KINDER MORGAN INC

Previous wording

Our pipelines, terminals and other assets and facilities, including the availability of expansion opportunities, depend in part on continued production of natural gas, crude oil and other products in the geographic areas that they serve. Without additions to crude oil and gas reserves, production will decline over time as reserves are depleted, and production costs may rise. Producers in areas served by us may not be successful in exploring for and developing additional reserves or their costs of doing so may become uneconomic. Commodity prices and tax incentives may not remain at levels that encourage producers to explore for and develop additional reserves, produce existing marginal reserves or renew transportation contracts as they expire. Our business also depends in part on the levels of demand for natural gas, crude oil, NGL, refined petroleum products, CO 2, steel, chemicals and other products in the geographic areas to which our pipelines, terminals, shipping vessels and other facilities deliver or provide service, and the ability and willingness of our shippers and other customers to supply such demand.

Current wording

Our pipelines, terminals and other assets and facilities, including the availability of expansion opportunities, depend in part on continued production of natural gas, crude oil and other products in the geographic areas that they serve. Without additions to crude oil and gas reserves, production will decline over time as reserves are depleted, and production costs may rise. Producers in areas served by us may not be successful in exploring for and developing additional reserves or their costs of doing so may become uneconomic. Commodity prices and tax incentives may not remain at levels that encourage producers to explore for and develop additional reserves, produce existing marginal reserves or renew transportation contracts as they expire. Our business also depends in part on the levels of demand for natural gas, crude oil, NGL, refined petroleum products, CO 2, steel, chemicals and other products in the geographic areas to which our pipelines, terminals, shipping vessels and other facilities deliver or provide service, and the ability and willingness of our shippers and other customers to supply such demand. Decreases in the supply of or demand for natural gas, crude oil and other products could adversely impact the utilization of our assets.

Previous wording

Economic disruptions, such as those which occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic, or conditions in the business environment generally, such as declining or sustained low commodity prices, supply disruptions, or higher development or production costs, could result in a slowing of supply to our pipelines, terminals and other assets. Also, sustained lower demand for hydrocarbons, or changes in the regulatory environment or applicable governmental policies, including in relation to climate change or other environmental concerns, may have a negative impact on the supply of crude oil and other products. In recent years, a number of initiatives and regulatory changes relating to reducing GHG emissions have been undertaken by federal, state and municipal governments and crude oil and gas industry participants. In addition, public concern about the potential risks posed by climate change has resulted in increased demand for energy efficiency and a transition to energy provided from renewable energy sources rather than fossil fuels, fuel-efficient alternatives such as hybrid and electric vehicles, and pursuit of other technologies to reduce GHG emissions, such as carbon capture and sequestration. We have seen and may see further intensification of these trends.

Current wording

Conditions in the business environment generally, such as declining or sustained low commodity prices, supply disruptions, or higher development or production costs, could result in a slowing of supply to our pipelines, terminals and other assets. Also, sustained lower demand for hydrocarbons, or changes in the regulatory environment or applicable governmental policies, including in relation to climate change or other environmental concerns, may have a negative impact on the supply of crude oil and other products. Public concern about the potential risks posed by climate change has resulted in increased demand for energy efficiency and a transition to energy provided from renewable energy sources rather than fossil fuels, fuel-efficient alternatives such as hybrid and electric vehicles, and pursuit of other technologies to reduce GHG emissions, such as carbon capture and sequestration. We have seen and may see further intensification of these trends.

Previous wording

Each of the foregoing supply and demand issues could negatively impact our business directly, as well as our shippers and other customers, which in turn could negatively impact our prospects for new contracts for transportation, terminaling or other midstream services, or renewals of existing contracts or the ability of our customers and shippers to honor their contractual commitments. Furthermore, such unfavorable conditions may compound the adverse effects of larger disruptions, such as COVID-19. See “—Financial distress experienced by our customers or other counterparties could have an adverse impact on us in the event they are unable to pay us for the products or services we provide or otherwise fulfill their obligations to us.” below.

Current wording

Each of the foregoing supply and demand issues could negatively impact our business directly, as well as our shippers and other customers, which in turn could negatively impact our prospects for new contracts for transportation, terminaling or other midstream services, or renewals of existing contracts or the ability of our customers and shippers to honor their contractual commitments. See “—Financial distress experienced by our customers or other counterparties could have an adverse impact on us in the event they are unable to pay us for the products or services we provide or otherwise fulfill their obligations to us.” below. Furthermore, such unfavorable conditions may compound the adverse effects of larger economic disruptions. See “—Our operating results may be adversely affected by unfavorable economic and market conditions.”

Previous wording

We regularly undertake construction projects to expand our existing assets and to construct new assets. New growth projects generally will be subject to, among other things, the receipt of regulatory approvals, feasibility and cost analyses, funding availability and industry, market and demand conditions, and environmental justice considerations. A variety of factors outside of our control, such as difficulties in obtaining rights-of-way and permits or other regulatory approvals, have caused, and may continue to cause, delays in or cancellations of our construction projects. Regulatory authorities may modify their permitting policies in ways that disadvantage our construction projects, such as the FERC’s ongoing evaluation of its process for reviewing and approving applications for construction of natural gas infrastructure. Federal regulators may also expand existing regulatory requirements, such as PHMSA’s recent expansion of gas gathering pipeline regulation and PHMSA’s consideration of regulating the transportation of gaseous CO 2. Such factors can be exacerbated by public opposition to our projects. See “—We are subject to reputational risks and risks relating to public opinion.” Inclement weather, natural disasters and delays in performance by third-party contractors have also resulted in, and may continue to result in, increased costs or delays in construction. In addition, we may experience increasing costs for construction materials. Significant increases in costs of construction materials, cost overruns or delays, or our inability to obtain a required permit or right-of-way, could have a material adverse effect on our return on investment, results of operations and cash flows, and could result in project cancellations or limit our ability to pursue other growth opportunities.

