UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 20-F/A
(cid:134) REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
(cid:59) ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2011
OR
(cid:134) TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from ________________ to _______________________
(cid:134) SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
OR
Date of event requiring this shell company report__________________________
Commission file number 001-31317
Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
Basic Sanitation Company of the State of São Paulo-SABESP
(Translation of the Registrant’s name into English)
Federative Republic of Brazil
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
Rua Costa Carvalho, 300
05429-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
(Address of principal executive offices)
Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
raffonso@sabesp.com.br
(+55 11 3388 8247)
Rua Costa Carvalho, 300 05429-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
Common Shares, without par value
American Depositary Shares, evidenced by American
Depositary Receipts, each representing 2 Common
Shares(1)
__________________
Name of each exchange on which
registered
New York Stock Exchange*
New York Stock Exchange
* Not for trading purposes, but only in connection with the registration of American Depositary Shares pursuant to
the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
(1) Until June 8, 2007, each American Depositary Share, evidenced by American Depositary Receipts, represented
250 Common Shares.
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of
the close of the period covered by the annual report.
227,836,623 Shares of Common Stock
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the
Securities Act.
Yes (cid:59) No (cid:134)
If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to
file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes (cid:134) No (cid:59)
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 (cid:59) No (cid:134)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate
Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of
Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that
the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes (cid:59) No (cid:134)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-
accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer (cid:59) Accelerated filer (cid:134) Non-accelerated filer (cid:134)
Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial
statements included in this filing:
U.S. GAAP (cid:134) International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International
Accounting Standards Board (cid:59) Other (cid:134)
If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial
statement item the registrant has elected to follow
Item 17 (cid:134) Item 18 (cid:134)
If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes (cid:134) No (cid:59)
Table of Contents
PART I
ITEM 1.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4A.
ITEM 5.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 10.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 12.
PART II
ITEM 13.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 15.
ITEM 16
PART III
ITEM 17.
ITEM 18.
ITEM 19.
IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
KEY INFORMATION
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
THE OFFER AND LISTING
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET
RISK
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY
HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS
CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
[RESERVED]
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
EXHIBITS
Page
7
7
7
7
21
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67
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101
108
122
126
138
138
140
140
140
140
141
145
145
145
145
PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION
General
We maintain our books and records in reais. We prepared our consolidated financial statements as of
and for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 included in this annual report in compliance
with International Financial Reporting Standards, or IFRS, as issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board, or IASB.
Convenience Translations
We have translated some of the real amounts contained in this annual report into U.S. dollars. The
rate used to translate such amounts in respect of the year ended December 31, 2011 was R$1.876 to
US$1.00, which was the commercial rate for the purchase of U.S. dollars in effect on December 31, 2011,
as reported by the Central Bank. The U.S. dollar equivalent information presented in this annual report is
provided solely for the convenience of reader and should not be construed as implying that the real
amounts represent, or could have been or could be converted into, U.S. dollars at the above rate. See
“Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data—Exchange Rates” for more detailed information regarding the
Brazilian foreign exchange system and historical data on the exchange rate of the real against the U.S.
dollar.
Rounding
Some percentages and numbers included in this annual report have been subject to rounding
adjustments. Accordingly, figures shown as totals in certain tables may not be an arithmetic aggregation
of the figures that precede them.
Other Information
In this annual report, unless the context otherwise requires, references to “we,” “us,” “our,”
“Company,” or “SABESP” refer to Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo -
SABESP.
In addition, references to:
(cid:131) “real,” “reais” or “R$” are to the Brazilian real, the official currency of Brazil;
(cid:131) “U.S. dollars” or “US$” are to the United States dollar, the official currency of the United
States;
(cid:131) “Brazil” are to the Federative Republic of Brazil;
(cid:131) “State” are to the State of São Paulo, which is also our controlling shareholder;
(cid:131) “federal government” and “Brazilian government” are to the federal government of the
Federative Republic of Brazil and “state government” are to the state government of the
State of São Paulo;
(cid:131) “São Paulo metropolitan region” are to the area where the Metropolitan executive office
operates, comprising 38 municipalities, including the city of São Paulo;
(cid:131) “Regional systems” are to the area where the Regional systems executive office operates,
comprising 325 municipalities in the interior and coastline regions of the State of São
Paulo;
(cid:131) “water coverage ratio” are to the ratio between the number of residences connected to the
water supply network, divided by the number of urban residences in a certain area; and
(cid:131) “sewage coverage ratio” are to the ratio between the number of residences connected to the
sewage collection network, divided by the number of urban residences in a certain area.
Information in this annual report related to liters, water and sewage volumes, number of employees,
kilometers, water and sewage connections, population served, operating productivity, water production
rate, sewage lines (in kilometers), savings achieved and investment in improvement programs has not
been audited.
4
Market Information
We make statements in this annual report about our market share and other information relating to
Brazil and the industry in which we operate. We have made these statements on the basis of information
from third-party sources and publicly available information that we believe is reliable, such as
information and reports from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (Instituto Brasileiro de
Geografia e Estatística), or IBGE, and the State Data Analysis System Foundation (Fundação Sistema
Estadual de Análise de Dados) or SEADE, among others. We have no reason to believe any of this
information is inaccurate in any material respect.
References to urban and total population in this annual report are estimated based on a research made
by the SEADE: “Projections for the State of São Paulo – Population and Residences until 2025”
(Projeções para o Estado de São Paulo – População e Domicílios até 2025).
5
CAUTIONARY STATEMENTS ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This annual report includes forward-looking statements, mainly in Items 3 through 5. We have based
these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events
and financial trends affecting our business. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks,
uncertainties and assumptions, including, among other factors:
(cid:131) general economic, political, demographical and other conditions in Brazil and in other
emerging market countries;
(cid:131) changes in applicable laws and regulations, as well as the enactment of new laws and
regulations, including those relating to environmental, tax and employment matters in
Brazil;
(cid:131) fluctuations in inflation, interest rates and exchange rates in Brazil;
(cid:131) the interests of our controlling shareholder;
(cid:131) our ability to collect amounts owed to us by our controlling shareholder and by
municipalities;
(cid:131) our ability to continue to use certain reservoirs under current terms and conditions;
(cid:131) our capital expenditure program and other liquidity and capital resources requirements;
(cid:131) droughts, water shortages, intensive rains and other climate events;
(cid:131) power shortages or rationing in energy supply or significant changes in energy tariffs;
(cid:131) the effects of the agreement for provision of water and sewage services in the city of São
Paulo, that we executed with the State and the city of São Paulo;
(cid:131) our lack of formal agreements with certain municipalities to which we render our water and
sewage services, including the cities comprising metropolitan regions;
(cid:131) the municipalities’ ability to terminate our existing concession agreements prior to their
expiration date and our ability to renew such agreements;
(cid:131) our ability to provide water and sewage services in additional municipalities and to maintain
our rights to provide the services currently contracted;
(cid:131) the size and growth of our customer base;
(cid:131) our ability to comply with certain levels of services and attendance in the provision of water
and sewage services established in our agreements with the municipalities;
(cid:131) our level of indebtedness and limitations on our ability to incur additional indebtedness;
(cid:131) our ability to access financing with favorable terms in the future;
(cid:131) our costs relating to compliance with environmental laws and potential penalties for failure
to comply with these laws;
(cid:131) our exposure to probable increases in the frequency of extreme weather conditions;
(cid:131) the outcome of our pending or future legal proceedings;
(cid:131) our management’s expectations and estimates relating to our future financial performance;
(cid:131) the regulation issued by the São Paulo State Sanitation and Energy Regulatory Agency, or
the ARSESP, regarding several aspects of our business, including limitations on our ability
to set and adjust our tariffs; and
(cid:131) other risk factors as set forth under “Item 3.D. Risk Factors.”
The words “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “intend,” “expect” and
similar words are intended to identify forward-looking statements. In light of these risks and
uncertainties, the forward-looking events and circumstances discussed in this annual report might not
occur. Our actual results could differ substantially from those anticipated in our forward-looking
statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they were made and we do not
undertake the obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, unless required by law. Any such forward-looking statements are
not an indication of future performance and involve risks.
6
PART I
ITEM 1. IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS
Not applicable.
ITEM 2. OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE
Not applicable.
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
A. Selected Financial Data
The tables below contain a summary of our financial data as of and for each of the periods indicated.
The summary of our financial data was derived from our consolidated annual financial statements,
prepared in compliance with IFRS, as issued by the IASB. You should read this selected financial data in
conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes thereto included in this
annual report.
The selected consolidated financial information as of and for the years ended December 31, 2009,
2010 and 2011 prepared in compliance with IFRS, has been derived from our audited consolidated
financial statements, which appear elsewhere in this annual report.
The following tables present our selected financial data as of and for each of the periods indicated.
IFRS Summary Financial Data
Statement of operations data:
Net revenue from sales and services
Cost of sales and services
Gross profit
Selling expenses
Administrative expenses
Operating profit
Financial income (expenses), net
Net income
Earnings per share – basic and diluted
Earnings per ADS – basic and diluted
Dividends and interest on shareholders’ equity per share
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding
_________________
(1) American Depositary Shares, or ADS.
2009
Year ended December 31,
2010
(in millions of reais, except per share and per
ADS(1) data)
2011
8,579.5
(5,087.3)
3,492.2
(610.4)
(717.1)
2,120.3
(10.0)
1,507.7
6.62
13.24
9,231.0
(5,194.5)
4,036.5
(712.9)
(653.2)
2,672.2
(379.4)
1,630.5
7.16
14.32
9,941.6
(6,031.1)
3,910.5
(619.5)
(846.6)
2,354.3
(633.6)
1,223.4
5.37
10.74
1.73
227,836,623
2.00
227,836,623
1.27
227,836,623
2009
As of December 31,
2010
(in millions of reais)
2011
Balance sheet data:
Property, plant and equipment, net (*)
Intangible assets, net (*)
Total assets
Short-term loans and financing
Long-term loans and financing
Interest on shareholders’ equity payable
Total liabilities
Shareholders’ equity
Capital stock
Other financial information:
Cash provided by operating activities
Cash used in investing activities
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities
Capital expenditures
(*) Reclassification between property, plan and equipment and intangible assets, in the amounts of R$139.8 million in 2009.
249.6
18,546.8
23,350.6
1,242.1
7,022.5
354.3
13,668.8
9,681.8
6,203.7
190.4
16,917.5
20,243.1
1,009.9
5,548.0
365.4
11,804.5
8.438.6
6,203.7
2,083.0
(2,091.4)
1,226.5
(1,901.5)
2,072.5
(1,964.0)
36.9
(1,982.4)
___________________
356.5
20,141.7
25,215.0
1,630.0
6,966.3
247.5
14,669.1
10,545.9
6,203.7
2,717.1
(2,008.3)
(548.0)
2,211.1
7
Operating Data
As of and for the year ended December 31,
2009
2010
2008
2007
2011
(in
Number of water connections (in thousands)
Number of sewage connections (in thousands)
Percentage of population with water connections
percentages)
Percentage of population with
percentages)
Volume of water billed during period (in millions of cubic
meters)
Water
percentages)(1)
Water loss per connection (average)(2)
Number of employees
___________________
sewer connections
(average)(in
percentage
during
period
loss
(in
6,767
5,167
99
6,945
5,336
99
7,118
5,520
99
7,295
5,718
99
7,481
5,921
99
79
79
80
81
82
1,847
1,878
1,917
1,992
2,045
29.5
27.9
26.0
26.0
25.6
467
16,850
436
16,649
402
15,103
403
15,330
395
14,896
(1) Includes both physical and non-physical losses. Water loss percentage represents the quotient of (i) the difference between
(a) the total amount of water produced by us less (b) the total amount of water invoiced by us to customers minus (c) the
volume of water set out below that we exclude from our calculation of water losses, divided by (ii) the total amount of water
produced. We exclude from our calculation of water losses the following: (i) water discharged for periodic maintenance of
water mains and water storage tanks; (ii) water supplied for municipal uses such as firefighting; (iii) water we consume in our
facilities; and (iv) estimated water losses associated with water we supply to favelas (shantytowns).
(2) Measured in liters/connection per day, according to the method of measuring our water losses, based on worldwide market
practice for the sector. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Description of Our Activities—Water Operations—Water
Losses.”
Exchange Rates
In the past, the Brazilian National Monetary Council (Conselho Monetário Nacional), or the CMN,
has introduced changes to the Brazilian foreign exchange regime, such as unifying the Commercial and
Floating Markets and easing the rules governing Brazilian residents’ ability to acquire foreign currency,
among others. On March 24, 2010, the CMN and the Central Bank approved Resolution No. 3,844, under
which a series of measures were adopted to consolidate and simplify acts and proceedings applicable to
foreign exchange market regulations in Brazil.
The Brazilian foreign exchange system allows for the purchase and sale of foreign currency and the
international transfer of reais by any person or legal entity, regardless of the amount, subject to certain
regulatory procedures.
The Brazilian currency has, during the last few decades, experienced frequent and substantial
variations in relation to the U.S. dollar and other foreign currencies. Between 2003 and mid-2008, the
real appreciated significantly against the U.S. dollar with the exchange rate reaching R$1.634 in August
2008. Primarily, as a result of the global financial crisis, the real depreciated 32.0% against the U.S.
dollar during 2008 and closed the year at R$2.337 per US$1.00, but strengthened during 2009 and
2010. In 2011, the real suffered a deprecitation of 12.6% against the U.S. dollar. On December 31, 2009,
2010 and 2011, the real/U.S. dollar exchange rate was R$1.741, R$1.666 and R$1.876 per US$1.00,
respectively.
The Central Bank has intervened occasionally to combat instability in foreign exchange rates. We
cannot predict whether the Central Bank or the Brazilian government will continue to let the real float
freely or will intervene in the exchange rate through a currency band system or otherwise. The real may
fluctuate against the U.S. dollar substantially in the future. For further information on these risks, see
“Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Brazil—Exchange rate instability may adversely affect us and
the market price of our common shares or ADSs.”
The following tables set forth the selling rate, expressed in reais per U.S. dollar (R$/US$), for the
periods indicated
8
Year ended December 31,
2007
2008
2009
2010
2011
Year end
1.771
2.337
1.741
1.666
1.876
Month ended
December 31, 2011
January 31, 2012
February 29, 2012
March 31, 2012
April 27, 2012 (through April 23, 2012)
_______________
Source: Central Bank
(1) Average of the exchange rates on the last day of each period.
Period end
1.876
1.739
1.709
1.822
1.886
R$ per US$1.00
R$ per US$1.00
Average(1)
1.948
1.837
1.994
1.759
1.675
Average(1)
1.837
1.790
1.718
1.795
1.845
High
2.156
2.500
2.422
1.881
1.902
High
1.876
1.868
1.738
1.833
1.889
Low
1.733
1.559
1.702
1.655
1.535
Low
1.783
1.739
1.702
1.715
1.826
On April 23, 2012, the exchange rate published by the Central Bank was R$1.886 per US$1.00.
Exchange rate fluctuations will affect the U.S. dollar equivalent of the real price of our common shares
on the São Paulo Stock Exchange (BM&FBOVESPA S.A. - Bolsa de Valores, Mercadorias e Futuros),
or the BM&FBOVESPA, as well as the U.S. dollar equivalent of any distributions we make in reais with
respect to our common shares.
B. Capitalization and Indebtedness
Not applicable.
C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds
Not applicable.
D. Risk Factors
Risks Relating to Brazil
The Brazilian government has exercised, and continues to exercise, significant influence over the
Brazilian economy. This influence, as well as Brazilian political and economic conditions, could
adversely affect us and the market price of our common shares and ADSs.
The Brazilian government frequently intervenes in the Brazilian economy and occasionally makes
significant changes in policy and regulations. The Brazilian government’s actions to control inflation and
other policies and regulations have often involved, among other measures, increases in interest rates,
changes in tax policies, price and tariff controls, currency devaluations, capital controls and limits on
imports. Our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as the market price of our
common shares or ADSs, may be adversely affected by changes in public policy at federal, state and
municipal levels with respect to public tariffs and exchange controls, as well as other factors, such as:
(cid:131) the regulatory environment related to our business operations and concession agreements;
(cid:131) interest rates;
(cid:131) exchange rates and exchange controls and restrictions on remittances abroad;
(cid:131) currency fluctuations;
(cid:131) inflation;
(cid:131) liquidity of the Brazilian capital and lending markets;
(cid:131) tax and regulatory policies and laws;
(cid:131) economic and social instability; and
(cid:131) other political, diplomatic, social and economic developments in or affecting Brazil.
9
Uncertainty over whether the Brazilian government will implement changes in policies or regulations
affecting these or other factors may contribute to economic uncertainty in Brazil and to heightened
volatility in the Brazilian securities markets and in the securities issued abroad by Brazilian issuers, which
could have a material adverse effect on us and on our common shares and ADSs.
Inflation and the Brazilian government’s measures to combat inflation may contribute to
economic uncertainty in Brazil, adversely affecting us and the market price of our common shares or
ADSs.
Brazil has, in the past, experienced extremely high rates of inflation. Inflation and the Brazilian
government’s measures to combat inflation have had significant negative effects on the Brazilian
economy, contributing to economic uncertainty and heightened volatility in the Brazilian securities
markets. The Brazilian government’s measures to control inflation have often included maintaining a
tight monetary policy with high interest rates, thereby restricting the availability of credit and reducing
economic growth. The Special Clearing and Settlement System (Sistema Especial de Liquidação e
Custódia), or SELIC, the official overnight interest rate in Brazil, at the end of 2009, 2010 and 2011 was
8.65%, 10.66% and 10.91% respectively, in line with the target rate set by the Brazilian Committee on
Monetary Policy (Comitê de Política Monetária), or COPOM.
The annual rate of inflation, as measured by the General Market Price Index (Índice Geral de
Preços—Mercado), or IGP-M index, fell from 9.95% in 2000 to 3.83% in 2006, increased to 7.75% in
2007 and further increased to 9.81% in 2008. According to the IGP-M index, in 2009, there was a
deflation of 1.71% and the rate of inflation for 2010 and 2011 were 11.32% and 5.1% respectively.
Brazilian governmental actions, including interest rate decreases, intervention in the foreign exchange
market and actions to adjust or fix the value of the real, may trigger increases in inflation. If Brazil again
experiences high inflation, our costs and expenses may rise, we may be unable to increase our tariffs to
counter the effects of inflation, and our overall financial performance may be adversely affected. In
addition, a substantial increase in inflation may weaken investors’ confidence in Brazil, causing a decline
in the market price of our common shares or ADSs.
Additionally, in the event of an increase in inflation, the Brazilian government may choose to raise
official interest rates. Increases in interest rates would not only affect our cost of funding, but could also
have a material adverse effect on us and may also adversely affect the market price of our common shares
or ADSs.
Exchange rate instability may adversely affect us and the market price of our common shares or ADSs.
The Brazilian currency experienced frequent and substantial devaluations in relation to the U.S.
dollar and other foreign currencies during the last decades. Throughout this period, the Brazilian
government has implemented various economic plans and utilized a number of exchange rate policies,
including sudden devaluations, periodic mini-devaluations during which the frequency of adjustments
ranged from daily to monthly, floating exchange rate systems, exchange controls and dual exchange rate
markets. From time to time, there have been significant fluctuations in the exchange rate between the
Brazilian real and the U.S. dollar and other currencies. For example, the real appreciated 13.8%, 9.5%
and 20.7% against the U.S. dollar in 2005, 2006 and 2007, respectively. In 2008, as a result of the
worsening of the international economic crisis, the real depreciated by 32.0% against the U.S. dollar. In
2009 and 2010, the real appreciated 25.5% and 4.3% against the U.S. dollar, closing at R$1.741 and
R$1.666 per US$1.00, respectively. In 2011, the real suffered a depreciation of 12.6% against the U.S.
dollar, closing at R$1.876 per US$1.00. There can be no assurance that the real will not further depreciate
against the U.S. dollar. As of April 23, 2012, the commercial selling rate as reported by the Central Bank
was R$ 1.886 per US$1.00.
Depreciation of the real against the U.S. dollar could create inflationary pressures in Brazil and cause
increases in interest rates, which could negatively affect the growth of the Brazilian economy as a whole
and harm our financial condition and results of operations, curtail access to financial markets and prompt
government intervention, including recessionary governmental policies. Depreciation of the real against
the U.S. dollar can also, as in the context of the current global economic recovery, lead to decreased
consumer spending, deflationary pressures and reduced growth of the economy as whole.
