USA Compression Partners LP

Previous wording

To make cash distributions at our current distribution rate of $0.525 per common unit per quarter, or $2.10 per common unit per year, we will require available cash of $54.1 million per quarter, or $216.3 million per year, based on the number of common units outstanding as of February 8, 2024.

Current wording

To make cash distributions at our current distribution rate of $0.525 per common unit per quarter, or $2.10 per common unit per year, we will require available cash of $61.7 million per quarter, or $246.8 million per year, based on the number of common units outstanding as of February 6, 2025.

Previous wording

Furthermore, our Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership (the “Partnership Agreement”) prohibits us from paying distributions on our common units unless we have first paid the quarterly distribution on the Preferred Units, including any previously accrued but unpaid distributions on the Preferred Units. The Preferred Unit distributions require $11.2 million quarterly, or $44.9 million annually, based on the number of Preferred Units outstanding as of February 8, 2024 and the distribution rate of $24.375 per Preferred Unit per quarter, or $97.50 per Preferred Unit per year.

Current wording

Furthermore, our Second Amended and Restated Agreement of Limited Partnership (the “Partnership Agreement”) prohibits us from paying distributions on our common units unless we have first paid the quarterly distribution on the Preferred Units, including any previously accrued but unpaid distributions on the Preferred Units. The Preferred Unit distributions require $4.4 million quarterly, or $17.6 million annually, based on the number of Preferred Units outstanding as of February 6, 2025 and the distribution rate of $24.375 per Preferred Unit per quarter, or $97.50 per Preferred Unit per year.

Previous wording

In particular, lower natural gas or crude oil prices over the long term could result in a decline in the production of natural gas or crude oil, respectively, resulting in reduced demand for our compression services. For example, in 2020, following disputes between the members of OPEC+ about production levels and the price of crude oil, and amid the outbreak of COVID-19, the price of crude oil declined rapidly beginning in March of that year. During 2020, the North American rig count reached a low of 247 rigs in August of 2020, down from 790 rigs at the end of January of that year, the price of WTI crude oil briefly went negative in April 2020, down from $51.58 per barrel at the end of January of that year, and Henry Hub natural gas spot reached a low of $1.33 per MMBtu in September 2020, down from $1.91 per MMBtu at the end of January of that year. The decline in commodity prices and the demand for and production of crude oil and natural gas resulted in a decline in the demand for our compression services, which caused a reduction of our revenues and our cash available for distribution in 2020 and 2021.

Current wording

In particular, lower natural gas or crude oil prices over the long term could result in a decline in the production of natural gas or crude oil, respectively, resulting in reduced demand for our compression services. For example, in 2020, the price of crude oil declined rapidly beginning in March of that year. During 2020, the North American rig count reached a low of 247 rigs in August of 2020, down from 790 rigs at the end of January of that year, the price of WTI crude oil briefly went negative in April 2020, down from $51.58 per barrel at the end of January of that year, and Henry Hub natural gas spot reached a low of $1.33 per MMBtu in September 2020, down from $1.91 per MMBtu at the end of January of that year. The decline in commodity prices and the demand for and production of crude oil and natural gas resulted in a decline in the demand for our compression services, which caused a reduction of our revenues and our cash available for distribution.

Previous wording

In addition, a small portion of our fleet is used in gas lift applications in connection with crude oil production using horizontal drilling techniques. During periods of low crude oil prices, we typically experience pressure on service rates and utilization from our customers in gas lift applications, and we experienced such effects in 2020, as an example. Any future decreases in the rate at which crude oil and natural gas reserves are developed, whether due to increased governmental regulation, low commodity pricing environment, limitations on exploration and production activity, or other factors, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Current wording

In addition, a portion of our fleet is used in gas lift applications in connection with crude oil production using horizontal drilling techniques. During periods of low crude oil prices, we typically experience pressure on service rates and utilization from our customers in gas lift applications, and we have experienced such effects in the past. Any future decreases in the rate at which crude oil and natural gas reserves are developed, whether due to increased governmental regulation, low commodity pricing environment, limitations on exploration and production activity, or other factors, could have a material adverse effect on our business.

Previous wording

We provide compression services under contracts with several key customers. The loss of one of these key customers may have a greater effect on our financial results than for a company with a more diverse customer base. Our ten largest customers accounted for approximately 39%, 38%, and 39% of our total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The loss of all or even a portion of the compression services we provide to our key customers, as a result of competition or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash available for distribution.