Current wording

We regularly undertake construction projects to expand our existing assets and to construct new assets. New growth projects generally will be subject to, among other things, the receipt of regulatory approvals, feasibility and cost analyses, funding availability, industry, market and demand conditions, and environmental justice considerations. A variety of factors outside of our control, such as difficulties in obtaining rights-of-way and permits or other regulatory approvals, have caused, and may continue to cause, delays in or cancellations of our construction projects. Regulatory authorities may modify their permitting policies in ways that disadvantage our construction projects. Federal regulators may also expand existing regulatory requirements, such as PHMSA’s recent expansion of gas gathering pipeline regulation and the Congressional mandate under the Pipeline Safety Act that PHMSA regulate the transportation of gaseous CO 2. Such factors can be exacerbated by public opposition to our projects. See “—We are subject to reputational risks and risks relating to public opinion.” Inclement weather, natural disasters and delays in performance by third-party contractors have also resulted in, and may continue to result in, increased costs or delays in construction. In addition, we may experience increasing costs for construction materials, including cost increases associated with increased tariffs (such as those proposed by the new U.S. presidential administration). Significant increases in costs of construction materials, cost overruns or delays, or our inability to obtain a required permit or right-of-way, could have a material adverse effect on our return on investment, results of operations and cash flows, and could result in project cancellations or otherwise limit our ability to pursue growth opportunities.

Previous wording

If we pursue joint ventures with third parties, those parties may share approval rights over major decisions, and may act in their own interests. Their views may differ from our own or our views of the interests of the venture which could result in operational delays or impasses, which in turn could affect the financial expectations of and our expected benefits from the venture.

Current wording

If we pursue joint ventures with third parties, those parties may share approval rights over major decisions and may act in their own interests, which may differ from our interests or our views of the interests of the venture. Such differences in actual or perceived interests could result in operational delays or impasses, which in turn could affect the financial expectations of and our expected benefits from the venture.

Previous wording

Sharp declines in the prices of crude oil, NGL or natural gas, or a prolonged unfavorable price environment, may result in a commensurate reduction in our revenues, income and cash flows from our businesses that produce, process, or purchase and sell crude oil, NGL, or natural gas, and could have a material adverse effect on the carrying value (which includes assigned goodwill) of our CO 2 business segment’s proved reserves, certain assets in certain midstream businesses within our Natural Gas Pipelines business segment, and certain assets within our Products Pipelines business segment. For example, following the commodity price declines we experienced due to COVID-19 during the first half of 2020, we recorded a combined $1.95 billion of non-cash impairments associated with our Natural Gas Pipelines Non-Regulated and CO 2 reporting units, primarily for impairments of goodwill and assets owned in these businesses.

Current wording

Sharp declines in the prices of crude oil, NGL or natural gas, or a prolonged unfavorable price environment, may result in a commensurate reduction in our revenues, income and cash flows from our businesses that produce, process, or purchase and sell crude oil, NGL, or natural gas, and could have a material adverse effect on the carrying value (which includes assigned goodwill) of our CO 2 business segment’s proved reserves, certain assets in certain midstream businesses within our Natural Gas Pipelines business segment, and certain assets within our Products Pipelines business segment.

Previous wording

Unfavorable conditions such as a general slowdown of the global or U.S. economy, uncertainty and volatility in the financial markets, or inflation and rising interest rates, could materially adversely affect our operating results. For example, COVID-19 resulted in a global economic downturn in 2020. The slowdown resulting from the pandemic affected numerous industries, including the crude oil and gas industry, the steel industry and specific segments and markets in which we operate, resulting in reduced demand and increased price competition for our products and services. While global economic activity largely rebounded in 2021, we could experience similar or compounded adverse impacts as a result of other global events affecting economic conditions. Also, economic conditions in the wake of the pandemic have included inflationary pressure, which has resulted in higher operating expenses and project costs for us, as well as higher interest rates.

Current wording

Unfavorable conditions such as a general slowdown of the global or U.S. economy, uncertainty and volatility in the financial markets, or inflation and rising interest rates, could materially adversely affect our operating results. For example, the global economic downturn caused by the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 affected numerous industries, including the crude oil and gas industry, the steel industry and specific segments and markets in which we operate, resulting in reduced demand and increased price competition for our products and services. Also, economic conditions in the wake of the pandemic included inflationary pressure, which resulted in higher operating expenses and project costs for us, as well as higher interest rates. More recently, we may see increasing market uncertainty and volatility due to possible shifts in U.S. and foreign trade, economic and other policies following the recent change in U.S. presidential administration.

Previous wording

Our business, operations or financial condition generally may be negatively impacted as a result of negative public opinion towards our industry sector, the products we handle, or us specifically. Public opinion may be influenced by negative portrayals of the industry in which we operate as well as opposition to development projects. In addition, events specific to us could result in the deterioration of our reputation with key stakeholders.

Current wording

Our business, operations or financial condition generally may be negatively impacted as a result of negative public opinion towards our industry sector, the products we handle, or us specifically. Public opinion may be influenced by negative portrayals of the energy industry as well as opposition to development projects. In addition, events specific to us could result in the deterioration of our reputation with key stakeholders.

Previous wording

We believe that reputational risk cannot be managed in isolation from other forms of risk and that credit, market, operational, insurance, regulatory and legal risks, among others, must all be managed effectively to safeguard our reputation. Our reputation and public opinion could also be impacted by the actions and activities of other companies operating in the energy industry, particularly other energy infrastructure providers, over which we have no control. In particular, our reputation could be impacted by negative publicity related to pipeline incidents or unpopular expansion projects and due to opposition to development of hydrocarbons and energy infrastructure, particularly projects involving resources that are considered to increase GHG emissions and contribute to climate change. Negative impacts from a compromised reputation or changes in public opinion (including with respect to the production, transportation and use of hydrocarbons generally) could include increased regulatory oversight and costs, difficulty obtaining rights-of-way and delays in obtaining, or challenges to, regulatory approvals with respect to growth projects, blockades, project cancellations, difficulty securing financing, revenue loss, reduction in customer base, and decreased value of our securities and our business. Moreover, governmental agencies have responded to environmental justice concerns by imposing greater scrutiny in the permit approval process and enforcement actions that could exacerbate the negative reputational impacts.

