock Securities Purchase Agreement, dated November 16, 2009 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on November 18, 2009) | |
| 10.2 | Series A Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock Registration Rights Agreement, dated November 16, 2009 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on November 18, 2009) | |
| 10.3 | Form of Director and Officer Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.12 to our Form 10-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on March 31, 2010) | |
| 10.4 | Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock Securities Purchase Agreement, dated August 4, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on August 9, 2010) | |
| 10.5 | Series B Convertible Redeemable Preferred Stock Registration Rights Agreement, dated August 4, 2010 (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on August 9, 2010) | |
| *10.6 | 2010 Stock Option and Incentive Plan (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to our Registration Statement filed on Form S-8 (File No. 333-175737) filed July 22, 2011) | |
| 10.7 | Securities Purchase Agreement, dated April 8, 2011, by and among Telkonet, Inc. and the parties listed therein (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.1 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on April 13, 2011) | |
| 10.8 | Registration Rights Agreement, dated April 8, 2011, by and among Telkonet, Inc. and the parties listed therein (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.2 to our Form 8-K (File No. 001-31972) filed on April 13, 2011) | |
| *, ***10.9 | Employment Agreement by and between Telkonet, Inc. and Jason L. Tienor, dated as of August 6, 2021 | |
| *, ***10.10 | Employment Agreement by and between Telkonet, Inc. and Jeffrey J. Sobieski, dated as of August 6, 2021 | |
| *, ***10.11 | Employment Agreement by and between Telkonet, Inc. and Richard E. Mushrush, dated as of August 6, 2021 | |
| *10.12(a) | 2010 Amended and Restated Stock Option and Incentive Plan (amended and restated effective as of November 17, 2016, incorporated by reference from Exhibit 10.27 to our Form 10-K (File No. 001-31972) filed April 3, 2017) |
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| 43 |
| 14.1 | Code of Ethics (incorporated by reference from Exhibit 14 to our Form 10-KSB (File No. 001-31972), filed on March 30, 2004) | |
| ***21.1 | Telkonet, Inc. Subsidiaries | |
| ***23.1 | Consent of Wipfli LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm | |
| ***31.1 | Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of Piercarlo Gramaglia | |
| ***31.2 | Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 of Richard E. Mushrush | |
| ***32.1 | Certification of Piercarlo Gramaglia pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
| ***32.2 | Certification of Richard E. Mushrush pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 | |
| ****101.INS | Inline XBRL Instance Document (the instance document does not appear in the Interactive Data File because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document) | |
| ****101.SCH | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document | |
| ****101.CAL | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document | |
| ****101.DEF | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document | |
| ****101.LAB | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document | |
| ****101.PRE | Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document | |
| ****104 | Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted in inline XBRL, and included in exhibit 101). |
| * | Indicates management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement. |
| ** | Certain portions of this exhibit have been redacted pursuant to Item 601(b)(10)(iv) of Regulation S-K. The Company agrees to provide an unredacted copy of the exhibit on a supplemental basis to the SEC upon its request. |
| *** | Filed herewith. |
| **** | Submitted electronically with this report. |
ITEM 16. FORM 10-K SUMMARY.
None.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
| TELKONET, INC. | |
| Dated: March 31, 2022 | /s/ Piercarlo Gramaglia |
|
Piercarlo Gramaglia Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
| Name | Position | Date | ||
| /s/ Piercarlo Gramaglia | Chief Executive Officer and Director | March 31, 2022 | ||
| Piercarlo Gramaglia | (principal executive officer) | |||
| /s/ Richard E. Mushrush | Chief Financial Officer | March 31, 2022 | ||
| Richard E. Mushrush | (principal financial officer and principal accounting officer) | |||
| /s/ Steven E. Quick | Chairman of the Board | March 31, 2022 | ||
| Steven E. Quick | ||||
| /s/ Tim S. Ledwick | Director | March 31, 2022 | ||
| Tim S. Ledwick | ||||
| /s/ Flavio de Paulis | Director | March 31, 2022 | ||
| Flavio de Paulis | ||||
| /s/ Jason L. Tienor | Director | March 31, 2022 | ||
| Jason L. Tienor |
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TELKONET, INC.
Index to Financial Statements
| F-1 |
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors
Telkonet, Inc.
Waukesha, Wisconsin
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Telkonet, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company and subsidiaries”) as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity, and cash flows for the years then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material aspects, the financial position of the Company at December 31, 2021 and 2020, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and the significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective or complex judgments. The communication of this critical audit matter does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
| F-2 |
Critical Audit Matter Description
Revenue recognition on turnkey solution customer contracts ongoing at year-end
As described in Note A to the financial statements, revenue from customer contracts which encompass both product and installation services are referred to as “turnkey solutions” and contain a single performance obligation. Revenue from turnkey solution customer contracts is recognized over time using an output measure based on the number of rooms installed. We identified revenue recognition on turnkey solution customer contracts ongoing at year-end as a critical audit matter because of the estimates used by management to measure progress and the impact these estimates have on revenue recognition.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to evaluating the estimates used by management in the determination of the accounting for turnkey solution customer contracts ongoing at year-end included the following, among others:
We selected a sample of turnkey solution customer contracts ongoing at year-end and evaluated management’s calculation of revenue recognized over time by performing the following procedures:
| · | Analyzed the contract to determine if all arrangement terms that may have an impact on revenue recognition were identified and evaluated management's accounting for the contract. |
| · | Obtained and reviewed the contract to evaluate whether the transaction price was appropriately identified. |
| · | Tested the data used in the revenue recognition schedule for completeness and accuracy by agreeing key inputs to supporting documentation. |
| · | Tested management’s revenue recognition calculation schedule for mathematical accuracy |
/s/ Wipfli LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2020.
Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 31, 2022
| F-3 |
TELKONET, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020
December 31, 2021 | December 31, 2020 | |||||||
| ASSETS | ||||||||
| Current assets: | ||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 2,361,059 | $ | 3,011,811 | ||||
| Accounts receivable, net | 1,010,554 | 865,174 | ||||||
| Inventories, net | 825,559 | 1,388,262 | ||||||
| Contract assets | 266,014 | 104,989 | ||||||
| Prepaid expenses | 735,092 | 142,733 | ||||||
| Income taxes receivable | – | 105,745 | ||||||
| Total current assets | 5,198,278 | 5,618,714 | ||||||
| Property and equipment, net | 84,201 | 127,672 | ||||||
| Other assets: | ||||||||
| Deposits | 7,595 | 7,000 | ||||||
| Operating lease right of use assets | 570,512 | 737,551 | ||||||
| Total other assets | 578,107 | 744,551 | ||||||
| Total Assets | $ | 5,860,586 | $ | 6,490,937 | ||||
| LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
| Current liabilities: | ||||||||
| Accounts payable | $ | 1,865,535 | $ | 1,043,007 | ||||
| Accrued liabilities | 718,721 | 563,312 | ||||||
| Line of credit | 403,089 | 267,289 | ||||||
| Contract liabilities – current | 800,965 | 888,060 | ||||||
| Operating lease liabilities – current | 195,176 | 242,299 | ||||||
| Note payable – current | – | 913,063 | ||||||
| Income taxes payable | 5,431 | – | ||||||
| Total current liabilities | 3,988,917 | 3,917,030 | ||||||
| Long-term liabilities: | ||||||||
| Contract liabilities – long-term | 140,265 | 164,307 | ||||||
| Operating lease liabilities – long-term | 459,668 | 592,341 | ||||||
| Accrued royalties – long-term | 360,000 | 500,000 | ||||||
| Total long-term liabilities | 959,933 | 1,256,648 | ||||||
| Total liabilities | 4,948,850 | 5,173,678 | ||||||
| Commitments and contingencies | ||||||||
| Stockholders’ Equity | ||||||||
| Preferred Stock Series A, par value $ per share; shares designated, shares outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020, preference in liquidation of $1,822,450 and $1,748,423 as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. | 1,340,566 | 1,340,566 | ||||||
| Preferred Stock Series B, par value $ per share; shares designated, shares outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020, preference in liquidation of $497,605 and $476,782 as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. | 362,059 | 362,059 | ||||||
| Common Stock, par value $ per share; and shares authorized at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively; and shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. | 136,311 | 136,311 | ||||||
| Additional paid-in-capital | 127,740,976 | 127,733,714 | ||||||
| Accumulated deficit | (128,668,176 | ) | (128,255,391 | ) | ||||
| Total stockholders’ equity | 911,736 | 1,317,259 | ||||||
| Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity | $ | 5,860,586 | $ | 6,490,937 | ||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
| F-4 |
TELKONET, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Revenues, net: | ||||||||
| Product | $ | 5,542,404 | $ | 5,742,251 | ||||
| Recurring | 731,995 | 751,619 | ||||||
| Total Net Revenues | 6,274,399 | 6,493,870 | ||||||
| Cost of Sales: | ||||||||
| Product | 2,978,886 | 3,527,977 | ||||||
| Recurring | 52,774 | 80,580 | ||||||
| Total Cost of Sales | 3,031,660 | 3,608,557 | ||||||
| Gross Profit | 3,242,739 | 2,885,313 | ||||||
| Operating Expenses: | ||||||||
| Research and development | 1,129,957 | 1,177,282 | ||||||
| Selling, general and administrative | 4,289,920 | 4,754,783 | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 43,471 | 58,853 | ||||||
| Total Operating Expenses | 5,463,348 | 5,990,918 | ||||||
| Operating Loss | (2,220,609 | ) | (3,105,605 | ) | ||||
| Other Income (Expenses): | ||||||||
| Gain on debt extinguishment | 1,836,780 | – | ||||||
| Interest expense, net | (21,067 | ) | (21,645 | ) | ||||
| Total Other Income (Expense) | 1,815,713 | (21,645 | ) | |||||
| Loss before Provision for Income Taxes | (404,896 | ) | (3,127,250 | ) | ||||
| Income Tax Provision | 7,889 | 22,602 | ||||||
| Net Loss | $ | (412,785 | ) | $ | (3,149,852 | ) | ||
| Net Loss per Common Share: | ||||||||
| Basic - net loss attributable to common stockholders | $ | (0.00 | ) | $ | (0.02 | ) | ||
| Diluted - net loss attributable to common stockholders | $ | (0.00 | ) | $ | (0.02 | ) | ||
| Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding - basic | 136,311,335 | 136,231,562 | ||||||
| Weighted Average Common Shares Outstanding - diluted | 136,311,335 | 136,231,562 | ||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
| F-5 |
TELKONET, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
JANUARY 1, 2020 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2020
| Series A Preferred Stock | Series A Preferred Stock | Series B Preferred Stock | Series B Preferred Stock | Common | Common Stock | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Total Stockholders’ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | Equity | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2020 | 185 | $ | 1,340,566 | 52 | $ | 362,059 | 135,990,491 | $ | 135,990 | $ | 127,708,773 | $ | (125,105,539 | ) | $ | 4,441,849 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares issued to directors | – | – | 320,844 | 321 | 17,679 | 18,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation expense related to employee stock options | – | – | – | 7,262 | 7,262 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to common stockholders | – | – | – | (3,149,852 | ) | (3,149,852 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at December 31, 2020 | 185 | $ | 1,340,566 | 52 | $ | 362,059 | 136,311,335 | $ | 136,311 | $ | 127,733,714 | $ | (128,255,391 | ) | $ | 1,317,259 | ||||||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
| F-6 |
TELKONET, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
JANUARY 1, 2021 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2021
| Series A Preferred Stock | Series A Preferred Stock | Series B Preferred Stock | Series B Preferred Stock | Common | Common Stock | Additional Paid-in | Accumulated | Total Stockholders’ | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Shares | Amount | Capital | Deficit | Equity | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at January 1, 2021 | 185 | $ | 1,340,566 | 52 | $ | 362,059 | 136,311,335 | $ | 136,311 | $ | 127,733,714 | $ | (128,255,391 | ) | $ | 1,317,259 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Shares issued to directors | – | – | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation expense related to employee stock options | – | – | – | 7,262 | 7,262 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net loss attributable to common stockholders | – | – | – | (412,785 | ) | (412,785 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Balance at December 31, 2021 | 185 | $ | 1,340,566 | 52 | $ | 362,059 | 136,311,335 | $ | 136,311 | $ | 127,740,976 | $ | (128,668,176 | ) | $ | 911,736 | ||||||||||||||||||||
See accompanying notes to the consolidated financial statements
| F-7 |
TELKONET, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Cash Flows from Operating Activities: | ||||||||
| Net loss | $ | (412,785 | ) | $ | (3,149,852 | ) | ||
| Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash used in operating activities: | ||||||||
| Stock-based compensation expense related to employee stock options | 7,262 | 7,262 | ||||||
| Stock issued to directors as compensation | – | 18,000 | ||||||
| Depreciation and amortization | 43,471 | 58,853 | ||||||
| Noncash operating lease expense | 229,548 | 230,944 | ||||||
| Deferred income taxes | – | 28,021 | ||||||
| Gain on debt extinguishment | (1,836,780 | ) | – | |||||
| Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
| Accounts receivable, net | (145,380 | ) | 1,418,413 | |||||
| Inventories, net | 562,703 | (15,188 | ) | |||||
| Prepaid expenses | (592,359 | ) | 108,886 | |||||
| Deposits | (595 | ) | 10,130 | |||||
| Accounts payable | 822,528 | (222,553 | ) | |||||
| Accrued royalties – long-term | (140,000 | ) | 500,000 | |||||
| Accrued liabilities | 166,063 | 35,486 | ||||||
| Contract liabilities | (111,137 | ) | 288,183 | |||||
| Contract assets | (161,025 | ) | 83,131 | |||||
| Operating lease liabilities | (242,305 | ) | (223,835 | ) | ||||
| Accrued income tax payable | 5,431 | – | ||||||
| Income taxes receivable | 105,745 | (20,675 | ) | |||||
| Net Cash Used In Operating Activities | (1,699,615 | ) | (844,794 | ) | ||||
| Cash Flows From Financing Activities: | ||||||||
| Proceeds from note payable | 913,063 | 913,063 | ||||||
| Proceeds from line of credit | 6,764,968 | 5,835,000 | ||||||
| Payments on line of credit | (6,629,168 | ) | (6,192,058 | ) | ||||
| Net Cash Provided By Financing Activities | 1,048,863 | 556,005 | ||||||
| Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents | (650,752 | ) | (288,789 | ) | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period | 3,011,811 | 3,300,600 | ||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period | $ | 2,361,059 | $ | 3,011,811 | ||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
| F-8 |
TELKONET, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)
FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information: | ||||||||
| Cash transactions: | ||||||||
| Cash paid during the year for interest | $ | 22,885 | $ | 29,082 | ||||
| Cash paid (received) during the year for income taxes, net of refunds | (104,456 | ) | 11,262 | |||||
| Non-cash transactions: | ||||||||
| Issuance of stock to directors | $ | – | $ | 18,000 | ||||
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
| F-9 |
TELKONET, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
DECEMBER 31, 2021 AND 2020
NOTE A – BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
A summary of the significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements follows.
Business and Basis of Presentation
Telkonet, Inc. (the “Company”, “Telkonet”), formed in 1999 and incorporated under the laws of the state of Utah, is the creator of the EcoSmart and the Rhapsody Platforms of intelligent automation solutions designed to optimize energy efficiency, comfort and analytics in support of the emerging Internet of Things (“IoT”).
In 2007, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Smart Systems International (“SSI”), which was a provider of energy management products and solutions to customers in the United States and Canada and the precursor to the Company’s EcoSmart platform. In 2020, the Company launched the Rhapsody Platform, which simplifies the installation and setup of the Company’s newest products and integrations. Both platforms provide comprehensive savings, management reporting, analytics and virtual engineering of a customer’s portfolio and/or property’s room-by-room energy consumption. Telkonet has deployed more than a half million intelligent devices worldwide in properties within the hospitality, educational, governmental and other commercial markets. The platforms are recognized as a solution for reducing energy consumption, operational costs and carbon footprints, and eliminating the need for new energy generation in these marketplaces – all whilst improving occupant comfort and convenience.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Telkonet Communications, Inc., operating as a single reportable business segment.
As previously reported in our Current Reports on Form 8-K dated August 10, 2021, and January 13, 2022, on August 6, 2021, the Company entered into a stock purchase agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”) with VDA Group S.p.A., an Italian joint stock company (“VDA”), pursuant to which VDA would, at the Closing (as defined in the Purchase Agreement), contribute $5 million to Telkonet (the “Financing”) and, in exchange, Telkonet would issue to VDA: (i) shares of Company Common Stock (the “Issuance”); and (ii) a warrant to purchase 105,380,666 additional shares of Common Stock (the “Warrant”) (the Issuance and the Warrant referred to collectively herein as the “VDA Transaction”). The Closing occurred on January 7, 2022.
Following the issuance of 162,900,947 shares of Common Stock to VDA upon the Closing, VDA owns 53% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis, resulting in a change of control of the Company. VDA could eventually own as much as 65% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis if it fully exercises the Warrant.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments and related items, which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk, consist primarily of cash, cash equivalents and trade receivables. The Company places its cash and temporary cash investments with credit quality institutions. At times, such investments may be in excess of the FDIC insurance limit. The Company has never experienced any losses related to these balances. With respect to trade receivables, the Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers’ financial conditions and limits the amount of credit extended when deemed necessary. The Company provides credit to its customers primarily in the United States in the normal course of business. The Company routinely assesses the financial strength of its customers and, as a consequence, believes its trade receivables credit risk exposure is limited.
| F-10 |
Cash and Cash Equivalents
The Company considers all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with an original maturity date of three months or less to be cash equivalents.
Accounts Receivable
Accounts receivable are uncollateralized customer obligations due under normal trade terms. The Company records allowances for doubtful accounts based on customer-specific analysis and general matters such as current assessment of past due balances and economic conditions. The Company writes off accounts receivable when they become uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $5,563 and $7,973 at December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Management identifies a delinquent customer based upon the delinquent payment status of an outstanding invoice, generally greater than 30 days past due date. The delinquent account designation does not trigger an accounting transaction until such time the account is deemed uncollectible. The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined by examining the reserve history and any outstanding invoices that are over 30 days past due as of the end of the reporting period. Accounts are deemed uncollectible on a case-by-case basis, at management’s discretion based upon an examination of the communication with the delinquent customer and payment history. Typically, accounts are only escalated to “uncollectible” status after multiple attempts at collection have proven unsuccessful.
Inventories
Inventories consist of thermostats, sensors and controllers for Telkonet’s product platforms. These inventories are purchased for resale and do not include manufacturing labor and overhead. Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value determined by the first in, first out (FIFO) method. The Company’s inventories are subject to technological obsolescence. Management evaluates the net realizable value of its inventories on a quarterly basis and when it is determined that the Company’s carrying cost of such excess and obsolete inventories cannot be recovered in full, a charge is taken against income for the difference between the carrying cost and the estimated realizable amount. The reserve for inventory obsolescence was approximately $443,000 and $404,000 at December 31, 2021, and 2020, respectively.