Current wording

We provide compression services under contracts with several key customers. The loss of one of these key customers may have a greater effect on our financial results than for a company with a more diverse customer base. Our ten largest customers accounted for approximately 41%, 39%, and 38% of our total revenues for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. The loss of all or even a portion of the compression services we provide to our key customers, as a result of competition or otherwise, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash available for distribution.

Previous wording

The natural gas compression business is highly competitive. Some of our competitors have a broader geographic scope and greater financial and other resources than we do. Our ability to renew or replace existing contracts with our customers at rates sufficient to maintain current revenue and cash flows could be adversely affected by the activities of our competitors and our customers. If our competitors substantially increase the resources they devote to the development and marketing of competitive services or substantially decrease the prices at which they offer their services, we may be unable to compete effectively. Some of these competitors may expand or construct newer, more powerful, or more flexible compression fleets, which would create additional competition for us. All of these competitive pressures could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash available for distribution.

Current wording

The natural gas compression business is highly competitive. Some of our competitors have greater financial and other resources than we do. Our ability to renew or replace existing contracts with our customers at rates sufficient to maintain current revenue and cash flows could be adversely affected by the activities of our competitors and our customers. If our competitors substantially increase the resources they devote to the development and marketing of competitive services or substantially decrease the prices at which they offer their services, we may be unable to compete effectively. Some of these competitors may expand or construct newer, more powerful, or more flexible compression fleets, which would create additional competition for us. All of these competitive pressures could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash available for distribution.

Previous wording

Our contracts typically have initial terms between six months to five years, depending on the application and location of the compression unit. After the expiration of the initial term, the contract continues on a month-to-month or longer basis until terminated by us or our customers upon notice as provided for in the applicable contract. For the year ended December 31, 2023, approximately 22% of our compression services on a revenue basis were provided on a month-to-month basis to customers who continue to utilize our services following expiration of the primary term of their contracts. These customers can generally terminate their month-to-month compression services contracts on 30 days’ written notice. If a significant number of these customers were to terminate their month-to-month services, or attempt to renegotiate their month-to-month contracts at substantially lower rates, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash available for distribution.

Current wording

Our contracts typically have initial terms between six months to five years, depending on the application and location of the compression unit. After the expiration of the initial term, the contract continues on a month-to-month or longer basis until terminated by us or our customers upon notice as provided for in the applicable contract. For the year ended December 31, 2024, approximately 14% of our compression services on a revenue basis were provided on a month-to-month basis to customers who continue to utilize our services following expiration of the primary term of their contracts. These customers can generally terminate their month-to-month compression services contracts on 30 days’ written notice. If a significant number of these customers were to terminate their month-to-month services, or attempt to renegotiate their month-to-month contracts at substantially lower rates, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash available for distribution.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had $2.3 billion of total debt, net of amortized deferred financing costs, outstanding under our Credit Agreement and Senior Notes.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $2.5 billion of total debt, net of amortized deferred financing costs, outstanding under our Credit Agreement and Senior Notes.

Previous wording

The Credit Agreement has an aggregate commitment of $1.6 billion (subject to availability under our borrowing base). The Credit Agreement matures on December 8, 2026, except that if any portion of the Senior Notes 2026 are outstanding on December 31, 2025, the Credit Agreement will mature on December 31, 2025. As of December 31, 2023, we had outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement of $871.8 million and $728.2 million of remaining unused availability of which, due to restrictions related to compliance with the applicable financial covenants, $529.1 million was available to be drawn.

Current wording

The Credit Agreement has an aggregate commitment of $1.6 billion (subject to availability under our borrowing base). The Credit Agreement matures on December 8, 2026. As of December 31, 2024, we had outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement of $772.1 million and, after accounting for outstanding letters of credit in the amount of $0.8 million, $827.1 million of remaining unused availability of which, due to restrictions related to compliance with the applicable financial covenants, $782.5 million was available to be drawn.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, we had $725.0 million and $750.0 million aggregate principal amount outstanding on our Senior Notes 2026 and Senior Notes 2027, respectively. The Senior Notes 2026 and Senior Notes 2027 accrue interest at the rate of 6.875% per year.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, we had $750.0 million and $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount outstanding on our Senior Notes 2027 and Senior Notes 2029, respectively. The Senior Notes 2027 and Senior Notes 2029 accrue interest at the rate of 6.875% and 7.125% per year, respectively.