In the event of a significant devaluation of the real in relation to the U.S. dollar or other currencies,
our ability to meet our foreign currency denominated obligations could be adversely affected, particularly
10
because our tariff revenue and other sources of income are denominated solely in reais. In addition,
because we have foreign currency denominated indebtedness, any significant devaluation of the real will
increase our financial expenses as a result of foreign exchange losses that we must record. We had total
foreign currency denominated indebtedness of R$3,053.4 million as of December 31, 2011, and we
anticipate that we may incur substantial amounts of foreign currency denominated indebtedness in the
future. In 2011, our results of operations were negatively affected by the 12.6% depreciation of the real
against the U.S. dollar, which amounted to R$382.3 million. We do not currently have any hedging
instruments in place to protect us against a devaluation of the real in relation to any foreign currency. A
devaluation of the real may adversely affect us and the market price of our common shares or ADSs.
Developments and the perception of risk in other countries, especially in the United States and in
emerging market countries, may adversely affect the market price of Brazilian securities, including our
common shares and ADSs.
The market price of securities of Brazilian companies is affected to varying degrees by economic and
market conditions in other countries, including the United States and other Latin American and emerging
market countries. Although economic conditions in these countries may differ significantly from
economic conditions in Brazil, investors’ reactions to developments in these other countries may have an
adverse effect on the market price of securities of Brazilian issuers. Crisis in other emerging market
countries or economic policies of other countries may diminish investor interest in securities of Brazilian
issuers, including ours. This could adversely affect the market price of our common shares or ADSs, and
could also make it more difficult for us to access the capital markets and finance our operations in the
future, on acceptable terms or at all.
The global financial crisis has had significant consequences, including in Brazil, such as stock and
credit market volatility, unavailability of credit, higher interest rates, a general slowdown of the world
economy, volatile exchange rates, and inflationary pressure, among others, which have and may continue
to, directly or indirectly, materially and adversely affect us and the price of securities issued by Brazilian
companies, including our common shares and ADSs.
Risks Relating to Our Control by the State of São Paulo
We are controlled by the State of São Paulo, whose interests may differ from our or from minority
shareholders’ interests, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
The State of São Paulo, through its ownership of our common shares, has the ability to determine our
operating policies and strategy, to control the election of a majority of the members of our board of
directors and to appoint our senior management. As of April 23, 2012, the State owned 50.3% of our
outstanding common shares.
The State has directed from time to time in the past, and may direct in the future, through its control
of our board of directors and through the enactment of State decrees, that we engage in certain business
activities and make certain expenditures that promote political, economic or social goals but that do not
necessarily also enhance our business and results of operations. See “Item 5.A. Operating and Financial
Review and Prospects—Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations.”
Following the 2010 elections for State governor, in 2011 the new governor elected Ms. Dilma Seli
Pena as our chief executive officer and Mr. Edson de Oliveira Giriboni, the Secretary of State for the
State Secretariat for Sanitation and Water Resources (Secretaria de Saneamento e Recursos Hídricos do
Estado de São Paulo), was elected as chairman of our board of directors.
We have a substantial amount of accounts receivable owed to us by the State and some State
entities, and we cannot assure you as to when or whether the State will pay us.
Historically, the State and some State entities have had substantial overdue accounts payable to us
relating to (i) the provision of water and sewage services and (ii) State-mandated special retirement and
pension payments that we make to some of our former employees for which the State is required to
reimburse us. As of December 31, 2011, the amounts owed to us by the State for the provision of water
and sewage services totaled R$145.4 million. With respect to payment of pensions on behalf of the State,
as of December 31, 2011, we believe that the State owed to us R$1,290.7 million, but due to the
uncertainty regarding the recovery of the amount our management decided not to record the
11
reimbursements that we believe are due to us. In addition, as of December 31, 2011, we had recorded a
provision for actuarial liability in the amount of R$1,512.1 million in respect of future supplemental
pension payments the State does not believe it is responsible for paying. Amounts owed to us by the
State for water and sewage services and reimbursements for pensions paid may increase in the future.
We have entered into agreements with the State to settle these overdue amounts payable to us. For a
detailed discussion of these agreements, see “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions,” and Note 8 to our
consolidated financial statements. Pursuant to these agreements, the amounts due with respect to water
and sewage services through December 2007 could be settled through the application of dividends
payable by us to the State. In December 2007, the State agreed to pay us the outstanding balance in the
amount of R$133.7 million (as of November 30, 2007), in 60 consecutive monthly installments,
beginning on January 2, 2008, and an amount of R$236.1 million relating to part of the accounts overdue
and unpaid from March 2004 through October 2007 regarding the provision of water supply and sewage
collection services. We agreed to pay the State the outstanding balance of dividends, in the form of
interest on shareholders’ equity, due from March 2004 through December 2006, in the amount of
R$400.8 million, in the period from January through March 2008.
In March 2008, we entered into a commitment agreement with the State for the settlement of
outstanding debts related to the reimbursement of pension benefits. Pursuant to the commitment
agreement, the amounts due to us with respect to payments of pensions on behalf of the State may be
partially settled through the transfer to us of certain reservoirs in the Alto Tietê System that we use and
are owned by the State. In November 2008, we entered into an agreement with the State relating to
payments of pension benefits made by us on its behalf. The State acknowledged that it owed us the
outstanding balance of R$915.3 million as of September 30, 2008 relating to payments of pension
benefits made by us on its behalf. We provisionally accepted the reservoirs in the Alto Tietê System as
partial payment (R$696.3 million) subject to the transfer of the property rights of these reservoirs to us.
In November 2008, the State began paying the remaining balance in the amount of R$219.0 million in
114 successive monthly installments. We are unable to predict whether and when these reservoirs will be
transferred to us because the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo (Ministério Público do
Estado de São Paulo) filed a civil public action alleging that a transfer to us of ownership of the Alto
Tietê System reservoirs is illegal. The Company and the São Paulo State Government are working
together to obtain legislative authorization to transfer the reservoirs to us, overcoming the uncertainties
arising from the public lawsuit challenging the absence of a specific legislative authorization for the
transfer of the property of the reservoirs.
See “Item 8.A. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—
Legal Proceedings—Other Legal Proceedings.” In addition to the R$915.3 million that the State
acknowledges it owes us pursuant to the November 2008 agreement, we are negotiating with the State
further amounts that the State does not recognize it owes us. While we continue to negotiate directly with
the State, we are not able to assure you that we will be successful in these negotiations. Accordingly, as
of December 31, 2011, we have not recorded R$1,290.7 million related to reimbursements that we believe
are due to us for pension benefits paid on behalf of the State, but we have recorded R$1,512.1 million in
pension obligations.
We cannot assure you when or if the State will pay the total overdue amounts owed to us. Due to the
State’s history of not making timely payments to us in respect of services and of not reimbursing us in a
timely manner for the payments of pensions on behalf of the State, we cannot assure you that the amount
of accounts receivable owed to us by the State and some State entities will not significantly increase in
the future.
We may be required to acquire reservoirs that we use and that are owned by a State-controlled
company, or we may be required to pay substantial charges to the owner with respect to our use of
these reservoirs.
In connection with the provision of water services, we use the Billings and Guarapiranga reservoirs
which are owned by a State-controlled company, the Water and Energy Metropolitan Company (Empresa
Metropolitana de Águas e Energia S.A.), or the EMAE. We are entitled to use these reservoirs based on a
grant issued by the State Department of Water and Energy (Departamento de Águas e Energia Elétrica
do Estado de São Paulo), or DAEE. The State, through its control of our board of directors, could require
us to acquire the Billings and Guarapiranga reservoirs. As a result of these acquisitions, our cash position
and overall financial condition could be adversely affected. In addition, since we are not currently
12
charged for the use of these reservoirs, we are uncertain as to whether we will continue to be able to use
the reservoirs without paying charges, or what the likely fee scale would be, if imposed. We may also be
required to pay additional maintenance and operational costs for our use of the Billings and Guarapiranga
reservoirs. If we were required to pay substantial charges to the owner or additional maintenance or
operational costs for our use of these reservoirs, we could be materially and adversely affected.
Risks Relating to Our Business
We cannot anticipate the effects that further developments of the Basic Sanitation Law and its
interpretation will have on the basic sanitation industry in Brazil and on us.
Law No. 11,445, or the Basic Sanitation Law, was enacted on January 5, 2007. While it has been in
effect for more than five years, it is still in its early stages of implementation in Brazil, and we continue to
be unable to anticipate all of the effects that it might have on our operations and business. There are still
several uncertainties related to the interpretation of the Basic Sanitation Law. On June 21, 2010, the
federal government enacted Federal Decree No. 7,217 regulating the Basic Sanitation Law. Among other
things, Law No. 11,445 and Federal Decree No. 7,217 provided that (i) public hearings regarding the bid
announcements and technical and economic viability studies are requirements for the validity of public-
public partnership contracts (program contracts) ; (ii) the rights and obligations, including penalties, of
customers and service providers shall be ruled by the owner of the public service, not by the regulatory
agency; (iii) financial feasibility may be demonstrated by means of the requirement for new investments,
other than the proceeds arising from the rendering of services; and (iv) when a service is divided and
rendered by different service providers, the services will be considered as interdependent and will be
subject to an agreement that will regulate the activities of the different services providers. We cannot
currently anticipate all the effects that the law and the decree will have on our business and operations, if
any.
Pursuant to the Basic Sanitation Law, tariff regulation is to be performed by an independent
regulatory entity. To exercise this assignment, the State of São Paulo created the São Paulo State
Sanitation and Energy Regulatory Agency, or the ARSESP. The ARSESP is the State agency responsible
for regulating the basic sanitation industry, including tariff regulation in certain municipalities. The
ARSESP acts as tariff regulator both in municipalities where the State provides basic sanitation services
(municipalities in metropolitan areas), and in those municipalities that have delegated their regulatory
powers to the State through cooperation agreements. The ARSESP presently regulates our tariff structure
and adjustments pursuant to the same tariff structure and adjustment formula that we otherwise apply.
Pursuant to a cooperation agreement among the State and some municipalities, the ARSESP also
regulates our tariffs in municipalities that have selected the ARSESP to regulate our tariffs.
Since 2008, the ARSESP has been developing new concepts in the tariff structure and adjustment
formula. In July 30, 2010, the ARSESP published Resolution No. 156 establishing the methodology and
general criteria for the definition of our regulatory asset base, in order to move forward with the tariff
review process and to define the initial parameters of the auditing process that the ARSESP will have to
conduct pursuant to the terms of the Basic Sanitation Law. Throughout 2011 and 2012, the ARSESP
commenced public consultations regarding the methodology for tariff revisions. The ARSESP estimates
that a final public hearing at which our preliminary average tariff, efficiency gains factor and tariff
structure will be subjected to public scrutiny will be scheduled by November 2012. However, although
the ARSESP has indicated that it will implement the new tariff methodology in 2012, we cannot assure
you when the new rules will be enacted, and the aforementioned schedule may suffer alterations or be
subject to delays. We cannot anticipate the additional changes that the ARSESP will implement on our
tariff structure and adjustment formula or the effects that these changes will have on us. If the changes
are unfavorable to us, they could materially and adversely affect us.
Furthermore, since Law No. 11,445 permits municipalities to create their own regulatory agencies
rather than being subjected to overview by the ARSESP, a number of municipalities created their own
regulatory agencies. The municipality of Lins, which had decided in 2007 to create its own regulatory
authority, revised this decision in 2010 and transferred the regulation of the water activities performed in
Lins, including the setting of tariffs to the ARSESP. Lins has retained, however, the power to ultimately
approve the tariff set by the ARSESP. The municipalities in which the hydrographic basins of the rivers
Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí are located have created a consortium for regulation and supervision of
our activities in that area. As this regulatory entity has recently been created, we cannot predict how it
13
may implement regulation changes that may affect our activities. If other municipalities create new
agencies or retain regulatory powers, we will be subject to their regulation, supervision and limitations to
our services. We cannot foresee any changes that any such new agency may implement regarding our
business, and if the changes are unfavorable, they could materially and adversely affect us.
Pursuant to the Basic Sanitation Law, the ARSESP has enacted, in 2009, certain rules establishing
(i) the general conditions for the services we render, (ii) the communication process for any failure in our
services; (iii) penalties for deficiencies in the provision of basic sanitation services; and (iv) procedures
for confidential treatment of our clients’ private information. We are currently evaluating the
enforceability and legality of some of these rules. Implementation of these rules started during 2011 and
is expected to continue for the next few years. The implementation of these rules will impact our
commercial and operations processes and may adversely affect us as described below and in other ways
we cannot currently predict.
In particular, regarding changes to the general conditions for our services, in 2011 the ARSESP
altered the standard contract that we are required to use in our relationships with retail costumers. The
ARSESP changed the rule regarding the collection of water and sewage tariff, requiring that collection be
directed to the consumer of our services, rather than to the owner of the served property, as used to be the
case. We estimate that this change will affect ongoing legal disputes, particularly those regarding
collection procedures, as well as business discussions in general. However, we are not currently able to
predict the impact of this change on our business, as the change is still being implemented.
For more
information, see “Information on
the Company—Business Overview—Tariffs,”
“Information on the Company—Business Overview—Government Regulation—Tariff Regulation in the
State of São Paulo” and “Information on the Company—Business Overview—Government Regulation—
Consumer Relations in the State of São Paulo.”
The terms of our new agreement to provide water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo
could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our provision of water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo accounted for 55.1% of our gross
revenues from sales and services (excluding revenues relating to the construction of concession
infrastructure) in the year ended December 31, 2011.
On June 23, 2010 the State and the city of São Paulo entered into a convention (convênio) with the
intermediation and our consent and the consent of the ARSESP pursuant to which they agreed to jointly
manage the planning of and investment in the basic sanitation system of the city of São Paulo, among
other things. This agreement established that the State and the city of São Paulo would enter into an
agreement with us, granting us exclusive rights with respect to the provision of water and sewage services
in the city of São Paulo. In addition, the agreement established the role of the ARSESP in regulating and
overseeing our activities (including the tariffs we collect) and established a management committee
(Comitê Gestor) that will be responsible for planning the water and sewage services and for reviewing our
investment plans. The management committee will be composed of six members appointed for two year
terms. The State and the city of São Paulo will have the right to appoint three members each. We are
permitted to participate in the meetings of the management committee; however, we are not afforded any
voting rights
Also, on June 23, 2010, we entered into a formal agreement with the State and the city of São Paulo
to regulate the provision of these services. This agreement requires, among other things, (i) that the
estimated investments mentioned in the agreement comply with 13% of the gross revenue from the
municipality of São Paulo, net of the taxes on revenues. The investment plan, upon its execution by us,
must be compatible with the activities and programs included in the sanitation plan of the State,
Municipality, and if necessary, of the Metropolitan region. The invest plan is not irrevocable and will be
reviewed by our management committee every four years, especially the investments to be executed in
the subsequent period; and (ii) that we contribute 7.5% of the gross revenues from sales and services we
obtain from this agreement, net of COFINS and PASEP taxes, to the Municipal Fund for Environmental
Sanitation and Infrastructure (Fundo Municipal de Saneamento Ambiental e Infraestrutura), or the São
Paulo Municipal Sanitation Fund, established by Municipal Law No. 14,934/2009. In addition, the
agreement provides that the ARSESP will ensure that the tariffs charged (a) will adequately compensate
us for the services we provide and (b) can be adjusted to restore the original balance between each party’s
14
obligation and economic gain (equilíbrio econômico-financeiro). We currently have an investment plan
in place that reflects these obligations and addresses their compatibility with the activities and programs
included in the sanitation plan of the State and of the municipality of São Paulo and, if necessary, the plan
of the metropolitan region of São Paulo. This investment plan will be reviewed by a management
committee every four years so as to ensure compliance with government policies and contractual terms.
Because we were not previously required to make the mandatory allocations described in items (i)
and (ii) above, they were not taken into account in calculating our existing tariff and its adjustment
formula. Despite the contractual provisions and the ARSESP’s role in setting and adjusting adequate
tariffs, which are necessary for our economic and financial balance, we cannot guarantee that the tariffs
we will be allowed to charge for the provision of water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo will
continue to adequately compensate us.
A decision of the Brazilian Supreme Court regarding whether State or municipal governments
have the right to execute concession and program agreements in metropolitan regions could have a
material adverse effect on us.
Our provision of water and sewage services in the metropolitan regions in which we operate is
governed by agreements with the relevant State authorities (other than in the city of São Paulo, where we
now have an agreement with the municipal authorities as well as the State). In a lawsuit initiated by third
parties that is currently before the Brazilian Supreme Court, the Court is considering whether the State or
the municipal governments have the proper authority to plan and regulate basic sanitation services
rendered in metropolitan regions, as well as the right to execute concession and program agreements. If
the Brazilian Supreme Court grants this authority to municipal governments, under certain circumstances,
we may be required to cease our operations in certain metropolitan regions where we have agreements
with the State only, to the extent that those municipalities opt to use another water and sewage service
provider. To mitigate this risk, we have commenced a process of executing agreements with both the
State and the municipal governments of certain metropolitan regions, and we already have such
agreements regarding the city of São Paulo. We cannot anticipate the effects of the Brazilian Supreme
Court decision on the provision of our services in other metropolitan regions, which could have a material
adverse effect on us.
We have not entered into formal agreements for the provision of water and sewage services with
certain of the municipalities we serve, including municipalities in metropolitan regions, as required by
the Basic Sanitation Law, and therefore we may not be able to enforce our rights to continue to provide
services in these municipalities.
Under the Basic Sanitation Law, we were required to have entered into formal agreements before
December 31, 2010 with every municipality with which we did not have a formal agreement in place or
with which our agreements had already expired, as is the case of certain municipalities located in the
metropolitan regions where we are authorized to operate in accordance with local legislation. If such
contractual arrangements were not entered into by December 31, 2010, the informal or expired services
concessions would no longer be valid.
As of the date of this annual report, of the 363 municipalities we provide water and sewage services
to, we have informal or expired arrangements with 99 municipalities. These 99 concessions include
municipalities located in and outside metropolitan regions, including the municipality of Santos, located
in the coastal region. Together, these 99 municipalities accounted for 23.8% of our total revenues for the
year ended December 31, 2011, and 29.7% of our intangible assets as of that same date.
We are currently negotiating with these municipalities the renewal or the formalization of the
concessions through the execution of program agreements. In order to renegotiate or formalize the
agreements, we face the following problems: (i) we are still awaiting the final decision of the Brazilian
Supreme Court regarding whether the State or the municipalities have the right to enter into contractual
arrangements for the provision of the basic sanitation services in the metropolitan regions (until the
execution of the agreement with the city and State of São Paulo in June 2010 there was no precedent for a
joint management contractual arrangement between the State, the municipalities and us); (ii) the
execution of new agreements will depend on certain acts that are beyond our control, such as the
compliance by the municipalities located outside the metropolitan regions with certain legal procedures.
15
The Basic Sanitation Law did not define any penalty for the non-compliance with the December 31,
2010 deadline by the municipalities or for the water and sewage service companies in case the deadline is
not observed. Consequently, we cannot anticipate if we are going to be subject to any penalty due to the
lack of a formal agreement with some municipalities or if any eventual penalty will have a material
adverse effect on us.
We cannot assure you when or whether there will be changes to the conditions under which we
currently provide water and sewage services to the municipalities with which we do not have formal
concession agreements or are renegotiating expired agreements, or whether we will be able to continue to
provide water and sewage services in any municipalities where we are unable to renew or enter into a
formal concession agreement. Because we do not hold concessions or contractual rights to provide
services in 99 municipalities, we may not be able to effectively enforce our right to continue to provide
services therein or may face difficulties in being timely paid for the services that we provide.
In addition, in the future, our rights in respect of these municipalities could be modified or adversely
affected by Brazilian federal, state or municipal governmental actions, judicial decisions or other factors.
For further information, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Government Regulation—The Basic
Sanitation Law” and “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Government Regulation—Concessions—Public
Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law for Joint Management.”
We are exposed to risks associated with the provision of water and sewage services.