Property and Equipment
In accordance with Accounting Standards Codification ASC 360 “Property Plant and Equipment”, property and equipment is stated at cost and is depreciated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets. The estimated useful lives range from 2 to 10 years.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company accounts for the fair value of financial instruments in accordance with ASC 820, which defines fair value for accounting purposes, established a framework for measuring fair value and expanded disclosure requirements regarding fair value measurements. Fair value is defined as an exit price, which is the price that would be received upon sale of an asset or paid upon transfer of a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The degree of judgment utilized in measuring the fair value of assets and liabilities generally correlates to the level of pricing observability. Financial assets and liabilities with readily available, actively quoted prices or for which fair value can be measured from actively quoted prices in active markets generally have more pricing observability and require less judgment in measuring fair value. Conversely, financial assets and liabilities that are rarely traded or not quoted have less price observability and are generally measured at fair value using valuation models that require more judgment. These valuation techniques involve some level of management estimation and judgment, the degree of which is dependent on the price transparency of the asset, liability or market and the nature of the asset or liability. The Company categorizes financial assets and liabilities that are recurring, at fair value into a three-level hierarchy in accordance with these provisions.
| F-11 |
| · | Level 1: Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities; | |
| · | Level 2: Quoted prices in markets that are not active, or inputs which are observable, either directly or indirectly, for substantially the full term of the asset or liability; or | |
| · | Level 3: Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and are unobservable. |
The Company’s financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and certain accrued liabilities. The carrying amounts of these assets and liabilities approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments (Level 1 instruments), except for the line of credit. The carrying amount of the line of credit approximates fair value due to the interest rate and terms approximating those available to the Company for similar obligations (Level 2 instruments).
Long-Lived Assets
The Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable in accordance with ASC 360-10. Recoverability is measured by comparison of the carrying amount to the future net cash flows which the assets are expected to generate. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds their fair value. Based on the assessment for impairment performed during 2021 and 2020, no impairment was recorded.
The Company computes earnings per share under ASC 260-10, “Earnings Per Share”. Basic net income (loss) per common share is computed using the weighted average shares outstanding. Diluted net income (loss) per common share is computed using the treasury stock method, which assumes that the proceeds to be received on exercise of outstanding stock options and warrants are used to repurchase shares of the Company at the average market price of the common shares for the year. Dilutive common stock equivalents consist of shares issuable upon the exercise of the Company's outstanding stock options and warrants. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were and , respectively, shares of common stock underlying options and warrants excluded due to these instruments being anti-dilutive.
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Net loss | $ | (412,785 | ) | $ | (3,149,852 | ) | ||
| Less: cumulative dividends earned on Series A and Series B preferred stock | (94,850 | ) | (95,106 | ) | ||||
| Net loss attributable to common shareholders | $ | (507,635 | ) | $ | (3,244,958 | ) | ||
Shares used in the calculation of diluted EPS for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 are summarized below:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Weighted average common shares outstanding - basic | 136,311,335 | 136,231,562 | ||||||
| Dilutive effect of stock options | – | – | ||||||
| Weighted average common shares outstanding - diluted | 136,311,335 | 136,231,562 | ||||||
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with United States of America (U.S.) generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates are used when accounting for items and matters such as revenue recognition and allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable, inventory obsolescence, depreciation and amortization, long-lived assets, taxes and related valuation allowance, income tax provisions, stock-based compensation, and contingencies. The Company believes that the estimates, judgments and assumptions are reasonable, based on information available at the time they are made. Actual results may differ from those estimates.
| F-12 |
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes in accordance with ASC 740-10 “Income Taxes.” Under this method, deferred income taxes (when required) are provided based on the difference between the financial reporting and income tax bases of assets and liabilities and net operating losses at the statutory rates enacted for future periods. The Company has a policy of establishing a valuation allowance when it is more likely than not that the Company will not realize the benefits of its deferred income tax assets in the future.
The Company follows ASC 740-10-25, which prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. ASC 740-10-25 also provides guidance on de-recognition, classification, treatment of interest and penalties, and disclosure of such positions.
Revenue from Contracts with Customers
Accounting Standards Codification Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (“ASC 606, the Standard”) supersedes nearly all legacy revenue recognition guidance. ASC 606, the Standard outlines a comprehensive five-step revenue recognition model based on the principle that an entity should recognize revenue based on when it satisfies its performance obligations by transferring control of promised goods or services in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for said goods or services.
Identify the customer contracts
The Company accounts for a customer contract under ASC 606 when the contract is legally enforceable. A contract is legally enforceable when all of the following criteria are met: (1) the contract has been approved by the Company and the customer and both parties are committed to perform their respective obligations, (2) the Company can identify each party’s rights regarding goods or services transferred, (3) the Company can identify payment terms for goods or services transferred, (4) the contract has commercial substance, and (5) collectability of all the consideration to which the Company is entitled in exchange for the goods or services transferred is probable.
A contract does not exist if either party to the contract has the unilateral right to terminate a wholly unperformed contract without compensating the other party (or parties). Nearly all of the Company’s contracts do not contain such mutual termination rights for convenience. All contracts are in written form.
Identify the performance obligations
The Company will enter into product only contracts that contain a single performance obligation related to the transfer of products to a customer.
The Company will also enter into certain customer contracts that encompass product and installation services, referred to as “turnkey” solutions. These contracts ultimately provide the customer with a solution that enhances the functionality of the customer’s existing equipment. For this reason, the Company has determined that the product and installation services are not separately identifiable performance obligations, but in essence represent one, combined performance obligation (“turnkey”).
The Company also offers technical phone support services to customers. This service is considered a separate performance obligation.
| F-13 |
Determine the transaction price
The Company generally enters into contracts containing fixed prices. It is not customary for the Company to include contract terms that would result in variable consideration. In the rare situation that a contract does include this type of provision, it is not expected to result in a material adjustment to the transaction price. The Company regularly extends pricing discounts; however, they are negotiated up front and adjust the fixed transaction price set out in the contract.
Customer contracts will typically contain upfront deposits that will be applied against future invoices, as well as customer retainage. The intent of any required deposit or retainage is to ensure that the obligations of either party are honored and follow customary industry practices. In addition, the Company will typically be paid in advance at the beginning of any support contracts, consistent with industry practices. None of these payment provisions are intended to represent significant implicit financing. The Company’s standard payment terms are thirty days from invoice date. Products are fully refundable when returned in their original packaging without damage or defacing less a restocking fee. Historical returns have shown to be immaterial. The Company offers a standard one-year assurance warranty. However, customers can purchase an extended warranty. Under the revenue recognition standard, extended warranties are accounted for as a service warranty, requiring the revenue to be recognized over the extended service periods. Contracts involving an extended warranty are immaterial and will continue to be combined with technical phone support services revenue and recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the contract.
Allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations
Revenues from customer contracts are allocated to the separate performance obligations based on their relative stand-alone selling price (“SSP”) at contract inception. The SSP is the price at which the Company would sell a promised good or service separately. The best evidence of an SSP is the observable price of a good or service when the entity sells that good or service separately in similar circumstances and to similar customers. However, turnkey solutions are sold for a broad range of amounts resulting from, but not limited to, tiered discounting for value-added resellers (“VAR”) based upon committed volumes and other economic factors. Due to the high variability of our pricing, the Company cannot establish a reliable SSP using observable data. Accordingly, the Company uses the residual approach to allocate the transaction price to performance obligations related to its turnkey solutions. When support services are not included within the turnkey solution, the residual method is not utilized and no allocation of the transaction price to the performance obligation is necessary.
All support service agreements, whether single or multi-year terms, automatically renew for one-year terms at a suggested retail price (“SRP”). Support service renewals are consistently priced and therefore would support the use of SRP as the best estimate of an SSP for such performance obligations.
Revenue Recognition
The Company recognizes revenues from product only sales at a point in time when control over the product has transferred to the customer. As the Company’s principal terms of sale are FOB shipping point, the Company primarily transfers control and records revenue for product only sales upon shipment.
A typical turnkey project involves the installation and integration of 200-300 rooms in a customer-controlled facility and usually takes sixty days to complete. Since control over goods and services transfers to a customer once a room is installed, the Company recognizes revenue for turnkey solutions over time. The Company uses an outputs measure based on the number of rooms installed to recognize revenues from turnkey solutions.
Revenues from support services are recognized over time, in even daily increments over the term of the contract, and are presented as “Recurring Revenue” in the Statement of Operations.
Contracts are billed in accordance with the terms and conditions, either at periodic intervals or upon substantial completion. This can result in billing occurring subsequent to revenue recognition, resulting in contract assets. Contract assets are presented as current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Contract liabilities include deferrals for the monthly support service fees. Long-term contract liabilities represent support service fees that will be recognized as revenue after December 31, 2022.
| F-14 |
Contract Fulfillment Cost
The Company recognizes related costs of the contract over time in relation to the revenue recognition. Costs included within the projects relate to the cost of material, direct labor and costs of outside services utilized to complete projects. These are presented as “Contract assets” in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Sales Taxes
Unless provided with a resale or tax exemption certificate, the Company assesses and collects sales tax on sales transactions and records the amount as a liability. It is recognized as a liability until remitted to the applicable state. Total revenues do not include sales tax as the Company is considered a pass through conduit for collecting and remitting sales taxes.
Guarantees and Product Warranties
The Company records a liability for potential warranty claims in cost of sales at the time of sale. The amount of the liability is based on the trend in the historical ratio of claims to sales, the historical length of time between the sale and resulting warranty claim, new product introductions and other factors. The products sold are generally covered by a warranty for a period of one year. In the event the Company determines that its current or future product repair and replacement costs exceed its estimates, an adjustment to these reserves would be charged to earnings in the period such determination is made. For the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company experienced returns of approximately 1% to 3% of material’s included in cost of sales, respectively. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company recorded warranty liabilities in the amount of $46,650 and $45,328, respectively, using this experience factor range.
Product warranties for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Beginning balance | $ | 45,328 | $ | 58,791 | ||||
| Warranty claims incurred | (16,075 | ) | (20,499 | ) | ||||
| Provision charged to expense | 17,397 | 7,036 | ||||||
| Ending balance | $ | 46,650 | $ | 45,328 | ||||
Advertising
The Company follows the policy of charging the costs of advertising to expenses as incurred. The Company incurred $10,525 and $10,104 in advertising costs during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
Research and Development
The Company accounts for research and development costs in accordance with the ASC 730-10, “Research and Development”. Under ASC 730-10, all research and development costs must be charged to expense as incurred. Accordingly, internal research and development costs are expensed as incurred. Third-party research and development costs are expensed when the contracted work has been performed or as milestone results have been achieved. Company-sponsored research and development costs related to both present and future products are expensed in the period incurred. Total expenditures on research and product development for 2021 and 2020 were $1,129,957 and $1,177,282, respectively.
| F-15 |
The Company accounts for stock-based awards in accordance with ASC 718-10, “Share-Based Compensation”, which requires a fair value measurement and recognition of compensation expense for all share-based payment awards made to the Company’s employees and directors, including employee stock options and restricted stock awards. The Company estimates the fair value of stock options granted using the Black-Scholes valuation model. This model requires the Company to make estimates and assumptions including, among other things, estimates regarding the length of time an employee will hold vested stock options before exercising them, the estimated volatility of the Company’s common stock price and the number of options that will be forfeited prior to vesting. The fair value is then amortized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service periods of the awards, which is generally the vesting period. Changes in these estimates and assumptions can materially affect the determination of the fair value of stock-based compensation and consequently, the related amount recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of operations.
The expected term of the options represents the estimated period of time until exercise and is based on historical experience of similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms, vesting schedules and expectations of future employee behavior. The expected stock price volatility is based on the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for the related expected term.
Stock-based compensation expense in connection with options granted to employees was $ for both years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
NOTE B – NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments—Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments. ASU 2016-13 provides guidance for estimating credit losses on certain types of financial instruments, including trade receivables, by introducing an approach based on expected losses. The expected loss approach will require entities to incorporate considerations of historical information, current information and reasonable and supportable forecasts. ASU 2016-13 also amends the accounting for credit losses on available-for-sale debt securities and purchased financial assets with credit deterioration. The guidance requires a modified retrospective transition method and early adoption is permitted. In November 2019, FASB issued ASU No. 2019-10, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses, Derivatives and Hedging, and Leases (“ASU 2019-10”), which defers the adoption of ASU 2016-13 for smaller reporting companies until January 1, 2023. The Company will continue to evaluate the impact of ASU 2016-13 on its consolidated financial statements.
Management has evaluated other recently issued accounting pronouncements and does not believe any will have a significant impact on our consolidated financial statements and related disclosures.
NOTE C– REVENUE
The following table presents the Company’s product and recurring revenues disaggregated by industry for the year ended December 31, 2021.
| Hospitality | Education | Multiple Dwelling Units | Government | Healthcare | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
| Product | $ | 4,724,880 | $ | 279,486 | $ | 295,873 | $ | 193,970 | $ | 48,195 | $ | 5,542,404 | ||||||||||||
| Recurring | 592,655 | 112,879 | 26,461 | – | – | 731,995 | ||||||||||||||||||
| $ | 5,317,535 | $ | 392,365 | $ | 322,334 | $ | 193,970 | $ | 48,195 | $ | 6,274,399 | |||||||||||||
| F-16 |
The following table presents the Company’s product and recurring revenues disaggregated by industry for the year ended December 31, 2020.
| Hospitality | Education | Multiple Dwelling Units | Government | Healthcare | Total | |||||||||||||||||||
| Product | $ | 4,940,887 | $ | 443,001 | $ | 143,886 | $ | 214,477 | $ | – | $ | 5,742,251 | ||||||||||||
| Recurring | 597,490 | 129,541 | 24,588 | – | – | 751,619 | ||||||||||||||||||
| $ | 5,538,377 | $ | 572,542 | $ | 168,474 | $ | 214,477 | $ | – | $ | 6,493,870 | |||||||||||||
Sales taxes and other usage-based taxes are excluded from revenues.
Remaining performance obligations
As of December 31, 2021, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was approximately $1.2 million. Except for support services, the Company expects to recognize 100% of the remaining performance obligations over the next six months. As of December 31, 2020, the aggregate amount of the transaction price allocated to remaining performance obligations was approximately $0.9 million.
Contract assets and liabilities
| 2021 | 2020 | Variance | ||||||||||
| Contract assets | $ | 266,014 | $ | 104,989 | $ | 161,025 | ||||||
| Contract liabilities | 941,230 | 1,052,367 | (111,137 | ) | ||||||||
Contracts are billed in accordance with the terms and conditions, either at periodic intervals or upon substantial completion. This can result in billing occurring subsequent to revenue recognition, resulting in contract assets. Contract assets are presented as current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Often, the Company will require customers to pay a deposit upon contract signing that will be applied against work performed or products shipped. In addition, the Company will often invoice the full term of support at the start of the support period. Billings that occur prior to revenue recognition result in contract liabilities. The change in the contract liability balance during the 12 month period ended December 31, 2021 is the result of cash payments received and billing in advance of satisfying performance obligations.
Contract costs
Costs to complete a turnkey contract primarily relate to the materials cost and direct labor and are recognized proportionately as the performance obligation is satisfied. The Company will defer cost to complete a contract when materials have shipped (and control over the materials has transferred to the customer), but an insignificant amount of rooms have been installed. The Company will recognize any deferred costs in proportion to revenues recognized from the related turnkey contract. The Company does not expect deferred contract costs to be long-lived since a typical turnkey project takes sixty days to complete. Deferred contract costs are generally presented as current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
The Company incurs incremental costs to obtain a contract in the form of sales commissions. These costs, whether related to performance obligations that extend beyond twelve months or not, are immaterial and will continue to be recognized in the period incurred within selling, general and administrative expenses.
| F-17 |
NOTE D – ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Components of accounts receivable as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Accounts receivable | $ | 1,016,117 | $ | 873,147 | ||||
| Allowance for doubtful accounts | (5,563 | ) | (7,973 | ) | ||||
| Accounts receivable, net | $ | 1,010,554 | $ | 865,174 | ||||
NOTE E – PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT
The Company’s property and equipment as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 consists of the following:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Development test equipment | $ | 16,461 | $ | 16,461 | ||||
| Computer software | 76,134 | 76,134 | ||||||
| Office equipment | 66,685 | 66,685 | ||||||
| Office fixtures and furniture | 330,568 | 330,568 | ||||||
| Leasehold improvements | 18,016 | 18,016 | ||||||
| Total | 507,864 | 507,864 | ||||||
| Accumulated depreciation and amortization | (423,663 | ) | (380,192 | ) | ||||
| Total property and equipment | $ | 84,201 | $ | 127,672 | ||||
Depreciation and amortization expense included as a charge to income was $43,471 and $58,853 for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
NOTE F – CURRENT ACCRUED LIABILITIES
Current accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2021 and 2020 are as follows:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Accrued payroll and payroll taxes | $ | 242,131 | $ | 252,595 | ||||
| Accrued professional | 136,584 | 176,842 | ||||||
| Accrued sales taxes, penalties, and interest | 16,634 | 31,396 | ||||||
| Product warranties | 46,650 | 45,328 | ||||||
| Other accrued liabilities | 276,722 | 57,151 | ||||||
| Total current accrued liabilities | $ | 718,721 | $ | 563,312 | ||||
| F-18 |
NOTE G – DEBT
Revolving Credit Facility
On September 30, 2014, the Company entered into a loan and security agreement (the “Heritage Bank Loan Agreement”), with Heritage Bank of Commerce, a California state chartered bank (“Heritage Bank”), governing a revolving credit facility in a principal amount not to exceed $2,000,000 (the “Credit Facility”). Availability of borrowings under the Credit Facility is subject to a borrowing base calculation based on the Company’s eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory each multiplied by an applicable advance rate, with an overall limitation tied to the Company’s eligible accounts receivable. The Credit Facility is secured by all of the Company’s assets. The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement is available for working capital and other general business purposes.
The outstanding principal balance of the Credit Facility bears interest at the Prime Rate plus 3.00%, which was 6.25% at both December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. On October 9, 2014, as part of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement, Heritage Bank was granted a warrant to purchase 250,000 shares of Telkonet common stock. The warrant had an exercise price of $0.20 and expired October 9, 2021. On November 6, 2019, the Eleventh Amendment to the Credit Facility was executed to extend the maturity date to September 30, 2021, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement, and eliminate the maximum EBITDA loss covenant. The Eleventh Amendment was effective as of September 30, 2019.
On September 30, 2021, the Company entered into a twelfth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement to extend the revolving maturity date to December 31, 2021, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement. In addition, subject to certain conditions as specified in the Twelfth Amendment, Heritage Bank consented to the VDA Transaction (as described above under the “Business and Basis of Presentation” section in Note A – Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies) between the Company and VDA, and acknowledged and agreed that certain events occurring in connection with the VDA Transaction, including the change of control of the Company resulting from the VDA Transaction, do not constitute Events of Default as defined in the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement.
On December 13, 2021, the Company entered into a thirteenth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment to extend the revolving maturity date to March 31, 2022, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement. In addition, the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment reduced the credit extension amount to $1,000,000 and reduced unrestricted cash maintained in the Company’s accounts at Bank to be at least $1,000,000.
On March 10, 2022, the Company entered into a fourteenth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment to extend the revolving maturity date to June 30, 2023, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement.
The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement contains covenants that place restrictions on, among other things, the incurrence of debt, granting of liens and sale of assets. The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement also contains financial covenants. As discussed above, the EBITDA loss covenant was eliminated in the eleventh amendment to the Credit Facility. The sole financial covenants are a minimum asset coverage ratio and a minimum unrestricted cash balance of $1 million, both of which are measured at the end of each month. A violation of either of these covenants could result in an event of default under the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement. Upon the occurrence of such an event of default or certain other customary events of defaults, payment of any outstanding amounts under the Credit Facility may be accelerated and Heritage Bank’s commitment to extend credit under the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement may be terminated. The Heritage Bank Loan Agreement contains other representations and warranties, covenants, and other provisions customary to transactions of this nature.
The outstanding balance on the Credit Facility was $403,089 and $267,289 at December 31, 2021 and 2020 and the remaining available borrowing capacity was approximately $460,000 and $442,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2021, the Company was in compliance with all financial covenants.
| F-19 |
Paycheck Protection Program
The Company has received two loans under the Paycheck Protection Program (the “PPP”) administered by the United States Small Business Administration (the “SBA”) and authorized by the Keeping American Workers Employed and Paid Act, which is part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, enacted on March 27, 2020. On April 17, 2020, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note for $913,063 (“the First PPP Loan”). In January 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the First PPP Loan. On February 16, 2021, Heritage Bank confirmed that the First PPP Loan granted to the Company, in the original principal amount of $913,063 plus accrued interest of $7,610 thereon, was forgiven in full.