Previous wording

Our ability to incur additional debt also is subject to limitations in the Credit Agreement, including certain financial covenants. As of December 31, 2023, our leverage ratio under the Credit Agreement was 4.10x. Financial covenants in the Credit Agreement permit a maximum leverage ratio of 5.25 to 1.00 (except that we may increase the applicable Total Leverage Ratio by 0.25 for any fiscal quarter during which a Specified Acquisition (as defined in the Credit Agreement) occurs and the following two fiscal quarters, but in no event shall the maximum Total Leverage Ratio exceed 5.50 to 1.00 for any fiscal quarter as a result of such increase); an Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of not less than 2.50 to 1.00; and a Secured Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of not greater than 3.00 to 1.00 or less than 0.00 to 1.00. As of February 8, 2024, we had outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement of $927.5 million and outstanding letters of credit of $0.5 million.

Current wording

Credit Agreement permit a maximum leverage ratio of 5.25 to 1.00 (except that we may increase the applicable Total Leverage Ratio by 0.25 for any fiscal quarter during which a Specified Acquisition (as defined in the Credit Agreement) occurs and the following two fiscal quarters, but in no event shall the maximum Total Leverage Ratio exceed 5.50 to 1.00 for any fiscal quarter as a result of such increase); an Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of not less than 2.50 to 1.00; and a Secured Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) of not greater than 3.00 to 1.00 or less than 0.00 to 1.00. As of February 6, 2025, we had outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement of $801.5 million and outstanding letters of credit of $0.8 million.

Previous wording

Our ability to service our debt will depend on, among other things, our future financial and operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, regulatory, and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, our ability to service our debt under the Credit Agreement could be impacted by market interest rates, as all of our outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement are subject to variable interest rates that fluctuate with changes in market interest rates. A substantial increase in the interest rates applicable to our variable-rate indebtedness outstanding could have a material negative impact on our cash available for distribution. Based on our December 31, 2023, variable-rate indebtedness outstanding, a one percent increase in the effective interest rate would result in an annual increase in our interest expense of approximately $8.7 million. If our operating results are not sufficient to service our current or future indebtedness, we could be forced to take actions such as reducing the level of distributions on our common units, curtailing or delaying our business activities, acquisitions, investments or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing our debt, or seeking additional equity capital. We may be unable to affect any of these actions on terms satisfactory to us or at all.

Current wording

Our ability to service our debt will depend on, among other things, our future financial and operating performance, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions and financial, business, regulatory, and other factors, some of which are beyond our control. In addition, our ability to service our debt under the Credit Agreement could be impacted by market interest rates, as all of our outstanding borrowings under the Credit Agreement are subject to variable interest rates that fluctuate with changes in market interest rates. While the U.S. Federal Reserve has begun lowering interest rates, macroeconomic circumstances may change, resulting in delays or reversal of such actions, which may result in a prolonged high-interest rate environment. Any substantial increase in the interest rates applicable to our variable-rate indebtedness outstanding could have a material negative impact on our cash available for distribution. Based on our December 31, 2024, variable-rate indebtedness outstanding, a one percent increase in the effective interest rate would result in an annual increase in our interest expense of approximately $7.7 million. If our operating results are not sufficient to service our current or future indebtedness, we could be forced to take actions such as reducing the level of distributions on our common units, curtailing or delaying our business activities, acquisitions, investments or capital expenditures, selling assets, restructuring or refinancing our debt, or seeking additional equity capital. We may be unable to affect any of these actions on terms satisfactory to us or at all.

