2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Catalysts to
Drive Sustainable
Value Creation
In 2024, we improved on our top-tier
capital efficiency, and we entered
2025 well positioned to drive further
efficiencies and stronger cash flow
generation.
FERNANDO ARAUJO
1
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Dear Shareholders,
2024 was an exciting year for Berry, marked by strong operational and financial performance,
taking steps to unlock potentially significant value drivers in California and Utah, and a successful
refinancing. We delivered on key goals, and our financial and operational results demonstrate the
strength of our business plan and our ability to drive long-term shareholder value and generate
sustainable free cash flow. Underpinning our strategy is a dedicated team managing our high-quality
assets with superior technical expertise and the highest health, safety and environmental standards.
Through the successful execution of our business plan in 2024,
we have positioned Berry for greater future success in 2025
and beyond. We optimized development plans of our low decline,
low capital intensity and high-quality California asset base.
We currently have an inventory of more than 200 high-return
sidetrack opportunities that are executable over the next few
years, and for which permits have been and should continue
to be available. In 2024, we improved on our top-tier capital
efficiency, and we entered 2025 well positioned to drive further
efficiencies and stronger cash flow generation.
In 2024, we also took steps toward proving up the substantial
value of our 100,000-acre Uinta Basin position, where we
have high operational control, and more than 90% is held by
production. Through two horizontal farm-ins in and adjacent to
our footprint, we began to de-risk and accelerate the appraisal
phase of our Uinta assets. While our analysis is still evolving,
we have identified approximately 200 potential horizontal
locations. In 2025, we started drilling our first operated horizontal
pad and are targeting to have those wells on production before
the end of the third quarter. Additionally, we have a unique,
significant cost advantage in the basin that includes extensive
existing infrastructure, the ability to utilize lease gas to fuel
our drilling and completion operations, and no entry costs or
time pressures from lease expirations.
On the sustainability front, we achieved our goal to reduce
methane emissions by 80% compared to a 2022 baseline, more
than a year ahead of schedule. We are also exploring further
options to mitigate our environmental impact in a way that
enhances our operations and adds value to the business. New
initiatives planned for 2025 include deploying continuous field
methane detection technology in California and expanding our
methane leak detection and repair program in Utah. We are also
engaging with other operators in California with carbon capture
projects, to deliver our CO2 emissions to them.
In terms of strategic growth, our goals are clear, and we are ready
to execute. We are actively pursuing scale and diversification —
both geographic and product — and evaluating accretive deals
both large and small. With our refinancing complete, exciting
value creation opportunities underway in California and Utah, a
proven track record of successful operations and confidence in
our ability to generate free cash flow, Berry offers an exciting
value proposition, and we are well positioned to be opportunistic.
We are excited about Berry’s future! With a successful 2024
behind us, the stage is set for us to continue this momentum
into 2025. Our team has a proven track record of delivering on
key objectives through commodity cycles and regulatory
challenges, and we have a compelling pipeline of value-enhancing
opportunities in front of us. Berry has the right team, quality
asset base and financial strength to continue to execute on our
proven strategy and deliver value to our shareholders.
FERNANDO ARAUJO
Chief Executive Officer & Board Member
(1) See https://ir.bry.com/ for a discussion of these performance and non-GAAP measures, including a reconciliation of the most closely related GAAP measure.
2
*$100 Invested on December 31, 2019 in stock or index, including reinvestments of dividends. Fiscal year ending December 31.
COMPARISON OF 5-YEAR CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN*
Among Berry Corporation, Vanguard Energy ETF, the S&P Small Cap 600 Index and the Dow Jones U.S. E&P Index
$250
$200
$150
$100
$50
$0
12/19
12/20
12/21
12/22
12/23
12/24
Berry Corporation (BRY)
S&P Small Cap 600 (SP600)
Dow Jones U.S. E&P (DJUS0S)
Vanguard Energy ETF (VDE)
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Performance
We delivered strong financial and operational results in 2024, demonstrating the quality of our assets
and our teams. We delivered on key goals and ended the year better than the midpoint of guidance
on production, operational expenses, G&A and capital expenditures.
We also created two catalysts for sustainable value creation:
1. Unlocked the development potential from our thermal
diatomite reservoir in California.
2. Laid the groundwork for our horizontal well program
in the Uinta Basin.
As we focus on maximizing these value-enhancing opportunities,
Berry is well positioned financially and operationally to advance
its strategic goals and deliver sustainable shareholder returns.
FINANCIAL
For the year, Berry generated net income of $19 million, operating
cash flow of $210 million, free cash flow(1) of $108 million, and
$292 million of Adjusted EBITDA(1). Adjusted EBITDA(1) increased
9% from 2023, driven primarily by sustained production levels
and lower operating costs.
Capital expenditures totaled $102 million for the full year, in line
with guidance. We drilled a total of 56 wells in 2024, which was
five more than our original plan.
Additionally, in 2024 we successfully refinanced our debt and
entered into a new $450 million term loan facility. We also entered
into a three-year reserve-based credit facility, which provides a
$95 million borrowing base, giving us the working capital
and liquidity to support our development plans. At year end,
Berry had liquidity of $110 million.
Throughout 2024, we maintained a relentless focus on managing
our cost structure. We reduced LOE (net of hedges)(1) by 12%
year-over-year and lowered Adjusted G&A(1) by 6%.
SHAREHOLDER RETURN MODEL
In 2024, we paid total dividends of $0.58 per share. In October
2024, in conjunction with our refinancing, we transitioned to a
capital allocation framework that prioritizes debt reduction and
facilitates our operating strategy while enabling investment in
development opportunities. Accordingly, beginning with the
third quarter in 2024, our go-forward dividend policy targets
a fixed dividend rate of 12 cents per share annually.
5
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Production & Operations
Berry produced 25,400 boe/day for 2024, which is relatively flat to 2023 and near the top of
our guidance range. We improved on our top-tier capital efficiency and drilled better wells,
exceeding type curves in most operational areas.
Notably, Berry has met its goals to sustain total production
levels (net of divestments) year over year during the last six
years, while during the same time period, California’s statewide
oil production has declined by 35%. In 2024, Berry was one of
three operators in California to receive new drill permits, and
we received the third highest number of sidetrack permits.
Our thermal diatomite reservoir continues to deliver value-
enhancing results and is a catalyst for future opportunities.
In 2024, we successfully drilled 28 sidetracks with exceptional
results and a rate of return exceeding 100%. These results
have unlocked the potential to drill an additional 115
sidetracks in this asset over the next few years, including up
to 34 planned for 2025. Another 110 sidetrack opportunities
have been identified in other locations across our California
assets. These results are a testament to the quality of Berry’s
assets and the strength of our team.
At year-end, Berry’s total proved reserves of 107 million barrels
of oil equivalent had a PV-10 value of $2.3 billion at SEC pricing.
Our 2024 reserve replacement ratio is 147%, which is a great
achievement from our technical teams. In California, we added
reserves in our thermal diatomite asset based on production
performance and new sidetrack opportunities. In Utah, we
added reserves due to farm-ins and Berry’s change in focus
from vertical to horizontal development of its 100,000-acre
Uinta position.
Conducting our business safely, responsibly, and in a manner
that protects our stakeholders and minimizes our environmental
impact, are an integral part of our day-to-day operations and
incorporated into our decision-making process. We had no
vehicle incidents and only one lost-time incident for all of
2024. These accomplishments were the result of our teams
working in unison to deliver excellent results.
ADDITIONAL OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
• Made significant advances with our steam optimization efforts,
and steam reductions in Berry’s mature steamfloods resulting
in nearly $5 million in energy savings with minimal impact to
oil production. Implementation of further cost savings
initiatives focused on steam delivery, heat management and
pipeline insulation realized an additional $10 million annually
in operating expense savings.
• Expanded our Utah gas system to capture third-party gas
gathering and sell residue gas, a new revenue stream for Berry.
• Implemented the Utah piped water system, reducing operating
expenses associated with water trucking.
• Saved costs and significantly improved our well test data
quality by establishing a new well testing and diagnostic
team, utilizing existing staff without increasing headcount.
• Created multiple new production optimization dashboards,
enabling employees to make more timely and accurate
decisions that add value.
6
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Employees & Work Culture
At Berry, we strongly believe our people are one of the principal factors in our company’s success.
A focus for Berry in 2024 was our ongoing commitment to making important investments in our
employees and strengthening our work culture.
One significant accomplishment in 2024 centered on the
development of competency programs for key roles, including
field operators, geologists, reservoir engineers, production
engineers, SCADA personnel, operations technicians and
production foremen. These programs, impacting 52% of our
workforce, were designed to ensure employees possess
the skills and expertise necessary for current and future
success, and directly support Berry’s strategic goals.
ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
• Introduced a peer-to-peer recognition program centered
around our core values. This initiative garnered significant
engagement, fostering a culture of appreciation,
collaboration and mutual respect among employees.
• Launched a Service Award Program to celebrate the
commitment of our long-term employees who have been
instrumental in driving Berry’s success, fostering a sense
of pride and loyalty across the organization.
• Created a mentoring program designed to connect employees
with experienced colleagues for guidance, support, and
knowledge sharing. In addition to facilitating leadership
development, the program helps spread critical operational
and technical skills across the organization.
Berry’s comprehensive approach to our employees’ professional
development underscores our commitment to fostering a
thriving workplace. Through these initiatives, we continue to
build a resilient, skilled and engaged team that drives our
success and supports our vision for the future.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
One of our company’s Core Values, Responsibility, drives
Berry’s commitment to the communities where we operate
and where our employees work, live and play.
Berry is a dedicated supporter of our local communities,
demonstrated by employee engagement and volunteering,
and direct funding. In keeping with our commitment to
empower employees, Berry also has an employee match
program in place for employees who financially contribute
to local organizations, thereby maximizing the individual
and collective effort.
Currently, there are 108 organizations that have been
pre-approved for employee donation matching and/or
opportunities for employees to utilize volunteer paid time
off hours. Berry annually provides 32 volunteer PTO hours
for its full-time employees.
In 2024, Berry was proud to continue its investment in the
local communities. With contributions of just over $116,000,
Berry charitable giving across operational areas increased
from 2023 levels. Berry financially supported 24 organizations,
and regularly participated in events, fundraisers and
community-supportive events (such as local economic
development meetings and conferences).
In 2024, we were pleased to make our third “Berry Impact Giving”
or B.I.G donation. Berry donated $25,000 to the West Side
Recreation and Park District and their “Full STEAM Ahead”
program to provide 300 backpacks and supplies to students
participating in the program. Along with funding the backpack
drive, Berry’s contribution also supported the district’s workforce
development programs, which provide enhanced resources
for future educators and leaders in the Taft community.
9
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Environmental Responsibility
& Sustainability
In the second quarter of 2024, we announced that we had set a goal to eliminate at least 80%
of methane emissions associated with our existing operations from a 2022 baseline by the end
of 2025, estimating that this achievement will reduce Berry’s total Scope 1 GHG emissions by
approximately 10%.
By the end of the third quarter in 2024, we had already
achieved this goal, more than one year ahead of schedule.
In addition to the important environmental benefits, this
achievement is expected to also provide Berry significant
savings in waste emissions charges.
Powered by our core values and commitment to be a
responsible and sustainable producer of ample, safe, reliable
and affordable energy, we continuously look for ways to
minimize our environmental impact, create efficiency and
drive operational excellence.
ADDITIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY, ENVIRONMENTAL
(HSE) HIGHLIGHTS
• Achieved zero vehicle incidents and only one lost time incident
for all of 2024. Finished the year with an annual TRIR of 0.64,
which is below the industry average of 0.90.
• Spent $15 million on well plugging and abandoning activities
in 2024. Through C&J Well Services, we also safely plugged
more than 1,200 wells in California, helping to reduce fugitive
methane emissions.
• Increased annual employee HSE training hours by
50% from 2023 to 2024.
• Completed initial pilot study of continuous methane
monitoring using quantum sensor technology for a
subset of our California operations.
• Implemented Blackline H2S personal gas detection in
all operational areas. This new H2S monitoring platform
established a better process for alarm reporting, timely
notifications, and response to better ensure the safety
and incident tracking of employees.
RESPONSIBLE
BREED EXCELLENCE
DO THE RIGHT THING
OWN IT
STRONGER TOGETHER
The Core Values
That Define Berry
BERRY CORPORATION
2024 ANNUAL REPORT
Form 10K
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
☒
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2024
OR
☐
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF
1934
For the transition period from_______________ to _______________
Commission file number 001-38606
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State of incorporation or organization)
81-5410470
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
16000 Dallas Parkway, Suite 500
Dallas, Texas 75248
(661) 616-3900
(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code):
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Common Stock, par value $0.001 per share
Trading Symbol
BRY
Name of each exchange on which
registered
Nasdaq Global Select Market
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes ☐ No ☒
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been
subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to
Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit
such files). Yes ☒ No ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting
company or an emerging growth company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company” and
“emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ☐
Accelerated filer ☒
Non-accelerated filer ☐
Smaller reporting company ☐
Emerging growth company ☐
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying
with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its
internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public
accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ☒
If securities are registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act, indicate by check mark whether the financial statements of the registrant
included in the filing reflect the correction of an error to previously issued financial statements. ☐
Indicate by check mark whether any of those error corrections are restatements that required a recovery analysis of incentive-based
compensation received by any of the registrant’s executive officers during the relevant recovery period pursuant to §240.10D-1(b). ☐
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ☐ No ☒
The aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which
the common equity was last sold, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter was $433.5
million.
Shares of common stock outstanding as of February 28, 2025:
77,215,989
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
The Company’s definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of shareholders (to be held May 20, 2025) will be filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the close of the Company’s fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and is
incorporated by reference in Part III to the extent described herein.
Table of Contents
Part I
Item 1 and 2. Business and Properties .........................................................................................................
1
Our Company .........................................................................................................................................
1
The Berry Advantage .............................................................................................................................
2
Our Business Strategies ..........................................................................................................................
3
Our Capital Program ..............................................................................................................................
5
Our Areas of Operation - E&P ...............................................................................................................
6
Our Well Servicing and Abandonment Services Business .....................................................................
8
Our Assets and Production Information ................................................................................................
9
Our Reserves ..........................................................................................................................................
11
Methods of Recovery and Marketing Arrangements .............................................................................
21
Title to Properties ...................................................................................................................................
24
Competition ............................................................................................................................................
24
Seasonality ..............................................................................................................................................
24
Regulatory Matters .................................................................................................................................
25
Human Capital Resources ......................................................................................................................
38
Corporate Information ............................................................................................................................
39
Item 1A. Risk Factors ..................................................................................................................................
41
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments .........................................................................................................
68
Item 1C. Cybersecurity ................................................................................................................................
68
Item 3. Legal Proceedings ...........................................................................................................................
69
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosure ...................................................................................................................
70
Part II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases
of Equity Securities ......................................................................................................................................
71
Item 6. Reserved ..........................................................................................................................................
72
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations ..........
73
Executive Overview ...............................................................................................................................
73
How We Plan and Evaluate Operations .................................................................................................
74
Business Environment, Market Conditions and Outlook .......................................................................
76
Inflation ..................................................................................................................................................
79
Certain Operating and Financial Information .........................................................................................
80
Results of Operations .............................................................................................................................
82
Liquidity and Capital Resources ............................................................................................................
87
Balance Sheet Analysis ..........................................................................................................................
98
Non-GAAP Financial Measures .............................................................................................................
99
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates ...........................................................................................
105
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements ....................................................................
109
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk .....................................................
112
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ...............................................................................
114
Index to Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ........................................................................
114
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm ..................................................................
115
i
Consolidated Balance Sheets ..................................................................................................................
118
Consolidated Statements of Operations ..................................................................................................
119
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity ..................................................................................
120
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows ................................................................................................
121
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements ..........................................................................................
122
Supplemental Oil & Natural Gas Data (Unaudited) ...............................................................................
158
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure .........
164
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures ...............................................................................................................
164
Item 9B. Other Information .........................................................................................................................
165
Part III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance ............................................................
166
Item 11. Executive Compensation ...............................................................................................................
166
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management ...........................................
166
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence ...............................
167
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services .......................................................................................
167
Part IV
Item 15. Exhibits ..........................................................................................................................................
168
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary .....................................................................................................................
171
Glossary of Commonly Used Terms ...........................................................................................................
172
Signatures .....................................................................................................................................................
179
The financial information and certain other information presented in this report have been rounded to the nearest
whole number or the nearest decimal. Therefore, the sum of the numbers in a column may not conform exactly to
the total figure given for that column in certain tables in this report. In addition, certain percentages presented in this
report reflect calculations based upon the underlying information prior to rounding and, accordingly, may not
conform exactly to the percentages that would be derived if the relevant calculations were based upon the rounded
numbers, or may not sum due to rounding.
ii
Part I
Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties
“Berry Corp.” refers to Berry Corporation (bry), a Delaware corporation, which is the sole member of each of
its Delaware limited liability company subsidiaries: (1) Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (“Berry LLC”), which
owns Macpherson Energy, LLC and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Macpherson Energy”); (2) CJ Berry Well
Services Management, LLC (“C&J Management”) and (3) C&J Well Services, LLC, (“C&J,” together with C&J
Management, “CJWS”). As the context may require, “Berry,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or similar words in this
report refer to Berry Corp., together with its and their subsidiaries, Berry LLC, C&J Management, and C&J.
Our Company
We are a value-driven western United States independent upstream energy company with a focus on onshore,
low geologic risk, low decline, long-lived oil and gas reserves. We operate in two business segments: (i) exploration
and production (“E&P”) and (ii) well servicing and abandonment services. Our E&P assets are located in California
and Utah, are characterized by high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population.
Our California assets are in the San Joaquin Basin (100% oil), and our Utah assets are in the Uinta Basin (65% oil).
We provide our well servicing and abandonment services to third party operators in California and our California
E&P operations through C&J Well Services (CJWS).
With respect to our E&P operations in Kern County, California, we focus on conventional, shallow oil
reservoirs. The drilling and completion of wells in the San Joaquin Basin are relatively low-cost in contrast to
unconventional resource plays. The California oil market is primarily tied to Brent-influenced pricing which has
typically realized premium pricing relative to West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”). All of our California assets are
located in oil-rich reservoirs in the San Joaquin Basin, which has more than 150 years of production history and
substantial oil remaining in place. As a result of the data generated over the basin’s long history of production, its
reservoir characteristics and low geological risk opportunities are generally well understood. In September 2023, we
completed the acquisition of Macpherson Energy (the “Macpherson Acquisition”), a privately held Kern County,
California operator. The acquired assets are high-quality, low decline oil producing properties that are closely
located to our legacy properties in rural Kern County, California. In December 2023 and in the second quarter of
2024, we opportunistically acquired additional highly synergistic working interests in Kern County, California.
These transactions demonstrate our strategy of acquiring accretive, producing bolt-ons in support of our goal to
maintain consistent production levels in a capital efficient manner year-over-year.
With respect to our E&P operations in Utah, we have historically focused on vertical well development from
five reservoirs that produce oil and natural gas at depths ranging from 4,000 feet to 8,000 feet. In 2024, we began to
evaluate opportunities for horizontal well development and our 2025 capital plans include drilling four horizontal
wells in the Uteland Butte and Wasatch reservoirs of the Uinta Basin with depths ranging from 6,000 to 6,500 feet.
As of December 31, 2024, we held approximately 100,000 net acres in the Uinta Basin, and with a high working
interest and the majority of acreage held by production, we have high operational control of our existing acreage,
which provides significant upside for additional development and recompletions.
Over the last year, the Uinta Basin has experienced an increase in activity by others, driven by successful results
from horizontal drilling across the basin, which we believe indicates significant new development potential for our
existing acreage. In April 2024, we acquired a 21% working interest in four, two-to-three mile lateral wells in the
Uteland Butte reservoir, adjacent to our existing operations, which were put on production in the second quarter of
2024. The initial production rates from those four wells exceeded our initial expectations. In November 2024, we
executed an agreement to exchange, on an equal value basis, certain of our oil, gas, and mineral leasehold interests
in Duchesne County, Utah, for that of another operator’s, also located in Duchesne County, Utah. We received an
approximately 17% working interest in three, three-mile Drilling Spacing Units (DSUs) in exchange for an
approximately 75% working interest in one, two-mile DSU. Like the first four horizontal wells that we farmed-in,
these wells are adjacent to our existing operations, and the results from all of these farmed-in horizontal wells will
1
be useful to evaluating opportunities on our own acreage. We believe that horizontal well development of our own
acreage could yield substantial returns, with low break-even economics and a potentially significant runway of
future development opportunities. Our 2025 capital plans includes our first steps to develop our own acreage
horizontally at an optimal pace, staying true to our commitment to generate free cash flow.
C&J Well Services is one of the largest upstream well servicing and abandonment services businesses in
California, providing a suite of services to third-party oil and natural gas production companies and to our E&P
operations, including well servicing and workover, water logistics, and plugging and abandonment (P&A) services
on wells at the end of their productive life. We believe CJWS has upside opportunity based on the significant
inventory of idle wells within California, coupled with existing and new regulations that will increase the annual idle
well management obligations of operators. With extensive experience operating in California and a best-in-class
safety record, CJWS provides a competitive advantage to Berry by providing access and control over an important
part of our supply chain. Additionally, CJWS supports our commitment to be a responsible operator and reduce
fugitive emissions —including methane and carbon dioxide—through the plugging and abandonment of idle wells.
The Berry Advantage
The core of our strategy is to generate sustainable free cash flow with high rates of return, while optimizing
capital efficiency and our cost structure and maintaining balance sheet strength. We believe we can drive long-term
value by capitalizing on our 100-year history of operating our low-declining, oil-weighted, high-return assets under
the highest safety and compliance standards. We are confident that the successful execution of our strategy across
our asset base, coupled with our extensive inventory of identified drilling, sidetrack and workover locations with
attractive full-cycle economics, will support our objectives to maintain production levels year-over-year and
generate sustainable free cash flow, which can be deployed to fund our operations and maximize enterprise value. In
addition to operating and developing our existing assets efficiently and strategically, we seek to acquire accretive,
producing bolt-on properties that complement our existing operations, support our goal of maintaining production
levels year-over-year, and enhance our cash flows. We also strive to maintain an appropriate liquidity position and a
manageable leverage profile that will enable us to achieve organic and strategic growth through commodity price
cycles.
•
Long-lived, oil-weighted, primarily conventional asset base with low and predictable production decline
rates. Almost all of our interests are in properties that have produced oil and gas for decades, and in
California for over 100 years. As a result, most of the geology and reservoir characteristics are well
understood, and development well results are generally predictable and repeatable, thereby presenting
lower risk than unconventional resource plays. Our properties are characterized by long-lived reserves with
low production decline rates, a stable and relatively low development cost structure and low-geologic risk
developmental drilling opportunities with predictable production profiles. We currently have an annual
corporate decline rate averaging 11-14%. We have also consistently maintained a significant inventory of
new drill, sidetrack and workover opportunities that has allowed us to offset our natural decline rate and
maintain stable production levels year-after-year, assuming we receive permits for development activity
timely. In California, our base production from existing wells requires limited maintenance capital to
continue to produce. The remaining production comes from a mixture of drilling new wells and sidetracks,
the workover of existing wells and occasionally from the acquisition of producing bolt-on properties. In
2024, our base production accounted for 95% of our total production. The nature of our assets also provides
us with significant capital flexibility and an ability to efficiently hedge material quantities of future
expected production. We have been able to sustain total production, including California production, net of
divestitures, during the past six years, despite California experiencing a nearly 35% drop in overall
production state-wide during the same period.
•
Extensive inventory of low geological risk drilling opportunities with attractive full-cycle economics,
high operational control and capital flexibility. Historically, we have been able to generate leading rates of
return and positive free cash flow through typical commodity price cycles. For example, our proved
undeveloped (“PUD”) reserves in California are projected to average single-well rates of return of over
100% based on the assumptions prepared by DeGolyer and MacNaughton in our SEC reserves report as of
2
December 31, 2024. In addition, we currently operate approximately 96% of our producing wells, and we
expect this level of operational efficiency to continue for our identified gross drilling locations. We have
approximately 548 gross (539 net) locations associated with PUDs as of December 31, 2024, including 75
gross (75 net) steamflood and waterflood injection wells. A substantial majority of our acreage is currently
held by production or as fee interest, consisting of 91% of our acreage in both California and Utah. We also
have a 94% and 96% working interest in our California and Utah properties, respectively. Our high degree
of control over our properties gives us flexibility in executing our development program, including the
timing, amount and allocation of capital expenditures, technological enhancements and marketing of our
production. Furthermore, unlike many of our peers who operate primarily in unconventional plays, the
equipment necessary for the development and production of our assets is generally more standardized and
available, which provides us with a degree of protection against service cost inflation pressures. Our high
operational control and extensive inventory of low geological risk drilling opportunities with attractive full-
cycle economics enables us to quickly pivot our capital allocation between new drills, sidetracks and
workovers in response to regulatory delays or other factors, providing further stability in an uncertain
market and regulatory environment, and generating reliable cash flow through typical commodity price
cycles.
•
Appropriate liquidity and minimal contractual obligations. As of December 31, 2024, we had
$110 million of liquidity, consisting of $15 million of cash and cash equivalents, $63 million available for
borrowings under our 2024 Revolver (defined below), and $32 million available for delayed draw
borrowings under our 2024 Term Loan (defined below). In addition, we have minimal long-term service
and purchase commitments in both segments of our business, contributing to available cash flows to service
debt. We also have fixed-volume pipeline transportation agreements for which we will purchase the gas
needed for operations at market rates, contributing to stable supply. This liquidity and flexibility permit us
to capitalize on opportunities to enter into strategic transactions, as we did with the California bolt-on
acquisitions in 2023 and 2024 and the Uinta development collaborations in 2024. These opportunities are
subject to the terms and conditions of our debt facilities.
•
Premium commodity markets. Oil and gas in the western United States tend to trade at a premium to other
U.S. markets. The majority of our revenues are driven by California oil prices that are favorably Brent-
influenced. California refiners import approximately 76% of the state’s demand from OPEC+ countries and
other waterborne sources, which are linked to Brent pricing. As a result, there is a closer correlation of price
in California to Brent pricing than to WTI. We believe that receiving Brent-influenced pricing contributes
to our ability to continue realizing favorable cash margins in California.
•
Experienced, proven, principled and disciplined management team. Our management team has significant
experience operating and managing oil and gas businesses across numerous domestic and international
basins, as well as reservoir and recovery types. We use our technical, operational and strategic management
experience to optimize the value of our assets and the Company. We are committed to generating free cash
flow and maintaining a manageable leverage profile, while exploring attractive organic and strategic
growth opportunities through commodity price cycles, and working to maintain our production levels year-
over-year and improve the value of our reserves. In doing so, our management team takes a disciplined
approach to development and operating cost management, field development efficiencies and the
application of proven technologies and processes to our properties in order to generate a sustained life-cycle
cost advantage.
Our Business Strategies
The principal elements of our business strategies include the following:
•
Create value by generating sustainable free cash flow with leading rates of return. We execute our
strategy by investing in our business to maintain long-term value and by achieving operational
excellence, focus on capital efficiency and aim to be the most cost-efficient producer, to maintain stable
3
production year-over-year, and to continue to be compliant and safe. Additionally, we seek to maintain
balance sheet strength and flexibility through commodity price cycles. We believe that the successful
execution of our strategy across our low-declining, oil-weighted production base, coupled with extensive
inventory of identified drilling, sidetrack and workover locations with attractive full-cycle economics, will
support our objectives to maintain stable production year-over-year and generate free cash flow with
significant rates of return. Complementing this strategy, management is continually focused on cost
reduction initiatives across the Company, while maintaining our health, safety and environmental (“HSE”)
standards. We also strive to maintain a manageable leverage profile and a long-term, through-cycle
Leverage Ratio lower than 1.5x. To that end, our 2024 Term Loan contains an amortization provision
which will result in a declining balance supported by our free cash flow.
•
Evaluate and strategically pursue growth opportunities, both organic and through external M&A
activity. We seek to acquire oil and gas properties that complement our operations, provide development
opportunities to enhance production, meet our accretion criteria and enhance our cash flows. Our capital
flexibility supports this objective, as exemplified by the Macpherson Acquisition. We have historically
pursued, and continue to pursue, bolt-on acquisitions that support our goal to maintain or moderately grow
our existing production volumes in the current E&P regulatory environment, improve our capital efficiency
and realize operational and corporate synergies. We have also recently begun to collaborate with other
operators and financial entities to enhance and accelerate our horizontal development opportunities in the
Uinta Basin. We believe our extensive basin-wide experience and relationships give us a competitive
advantage in locating strategic acquisition and development opportunities in areas where we have
operational and technical expertise to expand and strengthen our position in existing or nearby basins. We
are also exploring opportunities to grow our market share in the California well servicing and abandonment
services industry by adding customers or projects or through acquisition opportunities. According to
CalGEM, California has approximately 35,000 idle wells which will require testing, repair or plugging,
including more than 5,300 deserted and orphaned wells which will be either remediated or plugged.
•
Maximize ultimate hydrocarbon recovery from our assets by optimizing drilling, completion and
production techniques and investigating reservoirs and areas beyond our known productive areas. While
we continue to utilize proven techniques and technologies, we also continuously seek greater efficiencies in
our drilling, completion and production techniques in order to optimize ultimate resource recoveries, rates
of return and cash flows. We intend to continue to advance and use innovative oil recovery and other
recovery techniques to unlock additional value and to allocate capital towards these next generation
technologies that we believe will be accretive to our operations. In addition, we intend to take advantage of
underdevelopment in basins where we operate by expanding our geologic investigation of reservoirs on our
acreage and adjacent acreage below existing producing reservoirs. Through these studies, we will seek to
expand our development beyond our known productive areas in order to add probable and possible reserves
to our inventory at attractive all-in costs. We strive to optimize our production and grow our reserves by
leveraging the expertise of our people to find or create new opportunities within our robust assets.
•
Enhance future cash flow stability and visibility through an active and continuous hedging program.
Our hedging strategy is designed to insulate our operating costs and capital program from price fluctuations
by securing price realizations and cash flows for production. We use commodity pricing outlooks and our
understanding of market fundamentals to better protect our cash flows; we hedge crude oil and gas
production to protect against oil and gas price decreases, and we hedge gas purchases to protect our
operating expenses against price increases. We also seek to protect our operating expenses through fixed-
price gas purchase agreements and pipeline capacity agreements for the shipment of natural gas from the
Rockies to our assets in California, which helps reduce our exposure to fuel gas purchase price fluctuations.
We review our hedging program continuously as market conditions change and make our hedging decisions
using a wide range of market data and analysis, while satisfying the oil hedging requirements of our 2024
Revolver and 2024 Term Loan.
•
Actively and collaboratively engage in matters related to regulation, HSE matters, and community
relations. We seek to work with regulators and legislators throughout the rule-making process in an effort
4
to minimize the adverse impacts that new legislation and regulations might have on our ability to maximize
our resources. We believe that running our operations in a manner that protects the safety and health of the
communities we serve and the greater environment is the right way to run our business and maintain
credibility with the agencies that regulate our operations. With ultimate oversight by our Board of
Directors, HSE considerations are an integral part of our day-to-day operations and are incorporated into
the strategic decision-making process across our business. We strive to conduct our operations in an ethical,
safe and responsible manner that safeguards the communities and the environment, and complies with
existing laws and regulations. We will continue to monitor our HSE performance through various
measures, and we hold our employees and contractors to high standards. Meeting corporate HSE metrics,
including with respect to HSE incidents, is a part of our short-term incentive program for all employees.
•
Responsibly manage our business in a way that mitigates risk and maximizes opportunity. Berry is a
proud energy partner and producer. We believe we play an important role in providing ample, safe, reliable,
and affordable energy, while responsibly managing our operations to mitigate potential environmental
impacts. The majority of our operations are in California, where we operate under some of the most
rigorous and stringent environmental, health, safety, and climate requirements in the world. We seek to
apply those same standards across our operations where we can and where practical for our assets and the
geographies in which they are located. We take our responsibility as environmental stewards seriously, and
our approach to sustainability is inextricably linked to our commitment to be a best-in-class operator—for
our shareholders, stakeholders, and the natural resources on which we depend—in a way that seeks to
mitigate risks and maximize opportunities to add value. We strive to continuously improve the ways in
which we operate by investing in economical solutions and embracing practices that generate results.
Critical to meeting our goal to be a responsible and sustainable energy producer is maintaining a safe and
healthy working environment and a culture of empowerment for our employees. We are proud to support
local economies, and we seek to support the people and communities where we live and work, while
delivering the energy that they need in their daily lives.
Our Capital Program
For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, our total capital expenditures were approximately
$102 million and $73 million, respectively, including capitalized overhead and interest and excluding acquisitions
and asset retirement spending. The year-over-year increase in capital expenditures is mainly attributable to the lower
spending in 2023 as we reallocated spending from development capital to acquiring producing bolt-on properties in
2023. E&P and corporate expenditures were $99 million in 2024 (excluding CJWS capital of $3 million) compared
to $67 million in 2023. Approximately 75% and 25% of these capital expenditures for the year ended December 31,
2024 were directed to California and Utah operations, respectively. In 2024, we drilled 46 wells in California (36
sidetracks and 10 new wells) and four vertical wells in Utah, as well as six non-operated horizontal wells in Utah.
Four of the non-operated horizontal wells, which we have a 21% working interest in, began producing during the
second quarter of 2024. We also have an average 13% working interest in two non-operated horizontal wells which
began producing in January 2025.
Our 2025 capital expenditure budget for E&P operations, CJWS and corporate activities is expected to be
between $110 to $120 million. We intend for our total 2025 production volume to be generally consistent with 2024,
and we currently anticipate approximately 93% of that will be oil, consistent with 2024. We are planning to
proportionally allocate more capital to our Utah development opportunities in 2025 than in prior years, as we invest
in opportunities to de-risk commercial scale horizontal development in our Uinta Basin properties. Approximately
40% of our 2025 planned capital expenditures (excluding CJWS) will be directed to Utah, compared to 25% in
2024. Our 2025 California drilling campaign is expected to be comprised of sidetracks, and in Utah we are planning
to drill new horizontal and vertical wells, in addition to the newly-acquired working interests in horizontal wells on
properties adjacent to ours. Based on expected commodity prices and our drilling success rate to date, we expect to
be able to fund our 2025 capital programs with cash flow from operations. Please see “—Regulatory Matters” for
discussion of the laws and regulations that impact our ability to drill and develop our assets.
5
Exclusive of the capital expenditures noted above, for the full year 2024, we spent approximately $15 million
on P&A activities, most of which was spent to meet our annual obligations under California idle well management
program. In 2025, we currently expect to spend approximately $14 million to $20 million for such activities and we
again plan to meet our annual P&A obligations in keeping with our commitments to be a responsible operator.
For information about the potential risks related to our capital program, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors,” as well as
“—Regulatory Matters.”
Our Areas of Operation - E&P
Our E&P assets are located in the Western U.S., specifically in California and Utah, and are characterized by
high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population. Our California assets are in the
San Joaquin Basin (100% oil), for which proved reserves represented approximately 88% of our total proved
reserves at December 31, 2024, and accounted for 21.0 mboe/d, or 83%, of our average daily production for the year
ended December 31, 2024. Our Utah assets are in the Uinta Basin (65% oil), for which proved reserves represented
approximately 12% of our total proved reserves at December 31, 2024 and accounted for 4.4 mboe/d or 17% of our
average daily production for the year ended December 31, 2024.
San Joaquin Basin, California
California oil fields, including those in the San Joaquin Basin where all of our California E&P properties are
located, are some of most resource-rich in the world. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the
San Joaquin Basin contains three of the 20 largest oil fields in the United States based on proved reserves. We
operate in two of those three fields—Midway-Sunset and South Belridge—and all of our California operations are in
rural areas with low population density. We believe there are extensive existing field redevelopment opportunities in
and around our areas of operation within the San Joaquin Basin, which also include the McKittrick, Poso Creek and
Round Mountain properties. We also believe that our strong reputation as a responsible operator and employer,
extensive experience and successful track record in California will allow us to take advantage of these opportunities.
Commercial petroleum development began in the San Joaquin Basin in the late 1860s when asphalt deposits
were mined and shallow wells were hand dug and drilled. Rapid discovery of many of the largest oil accumulations
followed during the next several decades. Operations on our properties began in 1909. In the 1960s, the introduction
of thermal techniques resulted in substantial new additions to reserves in heavy oil fields. The San Joaquin Basin
contains multiple stacked benches that have allowed continuing discoveries of stratigraphic, structural and non-
structural traps. Most oil accumulations discovered in the San Joaquin Basin occurred in the Eocene age through
Pleistocene age sedimentary sections. Organic rich shales from the Monterey, Kreyenhagen and Tumey formations
form the source rocks that generate the oil for these accumulations.
We currently hold approximately 20,000 net acres in the San Joaquin Basin, of which 91% is held by
production and fee interest. Approximately 16% of our California acres are on federal lands administered by the
Bureau of Land Management (“BLM”), of which 97% is held by production. We have a 94% average working
interest in our California assets, and our producing areas include:
•
(i) our North Midway-Sunset sandstone properties, where we use cyclic and continuous steam injection to
develop these known reservoirs; and our McKittrick property, which is a newer steamflood development
with potential for infill and extension drilling. Also located here are our North Midway-Sunset thermal
diatomite properties, which require high pressure cyclic steam techniques to unlock the significant value we
believe is there and maximize recoveries.
•
(ii) our South Midway-Sunset, properties, which are long-life, low-decline, strong-margin thermal oil
properties with additional development opportunities;
6
•
(iii) our South Belridge Field Hill property, which is characterized by two known reservoirs with low
geological risk containing a significant number of drilling prospects, including downspacing opportunities,
as well as additional steamflood opportunities;
•
(iv) our Poso Creek property, which is an active mature shallow, heavy oil asset that we continue to
develop. We develop these sandstone properties with a combination of cyclic and continuous steam
injections, similar to many of our west California operations; and
•
(v) our Round Mountain property, which has two productive sandstone reservoirs that are developed using
waterflood and steamflood.
Along with these upstream operations, we have infrastructure and excess available takeaway capacity in place to
support additional development in California. We produce oil from heavy crude reservoirs using steam to heat the
oil so that it will flow to the wellbore for production. To help support this operation, we own and operate four
natural gas-fired cogeneration plants that produce electricity and steam. These plants, in the Midway-Sunset and
McKittrick fields, supply approximately 10% of our steam needs and approximately 46% of our field electricity
needs to power our operations in California, on average generally at a discount to electricity market prices. The
lower steam and electricity contributions compared to prior year was due to economic decisions made on when to
run the cogeneration plants. To further help offset our costs, we also sell electricity produced by two of our
cogeneration facilities under long-term contracts with terms ending in December 2025 and November 2026. We also
own 54 conventional steam generators to help satisfy the steam required by our operations.
In addition, we own gathering, storage, treatment, water recycling and softening facilities, reducing our need to
spend capital to develop nearby assets and generally allowing us to control certain operating costs. Approximately
94% of our California oil production is sold through pipeline connections, however, we can also sell our oil using
trucking during short-term pipeline market disruptions.
Uinta Basin, Utah
The Uinta Basin is a mature, light-oil-prone play covering more than 15,000 square miles with significant
undeveloped resources. Formed during the late Cretaceous to Eocene periods, the Uinta Basin covers more than
15,000 square miles and is primarily in the Duchesne and Uintah counties of Utah. Exploration efforts immediately
after the Second World War led to the first commercial oil discoveries in the Uinta Basin. Oil was discovered in, and
produced from, fluvial to lacustrine sandstones of the Green River formation in these early discoveries. The
application of improved hydraulic stimulation techniques in the mid-2000s greatly increased production from the
Uinta Basin. As reported by the Utah Department of Natural Resources, total Utah oil production has nearly tripled
from 36 mbbl/d in 2003 to 102 mbbl/d as of July 2024. Approximately 93% of Utah’s oil production as of July 2024
came from the Uinta Basin in Duchesne and Uintah counties.
We currently hold approximately 100,000 net acres in the Uinta Basin, of which 91% is held by production.
Approximately 26% of our Utah acreage is on federal lands administered by the BLM, of which 71% is held by
production. Approximately 66% of our Utah acreage is on tribal lands, of which 99% is held by production. We
have a 96% average working interest in our Utah assets, and operations in the Brundage Canyon, Ashley Forest,
Lake Canyon and Antelope Creek areas. Historically, we have focused on vertical well development from five
reservoirs targeting the Green River and Wasatch formations that produce oil and natural gas at depths ranging from
4,000 feet to 8,000 feet. We are now actively evaluating horizontal drilling potential, as such, our 2025 capital
program includes horizontal development in the Uteland Butte and Wasatch reservoirs with depths ranging from
6,000 to 6,500 feet.
Over the last year, the Uinta Basin has experienced an increase in activity by others, including successful results
from horizontal drilling across the basin which indicates new development potential for our existing acreage. The
results from operations adjacent to our properties indicates new development potential for our existing acreage,
which we have been and are actively exploring. In April 2024, we acquired a 21% working interest in four, two-to-
three mile lateral wells in the Uteland Butte reservoir, adjacent to our existing operations, which were put on
7
production in the second quarter of 2024. The initial production rates from those four wells exceeded our initial
expectations. In November 2024, we executed an agreement to exchange, on an equal value basis, certain of our oil,
gas, and mineral leasehold interests in Duchesne County, Utah, for that of another operator’s, also located in
Duchesne County, Utah. We will receive an approximately 17% working interest in three, three-mile DSUs in
exchange for an approximately 75% working interest in one, two-mile DSU. Like the first four horizontal wells we
farmed-in, these wells are adjacent to our existing operations, and the results from all of these farmed-in horizontal
wells will be used to evaluate opportunities on our own acreage. We have high operational control of our existing
acreage, which provides significant upside for additional vertical and horizontal development and recompletions and
additional behind pipe potential across our existing acreage. We believe that horizontal well development of our
own acreage could yield substantial returns, with low break-even economics and a potentially significant runway of
future development. We are strategically positioned to develop our own acreage horizontally at an optimal pace,
staying true to our commitment to generate free cash flow.
We also have extensive gas infrastructure and available takeaway capacity in place to support additional
development along with existing gas transportation contracts. We have natural gas gathering systems consisting of
approximately 400 miles of pipeline and associated compression and metering facilities that connect to numerous
sales outlets in the area. We also own a natural gas processing plant in the Brundage Canyon area located in
Duchesne County, Utah with capacity of approximately 30 mmcf/d. This facility takes delivery from gathering and
compression facilities we operate. Approximately 90% of the gas gathered at these facilities is produced from wells
that we operate. Current throughput at the processing plant is 12-13 mmcf/d and sufficient capacity remains for
additional large-scale development drilling.
Our Well Servicing and Abandonment Services Business
C&J Well Services operates one of the largest upstream well servicing and abandonment services businesses in
California. CJWS’ services are performed to establish, maintain and improve production throughout the productive
life of an oil and natural gas well and to plug and abandon a well at the end of its productive life. With extensive
experience operating in the state and a best-in-class safety record, CJWS is a synergistic fit with the services
required by our E&P operations, providing access and control over an important part of our supply chain.
Additionally, CJWS supports our commitment to be a responsible operator and reduce fugitive emissions —
including methane and carbon dioxide—through the plugging and abandonment of idle wells.
CJWS provides a suite of wellsite services in California to oil and natural gas production companies and to our
E&P operations, including well servicing and workover, water logistics, and P&A services on wells at the end of
their productive life. We believe that demand in California for P&A services is going to grow over the near term due
to new regulatory requirements effective January 1, 2025, that increase the annual P&A obligations of operators
over a five-year phase in period. CJWS’ expertise, strong reputation and successful track record offers a potentially
significant growth opportunity based on the substantial market of idle wells within California. According to
CalGEM, there are estimated to be approximately 35,000 idle wells in California, including more than 5,300
deserted and orphaned wells. CJWS is pursuing work with the State of California to help reduce fugitive emissions
—including methane and carbon dioxide—as California deploys state and federal funds to remediate orphaned idle
wells.
In 2024, CJWS operated an average fleet of 56 well servicing rigs, also commonly referred to as workover rigs,
and related equipment, utilized to provide:
•
Maintenance work involving the removal, repair and replacement of down-hole equipment and
components, and returning the well to production after these operations are completed. Regular
maintenance is required throughout the life of a well to sustain optimal levels of oil and natural gas
production; CJWS has historically experienced relatively stable demand for these services
•
Workover services include deepening, sidetracks, adding productive zones, isolating intervals, repairing
casings required by the operation into and out of the well, removing equipment from the wellbore, and
8
other major repairs and modifications. These services are typically more complex and more time
consuming than maintenance operations. The demand for workover services is sensitive to oil and natural
gas producers’ intermediate and long-term expectations for oil and natural gas prices. As oil and natural gas
prices increase, the level of workover activity tends to increase as oil and natural gas producers seek to
increase output by enhancing the efficiency of their wells.
•
Plugging and abandonment services when a well has reached the end of its productive life. Well servicing
rigs are also used in the process of permanently closing oil and natural gas wells no longer capable of
producing in economic quantities. P&A work can provide favorable operating margins and is less sensitive
to oil and natural gas prices than drilling and workover activity since well operators must plug a well in
accordance with state regulations when it is no longer productive.
CJWS’ water logistics business utilizes our fleet of 225 water logistics trucks and related assets, including
specialized tank trucks, storage tanks and other related equipment. These assets provide, transport, and store a
variety of fluids, as well as provide maintenance services. These services are required in most workover and
remedial projects and are routinely used in daily producing well operations. We also have approximately 1,377 items
of rental equipment used in our water logistics operations.
Our Assets and Production Information
All of our E&P assets are located in California and Utah, and are characterized by high oil content. For the year
ended December 31, 2024, we had average net production of approximately 25.4 mboe/d, of which approximately
93% was oil and approximately 83% was in California. In California, our average production for the year ended
December 31, 2024 was 21.0 mboe/d, of which 100% was oil; Utah contributed 4.4 mboe/d or 17% average daily
production for 2024, of which 65% was oil.
We met our goal of maintaining relatively consistent production year over year, with approximately 95% of our
production in 2024 coming from our base production, and the remaining 5% from 46 wells drilled in California
during the year (10 new wells and 36 sidetracks), workovers and the Utah horizontal working interests we acquired
in April 2024; 2024 production also benefited from the Macpherson Acquisition and other bolt-on acquisitions at the
end of 2023.
The table below summarizes our average net daily production for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023:
2024
2023
(mboe/d)
Oil (%)
(mboe/d)
Oil (%)
California(2)
21.0
100 %
20.7
100 %
Utah
4.4
58 %
4.7
59 %
Total
25.4
93 %
25.4
93 %
Average Net Daily Production(1)
for the Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Production represents volumes sold during the period.
(2)
Includes production for the Round Mountain area which was acquired in late 2023, through December 31, 2024. These assets contributed
production of approximately 2.0 mboe/d for 2024 and 0.5 mboe/d for 2023.
9
Production Data
The following table sets forth information regarding production for the years ended December 31, 2024 and
2023:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
Average daily production(1):
Oil (mbbl/d)
23.5
23.5
Natural gas (mmcf/d)
8.7
8.8
NGLs (mbbl/d)
0.4
0.4
Total (mboe/d)(2)
25.4
25.4
__________
(1)
Production represents volumes sold during the period. We also consume a portion of the natural gas we produce on lease to extract oil and
gas.
(2)
Natural gas volumes have been converted to boe based on energy content of six mcf of gas to one bbl of oil. Barrels of oil equivalence does
not necessarily result in price equivalence. The price of natural gas on a barrel of oil equivalent basis is currently substantially lower than
the corresponding price for oil and has been similarly lower for a number of years. For example, in the year ended December 31, 2024, the
average prices of Brent oil and Henry Hub natural gas were $79.86 per bbl and $2.19 per mmbtu, respectively.
Our Development Inventory
We have an extensive inventory of low-geologic risk, high-return development opportunities. As of December
31, 2024, we identified 9,255 proven and unproven gross drilling locations across our asset base. We have
approximately 548 gross (539 net) locations associated with PUDs as of December 31, 2024, including 75 gross (75
net) steamflood and waterflood injection wells. For a discussion of how we identify drilling locations, please see “—
Our Reserves—Determination of Identified Drilling Locations.”
We have an average working interest of approximately 95% in our producing wells. In addition, a substantial
majority of our acreage is currently held by production and fee interest, including approximately 91% of our acreage
in each of California and Utah. As of December 31, 2024, the combined net acreage covered by leases expiring in
the next three years represented approximately 1% of our total net acreage. Our high degree of operational control,
together with the large portion of our acreage that is held by production, and the speed with which we are able to
drill and complete our wells in California gives us flexibility over the execution of our development program,
including the timing, amount and allocation of our capital expenditures, technological enhancements and marketing
of production. Even with our high degree of operational control and flexibility, the timely receipt of permits and
other approvals required to conduct our operations may prevent us from being able to execute on the development
program as planned.
10
The following table summarizes certain information concerning our active producing and identified
development assets as of December 31, 2024:
California
24,717
19,944
91 %
2,574
94 %
94 %
7,861
7,852
Utah
109,482
98,916
91 %
1,264
96 %
79 %
1,394
1,386
Total
134,199
118,860
91 %
3,838
95 %
88 %
9,255
9,238
Acreage
Net Acreage
Held By
Production and
Fee Interest(%)
Producing
Wells,
Gross(3)
Average
Working
Interest
(%)(4)
Net
Revenue
Interest
(%)(5)
Identified Drilling
Locations(6)
Gross
Net(1)(2)
Gross
Net
__________
(1)
Represents our weighted-average interest in our acreage.
(2)
Of which approximately 16% are BLM acres in California and 26% are BLM acres in Utah.
(3)
Includes 569 injection (steamflood, waterflood, gas and disposal) wells in California and Utah.
(4)
Represents our weighted-average working interest in our active wells.
(5)
Represents our weighted-average net revenue interest for the year ended December 31, 2024.
(6)
Our total identified drilling locations include approximately 548 gross (539 net) locations associated with PUDs as of December 31, 2024,
including 75 gross (75 net) steamflood and waterflood injection wells. Please see “—Our Reserves—Determination of Identified Drilling
Locations” for more information regarding the process and criteria through which we identified our drilling locations.
Our Reserves
Reserve Data
During 2024, we increased proved reserves to 107 mmboe at December 31, 2024 from 103 mmboe at December
31, 2023. Our overall proved reserves increased 13 mmboe, or 13% in 2024, before production decreases of nine
mmboe, largely attributed to development in Mid-North Diatomite, recompletion opportunities in the Round
Mountain properties we acquired in 2023, and horizontal well development in our Utah properties.
The majority of our reserves are composed of crude oil in shallow, long-lived reservoirs. As of December 31,
2024, the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows of our proved reserves and the PV-10 of our
proved reserves were approximately $1.8 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively, compared to December 31, 2023 of
$1.7 billion and $2.0 billion. The increase in PV-10 is attributable to proved developed producing performance and
additional recompletion opportunities in California. For a definition of PV-10 and a reconciliation to the
standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows, please see in “—PV-10” below. As of December 31,
2024, approximately 88% of our proved reserves and approximately 95% of the PV-10 value of our proved reserves
are derived from our assets in California. We also have approximately 12% of our proved reserves and
approximately 5% of the PV-10 value in the Uinta Basin in Utah, a mature, light-oil-prone play with significant
undeveloped resources.
11
The table below summarizes our estimated proved reserves and related PV-10 by category as of December 31, 2024:
Oil
(mmbbl)
Natural
Gas (bcf)
NGLs
(mmbbl)
Total
(mmboe)(2)
% of
Proved
% Proved
Developed
Capex(3)
($MM)
PV-10(4)
($MM)
PDP
47
15
1
51
48 %
82 %
30
1,100
PDNP
11
—
—
11
10 %
18 %
20
229
PUD
45
3
—
45
42 %
— %
413
924
Company total
proved reserves
103
18
1
107
100 %
100 %
463
2,253
California total
proved reserves
95
—
—
95
361
2,143
Proved Reserves as of December 31, 2024(1)
__________
(1)
Our estimated net reserves were determined using average first-day-of-the-month prices for the prior 12 months in accordance with SEC
guidance. The unweighted arithmetic average first-day-of-the-month prices for the prior 12 months were $80.42 per bbl Brent for oil and
natural gas liquids (“NGLs”) and $2.13 per mmbtu Henry Hub for natural gas at December 31, 2024. The volume-weighted average
realized prices over the lives of the properties were estimated at $74.21 per bbl of oil and condensate, $23.27 per bbl of NGLs and $2.85 per
mcf of gas. The prices were held constant for the lives of the properties and we took into account pricing differentials reflective of the
market environment. Prices were calculated using oil and natural gas price parameters established by current SEC guidelines and accounting
rules, including adjustment by lease for quality, fuel deductions, geographical differentials, marketing bonuses or deductions and other
factors affecting the price received at the wellhead. Please see “—Our Reserves—PV-10” below.
(2)
Estimated using a conversion ratio of six mcf of natural gas to one bbl of oil.
(3)
Represents undiscounted future capital expenditures estimated as of December 31, 2024.
(4)
PV-10 is a financial measure that is not calculated in accordance with GAAP. For a definition of PV-10 and a reconciliation to the
standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows, please see “—Our Reserves—PV-10” below. PV-10 does not give effect to
derivatives transactions.
The following table summarizes our estimated proved reserves and related PV-10 by area as of December 31,
2024. The reserve estimates presented in the table below are based on reports prepared by DeGolyer and
MacNaughton. The reserve estimates were prepared in accordance with current SEC rules and regulations regarding
oil, natural gas and NGL reserve reporting. Reserves are stated net of applicable royalties.
12
California
(San Joaquin
Basin)
Utah
(Uinta Basin)
Total
Proved developed reserves:
Oil (mmbbl)
54
4
58
Natural gas (bcf)
—
15
15
NGLs (mmbbl)
—
1
1
Total (mmboe)(2)(3)
54
8
62
Proved undeveloped reserves:
Oil (mmbbl)
41
4
45
Natural gas (bcf)
—
3
3
NGLs (mmbbl)
—
—
—
Total (mmboe)(3)
41
4
45
Total proved reserves:
Oil (mmbbl)
95
8
103
Natural gas (bcf)
—
18
18
NGLs (mmbbl)
—
1
1
Total (mmboe)(3)
95
12
107
PV-10 ($million)
$
2,143
$
110
$
2,253
Proved Reserves as of December 31, 2024(1)
__________
(1)
Our estimated net reserves were determined using average first-day-of-the-month prices for the prior 12 months in accordance with SEC
guidance. The unweighted arithmetic average first-day-of-the-month prices for the prior 12 months were $80.42 per bbl Brent for oil and
NGLs and $2.13 per mmbtu Henry Hub for natural gas at December 31, 2024. The volume-weighted average realized prices over the lives
of the properties were $74.21 per bbl of oil and condensate, $23.27 per bbl of NGLs and $2.85 per mcf. The prices were held constant for
the lives of the properties and we took into account pricing differentials reflective of the market environment. Prices were calculated using
oil and natural gas price parameters established by current guidelines of the SEC and accounting rules including adjustments by lease for
quality, fuel deductions, geographical differentials, marketing bonuses or deductions and other factors affecting the price received at the
wellhead. For more information regarding commodity price risk, please see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Operations
and Industry—Our ability to operate profitably and maintain our business and financial condition are highly dependent on commodity
prices, which historically have been very volatile and are driven by numerous factors beyond our control. If oil prices were to
significantly decline for a prolonged period of time, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and
adversely affected.”
(2)
For proved developed reserves approximately 18% of total and 19% of oil are non-producing.
(3)
Natural gas volumes have been converted to boe based on energy content of six mcf of gas to one bbl of oil. Barrels of oil equivalence does
not necessarily result in price equivalence. The price of natural gas on a barrel of oil equivalent basis is currently substantially lower than
the corresponding price for oil and has been similarly lower for a number of years. For example, in the year ended December 31, 2024, the
average prices of Brent oil and Henry Hub natural gas were $79.86 per bbl and $2.19 per mmbtu, respectively.
13
PV-10
PV-10 is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is widely used by the industry to understand the present value
of oil and gas companies. It represents the present value of estimated future cash inflows from proved oil and gas
reserves, less future development and production costs, discounted at 10% per annum to reflect the timing of future
cash flows and does not give effect to derivative transactions or estimated future income taxes. Management
believes that PV-10 provides useful information to investors because it is widely used by analysts and investors in
evaluating oil and natural gas companies. Because there are many unique factors that can impact an individual
company when estimating the amount of future income taxes to be paid, management believes the use of a pre-tax
measure is valuable for evaluating the Company. PV-10 should not be considered as an alternative to the
standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows as computed under GAAP.
The following table provides a reconciliation of PV-10 of our proved reserves to the standardized measure of
discounted future net cash flows at December 31, 2024:
(in millions)
California PV-10
$
2,143
Utah PV-10
110
Total Company PV-10
2,253
Less: Present value of future income taxes discounted at 10%
(442)
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows
$
1,811
At December 31, 2024
Proved Reserves Additions
Our overall proved reserves increased 13 mmboe, or 13%, before production. The increase was largely
attributed to development in Mid-North Diatomite, recompletion opportunities in the Round Mountain properties we
acquired in 2023, and horizontal well development in our Utah properties. Our reserve replacement ratio was 166%
for California and 147% for our total Company. The total changes to our proved reserves from December 31, 2023
to December 31, 2024 were as follows:
(in mmboe)(1)
Beginning balance as of December 31, 2023
90
13
103
Extensions and discoveries
—
1
1
Revisions of previous estimates
11
—
11
Purchases of minerals in place
1
—
1
Current year production
(7)
(2)
(9)
Ending balance as of December 31, 2024
95
12
107
California
(San Joaquin
Basin)
Utah
(Uinta Basin)
Total
__________
(1)
Natural gas volumes have been converted to boe based on energy content of six mcf of gas to one bbl of oil. Barrels of oil equivalence does
not necessarily result in price equivalence. The price of natural gas on a barrel of oil equivalent basis is currently substantially lower than
the corresponding price for oil and has been similarly lower for a number of years. For example, in the year ended December 31, 2024, the
average prices of Brent oil and Henry Hub natural gas were $79.86 per bbl and $2.19 per mmbtu, respectively.
Extensions - We added one mmboe of proved reserves in Utah through development completed on our six non-
operated horizontal wells.
14
Revisions of previous estimates
Revisions related to price - Product price changes affect the proved reserves we record. For example, in certain
price environments, higher prices can increase the economically recoverable reserves in our operations when the
extra margin extends their expected life and renders more projects economic. Conversely, when prices drop, we can
experience the opposite effects. In 2024, our total net negative price revision was approximately one mmboe in
Utah.
Other revisions - Other revisions can include upward or downward changes to previous proved reserves
estimates due to the evaluation or interpretation of recent geologic, production decline or operating performance
data. In 2024, we had net upward other revisions of 11 mmboe in California. This included 24 mmboe of positive
revisions in California. Key positive revisions included Mid-North Diatomite proved developed producing improved
performance and additional sidetrack opportunities identified. We also identified additional recompletion
opportunities in the Round Mountain area. These positive revisions were offset by nine mmboe negative revisions
related to SB 1137 in California and four mmboe related to changes in our five-year development plan. Positive
technical revisions in Utah were offset by negative price revisions.
Purchases of minerals in place - We added one mmboe of proved reserves in California through the additional
interests we acquired in our Round Mountain properties.
Current Year Production - Please refer to “Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations—Certain Operating and Financial Information” for discussion of our
current year production.
Proved Undeveloped Reserves Changes
Our California proved undeveloped reserves decreased three mmboe in 2024 largely due to reclassifications to
proved developed reserves. We had two mmboe of positive revisions in Utah, and one mmboe of extensions related
to our Utah non-operated horizontal wells. The Utah revisions and extensions offset most of the California
reclassifications. The total changes to our proved undeveloped reserves from December 31, 2023 to December 31,
2024 were as follows:
(in mmboe)(1)
Beginning balance as of December 31, 2023
44
2
46
Extensions and discoveries
—
1
1
Revisions of previous estimates
—
2
2
Reclassifications to proved developed
(3)
(1)
(4)
Ending balance as of December 31, 2024
41
4
45
California
(San Joaquin
Basin)
Utah
(Uinta Basin)
Total
__________
(1)
Natural gas volumes have been converted to boe based on energy content of six mcf of gas to one bbl of oil. Barrels of oil equivalence does
not necessarily result in price equivalence. The price of natural gas on a barrel of oil equivalent basis is currently substantially lower than
the corresponding price for oil and has been similarly lower for a number of years. For example, in the year ended December 31, 2024, the
average prices of Brent oil and Henry Hub natural gas were $79.86 per bbl and $2.19 per mmbtu, respectively.