Our industry is specifically affected by the following risks associated with the provision of water and
sewage services:
(cid:131) we are subject to substantial charges imposed by state and federal government agencies that
manage water resources related to the abstraction of water from, or dumping of sewage into, water
bodies, which we may not be able to pass on to our customers. See “Item 4.B. Business
Overview—Government Regulation—Water Usage;”
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
in some cases, we are required to continue providing services to certain municipalities to which we
provide water on a wholesale basis that have overdue amounts owed to us and are not paying us on
a regular basis and we cannot assure you of when or whether these municipalities will pay us in a
timely manner. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview-Billing Procedures;”
the degradation of watershed areas may affect the quantity and quality of water available to meet
our customers’ demand. See “Item 4.A History and Development of the Company—Capital
Expenditure Program;”
our tariffs may not increase in line with increases in inflation and operating expenses, including
taxes, or increase in a timely manner, which may hinder us from passing on to our customers
increases in our cost structure. See “—The terms of our new agreement to provide water and
sewage services in the city of São Paulo could have a material adverse effect on us”. These
constraints may also have an adverse effect on our ability to fund our capital expenditure
program and financing activities, and to meet our debt service requirements. See “Item 5.A.
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations—
Effects of Tariff Increases;”
(cid:131) we are exposed to probable increases in the frequency of extreme weather conditions in the
future, which may adversely affect both the quality and quantity of waters available for
abstraction, treatment, and supply. Given that our financial performance is closely linked to
climate patterns, droughts could adversely affect the water supply systems, resulting in a
decrease in the volume of water distributed and billed as well as in the revenue derived from
water supply distribution services. An increase in heavy rainfalls could impact water quality and
regular operations of water sources, including abstraction of waters from our dams, due to
increased soil erosion, silting, pollution and eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems. See “Item 5.A.
Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations—
Effects of Climate Change (Drought and Intense Rainfalls);” and
16
(cid:131) we are dependent upon energy to conduct our operations and eventual shortages or rationing of
energy may prevent us from providing water and sewage services and may also cause material
damage to our water and sewage systems when we resume operations. Also, we may not be able
to pass on to our customers significant increases in energy tariffs. See “Item 4.A. History and
Development of the Company-Energy Consumption.”
The occurrence of any of the above may have a material adverse effect on us.
We may face difficulties in continuing to provide water and sewage services in the municipalities
we serve and we cannot assure you that these municipalities will continue to require our provision of
services under the same terms.
As of December 31, 2011, we were a provider of water and sewage services to 363 municipalities.
Between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011, we had entered into 30-year agreements with 225 of
these municipalities (including our services agreement with the city of São Paulo), of which 25 were
entered into in 2011. These 225 municipalities accounted for 65.2% of our total revenues for the year
ended December 31, 2011 and 62.6% of our intangible assets as of December 31, 2011. As of December
31, 2011, we have been renegotiating 99 concession agreements that expired, including the municipality
of Santos. Together, these 99 municipalities accounted for 23.8% of our total revenues for the year ended
December 31, 2011 and 29.7% of our intangible assets as of that same date.
From January 1, 2012 to 2033, 39 concession agreements will expire. These 39 concession
agreements accounted for 8.6% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2011 and 6.7% of
our intangible assets as of that same date.
We cannot assure you that these municipalities will continue to require our services and enter into
new concession agreements or program agreements with us. In the event that we are successful in
renegotiating our concession agreements or entering into program agreements with the municipalities
whose concession agreements expired or will expire, we cannot assure you that the new concession or
program agreements will have the same terms under which we currently provide services to these
municipalities. We cannot make any such assumption because the Basic Sanitation Law prevents us from
planning, regulating and monitoring our services and it requires more stringent control by the
municipalities or by the ARSESP.
In addition, these municipalities may choose to assume the direct provision of water and sewage
services or promote a public bidding process to select another water and sewage service provider.
Depending on the eligibility requirements to participate in the public bidding processes, we may not
qualify to participate in some or all of these public bidding processes. If we participate in these public
bidding processes, we cannot assure you that we will win the bid. In the event that these municipalities
assume the direct provision of water and sewage services or promote a public bidding process to select
another water and sewage service provider, or the new terms or conditions of the concession or program
agreements are less favorable to us, we may be materially and adversely affected. See “Item 4.B.
Business Overview—Our Operations” and “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Government Regulation—
Concessions—Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law for Joint Management.”
Municipalities may, under certain circumstances, terminate our concessions before their
expiration and the indemnification may be inadequate to recover the full value of our investments.
The concessions we hold are subject to early termination provisions, which entitle municipalities to
terminate our concessions prior to their expiration date under certain circumstances. Municipalities may
terminate our concessions if we fail to comply with our obligations under the relevant concession
agreement or applicable law, or if the municipality determines, through an expropriation proceeding, that
terminating our concession prior to its expiration date is in the public interest. If any municipality
terminates our concession before the expiration date, we are entitled to be indemnified for the
unamortized portion of our investments, but the indemnification may not be sufficient for us to recover
the full value of our investments. Further, under the terms of the Constitution of the State of São Paulo,
municipalities may pay the indemnification over a term of 25 years. However, the Brazilian Supreme
Court stayed the application of this provision of the Constitution of the State of São Paulo in 1997, and
the decision remains valid until final judgment.
17
In 1997, the municipality of Santos enacted a law expropriating our water and sewage systems in
Santos. There are pending legal proceedings concerning the expropriation carried out by this
municipality. We continue to provide water and sewage services to the city of Santos.
In 1995, the municipality of Diadema terminated the concession agreement that had been entered into
with us prior to the expiration of the concession agreement. As a result, we filed a lawsuit against the
municipality of Diadema which we eventually settled in 1996. The municipality of Diadema did not
comply with this settlement. In December 2008, we entered into a memorandum of understanding with
the State of São Paulo, the municipality of Diadema and the State Secretariat for Sanitation and Water
Resources, formerly known as the State Secretariat for Sanitation and Energy (Secretaria de Saneamento
e Energia do Estado de São Paulo). This memorandum establishes our agreement to conclude
negotiations and settle all outstanding amounts and stay the collection proceedings we filed against the
municipality of Diadema. In 2011, the municipality of Diadema agreed with us to develop a shared
infrastructure for the provision of water and sewage services through a mixed-capital company called
Companhia de Agua e Esgoto de Diadema, or CAED, and we cannot predict when this company will
begin operations. The amount owed to us by the Diadema municipality would be returned to us through
our capital participation in CAED. We can give no assurance that we will recover our investments in
such company.
For further information on these lawsuits, see “Item 8.A. Financial Information—Consolidated
Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”
We cannot assure you that other municipalities will not seek to terminate their concession agreements
before the contractual expiration date. The early termination of concession agreements by municipalities,
our inability to receive adequate indemnification for the investments we made, or the payment of
indemnification due to us over a long period, may have a material adverse effect on us.
The Basic Sanitation Law has established provisions governing the indemnification of water and
sewage service providers in case of early termination of concession agreements by a municipality and
reduced the term over which indemnification must be paid to four years. These provisions are also
applicable to concession agreements entered into prior to the enactment of the Basic Sanitation Law, as
long as these concession agreements do not have a contractual indemnification provision in case of early
termination or we have not otherwise entered into an agreement with the municipality with regard to such
early termination. Nevertheless, we cannot anticipate the effects of the Basic Sanitation Law on the
amount of, and enforceability of the right to, indemnification and how Brazilian courts will enforce the
provisions of the Basic Sanitation Law.
Any failure to obtain new financing may adversely affect our ability to continue our capital
expenditure program.
Our capital expenditure program will require substantial liquidity and capital resources of
approximately R$7.9 billion in the period from 2012 through 2015. We recorded R$2.4 billion of capital
expenditure in 2011 in connection with our capital expenditure program.
We have funded in the past, and we plan to continue to fund these expenditures with funds generated
by operations and domestic and foreign currency borrowings on acceptable terms. A significant portion
of our financing needs have been funded by lenders controlled by the federal government. We also
benefit from long-term financing from domestic and international multilateral agencies and development
banks at attractive interest rates. Changes in the policies of the federal government regarding the
financing of water and sewage services, or our failure to continue to benefit from long-term financing
from domestic and international multilateral agencies and development banks at attractive interest rates
may impair our ability to meet our obligations or finance our capital expenditure program, which could
have a material adverse effect on us.
As a general rule, financial institutions and other institutions authorized to provide credit by the
Central Bank may only provide loans to public sector entities, such as us, up to a certain percentage of the
entity’s shareholders’ equity. Because of these limitations on our ability to obtain credit from domestic
financial institutions, our options for raising funds, other than the cash generated by our operations,
consist mainly of borrowing from governmental agencies, national and international financial institutions
or multilateral agencies and issuing debt securities in both the domestic and international capital markets.
These legal limitations could adversely affect our ability to continue our capital expenditure program.
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We are also subject to financial covenants limiting our ability to incur additional indebtedness, which
could have a material adverse effect on us. For further information on these covenants, see “Item 5.B.
Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Sources—Indebtedness Financing—Financial Covenants.”
Our failure to comply with these covenants could impair our ability to finance our capital expenditure
program, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
We are subject to cost increases to comply with environmental law requirements and potential
environmental liability that could have a material adverse effect on us.
Our facilities are subject to extensive Brazilian federal, state and municipal laws and regulations
relating to the protection of human health and the environment. These laws and regulations establish
potability standards for consumption and limit or prohibit emissions or spills of effluents, such as raw
sewage, produced in connection with our operations. We could be subject to civil public actions and
criminal, administrative and other civil proceedings for non-compliance with environmental laws and
regulations, which could expose us to administrative and civil penalties and criminal sanctions, such as
fines, closure orders and significant indemnification obligations. Since environmental laws and their
enforcement by Brazilian authorities are becoming more stringent, our capital expenditures and expenses
for environmental compliance may increase substantially. Expenditures required for compliance with
environmental laws and regulations may result in reductions in other strategic investments that we have
planned, which could negatively affect us. In addition, due to more stringent enforcement of
environmental laws by Brazilian courts, we may be required to pay substantial fines and indemnifications
in amounts that may vary widely from those currently anticipated. We are presently a party to a number
of civil public actions and administrative proceedings related to environmental matters, with regard to
which we are unable to calculate our estimated amount of potential liability. Any unfavorable judgment
in relation to these lawsuits and proceedings or any material unforeseen environmental liabilities may
have a material adverse effect on us. For further information on these lawsuits, see “Item 8.A. Financial
Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”
The enactment of new laws and regulations relating to climate change and changes in existing
regulation, as well as the physical effects of climate change, may result in increased liabilities and
increased capital expenditures, which could have a material adverse effect on us.
As new laws and regulations relating to climate change, including carbon controls, become
applicable to us, and as existing environmental regulations relating to climate change become more
stringent, it is possible that our capital expenditure for compliance with these laws and regulations will
increase substantially in the future. If we increase capital expenditure to comply with these laws and
regulations, we may be required to reduce expenditure on other strategic investments.
In addition, if climate change leads to significant physical effects, such as variations in the intensity
of droughts and rain, our services may be affected and we may be required, among other things, to: (i)
make significant investments in seeking new water sources located further from major consumer centers
and (ii) make significant investments in new technologies.
We have not adopted any method for calculating the investments that would be necessary in the event
of a significant physical effect from climate change. Any substantial increase in expenditure related to
climate change, whether for compliance with environmental regulations or for preventing or remedying
the physical effects of climate change, may have a material adverse effect on us. See “Item 4.B. Business
Overview—Environmental Matters—Climate Change Regulations: Reduction of Greenhouse Gases
(GHG).”
Any substantial monetary judgment against us in legal proceedings may have a material adverse
effect on us.
We are a party to a number of legal proceedings involving significant monetary claims. These legal
proceedings include, among others, civil, environmental, tax, labor, condemnation and other proceedings.
As of December 31, 2011, the total value of all outstanding claims was R$24,152.0 million (net of
R$133.1 million in court deposits). A substantial monetary judgment against us in one or more of these
legal proceedings may have a material adverse effect on us. Based on advice from our legal counsel, we
have provisioned a total aggregate amount of R$1,571.8 million (net of court deposits) as of
December 31, 2011 to cover probable losses related to legal proceedings. This provision does not cover
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all legal proceedings involving monetary claims filed against us and it may be insufficient to cover our
liabilities related to these claims.
Any unfavorable judgment in relation to these proceedings may have a material adverse effect on us.
For more information, see “Item 8.A. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other
Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.”
Risks Relating to Our Common Shares and ADSs
The relative volatility and illiquidity of the Brazilian securities markets may substantially limit
your ability to sell our common shares underlying the ADSs at the price and time you desire.
Investing in securities that trade in emerging markets, such as Brazil, often involves greater risk than
investing in securities of issuers in major securities markets, and these investments are often considered to
be more speculative in nature. The Brazilian securities market is substantially smaller, less liquid, more
concentrated and can be more volatile than major securities markets. Accordingly, although you are
entitled to withdraw the common shares underlying the ADSs from the depositary at any time, your
ability to sell the common shares underlying the ADSs at a price and time at which you wish to do so may
be substantially limited. There is also significantly greater concentration in the Brazilian securities
market than in major securities markets. The ten largest companies in terms of market capitalization
represented approximately 53.1% of the aggregate market capitalization of the BM&FBOVESPA as of
December 31, 2011. The top ten stocks in terms of trading volume accounted for approximately 50.4%,
48.8% and 47.0% of all shares traded on the BM&FBOVESPA in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
Investors who exchange ADSs for common shares may lose their ability to remit foreign currency
abroad and to obtain Brazilian tax advantages.
The Brazilian custodian for the common shares underlying our ADSs must obtain a certificate of
registration from the Central Bank to be entitled to remit U.S. dollars abroad for payments of dividends
and other distributions relating to our common shares or upon the disposition of our common shares. If
an ADR holder decides to exchange ADSs for the underlying common shares, this holder will be entitled
to continue to rely on the custodian’s certificate of registration for five business days from the date of
exchange. After that period, the holder may not be able to obtain and remit U.S. dollars abroad upon the
disposition of our common shares, or distributions relating to our common shares, unless he or she
obtains his or her own certificate of registration or register under Resolution No. 2,689, dated January 26,
2000, of the CMN, which entitles registered foreign investors to buy and sell on the Brazilian stock
exchanges. If the holder does not obtain a certificate of registration or register under Resolution
No. 2,689, this holder will generally be subject to less favorable tax treatment on gains with respect to our
common shares.
If a holder attempts to obtain his or her own certificate of registration, the holder may incur expenses
or suffer delays in the application process, which could delay his or her ability to receive dividends or
distributions relating to our common shares or the return of his or her capital in a timely manner. We
cannot assure you that the custodian’s certificate of registration or any foreign capital registration
obtained by a holder may not be affected by future legislative changes, or that additional restrictions
applicable to the holder, the disposition of the underlying common shares or the repatriation of the
proceeds from disposition will not be imposed in the future.
A holder of common shares or ADSs may face difficulties in protecting his or her interests as a
shareholder because we are a Brazilian mixed capital company.
We are a mixed capital company (sociedade de economia mista) organized under the laws of Brazil,
and all of our directors and officers and our controlling shareholder reside in Brazil. All of our assets and
those of these other persons are located in Brazil. As a result, it may not be possible for a holder to effect
service of process upon us or these other persons within the United States or other jurisdictions outside
Brazil or to enforce against us or these other persons judgments obtained in the United States or other
jurisdictions outside Brazil. Because judgments of U.S. courts for civil liabilities based upon the U.S.
federal securities laws may only be enforced in Brazil if certain requirements are met, a holder may face
difficulties in protecting his or her interests in the case of actions by our directors, officers or our
controlling shareholder than would shareholders of a corporation incorporated in a state or other
jurisdiction of the United States. In addition, under Brazilian law, none of our assets which are essential
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to our ability to render public services are subject to seizure or attachment. Furthermore, the execution of
a judgment against our controlling shareholder may be delayed as payment of the judgment must be made
pursuant to the State’s budget in a subsequent fiscal year. None of the public property of our controlling
shareholder is subject to seizure or attachment, either prior to or after judgment.
Mandatory arbitration provisions in our bylaws may limit the ability of a holder of our ADSs to
enforce liability under U.S. securities laws.
Under our bylaws, any disputes among us, our shareholders and our management with respect to the
application of Novo Mercado rules, Brazilian Corporate Law and the application of the rules and
regulations regarding Brazilian capital markets will be resolved by arbitration conducted pursuant to the
BM&FBOVESPA Arbitration Rules in the Market Arbitration Chamber. Any disputes among
shareholders, including ADR holders, and disputes between us and our shareholders, including ADR
holders, will also be submitted to arbitration. As a result, a court in the United States might require that a
claim brought by an ADR holder predicated upon the U.S. securities laws be submitted to arbitration in
accordance with our bylaws. In that event, a purchaser of ADSs would be effectively precluded from
pursuing remedies under the U.S. securities laws in the U.S. courts.
A holder of our common shares and ADSs might be unable to exercise preemptive rights and tag-
along rights with respect to the common shares.
U.S. holders of common shares and ADSs may not be able to exercise the preemptive rights and tag-
along rights relating to common shares unless a registration statement under the U.S. Securities Act of
1933, as amended, or the Securities Act, is effective with respect to those rights or an exemption from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act is available. We are not obligated to file a registration
statement with respect to our common shares relating to these rights, and we cannot assure you that we
will file any such registration statement. Unless we file a registration statement or an exemption from
registration is available, an ADR holder may receive only the net proceeds from the sale of his or her
preemptive rights and tag-along rights or, if these rights cannot be sold, they will lapse and the ADR
holder will receive no value for them.
A holder of our ADSs may find it more difficult than a holder of our common shares to exercise
his or her voting rights at our shareholders’ meetings.
Holders may exercise voting rights with respect to the common shares represented by our ADSs only
in accordance with the deposit agreement relating to our ADSs. There are no provisions under Brazilian
law or under our bylaws that limit the exercise by ADR holders of their voting rights through the
depositary with respect to the underlying common shares. However, there are practical limitations upon
the ability of ADR holders to exercise their voting rights due to the additional procedural steps involved
in communicating with these holders. For example, our common shareholders will receive notice of
shareholders’ meetings through publication of a notice in an official government publication in Brazil and
will be able to exercise their voting rights by either attending the meeting in person or voting by proxy.
ADR holders, by comparison, will not receive notice directly from us. Instead, in accordance with the
deposit agreement, we will provide the notice to the depositary, which will, in turn, as soon as practicable
thereafter mail to ADR holders the notice of the meeting and a statement as to the manner in which
instructions may be given by holders, but only if we request the depositary to do so. To exercise their
voting rights, ADR holders must then instruct the depositary as to voting the common shares represented
by their ADSs. Due to these procedural steps involving the depositary, the process for exercising voting
rights may take longer for ADR holders than for holders of common shares. ADSs for which the
depositary fails to receive timely voting instructions will not be voted at any meeting.
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
A. History and Development of the Company
Overview
Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo – SABESP is a mixed capital company
(sociedade de economia mista) with limited liability. We were incorporated on September 6, 1973 under
the laws of the Federative Republic of Brazil. We are registered at the Commercial Registry of the State
of São Paulo (Junta Comercial do Estado de São Paulo) under registration number NIRE 35300016831.
Our principal executive offices are located at Rua Costa Carvalho, 300, 05429-900 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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Our telephone number is +(55) 11 3388-8000. Our agent for service of process in the United States is CT
Corporation System, with offices at 818 West Seventh Street – Team 1, Los Angeles, CA 90017. We are
allowed to operate, in a subsidiary form, in other Brazilian locations and abroad. See “Item 4.B. Business
Overview—Government Regulation—Concessions—Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law
for Joint Management.”
We believe we are one of the largest water and sewage service providers in the world (based on the
number of customers in 2011), according to the 13th edition of the Pinsent Masons Water Yearbook
(2011-2012). We operate water and sewage systems in the State of São Paulo in which the city of São
Paulo, Brazil’s largest city, is located. According to the IBGE, the State of São Paulo is Brazil’s most
populous state and the state with the highest gross domestic product, or GDP, in Brazil. For the year
ended December 31, 2011, from our total revenues we had a consolidated net revenue of R$9,941.6
million and a consolidated net income of R$1,223.4 million. Our total consolidated assets was
R$25,215.0 million and our total shareholders’ equity was R$10,545.9 million as of December 31, 2011.
As of December 31, 2011, we provided water and sewage services to a broad range of residential,
commercial, industrial and governmental customers in 363 of the 645 municipalities in the State of São
Paulo, including the city of São Paulo. Substantially all of our concessions or program agreements have
30-year terms. 99 of these concessions have expired and are currently being renegotiated. From
January 1, 2012 through 2033, 39 concessions will expire, which we will seek to replace with program
agreements.