On April 27, 2021, the Company entered into an unsecured promissory note, dated as of April 26, 2021, for a second PPP loan (“the Second PPP Loan”), with Heritage Bank under a second draw of the PPP administered by the SBA and authorized by the Keeping American Workers Employed and Paid Act.
The principal amount of the Second PPP Loan was $913,063, and it bore interest of 1.0% per annum and had a maturity date of five years from the date the proceeds are disbursed. The proceeds of the Second PPP Loan were disbursed on April 27, 2021. No payments of principal or interest were required until after the Payment Deferral Period (as defined in the Note), but interest accrued during this period. After this period, monthly payments of principal and interest were required and continued until maturity with respect to any portion of the Second PPP Loan not forgiven, as discussed below. The Second PPP Loan could be prepaid, in full or in part, at any time prior to maturity with no prepayment penalties. The Note contained events of default and other provisions customary for a loan of this type.
Under the terms of the PPP, the Company could apply for, and be granted, forgiveness for all or a portion of the Second PPP Loan. Such forgiveness would be determined, subject to limitations and ongoing rulemaking by the SBA, based on the use of loan proceeds for eligible purposes, including payroll costs, mortgage interest, rent, utility costs and the maintenance of employee and compensation levels. At least 60% of such loan proceeds must be used for eligible payroll costs. The amount of loan forgiveness would be reduced if the Company terminates employees or reduces salaries during the Covered Period (as defined in the Note). In September 2021, the Company applied for forgiveness of the amount due on the Second PPP Loan. On September 15, 2021, Heritage Bank confirmed that the Second PPP Loan granted to the Company, in the original principal amount of $913,063 plus accrued interest of $3,044 thereon, was forgiven in full.
The total amount forgiven in 2021 for principal and accrued interest under the PPP Loans was $1,836,780.
NOTE H – PREFERRED STOCK
Series A
The Company has designated shares of preferred stock as Series A Preferred Stock (“Series A”). Each share of Series A is convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time, into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.363 per share. On November 16, 2009, the Company sold shares of Series A with attached warrants to purchase an aggregate of 1,628,800 shares of the Company’s common stock at $ per share. The Series A shares were sold at a price per share of $5,000 and each Series A share is convertible into approximately shares of common stock at a conversion price of $0.363 per share. The Company received $ from the sale of the Series A shares. In prior years, 30 of the preferred shares issued on November 16, 2009 were converted to shares of the Company’s common stock. In a prior year, the redemption feature available to the Series A holders expired.
| F-20 |
Series B
The Company has designated shares of preferred stock as Series B Preferred Stock (“Series B”). Each share of Series B is convertible, at the option of the holder thereof, at any time, into shares of the Company’s common stock at a conversion price of $0.13 per share. On August 4, 2010, the Company sold shares of Series B with attached warrants to purchase an aggregate of shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.13 per share. The Series B shares were sold at a price per share of $ and each Series B share was convertible into approximately shares of common stock at a conversion price of $0.13 per share. The Company received $1,335,000 from the sale of the Series B shares on August 4, 2010. On April 8, 2011, the Company sold 271 additional shares of Series B with attached warrants to purchase an aggregate of 5,211,542 shares of the Company’s common stock at $0.13 per share. The Series B shares were sold at a price per share of $5,000 and each Series B share was convertible into approximately shares of common stock at a conversion price of $0.13 per share. The Company received $1,355,000 from the sale of the Series B shares on April 8, 2011. In prior years, of the preferred shares issued on August 4, 2010 and April 8, 2011 were converted to shares of the Company’s common stock. In a prior year, the redemption feature available to the Series B holders expired.
Preferred stock carries certain preference rights as detailed in the Company’s Amended Articles of Incorporation related to both the payment of dividends and as to payments upon liquidation in preference to any other class or series of capital stock of the Company. As of December 31, 2021, the liquidation preference of the preferred stock is based on the following order: first, Series B with a preference value of $497,605, which includes cumulative accrued unpaid dividends of $237,605, and second, Series A with a preference value of $1,822,450, which includes cumulative accrued unpaid dividends of $897,450. As of December 31, 2020, the liquidation preference of the preferred stock is based on the following order: first, Series B with a preference value of $476,782, which includes cumulative accrued unpaid dividends of $216,782, and second, Series A with a preference value of $1,748,423, which includes cumulative accrued unpaid dividends of $823,423.
NOTE I – CAPITAL STOCK
The Company has authorized 15,000,000 shares of preferred stock, with a par value of $ per share. Of those shares, the Company has designated shares as Series A preferred stock and shares as Series B preferred stock. At December 31, 2021 and 2020, there were shares of Series A and shares of Series B outstanding, respectively.
As of December 31, 2021 and the date of this filing, following the closing of the VDA Transaction, the Company has authorized shares of common stock with a par value of $ per share. As of December 31, 2020, there were authorized shares of common stock with a par value of $ per share. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had shares of common stock issued and outstanding, respectively.
During the year ended December 31, 2021, no shares were issued. During the year ended December 31, 2020, the Company issued shares of common stock to directors for services performed during 2020. These shares were valued at $18,000, which approximated the fair value of the shares when they were issued.
During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, warrants were exercised.
During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, shares of Series A or B preferred stock were converted to shares of common stock.
| F-21 |
Employee Stock Options
The Company maintains an equity incentive plan (the “2020 Plan”). The 2020 Plan was established in 2020 as an incentive plan for officers, employees, non-employee directors, prospective employees and other key persons. The 2020 Plan replaced the 2010 Amended and Restated Stock Option and Incentive Plan, as amended (the “2010 Plan”), which expired on November 17, 2020. The 2020 Plan is administered by the Board of Directors or the compensation committee, which is comprised of not less than two non-employee directors who are independent. A total of shares of stock were reserved and available for issuance under the 2020 Plan. The exercise price per share for the stock covered by a stock option granted shall be determined by the administrator at the time of grant but shall not be less than 100 percent of the fair market value on the date of grant. The term of each stock option shall be fixed by the administrator, but no stock option shall be exercisable more than ten years after the date the stock option is granted. As of December 31, 2021, there were approximately shares remaining for issuance under the 2020 Plan.
It is anticipated that providing such persons with a direct stake in the Company’s welfare will assure a better alignment of their interests with those of the Company and its stockholders.
The following table summarizes the changes in options outstanding and the related prices for the shares of the Company’s common stock issued to employees of the Company under the 2010 Plan as of December 31, 2021. No options have been issued under the 2021 Plan.
Transactions involving stock options issued to employees are summarized as follows:
| Number of Shares | Weighted Average Exercise Price Per Share | |||||||
| Outstanding at January 1, 2020 | 3,349,793 | $ | 0.16 | |||||
| Granted | – | – | ||||||
| Exercised | – | – | ||||||
| Cancelled or expired | – | – | ||||||
| Outstanding at December 31, 2020 | 3,349,793 | $ | 0.16 | |||||
| Granted | – | – | ||||||
| Exercised | – | – | ||||||
| Cancelled or expired | – | – | ||||||
| Outstanding at December 31, 2021 | 3,349,793 | $ | 0.16 | |||||
| F-22 |
The expected life of awards granted represents the period of time that they are expected to be outstanding. The Company determines the expected life based on historical experience with similar awards, giving consideration to the contractual terms, vesting schedules, exercise patterns and pre-vesting and post-vesting forfeitures. The Company estimates the volatility of the Company’s common stock based on the calculated historical volatility of the Company’s common stock using the share price data for the trailing period equal to the expected term prior to the date of the award. The Company bases the risk-free interest rate used in the Black-Scholes option valuation model on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury zero-coupon issues with an equivalent remaining term equal to the expected life of the award. The Company has not paid any cash dividends on the Company’s common stock and does not anticipate paying any cash dividends in the foreseeable future. Consequently, the Company uses an expected dividend yield of zero in the Black-Scholes option valuation model. The Company uses historical data to estimate pre-vesting option forfeitures and records share-based compensation for those awards that are expected to vest. In accordance with ASC 718-10, the Company calculates share-based compensation for changes to the estimate of expected equity award forfeitures based on actual forfeiture experience.
There were no options granted in the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020.
The total estimated fair value of the options granted during both the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $. The total fair value of underlying shares related to options that vested during the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $and $, respectively. The aggregate intrinsic value of the vested options was as of December 31, 2021 and 2020. During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, options were granted, exercised, cancelled or expired. Total stock-based compensation expense in connection with options granted to employees recognized in the consolidated statements of operations for both the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $.
Warrants
The following table summarizes the changes in warrants outstanding and the related exercise price for the warrants issued to the debt holder in relation to the revolving credit facility, see Note G.
Transactions involving warrants are summarized as follows:
There were warrants granted or exercised, and warrants were cancelled during the year ended December 31, 2021. There were warrants granted, exercised, or cancelled during the year ended December 31, 2020.
| F-23 |
NOTE K – STOCK ISSUANCE TO NON-EMPLOYEE DIRECTORS
During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company issued common stock in the amount of $and $and paid cash consideration of $0 and $60,000, respectively to the Company’s non-employee directors as compensation for their attendance and participation in the Company’s Board of Director and committee meetings. The amount payable to directors at December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $223,000 and $100,000, respectively.
NOTE L – INCOME TAXES
The Company follows ASC 740-10 “Income Taxes” which requires the recognition of deferred tax liabilities and assets for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the financial statement or tax returns. Under this method, deferred tax liabilities and assets are determined based on the difference between financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse.
A reconciliation of tax expense computed at the statutory federal tax rate on loss from operations before income taxes to the actual income tax (benefit) / expense is as follows:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Tax benefit computed at the statutory rate | $ | (85,028 | ) | $ | (656,723 | ) | ||
| State taxes | (7,398 | ) | 9,489 | |||||
| Book (income not taxable) expenses not deductible for tax purposes | (385,135 | ) | 540 | |||||
| Rate change | 26,739 | (30,914 | ) | |||||
| Deferred tax write-off | 42,782 | – | ||||||
| Other | (393 | ) | 10,218 | |||||
| Total adjustments to tax provision | (408,433 | ) | (667,390 | ) | ||||
| Change in valuation allowance for deferred tax assets | 416,322 | 689,992 | ||||||
| Income tax expense | $ | 7,889 | $ | 22,602 | ||||
Deferred income taxes include the net tax effects of net operating loss (NOL) carry forwards and the temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes. Significant components of the Company's deferred tax assets are as follows:
| F-24 |
A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends on the ability of the Company to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future and in the appropriate taxing jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s valuation allowance, established for the tax benefit that may not be realized, totaled approximately $22,730,000 and $22,320,000, respectively. The overall increase in the valuation allowance is related to insignificant fluctuations in the temporary differences and federal and state net operating losses.
At December 31, 2021 the Company had net operating loss carryforwards of approximately $98,300,000 and $24,900,000 for federal and state income tax purposes which will expire at various dates from 2022 – 2041. There are approximately $9,100,000 of net operating losses that do not expire.
The Company’s NOL and tax credit carryovers may be significantly limited under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). NOL and tax credit carryovers are limited under Section 382 when there is a significant “ownership change” as defined in the IRC. During 2005 and in prior years, the Company may have experienced such ownership changes that could have imposed such limitations.
The limitation imposed by Section 382 would place an annual limitation on the amount of NOL and tax credit carryovers that can be utilized. When the Company completes the necessary studies, the amount of NOL carryovers available may be reduced significantly. However, since the valuation allowance fully reserves for all available carryovers, the effect of the reduction would be offset by a reduction in the valuation allowance.
The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and various state jurisdictions. The Company is generally no longer subject to U.S. federal income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2017 and various states before 2017. Although these years are no longer subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and various state taxing authorities, net operating loss carryforwards generated in those years may still be adjusted upon examination by the IRS or state taxing authorities if they have been or will be used in a future period.
The Company follows the provisions of uncertain tax positions as addressed in FASB Accounting Standards Codification 740-10-65-1. The Company recognized no change in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits. The Company has no tax positions at December 31, 2021 or 2020 for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductibility. The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in operating expense. No such interest or penalties were recognized during the periods presented. The Company had no accruals for interest and penalties at December 31, 2021 or 2020. The Company’s utilization of any net operating loss carryforwards may be unlikely due to its continuing losses.
NOTE M – COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Office Leases Obligations
In October 2013, the Company entered into a lease agreement for 6,362 square feet of commercial office space in Waukesha, Wisconsin for its corporate headquarters. The Waukesha lease would have expired in April 2021, but was subsequently amended and extended through April 2026. On April 7, 2017 the Company executed an amendment to its existing lease in Waukesha, Wisconsin to expand another 3,982 square feet, bringing the total leased space to 10,344 square feet. In addition, the lease term was extended from May 1, 2021 to April 30, 2026. The commencement date for this amendment was July 15, 2017.
In May 2017, the Company entered into a lease agreement for 5,838 square feet of floor space in Waukesha, Wisconsin for its inventory warehousing operations. The Waukesha lease expires in May 2024.
| F-25 |
In November 2021, the Company entered into a lease agreement for 425 square feet of commercial office space in Gaithersburg, Maryland. It expires on November 30, 2022.
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception. This determination generally depends on whether the arrangement conveys to the Company the right to control the use of an explicitly or implicitly identified fixed asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. Control of an underlying asset is conveyed to the Company if the Company obtains the rights to direct the use of and to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from using the underlying asset. The Company does not separate non-lease components from lease components to which they relate and accounts for the combined lease and non-lease components as a single lease component.
Operating leases are included in our Consolidated Balance Sheet as right-of-use assets, operating lease liabilities – current and operating lease liabilities – long-term. We do not recognize a right-of-use asset and lease liability for leases with a term of 12 months or less. Our current operating leases are for facilities. Our leases may contain renewal options; however, we do not recognize right-of-use assets or lease liabilities for renewal periods unless it is determined that we are reasonably certain of renewing the lease at inception or when a triggering event occurs. Some of our lease agreements may contain rent escalation clauses, rent holidays, capital improvement funding, or other lease concessions.
In determining our right-of-use assets and lease liabilities, we apply a discount rate to the minimum lease payments within each lease agreement. ASC 842 requires us to use the rate of interest that a lessee would have to pay to borrow on a collateralized basis over a similar term, an amount equal to the lease payments in a similar economic environment. When we cannot readily determine the discount rate implicit in the lease agreement, we utilize our current borrowing rate on our outstanding line of credit. The Company’s line of credit utilizes market rates to assess an interest rate. Refer to Note G for further discussion.
We recognize our minimum rental expense on a straight-line basis based on the fixed components of a lease arrangement. Payments are set on a pre-determined schedule within each lease agreement. We amortize this expense over the term of the lease beginning with the date of the standard adoption for current leases and beginning with the date of initial possession, which is the date we enter the leased space and begin to make improvements in the preparation for its intended use, for future leases. Variable lease components represent amounts that are not fixed in nature and are not tied to an index or rate and are recognized as incurred. Variable lease components consist primarily of the Company's proportionate share of common area maintenance, utilities, taxes and insurance and are presented as operating expenses in the Company’s statements of operations in the same line item as expense arising from fixed lease payments.
The components of lease expense for the years ended December 31 is as follows:
| Operating lease expense: | 2021 | 2020 | ||||||
| Operating lease cost - fixed | $ | 229,548 | $ | 230,944 | ||||
| Variable lease cost | 122,356 | 125,872 | ||||||
| Total operating lease cost | $ | 351,904 | $ | 356,816 | ||||
Other information related to leases as of December 31 is as follows:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Operating lease liability - current | $ | 195,176 | $ | 242,299 | ||||
| Operating lease liability - long-term | $ | 459,668 | $ | 592,341 | ||||
| Operating cash outflows from operating leases | $ | 242,305 | $ | 223,835 | ||||
| Weighted-average remaining lease term of operating leases | 4.1 years | 4.8 years | ||||||
| Weighted-average discount rate of operating leases | 8.5% | 8.5% | ||||||
| F-26 |
Future annual minimum operating lease payments as of December 31, 2021 were as follows:
| 2022 | $ | 195,176 | ||
| 2023 | 193,169 | |||
| 2024 | 172,425 | |||
| 2025 | 158,510 | |||
| 2026 and thereafter | 53,183 | |||
| Total minimum lease payments | 772,463 | |||
| Less imputed interest | (117,619 | ) | ||
| Total | $ | 654,844 |
Rental expenses charged to operations for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020 was $351,904 and $356,816, respectively.
Employment and Consulting Agreements
The Company has employment agreements with certain of its key employees which include non-disclosure and confidentiality provisions for protection of the Company’s proprietary information.
Under the terms of a Consulting Agreement, Piercarlo Gramaglia will serve as Chief Executive Officer of the Company for a term of eighteen (18) months, unless earlier terminated pursuant to the terms of the Consulting Agreement. In exchange for his service as Chief Executive Officer, the Company will pay Mr. Gramaglia an annual fee of $30,000 and will pay his reasonable expenses associated with the performance of his duties as Chief Executive Officer.
Jason L. Tienor, Chief Sales & Operations Officer of the Americas, is employed pursuant to an employment agreement with us effective January 7, 2022. Mr. Tienor’s employment agreement has an initial term of two (2) years, which will automatically renew for a period of an additional twelve (12) months, and provides for a base salary of $222,800 per year and bonuses and benefits based upon the Company’s internal policies and participation in the Company’s incentive and benefit plans. Per the agreement, Mr. Tienor is eligible to receive a bonus, not to exceed 30% of his base salary, should predetermined objectives be met.
Jeffrey J. Sobieski, Chief Technology Officer, is employed pursuant to an employment agreement with us effective January 7, 2022. Mr. Sobieski’s employment agreement has an initial term of one (1) year, which will automatically renew for a period of an additional twelve (12) months, and provides for a base salary of $211,625 per year and bonuses and benefits based upon the Company’s internal policies and participation in the Company’s incentive and benefit plans. Per the agreement, Mr. Sobieski is eligible to receive a bonus, not to exceed 15% of his base salary, should predetermined objectives be met.
Richard E. Mushrush, Chief Financial Officer, is employed pursuant to an employment agreement with us effective January 7, 2022. Mr. Mushrush’s employment agreement has an initial term of one (1) year, which will automatically renew for a period of an additional twelve (12) months, and provides for a base salary of $122,000 per year and bonuses and benefits based upon the Company’s internal policies and participation in the Company’s incentive and benefit plans. Per the agreement, Mr. Mushrush is eligible to receive a bonus, not to exceed 20% of his base salary, should predetermined objectives be met.
In addition to the foregoing, stock options are periodically granted to employees under the Company’s 2010 equity incentive plan at the discretion of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors. Executives of the Company are eligible to receive stock option grants, based upon individual performance and the performance of the Company as a whole.
| F-27 |
Litigation
The Company is subject to legal proceedings and claims which arise in the ordinary course of its business. Although occasional adverse decisions or settlements may occur, other than the Sipco Lawsuit discussed below and which has been terminated, the Company believes that the final disposition of such matters should not have a material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
Sipco Litigation and License Agreement
On June 30, 2020, Sipco, LLC (“Sipco”) filed a lawsuit against the Company in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin (Case No. 20-CV-00981) (the “Sipco Lawsuit”) alleging infringement on multiple essential wireless mesh (“EWM”) patents held by the Sipco. The EWM patent portfolio covers technologies used in multi-hop wireless networks utilizing wireless protocols such as, but not limited to, Zigbee. The portfolio also covers applications including, but not limited to, home and building automation and industrial controls. The complaint contended that the Company sold, and was continuing to sell, various automated networked products designed to manage energy, lighting and temperature and those products employ wireless mesh network communication utilizing Zigbee enabled technology. The complaint alleged patent infringement and sought damages, costs, expenses, pre-judgment and post-judgment interest and post-judgment royalties. The complaint also alleged that the infringement was willful and that this is an “exceptional case” and requested treble damages and attorneys’ fees.