15
Extensions - We added one mmboe of proved reserves in Utah through development completed on our six non-
operated horizontal wells.
Revisions of previous estimates
Other revisions - In 2024, we had net positive other revisions of two mmboe. This includes positive PUD
revisions of 13 mmboe mainly resulting from additional sidetrack opportunities in Mid-North Diatomite and South
Midway Field. These positive revisions were offset by negative revisions that include nine mmboe related to SB
1137 in California and four mmboe from changes in our five-year development plan. In Utah, we had positive
revisions of two mmboe related to the impact from changing our development strategy to an emphasis on horizontal
wells.
Reclassifications to proved developed - In 2024, a large portion of our development efforts were California
sidetracks, which have high returns and capital efficiency. We transferred approximately four mmboe of proved
undeveloped reserves to the proved developed category in 2024, largely in connection with our development activity
in our Mid-North Diatomite, Mid-North, and Utah, spending approximately $39 million of capital. We expect to
have sufficient future capital to develop our proved undeveloped reserves at December 31, 2024 within five years of
their original booking date. If prices decrease substantially below current levels for a prolonged period of time, we
may be required to reduce expected capital expenditures over the next five years, potentially impacting either the
quantity or the development timing of proved undeveloped reserves. Our year-end PUD reserves are determined and
classified as such in accordance with SEC guidelines for development within five years. Management has made the
necessary commitment and we expect to have sufficient future capital to develop all of our proved undeveloped
reserves, though sustained delay in the ability to obtain necessary permits may require us to revise our bookings in
the future. For additional details, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Regulatory Matters—Our
business is highly regulated and governmental authorities can delay or deny permits and approvals or change the
requirements governing our operations, including the permitting approval process for oil and gas exploration,
extraction, operations and production activities; well stimulation and other enhanced production techniques; and
fluid injection or disposal activities, any of which could increase costs, restrict operations and delay our
implementation of, or cause us to change, our business strategy and plans.”
Reserves Evaluation and Review Process
Independent engineers, DeGolyer and MacNaughton (“D&M”), prepared our reserve estimates reported herein.
The process performed by D&M to prepare reserve amounts included their estimation of reserve quantities, future
production rates, future net revenue and the present value of such future net revenue, based in part on data provided
by us. When preparing the reserve estimates, D&M did not independently verify the accuracy and completeness of
the information and data furnished by us with respect to ownership interests, production, well test data, historical
costs of operation and development, product prices or any agreements relating to current and future operations of the
properties and sales of production. However, if in the course of D&M’s work, something came to their attention that
brought into question the validity or sufficiency of any such information or data, they would not rely on such
information or data until they had satisfactorily resolved their related questions. The estimates of reserves conform
to SEC guidelines, including the criteria of “reasonable certainty,” as it pertains to expectations about the
recoverability of reserves in future years. Under SEC rules, reasonable certainty can be established using techniques
that have been proven effective by actual production from projects in the same reservoir or an analogous reservoir or
by other evidence using reliable technology that establishes reasonable certainty. Reliable technology is a grouping
of one or more technologies (including computational methods) that have been field tested and have been
demonstrated to provide reasonably certain results with consistency and repeatability in the formation being
evaluated or in an analogous formation. Proved reserves estimates are established using standard geological and
engineering technologies and computational methods, which are generally accepted by the petroleum industry. The
proved reserves additions are primarily prepared by production history or analogy, which use historical production
and analogous type curves that are based on decline curve analysis. We further establish reasonable certainty of our
proved reserves estimates using geological and geophysical information to establish reservoir continuity between
penetrations, downhole completion information, electrical logs, radioactivity logs, core analyses, available seismic
data, and historical well cost, operating expense and commodity revenue data.
16
D&M also prepared estimates with respect to reserves categorization, using the definitions of proved reserves
set forth in Regulation S-X Rule 4-10(a) and subsequent SEC staff interpretations and guidance.
Our internal control over the preparation of reserves estimates is designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of our reserves estimates in accordance with SEC regulations. The preparation of reserve
estimates was overseen by our Director of Corporate Reserves and Planning, who has a Bachelors of Science in
Chemical Engineering from the University of Kentucky and more than 20 years of oil and natural gas industry
experience. The reserve estimates were reviewed and approved by our senior engineering staff and management, and
presented to our Board of Directors. Within D&M, the technical person primarily responsible for reviewing our
reserves estimates is a Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas, has a Master of Science and Doctor of
Philosophy degrees in Petroleum Engineering and has more than 10 years of experience in oil and gas reservoir
studies and reserves evaluations.
Reserve engineering is inherently a subjective process of estimating underground accumulations of oil, natural
gas and NGLs that cannot be measured exactly. For more information, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related
to Our Operations and Industry—Estimates of proved reserves and related future net cash flows are not precise.
The actual quantities of our proved reserves and future net cash flows may prove to be different from estimates.”
Determination of Identified Drilling Locations
Proven Drilling Locations
Based on our reserves report as of December 31, 2024, we have approximately 548 gross (539 net) drilling
locations attributable to our proved undeveloped reserves. The near-term development plan focuses on sidetracks
and drilling in CEQA covered areas in California and on new horizontal well drilling in Utah. The decrease in
proven drilling locations from the prior year was based on SB 1137 and the changes in our five-year development
plan. We use production data and experience gains from our development programs to identify and prioritize
development of this proven drilling inventory. These drilling locations are included in our inventory only after they
have been evaluated technically and are deemed to have a high likelihood of being drilled within a five-year time
frame. As a result of technical evaluation of geologic and engineering data, it can be estimated with reasonable
certainty that reserves from these locations are commercially recoverable in accordance with SEC guidelines.
Management considers the availability of local infrastructure, drilling support assets, state and local regulations and
other factors it deems relevant in determining such locations. Management has made the necessary commitment and
we expect to have sufficient future capital to develop all of our proved undeveloped reserves, though sustained delay
in the ability to obtain necessary permits may require us to revise our bookings in the future. For more information,
see “Regulatory Matters—California Permitting Considerations.”
Unproven Drilling Locations
We have also identified a multi-year inventory of 8,707 gross (8,699 net) unproven drilling locations as of
December 31, 2024. We increased our drilling inventory from 8,515 gross (8,509 net) locations in 2023 due to our
field development work during 2024. Our unproven drilling locations are specifically identified on a field-by-field
basis considering the applicable geologic, engineering and production data. We analyze past field development
practices and identify analogous drilling opportunities taking into consideration historical production performance,
estimated drilling and completion costs, spacing and other performance factors. These drilling locations primarily
include (i) infill drilling locations, (ii) additional locations due to field extensions or (iii) thermal recovery project
expansions, some of which are currently in the pilot phase across our properties, but have yet to be determined to be
proven locations. We believe the assumptions and data used to estimate these drilling locations are consistent with
established industry practices based on the type of recovery process we are using. Please see “Regulation of Health,
Safety and Environmental Matters” for additional discussion of the laws and regulations that impact our ability to
drill and develop our assets, including regulatory approval and permitting requirements.
We plan to analyze our acreage for exploration drilling opportunities at appropriate levels. We expect to use
internally generated information and proprietary models consisting of data from analog plays, 3-D seismic data,
17
open hole and mud log data, cores and reservoir engineering data to help define the extent of the targeted intervals
and the potential ability of such intervals to produce commercial quantities of hydrocarbons.
Well Spacing Determination
Our well spacing determinations in the above categories of identified well locations are based on actual
operational spacing within our existing producing fields, which we believe are reasonable for the particular recovery
process employed (i.e., primary, waterflood and thermal recovery). Spacing intervals can vary between various
reservoirs and recovery techniques. Our development spacing can be less than one acre to approximately four acres
for a thermal steamflood development in California. In Utah, our horizontal development is based on three mile
DSUs.
Drilling Schedule
Our identified drilling locations have been scheduled as part of our current multi-year drilling schedule or are
expected to be scheduled in the future. However, we may not drill our identified sites at the times scheduled or at all.
We view the risk profile for our prospective drilling locations and any exploration drilling locations we may identify
in the future as being higher than for our other proved drilling locations.
Our ability to drill and develop our identified drilling locations profitably or at all depends on a number of
variables, many of which are outside of our control, including crude oil and natural gas prices, the availability of
capital, costs, drilling results, regulatory approvals and permits, available transportation capacity and other factors. If
future drilling results in these projects do not establish sufficient reserves to achieve an economic return, we may
curtail drilling or development of these projects. For a discussion of the risks associated with our drilling program,
see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry—We may not drill our identified
sites at the times we scheduled or at all.” See additional discussion of the regulatory environment below in
“Regulatory Matters—California Permitting Considerations.”
The table below sets forth our proved undeveloped drilling locations and unproven drilling locations as of
December 31, 2024:
Oil, Natural Gas Wells and
Injection Wells
Oil, Natural Gas and
Injection Wells
Oil, Natural Gas and
Injection Wells
California
530
7,331
7,861
Utah
18
1,376
1,394
Total Identified Drilling Locations
548
8,707
9,255
PUD Drilling Locations
(Gross)
Unproven Drilling
Locations (Gross)
Total Drilling Locations
(Gross)
The following tables sets forth information regarding production volumes for fields with equal to or greater than
15% of our total proved reserves for each of the periods indicated:
2024
2023
2022
SJV Midway Sunset
Total production(1):
Oil (mbbls)
5,145
5,369
5,630
Natural gas (bcf)
—
—
—
NGLs (mbbls)
—
—
—
Total (mboe)(2)
5,145
5,369
5,630
Year Ended December 31,
18
2024
2023
2022
SJV Belridge Hill
Total production(1):
Oil (mbbls)
1,334
1,459
1,551
Natural gas (bcf)
—
—
—
NGLs (mbbls)
—
—
—
Total (mboe)(2)
1,334
1,459
1,551
Year Ended December 31,
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Uinta
Total production(1):
Oil (mbbls)
*
*
1,010
Natural gas (bcf)
*
*
3,502
NGLs (mbbls)
*
*
144
Total (mboe)(2)
1,737
__________
*
Represented less than 15% of our total proved reserves for the periods indicated.
(1)
Production represents volumes sold during the period.
(2)
Natural gas volumes have been converted to boe based on energy content of six mcf of gas to one bbl of oil. Barrels of oil equivalence does
not necessarily result in price equivalence. The price of natural gas on a barrel of oil equivalent basis is currently substantially lower than
the corresponding price for oil and has been similarly lower for a number of years. For example, in the year ended December 31, 2024, the
average prices of Brent oil and Henry Hub natural gas were $79.86 per bbl and $2.19 per mmbtu, respectively.
Productive Wells
As of December 31, 2024, we had a total of 3,838 gross (3,634 net) productive wells (including 569 gross and
562 net steamflood and waterflood injection wells), approximately 100% of which were oil wells. Our average
working interests in our productive wells is approximately 95%. All of our Uinta Basin oil wells produce associated
gas and NGLs. We were participating in 37 steamflood, waterflood, and disposal projects in San Joaquin Basin.
Additionally, we were participating in four waterflood, gas injection, and disposal projects located in the Uinta
Basin as of the end of 2024.
The following table sets forth our productive oil and natural gas wells (both producing and capable of
producing) as of December 31, 2024:
Oil
Gross(1)
2,574
1,264
3,838
Net(2)
2,420
1,214
3,634
Gas(3)
Gross(1)
—
—
—
Net(2)
—
—
—
California
(San Joaquin Basin)
Utah
(Uinta Basin)
Total
__________
(1)
The total number of wells in which interests are owned. Includes a total of 569 steamflood and waterflood injection wells with 557 in
California and 12 in Utah.
(2)
The sum of fractional interests.
19
(3)
In Utah, we have associated gas in a portion of our oil wells, which are reported as oil wells.
Acreage
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the total developed and undeveloped acreage in
which we owned an interest as of December 31, 2024:
Developed(1)
Gross(2)
11,916
47,107
59,023
Net(3)
11,462
45,332
56,794
Undeveloped(4)
Gross(2)
12,801
62,375
75,176
Net(3)
8,482
53,583
62,065
California
(San Joaquin Basin)
Utah
(Uinta Basin)
Total
__________
(1)
Acres spaced or assigned to productive wells.
(2)
Total acres in which we hold an interest.
(3)
Sum of fractional interests owned based on working interests or interests under arrangements similar to production sharing contracts.
(4)
Acres on which wells have not been drilled or completed to a point that would permit the production of commercial quantities of oil and
natural gas, regardless of whether the acreage contains proved reserves.
Participation in Wells Being Drilled
As of December 31, 2024, there were two non-operated horizontal wells that we are participating in Utah that
were drilled in 2024 and began producing in January 2025.
Drilling Activity
The following table shows the net development wells we drilled for our operated properties during the periods
indicated, which include delineation and temperature observation wells per our development plan. We did not drill
any exploratory wells during the periods presented. The information should not be considered indicative of future
performance, nor should it be assumed that there is necessarily any correlation among the number of productive
wells drilled, quantities of reserves found or economic value.
20
2024
Oil(1)(2)
46
4
50
Natural Gas
—
—
—
Dry
—
—
—
2023
Oil(1)(2)
33
—
33
Natural Gas
—
—
—
Dry
—
—
—
2022
Oil(1)(2)
72
13
85
Natural Gas
—
—
—
Dry
—
—
—
California
(San Joaquin Basin)
Utah
(Uinta Basin)
Total
__________
(1)
Includes injector wells.
(2)
Includes one, two, and 12 wells that had not yet been connected to gathering systems in California in 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
In addition to the table above, for the year ended December 31, 2024, there are four non-operated horizontal
wells that we are participating in Utah that began producing in the second quarter of 2024.
Methods of Recovery and Marketing Arrangements
We seek to be the operator of our properties so that we can develop and implement drilling programs and
optimization projects that not only replace production but add value through reserve and production growth and
future operational synergies. We have an average of 95% working interest for operated wells and 96% operating
control in our properties.
Our California operations are primarily focused on the Sandstones (thermal and waterflood), thermal Diatomite
and Hill Diatomite development areas. Our Utah operations are in the Uinta Basin and include vertical and
horizontal well development.
State
Project Type
Well Type
Completion Type
Recovery Mechanism
California
Thermal Sandstones
Vertical /
Horizontal
Perforation/Slotted liner/
gravel pack
Continuous and cyclic steam
injection
California
Sandstones (non-
thermal)
Vertical/
Horizontal
Perforation, Slotted liner
Waterflood, Primary
California
Thermal Diatomite
Vertical
Short interval perforations
High-pressure cyclic steam
injection
California
Hill Diatomite (non-
thermal)
Vertical
Hydraulic stimulation, low
intensity pin point
Pressure depletion augmented
with water injection
Utah
Uinta
Vertical /
Horizontal
Low intensity hydraulic
stimulation
Pressure depletion
21
Enhanced Oil Recovery
Most of our assets in California consist of heavy crude oil, which requires a reduction in viscosity, typically
driven by heat supplied in the form of steam injected into the oil producing formation, thereby allowing oil to flow
to the wellbore for production. We have both cyclic and continuous steam injection projects in the San Joaquin
Basin, in fields such as Midway-Sunset, South Belridge, McKittrick and Poso Creek. This technique has many years
of demonstrated success in thousands of wells drilled by us and others. We intend to continue employing both
recovery techniques as long as a favorable oil to gas price spread exists. Full development of these projects typically
takes multiple years and involves upfront infrastructure construction for steam and water processing facilities and
follow on development drilling. These thermal recovery projects are generally shallow in depth (600 to 2,500 ft) and
the new wells are relatively inexpensive to drill and complete at approximately $700,000 per well. Sidetrack
projects, depending on the depth and other factors, generally cost between $400,000 and $800,000 to drill and
complete. Therefore, we can normally implement a drilling program quickly with attractive rates of return.
Production in the basin, where supported by lower oil viscosities, is also available through primary production and
waterflood injection in fields such as Midway-Sunset, South Belridge and Round Mountain.
Cogeneration Steam Supply and Conventional Steam Generation
We produce oil from heavy crude reservoirs using steam to heat the oil so that it will flow to the wellbore for
production. To assist in this operation, we own and operate four natural gas burning cogeneration plants that produce
electricity and steam: (i) a 38 MW facility (“Cogen 38”), an 18 MW facility (“Cogen 18”) and a 5 MW facility
(“Pan Fee Cogen”), each located in the Midway-Sunset Field and (ii) another 5MW facility (“21Z Cogen”) located
in the McKittrick Field. Cogeneration plants, also referred to as combined heat and power plants, use hot turbine
exhaust to produce steam while generating electrical power. This combined process is more efficient than producing
power or steam separately. For more information, see “—Marketing Arrangements” and “Item 1A. Risk Factors—
Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry—We are dependent on our cogeneration facilities to produce
steam for our operations. Contracts for the sale of surplus electricity, economic market prices and regulatory
conditions affect the economic value of these facilities to our operations.”
We own 54 fully permitted conventional steam generators. The number of generators operated at any point in
time is dependent on (i) the steam volume required to achieve our targeted injection rate and (ii) the price of natural
gas compared to our oil production rate and the realized price of oil sold. Ownership of these varied steam
generation facilities allows for maximum operational control over the steam supply, location and, to some extent, the
aggregated cost of steam generation. The natural gas we purchase to generate steam and electricity is primarily
based on Rockies price indexes, including transportation charges, as we currently purchase a substantial majority of
our gas needs from the Rockies, with the balance purchased in California.
Marketing Arrangements
We market crude oil, natural gas, NGLs, gas purchasing and electricity.
Crude Oil. Approximately 94% of our California crude oil production is connected to California markets via
crude oil pipelines. We generally do not transport, refine or process the crude oil we produce and do not have any
long-term crude oil transportation arrangements in place. California oil prices are Brent-influenced as California
refiners import approximately 76% of the state’s demand from OPEC+ countries and other waterborne sources. This
dynamic has led to periods, including recent years, where the price for the primary benchmark, Midway-Sunset, a
13° API heavy crude, has been equal to or exceeded the price for WTI, a light 40° API crude. We believe that
receiving Brent-influenced pricing contributes to our ability to continue realizing favorable cash margins in
California. Through December 31, 2024, our oil production was under market-sensitive contracts that are typically
priced at a differential to purchaser-posted prices for the producing areas and/or a differential to Brent. As of
January 1, 2025, our oil production is primarily sold under market-sensitive contracts that are typically priced at a
differential to Brent. We sell all of our oil production under short-term contracts. The waxy quality of oil in Utah has
historically limited sales primarily to the Salt Lake City market, which is largely dependent on the supply and
demand of oil in the area. The recent success of a tight oil play in the basin has increased supply and put downward
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pressure on physical oil prices. Due to these circumstances, we are endeavoring to sell our crude to markets outside
the basin. Export options to other markets via rail are available and have been used in the past, but are comparatively
expensive. We also entered into oil hedges to protect our operating expenses and other costs from price fluctuations.
Natural Gas. Our natural gas production is primarily sold under market-sensitive contracts that are typically
priced at a differential to the published natural gas index price for the producing area. Our natural gas production is
sold to purchasers under seasonal spot price or index contracts. We sell all of our natural gas and NGL production
under short-term contracts at market-sensitive or spot prices. In certain circumstances, we have entered into natural
gas processing contracts whereby the residual natural gas is sold under short-term contracts but the related NGLs are
sold under long-term contracts. In all such cases, the residual natural gas and NGLs are sold at market-sensitive
index prices.
NGLs. We do not have long-term or long-haul interstate NGL transportation agreements. We sell substantially
all of our NGLs to third parties using market-based pricing. Our NGL sales are generally pursuant to processing
contracts or short-term sales contracts.
Gas Purchasing. We purchase natural gas under short-term market-based contracts. We have long-term pipeline
capacity agreements for the shipment of natural gas from the Rockies to our assets in California that help reduce our
exposure to fuel gas purchase price fluctuations. Periodically, some of the gas we purchase in the Rockies and
transport on our pipeline capacity is sold into the California market to suit our operational needs. These sales are
also under short-term market-based contracts We also enter into hedges for gas purchases to protect our operating
expenses from price fluctuations.
Electricity Generation. Our cogeneration facilities generate both electricity and steam for our properties and
electricity for off-lease sales. The total nameplate electrical generation capacity of our four cogeneration facilities,
which are centrally located on certain of our oil producing properties, is approximately 66 MW. The steam
generated by each facility is capable of being delivered to numerous wells that require steam for our thermal
recovery processes. The main purpose of the cogeneration facilities is to reduce the steam and electricity costs in our
heavy oil operations.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we sold approximately 317 megawatt-hours (“MWhs”) per day of
cogeneration power into the grid and on average consumed approximately 290 MWhs per day of cogeneration
power for lease operations. The four cogeneration facilities produced an average of approximately 14,000 barrels of
steam per day. Contracts for the sale of surplus electricity, economic market prices and regulatory conditions affect
the economic value of these facilities to our operations.
Electricity Sales Contracts. We sell electricity produced by one of our cogeneration facilities under a long-term
PPA approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (the “CPUC”) to a California investor-owned utility,
Pacific Gas and Electric (“PG&E”). This PPA expires in November 2026. We also sell the capacity of another
cogeneration facility to a third-party under a Resource Adequacy (“RA”) agreement and sell its electricity produced
into the California Independent System Operator’s Day-Ahead market. This RA expires in December 2025.
Principal Customers
For the year ended December 31, 2024, sales to PBF Holding, Chevron and Phillips 66, accounted for
approximately 30%, 28%, and 10%, respectively, of our sales. At December 31, 2024, trade accounts receivable
from two customers represented approximately 28% and 24% of our receivables.
If we were to lose any one of our major oil and natural gas purchasers, the loss could cease or delay production
and sale of our oil and natural gas in that particular purchaser’s service area and could have a detrimental effect on
the prices and volumes of oil, natural gas and NGLs that we are able to sell. For more information related to
marketing risks, see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry.”
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Title to Properties
As is customary in the oil and natural gas industry, we initially conduct only a preliminary review of the title to
our properties at the time of acquisition. Prior to the commencement of drilling operations on those properties, we
conduct a more thorough title examination and perform curative work with respect to significant defects. We do not
commence drilling operations on a property until we have cured known title defects on such property that are
material to the project. Individual properties may be subject to burdens that we believe do not materially interfere
with the use or affect the value of the properties. Burdens on properties may include customary royalty interests,
overriding royalty interests, liens incident to operating agreements and for current taxes, obligations or duties under
applicable laws, development obligations, or net profits interests.
Competition
In our upstream E&P business, we historically encounter strong competition from other companies, including
independent operators in acquiring properties, contracting for drilling and other related services, and securing trained
personnel. We also are affected by competition for drilling rigs and related equipment. In the past, the oil and natural
gas industry has experienced shortages of drilling rigs, equipment, pipe and personnel, which has delayed
development drilling and has caused significant price increases. The lower-cost, commoditized nature of most of our
equipment and service providers partially insulates us from the cost inflation pressures experienced by producers in
unconventional plays. We are unable to predict when, or if, such shortages may occur or how they would affect our
operations.
Through CJWS, we provide services in the California market where our competitors are comprised of small
regional contractors. CJWS’s revenues and earnings can be affected by multiple factors outside of our control,
including changes in competition, fluctuations in drilling and completion activity by its customers, perceptions of
future prices of oil and gas, government regulation, disruptions caused by weather, pandemics and general economic
conditions. We believe that the principal competitive factors for CJWS are price, performance, service quality,
safety, and response time.
We also face indirect competition from alternative energy sources, such as wind or solar power, and these
alternative energy sources could become even more competitive as California and the federal government develop
renewable energy and climate-related policies. For more information regarding competition and the related risks in
the oil and natural gas industry, please see “Item 1A. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Operations and
Industry—Competition in the oil and natural gas industry is intense, making it more difficult for us to acquire
properties, market oil or natural gas and secure trained personnel. ”
Seasonality
Seasonal weather conditions have in the past, and in the future likely will, impact our drilling, production and
well servicing activities. Extreme weather conditions can pose challenges to meeting well-drilling and completion
objectives and production goals. Seasonal weather can also lead to increased competition for equipment, supplies
and personnel, which could lead to shortages and increased costs or delayed operations. Our operations have been,
and in the future could be, impacted by ice and snow in the winter, especially in Utah, and by electrical storms and
high temperatures in the spring and summer, as well as by wildfires and rain.
Cold weather conditions drove high natural gas prices in 2023. In California, we experienced a significant
increase in the first quarter of 2023, with gas prices briefly as high as $54.31 per mmbtu (SoCal Gas city-gate). We
pivoted and reduced our gas consumption in California by temporarily shutting down one of our cogeneration
facilities and reducing steam generation in other parts of our operation, which negatively impacted production. We
seek to mitigate a substantial portion of the gas purchase price exposure for our cogeneration plants by selling excess
electricity from our cogeneration operations to third parties at prices linked to the price of natural gas. In the fourth
quarter of 2024, gas prices increased from prices in the third quarter of 2024 as a result of heating demand in key
consumer hubs. Natural gas prices, however, were lower overall in 2024 compared to 2023 due to robust U.S.
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natural gas supplies and limited growth in natural gas consumption. Our current expectations are that the natural gas
prices will increase in 2025 due to growth in demand. Our hedging strategy coupled with our midstream access to
gas from the Rockies helps us mitigate the impact of high natural gas prices on our cost structure.
Regulatory Matters
Regulation of the Oil and Gas Industry
Like other companies in the oil and gas industry, both our E&P business and CJWS are subject to complex and
stringent federal, state and local laws and regulations, and California, where most of our operations and assets are
located, is one of the most heavily regulated states in the United States with respect to oil and gas operations. A
combination of federal, state and local laws and regulations govern most aspects of our activities, and federal, state
and local agencies may assert overlapping authority to regulate in these areas, including:
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oil and natural gas production, including siting and spacing of wells and facilities on federal, state and
private lands with associated conditions or mitigation measures;
•
methods of constructing, drilling, completing, stimulating, operating, inspecting, maintaining and
abandoning wells;
•
the design, construction, operation, inspection, maintenance and decommissioning of facilities, such as
natural gas processing plants, power plants, compressors and liquid and natural gas pipelines or gathering
lines;
•
techniques for improved or enhanced recovery, such as steam or fluid injection for pressure management;
•
the sourcing and disposal of water used in the drilling, completion, stimulation, maintenance and improved
or enhanced recovery processes;
•
the posting of bonds or other financial assurance to drill, operate and abandon or decommission wells and
facilities; and
•
the transportation, marketing and sale of our products.
Collectively, the effect of the existing laws and regulations is to limit the number and location of our wells
through restrictions on the use of our properties, to limit our ability to develop certain assets and conduct certain
operations, including through a restrictive and burdensome permitting and approval process, and to have the effect
of reducing the amount of oil and natural gas that we can produce from our wells, potentially reducing such
production below levels that would otherwise be possible or economical. Additionally, the regulatory burden on the
industry in the past has resulted, and in the future could result, in increased costs, and consequently has had an
adverse effect on operations, capital expenditures, earnings and our competitive position and may continue to have
such effects in the future. Violations and liabilities with respect to these laws and regulations could also result in
reputational damage and significant administrative, civil or criminal penalties, remedial clean-ups, natural resource
damages, permit modifications or revocations, operational interruptions or shutdowns, and other liabilities. The costs
of remedying such conditions may be significant, and remediation obligations could adversely affect our financial
condition, results of operations and future prospects. Our operations in California are particularly exposed to
increased regulatory risks given the stringent environmental regulations imposed on the oil and gas industry. Current
political and social trends in California continue to increase limitations on and impose additional permitting,
mitigation, and emissions control obligations, amongst others, upon the oil and gas industry. We cannot predict what
new environmental laws or regulations or governmental authorities within California may impose upon our
operations in the future; however, any such future laws, regulations or governmental authorities could materially and
adversely impact our business and results of operations.
CalGEM is California’s primary regulator of oil and natural gas drilling and production activities on private and
state lands, with additional oversight from the California State Lands Commission’s administration of state surface
and mineral interests, as well as other state and local agencies. The BLM exercises similar jurisdiction on federal
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lands in California, on which CalGEM also asserts jurisdiction over certain activities. The California State
Legislature has significantly increased the jurisdiction, duties and enforcement authority of CalGEM, the California
State Lands Commission and other state agencies with respect to oil and natural gas activities in recent years, and
CalGEM and other state agencies have also significantly revised their regulations, regulatory interpretations and data
collection and reporting requirements. In addition, from time to time legislation has been introduced in the
California State Legislature seeking to further restrict or prohibit certain oil and gas operations, and the U.S.
Congress and federal agencies have also regularly sought to revise environmental laws and regulations.
A discussion of the potential impact that government regulations, including those regarding environmental
matters, may have upon our business, operations, capital expenditures, earnings and competitive position follows.
For more information related to the regulatory risks that could potentially have a material effect on the Company,
see Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry.”
California Permitting Considerations
Over the last number of years, developments at both the California state and local levels have resulted in
significant delays in the issuance of permits to drill new oil and gas wells in Kern County, where all of our
California assets are located, as well as a more time- and cost-intensive permitting process. The issuance of permits
and other approvals for drilling and production activities by state and local agencies or by federal agencies are
subject to environmental impact reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and/or the
National Environmental Policy Act (“NEPA”), respectively. The requirement to demonstrate compliance with
CEQA is currently resulting in (and in the future, the requirement to demonstrate compliance with CEQA and/or
NEPA may result in) significant delays in the issuance of permits to drill new wells, as well as the potential
imposition of mitigation measures and restrictions on proposed oil field operations, among other things.
Before an operator can pursue drilling operations in California, they must first obtain permission to engage in
oil and gas operations. Historically, we satisfied CEQA by complying with the Kern County zoning ordinance for oil
and gas operations, which was supported by the Kern County Environmental Impact Report (“EIR”). However, the
Kern County EIR was legally challenged in 2015 and the use of the Kern County EIR is currently stayed and has
been stayed for lengths of time throughout the litigation. Most recently, the Kern County EIR was stayed in January
2023 by a California appellate court while they reviewed a November 2022 ruling by the lower court that reinstated
the Kern Country EIR; since that time, operators have been unable to use the Kern County EIR to demonstrate
CEQA compliance to receive permits to drill new wells. In March 2024, the California appellate court delivered its
opinion finding certain deficiencies in the Kern County EIR and reliance on the EIR remains enjoined until those
deficiencies are remedied. As a result of the litigation, from 2023 through year to date 2025, we have not been able
to rely on the Kern County EIR to demonstrate CEQA compliance to obtain permits to drill new wells. Those
restrictions will remain until Kern County is able to certify a new revised EIR that the Court deems to fully comply
with CEQA and favorably resolve the litigation. In the meantime, to obtain permits for drilling new wells in Kern
County we must demonstrate compliance with CEQA to CalGEM through means other than the Kern County EIR.
Berry has a separate CEQA-compliant environmental impact analysis covering certain assets, and we have received
permits to drill new wells in the covered areas. In May 2024, we received 14 permits to drill new wells, 10 of which
we executed on in 2024.
Importantly, the litigation impacting the Kern County EIR does not restrict the issuance of permits to drill
sidetracks or perform workovers, and we have continued to receive the necessary permits to meet our development
plans and production goals. In the latter part of 2023 and into 2024, we experienced some delays in the issuance of
sidetrack and workover permits due to changes in CalGEM’s CEQA review process. However, permit cycle times
improved around mid-year and since that time, CalGEM has been processing and approving permit applications on a
more predictable timeline. We had all of the permits needed to support our 2024 planned activities in California,
and entered 2025 with sufficient permits in hand to continue our development activities.
Similar to 2024, our 2025 capital program in California is focused on drilling sidetracks and workovers. We
currently have sufficient permits in hand to conduct our planned sidetrack drilling campaign through at least the first
quarter of 2025, plus a continuous workover campaign for approximately the first half of the year. We are in the
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process of obtaining the remaining permits needed to support our 2025 plans in California, none of which are
dependent on the Kern County EIR, while also working to obtain additional permits to support future plans. Based
on permits in hand and assuming the current permitting program continues, we are confident in our ability to meet
our goal of maintaining consistent year-over-year production levels in 2025, as we have for the last six years.
However, it is possible that permitting delays could adversely impact our 2025 California plans and the inability to
secure permits (on a timely basis or at all) could adversely impact our business and results of operations in 2025 and
beyond. However, in the event we are unable to timely obtain permits, we have the ability to shift capital to further
development activity in Utah where we have permits in hand to support additional horizontal and vertical drilling
beyond our current plans.
With respect to potential future plans in California, we are actively working to obtain the permits and other
approvals needed to support the ongoing development of our properties, including our thermal diatomite assets, in
2025 and beyond. We have a significant inventory of sidetrack and workover opportunities with compelling
economics across the San Joaquin Basin. In 2023, we successfully drilled our first thermal diatomite sidetrack,
followed by an additional 28 sidetracks in 2024, with strong results and a rate of return exceeding 100%. We also
identified approximately 115 additional thermal diatomite sidetrack locations that we believe are executable over the
next few years, assuming we receive the necessary permits. We are also working to obtain permits to drill new wells
in areas for which we have a separate CEQA-compliant environmental impact analysis; which we have successfully
obtained before, as recent as 2024. We are also exploring a number of alternative permitting processes for new drill
permits; however, we cannot guarantee that we will ultimately be successful. Among other things, if we are forced
to change our near-term development plans because of permitting delays it could result in the loss of some amount
of the proved undeveloped reserves, as identified in our December 31, 2024 reserve report. See Part I, Item 1A.
“Risk Factors” in this Annual Report for more information regarding the Kern County EIR and other permitting
considerations.
Separately, in February 2021, the Center for Biological Diversity filed suit against CalGEM alleging that its
reliance on the Kern County EIR for oil and gas decisions violates CEQA, and that an independent environmental
impact review in compliance with CEQA is required by CalGEM before the agency can issue oil and gas permits
and approvals. Most recently, the Alameda County Superior Court ordered the parties to attend a mandatory
settlement conference, although the case did not settle as a result and the lawsuit remains ongoing. We cannot
predict its ultimate outcome or whether it could result in changes to the requirements for demonstrating compliance
with CEQA and the permitting process, even if the Kern County EIR is ultimately deemed sufficient and reinstated.
Setbacks
Separately, on September 16, 2022, the Governor of California signed into law Senate Bill No. 1137, to be
effective January 1, 2023, which prohibits CalGEM from permitting any new wells, or the rework of existing wells,
if the proposed new drill or rework is within 3,200 feet of certain sensitive receptors such as homes, schools or
parks. On January 6, 2023, CalGEM’s emergency regulations to support implementation of Senate Bill No. 1137
were approved by the Office of Administrative Law and final regulations were published. The regulations include
applicable requirements of notice to property owners and tenants regarding the work performed and offering the
sampling of test water wells or surface water before and after drilling; the contents of required notices for new
production facilities; the annual submission of a sensitive receptor inventory and sensitive receptor map and the
contents and format of the same; and the requirements of statements where operators have determined a location not
to be within a health protection zone. Additional provisions of Senate Bill No. 1137, include, among others, the
imposition of HSE controls applicable to wells located within this distance of sensitive receptors related to noise,
light, and dust pollution controls and air emission monitoring, and the immediate suspension of operations at
production facilities determined not to be in compliance with certain air emission requirements.
In December 2022, proponents of a voter referendum (the “Referendum”) collected more than the requisite
number of signatures required to put Senate Bill No. 1137 on the November 2024 ballot for ratification by voters.
On February 3, 2023, the Secretary of State of California certified the signatures and confirmed that the Referendum
qualified for the November 2024 ballot. However, in June 2024, the ballot proposal was withdrawn with the
proposal’s sponsors instead indicating a view to challenging Senate Bill No. 1137 in court. The provisions of Senate
Bill No. 1137 became effective immediately in June 2024. Then, on September 30, 2024, the Governor signed into
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law Assembly Bill 218, which delays the deadline for some compliance with CalGEM’s regulations implementing
Senate Bill No. 1137 until July 1, 2026 and further delays compliance with certain other requirements of Senate Bill
No. 1137 by up to three years.
Certain of our undeveloped reserves were located within the setbacks established by Senate Bill No. 1137,
which required an analysis of impairment as of the date the law became effective. As a result, we downgraded nine
mmboe of California proved undeveloped reserves in 2024. However, we do not expect this law to result in any
further material change to our overall existing proved developed producing reserves or current production rates. The
majority of our production is in rural areas in the San Joaquin Basin and is unlikely to be affected by Senate Bill No.
1137 as supplemented by Assembly Bill 218. Following the passage of Assembly Bill 218 in September 2024
which, as noted, extended the deadline for certain compliance requirements of Senate Bill No. 1137, all facilities
within a setback must be in compliance with specific health, safety and environmental requirements pursuant to
Senate Bill No. 1137 by July 1, 2026, with leak detection and response plans developed and submitted to CalGEM
for agency approval by July 1, 2028. CalGEM must approve these plans by July 1, 2029 and, beginning on July 1,
2030, operators are required to suspend operations within setback areas unless they have a CalGEM-approved leak
detection and response plan that has been fully implemented. This plan must be updated every five years, and
operators must annually report on implementation of these plans as well as the results of baseline water quality
testing. While we are still assessing the impact and additional costs associated with compliance with Senate Bill No.
1137, the impact and costs are expected to be immaterial.
Local Ordinances
On September 25, 2024, the California Governor signed Assembly Bill 3233 into law, which explicitly
authorizes local governments to limit methods for, or even prohibit, oil and gas operations or development within its
jurisdictions, including with respect to existing operations. This legislation was passed specifically in response to a
prior California Supreme Court decision that found limits on the authority of local governments to regulate oil and
gas operations on the basis of preemption because of existing state law providing CalGEM with sole authority to
regulate the methods for oil and gas production. Certain jurisdictions within California, including Monterey and Los
Angeles, had previously taken steps to limit oil and gas operations that were struck down by the now invalidated
California Supreme Court decision and it is possible that they or other local governments in California may pass
similar legislation following AB 3233. We currently only operate in Kern County and, at this time, we are not aware
of any local governments within Kern County that would seek to materially limit or otherwise prohibit oil and gas
operations within its jurisdiction. However, it is difficult to predict how local governments in California may choose
to exercise their new authority under AB 3233. While there may be future legal challenges to AB 3233 and any local
ordinances enacted thereunder, we cannot predict whether or not such challenges will be successful, or if AB 3233
or any ordinances enacted pursuant to it will be stayed pending the outcome of such challenges. Notwithstanding
any potential claims for regulatory takings we may have in the event local jurisdictions seek to prohibit any of our
existing operations, any restrictions that materially limit or prohibit oil and gas production in the areas where we
operate could materially impact our operations and financial condition.
Other Legislation
The potential exists for additional legislation in the future that could adversely impact our operations. For
example, in 2023, a legislator introduced Senate Bill No. 556 into the California Senate, providing for joint and
several liability of operators and owners of an entity that own an oil and gas production facility for certain adverse
health conditions such as respiratory ailments, cancer diagnoses and certain pregnancy complications, experienced
by individuals living within 3,200 feet of such facility, subject to limited defenses. Senate Bill No. 556 also provided
for civil penalties to be assessed against potentially responsible parties. Although Senate Bill No. 556 failed passage,
similar bills could be introduced in the future.
California Disclosure Laws for Climate-Related Risks
In October 2023, the Governor of California signed two bills that require quantitative and qualitative climate
disclosures for certain public and private companies doing business in California. Senate Bill 253 (“SB 253”)
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requires the annual disclosure of Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions, with certain emissions data subject to third-party
assurance. The bill requires disclosure of Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions beginning in 2026 for the 2025 reporting
year and disclosure of Scope 3 GHG emissions beginning in 2027 for the 2026 reporting year. SB 253 is effective
for public and private companies with worldwide annual revenues exceeding $1 billion. Senate Bill 261 (“SB 261”)
requires biennial disclosures posted on a company’s website related to climate-related financial risks and the
measures a company has adopted to reduce and adapt to such risks. The bill requires disclosure of the climate-
related financial risk disclosures beginning in 2026 for the 2025 reporting year. SB 261 is effective for public and
private companies with total annual revenues exceeding $500 million. Both SB 253 and SB 261 have been
challenged in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. While the litigation remains in its early
stages, to date the court has dismissed all of the plaintiffs’ claims except for the First Amendment challenge. No stay
has been granted pending resolution of this litigation so both laws are currently in effect. Further, on September 27,
2024, the California Governor amended both SB 253 and SB 261 by signing into law Senate Bill 219 (“SB 219”).
SB 219 extends the time in which CARB has to promulgate implementing regulations for SB 253 until July 1, 2025,
a delay of six months, but does not otherwise change the reporting deadlines in SB 253 or SB 261. In December
2024, CARB released a notice soliciting comments on various questions to inform its implementation of the two
laws. Additionally, also in December 2024, CARB announced it would not take enforcement action against
companies subject to SB 253 for inaccurate or incomplete reporting of GHG emissions in first reports due in 2026.
Enhanced climate-related disclosures pursuant to the requirements of SB 253 and SB 261 or other similar laws could
increase our compliance costs and lead to reputational or other harm with various stakeholders or adversely impact
our access to capital to the extent our disclosures may not align with stakeholder expectations and may increase our
litigation risks.
California Underground Injection Control Regulations
The federal Safe Drinking Water Act (“SDWA”) and the California Underground Injection Control (“UIC”)
program promulgated under the SDWA and relevant state laws regulate the drilling and operation of injection and
disposal wells that manage produced water (brine wastewater containing salt and other constituents produced by oil
and natural gas wells). Permits must be obtained before developing and using deep injection wells for the disposal of
produced water or for enhanced oil recovery, and well casing integrity monitoring must be conducted periodically to
ensure the well casing is not leaking produced water to groundwater. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(“EPA”) directly administers groundwater protection programs in some states, and in others, such as California,
administration is delegated to the state.
CalGEM has promulgated UIC regulations for specific types of wells: (i) those that inject water or steam for
enhanced oil recovery and (ii) those that return the briny groundwater that comes up from oil formations during
production. The key regulations include strong testing requirements designed to identify potential leaks, increased
data requirements to ensure proposed projects are fully evaluated, continuous well pressure monitoring,
requirements to automatically cease injection when there is a risk to safety or the environment, and requirements to
disclose chemical additives for injection wells close to water supply wells. Notwithstanding these rules, the EPA
previously issued a letter to the California Natural Resources Agency and the State Water Resources Control Board
regarding California’s compliance with a 2015 compliance plan relating to California’s process for approving
aquifer exemptions under the UIC regulations and submitting those approvals to EPA for review. The letter
requested that California take appropriate action by September 2022, or the EPA would consider taking additional
action to impose limits on California’s administration of the UIC program, withhold federal funds for the
administration of the UIC program, and direct orders to oil and gas operators injecting into formations not
authorized by the EPA, amongst other measures. The State responded in October 2021 with a proposed compliance
plan and a follow-up letter in August 2022 providing a mid-year update, but, to date, the EPA has not yet responded.
Additional limitations on injection well operations, increased federal oversight of the UIC approval process, and a
lack of funds for California to administer approvals under the UIC program all have the potential to adversely affect
our operations and result in increased operational and compliance costs.
Uncertainty surrounding compliance with UIC regulations has from time to time resulted in delays in obtaining
UIC approvals for enhanced oil recovery, disposal of oilfield wastes and injection wells, which in turn can delay our
ability to obtain other permits and approvals needed to conduct our planned operations. Moreover, concerns related
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to potential groundwater contamination issues have resulted in increased scrutiny with respect to UIC approvals and
other oil and gas activities in California. It is possible that more stringent regulations or restrictions on our ability to
obtain UIC approvals for enhanced oil recovery and disposal of oilfield wastes could be imposed upon our
operations in the future. Additionally, CalGEM has indicated that it is coordinating with the California State Water
Resources Control Board to propose rules regarding enhanced reviews for injection well permitting decisions. Any
such changes could adversely impact our operations. For example, while “infill drilling” has been considered
exempt from certain CalGEM permitting requirements in the past, such as the need to obtain a new project approval
letter (“PAL“), CalGEM appears to be limiting the instance where it considers proposed drilling as “infill” of areas
already given over to oilfield uses and impacts. An infill well occurs when an operator seeks to change the location
of an active injection well or add a new injection well not previously identified in the project application. In March
2022, CalGEM issued a notice to operators informing operators of new checklist documentation used in connection
with the approval of injection wells, which includes adding non-expansion infill wells. Changes in the process for
approving infill wells has the potential to delay UIC approvals, injection well approvals and other activities, and
could result in increased compliance costs on our operations.
Based on our current view of our near-term development plans, we do not need new UIC approvals at this time.
However, our longer term development plans could be impacted if we are unable to obtain the approvals need to
expand our steaming operations; specifically our thermal diatomite PUD reserves could be negatively impacted if
we are unable to obtain the necessary technical approvals. In the past, we have been able to modify our drilling and
development plans and obtain the permits and approvals necessary to support ongoing operations, but there is no
guarantee that we can continue to successfully manage these issues in the future.
California Requirements for Plugging and Abandonment of Oil and Gas Facilities
In California, an idle well is one that has not been used for two years or more and has not yet been permanently
sealed pursuant to CalGEM regulations. An idle well that has no identifiable, responsible operator and as a result
becomes a burden of the State is referred to as an orphan well. CalGEM has issued idle well regulations, including a
comprehensive well testing regime to demonstrate the mechanical integrity of idle wells, a compliance schedule for
testing or plugging and abandoning idle wells, the collection of data necessary to prioritize testing and/or plugging
idle wells, an engineering analysis for each well idled 15 years or longer, and requirements for active observation
wells. These idle well regulations require operators to plug and abandon idle wells under two programs: operators
are required to either (1) submit annual idle well management plans describing how they will plug and abandon or
reactivate a specified percentage of idle wells or (2) pay additional annual fees and perform additional testing to
retain greater flexibility to return idle wells to service in the future.
Assembly Bill 1866 (“AB 1866”), signed into law by the California Governor on September 25, 2024 and
effective January 1, 2025, sets forth either (a) increased annual fees for operators of idle wells depending on how
long each well has been idle or (b) in lieu of payment of the annual fee, operators can instead file a plan with the
state that provides for the management and elimination of all idle wells, with consideration shown to a number of
specified factors when prioritizing idle wells for testing or plugging and abandonment. CalGEM is in the process of
implementing the provisions of AB 1866, so we are unable to fully assess the potential impact at this time. However,
based on our preliminary assessment, we expect the impact to our P&A costs to be minimal. Additionally, CJWS is
well-positioned to benefit from the increased demand for P&A services. CJWS’ expertise, strong reputation and
successful track record offers a potentially significant growth opportunity based on the substantial market of idle
wells within California.
To date, we have fulfilled the conditions of our idle well management plans. In 2024, we spent approximately
$15 million on our P&A activities, and we currently estimate spending in 2025 will be approximately $14 million to
$20 million to meet our annual P&A obligations.
Separate from the requirements for plugging of idled wells, the Governor of California also signed Assembly
Bill 1167 (“AB 1167”) into law in October 2023, which imposes more stringent financial assurance requirements on
persons who acquire the right to operate a well or production facility in the state of California. AB 1167 requires the
acquirer to fulfill bonding requirements in an amount determined by the state to sufficiently cover full P&A costs,
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decommissioning, and site restoration of all wells and production facilities being acquired. Transfer of operatorship
of a well or production facility is prohibited until the state has determined the appropriate bond amount and the bond
has been filed. Upon signing AB 1167, the Governor of California called for further legislative changes to the new
requirements for the acquired assets to mitigate the potential risk of an increase in the number of orphaned wells
becoming state liabilities following the implementation of the law; however, to date, no bills have yet been
introduced to address the Governor of California’s request. To the extent the law is implemented as written, we
could face increased bonding or other financial-assurance related costs in connection with new acquisitions or may
find it infeasible to pursue certain acquisitions because of such costs.
Additional Actions Impacting Oil and Gas Activities in California
In recent years the Governor of California and California State Legislature have taken a series of actions that
seek to reduce both the supply of and demand for fossil fuels in the state. For example, in September 2022, the
Governor of California signed Senate Bill No. 1279 into law, which codifies an executive order previously issued by
the Governor’s Office requiring the state to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. In addition, the Governor of
California previously issued an executive order that established several goals and directed several state agencies to
take certain actions with respect to reducing emissions of GHGs, including, but not limited to: phasing out the sale
of emissions-producing vehicles; developing strategies for the closure and repurposing of oil and gas facilities in
California; and calling on the California State Legislature to enact new laws prohibiting hydraulic fracturing in the
state by 2024. In February 2024, CalGEM issued a proposed regulation to formally end hydraulic fracturing in the
state, introducing a complete restriction on approval of permit applications to conduct well stimulation treatments.
The regulation went into effect in October 2024. We currently do not perform any hydraulic fracturing in California
and our near term plans do not include the development of assets requiring hydraulic fracturing.
Separately, the Governor of California issued an executive order that established a state goal to conserve at least
30% of California’s land and coastal waters by 2030 and directed state agencies to implement other measures to
mitigate climate change and strengthen biodiversity. At this time, we cannot predict the potential future actions that
may result from this order or how such may potentially impact our operations.
Additionally, the federal Inflation Reduction Act (“IRA”), among other things, imposes a fee on the emissions
of methane from certain sources in the oil and natural gas sector and provides significant incentives for renewable
energy and low or zero carbon products. Beginning in 2024, the IRA’s annual methane emissions charge imposes a
fee on excess methane emissions from certain oil and gas facilities, starting at $900 per metric ton of leaked methane
in 2024 and rising to $1,200 in 2025, and $1,500 in 2026 and thereafter. Relatedly, in November 2024, the EPA
finalized a rule implementing the requirements of the IRA methane emissions fee. The final rule applies to oil and
gas facilities emitting more than 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases per year
pursuant to the petroleum and natural gas system source category requirements of the agency’s Greenhouse Gas
Reporting Rule and limits netting and other options for reducing or eliminating the fee otherwise available in the
IRA. We cannot predict whether, how, or when the new administration might take action to revise or repeal the
methane charge rule. Additionally, Congress may take actions to repeal or revise the IRA, including with respect to
the methane emissions charge, which timing or outcome similarly cannot be predicted. To the extent that the
methane emissions charge rule and other provisions of the IRA are implemented as originally promulgated, this
could increase our operating costs which could adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Restrictions on Oil and Gas Developments on Federal Lands
As of December 31, 2024, approximately 16% and 26% of our net acreage in California and Utah, respectively,
is on federal land, which comprises approximately 10% and 16% of our total proved reserves in California and Utah,
respectively, and approximately 7% of our PUD locations in California. Additional federal restrictions on oil and gas
activities on federal lands may be imposed in the future. For example, the Department of the Interior (“DOI”)
released its report on federal gas leasing and permitting practices in November 2021, referencing a number of
recommendations and an overarching intent to modernize the federal oil and gas leasing program, including
prioritizing leasing in areas with known resource potential, and avoiding leasing that conflicts with recreation,
wildlife habitat, conservation, and historical and cultural resources. The IRA responded to one of the report’s
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recommendations and increased onshore royalty rates to 16⅔%. And, in April 2024, the Department of Interior
released a final rule revising various fiscal terms—bonding requirements, royalty rates and minimum bids—of the
onshore federal oil and gas lease program, integrating recommendations from the November 2021 report. While it is
not possible at this time to predict the ultimate impact of these actions, or any such forthcoming actions, such
restrictions on federal oil and gas activities could result in increased costs and adversely impact our operations.
With respect to major federal actions pursuant to NEPA, recent modifications may also impose further
restrictions on oil and gas activities on federal lands. In October 2021, the Biden Administration announced three
significant changes to a 2020 rule finalized under the Trump Administration. These changes included authorizing
agencies to consider the direct, indirect and cumulative effects of major federal actions including upstream and
downstream GHG emissions impacts of fossil fuel projects, allowing agencies to determine the purpose and need of
a project (thereby allowing consideration of less-harmful alternatives), and affording agencies greater flexibility in
crafting their own NEPA procedures, consistent with Council on Environmental Quality (“CEQ”) regulations, so as
to meet the agencies’ and public’s needs. To that end, in April 2022, the CEQ issued a final rule in line with the
proposed changes, a move considered as “Phase 1” of the Biden Administration’s two-phased approach to
modifying NEPA. In May 2024, the CEQ issued a final rule, “Phase 2” of the process, revising the implementing
regulations of the procedural provisions of NEPA and implementing amendments to NEPA included in the Fiscal
Responsibility Act. The final rule was challenged by various states and the litigation remains ongoing. More
recently, in November 2024, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit held that the CEQ lacks authority to
issue NEPA regulations. Additionally, upon taking office, President Trump signed a sweeping energy-related
Executive Order which included ordering the CEQ to propose rescinding its NEPA regulations and, in February
2025, the CEQ issued an interim final rule to that effect. Thus, at this time, there is significant uncertainty with
respect to current and future NEPA regulations.
Operations on Tribal Lands
As of December 31, 2024, approximately 66% of our net acreage in Utah is on tribal lands, which comprises
approximately 81% of our total proved reserves in Utah, and approximately 100% of our PUD locations in Utah;
none of our California assets or operations are located on tribal lands. In addition to potential regulation by federal,
state and local agencies and authorities, an entirely separate and distinct set of laws and regulations promulgated by
the Indian tribe with jurisdiction over such lands applies to lessees, operators and other parties on such lands, tribal
or allotted. These regulations include lease provisions, royalty matters, assignment/transfer conditions, drilling and
production requirements, environmental standards, tribal employment and contractor preferences and numerous
other matters. Further, lessees and operators on tribal lands may be subject to the jurisdiction of tribal courts, unless
there is a specific waiver of sovereign immunity by the relevant tribe allowing resolution of disputes between the
tribe and those lessees or operators to occur in federal or state court. These laws, regulations and other issues present
unique risks that may impose additional requirements on our operations, cause delays in obtaining necessary
approvals or permits, or result in losses or cancellations of our oil and natural gas leases, which in turn may
materially and adversely affect our operations on tribal lands.
Restrictions on High-Pressure Cyclic Steam and Well Stimulation Treatments
Our California operations are primarily focused on the thermal Sandstones and thermal Diatomite development
areas, where we have a successful track-record of development through sidetracks. However, any expansion plans
for our thermal Diatomite assets would require new high-pressure cyclic steam wells, approvals for which is
currently limited by a moratorium. In 2019, CalGEM took the following actions: (1) a moratorium on approval of
new high–pressure cyclic steam wells pending a study of the practice to address surface expressions experienced by
certain operators; (2) a review and update of regulations regarding public health and safety near oil and natural gas
operations pursuant to additional duties assigned to CalGEM by the California State Legislature in 2019 (discussed
above); (3) a performance audit of CalGEM’s permitting processes for issuing WST permits and PALs for
underground injection activities by the State Department of Finance; and (4) an independent review of the technical
content of pending WST and PAL applications by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. CalGEM also issued a
formal notice to operators, including us, that they had issued restrictions imposing the previously announced
moratorium to prohibit new underground oil-extraction wells from using high-pressure cyclic steaming process. The
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moratorium and related actions did not impact existing production or previously approved permits and our plans and
operations have not been materially impacted to date.
The moratorium has technically been lifted, although no approvals for steaming of new drills have been
approved since the moratorium was put in place. In August 2022, Berry applied to CalGEM for approval to perform
high-pressure cyclic steam operations on new wells in our thermal diatomite assets via a revised Underground
Injection Control (“UIC”) program to support our future development plans. We proposed to do so under terms and
conditions we believe are in compliance with the results of the study co-led by Lawrence Livermore National
Laboratory and CalGEM, which recommended strategies for avoidance of surface expressions experienced by
certain operators prior to the 2019 moratorium. Through ongoing dialog with CalGEM, we understand that our
application is under review, but the timing of approval is uncertain at this time. In the meantime, we have received,
and successfully executed on, sidetrack permits for redevelopment of this high quality asset. In 2023, we drilled our
first thermal diatomite sidetrack, with multiple additional sidetracks drilled in 2024 and and planned for 2025.
However, any expansion plans requires additional technical review by the regulator, which is currently on-going
We do not have any plans for our California assets that would require well stimulation treatments (“WST”)
(also known as hydraulic stimulation, hydraulic fracturing or fracking). We do rely on other methods to simulate
production, including the use of cyclic and continuous steam injection, which is heavily regulated. Any restrictions
on the use of those means of simulating production may adversely impact our operations, including causing
operational delays, increased costs, and reduced production. However, our ability to conduct such activities has not
been prohibited or otherwise restricted by the moratorium on permitting for new high–pressure cyclic steam wells
discussed above, or WST.
Historically, state regulators have overseen hydraulic stimulation operations as part of their oil and natural gas
regulatory programs. However, from time to time, federal agencies have asserted regulatory authority over certain
aspects of the process. For example, in April 2024, the Bureau of Land Management finalized a rule that limits
flaring from well sites on federal lands as well as allows the delay or denial of permits if the agency finds an
operator’s methane waste minimization plan insufficient. This rule is currently subject to litigation and halted in
certain states, including Utah. Rules such as this could materially impact our operations in the Uinta Basin, where as
of December 31, 2024, approximately 16% of our proved reserves in Utah were located on federal lands and
approximately 81% were located on tribal lands. In addition, from time to time legislation has been introduced
before Congress that would provide for federal regulation of hydraulic stimulation and would require disclosure of
the chemicals used in the stimulation process. If enacted, these or similar bills could result in additional permitting
requirements for hydraulic stimulation operations as well as various restrictions on those operations. These
permitting requirements and restrictions could materially impact our operations in the Uinta Basin, including delays
in operations at well sites and increased costs to make wells productive.
Water Resources
Oil and gas exploration and development activities can be adversely affected by the availability of water.
Drought conditions, competing water uses and other physical disruptions to our access to water could adversely
affect our operations. In recent years, California and Utah have experienced persistent and severe drought
conditions. As a result water districts and the California state government have implemented regulations and policies
that may restrict groundwater extraction and water usage and increase the cost of water. Various local governments
in Utah have also implemented water restrictions. Water management, including our ability to recycle, reuse and
dispose of produced water and our access to water supplies from third-party sources, in each case at a reasonable
cost, in a timely manner and in compliance with applicable laws, regulations and permits, is an essential component
of our operations. As such, any limitations or restrictions on wastewater disposal or water availability could have an
adverse impact on our operations. We treat and reuse water that is co-produced with oil and natural gas for a
substantial portion of our needs in activities such as pressure management, steam flooding and well drilling,
completion and stimulation. We use water supplied from various local and regional sources, particularly for power
plants and to support operations like steam injection in certain fields. While our production to date has not been
materially impacted by restrictions on wastewater disposals or access to third-party water sources, we cannot
guarantee that there may not be restrictions in the future.
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Regulation of Health, Safety and Environmental Matters
The federal health, safety and environmental laws and regulations applicable to us and our operations include,
among others, the following:
•
Occupational Safety and Health Act (“OSHA”), which governs workplace safety and the protection of the
safety and health of workers;
•
Clean Air Act (the “CAA”), which restricts the emission of air pollutants from many sources through the
imposition of air emission standards, construction and operating permitting programs and other compliance
requirements;
•
Clean Water Act (the “CWA”), which restricts the discharge of pollutants, including produced waters and
other oil and natural gas wastes, into waters of the United States, a term broadly defined to include, among
other things, certain wetlands;
•
The Oil Pollution Act of 1990, which amends and augments the CWA and imposes certain duties and
liabilities related to the prevention of oil spills and damages resulting from such spills;
•
Safe Drinking Water Act (“SDWA”), which, amongst other matters, regulates the drilling and operation of
injection and disposal wells that manage produced water;
•
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”), which imposes
strict, joint and several liability where hazardous substances have been released into the environment
(commonly known as “Superfund”);
•
U.S. Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (“PHMSA”)
regulates the safe and secure transportation of energy, including, with some specific exceptions, natural gas
pipelines;
•
Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007, which prescribes new fuel economy standards, mandates
for production of renewable fuels and other energy saving measures, which can indirectly affect demand for
our products;
•
National Environmental Policy Act (“NEPA”), which requires careful evaluation of the environmental
impacts of oil and natural gas production activities on federal lands;
•
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (“RCRA”), which governs the management of solid waste
(broadly defined to include liquid and gaseous waste as well);
•
DOI regulations, which impose requirements on oil and gas production activities on federal lands and
establish liability for pollution cleanup and damages; and
•
Endangered Species Act, which restricts activities that may affect endangered and threatened species or
their habitats.