Previous wording

The substantial majority of the components for our natural gas compression equipment are supplied by Caterpillar Inc., Cummins Inc., and Arrow Engine Company for engines; Air-X-Changers and Alfa Laval (US) for coolers; and Ariel Corporation, Cooper Machinery Services Gemini products, and Arrow Engine Company for compressor frames and cylinders. Our reliance on these suppliers involves several risks, including price increases and a potential inability to obtain an adequate supply of required components in a timely manner. In addition, supply chain disruptions (including those caused by COVID-19 lockdowns or geopolitical events, such as the ongoing military conflict involving Russia and Ukraine) may harm our suppliers and further complicate existing supply chain constraints. We also rely primarily on four vendors, A G Equipment Company, Alegacy Equipment, LLC., Standard Equipment Company, and Genis Holdings LLC, to package and assemble our compression units. We do not have long-term contracts with these suppliers or packagers, and a partial or complete loss of any of these sources could have a negative impact on our results of operations and could damage our customer relationships. Some of these suppliers manufacture the components we purchase in a single facility, and any damage to that facility or slowdown or closure of that facility for any reason, including labor shortages or labor disputes, could lead to significant delays in delivery of completed compression units to us.

Current wording

The substantial majority of the components for our natural gas compression equipment are supplied by Caterpillar Inc., Cummins Inc., INNIO Waukesha, and TECO-Westinghouse for engines; Air-X-Changers, Alfa Laval (US), AXH air-coolers, EADS Cooling Solutions, LLC, and R&R Engineering Co. for coolers; and Ariel Corporation, Cooper Machinery Services Gemini products, and Arrow Engine Company for compressor frames and cylinders. Our reliance on these suppliers involves several risks, including price increases and a potential inability to obtain an adequate supply of required components in a timely manner. In addition, supply chain disruptions (including those caused by geopolitical events) may harm our suppliers and further complicate existing supply chain constraints. We also rely primarily on three vendors, A G Equipment Company, Alegacy Equipment, LLC., and Standard Equipment Company, to package and assemble our compression units. We do not have long-term contracts with these suppliers or packagers, and a partial or complete loss of any of these sources could have a negative impact on our results of operations and could damage our customer relationships. Some of these suppliers manufacture the components we purchase in a single facility, and any damage to that facility or slowdown or closure of that facility for any reason, including labor shortages or labor disputes, could lead to significant delays in delivery of completed compression units to us.

Previous wording

During times when the natural gas or crude oil markets weaken, such as during the COVID-19 pandemic, our customers are more likely to experience financial difficulties, including being unable to access debt or equity financing, which could result in a reduction in our customers’ spending for our services. For example, our customers could seek to preserve capital or reduce expenses by using lower-cost providers of compression services, not renewing month-to-month contracts, determining not to enter into any new compression service contracts, or seeking lower contract prices for our services. A significant decline in commodity prices may cause certain of our customers to reconsider their near-term capital budgets, which may impact large-scale natural gas infrastructure and crude oil production activities. Reduced demand for our services could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

Current wording

During times when the natural gas or crude oil markets weaken our customers are more likely to experience financial difficulties, including being unable to access debt or equity financing, which could result in a reduction in our customers’ spending for our services. For example, our customers could seek to preserve capital or reduce expenses by using lower-cost providers of compression services, not renewing month-to-month contracts, determining not to enter into any new compression service contracts, or seeking lower contract prices for our services. A significant decline in commodity prices may cause certain of our customers to reconsider their near-term capital budgets, which may impact large-scale natural gas infrastructure and crude oil production activities. Reduced demand for our services could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Weak economic conditions and widespread financial distress, such as what resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic, did and could again reduce the liquidity of our customers, suppliers, or vendors, making it more difficult for them to meet their obligations to us. We therefore are subject to heightened risks of loss resulting from nonpayment or nonperformance by our customers, suppliers, and vendors. Severe financial problems encountered by our customers, suppliers, and vendors could limit our ability to collect amounts owed to us, or to enforce the performance of obligations owed to us under contractual arrangements. In the event that any of our customers was to enter into bankruptcy, we could lose all or a portion of the amounts owed to us by such customer, and we may be forced to cancel all or a portion of our service contracts with such customer at significant expense to us. For example, as of December 31, 2023, one customer accounted for 17% of our trade accounts receivable, net balance. If this customer was to enter bankruptcy or failed to pay us, it could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