Current wording

We believe that reputational risk cannot be managed in isolation from other forms of risk and that credit, market, operational, insurance, regulatory and legal risks, among others, must all be managed effectively to safeguard our reputation. Our reputation and public opinion could also be impacted by the actions and activities of other companies operating in the energy industry, particularly other energy infrastructure providers, over which we have no control. In particular, our reputation could be impacted by negative publicity related to pipeline incidents or unpopular expansion projects and due to opposition to development of hydrocarbons and energy infrastructure, particularly projects involving resources that are considered to increase GHG emissions and contribute to climate change. Negative impacts from a compromised reputation or changes in public opinion (including with respect to the production, transportation and use of hydrocarbons generally) could include increased regulatory oversight and costs, difficulty obtaining rights-of-way and delays in obtaining, or challenges to, regulatory approvals with respect to growth projects, blockades, project cancellations, difficulty securing financing, revenue loss, reduction in customer base, and decreased value of our securities and our business. In the past, governmental agencies have responded to environmental justice concerns by imposing greater scrutiny in the permit approval process and enforcement actions that could exacerbate the negative reputational impacts, and they may do so in the future.

Previous wording

A breach of information security or the failure of one or more key information technology (IT) or operational (OT) systems, or those of third parties, may adversely affect our business, results of operations or business reputation.

Current wording

A breach of information security or the failure of one or more key IT or operational (OT) systems, or those of third parties, may adversely affect our business, results of operations or business reputation.

Previous wording

In accordance with government mandates, we have implemented and maintain a cybersecurity program—both internal and incorporating industry expertise—designed to protect our IT, OT and data systems from attacks, however, we can provide no assurance that our cybersecurity program will be completely effective. We have experienced increases in the number of attempts by external parties to access our networks or our company data without authorization. While we have taken additional steps to secure our networks and systems to specifically respond to new and elevated risks associated with remote work, we may nevertheless be more vulnerable to a successful cyber-attack or information security incident when significant numbers of our employees are working remotely. The risk of a disruption or breach of our operational systems, or the compromise of the data processed in connection with our operations, has increased as attempted attacks, including acts of terrorism or cyber sabotage, have advanced in sophistication and number around the world.

Current wording

In accordance with government mandates, we have implemented and maintain a cybersecurity program—both internal and incorporating industry expertise—designed to protect our IT, OT and data systems from attacks, however, we can provide no assurance that our cybersecurity program will be completely effective. We have experienced increases in the number of attempts by external parties to access our networks or our company data without authorization. While we have taken additional steps to secure our networks and systems to specifically respond to new and elevated risks associated with remote work, we may nevertheless be more vulnerable to a successful cyber-attack or information security incident when significant numbers of our employees are working remotely. The risk of a disruption or breach of our operational systems, or the compromise of the data processed in connection with our operations, has increased as attempted attacks, including acts of terrorism or cyber sabotage, which may be escalated during periods of heightened geopolitical tensions, have advanced in sophistication and number around the world.

Previous wording

The U.S. government has issued public warnings indicating that pipelines and other infrastructure assets might be specific targets of terrorist organizations or “cyber sabotage” events. For example, in May 2021, a ransomware attack on a major U.S. refined products pipeline forced the operator to temporarily shut down the pipeline, resulting in disruption of fuel supplies along the East Coast. Potential targets include our pipeline systems, terminals, processing plants, databases or operating systems. The occurrence of an attack could cause a substantial decrease in revenues and cash flows, increased costs to respond or other financial loss, significant reporting requirements, damage to our reputation, increased regulation or litigation or inaccurate information reported from our operations. In the event of such an incident, we may need to retain cybersecurity experts to assist us in stopping, diagnosing, and recovering from the attack. There is no assurance that adequate cyber sabotage and terrorism insurance will be available at rates we believe are reasonable in the near future. The potential for an attack may subject our operations to increased risks and costs, and, depending on their ultimate magnitude, have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and/or business reputation.

Current wording

The U.S. government has issued public warnings indicating that pipelines and other infrastructure assets might be specific targets of terrorist organizations or “cyber sabotage” events. Potential targets include our pipeline systems, terminals, processing plants, databases or operating systems. Risk of these attacks may escalate during periods of heightened geopolitical tensions. The occurrence of an attack could cause a substantial decrease in revenues and cash flows, increased costs to respond or other financial loss, significant reporting requirements, damage to our reputation, increased regulation or litigation or inaccurate information reported from our operations. In the event of such an incident, we may need to retain cybersecurity experts to assist us in stopping, diagnosing, and recovering from the attack. There is no assurance that adequate cyber sabotage and terrorism insurance will be available at rates we believe are reasonable in the near future. The potential for an attack may subject our operations to increased risks and costs, and, depending on their ultimate magnitude, have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and/or business reputation.

Previous wording

We must obtain and maintain the rights to construct and operate pipelines on other owners’ land, including private landowners, railroads, public utilities and others. While our interstate natural gas pipelines in the U.S. have federal eminent domain authority, the availability of eminent domain authority for our other pipelines varies from state to state depending upon the type of pipeline—petroleum liquids, natural gas, CO 2, or crude oil—and the laws of the particular state. In any case, we must compensate landowners for the use of their property, and in eminent domain actions, such compensation may be determined by a court. If we are unable to obtain rights-of-way on acceptable terms, our ability to complete construction projects on time, on budget, or at all, could be adversely affected. In addition, we are subject to the possibility of increased costs under our rights-of-way or rental agreements with landowners, primarily through renewals of expiring agreements and rental increases. If we were to lose these rights, our operations could be disrupted or we could be required to relocate the affected pipelines, which could cause a substantial decrease in our revenues and cash flows and a substantial increase in our costs.