Federal, state and local agencies may assert overlapping authority to regulate in these areas. The State of
California imposes additional laws that are analogous to, and often more stringent than, the federal laws listed
above. Among other requirements and restrictions, these laws and regulations:
•
require the acquisition of various permits, approvals and mitigation measures before drilling, workover,
production, underground fluid injection, enhanced oil recovery methods or waste disposal commences, or
before facilities are constructed or put into operation;
•
establish air, soil and water quality standards for a given region, such as the San Joaquin Valley, conduct
regional, community or field monitoring of air, soil or water quality, and require attainment plans to meet
those regional standards, which may include significant mitigation measures or restrictions on
development, economic activity and transportation in such region;
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•
impose, on federal, state and local jurisdiction lands, comprehensive environmental analyses, recordkeeping
and reports with respect to operations including preparation of various environmental impact assessments
for certain operations;
•
require the installation of sophisticated safety and pollution control equipment, such as leak detection,
monitoring and control systems, and implementation of inspection, monitoring and repair programs to
prevent or reduce releases or discharges of regulated materials to air, land, surface water or ground water;
•
restrict the use, types or sources of water, energy, land surface, habitat or other natural resources, and
require conservation and reclamation measures;
•
restrict the types, quantities and concentrations of regulated materials, including oil, natural gas, produced
water or wastes, that can be released or discharged into the environment in connection with drilling and
production activities, or any other uses of those materials resulting from drilling, production, processing,
power generation, transportation or storage activities;
•
limit or prohibit drilling activities on lands located within coastal, wilderness, wetlands, groundwater
recharge or endangered species inhabited areas, and other protected areas, or otherwise restrict or prohibit
activities that could impact the environment, including water resources, and require the dedication of
surface acreage for habitat conservation;
•
establish waste management standards or require remedial measures to limit pollution from former
operations, such as pit closure, reclamation and plugging and abandonment of wells or decommissioning of
facilities;
•
impose substantial liabilities for pollution resulting from operations or for preexisting environmental
conditions on our current or former properties and operations and other locations where such materials
generated by us or our predecessors were released or discharged;
•
require notice to stakeholders of proposed and ongoing operations;
•
impose energy efficiency or renewable energy standards on us or users of our products and require the
purchase of allowances to account for our GHG emissions if we are unable to reduce our emissions below
the California statewide maximum limit on covered GHG emissions;
•
restrict the use of oil, natural gas or certain petroleum–based products such as fuels and plastics; and
•
impose taxes or fees with respect to the foregoing matters.
Except for the regulations described herein relating to our oil and gas operations, we believe that maintaining
compliance with currently applicable health, safety and environmental laws and regulations is unlikely to have a
material adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, we
cannot guarantee this will always be the case given the historical trend of increasingly stringent laws and
regulations. We cannot predict how future laws and regulations, the reinterpretation of existing laws and regulations,
or changes in political leadership at the state or federal level may impact our properties or operations.
Violations and liabilities with respect to these laws and regulations could result in significant administrative,
civil or criminal penalties, remedial clean-ups, natural resource damages, permit modifications or revocations, and
operational interruptions or shutdowns, among other sanctions and liabilities. The costs of remedying such
conditions may be significant, and remediation obligations could adversely affect our financial condition, results of
operations and prospects. In addition, certain of these laws and regulations may apply retroactively and may impose
strict or joint and several liability on us for events or conditions over which we and our predecessors had no control,
without regard to fault, legality of the original activities, or ownership or control by third parties. For the year ended
December 31, 2024, we did not incur any material capital expenditures for installation of remediation or pollution
control equipment at any of our facilities. We are not aware of any environmental issues or claims that will require
material capital expenditures during 2025 or that will otherwise have a material impact on our financial position,
results of operations or cash flows.
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Regulation of Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas (“GHG”) Emissions
The potential threat of climate change due to human behaviors continues to attract considerable attention in the
United States and in foreign countries. Numerous proposals have been made and could continue to be made at the
international, national, regional and state levels of government to monitor and limit existing emissions of GHGs, as
well as to restrict or eliminate such future emissions. As a result, our E&P operations are and will be subject to a
series of regulatory, political, litigation, and financial risks associated with the production and processing of fossil
fuels and emission of GHGs.
In the United States, no comprehensive climate change legislation has been implemented at the federal level,
though laws such as the IRA advance numerous climate-related objectives. However, with the U.S. Supreme Court
finding that GHG emissions constitute a pollutant under the CAA, the EPA adopted rules that, among other things,
established construction and operating permit reviews for GHG emissions from certain large stationary sources,
required the monitoring and annual reporting of GHG emissions from certain petroleum and natural gas system
sources in the United States and together with the U.S. Department of Transportation (“DOT”), implemented GHG
emissions limits on vehicles manufactured for operation in the United States.
Additionally, various states and groups of states have adopted or are considering adopting legislation,
regulations or other regulatory initiatives that are focused on such areas as GHG cap-and-trade programs, carbon
taxes, “superfund” laws that target emitters of GHG emissions, reporting and tracking programs, and restriction of
GHG emissions, such as carbon dioxide and methane. For example, California, through the California Air Resources
Board (“CARB”) has implemented a cap-and-trade program for GHG emissions that sets a statewide maximum limit
on covered GHG emissions, and this cap declines annually to reach 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. Covered
entities must either reduce their GHG emissions or purchase allowances to account for such emissions. Separately,
California has implemented low carbon fuel standard (“LCFS”) and associated tradable credits that require a
progressively lower carbon intensity of the state’s fuel supply than baseline gasoline and diesel fuels. Recently,
CARB finalized amendments to the LCFS program to include increasing 2030 carbon intensity targets from 20% to
30% and extending carbon intensity reduction targets to 90% by 2045. The final rulemaking package was submitted
to the Office of Administrative Law on January 3, 2025, but on February 18, 2025, the Office of Administrative Law
issued a Notice of Disapproval citing clarity and incorrect procedure as grounds for its disapproval. CARB may
resubmit the finalized amendments within 120 days of receipt of the disapproval decision after resolving the
identified issues. CARB has also promulgated regulations regarding monitoring, leak detection, repair and reporting
of methane emissions from both existing and new oil and gas production facilities.
In addition to the actions described above requiring California to achieve total economy-wide carbon neutrality
by 2045, California has separately adopted a law requiring the use of 100% zero-carbon electricity within the state
by 2045. Additionally, the Governor of California requested that the CARB analyze pathways to phase out oil
extraction across the state by no later than 2045; however, CARB’s 2022 Final Scoping Plan (the “2022 Final
Scoping Plan”), the blueprint for the state’s carbon neutrality goals, determined such a phase out was not feasible
because of continued projected demand for fossil fuels in the transportation sector notwithstanding significant
projected decreases in demand for fossil fuels for such uses by 2045. Notwithstanding this, CARB will continue to
assess opportunities for phase down in its next five-year scoping plan. The 2022 Final Scoping Plan also outlines a
plan to phase out natural gas use in buildings, amongst other carbon emission reduction matters. We cannot predict
how these various laws, regulations and orders may ultimately affect our operations. However, these initiatives
could result in decreased demand for the oil, natural gas and NGLs that we produce, or otherwise restrict or prohibit
our operations altogether in California, and therefore adversely affect our revenues and results of operations.
Separately, some states, including New York and Vermont, have recently passed climate “superfund” laws,
providing recourse to recover financial damages from companies for the impacts of climate change. Similar laws
have been proposed in Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey and California. Although the legislation proposed in
California has not meaningfully advanced at this stage, climate superfund laws such as this, which target larger oil
and gas companies, could negatively impact our business and financial condition.
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At the international level, in 2021, the United States formally rejoined the Paris Agreement, which requires
member nations to submit non-binding GHG emissions reduction goals every five years. However, on his first day
in office, January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order once again withdrawing the United States
from the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the Executive Order withdraws the United States from any other
commitments made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and revokes any purported
financial commitment made by the United States pursuant to the same. It is unclear what participation, if any, the
United States will have in future United Nations climate-related efforts. Notwithstanding these actions, some states,
including California, have, through the United States Climate Alliance, indicated a continued commitment to the
goal of the Paris Agreement. The full impact of these recent developments is uncertain at this time.
Governmental, scientific and public concern over the threat of climate change arising from GHG emissions has
resulted in increasing political risks in the United States, including climate change-related pledges made by certain
candidates for public office. These have included promises to pursue actions to limit emissions and curtail the
production of oil and gas, such as banning new leases for production of minerals on federal properties.
In particular, in California, where we have significant operations, many state residents are very concerned with
the impacts of climate change, which has been heightened in recent years with notable increases in wildfire
incidents, increases in insurance costs or the inability to secure insurance, and frequent drought-like conditions in
much of the state. Addressing the impacts – and alleged causes of – climate change is a high priority for California
politicians and these politicians have and may continue to take regulatory, litigation or legislative action against the
Company or our industry, which may adversely affect our revenues and results of operations. Litigation risks are
also increasing, as a number of parties have sought to bring suit against oil and natural gas companies in state or
federal court, alleging, among other things, that such companies created public nuisances by producing fuels that
contributed to global warming effects, such as rising sea levels, and therefore are responsible for roadway and
infrastructure damages as a result, or alleging that the companies have been aware of the adverse effects of climate
change for some time but withheld material information from their investors or customers by failing to adequately
disclose those impacts. There is also a growing trend of government actors or private parties suing companies for
“greenwashing,” which is where a company is purported to convey misleading information or make false claims
overstating that a company’s products or practices are more environmentally friendly than they are. Certain
regulators, such as the SEC and various state agencies, as well as nongovernmental organizations and other private
actors have filed lawsuits under various securities and consumer protection laws alleging that certain ESG
statements, goals or standards were misleading, false or otherwise deceptive. The Attorney General of California, in
particular, has brought lawsuits against several major oil companies alleging, among other things, that the
defendants willfully misled the public about the known dangers of climate change. Such lawsuit has even sought
novel monetary damages from the defendants, which includes disgorgement of profits going back many years.
Certain employment practices and social or inclusion initiatives are also the subject of scrutiny by both those calling
for the continued advancement of such policies, as well as those who believe they should be curbed, including
government actors, and the complex regulatory and legal frameworks applicable to such initiatives continue to
evolve.
There have also recently been increasing financial risks for fossil fuel producers as certain shareholders
currently invested in fossil-fuel energy companies concerned about the potential effects of climate change may elect
in the future to shift some or all of their investments into non-traditional energy related sectors. Institutional lenders
who provide financing to fossil-fuel energy companies also have become more attentive to sustainable lending
practices and some of them may elect not to provide funding for fossil fuel energy companies, although this trend
has waned recently and several high-profile banks and institutional investors have withdrawn from various
associations that aim to limit financing of industries that emit significant GHG emissions. The impact of these
developments on our current and future ability to access capital on attractive terms is unclear. Any limitations of
investments in and financings for fossil fuel energy companies could result in the restriction, delay or cancellation of
drilling programs or E&P activities.
Additionally, in March 2024, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) released a final rule that
establishes a framework for the reporting of climate risks, targets, and metrics. However, the future of the rule is
uncertain at this time given that its implementation has been stayed pending the outcome of legal challenges.
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Moreover, on February 11, 2025, SEC Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda requested that the U.S. Court of Appeals for
the Eighth Circuit not schedule arguments in the case while the SEC reconsiders the final rules. While the SEC,
under the new administration, may seek to repeal or otherwise modify the rules, we cannot predict whether such
action will occur or its timing. Therefore, the ultimate impact of the rule on our business is uncertain and, upon
finalization may result in additional costs to comply with any such disclosure requirements alongside increased costs
of and restrictions on access to capital.
The adoption and implementation of new or more stringent international, federal or state legislation, regulations
or other regulatory initiatives that impose more stringent standards for GHG emissions from oil and natural gas
producers such as ourselves or otherwise restrict the areas in which we may produce oil and natural gas or generate
GHG emissions could result in increased costs of compliance or costs of consuming, and thereby reduce demand for
or erode value for, the oil and natural gas that we produce. Additionally, political, litigation, and financial risks may
result in our restricting or canceling oil and natural gas production activities, incurring liability for infrastructure
damages as a result of climatic changes, or impairing our ability to continue to operate in an economic manner.
Moreover, climate change may also result in various physical risks, such as the increased frequency or intensity of
extreme weather events or changes in meteorological and hydrological patterns, that could adversely impact our
operations, as well as those of our operators and their supply chains. Such physical risks may result in damage to our
facilities or otherwise adversely impact our operations, such as if we become subject to water use curtailments in
response to drought, or demand for our products, such as to the extent warmer winters reduce the demand for energy
for heating purposes. Such physical risks may also impact our supply chain or infrastructure on which we rely to
produce or transport our products. One or more of these developments could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and results of operation.
For more information, please see Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Operations and
Industry—Our business is highly regulated and governmental authorities can delay or deny permits and
approvals or change the requirements governing our operations, including the permitting approval process for oil
and gas exploration, extraction, operations and production activities; well stimulation and other enhanced
production techniques; and fluid injection or disposal activities, any of which could increase costs, restrict
operations and delay our implementation of, or cause us to change, our business strategy and plans” and “—Our
operations are subject to a series of risks arising out of the threat of climate change that could result in increased
operating costs, limit the areas in which we may conduct oil and natural gas E&P activities, and reduce demand
for the oil and natural gas we produce.”
Human Capital Resources
As of December 31, 2024, we had 1,070 employees, all of whom are located in the United States. Of those, 710
employees are employed in our CJWS business, and the remainder are corporate or employed in our E&P business
in California, Texas and Utah. Currently, none of our employees are covered under collective bargaining or union
agreements. We also utilize the service of third-party contractors throughout our operations.
We believe that developing the best talent, promoting a safe and healthy workplace, providing an inclusive
culture, and supporting the well-being of our employees and local communities are critical to the Company's
success. The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors has oversight responsibilities for the Company’s
human capital management policies, processes and practices, including those related to pay equity, compensation
and incentive structures, employee recruitment, retention and development, and succession planning.
Culture, Core Values and Employee Engagement
We are committed to the well-being of our employees and strive to foster a corporate culture that is reflective of
our core values:
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• Stronger Together
• Do the Right Thing
• Own It
• Responsible
• Breed Excellence
We aim to provide development opportunities and financial rewards so that our employees are engaged and
focused on providing safe, affordable and reliable energy for the people of California.
We believe that fair and equitable pay is an essential element of any successful organization and we reward our
talented employees for their hard work, qualities, experience and passion. We strive to offer comprehensive and
competitive benefits that support the health and well-being of our employees and their families, while consistently
offering opportunities for professional growth and development in line with our mission. In addition, the incentive
compensation program for our entire workforce, including our executive team, is tied to company performance on
safety and environmental responsibility, as well as financial stewardship.
We proactively work to help our employees stay fully engaged and empowered to achieve their potential and we
are committed to attracting, developing and retaining a highly qualified and value-focused workforce. Our
engagement approach centers on transparency and accountability and we use a variety of channels as part of our
efforts to facilitate open, direct and honest communication, including open forums with executives through periodic
town hall meetings and continuous opportunities for discussion and feedback between employees and managers,
including performance conversations and reviews. We also survey our employees periodically to assess engagement
levels and satisfaction drivers. The results of the engagement surveys are reviewed by senior management and the
Board of Directors and then communicated to our employees along with a company action plan to address concerns
identified by the surveys.
We value our workforce reflecting the broad spectrum of cultural, demographic and philosophical differences of
the communities where we operate, and strive to promote a workplace culture of inclusiveness, dignity and respect
for all employees as well as a safe, appropriate, and productive work environment. Accordingly, we prohibit
harassment and discrimination at our work facilities, as well as off-site, including business trips, business functions
and company-sponsored events. In particular, our Code of Conduct prohibits any form of degrading, offensive, or
intimidating conduct based on any characteristic protected by applicable law, whether race, color, ethnicity, national
origin, ancestry, citizenship status, sex, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, mental disability,
physical disability, medical condition, genetic information, age, parental status or pregnancy, marital status, religion,
religious creed, military or veteran status.
Safe and Healthy Workplace
We promote a safety leadership culture. Health and safety considerations are an integral part of our day-to-day
operations and incorporated into the decision-making process for our Board of Directors, management and all
employees. Meeting meaningful HSE organizational metrics, including with respect to health and safety and spill
prevention, is a part of our incentive programs for our entire workforce. Our businesses maintain health and safety
training programs designed to support a safety leadership culture and allow personnel to develop appropriate skills
and understanding of our HSE policies. Routine and periodic drills are conducted as part of our employees’
education and safety training.
Corporate Information
Our principal executive office is located at 16000 N. Dallas Pkwy, Ste. 500, Dallas, Texas 75248 and our
telephone number at that address is (214) 453-2920. Our web address is www.bry.com. We make certain filings with
the SEC, including our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K,
and all amendments and exhibits to those reports. The SEC maintains an internet site, http://www.sec.gov, that
contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically
with the SEC. We make such filings available free of charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable
39
after they are filed with the SEC. In addition to reports filed or furnished with the SEC, we publicly disclose material
information from time to time in press releases, at annual meetings of shareholders, in publicly accessible
conferences and investor presentations, and through our website. Information contained in or accessible through our
website is not, and should not be deemed to be, part of this report.
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Item 1A. Risk Factors
If any of the following risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be
materially and adversely affected and we may not be able to achieve our goals. We cannot assure you that any of the
events discussed in the risk factors below will not occur. Further, the risks and uncertainties described below are
not the only risks and uncertainties we face. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to us or that we
currently deem immaterial may ultimately materially affect our business.
Summary Risk Factors
The exploration, development and production of oil and natural gas involve highly regulated, high-risk activities
with many uncertainties and contingencies that could adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of
operations and cash flows. The risks and uncertainties described below are among the items we have identified that
could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Before you
invest in our common stock, you should carefully consider the risk factors referenced below and as more fully
described in Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report.
Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry
•
Attempts by the California state government to restrict the production of oil and gas could negatively impact
our operations and result in decreased demand for fossil fuels.
•
There are significant uncertainties with respect to obtaining permits for oil and gas activities in Kern County,
where all of our California operations are located, which could impact our financial condition and results of
operations.
•
Our ability to be profitable and maintain our financial condition is highly dependent on commodity prices.
•
The conflict in Ukraine, the Israel-Hamas conflict, related price volatility and geopolitical instability could
negatively impact our business.
•
Our operations and financial performance may be negatively affected directly or indirectly by changes in
trade policies and tariffs.
•
We may be unable to make attractive acquisitions or successfully complete acquisitions and integrate
acquired businesses or assets or enter into attractive joint ventures.
•
The marketability of our production is dependent upon the availability of transportation and storage facilities,
most of which we do not control.
•
Information technology and operational failures and cyberattacks could significantly affect our business,
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
•
Most of our operations are in California, much of which is conducted in areas that may be at risk of damage
from fire, mudslides, earthquakes or other natural disasters.
•
Operational issues and inability or unwillingness of third parties to provide sufficient facilities and services to
us on commercially reasonable terms or otherwise could restrict access to commodity markets.
•
Unless we replace oil and natural gas reserves, our future reserves and production will decline.
•
Our oil and gas reserves and related future net cash flows may prove to be lower than estimated.
•
Drilling for and producing oil and natural gas involves many uncertainties and risks that are beyond our
control.
•
We may not drill our identified sites at the times we scheduled or at all.
•
Competition in the oil and natural gas industry is intense.
•
The loss of senior management or technical personnel could adversely affect operations.
•
We are dependent on our cogeneration facilities to produce steam for our operations.
•
We may incur substantial losses and be subject to substantial liability claims as a result of catastrophic events.
•
We may be involved in legal proceedings that could result in substantial liabilities.
•
Increasing attention to ESG matters, including climate-related reporting obligations, may impact our
operations and our business.
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Risks Related to Our Financial Condition
•
Our existing debt agreements have restrictive covenants that could limit our growth, financial flexibility and
our ability to engage in certain activities and our lenders could reduce capital available to us for investment.
•
We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service our indebtedness.
•
Our business requires continual capital expenditures that we may be unable to fund.
•
Our hedging activities limit our ability to realize the full benefits of increases or decreases in commodity
prices and may not fully protect us against the price increases decreases.
•
Declines in commodity prices, changes in expected capital development, increases in operating costs or
adverse changes in well performance may result in write-downs of the carrying amounts of our assets.
•
Inflation could adversely impact our ability to control our costs.
•
We may not be able to use a portion of our net operating loss carryforwards and other tax attributes to reduce
our future U.S. federal and state income tax obligations, which could adversely affect our cash flows.
•
We have significant concentrations of credit risk with our customers.
Risks Related to Regulatory Matters
•
Our business is highly regulated and governmental authorities can delay or deny required permits and
approvals, or change the requirements governing our operations.
•
Our operations are subject to a series of risks arising out of the threat of climate change that could result in
increased operating costs, limit the areas in which we may conduct oil and natural gas E&P activities, and
reduce demand for the oil and natural gas we produce.
•
Potential future legislation may generally affect the taxation of natural gas and oil exploration and
development companies and may adversely affect our operations and cash flows.
•
Derivatives legislation and regulations could have an adverse effect on our ability to use derivative
instruments to reduce the risks associated with our business.
•
The Inflation Reduction Act could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and could impose new
costs on our operations.
Risks Related to our Capital Stock
•
There may be circumstances in which the interests of our significant stockholders could be in conflict with the
interests of our other stockholders.
•
Future sales of our common stock in the public market could reduce our stock price, and any additional
capital raised by us through the sale of equity or convertible securities may dilute your ownership in us.
•
The payment of dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors.
•
We may issue preferred stock, the terms of which could adversely affect the voting power or value of our
common stock.
•
Certain provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws may make it difficult for stockholders to
change the composition of our Board of Directors and may discourage, delay or prevent a merger or
acquisition.
•
Our Certificate of Incorporation designates the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the sole and
exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our stockholders.
Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry
The risks and uncertainties described below are among the items we have identified that could materially
adversely affect our business, production, strategy, growth plans, acquisitions, hedging, reserves quantities or value,
operating or capital costs, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, cash flows, our ability to meet our
capital expenditure plans and other obligations and financial commitments, and our plans to return capital.
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Attempts by the California state government to restrict the production of oil and gas could negatively impact our
operations and result in decreased demand for fossil fuels within the states where we operate.
California, where most of our operations and assets are located currently, is one of the most heavily regulated
states in the United States with respect to oil and gas operations. A combination of federal, state and local laws and
regulations govern most aspects of our activities in California and federal, state and local agencies may assert
overlapping regulatory authority. Collectively, the effect of the existing laws and regulations is to limit the number
and location of our wells through restrictions on the use of our properties, limit our ability to develop certain assets
and conduct certain operations, including through a restrictive and burdensome permitting and approval process, and
have the effect of reducing the amount of oil and natural gas that we can produce from our wells, potentially
reducing such production below levels that would otherwise be possible or economical. Additionally, the regulatory
burden on the industry in the past has resulted, and in the future could result, in increased costs, and consequently
has had an adverse effect upon operations, capital expenditures, earnings and our competitive position and may
continue to have such effects in the future. Violations and liabilities with respect to these laws and regulations could
also result in reputational damage and significant administrative, civil, or criminal penalties, remedial clean-ups,
natural resource damages, permit modifications or revocations, operational interruptions or shutdowns, and other
liabilities. The costs of remedying such conditions may be significant, and remediation obligations could adversely
affect our financial condition, results of operations and future prospects.
The California state government recently has taken several actions that could adversely impact future oil and
gas production and other activities in the state. For additional information, see “Items 1 and 2. Business and
Properties—Regulation of Health, Safety and Environmental Matters.” The clear trend in California is to impose
increasingly stringent restrictions on oil and natural gas activities. We cannot predict what actions the Governor of
California, the California State Legislature, or state agencies may take in the future, but we could face increased
compliance costs, delays in obtaining the approvals necessary for our operations, exposure to increased liability, or
other limitations as a result of future actions by these parties. Moreover, new developments resulting from the
current and future actions of these parties could also materially and adversely affect our ability to operate,
successfully execute drilling plans, or otherwise develop our reserves. Accordingly, recent and future actions by the
Governor of California, the California State Legislature, and state agencies could materially and adversely affect our
business, results of operations, and financial condition.
There are significant uncertainties with respect to obtaining permits for oil and gas activities in Kern County,
where all of our California operations are located, which could impact our financial condition and results of
operations.
Over the last number of years, developments at both the California state and local levels have resulted in
significant delays in the issuance of permits to drill new oil and gas wells in Kern County, where all of our
California assets are located, as well as a more time- and cost-intensive permitting process. The issuance of permits
and other approvals for drilling and production activities by state and local agencies or by federal agencies are
subject to environmental impact reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) and/or the
National Environmental Policy Act (“NEPA”), respectively. The requirement to demonstrate compliance with
CEQA is currently resulting in (and the requirement to demonstrate compliance with CEQA and/or NEPA may in
the future may result in) significant delays in the issuance of permits to drill new wells, as well as the potential
imposition of mitigation measures and restrictions on proposed oil field operations, among other things.
Before an operator can pursue drilling operations in California, they must first obtain permission to engage in
oil and gas operations. Historically, we satisfied CEQA by complying with the Kern County zoning ordinance for oil
and gas operations, which was supported by the Kern County Environmental Impact Report (“EIR”). However, the
Kern County EIR was legally challenged in 2015 and the use of the Kern County EIR is currently stayed and has
been stayed for lengths of time throughout the litigation. Most recently, the Kern County EIR was stayed in January
2023 by a California appellate court while they reviewed a November 2022 ruling by the lower court that reinstated
the Kern Country EIR; since that time, operators have been unable to use the Kern County EIR to demonstrate
CEQA compliance to receive permits to drill new wells. In March 2024, the California appellate court delivered its
opinion finding certain deficiencies in the Kern County EIR and reliance on the EIR remains enjoined until those
43
deficiencies are remedied. Accordingly, our ability to rely on the Kern County EIR to demonstrate CEQA
compliance to obtain permits and approvals to drill new wells is constrained until Kern County is able to certify a
new revised EIR that the Court deems fully complies with CEQA and favorably resolve the litigation. As a result of
the litigation, from 2023 to year to date 2025, neither we nor any other operator received permits to drill new wells
using the Kern County EIR to demonstrate CEQA compliance. In the meantime, to obtain permits for drilling new
wells in Kern County we must demonstrate compliance with CEQA to CalGEM through means other than the Kern
County EIR.
The litigation impacting the Kern County EIR does not restrict the issuance of sidetrack and workover permits,
and we have continued to receive the necessary permits to meet our production goals. However, in the latter part of
2023 and into 2024, we experienced some delays in the issuance of sidetrack and workover permits due to changes
in CalGEM’s CEQA review process. Permit cycle times improved around mid-year and since that time, CalGEM
has been processing and approving permit applications on a more predictable timeline. We had all of the permits
needed to support our 2024 planned activities in California, and entered 2025 with sufficient permits in hand to
continue our development activities through the first part of the year.
Similar to 2024, our 2025 capital program in California is focused on sidetracks and workovers. We currently
have sufficient permits in hand that should allow us to maintain sidetrack activities in California through at least the
first quarter of 2025, plus a continuous workover campaign for approximately the first half of the year. We are in the
process of obtaining the remaining permits needed to support our 2025 plans in California, none of which are
dependent on the Kern County EIR, while also working to obtain additional permits to support future plans.
Permitting delays could adversely impact our 2025 California plans and the inability to secure permits (on a timely
basis or at all) could adversely impact our business and results of operations in 2025 and beyond. If we are unable to
obtain the required permits and approvals needed to conduct our operations on a timely basis or at all our financial
condition, results of operations and prospects could be adversely and materially impacted.
Separately, in February 2021, the Center for Biological Diversity filed suit against CalGEM alleging that its
reliance on the Kern County EIR for oil and gas decisions violates CEQA, and that an independent environmental
impact review in compliance with CEQA is required by CalGEM before the agency can issue oil and gas permits
and approvals. Most recently, the Alameda County Superior Court ordered the parties to attend a mandatory
settlement conference, although the case did not settle as a result and the lawsuit remains ongoing. We cannot
predict its ultimate outcome or whether it could result in changes to the requirements for demonstrating compliance
with CEQA and the permitting process, even if the Kern County EIR is ultimately deemed sufficient and reinstated.
The potential impact of this and potentially future litigation contributes to the uncertainty with respect to our ability
to timely obtain the permits and approvals needed to conduct our operations.
Based on our reserves as of December 31, 2024, if we are forced to change our near-term development
plans because of delays in granting permits, it could result in the loss of some amount of the proved undeveloped
reserves as identified in our December 31, 2024 reserve report. In addition, any changes to the CEQA compliance
requirements or the other conditions and requirements for permit issuance or renewal, including the imposition of
new or more stringent environmental reviews or stricter operational or monitoring requirements, or a prohibition on
the issuance of new permits for oil and has activities in Kern County or California as a whole, would have an
adverse and material effect on our financial condition, results of operations and prospects. For additional
information, see “Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties—Regulation of Health, Safety and Environmental
Matters.”
Our producing properties are located primarily in California, making us vulnerable to risks associated with
having operations concentrated in this geographic area.
We operate primarily in California, which is one of the most heavily regulated states in the United States with
respect to oil and gas operations. This geographic concentration disproportionately affects the success and
profitability of our operations exposing us to local price fluctuations, changes in state or regional laws and
regulations, political risks, limited acquisition opportunities where we have the most operating experience and
infrastructure, limited storage options, drought conditions, and other regional supply and demand factors, including
44
gathering, pipeline and transportation capacity constraints, limited potential customers, infrastructure capacity and
availability of rigs, equipment, refining capacity, oil field services, supplies and labor. We discuss such specific risks
to our California operations in more detail elsewhere in this section and in Part I, Items 1 and 2. “Business and
Properties—Regulatory Matters” in this Annual Report.
Our ability to operate profitably and maintain our business and financial condition are highly dependent on
commodity prices, which historically have been very volatile and are driven by numerous factors beyond our
control. If oil prices were to significantly decline for a prolonged period of time, our business, financial condition
and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.
The price we receive for our oil and natural gas production heavily influences our revenue, profitability, value
of our reserves, access to capital and future rate of growth, among other factors. However, the price we receive for
our oil and natural gas production depends on numerous factors beyond our control, including not limited to, the
following:
•
overall domestic and global political and economic conditions, including the imposition of tariffs or trade
or other economic sanctions, political instability or armed conflict, including the ongoing conflict in
Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict, inflation levels and government efforts to reduce inflation or a
prolonged recession;
•
changes in global supply and demand for oil and natural gas, including changes in demand resulting from
general and specific economic conditions relating to the business cycle and other factors;
•
the actions of OPEC and/or OPEC+;
•
the price and quantity of imports of foreign oil and natural gas;
•
the level of global oil and natural gas E&P activity;
•
the level of global oil and natural gas inventories;
•
weather conditions;
•
domestic and foreign governmental legislative efforts, executive actions and regulations, including
environmental regulations, climate change regulations and taxation;
•
the effect of energy conservation efforts;
•
stockholder activism or activities by non-governmental organizations to limit certain sources of capital for
the energy sector or restrict the exploration, development and production of oil and gas;
•
technological advances affecting energy consumption; and
•
the price and availability of alternative fuels.
Historically, the markets for oil and natural gas have been extremely volatile and will likely continue to be
volatile in the future. Oil and natural gas are commodities and, therefore, their prices are subject to wide fluctuations
in response to relatively minor changes in supply and demand. Global economic growth drives demand for energy
from all sources, including fossil fuels. When the U.S. and global economies experience weakness, demand for
energy will decline with accompanying declines in commodity prices; similarly, when growth in global energy
production outstrips demand, the excess supply results in commodity price declines.
Concerns over global economic conditions, energy costs, geopolitical issues, such as the ongoing conflict in
Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict, inflation, the availability and cost of credit and slow economic growth in the
United States have in the past contributed to significantly reduced economic activity and diminished expectations for
the global economy. If the economic climate in the United States or abroad deteriorate, worldwide demand for
petroleum products could further diminish, which could impact the price at which oil, natural gas and NGLs from
45
our properties are sold, affect our level of operations and ultimately materially adversely impact our results of
operations, financial condition and free cash flow.
Additionally, although the California market generally receives Brent-influenced pricing, California oil prices
are determined ultimately by local supply and demand dynamics. Refer to Item 7—“Management’s Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Business Environment and Market Conditions.”
Historically, the waxy nature of oil in Utah limited sales to the Salt Lake City market. However, the recent success
of a tight oil play in the basin has increased supply and put downward pressure on physical oil prices in the Salt
Lake City market. Given these circumstances, we are endeavoring to sell our crude to markets outside of the basin
where transportation options to other markets are available, though comparatively expensive.
Past declines in pricing, and any declines that may occur in the future, can be expected to adversely affect our
business, financial condition and results of operations. Such declines adversely affect well and reserve economics
and may reduce the amount of oil and natural gas that we can produce economically, resulting in deferral or
cancellation of planned drilling and related activities until such time, if ever, as economic conditions improve
sufficiently to support such operations. Any extended decline in oil or natural gas prices may materially and
adversely affect our future business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity or ability to finance planned
capital expenditures.
Global geopolitical tensions and related price volatility and geopolitical instability could negatively impact our
business.
In late February 2022, Russia launched significant military action against Ukraine. The conflict has caused, and
could intensify, volatility in the prices of natural gas, oil and NGLs, and the extent and duration of the military
action, sanctions and resulting market disruptions have been significant and could continue to have a substantial
impact on the global economy and our business for an unknown period of time. There is evidence that the increase
in crude oil prices during the first half of calendar year 2022 was partially due to the impact of the conflict between
Russia and Ukraine on the global commodity and financial markets, and in response to economic and trade sanctions
that certain countries have imposed on Russia. Alternatively, a cessation of the hostilities between Russia and
Ukraine as a result of a negotiated withdrawal or otherwise could cause commodity prices to decline, which would
reduce the revenues we receive for our oil and gas production.
Additionally, on October 7, 2023, Hamas, a U.S. designated terrorist organization, launched a series of
coordinated attacks from the Gaza Strip onto Israel. On October 8, 2023, Israel formally declared war on Hamas,
and the armed conflict is ongoing as of the date of this filing. Hostilities between Israel and Hamas could escalate
and involve surrounding countries in the Middle East. Although the length, impact and outcome of the military
conflicts between Ukraine and Russia and between Israel and Hamas are highly unpredictable, these conflicts could
lead to significant market and other disruptions, including significant volatility in commodity prices and supply of
energy resources, instability in financial markets, supply chain interruptions, political and social instability and other
material and adverse effects on macroeconomic conditions. It is not possible at this time to predict or determine the
ultimate consequence of these regional conflicts. Any such volatility and disruptions may also magnify the impact of
the other risks described in this “Risk Factors” section.
Our operations and financial performance may be negatively affected directly or indirectly by changes in trade
policies and tariffs.
In recent years, the United States increased tariffs for certain goods, which triggered other nations to also
increase tariffs on certain of their goods. In recent weeks, the current administration has made many announcements
regarding tariffs and the extent and duration of such tariffs remain uncertain. If maintained, the newly announced
tariffs and the potential escalation of trade disputes could pose a risk to our business and also directly impact our
operating expenses. For example, the United States recently announced 25% tariffs on imported steel which are
likely to lead to increased material costs.
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We may be unable to make attractive acquisitions or successfully integrate acquired businesses or assets or enter
into attractive joint ventures, and any inability to do so may disrupt our business and hinder our ability to grow.
There is no guarantee we will be able to identify or complete attractive acquisitions. In July 2023, we
announced the Macpherson Acquisition, which closed in September 2023, and we completed the acquisition of a
small, highly synergistic additional working interest in Kern County, California in December 2023. Our capital
expenditure budget for 2025 does not allocate any specific amounts for new acquisitions of oil and natural gas
properties. If we make additional acquisitions, we would need to use cash flows, seek additional capital, or
reallocate funds from other budgeted uses, all of which are subject to uncertainties discussed in this section.
Competition may also increase the cost of, or cause us to refrain from, completing acquisitions. Our debt
arrangements impose certain limitations on our ability to enter into mergers or combination transactions and to incur
certain indebtedness. See “—Our existing debt agreements have restrictive covenants that could limit our growth,
financial flexibility and our ability to engage in certain activities.” In addition, the success of completed acquisitions
will depend on our ability to integrate effectively the acquired business into our existing operations, may involve
unforeseen difficulties and may require a disproportionate amount of our managerial and financial resources.
The marketability of our production is dependent upon transportation and storage facilities and other facilities,
most of which we do not control, and the availability of such transportation and storage capabilities. If we are
unable to access such facilities on commercially reasonable terms, our operations would likely be interrupted, our
production could be curtailed, and our revenues reduced, among other adverse consequences.
The marketing of oil, natural gas and NGLs production depends in large part on the availability, proximity and
capacity of trucks, pipelines and storage facilities, gas gathering systems and other transportation, processing and
refining facilities, as well as the existence of adequate markets. Storage and transportation capacity for our
production is limited and may become unavailable on commercially reasonable terms or at all. For example, storage
and transportation capacity became scarce during the second quarter of 2020 due to the unprecedented dual impact
of a severe global oil demand decline coupled with a substantial increase in supply. As traditional tanks filled, large
quantities of oil were being stored in offshore tankers around the world, including off the coast of California. Where
storage was available, such as offshore tankers, storage costs increased sharply. The potential risk remains that
storage for oil may be unavailable and our existing capacity may be insufficient to support planned production rates
in the event of another deterioration in demand or a supply surge or both.
Moreover, if the imbalance between supply and demand and the related shortage of storage capacity worsen, the
prices we receive for our production could deteriorate and could potentially even become negative. Additionally, if
we were unable to obtain the needed storage capacity, we could be forced to shut in a significant amount of our
California production, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, liquidity and
operational results. If we are forced to shut in production, we would incur additional costs to bring the associated
wells back online. While production is shut in, we would likely incur additional costs and operating expenses to,
among other things, maintain the health of the reservoirs, meet contractual obligations and protect our interests,
without the associated revenue. Additionally, depending on the duration of the shut-in, and whether we have also
shut in steam injection for the associated reservoirs rather than incur those costs, the wells may not, initially or at all,
come back online at similar rates to those at the time of shut-in. Depending on the duration of the steam injection
shut-in time, and the resulting inefficiency and economics of restoring the reservoir to its energetic and heated state,
our proved reserve estimates could be decreased and there could be potential additional impairments and associated
charges to our earnings. A reduction in our reserves could also result in a reduction to our borrowing base under the
2024 Revolver and our liquidity. The ultimate significance of the impact of any production disruptions, including the
extent of the adverse impact on our financial and operational results, will be dictated by the length of time that such
disruptions continue, which will in turn depend on how long storage remains filled and unavailable to us, which is
largely unpredictable and based on factors outside of our control.
In addition to the constraints we may face due to storage capacity shortages, the volume of oil and natural gas
that we can produce is subject to limitations resulting from pipeline interruptions due to scheduled and unscheduled
maintenance, excessive pressure, and physical damage to the gathering, transportation, storage, processing,
fractionation, refining or export facilities that we utilize. The curtailments arising from these and similar
47
circumstances may last from a few days to several months or longer and, in many cases, we may be provided only
limited, if any, advance notice as to when these circumstances will arise and their duration. Any such shut-in or
curtailment, or any inability to obtain favorable terms for delivery of the oil and natural gas produced from our
fields, would adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.
In October 2024, Phillips 66 announced that it plans to close its Wilmington refinery in Los Angeles in late
2025. We sold approximately 15% of our California production to this refinery in 2024. Following the closure of the
Phillips 66 refinery, we expect California to have approximately 1.5 million bpd of remaining refining capacity
which is over five times the amount of crude oil produced in California. As a result, we do not currently expect the
Phillips 66 closure to negatively impact our price realizations, however, if there were significant other refinery
closures, that could have an adverse impact on our ability to market our crude production.
Information technology and operational failures and cyberattacks could significantly affect our business,
financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We rely on electronic information systems and networks to communicate, control and manage our operations
and prepare our financial management and reporting information. User access and security of our sites and systems
are critical elements of our operations, as are cloud security and protection against cybersecurity incidents. Without
accurate data from and access to these systems and networks, our ability to communicate, control and manage our
business could be adversely affected.
We face various cybersecurity threats, including attempts to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information,
or render data, or systems unusable. We also face threats to the security of our facilities, third-party facilities and
operational technology and infrastructure, such as processing plants and pipelines. We are also susceptible to threats
from malicious threats and advanced nation state threat actors. We have experienced cybersecurity incidents but
have not suffered any material adverse impacts to our business and operations as a result of such incidents. Our
implementation of various procedures and controls to monitor and mitigate security threats and to increase security
for our information, facilities and infrastructure may result in increased capital and operating costs. Moreover, there
can be no assurance that such procedures and controls will be sufficient to prevent security breaches or other
incidents from occurring. If a security breach were to occur, it could lead to losses of sensitive information, critical
infrastructure or capabilities essential to our operations, misdirected wire transfers, an inability to settle transactions
or maintain operations, disruptions in operations or other adverse events. If we were to experience an attack and our
security measures failed, the potential consequences to our business and the communities in which we operate could
be significant and could harm our reputation and lead to financial losses from remedial actions, loss of business or
potential liability, including regulatory enforcement, violation of privacy or securities laws and regulations, and
individual or class action claims.
The energy industry has become increasingly dependent on digital technologies to conduct day-to-day
operations, and the use of mobile communication devices has rapidly increased. Industrial control systems such as
supervisory control and data acquisition (“SCADA”) systems now control large-scale processes that can include
multiple sites across long distances. The Company’s technologies, systems, networks, including its SCADA system,
and those of its business partners may become the target of cyberattacks or security breaches. In addition, the
frequency and magnitude of cyberattacks is increasing and attackers have become more sophisticated. Cyberattacks
are similarly evolving and include without limitation use of malicious software, surveillance, credential stuffing,
spear phishing, social engineering, use of deepfakes (i.e., highly realistic synthetic media generated by artificial
intelligence), attempts to gain unauthorized access to data, and other electronic security breaches that could lead to
disruptions in critical systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information and
corruption of data. We may be unable to anticipate, detect or prevent future attacks, particularly as the
methodologies used by attackers change frequently or are not recognized until deployed. We may also be unable to
investigate or remediate incidents as attackers are increasingly using techniques and tools designed to circumvent
controls, to avoid detection, and to remove or obfuscate forensic evidence.
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A significant amount of our operations are in California, much of which is conducted in areas that may be at risk
of damage from fire, mudslides, earthquakes, floods or other natural disasters or extreme weather events.
We currently conduct operations in California near known wildfire and mudslide areas and earthquake fault
zones. A future natural disaster, or extreme weather event, such as a fire, mudslide, flood, drought or an earthquake,
could cause substantial interruption and delays in our operations, damage or destroy equipment, prevent or delay
transport of our products and cause us to incur additional expenses, which would adversely affect our business,
financial condition and results of operations. In addition, our facilities would be difficult to replace and would
require substantial lead time to repair or replace. For example, from time to time severe winter storms caused
operational challenges, production downtime, and much higher natural gas prices in California, and extreme, adverse
weather conditions, including flooding, have also at times impacted our operations and production levels. These
events could occur with greater frequency as a result of the potential impacts from climate change. The insurance we
maintain against earthquakes, mudslides, fires, floods and other natural disasters would not be adequate to cover a
total loss of our facilities, may not be adequate to cover our losses in any particular case and may not continue to be
available to us on acceptable terms, or at all.
Operational issues and inability or unwillingness of third parties to provide sufficient facilities and services to us
on commercially reasonable terms or otherwise could restrict access to markets for the commodities we produce.
Our ability to market our production of oil, gas and NGLs depends on a number of factors, including the
proximity of production fields to pipelines, refineries and terminal facilities, competition for capacity on such
facilities, damage, shutdowns and turnarounds at such facilities and their ability to gather, transport or process our
production. If these facilities are unavailable to us on commercially reasonable terms or otherwise, we could be
forced to shut in some production or delay or discontinue drilling plans and commercial production following a
discovery of hydrocarbons. We rely, and expect to rely in the future, on third-party facilities for services such as
storage, processing and transmission of our production. Our plans to develop and sell our reserves could be
materially and adversely affected by the inability or unwillingness of third parties to provide sufficient facilities and
services to us on commercially reasonable terms or otherwise. If our access to markets for commodities we produce
is restricted, our costs could increase and our expected production growth may be impaired.
Unless we replace oil and natural gas reserves, our future reserves and production will decline.
Unless we conduct successful development and exploration activities or acquire properties containing proved
reserves, our proved reserves will decline as those reserves are produced. Success requires us to deploy sufficient
capital to projects that are geologically and economically attractive which is subject to the capital, development,
operating and regulatory risks already discussed above under the heading “—Our business requires continual
capital expenditures. We may be unable to fund these investments through operating cash flow or obtain any needed
additional capital on satisfactory terms or at all, which could lead to a decline in our oil and natural gas reserves or
production. Our capital program is also susceptible to risks, including regulatory and permitting risks, that could
materially affect its implementation.” For example, beginning in the second quarter of 2022, we adjusted our capital
development program due to the delays in permit issuance and insufficient permit inventory. We have continued to
implement alternative capital development programs in 2024 and 2025 as a result of continued permitting issues.
See “—There are significant uncertainties with respect to obtaining permits for oil and gas activities in Kern
County, where all of our California operations are located, which could impact our financial condition and results
of operations.” In addition, if we are forced to change our near-term development plans because of delays in
granting permits or delays in the resolution of the Kern County EIR, it could result in the loss of some amount of the
proved undeveloped reserves as identified in our December 31, 2024 reserve report. Although we benefited from
production associated with acquisitions in 2023 and 2024, there is no certainty that we will be able to continue to
identify or complete attractive acquisitions. It is also possible that lower-than-expected demand and prices for
commodities in the future could materially and adversely affect our future planned capital expenditures, such as our
reductions in planned capital expenditures in 2020 in response to the effects of COVID-19 and the actions of
OPEC+. Over the long term, a continuing decline in our production and reserves would reduce our liquidity and
ability to satisfy our debt obligations by reducing our cash flow from operations and the value of our assets.
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Estimates of proved reserves and related future net cash flows are not precise. The actual quantities of our proved
reserves and future net cash flows may prove to be different from estimates.
Estimation of reserves and related future net cash flows is a partially subjective process of estimating
accumulations of oil and natural gas that includes many uncertainties. Our estimates are based on various
assumptions, which may ultimately prove to be inaccurate, including:
•
the similarity of reservoir performance in other areas to expected performance from our assets;
•
the quality, quantity and interpretation of available relevant data;
•
commodity prices;
•
production, operating costs, taxes and costs related to GHG regulations;
•
development costs;
•
the effects of government regulations, including our ability to obtain permits in a timely manner, or at all,
for proved undeveloped reserves; and
•
future workover and asset retirement costs.
Misunderstanding these variables, inaccurate assumptions, changed circumstances or new information could
require us to make significant negative reserves revisions.
We currently expect improved recovery, extensions and discoveries and, potentially acquisitions, to be our main
sources for reserves additions. However, factors such as the availability of capital, geology, government regulations
and our ability to obtain permits, the effectiveness of development plans and other factors could affect the source or
quantity of future reserves additions. Any material inaccuracies in our reserves estimates could materially affect the
net present value of our reserves, which could adversely affect our borrowing base and liquidity under the 2024
Revolver, as well as our results of operations.
Drilling for and producing oil and natural gas involves many uncertainties that could adversely affect our results.
The success of our development, production and acquisition activities are subject to numerous risks beyond our
control, including the risk that drilling will not result in commercially viable production or may result in a
downward revision of our estimated proved reserves due to:
•
poor production response;
•
ineffective application of recovery techniques;
•
increased costs of drilling, completing, stimulating, equipping, operating, maintaining and abandoning
wells;
•
delays or cost overruns caused by equipment failures, accidents, environmental hazards, adverse weather
conditions, permitting or construction delays, title disputes, surface access disputes and other matters; and
•
misinterpretation of geophysical and geological analyses, production data and engineering studies.
Additional factors may delay or cancel our operations, including:
•
delays due to regulatory requirements and procedures, including unavailability or other restrictions limiting
permits and limitations on water disposal, emission of GHGs, steam injection and well stimulation, such as
California’s recent limitations on cyclic steaming above the fracture gradient;
•
pressure or irregularities in geological formations;
•
shortages of or delays in obtaining equipment, qualified personnel or supplies including water for steam
used in production or pressure maintenance;
•
delays in access to production or pipeline transmission facilities; and
50
•
power outages imposed by utilities which provide a portion of our electricity needs in order to avoid fire
hazards and inspect lines in connection with seasonal strong winds, which have begun to occur recently and
may impact our operations.
Any of these risks can cause substantial losses, including personal injury or loss of life, damage to property,
reserves and equipment, pollution, environmental contamination and regulatory penalties.
We may not drill our identified sites at the times we scheduled or at all.
We have specifically identified locations for drilling over the next several years, which represent a significant
part of our long-term growth strategy. Our actual drilling activities may materially differ from those presently
identified. Legislative and regulatory developments, such as California’s recently adopted setback rules, could
prevent us from planned drilling activities. Additionally, as discussed under “—There are significant uncertainties
with respect to obtaining permits for oil and gas activities in Kern County, where all of our California operations
are located, which could impact our financial condition and results of operations,” new regulations and legislative
activity could result in a significant delay or decline in, and/or the incurrence of additional costs for, the approval of
the permits required to develop our properties in accordance with our plans. If future drilling results in these projects
not establishing sufficient reserves to achieve an economic return, we may curtail drilling or development of these
projects. Accordingly, we cannot guarantee that these prospective drilling locations or any other drilling locations
we have identified will ever be drilled or if we will be able to economically produce oil or natural gas from these
drilling locations. In addition, some of our leases could expire if we do not establish production in the leased
acreage. The combined net acreage covered by leases expiring in the next three years represented approximately 1%
of our total net acreage at December 31, 2024. Based on our reserves as of December 31, 2024, if we are forced to
change our near-term development plans because of delays in granting permits or delays in the resolution of the
Kern County EIR, it could result in the loss of some amount of the proved undeveloped reserves as identified in our
December 31, 2024 reserve report.
Competition in the oil and natural gas industry is intense, making it more difficult for us to acquire properties,
market oil or natural gas and secure trained personnel.
Our future success will depend on our ability to evaluate, select and acquire suitable properties, market our
production and secure skilled personnel to operate our assets in a highly competitive environment. Also, there is
substantial competition for capital available for investment in the oil and natural gas industry. Many of our
competitors possess and employ greater financial, technical and personnel resources than we do.
The loss of senior management or technical personnel could adversely affect our results and operations.
We depend on, and could be deprived of, the services of our senior management and technical personnel. We do
not maintain, nor do we plan to obtain, any insurance against the loss of services of any of these individuals.
We are dependent on our cogeneration facilities to produce steam for our operations. Contracts for the sale of
surplus electricity, economic market prices and regulatory conditions affect the economic value of these facilities
to our operations.
We are dependent on four cogeneration facilities that, combined, provide approximately 10% of our steam
capacity and approximately 46% of our field electricity needs in California at a discount to market rates. To further
offset our costs, we sell surplus power to California utility companies produced by certain of our cogeneration
facilities under long-term contracts. Should we lose, be unable to renew on favorable terms, or be unable to replace
such contracts, we may be unable to realize the cost offset currently received. Our ability to benefit from these
facilities is also affected by our ability to consistently generate surplus electricity and fluctuations in commodity
prices. Furthermore, market fluctuations in electricity prices and regulatory changes in California could adversely
affect the economics of our cogeneration facilities and any corresponding increase in the price of steam could
significantly impact our operating costs. If we were unable to find new or replacement steam sources, lose existing
sources or experience installation delays, we may be unable to maximize production from our heavy oil assets. If we
were to lose our electricity sources, we would be subject to the electricity rates we could negotiate. For a more
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detailed discussion of our electricity sales contracts, see “Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties—Operational
Overview—Electricity.”
We may incur substantial losses and be subject to substantial liability claims as a result of catastrophic events.
We may not be insured for, or our insurance may be inadequate to protect us against, these risks.
We are not fully insured against all risks. Our oil and natural gas E&P activities, are subject to risks such as
fires, explosions, oil and natural gas leaks, oil spills, pipeline and tank ruptures and unauthorized discharges of brine,
well stimulation and completion fluids, toxic gases or other pollutants into the surface and subsurface environment,
equipment failures and industrial accidents. We are exposed to similar risks indirectly through our customers and
other market participants such as refiners. Other catastrophic events such as earthquakes, floods, mudslides, fires,
droughts, contagious diseases, terrorist attacks and other events that cause operations to cease or be curtailed may
adversely affect our business and the communities in which we operate. For example, utilities have begun to
suspend electric services to avoid wildfires during windy periods in California, a business disruption risk that is not
insured. We may be unable to obtain, or may elect not to obtain, insurance for certain risks if we believe that the cost
of available insurance is excessive relative to the risks presented.
We may be involved in legal proceedings that could result in substantial liabilities.
Like many oil and natural gas companies, we are from time to time involved in various legal and other
proceedings, such as title, royalty or contractual disputes, regulatory compliance matters and personal injury or
property damage matters, in the ordinary course of our business. Such legal proceedings are inherently uncertain and
their results cannot be predicted. Regardless of the outcome, such proceedings could have a material adverse impact
on us because of legal costs, diversion of the attention of management and other personnel and other factors. In
addition, resolution of one or more such proceedings could result in liability, loss of contractual or other rights,
penalties or sanctions, as well as judgments, consent decrees or orders requiring a change in our business practices.
Accruals for such liability, penalties or sanctions may be insufficient, and judgments and estimates to determine
accruals or range of losses related to legal and other proceedings could change materially from one period to the
next.
Increasing attention to environmental, social and governance (“ESG”) matters may impact our business.
Increasing attention to, and social expectations on companies to address, climate change and other
environmental and social impacts, investor and societal explanations regarding voluntary or mandatory ESG
disclosures, and increased consumer demand for alternative forms of energy may result in increased costs, reduced
demand for our products, reduced profits, increased investigations and litigation, and negative impacts on our stock
price and access to capital. Increasing attention to climate change and environmental conservation, for example, may
result in demand shifts for oil and natural gas products and additional governmental investigations and private
litigation against us. To the extent that societal pressures or political or other factors are involved, it is possible that
such liability could be imposed without regard to our causation of or contribution to the asserted damage, or to other
mitigating factors. While we may participate in various voluntary frameworks and certification programs to improve
the ESG profile of our operations and products, we cannot guarantee that such participation or certification will have
the intended results on our or our products’ ESG profile.
Moreover, while we may create and publish voluntary disclosures regarding ESG matters from time to time,
many of the statements in those voluntary disclosures will be based on expectations and assumptions or hypothetical
scenarios that may or may not be representative of current or actual risks or events or forecasts of expected risks or
events, including the costs associated therewith. Such expectations and assumptions or hypothetical scenarios are
necessarily uncertain and may be prone to error or subject to misinterpretation given the long timelines involved and
the lack of an established approach to identifying, measuring and reporting on many ESG matters. Additionally,
while we may also announce various voluntary ESG targets in the near future, such targets are often aspirational. We
may not be able to meet such targets in the manner or on such a timeline as initially contemplated, including, but not
limited to as a result of unforeseen costs, unanticipated changes in societal behavior, or technical difficulties
associated with achieving such results. To the extent we do meet such targets, they may be achieved through various
52
contractual arrangements, including the purchase of various credits or offsets. We cannot guarantee that there will be
sufficient offsets available for purchase given the demand from numerous businesses implementing net zero goals,
or that, notwithstanding our reliance on any reputable third-party registries, that the offsets we do purchase will
successfully achieve the emissions reductions they represent. Some of these arrangements may receive scrutiny from
certain constituencies who criticize the methodology of offsets or do not believe offsets should be utilized to
neutralize GHG emissions. Also, despite these aspirational goals, we may receive pressure from investors, lenders,
or other groups to adopt more aggressive climate or other ESG-related goals, but we cannot guarantee that we will
be able to pursue or implement such goals because of potential costs or technical or operational obstacles.
In addition, organizations that provide information to investors on corporate governance and related matters
have developed ratings processes for evaluating companies on their approach to ESG matters. Such ratings are used
by some investors to inform their investment and voting decisions. Unfavorable ESG ratings may lead to increased
negative investor sentiment toward us or our customers and to the diversion of investment, to other industries which
could have a negative impact on our stock price and/or our access to and costs of capital. Moreover, to the extent
ESG matters negatively impact our reputation, we may not be able to compete as effectively or recruit or retain
employees, which may adversely affect our operations.
Certain public statements with respect to ESG matters, such as emissions reduction goals, other environmental
targets, or other commitments addressing certain social or conclusion initiatives, are becoming increasingly subject
to heightened scrutiny from public and governmental authorities. For example, the SEC has recently taken
enforcement action against companies for ESG-related misconduct, including alleged “greenwashing,” i.e.,
misleading information or false claims overstating potential ESG benefits. Certain non-governmental organizations
and other private actors have also filed lawsuits under various securities and consumer protection laws alleging that
certain ESG statements, goals, or standards were misleading, false or otherwise deceptive. Certain social and
inclusion initiatives are the subject of scrutiny by both those calling for the continued advancement of such policies,
as well as those who believe they should be curbed, including government actors, and the complex regulatory and
legal frameworks applicable to such initiatives. More recent political developments could mean that the Company
faces increasing criticism or litigation risks from certain “anti-ESG” parties including various government agencies.
Such sentiment may focus on the Company’s environmental or social or inclusion initiatives which anti-ESG
proponents may assert as unlawful, political or polarizing in nature or are alleged to violate laws based, in part, on
changing priorities of, or interpretations by, federal agencies or state governments. Consideration of ESG-related
factors in the Company’s decision-making could be subject to increasing scrutiny and objection from such anti-ESG
parties. As a result, the Company may be subject to pressure from the media or through other means, such as
governmental investigations, enforcement actions, or other proceedings, all of which could adversely affect our
reputation, business, financial performance, market access and growth. Accordingly, there may be increased costs
related to review, implementation, and management of such policies, as well as compliance and litigation risks based
both on positions we do or do not take, or work we do or do not perform.
Such ESG matters may also impact our customers or suppliers, which may adversely impact our business,
financial condition, or results of operations.
The Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and Climate-Related Financial Risk Act both impose climate-
related reporting obligations including GHG emissions which could result in additional costs for compliance,
restrictions on our access to capital, and increased litigation and reputational risk.
The Governor of California signed the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act (“CCDAA”), or SB 253, into
law on October 7, 2023, alongside the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act (“CRFRA”), or SB 261. The CCDAA
requires both public and private U.S. companies that are “doing business in California” and that have a total annual
revenue of $1 billion to publicly disclose and verify, on an annual basis, Scope 1, 2 and 3 GHG emissions. The
CRFRA requires the disclosure of a climate-related financial risk report (in line with the Task Force on the Climate-
related Financial Disclosures recommendations or equivalent disclosure requirements under the International
Sustainability Standards Board’s climate-related disclosure standards) every other year for public and private
companies that are “doing business in California” and have total annual revenue of $500 million. Reporting under
both laws would begin in 2026, though the Governor of California has directed further consideration of the
53
implementation deadlines for each of the laws. Both laws have been challenged in the U.S. District Court for the
Central District of California. While the litigation remains in its early stages, to date the court has dismissed all of
the plaintiffs’ claims except for the First Amendment challenge. No stay has been granted pending resolution of this
litigation so both laws are currently in effect. Further, on September 27, 2024, the California Governor amended
both SB 253 and SB 261 by signing into law Senate Bill 291 (“SB 291”), which extends the time in which CARB
has to promulgate implementing regulations for SB 251 until July 1, 2025, a delay of six months. Otherwise, SB 291
does not change reporting deadlines. Currently, we are still assessing the potential impacts of these laws; however,
implementation may result in additional costs to comply with these disclosure requirements as well as increased
costs of and restrictions on access to capital if our disclosures are not perceived as meeting applicable third-party
verification of GHG emissions and climate-related criteria. Separately, enhanced climate-related disclosure
requirements could lead to reputational or other harm to our relationships with customers, regulators, investors or
other stakeholders. In addition, we may also face increased litigation risks arising from enhanced climate-related
disclosure requirements relating to alleged damages resulting from GHG emissions from our operations, statements
alleged to have been made by us or others in our industry regarding climate change risks, or in connection with any
future disclosures we may make regarding reported emissions, particularly given the inherent complexity of
multiple, overlapping GHG reporting regulations with respect to calculating and reporting GHG emissions.
Risks Related to Our Financial Condition
Our existing debt agreements have restrictive covenants that could limit our growth, financial flexibility and our
ability to engage in certain activities. In addition, the borrowing base under the 2024 Revolver is subject to
periodic redeterminations and our lenders could reduce capital available to us for investment.
The 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan have restrictive covenants that could limit our growth, financial
flexibility and our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Failure to comply with
these covenants could result in an event of default that, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all
of our indebtedness. These agreements contain covenants, that, among other things, limit our ability to:
•
incur or guarantee additional indebtedness or issue certain types of preferred stock;
•
pay dividends on capital stock or redeem, repurchase or retire our capital stock or subordinated
indebtedness;
•
transfer, sell or dispose of assets;
•
make investments and capital expenditures;
•
create certain liens securing indebtedness;
•
enter into agreements that restrict dividends or other payments from our restricted subsidiaries to us;
•
consolidate, merge or transfer all or substantially all of our assets;
•
hedge future production or interest rates;
•
repay or prepay certain indebtedness prior to the due date;
•
engage in transactions with affiliates;
•
finance our operations and other business activities because the terms of our indebtedness may require us to
dedicate a portion of our cash flow from operations to service our existing indebtedness due to restrictions
on our ability to obtain additional financing, make investments, lease equipment, sell assets and engage in
business combinations; and
•
engage in certain other transactions without the prior consent of the lenders.