Current wording

Weak economic conditions and widespread financial distress, have in the past and could again reduce the liquidity of our customers, suppliers, or vendors, making it more difficult for them to meet their obligations to us. We therefore are subject to heightened risks of loss resulting from nonpayment or nonperformance by our customers, suppliers, and vendors. Severe financial problems encountered by our customers, suppliers, and vendors could limit our ability to collect amounts owed to us, or to enforce the performance of obligations owed to us under contractual arrangements. In the event that any of our customers was to enter into bankruptcy, we could lose all or a portion of the amounts owed to us by such customer, and we may be forced to cancel all or a portion of our service contracts with such customer at significant expense to us. For example, as of December 31, 2024, two customers accounted for 12% and 11% of our trade accounts receivable, net balance, respectively. If these customers were to enter bankruptcy or failed to pay us, it could adversely affect our business, results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

Previous wording

Additionally, because distributions on the Preferred Units are cumulative, we will have to pay all unpaid accumulated distributions on the Preferred Units before we can pay any distributions on our common units. Also, because distributions on our common units are not cumulative, if we do not pay distributions on our common units with respect to any quarter, our common unitholders will not be entitled to receive distributions covering any prior periods if we later recommence paying distributions on our common units.

Current wording

In addition, distributions on the Preferred Units accrue and are cumulative, at the rate of 9.75% per annum on the original issue price, which amounts to a quarterly distribution of $24.375 per Preferred Unit, or $97.50 per Preferred Unit per year. If we do not pay the required distributions on the Preferred Units, we will be unable to pay distributions on our common units. Additionally, because distributions on the Preferred Units are cumulative, we will have to pay all unpaid accumulated distributions on the Preferred Units before we can pay any distributions on our common units. Also, because distributions on our common units are not cumulative, if we do not pay distributions on our common units with respect to any quarter, our common unitholders will not be entitled to receive distributions covering any prior periods if we later recommence paying distributions on our common units.

Previous wording

The Preferred Units are convertible into common units in accordance with the terms of the Partnership Agreement by the holders of the Preferred Units or by us in certain circumstances. Our obligation to pay distributions on the Preferred Units, or on the common units issued following the conversion of the Preferred Units, could impact our liquidity and reduce the amount of cash flow available for working capital, capital expenditures, growth opportunities, acquisitions, and other general Partnership purposes. Our obligations to the holders of the Preferred Units also could limit our ability to obtain additional financing or increase our borrowing costs, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition. See Note 11 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.”

Current wording

The Preferred Units are convertible into common units in accordance with the terms of the Partnership Agreement by the holders of the Preferred Units or by us in certain circumstances. In 2024, holders of our Preferred Units converted an aggregate of 320,000 Preferred Units. Our obligation to pay distributions on the Preferred Units, or on the common units issued following the conversion of the Preferred Units, could impact our liquidity and reduce the amount of cash flow available for working capital, capital expenditures, growth opportunities, acquisitions, and other general Partnership purposes. Our obligations to the holders of the Preferred Units also could limit our ability to obtain additional financing or increase our borrowing costs, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition. See Note 11 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”.

Previous wording

We have recorded $245.7 million of identifiable intangible assets, net, as of December 31, 2023. Any event that causes a reduction in demand for our services could result in a reduction of our estimates of future cash flows and growth rates in our business. These events could cause us to record impairments of identifiable intangible assets. For example, for the year ended December 31, 2020, we recognized a $619.4 million impairment of goodwill as a result of the economic downturn caused by the response to COVID-19.

Current wording

We have recorded $216.3 million of identifiable intangible assets, net, as of December 31, 2024. Any event that causes a reduction in demand for our services could result in a reduction of our estimates of future cash flows and growth rates in our business. These events could cause us to record impairments of identifiable intangible assets. For example, for the year ended December 31, 2020, we recognized a $619.4 million impairment of goodwill as a result of an economic downturn that occurred that year.

Previous wording

We have a significant number of long-lived assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Under GAAP, we are required to review our long-lived assets for impairment when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable or such assets will no longer be utilized in the operating fleet. The carrying value of a long-lived asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. If business conditions or other factors cause the expected undiscounted cash flows to decline, we may be required to record non-cash impairment charges. Events and conditions that could result in impairment in the value of our long-lived assets include changes in the industry in which we operate, competition, advances in technology, adverse changes in the regulatory environment, or other factors leading to a reduction in our expected long-term profitability. For example, for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, we evaluated the future deployment of our idle fleet assets under then-current market conditions and retired 42, 15, and 26 compression units, respectively, representing approximately 37,700, 3,200, and 11,000 of aggregate horsepower, respectively, that previously were used to provide compression services in our business. As a result, we recorded impairments of compression equipment of $12.3 million, $1.5 million, and $5.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively.