Current wording

We must obtain and maintain the rights to construct and operate pipelines on other owners’ land, including private landowners, railroads, public utilities and others. While our interstate natural gas pipelines in the U.S. have federal eminent domain authority, the availability of eminent domain authority for our other pipelines varies from state to state depending upon the type of pipeline—petroleum liquids, natural gas, CO 2, or crude oil—and the laws of the particular state. In addition, we must compensate landowners for the use of their property and, in eminent domain actions, such compensation may be determined by a court. If we are unable to obtain rights-of-way on acceptable terms, our ability to complete construction projects on time, on budget, or at all, could be adversely affected. In addition, we are subject to the possibility of increased costs under our rights-of-way or rental agreements with landowners, primarily through renewals of expiring agreements and rental increases. If we were to lose these rights, our operations could be disrupted or we could be required to relocate the affected pipelines, which could cause a substantial decrease in our revenues and cash flows and a substantial increase in our costs.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had approximately $31.9 billion of consolidated debt (excluding debt fair value adjustments). Additionally, we and substantially all of our wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries are parties to a cross guarantee agreement under which each party to the agreement unconditionally guarantees the indebtedness of each other party, which means that we are liable for the debt of each of such subsidiaries. This level of consolidated debt and the cross guarantee agreement could have important consequences, such as (i) limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund our working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements or potential growth, or for other purposes; (ii) increasing the cost of our future borrowings; (iii) limiting our ability to use operating cash flow in other areas of our business or to pay dividends because we must dedicate a substantial portion of these funds to make payments on our debt; (iv) placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors with less debt; and (v) increasing our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately $31.8 billion of consolidated debt (excluding debt fair value adjustments). Additionally, we and substantially all of our wholly owned U.S. subsidiaries are parties to a cross guarantee agreement under which each party to the agreement unconditionally guarantees the indebtedness of each other party, which means that we are liable for the debt of each of such subsidiaries. This level of consolidated debt and the cross guarantee agreement could have important consequences, such as (i) limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund our working capital, capital expenditures, debt service requirements or potential growth, or for other purposes; (ii) increasing the cost of our future borrowings; (iii) limiting our ability to use operating cash flow in other areas of our business or to pay dividends because we must dedicate a substantial portion of these funds to make payments on our debt; (iv) placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors with less debt; and (v) increasing our vulnerability to adverse economic and industry conditions.

Previous wording

Our large amount of variable rate debt makes us vulnerable to increases in interest rates.

Current wording

Our large amount of debt makes us vulnerable to increases in interest rates to the extent we have variable-rate debt and maturing fixed-rate debt.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, approximately $8.3 billion of our approximately $31.9 billion of consolidated debt (excluding debt fair value adjustments) was subject to variable interest rates, either as short-term or long-term variable-rate debt obligations, or as long-term fixed-rate debt effectively converted to variable rates through the use of interest rate swaps. In response to increasing inflation, the U.S. Federal Reserve raised interest rates in March 2022 for the first time in over three years and raised rates many more times since. As interest rates increase, the amount of cash required to service variable-rate debt also increases, as do our costs to refinance maturities of existing indebtedness, and our earnings and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had approximately $31.8 billion of consolidated debt (excluding debt fair value adjustments), including $1.5 billion of senior notes maturing within the next 12 months, and approximately $3.6 billion of debt subject to variable interest rates, either as short-term or long-term variable-rate debt obligations, or as long-term fixed-rate debt effectively converted to variable rates through the use of interest rate swaps. In response to increasing inflation, the U.S. Federal Reserve raised interest rates over the period from March 2022 to July 2023 before beginning rate reductions in September 2024 due to slowing inflation. There can be no assurance that the U.S. Federal reserve will continue rate reductions, will not resume rate increases or regarding the pace at which any such reductions or increases could occur. If and to the extent that interest rates increase, our costs to refinance maturities of existing indebtedness may also increase, as will the amount of cash required to service variable-rate debt, and our earnings and cash flows could be adversely affected.

Previous wording

Our assets and operations are subject to extensive regulation and oversight by federal, state and local regulatory authorities. Legislative changes, as well as regulatory actions taken by these authorities, have the potential to adversely affect our profitability. Additional regulatory burdens and uncertainties will be created if and to the extent that more stringent energy and environmental and pipeline safety policies are enacted. Overall, we have seen an increase in the efforts of regulatory authorities to issue new regulations and guidance and to interpret existing laws and regulations in ways that promote the use of renewable energy sources and further protection of the environment, call upon companies to increase monitoring and emissions reduction efforts, and increase investigations and enforcement actions for potential violations of environmental laws. For example, in December 2023, the EPA finalized a rule containing standards of performance for GHG emissions, in the form of methane limitations, and volatile organic compound emissions for crude oil and natural gas sources, including the production, processing, and transmission and storage segments.

Current wording

Our assets and operations are subject to extensive regulation and oversight by federal, state and local regulatory authorities. Legislative changes, as well as regulatory actions taken by these authorities, have the potential to adversely affect our profitability. Additional regulatory burdens and uncertainties will be created if and to the extent that more stringent energy and environmental and pipeline safety policies are enacted. In recent years, we saw an increase in the efforts of regulatory authorities to issue new regulations and guidance and to interpret existing laws and regulations in ways that promoted the use of renewable energy sources and further protection of the environment, called upon companies to increase monitoring and emissions reduction efforts, and increased investigations and enforcement actions for potential violations of environmental laws. For example, in December 2023, the EPA finalized a rule containing standards of performance for methane and volatile organic compound emissions from crude oil and natural gas sources, including the production, processing, and transmission and storage segments. In addition, a certain degree of regulatory uncertainty is created by the recent change in U.S. presidential administrations. It remains unclear specifically what the new administration may do with respect to future policies and regulations that may affect us.

Previous wording

The EPA’s final rule known as the “Good Neighbor Plan” (the Plan) became effective on August 4, 2023, except in states that were awarded a stay of the EPA’s disapproval of their SIPs prior to the Plan’s effective date. Following the Plan’s effective date, several other states have been awarded similar stays. As a precursor to the Plan, the EPA disapproved 21 SIPs and found that two other states had failed to submit SIPs under the interstate transport (good neighbor) provisions of the Clean Air Act for the 2015 Ozone NAAQS. The EPA has since proposed to disapprove five additional state SIPs and apply the Plan or portions of the Plan to sources in those states, including one state that would affect our operations. The Plan imposes prescriptive emission standards for several sectors, including new and existing reciprocating internal combustion engines of a certain size used in pipeline transportation of natural gas. The Plan’s emission standards would require installation of more stringent air pollution controls on hundreds of existing internal combustion engines used by our Natural Gas Pipelines business segment. The Plan requires that all impacted engines meet the stringent emission limits by May 1, 2026 unless compliance schedule extensions are granted by the EPA, which would need to be supported by us and approved by the EPA on an engine-by-engine basis. If the Plan remains in effect in its current form (including full compliance by its May 1, 2026 compliance deadline, and assuming failure of all pending challenges to SIP disapprovals and no successful challenge to the Plan), we currently estimate that the Plan would have a material adverse impact on us. See Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Expenditures—Impact of Regulation.” Multiple legal challenges have been filed, including by us. See Note 18, “Litigation and Environmental—Environmental Matters—Challenge to Federal “Good Neighbor Plan,” to our consolidated financial statements. We are unable to predict whether any legal challenges will ultimately result in changes to the Plan or how those changes, if any, would impact us.