We also supply water on a wholesale basis to six municipalities located in the São Paulo metropolitan
region and to the municipality of Sumaré (with a total estimated urban population of approximately 3.7
million), in which we do not operate water distribution systems. Within these municipalities, five of them
utilize our sewage treatment services. For the year ended December 31, 2011, the São Paulo metropolitan
region (including the municipalities to which we provide water on a wholesale basis) and the Regional
Systems accounted for 73.9% and 26.1% of our gross revenue from sales and services (excluding
revenues relating to the construction of concession infrastructure), respectively.
As of December 31, 2011, we provided water services through 7.5 million water connections to
approximately 23.9 million people, representing approximately 59.0% of the urban population of the
State of São Paulo, and effectively had a water coverage ratio of approximately 100% in respect of all
regions. As of that date, we provided sewage services through 5.9 million sewage connections to
approximately 20.5 million people and effectively had a sewage coverage ratio of 82.0%. As of
December 31, 2011, we operated through 66,389 kilometers of water pipes and mains and through 45,073
kilometers of sewer lines.
We also provide water and/or sewage services to four other municipalities through special purpose
companies. In addition, we render consulting services related to the rational use of water and commercial
and operational management in Panama and Honduras through a partnership with Latin Consult.
The State, our controlling shareholder, is required by law to own at least 50% plus one of our
common shares. As of April 23, 2011, the State owned 50.3% of our outstanding common shares. As a
mixed capital company, we are an integral part of the State governmental structure. Our strategy and
major policy decisions are formulated in conjunction with the State Secretariat for Sanitation and Water
Resources as part of the overall strategic planning for the State. The majority of the members of our
board of directors and our board of executive officers are nominated by the State government.
In addition, our capital expenditure budget is subject to approval by the State legislature and is
approved in conjunction with the budget of the State Secretariat for Sanitation and Water Resources as a
whole. Our consolidated financial statements and accounting records are subject to review by the State
Accounts Tribunal (Tribunal de Contas), as are all accounts of the State.
Our Strengths
We believe that our strong business position and future prospects relate to the following strengths:
Well-established business with significant size, scale and know-how to operate in complex urban
settings. We believe we are one of the largest water and sewage service providers in the world. We
provide water services directly to approximately 23.9 million people and supply water on a wholesale
basis to an additional urban population of 3.7 million people. As of December 31, 2011, we effectively
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had a water coverage ratio of approximately 100% in respect of all regions in which we operate. We also
provide sewage services directly to approximately 20.5 million people, achieving a sewage coverage ratio
of 82.0% in respect of all regions in which we operate as of December 31, 2011. During the year ended
December 31, 2011, our net revenue from sales and services increased by 7.7% as compared to the year
ended December 31, 2010 (including revenues relating to the construction of concession infrastructure).
Our significant size and scale have required us to operate in complex urban settings such as favelas
(shantytowns) and environments without urban planning, which has enabled us to develop skills to
operate in adverse conditions and have well-trained personnel and a specialized structure that we believe
our competitors lack.
Operations in Brazil’s most populous and wealthy state. The State of São Paulo, part of the most
developed and economically active region of Brazil, is the most populous state in Brazil, with an
estimated population of 43.0 million as of December 31, 2011. The city of São Paulo had an estimated
population of 11.0 million as of that date, with 20.4 million inhabitants in the São Paulo metropolitan
region. Based on its GDP, the State of São Paulo is the wealthiest state and largest economy in Brazil.
The GDP of the State of São Paulo was approximately R$1.1 trillion in 2009, representing approximately
33% of Brazil’s total GDP. The State of São Paulo generates more revenue from water and sewage
services than any other Brazilian state.
Strong Contract Log. From the 363 municipalities we serve, in the last five years, we have executed
30-year agreements with 225 of them, including an agreement with the municipality of São Paulo entered
into in June 2010. As of December 31, 2011, the income from those 225 municipalities in which we have
long-term contracts accounted for 65.2% of our revenues.
Access to low-cost and diverse sources of financing. Our strong cash flow generation from
operations and our role as an essential public service provider places us in a privileged position in our
industry to obtain low cost, long-term financing from Brazilian public banks, and domestic and
international multilateral agencies and development banks. In addition, we are not dependent upon a
limited number of sources of financing. We benefit from various funding alternatives available in the
Brazilian and international markets for our working capital needs and our capital expenditure programs.
Strong corporate governance practices. In 2002, we joined the Novo Mercado segment of the
BM&FBOVESPA, which is the listing segment in Brazil with the highest corporate governance
requirements. As a result, we are committed to maintaining certain additional corporate governance
practices that are not required by Brazilian law, ensuring additional protection to our shareholders rights
and enhancing the quality of information we disclose to the market. On December 1, 2007, we became
part of the BM&FBOVESPA Corporate Sustainability Index, or ISE, which reflects our high degree of
commitment to sustainable environmental and social practices.
High quality operations. We believe that we adhere to high standards of service and utilize the best
available technology in the sanitation business to control the quality of the water captured, produced and
distributed. All of our water quality control laboratories operate in accordance with the ABNT NBR ISO
9001, which follows the highest international water quality standards. In addition to our central
laboratory, 11 of our regional laboratories are accredited by the National Institute of Metrology,
Standardization and Industrial Quality, or INMETRO, thereby assuring the quality and accuracy of our
test results, according to ABNT NBR ISO IEC 17025. Moreover, our laboratories and field teams use the
latest equipment to detect substances controlled by regulations and have highly trained teams to handle
contingencies and customer complaints. We believe our technology enhances the efficiency and quality
of our operations. As of December 31, 2011, 50 of our sewage treatment facilities had obtained the ISO
14001 certification.
Our Strategy
Our mission is to provide water and sewage services, contributing to the improvement of the quality
of life and of the environment. To this end, our strategic objectives are based upon the guiding principles
of growth, quality, universalization of sanitation services and social, economic and environmental
sustainability, while focusing on reaching excellence on costumer service. We also base our strategic
objectives on our political and institutional relationships as well as on our commitment to the market to
increase shareholder value. We seek to implement these guiding principles through the following
strategies:
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Continue to seek growth while improving our financial results by reducing operating costs,
increasing productivity and profitability and prudently managing our levels of indebtedness. We aim
to apply our principles of financial growth and sustainability to each business unit, assigning goals and
setting clear responsibilities to each unit so as to reach better financial results. To achieve this goal, we
intend to use our best efforts to reduce operating costs and increase productivity and profitability. We
plan to improve the management of our assets, as well as to continue to reduce our total operating
expenses by automating some of our facilities, streamlining operational processes, implementing
integrated planning and further investing in internal technological research and development. We also
plan to continue our efforts to improve our collection of overdue accounts receivable from municipalities
to which we provide services, from the State and from other governmental entities, including by exploring
opportunities to offset these outstanding debts against certain possessory or property rights over utilities
relating to water and sewage systems. We intend to continue to fund our working capital needs and
estimated capital expenditure programs with diversified sources of financing, such as domestic and
international development banks and multilateral agencies. We will continue to seek market
opportunities for low-cost financing and restructuring of our indebtedness if and when advantageous and
appropriate.
Improve operating efficiency and reduce water losses. We seek to reduce both physical water
losses, which result mainly from leakage, and non-physical water losses, which result primarily from the
inaccuracy of our water meters installed at our customers’ premises and at our water treatment facilities,
and from clandestine and illegal use. In order to achieve more consistent long-term results, we have
developed a comprehensive 11-year program to reduce our water loss rate. The first three years of the
program from 2009 to 2011 was funded by the BNDES. During 2012 to 2016 the program is being also
funded by a loan granted by the government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation
Agency, or JICA. The program’s focus is on the renewal of our water distribution infrastructure and the
improvement of maintenance and control services as a means of reducing physical water losses. We are
also seeking to reduce physical water losses by creating smaller water supply districts through the
construction of district metering areas, or DMAs, that reduce the system’s pressure and pipe bursts,
allowing leaks to be detected and repaired more efficiently. The program also seeks to reduce non-
physical water losses by upgrading and replacing inaccurate water meters and through inspections of non-
authorized water consumption in water service connections.
Ensure the quality and availability of our services in our existing service area. Our goal is to
maintain an effective water coverage ratio of around 100%, coupled with a high standard of quality and
availability and meet the expected population growth by adding 1.3 million water connections from 2012
to 2019. We also intend to increase our sewage coverage ratio to 95% by 2019 by adding 1.8 million
sewage connections. In addition, we are also developing short, medium and long-term marketing
strategies, such as client segmentation and tailor-made solutions for each type of client, which we believe
will help us increase our customer base. We also seek to improve our costumer support strategies by
modernizing our telephone and internet-based costumer support and continuously measure the level of
satisfaction of our clients.
Maintain and continue to expand our existing service areas. We intend to maintain our operating
base through the execution of new agreements. To this end, we are actively seeking to develop closer
relationships with the municipal governments that we currently serve in order to increase customer
loyalty and thereby renew all or substantially all our expiring concession agreements. In June 2010, we
entered into an agreement with the State and city of São Paulo with a 30-year term for the provision of
water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo, which in the year ended December 31, 2011
accounted for 55.1% of our gross revenues from sales and services (excluding revenues relating to the
construction of concession infrastructure). Between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011, we entered
into 225 agreements with 30-year terms with municipalities (including our services agreement with the
city of São Paulo), of which 25 were entered into in 2011. These 25 municipalities accounted for 2.9% of
our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2011 and 3.3% of our intangible assets as of that same
date. As of December 31, 2011, 99 of our concessions had expired and are currently being renegotiated.
These 99 municipalities accounted for 23.8% of our total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2011
and 29.7% of our intangible assets as of that same date. From January 1, 2012 through 2033, 39
concession agreements accounting for 8.6% of our revenues for the year ended December 31, 2011 and
6.7% of our intangible assets as of December 31, 2011 will expire.
We have also developed a platform to offer unique services relating to sustainability, environmental
preservation and water resource management to our large industrial, commercial and residential
24
customers in order to encourage these customers to continue to use our water services. We also intend to
continue to expand our sewage services. A significant portion of our capital expenditure program, of
approximately R$7.9 billion between 2012 and 2015, is designed to achieve this goal. We also regularly
explore the possibility of executing agreements for the provision of water and sewage services in
municipalities of the State of São Paulo in which we currently have no operations or to which we
currently supply water and provide sewage treatment solely on a wholesale basis, representing a total
population of approximately 17 million. We evaluate possible expansion opportunities in terms of
proximity to our existing service areas to maximize return on investment and improve our financial
performance. We also intend to study, and take advantage of, opportunities in other Brazilian states and
in other countries to expand our services and increase our market share.
Expand our water and sewage services. We had a sewage coverage ratio of 82.0% as of
December 31, 2011, and we plan to increase our sewage coverage ratio to 95% by 2019, by adding over
1.8 million sewage connections. In addition, there are municipalities in the State of São Paulo
representing an aggregate population of approximately 17 million to which we currently do not provide
water or sewage services, or to which we currently supply water solely on a wholesale basis. Our strong
presence in the State and experience in providing water and sewage services places us in a privileged
position to expand our sewage services to municipalities in which we provide only water services and our
water and sewage services to municipalities in which we do not yet operate, in both the State of São Paulo
and also in other states in Brazil and abroad. Further, we seek to deepen our relationships with strategic
clients that consume high volumes of water (more than 500 cubic meters per month) by applying special
tariffs for these clients.
Seek selective opportunities to expand our business. In 2007, a change in our bylaws expanded the
scope of our corporate purpose to include activities complementary to our water and sewage services,
such as urban rainwater management and drainage services, urban cleaning services and solid waste
management services. Since then we have:
(cid:131) executed cooperation agreements to exchange technology with six regional basic sanitation
companies in Brazil, as well as with international businesses such as Mekorot National Water
Company, an Israeli company, Sociedade General Aguas de Barcelona S/A – Agbar, a Spanish
company, Instituto Costarricence de Acueductos y Alcantarillados, a Costa Rican company,
Empresa Pública de Medellin, a Colombian municipal multi-utilities company and Agua y
Saneamientos Argentinos - AYSA, an Argentine company, which will allow us to exchange know-
how and learn about future opportunities;
(cid:131) executed memoranda of understanding with three municipalities to study the possibility of
operating landfills;
(cid:131) created four special purpose companies (SESAMM – Serviços de Saneamento de Mogi Mirim S/A;
Águas de Castilho S.A.; Águas de Andradina S.A.; and Saneaqua Mairinque S.A.) to operate water
and/or sewage concessions granted by four municipalities in the State of São Paulo;
(cid:131) executed an agreement with the Servitec/Tecniplan consortium for the use of small hydroelectric
power plants in our water treatment stations in Guaraú and Vertedouro Cascata;
(cid:131) executed an agreement with the basic sanitation company of the state of Alagoas to transfer
technology for the reduction of water losses in the city of Maceió;
(cid:131) executed a service agreement with the basic sanitation company of the state of Espírito Santo to
license the use of our proprietary software “Aqualog” designed to remotely monitor water
treatment;
(cid:131) won two international public biddings for the provision of: (i) consulting services relating to a
program for the rational use of water and for the implementation of a new model for commercial
and operational management of the Instituto de Acueductos y Alcantarillados Nacionales, the
company responsible for the provision of the water and sewage services in the central provinces of
Panama, and (ii) consulting services for the implementation of a new model for commercial and
25
operational management in nine municipalities of Honduras;
(cid:131) created a special purpose company (Aquapolo Ambiental S.A.), in partnership with a private
sanitation services operator, to build and operate the largest water recycling facility in the southern
hemisphere, which will supply up to 1,000 liters per second to industries in the São Paulo
metropolitan region;
(cid:131)
rendered consulting services relating to the Municipal Basic Sanitation Plan to the municipality of
Barro Alto, located in the State of Goiás; and
(cid:131) created a special purpose company (ATTEND), in partnership with Estre Ambiental S.A., for the
implementation of a structure to receive non-domestic water resources in the municipality of São
Paulo, which will also have a pre-treatment water station.
In addition, in connection with the expansion of our business, we are evaluating and may consider
creating an investment vehicle, Sabesp Participações, through which we may make equity investments.
We intend to continue to selectively seek new business opportunities to take advantage of our know-
how, size and scale.
Establish efficient and competitive ways of attracting, retaining and motivating our personnel. We
intend to become a reference in human resource management, providing our personnel with growth
opportunities and recognition. We seek to raise workplace satisfaction levels by establishing programs
for the professional and personal development of employees, particularly of those in managerial positions,
setting attractive compensation packages and creating a healthy and collaborative work environment.
We believe that our overall strategy will enable us to meet the demand for high quality water and
sewage services in the State of São Paulo, in other Brazilian states and abroad, while strengthening our
results of operations and our financial condition and creating shareholder value.
State of São Paulo
The State of São Paulo is one of 26 states that, together with the Federal District of Brasília,
constitute the Federative Republic of Brazil. The State of São Paulo is located in the southeastern region
of the country, which also includes the States of Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo and Rio de Janeiro, and
which is, according to IBGE, the most developed and economically active region of Brazil. The State of
São Paulo is located on the Atlantic coast of Brazil, with the States of Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais to
the north, the State of Paraná to the south and the State of Mato Grosso do Sul to the west.
The State of São Paulo occupies 3.0% of Brazil’s land mass and encompasses an area amounting to
approximately 96,000 square miles. According to the SEADE, the State of São Paulo had an estimated
total population of 43.0 million as of December 31, 2011. The city of São Paulo, the State of São Paulo’s
capital, had an estimated population of 11.0 million, with 20.4 million inhabitants in the São Paulo
metropolitan region, as of December 31, 2011. The São Paulo metropolitan region encompasses 39 cities
and is the largest metropolitan region in the Americas and the third largest metropolitan region in the
world, according to the United Nations’ World Urbanization Prospects, 2009 Revision. The São Paulo
metropolitan region accounted for approximately 47% of the population of the State of São Paulo as of
December 31, 2011.
According to the IBGE, the GDP of the State of São Paulo was approximately R$1.1 trillion in 2009,
representing approximately 33% of Brazil’s total GDP, and making it the largest economy of any state in
Brazil based on GDP. According to the IBGE, the State of São Paulo is also the leading Brazilian state in
terms of manufacturing and industrial activity, with a strong position in car manufacturing,
pharmaceuticals, computer manufacturing, steel making and plastics, among other activities, as well as a
leading position in the banking and financial services industries. The State of São Paulo is the most
important exporting state in Brazil, according to the Brazilian Ministry of Development, Industry and
Foreign Trade (Ministério do Desenvolvimento, Indústria e Comércio Exterior).
26
History
Until the end of the nineteenth century, water and sewage services in the State of São Paulo were
generally provided by private companies. In 1875, the Province of São Paulo granted a concession for the
rendering of water and sewage services to Companhia Cantareira de Água e Esgotos. In 1893, the
government of the Province of São Paulo assumed responsibility for the rendering of water and sewage
services from Companhia Cantareira de Água e Esgotos and formed the Office of Water and Sewers
(Repartição de Água e Esgotos), a governmental agency. Since that time, water and sewage services in
the São Paulo metropolitan region have been administered by the State government. Historically, water
and sewage services in substantially all other municipalities of the State were administered by the
municipalities directly either by municipal water and sewage departments or through autarquias of the
municipal government. Autarquias are relatively autonomous public bodies with separate legal
standing, assets and revenues, created by law to undertake administration of public services, which are
considered to be better managed by a decentralized administrative and financial structure.
In 1954, in response to dramatic population growth in the São Paulo metropolitan region, the State
government created the Department of Water and Sewers (Departamento de Águas e Esgotos), as an
autarquia of the State. The Department of Water and Sewers provided water and sewage services to
various municipalities in the São Paulo metropolitan region.
A major restructuring of the entities providing water and sewage services in the State of São Paulo
occurred in 1968, with the creation of the Water Company of the São Paulo Metropolitan Region
(Companhia Metropolitana de Água de São Paulo), or the COMASP, the purpose of which was to
provide potable water on a wholesale basis for public consumption in the municipalities of the São Paulo
metropolitan region. All assets relating to the production of potable water for the São Paulo metropolitan
region previously owned by the Department of Water and Sewers were transferred to COMASP. In 1970,
the Superintendence of Water and Sewers of the city of São Paulo (Superintendência de Água e Esgoto da
Capital), or the SAEC, was created by the State government to distribute water and collect sewage in the
city of São Paulo. All assets previously owned by the Department of Water and Sewers in connection
with the water services were transferred to the SAEC. Also in 1970, the State created the Basic
Sanitation Company of the São Paulo Metropolitan Region (Companhia Metropolitana de Saneamento de
São Paulo), or the SANESP, to provide sewage treatment services for the São Paulo metropolitan region.
All assets previously owned by the Department of Water and Sewers in connection with the sewage
services were transferred to the SANESP. The Department of Water and Sewers was subsequently
closed.
On June 29, 1973, pursuant to State Law n. 119, COMASP, the SAEC and the SANESP merged to
form our Company with the purpose of implementing the directives of the Brazilian government set forth
in the National Water Supply and Sanitation Plan (Plano Nacional de Saneamento). We were
incorporated under the laws of Brazil as a limited company (sociedade anônima), for indefinite duration.
The National Water Supply and Sanitation Plan was a program sponsored by the Brazilian government,
which financed capital investments in, and assisted in the development of, state-controlled water and
sewage companies. Since our formation, other State governmental and State-controlled companies
involved in water supply and sewage collection and treatment in the State of São Paulo have been merged
into us and the State has been our controlling shareholder as required by State Law n. 119. We thus have
been integrated into the State governmental structure and our strategies have been formulated in
conjunction with the strategies for the State Department of Water Resources and Sanitation.
Additionally, most members of our Board of Directors and our management are appointed by the State
Government.
The budget for our capital expenditures is subject to approval of the State legislative chamber. This
approval is obtained simultaneously with the approval of the budgets of the Department of Sanitation, of
the Department of Energy and of the State of São Paulo. The Company is also subject to supervision from
the Court of Audit of the State of São Paulo (“Tribunal de Contas do Estado de São Paulo”), with regard
to our accounting, financial, budgetary, operational and assets.
We provide water and sewage services directly to a large number of residential, commercial and
industrial private consumers, on top of to a variety of public entities in 363 of the 645 municipalities in
the State, including in the city of São Paulo, as well as providing treated water on a wholesale basis to six
municipalities located in the São Paulo metropolitan region and to the municipality of Sumaré, in which
27
we do not operate the distribution systems to consumers. Among these municipalities, we also provide
sewage treatment services to five of them. Currently, we are a leading provider of water and sewage
services in the world in number of clients, according to the 13th edition of the Pinsent Masons Water
Yearbook (2011-2012).