Current wording

We have a significant number of long-lived assets on our Consolidated Balance Sheets. Under GAAP, we are required to review our long-lived assets for impairment when events or circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable or such assets will no longer be utilized in the operating fleet. The carrying value of a long-lived asset is not recoverable if it exceeds the sum of the undiscounted cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the asset. If business conditions or other factors cause the expected undiscounted cash flows to decline, we may be required to record non-cash impairment charges. Events and conditions that could result in impairment in the value of our long-lived assets include changes in the industry in which we operate, competition, advances in technology, adverse changes in the regulatory environment, or other factors leading to a reduction in our expected long-term profitability. For example, for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, we evaluated the future deployment of our idle fleet assets under current market conditions and retired 2, 42, and 15 compression units, respectively, representing approximately 1,260, 37,700, and 3,200 of aggregate horsepower, respectively, that previously were used to provide compression services in our business. As a result, we recorded impairments of compression equipment of $0.3 million, $12.3 million, and $1.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.

Previous wording

From time to time, we may choose to make business acquisitions, such as the CDM Acquisition, to pursue market opportunities, increase our existing capabilities, and expand into new geographic areas of operations. While we have reviewed acquisition opportunities in the past and will continue to do so in the future, we may not be able to identify attractive acquisition opportunities or successfully acquire identified targets.

Current wording

From time to time, we may choose to make business acquisitions to pursue market opportunities, increase our existing capabilities, and expand into new geographic areas of operations. While we have reviewed acquisition opportunities in the past and will continue to do so in the future, we may not be able to identify attractive acquisition opportunities or successfully acquire identified targets.

Previous wording

Integration of assets acquired in past acquisitions or future acquisitions with our existing business can be complex, time-consuming, and costly, particularly in the case of material acquisitions such as the CDM Acquisition, which significantly increased our size and expanded the geographic areas in which we operate. A failure to successfully integrate acquired assets with our existing business in a timely manner may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Current wording

Integration of assets acquired in future acquisitions with our existing business can be complex, time-consuming, and costly, particularly in the case of material acquisitions such as the CDM Acquisition, which significantly increased our size and expanded the geographic areas in which we operate. A failure to successfully integrate acquired assets with our existing business in a timely manner may have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations, or cash available for distribution to our unitholders.

Previous wording

The difficulties of integrating past and future acquisitions with our business include, among other things:

Current wording

The difficulties of integrating future acquisitions with our business include, among other things:

Previous wording

Climate change continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention. Methane, a primary component of natural gas, and carbon dioxide, a byproduct of the burning of natural gas, are examples of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”). The U.S. Congress, from time to time, has considered legislation to reduce GHG emissions. In August 2022, the IRA 2022 was passed, which imposes a methane emissions charge on certain oil and gas facilities, including onshore petroleum and natural gas production facilities, that emit 25,000 metric tons or more of carbon dioxide equivalent gas per year and exceed certain emissions thresholds. In January 2024, the EPA issued a proposed rule to impose and collect the methane emissions charge authorized under the IRA 2022. In addition, federal or state governmental agencies could seek to pursue legislative, regulatory, or executive initiatives that restrict GHG emissions. Other energy legislation and initiatives could include a carbon tax or cap-and-trade program. Independent of the U.S. Congress, and as discussed in detail in Item 1 “Business – Our Operations – Governmental Regulations”, the EPA has taken steps to adopt regulations controlling GHG emissions under its existing CAA authority. Further, although Congress has not passed such legislation, many states have begun to address GHG emissions, primarily through the planned development of emissions inventories or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs. Depending on the particular program, we could be required to control GHG emissions or to purchase and surrender allowances for GHG emissions resulting from our operations.