Current wording

The EPA’s final rule known as the “Good Neighbor Plan” (the Plan) was predicated on the EPA’s disapproval of numerous state implementation plans, or SIPs, submitted under the interstate transport (Good Neighbor) provisions of the Clean Air Act for the 2015 Ozone NAAQS and became effective on August 4, 2023. The Plan imposes prescriptive emission standards for several sectors, including new and existing reciprocating internal combustion engines of a certain size used in pipeline transportation of natural gas. The Plan’s emission standards would require installation of more stringent air pollution controls on hundreds of existing internal combustion engines used by our Natural Gas Pipelines business segment by May 1, 2026, except for any compliance schedule extensions granted by the EPA, which would need to be supported by us and approved by the EPA on an engine-by-engine basis. Multiple legal challenges have been filed, including by states seeking review of SIP disapprovals (12 of which have received stays pending review) and by us. On June 27, 2024, the Supreme Court granted a temporary stay of the Plan until a disposition of a review of the Plan by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit and any appeal of that decision to the Supreme Court. See Note 17, “Litigation and Environmental—Environmental Matters—Challenge to Federal “Good Neighbor Plan,” to our consolidated financial statements. On February 6, 2025, the EPA filed a motion asking the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit to hold the cases in abeyance for 60 days to allow the Trump Administration time to familiarize themselves with the Plan, receive briefing from the EPA about the cases and the Plan, and decide what action on the Plan, if any, is necessary. If the Plan were to remain in effect in its current form (including full compliance by a revised compliance deadline accounting for the stays, and assuming failure of all pending challenges to SIP disapprovals and no successful challenge to the Plan), we currently estimate that the Plan would have a material adverse impact on us. See Item 7. “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Expenditures—Impact of Regulation.” We are unable to predict whether pending legal challenges will ultimately result in changes to the Plan or how those changes, if any, would impact us.

Previous wording

Regulation affects almost every part of our business. In addition to environmental and pipeline safety matters, we are subject to regulations extending to such matters as (i) federal, state and local taxation; (ii) rates (which include reservation, commodity, surcharges, fuel and gas lost and unaccounted for), operating terms and conditions of service; (iii) the types of services we may offer to our customers; (iv) the contracts for service entered into with our customers; (v) the certification and construction of new facilities; (vi) the integrity, safety and security (including against cyber-attacks) of facilities and operations; (vii) the acquisition of other businesses; (viii) the acquisition, extension, disposition or abandonment of services or facilities; (ix) reporting and information posting requirements; (x) the maintenance of accounts and records; and (xi) relationships with affiliated companies involved in various aspects of the natural gas and energy businesses.

Current wording

Regulation affects almost every part of our business. In addition to environmental and pipeline safety matters, we are subject to regulations extending to such matters as (i) federal, state, local and foreign taxation; (ii) rates (which include reservation, commodity, surcharges, fuel and gas lost and unaccounted for), operating terms and conditions of service; (iii) the types of services we may offer to our customers; (iv) the contracts for service entered into with our customers; (v) the certification and construction of new facilities; (vi) the costs of raw materials, such as steel, which may be affected by tariffs (such as those proposed by the new U.S. presidential administration) or otherwise; (vii) the integrity, safety and security (including against cyber-attacks) of facilities and operations; (viii) the acquisition of other businesses; (ix) the acquisition, extension, disposition or abandonment of services or facilities; (x) reporting and information posting requirements; (xi) the maintenance of accounts and records; and (xii) relationships with affiliated companies involved in various aspects of the natural gas and energy businesses.

Previous wording

Should we fail to comply with any applicable statutes, rules, regulations, and orders of such regulatory authorities, we could be subject to substantial penalties and fines and potential loss of government contracts. New laws or regulations, or different interpretations of existing laws or regulations, including unexpected policy changes, applicable to our income, operations, assets or another aspect of our business could have a material adverse impact on our earnings, cash flow, financial condition and results of operations. For more information, see Items 1 and 2. “Business and Properties—Narrative Description of Business—Industry Regulation.”

Current wording

If we fail to comply with any applicable statutes, rules, regulations, and orders of such regulatory authorities, we could be subject to substantial penalties and fines and potential loss of government contracts. New laws or regulations, or different interpretations of existing laws or regulations, including unexpected policy changes, applicable to our income, operations, assets or another aspect of our business could have a material adverse impact on our earnings, cash flow, financial condition and results of operations. For more information, see Items 1 and 2. “Business and Properties—Narrative Description of Business—Industry Regulation.”

Previous wording

Our operations are subject to extensive federal, state and local laws, regulations and potential liabilities arising under or relating to the protection or preservation of the environment, natural resources and human health and safety. Such laws and regulations affect many aspects of our past, present and future operations, and generally require us to obtain and comply with various environmental registrations, licenses, permits, inspections and other approvals. It is possible that costs associated with complying with the aforementioned laws will increase as a result of the emphasis regulatory authorities are placing on protection of the environment and environmental justice considerations. Liability under such laws and regulations may be incurred without regard to fault under CERCLA, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Federal Clean Water Act, the Oil Pollution Act, or analogous state laws, as a result of the presence or release of hydrocarbons and other hazardous substances into or through the environment, and these laws may require response actions and remediation and may impose liability for natural resource and other damages. Private parties, including the owners of properties through which our pipelines pass, also may have the right to pursue legal actions to enforce compliance as well as to seek damages for non-compliance with such laws and regulations or for personal injury or property damage. Our insurance may not cover all environmental risks and costs and/or may not provide sufficient coverage in the event an environmental claim is made against us.