On November 30, 2020, the Company entered into a Wireless Network Patent License Agreement (the “License Agreement”) with SIPCO, LLC (“Sipco”) and IPCO, LLC dba IntusIQ (collectively, the “Licensors”) in order to settle the Sipco Lawsuit, without the expense of costly litigation. Pursuant to the terms of the License Agreement, on November 30, 2020, Sipco and the Company filed a Stipulation of Dismissal in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin to stipulate to the dismissal of the Sipco Lawsuit in its entirety, with prejudice.
Under the terms of the License Agreement, the Company is required to pay the Licensors royalties on (a) all Licensed Products (as defined in the License Agreement) sold by Telkonet or its affiliates from July 1, 2020 to December 31, 2024 and (b) all Licensed Products in Telkonet or its affiliates’ possession, but not sold, as of December 31, 2024. Specifically, the Company is required to pay a royalty fee, calculated quarterly, equal to 3.50% of applicable sales for the period beginning on July 1, 2020 and continuing until December 31, 2021 (the “First Period”). There was also an upfront payment of $40,000 that was paid in the fourth quarter of 2020. Based on the Company and its affiliates’ applicable sales for the year ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, the royalty fees were approximately $127,000 and $87,000, respectively. Beginning on January 1, 2022 and continuing until June 30, 2023, the Company is required to pay a quarterly royalty fee equal to 3.75% of applicable sales or $35,000, whichever is greater. Beginning on July 1, 2023 and continuing until December 31, 2024, the Company is required to pay a royalty fee, calculated quarterly, equal to 4% of applicable sales or $40,000, whichever is greater. Finally, the Company is required to pay a closing payment of $50,000 no later than January 31, 2025. Upon termination of the License Agreement, Telkonet and its affiliates have six months to sell off any unsold inventory of Licensed Products as of date of termination, paying the appropriate royalty on a quarterly basis as the Licensed Products are sold, and then pay a final royalty on any such inventory of Licensed Products still unsold after six months.
The minimum payments required under the License Agreement have been accrued for on the Company’s Consolidated Balance Sheet in accordance with GAAP, which specifies that when a liability is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated, said liability should be recorded in the current reporting period. Per the License Agreement, the contractual minimum payments begin on January 1, 2022 and continue until December 31, 2024, thus satisfying both criteria of probable and reasonably estimable. Accordingly, a long-term liability was recorded representing the sum of those contractual minimums. As of December 31, 2021, the Company had a current liability of approximately $166,000, which $26,000 is included in accounts payable and $140,000 in other accrued liabilities (See Note F – Current Accrued Liabilities for further breakdown of accrued liabilities), along with a non-current liability of $360,000 included in accrued royalties – long-term recorded on its Consolidated Balance Sheet.
| F-28 |
All quarterly payments are due within thirty days of the end of the relevant three-month period (with the exception of the payment for the quarter ended September 30, 2020, which was due by December 31, 2020). In the event (a) the Company fails to make the payments and provide the statements required under the License Agreement and such breach is not cured within thirty days of written notice from the Licensors and (b) the Licensors elect not to terminate the License Agreement, the Licensors are entitled to an immediate and accelerated payment of any remaining payments due under the License Agreement. In addition to the payment terms described above, the License Agreement contains representations and warranties and other provisions customary to agreements of this nature.
Indemnification Agreements
On March 31, 2010, the Company entered into Indemnification Agreements with executives Jason L. Tienor, then President and Chief Executive Officer, and Jeffrey J. Sobieski, then Chief Operating Officer. On April 24, 2012, the Company entered into an Indemnification Agreement with director Tim S. Ledwick. On January 1, 2017, the Company entered into an Indemnification Agreement with Chief Financial Officer Richard E. Mushrush.
The Indemnification Agreements provide that the Company will indemnify the Company's officers and directors, to the fullest extent permitted by law, relating to, resulting from or arising out of any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, or any inquiry or investigation by reason of the fact that such officer or director (i) is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Company or (ii) is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise if he acted in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the Company, and, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, had no reasonable cause to believe his or her conduct was unlawful. In addition, the Indemnification Agreements provide that the Company will make an advance payment of expenses to any officer or director who has entered into an Indemnification Agreement, in order to cover a claim relating to any fact or occurrence arising from or relating to events or occurrences specified in this paragraph, subject to receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such officer or director to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be determined that he is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company as authorized under the Indemnification Agreement.
Sales Tax
Unless provided with a resale or tax exemption certificate, the Company assesses and collects sales tax on sales transactions and records the amount as a liability. It is recognized as a liability until remitted to the applicable state. Total revenues do not include sales tax as the Company is considered a pass through conduit for collecting and remitting sales taxes.
The following table sets forth the change in the sales tax accrual during the years ended December 31:
| 2021 | 2020 | |||||||
| Balance, beginning of year | $ | 31,396 | $ | 26,957 | ||||
| Sales tax collected | 85,589 | 94,904 | ||||||
| Provisions (reversals) | (7,685 | ) | 27,916 | |||||
| Payments | (92,666 | ) | (118,381 | ) | ||||
| Balance, end of year | $ | 16,634 | $ | 31,396 | ||||
| F-29 |
NOTE N – BUSINESS CONCENTRATION
For the year ended December 31, 2021, one customer represented approximately 18% of total net revenues. For the year ended December 31, 2020, there were two customers each representing over 10%, accounting for approximately 28% of total net revenues.
As of December 31, 2021, there were five customers, each representing over 10% of the Company’s net accounts receivable, accounting for 64% of the Company’s net accounts receivable. As of December 31, 2020, there was only one customer representing over 10% for 21% of the Company’s net accounts receivable.
Purchases from one supplier approximated $1,878,803, or 82%, of total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2021 and approximately $2,287,950, or 91%, of total purchases for the year ended December 31, 2020. The amount due to this supplier, net of deposits paid, was approximately $134,000 and $470,000 as of December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
NOTE O – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN
The Company has an employee savings plan covering substantially all employees who are at least 21 years of age and have completed at least 3 months of service. The plan provides for matching contributions equal to 100% of each dollar contributed by the employee up to % of the employee’s salary. The Company’s matching contributions vest immediately. The Company may also elect to make discretionary contributions. In response to the impact COVID-19 has had on the Company’s operations and financial results, in June 2020 management suspended the Company’s 401(k) match for the foreseeable future. The Company made contributions to the plan of approximately $0 and $53,000 for the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively.
NOTE P – SUBSEQUENT EVENT
On January 12, 2022, the Company closed on the contribution of $5 million to the Company (the “Financing”) by VDA Group S.p.A., an Italian joint stock company (“VDA”), in exchange for the issuance (the “Issuance”) by the Company to VDA of (i) 162,900,947 shares of common stock of Telkonet, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”); and (ii) a warrant to purchase 105,380,666 additional shares of Common Stock (the “Warrant”) (the Financing and the Issuance referred to herein collectively as the “Transaction”).
Also in connection with the Transaction, effective upon the closing, the majority of the existing members of Telkonet’s board of directors (the “Board”) resigned and the vacancies resulting from those resignations were filled by individuals designated by VDA and appointed by the remaining Board members, resulting in a change of control of the Board. In addition, effective upon the closing, Jason L. Tienor resigned as Chief Executive Officer of the Company to become its’ Chief Sales & Operation Officer of the Americas and Piercarlo Gramaglia, Chief Executive Officer of VDA, will provide chief executive officer services to the Company pursuant to a consulting agreement between the Company and VDA.
Following the issuance of 162,900,947 shares of Common Stock to VDA upon the closing of the Transaction, VDA owns 53% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis and could eventually own as much as 65% of the issued and outstanding Common Stock on a fully diluted as exercised/converted basis if it fully exercises the Warrant. Accordingly, the Transaction resulted in a change of control of the Company.
The Transaction was subject to customary closing conditions, including, without limitation: (i) approval by the stockholders of Telkonet of an amendment to Telkonet’s Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (the “Amendment”) and the filing of the Amendment; (ii) the approval by the stockholders of Telkonet of the Issuance to effectuate the Transaction. The stockholders approved the Amendment and filing and the Issuance at the Special Meeting of Stockholders held on October 27, 2021.
On March 10, 2022, the Company entered into a fourteenth amendment to the Heritage Bank Loan Amendment to extend the revolving maturity date to June 30, 2023, unless earlier accelerated under the terms of the Heritage Bank Loan Agreement.
| F-30 |
EXHIBIT 10.9
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, dated August 6, 2021, is entered into by and between Telkonet, Inc., a Utah corporation, and its respective current and former parent companies, successors, predecessors, subsidiaries and other affiliated companies as well as any of their respective current and former directors, officers, agents, shareholders, and employees ("Telkonet" or "Company") and Jason L. Tienor ("Executive"). The Company and Executive may be referred to as the "Parties" or the "Party."
WHEREAS, in connection with the closing of the transaction (the "Closing") contemplated by the Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 6, 2021, by and between VOA Group S.p.A. ("VOA"), an Italian joint stock company (societa per azioni) incorporated under the laws of the Republic of Italy ("VOA"), and the Company (the "Purchase Agreement"), the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and Executive desires to continue to be employed by the Company, in each case, upon the terms and conditions set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and for such other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby conclusively acknowledged, the parties, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:
1. Duties and Scope of Employment.
(a) Positions and Outies. The Company hereby employs Executive in the capacity of Chief Sales & Operation Officer (CSO & COO) of the Americas. In such capacity, Executive shall be responsible for the overall productivity and effectiveness of the sales and operations of the Company's organization in the Americas. In particular, Executive's responsibility shall include without limitations: (i) leading and overseeing the Company's sales team to achieve revenue and sales growth; (ii) providing and running the Company's daily operations management to ensure that Company continues to retain existing customers, increase customer base and sales, and ensure customer satisfaction; (iii) creating and implementing methodology and parameters to periodically assess the performance and effectiveness of the Company's sales team; (iv) aligning sales targets with the Company's profitability targets; (v) developing and implementing sales strategies, policies and procedures to achieve Company's targets; and (vi) performing such other services and duties as the Company or its Board of Oirectors ("Board") may direct from time to time. Executive will report to the Telkonet CEO. Executive's position on the Board will not be affected by this Agreement.
(b) Location. Executive's place of work shall be 20800 Swenson Or., Suite 175, Waukesha, WI 53186 or Executive's home office, as applicable. The Company reserves the right to require Executive to come into the office consistent with business needs. Executive further acknowledges and agrees that Executive's duties may from time to time require reasonable and customary business travel within the United States and/or abroad.
2. Term. The term of this Agreement shall commence as of the Closing and run for twenty- four (24) months from the Closing (the "Initial Term"), unless the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 6 below. The Initial Term will automatically renew for consecutive twelve (12) month intervals (the Initial Term and any renewal term will be referred to as the "Term"), unless (a) Executive or the Company provide written notice to the other Party of his or its intent not to renew the Agreement at least 90 days prior to the end of the Term in accordance with the notice provision herein; or (b) the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 6 below.
3. Extent of Services. Ouring the Term, Executive shall devote his full time, ability, attention and efforts to the performance, to the best of his abilities, of such duties and responsibilities, as described in Section 1 above, and as the Board of Oirectors shall determine, consistent therewith. Executive agrees to be bound by the provisions of the Company Handbook (the "Handbook"), as such document may be modified from time to time. To the extent the provisions of the Handbook conflict with the terms of this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail. Employee acknowledges receiving a copy of the Handbook, and, by signing this Agreement, agrees to be bound by its terms.
4. Compensation.
(a) Salary. Executive shall be paid $222,800 on an annualized basis in accordance with Telkonet's normal payroll practices, and be subject to all lawfully required withholdings ("Base Salary"). The Base Salary may be increased, at any time, as determined by the Board.
(b) Bonus. Executive will also be eligible to participate in the Company-sponsored bonus plan (the "Bonus Plan"). Should the Company [and Executive] meet the targets set forth in the Bonus Plan, Executive will be eligible to receive up to 30 % of Executive's Base Salary. The Bonus Program will be presented to Executive at the beginning of the calendar year.
(c) Executive Participation in Telkonet Staff Benefits Plans. Ouring the Term, Executive shall be entitled to participate in any group health programs and other benefit plans, which may be instituted from time-to-time for Telkonet employees, and for which Executive qualifies under the terms of such plans. All such benefits shall be provided on the same terms and conditions as generally apply to all other Telkonet employees under these plans and may be modified by Telkonet from time-to-time.
(d) Expenses. Executive shall be reimbursed by Telkonet for all ordinary, reasonable, customary and necessary expenses incurred by him in the performance of his duties and responsibilities. Executive agrees to prepare documentation for such expenses as may be necessary for Telkonet to comply with the applicable rules and regulations of the Internal Revenue Service and Telkonet's existing policy. Telkonet will provide a stipend equal to $323 per pay period to Executive for the purpose of obtaining an auto for the Executive's business use.
(e) Equity. To the extent the Company implements an equity plan, Executive will be eligible to participate in such plan in accordance with the terms and conditions of the plan as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board.
5. Paid Time Off. At full pay and without any adverse effect to his compensation, provided that all other terms and conditions of this Agreement are satisfied, Executive shall be entitled to five (5) weeks of paid time off ("PTO") for each full calendar year during the term of this Agreement to be used for vacation, personal or sick leave. PTO leave must be preapproved in writing by TKOI's CEO, except that Executive may use one week of PTO for personal and/or sick days without pre-approval. Carryover of PTO days shall be consistent with Company's existing policy.
6. Termination. This Agreement shall terminate in accordance with Section 2 of this Agreement, or upon the first to occur of any of the following events:
(a) "Cause" By the Company. For purposes of this Agreement, Cause shall mean the occurrence of any of the following: (1) theft, fraud, embezzlement, or any other act of intentional dishonesty by Executive; (2) any material breach by Executive of any provision of this Agreement which breach is not cured within a reasonable time (but not to exceed fourteen (14) days) after written notification thereof to Executive by Telkonet; (4) commission by Executive of a felony or any offense involving moral turpitude; or (5) any default of Executive's obligations hereunder, or any failure or refusal of Executive to comply with the policies, rules and regulations of Telkonet generally applicable to Telkonet employees, which default, failure or refusal is not cured within a reasonable time (but not to exceed fourteen (14) days) after written notification thereof to Executive by Telkonet. Upon termination for Cause, Executive shall be entitled to no further compensation, except for (i) the unpaid portion of Executive's Base Salary, computed on a pro rata basis to the date of termination; payment of accrued, unused Paid Time Off; (iii) unpaid expenses submitted in accordance with the Company's policy; (iv) other payments, benefits or fringe benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the terms of any applicable compensation arrangement or benefit plan provided under this Agreement; and (v) payment for redemption of Executive's current holdings of Series A Preferred Stock in an amount equal to the Series A Original Issue Price plus unpaid Accruing Oividends for such shares to the date of redemption (as set forth in the Company's Articles of Incorporation currently in effect), to the extent such redemption is permitted by applicable law. The payments set forth in this Paragraph 6(a)(i) through (iv) are hereafter referred to as "Accrued Compensation".
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(b) "Good Reason" By Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence of any of the following: (1) any material adverse reduction in the scope of Executive's authority, title or responsibilities; (2) any reduction in the amount of Executive's compensation or participation in any employee benefits; or (3) Executive's principal place of employment is actually or constructively moved to any office or other location 75 miles or more outside of the address(es) referenced in Section 1(b), provided however that Executive shall provide the Company with written notice of the Good Reason setting forth in detail Executive's belief that the Company has breached this Paragraph, and, if the claimed breach is pursuant to Paragraph 6(b)(1), the Company shall have thirty (30) days to cure. If Executive terminates his employment with Telkonet for Good Reason and the Company fails to cure, as applicable, Telkonet shall pay Executive, in addition to Accrued Compensation, (i) twelve (12) months of Executive's Base Salary as of the date of termination, payable in accordance with the Company's payroll schedule applicable to all employees (the "Severance Period"); (ii) if Executive elects COBRA, payment for any applicable health insurance premiums during the Severance Period; and (iii) payment for redemption of Executive's current holdings of Series A Preferred Stock in an amount equal to the Series A Original Issue Price plus unpaid Accruing Dividends for such shares to the date of redemption (as set forth in the Company's Articles of Incorporation currently in effect), to the extent such redemption is permitted by applicable law.
(c) "Without Cause" By the Company. If Executive is terminated by Telkonet Without Cause, then Executive shall receive, in addition to Accrued Compensation: (i) twelve (12) months of Executive's Base Salary as of the date of termination during the Severance Period, as defined above; (ii) if Executive elects COBRA, payment for any applicable health insurance premiums during the Severance Period; and (iii) payment for redemption of Executive's current holdings of Series A Preferred Stock in an amount equal to the Series A Original Issue Price plus unpaid Accruing Dividends for such shares to the date of redemption (as set forth in the Company's Articles of Incorporation currently in effect), to the extent such redemption is permitted by applicable law.
(d) Oeath or Oisability. If Executive becomes incapacitated or disabled at any time during the Term so as to be unable (either mentally or physically) to substantially perform the services required of Executive pursuant to this Agreement for a period of ninety (90) days or in any twelve (12) month period, unless otherwise required by law, the Company may, at its option, terminate Executive's employment hereunder effective immediately upon giving Executive thirty (30) days written notice of such termination. If Executive's employment terminates by reason of death or disability, Executive will be entitled to receive (i) the Accrued Compensation; and (ii) payment for redemption of Executive's current holdings of Series A Preferred Stock in an amount equal to the Series A Original Issue Price plus unpaid Accruing Dividends for such shares to the date of redemption (as set forth in the Company's Articles of Incorporation currently in effect), to the extent such redemption is permitted by applicable law.
(e) Separation Agreement and Release of Claims. The receipt of any severance pursuant to this Agreement, including without limitation severance payable to Executive under Paragraphs 6(a), (b), (c) and (d) herein, will be subject to Executive signing and not revoking a separation agreement and release of claims (the "Release") in a form reasonably acceptable to the Company. The Release will provide (among other things) that Executive will not disparage the Company, its directors, or its executive officers, and the Company will instruct its officers and directors not to disparage the Executive. No severance pursuant to this Agreement will be paid or provided until the Release becomes effective. All payments and benefits to which Executive otherwise may be entitled pursuant to this Section 6, if any, will cease immediately should Executive breach a provision of this Agreement.
7. Surrender of Books and Papers. Upon termination of this Agreement (irrespective of the time, manner, or cause of termination, be it for cause or otherwise), Executive shall immediately surrender to Telkonet all books, records, or other written papers or documents entrusted to him or which he has otherwise acquired pertaining to Telkonet and all other Telkonet property in Executive's possession, custody or control.
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8. Inventions and Patents. Executive agrees that Executive will promptly, from time-to time, fully inform and disclose to Telkonet any and all ideas, concepts, copyrights, copyrightable material, developments, inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries of whatever nature that Executive may have or produced during the term of Executive's employment under this Agreement that pertain or relate to the then current business of Telkonet (the "Creations"), whether conceived by Executive alone or with others and whether or not conceived during regular working hours. All Creations shall be the exclusive property of Telkonet and shall be "works made for hire" as defined in 17 U.S.C. §101, and Telkonet shall own all rights in and to the Creations throughout the world, without payment of royalty or other consideration to Executive or anyone claiming through Executive. Executive hereby transfers and assigns to Telkonet (or its designee) all right, title and interest in and to every Creation. Executive shall assist Telkonet in obtaining patents or copyrights on all such inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries being patentable or copyrightable by Executive or Telkonet and shall execute all documents and do all things reasonably necessary (at Telkonet's sole cost and expense) to obtain letters of patent or copyright, vest Telkonet with full and exclusive title thereto, and protect the same against infringement by third parties, and such assistance shall be given by Executive, if needed, after termination of this Agreement for whatever cause or reason. Executive hereby represents and warrants that Executive has no current or future obligation with respect to the assignment or disclosure of any or all developments, inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries of whatever nature to any previous Employer, entity or other person and that Executive does not claim any rights or interest in or to any previous unpatented or uncopyrighted developments, inventions, designs, improvements or discoveries.