Current wording

Climate change continues to attract considerable public and scientific attention. Methane, a primary component of natural gas, and carbon dioxide, a byproduct of the burning of natural gas, are examples of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”). The U.S. Congress, from time to time, has considered legislation to reduce GHG emissions. In August 2022, the IRA 2022 was passed, which imposes a methane emissions charge on certain oil and gas facilities, including onshore petroleum and natural gas production facilities, that emit 25,000 metric tons or more of carbon dioxide equivalent gas per year and exceed certain emissions thresholds. In November 2024, the EPA issued a final rule to impose and collect the methane emissions charge authorized under the IRA 2022. In addition, federal or state governmental agencies could seek to pursue legislative, regulatory, or executive initiatives that restrict GHG emissions. Other energy legislation and initiatives could include a carbon tax or cap-and-trade program. Independent of the U.S. Congress, and as discussed in detail in Item 1 “Business – Our Operations – Governmental Regulations”, the EPA has taken steps to adopt regulations controlling GHG emissions under its existing CAA authority. Further, although Congress has not passed such legislation, many states have begun to address GHG emissions, primarily through the planned development of emissions inventories or regional GHG cap-and-trade programs. Depending on the particular program, we could be required to control GHG emissions or to purchase and surrender allowances for GHG emissions resulting from our operations.

Previous wording

Unlike the holders of common stock in a corporation, our common unitholders only have limited voting rights on matters affecting our business and, therefore, limited ability to influence management’s decisions regarding our business. Common unitholders have no right to elect the General Partner or the board of directors of the General Partner (the “Board”). Energy Transfer is the sole member of the General Partner and has the right to appoint the majority of the members of the Board, including all but one of its independent directors. Also, pursuant to that certain Board Representation Agreement entered into by us, the General Partner, Energy Transfer, and EIG Veteran Equity Aggregator, L.P. (along with its affiliated funds, “EIG”) in connection with our private placement of Preferred Units and warrants to EIG, EIG Management Company, LLC has the right to designate one of the members of the Board for so long as the holders of the Preferred Units hold more than 5% of the Partnership’s outstanding common units in the aggregate (taking into account the common units that would be issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Units and exercise of the warrants).

Current wording

Unlike the holders of common stock in a corporation, our common unitholders only have limited voting rights on matters affecting our business and, therefore, limited ability to influence management’s decisions regarding our business. Common unitholders have no right to elect the General Partner or the board of directors of the General Partner (the “Board”). Energy Transfer is the sole member of the General Partner and has the right to appoint the majority of the members of the Board, including all but one of its independent directors. Also, pursuant to that certain Board Representation Agreement entered into by us, the General Partner, Energy Transfer, and EIG Veteran Equity Aggregator, L.P. (along with its affiliated funds, “EIG”) in connection with our private placement of Preferred Units and warrants to EIG, EIG Management Company, LLC has the right to designate one of the members of the Board for so long as the holders of the Preferred Units hold more than 5% of the Partnership’s outstanding common units in the aggregate (taking into account the common units that would be issuable upon conversion of the Preferred Units).

Previous wording

As of February 8, 2024, Energy Transfer beneficially owns an aggregate of 46,056,228 common units in us. As of February 8, 2024, the holders of our Preferred Units (the “Preferred Unitholders”) have converted a portion of their Preferred Units into 1,998,850 common units, in accordance with the formula set forth in our Partnership Agreement. Additionally, the warrants held by the Preferred Unitholders have been exercised and net settled in full for 2,894,796 common units, all of which have been sold by the Preferred Unitholders. We have granted certain registration rights to Energy Transfer and its affiliates with respect to any common units they own, and have filed a registration statement with the SEC for the benefit of the Preferred Unitholders with respect to any common units they may receive upon conversion of the Preferred Units or exercise of the warrants. Energy Transfer may, and the Preferred Unitholders may continue to, sell such common units. Any sales of these common units in the public or private markets could have an adverse impact on the price of our common units.

Current wording

As of February 6, 2025, Energy Transfer beneficially owns an aggregate of 46,056,228 common units in us. As of February 6, 2025, the holders of our Preferred Units (the “Preferred Unitholders”) have converted a portion of their Preferred Units into 15,990,804 common units, in accordance with the formula set forth in our Partnership Agreement. Additionally, the warrants held by the Preferred Unitholders have been exercised and net settled in full for 2,894,796 common units. We have granted certain registration rights to Energy Transfer and its affiliates with respect to any common units they own, and have filed a registration statement with the SEC for the benefit of the Preferred Unitholders with respect to any common units they may receive upon conversion of the Preferred Units or exercise of the warrants. Energy Transfer may, and the Preferred Unitholders have and may continue to, sell our common units. Any sales of these common units in the public or private markets could have an adverse impact on the price of our common units.