In addition, the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each require us to maintain certain financial ratios or to
reduce our indebtedness if we are unable to comply with such ratios, which may limit our ability to borrow funds to
withstand a future downturn in our business, or to otherwise conduct necessary corporate activities. We may also be
prevented from taking advantage of business opportunities that arise because of these limitations.
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In addition, the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each have hedging requirements which may limit our
potential gains if oil prices were to rise substantially over the price established by the hedge or limit our potential
savings if natural gas prices were to fall substantially below the price established by the hedge, or expose us to the
risk of financial loss in certain circumstances.
Our failure to comply with these covenants could result in an event of default that, if not cured or waived, could
result in the acceleration of all of our indebtedness. If that occurs, we may not be able to make all of the required
payments or borrow sufficient funds to refinance such indebtedness. Even if new financing were available at that
time, it may not be on terms that are acceptable to us.
The amount available to be borrowed under the 2024 Revolver is subject to a borrowing base which will be
redetermined at least semiannually and will depend on the estimated volumes and cash flows of our proved oil and
natural gas reserves and other information deemed relevant by the administrative agent of, or two-thirds of the
lenders under, the 2024 Revolver. We and the administrative agent (or such lenders) each may request one
additional redetermination between each regularly scheduled redetermination. Furthermore, our borrowing base is
subject to automatic reductions due to certain asset sales and hedge terminations, the incurrence of certain other debt
and other events as provided in the 2024 Revolver. Reduction of our borrowing base under the 2024 Revolver could
reduce the capital available to us for investment in our business. Additionally, we could be required to repay a
portion of the 2024 Revolver to the extent that after a redetermination our outstanding borrowings at such time
exceed the redetermined borrowing base.
For additional details regarding the terms of the 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver, see “Item 7.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and Capital
Resources.”
We may not be able to generate sufficient cash to service all of our indebtedness and may be forced to take other
actions to satisfy our obligations under our debt arrangements, which may not be successful.
As of December 31, 2024, we had $450 million outstanding on our 2024 Term Loan, $63 million of available
borrowing capacity and no borrowings outstanding under the 2024 Revolver, and approximately $32 million of
available delayed draw term loan commitments and no borrowings outstanding under the Delayed Draw Term Loan
(defined below) provided under the 2024 Term Loan. Our ability to make scheduled payments on or to refinance our
debt obligations, including the 2024 Term Loan and 2024 Revolver, depends on our financial condition and
operating performance, which are subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and certain financial,
business and other factors that may be beyond our control. If oil and natural gas prices remain at low levels for an
extended period of time or further deteriorate, or interest rates materially increase, our cash flows from operating
activities may be insufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness. In
the absence of sufficient cash flows and capital resources, we could face substantial liquidity problems and might be
required to dispose of material assets or operations to meet debt service and other obligations. The 2024 Term Loan
and the 2024 Revolver currently restrict our ability to dispose of assets and our use of the proceeds from any such
disposition. We may not be able to consummate dispositions, and the proceeds of any such disposition may not be
adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due.
Our business requires continual capital expenditures. We may be unable to fund these investments through
operating cash flow or obtain any needed additional capital on satisfactory terms or at all, which could lead to a
decline in our oil and natural gas reserves or production. Our capital program is also susceptible to risks,
including regulatory and permitting risks, that could materially affect its implementation.
Our industry is capital intensive. We have a 2025 capital expenditure budget for E&P operations, CJWS and
corporate activities between $110 to $120 million. The actual amount and timing of our future capital expenditures
may differ materially from our estimates as a result of, among other things, commodity prices, actual drilling results,
the availability of drilling rigs and other services and equipment, the availability of permits, and our ability to obtain
them in a timely manner or at all, legal and regulatory processes and other restrictions, and technological and
competitive developments. 2025 California drilling campaign is expected to be comprised of sidetracks, and in Utah
55
we are planning to drill new horizontal and vertical wells, in addition to the newly-acquired working interests in
horizontal wells on properties adjacent to ours. As a result of ongoing regulatory uncertainty in California, the
capital program has been prepared based on the assumption that no permits for new wells will be issued under the
Kern County EIR in 2025. In addition, a reduction or sustained decline in commodity prices from current levels may
force us to reduce our capital expenditures, which would negatively impact our ability to grow production. Current
and future laws and regulations may prevent us from being able to execute our drilling programs and development
and optimization projects.
We expect to fund our 2025 capital expenditures with cash flows from our operations; however, our cash flows
from operations, and access to capital should such cash flows and cash prove inadequate, are subject to a number of
variables, including:
•
the volume of hydrocarbons we are able to produce from existing wells and our ability to bring those to
market;
•
the prices at which our production is sold and our operating expenses;
•
the success of our hedging program;
•
our proved reserves, including our ability to acquire, locate and produce new reserves;
•
our ability to borrow under the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan (defined below); and
•
our ability to access the capital markets.
If our revenues or the borrowing base under the 2024 Revolver decrease as a result of lower oil, natural gas and
NGL prices, lack of required permits and other operating difficulties, declines in reserves or for any other reason, we
may have limited ability to obtain the capital necessary to sustain our operations and growth at current levels. If
additional capital were needed, we may not be able to obtain debt or equity financing on terms acceptable to us, if at
all. Any additional debt financing would carry interest costs, diverting capital from our business activities, which in
turn could lead to a decline in our reserves and production. If cash flows generated by our operations or available
borrowings under the 2024 Revolver were not sufficient to meet our capital requirements, the failure to obtain
additional financing could result in a curtailment of our operations relating to development of our properties. See
“Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Liquidity and
Capital Resources.”
Our hedging activities limit our ability to realize the full benefits of increases or decreases in commodity prices
and our potential gains or savings.
We enter into hedges to manage our exposure to price risks in the marketing of our oil and natural gas and in
purchasing natural gas used in our operations, mitigate our economic exposure to commodity price volatility and
ensure our financial strength and liquidity by protecting our cash flows. In addition, we also hedge to meet the
hedging requirements of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan. The 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each
requires us to maintain commodity hedges which are Existing Swaps (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan), or are
otherwise in the form of fixed price swaps (at market prices) or costless collars, on minimum notional volumes of (i)
at least 75% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during the
twenty-four calendar month period immediately following December 24, 2024, and (ii) at least 50% of our
reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during the twenty-fifth through
thirty-sixth calendar month period following December 24, 2024. The 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each also
requires us to maintain commodity hedges in the form of fixed price swaps (at market prices), costless collars,
certain other collars or put options meeting conditions described in the 2024 Revolver and the 2024 Term Loan, or,
with respect to the Existing Swaps, in the form of the Existing Swaps as of the effective date of the 2024 Term Loan,
on minimum notional volumes, of (i) at least 75% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP
reserves, for each month during a rolling period of twenty-four calendar months commencing with the end of the
then next upcoming month from the relevant minimum hedging test date, and (ii) at least 50% of our reasonably
projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during a rolling period of twelve months
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commencing with the end of the twenty-fifth month from the relevant minimum hedging test date. In addition, the
2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each requires us to maintain hedges in respect of purchases of natural gas for
fuel in respect of 40,000 mmbtu of natural gas for fuel for each day (a) during the 18 month calendar month period
immediately following the December 24, 2024 and (b) during the 18 month calendar month period commencing
with the end of the next upcoming month after the applicable minimum hedging test date.
In addition to the minimum hedging requirements and other restrictions in respect of hedging described therein,
each of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan contains restrictions on our commodity hedging which prevent us
from entering into hedging agreements (i) with a tenor exceeding 60 months or (ii) for notional volumes which
(when netted and aggregated with other hedges then in effect) exceed, as of the date such hedging agreement is
executed, 90% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil, natural gas and natural liquids, calculated
separately, from our PDP reserves, for each month following the date such hedging agreement is entered into,
provided that each of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan provides that the Company may enter into additional
commodity hedges pertaining to oil and gas properties to be acquired, subject to the requirements set forth in the
2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan.
While intended to reduce the effects of volatile oil and natural gas prices, such transactions, depending on the
hedging instrument used, may limit our potential gains if oil prices were to rise substantially over the price
established by the hedge or limit our potential savings if natural gas prices were to fall substantially below the price
established by the hedge, or expose us to the risk of financial losses depending on commodity price movements and
other circumstances. Our ability to realize the benefits of our hedges also depends in part upon the counterparties to
these contracts honoring their financial obligations. If any of our counterparties are unable to perform their
obligations in the future, we could be exposed to increased cash flow volatility that could affect our liquidity.
We may be unable to, or may choose not to, enter into sufficient fixed-price purchase or other hedging
agreements to fully protect against decreasing spreads between the price of natural gas and oil on an energy
equivalent basis or may otherwise be unable to obtain sufficient quantities of natural gas to conduct our steam
operations economically or at desired levels, and our commodity price risk management activities may prevent us
from fully benefiting from price increases and may expose us to other risks.
To develop our heavy oil in California, we must economically generate steam using natural gas. Particularly in
California, natural gas prices can be extremely volatile, as for example, prices experienced a significant increase in
mid-December 2022, with gas prices briefly as high as $50.79 per mmbtu. We seek to reduce our exposure to the
potential unavailability of, pricing increases for, and volatility in pricing of, natural gas by entering into fixed-price
purchase agreements and other hedging transactions. We seek to reduce our exposure to potential price decreases
and volatility in pricing of oil by entering into swaps, calls and other hedging transactions. We may be unable to, or
may choose not to, enter into sufficient agreements to fully protect against decreasing spreads between the price of
natural gas and oil on an energy equivalent basis or may otherwise be unable to obtain sufficient quantities of natural
gas to conduct our steam operations economically or at desired levels.
In addition, we also hedge our oil production and natural gas fuel purchases to meet the hedging requirements of
the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan as described in the risk factor above.
Our commodity price risk management activities as well as the hedging requirements of the 2024 Revolver and
2024 Term Loan may prevent us from fully benefiting from price increases. Additionally, our hedges are based on
major oil and gas indexes, which may not fully reflect the prices we realize locally. Consequently, the price
protection we receive may not fully offset local price declines.
As of December 31, 2024, we have hedged gas purchases at the following approximate volumes and prices:
40,000 mmbtu/d at $4.25 per mmbtu in 2025.
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Our commodity price risk management activities may also expose us to the risk of financial loss in certain
circumstances, including instances in which:
•
the counterparties to our hedging or other price-risk management contracts fail to perform under those
arrangements; and
•
an event materially impacts oil and natural gas prices in the opposite direction of our derivative positions.
Declines in commodity prices, changes in expected capital development, increases in operating costs or adverse
changes in well performance may result in write-downs of the carrying amounts of our assets.
We evaluate the impairment of our oil and natural gas properties whenever events or changes in circumstances
indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Based on specific market factors and circumstances at the
time of prospective impairment reviews, and the continuing evaluation of development plans, production data,
economics and other factors, we may be required to write down the carrying value of our properties. A write down
constitutes a non-cash charge to earnings.
Inflation could adversely impact our ability to control our costs, including our operating expenses and capital
costs.
The U.S. inflation rate has become more significant in recent years. Similar to other companies in our industry,
we experienced inflationary pressures on our operating costs— namely inflationary pressures have resulted in
increases to the costs of our goods, services and personnel, which in turn, have caused our capital expenditures and
operating costs to rise. Such inflationary pressures have resulted from supply chain disruptions caused by the
COVID pandemic, increased demand, labor shortages and other factors, including the conflict between Russia and
the Ukraine. During 2024, inflation rates began to stabilize and even decrease. We are unable to accurately predict if
such inflationary pressures and contributing factors will continue through 2025. To the extent inflation begins to
increase again, we may experience further cost increases for our operations, including natural gas purchases and
oilfield services and equipment as increasing oil, natural gas and NGL prices increase drilling activity in our areas of
operations, as well as increased labor costs. An increase in oil, natural gas and NGL prices may cause the costs of
materials and services to rise. We cannot predict any future trends in the rate of inflation and a significant increase in
inflation, to the extent we are unable to recover higher costs through higher commodity prices and revenues, would
negatively impact our business, financial condition and results of operations.
Variable rate indebtedness under our 2024 Term Loan and 2024 Revolver subjects us to interest rate risk, which
could cause our debt service obligations to increase significantly.
Borrowings under our 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver are at variable rates of interest and expose us to
interest rate risk. As such, our results of operations are sensitive to movements in interest rates. There are many
economic factors outside our control that have in the past and may, in the future, impact rates of interest including
publicly announced indices that underlie the interest obligations related to a certain portion of our debt. Factors that
impact interest rates include governmental monetary policies, inflation, economic conditions, changes in
unemployment rates, international disorder and instability in domestic and foreign financial markets. If interest rates
increase, our debt service obligations on the variable rate indebtedness would increase even though the amount
borrowed remained the same, and our results of operations would be adversely impacted. Such increases in interest
rates could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
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We may not be able to use a portion of our net operating loss carryforwards and other tax attributes to reduce our
future U.S. federal and state income tax obligations, which could adversely affect our cash flows.
We currently have substantial U.S. federal and state net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards and U.S. federal
general business credits. Our ability to use these tax attributes to reduce our future U.S. federal and state income tax
obligations depends on many factors, including our future taxable income, which cannot be assured. In addition, our
ability to use NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes may be subject to significant limitations under Section 382
and Section 383 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Under those sections of the Code,
if a corporation undergoes an “ownership change” (as defined in Section 382 of the Code), the corporation’s ability
to use its pre-change NOL carryforwards and other tax attributes may be substantially limited.
Determining the limitations under Section 382 of the Code is technical and highly complex. A corporation
generally will experience an ownership change if one or more stockholders (or groups of stockholders) who are each
deemed to own at least 5% of the corporation’s stock increase their ownership by more than 50 percentage points
over their lowest ownership percentage within a rolling three-year period. We may in the future undergo an
ownership change under Section 382 of the Code. If an ownership change occurs, our ability to use our NOL
carryforwards and other tax attributes to reduce our future U.S. federal and state income tax obligations may be
materially limited, which could adversely affect our cash flows.
Additionally, in July 2024, the California Governor signed a bill that limits the use of California NOLs for a
period of time, and we determined there is no current impact to the carrying value of and ability to ultimately utilize
our California NOLs. The legislation suspended the use of the California NOL deduction for corporate taxpayers
with a California net income or modified adjusted gross income of $1 million or more for tax years beginning on or
after January 1, 2024 and before January 1, 2027. This legislation could have a future impact to our carrying value
and ability to utilize our California NOLs.
We have significant concentrations of credit risk with our customers and the inability of one or more of our
customers to meet their obligations or the loss of any one of our major oil and natural gas purchasers may have a
material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We have significant concentrations of credit risk with the purchasers of our oil and natural gas. For the year
ended December 31, 2024, sales to PBF Holding, Chevron and Phillips 66 accounted for approximately 30%, 28%
and 10%, respectively, of our sales. This concentration may impact our overall credit risk because our customers
may be similarly affected by changes in economic conditions or commodity price fluctuations. We do not require
our customers to post collateral. If the purchasers of our oil and natural gas become insolvent, we may be unable to
collect amounts owed to us. Also, if we were to lose any one of our major customers, the loss could cause us to
cease or delay both production and sale of our oil and natural gas in the area supplying that customer.
Due to the terms of supply agreements with our customers, we may not know that a customer is unable to make
payment to us until almost two months after production has been delivered. We do not require our customers to post
collateral to protect our ability to be paid.
Risks Related to Regulatory Matters
Our business is highly regulated and governmental authorities can delay or deny permits and approvals or
change the requirements governing our operations, including the permitting approval process for oil and gas
exploration, extraction, operations and production activities; well stimulation and other enhanced production
techniques; and fluid injection or disposal activities, any of which could increase costs, restrict operations and
delay our implementation of, or cause us to change, our business strategy and plans.
Like other companies in the oil and gas industry, our operations are subject to a wide range of complex and
stringent federal, state and local laws and regulations. Federal, state and local agencies may assert overlapping
authority to regulate in these areas. See “Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties—Regulation of Health, Safety and
Environmental Matters” for a description of laws and regulations that affect our business. Collectively, the effect of
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the existing laws and regulations is to limit the number and location of our wells through restrictions on the use of
our properties, limit our ability to develop certain assets and conduct certain operations, including through a
restrictive and burdensome permitting and approval process, and have the effect of reducing the amount of oil and
natural gas that we can produce from our wells, potentially reducing such production below levels that would
otherwise be possible or economical. To operate in compliance with these laws and regulations, we must obtain and
maintain permits, approvals and certificates from federal, state and local government authorities for a variety of
activities including siting, drilling, completion, fluid injection and disposal, stimulation, operation, maintenance,
transportation, marketing, site remediation, decommissioning, abandonment and water recycling and reuse. These
permits are generally subject to protest, appeal or litigation, which could in certain cases delay or halt projects,
production of wells and other operations. Additionally, the regulatory burden on the industry increases our costs and
consequently may have an adverse effect upon capital expenditures, earnings or competitive position. Failure to
comply may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and criminal fines and penalties and liability for
noncompliance, costs of corrective action, cleanup or restoration, compensation for personal injury, property
damage or other losses, and the imposition of injunctive or declaratory relief restricting or limiting our operations.
California, where most of our assets are located, is one of the most heavily regulated states in the United States
with respect to oil and gas operations, and our operations are subject to numerous and stringent state, local and other
laws and regulations that could delay or otherwise adversely impact our operations. The jurisdiction, duties and
enforcement authority of various state agencies have significantly increased with respect to oil and natural gas
activities in recent years, and these state agencies as well as certain cities and counties have significantly revised
their regulations, regulatory interpretations and data collection and reporting requirements and have indicated plans
to issue additional regulations of certain oil and natural gas activities in 2025. Moreover, certain of these laws and
regulations may apply retroactively and may impose strict or joint and several liability on us for events or conditions
over which we and our predecessors had no control, without regard to fault, legality of the original activities, or
ownership or control by third parties. Violations and liabilities with respect to these laws and regulations could result
in significant administrative, civil, or criminal penalties, remedial clean-ups, natural resource damages, permit
modifications or revocations, operational interruptions or shutdowns and other liabilities. The costs of remedying
such conditions may be significant, and remediation obligations could adversely affect our financial condition,
results of operations and prospects.
In California, we are also increasingly impacted by policies designed to curtail the production and use of fossil
fuels. For example, in September 2020, the Governor of California issued an executive order that seeks to reduce
both the supply of and demand for fossil fuels in the state. The executive order established several goals and directed
several state agencies to take certain actions with respect to reducing emissions of GHGs, including, but not limited
to: phasing out the sale of vehicles with internal combustion engines; developing strategies for the closure and
repurposing of oil and gas facilities in California; and calling on the California State Legislature to enact new laws
prohibiting hydraulic fracturing in the state by 2024 (which CalGEM formally proposed in February 2024 and went
into effect in October 2024). The executive order also directed CalGEM to finish its review of public health and
safety concerns from the impacts of oil extraction activities and propose significantly strengthened regulations. At
this time, we cannot predict how implementation of these actions and proposals may impact our operations. For
additional information, see “Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties—Regulation of Health, Safety and
Environmental Matters” and “—Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry—There are significant uncertainties
with respect to obtaining permits for oil and gas activities in Kern County, where all of our California operations are
located, which could impact our financial condition and results of operations” and “—Risks Related to Our
Operations and Industry—Attempts by the California state government to restrict the production of oil and gas could
negatively impact our operations and result in decreased demand for fossil fuels within the states where we operate.”
Our operations may also be adversely affected by seasonal or permanent restrictions on drilling activities
imposed under the Endangered Species Act or similar state laws designed to protect various wildlife, such as the
Greater Sage Grouse. Such restrictions may limit our ability to operate in protected areas and can intensify
competition for drilling rigs, oilfield equipment, services, supplies and qualified personnel, which may lead to
periodic shortages when drilling is allowed. Permanent restrictions imposed to protect threatened or endangered
species or their habitat could prohibit drilling in certain areas or require the implementation of expensive mitigation
measures.
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Our customers, including refineries and utilities, and the businesses that transport our products to customers are
also highly regulated. For example, federal and state agencies have subjected or, proposed subjecting, more gas and
liquid gathering lines, pipelines and storage facilities to regulations that have increased business costs and otherwise
affected the demand, volatility and other aspects of the price we pay for fuel gas. Certain municipalities have
enacted restrictions on the installation of natural gas appliances and infrastructure in new residential or commercial
construction, which could affect the retail natural gas market for our utility customers and the demand and prices we
receive for the natural gas we produce.
Costs of compliance may increase, and operational delays or restrictions may occur, as existing laws and
regulations are revised or reinterpreted, or as new laws and regulations become applicable to our operations, each of
which has occurred in the past. For example, our costs have recently begun to increase due to new fluid injection
regulations, data requirements for permitting, and idle well decommissioning regulations. In addition, we may
experience delays, as we have in the past, due to insufficient internal processes and personnel resource constraints at
regulatory agencies that impede their ability to process permits in a timely manner that aligns with our production
projects.
Government authorities and other organizations continue to study health, safety and environmental aspects of
oil and natural gas operations, including those related to air, soil and water quality, ground movement or seismicity
and natural resources. Government authorities have also adopted, proposed, or are otherwise considering new or
more stringent requirements for permitting, well construction and public disclosure or environmental review of, or
restrictions on, oil and natural gas operations. For example, there has been increased scrutiny with respect to
hydraulic fracturing over the years by various state and federal agencies, which scrutiny has extended to oil and gas
E&P activities more generally. This has resulted in more stringent regulation with respect to air emissions from oil
and gas operations, restrictions on water discharges and calls to remove exemptions for certain oil and gas wastes
from federal hazardous waste laws and regulations, amongst other restrictions. Separately, as another example, the
scope of the federal Clean Water Act (the “CWA”) has been subject to substantial uncertainty in recent years, which
has the potential to increase permitting burdens. The EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (“Corps”) under
the Obama, Trump and Biden administrations have pursued multiple rulemakings since 2015 in an attempt to
determine the scope of the term “Waters of the United States” (“WOTUS”). Most recently, following legal action on
a January 2023 final rule, the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA, and the enactment of a subsequent
September 2023 rule, the implementation of the definition of WOTUS is split based on jurisdiction. The rule is
enjoined in 27 states and being implemented in the remaining 23. Additionally, the incoming Trump administration
may seek to take additional action with respect to these regulations, though the substance and timing of such action
cannot be predicted. To the extent implementation of the final rule, results of the litigation, or any action further
expands the scope of the CWA’s jurisdiction in areas where we operate, we could face increased costs and delays
with respect to obtaining dredge and fill activity permits in wetland areas, which could materially impact our
operations in the San Joaquin Basin and other areas. Such requirements or associated litigation could result in
potentially significant added costs to comply, delay or curtail our exploration, development, fluid injection and
disposal or production activities, and preclude us from drilling, completing or stimulating wells, which could have
an adverse effect on our expected production, other operations and financial condition.
Changes to elected or appointed officials or their priorities and policies could result in different approaches to
the regulation of the oil and natural gas industry. We cannot predict the actions the Governor of California or the
California State Legislature may take with respect to the regulation of our business, the oil and natural gas industry
or the state’s economic, fiscal or environmental policies, nor can we predict what actions may be taken in states or at
the federal level with respect to environmental laws and policies, including those that may directly or indirectly
impact our operations.
Our operations are subject to a series of risks arising out of the threat of climate change that could result in
increased operating costs, limit the areas in which we may conduct oil and natural gas E&P activities, and reduce
demand for the oil and natural gas we produce.
The threat of climate change continues to attract considerable attention in the United States and in foreign
countries. Numerous proposals have been made and could continue to be made at the international, national,
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regional and state levels of government to monitor and limit existing emissions of GHGs, as well as to restrict or
eliminate such future emissions. As a result, our oil and natural gas E&P operations are subject to a series of
regulatory, political, litigation, and financial risks associated with the production and processing of fossil fuels and
emission of GHGs.
In the United States, no comprehensive climate change legislation has been implemented at the federal level.
However, with the U.S. Supreme Court finding that GHG emissions constitute a pollutant under the CAA, the EPA
adopted rules that, among other things, established construction and operating permit reviews for GHG emissions
from certain large stationary sources, required the monitoring and annual reporting of GHG emissions from certain
petroleum and natural gas system sources in the United States, and together with the DOT, implemented GHG
emissions limits on vehicles manufactured for operation in the United States. However, from time to time, certain
administrations have taken actions to repeal or revise such climate-related actions. For example, the regulation of
methane from oil and gas facilities has been subject to uncertainty in recent years but, in December 2023, the EPA
finalized more stringent methane rules for new, modified, and reconstructed facilities, known as “OOOOb”, as well
as standards for existing sources for the first time ever, known as “OOOOc”. Under the final rules, states have two
years to prepare and submit their plans to impose methane emissions controls on existing sources. The presumptive
standards established under the final rule are generally the same for both new and existing sources and include
enhanced leak detection survey requirements using optical gas imaging and other advanced monitoring to encourage
the deployment of innovative technologies to detect and reduce methane emissions, reduction of emissions by 95%
through capture and control systems, zero-emission requirements for certain devices, and the establishment of a
“super emitter” response program that would allow third parties to make reports to EPA of larger methane emission
events, triggering certain investigation and repair requirements. The rules have been subject to legal challenge, and
in February 2025, the D.C. Circuit Court granted the EPA’s motion to hold the cases in abeyance while the agency
reviews the final rules. While the Trump administration may take action to repeal or modify the final rules, we
cannot predict the substance or timing of such changes, if any. Moreover, compliance with the new rules may affect
the amount we owe under the IRA, signed into law on August 16, 2022, which imposes a fee on the emissions of
methane from certain sources in the oil and natural gas sector. However, compliance with the EPA’s methane rule
would exempt an otherwise covered facility from the requirement to pay the fee. For additional information, please
see “—The Inflation Reduction Act could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and could impose new
costs on our operations.” The requirements of the EPA’s final methane rules and, as applicable, the IRA’s methane
emissions fee, could increase our operating costs and accelerate the transition away from oil and gas, which could
adversely affect our business and results of operations. Moreover, failure to comply with these requirements could
result in the imposition of substantial fines and penalties, as well as costly injunctive relief.
Additionally, various states and groups of states have adopted or are considering adopting legislation,
regulations or other regulatory initiatives that are focused on such areas as GHG cap and trade programs, carbon
taxes, reporting and tracking programs, and restriction of GHG emissions, such as methane. For example, California,
through the CARB has implemented a cap and trade program for GHG emissions that sets a statewide maximum
limit on covered GHG emissions, and this cap declines annually to reach 40% below 1990 levels by 2030. Covered
entities must either reduce their GHG emissions or purchase allowances to account for such emissions. Separately,
California has implemented the LCFS and associated tradable credits that require a progressively lower carbon
intensity of the state’s fuel supply than baseline gasoline and diesel fuels. Recently, CARB finalized amendments to
the LCFS program to include increasing 2030 carbon intensity targets from 20% to 30% and extending carbon
intensity reduction targets to 90% by 2045. The final rulemaking package was submitted to the Office of
Administrative Law on January 3, 2025, but on February 18, 2025, the Office of Administrative Law issued a Notice
of Disapproval citing clarity and incorrect procedure as grounds for its disapproval. CARB may resubmit the
finalized amendments within 120 days of receipt of the disapproval decision after resolving the identified issues.
CARB has also promulgated regulations regarding monitoring, leak detection, repair and reporting of methane
emissions from both existing and new oil and gas production facilities.
In addition to the various actions described requiring California to achieve total economy-wide carbon neutrality
by 2045 California has separately adopted a law requiring the use of 100% zero-carbon electricity within the state by
2045. Additionally, the Governor of California requested that the CARB analyze pathways to phase out oil
extraction across the state by no later than 2045; however, the 2022 Final Scoping Plan, the blueprint for the state’s
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carbon neutrality goals, determined such a phase out was not feasible because of continued projected demand for
fossil fuels in the transportation sector notwithstanding significant projected decreases in demand for fossil fuels for
such uses by 2045. Notwithstanding this, CARB will continue to assess opportunities for phase down in its next
five-year scoping plan. The 2022 Final Scoping Plan also outlines a plan to phase out natural gas use in buildings,
amongst other carbon emission reduction matters. We cannot predict how these various laws, regulations and orders
may ultimately affect our operations. However, these initiatives could result in decreased demand for the oil, natural
gas and NGLs that we produce, or otherwise restrict or prohibit our operations altogether in California, and therefore
adversely affect our revenues and results of operations.
California residents, as a whole, are highly focused on climate change matters, particularly as certain physical
and economic impacts, such as the inability to secure reasonably priced insurance, becomes a heightened issue. As a
result, California politicians have taken, and are expected to continue to take, steps that may make it more difficult
or costly for traditional energy companies to operate in the state. For example, California has, similar to other states,
attempted to introduce legislation creating a “climate superfund” whereby the state has recourse to recover financial
damages from companies for the impacts of climate change. New York and Vermont have recently passed such laws
and, although the legislation proposed in California has not meaningfully advanced at this stage, climate superfund
laws which target larger oil and gas companies could negatively impact our business and financial condition.
At the international level, in 2021, the United States formally rejoined the Paris Agreement, which requires
member nations to submit non-binding GHG emissions reduction goals every five years. However, on his first day
in office, January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an Executive Order once again withdrawing the United States
from the Paris Agreement. Additionally, the Executive Order withdraws the United States from any other
commitments made under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and revokes any purported
financial commitment made by the United States pursuant to the same. It is unclear what participation, if any, the
United States will have in future United Nations climate-related efforts. Notwithstanding these actions, some states,
including California, have, through the United States Climate Alliance, indicated a continued commitment to the
goal of the Paris Agreement. The full impact of these recent developments is uncertain at this time.
Governmental, scientific, and public concern over the threat of climate change arising from GHG emissions has
resulted in increasing political risks in the United States, including climate change related pledges made by certain
candidates for public office. Prior federal actions have included bans on new oil and gas leases on public lands, calls
for more stringent regulation of methane emissions from the oil and gas sector, increased use of zero emission
vehicles, restrictions on pipeline and LNG export infrastructure, and increased emphasis on climate-related risk
across agencies and economic sectors.
Litigation risks are also increasing, as a number of parties have sought to bring suit against oil and natural gas
companies in state or federal court, alleging, among other things, that such companies created public nuisances by
producing fuels that contributed to global warming effects, such as rising sea levels, and therefore are responsible
for roadway and infrastructure damages as a result, or alleging that the companies have been aware of the adverse
effects of climate change for some time but withheld material information from their investors or customers by
failing to adequately disclose those impacts. There is also a growing trend of parties suing public companies for
“greenwashing,” which is where a company makes unsubstantiated statements designed to mislead consumers or
shareholders into thinking that the company’s products or practices are more environmentally friendly than they are.
There have also recently been increasing financial risks for fossil fuel producers as certain shareholders
currently invested in fossil-fuel energy companies concerned about the potential effects of climate change may elect
in the future to shift some or all of their investments into non-energy related sectors. Institutional lenders who
provide financing to fossil-fuel energy companies also have become more attentive to sustainable lending practices
and some of them may elect not to provide funding for fossil fuel energy companies. Additionally, in March 2024,
the SEC released a finalized rule that established a framework for the reporting of climate risks, targets, and metrics.
However, the future of the rule is uncertain at this time given that its implementation has been stayed pending the
outcome of legal challenges. Moreover, on February 11, 2025, SEC Acting Chairman Mark T. Uyeda requested that
the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit not schedule arguments in the case while the SEC reconsiders the
final rule. While the SEC may, under the new presidential administration, seek to repeal or otherwise modify the
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rules, we cannot predict whether such action will occur or its timings. For more information, see “Regulatory
Matters—Regulation of Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Emissions.”
The adoption and implementation of new or more stringent international, federal or state legislation, regulations
or other regulatory initiatives that impose more stringent standards for GHG emissions from oil and natural gas
producers such as ourselves or otherwise restrict the areas in which we may produce oil and natural gas or generate
GHG emissions could result in increased costs of compliance or costs of consuming, and thereby reduce demand for
or erode value for, the oil and natural gas that we produce. Additionally, political, litigation, and financial risks may
result in our restricting or canceling oil and natural gas production activities, incurring liability for infrastructure
damages as a result of climatic changes, or impairing our ability to continue to operate in an economic manner.
Moreover, climate change may also result in various physical risks, such as the increased frequency or intensity of
extreme weather events or changes in meteorological and hydrological patterns, that could adversely impact our
operations, as well as those of our operators and their supply chains. Such physical risks may result in damage to our
facilities or otherwise adversely impact our operations, such as if we become subject to water use curtailments in
response to drought, or demand for our products, such as to the extent warmer winters reduce the demand for energy
for heating purposes. Such physical risks may also impact our supply chain or infrastructure on which we rely to
produce or transport our products. One or more of these developments could have a material adverse effect on our
business, financial condition and results of operation.
Potential future legislation may generally affect the taxation of natural gas and oil exploration and development
companies and may adversely affect our operations and cash flows.
In past years, federal and state level legislation has been proposed that would, if enacted into law, make
significant changes to tax laws, including to certain key U.S. federal and state income tax provisions currently
available to natural gas and oil exploration and development companies. Such proposed legislation has included, but
has not been limited to, (i) eliminating the immediate deduction for intangible drilling and development costs, (ii)
repealing the percentage depletion allowance for oil and natural gas properties, (iii) extending the amortization
period for certain geological and geophysical expenditures, (iv) eliminating certain other tax deductions and relief
previously available to oil and natural gas companies, and (v) increasing the U.S. federal income tax rate applicable
to corporations (such as us). It is unclear whether these or similar changes will be enacted and, if enacted, how soon
any such changes could take effect. The passage of any legislation as a result of these proposals and other similar
changes in U.S. federal income tax laws could adversely affect our operations and cash flows.
Additionally, in California, there have been proposals for new taxes on profits that might have a negative impact
on us. Although the proposals have not become law, campaigns by various special interest groups could lead to
future additional oil and natural gas severance or other taxes. The imposition of such taxes could significantly reduce
our profit margins and cash flow and otherwise significantly increase our costs.
Derivatives legislation and regulations could have an adverse effect on our ability to use derivative instruments to
reduce the risks associated with our business.
The Dodd-Frank Act, enacted in 2010, establishes federal oversight and regulation of the over-the-counter
(“OTC”) derivatives market and entities, like us, that participate in that market. Rules and regulations applicable to
OTC derivatives transactions may affect both the size of positions that we may hold and the ability or willingness of
counterparties to trade opposite us, potentially increasing costs for transactions. Moreover, such changes could
materially reduce our hedging opportunities which could adversely affect our revenues and cash flow during periods
of low commodity prices. While many Dodd-Frank Act regulations are already in effect, the rulemaking and
implementation process is ongoing, and the ultimate effect of the adopted rules and regulations and any future rules
and regulations on our business remains uncertain.
In addition, the European Union and other non-U.S. jurisdictions are implementing regulations with respect to
the derivatives market. To the extent we transact with counterparties in foreign jurisdictions or counterparties with
other businesses that subject them to regulation in foreign jurisdictions, we may become subject to, or otherwise be
affected by, such regulations. Even though certain of the European Union implementing regulations have become
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effective, the ultimate effect on our business of the European Union implementing regulations (including future
implementing rules and regulations) remains uncertain.
The Inflation Reduction Act could accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy and could impose new costs
on our operations.
In August 2022, President Biden signed the IRA into law. The IRA contains hundreds of billions of dollars in
incentives for the development of renewable energy, clean hydrogen, clean fuels, electric vehicles and supporting
infrastructure and CCS, amongst other provisions. In addition, the IRA imposes the first ever federal fee on the
emission of GHGs through a methane emissions charge. The IRA amends the Clean Air Act to impose a fee on the
emission of methane from sources required to report their GHG emissions to the EPA, including those sources in the
onshore petroleum and natural gas production categories. The annual methane emissions charge began in calendar
year 2024 at $900 per ton of methane, increased to $1,200 in 2025, and will be set at $1,500 for 2026 and each year
thereafter. Calculation of the fee is based on certain thresholds established in the IRA. In addition, the multiple
incentives offered for various clean energy industries referenced above could further accelerate the transition of the
economy away from fossil fuels towards lower- or zero-carbon emission alternatives. Relatedly, in November 2024,
the EPA finalized a rule implementing the requirements of the IRA methane emissions fee; namely, to impose and
collect an annual charge on methane emissions that exceed specified waste emissions thresholds from facilities
reporting more than 25,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases per year pursuant to the
petroleum and natural gas system source category requirements of the agency’s Greenhouse Gas Reporting Rule,
which limits the use of netting and other exemptions available under the IRA for reducing the methane fee. We
cannot predict whether, how, or when the new administration might take action to revise or repeal the methane
charge rule. Additionally, Congress may take actions to repeal or revise the IRA 2022, including with respect to the
methane emissions charge, which timing or outcome similarly cannot be predicted. To the extent that the methane
charges and various incentives for clean energy industries are implemented as originally promulgated, this could
decrease demand for crude oil and natural gas, increase our compliance and operating costs and consequently
materially and adversely affect our business and results of operations.
Risks Related to our Capital Stock
There may be circumstances in which the interests of our significant stockholders could be in conflict with the
interests of our other stockholders.
A large portion of our common stock is beneficially owned by a relatively small number of stockholders.
Circumstances may arise in which these stockholders may have an interest in pursuing or preventing acquisitions,
divestitures, hostile takeovers or other transactions, including the payment of dividends or the issuance of additional
equity or debt, that, in their judgment, could enhance their investment in us or in another company in which they
invest. Such transactions might adversely affect us or other holders of our common stock. In addition, our significant
concentration of share ownership may adversely affect the trading price of our common stock because investors may
perceive disadvantages in owning shares in companies with significant stockholder concentrations.
Future sales of our common stock in the public market could reduce our stock price, and any additional capital
raised by us through the sale of equity or convertible securities may dilute your ownership in us.
A large portion of our common stock is beneficially owned by a relatively small number of stockholders. We
cannot predict when or whether they will sell their shares of common stock. Future sales, or concerns about them,
may put downward pressure on the market price of our common stock.
We may sell or otherwise issue additional shares of common stock or securities convertible into shares of our
common stock. Our Certificate of Incorporation provides for authorized capital stock consisting of 750,000,000
shares of common stock and 250,000,000 shares of preferred stock. For more information, see Exhibit 4.4 to this
Annual Report.
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The issuance of any securities for acquisitions, financing, upon conversion or exercise of convertible securities,
or otherwise may result in a reduction of the book value and market price of our outstanding common stock. If we
issue any such additional securities, the issuance will cause a reduction in the proportionate ownership and voting
power of all current stockholders. We cannot predict the size of any future issuances of our common stock or
securities convertible into common stock or the effect, if any, that future issuances and sales of shares of our
common stock will have on the market price of our common stock. Sales of substantial amounts of our common
stock (including shares issued in connection with an acquisition), or the perception that such sales could occur, may
adversely affect prevailing market prices of our common stock.
On March 1, 2022, the Board of Directors approved the Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan
(the “2022 Omnibus Plan”), which was subsequently approved by stockholders on May 25, 2022. Shares of our
common stock are reserved for issuance as equity-based awards to employees, directors and certain other persons
under the 2022 Omnibus Plan. We have filed a registration statement with the SEC on Form S-8 providing for the
registration of shares of our common stock issued or reserved for issuance under the 2022 Omnibus Plan. Subject to
the satisfaction of vesting conditions, the expiration of certain lock-up agreements and the requirements of Rule 144,
shares registered under the registration statement on Form S-8 may be made available for resale immediately in the
public market without restriction. Investors may experience dilution in the value of their investment upon the
exercise of any equity awards that may be granted or issued pursuant to the 2022 Omnibus Plan in the future. The
2022 Omnibus Plan authorized the issuance of 2,950,000 shares of common stock, which amount consists of
2,300,000 shares of common stock newly reserved under the 2022 Omnibus Plan and 650,000 shares of common
stock remaining available under the Second Amended and Restated Berry Petroleum Corporation 2017 Omnibus
Incentive Plan (the “2017 Omnibus Plan”). The maximum number of shares remaining that may be issued pursuant
to the 2022 Omnibus Plan is 2,076,590 as of December 31, 2024.
On March 13, 2025, we established the ATM Program pursuant to which we may offer and sell common stock
having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million from time to time to or through the Sales Agents (as defined
herein). The sale of shares through the ATM Program could put downward pressure on the market price of our
common stock.
The payment of dividends will be at the discretion of our Board of Directors.
We review the allocations of our Free Cash Flow from time to time based on then existing conditions and
circumstances, including our earnings, financial condition, restrictions in financing agreements, business conditions
and other factors. In January 2022, we introduced a structured shareholder return model to guide our allocation of
Free Cash Flow, which most recently provided as follows: (a) 80% primarily in the form of debt repurchases, stock
repurchases, strategic growth, and acquisitions of producing bolt-on assets; and (b) 20% in the form of variable
dividends. However, in October 2024, in anticipation of entering into the 2024 Term Loan, we transitioned away
from our previously established shareholder return model to a capital allocation approach that prioritizes debt
reduction in alignment with the covenants contained in the 2024 Term Loan and facilitates our operating strategy
while enabling investment in development opportunities. Accordingly, we suspended the quarterly variable
dividend and reduced the quarterly fixed dividend to $0.03 per share.
In 2024, we paid total dividends of $0.58 per share, in the form of regular fixed dividends of $0.39 per share
and variable dividends of $0.19 per share. In March 2025, our Board of Directors approved a fixed cash dividend of
$0.03 per share, which is expected to be paid in April 2025. There is no certainty that we will generate free cash
flow, nor is the Board of Directors obligated to make any dividends and any dividends are subject to the restrictions
in our debt documents as described below. The payment and amount of future dividend payments, if any, are subject
to declaration by our Board of Directors. Such payments will depend on various factors, including actual results of
operations, liquidity and financial condition, net cash provided by operating activities, restrictions imposed by
applicable law, our taxable income, and other factors our Board of Directors deems relevant. Additionally,
covenants contained in our 2024 Term Loan and 2024 Revolver could limit the payment of dividends. We are under
no obligation to make dividend payments on our common stock and cannot be certain when such payments may
resume in the future.
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We may issue preferred stock, the terms of which could adversely affect the voting power or value of our common
stock.
Our Certificate of Incorporation authorizes us to issue, without the approval of our stockholders, one or more
classes or series of preferred stock having such designations, preferences, limitations and relative rights, including
preferences over our common stock respecting dividends and distributions, as our Board of Directors may
determine. The terms of one or more classes or series of preferred stock could adversely impact the voting power or
value of our common stock. For example, we might grant holders of preferred stock the right to elect some number
of our directors in all events or on the happening of specified events or the right to veto specified transactions.
Similarly, the repurchase or redemption rights or liquidation preferences we might assign to holders of preferred
stock could affect the residual value of our common stock.
Certain provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws may make it difficult for stockholders to
change the composition of our Board of Directors and may discourage, delay or prevent a merger or acquisition
that some stockholders may consider beneficial.
Certain provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws may have the effect of delaying or preventing
changes in control if our Board of Directors determines that such changes in control are not in the best interests of us
and our stockholders. For more information see Exhibit 4.4 to this Annual Report.
For example, our Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws include provisions that (i) authorize our Board to
issue “blank check” preferred stock and to determine the price and other terms, including preferences and voting
rights, of those shares without stockholder approval and (ii) establish advance notice procedures for nominating
directors or presenting matters at stockholder meetings.
These provisions could enable the Board of Directors to delay or prevent a transaction that some, or a majority,
of the stockholders may believe to be in their best interests and, in that case, may discourage or prevent attempts to
remove and replace incumbent directors. These provisions may also discourage or prevent any attempts by our
stockholders to replace or remove our current management by making it more difficult for stockholders to replace
members of our Board of Directors, which is responsible for appointing the members of our management.
Our Certificate of Incorporation designates the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware as the sole and
exclusive forum for certain types of actions and proceedings that may be initiated by our stockholders, which
could limit our stockholders’ ability to obtain a favorable judicial forum for disputes with us or our directors,
officers, employees or agents.
Our Certificate of Incorporation provides that, unless we consent in writing to the selection of an alternative
forum, the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware will, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, be the
sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on our behalf, (ii) any action asserting a
claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any of our directors, officers or other employees to us or our
stockholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim against us, our directors, officers or employees arising pursuant to any
provision of the Delaware General Corporation Law, our Certificate of Incorporation or our Bylaws or (iv) any
action asserting a claim against us, our directors, officers or employees that is governed by the internal affairs
doctrine, in each such case subject to such Court of Chancery having subject matter jurisdiction and personal
jurisdiction over the indispensable parties named as defendants therein. This choice of forum provision may limit a
stockholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with us or our directors,
officers or other employees, which may discourage such lawsuits against us and such persons. Alternatively, if a
court were to find these provisions of our Certificate of Incorporation inapplicable to, or unenforceable in respect of,
one or more of the specified types of actions or proceedings, we may incur additional costs associated with resolving
such matters in other jurisdictions.
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Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
Item 1C. Cybersecurity
Description of Processes for Assessing, Identifying, and Managing Cybersecurity Risks
Our business operations depend on the performance and availability of our information systems, which we use
to communicate, control and manage our operations and prepare our financial management and reporting
information. The efficiency of our business and our operations rely heavily on these systems. We base our controls
on the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF), which enables us to assess, identify, and manage cybersecurity risks
through the processes described below:
•
Risk Assessment:
A multi-layered system has been implemented to protect and monitor data, information systems, computer
networks, industrial control systems, and cybersecurity risk. Assessments of our cybersecurity safeguards
are regularly conducted by both internal security staff and independent third-party cybersecurity vendors.
These assessments include, but are not limited to, vulnerability assessments, penetration tests, and internal
security control reviews. Our internal Information Technology (“IT”) team performs regular evaluations to
assess, identify, and manage material cybersecurity risks. We aim to update our cybersecurity
infrastructure, procedures, policies, and education programs in response to these evaluations.
•
Incident Identification and Response:
Firewalls and an extended detection and response (XDR) platform have been implemented to identify
cybersecurity incidents. In the event of a breach or cybersecurity incident, we have an incident response
plan and policy in place to guide our incident response team in the identification and mitigation of threats,
with the goal of facilitating a return to normal operations. The plan and policy describes processes for
internal escalation of cybersecurity incidents deemed to have a moderate or higher business impact, even if
immaterial to us, from the head of IT to the Company’s senior management and to the Audit Committee
and/or Board of Directors, as appropriate.
•
Cybersecurity Training and Awareness:
All new hires receive cybersecurity awareness training. All employees and contractors receive annual
training and are periodically subject to drills and simulated attacks. Our organization leverages
cybersecurity vendors to perform cybersecurity tabletop exercises at regular intervals to test the
effectiveness of our incident response plan and to implement post-incident “lessons learned” to improve our
response.
•
Access Controls:
Users are provided with access consistent with the principle of least privilege, providing them with access
that is consistent with their job functions and no more. We have implemented a multi-factor authentication
process that is required to access company information. User access is reviewed regularly to ensure that it is
updated and appropriate.
•
Encryption and Data Protection:
Encryption methods are used to protect sensitive data in transit and at rest.
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Our cybersecurity team, led by the head of our IT function, is made up of experienced employees with
relevant backgrounds in information security, risk management, and incident response. These backgrounds include
relevant degrees, certifications, and relevant work experience, including in roles responsible for cybersecurity
oversight in enterprise-level organizations in the energy industry. The experience of the cybersecurity team is also
supplemented by the engagement of third-party cybersecurity vendors.
We also incorporate third-party service providers and reviews as part of our cybersecurity program. For
example, we have engaged an independent cybersecurity advisor to review, assess, and make recommendations
regarding our information security program and information technology strategic plan. We recognize that third-party
service providers introduce cybersecurity risks. In an effort to mitigate these risks, before engaging with any third-
party cybersecurity service provider, we conduct due diligence to evaluate their cybersecurity capabilities.
Additionally, we endeavor to include cybersecurity requirements in our contracts with these providers, including
requiring them to adhere to security standards and protocols, including with respect to personally identifiable
information.
The above cybersecurity risk management processes are integrated into the Company’s overall enterprise
risk management program. Cybersecurity risks are understood to be significant business risks, and as such, are
considered an important component of our enterprise-wide risk management approach.
Impact of Risks from Cybersecurity Threats
As of the date of this Report, we are not aware of any previous or ongoing cybersecurity threats that have
materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company. However, we acknowledge that
cybersecurity threats are continually evolving, and the possibility of future cybersecurity incidents remains. Despite
the implementation of our cybersecurity processes, our security measures cannot guarantee that a significant
cyberattack will not occur. A successful attack on our information technology or operational technology systems
could have significant consequences to the business. While we devote resources to our security measures to protect
our systems and information, these measures cannot provide absolute security. No security measure is infallible. See
Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” for additional information about the risks to our business associated with a breach or
compromise to our IT systems.
Board of Directors’ Oversight and Management’s Role
Recognizing the importance of cybersecurity to the success and resilience of our business, the Board of
Directors considers cybersecurity to be an important aspect of corporate governance. The Board is responsible for
overseeing cybersecurity, information security, and information technology risks, as well as management’s actions
to identify, assess, mitigate, and remediate those risks. As part of its program of regular risk oversight, the Audit
Committee assists the Board of Directors in exercising oversight of the Company’s cybersecurity, information
security, and information technology risks. To facilitate effective oversight, on a quarterly basis, the Audit
Committee reviews and discusses with the head of IT and executive management cybersecurity risks, incident trends
and the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures as necessitated by emerging material cyber risks, including the
Company’s policies, procedures, and practices with respect to cybersecurity, information security, information and
operational technology, and related risks.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
We are involved in various legal and administrative proceedings in the normal course of business, the ultimate
resolutions of which, in the opinion of management, are not anticipated to have a material effect on our results of
operations, liquidity or financial condition.
Securities Litigation Matter
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On November, 20, 2020, a putative securities class action (the “Securities Class Action”) was filed in the United
States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, claiming that Berry Corp. and certain of its current and
former directors and officers violated the Securities Act of 1933 and the Exchange Act of 1934 by allegedly making
false and misleading statements between the IPO and November 3, 2020, and in the IPO offering materials, about
the Company’s permits and permitting processes.
While the motion for class certification was still pending before the court, the parties reached an agreement-in-
principle to settle all claims in the Securities Class Action for an aggregate sum of $2.5 million. Following notice to
the class and an opt-out and objection process, the Court granted final approval of the settlement on February 6,
2024, and terminated the case. The Defendants continue to maintain that the claims were without merit and admitted
no liability in connection with the settlement.
While the Securities Class Action is now concluded, certain related shareholder derivative actions remain
pending. On October 20, 2022, a shareholder derivative lawsuit (the “Assad Lawsuit”) was filed in the United States
District Court for the Northern District of Texas by putative stockholder George Assad, allegedly on behalf of the
Company, that piggy-backs on the Securities Class Action and is currently pending before the same court. The
derivative complaint names certain current and former officers and directors as defendants, and generally alleges
that they breached their fiduciary duties by causing or failing to prevent the securities violations alleged in the
Securities Class Action. The derivative complaint also alleges claims for unjust enrichment as against all defendants,
and claims for contribution and indemnification under Sections 10(b) and 21D of the Exchange Act. On January 27,
2023, the court granted the parties’ joint stipulated request to stay the Assad Lawsuit pending resolution of the
Securities Class Action.
On January 20, 2023, a second shareholder derivative lawsuit (the “Karp Lawsuit,” together with the Assad
Lawsuit, the “Shareholder Derivative Actions”) was filed, this time in the United States District Court for the
District of Delaware, by putative stockholder Molly Karp, allegedly on behalf of the Company, again piggy-backing
on the Securities Class Action. This complaint, similar to the Assad Lawsuit, is brought against certain current and
former officers and directors of the Company, asserting breach of fiduciary duty, aiding and abetting, and
contribution claims based on the defendants allegedly having caused or failed to prevent the securities violations
alleged in the Securities Class Action. In addition, the complaint asserts a claim under Section 14(a) of the Exchange
Act, alleging that Berry’s 2022 proxy statement was false and misleading in that it suggested the Company’s internal
controls were sufficient and the Board of Directors was adequately overseeing material risks facing the Company
when, according to the derivative plaintiff, that was not the case. On February 13, 2023, the court granted the
parties’ joint stipulated request to stay the Karp Lawsuit pending further developments in the Securities Class
Action.
The settlement of the Securities Class Action did not resolve the Shareholder Derivative Actions, which remain
pending. The defendants continue to believe the claims in the Shareholder Derivative Actions are without merit and
intend to defend vigorously against them, but there can be no assurances as to the outcome. At this time, we are
unable to estimate the probability or the amount of liability, if any, related to these matters.
In addition, on or around April 17, 2023, the Company received a stockholder litigation demand that the Board
of Directors investigate and commence legal proceedings against certain current and former officers and directors
based ostensibly on the same claims asserted in the Shareholder Derivative Actions. The Board of Directors
appointed a Demand Review Committee for the purpose of reviewing the demand.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosure
Not applicable.
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Part II
Item 5. Market for the Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of
Equity Securities
Market Information
Our common stock has been trading on the Nasdaq Global Select Market under the ticker symbol “bry” since
July 26, 2018. Prior to that there was no established public trading market for our common stock.
Holders of Record
Our common stock was held by 27 stockholders of record at February 28, 2025, which does not include the
beneficial owners for whom Cede and Co. or others act as nominees.
Dividend Policy
We historically have, and plan to continue using our operating cash flows to fund operations at sustained
production levels and routinely return capital to stockholders in the form of quarterly dividends through commodity
price cycles.
In October 2024, in anticipation of the 2024 Term Loan, we transitioned away from the shareholder return
model implemented in 2022 to a capital allocation approach that prioritizes debt reduction in alignment with the
covenants contained in the 2024 Term Loan and facilitates our operating strategy while enabling investment in
development opportunities. As part of that, we suspended the quarterly variable dividend. Additionally, the Board
of Directors determined it was appropriate to reduce the quarterly fixed dividend to $0.03 per share, reflecting the
2024 Term Loan requirements and the desire to deploy capital to development opportunities, amongst other
priorities. In March 2025, our Board of Directors approved a fixed cash dividend of $0.03 per share, which is
expected to be paid in April 2025. The payment and amount of future dividend payments, if any, are subject to
declaration by our Board of Directors and will depend on various factors, including actual results of operations,
liquidity and financial condition, net cash provided by operating activities, restrictions imposed by applicable law,
our taxable income, our bank credit agreements and other factors our Board of Directors deems relevant. See “Item
1A. Risk Factors— Risks Related to our Capital Stock—The payment of dividends will be at the discretion of our
board of directors.”
Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.
Stock Repurchase Program
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares.
From 2018 through December 31, 2024, the Company had repurchased a total of 11.9 million shares,
cumulatively under the stock repurchase program for approximately $114 million in aggregate, which is 16% of
outstanding shares as of December 31, 2024.
In February 2023, the Board of Directors increased the Company’s share repurchase authorization by $102
million, and as of December 31, 2024, the Company’s remaining share authority was $190 million. The Board of
Directors’ authorization permits the Company to make purchases of its common stock from time to time in the open
market and in privately negotiated transactions, subject to market conditions and other factors, up to the aggregate
amount authorized by the Board of Directors’. The Board’s authorization has no expiration date.
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The IRA provides for, among other things, the imposition of a 1% non-deductible U.S. federal excise tax on the
fair market value of any stock repurchased by a publicly traded domestic corporation during any taxable year, with
the fair market value of such repurchased stock reduced by the fair market value of certain stock issued by such
corporation during such taxable year (such excise tax, the “Stock Buyback Tax”). In the past, there have been
proposals to increase the amount of the Stock Buyback Tax from 1% to 4%; however, it is unclear whether such a
change in the amount of the excise tax will be enacted and, if enacted, how soon any such change could take effect.
The Stock Buyback Tax first applied to our stock repurchase program in the year ended December 31, 2023, and
will continue to apply in subsequent taxable years.
The Company’s manner, timing and amount of any purchases will be determined based on our evaluation of
market conditions, stock price, compliance with outstanding agreements, cash requirements and other factors, may
be commenced or suspended at any time without notice and does not obligate Berry Corp. to purchase shares during
any period or at all. Any shares acquired will be available for general corporate purposes.
Item 6. Reserved
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Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations should be read in
conjunction with the financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report. The following
discussion contains forward-looking statements that reflect our future plans, estimates, beliefs and expected
performance. The forward-looking statements are dependent upon events, risks and uncertainties that may be
outside our control. Our actual results could differ materially from those discussed in these forward-looking
statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences are described in “Item 1A. Risk Factors”
included earlier in this report. Please see “—Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”
This section of the Form 10-K generally discusses 2024 and 2023 items and year-to-year comparisons between
those years. For discussion of our year ended December 31, 2022, as well as the year ended 2023 compared to year
ended 2022, refer to Part II, Item 7. “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations” of our 2023 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Executive Overview
We are a value-driven western United States independent upstream energy company with a focus on onshore,
low geologic risk, low decline, long-lived oil and gas reserves. We operate in two business segments: (i) exploration
and production (“E&P”) and (ii) well servicing and abandonment services. Our E&P assets are located in California
and Utah, are characterized by high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population.
Our California assets are in the San Joaquin Basin (100% oil), and our Utah assets are in the Uinta Basin (65% oil).
We provide our well servicing and abandonment services to third party operators in California and our California
E&P operations through C&J Well Services (CJWS).
With respect to our E&P operations in Kern County, California, we focus on conventional, shallow oil
reservoirs. The drilling and completion of wells in the San Joaquin Basin are relatively low-cost in contrast to
unconventional resource plays. The California oil market is primarily tied to Brent-influenced pricing which has
typically realized premium pricing relative to West Texas Intermediate (“WTI”). All of our California assets are
located in oil-rich reservoirs in the San Joaquin Basin, which has more than 150 years of production history and
substantial oil remaining in place. As a result of the data generated over the basin’s long history of production, its
reservoir characteristics and low geological risk opportunities are generally well understood. In September 2023, we
completed the acquisition of Macpherson Energy (the “Macpherson Acquisition”), a privately held Kern County,
California operator. The acquired assets are high-quality, low decline oil producing properties that are closely
located to our legacy properties in rural Kern County, California. In December 2023 and in the second quarter of
2024, we opportunistically acquired additional highly synergistic working interests in Kern County, California.
These transactions demonstrate our strategy of acquiring accretive, producing bolt-ons in support of our goal to
maintain consistent production levels in a capital efficient manner year-over-year.
With respect to our E&P operations in Utah, we have historically focused on vertical well development from
five reservoirs that produce oil and natural gas at depths ranging from 4,000 feet to 8,000 feet. In 2024, we began to
evaluate opportunities for horizontal well development and our 2025 capital plans include drilling four horizontal
wells in the Uteland Butte and Wasatch reservoirs of the Uinta Basin with depths ranging from 6,000 to 6,500 feet.
As of December 31, 2024, we held approximately 100,000 net acres in the Uinta Basin, and with a high working
interest and the majority of acreage held by production, we have high operational control of our existing acreage,
which provides significant upside for additional development and recompletions.
Over the last year, the Uinta Basin has experienced an increase in activity by others, driven by successful results
from horizontal drilling across the basin, which we believe indicates significant new development potential for our
existing acreage. In April 2024, we acquired a 21% working interest in four, two-to-three mile lateral wells in the
Uteland Butte reservoir, adjacent to our existing operations, which were put on production in the second quarter of
2024. The initial production rates from those four wells exceeded our initial expectations. In November 2024, we
executed an agreement to exchange, on an equal value basis, certain of our oil, gas, and mineral leasehold interests
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in Duchesne County, Utah, for that of another operator’s, also located in Duchesne County, Utah. We received an
approximately 17% working interest in three, three-mile Drilling Spacing Units (DSUs) in exchange for an
approximately 75% working interest in one, two-mile DSU. Like the first four horizontal wells that we farmed-in,
these wells are adjacent to our existing operations, and the results from all of these farmed-in horizontal wells will
be useful to evaluating opportunities on our own acreage. We believe that horizontal well development of our own
acreage could yield substantial returns, with low break-even economics and a potentially significant runway of
future development opportunities. Our 2025 capital plans includes our first steps to develop our own acreage
horizontally at an optimal pace, staying true to our commitment to generate free cash flow.