9. Confidential Information, Non-Competition and No-Inducement.
(a) Confidential Information.
(1) Contemporaneous with the execution of this Agreement and during the term of employment under this Agreement, Telkonet shall deliver to Executive or permit Executive to have access to and become familiar with various confidential information and trade secrets of Telkonet, including without limitation, data, production methods, customer lists, product format or developments, other information concerning the business of Telkonet and other unique processes, procedures, services and products of Telkonet, which are regularly used in the operation of the business of Telkonet (collectively, the "Confidential Information").
(2) For purposes of the preceding sentence, information is not treated as being Confidential Information if it: (i) is or becomes generally available to the public other than by Executive in violation of this Agreement; (ii) is obtained by Executive in good faith from a third party who discloses such information to Executive on a non-confidential basis without violating any obligation of confidentiality or secrecy relating to the information disclosed; or (iii) is information published or disseminated by the Company in the ordinary course of business without restriction .
(3) Executive shall not disclose any Confidential Information that he receives from the Company or Telkonet's clients and customers, directly or indirectly, nor use it in any way at any time, except as required in the course of employment with Telkonet, including, without limitation, (i) to compete or assist in competing with the Company; (ii) to contact, either directly or indirectly, any existing or potential customers, clients, contractors or vendors of the Company; or (iii) to interfere with or attempt to interfere with, or change the business relationship between the Company and its existing or potential customers, clients, contractors or vendors. Executive further acknowledges and agrees that Executive owes Telkonet, a fiduciary duty to preserve and protect all Confidential Information from unauthorized disclosure or unauthorized use.
(4) All files, records, documents, drawings, graphics, processes, specifications, equipment and similar items relating to the business of Telkonet, whether prepared by Executive or otherwise coming into Executive's possession in the course of his employment with Telkonet, shall remain the exclusive property of Telkonet and shall not be removed from the premises of Telkonet without the prior written consent of Telkonet unless removed in relation to the performance of Executive's duties under this Agreement. Any Confidential Information, including without limitation, files, records, documents, drawings, graphics, specifications, equipment and similar items, and any and all copies of such materials that have been removed from the premises of Telkonet, shall be immediately returned by Executive to Telkonet upon demand or separation from the Company. As defined above, "Telkonet" includes Telkonet, Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates and all successors and predecessors in interest to Telkonet.
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(5) Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016. Under the Federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (a) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (b) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.
(b) Non-Competition. In consideration for Telkonet's disclosure of Confidential Information to Executive, Executive's access to the Confidential Information, and the salary paid to Executive hereunder, Executive covenants and agrees as follows:
(1) Executive acknowledges that he will be provided with and have access to Confidential Information, the unauthorized use or disclosure of which would cause irreparable injury to Telkonet, that Telkonet's willingness to enter into this Agreement is based in material part on Executive's agreement to the provisions of this Section 9(b) and that Executive's breach of the provisions of this Section would materially and irreparably damage Telkonet.
(2) Executive covenants and agrees that during Executive's employment with the Company, and for a period of one year commencing on the date of Executive's separation from the Company for any reason, including termination with or Without Cause, Employee shall not, directly or indirectly, be employed by, assist, own, manage, consult, operate or control, or participate in the ownership, management, operation or control of any business that is in competition in any manner whatsoever with the Restricted Business (as defined herein) in North America. "Restricted Business" means any business or prospective business conducted or considered by Telkonet at the time of Executive's separation from Telkonet, including (without limitation) any business concerning or relating to energy management systems or guest room management systems and any related-products or systems in connection therewith.
(3) Executive further acknowledges that because of the nature of the business, the competitive market is not limited to a defined geographic area, and therefore, this non-compete provision is not and cannot be, restricted to a geographic area, but rather is restricted as set forth above.
(c) No-Inducement. During Executive's employment with the Company and for a period of eighteen (18) months following Executive's separation from the Company for any reason, Executive agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly (including but not limited to, through the use of "headhunters", recruiters or employment agencies) (i) solicit, hire, entice, persuade, recruit, employ or induce any person who was (or is) an employee of the Company during the one (1) year period prior to the end of Executive's employment with the Company to leave, modify or otherwise interfere with their employment relationship with the Company; (ii) divert, lessen or interfere with any person or entity that is or was engaged by the Company as an independent contractor, consultant, vendor and/or agent during the one (1) year period prior to the end of Executive's employment with the Company; or (iii) divert, solicit, interfere with, or attempt to take away business from, render services for, accept business from, or do business with any person or entity that is or was a customer or client (or prospective customer or client) of the Company relating to Restricted Business (as defined above): (a) with whom Executive had contact during Executive's employment with the Company; (b) to whom Executive was introduced while employed by the Company; or (c) whose identity or contact information Executive learned about as a result of Executive being employed by the Company (collectively, "Client").
(d) Reasonableness of Restrictions. Executive acknowledges and expressly agrees that:
(1) the restrictions set forth in this Paragraph 9 of this Agreement are reasonable in scope and necessary for the protection of the business and goodwill of Telkonet;
(2) Executive's services are of a unique and extraordinary nature and that the restrictions contained herein are necessary to protect the Company;
(3) Executive's experience and capabilities are such that enforcement of this Paragraph 9 by injunction will not prevent Executive from earning a living;
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(4) the Company takes significant steps to preserve and protect its business and competitive advantage and the loss of such advantage could cause severe and irreparable harm to the Company;
(5) should any portion of the covenants in Section 9 be unenforceable because of the scope thereof or the period covered thereby or otherwise, the covenant shall be deemed to be reduced and limited to enable it to be enforced to the maximum extent permissible under the laws and public policies applied in the jurisdiction in which enforcement is sought.
(e) Injunctive Relief; Extension of Restrictive Period. In the event of a breach of any of the covenants by Executive or Telkonet contained in this Agreement, it is understood that damages will be difficult to ascertain, and either party may petition a court of law or equity for injunctive relief in addition to any other relief which Executive or Telkonet may have under the law, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys' fees.
10. Non-disparagement. Executive and the Company's C-level officers agree not to make false or disparaging statements concerning each other or the Company's current or former officers, directors, members, employees or agents during Executive's employment with the Company or anytime thereafter. Employee and Company's C-level officers further agree not to take any actions or conduct themselves in any way that would reasonably be expected to adversely affect the reputation or goodwill of Executive, the Company, any affiliate of the Company, or any of the Company's or its affiliates current or former officers, directors, members, employees or agents during Executive's employment with the Company or anytime thereafter.
11. Resignations. As applicable, Executive agrees that he shall resign as a director and officer of the Company, and as a director and/or officer of each other direct and indirect subsidiary, division or affiliate of the Company for which Executive currently serves as a director or officer, effective as of the separation date, and further agrees to execute and deliver to the Company any instruments or documents reasonably requested by the Company to effect such resignations.
12. Indemnification and Insurance. Executive will be covered under the Company's insurance policies and, subject to applicable law, will be provided indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by the Company's bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation, and standard form of Indemnification Agreement, with such insurance coverage and indemnification to be in accordance with the Company's standard practices for senior executive officers but on terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company senior executive officer or director.
13. Mandatory and Confidential Mediation and Arbitration.
(a) Except as otherwise provided herein, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein, Executive and the Company agree any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, its enforcement, interpretation or arbitrability, or because of an alleged breach, default, or misrepresentation in connection with any of its provisions, or arising out of or relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, shall be settled by confidential, final and binding arbitration in Waukesha County, Wisconsin before a single arbitrator, selected in accordance with the National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes of the American Arbitration Association ("AAA"), in accordance with the procedures required under Wisconsin law; provided, however, that the Company may seek injunctive relief in order to prevent irreparable harm or preserve the status quo. The parties understand and agree that this is an agreement to arbitrate under the Federal Arbitration Act ("FAA"). The parties further understand that this arbitration clause, and its enforcement, shall be governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, except where preempted by the FAA.
(b) Any award pursuant to said arbitration shall be accompanied by a written opinion of the arbitrator setting forth the reason for the award, including findings of fact and conclusions of law. The award rendered by the arbitrator shall be conclusive and binding upon the Parties hereto, and judgment upon the award may be entered, and enforcement may be sought in, any court of competent jurisdiction. A court shall vacate, modify or correct any award: (i) where the arbitrator's findings of fact are not supported by substantial evidence, (ii) where the arbitrator's conclusions of law are erroneous; (iii) in accordance with Wisconsin law governing arbitration; or (iv) where the arbitrators knew of a governing legal principle yet refused to apply it or ignored it altogether. Executive understands and agrees that any demand for arbitration by either Executive or the Company shall be filed within the statute of limitation that is applicable to the claim(s) upon which arbitration is sought or required. Each Party shall pay its own expenses of arbitration and the expenses of the arbitrator (including compensation), unless otherwise provided by law; provided however, if a Party is found to have breached this Agreement, the prevailing Party shall be entitled to attorneys' fees.
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(c) Prior to the commencement of arbitration, Executive and the Company (the "Parties") agree to mediate any dispute arising out of or in connection with Executive's employment, or termination of employment, with the Company before a neutral mediator appointed in accordance with the Employment Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures (the "Rules") of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) exclusively at the Company's offices in Waukesha, Wisconsin or such other place agreed upon by the Parties. Such mediation will be non-binding, and the mediator's reasonable fee will be paid by the Company. Applicable Wisconsin law and the AAA Rules will govern the mediation.
(d) EXECUTIVE UNDERSTANDS THAT, ABSENT THIS AGREEMENT, EXECUTIVE AND THE COMPANY WOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO SUE EACH OTHER IN COURT, AND THE RIGHT TO A JURY TRIAL, BUT, BY THIS AGREEMENT, EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE STATED ABOVE, BOTH PARTIES GIVE UP THAT RIGHT.
14. Miscellaneous.
(a) Executive shall not assign any part of his rights under this Agreement without the prior written consent of Telkonet. The Company may assign this Agreement (i) as part of the transfer of all or substantially all of its assets or stock (by way of sale, merger or otherwise) to another company; or (ii) to any affiliated or unaffiliated company or entity, and, upon such assignment, the burden and benefit hereof will be upon the assignee.
(b) This Agreement contains the entire agreement and understanding between the Parties and supersedes any and all prior understandings and agreements between the Parties regarding Executive's employment, whether written or oral, including without limitation, all prior employment agreements.
(c) No modification hereof shall be binding unless made in writing and signed by the Company. No waiver of any provisions of this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing and signed by the Party against whom it is sought to be enforced.
(d) This Agreement is executed in, and it is the intention of the Parties hereto that it shall be governed by, the laws of the State of Wisconsin without giving effect to applicable conflict of laws and provisions.
(e) The provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any provision shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other provisions hereof.
(f) Any notice or communication permitted or required by this Agreement shall be in writing and shall become effective upon personal service, or service by wire transmission, which has been acknowledged by the other party as being received, or two (2) days after its mailing by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid addressed as follows:
(1) If to Telkonet: Attn: General Counsel Telkonet, Inc. 20800, Suite 175, Swenson Or. Waukesha, WI 53186.
(2) If to Executive, to: Jason L. Tienor at the last residential address known by the Company as provided by Executive in writing.
(g) Acknowledgment. Executive acknowledges that he has had the opportunity to discuss this matter with and obtain advice from his private attorney, has had sufficient time to, and has carefully read and fully understands all the provisions of this Agreement, and is knowingly and voluntarily entering into this Agreement. This Agreement is drafted by counsel for the Company as an accommodation to the Parties and is the product of deliberation between all Parties. In the event of any dispute surrounding its interpretation, this Agreement shall not be construed against the drafter, and the Parties expressly waive any right to assert such rule of construction. It shall be deemed to be collectively drafted by the Parties, and shall not be construed more stringently against any one Party than another.
(h) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, and each counterpart will have the same force and effect as an original and will constitute an effective, binding agreement on the part of each of the undersigned. Electronically executed or faxed signatures shall be deemed the equivalent of an original signature. The Agreement becomes effective upon receipt of the Parties' signatures, electronic or otherwise.
(i) Effective Date. This Agreement is effective upon the Closing, as defined above. If the Closing does not occur for any reason, this Agreement will be void ab initio.
(j) Survival. The following Paragraphs of this Agreement shall survive Executive's separation from the Company: Paragraphs 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Telkonet and Executive have executed this Agreement as of the date set forth below subject to the Effective Date:
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Telkonet and Executive have executed this Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
| /s/ Tim S. Ledwick | /s/ Jason L. Tienor | ||
| Tim S. Ledwick, Authorized Signatory | Jason L. Tienor | ||
| 08.06.2021 | 08.04.2021 | ||
| Date | Date |
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EXHIBIT 10.10
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, dated August 6, 2021, is entered into by and between Telkonet, Inc., a Utah corporation, and its respective current and former parent companies, successors, predecessors, subsidiaries and other affiliated companies as well as any of their respective current and former directors, officers, agents, shareholders, and employees (“Telkonet” or “Company”) and Jeffrey J. Sobieski (“Executive”). The Company and Executive may be referred to as the “Parties” or the “Party.”
WHEREAS, in connection with the closing of the transaction (the “Closing”) contemplated by the Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of August 6, 2021 by and between VDA Group Group S.p.A. (“VDA”), an Italian joint stock company (societa per azioni) incorporated under the laws of the Republic of ltaly (“VDA”), and the Company (the “Purchase Agreement”), the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and Executive desires to continue to be employed by the Company, in each case, upon the terms and conditions set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and for such other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby conclusively acknowledged, the parties, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:
1. Duties and Scope of Employment.
(a) Positions and Duties. Telkonet hereby employs Executive in the capacity of Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Telkonet to perform such executive, management and administrative services and other customary duties consistent with Executive’s position as a senior executive officer within the Company as set forth in the Telkonet by-laws and as Telkonet, by action of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Board of Directors (“Board”), may request from time to time.
(b) Location. Executive’s place of work shall be 20800 Swenson Dr., Suite 175, Waukesha, WI 53186. The Company shall be entitled to require the Executive to travel to work at such other places as business needs require.
2. Term. The term of this Agreement shall commence as of the Closing and run for 12 months from the Closing (the “Initial Term”), unless the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 6 below. The Initial Term will automatically renew for an additional twelve (12) months (the Initial Term and any renewal term will be referred to as the “Term”), unless (a) Executive provides written notice to the Company of his intent not to renew the Agreement at least 90 days prior to the end of the Term in accordance with the notice provision herein; or (b) the Company provides written notice to Executive of its intent not to renew the Agreement at least 30 days prior to the end of the Term, in accordance with the notice provision herein; or (c) the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 6 below.
3. Extent of Services. During the Term and any extension thereof, Executive shall devote his full time, ability, attention and efforts to the performance, to the best of his abilities, of such duties and responsibilities, as described in Section 1 above, and as the CEO shall determine, consistent therewith. Executive agrees to be bound by the provisions of the Company Handbook (the “Handbook”), as such document may be modified from time to time. To the extent the provisions of the Handbook conflict with the terms of this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail. Employee acknowledges receiving a copy of the Handbook, and, by signing this Agreement, agrees to be bound by its terms.
4. Compensation.
(a) Salary. Executive shall be paid $211,625 on an annualized basis in accordance with Telkonet’s normal payroll practices, and be subject to all lawfully required withholdings (the “Base Salary”). The Base Salary may be increased, at any time as determined by the CEO and the Board.
(b) Bonus. Executive will also be eligible to participate in the Company-sponsored bonus plan (the “Bonus Plan”). Should the Company [and Executive) meet the targets set forth in the Bonus Plan, Executive will be eligible to receive up to 15% of Executive’s Base Salary. The Bonus Program will be presented to Executive at the beginning of the calendar year.
(c) Executive Paiticipation in Telkonet Staff Benefits Plans. During the Tenn, Executive shall be entitled to participate in any group health programs and other benefit plans, which may be instituted from time-to-time for Telkonet employees, and for which Executive qualifies under the terms of such plans. All such benefits shall be provided on the same terms and conditions as generally apply to all other Telkonet employees under these plans and may be modified by Telkonet from time-to-time.
(d) Expenses. Executive shall be reimbursed by Telkonet for all ordinary, reasonable, customary ai.1d necessary expenses incurred by him in the performance of his duties and responsibilities. Executive agrees to prepare documentation for such expenses as may be necessary for Telkonet to comply with the applicable rules and regulations of the Internal Revenue Service and Telkonet’s existing policy. Telkonet will provide a stipend equal to $323 per pay period to Executive for the purpose of obtaining an auto for the Executive’s business use
(e) Equity. To the extent the Company implements an equity plan, Executive will be eligible to participate in such plan in accordance with the terms and conditions of the plan as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board.
5. Paid Time Off. At full pay and without any adverse effect to his compensation, provided that all other terms and conditions of this Agreement are satisfied, Executive shall be entitled to five (5) weeks of paid time off (“PTO”) for each full calendar year during the term of this Agreement. Executive agrees to schedule his PTO leave in advance upon written notice to the CEO. Carryover of PTO days shall be consistent with Company’s existing policy.
6. Termination. This Agreement shall terminate in accordance with Section 2 of this Agreement, or upon the first to occur of any of the following events:
(a) “Cause” By the Company. For purposes of this Agreement, Cause shall mean the occurrence of any of the following: (1) theft, fraud embezzlement, or any other act of intentional dishonesty by Executive; (2) any material breach by Executive of any provision of this Agreement which breach is not cured in the sole discretion of the Company within a reasonable time (but not to exceed fourteen (14) days) after written notification thereof to Executive by Telkonet; (3) any habitual neglect of duty or misconduct of Executive in discharging any of his duties and responsibilities under this Agreement after a written demand for performance was delivered to Executive that specifically identified the manner in which the [Board or the Company l believed Executive had failed to discharge his duties and responsibilities, and Executive failed to resume substantial performance of such duties and responsibilities on a continual basis in the sole discretion of the Company immediately following such demand; (4) commission by Executive of a felony or any offense involving moral turpitude; or (5) any default of Executive’s obligations hereunder or any failure or refusal of Executive to comply with the policies, rules and regulations of Telkonet generally applicable to Telkonet employees, which default, failure or refusal is not cured within a reasonable time (but not to exceed fourteen (14) days) in the sole discretion of the Company after written notification thereof to Executive by Telkonet. Upon termination for Cause, Executive shall be entitled to no further compensation, except for (i) the unpaid portion of Executive’s Base Salary, computed on a pro rata basis to the date of termination; payment of accrued, unused PTO; (iii) unpaid expenses submitted in accordance with the Company’s policy; and (iv) other payments, benefits or fringe benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the terms of any applicable compensation arrangement or benefit plan provided under this Agreement (“Accrued Compensation”).
(b) “Good Reason” By Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason” shall mean the occurrence of any of the following: (1) any material adverse reduction in the scope of Executive’s authority or responsibilities; (2) any reduction in the amount of Executive’s compensation or participation in any employee benefits; or (3) Executive’s principal place of employment is actually or constructively moved to any office or other location 75 miles or more outside of the address referenced in Section 1(b) provided however that Executive shall provide the Company with written notice of the Good Reason setting forth in detail Executive’s belief that the Company has breached this Paragraph. and, if the claimed breach is pursuant to Paragraph 6(b)(1), the Company shall have thirty (30) days to cure. If Executive terminates his employment with Telkonet for Good Reason and the Company fails to cure as applicable, Telkonet shall pay Executive, in addition to Accrued Compensation, Executive’s Base Salary and COBRA (provided Executive elects COBRA) in which Executive participated immediately prior to Executive’s resignation for Good Reason, for the period starting on the first day after the resignation date and ending upon expiration of the Term, or if such period is less than twelve (12) months, for a period of twelve (12) months from the resignation date.