In 1994, we were registered with the CVM as a publically-held company subject to rules issued by
the CVM, including those relating to the periodic disclosure of extraordinary facts or relevant events.
Our common shares have been listed on the BM&FBOVESPA under the ticker “SBSP3” since June 4,
1997.
In 2002, we joined the Novo Mercado segment of the BM&FBOVESPA, which is the listing segment
in Brazil with the highest corporate governance requirements. During that same year, we registered our
securities with the Securities and Exchange Commission, or SEC, and started trading our shares in form
of American Depositary Receipts – level III (“ADRs”) on the New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE.
In 2004, a secondary offer of common shares held by the State of São Paulo was made
simultaneously in the Brazilian and in the international market. On December 1, 2007, we became part of
the BM&FBOVESPA Corporate Sustainability Index, or ISE, which reflects our high degree of
commitment to sustainable environmental and social practices.
In December, 2007, Law No. 1,025 allowed for the creation of regulatory agencies for the
supervision of water and sewage services. The same law created ARSESP, the regulatory agency that
regulates and supervises the services we provide.
In July 2008, we announced that we would expand the area reached by our services, as well as
including in our scope of services activities related to environmental and energy solutions, as required by
the State Law No. 1,025. Since then, we have also been forming partnerships with private companies to
consolidate our operations in the sanitation sector, in particular: (i) through a special purpose entity which
provides services of water distribution and/or sewage treatment for certain municipalities in the State; (ii)
we entered into a consortium with the consultancy firm Latin Consult to provide consultancy services in
certain cities in Panama and Honduras for the rational use of water and the adoption of a new commercial
and operational management model; (iii) the production, supply and commercialization of reused water
and (iv) the implementation and operation of a station for the preconditioning of non-domestic
wastewater, sludge conditioning and other related activities.
Other partnership led to the creation of the following companies: Sesamm – Serviços de Saneamento
de Mogi Mirim S.A., Águas de Andradina S.A., Saneáqua Mairinque S.A., Aquapolo Ambiental, S.A.
Águas de Castilho S.A. e Attend Ambiental S.A. Although we do not necessarily hold a majority capital
participation in these companies, shareholder agreements provide us with veto powers or qualified votes
on certain matters those business associates may come across.
Corporate Organization
In 2005, we reorganized our corporate management structure. As a result, we currently have six
management divisions, each of which is supervised by one of our executive officers.
The allocation of responsibilities among the executive officers is made by our board of directors,
after an initial proposal made by the Chief Executive Officer, in accordance with our bylaws. The Chief
Executive Officer is responsible for coordinating all management divisions in accordance with the
policies and directives established by our board of directors and board of executive officers, including the
coordination, evaluation and control of all functions related to Chief Executive Officer’s office and staff,
integrated planning, business management and organization, corporate communication, audit,
ombudsman, and regulatory matters. The Chief Executive Officer represents our Company before third
parties and some of its representation powers can be granted to attorneys-in-fact. The executive officers
described below report to the Chief Executive Officer:
(cid:131)
the Corporate Management Officer, who is responsible for marketing, human resources
and quality control programs, legal affairs, information technology, asset management,
legal and procurement, and contracts;
28
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
the Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer, who is responsible for
financial planning, costs and tariffs, raising and allocating financial resources to all
divisions within the Company, conducting capital markets and other indebtedness-
related transactions and managing indebtedness levels, control department, accounting,
corporate governance and investor relations;
the Technology, Enterprises and Environment Officer, who is responsible for the
environmental planning and management, technological and operating, product quality
control, developments and coordination and execution of special investment programs,
projects and new businesses; and
the Chief Operating Officer of the São Paulo Metropolitan Region Division and the
Chief Operating Officer of the Regional Systems Division, who are responsible for
managing the operation, maintenance, execution of planning and works for the water and
sewage supply systems including planning and works for our services rendered on a
wholesale basis, sales and call center services, as well as the control of economic-
financial and operational performance of its division. These Chief Operating Officers
are also responsible for sanitation advisory services to autonomous municipalities and
for the mediation and the negotiation with communities and local governments, aimed at
aligning our interests with the interests of our clients.
Capital Expenditure Program
Our capital expenditure program is designed to improve and expand our water and sewage system
and to increase and protect our water sources in order to meet the growing demand for water and sewage
services in the State of São Paulo. Our capital expenditure program has four specific goals in the
municipalities we serve: (i) to continue to meet the maximum demand for treated water; (ii) to expand
the percentage of households connected to our sewage system; (iii) to increase the treatment of sewage
collected; and (iv) to increase operating efficiency and reduce water losses.
From 2009 through 2011, our capital expenditure program totaled R$ 6.4 billion, primarily to build
up our infrastructure and for our efforts to reduce water losses. We have budgeted investments in the
amount of R$7.9 billion from 2012 through 2015. We invested R$1.8 billion, R$2.2 billion and R$2.4
billion in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
The following table sets forth our planned capital expenditures for water and sewage infrastructure
for the years indicated.
Planned Capital Expenditures
2012
745.9
926.7
336.5
2,009
2013
2014
(in millions of reais)
2015
Total
599.2
991.4
395.4
1,986
607.2
845.9
504.9
1,958
579.6
368.2
988.2
1,936
2,532
3,132
2,225
7,889
Water
Sewage
Others
Total
Our capital expenditure program from 2012 through 2015 will continue to focus on achieving our
targets by making regular investments in and expanding our infrastructure as well as making investments
in the reduction of water losses throughout the 363 municipalities we served as of December 31, 2011.
Main Projects of Our Capital Expenditure Program
The following is a description of the main projects in our capital expenditure program.
Metropolitan System Investment Program
Metropolitan Water Program
Demand for our water services has grown steadily over the years in the São Paulo metropolitan
region and has exceeded at times the capacity of our water systems. As a result, prior to September 1998,
29
part of our customers in this region received water only on alternate days of the week. We refer to this as
“rotation.” In order to remedy this situation, we implemented the Metropolitan Water Program
(Programa Metropolitano de Água) to improve regular water supply to the entire São Paulo metropolitan
region. This program terminated in 2000 and the rotation was eliminated, but we have maintained our
investment projections for the region. During the second phase of the Metropolitan Water Program
between 2006 and 2014, we plan to expand the infrastructure of water storage tanks by 210,000 cubic
meters and to construct 44 water pumping stations and 240 kilometers of mains. The investment is
expected to reach R$2.7 billion and the construction is expected to expand the water production capacity
by 13.2 cubic meters per second until 2014. We have been working on this project since 2006, and we
expect to complete it by 2014. In 2011, we invested approximately R$102.5 million, respectively, in this
project.
The metropolitan region suffers from a water shortage, which requires us to obtain water from
increasingly distant sources. In order to remedy this situation, we are currently developing a new supply
system called São Lourenço that should be able to benefit a population of almost 1.5 million people. We
have already concluded the project’s conceptual studies and are currently developing its infrastructural
projects. We may propose a Public Private Partnership to the government of São Paulo.
In June 2008, we entered into a Public Private Partnership (Parceria Público-Privada), or PPP, with
Cab Spat, a special purpose company whose main shareholders are Cab Ambiental and Galvão
Engenharia S.A. Cab Spat will be responsible for (i) expanding the Taiaçupeba water treatment plant
capacity from ten cubic meters per second to 15 cubic meters per second, (ii) building 17.7 kilometers of
water connections and mains, (iii) building four water storage tanks with total capacity of 70,000 cubic
meters, (iv) installing boosters, and (v) building pumping stations. The total investment in projects to be
undertaken by Cab Spat during the first two years of the PPP is estimated at R$320.0 million. Cab Spat
will also perform maintenance on the dams of the Alto Tietê System, in connection with which Cab Spat
will also provide civil engineering, electromechanical and operational services, as well as sludge
treatment and the corresponding services regarding water adduction and water supply. The total value of
the project is estimated at R$1.0 billion. We intend to pay these investments over 15 years upon the
completion of the contracted projects and services. In December 2011, the services were concluded and
the system’s nominal capacity was increased from 10 to 15 cubic meters per second, directly benefiting
1.5 million people in the east region of the São Paulo metropolitan region, in addition to improving the
reliability, flexibility and availability of the integrated water system that services the state’s metropolitan
region. The increase in production will improve the east, north and west regions water supply levels since
it will be possible to transfer water from the east system to other localities. In 2011, we invested
approximately R$ 121.4 million in this project.
Tietê Project
The Tietê river crosses the São Paulo metropolitan region and receives most of the region’s run-off
and wastewater. The environmental status of the river reached a critical level in 1992. In an effort to
reverse the situation, the State of São Paulo created a recovery program designed to reduce pollution of
the Tietê river by installing sewage collection lines along the banks of the Tietê river and its tributaries.
These lines collect raw sewage and deliver it to our sewage treatment facilities. We completed the first
phase of the program between 1992 and 1998.
In connection with the first phase of the Tietê Project (Projeto Tietê), in June 1998, we completed the
construction of three additional sewage treatment facilities and invested a total of US$1.1 billion, of
which US$450.0 million was financed by the Inter-American Development Bank, or IADB,
approximately US$100 million by the Caixa Econômica Federal, or the Caixa, and approximately
US$550 million by us.
The second phase of the project was carried out from 2000 through 2008, with investments of
approximately US$500 million, of which US$200.0 million were financed by the IADB, R$60.0 million
by the BNDES, and R$180.0 million by the BNDES through another financial institution. In this phase,
290,000 sewage connections and more than 1,500 kilometers of sewage collections networks, branch
collectors and interceptors were installed and/or built.
The main objective of this second phase was to continue expanding and optimizing the sewage
systems of the São Paulo metropolitan region, primarily focusing on actions that allow for the delivery of
a higher volume of raw sewage to the sewage treatment facilities that were built in the first phase of the
30
Tietê Project. Upon the conclusion of the second phase of the project in 2008, we were able to collect
approximately 5,000 liters of raw sewage per second and send it for treatment in the five sewage
treatment plants of our integrated system. As part of the second phase of the Tietê Project, we
implemented a geographic information system named SIGNOS. SIGNOS is a management information
system which automates and integrates various business processes, including project management,
maintenance, operations and customer service and maps out our entire municipal infrastructure in the São
Paulo metropolitan region.
The first and second phases of the Tietê Project contributed to an increase from 70.0% to 84.0% in
the sewage collection rate and an increase from 24.0% to 70.0% in the treatment of the sewage collected
in the São Paulo metropolitan region. As a result, the sewage collection system benefited 15.8 million
people (5.1 million more than the number of people served when the Tietê Project was initiated), and the
sewage treatment benefited 11.1 million people (8.5 million more than the number of people served when
the Tietê Project was initiated).
As of December 31, 2011, we owed US$386.9 million to the IADB for the financing it provided. For
further information on the agreement entered into with the IADB, see “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital
Resources—Capital Sources.” We currently provide secondary treatment to approximately 68% of the
sewage collected in the São Paulo metropolitan region. The five principal sewage treatment facilities in
the São Paulo metropolitan region have an aggregate installed capacity of 18 cubic meters of sewage per
second and currently treat an aggregate of 15.6 cubic meters of sewage per second. We plan to build
additional collection lines to direct more raw sewage to our treatment facilities.
The third phase of the Tietê Project, designated as “the decontamination of the Tietê river,” aims at
contributing to the recuperation of the water quality of the Tietê river basin through the expansion of the
level of collection to 87.0% and treatment of sewage to 84.0% in the São Paulo metropolitan region. The
total estimated cost of the third phase is approximately US$1.1 billion, of which US$600.0 million will be
financed pursuant to the IADB Loan entered into on September 3, 2010. The program plan of the third
phase comprises mainly (i) drainage collection (collection networks and home connections), (ii) removal
and transport of the drainage for treatment (branch collectors and interceptors), and (iii) the construction
of sewage treatment plants, not only of the integrated drainage system of the São Paulo metropolitan
region, but also of various isolated systems in the same region, during a six-year period from 2010 to
2016. Approximately 43% of the work is already under execution and 25% is undergoing public bidding
processes. After the third phase of the Tietê Project, the sewage collection system will benefit an
additional 1.5 million people and the sewage treatment will benefit an additional 3.0 million people.
We are currently planning the fourth and final phase of the Tietê Project, which should take place
between 2013 and 2018. The main objective of the fourth phase if to completely end the dumping of
untreated sewage into the Tietê river in the area in which we are the water services provider.
Corporate Program for Water Loss Reduction
The objective of the Corporate Program for Water Loss Reduction (Programa Corporativo de
Redução de Perdas) is to decrease water losses more efficiently by means of the integration and
expansion of the existing initiatives in our business units. We began structuring the program in the
second half of 2007 and finalized it in 2008. We have invested R$1.0 billion in this project so far and
anticipate investments of approximately R$4.3 billion throughout the program’s 11-year term, beginning
in 2009. Funding will come from our own resources as well as from loan agreements entered with the
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), with Caixa Econômica Federal and with BNDES. The
program aims to reduce the incidence of water loss from 436 liters per connection per day in December
2008 to 211 liters per connection per day in 2019, which is equivalent to reducing water losses from
27.8% in December 2008 to 15.0% in 2019. This goal will be revised based on the results reached so far
and the expected reduction with the implementation of the Corporate Program for Water Loss Reduction
in the 2012-2019 period.
In 2011, we invested approximately R$326.7 million in this program. As of December 31, 2011,
water losses were reduced to 25.6% from 26% in 2010.
31
New Life Program
The New Life Program (Programa Vida Nova) includes projects focused on the improvement and
preservation of water reserves in the São Paulo metropolitan region and the urban development of the
region, especially in the Guarapiranga and Billings mains. The resources will be mostly invested in the
creation of infrastructure to collect sewage in the region, and to direct it to treatment plants, while
avoiding its pouring directly into the springs. The program also includes protection activities of green
areas and the urbanization of favelas (shantytowns) and is expected to directly benefit 50,000 families.
The State government, local authorities and the federal government will invest approximately
R$1.3 billion in the program. We will fund this program with R$355.0 million. The State Secretariat for
Sanitation and Water Resources coordinates the program with our involvement and that of the Urban
Development Company of São Paulo (Companhia de Desenvolvimento Habitacional e Urbano), or the
CDHU, and local governments in the region.
As of December 31, 2011, R$45.5 million have been invested in this program by us, of which R$29.4
million were invested in 2011.
Clean Stream Program
The Clean Stream Program (Programa Córrego Limpo) is a partnership between the State, through
us, and the municipality of São Paulo, and aims to clean and decontaminate urban streams in the city of
São Paulo, by improving the sewage sanitary system, the elimination of sewage through streams and
rainwater galleries, the cleaning of streams and stream borders, as well as the removal and relocation of
properties located in riverbanks. As of December 31, 2011, approximately R$129.5 million had been
invested in this program and 103 urban streams had been decontaminated, benefiting approximately 1.7
million people.
In 2012, we expect to decontaminate 45 additional urban streams, benefiting over 700 thousand
people. The estimated capital expenditures for this program in 2012 is R$36 million.
Regional Systems Investment Programs
We currently have a number of projects in progress and planned for the Regional systems, including
projects relating to abstraction of water and collection, removal and final disposal of sewage. We
invested R$1,091.0 million, R$943.7 million and R$1,109.2 millions, in these projects in 2009, 2010 and
2011, respectively, and we have budgeted for additional capital expenditures of approximately R$ 2.2
billion from 2012 through 2015.
Clean Wave Program
The main goals of the Clean Wave Program (Programa Onda Limpa) are to improve and expand the
sewage systems in the municipalities comprising the Baixada Santista metropolitan region, increasing the
sewage collection rate to 95.0%, and treating 100.0% of the collected sewage and thereby improving
bathing water quality at 82 beaches in the region by 2013. On August 6, 2004, we entered into a credit
agreement with the JBIC for the financing of this project, which is guaranteed by the Federative Republic
of Brazil, for a total amount of R$382.8 million. On October 1, 2008, the JICA incorporated the loan
transactions of the JBIC. For further information on the agreement entered into with the JICA, see
“Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Capital Sources.” As of December 31, 2011, we had
invested approximately R$1.6 billion in this program, R$ 159.8 million of which during the year
2011 . With the completion of construction of sewage treatment plants and installation of networks, we
have prioritized the connection of costumers to the sewage collection system. Until the end of 2011, we
had finished 63,000 connections of the total 123,000 expected.
Northern Coast Clean Wave Program
The Northern Coast Clean Wave Program (Programa Onda Limpa Litoral Norte) will expand the
collection and treatment of sewage in the Northern coast of the State of São Paulo, intending to benefit
600 thousand people, including the local population as well as tourists that each year visit the region. By
2015, the program will increase the collection and treatment of sewage rate in the region from 36.0% to
85.0%, seeking to improve the health and well-being of the population, in addition to stimulating
economic development through the increase in tourism in the region.
32
In 2011, we continued working on two sewage treatment plants in the city of São Sebastião and other
sewage system projects in the cities of Ubatuba, Ilhabela and São Sebastião, which we expect to complete
in 2013. Until 2011, R$114.6 million had already been invested in this program, of which R$ 24,6
million were invested in 2011.
Coastal Water Program
The Coastal Water Program (Programa Água no Litoral) is the main combination of long-term
activities to expand water production capacity in the Baixada Santista metropolitan region and Southern
Coast of the State of São Paulo. Almost three million people, including local population and tourists, are
expected to benefit from this program. This program will enable us to increase the level of reliability of
the systems, eliminating existing and potential deficiencies and irregularities in the water supply. It is
also expected to permit us to expand our services to reach universal coverage in these regions, increase
the availability of treated water and improve the quality of water available to the population. As of
December 31, 2011, R$472.7 million has been invested on this program and we expect to invest
R$1.1 billion in the program by 2013. The Mambu/Branco Water Production System is part of this
program. It will increase water production to supply municipalities in the south of the Baixada Santista,
increasing production from actual 0.6 cubic meter per second to 1.6 cubic meters per second.
Additionally, the planned water treatment stations of Jurubatuba, Itú and Cubatão are also part of this
program.
New Policies and Programs
Nossa Guarapiranga
In December 2011, we launched the Nossa Guarapiranga project, whose main objective is to recover
water quality of the Guarapiranga basin, a water source for the São Paulo metropolitan region. We
installed 11 drains to collect residue from rivers in the Guarapiranga basin. We plan to collect an average
of 20 cubic meters of residue per day.
Pró-Conexão
In December 2011, the municipality of São Paulo approved a project to offer residences of low-
income families subsidized connections to the sewage system. The project involves capital expenditure
amounts of up to R$349.5 million, 80% of which would be sustained by the government of the State of
São Paulo, while 20% would be paid by us. We believe that this program will increase the efficiency of
our sewage collection programs and help improve water quality of the region’s rivers and basins, on top
of improving the quality of life of low-income families.
We expect that the program will create 192 new thousand connections over the next 8 years and
affect approximately 800 thousand people.
Water is Life
In November 2011, we created the program Water is Life which aims to provide sewage services to
41 low-income communities of non-urbanized areas of 20 municipalities in the regions of Alto
Paranapanema and Vale do Ribeira. After installing the required infrastructure, an estimated capital
expenditure of R$6 million, we will be responsible for maintaining and operating the sewage systems to
reach approximately 13 thousand people.
B. Business Overview
Our Operations
As of December 31, 2011, we provided water and sewage services to 363 municipalities in the State
of São Paulo either under concession agreements, program agreements, under another form of legal
arrangement or under no formal agreement. We also supply treated water on a wholesale basis to six
municipalities located in the São Paulo metropolitan region and to the municipality of Sumaré. Pursuant
to article 2 of our bylaws, our corporate purpose includes the provision of water supply and sewage
services, urban rain water management and drainage services, urban cleaning services and solid waste
33
management services. In addition, our bylaws authorize us to carry out other related activities, including
the planning, operation and maintenance of production systems, the storage, preservation and trading of
energy, and the trading of services, products, benefits and rights that, directly or indirectly, result from
our assets, projects and activities, and the right to operate a subsidiary anywhere in Brazil or abroad to
provide the services mentioned above.
Because of the enactment of the Basic Sanitation Law, which regulates the basic sanitation industry
in Brazil, we currently operate under two different contractual environments: (i) for the concession
agreements that have already expired, we are currently renegotiating or will negotiate a new agreement
that follows the terms and conditions of the Basic Sanitation Law, or program agreements; and (ii) for the
concession agreements that have not expired, we will continue to operate under the terms and conditions
of the previous concession agreements, except in circumstances where the Basic Sanitation Law is
applicable even when the concession agreement is still valid. For further information on this topic, see
“Government Regulation—Concessions—Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law for Joint
Management.”