C&J Well Services is one of the largest upstream well servicing and abandonment services businesses in
California, providing a suite of services to third-party oil and natural gas production companies and to our E&P
operations, including well servicing and workover, water logistics, and plugging and abandonment (P&A) services
on wells at the end of their productive life. We believe CJWS has upside opportunity based on the significant
inventory of idle wells within California, coupled with existing and new regulations that will increase the annual idle
well management obligations of operators. With extensive experience operating in California and a best-in-class
safety record, CJWS provides a competitive advantage to Berry by providing access and control over an important
part of our supply chain. Additionally, CJWS supports our commitment to be a responsible operator and reduce
fugitive emissions —including methane and carbon dioxide—through the plugging and abandonment of idle wells.
Our Free Cash Flow (as defined below) in 2024 was $108 million, of which $49 million, or approximately 45%,
was used to pay cash dividends (both fixed and variable), $31 million to repay the outstanding balance of our 2021
RBL Facility and $20 million for the deferred payment related to the acquisition of Macpherson Energy.
As part of our commitment to creating long-term value for our shareholders, we are dedicated to conducting our
operations in an ethical, safe and responsible manner, protecting the environment, and taking care of our people and
the communities in which we live and operate. We believe that oil and gas will remain an important part of the
energy landscape going forward and our goal is to conduct our business safely and responsibly, while supporting
economic stability and social equity through engagement with our stakeholders. We recognize the oil and gas
industry’s role in the energy transition and advocate a co-existence between renewable and conventional energy. We
are committed to being part of the energy transition solution by continuing to provide safe, reliable, and affordable
energy to our communities.
How We Plan and Evaluate Operations
We use the following metrics to manage and assess the performance of our operations: (a) Adjusted EBITDA;
(b) Free Cash Flow; (c) production from our E&P business; (d) E&P operating costs; (e) HSE results; (f) general and
administrative expenses; and (g) the performance of our well servicing and abandonment services operations based
on activity levels, pricing and relative performance for each service provided.
Adjusted EBITDA
Adjusted EBITDA is the primary financial and operating measurement that our management uses to analyze
and monitor the operating performance of both our E&P business and CJWS. We also use Adjusted EBITDA in
planning our capital expenditure allocation to maintain production levels year-over-year and determining our
strategic hedging needs aside from the hedging requirements of the 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver.
Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure that we define as earnings before interest expense; income
taxes; depreciation, depletion, and amortization (“DD&A”); derivative gains or losses net of cash received or paid
for scheduled derivative settlements; impairments; stock compensation expense; and unusual and infrequent items.
See “—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for a reconciliation of net income (loss) and net cash provided (used) by
operating activities, our most directly comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with
GAAP, to the non-GAAP financial measure of Adjusted EBITDA. This supplemental non-GAAP financial measure
is used by management and external users of our financial statements, such as industry analysts, investors, lenders
and rating agencies.
74
Free Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP measure defined as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures. We use
Free Cash Flow as the primary metric to measure our ability to pay dividends, pay down debt, repurchase stock, and
make strategic growth and bolt-on acquisitions. Free Cash Flow does not represent the total increase or decrease in
our cash balance, and it should not be inferred that the entire amount of Free Cash Flow is available for dividends,
debt pay down, share repurchases, bolt-on acquisitions or other growth opportunities, or other discretionary
expenditures, since we have non-discretionary expenditures that are not deducted from this measure. Free Cash Flow
is a non-GAAP financial measure. See “Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for a reconciliation of cash provided by
operating activities, our most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with
GAAP, to the non-GAAP financial measure of Free Cash Flow.
Production
Oil and gas production is a key driver of our operating performance, an important factor to the success of our
business, and used in forecasting future development economics. We measure and closely monitor production on a
continuous basis, adjusting our property development efforts in accordance with the results. We track production by
commodity type and compare it to prior periods and expected results.
E&P Operating Costs
Overall, management assesses the efficiency of our E&P operations by considering core E&P operating costs. A
substantial majority of such costs are our lease operating expenses (“LOE”) which includes fuel gas, purchased
power, labor, field office, vehicle, supervision, maintenance, tools and supplies, and workover expenses. A core
component of our E&P operations in California is steam, which we use to lift heavy oil to the surface. The most
significant cost component of generating steam is the fuel gas purchased to operate traditional steam generators and
our cogeneration facilities. We strive to minimize the variability of our fuel gas costs for our California steam
operations with natural gas purchase hedges. Consequently, the efficiency of our E&P operations are impacted by
the cash settlements we receive or pay from these derivatives. We also have contracts for the transportation of fuel
gas from the Rockies which has historically been cheaper than the California markets.
Health, Safety & Environmental
Like other companies in the oil and gas industry, the operations of both our E&P business and CJWS are subject
to complex federal, state and local laws and regulations that govern health and safety, the release or discharge of
materials, and land use or environmental protection that may restrict the use of our properties and operations,
increase our costs or lower demand for or restrict the use of our products and services. Please see “Part I— Item 1
“Regulatory Matters” and Part I— Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report for a discussion of the potential
impact that government regulations, including those regarding HSE matters, may have upon our business,
operations, capital expenditures, earnings and competitive position.
As part of our commitment to creating long-term value, we strive to conduct our operations in an ethical, safe
and responsible manner, to protect the environment and to take care of our people and the communities in which we
live and operate. We also seek proactive and transparent engagement with regulatory agencies, the communities in
which we operate and our other stakeholders in order to realize the full potential of our resources in a timely fashion
that safeguards people and the environment and complies with existing laws and regulations. We monitor our HSE
performance through various measures, and we hold our employees and contractors to high standards. Meeting
corporate HSE metrics, including with respect to HSE incidents and spill prevention, is a part of our short-term
incentive program for all employees.
75
General and Administrative Expenses
We monitor our cash general and administrative expenses as a measure of the efficiency of our overhead
activities. Such expenses are a key component of the appropriate level of support our corporate and professional
team provides to the development of our assets and our day-to-day operations.
Well Servicing and Abandonment Services Operations Performance
We consistently monitor our well servicing and abandonment services operational performance with pre-tax
income, revenue and cost by customer, as well as Adjusted EBITDA for this business.
Business Environment, Market Conditions and Outlook
Our operating and financial results, and those of the oil and gas industry as a whole, are heavily influenced by
commodity prices, including differentials, which have and may continue to, fluctuate significantly as a result of
numerous market-related variables, including global geopolitical and economic conditions, and local and regional
market factors and dislocations. In particular, since being sworn into office, President Trump has issued numerous
executive orders aimed to increase oil production and decrease commodity prices. Oil and natural gas prices have
been, and may remain, volatile. As a net gas purchaser, our operating costs are generally expected to be more
impacted by the volatility of natural gas prices than our gas sales.
Our well servicing and abandonment services business is dependent on expenditures of oil and gas companies,
which can in part reflect the volatility of commodity prices, as well as the impact from changes in the regulatory
environment. Because existing oil and natural gas wells require ongoing spending to maintain production,
expenditures by oil and gas companies for the maintenance of existing wells historically have been relatively stable
and predictable when production is steady. Additionally, our customers’ requirements to plug and abandon wells are
largely driven by regulatory requirements that are less dependent on commodity prices.
The price of oil is impacted by the actions of OPEC+ and since 2022 they have implemented production cuts to
address global supply levels. In December 2024, OPEC+ extended the reduced production quotas of 3.65 mmbbl/d
through the end of 2026 and extended the 2.2 mmbbl/d voluntary cuts through the end of March 2025. Through the
end of 2024, oil prices remained fairly steady, however oil prices were, on average, lower in 2024 when compared to
2023.
Sanctions and import bans on Russian oil have been implemented by various countries in response to the
ongoing conflict in Ukraine, further altering flows of global oil supply. Oil and natural gas prices could decrease or
increase with any changes in demand due to, among other things, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the ongoing
conflict in the Middle East, international sanctions, speculation as to future actions by OPEC+, higher gas prices,
high interest rates, inflation and government efforts to reduce inflation, and possible changes in the overall health of
the global economy, including increased volatility in financial and credit markets or a prolonged recession. Further,
the volatility in oil and natural gas prices could accelerate a transition away from fossil fuels, resulting in reduced
demand over the longer term. To what extent these and other external factors (such as government action with
respect to climate change regulation) ultimately impact our future business, liquidity, financial condition, and results
of operations is highly uncertain and dependent on numerous factors, including future developments, that are not
within our control and cannot be accurately predicted.
Additionally, like other companies in the oil and gas industry, our operations are subject to stringent federal,
state and local laws and regulations relating to drilling, completion, well stimulation, operation, maintenance or
abandonment of wells or facilities, managing energy, water, land, greenhouse gases or other emissions, protection of
health, safety and the environment, or transportation, marketing, and sale of our products. Federal, state and local
agencies may assert overlapping authority to regulate in these areas. See “Items 1 and 2. Business and Properties—
Regulation of Health, Safety and Environmental Matters” for a description of laws and regulations that affect our
business. For more information related to regulatory risks, see Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our
Operations and Industry.”
76
Commodity Pricing and Differentials
Our cash flow, profitability, shareholder returns and future growth are highly dependent on the prices we
receive for our oil and natural gas production, as well as the prices we pay for our natural gas purchases, which are
affected by a variety of factors, including those discussed in Part I— Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report.
Oil and natural gas prices and differentials may fluctuate significantly as a result of numerous market-related
variables. We use derivatives to hedge a portion of our forecasted oil and gas production and gas purchases to reduce
our exposure to fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices. The following table sets forth certain average benchmark
prices, average realized prices and price realizations as a percentage of average benchmark prices for our products
for the periods indicated below.
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
Average Price
Realization(1)
Average Price
Realization(1)
Sales of Crude Oil (per bbl):
Brent
$
79.86
$
82.18
Realized price without derivative settlements
$
73.70
92%
$
75.05
91%
Effects of scheduled derivative settlements
(1.59)
(3.38)
Realized price with derivative settlements
$
72.11
90%
$
71.67
87%
WTI
$
75.79
$
77.61
Realized price without derivative settlements
$
73.70
97%
$
75.05
97%
Purchased Natural Gas (per mmbtu)
Average Monthly Settled Price - NWPL
$
2.45
$
8.28
Realized price without derivative settlements
$
3.23
132%
$
8.21
99%
Effects of scheduled derivative settlements
1.30
(1.79)
Realized price with derivative settlements
$
4.53
185%
$
6.42
78%
__________
(1)
Represents the percentage of our realized prices compared to the indicated index.
Oil Prices
Average Brent oil prices, as noted above, decreased by $2.32 or 3% for the year ended December 31, 2024
compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. In 2024, California had an average realized oil price of $75.07
which was 94% of average Brent oil price of $79.86. In 2023, California had an average realized oil price of $76.89
which was 94% of average Brent oil price of $82.18. Though the California market generally receives Brent-
influenced pricing, California oil prices are determined by local supply and demand dynamics, including third-party
transportation and infrastructure capacity. In 2024, average Brent oil prices decreased from the higher prices
observed in 2023. Strong global growth in production and a softening of demand growth put downward pressure on
prices in 2024.
California oil prices are Brent-influenced as California refiners import approximately 76% of the state’s demand
from OPEC+ countries and other waterborne sources. We believe that receiving Brent-influenced pricing contributes
to our ability to continue realizing favorable cash margins in California.
Utah oil prices have historically traded at a discount to WTI as the local refineries are designed for Utah’s
unique oil characteristics and the remoteness of the assets makes access to other markets logistically challenging.
However, we have high operational control of our existing acreage, which provides significant upside for additional
77
vertical and/or horizontal development wells and recompletions. In 2024, Utah had an average realized oil price of
$62.15 which was 82% of average WTI oil price of $75.79. In 2023, Utah had an average realized oil price of
$65.38 which was 84% of average WTI oil price of $77.61.
Gas Prices
For our California steam operations, the price we pay for fuel gas purchases is generally based on the
Northwest, Rocky Mountains index for the purchases made in the Rockies and the SoCal Gas city-gate index for the
purchases made in California. We currently buy most of our gas in the Rockies. Now that we are purchasing a
majority of our fuel gas in the Rockies, most of the purchases made in California use the SoCal Gas city-gate index,
whereas prior to this shift the predominant index for California purchases was Kern, Delivered. The price from the
Northwest, Rocky Mountain index was as high as $4.88 per mmbtu and as low as $1.29 per mmbtu in 2024. The
price from the SoCal Gas city-gate index was as high as $5.37 per mmbtu and as low as $1.72 per mmbtu in 2024.
Overall, on an unhedged basis, we paid an average of $3.23 per mmbtu in 2024 for our gas purchases. The price we
paid on average decreased by $4.98 per mmbtu, or 61%, for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the
year ended December 31, 2023. When including hedging effects in our gas purchases, we paid $4.53 and $6.42 per
mmbtu in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The price of our fuel gas sales is generally based on the Northwest, Rocky Mountains index, as selling at the
same index as fuel gas purchases provides a natural hedge for gas purchases. In 2024, Utah had an average realized
gas price of $2.70, compared to an average Northwest, Rocky Mountains gas price of $2.45, which was a 110%
realization. In 2023, Utah had an average realized gas price of $6.94, compared to an average Northwest, Rocky
Mountains gas price of $8.28, which was a 84% realization.
Natural gas prices and differentials are strongly affected by local market fundamentals, availability of
transportation capacity from producing areas and seasonal impacts. Our key exposure to gas prices is in our costs.
We purchase substantially more natural gas for our California steamfloods and cogeneration facilities than we
produce and sell in the Rockies. In May 2022, we began purchasing most of our gas in the Rockies and transporting
it to our California operations using our Kern River pipeline capacity. We buy approximately 48,000 mmbtu/d in the
Rockies, and the remainder comes from California markets. The volume purchased in California fluctuates and
averaged 3,000 mbbtu/d in 2024, and 5,000 mmbtu/d in 2023. The natural gas we purchase in the Rockies is shipped
to our operations in California to help limit our exposure to California fuel gas purchase price fluctuations. We strive
to further minimize the variability of our fuel gas costs for our steam operations by hedging a significant portion of
our gas purchases. Additionally, the negative impact of higher gas prices on our California operating expenses is
partially offset by higher gas sales for the gas we produce and sell in the Rockies. The Kern River pipeline capacity
allows us to purchase and sell natural gas at the same pricing indices.
Cold weather conditions drove high natural gas prices in 2023. In California, we experienced a significant
increase in the first quarter of 2023, with gas prices briefly as high as $54.31 per mmbtu (SoCal Gas city-gate). We
pivoted and reduced our gas consumption in California by temporarily shutting down one of our cogeneration
facilities and reducing steam generation in other parts of our operation, which negatively impacted production. We
seek to mitigate a substantial portion of the gas purchase price exposure for our cogeneration plants by selling excess
electricity from our cogeneration operations to third parties at prices linked to the price of natural gas. In the fourth
quarter of 2024, gas prices increased from prices in the third quarter of 2024 as a result of heating demand in key
consumer hubs. Natural gas prices, however, were lower overall in 2024 compared to 2023 due to robust U.S.
natural gas supplies and limited growth in natural gas consumption. Our current expectations are that the natural gas
prices will increase in 2025 due to growth in demand. Our hedging strategy coupled with our midstream access to
gas from the Rockies helps us mitigate the impact of high natural gas prices on our cost structure.
Our earnings are also affected by the performance of our cogeneration facilities. These cogeneration facilities
generate both electricity and steam for our properties and electricity for off-lease sales. While a portion of the
electric output of our cogeneration facilities is utilized within our production facilities to reduce operating expenses,
we also sell electricity produced by two of our cogeneration facilities under long-term contracts with terms ending in
December 2025 and November 2026. The most significant input and cost of the cogeneration facilities is natural gas.
78
Prices and differentials for NGLs are related to the supply and demand for the products making up these liquids.
Some of them more typically correlate to the price of oil while others are affected by natural gas prices as well as the
demand for certain chemical products which are used as feedstock. In addition, infrastructure constraints magnify
pricing volatility.
Inflation
The Company, similar to other companies in our industry, has experienced inflationary pressures on our costs
over the past few years—namely inflationary pressures have resulted in increases to the costs of our goods, services
and personnel, which in turn, have caused our capital expenditures and operating costs to rise since 2021. During
2024, inflation rates continued to stabilize and decrease following a trend that began in the middle of 2023. Inflation
rates in 2024 were also lower than the rates that were observed in 2022 when rates were increasing. We are unable to
accurately predict if such inflationary pressures and contributing factors will continue through 2025. However, we
will continuously monitor cost trends that could have an impact on our capital expenditures and operating costs.
79
Certain Operating and Financial Information
The following tables set forth information regarding average daily production, total production, and average
prices for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023. Beginning in May 2022, we began purchasing a majority of
our fuel gas in the Rockies using the Northwest, Rocky Mountains index and the remaining purchases are made in
California utilizing the SoCal Gas city-gate index.
Average daily production:(1)
Oil (mbbl/d)
23.5
23.5
Natural Gas (mmcf/d)
8.7
8.8
NGLs (mbbl/d)
0.4
0.4
Total (mboe/d)(2)
25.4
25.4
Total Production:
Oil (mbbl)
8,616
8,568
Natural gas (mmcf)
3,179
3,211
NGLs (mbbl)
145
155
Total (mboe)(2)
9,291
9,258
Weighted-average realized sales prices:
Oil without hedges ($/bbl)
$
73.70
$
75.05
Effects of scheduled derivative settlements ($/bbl)
$
(1.59) $
(3.38)
Oil with hedges ($/bbl)
$
72.11
$
71.67
Natural gas ($/mcf)
$
2.70
$
6.94
NGLs ($/bbl)
$
26.82
$
24.47
Average Benchmark prices:
Oil (bbl) – Brent
$
79.86
$
82.18
Oil (bbl) – WTI
$
75.79
$
77.61
Natural gas (mmbtu) – SoCal Gas city-gate(3)
$
3.08
$
10.96
Natural gas (mmbtu) – Northwest, Rocky Mountains(4)
$
2.45
$
8.28
Natural gas (mmbtu) – Henry Hub(4)
$
2.19
$
2.53
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
__________
(1)
Production represents volumes sold during the period. We also consume a portion of the natural gas we produce on lease to extract oil and
gas.
(2)
Natural gas volumes have been converted to boe based on energy content of six mcf of gas to one bbl of oil. Barrels of oil equivalence does
not necessarily result in price equivalence. The price of natural gas on a barrel of oil equivalent basis is currently substantially lower than
the corresponding price for oil and has been similarly lower for a number of years. For example, in the year ended December 31, 2024, the
average prices of Brent oil and Henry Hub natural gas were $79.86 per bbl and $2.19 per mmbtu respectively.
(3)
The natural gas we purchase to generate steam and electricity is primarily based on Rockies price indexes, including transportation charges,
as we currently purchase a substantial majority of our gas needs from the Rockies, with the balance purchased in California. SoCal Gas city-
gate Index is the relevant index used only for the portion of gas purchases in California. In May 2022, we began purchasing a majority of
our fuel gas in the Rockies using the Northwest, Rocky Mountains index.
(4)
Most of our gas purchases and gas sales in the Rockies are predicated on the Northwest, Rocky Mountains index, and to a lesser extent
based on Henry Hub.
80
The following table sets forth average daily production by operating area for the periods indicated:
2024
2023
Average daily production (mboe/d)(1):
California
21.0
20.7
Utah
4.4
4.7
25.4
25.4
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Production represents volumes sold during the period.
Year-over-year overall production remained consistent at 25.4 mboe/d. California production increased 0.3
mboe/d, or 1% principally due to the Round Mountain properties we acquired in late 2023 which contributed 1.5
mboe/d more in 2024 compared to 2023. Additionally, the production from our increased drilling activity in 2024
partially offset the lower production due to natural decline from base production and lower workover activity
compared to 2023. Utah production decreased year-over-year due to natural decline, partially offset by 0.2 mboe/d
from the four non-operated horizontal wells that were placed on production mid-year.
During 2024, approximately 75% and 25% of our capital expenditures was directed to California and Utah
operations, respectively. In California we drilled 36 sidetracks and 10 new wells. In Utah we drilled 10 new wells
including four vertical wells and six non-operated horizontal wells. Four of the non-operated wells, which we have a
21% working interest in, were placed on production during the second quarter of 2024. We have an average 13%
working interest in the remaining two non-operated wells that were placed on production in January 2025. In 2023,
we drilled five new wells and 28 new sidetracks in California and no new wells in Utah.
81
Results of Operations
2024
2023
$ Change
% Change
(in thousands)
Revenues and other:
Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid sales
$
647,494
$
669,110
$
(21,616)
(3) %
Services revenue(1)
111,857
178,554
(66,697)
(37) %
Electricity sales
15,606
15,277
329
2 %
(Losses) gains on oil and gas sales derivatives
(7,340)
40,006
(47,346)
n/a
Marketing and other revenues
8,884
513
8,371
>100%
Total revenues and other
$
776,501
$
903,460
$
(126,959)
(14) %
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
The well servicing and abandonment services segment occasionally provides services to our E&P segment. Prior to the intercompany
elimination, service revenue was $132 million and $186 million, and after the intercompany elimination of $21 million and $7 million, net
service revenue was $112 million and $179 million for years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
Revenues and Other
We hedge a significant portion of our oil sales in order to protect our anticipated cash flows from oil price
decreases, as well as to meet the hedging requirements of our debt facilities. In 2024, our realized oil price was
$73.70 per bbl and the hedged price was $72.11 per bbl. By comparison, in 2023, our realized oil price was $75.05
per bbl and our hedged price was $71.67 per bbl.
Oil, natural gas and NGL sales decreased by $22 million, or 3%, to approximately $647 million for the year
ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease was driven by $13
million lower gas prices and $12 million lower oil prices, partially offset by $3 million of higher oil volumes.
Service revenue, as presented, consisted entirely of revenue from the well servicing and abandonment services
business provided to third parties. Service revenue decreased by $67 million, or 37%, to approximately $112 million
for the year ended December 31, 2024 when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023 due to lower activity
and rates.
Electricity sales which represent sales to utilities were essentially flat at $16 million for the year ended
December 31, 2024 when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023.
Gain or loss on oil and gas sales derivatives consists of settlement gains and losses and mark-to-market gains
and losses. In the year ended December 31, 2024, settlement losses were $10 million, and $29 million in the year
ended December 31, 2023. The period-over-period decrease in settlement losses was driven by a narrower spread
between the settled derivative fixed prices and index oil prices in 2024 compared to 2023. The mark-to-market non-
cash gain was $3 million for the year ended December 31 2024 compared to a gain of $69 million in 2023. Because
we are the floating price payer on these swaps, generally period to period decreases (increases) in the associated
price index create valuation gains (losses).
Marketing and other revenues, which mostly comprise gas marketing sales were $8 million higher for the year
ended December 31, 2024 compared to 2023. During 2024, a portion of the gas we purchased in the Rockies and
transported on our pipeline capacity was sold into the California market to suit our operational needs.
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Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
$ Change
% Change
(in thousands)
Expenses and other:
Lease operating expenses
$
225,824
$
316,726
$
(90,902)
(29) %
Costs of services(1)
96,143
141,771
(45,628)
(32) %
Electricity generation expenses
4,447
7,079
(2,632)
(37) %
Transportation expenses
4,552
4,486
66
1 %
Marketing expenses
8,100
—
8,100
100 %
Acquisition costs
4,982
3,338
1,644
49 %
General and administrative expenses
76,615
95,873
(19,258)
(20) %
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
172,002
160,542
11,460
7 %
Impairment of oil and gas properties
43,980
—
43,980
100 %
Taxes, other than income taxes
47,212
57,973
(10,761)
(19) %
Losses (gains) on natural gas purchase
derivatives
22,781
26,386
(3,605)
(14) %
Other operating (income) expenses
(4,261)
(1,788)
(2,473)
138 %
Losses on debt retirement
7,066
—
7,066
100 %
Total expenses and other
709,443
812,386
(102,943)
(13) %
Other (expenses) income:
Interest expense
(39,035)
(35,412)
3,623
10 %
Other, net
56
(237)
(293)
(124) %
Total other expenses
(38,979)
(35,649)
3,330
9 %
Income before income taxes
28,079
55,425
(27,346)
(49) %
Income tax expense
8,828
18,025
(9,197)
51 %
Net income
$
19,251
$
37,400
$
(18,149)
(49) %
Adjusted EBITDA(2)
$
291,764
$
268,257
$
23,507
9 %
Adjusted Net Income (Loss)(2)
$
52,435
$
39,230
$
13,205
34 %
__________
(1)
The well servicing and abandonment services segment occasionally provides services to our E&P segment. Prior to the intercompany
elimination, costs of services was $116 million and $149 million, and after the intercompany elimination of $21 million and $7 million, net
costs of services was $96 million and $142 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively.
(2)
Adjusted EBITDA and Adjusted Net Income (Loss) are financial measures that are not calculated in accordance with GAAP. For definitions
and a reconciliation to the Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities and Net Income (loss), please see “Item 7 — Non-GAAP Financial
Measures.”
Expenses
Lease operating expense decreased 29% on an absolute dollar basis, when compared to the prior year. Fuel
prices decreased $91 million, while fuel consumption decreased $7 million due to improved steam operations
efficiencies. Lease operating expense excluding fuel increased $6 million on an absolute dollar basis due to higher
power rates and well servicing costs attributed to the Round Mountain acquisitions that were completed in late 2023,
and higher company labor.
Cost of services for our well servicing and abandonment services segment decreased $46 million, or 32%, to
$96 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to 2023 due to lower activity.
Electricity generation expenses decreased 37% to $4 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 from $7
million for the year ended December 31, 2023 mainly due to lower fuel prices and volumes. Fuel costs included in
electricity generation expenses exclude the effects of natural gas derivative settlements discussed elsewhere.
83
Marketing expenses represents the cost of natural gas purchased in the Rockies and sold to third parties in the
California market to suit our operational needs during 2024.
Acquisition costs increased $2 million, or 49% to $5 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 and include
legal and professional expenses related to transaction-related activity.
General and administrative expenses decreased by approximately $19 million or 20%, for the year ended
December 31, 2024 compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. For the year ended December 31, 2024 and
2023, non-cash stock compensation costs were approximately $6 million and $14 million, and non-recurring costs
were $2 million and $9 million, respectively. The non-recurring costs in 2024 consisted of the cost of various
savings initiatives, and in 2023 consisted primarily of executive transition costs, workforce reduction costs and
shareholder litigation expenses.
Adjusted general and administrative expenses, which excluded non-cash stock compensation costs and non-
recurring costs, decreased $4 million to $69 million compared to $73 million in 2023. The year-over-year decrease
was primarily due to various cost savings initiatives implemented in 2024 and 2023. See “—Non-GAAP Financial
Measures” for a reconciliation of general and administrative expense, the most directly comparable financial
measure calculated and presented in accordance with GAAP, to Adjusted General Administrative and
Administrative Expenses.
DD&A increased by $11 million, or 7%, to approximately $172 million, for the year ended December 31, 2024
compared to the year ended December 31, 2023 due to an increase in depletion rates and the impact of acquisitions
in 2023.
Impairment of oil and gas properties was $44 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. There was no
impairment of oil and gas properties for year ended December 31, 2023.
Taxes, Other Than Income Taxes
2024
2023
$ Change
% Change
(per boe)
Severance taxes
$
1.67
$
1.53
$
0.14
9 %
Ad valorem taxes
2.04
2.04
—
— %
Greenhouse gas allowances
1.37
2.70
(1.33)
(49) %
Total taxes other than income taxes
$
5.08
$
6.27
$
(1.19)
(19) %
Year Ended December 31,
Taxes, other than income taxes, decreased $1.19 to $5.08 per boe for the year ended December 31, 2024
compared to $6.27 for the year ended December 31, 2023. GHG expense decreased $1.33 due to lower GHG
emissions and prices in a volatile California carbon allowance market.
Loss on natural gas purchase derivatives for the year ended December 31, 2024 and 2023 were $23 million and
$26 million, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2024 the natural gas settlement price was less than
the fixed price of settled positions and resulted in a settlement loss of $24 million, or $2.63 per boe. During 2023 the
natural gas settlement price was greater than the fixed price of settled positions and resulted in a settlement gain of
$35 million, or $3.76 per boe. Settled hedges in 2024 had an average fixed price of $3.99 and notional quantities of
38,000 mmbtu per day compared to $5.25 and 40,000 in 2023. The mark-to-market valuation gain or loss for the
years ended December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 were a gain of $2 million and a loss of $61 million,
respectively, consistent with the changes in futures prices at the end of each period.
84
Other Operating (Income) Expense
For the year ended December 31, 2024, other operating income was $4 million and mainly consisted of a gain
on property sold by CJWS. For the year ended December 31, 2023, other operating income was $2 million and
mainly consisted of net property tax refunds from prior periods and a net gain on equipment sales.
Loss on Debt Retirement
For the year ended December 31, 2024, loss on debt retirement was $7 million and includes expenses related to
the retirement of the 2026 Notes, the 2021 RBL Facility and the 2022 ABL Facility, as well as financing activities
we terminated upon successful completion of the 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver.
Interest Expense
Interest expense increased by $4 million, or 10%, for the year ended December 31, 2024 compared to the same
period in 2023 as a result of higher short-term borrowings for acquisitions on the 2021 RBL Facility in 2023.
Income Tax Expense
For the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2023, we had income tax expense of approximately $9 million and
$18 million, respectively. The change in our effective tax rate to 31.4% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from
32.5% for the year ended December 31, 2023 was primarily due was primarily due to the benefit from the generation
of U.S. federal general business credits, partially offset by the impact of nondeductible compensation and other
permanent adjustments. The credits generated in 2024 are available to offset future income tax liabilities.
In addition, California enacted multiple pieces of tax legislation during 2024 which (1) suspended the use of
state NOLs and general business tax credits by taxpayers for tax years 2024 through 2026 and (2) no longer permits
the election to currently deduct intangible drilling and development costs for oil and gas wells. The effect of this
legislation resulted in an adverse impact on cash tax liability related to California for tax year 2024.
See Note 7, Income Taxes, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II—Item 8. “Financial
Statements and Supplementary Data” for more information about our income taxes.
E&P Operating Costs
Overall, management assesses the efficiency of our E&P operations by considering core E&P operating costs.
The substantial majority of such costs is our lease operating expenses (“LOE”) which includes fuel gas, purchased
power, labor, field office, vehicle, supervision, maintenance, tools and supplies, and workover expenses. A core
component of our E&P operations in California is steam, which we use to lift heavy oil to the surface. The most
significant cost component of generating steam is the fuel gas purchased to operate traditional steam generators and
our cogeneration facilities. The following table includes key components of our LOE as well as the gas purchase
hedge effect of the fuel used in our steam generation. Energy LOE consists of the costs to generate the steam and
electricity we produce and use in our operations and the power we purchase for our E&P operations. Non-energy
85
LOE consists of all remaining LOE costs. Energy LOE - hedged includes the realized (cash settled) hedge effects on
the fuel gas we purchase. See further information about these measures in “Non-GAAP Financial Measures”.
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2024
2023
(in thousands)
(per boe)
Energy LOE -unhedged
$
104,125
$
195,893
$
11.21
$
21.16
Non-energy LOE
121,699
120,833
13.10
13.05
Lease operating expenses(1)
225,824
316,726
24.31
34.21
Gas purchase hedges - realized
24,400
(34,812)
2.63
(3.76)
Lease operating expenses - hedged
$
250,224
$
281,914
$
26.94
$
30.45
Energy LOE - unhedged
$
104,125
$
195,893
$
11.21
$
21.16
Gas purchase hedges - realized
24,400
(34,812)
2.63
(3.76)
Energy LOE - hedged
$
128,525
$
161,081
$
13.84
$
17.40
__________
(1) Lease operating expenses (“LOE”) is also referred to as LOE - unhedged.
86
Liquidity and Capital Resources
As of December 31, 2024, we had $450 million outstanding on our 2024 Term Loan, $63 million of available
borrowing capacity and no borrowings outstanding under the 2024 Revolver, and approximately $32 million of
available delayed draw term loan commitments and no borrowings outstanding under the Delayed Draw Term Loan
(defined below) provided under the 2024 Term Loan (as defined below). Based on current commodity prices and our
development success rate to date, we expect to be able to fund our 2025 capital programs from cash flow from
operations.
We review the allocations of our Free Cash Flow from time to time based on then existing conditions and
circumstances, including our earnings, financial condition, restrictions in financing agreements, business conditions
and other factors. In January 2022, we introduced a structured shareholder return model to guide our allocation of
Free Cash Flow, which most recently provided as follows: (a) 80% primarily in the form of debt repurchases, stock
repurchases, strategic growth, and acquisitions of producing bolt-on assets; and (b) 20% in the form of variable
dividends. In October 2024, in anticipation of the 2024 Term Loan, we transitioned away from our previously
established shareholder return model to a capital allocation approach that prioritizes debt reduction in alignment with
the covenants contained in the 2024 Term Loan and facilitates our operating strategy while enabling investment in
development opportunities. See “Cash Dividends” below.
Free Cash Flow does not represent the total increase or decrease in our cash balance, and it should not be
inferred that the entire amount of Free Cash Flow is available for variable dividends, debt or share repurchases,
strategic acquisitions or other growth opportunities, or other discretionary expenditures, since we have non-
discretionary expenditures that are not deducted from this measure. Free Cash Flow is a non-GAAP financial
measure. See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis—Non-GAAP Financial Measures” for a reconciliation of the
GAAP financial measure of operating cash flow, our most directly comparable financial measure calculated and
presented in accordance with GAAP, to the non-GAAP financial measure of Free Cash Flow.
We currently believe that our liquidity, capital resources and cash will be sufficient to conduct our business and
operations and meet our obligations for at least the next 12 months. In the longer term, if oil prices were to
significantly decline and remain weak, we may not be able to continue to generate the same level of Free Cash Flow
we are currently generating and our liquidity and capital resources may not be sufficient to conduct our business and
operations until commodity prices recover. Please see Part I— Item 1A. “Risk Factors” for a discussion of known
material risks, many of which are beyond our control, that could adversely impact our business, liquidity, financial
condition, and results of operations.
2021 RBL Facility
See Note 3, Debt, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II—Item 8. “Financial Statements
and Supplementary Data” of this report for details. On December 24, 2024, in connection with the closing of the
Term Loan Amendment (defined below) and the 2024 Revolver, we cash collateralized five letters of credit issued
under the 2021 RBL Facility, repaid all other amounts outstanding under the 2021 RBL Facility and terminated our
remaining obligations thereunder, except with respect to those provisions that, by their terms, survive such
termination. As of December 31, 2024, the $9 million cash collateralized letters of credit remained outstanding.
2022 ABL Facility
See Note 3, Debt, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II—Item 8. “Financial Statements
and Supplementary Data” of this report for details. On December 24, 2024, in connection with the closing of the
Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver, we cash collateralized one letter of credit issued under the 2022 ABL Facility,
repaid all other amounts owing under the 2022 ABL Facility (defined below) and terminated our remaining
obligations thereunder, except with respect to those provisions that, by their terms, survive such termination. As of
December 31, 2024, the $5 million cash collateralized letter of credit remained outstanding.
ATM Program
87
On March 13, 2025, the Company entered into an Open Market Sale Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with
Jefferies LLC and Johnson Rice & Company L.L.C. (the “Sales Agents”). Pursuant to the Sales Agreement, we may
offer and sell common stock having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million from time to time to or through
the Sales Agents, subject to our compliance with applicable laws and applicable requirements of the Sales
Agreement (the “ATM Program”). The timing of any sales and the number of shares sold, if any, will depend on a
variety of factors to be determined and considered by us, and we are not obligated to sell any shares under the Sales
Agreement.
We currently plan to use the net proceeds from the ATM Program for general corporate purposes, which may
include, among other things, paying or refinancing all or a portion of our then-outstanding indebtedness, and funding
acquisitions, capital expenditures and working capital.
Because the ATM Program was established subsequent to the end of the period, during the three and twelve
months ended December 31, 2024, the Company did not sell any shares of common stock under the ATM Program.
Senior Unsecured Notes
In February 2018, Berry LLC completed a private issuance of $400 million in aggregate principal amount of
7.00% senior unsecured notes due February 2026 (the “2026 Notes”), which resulted in net proceeds to us of
approximately $391 million after deducting expenses and the initial purchasers’ discount. The 2026 Notes were
Berry LLC’s senior unsecured obligations and ranked equally in right of payment with all of our other senior
indebtedness and senior to any of our subordinated indebtedness. The 2026 Notes were fully and unconditionally
guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by Berry Corp. and certain of its subsidiaries. C&J and C&J Management
did not guarantee the 2026 Notes. The indenture governing the 2026 Notes contained customary covenants and
events of default (in some cases, subject to grace periods).
On December 24, 2024, in connection with the closing of the Term Loan Amendment and the 2024 Revolver
Agreement, we deposited with Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (as successor to Wells Fargo Bank, National
Association), as trustee for the 2026 Notes, sufficient funds to fund the full redemption of the outstanding 2026
Notes, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2026 Notes being redeemed, plus accrued
and unpaid interest thereon to the Redemption Date (defined below). Upon the deposit of such funds on December
24, 2024, the indenture governing the 2026 Notes was satisfied and discharged with respect to the 2026 Notes in
accordance with its terms. As a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the indenture with respect to the 2026
Notes, each of the Company, Berry LLC and certain other direct and indirect subsidiaries of the Company was
released on December 24, 2024 from its obligations under the indenture in respect of the 2026 Notes, except with
respect to those provisions of the indenture that, by their terms, survive the satisfaction and discharge of the
indenture. The redemption of the 2026 Notes occurred on December 26, 2024 (the “Redemption Date”).
2024 Term Loan
On November 6, 2024, the Company entered into a Senior Secured Term Loan Credit Agreement (the “Original
Term Loan Agreement”) among Berry Corp., as borrower, certain subsidiaries of Berry Corp., as guarantors,
Breakwall Credit Management LLC, as administrative agent, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. On
December 24, 2024, the Company entered into the First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of December 24,
2024 (the “Term Loan Amendment”) among the Company, as borrower, certain of the Company’s direct and
indirect subsidiaries, as guarantors, the lenders party thereto and Breakwall Credit Management LLC, as
administrative agent, which amended the Original Term Loan Agreement (the Original Term Loan Agreement, as
amended by the Term Loan Amendment, the “2024 Term Loan”).
The 2024 Term Loan provides for (i) an initial term loan facility in the aggregate principal amount of $450
million (the “Initial Term Loan”) and (ii) a delayed draw term loan facility with aggregate commitments in an
aggregate principal amount of up to $32 million (the “Delayed Draw Term Loan”) which is available for borrowing
until December 24, 2026, subject to satisfaction of certain customary conditions precedent, as further set forth in the
2024 Term Loan. We borrowed $450 million under the Initial Term Loan on December 24, 2024, in part, to fund the
88
redemption of the 2026 Notes, to fund a portion of the repayment of the obligations under the 2021 RBL Facility,
and to fund a portion of the costs and expenses associated with the execution of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term
Loan, the redemption of the 2026 Notes, and the termination of the 2022 ABL Facility. The commitments under the
Delayed Draw Term Loan will be reduced, on a dollar-for-dollar basis, by any increase in the commitments under
the 2024 Revolver. We had not borrowed any amounts under the Delayed Draw Term Loan as of December 31,
2024.
The 2024 Term Loan has an initial maturity date of December 24, 2027, unless terminated earlier in accordance
with the terms of the 2024 Term Loan, which may be extended by up to two one-year increments subject to payment
of extension fees and satisfaction of certain other customary conditions. The loans under the 2024 Term Loan are
available to us for general corporate purposes, including working capital.
Loans under the 2024 Term Loan bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our option, either (a) a customary
base rate (subject to a floor of 4.00%) plus an applicable margin of 6.50% or (b) a term SOFR reference rate (subject
to a floor of 3.00%) plus an applicable margin of 7.50%. Interest on base rate borrowings is payable quarterly in
arrears and interest on term SOFR borrowings accrues in respect of interest periods of one, three or six months, at
the election of the borrower, and is payable on the last day of such interest period (or, for interest periods of six
months, three months after the commencement of such interest period and at the end of such interest period). If an
Event of Default (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan) exists and is continuing, upon the election of the Majority
Lenders (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan) under the 2024 Term Loan, or automatically without such election, in
the case of a bankruptcy, insolvency, or payment default, all amounts outstanding under the 2024 Term Loan will
bear interest at 2.00% per annum above the rate and margin otherwise applicable thereto (it being understood that
such Majority Lenders may elect for the application of default interest to commence on any date that is on or after
the occurrence of such Event of Default while such Event of Default is continuing). Quarterly debt service payments
of an amount equal to the sum of 2.5% of (a) the face value of the Initial Term Loan and (b) the aggregate amount of
delayed draws made from the Delayed Draw Term Loan are required beginning in March 2025. We have the right to
repay any amounts borrowed prior to the maturity date of the 2024 Term Loan (i) without any premium for any
optional prepayment on or prior to December 24, 2026 and (ii) thereafter, subject to a concurrent payment of 2.75%
of the principal amount being repaid.
The 2024 Term Loan contains certain financial covenants, including (a) minimum liquidity of $25 million as of
the last day of any calendar month beginning in November 2024 and (b) commencing with the fiscal quarter ending
March 31, 2025, (i) a total net leverage ratio that may not exceed 2.5 to 1.0 and (ii) an asset coverage ratio that may
not be less than 1.3 to 1.0 as of the last day of any fiscal quarter, in each case, as fully more described in the 2024
Term Loan. We were in compliance with all applicable financial covenants under the 2024 Term Loan as of
December 31, 2024.
The 2024 Term Loan also contains other restrictive covenants that limit the ability of the Company and its
subsidiaries to, among other things, pay dividends or prepay other debt, make investments and loans, enter into
mergers and acquisitions, sell assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur additional liens, enter into certain hedging
transactions, engage in transactions with affiliates and make certain capital expenditures. The 2024 Term Loan
permits us to pay dividends and repurchase equity interests up to an annual cap, subject to, among other things, pro
forma compliance with our financial covenants.
In addition, the 2024 Term Loan is subject to customary events of default, including a change in control (which
change of control event of default is subject to a carve-out for no decline in the Company’s corporate credit rating).
If an event of default occurs and is continuing, subject to customary cure rights, the administrative agent or the
majority lenders may accelerate any amounts outstanding and terminate lender commitments and exercise remedies
against any collateral.
The 2024 Term Loan is guaranteed by the Company and all of its wholly owned subsidiaries and is secured by a
first lien security interest in substantially all assets of the Company and of its wholly owned subsidiaries, subject to
permitted liens. The 2024 Term Loan is also required to be guaranteed by, and secured with substantially all assets
89
of, certain future wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company that we may form or acquire. The lenders under the
2024 Term Loan hold a mortgage on at least 90% of the present value of our proven oil and gas reserves.
As of December 31, 2024, we had $450 million of borrowings outstanding under the 2024 Term Loan and $32
million of available commitments under the Delayed Draw Term Loan.
2024 Revolver
On December 24, 2024, the Company entered into a Senior Secured Revolving Credit Agreement (the “2024
Revolver”) among Berry Corp., certain subsidiaries of Berry Corp., as guarantors, the lenders from time to time
party thereto and Texas Capital Bank, as administrative agent. The 2024 Revolver provides for a revolving credit
facility of up to the lesser of (i) the maximum commitments of $500 million, (ii) the then-effective borrowing base,
which was equal to $95 million as of December 31, 2024, and (iii) the aggregate elected commitment amount, which
was equal to $63 million as of December 31, 2024 (the “2024 Revolver”). The aggregate commitments under the
2024 Revolver include a $30 million sublimit for the issuance of letters of credit (with borrowing availability being
reduced by the face amount of any letters of credit issued under the subfacility). The borrowing base will be
redetermined by the lenders at least semi-annually on May 1 and November 1 of each year, beginning May 1, 2025.
We may increase elected commitments under the 2024 Revolver to the amount of our borrowing base with
applicable lender approval. Any such increase above the elected commitments in effect as of December 24, 2024
will result in a dollar-for-dollar reduction in commitments under the 2024 Term Loan.
The 2024 Revolver matures on December 24, 2027, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of
the 2024 Revolver. The loans under the 2024 Revolver are available to us for general corporate purposes, including
working capital.
The outstanding borrowings under the 2024 Revolver bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our option,
either (a) a customary base rate (subject to a floor of 1.00%) plus an applicable margin of 3.50% or (b) a term SOFR
reference rate (subject to a floor of 2.00%) plus 0.10% plus an applicable margin of 4.50%. Interest on base rate
borrowings is payable quarterly in arrears and interest on term SOFR borrowings accrues in respect of interest
periods of one, three or six months, at the election of the borrower, and is payable on the last day of such interest
period (or, for interest periods of six months, three months after the commencement of such interest period and at
the end of such interest period). If an Event of Default (as defined in the 2024 Revolver) exists and is continuing,
upon the election of the Majority Lenders (as defined in the 2024 Revolver) under the 2024 Revolver, or
automatically without such election, in the case of a bankruptcy, insolvency, or payment default, all amounts
outstanding under the 2024 Revolver will bear interest at 2.00% per annum above the rate and margin otherwise
applicable thereto (it being understood that such Majority Lenders may elect for the application of default interest to
commence on any date that is on or after the occurrence of such Event of Default while such Event of Default is
continuing).
The 2024 Revolver contains certain financial covenants, including (a) minimum liquidity of $25 million as of
the last day of any calendar month and (b) commencing with the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2025, (i) a total net
leverage ratio that may not exceed 2.5 to 1.0 and (ii) an asset coverage ratio that may not be less than 1.3 to 1.0 as of
the last day of any fiscal quarter, in each case, as fully more described in the 2024 Revolver. We were in compliance
with all applicable financial covenants under the 2024 Revolver as of December 31, 2024.
The amount we are able to borrow with respect to the borrowing base under the 2024 Revolver is subject to
compliance with the financial covenants and other provisions of the 2024 Revolver, including that the Consolidated
Cash Balance (as defined in the 2024 Revolver) not to exceed $35 million at the time of and after giving effect to
such borrowing and the use of proceeds thereof. In addition, the 2024 Revolver provides that if there are any
outstanding borrowings thereunder and the Consolidated Cash Balance exceeds $35 million at the end of the last
business day of any calendar month, such excess amounts shall be used to prepay borrowings under the 2024
Revolver.
90
The 2024 Revolver contains other restrictive covenants that limit the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries
to, among other things, pay dividends or prepay other debt, make investments and loans, enter into mergers and
acquisitions, sell assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur additional liens, enter into certain hedging transactions,
engage in transactions with affiliates and make certain capital expenditures. The 2024 Revolver permits us to pay
dividends and repurchase equity interests up to an annual cap , subject to, among other things, pro forma compliance
with our financial covenants.
In addition, the 2024 Revolver is subject to customary events of default, including a change in control (which
change of control event of default is subject to a carve-out for no decline in the Company’s corporate credit rating).
If an event of default occurs and is continuing, subject to customary cure rights, the administrative agent or the
majority lenders may accelerate any amounts outstanding and terminate lender commitments and exercise remedies
against any collateral.
The 2024 Revolver is guaranteed by the Company and all of its wholly owned subsidiaries and is secured by a
first lien security interest in substantially all assets of the Company and of its wholly owned subsidiaries, subject to
permitted liens. The 2024 Revolver is also required to be guaranteed by, and secured with substantially all assets of,
certain future wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company that we may form or acquire. The lenders under the 2024
Revolver hold a mortgage on at least 90% of the present value of our proven oil and gas reserves.
As of December 31, 2024, we had no in borrowings outstanding, no letters of credit outstanding, and
approximately $63 million of available borrowing capacity under the 2024 Revolver.
Hedging
We have protected a significant portion of our anticipated cash flows through our commodity hedging program,
including swaps, puts, calls and collars. We hedge crude oil and gas production to protect against oil and gas price
decreases and we also hedge gas purchases to protect against price increases. We have also entered into gas
transportation contracts in the Rockies to help reduce the price fluctuation exposure, however these do not qualify as
hedges.
The 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each requires us to maintain commodity hedges which are Existing
Swaps (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan), or are otherwise in the form of fixed price swaps (at market prices) or
costless collars, on minimum notional volumes of (i) at least 75% of our reasonably projected production of crude
oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during the twenty-four calendar month period immediately following
December 24, 2024, and (ii) at least 50% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves,
for each month during the twenty-fifth through thirty-sixth calendar month period following December 24, 2024.
The 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each also requires us to maintain commodity hedges in the form of fixed
price swaps (at market prices), costless collars, certain other collars or put options meeting conditions described in
the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan, or, with respect to the Existing Swaps, in the form of the Existing Swaps as
of the effective date of the 2024 Term Loan, on minimum notional volumes, of (i) at least 75% of our reasonably
projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during a rolling period of twenty-four
calendar months commencing with the end of the then next upcoming month from the relevant minimum hedging
test date, and (ii) at least 50% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each
month during a rolling period of twelve months commencing with the end of the twenty-fifth month from the
relevant minimum hedging test date. In addition, the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each requires us to
maintain hedges in respect of purchases of natural gas for fuel in respect of 40,000 mmbtu of natural gas for fuel for
each day (a) during the 18 month calendar month period immediately following the December 24, 2024 and (b)
during the 18 month calendar month period commencing with the end of the next upcoming month after the
applicable minimum hedging test date.
In addition to the minimum hedging requirements and other restrictions in respect of hedging described therein,
each of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan contains restrictions on our commodity hedging which prevent us
from entering into hedging agreements (i) with a tenor exceeding 60 months or (ii) for notional volumes which
(when netted and aggregated with other hedges then in effect) exceed, as of the date such hedging agreement is
91
executed, 90% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, calculated
separately, from our PDP reserves, for each month following the date such hedging agreement is entered into,
provided that each of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan provides that the Company may enter into additional
commodity hedges pertaining to oil and gas properties to be acquired, subject to the requirements set forth in the
2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan.
Our generally low-decline production base affords an ability to hedge a material amount of our future expected
production. For information regarding risks related to our hedging program, see Part I—Item 1A. “Risk Factors—
Risks Related to Our Operations and Industry.”
As of February 28, 2025 we had the following crude oil production and gas purchases hedges:
Q1 2025
Q2 2025
Q3 2025
Q4 2025
FY 2026
FY 2027
FY 2028
Brent - Crude Oil Production
Swaps
Hedged volume (bbls)
1,388,344 1,637,198 1,613,083 1,518,000 3,345,268 3,056,000 1,278,000
Weighted-average price ($/bbl)
$
74.81 $
74.36 $
74.48 $
75.28 $
70.94 $
70.08 $
68.46
Collars
Hedged volume (bbls)
206,127
—
—
— 1,161,500 318,500
—
Weighted-average call($/bbl)
$
88.56 $
— $
— $
— $
85.76 $
80.03 $
—
Weighted-average put ($/bbl)
$
60.00 $
— $
— $
— $
60.00 $
65.00 $
—
Purchased Puts
Hedged volume (bbls)
—
—
—
— 547,500
—
—
Weighted-average price ($/bbl)
$
— $
— $
— $
— $
65.00 $
— $
—
NWPL - Natural Gas Purchases(1)
Swaps
Hedged volume (mmbtu)
3,600,000 3,640,000 3,680,000 3,680,000 12,160,000
—
—
Weighted-average price
($/mmbtu)
$
4.29 $
4.29 $
4.29 $
4.15 $
3.93 $
— $
—
__________
(1)
The term “NWPL” is defined as Northwest Rocky Mountain Pipeline and represents the index used for these gas purchase hedges.
92
(Losses) gains on Derivatives
A summary of gains and losses on the derivatives included on the statements of operations is presented below:
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Realized (losses) gains on commodity derivatives:
Realized (losses) on oil and gas sales derivatives
$
(10,217) $
(28,917) $
(126,176)
Realized (losses) gains on natural gas purchase derivatives
(24,400)
34,812
38,153
Total realized (losses) gains on derivatives
(34,617)
5,895
(88,023)
Unrealized (losses) gains on commodity derivatives:
Unrealized gains (losses) on oil and gas sales derivatives
2,877
68,923
(10,933)
Unrealized gains (losses) on natural gas purchase
derivatives
1,619
(61,198)
50,642
Total unrealized gains on derivatives
4,496
7,725
39,709
Total (losses) gains on derivatives
$
(30,121) $
13,620
$
(48,314)
Year Ended December 31,
The following table summarizes the historical results of our hedging activities:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
Sales of Crude Oil (per bbl):
Realized sales price, before the effects of derivative settlements
$
73.70 $
75.05
Effects of scheduled derivative settlements
$
(1.59) $
(3.38)
Realized sales price, after the effects of derivative settlements
$
72.11 $
71.67
Purchased Natural Gas (per mmbtu):
Purchase price, before the effects of derivative settlements
$
3.23 $
8.21
Effects of scheduled derivative settlements
$
1.30 $
(1.79)
Purchase price, after the effects of derivative settlements
$
4.53 $
6.42
93
Cash Dividends
In 2024, we paid total dividends of $0.58 per share, in the form of regular fixed dividends of $0.39 per share
and variable dividends of $0.19 per share. These amounts include fixed and variable dividends declared and paid in
2024 related to the fourth quarter 2023 results of $0.12 and $0.14 per share, respectively. In March 2025, our Board
of Directors approved a fixed cash dividend of $0.03 per share, which is expected to be paid in April 2025.
In October 2024, in anticipation of entering into the 2024 Term Loan, we transitioned away from our previously
established shareholder return model to a capital allocation approach that prioritizes debt reduction in alignment with
the covenants contained in the 2024 Term Loan and facilitates our operating strategy while enabling investment in
development opportunities. Accordingly, we suspended the quarterly variable dividend and reduced the quarterly
fixed dividend to $0.03 per share.
The following table represents the regular fixed cash dividends on our common stock and variable cash
dividends approved by our Board of Directors based on 2024 results.
First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter
Year-to-Date
Fixed Dividends
$
0.12 $
0.12 $
0.03 $
0.03 $
0.30
Variable Dividends(1)
—
0.05
—
—
0.05
Total
$
0.12 $
0.17 $
0.03 $
0.03 $
0.35
__________
(1)
Variable Dividends were declared the quarter following the period of results. In October 2024, the variable dividend was suspended as a
result of transitioning away from the previously established shareholder return model.
Stock Repurchase Program
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares.
As of December 31, 2024, the Company’s remaining total share repurchase authority was $190 million. The
Board of Directors’ authorization permits the Company to make purchases of its common stock from time to time in
the open market and in privately negotiated transactions, subject to market conditions and other factors, up to the
aggregate amount authorized by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors’ authorization has no expiration
date.
The manner, timing and amount of any purchases will be determined based on our evaluation of market
conditions, stock price, compliance with outstanding agreements and other factors. Purchases may be commenced or
suspended at any time without notice and do not obligate the company to purchase shares during any period or at all.
Any shares repurchased are reflected as treasury stock and any shares acquired will be available for general
corporate purposes.
Capital Program
Refer to Part I—Items 1 and 2. — “Our Capital Program” for details.
94
Contractual Obligations
The following is a summary of our commitments and contractual obligations as of December 31, 2024:
Total
Less Than 1
Year
1-3
Years
3-5
Years
Thereafter
(in thousands)
Debt obligations:
2024 Revolver
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
—
2024 Term Loan(1)
450,000
45,000
405,000
—
—
2024 Term Loan Interest(2)
135,824
50,601
85,223
—
—
Other:
Leases
6,081
2,322
3,393
366
—
Asset retirement obligations(3)
202,283
17,000
—
—
185,283
Off-Balance Sheet arrangements:(4)
Transportation contracts(5)
71,870
11,626
16,722
16,166
27,356
GHG compliance purchase contracts(6)
18,981
18,981
—
—
—
Other purchase obligations(7)
17,100
8,400
8,700
—
—
Total contractual obligations
$
902,139
$
153,930
$
519,038
$
16,532
$
212,639
Payments Due
__________
(1)
Represents principal repayments on the 2024 Term Loan.
(2)
Represents estimated interest related to the 2024 Term Loan, assuming the same interest rate and borrowings as of December 31, 2024.
(3)
Represents the estimated future asset retirement obligations on a discounted basis. We do not show the long-term asset retirement
obligations by year as we are not able to precisely predict the timing of these amounts. Because these costs typically extend many years into
the future, estimating these future costs requirement management to make estimates and judgements that are subject to revisions based on
numerous factors, including the rate of inflation, changing technology, and changes to federal, state and local laws and regulations. See
Note 1, Basis of Presentation, in the Notes to Consolidated Financials in Part II— Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data”
for more information.
(4)
These commitments and contractual obligations are expected to be funded by our cash flow from operations.
(5)
Amounts include payments which will become due under long-term agreements to purchase goods and services used in the normal course of
business to secure pipeline transportation of natural gas to market and between markets. Processing contracts consist of $1.6 million in
2025 and $0.6 million in 2026. In February 2025, we extended four of our natural gas transportation agreements for a total of $8 million.
The extensions begin in November 2025 and run through October 2028.
(6)
We have entered into contracts to purchase GHG compliance instruments totaling $19 million.
(7)
Amounts include a drilling commitment in California, for which we are required to drill 57 wells with a minimum commitment of
$17.1 million by December 2026. In January 2025, the drilling commitment was amended to defer 28 of those wells to be drilled by
December 31, 2025 (previously required to be drilled by December 31, 2024), and the remaining 29 wells to be drilled by December 31,
2026 (previously required to be drilled by June 1,2025).
95
Acquisitions and Divestitures
Acquisitions in 2024
In April 2024, we purchased a 21% working interest in four, two-to-three mile lateral wellbores that were
completed and placed on production in the second quarter of 2024. These are adjacent to our existing operations in
Utah, and the results from these wells will be used to evaluate opportunities on our own acreage. The total purchase
price was approximately $10 million, subject to customary purchase price adjustments, which was reported as
capital expenditures.
During the second quarter of 2024, we purchased additional working interests in our Round Mountain field for
approximately $4 million.
In July 2024, we paid $20 million in deferred consideration for the acquisition of Macpherson Energy. No
additional payments are required.
In July 2024, we also completed the sale of CJWS’ storage facility in Ventura, California for approximately
$7 million in net cash proceeds for a gain of $5 million which is included in other operating (income) expenses on
the statement of operations.
In November 2024, we executed an agreement to exchange, on an equal value basis, certain of our oil, gas, and
mineral leasehold interests in Duchesne County, Utah, for that of another operator’s, also located in Duchesne
County, Utah. We received an approximately 17% working interest in three, three-mile DSUs in exchange for an
approximately 75% working interest in one, two-mile DSU.
Acquisitions in 2023
In September 2023, we completed the acquisition of Macpherson Energy, a privately held Kern County,
California operator. The total purchase price was approximately $70 million, subject to customary purchase price
adjustments. The transaction was structured such that approximately $53 million was paid at closing, including
purchase price adjustments, and approximately $20 million was paid in July 2024, subject to purchase price
adjustments.
Berry views this acquisition, in part, as a means of maintaining base production in a challenging regulatory
environment and an opportunity to grow production. As a result, a total of $35 million was reallocated from the
2023 capital expenditures budget to fund a portion of the purchase price, which enhanced Free Cash Flow in 2023,
and was used for this acquisition. A portion of the closing price was initially funded by drawing down the 2021 RBL
Facility, which was fully repaid in the fourth quarter of 2023.
We acquired Macpherson Energy because their assets are high-quality, low decline oil producing properties that
are closely located to existing Berry properties in rural Kern County, California. These assets also align with Berry’s
stated strategy of acquiring accretive, producing bolt-ons. Macpherson Energy is reported under the E&P business
segment.
Also in December 2023, we acquired additional highly synergistic working interests in Kern County, California,
for $33 million after purchase price adjustments. This transaction, supports our overall strategic plan to efficiently
maintain our California production. During 2023, we also acquired various oil and gas properties which consisted of
proved properties, for approximately $10 million in aggregate. Each of these acquisitions was accounted for as an
asset acquisition as substantially all of the fair value was concentrated in oil and gas property interests.
96
Statements of Cash Flows
The following is a comparative cash flow summary:
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Net cash:
Provided by operating activities
$
210,220
$
198,657
Used in investing activities
(105,556)
(175,272)
Used in financing activities
(79,463)
(64,800)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
$
25,201
$
(41,416)
Year Ended December 31,
Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities increased for the year ended December 31, 2024 by approximately $12
million when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase was primarily driven by a decrease in
lease operating expenses (especially lower fuel purchase costs), lower GHG costs, lower general and administrative
expenses (from lower payroll costs and no executive transition costs in 2024), partially offset by an increase in
derivatives settlements paid, a decrease in net margin from CJWS, a decrease in unhedged revenue (lower prices),
and a decrease in working capital.
Investing Activities
The following provides a comparative summary of cash flow from investing activities:
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Capital expenditures (1)
Capital expenditures
$
(102,352) $
(73,127)
Changes in capital expenditures accruals
(1,038)
(7,944)
Acquisitions, net of cash received
(9,621)
(94,201)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment and other
7,455
—
Net cash used in investing activities
$
(105,556) $
(175,272)
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Based on actual cash payments rather than accrual.