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(c) ’‘Without Cause” By the Company. If Executive is terminated by Telkonet Without Cause then Executive shall receive: (i) an amount equal to Executive’s base salary for twelve (12) months of Executive’s Base Salary as of the date of termination, payable in accordance with the Company’s payroll schedule applicable to all employees (the “Severance Period”); and (ii) pay for any applicable health insurance premiums, in accordance with the mandates of COBRA during the Severance Period (collectively, the ‘Consideration”), subject to Executive complying with Paragraph 6(e) below; provided that if Executive finds other employment and/or becomes eligible for similar benefits from another employer Telkonet will no longer be obligated to pay the Consideration to Executive.
(d) Death or Disability. If Executive becomes incapacitated or disabled at any time during the Term so as to be unable (either mentally or physically) to substantially perform the services required of Executive pursuant to this Agreement for a period of ninety (90) or in any twelve (12) month period, unless otherwise required by law, the Company may, at its option, terminate Executive’s employment hereunder effective immediately upon giving Executive written notice of such termination. If Executive’s employment terminates by reason of death or disability, Executive will be entitled to receive only the Accrued Compensation.
(e) Separation Agreement and Release of Claims. The receipt of any severance pursuant to this Agreement will be subject to Executive signing and not revoking a separation agreement and release of claims (the “Release”) in a form reasonably acceptable to the Company, which becomes effective within thirty (30) days following Executive’s separation from service. The Release will provide (among other things) that Executive will not disparage the Company, its directors, or its executive officers for 12 months following the date of termination and the Company will instruct its officers and directors not to disparage the Executive. No severance pursuant to this Agreement will be paid or provided until the Release becomes effective. All payments and benefits to which Executive otherwise may be entitled pursuant to this Section 6, if any, will cease immediately should Executive breach a provision of this Agreement.
7. Surrender of Books and Papers. Upon termination of this Agreement (irrespective of the time manner or cause of termination, be it for cause or otherwise), Executive shall immediately surrender to Telkonet all books, records, or other written papers or documents entrusted to him or which he has otherwise acquired pertaining to Telkonet and all other Telkonet property in Executive’s possession, custody or control.
8. Inventions and Patents. Executive agrees that Executive will promptly from time-to-time, fully inform and disclose to Telkonet any and all ideas, concepts, copyrights copyrightable material, developments, inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries of whatever nature that Executive may have or produced during the term of Executive’s employment under this Agreement that pertain or relate to the then current business of Telkonet (the “Creations”), whether conceived by Executive alone or with others and whether or not conceived during regular working hours. All Creations shall be the exclusive property of Telkonet and shall be “works made for hire” as defined in 17 U.S.C. §101, and Telkonet shall own all rights in and to the Creations throughout the world, without payment of royalty or other consideration to Executive or anyone claiming through Executive. Executive hereby transfers and assigns to Telkonet (or its designee) all right, title and interest in and to every Creation. Executive shall assist Telkonet in obtaining patents or copyrights on all such inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries being patentable or copyrightable by Executive or Telkonet and shall execute all documents and do all things reasonably necessary (at Telkonet’s sole cost and expense) to obtain letters of patent or copyright. vest Telkonet with full and exclusive title thereto and protect the same against infringement by third parties, and such assistance shall be given by Executive, if needed after termination of this Agreement for whatever cause or reason. Executive hereby represents and warrants that Executive has no current or future obligation with respect to the assignment or disclosure of any or all developments, inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries of whatever nature to any previous Employer, entity or other person and that Executive does not claim any rights or interest in or to any previous unpatented or uncopyrighted developments, inventions, designs, improvements or discoveries.
9. Confidential 1.nformation, Non-Competition and No-Inducement.
(a) Confidential Information.
(1) Contemporaneous with the execution of this Agreement and during the tern, of employment under this Agreement. Telkonet shall deliver to Executive or permit Executive to have access to and become familiar with various confidential information and trade secrets of Telkonet, including without limitation, data, production methods, customer lists, product format or developments, other information concerning the business of Telkonet and other unique processes, procedures, services and products of Telkonet, which are regularly used in the operation of the business of Telkonet (collectively, the “Confidential Information”).
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(2) For purposes of the preceding sentence, information is not treated as being Confidential Information if it: (i) is or becomes generally available to the public other than by Executive in violation this Agreement; (ii) is obtained by Executive in good faith from a third party who discloses such information to Executive on a non-confidential basis without violating any obligation of confidentiality or secrecy relating to the information disclosed; or (iii) is information published or disseminated by the Company in the ordinary course of business without restriction.
(3) Executive shall not disclose any Confidential Information that he receives from the Company or Telkonet’s clients and customers, directly or indirectly, nor use it in any way at any time, , except as required in the course of employment with Telkonet, including, without limitation, (i) to compete or assist in competing with the Company; (ii) to contact, either directly or indirectly, any existing or potential customers, clients, contractors or vendors of the Company; or (iii) to interfere with or attempt to interfere with, or change the business relationship between the Company and its existing or potential customers, clients, contractors or vendors. Executive further acknowledges and agrees that Executive owes Telkonet a fiduciary duty to preserve and protect all Confidential Information from unauthorized disclosure or unauthorized use.
(4) All files, records, documents, drawings, graphics, processes, specifications, equipment and similar items relating to the business of Telkonet, whether prepared by Executive or otherwise coming into Executive’s possession in the course of his employment with Telkonet, shall remain the exclusive property of Telkonet and shall not be removed from the premises of Telkonet without the prior written consent of Telkonet unless removed in relation to the performance of Executive’s duties under this Agreement. Any Confidential Information, including without limitation, files, records, documents drawings, graphics. specifications, equipment and similar items, and any and all copies of such materials that have been removed from the premises of Telkonet, shall be immediately returned by Executive to Telkonet upon demand or separation from the Company. As defined above, “Telkonet” includes Telkonet, Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates and all successors and predecessors in interest to Telkonet.
(5) Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016. Under the federal Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (a) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (b) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.
(b) Non-Competition. In consideration for Telkonet’s disclosure of Confidential Information to Executive, Executive’s access to the Confidential Information, and the salary paid to Executive hereunder, Executive covenants and agrees as follows:
(1) Executive acknowledges that he will be provided with and have access to Confidential Information, the unauthorized use or disclosure of which would cause irreparable injury to Telkonet, that Telkonet’s willingness to enter into this Agreement is based in material part on Executive’s agreement to the provisions of this Section 9(b) and that Executive’s breach of the provisions of this Section would materially and irreparably damage Telkonet.
(2) Executive covenants and agrees that during Executive’s employment with the Company, and for a period of one year commencing on the date of Executive’s separation from the Company for any reason, including termination with or Without Cause, Employee shall not, directly or indirectly, be employed by, assist, own, manage, consult, operate or control, or participate in the ownership, management, operation or control of any business that is in competition in any manner whatsoever with the Restricted Business (as defined herein) in North America. “Restricted Business” means any business or prospective business conducted or considered by Telkonet at the time of Executive’s separation from Telkonet.
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(3) Executive further acknowledges that because of the nature of the business, the competitive market is not limited to a defined geographic area, and therefore, this non-compete provision is not and cannot be, restricted to a geographic area, but rather is restricted as set forth above.
(c) No-Inducement. During Executive’s employment with the Company and for a period of two years following Executive’s separation from the Company for any reason, Executive agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly (including but not limited to, through the use of ’·headhunters”, recruiters or employment agencies) (i) solicit hire entice, persuade, recruit employ or induce any person who was (or is) an employee, independent contractor, consultant, vendor and/or agent of the Company during the one (1) year period prior to the end of Executive’s employment with the Company to leave, modify or otherwise interfere with their employment or consulting relationship with the Company; or (ii) divert, solicit, interfere with, or attempt to take away business from, render services for, accept business from, or do business with any person or entity that is or was a customer or client (or prospective customer or client) of the Company: (a) with whom Executive had contact during Executive’s employment with the Company· (b) to whom Executive was introduced while employed by the Company· or (c) whose identity or contact information Executive learned about as a result of Executive being employed by the Company (collectively, “Client”).
(d) Reasonableness of Restrictions. Executive acknowledges and expressly agrees that:
(1) the restrictions set forth in this Paragraph 9 of this Agreement are reasonable in scope and necessary for the protection of the business and goodwill of Telkonet;
(2) Executive’s services are of a unique and extraordinary nature and that the restrictions contained herein are necessary to protect the Company;
(3) Executive’s experience and capabilities are such that enforcement of Paragraph by injunction will not prevent Executive from earning a living;
(4) the Company takes significant steps to preserve and protect its business and competitive advantage and the loss of such advantage could cause severe and irreparable harm to the Company:
(5) should any portion of the covenants in Section 9 be unenforceable because of the scope thereof or the period covered thereby or otherwise, the covenant shall be deemed to be reduced and limited to enable it to be enforced to the maximum extent permissible under the laws and public policies applied in the jurisdiction in which enforcement is sought.
(e) Injunctive Relief; Extension of Restrictive Period. In the event of a breach of any of the covenants by Executive or Telkonet contained in this Agreement, it is understood that damages will be difficult to ascertain, and either party may petition a court of law or equity for injunctive relief in addition to any other relief which Executive or Telkonet may have under the law, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys’ fees.
10. Non-disparagement. Executive agrees not to make false or disparaging statements concerning the Company or current or former officers, directors, members employees or agents during Executive’s employment with the Company or anytime thereafter. Employee futher agrees not to take any actions or conduct himself in any way that would reasonably be expected to adversely affect the reputation or goodwill of the Company or any of its affiliates or any of its current or former officers, directors, members, employees or agents during Executive’s employment with the Company or anytime thereafter.
11. Resignations. As applicable, Executive agrees that he shall resign as a director and officer of the Company, and as a director and/or officer of each other direct and indirect subsidiary, division or affiliate of the Company for which Executive currently serves as a director or officer, effective as of the separation date. and further agrees to execute and deliver to the Company any instruments or documents reasonably requested by the Company to effect such resignations.
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12. Indemnification and Insurance. Executive will be covered under the Company’s insurance policies and, subject to applicable law, will be provided indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by the Company’s bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation, and standard form of Indemnification Agreement, with such insurance coverage and indemnification to be in accordance with the Company’s standard practices for senior executive officers but on terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company senior executive officer or director.
13. Mandatory and Confidential Mediation and Arbitration.
(a) Except as otherwise provided herein, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein. Executive and the Company agree any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, its enforcement, interpretation or arbitrability, or because of an alleged breach default, or misrepresentation in connection with any of its provisions, or arising out of or relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, shall be settled by confidential final and binding arbitration in Waukesha County, Wisconsin before a single arbitrator selected in accordance with the National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”), in accordance with the procedures required under Wisconsin law; provided, however, that the Company may seek injunctive relief in order to prevent irreparable harm or preserve the status quo. The parties understand and agree that this is an agreement to arbitrate under the Federal Arbitration Act (’‘FAA”). The parties further understand that this arbitration clause, and its enforcement, shall be governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, except where preempted by the FAA.
(b) Any award pursuant to said arbitration shall be accompanied by a written opinion of the arbitrator setting forth the reason for the award, including findings of fact and conclusions of law. The award rendered by the arbitrator shall be conclusive and binding upon the Parties hereto, and judgment upon the award may be entered, and enforcement may be sought in, any court of competent jurisdiction. A court shalI vacate, modify or correct any award: (i) where the arbitrator’s findings of fact are not supported by substantial evidence, (ii) where the arbitrator’s conclusions of law are erroneous; (iii) in accordance with Wisconsin law governing arbitration; or (iv) where the arbitrators knew of a governing legal principle yet refused to apply it or ignored it altogether. Executive understands and agrees that any demand for arbitration by either Executive or the Company shall be filed within the statute of limitation that is applicable to the claim(s) upon which arbitration is sought or required. Each Party shall pay its own expenses of arbitration and the expenses of the arbitrator (including compensation) unless otherwise provided by law, provided however, if a Party is found to have breached this Agreement, the prevailing Party shall be entitled to attorneys’ fees.
(c) Prior to the commencement of arbitration, Executive and the Company (the “Parties”) agree to mediate any dispute arising out of or in connection with Executive’s employment or termination of employment, with the Company before a neutral mediator appointed in accordance with the Employment Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures (the “Rules”) of tbe American Arbitration Association (AAA) exclusively at the Company’s offices in Waukesha County, Wisconsin or such other place agreed upon by the Parties. Such mediation will be non-binding, and the mediator’s reasonable fee will be paid by the Company. Applicable Wisconsin law and the AAA Rules will govern the mediation.
(d) EXECUTIVE UNDERSTANDS THAT, ABSENT THIS AGREEMENT, EXECUTIVE AND THE COMPANY WOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO SUE EACH OTHER TN COURT, AND THE RIGHT TO A JURY TRlAL, BUT, BY THIS AGREEMENT, EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE STATED ABOVE, BOTH PARTIES GIVE UP THAT RIGHT.
14. Miscellaneous.
(a) Executive shall not assign any part of his rights under this Agreement without the prior written consent of Telkonet. The Company may assign this Agreement (i) as part of the transfer of all or substantially all of its assets or stock (by way of sale, merger or otherwise) to another company; or (ii) to any affiliated or unaffiliated company or entity, and, upon such assignment, the burden and benefit hereof will be upon the assignee.
(b) This Agreement contains the entire agreement and understanding between the Parties and supersedes any and al l prior understandings and agreements between the Parties regarding Executive’s employment, whether written or oral, including without limitation, all prior employment agreements.
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(c) No modification hereof shall be binding unless made in writing and signed by the Company. No waiver of any provision of this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing and signed by the Party against whom it is sought to be enforced.
(d) This Agreement is executed in, and it is the intention of the Parties hereto that it shall be governed by, the laws of the State of Wisconsin without giving effect to applicable conflict of laws and provisions.
(e) The provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any provision shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other provisions hereof.
(f) Any notice or communication permitted or required by this Agreement shall be in writing and shall become effective upon personal service, or service by wire transmission, which has been acknowledged by the other party as being received, or two (2) days after its mailing by certified mail, return receipt requested. postage prepaid addressed as follows:
(1) If to Telkonet: Attn: General Counsel Telkonet, Inc. 20800, Suite 175, Swenson Dr. Waukesha, Wl 53186.
(2) If to Executive, to: Jeffrey J. Sobieski at the last residential address known by the Company as provided by Executive in writing.
(g) Acknowledgment. Executive acknowledges that he has had the opportunity to discuss this matter with and obtain advice from his private attorney. has had sufficient time to, and has carefully read and fully understands all the provisions of this Agreement, and is knowingly and voluntarily entering into this Agreement. This Agreement is drafted by counsel for the Company as an accommodation to the Parties and is the product of deliberation between all Parties. In the event of any dispute surrounding its interpretation, this Agreement shall not be construed against the drafter, and the Parties expressly waive any right to assert such rule of construction. It shall be deemed to be collectively drafted by the Parties, and shall not be construed more stringently against any one Party than another.
(h) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, and each counterpart will have the same force and effect as an original and will constitute an effective, binding agreement on the part of each of the undersigned. Electronically executed or faxed signatures shall be deemed the equivalent of an original signature. The Agreement becomes effective upon receipt of the Parties· signatures, electronic or otherwise.
(i) Effective Date. This Agreement is effective upon the Closing, as defined above. If the Closing does not occur for any reason, this Agreement will be void ab initio.
(j) Survival. The following Paragraphs of this Agreement shall survive Executive’s separation from the Company: Paragraphs 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13.
IN WITNESS THEREOF, Telkonet and Executive have executed this Agreement as of the date set forth below subject to the Effective Date.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Telkonet and Executive have executed this Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
| /s/ Jason L. Tienor | /s/ Jeffrey J. Sobieski | ||
| Jason L. Tienor, President and CEO | Jeffrey J. Sobieski | ||
| 08.06.2021 | 08.06.2021 | ||
| Date | Date |
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EXHIBIT 10.11
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT, dated August 6, 2021, is entered into by and between Telkonet, Inc., a Utah corporation, and its respective current and former parent companies, successors, predecessors, subsidiaries and other affiliated companies as well as any of their respective current and former directors, officers, agents, shareholders, and employees ("Telkonet" or "Company") and Richard E. Mushrush ("Executive"). The Company and Executive may be referred to as the "Parties" or the "Party."
WHEREAS, in connection with the closing of the transaction (the "Closing") contemplated by the Stock Purchase Agreement dated as of August 6, 2021 by and between VOA Group Group S.p.A. ("VOA"), an Italian joint stock company (societa per azioni) incorporated under the laws of the Republic of Italy ("VOA"), and the Company (the "Purchase Agreement"), the Company desires to continue to employ Executive and Executive desires to continue to be employed by the Company, in each case, upon the terms and conditions set forth herein.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, and for such other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby conclusively acknowledged, the parties, intending to be legally bound, agree as follows:
| 1. | Duties and Scope of Employment. |
(b) Location. Executive's place of work shall be 20800 Swenson Dr., Suite 175, Waukesha, WI 53186. The Company shall be entitled to require the Executive to travel to work at such other places as business needs require.
(a) Positions and Duties. Telkonet hereby employs Executive in the capacity of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Telkonet to perform such executive, management and administrative services and other customary duties consistent with Executive's position as a senior executive officer within the Company as set forth in the Telkonet by-laws and as Telkonet, by action of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Board of Directors ("Board"), may request from time to time.
2. Term. The term of this Agreement shall commence as of the Closing and run for 12 months from the Closing (the "Initial Term"), unless the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 6 below. The Initial Term will automatically renew for an additional twelve (12) months (the lnitial Term and any renewal term will be referred to as the "Term"), unless (a) Executive provides written notice to the Company of his intent not to renew the Agreement at least 90 days prior to the end of the Term in accordance with the notice provision herein; or (b) the Company provides written notice to Executive of its intent not to renew the Agreement at least 30 days prior to the end of the Term, in accordance with the notice provision herein; or (c) the Agreement is terminated pursuant to Section 6 below.
3. Extent of Services. During the Term, Executive shall devote his full time, ability, attention and efforts to the performance, to the best of his abilities, of such duties and responsibilities, as described in Section 1 above, and as the CEO shall determine, consistent therewith. Executive agrees to be bound by the provisions of the Company Handbook (the "Handbook"), as such document may be modified from time to time. To the extent the provisions of the Handbook conflict with the terms of this Agreement, the terms of this Agreement shall prevail. Employee acknowledges receiving a copy of the Handbook, and, by signing this Agreement, agrees to be bound by its terms.
| 4. | Compensation. |
(a) Salary. Executive shall be paid $122,000 on an annualized basis in accordance with Telkonet's normal payroll practices, and be subject to all lawfully required withholdings ("Base Salary"). The Base Salary may be increased, at any time, as determined by the CEO and the Board.
(b) Bonus. Executive will also be eligible to participate in the Company-sponsored bonus plan (the "Bonus Plan"). Should the Company [and Executive] meet the targets set forth in the Bonus Plan, Executive will be eligible to receive up to 20% of Executive's Base Salary. The Bonus Program will be presented to Executive at the beginning of the calendar year.
(c) Executive Participation in Telkonet Staff Benefits Plans. During the Term, Executive shall be entitled to participate in any group health programs and other benefit plans, which may be instituted from time-to-time for Telkonet employees, and for which Executive qualifies under the terms of such plans. All such benefits shall be provided on the same terms and conditions as generally apply to all other Telkonet employees under these plans and may be modified by Telkonet from time-to-time.