The Basic Sanitation Law required water and sewage service providers, such as us, to execute a
formal agreement by December 31, 2010 with every municipality to which they provide services without
a valid legal and binding instrument. If we failed to enter into such formal agreements by December 31,
2010, the concessions would no longer be valid. As of December 31, 2011, 99 of our concessions were
still in the process of regularization through the execution of formal agreements. See “3.D. Risks
Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We cannot anticipate the effects that further developments of
the Basic Sanitation Law and its interpretation will have on the basic sanitation industry in Brazil and on
us” and “3.D. Risks Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We have not entered into formal
agreements for the provision of water and sewage services with certain of the municipalities we serve,
including municipalities in metropolitan regions, as required by the Basic Sanitation Law, and therefore
we may not be able to enforce our rights to continue to provide services in these municipalities.”
Concessions
Pursuant to the Brazilian Constitution, the authority to develop public water and sewage systems is
shared by the states and municipalities, with the municipalities having primary responsibility for
providing water and sewage services to their residents. The Constitution of the State of São Paulo
provides that the State shall assure the correct operation, necessary expansion and efficient administration
of water and sewage services in the State of São Paulo by a company under its control.
According to the Basic Sanitation Law, existing concessions will remain in effect until payment of
indemnification is made based on the valuation of investments. The Basic Sanitation Law provides that
our new concession agreements be planned, supervised and regulated by the municipalities together with
the State under a new model of associated management that will allow for better control, supervision,
transparency and efficiency in the provision of public services.
to
As
and
sewage
services
2011, we
provided water
of December 31,
363
municipalities. Substantially all of these concessions have 30-year terms. Due to court orders, we
temporarily suspended our services in five other municipalities (Araçoiaba da Serra, Cajobi, Iperó,
Álvares Florence and Macatuba), that as of December 31, 2011 accounted for less than 0.1% of our gross
revenues. In January 2011, we resumed the provision of our services to the municipality of Tarumã that
had been previously suspended by a court order. For more information, see “Item 8.A. Financial
Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial
Information—Legal Proceedings—
Concession-Related Legal Proceedings.” Between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2011, we entered
into contracts with 225 municipalities (including our services agreement with the city of São Paulo) in
accordance with the Basic Sanitation Law, of which 25, were entered into in 2011. In addition to the
contracts that have 30-year terms, the municipalities entered into cooperation contracts with the State of
São Paulo, delegating the regulation and monitoring of the provision of services to the ARSESP. As of
December 31, 2011, 99 of our concessions had expired and we have been in negotiation with these
municipalities to execute program agreements to substitute the expired concessions. From January 1,
2012 through 2033, 39 concessions will expire. Despite these 99 concessions having expired in 2011, we
are renegotiating them and we were continuing to provide water and sewage services to all 99
municipalities as of December 31, 2011. We have entered into an agreement with the State and city of
São Paulo for the provision of water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo for a 30-year term
expiring in June 2040, which in the year ended December 31, 2011 accounted for 51.4% of our gross
34
revenues from sales and services (including revenues relating to the construction of concession
infrastructure).
In February 2006, we created a new division to manage the renewal of expiring concessions. The
main responsibility of this division, which reported directly to the Chief Executive Officer, was to renew
and thus maintain the existing base of municipalities that we operate and formalize contracts under the
new model of associated management. Following the increase in the demand for regulatory work, this
division shifted its focus to regulatory matters and its main roles currently involve centralizing
communication with the regulatory agencies, driving business to the new regulatory regime and
proposing matters in which we have an interest to the ARSESP.
In April 2011, we created a specific area in our Financial Economic and Investor Relations Office
responsible for costs and tariffs, given the subject’s importance to the continuation of our business. We
also created a statutory Regulatory Affairs Committee. The committee is composed of our Chief
Executive Officer, our Chief Financial and Investor Relations Officer, our Metropolitan Officer and our
Regional System Officer and is responsible for defining the guidelines, strategies and regulatory
recommendations for our Company and coordinating the work of the Regulatory Affairs Department.
The current concessions are based on a standard form of agreement between us and the relevant
municipality. Each agreement received the prior approval of the legislative council of each municipality.
The assets comprising the existing municipal water and sewage systems are transferred from the
municipality to us in order for us to provide the contracted services. Until 1998, we acquired municipal
concessions and the existing water and sewage assets in exchange for our common shares issued at book
value. Since 1998, we have acquired concessions and water and sewage assets by paying the
municipality an amount equal to the present value of 30 years of estimated cash flows, assuming at least
12% certain discount factor to us, from the concession being acquired. For reference purposes, the
discount rate adopted in concession contracts was set by the ARSESP in 2011 at 8.6%.
The main provisions of the existing concession agreements are as follows:
(cid:131) we assume all responsibility for providing water and sewage services in the municipality;
(cid:131) according to the municipal laws authorizing the concession, we could collect tariffs for our services
without prior authorization of the municipality. Tariff readjustments follow the guidelines
established by the Basic Sanitation Law and the ARSESP;
(cid:131) as a general rule, to date, we are exempt from municipal taxes, and no royalty is payable to the
municipality with respect to the concession;
(cid:131) we are granted rights of way on municipal property for the installation of water pipes and mains,
and sewage lines; and
(cid:131) upon termination of the concession, for any reason, we are required to return the assets comprising
the municipality’s water and sewage system to the municipality and the municipality is required to
pay us the non-amortized value of the assets, considered intangible since January 2008, relating to
the concession. See Note 2.12 to our financial statements.
Under the concession agreements executed prior to 1998, the reimbursement for the assets may be
through payment of either:
(cid:131) the book value of the assets; or
(cid:131) the market value of the assets as determined by a third-party appraiser in accordance with the terms
of the specific agreement.
35
Since 1998, contracts that we have entered into with municipalities for the provision of sanitation
services have been regulated by the Federal Concessions Law No. 8,987/1995. Generally, these contracts
have a 30-year term, and the total value of the concession is set by the discounted cash flow
method. Under this method, when the expected contractual cash flow is reached, the total value of the
concession and assets is amortized to zero on our books and we receive no payment for the assets. If the
concession is terminated prior to the end of the 30-year term, thereby interrupting the normal contractual
cash flow, we are paid an amount equal to the present value of the expected cash flow over the years
remaining in the concession, adjusted for inflation.
Federal Law No. 11,107, or the Federal Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law,
established the legal basis for the administration of public service contracts, giving municipalities
responsible for sanitation services greater rights and obligations and setting out more clearly the provision
of services and the responsibilities of the parties. New agreements entered into following the expiry of
concession agreements under the previous law will follow this new model. See “—Government
Regulation—Concessions—Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law for Joint Management.”
Our new agreement model follows the provisions of the Basic Sanitation Law. The main contractual
provisions, among others, are joint execution of responsibilities related to planning, supervision and
regulation of services and appointment of regulatory authority of services and periodic disclosure of
accounts.
Furthermore, the economic and financial formulas in new agreements must be based on the
discounted cash flow methodology and on the revaluation of returnable assets. Pursuant to the Basic
Sanitation Law, our own preexisting assets will be returnable assets, but we will carry out all new
investments and the municipalities will record them as assets. The municipalities will then transfer
possession of these assets to us for our use and management and will also record a credit in the same
amount of the assets recorded in our favor. According to Article 42 of the Basic Sanitation Law and the
new agreement model, investments made during the contractual period are the property of the applicable
municipality, which in turn generates receivables for us that are to be recovered through the operation of
the services. These receivables may also be used as guarantees in funding operations.
Another important development was that the new agreement model includes exemptions from
municipal taxes applicable on our operational areas and the possibility of the revaluation of our assets that
existed prior to the execution of the program agreements in cases involving the early resumption of
services by the concession authority.
Municipalities have the inherent power under Brazilian law to terminate concessions prior to their
contractual expiration dates for reasons of public interest. The municipalities of Diadema and Mauá, two
municipalities we previously served, terminated our concessions in February 1995 and December 1995,
respectively. The municipality of Mauá terminated our concession with our consent. The municipality of
Diadema had terminated our concession without our consent after asserting that we did not provide
adequate water and sewage services. In 2011, the municipality of Diadema agreed with us to develop a
share infrastructure for the provision of water and sewage services through a mixed-capital company
called Companhia de Água e Esgoto de Diadema, or CAED. We are not yet able to predict when CAED
will begin operations. Despite these developments, we currently serve the municipalities of Diadema and
Mauá through the supply of water on a wholesale basis. The indemnities receivables related to the
municipality of Mauá totaled R$ 85.9 million are not being recognized in the financial statements due to
the uncertainties in the collection. For further information on the lawsuits that arose out of these
developments, see “Item 8.A. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial
Information—Legal Proceedings.”
We currently do not anticipate that other municipalities will seek to terminate concessions due to our
close relationship with municipal governments, recent improvements in the water and sewage services we
provide, and the obligation of the municipality to repay us for the return of the concession as described
above. However, we cannot be certain that other municipalities will not seek to terminate their
concessions in the future. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Municipalities
may, under certain circumstances, terminate our concessions before their expiration and the
indemnification may be inadequate to recover the full value of our investments.”
In addition, there is currently ongoing litigation with respect to municipalities that intend to
expropriate our water and sewage systems, or to terminate concession agreements before paying us any
36
indemnification. For a detailed discussion on these proceedings, see “Item 8.A. Financial Information—
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings—Concession-Related
Legal Proceedings.”
Operations in the City of São Paulo and Certain Metropolitan Regions
As of December 31, 2011, 99 concessions had expired which jointly accounted for 23.8% of our
gross revenues. We entered into 25 agreements in the year ended December 31, 2011, bringing the total
number of program agreements entered into between 2007 and 2011 to 225. These 25 new agreements
accounted for 2.9% of our total revenues and 3.3% of our intangible assets as of December 31, 2011.
The Basic Sanitation Law provides that, in case of termination of the relationship with the
aforementioned municipalities, the municipalities should pay us an indemnity, in an amount to be
appraised, notwithstanding the non-existence of a concession agreement.
On June 23, 2010, the State and the city of São Paulo entered into a convention with the
intermediation and consent of our Company and of the ARSESP pursuant to which they agreed to jointly
manage the planning of and investment in the basic sanitation system of the city of São Paulo, among
other things. This agreement established that the State and the city of São Paulo would enter into an
agreement with us, granting us exclusive rights in the provision of water and sewage services in the city
of São Paulo. In addition, the agreement established the role of the ARSESP in regulating and overseeing
our activities and established a management committee that will be responsible for planning the water and
sewage services and for reviewing our investment plans. The management committee will be composed
of six members appointed for two year terms. The State and the city of São Paulo will have the right to
appoint three members each. We are permitted to participate in the meetings of the management
committee; however, we are not afforded any voting rights.
On June 23, 2010, we entered into a formal agreement with the State and the city of São Paulo to
regulate the provision of water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo for a 30-year period, which
may be extended for an additional 30-year period. The Municipal Law No. 14,934/2009 authorized the
city of São Paulo to enter into an agreement with us. The agreement establishes, among other things, how
specific amounts of gross revenues from the services we render should be allocated (after deduction of
COFINS and PASEP). This agreement requires, among other things, (i) to invest at least 13.0% of the
gross revenues from sales and services we obtain from the municipality of São Paulo, net of taxes on
revenues in the improvement of water and sewage infrastructure in the city of São Paulo; (ii) that our
investment plan must be compatible with the activities and programs included in the sanitation plan of the
State, the sanitation plan of the city of São Paulo and, if necessary, the sanitation plan of the metropolitan
region of São Paulo; and (iii) that we contribute 7.5% of the gross revenues we obtain from this
agreement to the São Paulo Municipal Sanitation Fund. The investment plan under this agreement is not
irrevocable and will be reviewed by our management committee every four years, especially with regards
to investments to be executed in the subsequent period. In addition, the agreement provides that the
ARSESP will ensure that the tariffs charged (a) will adequately compensate us for the services we
provide and (b) can be adjusted to restore the original balance between each party’s obligation and
economic gain (equilíbrio econômico-financeiro). Finally, the agreement envisages the remuneration of
the net assets in operation, calculated preferably through asset valuation or by the monetarily updated
book value, to be established by the ARSESP. The agreement also foresees the remuneration of the
investments to be made by us, such that there will be no residual value at the end of the contract period.
We currently have an investment plan in place that consider these obligations and also addresses the
compatibility with the activities and programs included in the sanitation plan of the State and of the
municipality of São Paulo and, if necessary, the plan of the metropolitan region of São Paulo.
Wholesale Operations
Water Services on a Wholesale Basis
We provide water services on a wholesale basis to six municipalities located in the São Paulo
metropolitan region (Diadema, Mauá, Santo André, São Caetano do Sul, Guarulhos and Mogi das Cruzes)
and to the municipality of Sumaré. The agreements to provide water services on a wholesale basis must
comply with the Basic Sanitation Law, which regulates the stages of the provision of each service,
designating them as interdependent activities whose provision requires the supervision of an independent
agency, a specific registration for the activities’ cost and assurance of payment among the several service
37
providers in order to continue the provision of the services, in accordance with the rules to be published
by the ARSESP. Our agreements currently comply with the provisions of the Basic Sanitation Law. In
2011, the revenues from these services were R$203.5 million.
We are currently negotiating with the city of Diadema so as to liquidate the outstanding debts owed
by Diadema and Saned to us. For further information on this outstanding debt, see Note 9 to our
consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report.
Sewage Services on a Wholesale Basis
We provide sewage services on a wholesale basis to the municipalities of Mogi das Cruzes, Santo
André, São Caetano, Mauá and Diadema. The negotiation of the agreement for the provision of sewage
services on a wholesale basis with the municipality of Santo André had the intervention of the Public
Prosecution Office, and in other municipalities the negotiation of the agreements was a result of our
efforts concerning the environment and the awareness of the municipal public authorities regarding to
environmental issues. Through these agreements, in 2011 we treated about 27.2 million cubic meters of
sewage from these municipalities. This is an example of our social-environmental responsibility actions
and our commitment to these actions. In 2011, the revenues from sewage services on a wholesale basis
were R$21.1 million.
In December 2008, we entered into a five-year agreement for the collection and treatment of 20.0%
of the sewage generated by the city of Guarulhos. Due to the complexity of the construction works
related to the provision of these services, we have not yet started to provide the sewage services to the
city of Guarulhos.
Description of Our Activities
As set forth in Article 2 of our bylaws, our corporate purpose is to render basic sanitation services
with the goal of providing basic sanitation services to the entire population in the municipalities where we
conduct our activities without harming our long-term financial sustainability. Our activities comprise
water supply, sanitary sewage services, urban rainwater management and drainage services, urban
cleaning services, solid waste management services and related activities, including the planning,
operation, maintenance and commercialization of energy, and the commercialization of services,
products, benefits and rights that directly or indirectly arise from our assets, operations and activities. We
are allowed to act in a subsidiary form in other Brazilian locations and abroad. See “—Government
Regulation—Concessions—Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law for Joint Management.”
We set forth below a description of our activities.
Water Operations
Our supply of water to our customers generally involves abstraction of water from various sources,
subsequent treatment and distribution to our customers’ premises. In 2011, we produced approximately
2,992.0 million cubic meters of water. The São Paulo metropolitan region (including the municipalities
to which we supply water on a wholesale basis) currently is, and has historically been, our core market,
accounting for approximately 71% of water invoiced by volume in 2011.
The following table sets forth the volume of water that we produced and invoiced for the periods
indicated.
Produced:
São Paulo metropolitan region
Regional systems
Total
Invoiced:
São Paulo metropolitan region
Wholesale
Regional systems
Reused water
Total
2009
Year ended December 31,
2010
(in millions of cubic meters)
2011
2,091.7
753.2
2,844.9
1,083.9
288.0
546.1
0.8
1,918.8
2,164.4
787.9
2,952.3
1,119.2
293.3
579.5
0.3
1,992.3
2,182.8
809.2
2,992.0
1,150.6
297.3
596.8
0.3
2,045.0
38
The difference between the volume of water produced and the volume of water invoiced generally
represents both physical and non-physical water losses. See “—Water Losses.” In addition, we do not
invoice:
(cid:131) water discharged for periodic maintenance of water mains and water storage tanks;
(cid:131) water supplied for municipal uses such as firefighting;
(cid:131) water consumed in our own facilities; and
(cid:131) estimated water losses associated with water we supply to favelas (shantytowns).
Seasonality
Although seasonality does not affect our results in a significant way, in general, higher water demand
is observed during the summer and lower water demand during the winter. The summer coincides with
the rainy season, while the winter corresponds to the dry season. The demand in the coastal region is
increased by tourism, with the greatest demand occurring during the Brazilian summer holiday months.
Water Resources
We can abstract water only to the extent permitted by DAEE pursuant to water usage rights granted
by it. Depending on the geographic location of the river basin or if the river crosses more than one state
(federal domain), the approval of the National Water Agency (Agência Nacional de Águas), or ANA, a
federal agency under the Ministry of the Environment is required. We currently abstract substantially all
of our water supply from rivers and reservoirs, with a small portion being abstracted from groundwater.
Our reservoirs are filled by impounding water from rivers and streams, by diverting the flow from nearby
rivers, or by a combination of both methods.
In order to supply water to the São Paulo metropolitan region, we rely on 20 reservoirs of non-
treated water and 192 reservoirs of treated water, which are located in the areas under the influence of the
eight water producing systems comprising the interconnected water system of the São Paulo metropolitan
region. The capacity of the water sources available for treatment in this area is 72 cubic meters per
second. Total current installed capacity is 72.7 cubic meters per second, which can be treated from the
interconnected water system of the São Paulo metropolitan region. Average verified production during
2011 on the interconnected water system of the São Paulo metropolitan region was 67.9 cubic meters per
second. The Cantareira, Guarapiranga and Alto Tietê systems, as a whole, supplied 84.1% of the water
we produced for the São Paulo metropolitan region in 2011.
In 2011, the Cantareira system accounted for 46.4% of the water that we supplied to the São Paulo
metropolitan region (including the municipalities to which we supplied water on a wholesale basis),
which represented 73.9% of our gross revenues from sales and services (excluding revenues relating to
the construction of concession infrastructure) for the year. The authorization (outorga) for the Cantareira
system to use the water in the Piracicaba water basin was renewed on August 6, 2004, for a ten-year
period.
Water basin committees are authorized to charge both for water usage and the dumping sewage into
water bodies. Since February 2003, we have been incurring expenses in connection with the use of water
from the Paraíba do Sul river basin and, since January 2006, from the Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí
river basins. At the end of 2010, we started to incur expenses in connection with the use of water from
the Sorocaba and Médio Tietê river basins In 2012 we may start to incur expenses in connection with the
use of water from the Alto Tietê basin, where the São Paulo metropolitan region is located and from
Baixada Santista, Baixo Tietê, Tietê/Jacaré and Tietê/Batalha river basins. The ARSESP has adjusted our
tariffs according to the formula that we have used since 2003. According to the formula, “non-
controllable” costs, such as costs related to water use, are passed on to our customers through our tariffs.
Although we expect to continue to pass on these expenses to our customers through our tariffs, we are
uncertain as to whether the river basin committees will change the terms of the charges currently applied
and whether we will be able to pass on these costs to our customers. For more information on water usage
regulation, see “—Water Usage.”
39
The following table sets forth the water production systems from which we produce water for the São
Paulo metropolitan region:
Production Rate(1)
Water production system:
Cantareira
Guarapiranga
Alto Tietê
Rio Claro
Rio Grande (Billings reservoir)
Alto Cotia
Baixo Cotia
Ribeirão da Estiva
Total
_________________
(1) Average of the twelve months ended December 31, 2010 and 2011.
2011
2010
(in cubic meters per second)
32.7
13.0
10.9
3.9
4.8
1.1
0.8
0.1
67.3
31.5
12.6
13.0
4.0
4.6
1.2
0.9
0.1
67.9
We own all of the reservoirs in our production systems other than the Guarapiranga and Billings
reservoirs and a portion of some of the reservoirs of the Alto Tietê system, which is owned by other
companies controlled by the State. We currently do not pay any charges with respect to the use of these
reservoirs. In December 2001, we entered into an agreement with the State whereby the State, among
other things, agreed to transfer the remaining reservoirs in the Alto Tietê system to us. We accepted, on a
temporary basis, the reservoirs in the Alto Tietê System as part of the payment until the State transfers the
property rights with respect to the reservoirs to us. We are unable to predict whether and when these
reservoirs will be transferred to us because the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo filed a
civil public action alleging that a transfer to us of ownership of the Alto Tietê System reservoirs is
illegal. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Control by the State of São Paulo—We may
be required to acquire reservoirs that we use and that are owned by a State-controlled company, or we
may be required to pay substantial charges to the owner with respect to our use of these reservoirs.”