Cash used in investing activities decreased $70 million for the year ended December 31, 2024 when compared
to the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to lower acquisition activity in 2024 and cash proceeds from the
sale of CJWS’ storage facility in Ventura, California, offset by increased capital expenditures in 2024.
Financing Activities
Cash used in financing activities increased approximately $15 million for the year ended December 31, 2024
when compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to the year-over-year changes in long-term debt
and revolver borrowings and repayments, an increase in debt issuance costs related to the 2024 Term Loan and the
2024 Revolver and the deferred consideration payment for the Macpherson Acquisition, partially offset by a
decrease in dividends paid.
97
Lawsuits, Claims, Commitments and Contingencies
See Note 5, Lawsuits, Claims Commitments and Contingencies, in the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements in Part II—Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this report for details.
Balance Sheet Analysis
The changes in our balance sheet from December 31, 2023 to December 31, 2024 are discussed below.
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents
$
15,336
$
4,835
Restricted cash
$
14,700
$
—
Accounts receivable, net
$
77,630
$
86,918
Derivative instruments assets - current and long-term
$
16,223
$
10,751
Other current assets
$
37,451
$
43,759
Property, plant & equipment, net
$
1,320,380
$
1,406,612
Deferred income taxes asset - long-term
$
26,779
$
30,308
Other non-current assets
$
9,187
$
10,975
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
133,809
$
213,401
Derivative instruments liabilities - current and long-term
$
7,703
$
10,740
Current portion of long-term debt, net
$
45,000
$
—
Income taxes payable
$
1,368
$
—
Long-term debt
$
384,633
$
427,993
Deferred income taxes liability - long-term
$
1,612
$
2,344
Asset retirement obligation - long-term
$
185,283
$
176,578
Other non-current liabilities
$
27,642
$
5,126
Stockholders' equity
$
730,636
$
757,976
See “—Liquidity and Capital Resources” for discussions about the changes in cash and cash equivalents.
The $15 million increase in restricted cash is for funds set aside at year end 2024 as collateral for outstanding
letters of credit.
The $9 million decrease in accounts receivable was primarily attributable to lower revenues in the well
servicing segment as well as a decrease in sales prices for oil and gas from year-end 2023 to year-end 2024.
The $9 million increase in net derivatives, which includes both derivative assets and liabilities, is due to the
improved value of our net derivative asset of $9 million in 2024. Changes to mark-to-market derivative values at the
end of each period result from differences in the forward curve prices relative to the contract fixed prices, changes in
positions held and settlements received and paid throughout the periods.
The $6 million decrease in other current assets was primarily due to the usage of inventory in the 2024
development program.
The $86 million decrease in property, plant and equipment was largely due to depreciation expense of $151
million, impairment of $44 million, and a $2 million divestiture in the well servicing segment, offset by $102
million in capital investments and $10 million in acquisitions.
98
The $4 million decrease in deferred income taxes asset - long term was primarily due to the utilization of NOL’s
and tax credits.
The $2 million decrease in other non-current assets represents amortization of operating lease assets and
deferred financing costs.
The $80 million decrease in accounts payable and accrued expenses included a $30 million decrease in
greenhouse gas liabilities as a result of amounts reclassified to long-term liabilities as payments are due in more than
one year as well as payments made in 2024. Additional decreases included $19 million for the payment made in July
2024 related to the 2023 Macpherson Acquisition, $14 million of lower operating costs such as fuel gas purchases,
$11 million in decreased interest accruals, a $3 million decrease in the current portion of our asset retirement
obligation and a $2 million decrease in royalties payable due to decreased sales prices.
The $45 million increase in the current portion of long-term debt represents the mandatory amortization
requirement for 10% of the 2024 Term Loan principal.
The $43 million decrease in long-term debt is due to the new 2024 Term Loan, net of the current portion and
deferred debt issuance costs, offset by the extinguishment of the 2026 Notes and 2021 RBL Facility.
The $9 million increase in the long-term portion of the asset retirement obligation from $177 million at
December 31, 2023 to $185 million at December 31, 2024 was due to $6 million of liabilities for revisions of
estimates, $13 million of accretion, and $2 million of liabilities incurred. These increases were partially offset by
$14 million of liabilities settled during the period.
The $23 million increase in other non-current liabilities was primarily due to the obligation of greenhouse gas
allowances incurred in 2024 which are due in over one year .
The $27 million decrease in stockholders' equity was due to $49 million of common stock dividends declared,
and $5 million of shares withheld for payment of taxes on equity awards. These decreases were partially offset by
net income of $19 million and $8 million of stock-based compensation.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Adjusted EBITDA, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), Adjusted General and Administrative
Expenses and E&P Operating Costs
Adjusted EBITDA is not a measure of either net income (loss) or cash flow, Free Cash Flow is not a measure of
cash flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss) is not a measure of net income (loss), and Adjusted General and
Administrative Expenses is not a measure of general and administrative expenses, in all cases, as determined by
GAAP. Rather, Adjusted EBITDA, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted General and
Administrative Expenses are supplemental non-GAAP financial measures used by management and external users
of our financial statements, such as industry analysts, investors, lenders and rating agencies.
We define Adjusted EBITDA as earnings before interest expense; income taxes; depreciation, depletion, and
amortization; derivative gains or losses net of cash received or paid for scheduled derivative settlements;
impairments; stock compensation expense; and unusual and infrequent items. Our management believes Adjusted
EBITDA provides useful information in assessing our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows and is
widely used by the industry and the investment community. The measure also allows our management to more
effectively evaluate our operating performance and compare the results between periods without regard to our
financing methods or capital structure. We also use Adjusted EBITDA in planning our capital expenditure allocation
to sustain production levels and to determine our strategic hedging needs aside from the hedging requirements of the
2024 Term Loan.
99
We define Free Cash Flow as cash flow from operations less capital expenditures. We use Free Cash Flow as
the primary metric to measure our ability to pay dividends, pay down debt, repurchase stock, and make strategic
growth and bolt-on acquisitions. Management believes Free Cash Flow may be useful in an investor analysis of our
ability to generate cash from operating activities from our existing oil and gas asset base after capital expenditures
and to fund such activities. Free Cash Flow does not represent the total increase or decrease in our cash balance, and
it should not be inferred that the entire amount of Free Cash Flow is available for dividends, debt repayment, share
repurchases, strategic acquisitions or other growth opportunities, or other discretionary expenditures, since we have
mandatory debt service requirements and other non-discretionary expenditures that are not deducted from this
measure.
We define Adjusted Net Income (Loss) as net income (loss) adjusted for derivative gains or losses net of cash
received or paid for scheduled derivative settlements, unusual and infrequent items, and the income tax expense or
benefit of these adjustments using our statutory tax rate. Adjusted Net Income (Loss) excludes the impact of unusual
and infrequent items affecting earnings that vary widely and unpredictably, including non-cash items such as
derivative gains and losses. This measure is used by management when comparing results period over period. We
believe Adjusted Net Income (Loss) is useful to investors because it reflects how management evaluates the
Company’s ongoing financial and operating performance from period-to-period after removing certain transactions
and activities that affect comparability of the metrics and are not reflective of the Company’s core operations. We
believe this also makes it easier for investors to compare our period-to-period results with our peers.
We define Adjusted General and Administrative Expenses as general and administrative expenses adjusted for
non-cash stock compensation expense and unusual and infrequent costs. Management believes Adjusted General and
Administrative Expenses is useful because it allows us to more effectively compare our performance from period to
period. We believe Adjusted General and Administrative Expenses is useful to investors because it reflects how
management evaluates the Company’s ongoing general and administrative expenses from period-to-period after
removing non-cash stock compensation, as well as unusual or infrequent costs that affect comparability of the
metrics and are not reflective of the Company’s administrative costs. We believe this also makes it easier for
investors to compare our period-to-period results with our peers.
While Adjusted EBITDA, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted General and
Administrative Expenses are non-GAAP measures, the amounts included in the calculation of Adjusted EBITDA,
Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted General and Administrative Expenses were computed in
accordance with GAAP. These measures are provided in addition to, and not as an alternative for, income and
liquidity measures calculated in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as an alternative to, or more
meaningful than income and liquidity measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Certain items excluded from
Adjusted EBITDA are significant components in understanding and assessing our financial performance, such as our
cost of capital and tax structure, as well as the historic cost of depreciable and depletable assets. Our computations
of Adjusted EBITDA, Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted General and Administrative
Expenses may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other companies. Adjusted EBITDA,
Free Cash Flow, Adjusted Net Income (Loss), and Adjusted General and Administrative Expenses should be read in
conjunction with the information contained in our financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP.
100
The following tables present reconciliations of the GAAP financial measures of net income (loss) and net cash
provided (used) by operating activities to the non-GAAP financial measure of Adjusted EBITDA, as applicable, for
each of the periods indicated.
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation:
Net income
$
19,251
$
37,400
Add (Subtract):
Interest expense
39,035
35,412
Income tax expense
8,828
18,025
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
172,002
160,542
Impairment of oil and gas properties
43,980
—
Losses (gains) on derivatives
30,121
(13,620)
Net cash (paid) received for scheduled derivative settlements
(37,884)
5,895
Other operating (income)
(4,261)
(1,788)
Stock compensation expense
6,991
14,356
Acquisition costs(1)
4,982
3,338
Non-recurring costs(2)
1,653
8,697
Losses on debt retirement(3)
7,066
—
Adjusted EBITDA
$
291,764
$
268,257
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Includes legal and other professional expenses related to various transaction activities.
(2)
In 2024, non-recurring costs included the cost of various savings initiatives. In 2023, non-recurring costs included executive transition costs
and workforce reduction costs in the first quarter, and costs related to the settlement of shareholder litigation in the third quarter.
(3)
Includes expenses related to the retirement of the 2026 Notes, the 2021 RBL Facility and the 2022 ABL Facility, as well as financing
activities we terminated upon successful completion of the 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver.
101
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Adjusted EBITDA reconciliation:
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
210,220
$
198,657
Add (Subtract):
Cash interest payments
46,954
32,251
Cash income tax payments
3,428
3,282
Acquisition costs(1)
4,982
3,338
Non-recurring costs(2)
1,653
8,697
Changes in operating assets and liabilities - working capital(3)
25,766
25,654
Other operating (income) - cash portion(4)
(5,679)
(3,622)
Losses on debt retirement - cash portion(5)
4,440
—
Adjusted EBITDA
$
291,764
$
268,257
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Includes legal and other professional expenses related to various transaction activities.
(2)
In 2024, non-recurring costs included the cost of various savings initiatives. In 2023, non-recurring costs included executive transition costs
and workforce reduction costs in the first quarter, and costs related to the settlement of shareholder litigation in the third quarter.
(3)
Changes in other assets and liabilities consists of working capital and various immaterial items.
(4)
Represents the cash portion of other operating (income) expenses from the income statement, net of the non-cash portion in the cash flow
statement.
(5)
Includes expenses related to the financing activities we terminated upon successful completion of the 2024 Term Loan and the 2024
Revolver.
The following table presents a reconciliation of the GAAP financial measure of operating cash flow to the non-
GAAP financial measure of Free Cash Flow for each of the periods indicated.
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Free Cash Flow reconciliation:
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
210,220
$
198,657
Subtract:
Capital expenditures
(102,352)
(73,127)
Free Cash Flow
$
107,868
$
125,530
The following table presents a reconciliation of the GAAP financial measures of net income (loss) and net
income (loss) per share — diluted to the non-GAAP financial measures of Adjusted Net Income (Loss) and
Adjusted Net Income (Loss) per share — diluted for each of the periods indicated.
102
2024
2023
(in thousands)
per share - diluted
(in thousands)
per share - diluted
Adjusted Net Income reconciliation:
Net income
$
19,251 $
0.25 $
37,400 $
0.48
Add (Subtract):
Losses (gains) on derivatives
30,121
0.39
(13,620)
(0.18)
Net cash (paid) received for scheduled
derivative settlements
(37,884)
(0.49)
5,895
0.08
Other operating (income)
(4,261)
(0.05)
(1,788)
(0.01)
Impairment of oil and gas properties
43,980
0.57
—
—
Acquisition costs(1)
4,982
0.06
3,338
0.04
Non-recurring costs(2)
1,653
0.02
8,697
0.11
Losses on debt retirement(3)
7,066
0.09
—
—
Total additions, net
45,657
0.59
2,522
0.04
Income tax (expense) of adjustments(4)
(12,473)
(0.16)
(692)
(0.01)
Adjusted Net Income (Loss)
$
52,435 $
0.68 $
39,230 $
0.51
Basic EPS on Adjusted Net Income
$
0.68
$
0.52
Diluted EPS on Adjusted Net Income
$
0.68
$
0.51
Weighted average shares of common stock
outstanding - basic
76,769
76,038
Weighted average shares of common stock
outstanding - diluted
76,998
77,583
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Includes legal and other professional expenses related to various transaction activities.
(2)
In 2024, non-recurring costs included the cost of various savings initiatives. In 2023, non-recurring costs included executive transition costs
and workforce reduction costs in the first quarter, and costs related to the settlement of shareholder litigation in the third quarter.
(3)
Includes expenses related to the retirement of the 2026 Notes, the 2021 RBL Facility and the 2022 ABL Facility, as well as financing
activities we terminated upon successful completion of the 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver.
(4)
The federal and state statutory rates were utilized in 2024 and 2023.
103
The following table presents a reconciliation of the GAAP financial measure of general and administrative
expenses to the non-GAAP financial measure of Adjusted General and Administrative Expenses for each of the
periods indicated.
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Adjusted General and Administrative Expense reconciliation:
General and administrative expenses
$
76,615 $
95,873
Subtract:
Non-cash stock compensation expense (G&A portion)
(6,190)
(13,681)
Non-recurring costs(1)
(1,653)
(8,697)
Adjusted general and administrative expenses
$
68,772 $
73,495
Well servicing and abandonment services segment
$
9,749 $
11,171
E&P segment, and corporate
$
59,023 $
62,324
E&P segment, and corporate ($/boe)
$
6.35 $
6.73
Total mboe
9,291
9,258
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
In 2024, non-recurring costs included the cost of various savings initiatives. In 2023, non-recurring costs included executive transition costs
and workforce reduction costs in the first quarter, and costs related to the settlement of shareholder litigation in the third quarter.
Overall, management assesses the efficiency of our E&P operations by considering core E&P operating costs.
The substantial majority of such costs is our lease operating expenses (“LOE”) which includes fuel gas, purchased
power, labor, field office, vehicle, supervision, maintenance, tools and supplies, and workover expenses. A core
component of our E&P operations in California is steam, which we use to lift heavy oil to the surface. The most
significant cost component of generating steam is the fuel gas purchased to operate traditional steam generators and
our cogeneration facilities.
The following table includes key components of our LOE as well as the gas purchase hedge effect of the fuel
used in our steam generation. Energy LOE consists of the costs to generate the steam and electricity we produce and
use in our operations and the power we purchase for our E&P operations. Non-energy LOE consists of all remaining
LOE costs. Energy LOE - hedged includes the realized (cash settled) hedge effects on the fuel gas we purchase.
LOE - hedged includes the realized (cash settled) hedge effects on our total LOE.
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Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2024
2023
(in thousands)
(per boe)
Energy LOE - unhedged
$
104,125
$
195,893
$
11.21
$
21.16
Non-energy LOE
121,699
120,833
13.10
13.05
Lease operating expenses(1)
225,824
316,726
24.31
34.21
Gas purchase hedges - realized
24,400
(34,812)
2.63
(3.76)
Lease operating expenses - hedged
$
250,224
$
281,914
$
26.94
$
30.45
Energy LOE - unhedged
$
104,125
$
195,893
$
11.21
$
21.16
Gas purchase hedges - realized
24,400
(34,812)
2.63
(3.76)
Energy LOE - hedged
$
128,525
$
161,081
$
13.84
$
17.40
__________
(1) Lease operating expenses (“LOE”) is also referred to as LOE - unhedged.
Energy LOE - hedged and LOE - hedged are not complete measures of our operating costs. These are
supplemental non-GAAP financial measures used by management and external users of our financial statements,
such as industry analysts, investors, lenders and rating agencies. Our management believes Energy LOE - hedged
and LOE - hedged provide useful information in assessing our operating costs and results of operations and are used
by the industry and the investment community. These measures also allow our management to more effectively
evaluate our operating performance and compare the results between periods.
While Energy LOE - hedged and LOE - hedged are non-GAAP measures, the amounts included in the
calculation of these measures were computed in accordance with GAAP. These measures are provided in addition
to, and not as an alternative for, operating costs in accordance with GAAP and should not be considered as an
alternative to, or more meaningful than cost measures calculated in accordance with GAAP. Our computations of
Energy LOE - hedged and LOE - hedged may not be comparable to other similarly titled measures used by other
companies. Energy LOE - hedged and LOE - hedged should be read in conjunction with the information contained
in our financial statements prepared in accordance with GAAP.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The process of preparing financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
(“GAAP”) requires management to select appropriate accounting policies and to make informed estimates and
judgments regarding certain items and transactions. Changes in facts and circumstances or discovery of new
information may result in revised estimates and judgments, and actual results may differ from these estimates upon
settlement. We consider the following to be our most critical accounting policies and estimates that involve
management’s judgment and that could result in a material impact on the financial statements due to the levels of
subjectivity and judgment.
Oil and Natural Gas Properties
Proved Properties
We account for oil and natural gas properties in accordance with the successful efforts method. Under this
method, all acquisition and development costs of proved properties are capitalized, grouped by field, and amortized
over the remaining life of the associated proved reserves. Costs of retired, sold or abandoned properties that
constitute a part of an amortization base are charged or credited, net of proceeds, to accumulated depreciation,
depletion and amortization unless doing so significantly affects the unit-of-production amortization rate, in which
case a gain or loss is recognized in the current period. Gains or losses from the disposal of other properties are
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recognized in the current period. For assets acquired, we base the capitalized cost on fair value at the acquisition
date. We expense expenditures for maintenance and repairs necessary to maintain properties in operating condition,
as well as annual lease rentals, as they are incurred. Estimated dismantlement and abandonment costs are capitalized
at their estimated net present value and amortized over the remaining lives of the related assets. Interest is
capitalized only during the periods in which these assets are brought to their intended use. We only capitalize the
interest on borrowed funds related to our share of costs associated with qualifying capital expenditures.
We evaluate the impairment of our proved oil and natural gas properties generally on a field-by-field basis or at
the lowest level for which cash flows are identifiable, whenever events or changes in circumstance indicate that the
carrying value may not be recoverable. We reduce the carrying values of proved properties to fair value when the
expected undiscounted future cash flows are less than net book value. We measure the fair values of proved
properties using valuation techniques consistent with the income approach, converting future cash flows to a single
discounted amount. Significant inputs used to determine the fair values of proved properties include estimates of: (i)
reserves; (ii) future operating and development costs; (iii) future commodity prices; and (iv) a risk-adjusted discount
rate. These inputs require significant judgments and estimates by our management at the time of the valuation.
The most significant financial statement effect from a change in our oil and gas reserves or impairment of its
proved properties would be to the DD&A rate. For example, a 5% increase or decrease in the amount of oil and gas
reserves would change the DD&A rate by approximately $0.81 per mmboe, which would increase or decrease pre-
tax income by approximately $8 million annually at current production rates.
In addition, the underlying commodity prices are embedded in our estimated cash flows and are the product of a
process that begins with the relevant forward curve pricing, adjusted for estimated location and quality differentials,
as well as other factors our management believes will impact realizable prices. The fair value was estimated using
inputs characteristic of a Level 3 fair value measurement.
Unproved Properties
A portion of the carrying value of our oil and gas properties was attributable to unproved properties. At
December 31, 2024 and 2023, the net capitalized costs attributable to unproved properties were approximately $204
million and $248 million, respectively. The unproved amounts were not subject to depreciation, depletion and
amortization until they were classified as proved properties and amortized on a unit-of-production basis. If the
exploration and development work were to be unsuccessful, or management decided not to pursue development of
these properties as a result of lower commodity prices, higher development and operating costs, contractual
conditions, adverse change in regulatory environment or other factors, the capitalized costs of such properties would
be expensed. The timing of any write-downs of unproved properties, if warranted, depends upon management’s
plans, the nature, timing and extent of future exploration and development activities and their results. We believe our
current plans and exploration and development efforts will allow us to realize the carrying value of our unproved
property balance at December 31, 2024.
Impairment
At the end of each quarter, management assesses the carrying value of the proved oil and gas properties for
impairment by considering changes in proved reserve quantities, oil and natural gas prices, operating costs, capital
costs, and future drilling plans. Management also assesses on a quarterly basis whether or not events and
circumstances indicate that unproved costs are no longer subject to evaluation, indicating an impairment. In June
2024, California Senate Bill No. 1137 (“SB 1137”) went into effect. This Bill prohibits California’s regulatory
agency from permitting any new wells, or the rework of existing wells, if the proposed new drill or rework is within
3,200 feet of certain sensitive receptors such as homes, schools or parks. When SB 1137 went into effect in the
second quarter of 2024, we identified a triggering event that required assessment with respect to our proved and
unproved oil and gas properties. This event also triggered the reassessment of the DD&A rate of certain proved
properties, which was adjusted as of the triggering event date. This legislation impacts our ability to develop proved
undeveloped reserves and our unproved acreage as planned. Our assessment of the triggering event for proved
property impairment did not indicate that after consideration of the impact of SB 1137 it was more likely than not
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that the associated costs would not be recoverable as of June 30, 2024. We believe our current plans and exploration
and development efforts will allow us to realize the carrying value of our proved property balance. Our assessment
of the triggering event for unproved property cost impairment indicated, however, that portions of our capitalized
unproved costs were no longer subject to evaluation given their proximity to sensitive receptors, which eliminated
our ability to develop the acreage in the future. Consequently, we recorded a non-cash pre-tax asset impairment
charge of $44 million, $33 million after-tax on unproved oil and gas properties in certain California locations during
the second quarter of 2024. The impairment represented approximately 2% of our total oil and natural gas properties
in the E&P segment as of the impairment date.
As of December 31, 2024, no additional triggering events were identified for proved or unproved property costs.
However, if we experience further decline in price, reduction in reserve quantities, including due to a change in
development plans or regulatory rulings that impact us negatively, the carrying value of these proved oil and gas
properties could become partially or entirely impaired.
Acquisition Purchase Price Allocations
We account for acquisitions of businesses using the acquisition method of accounting, which requires the
allocation of the purchase price consideration based on the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired. We
estimate the fair values of the assets and liabilities acquired using accepted valuation methods, and, in many cases,
such estimates are based on our judgments as to the future operating cash flows expected to be generated from the
acquired assets throughout their estimated useful lives. We accounted for the various assets and liabilities acquired
and issued as consideration based on our estimates of their fair values. Our estimates and judgments of the fair value
of acquired businesses could prove to be inexact, and the use of inaccurate fair value estimates could result in the
improper allocation of the acquisition purchase price consideration to acquired assets and liabilities, which could
result in asset impairments, the recording of previously unrecorded liabilities, and other financial statement
adjustments. The difficulty in estimating the fair values of acquired assets and liabilities is increased during periods
of economic uncertainty.
Asset Retirement Obligation
We recognize the value of asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) in the period in which a determination is made
that a legal obligation exists to dismantle an asset and remediate the property at the end of its useful life and the cost
of the obligation can be reasonably estimated.
The liability amounts are based on future retirement cost estimates and incorporate many assumptions such as
time to abandonment, technological changes, future inflation rates and the risk-adjusted discount rate. When the
liability is initially recorded, we capitalize the cost by increasing the related property, plant and equipment
(“PP&E”) balances. If the estimated future costs of the AROs changes, we record an adjustment to both the ARO
and PP&E. Over time, the liability is increased, expense is recognized through accretion, and the capitalized cost is
depreciated over the useful life of the asset. If the liability is settled for an amount other than the recorded amount, a
gain or loss is recognized.
A sensitivity analysis of the ARO impact on earnings is not practicable, given the broad range of our long lived
assets and the number of assumptions involved in the estimates. Favorable changes to some assumptions would have
reduced estimated future obligations, which in turn would lower accretion expense and amortization costs, whereas
unfavorable changes would have the opposite effect.
Fair Value Measurements
We have categorized our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value in a three-level fair value
hierarchy, based on the inputs to the valuation techniques: Level 1—using quoted prices in active markets for the
assets or liabilities; Level 2—using observable inputs other than quoted prices for the assets or liabilities; and Level
3—using unobservable inputs. Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the end of each reporting period.
We primarily apply the market approach for recurring fair value measurement, maximize our use of observable
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inputs and minimize use of unobservable inputs. We generally use an income approach to measure fair value when
observable inputs are unavailable. This approach utilizes management’s judgments regarding expectations of
projected cash flows and discounts those cash flows using a risk-adjusted discount rate.
We determine the fair value of our oil and gas sales and natural gas purchase derivatives and emission
allowances required by California’s cap-and-trade program using valuation techniques which utilize market quotes
and pricing analysis. Inputs include publicly available prices and forward price curves generated from a compilation
of data gathered from third parties. We classify these measurements as Level 2.
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CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The information in this report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the
Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. You can typically identify forward-looking statements by
words such as aim, anticipate, achievable, believe, budget, continue, could, effort, estimate, expect, forecast, goal,
guidance, intend, likely, may, might, objective, outlook, plan, potential, predict, project, seek, should, target, will or
would and other similar words that reflect the prospective nature of events or outcomes. All statements other than
statements of historical facts included in this report that address plans, activities, events, objectives, goals, strategies
or developments that we expect, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future, such as those regarding our
financial position, liquidity, cash flows (including, but not limited to, Free Cash Flow), financial and operating
results, capital program and development and production plans, operations and business strategy, potential
acquisition and other strategic opportunities, reserves, hedging activities, capital expenditures, return of capital,
future repurchases of stock or debt, capital investments, our ESG strategy and the initiation of new projects or
business in connection therewith, recovery factors and other guidance, are forward-looking statements. Actual
results may differ from anticipated results, sometimes materially, and reported results should not be considered an
indication of future performance. For any such forward-looking statement that includes a statement of the
assumptions or bases underlying such forward-looking statement, we caution that, while we believe such
assumptions or bases to be reasonable and make them in good faith, assumed facts or bases almost always vary from
actual results, sometimes materially. Therefore, such forward-looking statements involve significant risks and
uncertainties that could materially affect our expected financial position, financial and operating results, liquidity,
cash flows (including, but not limited to, Free Cash Flow) and business prospects. Material risks that may affect us
are discussed above in Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in this Annual Report.
Factors (but not all the factors) that could cause results to differ include among others:
•
the regulatory environment, including availability or timing of, and conditions imposed on, obtaining and/
or maintaining permits and approvals, including those necessary for drilling and/or development projects;
•
the impact of current, pending and/or future laws and regulations, and of legislative and regulatory changes
and other government activities, including those related to permitting, drilling, completion, well
stimulation, operation, maintenance or abandonment of wells or facilities, managing energy, water, land,
greenhouse gases or other emissions, protection of health, safety and the environment, or transportation,
marketing and sale of our products;
•
volatility of oil, natural gas and NGL prices, including as a result of political instability, armed conflicts or
economic sanctions;
•
inflation levels and government efforts to reduce inflation, including related interest rate determinations;
•
overall domestic and global political and economic trends, geopolitical risks and general economic and
industry conditions, such as inflation, high interest rates, increased volatility in financial and credit markets,
global supply chain disruptions, government interventions into the financial markets and economy and
volatility related to recent and upcoming elections in the United States and other major economies;
•
the imposition of tariffs or trade or other economic sanctions, political instability or armed conflict in oil
and gas producing regions, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the ongoing conflict in the Middle
East, or a prolonged recession, among other factors;
•
supply of and demand for oil, natural gas and NGLs, including due to the actions of foreign producers,
importantly including OPEC+ and change in OPEC+'s production levels;
•
the California and global energy future, including the factors and trends that are expected to shape it, such
as concerns about climate change and other air quality issues, the transition to a low-emission economy and
the expected role of different energy sources;
•
concerns about climate change and air quality issues;
•
price fluctuations and availability of natural gas and electricity and the cost of steam;
109
•
disruptions to, capacity constraints in, or other limitations on the pipeline systems that deliver our oil and
natural gas and other processing and transportation considerations;
•
our ability to recruit and/or retain key members of our senior management and key technical employees;
•
competition and consolidation in the oil and gas E&P industry;
•
our ability to replace our reserves through exploration and development activities or acquisitions;
•
our ability to make acquisitions and successfully integrate any acquired businesses;
•
information technology failures or cyberattacks;
•
inability to generate sufficient cash flow from operations or to obtain adequate financing to fund capital
expenditures, meet our working capital requirements or fund planned investments;
•
our ability to satisfy our debt obligations and comply with all covenants, agreements and conditions under
our 2024 Term Loan and our 2024 Revolver;
•
our ability to use derivative instruments to manage commodity price risk;
•
the creditworthiness and performance of our counterparties with respect to our hedges;
•
our ability to meet our planned drilling schedule, including due to our ability to obtain permits on a timely
basis or at all, and to successfully drill wells that produce oil and natural gas in commercially viable
quantities;
•
uncertainties associated with estimating proved reserves and related future cash flows;
•
drilling and production results, lower–than–expected production, reserves or resources from development
projects or higher–than–expected decline rates;
•
our ability to obtain timely and available drilling and completion equipment and crew availability and
access to necessary resources for drilling, completing and operating wells;
•
changes in tax laws;
•
uncertainties and liabilities associated with acquired and divested assets;
•
risks related to the acquisitions, including the risk that we may fail to successfully integrate the assets into
our operations, identify risks or liabilities associated with the acquired entity, its operations or assets, or
realize any anticipated benefits or growth;
•
asset impairments from commodity price declines, regulatory changes, permitting delays or other factors;
•
large or multiple customer defaults on contractual obligations, including defaults resulting from actual or
potential insolvencies;
•
geographical concentration of our operations;
•
impact of derivatives legislation affecting our ability to hedge;
•
failure of risk management and ineffectiveness of internal controls;
•
catastrophic events, including wildfires, earthquakes, floods, and epidemics or pandemics, including the
effects of related public health concerns and the impact of actions that may be taken by governmental
authorities and other third parties in response to a pandemic;
•
environmental risks and liabilities under federal, state, tribal and local laws and regulations (including
remedial actions);
•
potential liability resulting from pending or future litigation; and
•
governmental actions and political conditions, as well as actions by other third parties that are beyond our
control.
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Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made. Except as required
by law, we undertake no responsibility to correct or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of
new information, future events or otherwise except as required by applicable law.
All forward-looking statements, expressed or implied, included in this report are expressly qualified in their
entirety by this cautionary statement. This cautionary statement should also be considered in connection with any
subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements that we or persons acting on our behalf may issue.
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Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
Our primary market risks are attributable to fluctuations in commodity prices and interest rates, which can affect
our business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows. The following should be read in conjunction with
the financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report. The Company continually monitors its
market risk exposure, including the imposition of tariffs or trade or other economic sanctions, political instability or
armed conflict, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the Israel-Hamas conflict, inflation levels and
government efforts to reduce inflation or a prolonged recession.
Price Risk
Our most significant market risk relates to prices for oil, natural gas, and NGLs. Management expects energy
prices to remain unpredictable and potentially volatile. As energy prices decline or rise significantly, revenues,
certain costs such as fuel gas, and cash flows are likewise affected. Additional non-cash impairment charges for our
oil and gas properties may be required if commodity prices experience significant decline.
We have historically hedged a large portion of our expected crude oil and our natural gas production, as well as
our natural gas purchase requirements to reduce exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices. We use derivatives
such as swaps, calls, puts and collars to hedge. We do not enter into derivative contracts for speculative trading
purposes and we have not accounted for our derivatives as cash-flow or fair-value hedges. We continuously consider
the level of our oil production and gas purchases that is appropriate to hedge based on a variety of factors, including,
among other things, current and future expected commodity prices, our expected capital and operating costs, our
overall risk profile, including leverage, size and scale, as well as any requirements for, or restrictions on, levels of
hedging contained in any credit facility or other debt instrument applicable at the time.
We determine the fair value of our oil and gas sales and natural gas purchase derivatives and emission
allowances required by California’s cap-and-trade program using valuation techniques which utilize market quotes
and pricing analysis. Inputs include publicly available prices and forward price curves generated from a compilation
of data gathered from third parties. We validate data provided by third parties by understanding the valuation inputs
used, obtaining market values from other pricing sources, analyzing pricing data in certain situations and confirming
that those instruments trade in active markets.
At December 31, 2024, the fair value of our hedge positions was a net asset of less than $9 million. A 10%
increase in the oil and natural gas index prices above the December 31, 2024 prices would result in a net liability of
approximately $87 million; conversely, a 10% decrease in the oil and natural gas index prices below the December
31, 2024 prices would result in a net asset of approximately $132 million. For additional information about
derivative activity, see Note 4, Derivatives, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II— Item
8. “Financials Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report.
Actual gains or losses recognized related to our derivative contracts depend exclusively on the price of the
underlying commodities on the specified settlement dates provided by the derivative contracts. Additionally, we
cannot be assured that our counterparties will be able to perform under our derivative contracts. If a counterparty
fails to perform and the derivative arrangement is terminated, our cash flows could be negatively impacted.
At December 31, 2024, the fair value of our emission allowances required by California’s cap-and-trade
program was $16 million. A 10% increase or decrease in the market price would result in a change in expense by
approximately $2 million.
Credit Risk
Our credit risk relates primarily to trade and other receivables and derivative financial instruments. Credit
exposure for each customer is monitored for outstanding balances and current activity. Trade receivables for all
commodities are collected within 30 to 60 days following the month of delivery. For derivative instruments entered
into as part of our hedging program, we are subject to counterparty credit risk to the extent the counterparty is
112
unable to meet its settlement commitments. We actively manage this credit risk by selecting customers and
counterparties that we believe to be financially strong and continue to monitor their financial health. Concentration
of credit risk is regularly reviewed to ensure that customer and counterparty credit risk is adequately diversified.
We had three commodity derivative counterparties at December 31, 2024 compared to six at December 31,
2023. We did not receive collateral from any of our counterparties. We minimize the credit risk of our derivative
instruments by limiting our exposure to any single counterparty. In addition, our 2024 Term Loan and the 2024
Revolver prevent us from entering into hedging arrangements that are secured, except with our lenders and their
affiliates; or with a non-lender counterparty that does not have an A or A2 credit rating or better from Standard &
Poor’s or Moody’s, respectively. In accordance with our standard practice, our commodity derivatives are subject to
counterparty netting under agreements governing such derivatives and therefore the risk of loss due to counterparty
nonperformance is somewhat mitigated. Considering these factors together, we believe exposure to credit losses
related to our business at December 31, 2024 was not material and losses associated with credit risk have not been
material for all periods presented.
Interest Rate Risk
We are subject to market risk exposure related to changes in interest rates on borrowings under the 2024 Term
Loan and the 2024 Revolver. As of December 31, 2024, we had $450 million borrowed under our 2024 Term Loan
at a variable rate, $32 million available (no borrowings) from the delayed draw provision on our 2024 Term Loan,
and $63 million available (no borrowings) under our 2024 Revolver at a variable rate. Assuming a constant
borrowing level under the 2024 Term Loan, an increase in the interest rate of 1% would result in an annual increase
in interest expense of $4.5 million. See Note 3, Debt, in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II
—Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report for additional information
regarding interest rates on our outstanding debt.
113
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
Page
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm .....................................................................
115
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023 ....................................
118
Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 .........
119
Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and
2022 .......................................................................................................................................................
120
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 ........
121
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements .............................................................................................
122
Supplemental Oil & Natural Gas Data (Unaudited) ..................................................................................
158
114
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Stockholders and Board of Directors Berry Corporation (bry):
Opinions on the Consolidated Financial Statements and Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Berry Corporation (bry) and subsidiaries (the
Company) as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’
equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2024, and the related notes
(collectively, the consolidated financial statements). We also have audited the Company’s internal control over
financial reporting as of December 31, 2024, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated
Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the
financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2024 and 2023, and the results of its operations and its cash
flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2024, in conformity with U.S. generally
accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective
internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 based on criteria established in Internal Control –
Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
Basis for Opinions
The Company’s management is responsible for these consolidated financial statements, for maintaining effective
internal control over financial reporting, and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial
reporting, included in the accompanying Management's Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
and Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the
Company’s consolidated financial statements and an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial
reporting based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting
Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB) and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in
accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and
Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and
perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of
material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud, and whether effective internal control over financial reporting
was maintained in all material respects.
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements included performing procedures to assess the risks of material
misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that
respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and
disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the
consolidated financial statements. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an
understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and
testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our
audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe
that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.
Definition and Limitations of Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting
115
includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail,
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable
assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made
only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable
assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s
assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements.
Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may
deteriorate.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the current period audit of the consolidated
financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that: (1)
relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the consolidated financial statements and (2) involved our
especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of a critical audit matter does not
alter in any way our opinion on the consolidated financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by
communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the
accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
Estimate of proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities used in the depletion of proved oil and natural gas
properties
As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company calculates depletion for its proved
oil and natural gas properties using a unit-of-production method. Under this method, capitalized acquisition and
development costs of proved oil and natural gas properties are amortized over estimated proved oil and natural
gas reserve quantities. The estimation of proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities requires the expertise of
petroleum engineering specialists. The Company engages an independent petroleum engineering firm to
estimate proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities, who are assisted by the Company’s internal engineers.
The Company recorded depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense of $172 million for the year ended
December 31, 2024, primarily comprised of depletion expense.
We identified the evaluation of the estimate of proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities used in the depletion
of proved oil and natural gas properties as a critical audit matter. Complex auditor judgment was required to
evaluate the key assumptions of the future production quantities and reserve classification used in the
Company’s estimate of proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities. Significant changes to these assumptions
could impact the depletion of proved oil and natural gas properties.
The following are the primary procedures we performed to address this critical audit matter. We evaluated the
design and tested the operating effectiveness of certain internal controls over the Company’s depletion process,
including controls related to determination of the future production quantities and reserve classification
assumptions used by the Company to estimate proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities. We evaluated (1)
the professional qualifications of the Company’s internal engineers, independent petroleum engineers and
independent petroleum engineering firm, (2) the knowledge, skill, and ability of the Company’s internal
engineers and independent petroleum engineers, and (3) the relationship of the independent petroleum engineers
and independent petroleum engineering firm to the Company. We analyzed and assessed the determination of
depletion expense for compliance with industry and regulatory standards. To assess the Company’s ability to
accurately estimate future production quantities, we compared the estimated future production quantities used
by the Company in prior periods to actual production quantities. We analyzed the estimated future production
quantities used by the Company in the current period against current actual production rates. We assessed
116
compliance of the methodology used by the Company’s independent petroleum engineering firm to estimate
and classify proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities with industry and regulatory standards. We read and
considered the report of the Company’s independent petroleum engineering firm in connection with our
evaluation of the Company’s estimate of proved oil and natural gas reserve quantities.
/s/ KPMG LLP
We have served as the Company’s auditor since 2013.
Dallas, Texas
March 13, 2025
117
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents
$
15,336
$
4,835
Restricted cash
14,700
—
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $655 at
December 31, 2024 and 2023, respectively
77,630
86,918
Derivative instruments
4,526
5,288
Other current assets
37,451
43,759
Total current assets
149,643
140,800
Noncurrent assets:
Oil and natural gas properties
1,975,456
1,906,134
Accumulated depletion and amortization
(735,304)
(592,621)
Total oil and natural gas properties, net
1,240,152
1,313,513
Other property and equipment
171,303
167,767
Accumulated depreciation
(91,075)
(74,668)
Total other property and equipment, net
80,228
93,099
Deferred income tax assets
26,779
30,308
Derivative instruments
11,697
5,463
Other noncurrent assets
9,187
10,975
Total assets
$
1,517,686
$
1,594,158
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
133,809
$
213,401
Derivative instruments
7,703
9,781
Current portion of long-term debt, net
45,000
—
Income taxes payable
1,368
—
Total current liabilities
187,880
223,182
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt
384,633
427,993
Derivative instruments
—
959
Deferred income tax liabilities
1,612
2,344
Asset retirement obligation
185,283
176,578
Other noncurrent liabilities
27,642
5,126
Commitments and Contingencies - Note 5
Stockholders' Equity:
Common stock ($0.001 par value; 750,000,000 shares authorized; 88,942,805
and 87,671,241 shares issued; and 76,938,994 and 75,667,430 shares
outstanding, at December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively)
89
88
Additional paid-in capital
787,953
819,157
Treasury stock, at cost (12,003,811 shares at December 31, 2024 and December
31, 2023, respectively)
(113,768)
(113,768)
Retained earnings
56,362
52,499
Total stockholders' equity
730,636
757,976
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity
$
1,517,686
$
1,594,158
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
(in thousands, except share amounts)
ASSETS
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
118
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands, except per share amounts)
Revenues and other:
Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid sales
$
647,494
$
669,110
$
842,449
Services revenue
111,857
178,554
181,400
Electricity sales
15,606
15,277
30,833
(Losses) gains on oil and gas sales derivatives
(7,340)
40,006
(137,109)
Marketing and other revenues
8,884
513
768
Total revenues and other
776,501
903,460
918,341
Expenses and other:
Lease operating expenses
225,824
316,726
302,321
Costs of services
96,143
141,771
142,819
Electricity generation expenses
4,447
7,079
21,839
Transportation expenses
4,552
4,486
4,564
Marketing expenses
8,100
—
299
Acquisition costs
4,982
3,338
—
General and administrative expenses
76,615
95,873
96,439
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
172,002
160,542
156,847
Impairment of oil and gas properties
43,980
—
—
Taxes, other than income taxes
47,212
57,973
39,495
Losses (gains) on natural gas purchase derivatives
22,781
26,386
(88,795)
Other operating (income) expenses
(4,261)
(1,788)
3,722
Losses on debt retirement
7,066
—
—
Total expenses and other
709,443
812,386
679,550
Other (expenses) income:
Interest expense
(39,035)
(35,412)
(30,917)
Other, net
56
(237)
(142)
Total other expenses
(38,979)
(35,649)
(31,059)
Income before income taxes
28,079
55,425
207,732
Income tax expense (benefit)
8,828
18,025
(42,436)
Net income
$
19,251
$
37,400
$
250,168
Net income per share:
Basic
$
0.25
$
0.49
$
3.19
Diluted
$
0.25
$
0.48
$
3.03
Year Ended December 31,
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
119
(in thousands)
December 31, 2021
$
86
$ 912,471
$ (52,436) $
(167,473) $ 692,648
Shares withheld for payment of taxes on equity awards
—
(4,136)
—
—
(4,136)
Stock-based compensation
—
17,762
—
—
17,762
Purchase of treasury stock
—
—
(51,303)
—
(51,303)
Dividends declared on common stock, $1.34/share
—
(104,654)
—
—
(104,654)
Net income
—
—
—
250,168
250,168
December 31, 2022
86
821,443
(103,739)
82,695
800,485
Shares withheld for payment of taxes on equity awards
—
(6,916)
—
—
(6,916)
Stock-based compensation
—
15,223
—
—
15,223
Issuance of common stock
2
—
—
—
2
Purchase of treasury stock
—
—
(10,029)
—
(10,029)
Dividends declared on common stock, $0.97/share
—
(10,593)
—
(67,596)
(78,189)
Net income
—
—
—
37,400
37,400
December 31, 2023
88
819,157
(113,768)
52,499
757,976
Shares withheld for payment of taxes on equity awards
—
(5,257)
—
—
(5,257)
Stock-based compensation
—
7,693
—
—
7,693
Issuance of common stock
1
—
—
—
1
Dividends declared on common stock, $0.58/share
—
(33,640)
—
(15,388)
(49,028)
Net income
—
—
—
19,251
19,251
December 31, 2024
$
89
$ 787,953
$ (113,768) $
56,362
$ 730,636
Common
Stock
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
(Accumulated
Deficit)
Total
Equity
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
120
Cash flow from operating activities:
Net income
$
19,251
$
37,400
$
250,168
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
172,002
160,542
156,847
Amortization of debt issuance costs
2,957
2,636
2,590
Impairment of oil and gas properties
43,980
—
—
Stock-based compensation expense
6,991
14,356
16,973
Deferred income taxes
2,797
15,813
(45,566)
(Decrease) in allowance for doubtful accounts
—
(211)
—
Other operating expenses, net
1,418
1,834
160
Losses on debt retirement
2,626
—
—
Derivatives activities:
Total losses (gains)
30,121
(13,620)
48,314
Cash settlements (paid) received on derivatives
(34,617)
5,895
(88,023)
Changes in assets and liabilities:
Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable
9,337
30,197
(15,409)
Decrease in other assets
5,595
1,002
6,725
(Decrease) increase in accounts payable and accrued expenses
(50,693)
(39,122)
36,100
(Decrease) in other liabilities
(1,545)
(18,065)
(7,938)
Net cash provided by operating activities
210,220
198,657
360,941
Cash flow from investing activities:
Capital expenditures:
Capital expenditures
(102,352)
(73,127)
(152,921)
Changes in capital expenditures accruals
(1,038)
(7,944)
14,286
Acquisitions, net of cash received
(9,621)
(94,201)
(25,917)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment and other
7,455
—
—
Net cash used in investing activities
(105,556)
(175,272)
(164,552)
Cash flow from financing activities:
Borrowings under RBL credit facility
627,500
538,000
247,000
Repayments on RBL credit facility
(658,500)
(507,000)
(247,000)
Borrowings under 2022 ABL credit facility
1,000
—
2,000
Repayments on 2022 ABL credit facility
(1,000)
—
(2,000)
Dividends paid on common stock
(49,028)
(78,190)
(109,455)
Payment of deferred acquisition payable
(20,000)
—
—
Payment on extinguishment of debt
(400,000)
—
—
Proceeds from issuance of 2024 Term Loan, net of related costs
432,163
—
—
Purchase of treasury stock
—
(10,029)
(51,303)
Shares withheld for payment of taxes on equity awards and other
(5,257)
(6,916)
(4,136)
Debt issuance costs
(6,341)
(665)
(528)
Net cash used in financing activities
(79,463)
(64,800)
(165,422)
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash
25,201
(41,416)
30,967
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash:
Beginning
4,835
46,250
15,283
Ending
$
30,036
$
4,835
$
46,250
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
121
Note 1—Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies
“Berry Corp.” refers to Berry Corporation (bry), a Delaware corporation, which is the sole member of each of
its Delaware limited liability company subsidiaries: (1) Berry Petroleum Company, LLC (“Berry LLC”), which
owns Macpherson Energy, LLC and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Macpherson Energy”); (2) CJ Berry Well
Services Management, LLC (“C&J Management”) and (3) C&J Well Services, LLC (“C&J”), (“C&J,” together with
C&J Management, “CJWS”). As the context may require, “Berry,” the “Company,” “we,” “our” or similar words in
this report refer to, Berry Corp., together with its and their subsidiaries, Berry LLC, C&J Management and C&J.
Nature of Business
We are a value-driven western United States independent upstream energy company with a focus on onshore,
low geologic risk, low decline, long-lived oil and gas reserves. We operate in two business segments: (i) exploration
and production (“E&P”) and (ii) well servicing and abandonment services. Our E&P assets are located in California
and Utah, are characterized by high oil content and are predominantly located in rural areas with low population.
Our California assets are in the San Joaquin Basin (100% oil), and our Utah assets are in the Uinta Basin (65% oil).
We provide our well servicing and abandonment services to third party operators in California and our California
E&P operations through C&J Well Services (CJWS).
Principles of Consolidation and Reporting
The consolidated financial statements were prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting
principles (“GAAP”), which requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts
reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. We eliminated all significant intercompany
transactions and balances upon consolidation. For oil and gas E&P joint ventures in which we have a direct working
interest, we account for our proportionate share of assets, liabilities, revenue, expense and cash flows within the
relevant lines of the financial statements.
Segment Reporting
The Company has two reportable segments. Reportable segments are defined as components of an enterprise for
which separate financial information is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”), our
Chief Executive Officer, in deciding how to allocate resources and assess performance.
The E&P segment consists of the exploration and production of onshore, low geologic risk, long-lived oil and
gas reserves located in California and Utah.
The well servicing and abandonment services segment provides wellsite services in California to oil and natural
gas production companies, with a focus on well servicing, well abandonment services and water logistics.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of the accompanying consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP required
management of the Company to make informed estimates and assumptions about future events. These estimates and
the underlying assumptions affect the amount of assets and liabilities reported, disclosures about contingent assets
and liabilities, and reported amounts of revenues and expenses.
Estimates that are particularly significant to the financial statements include estimates of our reserves of oil and
gas; future cash flows from oil and gas properties; depreciation, depletion and amortization; asset retirement
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
122
obligations; fair values of commodity derivatives; stock-based compensation; fair values of assets acquired and
liabilities assumed; and income taxes.
Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid short-term investments with original maturities of three months or less to be cash
equivalents.
Restricted Cash
Restricted cash consists of funds that have been deposited at banks not for general business use. The funds
primarily represent cash collateral for outstanding letters of credit as of December 31, 2024. The letters of credit are
required operationally to serve as a credit enhancement for beneficiaries. Once the outstanding letters of credit have
been reissued under the new 2024 Revolver, the restricted cash will be reduced, ultimately to zero. As of December
31, 2024 the total restricted cash was $15 million.
Inventories
Inventories were included in other current assets. Oil and natural gas inventories were valued at the lower of
cost or net realizable value. Materials and supplies were valued at their weighted-average cost and reviewed
periodically for obsolescence.
Oil and Natural Gas Properties
Proved Properties
We account for oil and natural gas properties in accordance with the successful efforts method. Under this
method, all acquisition and development costs of proved properties are capitalized, grouped by field, and amortized
over the remaining life of the associated proved reserves. Costs of retired, sold or abandoned properties that
constitute a part of an amortization base are charged or credited, net of proceeds, to accumulated depreciation,
depletion and amortization unless doing so significantly affects the unit-of-production amortization rate, in which
case a gain or loss is recognized in the current period. Gains or losses from the disposal of other properties are
recognized in the current period. For assets acquired, we base the capitalized cost on fair value at the acquisition
date. We expense expenditures for maintenance and repairs necessary to maintain properties in operating condition,
as well as annual lease rentals, as they are incurred. Estimated dismantlement and abandonment costs are capitalized
at their estimated net present value and amortized over the remaining lives of the related assets. Interest is
capitalized only during the periods in which these assets are brought to their intended use. The amount of capitalized
interest was approximately $1 million, $1 million and $1 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively. We only
capitalize the interest on borrowed funds related to our share of costs associated with qualifying capital
expenditures. The amount of capitalized exploratory well costs was zero for all periods presented and the amount of
capitalized overhead was approximately $5 million, $6 million and $6 million in 2024, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
We evaluate the impairment of our proved oil and natural gas properties and other property and equipment
generally on a field-by-field basis or at the lowest level for which cash flows are identifiable, whenever events or
changes in circumstance indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. We reduce the carrying values of
proved properties to fair value when the expected undiscounted future cash flows are less than net book value. We
measure the fair values of proved properties using valuation techniques consistent with the income approach,
converting future cash flows to a single discounted amount. Significant inputs used to determine the fair values of
proved properties include estimates of: (i) reserves; (ii) future operating and development costs; (iii) future
commodity prices; and (iv) a risk-adjusted discount rate. These inputs require significant judgments and estimates by
our management at the time of the valuation which can change significantly over time. The underlying commodity
prices are embedded in our estimated cash flows and are the product of a process that begins with the relevant
forward curve pricing, adjusted for estimated location and quality differentials, as well as other factors our
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
123
management believes will impact realizable prices. The fair value was estimated using inputs characteristic of a
Level 3 fair value measurement.
Unproved Properties
A portion of the carrying value of our oil and gas properties was attributable to unproved properties. At
December 31, 2024 and 2023, the net capitalized costs attributable to unproved properties were approximately $204
million and $248 million, respectively. The unproved amounts were not subject to depreciation, depletion and
amortization until they were classified as proved properties and amortized on a unit-of-production basis.
If the exploration and development work were to be unsuccessful, or management decided not to pursue
development of these properties as a result of lower commodity prices, higher development and operating costs,
adverse change in regulatory environment, contractual conditions or other factors, the capitalized costs of such
properties would be expensed. The timing of any write-downs of unproved properties, if warranted, depends upon
management’s plans, the nature, timing and extent of future exploration and development activities and their results.
Impairment
At the end of each quarter, management assesses the carrying value of the proved oil and gas properties for
impairment by considering changes in proved reserve quantities, oil and natural gas prices, operating costs, capital
costs, and future drilling plans. Management also assesses on a quarterly basis whether or not events and
circumstances indicate that unproved costs are no longer subject to evaluation, indicating an impairment. In June
2024, California Senate Bill No. 1137 (“SB 1137”) went into effect. This Bill prohibits California’s regulatory
agency from permitting any new wells, or the rework of existing wells, if the proposed new drill or rework is within
3,200 feet of certain sensitive receptors such as homes, schools or parks. When SB 1137 went into effect in the
second quarter of 2024, we identified a triggering event that required assessment with respect to our proved and
unproved oil and gas properties. This event also triggered the reassessment of the DD&A rate of certain proved
properties, which was adjusted as of the triggering event date. This legislation impacts our ability to develop proved
undeveloped reserves and our unproved acreage as planned. Our assessment of the triggering event for proved
property impairment did not indicate that after consideration of the impact of SB 1137 it was more likely than not
that the associated costs would not be recoverable as of June 30, 2024. We believe our current plans and exploration
and development efforts will allow us to realize the carrying value of our proved property balance. Our assessment
of the triggering event for unproved property cost impairment indicated, however, that portions of our capitalized
unproved costs were no longer subject to evaluation given their proximity to sensitive receptors, which eliminated
our ability to develop the acreage in the future. Consequently, we recorded a non-cash pre-tax asset impairment
charge of $44 million, $33 million after-tax on unproved oil and gas properties in certain California locations during
the second quarter of 2024. The impairment represented approximately 2% of our total oil and natural gas properties
in the E&P segment as of the impairment date.
As of December 31, 2024, no additional triggering events were identified for proved or unproved property costs.
However, if we experience further decline in price, reduction in reserve quantities, including due to a change in
development plans or regulatory rulings that impact us negatively, the carrying value of these proved oil and gas
properties could become partially or entirely impaired.
Other Property and Equipment
Other property and equipment includes natural gas gathering systems, pipelines, cogeneration facilities,
buildings, well servicing and abandonment services vehicles and equipment, software, data processing and
telecommunications equipment, office furniture and equipment, and other fixed assets. These assets are recorded at
cost, depreciated using the straight-line method based on expected useful lives ranging from 15 to 39 years for
buildings and improvements, 3 to 30 years for cogeneration facilities, natural gas plants and pipelines, 1 to 10 years
for furniture and equipment, 1 to 10 years for well servicing and abandonment services vehicles and equipment and
other equipment, and the salvage value is considered as applicable. Other property and equipment assets are
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
124
evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset
may not be recoverable.
Business Combinations
The Company records business combinations using the acquisition method of accounting. Under the acquisition
method of accounting, identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed are recorded at their acquisition-date fair
values. The excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value, if any, is recorded as goodwill. Changes in the
estimated fair values of net assets recorded for acquisitions prior to the finalization of more detailed analysis, but not
to exceed one year from the date of acquisition, will adjust the amount of the purchase price allocations accordingly.
Measurement period adjustments are reflected in the period in which they occur.
To allocate the purchase price consideration for acquisitions, we estimate the fair values of the assets and
liabilities acquired using accepted valuation methods, and, in many cases, such estimates are based on our judgments
as to the future operating cash flows expected to be generated from the acquired assets throughout their estimated
useful lives. Our estimates and judgments of the fair value of acquired businesses could prove to be inexact, and the
use of inaccurate fair value estimates could result in the improper allocation of the acquisition purchase price
consideration to acquired assets and liabilities, which could result in asset impairments, the recording of previously
unrecorded liabilities, and other financial statement adjustments. The difficulty in estimating the fair values of
acquired assets and liabilities is increased during periods of economic uncertainty.
Asset Retirement Obligation
We recognize the value of asset retirement obligations (“AROs”) in the period in which a determination is made
that a legal obligation exists to dismantle an asset and remediate the property at the end of its useful life and the cost
of the obligation can be reasonably estimated. The liability amounts were based on future retirement cost estimates
and incorporate many assumptions such as time to abandonment, technological changes, future inflation rates and
the risk-adjusted discount rate. When the liability is initially recorded, we capitalized the cost by increasing the
related property, plant and equipment (“PP&E”) balances. If the estimated future cost of the AROs changes, we
record an adjustment to both the ARO and PP&E. Over time, the liability is increased and the capitalized cost is
depreciated over the useful life of the asset. Accretion expense is also recognized over time as the discounted
liabilities are accreted to their expected settlement value and is included in depreciation, depletion and amortization
in the statement of operations.
The following table summarizes activity in our ARO account in which approximately $185 million and $177
million were included in long-term liabilities as of December 31, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively, with
the remaining current portion of $17 million (2024) and $20 million (2023) included in accrued liabilities:
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
196,578
$
178,491
Liabilities incurred including from acquisitions
1,724
10,230
Settlements and payments
(14,139)
(17,110)
Accretion expense
12,539
11,980
Reduction due to property sales
—
—
Revisions
5,581
12,987
Ending balance
$
202,283
$
196,578
Year Ended December 31,
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
125
Revenue Recognition
The majority of the Company's revenue is from the E&P business, which includes the sale of crude oil, natural
gas and NGLs, as well as electricity from its cogeneration plants. The remaining revenue is generated from the well
servicing and abandonment services business. See Note 11, Revenue Recognition, for information regarding the
Company’s revenue recognition policy.
Fair Value Measurements
We have categorized our assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value in a three-level fair value
hierarchy, based on the inputs to the valuation techniques: Level 1—using quoted prices in active markets for the
assets or liabilities; Level 2—using observable inputs other than quoted prices for the assets or liabilities; and Level
3—using unobservable inputs. Transfers between levels, if any, are recognized at the end of each reporting period.
We primarily apply the market approach for recurring fair value measurement, maximize our use of observable
inputs and minimize use of unobservable inputs. We generally use an income approach to measure fair value when
observable inputs are unavailable. This approach utilizes management’s judgments regarding expectations of
projected cash flows and discounts those cash flows using a risk-adjusted discount rate.
The only items on our balance sheet that would be affected by recurring fair value measurements are derivatives
and the emission allowances required by California’s cap-and-trade program. We determine the fair value of our oil
and gas sales and natural gas purchase derivatives and emission allowances required by California’s cap-and-trade
program using valuation techniques which utilize market quotes and pricing analysis. Inputs include publicly
available prices and forward price curves generated from a compilation of data gathered from third parties. We
classify these measurements as Level 2.
We use market-observable prices for assets when comparable transactions can be identified that are similar to
the asset being valued. When we are required to measure fair value and there is not a market-observable price for the
asset or for a similar asset then the income approach is based on management’s best assumptions regarding
expectations of future net cash flows. PP&E is written down to fair value if we determine that there has been an
impairment in its value. The fair value is determined as of the date of the assessment using discounted cash flow
models based on management’s expectations for the future. Inputs include estimates of future production, prices
based on commodity forward price curves as of the date of the estimate, estimated future operating and development
costs and a risk-adjusted discount rate. However, assumptions used reflect assets highest and best use and a market
participant’s view of long-term prices, costs and other factors and are consistent with assumptions used in our
business plans and investment decisions. We classify these measurements as Level 3.
Stock-based Compensation
We have issued restricted stock units (“RSUs”) that vest over time and performance-based restricted stock units
(“PSUs”) that include (i) total stockholder return PSUs (“TSR PSUs”), which consists of (a) awards with a market
objective measured against both absolute total stockholder return (“Absolute TSR”) and a relative total stockholder
return (“Relative TSR”) over the performance period and (b) awards with a market objective measured against only
the Absolute TSR over the performance period and (ii) awards based on the Company's average cash returned on
invested capital (“CROIC PSUs” and “ROIC PSUs”) over the performance period. CROIC PSUs are awarded to
certain Berry employees, while ROIC PSUs are awarded to certain CJWS employees. The fair value of the stock-
based awards is determined at the date of grant and is not remeasured. The fair value of the RSUs, CROIC PSUs and
ROIC PSUs was determined using the grant date stock price. The fair value of the TSR PSUs was determined using
a Monte Carlo simulation analysis to estimate the total shareholder return ranking of the Company, including a
comparison against the peer group over the performance periods, as applicable. Estimates used in the Monte Carlo
valuation model are considered highly complex and subjective. Compensation expense, net of actual forfeitures, for
the RSUs and PSUs is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service periods, which is over the
awards’ respective vesting or performance periods which range from one to three years.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
126
Other Loss Contingencies
In the normal course of business, we are involved in lawsuits, claims and other environmental and legal
proceedings and audits. We accrue reserves for these matters when it is probable that a liability has been incurred
and the liability can be reasonably estimated. In addition, we disclose, if material, in aggregate, our exposure to loss
in excess of the amount recorded on the balance sheet for these matters if it is reasonably possible that an additional
material loss may be incurred. We review our loss contingencies on an ongoing basis.