Current wording

Our operations are subject to extensive federal, state and local laws, regulations and potential liabilities arising under or relating to the protection or preservation of the environment, natural resources and human health and safety. Such laws and regulations affect many aspects of our past, present and future operations, and generally require us to obtain and comply with various environmental registrations, licenses, permits, inspections and other approvals. It is possible that costs associated with complying with the aforementioned laws will change depending on the emphasis regulatory authorities are placing on protection of the environment and environmental justice considerations. Liability under such laws and regulations may be incurred without regard to fault under CERCLA, the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, the Federal Clean Water Act, the Oil Pollution Act, or analogous state laws, as a result of the presence or release of hydrocarbons or hazardous substances into or through the environment, and these laws may require response actions and remediation and may impose liability for natural resource and other damages. Private parties, including the owners of properties through which our pipelines pass, also may have the right to pursue legal actions to enforce compliance as well as to seek damages for non-compliance with such laws and regulations or for personal injury or property damage. Our insurance may not cover all environmental risks and costs and/or may not provide sufficient coverage in the event an environmental claim is made against us.

Previous wording

Failure to comply with these laws and regulations, including required permits and other approvals, also may expose us to civil, criminal and administrative fines, penalties and/or interruptions in our operations that could harm our business, financial position, results of operations and prospects. For example, if a leak, release or spill of liquid petroleum products, chemicals or other hazardous substances occurs at or from our pipelines, shipping vessels or storage or other facilities, we may experience significant operational disruptions, and we may have to pay a significant amount to clean up or otherwise respond to the leak, release or spill, pay government penalties, address natural resource damage, compensate for human exposure or property damage, install costly pollution control equipment or undertake a combination of these and other measures.

Current wording

Failure to comply with these laws and regulations, including required permits and other approvals, also may expose us to civil, criminal and administrative fines, penalties and/or interruptions in our operations that could harm our business, financial position, results of operations and prospects. For example, if a leak, release or spill of liquid petroleum products, chemicals or hazardous substances occurs at or from our pipelines, shipping vessels or storage or other facilities, we may experience significant operational disruptions, and we may have to pay a significant amount to clean up or otherwise respond to the leak, release or spill, pay government penalties, address natural resource damage, compensate for human exposure or property damage, install costly pollution control equipment or undertake a combination of these and other measures.

Previous wording

We own and/or operate numerous properties and equipment that have been used for many years in connection with our business activities and contain hydrocarbons or other hazardous substances. While we believe we have utilized operating, handling and disposal practices that were consistent with industry practices at the time, hydrocarbons or other hazardous substances may have been released at or from properties and equipment owned, operated or used by us or our predecessors, or at or from properties where our or our predecessors’ wastes have been taken for disposal. In addition, many of these properties have been owned and/or operated by third parties whose management, handling and disposal of hydrocarbons or other hazardous substances were not under our control. These properties and any hazardous substances released and wastes disposed at or from them may be subject to U.S. laws such as CERCLA, which impose joint and several liability without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct. Under such laws, we could be required to remove previously disposed wastes, remediate property contamination or both, including contamination caused by prior owners or operators. Furthermore, it is possible that some wastes that are currently classified as non-hazardous, which could include wastes currently generated during our pipeline or liquids or bulk terminal operations or wastes from oil and gas facilities that are currently exempt as being exploration and production waste, may in the future be designated as hazardous wastes. Hazardous wastes are subject to more rigorous and costly handling and disposal requirements than non-hazardous wastes. Such changes in the regulations may result in additional capital expenditures or operating expenses for us.

Current wording

We own and/or operate numerous properties and equipment that have been used for many years in connection with our business activities and contain hydrocarbons or hazardous substances. While we believe we have utilized operating, handling and disposal practices that were consistent with industry practices at the time, hydrocarbons or hazardous substances may have been released at or from properties and equipment owned, operated or used by us or our predecessors, or at or from properties where our or our predecessors’ wastes have been taken for disposal. In addition, many of these properties have been owned and/or operated by third parties whose management, handling and disposal of hydrocarbons or hazardous substances were not under our control. These properties and any hazardous substances released and wastes disposed at or from them may be subject to U.S. laws such as CERCLA, which impose joint and several liability without regard to fault or the legality of the original conduct. Under such laws, we could be required to remove previously disposed wastes, remediate property contamination or both, including contamination caused by prior owners or operators. Furthermore, it is possible that some wastes that are currently classified as non-hazardous, which could include wastes currently generated during our pipeline or liquids or bulk terminal operations or wastes from oil and gas facilities that are currently exempt as being exploration and production waste, may in the future be designated as hazardous wastes. Hazardous wastes are subject to more rigorous and costly handling and disposal requirements than non-hazardous wastes. Such changes in the regulations may result in additional capital expenditures or operating expenses for us.

Previous wording

Environmental and health and safety laws and regulations are subject to change. The long-term trend in environmental regulation has been to place more restrictions and limitations on activities that may be perceived to affect the environment, wildlife, natural resources and human health, including without limitation, the exploration, development, storage and transportation of oil and gas. For example, the Federal Clean Air Act and other similar federal and state laws and regulations are subject to periodic review and amendment, which could result in more stringent emission control requirements obligating us to make significant capital expenditures at our facilities. Several state and federal agencies have also increased their daily and maximum penalty amounts in recent years. There can be no assurance as to the amount or timing of future expenditures for environmental compliance or remediation, and actual future expenditures may be different from the amounts we currently anticipate.

Current wording

Environmental and health and safety laws and regulations are subject to change. The long-term trend in environmental regulation has been to place more restrictions and limitations on activities that may be perceived to affect the environment, wildlife, natural resources and human health, including without limitation, the exploration, development, storage and transportation of oil and gas. For example, the Federal Clean Air Act and other similar federal and state laws and regulations are subject to amendment, which could result in more stringent emission control requirements obligating us to make significant capital expenditures at our facilities. Several state and federal agencies have also increased their daily and maximum penalty amounts in recent years. There can be no assurance as to the amount or timing of future expenditures for environmental compliance or remediation, and actual future expenditures may be different from the amounts we currently anticipate.