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(d) Expenses. Executive shall be reimbursed by Telkonet for all ordinary, reasonable, customary and necessary expenses incurred by him in the performance of his duties and responsibilities. Executive agrees to prepare documentation for such expenses as may be necessary for Telkonet to comply with the applicable rules and regulations of the Internal Revenue Service and Telkonet's existing policy.
(e) Equity. To the extent the Company implements an equity plan, Executive will be eligible to participate in such plan in accordance with the terms and conditions of the plan as determined by the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board.
5. Paid Time Off. At full pay and without any adverse effect to his compensation, provided that all other terms and conditions of this Agreement are satisfied, Executive shall be entitled to five (5) weeks of paid time off ("PTO") for each full calendar year during the term of this Agreement. Executive agrees to schedule his PTO leave in advance upon written notice to the CEO. Carryover of PTO days shall be consistent with Company's existing policy.
6. Termination. This Agreement shall terminate in accordance with Section 2 of this Agreement, or upon the first to occur of any of the following events:
(a) "Cause" By the Company. For purposes of this Agreement, Cause shall mean the occurrence of any of the following: (1) theft, fraud, embezzlement, or any other act of intentional dishonesty by Executive; (2) any material breach by Executive of any provision of this Agreement which breach is not cured in the sole discretion of the Company within a reasonable time (but not to exceed fourteen (14) days) after written notification thereof to Executive by Telkonet; (3) any habitual neglect of duty or misconduct of Executive in discharging any of his duties and responsibilities under this Agreement after a written demand for performance was delivered to Executive that specifically identified the manner in which the [Board or the Company] believed Executive had failed to discharge his duties and responsibilities, and Executive failed to resume substantial performance of such duties and responsibilities on a continual basis in the sole discretion of the Company immediately following such demand; (4) commission by Executive of a felony or any offense involving moral turpitude; or (5) any default of Executive's obligations hereunder, or any failure or refusal of Executive to comply with the policies, rules and regulations of Telkonet generally applicable to Telkonet employees, which default, failure or refusal is not cured within a reasonable time (but not to exceed fourteen (14) days) in the sole discretion of the Company after written notification thereof to Executive by Telkonet. Upon termination for Cause, Executive shall be entitled to no further compensation, except for (i) the unpaid portion of Executive's Base Salary, computed on a pro rata basis to the date of termination; payment of accrued, unused PTO days; (iii) unpaid expenses submitted in accordance with the Company's policy; and (iv) other payments, benefits or fringe benefits to which the Executive may be entitled under the terms of any applicable compensation arrangement or benefit plan provided under this Agreement ("Accrued Compensation").
(b) "Good Reason" By Executive. For purposes of this Agreement, Good Reason" shall mean the occurrence of any of the following: (1) any material adverse reduction in the scope of Executive's authority or responsibilities; (2) any reduction in the amount of Executive's compensation or participation in any employee benefits; or (3) Executive's principal place of employment is actually or constructively moved to any office or other location 75 miles or more outside of the address referenced in Section 1(b), provided however that Executive shall provide the Company with written notice of the Good Reason setting forth in detail Executive's belief that the Company has breached this Paragraph, and, if the claimed breach is pursuant to Paragraph 6(b)(1), the Company shall have thirty (30) days to cure. If Executive terminates his employment with Telkonet for Good Reason and the Company fails to cure, as applicable, Telkonet shall pay Executive, in addition to Accrued Compensation, Executive's Base Salary and COBRA (provided Executive elects COBRA) in which Executive participated immediately prior to Executive's resignation for Good Reason, for the period starting on the first day after the resignation date and ending upon expiration of the Term, or if such period is less than twelve (12) months, for a period of twelve (12) months from notice.
(c) "Without Cause" By the Company. If Executive is terminated by Telkonet Without Cause, then Executive shall receive: (i) an amount equal to Executive's base salary for twelve (12) months of Executive's Base Salary as of the date of termination, payable in accordance with the Company's payroll schedule applicable to all employees (the "Severance Period"); and (ii) pay for any applicable health insurance premiums, in accordance with the mandates of COBRA during the Severance Period (collectively, the "Consideration"), subject to Executive complying with Paragraph 6(e) below; provided that if Executive finds other employment and/or becomes eligible for similar benefits from another employer, Telkonet will no longer be obligated to pay the Consideration to Executive.
(d) Death or Disability. If Executive becomes incapacitated or disabled at any time during the Term so as to be unable (either mentally or physically) to substantially perform the services required of Executive pursuant to this Agreement for a period of ninety (90) or in any twelve (12) month period, unless otherwise required by law, the Company may, at its option, terminate Executive's employment hereunder effective immediately upon giving Executive written notice of such termination. If Executive's employment terminates by reason of death or disability, Executive will be entitled to receive only the Accrued Compensation.
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(e) Separation Agreement and Release of Claims. The receipt of any severance pursuant to this Agreement will be subject to Executive signing and not revoking a separation agreement and release of claims (the "Release") in a form reasonably acceptable to the Company, which becomes effective within thirty (30) days following Executive's separation from service. The Release will provide (among other things) that Executive will not disparage the Company, its directors, or its executive officers for 12 months following the date of termination and the Company will instruct its officers and directors not to disparage the Executive. No severance pursuant to this Agreement will be paid or provided until the Release becomes effective. All payments and benefits to which Executive otherwise may be entitled pursuant to this Section 6, if any, will cease immediately should Executive breach a provision of this Agreement.
7. Surrender of Books and Papers. Upon termination of this Agreement (irrespective of the time, manner, or cause of termination, be it for cause or otherwise), Executive shall immediately surrender to Telkonet all books, records, or other written papers or documents entrusted to him or which he has otherwise acquired pertaining to Telkonet and all other Telkonet property in Executive's possession, custody or control.
8. Inventions and Patents. Executive agrees that Executive will promptly, from time-to time, fully inform and disclose to Telkonet any and all ideas, concepts, copyrights, copyrightable material, developments, inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries of whatever nature that Executive may have or produced during the term of Executive's employment under this Agreement that pertain or relate to the then current business of Telkonet (the "Creations"), whether conceived by Executive alone or with others and whether or not conceived during regular working hours. All Creations shall be the exclusive property of Telkonet and shall be "works made for hire" as defined in 17 U.S.C. §101, and Telkonet shall own all rights in and to the Creations throughout the world, without payment of royalty or other consideration to Executive or anyone claiming through Executive. Executive hereby transfers and assigns to Telkonet (or its designee) all right, title and interest in and to every Creation. Executive shall assist Telkonet in obtaining patents or copyrights on all such inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries being patentable or copyrightable by Executive or Telkonet and shall execute all documents and do all things reasonably necessary (at Telkonet's sole cost and expense) to obtain letters of patent or copyright, vest Telkonet with full and exclusive title thereto, and protect the same against infringement by third parties, and such assistance shall be given by Executive, if needed, after termination of this Agreement for whatever cause or reason. Executive hereby represents and warrants that Executive has no current or future obligation with respect to the assignment or disclosure of any or all developments, inventions, designs, improvements and discoveries of whatever nature to any previous Employer, entity or other person and that Executive does not claim any rights or interest in or to any previous unpatented or uncopyrighted developments, inventions, designs, improvements or discoveries.
9. Confidential Information, Non-Competition and No-Inducement.
(a) Confidential Information.
(1) Contemporaneous with the execution of this Agreement and during the term of employment under this Agreement, Telkonet shall deliver to Executive or permit Executive to have access to and become familiar with various confidential information and trade secrets of Telkonet, including without limitation, data, production methods, customer lists, product format or developments, other information concerning the business of Telkonet and other unique processes, procedures, services and products of Telkonet, which are regularly used in the operation of the business of Telkonet (collectively, the "Confidential Information").
(2) For purposes of the preceding sentence, information is not treated as being Confidential Information if it: (i) is or becomes generally available to the public other than by Executive in violation of this Agreement; (ii) is obtained by Executive in good faith from a third party who discloses such information to Executive on a non-confidential basis without violating any obligation of confidentiality or secrecy relating to the information disclosed; or (iii) is information published or disseminated by the Company in the ordinary course of business without restriction.
(3) Executive shall not disclose any Confidential Information that he receives from the Company or Telkonet's clients and customers, directly or indirectly, nor use it in any way at any time, except as required in the course of employment with Telkonet, including, without limitation, (i) to compete or assist in competing with the Company; (ii) to contact, either directly or indirectly, any existing or potential customers, clients, contractors or vendors of the Company; or (iii) to interfere with or attempt to interfere with, or change the business relationship between the Company and its existing or potential customers, clients, contractors or vendors. Executive further acknowledges and agrees that Executive owes Telkonet, a fiduciary duty to preserve and protect all Confidential Information from unauthorized disclosure or unauthorized use.
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(4) All files, records, documents, drawings, graphics, processes, specifications, equipment and similar items relating to the business of Telkonet, whether prepared by Executive or otherwise coming into Executive's possession in the course of his employment with Telkonet, shall remain the exclusive property of Telkonet and shall not be removed from the premises of Telkonet without the prior written consent of Telkonet unless removed in relation to the performance of Executive's duties under this Agreement. Any Confidential Information, including without limitation, files, records, documents, drawings, graphics, specifications, equipment and similar items, and any and all copies of such materials that have been removed from the premises of Telkonet, shall be immediately returned by Executive to Telkonet upon demand or separation from the Company. As defined above, "Telkonet" includes Telkonet, Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates and all successors and predecessors in interest to Telkonet.
(5) Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016. Under the federa l Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016, Employee shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that: (a) is made (i) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (b) is made in a complaint or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal.
(b) Non-Competition. Non-Competition. In consideration for Telkonet's disclosure of Confidential Information to Executive, Executive's access to the Confidential Information, and the salary paid to Executive hereunder, Executive covenants and agrees as follows:
(1) Executive acknowledges that he will be provided with and have access to Confidential Information, the unauthorized use or disclosure of which would cause irreparable injury to Telkonet, that Telkonet's willingness to enter into this Agreement is based in material part on Executive's agreement to the provisions of this Section 9(b) and that Executive's breach of the provisions of this Section would materially and irreparably damage Telkonet.
(2) Executive covenants and agrees that during Executive's employment with the Company, and for a period of one year commencing on the date of Executive's separation from the Company for any reason, including termination with or Without Cause, Employee shall not, directly or indirectly, be employed by, assist, own, manage, consult, operate or control, or participate in the ownership, management, operation or control of any business that is in competition in any manner whatsoever with the Restricted Business (as defined herein) in North America. "Restricted Business" means any business or prospective business conducted or considered by Telkonet at the time of Executive's separation from Telkonet.
(3) Executive further acknowledges that because of the nature of the business, the competitive market is not limited to a defined geographic area, and therefore, this non-compete provision is not and cannot be, restricted to a geographic area, but rather is restricted as set forth above.
(c) No-Inducement. During Executive's employment with the Company and for a period of two years following Executive's separation from the Company for any reason, Executive agrees that Executive will not, directly or indirectly (including but not limited to, through the use of "headhunters", recruiters or employment agencies) (i) solicit, hire, entice, persuade, recruit, employ or induce any person who was (or is) an employee, independent contractor, consultant, vendor and/or agent of the Company during the one (1) year period prior to the end of Executive's employment with the Company to leave, modify or otherwise interfere with their employment or consulting relationship with the Company; or (ii) divert, solicit, interfere with, or attempt to take away business from, render services for, accept business from, or do business with any person or entity that is or was a customer or client (or prospective customer or client) of the Company: (a) with whom Executive had contact during Executive's employment with the Company; (b) to whom Executive was introduced while employed by the Company; or (c) whose identity or contact information Executive learned about as a result of Executive being employed by the Company (collectively, "Client").
(d) Reasonableness of Restrictions. Executive acknowledges and expressly agrees that:
(1) the restrictions set forth in this Paragraph 9 of this Agreement are reasonable in scope and necessary for the protection of the business and goodwill of Telkonet;
(2) Executive's services are of a unique and extraordinary nature and that the restrictions contained herein are necessary to protect the Company;
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(3) Executive's experience and capabilities are such that enforcement of Paragraph by injunction will not prevent Executive from earning a living;
(4) the Company takes significant steps to preserve and protect its business and competitive advantage and the loss of such advantage could cause severe and irreparable harm to the Company;
(5) should any portion of the covenants in Section 9 be unenforceable because of the scope thereof or the period covered thereby or otherwise, the covenant shall be deemed to be reduced and limited to enable it to be enforced to the maximum extent permissible under the laws and public policies applied in the jurisdiction in which enforcement is sought.
(e) Injunctive Relief; Extension of Restrictive Period. In the event of a breach of any of the covenants by Executive or Telkonet contained in this Agreement, it is understood that damages will be difficult to ascertain, and either party may petition a court of law or equity for injunctive relief in addition to any other relief which Executive or Telkonet may have under the law, including but not limited to reasonable attorneys' fees.
10. Non-disparagement. Executive agrees not to make false or disparaging statements concerning the Company or current or former officers, directors, members, employees or agents during Executive's employment with the Company or anytime thereafter. Employee further agrees not to take any actions or conduct himself in any way that would reasonably be expected to adversely affect the reputation or goodwill of the Company or any of its affiliates or any of its current or former officers, directors, members, employees or agents during Executive's employment with the Company or anytime thereafter.
11. Resignations. As applicable, Executive agrees that he shall resign as a director and officer of the Company, and as a director and/or officer of each other direct and indirect subsidiary, division or affiliate of the Company for which Executive currently serves as a director or officer, effective as of the separation date, and further agrees to execute and deliver to the Company any instruments or documents reasonably requested by the Company to effect such resignations.
12. Indemnification and Insurance. Executive will be covered under the Company's insurance policies and, subject to applicable law, will be provided indemnification to the maximum extent permitted by the Company's bylaws, Certificate of Incorporation, and standard form of Indemnification Agreement, with such insurance coverage and indemnification to be in accordance with the Company's standard practices for senior executive officers but on terms no less favorable than provided to any other Company senior executive officer or director.
13. Mandatory and Confidential Mediation and Arbitration.
(a) Except as otherwise provided herein, in consideration of the mutual promises set forth herein, Executive and the Company agree any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Agreement, its enforcement, interpretation or arbitrability, or because of an alleged breach, default, or misrepresentation in connection with any of its provisions, or arising out of or relating to the subject matter of this Agreement, shall be settled by confidential, final and binding arbitration in Waukesha County, Wisconsin before a single arbitrator, selected in accordance with the National Rules for the Resolution of Employment Disputes of the American Arbitration Association ("AAA"), in accordance with the procedures required under Wisconsin law; provided, however, that the Company may seek injunctive relief in order to prevent irreparable harm or preserve the status quo. The parties understand and agree that this is an agreement to arbitrate under the Federal Arbitration Act ("FAA"). The parties further understand that this arbitration clause, and its enforcement, shall be governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin, except where preempted by the FAA.
(b) Any award pursuant to said arbitration shall be accompanied by a written opinion of the arbitrator setting forth the reason for the award, including findings of fact and conclusions of law. The award rendered by the arbitrator shall be conclusive and binding upon the Parties hereto, and judgment upon the award may be entered, and enforcement may be sought in, any court of competent jurisdiction. A court shall vacate, modify or correct any award: (i) where the arbitrator's findings of fact are not supported by substantial evidence, (ii) where the arbitrator's conclusions of law are erroneous; (iii) in accordance with Wisconsin law governing arbitration; or (iv) where the arbitrators knew of a governing legal principle yet refused to apply it or ignored it altogether. Executive understands and agrees that any demand for arbitration by either Executive or the Company shall be filed within the statute of limitation that is applicable to the claim(s) upon which arbitration is sought or required. Each Party shall pay its own expenses of arbitration and the expenses of the arbitrator (including compensation), unless otherwise provided by law, provided however, if a Party is found to have breached this Agreement, the prevailing Party shall be entitled to attorneys' fees.
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(c) Prior to the commencement of arbitration, Executive and the Company (the "Parties") agree to mediate any dispute arising out of or in connection with Executive's employment, or termination of employment, with the Company before a neutral mediator appointed in accordance with the Employment Arbitration Rules and Mediation Procedures (the "Rules") of the American Arbitration Association (AAA) exclusively at the Company's offices in Waukesha, Wisconsin or such other place agreed upon by the Parties. Such mediation will be non-binding, and the mediator's reasonable fee will be paid by the Company. Applicable Wisconsin law and the AAA Rules will govern the mediation.
(d) EXECUTIVE UNDERSTANDS THAT, ABSENT THIS AGREEMENT, EXECUTIVE AND THE COMPANY WOULD HAVE THE RIGHT TO SUE EACH OTHER IN COURT, AND THE RIGHT TO A JURY TRIAL, BUT, BY THIS AGREEMENT, EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE STATED ABOVE, BOTH PARTIES GIVE UP THAT RIGHT.
14. Miscellaneous.
(a) Executive shall not assign any part of his rights under this Agreement without the prior written consent of Telkonet. The Company may assign this Agreement (i) as part of the transfer of all or substantially all of its assets or stock (by way of sale, merger or otherwise) to another company; or (ii) to any affiliated or unaffiliated company or entity, and, upon such assignment, the burden and benefit hereof will be upon the assignee.
(b) This Agreement contains the entire agreement and understanding between the Parties and supersedes any and all prior understandings and agreements between the Parties regarding Executive's employment, whether written or oral, including without limitation, all prior employment agreements.
(c) No modification hereof shall be binding unless made in writing and signed by the Company. No waiver of any provisions of this Agreement shall be valid unless the same is in writing and signed by the Party against whom it is sought to be enforced.
(d) This Agreement is executed in, and it is the intention of the Parties hereto that it shall be governed by, the laws of the State of Wisconsin without giving effect to applicable conflict of laws and provisions.
(e) The provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable, and the invalidity or unenforceability of any provision shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the other provisions hereof.
(f) Any notice or communication permitted or required by this Agreement shall be in writing and shall become effective upon personal service, or service by wire transmission, which has been acknowledged by the other party as being received, or two (2) days after its mailing by certified mail, return receipt requested, postage prepaid addressed as follows:
(1) If to Telkonet: Attn: General Counsel Telkonet, Inc. 20800, Suite 175, Swenson Dr. Waukesha, WI 53186.
(2) If to Executive, to: Richard E. Mushrush at the last residential address known by the Company as provided by Executive in writing.
(g) Acknowledgment. Executive acknowledges that he has had the opportunity to discuss this matter with and obtain advice from his private attorney, has had sufficient time to, and has carefully read and fully understands all the provisions of this Agreement, and is knowingly and voluntarily entering into this Agreement. This Agreement is drafted by counsel for the Company as an accommodation to the Parties and is the product of deliberation between all Parties. In the event of any dispute surrounding its interpretation, this Agreement shall not be construed against the drafter, and the Parties expressly waive any right to assert such rule of construction. It shall be deemed to be collectively drafted by the Parties, and shall not be construed more stringently against any one Party than another.
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(h) Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, and each counterpart will have the same force and effect as an original and will constitute an effective, binding agreement on the part of each of the undersigned. Electronically executed or faxed signatures shall be deemed the equivalent of an original signature. The Agreement becomes effective upon receipt of the Parties' signatures, electronic or otherwise.
(i) Effective Date. This Agreement is effective upon the Closing, as defined above. If the Closing does not occur for any reason, this Agreement will be void ab initio.