Loss contingencies are based on judgments made by management with respect to the likely outcome of these
matters and are adjusted as appropriate. Management’s judgments could change based on new information, changes
in, or interpretations of, laws or regulations, changes in management’s plans or intentions, opinions regarding the
outcome of legal proceedings, or other factors.
Electricity Cost Allocation
We own several cogeneration facilities. Our investment in cogeneration facilities has been for the express
purpose of lowering steam costs in our heavy oil operations in California and securing operating control of the
respective steam generation. Cogeneration, also called combined heat and power, extracts energy from the exhaust
of a turbine, which would otherwise be wasted, to produce steam. Such cogeneration operations also produce
electricity. We allocate steam and electricity costs to lease operating expenses based on the conversion efficiency of
the cogeneration facilities plus certain direct costs of producing steam. We also allocate a portion of the electricity
production costs related to the power we sell to third parties, which is reported in “electricity generation expenses”
in the statement of operations.
Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the estimated future tax consequences attributable to
differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of assets and liabilities and their tax basis. Deferred
tax assets are recognized when it is more likely than not that they will be realized. We periodically assess our
deferred tax assets and reduce such assets by a valuation allowance if we deem it is more likely than not that some
portion, or all, of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. We recognize a tax benefit from an uncertain tax
position when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, based on the technical
merits of the position. Interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits are recognized in income tax
expense (benefit).
Earnings per Share
Basic earnings (loss) per share is calculated as net income (loss) divided by the weighted-average shares of
common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings (loss) per share is calculated by dividing net income
(loss) by the weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, including the effect of potentially dilutive
securities. For basic earnings per share (“EPS”), the weighted-average number of common stock outstanding
excludes outstanding shares related to unvested restricted stock awards. For diluted EPS, the basic shares
outstanding are adjusted by adding potentially dilutive securities, unless their effect is anti-dilutive. We did not have
any participating securities in the periods presented.
We compute basic and diluted EPS using the two-class method required for participating securities. Common
stock awards are considered participating securities when such shares have non-forfeitable dividend rights at the
same rate as common stock. Our dividend rights are forfeitable, and are not considered participating securities.
Under the two-class method, undistributed earnings allocated to participating securities are subtracted from net
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
127
income attributable to common stock in determining net income attributable to common stockholders. In loss
periods, no allocation is made to participating securities because the participating securities do not share in losses.
Business and Credit Concentrations
We maintain our cash and restricted cash in bank deposit accounts which, at times, may exceed federally
insured amounts. We have not experienced any losses in such accounts. We believe we are not exposed to any
significant credit risk on our cash.
We sell oil, natural gas and NGLs to various types of customers, including pipelines, refineries and other oil and
natural gas companies and electricity to utility companies. We also perform well servicing and abandonment
services for oil and natural gas companies. Based on the current demand for oil, natural gas, NGLs, as well as our
well servicing and abandonment services and the availability of other purchasers, we believe that the loss of any one
of our major purchasers would not have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or
net cash provided by operating activities.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, our three largest customers represented approximately 30%, 28%, and
10% of our sales. For the year ended December 31, 2023, our three largest customers represented approximately
41%, 20%, and 10% of our sales. For the year ended December 31, 2022, our three largest customers represented
33%, 16%, and 10% of our sales. All such customers were customers of our E&P segment and one customer was
also a customer of our well servicing and abandonment services segment.
At December 31, 2024, net accounts receivable including joint interest billings, from two customers represented
approximately 28% and 24% of our receivables. At December 31, 2023, net accounts receivable including joint
interest billings, from two customers represented approximately 31% and 25% of our receivables.
Recently Adopted Accounting Standards
In November 2023, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidance to improve the
reportable segment disclosure requirements, primarily through enhanced disclosures about significant segment
expenses. In addition, the guidance enhances interim disclosure requirements, clarifies circumstances in which an
entity can disclose multiple segment measures of profit or loss and contains other disclosure requirements. The
purpose of the guidance is to enable investors to better understand an entity’s overall performance and assess
potential future cash flows. We adopted these rules in the first quarter of 2024 prospectively, and did not have a
material impact on our financial statements.
New Accounting Standards Issued, But Not Yet Adopted
In December 2023, the FASB issued rules to enhance the annual income tax disclosure to address investors’
request for more information regarding tax risks and opportunities present in an entity’s operations related to the
effective tax rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. The guidance is effective for fiscal periods beginning after
December 15, 2024, with early adoption permitted for annual financial statements. We are currently evaluating the
impact the new guidance will have on our consolidated financial statements. This guidance will result in additional
disclosures for the Company beginning with our 2025 annual reporting and interim periods beginning in 2026.
In November 2024, the FASB issued new disclosure requirements to enhance disclosure of certain costs and
expenses. The rules are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2026 and interim periods beginning
after December 15, 2027, with early adoption permitted. We expect that the adoption of these rules will only impact
our disclosures and have no impact on our results of operations, cash flows and financial condition. This guidance
will result in additional disclosures for the Company beginning with our 2027 annual reporting and interim periods
beginning in 2028.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
128
Note 2—Oil and Natural Gas Properties and Other Property and Equipment
Oil and Natural Gas Capitalized Costs
Aggregate capitalized costs related to oil, natural gas and NGL production activities with applicable
accumulated depletion and amortization are presented below:
(in thousands)
Proved properties
$
1,771,601
$
1,658,246
Unproved properties
203,855
247,888
Total proved and unproved properties
1,975,456
1,906,134
Less: Accumulated depletion and amortization
(735,304)
(592,621)
Total proved and unproved properties, net
$
1,240,152
$
1,313,513
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
Other Property and Equipment
Other property and equipment consisted of the following:
(in thousands)
Cogeneration facilities, natural gas plants and pipelines
$
63,763
$
62,818
Vehicles and service equipment
59,228
55,295
Furniture and equipment
28,174
27,335
Land
11,982
13,903
Buildings and leasehold improvements
8,156
8,416
Total other property and equipment
171,303
167,767
Less: Accumulated depreciation
(91,075)
(74,668)
Total other property and equipment, net
$
80,228
$
93,099
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
129
Note 3—Debt
The following table summarizes our outstanding debt:
December 31,
2024
December 31,
2023
Interest Rate
Maturity
Security
(in thousands)
2024 Revolver
$
—
$ n/a
11.00% (2024)
n/a (2023)
December 24,
2027
Mortgage on 90% of
Present Value of
proven oil and gas
reserves and lien on
certain other assets
2024 Term Loan
11.84% (2024)
n/a (2023)
December 24,
2027
Mortgage on 90% of
Present Value of
proven oil and gas
reserves and lien on
certain other assets
Current
45,000
n/a
Long-term
405,000
n/a
2021 RBL Facility
n/a
31,000
n/a (2024)
10.50% (2023)
Terminated
December 24,
2024
Mortgage on 90% of
Present Value of
proven oil and gas
reserves and lien on
certain other assets
2022 ABL Facility
n/a
—
n/a (2024)
9.75% (2023)
Terminated
December 24,
2024
CJWS property and
certain other assets
2026 Notes
n/a
400,000
n/a (2024)
7.00% (2023)
Redeemed
December 24,
2024
Unsecured
Debt - Principal Amount
450,000
431,000
Less: Debt Issuance/
Original Issue Discount
Costs
(20,367)
(3,007)
Current Portion of Debt
(45,000)
—
Long-Term Debt, net
$
384,633
$
427,993
Deferred Financing Costs
We incurred legal and bank fees related to the issuance of debt. At December 31, 2024, debt issuance costs
reported in “other noncurrent assets” on the balance sheet were approximately $4 million, net of amortization, for
the 2024 Revolver (defined below). At December 31, 2023, debt issuance costs reported in “other noncurrent assets”
on the balance sheet were approximately (i) $3 million, net of amortization, for the Credit Agreement, dated as of
August 26, 2021, among the Company, as a guarantor, Berry LLC, as the borrower, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as
the administrative agent and an issuing bank, and each of the lenders from time to time party thereto (as amended,
restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time, the “2021 RBL Facility”) and (ii) an immaterial
amount, net of amortization, for the Revolving Loan and Security Agreement, dated as of August 9, 2022, among
C&J and C&J Management, as borrowers, and Tri Counties Bank, as lender (as amended, restated, supplemented or
otherwise modified from time to time, the “2022 ABL Facility”). At December 31, 2024, debt issuance costs, net of
amortization, for the 2024 Term Loan (defined below) reported in “Long-Term Debt, net” on the balance sheet were
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
130
approximately $20 million. At December 31, 2023, debt issuance costs, net of amortization, for the 2026 Notes
(defined below) reported in “Long-Term Debt, net” on the balance sheet were approximately $3 million.
For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, the amortization expense for the 2024 Term Loan, the
2024 Revolver, the 2021 RBL Facility, the 2022 ABL Facility and the 2026 Notes combined, was approximately $3
million, $3 million, and $2 million, respectively. The amortization of debt issuance costs is presented in “interest
expense” on the consolidated statements of operations.
Fair Value
Our debt is recorded at the carrying amount on the balance sheets. The carrying amount of the 2024 Revolver
approximates fair value because the interest rates are variable and reflect market rates. The 2024 Revolver and 2024
Term Loan are Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value of the 2024 Term Loan was approximately $450
million at December 31, 2024.
2024 Term Loan
On November 6, 2024, the Company entered into a Senior Secured Term Loan Credit Agreement (the “Original
Term Loan Agreement”) among Berry Corp., as borrower, certain subsidiaries of Berry Corp., as guarantors,
Breakwall Credit Management LLC, as administrative agent, and the lenders from time to time party thereto. On
December 24, 2024, the Company entered into the First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of December 24,
2024 (the “Term Loan Amendment”) among the Company, as borrower, certain of the Company’s direct and
indirect subsidiaries, as guarantors, the lenders party thereto and Breakwall Credit Management LLC, as
administrative agent, which amended the Original Term Loan Agreement (the Original Term Loan Agreement, as
amended by the Term Loan Amendment, the “2024 Term Loan”).
The 2024 Term Loan provides for (i) an initial term loan facility in the aggregate principal amount of $450
million (the “Initial Term Loan”) and (ii) a delayed draw term loan facility with commitments in an aggregate
principal amount of up to $32 million (the “Delayed Draw Term Loan”) which is available for borrowing until
December 24, 2026, subject to satisfaction of certain customary conditions precedent, as further set forth in the 2024
Term Loan. We borrowed $450 million under the Initial Term Loan on December 24, 2024, in part, to fund the
redemption of the 2026 Notes, to fund a portion of the repayment of the obligations under the 2021 RBL Facility,
and to fund a portion of the costs and expenses associated with the execution of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term
Loan, and the termination of the 2022 ABL Facility. The commitments under the Delayed Draw Term Loan will be
reduced, on a dollar-for-dollar basis, by any increase in the commitments under the 2024 Revolver. We had not
borrowed any amounts under the Delayed Draw Term Loan as of December 31, 2024.
The 2024 Term Loan has an initial maturity date of December 24, 2027, unless terminated earlier in accordance
with the terms of the 2024 Term Loan, which may be extended by up to two one-year increments subject to payment
of extension fees and satisfaction of certain other customary conditions. The loans under the 2024 Term Loan are
available to us for general corporate purposes, including working capital.
Loans under the 2024 Term Loan bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our option, either (a) a customary
base rate (subject to a floor of 4.00%) plus an applicable margin of 6.50% or (b) a term SOFR reference rate (subject
to a floor of 3.00%) plus an applicable margin of 7.50%. Interest on base rate borrowings is payable quarterly in
arrears and interest on term SOFR borrowings accrues in respect of interest periods of one, three or six months, at
the election of the borrower, and is payable on the last day of such interest period (or, for interest periods of six
months, three months after the commencement of such interest period and at the end of such interest period). If an
Event of Default (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan) exists and is continuing, upon the election of the Majority
Lenders (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan) under the 2024 Term Loan, or automatically without such election, in
the case of a bankruptcy, insolvency, or payment default, all amounts outstanding under the 2024 Term Loan will
bear interest at 2.00% per annum above the rate and margin otherwise applicable thereto (it being understood that
such Majority Lenders may elect for the application of default interest to commence on any date that is on or after
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
131
the occurrence of such Event of Default while such Event of Default is continuing). Quarterly debt service payments
of an amount equal to the sum of 2.50% of (a) the face value of the Initial Term Loan and (b) the aggregate amount
of delayed draws made from the Delayed Draw Term Loan are required beginning in March 2025. We have the right
to repay any amounts borrowed prior to the maturity date of the 2024 Term Loan (i) without any premium for any
optional prepayment on or prior to December 24, 2026 and (ii) thereafter, subject to a concurrent payment of 2.75%
of the principal amount being repaid.
The 2024 Term Loan contains certain financial covenants, including (a) minimum liquidity of $25 million as of
the last day of any calendar month beginning in November 2024 and (b) commencing with the fiscal quarter ending
March 31, 2025, (i) a total net leverage ratio that may not exceed 2.5 to 1.0 and (ii) an asset coverage ratio that may
not be less than 1.3 to 1.0 as of the last day of any fiscal quarter, in each case, as more fully described in the 2024
Term Loan. We were in compliance with all applicable financial covenants under the 2024 Term Loan as of
December 31, 2024.
The 2024 Term Loan also contains other restrictive covenants that limit the ability of the Company and its
subsidiaries to, among other things, pay dividends or prepay other debt, make investments and loans, enter into
mergers and acquisitions, sell assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur additional liens, enter into certain hedging
transactions, engage in transactions with affiliates and make certain capital expenditures. The 2024 Term Loan
permits us to pay dividends and repurchase equity interests up to an annual cap, subject to, among other things, pro
forma compliance with our financial covenants.
In addition, the 2024 Term Loan is subject to customary events of default, including a change in control (which
change of control event of default is subject to a carve-out for no decline in the Company’s corporate credit rating).
If an event of default occurs and is continuing, subject to customary cure rights, the administrative agent or the
majority lenders may accelerate any amounts outstanding and terminate lender commitments and exercise remedies
against any collateral.
The 2024 Term Loan is guaranteed by the Company and all of its wholly owned subsidiaries and is secured by a
first lien security interest in substantially all assets of the Company and of its wholly owned subsidiaries, subject to
permitted liens. The 2024 Term Loan is also required to be guaranteed by, and secured with substantially all assets
of, certain future wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company that we may form or acquire. The lenders under the
2024 Term Loan hold a mortgage on at least 90% of the present value of our proven oil and gas reserves.
As of December 31, 2024, we had $450 million of borrowings outstanding under the 2024 Term Loan and
$32 million of available commitments, but no borrowings outstanding, under the Delayed Draw Term Loan. We
received net proceeds of $432 million after deducting a 2.0% original issue discount of $11 million and fees paid at
closing of $7 million.
2024 Revolver
On December 24, 2024, the Company entered into a Senior Secured Revolving Credit Agreement (the “2024
Revolver”) among Berry Corp., certain subsidiaries of Berry Corp., as guarantors, the lenders from time to time
party thereto and Texas Capital Bank, as administrative agent. The 2024 Revolver provides for a revolving credit
facility of up to the lesser of (i) the maximum commitments of $500 million, (ii) the then-effective borrowing base,
which was equal to $95 million as of December 31, 2024, and (iii) the aggregate elected commitment amount, which
was equal to $63 million as of December 31, 2024 (the “2024 Revolver”). The aggregate commitments under the
2024 Revolver include a $30 million sublimit for the issuance of letters of credit (with borrowing availability being
reduced by the face amount of any letters of credit issued under the subfacility). The borrowing base will be
redetermined by the lenders at least semi-annually on May 1 and November 1 of each year, beginning May 1, 2025.
We may increase elected commitments under the 2024 Revolver to the amount of our borrowing base with
applicable lender approval. Any such increase above the elected commitments in effect as of December 26, 2024
will result in a dollar-for-dollar reduction in commitments under the 2024 Term Loan.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
132
The 2024 Revolver matures on December 24, 2027, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of
the 2024 Revolver. The loans under the 2024 Revolver are available to us for general corporate purposes, including
working capital.
The outstanding borrowings under the 2024 Revolver bear interest at a rate per annum equal to, at our option,
either (a) a customary base rate (subject to a floor of 1.00%) plus an applicable margin of 3.50% or (b) a term SOFR
reference rate (subject to a floor of 2.00%) plus 1.00% plus an applicable margin of 4.50%. Interest on base rate
borrowings is payable quarterly in arrears and interest on term SOFR borrowings accrues in respect of interest
periods of one, three or six months, at the election of the borrower, and is payable on the last day of such interest
period (or, for interest periods of six months, three months after the commencement of such interest period and at
the end of such interest period). If an Event of Default (as defined in the 2024 Revolver) exists and is continuing,
upon the election of the Majority Lenders (as defined in the 2024 Revolver) under the 2024 Revolver, or
automatically without such election, in the case of a bankruptcy, insolvency, or payment default, all amounts
outstanding under the 2024 Revolver will bear interest at 4.50% per annum above the rate and margin otherwise
applicable thereto (it being understood that such Majority Lenders may elect for the application of default interest to
commence on any date that is on or after the occurrence of such Event of Default while such Event of Default is
continuing).
The 2024 Revolver contains certain financial covenants, including (a) minimum liquidity of $25 million as of
the last day of any calendar month and (b) commencing with the fiscal quarter ending March 31, 2025, (i) a total net
leverage ratio that may not exceed 2.5 to 1.0 and (ii) an asset coverage ratio that may not be less than 1.3 to 1.0 as of
the last day of any fiscal quarter, in each case, as fully more described in the 2024 Revolver. We were in compliance
with all applicable financial covenants under the 2024 Revolver as of December 31, 2024.
The amount we are able to borrow with respect to the borrowing base under the 2024 Revolver is subject to
compliance with the financial covenants and other provisions of the 2024 Revolver, including that the Consolidated
Cash Balance (as defined in the 2024 Revolver) not to exceed $35 million at the time of and after giving effect to
such borrowing and the use of proceeds thereof. In addition, the 2024 Revolver provides that if there are any
outstanding borrowings thereunder and the Consolidated Cash Balance exceeds $35 million at the end of the last
business day of any calendar month, such excess amounts shall be used to prepay borrowings under the 2024
Revolver.
The 2024 Revolver contains other restrictive covenants that limit the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries
to, among other things, pay dividends or prepay other debt, make investments and loans, enter into mergers and
acquisitions, sell assets, incur additional indebtedness, incur additional liens, enter into certain hedging transactions,
engage in transactions with affiliates and make certain capital expenditures. The 2024 Revolver permits us to pay
dividends and repurchase equity interests up to an annual cap , subject to, among other things, pro forma compliance
with our financial covenants.
In addition, the 2024 Revolver is subject to customary events of default, including a change in control (which
change of control event of default is subject to a carve-out for no decline in the Company’s corporate credit rating).
If an event of default occurs and is continuing, subject to customary cure rights, the administrative agent or the
majority lenders may accelerate any amounts outstanding and terminate lender commitments and exercise remedies
against any collateral.
The 2024 Revolver is guaranteed by the Company and all of its wholly owned subsidiaries and is secured by a
first lien security interest in substantially all assets of the Company and of its wholly owned subsidiaries, subject to
permitted liens. The 2024 Revolver is also required to be guaranteed by, and secured with substantially all assets of,
certain future wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company that we may form or acquire. The lenders under the 2024
Revolver hold a mortgage on at least 90% of the present value of our proven oil and gas reserves.
As of December 31, 2024, we had no borrowings outstanding, no letters of credit outstanding, and
approximately $63 million of available borrowing capacity under the 2024 Revolver.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
133
2021 RBL Facility
The 2021 RBL Facility provided for a revolving loan with up to $500 million of commitments, subject to a
borrowing base and an aggregate elected commitment amount, and a $20 million sublimit for the issuance of letters
of credit (with borrowing availability being reduced by the face amount of any letters of credit issued under the
subfacility). The borrowing base under the 2021 RBL Facility was redetermined semi-annually, and the borrowing
base redeterminations generally became effective each May and November, although the borrower and the lenders
had the ability to make one interim redetermination between scheduled redeterminations.
The maturity date of the 2021 RBL Facility was August 26, 2025, unless terminated earlier in accordance with
the terms of the 2021 RBL Facility. The outstanding borrowings under the 2021 RBL Facility bore interest at a rate
equal to, at our option, either (a) a customary base rate plus an applicable margin ranging from 2.00% to 3.00% or
(b) a term SOFR reference rate, plus an applicable margin ranging from 3.00% to 4.00%, in each case determined
based on the utilization level under the 2021 RBL Facility. Interest on base rate borrowings under the 2021 RBL
Facility was payable quarterly in arrears and interest on term SOFR borrowings accrued in respect of interest periods
of one, three or six months, at the election of the borrower, and was payable on the last day of such interest period
(or, for interest periods of six months, three months after the commencement of such interest period and at the end of
such interest period). Unused commitment fees were charged at a rate of 0.50%.
The 2021 RBL Facility contained certain financial covenants and other customary affirmative and negative
covenants, as well as events of default and remedies. The 2021 RBL Facility was guaranteed by Berry Corp. and
certain of its subsidiaries. The lenders under the 2021 RBL Facility held a mortgage on at least 90% of the present
value of our proven oil and gas reserves. The obligations of Berry LLC and the guarantors of the 2021 RBL Facility
were also secured by liens on substantially all of our personal property, subject to customary exceptions.
On December 24, 2024, in connection with the closing of the Term Loan Amendment and the 2024 Revolver,
we cash collateralized five letters of credit issued under the 2021 RBL Facility, repaid all other amounts outstanding
under the 2021 RBL Facility and terminated our remaining obligations thereunder, except with respect to those
provisions that, by their terms, survive such termination. On such date, there were approximately $3 million of
borrowings and $10 million in letters of credit outstanding under the 2021 RBL Facility. Upon termination, we paid
off the outstanding borrowings and cash collateralized the letters of credit. As of December 31, 2024, we had
outstanding cash-collateralized letters of credit originally issued under the 2021 RBL Facility, with an aggregate
face amount of $9 million. As a result of the full repayment of the 2021 RBL Facility, the Company applied
extinguishment accounting in accordance with ASC 470-50, Debt - Modifications and Extinguishments for a
majority of the continuing lenders, which resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment related to the remaining deferred
financing costs of approximately $1 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The amount is reported within
“Loss on debt retirement” in the consolidated statements of operations. For the remaining lenders, the company
applied modification accounting as terms were not substantially different from the terms that applied to those lenders
prior to the amendment.
2022 ABL Facility
The 2022 ABL Facility provided C&J and C&J Management with a revolving loan with up to $10 million of
commitments, subject to a borrowing base and satisfaction of customary conditions precedent to borrowing, with a
letter of credit subfacility for the issuance of letters of credit in an aggregate amount not to exceed $7.5 million (with
borrowing availability being reduced by the face amount of any letters of credit issued under the subfacility). The
“borrowing base” under the 2022 ABL Facility was an amount equal to 80% of the balance due on eligible accounts
receivable, subject to reserves implemented by the lender in its reasonable discretion. Interest on the outstanding
principal amount of the revolving loans under the 2022 ABL Facility accrued at a per annum rate equal to 1.25% in
excess of the variable rate of interest, on a per annum basis, announced and/or published in the “Money Rates”
section of The Wall Street Journal from time to time as its “Prime Rate.” Interest was due quarterly, in arrears. The
maturity date of the 2022 ABL Facility was June 5, 2027, unless terminated earlier in accordance with the terms of
the 2022 ABL Facility.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
134
The 2022 ABL Facility contained certain financial covenants and other customary affirmative and negative
covenants, as well as events of default and remedies.
The obligations of C&J and C&J Management under the 2022 ABL Facility were not guaranteed by Berry
Corp. or Berry LLC, and Berry Corp. and Berry LLC did not and were not required to provide any credit support for
such obligations.
On December 24, 2024, in connection with the closing of the Term Loan Amendment and the 2024 Revolver
Agreement, we cash collateralized one letter of credit with a face value of $5 million issued under the 2022 ABL
Facility, and terminated our remaining obligations thereunder, except with respect to those provisions that, by their
terms, survive such termination. There were no borrowings outstanding at the time of such termination. As of
December 31, 2024, the $5 million cash collateralized letter of credit remained outstanding.
Senior Unsecured Notes
In February 2018, Berry LLC completed a private issuance of $400 million in aggregate principal amount of
7.00% senior unsecured notes due February 2026 (the “2026 Notes”), which resulted in net proceeds to us of
approximately $391 million after deducting expenses and the initial purchasers’ discount. The 2026 Notes were
Berry LLC’s senior unsecured obligations and ranked equally in right of payment with all of our other senior
indebtedness and senior to any of our subordinated indebtedness. The 2026 Notes were fully and unconditionally
guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by Berry Corp. and certain of its subsidiaries. C&J and C&J Management
did not guarantee the 2026 Notes. The indenture governing the 2026 Notes contained customary covenants and
events of default (in some cases, subject to grace periods).
On December 24, 2024, in connection with the closing of the Term Loan Amendment and the 2024 Revolver,
we deposited with Computershare Trust Company, N.A. (as successor to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association),
as trustee for the 2026 Notes, sufficient funds to fund the full redemption of the outstanding 2026 Notes, at a
redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 2026 Notes being redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid
interest thereon to the Redemption Date (defined below). Upon the deposit of such funds on December 24, 2024, the
indenture governing the 2026 Notes was satisfied and discharged with respect to the 2026 Notes in accordance with
its terms. As a result of the satisfaction and discharge of the indenture with respect to the 2026 Notes, each of the
Company, Berry LLC and certain other direct and indirect subsidiaries of the Company was released on December
24, 2024 from its obligations under the indenture in respect of the 2026 Notes, except with respect to those
provisions of the indenture that, by their terms, survive the satisfaction and discharge of the indenture. The
redemption of the 2026 Notes occurred on December 26, 2024 (the “Redemption Date”). As a result of the full
repayment of the 2026 Notes, the Company applied extinguishment accounting in accordance with ASC 470-50,
Debt - Modifications and Extinguishments which resulted in a loss on debt extinguishment related to the remaining
deferred financing costs of approximately $2 million for the year ended December 31, 2024. The amount is reported
within “Loss on debt retirement” in the consolidated statements of operations.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
135
Note 4—Derivatives
We utilize derivatives, such as swaps, puts, calls and collars, to hedge a portion of our forecasted oil and gas
production and gas purchases to reduce exposure to fluctuations in oil and natural gas prices, which addresses our
market risk. In addition to satisfying the oil sales and gas purchase hedging requirements of the 2024 Term Loan and
the 2024 Revolver (and previously 2021 RBL Facility and 2022 ABL Facility), which specifies the volume and
types of our hedges, we target covering our operating expenses and a majority of our fixed charges, which includes
capital needed to sustain production levels, interest, debt amortization payments and fixed dividends as applicable,
with the oil sales hedges generally for a period of up to three years out and gas purchase hedges for a period of at
least 18 months out. At times, we will hedge beyond these periods when strike prices appear to satisfy anticipated
costs in those years. We have also entered into gas transportation contracts to help reduce the price fluctuation
exposure of our gas purchases used in our steam operations, however these do not qualify as hedges. We also, from
time to time, have entered into agreements to purchase a portion of the natural gas we require for our operations,
which we do not record at fair value as derivatives because they qualify for normal purchases and normal sales
exclusions. We had no such transactions in the periods presented.
The 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each requires us to maintain commodity hedges which are Existing
Swaps (as defined in the 2024 Term Loan), or are otherwise in the form of fixed price swaps (at market prices) or
costless collars, on minimum notional volumes of (i) at least 75% of our reasonably projected production of crude
oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during the twenty-four calendar month period immediately following
December 24, 2024, and (ii) at least 50% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves,
for each month during the twenty-fifth through thirty-sixth calendar month period following December 24, 2024.The
2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each also requires us to maintain commodity hedges in the form of fixed price
swaps (at market prices), costless collars, certain other collars or put options meeting conditions described in the
2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan, or, with respect to the Existing Swaps, in the form of the Existing Swaps as of
the effective date of the 2024 Term Loan, on minimum notional volumes, of (i) at least 75% of our reasonably
projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each month during a rolling period of twenty-four
calendar months commencing with the end of the then next upcoming month from the relevant minimum hedging
test date, and (ii) at least 50% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil from our PDP reserves, for each
month during a rolling period of twelve months commencing with the end of the twenty-fifth month from the
relevant minimum hedging test date. In addition, the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan each requires us to
maintain hedges in respect of purchases of natural gas for fuel in respect of 40,000 mmbtu of natural gas for fuel for
each day (a) during the 18 calendar month period immediately following the December 24, 2024 and (b) during the
18 months calendar month period commencing with the end of the next upcoming month after the applicable
minimum hedging test date.
In addition to the minimum hedging requirements and other restrictions in respect of hedging described therein,
each of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan contains restrictions on our commodity hedging which prevent us
from entering into hedging agreements (i) with a tenor exceeding 60 months or (ii) for notional volumes which
(when netted and aggregated with other hedges then in effect) exceed, as of the date such hedging agreement is
executed, 90% of our reasonably projected production of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, calculated
separately, from our PDP reserves, for each month following the date such hedging agreement is entered into,
provided that each of the 2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan provides that the Company may enter into additional
commodity hedges pertaining to oil and gas properties to be acquired, subject to the requirements set forth in the
2024 Revolver and 2024 Term Loan.
Oil Sales Hedges
For fixed-price sales swaps, we are the seller, so we make settlement payments for prices above, and conversely
collect settlement receipts for prices below, the indicated weighted-average price per bbl.
A Brent collar is used for the sale of crude production and is the combination of selling a call option and buying
a put option. We would make settlement payments for prices above the weighted-average price of the call option and
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
136
we would receive settlement payments for prices below the weighted-average price of the put option. No payment
would be made or received for prices between the call and put’s weighted-average price per barrel, other than any
applicable deferred premium.
.For our purchased puts, we would receive settlement payments for prices below the weighted-average price per
barrel, net of any deferred premium. No payment would be made or received for prices above the weighted-average
price per barrel, other than any applicable deferred premium.
Gas Purchase Hedges
For fixed-price gas purchase swaps, we are the buyer, so we make settlement payments for prices below the
weighted-average price per mmbtu and receive settlement payments for prices above the weighted-average price per
mmbtu.
For some of our options we paid or received a premium at the time the positions were created and for others, the
premium payment or receipt is deferred until the time of settlement. As of December 31, 2024, we have net premium
asset of approximately $4 million, which is reflected in the mark-to-market valuation and will be amortized over the
life of the positions.
We use oil and gas production hedges to protect our sales against decreases in oil and gas prices. We use natural
gas purchase hedges to protect our natural gas purchases against increases in prices. We do not enter into derivative
contracts for speculative trading purposes and have not accounted for our derivatives as cash-flow or fair-value
hedges. The changes in fair value of these instruments are recorded in current earnings. Gains (losses) on oil and gas
sales hedges are classified in the revenues and other section of the statement of operations, while natural gas
purchase hedges are included in expenses and other section of the statement of operations.
As of December 31, 2024, we had the following crude oil production and gas purchases hedges:
Brent - Crude Oil Production
Swaps
Hedged volume (bbls)
1,211,344
1,364,198
1,337,083
1,242,000
2,250,268
3,056,000
1,278,000
Weighted-average price ($/bbl)
$
74.77
$
74.22
$
74.36
$
75.33
$
71.08
$
70.08
$
68.46
Collars
Hedged volume (bbls)
206,127
—
—
—
1,161,500
318,500
—
Weighted-average call ($/bbl)
$
88.56
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
85.76
$
80.03
$
—
Weighted-average put ($/bbl)
$
60.00
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
60.00
$
65.00
$
—
Purchased Puts
Hedged volume (bbls)
—
—
—
—
547,500
—
—
Weighted-average price ($/bbl)
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
65.00
$
—
$
—
NWPL - Natural Gas Purchases(1)
Swaps
Hedged volume (mmbtu)
3,600,000
3,640,000
3,680,000
3,680,000
12,160,000
—
—
Weighted-average price ($/
mmbtu)
$
4.29
$
4.29
$
4.29
$
4.15
$
3.93
$
—
$
—
Q1 2025
Q2 2025
Q3 2025
Q4 2025
FY 2026
FY 2027
FY 2028
__________
(1)
The term “NWPL” is defined as Northwest Rocky Mountain Pipeline and represents the index used for these gas purchase hedges.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
137
In addition to the table above, in January 2025, we added the following sold oil swaps (Brent) for each of the
following years: Approximately 3,000 bbl/d at $75.03 for 2025 and approximately 3,000 bbl/d at $70.63 for 2026.
Our commodity derivatives are measured at fair value using industry-standard models with various inputs
including publicly available underlying commodity prices and forward curves, and all are classified as Level 2 in the
required fair value hierarchy for the periods presented. These commodity derivatives are subject to counterparty
netting. The following tables present the fair values (gross and net) of our outstanding derivatives as of December
31, 2024 and 2023.
December 31, 2024
Balance Sheet
Classification
Gross Amounts
Recognized at
Fair Value
Gross Amounts Offset
in the Balance Sheet
Net Fair Value
Presented in the
Balance Sheet
(in thousands)
Assets:
Commodity Contracts
Current assets
$
14,691
$
(10,165) $
4,526
Commodity Contracts
Non-current assets
25,435
(13,738)
11,697
Liabilities:
Commodity Contracts
Current liabilities
(17,868)
10,165
(7,703)
Commodity Contracts
Non-current liabilities
(13,738)
13,738
—
Total derivatives
$
8,520
$
—
$
8,520
Balance Sheet
Classification
Gross Amounts
Recognized at
Fair Value
Gross Amounts Offset
in the Balance Sheet
Net Fair Value
Presented in the
Balance Sheet
(in thousands)
Assets:
Commodity Contracts
Current assets
$
26,230
$
(20,942) $
5,288
Commodity Contracts
Non-current assets
28,992
(23,529)
5,463
Liabilities:
Commodity Contracts
Current liabilities
(30,723)
20,942
(9,781)
Commodity Contracts
Non-current liabilities
(24,488)
23,529
(959)
Total derivatives
$
11
$
—
$
11
December 31, 2023
By using derivative instruments to economically hedge exposure to changes in commodity prices, we expose
ourselves to credit risk. Credit risk is the failure of the counterparty to perform under the terms of the derivative
contract. When the fair value of a derivative contract is positive, the counterparty owes us, which creates credit risk.
We do not receive collateral from our counterparties.
We minimize the credit risk in derivative instruments by limiting our exposure to any single counterparty. In
addition, our 2024 Term Loan and the 2024 Revolver prevent us from entering into hedging arrangements that are
secured, except with our lenders and their affiliates; or with a non-lender counterparty that does not have an A or A2
credit rating or better from Standard & Poor’s or Moody’s, respectively. In accordance with our standard practice,
our commodity derivatives are subject to counterparty netting under agreements governing such derivatives which
partially mitigates the counterparty nonperformance risk.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
138
(Losses) gains on Derivatives
A summary of gains and losses on the derivatives included on the statements of operations is presented below:
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Realized (losses) gains on commodity derivatives:
Realized (losses) on oil and gas sales derivatives
$
(10,217) $
(28,917) $
(126,176)
Realized (losses) gains on natural gas purchase derivatives
(24,400)
34,812
38,153
Total realized (losses) gains on derivatives
(34,617)
5,895
(88,023)
Unrealized (losses) gains on commodity derivatives:
Unrealized gains (losses) on oil and gas sales derivatives
2,877
68,923
(10,933)
Unrealized gains (losses) on natural gas purchase
derivatives
1,619
(61,198)
50,642
Total unrealized gains on derivatives
4,496
7,725
39,709
Total (losses) gains on derivatives
$
(30,121) $
13,620
$
(48,314)
Year Ended December 31,
Note 5— Commitments and Contingencies
In the normal course of business, we, or our subsidiaries, are the subject of, or party to, pending or threatened
legal proceedings, contingencies and commitments involving a variety of matters that seek, or may seek, among
other things, compensation for alleged personal injury, breach of contract, property damage or other losses, punitive
damages, fines and penalties, remediation costs, or injunctive or declaratory relief.
We accrue for currently outstanding lawsuits, claims and proceedings when it is probable that a liability has
been incurred and the liability can be reasonably estimated. We have not recorded any reserve balances at December
31, 2024 and December 31, 2023. We also evaluate the amount of reasonably possible losses that we could incur as
a result of these matters. We believe that reasonably possible losses that we could incur in excess of accruals on our
balance sheet would not be material to our consolidated financial position or results of operations.
We, or our subsidiaries, or both, have indemnified various parties against specific liabilities those parties might
incur in the future in connection with transactions that they have entered into with us. As of December 31, 2024, we
are not aware of material indemnity claims pending or threatened against us.
Securities Litigation Matters
On November, 20, 2020, a putative securities class action (the “Securities Class Action”) was filed in the United
States District Court for the Northern District of Texas, claiming that Berry Corp. and certain of its current and
former directors and officers violated the Securities Act of 1933 and the Exchange Act of 1934 by allegedly making
false and misleading statements between the IPO and November 3, 2020, and in the IPO offering materials, about
the Company’s permits and permitting processes.
While the motion for class certification was still pending before the court, the parties reached an agreement-in-
principle to settle all claims in the Securities Class Action for an aggregate sum of $2.5 million. Following notice to
the class and an opt-out and objection process, the Court granted final approval of the settlement on February 6,
2024, and terminated the case. The Defendants continue to maintain that the claims were without merit and admitted
no liability in connection with the settlement.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
139
While the Securities Class Action is now concluded, certain related shareholder derivative actions remain
pending. On October 20, 2022, a shareholder derivative lawsuit (the “Assad Lawsuit”) was filed in the United States
District Court for the Northern District of Texas by putative stockholder George Assad, allegedly on behalf of the
Company, that piggy-backs on the Securities Class Action and is currently pending before the same court. The
derivative complaint names certain current and former officers and directors as defendants, and generally alleges
that they breached their fiduciary duties by causing or failing to prevent the securities violations alleged in the
Securities Class Action. The derivative complaint also alleges claims for unjust enrichment as against all defendants,
and claims for contribution and indemnification under Sections 10(b) and 21D of the Exchange Act. On January 27,
2023, the court granted the parties’ joint stipulated request to stay the Assad Lawsuit pending resolution of the
Securities Class Action.
On January 20, 2023, a second shareholder derivative lawsuit (the “Karp Lawsuit,” together with the Assad
Lawsuit, the “Shareholder Derivative Actions”) was filed, this time in the United States District Court for the
District of Delaware, by putative stockholder Molly Karp, allegedly on behalf of the Company, again piggy-backing
on the Securities Class Action. This complaint, similar to the Assad Lawsuit, is brought against certain current and
former officers and directors of the Company, asserting breach of fiduciary duty, aiding and abetting, and
contribution claims based on the defendants allegedly having caused or failed to prevent the securities violations
alleged in the Securities Class Action. In addition, the complaint asserts a claim under Section 14(a) of the Exchange
Act, alleging that Berry’s 2022 proxy statement was false and misleading in that it suggested the Company’s internal
controls were sufficient and the Board of Directors was adequately overseeing material risks facing the Company
when, according to the derivative plaintiff, that was not the case. On February 13, 2023, the court granted the
parties’ joint stipulated request to stay the Karp Lawsuit pending further developments in the Securities Class
Action.
The settlement of the Securities Class Action did not resolve the Shareholder Derivative Actions, which remain
pending. The defendants continue to believe the claims in the Shareholder Derivative Actions are without merit and
intend to defend vigorously against them, but there can be no assurances as to the outcome. At this time, we are
unable to estimate the probability or the amount of liability, if any, related to these matters.
In addition, on or around April 17, 2023, the Company received a stockholder litigation demand that the Board
of Directors investigate and commence legal proceedings against certain current and former officers and directors
based ostensibly on the same claims asserted in the Shareholder Derivative Actions. The Board of Directors
appointed a Demand Review Committee for the purpose of reviewing the demand.
Other Commitments
In the ordinary course of our business, we enter into certain firm commitments to secure transportation of our
production, which require a minimum monthly charge regardless of whether the contracted capacity is used or not.
At December 31, 2024, future net minimum payments for non-cancelable purchase obligations (excluding oil and
natural gas and other mineral leases, utilities, taxes and insurance expense) were as follows:
2025
2026
2027
2028
2029
Thereafter
Total
(in thousands)
Off-Balance Sheet arrangements:(1)
Transportation and processing
contracts(2)
$
11,626 $
8,640 $
8,082 $
8,083 $
8,083 $
27,356 $
71,870
GHG compliance purchase
contracts(3)
18,981
—
—
—
—
—
18,981
Other purchase obligations(4)
8,400
8,700
—
—
—
—
17,100
Total contractual obligations
$
39,007 $
17,340 $
8,082 $
8,083 $
8,083 $
27,356 $ 107,951
__________
(1)
These commitments and contractual obligations are expected to be funded by our cash flow from operations.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
140
(2)
Amounts include payments which will become due under long-term agreements to purchase goods and services used in the normal course of
business to secure pipeline transportation of natural gas to market and between markets. Processing contracts consist of $1.6 million in
2025 and $0.6 million in 2026. In February 2025, we extended four of our natural gas transportation agreements for a total of $8 million.
The extensions begin in November 2025 and run through October 2028.
(3)
We have entered into contracts to purchase GHG compliance instruments totaling $19 million.
(4)
Amounts include a drilling commitment in California, for which we are required to drill 57 wells with a minimum commitment of
$17.1 million by December 2026. In January 2025, the drilling commitment was amended to defer 28 of those wells to be drilled by
December 31, 2025 (previously required to be drilled by December 31, 2024), and the remaining 29 wells to be drilled by December 31,
2026 (previously required to be drilled by June 1,2025).
Note 6—Stockholders’ Equity
Cash Dividends
In 2024, we paid total dividends of $0.58 per share, in the form of regular fixed dividends of $0.39 per share
and variable dividends of $0.19 per share. In March 2025, our Board of Directors approved a fixed cash dividend of
$0.03 per share, which is expected to be paid in April 2025.
The Company anticipates that it will continue to pay quarterly cash dividends in the future. However, the
payment and amount of future dividends remain within the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend
upon the Company’s future earnings, financial condition, capital requirements, and other factors.
Common Stock
On March 1, 2022, our Board of Directors approved the 2022 Omnibus Plan, which was subsequently approved
by stockholders on May 25, 2022. The 2022 Omnibus Plan authorized the issuance of 2,950,000 shares of common
stock, which amount consists of 2,300,000 shares of common stock newly reserved under the 2022 Omnibus Plan
and 650,000 shares of common stock remaining available under the 2017 Omnibus Plan. While there are rewards
that remain outstanding under the 2017 Omnibus Plan, since the adoption of the 2022 Omnibus Plan, no awards
have been granted or may be granted in the future under the 2017 Omnibus Plan. The maximum number of shares
remaining that may be issued pursuant to the 2022 Omnibus Plan is 2,076,590 as of December 31, 2024, which is
the total number of shares of our common stock remaining available for issuance after counting the number of
securities to be issued upon vesting of outstanding RSU and PSU awards, and counting PSUs at the maximum
payout level. Shares reserved at maximum payout that do not vest at maximum are made available for future grants.
Voting Rights. Each share of common stock is entitled to one vote with respect to each matter on which holders
of common stock are entitled to vote. Holders of common stock do not have cumulative voting rights.
Dividend Rights. Holders of common stock will be entitled to receive dividends, if any, as may be declared
from time to time by our Board of Directors out of legally available funds.
Liquidation Rights. Upon liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Company, holders of our common stock
will be entitled to share ratably in the assets of the Company that are legally available for distribution to holders of
our common stock after payment of the Company’s debts and other liabilities.
Preemptive and Conversion Rights. Holders of common stock have no preemptive, conversion or other rights
to subscribe for additional shares.
Registration Rights Agreement
On June 28, 2018, Berry Corp. entered into an amended and restated registration rights agreement (the
“Registration Rights Agreement”) with certain holders of our Common Stock and Preferred Stock in connection
with our IPO.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
141
In accordance with the Registration Rights Agreement, Berry Corp. filed a shelf registration statement with the
SEC on December 10, 2018, which was declared effective on December 13, 2018. The shelf registration statement
registered the resale, on a delayed or continuous basis, of all Registrable Securities that have been timely designated
for inclusion by specified Holders (as defined in the Registration Rights Agreement). Generally, “Registrable
Securities” includes (i) common stock and preferred stock issued by Berry Corp. in connection with the IPO to
stockholders party to the Registration Rights Agreement, and (ii) preferred stock that was purchased by the
participants in the rights offering noted above and (iii) common stock into which the preferred stock converts, except
that “Registrable Securities” does not include securities that have been sold under an effective registration statement
or Rule 144 under the Securities Act. The Registration Rights Agreement will terminate when there are no longer
any Registrable Securities outstanding.
Shares Outstanding
As of December 31, 2024, there were 76,938,994 shares of common stock outstanding. Up to an additional
3,824,027 shares were issuable for unvested restricted stock units and performance restricted stock units (assuming
maximum achievement of performance goals) under the Company's 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan as of December
31, 2024.
Stock Repurchase Program
As of December 31, 2024, the Company’s remaining total share repurchase authority was $190 million. The
Board of Directors’ authorization permits the Company to make purchases of its common stock from time to time in
the open market and in privately negotiated transactions, subject to market conditions and other factors, up to the
aggregate amount authorized by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors’ authorization has no expiration
date.
The manner, timing and amount of any purchases will be determined based on our evaluation of market
conditions, stock price, compliance with outstanding agreements and other factors. Purchases may be commenced or
suspended at any time without notice and do not obligate the company to purchase shares during any period or at all.
Any shares repurchased are reflected as treasury stock and any shares acquired will be available for general
corporate purposes.
For the year ended December 31, 2024, we did not repurchase any shares. We repurchased approximately
$10 million and $51 million of shares in 2023 and 2022, respectively.
ATM Program
On March 13, 2025, we established an ATM program pursuant to which we may offer and sell common stock
having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million from time to time.
Stock-Based Compensation
The Company has awarded restricted stock units (“RSUs”) that are solely time-based awards and performance-
based restricted stock units (“PSUs”) that include (i) total stockholder return PSUs (“TSR PSUs”) (a) awards with a
market objective measured against both absolute total stockholder return (“Absolute TSR”) and a relative total
stockholder return (“Relative TSR”) over the performance period, (b) awards with a market objective measured
against only the Absolute TSR over the performance period and (ii) awards based on the Company's average cash
returned on invested capital (“CROIC PSUs” and “ROIC PSUs”) over the performance period. CROIC PSUs have
been awarded to certain Berry employees, while ROIC PSUs have been awarded to certain CJWS employees.
Depending on the results achieved during the three-year performance period, the actual number of shares that a grant
recipient receives at the end of the period may range from 0% to 200% of the TSR PSUs granted in 2024 and 2023,
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
142
0% to 250% of the TSR PSUs granted in 2022, 0% to 200% of the CROIC PSUs granted in 2023 and 2022, and 0%
to 200% of the ROIC PSUs granted in 2023 and 2022.
The fair value of the RSUs, CROIC PSUs and ROIC PSUs was determined using the grant date stock price. The
fair value of the TSR PSUs was determined using a Monte Carlo simulation analysis to estimate the total
shareholder return ranking of the Company, including a comparison against the peer group over the performance
periods. The expected volatility of the Company’s common stock at the date of grant was estimated based on
average volatility rates for the Company and selected guideline public companies. The dividend yield assumption
was based on the then current annualized declared dividend. The risk-free interest rate assumption was based on
observed interest rates consistent with the three-year performance measurement period.
For the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 the stock-based compensation expense was
approximately $8 million, $15 million, and $18 million, respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2024, the
income tax expense was $1 million. For the years ended December 2023 and 2022, the income tax benefit was $5
million, and $2 million respectively.
The table below summarizes the activity relating to RSUs issued under the 2017 and 2022 Omnibus Plans
during the year ended December 31, 2024. The RSUs vest ratably over three years. Unrecognized compensation cost
associated with the RSUs at December 31, 2024 was approximately $8 million which will be recognized over a
weighted-average period of approximately two years.
Number of shares
Weighted-average
Grant Date Fair Value
(shares in thousands)
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
1,915
$
8.11
Granted
1,344
$
7.20
Vested
(1,023) $
7.42
Forfeited
(427) $
8.11
Non-vested at December 31, 2024
1,809
$
7.84
The table below summarizes the activity relating to the PSUs issued under the 2017 and 2022 Omnibus Plans
during the year ended December 31, 2024. Unrecognized compensation cost associated with the PSUs at December
31, 2024 is approximately $7 million which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately
two years.
Number of shares
Weighted-average
Grant Date Fair Value
(shares in thousands)
Non-vested at December 31, 2023
1,582
$
8.98
Granted
406
$
8.72
Additional shares vested for above-target performance
311
$
4.75
Vested
(1,011) $
5.58
Forfeited
(303) $
11.87
Non-vested at December 31, 2024
985
$
10.14
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
143
Note 7—Income Taxes
The change in our effective tax rate to 31.4% for the year ended December 31, 2024 from 32.5% for the year
ended December 31, 2023 was primarily due to the benefit from the generation of U.S. federal general business
credits, partially offset by the impact of nondeductible compensation and other permanent adjustments, The credits
generated in 2024 are available to offset future income tax liabilities. The change in our effective rate to 32.5% for
the year ended December 31, 2023 from (20.4)% for the year ended December 31, 2022 was primarily due to
recognition of U.S. federal general business credits in 2022 related to the 2021 tax period and the release of the
valuation allowance in 2022.
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Current taxes:
Federal
$
2,007
$
850
$
642
State
4,024
2,295
1,597
Total current taxes
6,031
3,145
2,239
Deferred taxes:
Federal
3,529
11,914
(44,053)
State
(732)
2,966
(622)
Total deferred taxes
2,797
14,880
(44,675)
Total current and deferred taxes
$
8,828
$
18,025
$
(42,436)
Year Ended December 31,
A reconciliation of the federal statutory tax rate to the effective tax rate is as follows:
2024
2023
2022
Federal statutory rate
21.0 %
21.0 %
21.0 %
State, net of federal tax benefit
6.2 %
5.8 %
6.2 %
Nondeductible compensation
15.8 %
5.5 %
1.8 %
Effect of other permanent differences
0.1 %
(1.4) %
(0.3) %
Tax credits - Prior Year
— %
— %
(11.5) %
Tax credits - Current Year
(12.0) %
— %
— %
Return to provision
0.3 %
1.6 %
(0.3) %
Change in valuation allowance
— %
— %
(37.3) %
Effective tax rate
31.4 %
32.5 %
(20.4) %
Year Ended December 31,
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
144
Significant components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Deferred tax assets:
Net operating loss carryforwards
$
226
$
9,300
GHG liabilities and other accruals
12,863
16,027
Asset retirement obligations
55,263
53,751
Tax credits
82,326
86,410
Other
3,633
3,336
Total deferred tax assets
154,311
168,824
Deferred tax liabilities:
Book tax differences in property basis
(126,816)
(140,034)
Derivative instruments
(2,328)
(826)
Total deferred tax liabilities
(129,144)
(140,860)
Net deferred tax asset
$
25,167
$
27,964
Year Ended December 31,
As of December 31, 2024, the Company has $4 million state net operating loss (“NOL”) carryforwards. State
net operating loss carry forwards will expire in varying amounts beginning after taxable year 2037. In addition, as of
December 31, 2024, the Company had U.S. federal general business tax credit carryforwards totaling $77 million
and state tax credits of $7 million ($5 million net of federal benefit), which, if unused, will begin to expire after
taxable years ended 2037 and 2033, respectively.
California enacted multiple pieces of tax legislation during 2024 which (1) suspended the use of state NOLs and
general business tax credits by taxpayers for tax years 2024 through 2026 and (2) no longer permits the election to
currently deduct intangible drilling and development costs for oil and gas wells. The effect of this legislation
resulted in an adverse impact on cash tax liability related to California for tax year 2024, as the Company was
unable to utilize general business credits as expected to offset state taxable income.
In recording deferred income tax assets, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all
of the deferred income tax assets will be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred income tax assets is dependent
upon the generation of future taxable income of the appropriate character during the periods in which those deferred
income tax assets would be deductible. We assessed the available positive and negative evidence to estimate whether
sufficient future taxable income will be generated to permit use of the existing deferred tax assets. As of December
31, 2024, due to the positive evidence of cumulative income in recent years and the reversal of existing federal and
state temporary differences, we determined there is sufficient positive evidence to conclude that it is more likely
than not that our deferred tax assets are realizable.
We had no material uncertain tax positions at December 31, 2024 or 2023. We do not believe that the total
unrecognized benefits will significantly increase within the next 12 months.
We are subject to taxation in the United States and various state jurisdictions. We are not currently under audit
by any federal or state income tax authority. The 2021 through 2024 federal and 2020 through 2024 state tax years
generally remain open to examination under the respective statute of limitations.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
145
Note 8—Supplemental Disclosures to the Balance Sheets and Statements of Cash Flows
Other current assets reported on the consolidated balance sheets included the following:
(in thousands)
Prepaid expenses
$
12,183
$
12,330
Materials and supplies
12,109
17,021
Prepaid deposits
8,701
9,012
Oil inventories
4,232
4,098
Other
226
1,298
Total other current assets
$
37,451
$
43,759
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
Other non-current assets at December 31, 2024 included approximately $5 million of operating lease right-of-
use assets, net of amortization and $4 million of deferred financing costs, net of amortization. At December 31,
2023, other non-current assets included approximately $8 million of operating lease right-of-use assets, net of
amortization and $3 million of deferred financing costs, net of amortization.
Accounts payable and accrued expenses on the consolidated balance sheets included the following:
(in thousands)
Accounts payable - trade
$
18,990
$
31,184
Deferred acquisition payable(1)
—
18,999
Accrued expenses
53,925
55,663
Royalties payable
26,256
28,179
Greenhouse gas liability - current portion
8,068
37,945
Taxes other than income tax liability
6,374
6,488
Accrued interest
1,160
11,999
Asset retirement obligation - current portion
17,000
20,000
Operating lease liability
2,036
2,944
Total accounts payable and accrued expenses
$
133,809
$
213,401
December 31, 2024
December 31, 2023
__________
(1)
Relates to the remaining payable of $20 million, on a discounted basis, for the Macpherson Acquisition that was paid in July 2024.
At December 31, 2024, other non-current liabilities was approximately $28 million and included approximately
$24 million of greenhouse gas liability, and $4 million of non-current operating lease liability. At December 31,
2023, other non-current liabilities was approximately $5 million and generally consisted of our non-current
operating lease liability.
Supplemental Information on the Statement of Operations
For the year ended December 31, 2024, other operating income was $4 million and mainly consisted of a gain
on property sold by CJWS. For the year ended December 31, 2023, other operating income was $2 million and
mainly consisted of net property tax refunds from prior periods and a net gain on equipment sales. For the year
ended December 31, 2022, other operating expenses was $4 million and mainly consisted of royalty audit charges
incurred prior to our emergence and restructuring in 2017 and a loss on the divestiture of the Piceance properties.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
146
Supplemental Cash Flow Information
Supplemental disclosures to the consolidated statements of cash flows are presented below:
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Supplemental Disclosures of Significant Non-Cash Operating
Activities:
Greenhouse gas liability - reclassification from current
liability to long-term
$
—
$
—
$
8,000
Greenhouse gas liability - reclassification from long-term to
current liability
$
—
$
37,945
$
—
Supplemental Disclosures of Significant Non-Cash Investing
Activities:
Deferred consideration payable for acquisition
$
—
$
18,999 $
—
Material inventory transfers to oil and natural gas properties
$
4,352
$
1,694
$
2,707
Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Payments (Receipts):
Interest, net of amounts capitalized
$
46,954
$
32,251
$
29,792
Income taxes payments
$
3,428
$
3,282
$
3,633
Year Ended December 31,
Loss on debt retirement
December 31, 2024, as a result of the termination of the 2026 Notes, 2021 RBL Facility, and 2022 ABL
Facility, the Company recognized a loss on debt extinguishment related to the remaining deferred financing costs of
approximately $3 million. Additionally, upon successful completion of the 2024 Term Loan and 2024 Revolver
during the fourth quarter, the Company recognized a loss related to financing activities we terminated of
approximately $4 million. These amounts are reported within “Loss on debt retirement” in the consolidated
statements of operations.
There was no loss related to debt retirement for the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022.
Note 9—Acquisitions and Divestitures
In April 2024, we purchased a 21% working interest in four, two-to-three mile lateral wellbores that were
completed and placed on production in the second quarter of 2024. These are adjacent to our existing operations in
Utah, and the results from these wells will be used to evaluate opportunities on our own acreage. The total cost was
approximately $10 million, which was reported as capital expenditures.
During the second quarter of 2024, we purchased additional working interests of producing properties in our
Round Mountain field for approximately $3 million.
In July 2024, we paid $20 million in deferred consideration for the acquisition of Macpherson Energy. No
additional payments are required.
In July 2024, we completed the sale of CJWS’ storage facility in Ventura, California for approximately
$7 million in net cash proceeds for a gain of $5 million which is included in other operating (income) expenses on
the statement of operations.
In November 2024, we executed an agreement to exchange, on an equal value basis, certain of our oil, gas, and
mineral leasehold interests in Duchesne County, Utah, for that of another operator’s, also located in Duchesne
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
147
County, Utah. We will receive an approximately 17% working interest in three, three-mile Drilling Spacing Units
(DSUs) in exchange for an approximately 75% working interest in one, two-mile DSU.
During 2024, we acquired various oil and gas properties in Kern County, California for approximately
$6 million in aggregate.
Acquisitions in 2023
In September 2023, we completed the acquisition of Macpherson Energy, a privately held Kern County,
California operator. The total purchase price was approximately $70 million, subject to customary purchase price
adjustments. The transaction was structured such that approximately $53 million was paid at closing, including
purchase price adjustments, and $20 million was paid in July 2024.
The Macpherson transaction was accounted for as a business combination under the acquisition method of
accounting. When determining the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, management made
significant estimates, judgments and assumptions. The assets acquired and liabilities assumed are included in the
E&P segment, which are classified as Level 3. The following table represents the Company's preliminary purchase
price allocation, including preliminary working capital adjustments, of the estimated fair value of the Macpherson
Energy net assets as of the closing date. The Company recorded measurement period adjustments to the initial
opening balance sheet.
September 15, 2023
(As initially reported)
Measurement Period
Adjustments
September 15, 2023
(As adjusted)
(in thousands)
Cash and cash equivalents
$
3,845 $
— $
3,845
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts
12,694
2,458
15,152
Other current assets
1,541
10,301
11,842
Property and equipment
76,472
(14,022)
62,450
Other noncurrent assets
1,865
(1)
1,864
Total assets acquired
96,417
(1,264)
95,153
Accounts payable and accrued expenses assumed
(15,502)
571
(14,931)
Asset retirement obligation
(7,422)
1,146
(6,276)
Other noncurrent liabilities
(434)
1
(433)
Net assets acquired
$
73,059 $
454 $
73,513
The revenue and net income from Macpherson Energy was $14 million and $6 million, respectively, from the
acquisition date to December 31, 2023. The unaudited pro forma information presented below has been prepared to
give effect to the Macpherson Acquisition as if it had occurred at the beginning of the periods presented. The
unaudited pro forma information includes the effects from the allocation of the acquisition purchase price on
depreciation and amortization as well as the Macpherson Acquisition costs charged to earnings during the years
ended December 31, 2023 and 2022. The unaudited pro forma information is presented for illustration purposes only
and is based on estimates and assumptions the Company deemed appropriate. The following unaudited pro forma
information is not necessarily indicative of the results that would have been achieved if the Macpherson Acquisition
had occurred in the past, and should not be relied upon as an indication of the operating results that the Company
would have achieved if the acquisition had occurred at the beginning of the periods presented, and our operating
results, or the future results.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
148
Pro Forma
Year Ended December 31,
2023
2022
(unaudited)
(in thousands)
Revenue
$
940,125
$
1,017,536
Net income
$
43,707
$
288,217
We acquired Macpherson Energy because their assets are high-quality, low decline oil producing properties,
and are a natural fit with our existing rural Kern County portfolio. In addition to the attractive base production, we
see upside for near-term production enhancement and development opportunities.