Previous wording

New or revised regulations that result in increased compliance costs or additional operating restrictions, particularly if those costs are not fully recoverable from our customers, as well as increased penalty amounts for inadvertent non-compliance, such as a pipeline leak, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and prospects. For more information, see Items 1 and 2. “Business and Properties—Narrative Description of Business—Environmental Matters.”

Current wording

New or revised regulations that result in increased compliance costs or additional operating restrictions, particularly if those costs are not fully recoverable from our customers, as well as increased penalty amounts for inadvertent non-compliance, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and prospects. For more information, see Items 1 and 2. “Business and Properties—Narrative Description of Business—Environmental Matters.”

Previous wording

We are subject to extensive laws and regulations related to pipeline safety and integrity at the federal and state levels. There are, for example, regulations issued by PHMSA for pipeline operators in the areas of design, operations, maintenance, integrity management, qualification and training, emergency response, control room management, and public awareness. We expect the costs of compliance with these regulations, including integrity management rules, will continue to be substantial. The majority of compliance costs relate to pipeline integrity management regulations, which include assessment and repair requirements. Technological advances in in-line inspection tools, identification of additional threats to a pipeline’s integrity and changes to the amount of pipeline determined to be located in HCAs or MCAs can have a significant impact on integrity testing and repair costs. We plan to continue our integrity management program to assess and maintain the integrity of our existing and future pipelines as required by PHMSA rules. Repairs or upgrades deemed necessary to address results of integrity assessments and other testing and/or ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of our pipelines and pipeline facilities could cause us to incur significant and unanticipated capital and operating expenditures. Such expenditures will vary depending on the number of repairs determined to be necessary as a result of integrity assessments and other testing. We also anticipate incurring substantial costs associated with PHMSA’s requirements for reconfirming the maximum allowable operating pressure of certain gas pipelines. We expect to increase expenditures in the future to comply with PHMSA regulations.

Current wording

We are subject to extensive laws and regulations related to pipeline safety and integrity at the federal and state levels. There are, for example, regulations issued by PHMSA for pipeline operators in the areas of design, operations, maintenance, integrity management, qualification and training, emergency response, control room management, and public awareness. We expect the costs of compliance with these regulations, including integrity management rules, will continue to be substantial. The majority of compliance costs relate to pipeline integrity management regulations, which include enhanced assessment and repair requirements in HCAs, and compliance with recently issued regulations which impose additional assessment and repair criteria for gas pipelines in MCAs. Technological advances in in-line inspection tools, identification of additional threats to a pipeline’s integrity and changes to the amount of pipeline determined to be located in HCAs or MCAs can have a significant impact on integrity testing and repair costs. Repairs or upgrades deemed necessary to address results of integrity assessments and other testing and/or ensure the continued safe and reliable operation of our pipelines and pipeline facilities could cause us to incur significant and unanticipated capital and operating expenditures. Such expenditures will vary depending on the number of repairs determined to be necessary as a result of integrity assessments and other testing. We also anticipate incurring substantial costs associated with PHMSA’s requirements for reconfirming the MAOP of certain gas pipelines.

Previous wording

Further, additional laws and regulations that may be enacted in the future or a new interpretation of existing laws and regulations could significantly increase our compliance expenditures. Pipeline safety regulations or changes to such regulations may require additional leak detection, reporting, the replacement of certain pipeline segments, addition of monitoring equipment and more frequent monitoring, inspection or testing of our pipeline facilities. Repair, remediation, and preventative or mitigating actions may require significant capital and operating expenditures. Pipeline safety regulation has increased over time, including recent revised gas and hazardous liquid regulations that we must timely implement, and existing obligations may increase with new proposed rules that are currently under consideration. For example, PHMSA has issued a proposed rulemaking with expansive pipeline leak detection and repair requirements that is proposed to be applicable to gas pipelines, LNG facilities, and underground natural gas storage facilities. In addition, PHMSA is working on a number of proposed rulemakings that are now projected for publication in 2024, including those related to (i) updating regulations for LNG facilities; (ii) requirements for idled gas and liquid pipelines; (iii) revising requirements for transportation of CO 2 in the liquid phase as well as establishing regulation of the transportation of gaseous CO 2; and (iv) requirements for responding to changes in class location for gas pipelines. Congress is working on the reauthorization of the Pipeline Safety Act, which is expected to be enacted during 2024 and to further expand PHMSA’s current rulemaking agenda and/or statutory authority in certain areas. There can be no assurance as to the amount or timing of future expenditures for pipeline safety and integrity regulation, and actual future expenditures may be different from the amounts we currently anticipate. Revised or additional regulations that result in increased compliance costs or additional operating restrictions, particularly if those costs are not deemed by regulators to be fully recoverable from our customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial position, results of operations and prospects.

Current wording

Further, additional laws and regulations that may be enacted in the future or a new interpretation of existing laws and regulations could significantly increase our compliance expenditures. Pipeline safety regulations or changes to such regulations may require additional leak detection, reporting, the replacement of certain pipeline segments or equipment, addition of monitoring equipment and more frequent monitoring, inspection or testing of our pipeline facilities. Repair, remediation, and preventative or mitigating actions may require significant capital and operating expenditures. Pipeline safety regulation has increased over time, including recent revised gas and hazardous liquid regulations that we must timely implement, and existing obligations may increase with new proposed rules that are currently under consideration. For example, PHMSA has issued a proposed rulemaking with expansive pipeline leak detection and repair requirements that is proposed to be applicable to gas pipelines, LNG facilities and underground natural gas storage facilities. PHMSA is also working on a final rulemaking regarding requirements for pipelines located in coastal ecological unusually sensitive areas, as well as a final rule that updates requirements for responding to changes in class location for gas pipelines. In addition, PHMSA is working on a number of proposed rulemakings, including those related to (i) updating regulations for LNG facilities; (ii) requirements for idled gas and liquid pipelines; (iii) revising requirements for transportation of CO 2 in the liquid phase as well as establishing regulation of the transportation of gaseous CO 2; (iv) oil spill response plans; and (v) liquid pipeline repair criteria.