In January 2009, we began operating, monitoring and maintaining the reservoirs in the Alto Tietê
system, formed by the Ponte Nova, Paraitinga, Biritiba, Jundiaí and Taiaçupeba reservoirs. See
“Item 8.A. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information——Legal
Proceedings—Other Legal Proceedings.”
In the cities of the countryside region, our principal source of water consists of surface water from
nearby rivers and from wells. The coastal region is provided with water principally by surface water from
rivers and mountain springs.
Statewide, we estimate that we are able to supply nearly all of the demand for water in all of the areas
where we operate, subject to droughts and extraordinary climate events. We were able to meet the
demand for water in the São Paulo metropolitan region, primarily as a result of our water conservation
program, reductions in water losses, and the installation of new water connections. We installed 201,000,
189,400 and 207,900 new water connections in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
The interconnected water system of the São Paulo metropolitan region services 30 municipalities, of
which 24 are operated directly by us under this system. Through this system, we serve the other six
municipalities on a wholesale basis, and the distribution is made by other companies or departments
related to each municipality.
In order to reach the final customer, the water is stored and transported through a complex and
interconnected system. This water system requires permanent operational supervision, engineering
inspection, maintenance, and quality monitoring and measurement control.
To ensure the continued provision of regular water supply in the São Paulo metropolitan region, we
intend to invest R$1.3 billion from 2012 to 2015 to increase our water production and distribution
capacities as well as to improve the water supply systems. In 2011, our total investment in water supply
systems amounted to R$633.2 million.
40
Water Treatment
We treat all water at our water treatment facilities prior to placing it into our water distribution
network. We operate 213 treatment facilities, of which the eight largest, located in the São Paulo
metropolitan region, accounts for approximately 70% of all water we produced in 2011. The type of
treatment used depends on the nature of the source and quality of the untreated water. Water abstracted
from rivers requires extensive treatment, while water drawn from groundwater sources requires less
treatment. All water treated by us also receives fluoridation treatment.
Water Distribution
We distribute water through our own networks of water pipes and mains, ranging in size from
2.5 meters to 100 millimeters in diameter. Storage tanks and pumping stations regulate the volume of
water flowing through the networks to maintain adequate pressure and continuous water supply. The
following table sets forth the total number of kilometers of water pipes and mains and the number of
connections in our network as of the dates indicated.
As of December 31,
2010
2011
2009
Water distribution pipes and mains (in kilometers)
Number of connections (in thousands)
63,732
7,118
65,379
7,295
66,389
7,461
More than 90.0% of the water pipes in our water distribution network are made of cast iron or
polyvinylchloride, or PVC. Distribution pipes at customers’ residences typically are made from high-
density polyethylene tubing. Our water mains are mostly made of steel, cast iron or concrete.
As of December 31 2011, our water distribution pipes and mains included: (i) 33,997 kilometers in
the São Paulo metropolitan region; and (ii) 32,392 kilometers in the Regional systems.
As of December 31, 2011, we had 384 storage tanks in the São Paulo metropolitan region with a
total capacity of 1.8 million cubic meters, and 1,782 storage tanks in the Regional systems. As of that
date, we had 124 treated water pumping stations in the São Paulo metropolitan region aqueduct system,
including stations at treatment facilities, intermediate trunk transfer pumping stations and small booster
stations serving local areas.
Water mains that require maintenance are cleaned and their lining is replaced. We are typically
notified of water main fractures or breaks by the public through a toll-free number maintained by us. We
consider the condition of the water pipes and mains in the São Paulo metropolitan region to be adequate
as of the date of this annual report. Due to age, external factors such as traffic, the dense population, and
commercial and industrial development, water pipes and mains in the São Paulo metropolitan region are
somewhat more susceptible to degradation than those in the Regional systems. To counter these effects,
we have a maintenance program in place for water pipes and mains that is intended to address anticipated
fractures and clogs due to brittleness and encrustation, and to help ensure water quality in the region. The
new customers are responsible for covering the part of the costs of connecting to our water distribution
network that are related to the connecting of customers water pipes that are more than 20 meters away
from the water mains. Thereafter, the customer must cover the costs of connecting to the network from
the customer’s premises, including costs of purchasing and installing the water meter and related labor
costs. We perform the installation of the water meter and conduct periodical inspections and
measurements. After completion of installation, the customer is responsible for the water meter.
The following table sets forth projected new water connections for the periods indicated.
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2012-
2019
São Paulo metropolitan region
Regional systems
Total
88
70
158
90
71
161
88
72
160
83
76
156
86
74
160
84
75
159
82
76
158
81
77
158
682
588
1,270
41
Water Losses
The difference between the amount of water produced and the amount of water invoiced generally
represents both physical and non-physical water losses. Water loss percentage represents the quotient of
(i) the difference between (a) the total amount of water produced by us less (b) the total amount of water
invoiced by us to customers minus (c) the volume of water set out below that we exclude from our
calculation of water losses, divided by (ii) the total amount of water produced by us. We exclude the
following from our calculation of water losses: (i) water discharged for periodic maintenance of water
mains and water storage tanks; (ii) water supplied for municipal uses such as firefighting; (iii) water we
consume in our facilities; and (iv) estimated water losses associated with water we supply to
favelas (shantytowns).
Since 2005, we have used a method of measuring our water losses based on worldwide market
practice for the industry. According to this measurement method, average water losses are calculated by
dividing (i) average annual water loss by (ii) the average number of active water connections multiplied
by 366. The result of this calculation is the number of liters of water lost per connection per day.
Using this calculation method, as of December 31, 2011, we experienced 469 liters/connections per
day of water losses in the São Paulo metropolitan region and 280 liters/connections per day in the
Regional systems, averaging 394 liters/connections per day. We plan to reduce total water losses from
394 liters/connections per day to 211 liters/connection per day between 2011 and 2019. Over the same
period, in terms of percentage, we intend to reduce total water losses from 25.6% to 13.0%, however, this
goal will be revised based on the results reached so far and the expected reduction with the
implementation of the corporate program for water loss reduction in the 2012-2019 period.
Our strategy to reduce water loss has two approaches:
(cid:131) reduction in the level of physical losses, which result mainly from leakage, primarily by replacing
and repairing water mains and pipes, and installing probing and other equipment, including
strategically located pressure-regulating valves; and
(cid:131) reduction of non-physical losses, which result primarily from the inaccuracy of our water meters
installed at our customers’ premises and at our water treatment facilities, and from clandestine and
illegal use, by upgrading and replacing inaccurate water meters and expanding our anti-fraud
personnel.
We are taking measures to decrease physical losses by reducing response time to fix leakages to less
than 24 hours and by better monitoring non-visible water mains fractures. Among other initiatives, we
have adopted the following measures to reduce physical water losses:
(cid:131) the introduction of technically advanced valves to regulate water pressure throughout the water
mains in order to maintain the appropriate water pressure to the downstream consumption needs
each day. These valves are programmed to respond automatically to variations in demand. During
peak usage, the flow of water in the pipes is at its highest point; however, when demand decreases,
pressure builds up in the water mains and the resulting stress on the network can cause significant
water loss through cracks and an increase in ruptures of the pipes. The technically advanced valves
are equipped with probes programmed to feed data to the valve in order to reduce or increase
pressure to the water mains as water usage fluctuates. As of December 31, 2011, we had installed
1,783 valves at strategic points in the network, with 1,055 valves being installed in the São Paulo
metropolitan region and 728 in the Regional systems;
(cid:131) the reconfiguration of interconnected water distribution to permit the distribution of water at lower
pressure;
(cid:131) the implementation of routine operational leak detection surveys in high water pressure areas to
reduce overall water losses;
42
(cid:131) the monitoring of and improved accounting with respect to water connections, especially for large
volume customers;
(cid:131) regular checking on inactive customers and monitoring non-residential customers that are
accounted for as residential customers and, therefore, billed at a lower rate;
(cid:131) preventing fraud with the use of new, more sophisticated water meters that are more accurate and
less prone to tampering;
(cid:131) installing water meters where none are present; and
(cid:131) conducting preventive maintenance of existing and newly installed water meters.
Water Quality
We believe that we supply high quality treated water that is consistent with standards set by Brazilian
law, which are similar to the standards set in the United States of America and Europe. Pursuant to the
Brazilian Ministry of Health (Ministério da Saúde) regulations, we have significant statutory obligations
regarding the quality of treated water. These laws set certain standards that govern water quality.
In general, the State of São Paulo has excellent water quality from underground or superficial water
sources. However, high rates of population growth, increased urbanization and disorganized occupation
of some areas of the São Paulo metropolitan region has reduced the quantity and quality of water
available to serve the population in the southern area of the São Paulo metropolitan region and in the
coastal region. Currently, we successfully treat this water to make it potable. We also work to recover
the quality of water of mains and invest in improvements of our treatment systems to ensure the quality
and availability of water for the upcoming years.
Water quality is monitored at all stages of the distribution process, including at the water sources,
water treatment facilities and on the distribution network. We have 15 regional laboratories, one central
laboratory, and laboratories located in all water treatment facilities that monitor water quality, as required
by our standards and those set by statute. Our laboratories analyze an average of 50,000 samples per
month on distributed water, with samples collected from residences. Our central laboratory located in the
city of São Paulo is responsible for organic compound analysis using the chromatographic and
spectrometric methods, as well as heavy metals analysis by atomic absorption technique. All of our
laboratories have obtained the ABNT NBR ISO 9001 certification and our central laboratory and 11 of
our regional laboratories have obtained the ABNT NBR ISO IEC 17025 accreditation (accreditation for
general requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories) awarded by the National
Institute of Metrology, Standardization and Industrial Quality (Instituto Nacional de Metrologia,
Normalização e Qualidade Industrial), or the INMETRO.
All chemical products used for water treatment are analyzed and follow strict specifications set out in
recommendations made by the National Health Foundation (Fundação Nacional de Saúde), or NHF, the
Brazilian Association of Technical Rules (Associação Brasileira de Normas Técnicas), or the ABNT, and
the American Water Works Association, or the AWWA, to eliminate toxic substances that are harmful to
human health. From time to time, we face problems with the proliferation of algae, which may cause an
unpleasant taste and odor in the water. In order to mitigate this problem, we work on: (i) fighting algae
growth at the water source and (ii) using advanced treatment processes at the water treatment facilities,
which involve the use of powdered activated carbon and oxidation by potassium permanganate. The
algae growth creates significant additional costs for water treatment because of the higher volumes of
chemicals used to treat the water. In 2011, we did not detect significant algae growth.
We participate in the New Life Program which includes a Water Source Program (Programa
Mananciais), together with other organizations engaged in the promotion of urban development and
social inclusion to mitigate the pollution problem in the São Paulo metropolitan region. In addition, we
also participate in the Clean Stream Program to clean up important streams in city of São Paulo. Other
initiatives also aimed at improving the water quality in our water sources located in the metropolitan
region of São Paulo are Guarapiranga and Pró-Conexão. See “—Capital Expenditure Program—Main
43
Projects of Our Capital Expenditure Program—Metropolitan System Investment Program—New Life
Program and Clean Stream Program.”
We believe that there are no material instances where our standards are not being met. However, we
cannot be certain that future breaches of these standards will not occur.
Fluoridation
As required by Brazilian law, we have adopted a water fluoridation program designed to assist in the
prevention of tooth decay among the population. Fluoridation primarily consists of adding fluorosilicic
acid to water at 0.7 parts per million. We add fluoride to the water at our treatment facilities prior to its
distribution into the water supply network.
Sewage Operations
We are responsible for the collection and removal of sewage through our sewage systems and for its
subsequent disposal with or without prior treatment. As of December 31, 2011, we collected
approximately 86% of all the sewage produced in the municipalities in which we operate in the São Paulo
metropolitan region. In addition, during the year ended December 31, 2011, we collected approximately
71% of all the sewage produced in the municipalities in which we operate in the Regional systems.
During 2011 we accounted for approximately 82% of all the sewage produced in the municipalities in
which we operated in the State of São Paulo. We installed 184,900, 233,500 and 246,400 new sewage
connections in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
Sewage System
The purpose of our sewage system is to collect and treat sewage and to adequately dispose of the
treated sewage. As of December 31, 2011, we were responsible for the operation and maintenance of
45,073 kilometers of sewage lines, of which approximately 23,645 kilometers are located in the São
Paulo metropolitan region and 21,428 kilometers are located in the Regional systems, respectively.
The following table sets forth the total number of kilometers of sewage lines and the total number of
sewage connections in our network for the periods indicated.
Sewage lines (in kilometers)
Sewage connections (in thousands)
As of December 31,
2010
2011
2009
42,895
5,520
44,287
5,718
45,073
5,921
Our sewage system comprises a number of systems built at different times and constructed primarily
from clay pipes and, more recently, PVC tubing. Sewage lines larger than 0.5 meters in diameter are
primarily made of concrete. Our sewage system is generally designed to operate by gravitational flow,
although pumping stations are required in certain parts of the system to ensure the continuous flow of
sewage. Where pumping stations are required, we use sewage lines made of cast iron.
The public sewage system operated by us was structured in order to receive industrial sewage and
sewage from non-domestic sources for treatment together with domestic sewage. Industrial sewage has
physical, chemical and/or biological characteristics that are qualitatively different from household
effluents. As a result, the discharge of industrial sewage into the public sewage system is subject to
compliance with specific legal demands with the purpose to protect the sewage collection and treatment
systems, the health of operators and the environment. The current environmental legislation establishes
standards for the discharge of these effluents into the public sewage system. These standards are defined
in Article 19A of State Decree No. 8,468 dated September 8, 1976. To ensure compliance with
legislation, periodic audits of the sewage produced by all industrial clients are conducted, and we also
request self-monitoring reports from non-domestic sewage-producing sources.
The discharge of these effluents into the public sewage system is based on technical and
administrative procedures. Before the discharge is permitted, we carry out acceptance studies that assess
the capacity of the public sewage system to receive the discharge as well as the compliance with
regulations. Upon the conclusion of these studies, the technical and commercial conditions for receiving
the discharge are established, which are then formalized in a document signed by us and the effluent
44
producer. Failure to comply with these conditions can lead to the application of penalties and the
obligation of the effluent producer to conduct the necessary adjustments in a given time frame. Non-
compliance with these penalties and adjustments may ultimately result in the suspension of the
connection and notification of the environmental protection agency (Companhia Ambiental do Estado de
São Paulo), or the CETESB, in order for the applicable measures to be taken. Effluents from our
treatment facilities must comply with effluent limitation guidelines and observe the water quality of the
receiving water bodies established by federal and state legislation. Effluent limitation guidelines consist
of a set of parameters that must be verified before the effluents are discharged into a water body. Water
quality standards are based on the classification of water bodies, and take into account the current or
expected use of water. These standards will become more rigorous according to the importance of the use
of water.
We considered the condition of the sewage lines in the São Paulo metropolitan region to be adequate
as of the date of this annual report. Due to greater volume of sewage collected, a higher population and
more extensive commercial and industrial development, the sewage lines in the São Paulo metropolitan
region are more deteriorated than those of the Regional systems. To counter the effects of deterioration,
we maintain an ongoing program for the maintenance of sewage lines intended to address anticipated
fractures arising from obstructions caused by system overloads.
Unlike the São Paulo metropolitan region, the countryside region does not generally suffer
obstructions caused by sewage system overload. The coastal region, however, experiences obstructions
in its sewage lines primarily due to infiltration of sand, especially during the rainy season in the summer
months. In addition, the sewage coverage ratio in the coastal region is significantly lower than in the
other regions served by us, with approximately 57% of all residences in the coastal region currently
connected to our sewage network as of December 31, 2011.
New sewage connections are made on substantially the same basis as connections to water lines: we
assume the cost of installation for the first 20 meters of sewage lines from the sewage network to all
customers’ sewage connections and the customer is responsible for the remaining costs.
The following table sets forth projected new sewage connections for the periods indicated.
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2012-
2019
São Paulo metropolitan region
Regional systems
Total
99
106
205
102
105
207
117
114
231
126
101
227
145
104
249
144
118
262
148
118
266
81
113
194
962
879
1,841
Sewage Treatment and Disposal
In 2011, approximately 68% and 92% of the sewage we collected in the São Paulo metropolitan
region and the Regional systems, respectively, or 76% of the sewage we collected in the State of São
Paulo, was treated at our treatment facilities and afterwards discharged into receiving water bodies such
as inland waters and the Atlantic Ocean, in accordance with applicable legislation. Our sewage treatment
facilities have a limited capacity. Flows in excess of this capacity are discharged directly, untreated, to
inland waters and the Atlantic Ocean. We currently operate 481 sewage treatment facilities and nine
ocean outfalls.
We operate 490 activated sewage treatment facilities, of which the five largest, located in the São
Paulo metropolitan region, have treatment capacity of approximately 18 cubic meters of sewage per
second.
Sewage treatment in the Regional systems will vary according to the particularities of each area. In
the countryside region, treatment consists largely of stabilization ponds where the organic matter is
treated and discharged to receiving waters. There are 392 secondary treatment facilities in the
countryside region that have treatment capacity of approximately 13.0 cubic meters of sewage per second.
The majority of sewage collected in the coastal region receives treatment and disinfection and is then
discharged into rivers and into the Atlantic Ocean through our ocean outfalls. We have 75 sewage
treatment facilities in the coastal region.
45
Our sewage collection system is currently not sufficiently extensive to transport all sewage collected
by us to our treatment facilities. As a result, a portion of the sewage collected by us is discharged
untreated into receiving waters. We are a party to a number of legal proceedings related to environmental
matters. See “Item 8.A. Financial Information—Consolidated Statements and Other Financial
Information—Legal Proceedings.” In addition, our capital expenditure program includes projects to
increase the amount of sewage that we treat. See “Item 4.A. History and Development of the Company—
Capital Expenditure Program” and “4.B Business Overview—Government Regulation—Environmental
Regulation—Sewage Requirements.”
Sludge Disposal
In the São Paulo metropolitan region, the treatment process used by most treatment facilities is the
activated sludge process, where there is a liquid phase and a solid phase which generates sludge. The
activated sludge process was developed in England in 1914. It is widely used for the treatment of
household and industrial sewage. The work consists of a system in which a biological mass grows, forms
flakes, is continually re-circulated and put in contact with organic matter, always with the presence of
oxygen (aerobic). The activated sludge process is strictly biological and aerobic, in which the raw
sewage and the activated sludge are mixed, agitated and aerated in units known as secondary decanters
where the solid part is separated from the treated wastewater. The settled sludge returns to the aeration
tank or is removed for specific treatment.
Sludge removed from the primary and secondary treatment processes typically contains water and a
very small proportion of solids. We use filter presses, belt presses and centrifugation machines to abstract
the water from the sludge. In 2011, we produced 46,450 tons of sludge-dry base, of which 45,595 tons
were discharged into landfills. The remaining portion of the sludge-dry base was used as fertilizer in
forest and agriculture projects, fuel development and concrete manufacturing.
Sludge disposal must comply with State and Federal law requirements, such as Resolution No. 375 of
August 29, 2006 of the CONAMA, Federal Law No. 12,305/2010, Federal Decree No. 7,404/2010, State
Law No. 12,300/2006 and State Decree No. 54,645/2009.
Principal Markets in Which We Operate
As of December 31, 2011, we operated water and sewage systems in 363 of the 645 municipalities in
the State of São Paulo. In addition, we currently supply water on a wholesale basis to six municipalities
located in the São Paulo metropolitan region and the municipality of Sumaré with an urban population of
approximately 3.7 million.
The following table provides a breakdown of gross revenues from water supply and sewage services
by geographic market for the periods indicated.
São Paulo metropolitan region
Regional systems
Total
2009
Year ended December 31,
2010
(in millions of R$)
5,699.6
1,956.3
7,655.9
5,280.8
1,764.6
7,045.4
2011
6,144.7
2,165.4
8,310.1
The following table provides a breakdown of gross revenues from water supply and sewage services
by category of activity for the periods indicated.