Also in December 2023, we acquired additional highly synergistic working interests in Kern County, California,
for $33 million after purchase price adjustments. This transaction, supports our overall strategic plan to efficiently
maintain our California production. During 2023, we also acquired various oil and gas properties which consisted of
proved properties, for approximately $10 million in aggregate. Each of these acquisitions was accounted for as an
asset acquisition as substantially all of the fair value was concentrated in oil and gas property interests.
Acquisitions and Divestitures in 2022
In January 2022, we completed the divestiture of all of our natural gas properties in Colorado, which were in the
Piceance Basin. The divestiture closed with a loss of approximately $2 million. Our 2021 production from these
properties was 1.2 mboe/d.
In February 2022, we completed the acquisition of oil and gas producing assets in the Antelope Creek area of
Utah for approximately $18 million. These assets are adjacent to our existing Uinta assets and prior to our
acquisition produced approximately 0.6 mboe/d.
During 2022, we also acquired various oil and gas properties, most of which consisted of unproved properties
for approximately $8 million in aggregate.
Note 10—Earnings Per Share
We calculate basic earnings (loss) per share by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted-average number of
common shares outstanding for each period presented. Common shares issuable upon the satisfaction of certain
conditions pursuant to a contractual agreement, are considered common shares outstanding and are included in the
computation of net earnings (loss) per share.
The RSUs and PSUs are not a participating security as the dividends are forfeitable. For the years ended
December 31 2024, 2023, and 2022, 229,000, 1,545,000, and 4,069,000 incremental PSU and RSU shares were
included in the diluted EPS calculation, respectively.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
149
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands except per share amounts)
Basic EPS calculation
Net income
$
19,251
$
37,400
$
250,168
Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding
76,769
76,038
78,517
Basic income per share
$
0.25
$
0.49
$
3.19
Diluted EPS calculation
Net income
$
19,251
$
37,400
$
250,168
Weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding
76,769
76,038
78,517
Dilutive effect of potentially dilutive securities
229
1,545
4,069
Weighted-average common shares outstanding - diluted
76,998
77,583
82,586
Diluted income per share
$
0.25
$
0.48
$
3.03
Year Ended December 31,
Note 11—Revenue Recognition
We account for revenue in accordance with the Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 606, Revenue from
Contracts with Customers, using the modified retrospective method.
The performance obligations that are unsatisfied at the end of a reporting period relate solely to future volumes
that we have yet to sell. As such, these are wholly unsatisfied performance obligations as each unit of product
represents a separate performance obligation as well as a wholly unsatisfied promise to transfer a distinct good that
forms part of a single performance obligation.
We derive revenue from sales of oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids (“NGL”), with the remaining revenue
generated from sales of electricity, marketing activities and our well servicing and abandonment services business,
CJWS. Revenue from CJWS is primarily generated from well servicing and abandonment services business.
The following is a description of our principal activities from which we generate revenue. Revenues are
recognized when a customer obtains control of promised goods or services, in an amount that reflects the
consideration we expect to receive in exchange for those goods or services.
Oil, Natural Gas and NGLs
We recognize revenue from the sale of our oil, natural gas and NGL production when delivery has occurred and
control passes to the customer. Our oil and natural gas contracts are short term, typically less than a year and our
NGL contracts are both short and long term. We consider our performance obligations to be satisfied upon transfer
of control of the commodity. Our commodity sales contracts are indexed to a market price or an average index price.
We recognize revenue in the amount that we expect to receive once we are able to adequately estimate the
consideration (i.e., when market prices are known or estimated). Our contracts with customers typically require
payment within 30 days following invoicing.
Service Revenue
We recognize service revenue from the well servicing and abandonment services business upon delivery of the
service to the customer. These services are consumed by our customers when they are provided on their sites.
Revenue is recognized as performance obligations have been completed on a daily basis, when all of the proper
customer approvals are obtained. We do not have any long-term service contracts; nor do we have revenue expected
to be recognized in any future year related to remaining performance obligations or contracts with variable
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
150
consideration related to undelivered performance obligations. Our contracts with customers generally require
payment within 60 days following invoicing.
Electricity Sales
The electrical output of our cogeneration facilities that is not used in our operations is sold to the California
market based on market pricing, which includes capacity payments. The portion sold from our cogeneration
facilities is sold under contracts to California utility companies, based on the market pricing. Revenue is recognized
over time when obligations under the terms of a contract with our customer are satisfied; generally, this occurs upon
delivery of the electricity. Revenue is measured as the amount of consideration we expect to receive based on
average index pricing with payment due the month following delivery. Capacity payments can vary depending on
available capacity, market conditions and other factors. Capacity payments are settled monthly. We consider our
performance obligations to be satisfied upon delivery of electricity or as the contracted amount of energy is made
available to the customer in the case of capacity payments. We report electricity revenue as electricity sales on our
consolidated statements of operations.
Marketing Revenue
Marketing revenue primarily includes our activities associated with transporting and marketing third-party
natural gas volumes. These sales are made under short-term market based contracts. We consider our performance
obligations to be satisfied upon transfer of control of the commodity. Revenues are presented excluding costs
incurred prior to transferring control of these volumes to the customer, or the costs to purchase these volumes when
we are acting as the principal. The revenues and expenses related to the sale and purchase of third-party volumes are
presented separately as marketing revenue and marketing expenses on the consolidated statements of operations.
Disaggregated Revenue
The following table provides disaggregated revenue for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Oil sales
$
635,018
$
643,027
$
806,631
Natural gas sales
8,597
22,293
29,515
Natural gas liquids sales
3,879
3,790
6,303
Service revenue(1)
111,857
178,554
181,400
Electricity sales
15,606
15,277
30,833
Marketing and other revenues
8,884
513
768
Revenues from contracts with customers
783,841
863,454
1,055,450
Gains (losses) on oil and gas sales derivatives
(7,340)
40,006
(137,109)
Total revenues and other
$
776,501
$
903,460
$
918,341
__________
(1)
The well servicing and abandonment services segment occasionally provides services to our E&P segment. Prior to the intercompany
elimination, service revenue was approximately $132 million, $186 million, and $184 million and after the intercompany elimination of
$21 million, $7 million, and $3 million, net service revenue was $112 million, $179 million, and $181 million for years ended December 31,
2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively.
Note 12—Segment Information
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
151
We operate in two business segments: (i) E&P and (ii) well servicing and abandonment services. The E&P
segment is engaged in the exploration and production of onshore, low geologic risk, long-lived oil and gas reserves
located in California and Utah. The well servicing and abandonment services segment is operated by CJWS and
provides wellsite services in California to oil and natural gas production companies, with a focus on well servicing,
well abandonment services and water logistics.
Net income (loss) before income taxes is the measure reported to the chief operating decision maker (CODM)
for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to and assessing performance of each segment. This
measure allows our management to effectively evaluate our operating performance by segment and compare the
results between periods. The CODM is our Chief Executive Officer.
The well servicing and abandonment services segment occasionally provides services to our E&P segment, as
such, we recorded intercompany eliminations in revenue and expense during consolidation for the years ended
December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022 respectively.
The following tables represent selected financial information for the periods presented regarding the Company's
business segments on a stand-alone basis and the consolidation and elimination entries necessary to arrive at the
financial information for the Company on a consolidated basis.
Year Ended December 31, 2024
E&P
Well Servicing
and
Abandonment
Services
Total
Reportable
Segments
Corporate/
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Revenues and other:
Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid
sales
$
647,494
$
— $
647,494
$
— $
647,494
Service revenue
—
132,452
132,452
(20,595)
111,857
(Losses) on oil and gas derivatives
(7,340)
—
(7,340)
—
(7,340)
Other revenue (1)
24,490
—
24,490
—
24,490
Total revenues and other
$
664,644
$
132,452 $
797,096
$
(20,595)
776,501
_________
(1)
Other revenue generally consists of revenues related to electricity sales and marketing activities.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
152
Year Ended December 31, 2024
E&P
Well Servicing
and
Abandonment
Services
Total
Reportable
Segments
Corporate/
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Segment Operating Revenues
$
664,644
$
132,452 $
797,096
$
(20,595) $
776,501
Less:
Lease operating expenses
225,824
—
225,824
—
225,824
Losses on natural gas purchase
derivatives
22,781
—
22,781
—
22,781
Cost of services
—
116,109
116,109
(19,966)
96,143
Other operating expenses (1)
17,099
—
17,099
—
17,099
Taxes, other than income taxes
47,212
—
47,212 —
—
47,212
Other expenses(2)
206,332
16,899
223,231
77,153
300,384
Interest expense and other, net
—
—
—
38,979
38,979
Segment profit
145,396
(556)
144,840
Income before income taxes
28,079
Capital expenditures
$
97,331
$
3,355
$
1,666 $
102,352
Total assets
$
1,535,292
$
57,752
$
(75,358) $
1,517,686
_________
(1)
Amounts for our E&P segment include electricity, transportation, and marketing costs.
(2)
Amounts primarily include general and administrative expenses, depreciation, depletion, and amortization costs, E&P impairment,
acquisition costs, other operating income (expenses), and losses on debt retirement.
Year Ended December 31, 2023
E&P
Well Servicing
and
Abandonment
Services
Total
Reportable
Segments
Corporate/
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Revenues and other:
Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid
sales
$
669,110
$
— $
669,110
$
— $
669,110
Service revenue
—
185,767
185,767
(7,213) $
178,554
Gains on oil and gas derivatives
40,006
—
40,006
—
40,006
Other revenue(1)
15,790
—
15,790
—
15,790
Total revenues and other
724,906
185,767
910,673
(7,213)
903,460
_________
(1)
Other revenue generally consists of revenues related to electricity sales and marketing activities.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
153
Year Ended December 31, 2023
E&P
Well Servicing
and
Abandonment
Services
Total
Reportable
Segments
Corporate/
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Segment Operating Revenues
$
724,906
$
185,767 $
910,673
$
(7,213) $
903,460
Less:
Lease operating expenses
316,726
—
316,726
— $
316,726
Losses on natural gas purchase
derivatives
26,386
—
26,386
— $
26,386
Cost of services
—
148,984
148,984
(7,213) $
141,771
Other operating expenses (1)
11,565
—
11,565
— $
11,565
Taxes, other than income taxes
57,973
—
57,973 —
— $
57,973
Other expenses (2)
148,831
23,370
172,201
85,764 $
257,965
Interest expense and other, net
—
—
—
35,649 $
35,649
Segment profit
163,425
13,413
176,838
Income before income taxes
55,425
Capital expenditures
$
64,844
$
5,805
$
2,478 $
73,127
Total assets
$
1,652,979
$
68,670
$
(127,491) $
1,594,158
_________
(1)
Amounts for our E&P segment include electricity, transportation, and marketing costs.
(2)
Amounts primarily include general and administrative expenses, depreciation, depletion, and amortization costs, acquisition costs, and other
operating income (expenses).
Year Ended December 31, 2022
E&P
Well Servicing
and
Abandonment
Services
Total
Reportable
Segments
Corporate/
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Revenues and other:
Oil, natural gas and natural gas liquid
sales
$
842,449
$
— $
842,449
$
— $
842,449
Service revenue
—
184,448
184,448
(3,048) $
181,400
(Losses) on oil and gas derivatives
(137,109)
—
(137,109)
— $
(137,109)
Other revenue (1)
31,601
—
31,601
$
31,601
Total revenues and other
736,941
184,448
921,389
(3,048)
918,341
_________
(1)
Other revenue generally consists of revenues related to electricity sales and marketing activities.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
154
Year Ended December 31, 2022
E&P
Well Servicing
and
Abandonment
Services
Total
Reportable
Segments
Corporate/
Eliminations
Consolidated
(in thousands)
Segment Operating Revenues
$
736,941
$
184,448 $
921,389
$
(3,048) $
918,341
Less:
Lease operating expenses
302,321
—
302,321
— $
302,321
(Gains) on natural gas derivatives
(88,795)
—
(88,795)
— $
(88,795)
Cost of services
—
145,615
145,615
(2,796) $
142,819
Other operating expenses (1)
26,702
—
26,702
— $
26,702
Taxes, other than income taxes
39,495
—
39,495 —
— $
39,495
Other expenses(2)
154,388
24,063
178,451
78,557 $
257,008
Interest expense and other, net
—
—
—
31,059 $
31,059
Segment profit
302,830
14,770
317,600
Income before income taxes
207,732
Capital expenditures
$
141,930
$
8,455
$
2,536 $
152,921
Total assets
$
1,563,251
$
83,461
$
(15,682) $
1,631,030
_________
(1)
Amounts for our E&P segment include electricity, transportation, and marketing costs.
(2)
Amounts primarily include general and administrative expenses, depreciation, depletion, and amortization costs, and other operating income
(expenses).
Note 13—Leases
We account for leases in accordance with ASC 842, Leases, using the modified retrospective approach that
requires us to determine our lease balances as of the date of adoption.
The Company determines if an arrangement is a lease at inception of the contract. If an arrangement is a lease,
the present value of the related lease payments is recorded as a liability and an equal amount is capitalized as a right
of use asset on the Company’s balance sheet. Right of use assets represent the Company’s right to use an underlying
asset for the lease term and lease liabilities represent the Company’s obligation to make lease payments arising from
the lease. We have long-term operating leases generally for offices. The Company’s estimated incremental
borrowing rate, determined at the lease commencement date using the Company’s average secured borrowing rate,
is used to calculate present value.
Leases with an initial term of 12 months or less are not recorded on the balance sheet and the Company
recognizes lease expense for these leases on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
The components of lease expense are as follows:
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
155
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Lease Cost
Operating lease cost
$
3,345 $
2,526
Total net lease cost
$
3,345 $
2,526
The following table presents the consolidated balance sheet information related to leases as of December 31,
2024 and 2023.
As of December 31,
2024
2023
Balance Sheet Classification
(in thousands)
Leases
Assets
Operating lease assets
$
5,102 $
7,549
Other noncurrent assets
Total assets
$
5,102 $
7,549
Liabilities
Operating lease liability
$
2,036 $
2,944
Accounts payable and
accrued expenses
Operating lease noncurrent liability
3,508
5,126
Other noncurrent liabilities
Total liabilities
$
5,544 $
8,070
As of December 31,
2024
2023
Long-Term and Discount Rate
Weighted-average remaining lease term:
Operating Lease
2.8 years
3.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate:
Operating Lease
7 %
7 %
The following table presents a schedule of future minimum lease payments required under all operating lease
agreements as of December 31, 2024.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
156
As of December 31,
2024
(in thousands)
2025
$
2,322
2026
2,055
2027
1,338
2028
313
2029
54
Thereafter
—
Total lease payments
6,082
Less: Imputed interest
(538)
Total lease obligations
5,544
Less: Current obligations
(2,036)
Long-term lease obligations
$
3,508
Supplemental consolidated statement of cash flow information related to leases is as follows:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities
Operating cash flows from operating leases
$
3,424 $
2,565
ROU assets obtained in exchange for operating lease liabilities
$
488 $
3,295
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)
157
The following should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to
Consolidated Financial Statements.
Costs Incurred in Oil and Natural Gas Property Acquisition, Exploration and Development Activities
Costs incurred in oil and natural gas property acquisition, exploration and development, whether capitalized or
expensed, are presented below:
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Property acquisition costs:
Proved(1)
$
10,476
$
106,427 $
28,144
Unproved
—
—
—
Exploration costs
—
—
—
Development costs(2)
102,954
72,946
148,465
Total costs incurred
$
113,430
$
179,373 $
176,609
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Included in proved property acquisition costs for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 are non-cash additions related to the
estimated future asset retirement obligations of the Company's oil and gas properties of $0.9 million, $9.8 million and $2.2 million,
respectively.
(2)
Included in development costs for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 are non-cash additions related to the estimated future
asset retirement obligations of the Company's oil and gas properties of $6.4 million, $0.4 million and $22.3 million, respectively.
Oil and Natural Gas Capitalized Costs
Aggregate capitalized costs related to oil, natural gas and NGL production activities, support equipment and
facilities, and natural gas plants and pipelines with applicable accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
are presented below:
2024
2023
(in thousands)
Proved properties
$
1,848,695
$
1,781,790
Unproved properties
203,855
247,888
Total proved and unproved properties
2,052,550
2,029,678
Less: Accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization
(765,569)
(642,996)
Net capitalized costs
$
1,286,981
$
1,386,682
Year Ended December 31,
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL & NATURAL GAS DATA
(Unaudited)
158
Results of Oil and Natural Gas Producing Activities
The results of operations for oil, natural gas and NGL producing activities (excluding items such as corporate
overhead, interest costs and reorganization items, net) are presented below:
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Net revenues from production:
Oil, natural gas and NGL sales
$
647,494
$
669,110
$
842,449
Electricity sales
15,606
15,277
30,833
Marketing and other production-related revenue
8,708
—
601
Total net revenues from production(1)
671,808
684,387
873,883
Operating costs for production:
Lease operating expenses
225,824
316,726
302,321
Electricity generation expenses
4,447
7,079
21,839
Transportation expenses
4,552
4,486
4,564
Production-related general and administrative expenses
403
1,002
962
Taxes, other than income taxes
46,852
57,608
39,145
Marketing and other production-related costs
8,100
—
299
Total operating costs for production
290,178
386,901
369,130
Other costs:
Depreciation, depletion and amortization
160,362
143,694
141,022
Impairment of long-lived assets
43,980
—
—
Other operating expenses
946
783
734
Total other costs
205,288
144,477
141,756
Pretax income
176,342
153,009
362,997
Income tax expense
45,360
42,783
74,295
Results of operations
$
130,982
$
110,226
$
288,702
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Excludes cash paid for derivative settlements of $35 million and $88 million for the years ended December 31, 2024 and 2022, respectively.
Excludes cash received for derivative settlements of $6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Income tax is calculated as if the results presented above represented a stand-alone tax filing entity by applying
the current federal and state statutory tax rates to the revenues after deducting costs, and after deductions and tax
credits and allowances relating to oil and gas activities that are reflected in our consolidated income tax for the
period. See Note 7, Income Taxes, for additional information about income taxes.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL & NATURAL GAS DATA (Continued)
(Unaudited)
159
Proved Oil, Natural Gas and NGL Reserves
The Company's proved oil, natural gas and NGL reserve quantities and the related discounted future net cash
flows before income taxes are based on estimates prepared by the independent engineering firm, DeGolyer and
MacNaughton. In accordance with SEC regulations, proved reserves at December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022 were
estimated using the average price during the 12-month period, determined as an unweighted average of the first-day-
of-the-month price for each month, excluding escalations based upon future conditions. An analysis of the change in
the Company's net interests in estimated quantities of proved oil, natural gas, and NGL reserves, all of which are
attributable to properties located in the United States, is shown below:
Oil
mbbls
NGLs
mbbls
Natural Gas
mmcf
Total
mboe
Total proved reserves:
Beginning of year
97,715
835
26,556
102,976
Extensions and discoveries
1,203
—
577
1,299
Revisions of previous estimates
13,084
(172)
(5,954)
11,920
Purchases of minerals in place
452
—
—
452
Sales of minerals in place
—
—
—
—
Production
(8,616)
(145)
(3,179)
(9,291)
End of year
103,838
518
18,000
107,356
Proved developed reserves:
Beginning of year
52,446
635
21,114
56,600
End of year
58,639
518
15,528
61,745
Proved undeveloped reserves:
Beginning of year
45,269
200
5,442
46,376
End of year
45,199
—
2,472
45,611
Year Ended December 31, 2024
Oil
mbbls
NGLs
mbbls
Natural Gas
mmcf
Total
mboe
Total proved reserves:
Beginning of year
98,577
2,020
59,158
110,456
Extensions and discoveries
5,449
—
—
5,449
Revisions of previous estimates
(6,398)
(1,030)
(29,371)
(12,323)
Purchases of minerals in place
8,661
—
—
8,661
Sales of minerals in place
—
—
—
—
Production
(8,574)
(155)
(3,231)
(9,267)
End of year
97,715
835
26,556
102,976
Proved developed reserves:
Beginning of year
53,632
1,413
44,601
62,478
End of year
52,446
635
21,114
56,600
Proved undeveloped reserves:
Beginning of year
44,945
607
14,557
47,978
End of year
45,269
200
5,442
46,376
Year Ended December 31, 2023
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL & NATURAL GAS DATA (Continued)
(Unaudited)
160
Year Ended December 31, 2022
Oil
mbbls
NGLs
mbbls
Natural Gas
mmcf
Total
mboe
Total proved reserves:
Beginning of year
85,801
1,259
62,454
97,469
Extensions and discoveries
22,787
546
13,102
25,517
Revisions of previous estimates
(6,474)
359
1,481
(5,868)
Purchases of minerals in place
5,300
—
10,706
7,084
Sales of minerals in place
(61)
—
(24,861)
(4,205)
Production
(8,776)
(144)
(3,724)
(9,541)
End of year
98,577
2,020
59,158
110,456
Proved developed reserves:
Beginning of year
53,452
1,209
60,351
64,720
End of year
53,632
1,413
44,601
62,478
Proved undeveloped reserves:
Beginning of year
32,349
50
2,103
32,749
End of year
44,945
607
14,557
47,978
The tables above include changes in estimated quantities of natural gas reserves shown in boe using the ratio of
six mcf to one barrel.
Proved reserves increased by approximately four mmboe to approximately 107 mmboe for the year ended
December 31, 2024. The year ended December 31, 2024 included upward other revisions of 11 mmboe in
California. This consisted of 24 mmboe positive revisions in California, which included Mid-North Diatomite
proved developed producing improved performance and additional sidetrack opportunities identified. We also
identified additional recompletion opportunities in the Round Mountain area. These positive revisions were offset by
nine mmboe negative revisions related to SB 1137 in California and four mmboe related to changes in our five-year
development plan. Positive technical revisions in Utah were offset by negative price revisions. We added one
mmboe of proved reserves in California through the Round Mountain acquisition and one mmboe of proved reserves
in Utah through development completed on our six non-operated horizontal wells.
Proved reserves decreased by approximately seven mmboe to approximately 103 mmboe for the year ended
December 31, 2023. The year ended December 31, 2023 included 12 mmboe of negative overall revisions of
previous estimates, including one mmboe in California and 11 mmboe Utah. The negative overall revisions included
one mmboe in California due to changes to timing of development plans, offset by positive revisions based on
sidetracks and workovers that were identified, eight mmboe in Utah partly due to a change in timing of development
plans and three mmboe in Utah due to net negative price revisions. In 2023, we acquired nine mmboe of proved
reserves through the Macpherson Acquisition and a small acquisition in Kern County in December 2023. We added
five mmboe to proved reserves from extensions in our California properties, primarily in the Hill Belridge Field, due
to an increase in our proved acreage based on drilling activity.
Proved reserves increased by approximately 13 mmboe to approximately 110 mmboe for the year ended
December 31, 2022. The year ended December 31, 2022 included six mmboe of negative overall revisions of
previous estimates. In 2022, we experienced negative revisions of seven mmboe in California, which was partially
offset by positive revisions of one mmboe in Utah. The negative other revisions resulted primarily from a change in
development plans in our thermal Diatomite in our North Midway-Sunset field. Positive price-driven revisions were
two mmboe, due to the increase in commodity prices. Extensions and discoveries added 26 mmboe to proved
reserves. In January of 2022, we divested our Piceance Basin properties and removed approximately four mmboe of
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL & NATURAL GAS DATA (Continued)
(Unaudited)
161
proved reserves in Colorado. In February of 2022, we acquired Antelope Creek and we added seven mmboe of
proved reserves in Utah.
Standardized Measure of Discounted Future Net Cash Flows
Information with respect to the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows relating to proved
reserves is summarized below. Future cash inflows are computed by applying applicable prices relating to the
Company’s proved reserves to the year-end quantities of those reserves. Future production, development, site
restoration and abandonment costs are derived based on current costs assuming continuation of existing economic
conditions. See Note 7, Income Taxes, for additional information about income taxes.
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands, except for prices)
Future cash inflows
$
7,768,787
$
7,674,494
$
9,501,374
Future production costs
(3,122,295)
(3,439,939)
(3,909,452)
Future development costs(1)
(953,716)
(964,768)
(1,068,890)
Future income tax expenses(2)
(772,998)
(620,822)
(1,000,268)
Future net cash flows
2,919,778
2,648,965
3,522,764
10% annual discount for estimated timing of cash flows
(1,108,542)
(966,331)
(1,448,999)
Standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows
$
1,811,236
$
1,682,634
$
2,073,765
Representative prices:(3)
Brent Oil (bbl)
$
80.42
$
82.84
$
100.25
Henry Hub Natural gas (mmbtu)
$
2.13
$
2.63
$
6.40
Year Ended December 31,
__________
(1)
Future development costs includes site restoration and abandonment costs.
(2)
Future income tax expenses are based on current statutory rates, adjusted for the tax basis of oil and gas properties and applicable tax
credits, deductions and allowances.
(3)
In accordance with SEC regulations, reserves were estimated using the average price during the 12-month period, determined as an
unweighted average of the first-day-of-the-month price for each month, excluding escalations based upon future conditions. The average
price used to estimate reserves is held constant over the life of the reserves.
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL & NATURAL GAS DATA (Continued)
(Unaudited)
162
The following table summarizes the changes in the standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows:
2024
2023
2022
(in thousands)
Standardized measure—beginning of year
$
1,682,634
$
2,073,765
$
1,233,271
Net change in sales and transfer prices and production costs
related to future production
124,770
(693,656)
830,294
Changes in estimated future development costs
(3,154)
90,300
42,747
Sales and transfers of oil, natural gas and NGLs produced during
the period
(369,906)
(289,925)
(496,069)
Net change due to extensions, discoveries and improved recovery
17,682
110,521
476,114
Purchase of minerals in place
8,366
207,575
139,637
Sales of minerals in place
—
—
(14,684)
Net change due to revisions in quantity estimates
325,277
(294,382)
(182,173)
Previously estimated development costs incurred during the period
38,934
11,765
30,358
Accretion of discount
204,893
262,380
151,334
Changes in production rates and other
(142,295)
20,537
132,917
Net change in income taxes
(75,965)
183,754
(269,981)
Net (decrease) increase
128,602
(391,131)
840,494
Standardized measure—end of year
$
1,811,236
$
1,682,634
$
2,073,765
Year Ended December 31,
The standardized measure of discounted future net cash flows is not intended to represent the replacement cost
or fair value of the Company's oil and gas properties. The data presented should not be viewed as representing the
expected cash flow from, or current value of, existing proved reserves since the computations are based on a large
number of estimates and assumptions. The required projection of production and related expenditures over time
requires further estimates with respect to pipeline availability, rates of demand and governmental control. Actual
future prices and costs are likely to be substantially different from the current prices and costs utilized in the
computation of reported amounts. Any analysis or evaluation of the reported amounts should give specific
recognition to the computational methods utilized and the limitations inherent therein.
The following table summarizes the average sales price and production costs:
Year Ended December 31,
2024
2023
2022
Weighted-average realized sales prices:
Oil without hedges ($/bbl)
$
73.70
$
75.05
$
91.98
Natural gas ($/mcf)
$
2.70
$
6.94
$
7.96
NGLs ($/bbl)
$
26.82
$
24.47
$
43.85
Production costs (per boe):
Lease operating expenses
$
24.31
$
34.21
$
31.72
BERRY CORPORATION (bry)
SUPPLEMENTAL OIL & NATURAL GAS DATA (Continued)
(Unaudited)
163
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A. Controls and Procedures
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
In accordance with Exchange Act Rules 13a-15 and 15d-15, our Chief Executive Officer and our Vice
President, Chief Financial Officer supervised and participated in our evaluation of our disclosure controls and
procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of December 31, 2024. Our
disclosure controls and procedures are designed to provide reasonable assurance that the information required to be
disclosed by us in reports that we file under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our
management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely
decisions regarding required disclosure and is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods
specified in the rules and forms of the SEC. Based upon that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal
financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of December 31, 2024 at
the reasonable assurance level.
Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting and Attestation Report of the
Registered Public Accounting Firm
Our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, is responsible for
establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under
the Exchange Act. Our internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of our consolidated financial statements for
external purposes in accordance with GAAP.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that
controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies
or procedures may deteriorate.
Our management assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2024, using the criteria in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Based on this evaluation, our management concluded that
our internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2024.
The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2024 has been audited by
KPMG LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, who also audited our financial statements. Their
attestation report is included in Part II—Item 8. “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual
Report.
Changes in the Company’s Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
The Company’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over
financial reporting, as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act. There have been no changes in
the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2024 that materially
affected, or were reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
164
Item 9B. Other Information
Trading Plans
During the three months ended December 31, 2024, no director or officer of the Company adopted or
terminated a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement,” as each term is defined
in Item 408(a) of Regulation S-K.
ATM Program
On March 13, 2025, the Company entered into an Open Market Sale Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”) with
Jefferies LLC and Johnson Rice & Company L.L.C. (the “Sales Agents”). Pursuant to the terms of the Sales
Agreement, the Company may sell from time to time through the Sales Agents (the “Offering”) common stock
having an aggregate offering price of up to $50 million.
Any common stock offered and sold in the Offering will be issued pursuant to the Company’s shelf registration
statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 333-267240) filed with the SEC on September 2, 2022 and declared
effective on September 14, 2022 (the “Registration Statement”), the prospectus supplement relating to the Offering
filed with the SEC on March 13, 2025 and any applicable additional prospectus supplements related to the Offering
that form a part of the Registration Statement. Sales of common stock, if any, under the Sales Agreement may be
made in any transactions that are deemed to be “at the market offerings” as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities
Act.
The Sales Agreement contains customary representations, warranties and agreements by the Company,
indemnification obligations of the Company and the Sales Agents, including for liabilities under the Securities Act,
other obligations of the parties and termination provisions. Under the terms of the Agreement, the Company will pay
the Sales Agents a commission of up to 3.0% of the gross sales price of the common stock sold.
The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Offering, after deducting the Sales Agents’ commissions
and the Company’s offering expenses, for general corporate purposes, which may include, among other things,
paying or refinancing all or a portion of our then-outstanding indebtedness, and funding acquisitions, capital
expenditures and working capital.
The foregoing description of the Agreement does not purport to be complete and is qualified in its entirety by
reference to the full text of the Sales Agreement, a copy of which is filed with this Annual Report as Exhibit 1.1 and
is incorporated by reference herein. A legal opinion relating to the common stock is filed with this Annual Report as
Exhibit 5.1.
165
Part III
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
The information required by this Item 10 is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement,
for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the SEC pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days
of December 31, 2024.
Our Board of Directors has adopted a Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (“Code of Conduct”) applicable to
all officers, directors and employees, which is available on our website (www.bry.com/sustainability/governance).
We intend to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K regarding amendment to, or waiver
from, a provision of our Code of Conduct by posting such information within four business days following the date
of the amendment or waiver on our website at the address specified above.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
The information required by this Item 11 is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement,
for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the SEC pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days
of December 31, 2024.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management
The information required by this Item 12 is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement,
for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the SEC pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days
of December 31, 2024.
Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans
On June 27, 2018, our Board of Directors approved the 2017 Omnibus Plan. A description of the plans can be
found in Note 6, Stockholders’ Equity in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8. Financial
Statements and Supplementary Data. On March 1, 2022, our Board of Directors approved the 2022 Omnibus Plan,
which was subsequently approved by stockholders on May 25, 2022. The 2022 Omnibus Plan authorized the
issuance of an additional 2,300,000 shares of common stock, bringing the total between the 2017 Omnibus Plan and
the 2022 Omnibus Plan to 12,300,000 shares. There have been approximately 10,200,000 shares issued or reserved
through December 31, 2024.
166
The following table summarizes information related to our equity compensation plans under which our equity
securities are authorized for issuance as of December 31, 2024:
Plan Category
Number of Securities to be
Issued Upon Exercise of
Outstanding Options and
Rights (#)(1)
Weighted-Average Exercise
Price of Outstanding Options
and Rights ($)(2)
Number of Securities
Remaining Available for
Future Issuance Under Equity
Compensation Plans (#)(3)
Equity compensation plans not
approved by security holders(4)
667,071
N/A
—
Equity compensation plans
approved by security holders(5)
3,156,956
N/A
2,076,590
Total
3,824,027
N/A
2,076,590
________________
(1) This column reflects the number of shares of our common stock subject to outstanding restricted stock unit (“RSU”) awards and
performance-based restricted stock unit (“PSU”) awards as of December 31, 2024, after counting the outstanding PSU awards at the
maximum payout level. Because the number of shares to be issued upon settlement of outstanding PSU awards is subject to performance
conditions, the number of shares actually issued may be substantially less than the number reflected in this column. No options or warrants
have been granted under the 2022 Omnibus Plan.
(2) No options or warrants have been granted under the 2022 Omnibus Plan, and the RSU and PSU awards reflected in column (a) are not
reflected in this column, as they do not have an exercise price.
(3)
This column reflects the total number of shares of our common stock remaining available for issuance under the 2022 Omnibus Plan as of
December 31, 2024, after counting the number of securities to be issued upon vesting of outstanding RSU and PSU awards as of December
31, 2024, and counting PSUs at the maximum payout level. Shares reserved at maximum payout that do not vest at max are made available
for future grants.
(4)
In connection with our initial public offering, our Board of Directors approved the 2017 Omnibus Plan, effective June 27, 2018. The 2017
Omnibus Plan allowed us to grant equity-based compensation awards (including stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock,
restricted stock units, stock awards, dividend equivalents and other types of awards) with respect to up to 10,000,000 shares of common
stock (which number includes the number of shares of common stock previously issued pursuant to an award (or made subject to an award
that has not expired or been terminated) under prior plans), to employees, consultants and directors of the Company and its affiliates who
perform services for the Company. While there are awards that remain outstanding under the 2017 Omnibus Plan, since the adoption of the
2022 Omnibus Plan, no awards have been granted or may be granted in the future under the 2017 Omnibus Plan.
(5)
On March 1, 2022, our Board of Directors approved the 2022 Omnibus Plan, which was subsequently approved by stockholders on May 25,
2022. The 2022 Omnibus Plan authorized the issuance of 2,950,000 shares of common stock, which amount consists of 2,300,000 shares of
common stock newly reserved under the 2022 Omnibus Plan and 650,000 shares of common stock remaining available under the 2017
Omnibus Plan.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence
The information required by this Item 13 is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement,
for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the SEC pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days
of December 31, 2024.
Item 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services
Our independent registered public accounting firm is KPMG LLP, Dallas, TX, Auditor Firm ID: 185.
The information required by this Item 14 is incorporated herein by reference to our definitive Proxy Statement,
for the 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the SEC pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days
of December 31, 2024.
167
Part IV
Item 15. Exhibits
1.1*
Open Market Sales Agreement, dated as of March 13, 2025 by and among Berry Corporation (bry)
and Jefferies LLC and Johnson Rice & Company L.L.C., as sales agents and/or principals
3.1
Second Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Berry Petroleum Corporation
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 of Form 8-K filed February 19, 2020)
3.2
Fourth Amended and Restated Bylaws of Berry Corporation (bry) (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.1 of Form 8-K filed January 25, 2023)
4.1
Form of Common Stock Certificate of Berry Petroleum Corporation (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-226011))
4.2
Description of Registrant’s Securities Registered Under Section 12 of the Exchange Act of 1934
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed
February 27, 2020)
5.1*
Opinion of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. relating to the ATM Program
10.1†
Second Amended and Restated Executive Employment Agreement by and between Berry Petroleum
Company, LLC and Danielle Hunter, effective January 1, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.3 of Form 8-K filed November 30, 2022)
10.2†
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between Berry Petroleum Company, LLC
and Fernando Araujo, effective January 1, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of Form 8-
K filed November 30, 2022)
10.3†
Key Employee Agreement by and between Berry Corporation (bry) and Jeff Magids, effective
January 21, 2025 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Form 8-K filed January 21, 2025)
10.4†
Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between Berry Petroleum Company, LLC
and Mike Helm, effective January 1, 2023 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 of Form 8-K
filed November 30, 2022)
10.5†
Berry Petroleum Corporation 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan dated June 15, 2017 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No.
333-226011))
10.6†
Amended and Restated Berry Petroleum Corporation 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan, dated March 7,
2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form
S-1 (File No. 333-226011))
10.7†
Second Amended and Restated Berry Petroleum Corporation 2017 Omnibus Incentive Plan, dated
June 27, 2018 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.3 of S-8 Registration Statement (File No.
333-226582))
10.8†
Berry Petroleum Corporation Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Employees other
than Executive Officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.19 to the Company’s Annual Report
on Form 10-K filed March 8, 2019)
10.9†
Berry Petroleum Corporation Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Executive Officers
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed
March 8, 2019)
Exhibit
Number
Description
168
10.10†
Berry Petroleum Corporation Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement for Directors
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.21 to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed
March 8, 2019)
10.11†
Berry Petroleum Corporation Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement
for Employees other than Executive Officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to the
Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 8, 2019)
10.12†
Berry Petroleum Corporation Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement
for Executive Officers (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.23 to the Company’s Annual Report
on Form 10-K filed March 8, 2019)
10.13†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan, dated March 1, 2022 (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 4, 2022)
10.14†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with Total Shareholder Return Performance Criteria (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 4, 2022)
10.15†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with CROIC Performance Criteria (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3
to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 4, 2022)
10.16†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with C&J Well Services ROCI Performance Criteria (Executive Employment
Agreement) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q filed May 4, 2022)
10.17†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with C&J Well Services ROCI Performance Criteria (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed May 4, 2022)
10.18†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award
Agreement for Executives (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.26 of the Company’s Annual
Report on Form 10-K filed February 27, 2023)
10.19†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with Absolute Total Shareholder Return Performance Criteria (incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 10.27 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed February 27,
2023)
10.20†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award
Agreement for Executives (2024) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.27 of the Company’s
Annual Report on Form 10-K) filed March 8, 2024)
10.21†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award
Agreement for Executives without Employment Agreement (2024) (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.28 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 8, 2024)
10.22†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with Absolute Total Shareholder Return Performance Criteria for Executives
(2024) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.29 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K)
filed March 8, 2024)
10.23†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with Absolute Total Shareholder Return Performance Criteria for Executives
without Employment Agreement (2024) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.30 of the
Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 8, 2024)
Exhibit
Number
Description
169
10.24†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with Relative Total Shareholder Return Performance Criteria for Executives
(2024) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.31 of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K)
filed March 8, 2024)
10.25†
Berry Corporation (bry) 2022 Omnibus Incentive Plan - Form of Performance-Based Restricted Stock
Unit Award Agreement with Relative Total Shareholder Return Performance Criteria for Executives
without Employment Agreement (2024) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.32 of the
Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 8, 2024)
10.26
Form of Indemnification Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16 to the Company’s
Registration Statement on Form S-1 (File No. 333-226011))
10.27
Senior Secured Term Loan Credit Agreement, dated as of November 6, 2024, among Berry
Corporation (Bry), the guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and Breakwall Credit
Management LLC, as administrative agent for the lenders (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1
of Form 10-Q filed November 8, 2024)
10.28
First Amendment to Credit Agreement, dated as of December 24, 2024, by and among Berry
Corporation (bry), each of the guarantors party thereto, each of the lenders that is a signatory thereto
and Breakwall Credit Management LLC, as administrative agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.1 of Form 8-K filed December 27, 2024)
10.29
Senior Secured Revolving Credit Agreement, dated as of December 24, 2024, by and among Berry
Corporation (bry), as borrower, Texas Capital Bank, as administrative agent and as a letter of credit
issuer, the guarantors party thereto from time to time and the lenders party thereto from time to time
(incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of Form 8-K filed December 27, 2024)
10.30
Collateral Agency and Intercreditor Agreement, dated as of December 24, 2024, among the Company,
the Guarantors, Texas Capital Bank, as first-out representative, Breakwall Credit Management LLC,
as first lien representative, the other priority representatives from time to time party thereto, the
priority secured parties from time to time party thereto and Breakwall Credit Management LLC, as
collateral agent (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of Form 8-K filed December 27, 2024)
19.1*
Berry Corporation Insider Trading Policy
19.2*
Berry Corporate Transactions Policy
21.1*
List of Subsidiaries of Berry Corporation (bry)
23.1*
Consent of KPMG LLP
23.2*
Consent of DeGolyer and MacNaughton
23.3*
Consent of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P. (included in its opinion filed as Exhibit 5.1)
31.1*
Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
31.2*
Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
32.1*
Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
97.1
Berry Corporation (bry) Clawback Policy (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 97.1 of the
Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 8, 2024)
99.1*
Report as of December 31, 2024 of DeGolyer and MacNaughton
101.INS*
Inline XBRL Instance Document (the Instance Document does not appear in the Interactive Data File
because its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL document)
101.SCH*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
101.CAL*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
Exhibit
Number
Description
170
101.DEF*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
101.LAB*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Data Document
101.PRE*
Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
104
Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)
Exhibit
Number
Description
__________
(*)
Filed herewith.
(**) Furnished herewith.
(†) Indicates a management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
Item 16. Form 10-K Summary
None.
171
GLOSSARY OF COMMONLY USED TERMS
The following are abbreviations and definitions of certain terms that may be used in this report, which are
commonly used in the oil and natural gas industry:
“Adjusted EBITDA” is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as earnings before interest expense; income
taxes; depreciation, depletion, and amortization; derivative gains or losses net of cash received or paid for scheduled
derivative settlements; impairments; stock compensation expense; and unusual and infrequent items.
“Adjusted General and Administrative Expenses” is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as general and
administrative expenses adjusted for non-cash stock compensation expense and unusual and infrequent costs.
“Adjusted Net Income (Loss)” is a non-GAAP financial measure defined as net income (loss) adjusted for
derivative gains or losses net of cash received or paid for scheduled derivative settlements, unusual and infrequent
items, and the income tax expense or benefit of these adjustments using our effective tax rate.
“AROs” means asset retirement obligations.
“basin” means a large area with a relatively thick accumulation of sedimentary rocks.
“bbl” means one stock tank barrel, or 42 U.S. gallons liquid volume, used in reference to oil or other liquid
hydrocarbons.
“bcf” means one billion cubic feet, which is a unit of measurement of volume for natural gas.
“BLM” means for the U.S. Bureau of Land Management.
“boe” means barrel of oil equivalent, determined using the ratio of one bbl of oil, condensate or natural gas
liquids to six mcf of natural gas.
“boe/d” means boe per day.
“Brent” means the reference price paid in U.S. dollars for a barrel of light sweet crude oil produced from the
Brent field in the UK sector of the North Sea.
“btu” means one British thermal unit—a measure of the amount of energy required to raise the temperature of a
one-pound mass of water one degree Fahrenheit at sea level.
“CalGEM” is an abbreviation for the California Geologic Energy Management Division.
“Cap-and-trade” is a statewide program in California established by the Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006
which outlined an enforceable compliance obligation beginning with 2013 GHG emissions and currently extended
through 2030.
“CEQA” is an abbreviation for the California Environmental Quality Act which, among other things, requires
certain governmental agencies to conduct environmental review of projects for which the agency is issuing a permit.
“CJWS” refers to C&J Well Services, LLC and CJ Berry Well Services Management, LLC, the two entities that
constitute our upstream well servicing and abandonment services business segment in California.
“Clean Water Rule” refers to the rule issued in August 2015 by the EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
which expanded the scope of the federal jurisdiction over wetlands and other types of waters.
172
“Completion” means the installation of permanent equipment for the production of oil or natural gas.
“Condensate” means a mixture of hydrocarbons that exists in the gaseous phase at original reservoir
temperature and pressure, but that, when produced, is in the liquid phase at surface pressure and temperature.
“CPUC” is an abbreviation for the California Public Utilities Commission.
“DD&A” means depreciation, depletion & amortization.
“Development well” means a well drilled to a known producing formation in a previously discovered field,
usually offsetting a producing well on the same or an adjacent oil and natural gas lease.
“Diatomite” means a sedimentary rock composed primarily of siliceous, diatom shells.
“Differential” means an adjustment to the price of oil or natural gas from an established spot market price to
reflect differences in the quality and/or location of oil or natural gas.
“Downspacing” means additional wells drilled between known producing wells to better develop the reservoir.
“HSE” is an abbreviation for Health, Safety, and Environmental.
“EPA” is an abbreviation for the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
“EPS” is an abbreviation for earnings per share.
“Exploration activities” means the initial phase of oil and natural gas operations that includes the generation of
a prospect or play and the drilling of an exploration well.
“FASB” is an abbreviation for the Financial Accounting Standards Board.
“Field” means an area consisting of a single reservoir or multiple reservoirs all grouped on or related to the
same individual geological structural feature or stratigraphic condition.
“Formation” means a layer of rock which has distinct characteristics that differ from those of nearby rock.
“Fracturing” means mechanically inducing a crack or surface of breakage within rock not related to foliation or
cleavage in metamorphic rock in order to enhance the permeability of rocks by connecting pores together.
“Free Cash Flow” is a non-GAAP financial measure which is defined as cash flow from operations, less capital
expenditures.
“GAAP” is an abbreviation for U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
“Gas” or “Natural gas” means the lighter hydrocarbons and associated non-hydrocarbon substances occurring
naturally in an underground reservoir, which under atmospheric conditions are essentially gases but which may
contain liquids.
“GHG” or “GHGs” is an abbreviation for greenhouse gases.
“Gross Acres” or “Gross Wells” means the total acres or wells, as the case may be, in which we have a working
interest.
173
“Held by production” means acreage covered by a mineral lease that perpetuates a company’s right to operate a
property as long as the property produces a minimum paying quantity of oil or natural gas.
“Henry Hub” is a distribution hub on the natural gas pipeline system in Erath, Louisiana.
“Horizontal drilling” means a wellbore that is drilled laterally.
“Hydraulic fracturing” means a procedure to stimulate production by forcing a mixture of fluid and proppant
(usually sand) into the formation under high pressure. This creates artificial fractures in the reservoir rock, which
increases permeability.
“Infill drilling” means drilling of an additional well or wells at less than existing spacing to more adequately
drain a reservoir.
“Injection Well” means a well in which water, gas or steam is injected, the primary objective typically being to
maintain reservoir pressure and/or improve hydrocarbon recovery.
“IOR” means improved oil recovery.
“IPO” is an abbreviation for initial public offering.
“LCFS” is an abbreviation for low carbon fuel standard.
“Leases” means full or partial interests in oil or gas properties authorizing the owner of the lease to drill for,
produce and sell oil and natural gas in exchange for any or all of rental, bonus and royalty payments. Leases are
generally acquired from private landowners (fee leases) and from federal and state governments on acreage held by
them.
“mbbl” means one thousand barrels of oil, condensate or NGLs.
“mbbl/d” means mbbl per day.
“mboe” means one thousand barrels of oil equivalent.
“mboe/d” means mboe per day.
“mcf” means one thousand cubic feet, which is a unit of measurement of volume for natural gas.
“mmbbl” means one million barrels of oil, condensate or NGLs.
“mmbbl/d” means mmbbl per day.
“mmboe” means one million barrels of oil equivalent.
“mmbtu” means one million btus.
“mmbtu/d” means mmbtu per day.
“mmcf” means one million cubic feet, which is a unit of measurement of volume for natural gas.
“mmcf/d” means mmcf per day.
174
“MW” means megawatt.
“MWHs” means megawatt hours.
“NASDAQ” means Nasdaq Global Select Market.
“NEPA” is an abbreviation for the National Environmental Policy Act, which requires careful evaluation of the
environmental impacts of oil and natural gas production activities on federal lands.
“Net Acres” or “Net Wells” is the sum of the fractional working interests owned in gross acres or wells, as the
case may be, expressed as whole numbers and fractions thereof.
“Net revenue interest” means all of the working interests, less all royalties, overriding royalties, non-
participating royalties, net profits interest or similar burdens on or measured by production from oil and natural gas.
“NGA” is an abbreviation for the Natural Gas Act.
“NGL” or “NGLs” means natural gas liquids, which are the hydrocarbon liquids contained within natural gas.
“NRI” is an abbreviation for net revenue interest.
“NYMEX” means New York Mercantile Exchange.
“Oil” means crude oil or condensate.
“OPEC” is an abbreviation for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.
“Operator” means the individual or company responsible to the working interest owners for the exploration,
development and production of an oil or natural gas well or lease.
“OTC” means over-the-counter
“PALs” is an abbreviation for project approval letters.
“PCAOB” is an abbreviation for the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board.
“PDNP” is an abbreviation for proved developed non-producing.
“PDP” is an abbreviation for proved developed producing.
“Permeability” means the ability, or measurement of a rock’s ability, to transmit fluids.
“Play” means a regionally distributed oil and natural gas accumulation. Resource plays are characterized by
continuous, aerially extensive hydrocarbon accumulations.
“PPA” is an abbreviation for power purchase agreement.
“Production costs” means costs incurred to operate and maintain wells and related equipment and facilities,
including depreciation and applicable operating costs of support equipment and facilities and other costs of
operating and maintaining those wells and related equipment and facilities. For a complete definition of production
costs, refer to the SEC’s Regulation S-X, Rule 4-10(a)(20).
175
“Productive well” means a well that is producing oil, natural gas or NGLs or that is capable of production.
“Proppant” means sized particles mixed with fracturing fluid to hold fractures open after a hydraulic fracturing
treatment.
“Prospect” means a specific geographic area which, based on supporting geological, geophysical or other data
and also preliminary economic analysis using reasonably anticipated prices and costs, is deemed to have potential
for the discovery of commercial hydrocarbons.
“Proved developed reserves” means reserves that can be expected to be recovered through existing wells with
existing equipment and operating methods.
“Proved developed producing reserves” means reserves that are being recovered through existing wells with
existing equipment and operating methods.
“Proved reserves” means the estimated quantities of oil, gas and gas liquids, which, by analysis of geoscience
and engineering data, can be estimated with reasonable certainty to be economically producible from a given date
forward, from known reservoirs, and under existing economic conditions, operating methods, and government
regulations prior to the time at which contracts providing the right to operate expire, unless evidence indicates that
renewal is reasonably certain, regardless of whether deterministic or probabilistic methods are used for the
estimation. The project to extract the hydrocarbons must have commenced or the operator must be reasonably
certain that it will commence the project within a reasonable time.
“Proved undeveloped drilling location” means a site on which a development well can be drilled consistent with
spacing rules for purposes of recovering proved undeveloped reserves.
“Proved undeveloped reserves” or “PUDs” means proved reserves that are expected to be recovered from new
wells on undrilled acreage, or from existing wells where a relatively major expenditure is required for recompletion.
Reserves on undrilled acreage are limited to those directly offsetting development spacing areas that are reasonably
certain of production when drilled, unless evidence using reliable technology exists that establishes reasonable
certainty of economic producibility at greater distances. Undrilled locations can be classified as having proved
undeveloped reserves only if a development plan has been adopted indicating that they are scheduled to be drilled
within five years, unless the specific circumstances justify a longer time. Estimates for proved undeveloped reserves
are not attributed to any acreage for which an application of fluid injection or other improved recovery technique is
contemplated, unless such techniques have been proved effective by actual projects in the same reservoir or an
analogous reservoir, or by other evidence using reliable technology establishing reasonable certainty.
“PSUs” means performance-based restricted stock units
“PV-10” is a non-GAAP financial measure and represents the present value of estimated future cash inflows
from proved oil and gas reserves, less future development and production costs, discounted at 10% per annum to
reflect the timing of future cash flows and using SEC-prescribed pricing assumptions for the period. While this
measure does not include the effect of income taxes as it would in the use of the standardized measure calculation, it
does provide an indicative representation of the relative value of the company on a comparative basis to other
companies and from period to period.
“QF” means qualifying facility.
“Realized price” means the cash market price less all expected quality, transportation and demand adjustments.
“Reasonable certainty” means a high degree of confidence. For a complete definition of reasonable certainty,
refer to the SEC’s Regulation S-X, Rule 4-10(a)(24).
176
“Recompletion” means the completion for production from an existing wellbore in a formation other than that in
which the well has previously been completed.
“Relative TSR” means relative total stockholder return.
“Reserves” means estimated remaining quantities of oil and natural gas and related substances anticipated to be
economically producible, as of a given date, by application of development projects to known accumulations. In
addition, there must exist, or there must be a reasonable expectation that there will exist, the legal right to produce or
a revenue interest in the production, installed means of delivering oil and natural gas or related substances to market
and all permits and financing required to implement the project. Reserves should not be assigned to adjacent
reservoirs isolated by major, potentially sealing, faults until those reservoirs are penetrated and evaluated as
economically producible. Reserves should not be assigned to areas that are clearly separated from a known
accumulation by a non-productive reservoir (i.e., absence of reservoir, structurally low reservoir or negative test
results). Such areas may contain prospective resources (i.e., potentially recoverable resources from undiscovered
accumulations).
“Reservoir” means a porous and permeable underground formation containing a natural accumulation of
producible natural gas and/or oil that is confined by impermeable rock or water barriers and is individual and
separate from other reservoirs.
“Resources” means quantities of oil and natural gas estimated to exist in naturally occurring accumulations. A
portion of the resources may be estimated to be recoverable and another portion may be considered to be
unrecoverable. Resources include both discovered and undiscovered accumulations.
“Royalty” means the share paid to the owner of mineral rights, expressed as a percentage of gross income from
oil and natural gas produced and sold unencumbered by expenses relating to the drilling, completing and operating
of the affected well.
“Royalty interest” means an interest in an oil and natural gas property entitling the owner to shares of oil and
natural gas production, free of costs of exploration, development and production operations.
“RSUs” is an abbreviation for restricted stock units.
“SEC Pricing” means pricing calculated using oil and natural gas price parameters established by current
guidelines of the SEC and accounting rules based on the unweighted arithmetic average of oil and natural gas prices
as of the first day of each of the 12 months ended on the given date.
“Seismic Data” means data produced by an exploration method of sending energy waves into the earth and
recording the wave reflections to indicate the type, size, shape and depth of a subsurface rock formation. 2-D
seismic provides two-dimensional information and 3-D seismic provides three-dimensional views.
“SOFR” is an abbreviation for Secured Overnight Financing Rate.
“Spacing” means the distance between wells producing from the same reservoir. Spacing is often expressed in
terms of acres, e.g., 40-acre spacing, and is often established by regulatory agencies.
“Steamflood” means cyclic or continuous steam injection.
“Standardized measure” means discounted future net cash flows estimated by applying year-end prices to the
estimated future production of proved reserves. Future cash inflows are reduced by estimated future production and
development costs based on period-end costs to determine pre-tax cash inflows. Future income taxes, if applicable,
177
are computed by applying the statutory tax rate to the excess of pre-tax cash inflows over our tax basis in the oil and
natural gas properties. Future net cash inflows after income taxes are discounted using a 10% annual discount rate.
“Stimulating” means mechanically inducing a crack or surface of breakage within rock not related to foliation or
cleavage in metamorphic rock in order to enhance the permeability of rocks by connecting pores together.
“Strip Pricing” means pricing calculated using oil and natural gas price parameters established by current
guidelines of the SEC and accounting rules with the exception of pricing that is based on average annual forward-
month ICE (Brent) oil and NYMEX Henry Hub natural gas contract pricing in effect on a given date to reflect the
market expectations as of that date.
“Superfund” is a commonly known term for CERCLA.
“UIC” is an abbreviation for the Underground Injection Control program.
“Unconventional resource plays” means a resource play that uses methods other than traditional vertical well
extraction. Unconventional resources are trapped in reservoirs with low permeability, meaning little to no ability for
the oil or natural gas to flow through the rock and into a wellbore. Examples of unconventional oil resources include
oil shales, oil sands, extra-heavy oil, gas-to-liquids and coal-to-liquids.
“Undeveloped acreage” means lease acres on which wells have not been drilled or completed to a point that
would permit the production of commercial quantities of oil and gas regardless of whether or not such acreage
contains proved reserves.
“Unit” means the joining of all or substantially all interests in a reservoir or field, rather than a single tract, to
provide for development and operation without regard to separate property interests. Also, the area covered by a
unitization agreement.
“Unproved reserves” means reserves that are considered less certain to be recovered than proved reserves.
Unproved reserves may be further sub-classified to denote progressively increasing uncertainty of recoverability and
include probable reserves and possible reserves.
“Wellbore” means the hole drilled by the bit that is equipped for natural resource production on a completed
well. Also called well or borehole.
“Working interest” means an interest in an oil and natural gas lease entitling the holder at its expense to conduct
drilling and production operations on the leased property and to receive the net revenues attributable to such interest,
after deducting the landowner’s royalty, any overriding royalties, production costs, taxes and other costs.
“Workover” means maintenance on a producing well to restore or increase production.
“WST” is an abbreviation for well stimulation treatment.
“WTI” means West Texas Intermediate.
178
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has
duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Berry Corporation (bry)
Date:
March 13, 2025
/s/ Fernando Araujo
Fernando Araujo
Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the
following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
March 13, 2025
/s/ Fernando Araujo
Chief Executive Officer and Director
Fernando Araujo
(Principal Executive Officer)
March 13, 2025
/s/ Jeffrey D. Magids
Vice President,
Chief Financial Officer
Jeffrey D. Magids
(Principal Financial Officer)
March 13, 2025
/s/ Michael S. Helm
Vice President,
Chief Accounting Officer
Michael S. Helm
(Principal Accounting Officer)
March 13, 2025
/s/ Renée Hornbaker
Chair
Renée Hornbaker
March 13, 2025
/s/ Anne L. Mariucci
Director
Anne L. Mariucci
March 13, 2025
/s/ Donald L. Paul
Director
Donald L. Paul
March 13, 2025
/s/ Rajath Shourie
Director
Rajath Shourie
March 13, 2025
/s/ James M. Trimble
Director
James M. Trimble
March 13, 2025
/s/ Matthew R. Bob
Director
Matthew R. Bob
Date
Signature
Title
179
INVESTOR RELATIONS
BERRY CORPORATION
16000 N. Dallas Parkway, Suite 500
Dallas, TX 75248
ir@bry.com
TRANSFER AGENT/REGISTRAR
EQ
P.O. Box 64874
St. Paul, MN 55164-0874
Shareowner Services
(800) 468-9716
shareowneronline.com
SECURITIES
Berry Common Stock is traded on Nasdaq under the symbol BRY.
ANNUAL REPORT ON FORM 10-K FOR 2024
Our Form 10-K is included in this document in its entirety as filed
with the SEC. Upon request to Investor Relations, we will deliver
free of charge a copy of our Form 10-K.
TOTAL SHAREHOLDER RETURN PERFORMANCE GRAPH
Page 2 of this annual report includes a performance graph comparing
the cumulative total return to shareholders on our common stock
relative to the cumulative total returns of the S&P SmallCap 600,®
the Dow Jones US Exploration & Production index and the Vanguard
Energy ETF (with reinvestment of all dividends).
DIVIDEND PAYMENT DATES – 2025
Any dividend declared by the Board will be paid on such dates
established by the Board.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
KPMG LLP
Dallas, TX
kpmg.com
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
FERNANDO ARAUJO
Chief Executive Officer
DANIELLE HUNTER
President
JEFF MAGIDS
Vice President, Chief Financial Officer
MIKE HELM
Vice President, Chief Accounting Officer
DIRECTORS
RENÉE HORNBAKER (1C) (2) (3)
Board Chair
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Storey & Gates LLC
FERNANDO ARAUJO
Chief Executive Officer
Berry Corporation
MATTHEW BOB (2) (3)
Independent Director
Managing Partner of MB Exploration, LLC
ANNE MARIUCCI (1) (2C) (3)
Independent Director
General Partner of MFLP
DONALD PAUL* (3)
Independent Director
Executive Director of the Energy Institute, The William M. Keck
Chair of Energy Resources & Research, Professor of Engineering
at the University of Southern California
RAJATH SHOURIE (1) (2)
Independent Director
Retired Global Co-Portfolio Manager, Oaktree Capital Management
JAMES TRIMBLE (1) (2) (3C)
Independent Director
Chair of Tanda Resources, LLC
(C) Committee Chair
(1) Audit Committee
(2) Human Capital & Compensation Committee
(3) Nominating & Governance Committee
* Not standing for re-election
CAUTIONARY NOTE ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This report includes forward-looking statements, including those relating to our financial and operating results, our dividend policy, our
development and production plans, and our sustainability initiatives. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that
could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Factors (but
necessarily not all the factors) that could cause results to differ include among others: (1) the regulatory environment, including availability
or timing of, and conditions imposed on, obtaining and/or maintaining permits and approvals, including those necessary for drilling and/or
development projects; (2) the impact of current, pending and/or future laws and regulations, and of legislative and regulatory changes and
other government activities, including those related to permitting, drilling, completion, well stimulation, operation, maintenance or abandonment
of wells or facilities, managing energy, water, land, greenhouse gases or other emissions, protection of health, safety and the environment, or
transportation, marketing and sale of our products; (3) volatility of oil, natural gas and NGL prices, including as a result of political instability,
armed conflicts or economic sanctions; and (4) the other risks described under the heading “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and subsequent filings with the SEC.
Copyright© 2025 Berry Corporation (bry). All Rights Reserved.