Previous wording

Various laws and regulations exist or are under development that seek to regulate the emission of GHGs such as methane and CO 2, including the EPA programs to control GHG emissions, PHMSA’s existing and anticipated leak detection and repair requirements, and state actions to develop statewide or regional programs. Existing EPA regulations require us to report GHG emissions in the U.S. from sources such as our larger natural gas compressor stations, fractionated NGL, and production of naturally occurring CO 2 (for example, from our McElmo Dome CO 2 field), even when such production is not emitted to the atmosphere. Proposed approaches to further address GHG emissions include establishing GHG “cap-and-trade” programs, a fee on methane emissions from petroleum and natural gas systems, increased efficiency standards, participation in international climate agreements, issuance of executive orders by the U.S. presidential administration and incentives or mandates for pollution reduction, use of renewable energy sources, or use of alternative fuels with lower carbon content. For more information about climate change regulation, see Items 1 and 2. “Business and Properties—Narrative Description of Business—Environmental Matters—Climate Change.”

Current wording

Various laws and regulations exist or are under development that seek to regulate the emission of GHGs such as methane and CO 2, including the EPA programs to control GHG emissions, PHMSA’s existing leak detection and repair requirements and additional requirements proposed by PHMSA in accordance with its Congressional mandate, state actions to develop statewide or regional programs, and regulations by foreign governments that restrict imports. Existing EPA regulations require us to report GHG emissions in the U.S. from sources such as our larger natural gas compressor stations, fractionated NGL, and production of naturally occurring CO 2 (for example, from our McElmo Dome CO 2 field), even when such production is not emitted to the atmosphere. In addition, the European Union has approved a law to impose limits on methane emissions applicable to imports of natural gas and crude oil beginning in 2030. Proposed approaches to further address GHG emissions include establishing GHG “cap-and-trade” programs, increased efficiency standards, participation in international climate agreements and incentives or mandates for pollution reduction, use of renewable energy sources or use of alternative fuels with lower carbon content. For more information about climate change regulation, see Items 1 and 2. “Business and Properties—Narrative Description of Business—Environmental Matters—Climate Change.”

Previous wording

Adoption of any such laws or regulations could increase our costs to operate and maintain our facilities, expand existing facilities or construct new facilities. We could be required to install new emission controls on our facilities, acquire allowances for our GHG emissions, pay taxes related to our GHG emissions and administer and manage a GHG emissions program, and such increased costs could be significant. Recovery of such increased costs from our customers is uncertain in all cases and may depend on events beyond our control, including the outcome of future rate proceedings before the FERC. Such laws or regulations could also lead to reduced demand for hydrocarbon products that are deemed to contribute to emissions of GHGs, or restrictions on their use, which in turn could adversely affect demand for our products and services. See also “—Business Risks—We are subject to reputational risks and risks relating to public opinion.” and “—Business Risks—Hurricanes, earthquakes, flooding and other natural disasters, as well as subsidence and coastal erosion and climate-related physical risks, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.”

Current wording

Adoption of any such laws or regulations could increase our costs to operate and maintain our facilities, expand existing facilities or construct new facilities. We could be required to install new emission controls on our facilities, acquire allowances for our GHG emissions, pay taxes related to our GHG emissions and administer and manage a GHG emissions reduction program, and such increased costs could be significant. Recovery of such increased costs from our customers is uncertain in all cases and may depend on events beyond our control, including the outcome of future rate proceedings before the FERC. Such laws or regulations could also lead to reduced demand for hydrocarbon products that are deemed to contribute to emissions of GHGs, increases in the costs for such products or restrictions on their use, which in turn could adversely affect demand for our products and services. See also “—Business Risks—We are subject to reputational risks and risks relating to public opinion.” and “—Business Risks—Hurricanes, earthquakes, flooding and other natural disasters, as well as subsidence and coastal erosion and climate-related physical risks, could have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.”

Previous wording

In March 2022, the SEC proposed new climate-related disclosure rules, which if adopted as proposed, would require significant new climate-related disclosure in SEC filings, including certain climate-related metrics and GHG emissions data, and third-party attestation requirements. At this time, we cannot predict the costs of compliance with, or any potential adverse impacts resulting from, the new rules if adopted as proposed.

Current wording

In March 2024, the SEC finalized rules requiring significant new climate-related disclosure in SEC filings, including certain climate-related metrics and GHG emissions data, and third-party attestation requirements. In April 2024, the SEC voluntarily stayed the effectiveness of the new rules, pending judicial review, and on February 11, 2025, the Acting Chairman of the SEC directed the SEC staff to request that the court not schedule the case for argument to provide time for the SEC to deliberate and determine the appropriate next steps in the cases. The State of California also has enacted legislation requiring climate-related disclosures. Other U.S. states have announced similar proposed regulations. These types of regulations may expose us to significant additional compliance costs. Some customers and other third parties also have begun requesting disclosures from us related to their own reporting obligations. At this time, we cannot predict the costs of compliance with, or other potential adverse impacts resulting from, these or similar future rules that may be adopted.

Previous wording

We gather, process or transport crude oil, natural gas or NGL from several areas, including lands that are federally managed. Policy and regulatory initiatives or legislation by Congress may decrease access to federally managed lands or increase the regulatory burdens associated with using these lands to produce crude oil or natural gas, or both. Since 2021, the federal government has deprioritized onshore leasing and its review of applications for permits to drill. Third-party interest groups and members of the oil and gas industry have initiated litigation challenging decisions to approve or prohibit oil and gas activities on federally managed lands.

Current wording

We gather, process or transport crude oil, natural gas or NGL from several areas, including lands that are federally managed. Policy and regulatory initiatives or legislation by Congress may decrease access to federally managed lands or increase the regulatory burdens associated with using these lands to produce crude oil or natural gas, or both. From 2021 to 2024, the federal government deprioritized onshore leasing and its review of applications for permits to drill. Third-party interest groups and members of the oil and gas industry have initiated litigation challenging decisions to approve or prohibit oil and gas activities on federally managed lands.