Previous wording

If at any time the General Partner and its affiliates own more than 80% of our outstanding common units, the General Partner will have the right, but not the obligation, which it may assign to any of its affiliates or to us, to acquire all, but not less than all, of our common units held by unaffiliated persons at a price that is not less than their then-current market price, as calculated pursuant to the terms of the Partnership Agreement. As a result, holders of our common units may be required to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price. These holders also may incur a tax liability on a sale of their common units. As of December 31, 2023, the General Partner and its affiliates (including Energy Transfer), beneficially own an aggregate of approximately 46% of our outstanding common units.

Current wording

If at any time the General Partner and its affiliates own more than 80% of our outstanding common units, the General Partner will have the right, but not the obligation, which it may assign to any of its affiliates or to us, to acquire all, but not less than all, of our common units held by unaffiliated persons at a price that is not less than their then-current market price, as calculated pursuant to the terms of the Partnership Agreement. As a result, holders of our common units may be required to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price. These holders also may incur a tax liability on a sale of their common units. As of December 31, 2024, the General Partner and its affiliates (including Energy Transfer), beneficially own an aggregate of approximately 39% of our outstanding common units.

Previous wording

For tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, if the IRS makes audit adjustments to our income tax returns, it (and some states) may assess and collect any taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) resulting from such audit adjustments directly from us. Our U.S. Federal income tax returns for years 2019 and 2020 are currently under examination by the IRS. To the extent possible under applicable rules, the General Partner may pay such taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) directly to the IRS or, if we are eligible, elect to issue a revised Schedule K-1 to each unitholder and former unitholder with respect to an audited and adjusted return. No assurances can be made that such election will be practical, permissible, or effective in all circumstances. As a result, our current unitholders may bear some or all of the tax liability resulting from such audit adjustment, even if such unitholders did not own units during the tax year under audit. If, as a result of any such audit adjustment, we are required to make payments of taxes, penalties, and interest, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders may be reduced. See Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for additional information regarding the current IRS examination.

Current wording

For tax years beginning after December 31, 2017, if the IRS makes audit adjustments to our income tax returns, it (and some states) may assess and collect any taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) resulting from such audit adjustments directly from us. Our U.S. Federal income tax returns for years 2019 and 2020 are currently under examination by the IRS. To the extent possible under applicable rules, the General Partner may pay such taxes (including any applicable penalties and interest) directly to the IRS or, if we are eligible, elect to issue Form 8986, effectively taking the place of a revised Schedule K-1, to each unitholder and former unitholder with respect to an audited and adjusted return. No assurances can be made that such election will be practical, permissible, or effective in all circumstances. As a result, our current unitholders may bear some or all of the tax liability resulting from such audit adjustment, even if such unitholders did not own units during the tax year under audit. If, as a result of any such audit adjustment, we are required to make payments of taxes, penalties, and interest, our cash available for distribution to our unitholders may be reduced. See Note 17 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” for additional information regarding the current IRS examination.

Previous wording

Our ability to deduct interest paid or accrued on indebtedness properly allocable to a trade or business (“business interest”) may be limited in certain circumstances. Generally, our deduction for business interest is limited to the sum of our business interest income and 30% of our “adjusted taxable income.” For the purposes of this limitation, our adjusted taxable income is computed without regard to any business interest expense or business interest income, and for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2022, shall be reduced by depreciation and amortization to the extent such depreciation or amortization is not capitalized into cost of goods sold with respect to inventory. As a result of this limitation, the amount of taxable income allocated to our unitholders in the taxable year in which the limitation is in effect will increase, which was $95.1 million for tax year 2022, and any future limitations on our ability to deduct business interest may similarly increase taxable income allocated to our unitholders. In certain circumstances, a unitholder may be able to utilize a portion of a business interest deduction subject to this limitation in future taxable years. Unitholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the impact of this business interest deduction limitation on an investment in our units.

Current wording

Our ability to deduct interest paid or accrued on indebtedness properly allocable to a trade or business (“business interest”) may be limited in certain circumstances. Generally, our deduction for business interest is limited to the sum of our business interest income and 30% of our “adjusted taxable income.” For the purposes of this limitation, our adjusted taxable income is computed without regard to any business interest expense or business interest income.