(J) Survival. The following Paragraphs of this Agreement shall survive Executive's separation from the Company: Paragraphs 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 13.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Telkonet and Executive have executed this Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
| /s/ Jason L. Tienor | /s/ Richard E. Mushrush | ||
| Jason L. Tienor, President and CEO | Richard E. Mushrush | ||
| 08.06.2021 | 08.06.2021 | ||
| Date | Date |
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EXHIBIT 10.33
EXECUTION VERSION
Consulting Agreement
THIS CONSULTING AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is dated January 7, 2022 (the “Effective Date”), by and between Telkonet, Inc., a Utah corporation (the “Company”) and Piercarlo Gramaglia, in his capacity as principal of his consulting company, VAT# 04992880262 (“Consultant”).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, in connection with that certain Stock Purchase Agreement (the “Purchase Agreement”), dated August 6, 2021, by and between the Company and VDA Group S.p.A., an Italian joint stock company (“VDA”), the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) appointed Consultant to act as Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) of the Company effective as of the Closing (as defined in the Purchase Agreement);
WHEREAS, the Company believes that it would be beneficial to engage Consultant and retain the services of Consultant; and
WHEREAS, the parties desire to reduce the terms of such consultant relationship to writing.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and the terms, covenants, and conditions hereinafter set forth, the parties hereto, intending to be legally bound hereby, mutually agree as follows:
1. Engagement. The Company hereby confirms its engagement of Consultant, and Consultant hereby confirms his acceptance of such engagement, to act as the Company’s CEO effective as of the Effective Date, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein.
2. Duties and Responsibilities.
2.1 As CEO, Consultant shall perform such services and duties (the “Services”) as are customary of such position in a comparable company and as required by the Board, to whom he shall report. In the performance of the Services under this Agreement, the Company will rely on the Consultant to provide his best efforts and as much time as necessary to perform the Services. The time devoted to accomplish the duties hereunder shall be within the Consultant’s control, it being acknowledged and understood that the Consultant shall also devote his business time to fulfil his duties and obligations as a member of the Board and his role as chief executive officer of VDA.
2.2 It is understood that the Services will be rendered primarily from VDA’s offices, although the Consultant may also travel to the Company’s offices on occasion.
3. Directorship. Consultant has been appointed to serve on the Company's Board effective as of the Closing and at the pleasure of the Company's shareholders. Consultant agrees to serve as a Director on the Board without additional compensation.
4. Term; Termination; Survival.
4.1 Term. The term of this Agreement shall be for a period of eighteen (18) months, beginning on the Effective Date, unless earlier terminated in accordance with Section 4.2 below.
4.2 Termination by Consultant or Company. Either Consultant or the Company may terminate this Agreement with or without Cause, at any time upon thirty (30) days’ prior written notice to the other party; provided however, that the Company may terminate this Agreement immediately for Cause (as defined below) and in its sole discretion upon Consultant’s material breach of the Confidentiality Agreement (as defined below).
4.3 Survival. The rights and obligations contained in Section 6 (“Intellectual Property Rights”), , Section 8 (“Confidentiality”) and Section 11 (“Indemnification”) will survive any termination or expiration of this Agreement.
4.4 Definitions. For purposes of this Agreement, the following definitions shall apply:
(a) “Cause” shall mean that Consultant: (a) is convicted of, or pleads nolo contendere to, any felony or other offense involving moral turpitude or any crime related to his service, or commits any unlawful act of personal dishonesty resulting in personal enrichment in respect of his relationship with the Company or any subsidiary or affiliate or otherwise detrimental to the Company in any material respect; (b) fails or refuses to consistently perform the Services in good faith and to the best of his ability if such failure or refusal is not cured within 10 days after written notice thereof to Consultant by the Company; (c) wilfully disregards or fails to follow instructions from the Board to do any legal act related to the Company’s business and/or the Services; (d) wilfully disregards or violates material provisions of the Company’s Code of Conduct or other corporate policies; (e) exhibits habitual drunkenness or engages in substance abuse which in any way materially affects his ability to perform the Services; or (f) commits any material violation of any state or federal law relating to the workplace environment.
5. Compensation.
5.1 In consideration of the full and faithful performance of the Services herein covenanted, the Company agrees to pay Consultant an annual fee of US $30,000 (the “Consulting Fees”), which shall be paid on a pro rata monthly basis on the last day of each calendar month.
5.2 In addition to the foregoing, the Company shall pay all of Consultant’s reasonable expenses associated with the performance of the duties as CEO. Invoices for reimbursable expenses shall be sent to the Company’s Chief Financial Officer no later than the tenth day of the month following the calendar month in which the reimbursable expenses were incurred. The Company shall pay Consultant’s invoices within fifteen (15) days of the receipt thereof.
6. Intellectual Property Rights.
6.1 The Company shall have all rights, including international priority rights, in and to all the results and proceeds of the Services performed under this Agreement (collectively, the “Deliverables”), and all other ideas, procedures, concepts, designs, inventions, know- how, improvements, trade secrets, developments, discoveries, original works of authorship, suggestions, proposals, computer programs, marketing campaigns, promotions, copy, art, photography, research materials , footage and any other materials or writings, which Consultant authors, conceives or makes, either solely or jointly with others in the course of performing the Services, and whether or not patentable, copyrightable or otherwise legally protectable, which Consultant conceives, develops or otherwise creates in the course of providing the Services (collectively with the Deliverables, the "Inventions"). Consultant shall, at the Company's sole expense, give the Company all assistance it reasonably requires to perfect, protect, and use its rights to Inventions, including by signing all documents and doing all things and supplying all information requested by the Company to transfer Consultant's entire right, title, and interest in Inventions, and to enable the Company to obtain patent, copyright, or trademark protection for Inventions anywhere in the world. Consultant hereby irrevocably appoints the Company as Consultant's agent and attorney -in-fact for purposes of effectuating the acts contemplated in this Section 6, including, without limitation, execution of any documents described in Section 6.2 below, such agency and power being an agency and power coupled with an interest. Consultant agrees and understands that compliance with the covenants and agreements contained in this Section 6 is not conditioned upon the payment of any additional or special consideration.
6.2 All Inventions shall be deemed to be works made for hire for the Company and shall be the sole and exclusive property of the Company for all copyright terms, renewal terms and revivals thereof throughout the world, for all uses and purposes whatsoever. The Company shall have the sole and exclusive right to exploit in any manner and media, whether now known or hereafter devised, all rights in Inventions throughout the world in perpetuity without any additional payment to Consultant or any other individual or entity. If, for any reason, any Invention is found not to be a work made for hire, Consultant hereby irrevocably assigns to the Company all right, title and interest to said Invention, including, without limitation, the copyrights to it, and Consultant agrees to execute such documents as may be necessary to evidence such assignment(s). Consultant also waives any moral rights or similar rights which Consultant may have, including, but not limited to, those rights arising under federal or state law in the United States or under the laws of any other country that convey similar or other types of moral rights.
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6.3 Subject to Sections 6.1 and 6.2, Consultant will provide the Company with prior written notice if, in the course of performing the Services, Consultant incorporates into any Invention or utilizes in the performance of the Services any invention, discovery, idea, original works of authorship, development, improvements, trade secret, concept, or other proprietary information or intellectual property right owned by Consulant or in which Consultant has an interest, prior to, or separate from, performing the Services under this Agreement (“Prior Inventions”), and the Company is hereby granted a nonexclusive, royalty-free, perpetual, irrevocable, transferable, worldwide license (with the right to grant and authorize sublicenses) to make, have made, use, import, offer for sale, sell, reproduce, distribute, modify, adapt, prepare derivative works of, display, perform, and otherwise exploit such Prior Inventions, without restriction, including, without limitation, as part of or in connection with such Invention, and to practice any method related thereto. Consultant will not incorporate any invention, discovery, idea, original work of authorship, development, improvement, trade secret, concept, or other proprietary information or intellectual property right owned by any third party into any Invention without Company’s prior written permission.
6.4 It is understood that this Section 6 shall not be construed to relate to the services Consultant performs for VDA, and the Company has no rights with respect to intellectual property relating to Consultant’s activities with respect to VDA.
7. Independent Contractor Relationship.
7.1 Consultant’s relationship with the Company is that of an independent contractor, and nothing in this Agreement is intended to, or should be construed to, create a partnership, agency, joint venture or employment relationship. Consultant will take no position with respect to or on any tax return or application for benefits, or in any proceeding directly or indirectly involving Company, that is inconsistent with Consultant being an independent contractor (and not an employee) of Company. As CEO, Consultant shall have authority to make binding decisions and contractual commitments on behalf of the Company consistent with the authority granted by the Board.
7.2 Consultant is not and will not be considered an employee of the Company, and as a result will not be entitled to benefits based on work performed under this Agreement provided by the Company to its employees including but not limited to life insurance, death benefits, accident or health insurance, qualified pension or retirement plans, or any other employee benefit. Consultant hereby waives any right to said Company employee benefits by executing this Agreement. If, notwithstanding the foregoing, Consultant is reclassified as an employee of Company by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service, the U.S. Department of Labor, or any other federal or state or foreign agency as the result of any administrative or judicial proceeding, Consultant hereby waives and foregoes the right to receive any employee benefits under any plans or programs established or maintained by the Company retroactively and prospectively, other than the compensation expressly set forth in Section 5 above.
7.3 Consultant is solely responsible for, and will file, on a timely basis, all tax returns and payments required to be filed with, or made to, any federal, state or local tax authority with respect to the performance of services and receipt of fees under this Agreement. Consultant is solely responsible for, and must maintain adequate records of, expenses incurred in the course of performing services under this Agreement. Consultant will comply with all applicable federal, state, local, and foreign laws governing self-employed individuals, including laws requiring the payment of taxes, such as income and employment taxes, and social security, disability, and other contributions. No part of Consultant’s compensation will be subject to withholding by the Company for the payment of any social security, federal, state or any other employee payroll taxes. The Company will regularly report amounts paid to Consultant by filing Form 1099-MISC or any comparable form applicable to non-US residents with the Internal Revenue Service as required by law.
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8. Confidentiality. Consultant acknowledges that performance of the Services called for in this Agreement shall require the Company to disclose to Consultant certain Confidential Information (as defined below). Consultant agrees to hold and maintain any Confidential Information in strict confidence for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Company and to at all times use appropriate measures to protect the secrecy of and avoid disclosure and unauthorized use of the Confidential Information, including without limitation, employing at least those measures that Consultant uses with respect to its own confidential information of a similar nature, but in no case less than a reasonable degree of care. Consultant agrees not to use or disclose any Confidential Information (whether or not conceived, originated, discovered, or developed by Consultant) except as reasonably necessary to perform the Services unless the Company consents to such use or disclosure in writing, subject to the further provisions of this Section 8. Consultant shall not disclose any Confidential Information to any third parties and shall ensure that only its employees that have a need to know will have access to the Confidential Information, provided, that they are subject to confidentiality obligations at least as protective as those contained herein to protect such Confidential Information. Consultant understands that these obligations remain even after Consultant’s engagement ends and shall survive expiration or termination of this Agreement for any reason. As used herein, “Confidential Information” shall mean all information, data, reports, analyses, compilations, transcriptions, records, notes, summaries, discussions, studies, test results, sketches, graphs, designs, photographs, drawings, and other materials (in whatever form or media maintained) containing or reflecting information relating to the Company provided to, learned, or developed by Consultant or its agents during the term of this Agreement, including but not limited to: (i) all work product; (ii) information or materials which relate to the Company’s assets, applications, liabilities, properties, accounts, financial information, budgets, operations, marketing studies, plans and materials, services, products, processes, trade secrets, intellectual property or other proprietary rights, know-how, concepts, ideas, inventions, discoveries, research and development, business plans, models or strategies, manufacturing or distribution methods, processes or systems, software and related documentation, object code, source code, database technologies, systems, structures, architectures, customers, customer lists, customer requirements, vendors, suppliers, supplier lists, advertisers, personnel, training techniques, pricing and other proprietary information; (iii) all data, reports, analysis, compilations, extracts, summaries, writings, studies, interpretations, forecasts, records, or other materials (whether documentary, electronic or otherwise) prepared by or on behalf of the Company that relate to, are based on, or contain any of the information listed in subsection (ii) above or that reflect a summary, review or evaluation of any of the business, plans, operations, data, documents, or customers and advertisers of the Company; and/or (iv) any other information that is marked or expressly designated as “Confidential” by the Company or information that, by reason of its nature, would reasonably be concluded to be of a confidential nature. Confidential Information shall not include (x) information that is in the public domain through no fault of the Consultant; (y) information published or disseminated by the Company in the ordinary course of business without restriction; and (z) information received from a third party not under an obligation to keep such information confidential and without breach of this Agreement by Consultant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Company acknowledges and agrees that any disclosure of Confidential Information made by Consultant to any VDA Affiliate (as defined below) or any of their respective employees, officers, directors, advisors and outside counsel (collectively, its "Representatives"), and any use of such Confidential Information by a VDA Affiliate or its Representatives, shall not be deemed a violation of this Section 8; provided that such information is not disclosed by such VDA Affiliate or its Representatives to any other third party and provided further, that as a condition to such disclosure, Consultant shall inform such VDA Affiliate and its Representatives of the confidential nature of the Confidential Information and such VDA Affiliate and its Representatives must be subject to confidentiality obligations at least as protective as those contained herein to protect such Confidential Information. Consultant acknowledges and agrees that any and all Confidential Information shall be the sole property of and exclusively owned by Company, including any and all improvements, modifications, and derivative works thereof, whether made by the Company, Consultant, or otherwise. As used herein, “VDA Affiliate” means VDA and any other individual, corporation, company (including any company limited by shares, limited liability company or joint stock company), firm, society or other enterprise, association, organization or entity, directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with VDA.
9. Notice of Immunity Under the Economic Espionage Act of 1996, as amended by the Defend Trade Secrets Act of 2016. Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement:
9.1 Consultant will not be held criminally or civilly liable under any federal or state trade secret law for any disclosure of a trade secret that is made: (1) in confidence to a federal, state, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney and solely for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (2) in a complaint or other document that is filed under seal in a lawsuit or other proceeding.
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9.2 If Consultant files a lawsuit for retaliation by the Company for reporting a suspected violation of law, Consultant may disclose the Company's trade secrets to Consultant's attorney and use the trade secret information in the court proceeding if Consultant (1) files any document containing the trade secret under seal; and (2) does not disclose the trade secret, except pursuant to court order.
9.3 Consultant acknowledges and agrees that the Confdentiality Agreement is intended to be for the benefit of the Company and any third party (including any customer of the Company) that has entrusted information or physical material to the Company in confidence.
10. No Conflict of Interest. During the term of this Agreement, Consultant will not accept work, enter into a contract, or accept an obligation from any third party, inconsistent or incompatible with Consultant’s obligations, or the scope of services rendered for the Company, under this Agreement; provided however, that the performance of any obligations Consultant may have as director or officer of VDA shall not be deemed a violation of this Section 10.
11. Indemnification. The Company shall, at its own expense, defend, indemnify and hold harmless Consultant from and against any and all liabilities, claims, actions, losses, costs and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees and disbursements) (collectively, “Claims”) (i) relating to or arising out of the Company's actual or alleged violation of any law, statute, ordinance, order, rule or regulation; or (ii) to the extent such Claim is primarily and directly based upon information or direction provided by the Company to Consultant; provided, however, the foregoing shall not apply to any portion of such Claims to the extent it is found to have resulted primarily and directly from Consultant’s (A) infringement of any United States patent, foreign letters patent, license, trademark, copyright, trade secret or any other proprietary right other than as may be directed or induced by the Company for the Services provided by Consultant hereunder; (B) breach of this Agreement or any other agreement; (C) violation of any law, statute, ordinance, order, rule or regulation; or (D) any gross negligence or intentional misconduct in connection with such performance. This indemnification is not voided by the termination of this Agreement. The indemnification applicable to the Company’s officers and directors shall not be affected by and shall be deemed independent of this paragraph.
12. Limitation of Liability. Neither party shall be liable to the other party hereunder for penalties or liquidated damages or for special, consequential, or incidental damages of any type or kind resulting from any breach of this Agreement.
13. Subcontracting and Assignment; Successors and Assigns. Consultant may not assign, subcontract or otherwise delegate his obligations under this Agreement without the Company’s prior written consent. Subject to the foregoing, this Agreement will be for the benefit of the Company’s successors and assigns.
14. Waivers. The provisions of this Agreement may not be waived, except pursuant to a writing executed by the parties. A party's failure to enforce any provision or provisions of this Agreement shall not in any way be construed as a waiver of any such provision or provisions, or prevent a party thereafter from enforcing each and every other provision of this Agreement.
15. Notices. All notices to be provided hereunder shall be in writing and delivered and mailed to the parties at the address that each party provides the other from time to time in writing.
16. Miscellaneous.
16.1 This Agreement is governed by the laws of the State of Wisconsin without reference to any conflict of laws principles that would require the application of the laws of any other jurisdiction. Consultant irrevocably consents to the personal jurisdiction of the state and federal courts located in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin for any suit or action arising from or related to this Agreement, and waives any rights Consultant may have to object to the venue of such courts. Consultant further agrees that these courts will have exclusive jurisdiction over any such suit or action initiated by Consultant against Company.
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16.2 This Agreement (including any exhibits hereto) forms the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between the parties concerning the subject matter hereof. This Agreement supersedes any other discussions, representations, agreements or arrangements between the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof. The terms of this Agreement cannot be amended or modified without written agreement signed by Consultant and a duly authorized officer of the Company.
16.3 The provisions of this Agreement are severable and if any provision contained in this Agreement shall, for any reason, be held invalid or unenforceable in any respect, such provision will be construed and enforced so as to render it valid and enforceable consistent with the general intent of the parties insofar as possible under applicable law.
16.4 Consultant’s obligations under Sections 6 and 8 of this Agreement are of a unique character that gives them particular value; breach of any of such obligations will result in irreparable and continuing damage to the Company for which there will be no adequate remedy at law; and, in the event of such breach, the Company will be entitled to injunctive relief and/or a decree for specific performance, and such other and further relief as may be proper (including monetary damages if appropriate).
16.5 This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts with the same effect as if all of the parties hereto had signed the same document. All counterparts shall be construed together and shall constitute one agreement. Delivery of an executed signature page of this Agreement by any electronic means that reproduces an image of the actual executed signature page shall be as effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Agreement.
[Signature Page Follows]
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Consultant and the Company have executed this Consulting Agreement as of the date first set forth above.
TELKONET, INC.
By: /s/ Tim S. Ledwick
Name: Tim S. Ledwick
Title: Authorized Signatory
Date: 11.15.2021
CONSULTANT
/s/ Piercarlo Gramaglia
Piercarlo Gramaglia
Date: 01.07.2022
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EXHIBIT 21.1
LIST OF SUBSIDIARIES
| Name | Ownership % | State of Incorporation |
| Telkonet Communications, Inc. | 100.0 | Delaware |
EXHIBIT 23.1
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements of Telkonet, Inc. on Forms S-8 (Nos. 333-161909 and 333-175737) of our report dated March 31, 2022, relating to the financial statements of Telkonet, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 2021 appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
/s/ Wipfli LLP
Minneapolis, Minnesota
March 31, 2022
EXHIBIT 31.1
CERTIFICATIONS
I, Piercarlo Gramaglia, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Telkonet, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Date: March 31, 2022
By: /s/ Piercarlo Gramaglia
Piercarlo Gramaglia
Chief Executive Officer
EXHIBIT 31.2
CERTIFICATIONS
I, Richard E. Mushrush, certify that:
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Telkonet, Inc.;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:
(a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
(b) Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
(c) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and
(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and
5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
(a) All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
(b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.
Date: March 31, 2022
By: /s/ Richard E. Mushrush
Richard E. Mushrush
Chief Financial Officer
EXHIBIT 32.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of Telkonet, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Piercarlo Gramaglia, Chief Executive Officer of Telkonet, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
/s/ Piercarlo Gramaglia
Piercarlo Gramaglia
Chief Executive Officer
March 31, 2022
EXHIBIT 32.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of Telkonet, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Richard E. Mushrush, Chief Financial Officer of Telkonet, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:
(1) The Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and
(2) The information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.
/s/ Richard E. Mushrush
Richard E. Mushrush
Chief Financial Officer
March 31, 2022