2009
Year ended December 31,
2010
(in millions of R$)
4,427.4
3,398.7
(170.2)
7,655.9
4,104.3
3,131.9
(190.8)
7,045.4
2011
4,610.2
3,699.9
-
8,310.1
Water supply
Sewage services
Adjustment to IFRS – revenue recognition (wholesale)
Total
46
Competition
We believe there are at least two reasons behind a possible increase in our participation in the
domestic sanitation market. In the State of São Paulo, there are approximately 274 municipalities that
operate their own water and sewage systems and that collectively have a population of approximately 13
million, or approximately 33% of the population of the State of São Paulo, excluding the population of
the municipalities to which we provide water services on a wholesale basis. Given our scale, we are well
positioned to capture opportunities in these municipalities. In comparison to the companies providing
water and sewage services outside the State of São Paulo, we believe we have technological advantages
compared to other water and sewage services providers, which should result in our competitively
advantageous position in regions outside the State of São Paulo.
The competition for municipal concessions arise mainly from the municipalities, as they may resume
the water and sewage services that were granted to us and start providing these services directly to the
local population. In this case, the municipal governments would be required to indemnify us for the
unamortized portion of our investment. See “—Business Overview—Our Operations—Concessions.” In
the past, municipal governments have terminated our concessions agreements before the expiration date.
Furthermore, municipal governments have tried to expropriate our assets in an attempt to resume the
provision of water and sewage services to local populations. See “Item 8.A. Financial Information—
Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings.” We negotiate expired
concession agreements and concession agreements to be expired with the municipalities in an attempt to
maintain our existing areas of operations. In the State of São Paulo we face competition from private and
municipal water and sewage service providers.
In recent years, we have also experienced an increasing level of competition in the market of water
supply to large customers. Several large industrial customers located in municipalities served by us use
their own wells to supply themselves with water. In addition, competition for the disposal of non-
residential, commercial and industrial sludge in the São Paulo metropolitan region has increased in recent
years as private companies offer stand-alone solutions inside the facilities of their customers. We have
also established new tariff schedules for commercial and industrial customers in order to assist us in
retaining these customers. For this group of customers, we have a special authorization from ARSESP to
establish different tariff than the ones that agency establishes for regular consumers.
Billing Procedures
The procedure for billing and payment of our water and sewage services is basically the same for all
customer categories. Water and sewage bills are based upon water usage determined by monthly water
meter readings. Larger customers, however, have their meters read every 15 days to avoid non-physical
losses resulting from faulty water meters. Sewage billing is included as part of the water bill and is based
on the water meter reading.
The most part of the bills for water and sewage services are delivered to our customers in person,
mainly through one of our employees or through independent contractors who are also responsible for
reading water meters. The remainder, by judicial determination, is sent by mail. Water and sewage bills
can be paid at some banks and other locations in the State of São Paulo. These funds are paid over to us
after deducting average banking fees ranging from R$0.29 to R$1.15 per transaction for collection and
remittance of these payments.
Customers must pay their water and sewage bills by the due date if they wish to avoid paying a fine.
We generally charge a penalty fee and interest on late bill payments. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we
received payment of 94.7%, 95.5% and 94.8%, respectively, of the amount billed to our retail customers,
and 93.9%, 95.5% and 94.7%, respectively, of the amount billed to those customers other than State
entities, within 30 days after the due date. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we received 110.1%, 97.1% and
96.0%, respectively, of the amount billed to the State entities. Amounts in excess of 100.0% reflect our
recovery of amounts billed in prior years. With respect to wholesale supply, in 2009, 2010 and 2011, we
received payment of 68.7%, 58.3% and 54.7%, respectively, of the amount billed within 30 days.
We monitor water meter readings by use of hand-held computers and transmitters. The system
allows the meter reader to input the gauge levels on the meters into the computer and automatically print
the bill for the customer. The hand-held computer tracks water consumption usage at each metered
location and prepares bills based on actual meter readings. Part of the water meter monitoring for billing
47
purposes is carried out by our own personnel, trained and supervised by us and part of it is carried out by
third-party contractors that employ and train their own personnel whose training we supervise.
Tariffs
Tariff adjustments follow the guidelines established by the Basic Sanitation Law and the ARSESP.
The guidelines also establish procedural steps and the terms for the annual adjustments. The adjustments
have to be announced 30 days prior to the effective date of the new tariffs which occur in September, and
last for a period of at least 12 months.
Tariffs have historically been adjusted once a year and for periods of at least 12 months. We
increased our tariffs for water and sewage services by 6.8%, 9.0% and 6.7% in August 2004, 2005 and
2006, respectively. On September 2007, tariffs rose by 4.12%, except for water supply and sewage
collection tariffs for consumption of more than 20 cubic meters in non-residential categories, which were
adjusted by the cumulative inflation from August 2006 to July 2007 in the consumer price index (Índice
Nacional de Preços ao Consumidor Amplo), or IPCA, index published by IBGE, which came to 3.74%.
See “—Government Regulation—Tariff Regulation in the State of São Paulo” for additional
information regarding our tariffs.
With the publication of the Basic Sanitation Law, the regulation of basic sanitation services,
including tariff regulation, became the responsibility of an independent regulator. To exercise this
assignment, the State of São Paulo created the ARSESP, which regulates and supervises the services we
provide to the State and also within the municipalities that have agreed to its jurisdiction through a
cooperation agreement entered into by that municipality.
In regards to municipalities that have not explicitly selected the ARSESP as their regulator, the Basic
Sanitation Law admits the possibility of that municipality creating other regulatory agencies of their own.
In 2007, the municipality of Lins decided to create its own regulatory authority, although having revised
this decision in 2010, transferring to ARSESP the regulation of the water activities performed in Lins,
including for the setting of tariffs. The municipality of Lins has reserved, however, the power to
ultimately approve the tariff set by the ARSESP. In 2011, the municipalities in which the hydrographic
basins of the rivers Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí are located have created a consortium for regulation
and supervision of our activities in that area. See " Government Regulation—Tariff Regulation in the
State of São Paulo " for additional information.
As of the date of this annual report, the ARSESP applied the adjustment formula for our tariffs that
we established on August 29, 2003. This adjustment was developed to better reflect changes in our cost
structure. According to this formula, the cost components of the Tariffs Adjustment Index, or IRT, are
separated into two parts (“Part A” and “Part B”), where “Part A” encompasses all costs related to energy,
water and sewage treatment materials; federal, state and local taxes; and financial compensation due to
use of water resources. “Part B” encompasses all other costs and expenses. “Part B” relates to the
difference between the gross operating revenue and the value of “Part A” for the same period. The
adjustment of “Part A” is based on the effective cost variation observed in its components during the
preceding 12-month period. “Part B” is adjusted by the IPCA index. The adjustment to the formula used
by the ARSESP replaced the variable gross operating revenue for the variable cost of reference.
In September 2008, we adjusted our tariffs by 5.10% pursuant to the ARSESP’s authorization. In
August 2009, the ARSESP approved a 4.43% adjustment for our water and sewage tariffs, starting on
September 11, 2009. In August 2010, the ARSESP approved a 4.05% adjustment for our water and
sewage tariffs, starting on September 11, 2010. In 2011, we readjusted our prices in 6.83%, starting on
September 11, 2011. This adjustment was valid for all municipalities served by us, except for the
municipalities of São Bernardo do Campo, Lins and Magda, which have different rules and readjustment
dates. The tariffs in the municipality of São Bernardo do Campo are adjusted pursuant a different
methodology due to the difference between the tariffs charged in that municipality when we assumed the
service and the tariffs we were charging in other metropolitan municipalities we serve. The adjustments
in São Bernardo do Campo are set so that in September 2012 the tariff charged in this municipality and
the tariff charged in the other municipalities of the region will be the same. With respect to the
municipality of Lins, our tariff is adjusted in January according to the variation of the IPCA for the last
48
twelve-month period ended November 30. In regards to Magda, adjustments are expected to be made by
2015.
Until the new tariff structure we propose is approved by the ARSESP, we will continue to use our
current tariff structure. As such, we currently divide tariffs into two categories: residential and non-
residential. The residential category is subdivided into standard residential, residential social and
favela (shantytowns). The residential social tariffs apply to residences of low-income families, residences
of persons unemployed for up to 12 months and collective living residences. The favela tariffs apply to
residences in shantytowns characterized by a lack of urban infrastructure. The latter two sub-categories
were instituted to assist lower-income customers by providing lower tariffs for consumption. The non-
residential category consists of: (i) commercial, industrial and public customers; (ii) “not-for-profit”
entities that pay 50.0% of the prevailing non-residential tariff; (iii) government entities that have entered
into a water loss reduction agreement with us and pay 75.0% of the prevailing non-residential tariff; and
(iv) public entities that have entered into program agreements, for municipalities with a population of up
to 30,000 and with half or more classified according to their degree of social vulnerability by the Social
Vulnerability Index of São Paulo (Índice Paulista de Vulnerabilidade Social), or IPVS, 5 and 6, of the
SEADE, obtained through the analysis of the 2000 Census figures, and start to receive tariff benefits, in
accordance with our normative ruling, for the category of public use, at the municipality level. The tariffs
are equal to those offered to the commercial/entity of social assistance and that corresponds to 50.0% of
the public tariffs without contractual provisions referred to in item (iv) above.
We established a new tariff schedule, effective May 2002, for commercial and industrial customers
that consume at least 5,000 cubic meters of water per month and that enter into fixed demand agreements
(take-or-pay) with us for at least one-year terms. In October 2007, the minimum volume for entering into
these agreements was reduced from 5,000 cubic meters per month to 3,000 cubic meters per month. We
believe this tariff schedule will help prevent our commercial and industrial customers from switching to
the use of private wells. Since 2008, we have been authorized by the ARSESP to establish tariffs for non-
residential customers, such as industrial and commercial customers, that consume more than 3,000 cubic
meters per month, with a maximum tariff equal to the tariffs applicable to non-residential customers that
consume more than 50 cubic meters per month. In 2010, the ARSESP authorized a reduction in the
minimum volume of consumption for customers that enter into demand agreements with us to a minimum
of 500 cubic meters per month.
We establish separate tariff schedules for our services in each of the São Paulo metropolitan regions
and each of the countryside and coastal regions which comprise our Regional systems. Each tariff
schedule incorporates regional cross-subsidies, taking into account the customers’ type and volume of
consumption. Tariffs paid by customers with high monthly water consumption rates exceed our costs of
providing water service. We use the excess tariff billed to high-volume customers to compensate for the
lower tariffs paid by low-volume customers. Similarly, tariffs for non-residential customers are
established at levels that subsidize residential customers. In addition, the tariffs for the São Paulo
metropolitan region generally are higher than tariffs in the countryside and coastal regions.
Sewage charges in each region are fixed and are based on the same volume of water charged. In the
São Paulo metropolitan region and the coastal region, the sewage tariffs equal the water tariffs. In the
countryside region, sewage tariffs are approximately 20.0% lower than water tariffs. Wholesale water
rates are the same for all municipalities served. We also make available sewage treatment services to
those municipalities in line with the applicable contracts and tariffs. In addition, various industrial
customers pay an additional sewage charge, depending on the characteristics of the sewage they produce.
Each category and class of customer pays tariffs according to the volume of water consumed. The
tariff paid by a certain category and class of customer increases progressively according to the increase in
the volume of water consumed. The following table sets forth the water and sewage services tariffs by
(i) customer category and class and (ii) volume of water consumed charged during the years and period
stated in the São Paulo metropolitan region.
49
Customer Category Consumption
2009(2)
As of December 31,
2010(3)
2011(4)
Residential
Standard Residential:
0-10(1)
11-20
21-50
Above 50
Social:
0-10(1)
11-20
21-30
31-50
Above 50
Favela (shantytown):
0-10(1)
11-20
21-30
31-50
Above 50
Non-Residential
Commercial/Industrial/Governmental:
0-10(1)
11-20
21-50
Above 50
Social Welfare Entities:
0-10(1)
11-20
21-50
Above 50
Government entities that employ the Rational Use of the
Water Program (Programa de Uso Racional da Água), or
PURA, with reduction agreement:
0-10(1)
11-20
21-50
Above 50
(1) The minimum volume charged is for ten cubic meters per month.
(2) From September 11, 2009 to September 10, 2010.
(3) From September 11, 2010 to September 10, 2011.
(4) Since September 11, 2011.
1.36
2.13
5.32
5.86
0.46
0.80
2.82
4.03
4.45
0.35
0.40
1.33
4.03
4.45
2.74
5.32
10.21
10.63
1.37
2.67
5.13
5.31
2.05
3.99
7.67
7.97
1.42
1.22
5.54
6.10
0.48
0.83
2.93
4.19
4.63
0.37
0.42
1.38
4.19
4.63
2.85
5.54
10.62
11.06
1.42
2.78
5.34
5.53
2.14
4.15
7.98
8.29
1.52
2.37
5.92
6.52
0.51
0.89
3.13
4.48
4.95
0.39
0.45
1.47
4.48
4.95
3.04
5.92
11.35
11.82
1.52
2.97
5.70
5.91
2.28
4.43
8.53
8.86
Both in 2010 and 2011, the average tariff calculated for the Regional systems was approximately
30% below the average tariff of the São Paulo metropolitan region.
Regarding the new tariff structure that ARSESP aims to implement, since 2008 it has been
developing new concepts that might be included in the tariff structure and adjustment formula but it has
so far regulated our tariff structure and adjustments according to the same structure and adjustment
formula that we ordinarily follow.
On July 22, 2009, the ARSESP released a Technical Note (Nota Técnica) regarding the methodology
for the tariff adjustment process and submitted it for public comments. On August 12, 2009, the ARSESP
informed that the new methodology would not be applied for the 2009 adjustment. The ARSESP is
currently working on the development and improvement of its new methodology and it expects to release
a revised tariff structure and adjustments formula in 2012.
In March 2011, the ARSESP published the tariff review schedule and opened a public hearing for
the proposed methodology for the calculation of the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). In May
50
2011, the ARSESP released a regulatory post-tax weighted average cost of capital of 8.06%. In October
2011, we presented to the ARSESP a detailed business plan that disclosed requested information
regarding our income, expenses and capital expenditures, so that the ARSESP could set an adjustment
formula for our tariffs. In January 2012, the ARSESP commenced a public consultation regarding our
methodology for tariff revisions. The public consultation aims to: (i) set the initial framework for periodic
tariff revisions for all municipalities we serve that are under the supervision of the ARSESP; (ii) discuss
the criteria adopted to determine the cost of services, the tariff framework and the subsidies policy,
among other issues; (iii) create a methodology, standards and procedures for future revisions and
adjustments; and (iv) ensure the broad involvement of municipalities, concessionaires, consumers,
investors and others.
In 2010, the ARSESP defined the rules to evaluate our asset base (Rule No. 156/2010). By August
We have hired companies to conduct such an evaluation using this methodology and by August 2012, we
will present to the ARSESP the evaluation of our asset base according to reposition cost and weighted by
the respective usage ratio in accordance with ARSESP Rule No. 156/2010, on which our regulatory
remuneration will be based. We will also present ARSESP with a detailed business plan that will serve as
a basis for the final tariff methodology process to be released by the ARSESP in the near future. In
September 2012, we expect to receive the ARSESP’s preliminary average tariff proposal and the
applicable efficiency gains factor that we will be required to include in the tariff structure proposal that
the ARSESP will then request from us. By October 2012, we expect to be able to propose such tariff
structure, and our preliminary average tariff, efficiency gains factor and tariff structure will then be
submitted for public hearing. The ARSESP estimates that a final public hearing at which our preliminary
average tariff, efficiency gains factor and tariff structure will be subjected to public scrutiny will be
scheduled by November 2012. The aforementioned schedule may, however, suffer alterations or be
subject to delays.
Marketing Channels
As of December 31, 2011, we were the concessionaire for the provision of water supply and
collection, treatment and disposal of sewage services directly to end consumers for 363 municipalities of
the State of São Paulo. We also supply water on a wholesale basis to six municipalities located in the São
Paulo metropolitan region and the municipality of Sumaré. It is the responsibility of these municipalities
to then distribute the water to end consumers. We provide sewage services to five of these
municipalities. Because of our distribution infrastructure, end consumers to whom we offer water
services on a wholesale basis cannot alternatively acquire such services directly from us. For more
information on service concessions, see “4.B. Business Overview—Wholesale Operations.”
Energy Consumption
Energy is essential to our operations, and as a result we are one of the largest users of energy in the
State of São Paulo. In the year ended December 31, 2011, we used 1.76% of the total energy
consumption in the State of São Paulo. To date, we have not experienced any major disruptions in energy
supply. Any significant disruption of energy to us could have a material adverse effect on our business,
financial condition, results of operations or prospects. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to
Our Business—We are exposed to risks associated with the provision of water and sewage services.”
Energy prices have a significant impact on our results of operations. An average increase in energy
prices of 17.6% in 2003 negatively affected our results of operations in 2004. In 2011, 44% of our total
energy consumption occurred within the “free market”, where we can more efficiently negotiate the
supply of energy. This energy was provided by Companhia Energética São Paulo, or CESP, pursuant to a
long-term contract expiring in October 2012. AES Tiête (39%) and Tractebel Energia S.A. (61%) have
already been hired to provide these services for the remainder of 2012 and until 2015.
Insurance
We maintain insurance covering, among other things, fire or other damage to our property, office
buildings and third-party liability. We also maintain insurance coverage for directors’ and officers’
liability (D&O insurance). We currently obtain our insurance policies by means of public bids involving
major Brazilian and international insurance companies that operate in Brazil. As of December 31, 2011,
we had paid a total aggregate amount of R$9.3 million in premiums, covering R$2.1 million on assets,
third-party liabilities and D&O insurance. We do not have insurance coverage for business interruption
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risk because we do not believe that the high premiums for such insurance are justified by the low risk of
major interruption of our activities. In addition, we do not have insurance coverage for liabilities arising
from water contamination or other problems involving our water supply to customers and for
environmental related liabilities and damages. We believe that we maintain insurance at levels customary
in Brazil for our type of business.
Environmental Matters
Our environmental policy, which we revised
in January 2008, established environmental
management directives that allow us to become a contributing force to environmental sustainability and
excellence. These directives are based on a systematic approach to the environment, which allow us to
develop a plan that integrated economic, environmental and social dimensions of our work with
sustainable use of natural resources.
In order to coordinate the environmental demands with the specific needs of the different places we
operate, we have implemented 20 Environmental Management Centers (Núcleos de Gestão Ambiental),
or NGAs. The NGAs are closely involved in operational matters, providing decision-making support at a
local level and seeking to ensure that environmental guidelines are respected throughout our
organization. In this manner, they help contribute to the ongoing improvement of our environmental
performance.
We have the following environmental management programs:
(cid:131) execution of a Environmental Management System, or EMS, and acquisition of ISO 14001
certification to our sewage and water treatment facilities. We received the certifications for 50
sewage treatment facilities, including those located in the São Paulo metropolitan, countryside
and coastal regions. 65 of our water treatment facilities and sewage treatment facilities have
implemented the EMS, and we expect to extend it progressively to our remaining installations;
(cid:131) participation in the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) and adherence to the Carbon Disclosure
Project CDP Supply Chain;
(cid:131) conception and formation of the Corporate Management of Greenhouse Gas Program (Programa
Corporativo de Gestão de Emissões de Gases de Efeito Estufa);
(cid:131) the monitoring and controlling compliance with conduct adjustment terms and judicial
agreements relating to the environment;
(cid:131) formation and implementation of a corporate program for maintenance and regularization of
environmental licenses and of granting water usage rights;
(cid:131) the implementation of the Environmental Education Program (PEA SABESP), including over one
hundred environmental education actions and projects involving the community and other
stakeholders ;
(cid:131) our institutional representation in the State and National Systems of Water Resources
Management, including training of company representatives to participate in councils of the
National and State Systems for the Management of Water Resources (Sistemas Nacional e
Estadual de Gerenciamento de Recursos Hídricos), training of the representatives for
participation in the process of establishing criteria for the charging of water usage, monitoring of
water basin plans (Planos das Bacias), water bodies classification programs and the
establishment or review of specific legislation on the matter;
(cid:131) the structuring of educational activities related to analyzing, managing, and communicating
environmental risks;
(cid:131) implementation of the SABESP 3-Rs Program (Programa SABESP 3Rs) for the reduction, re-use
and recycling of waste of administrative activities, a program involving the two largest
administrative areas of our Company with plans to include all other administrative areas.
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In addition to corporate environmental management initiatives, since 2008 we launched several
projects to benefit the environment by engaging the community and third parties with non-governmental
organizations, including:
(cid:131) Oil Recycling Program (Programa de Reciclagem de Óleo de Fritura), or PROL;
(cid:131) One million Trees in Cantareira (Programa “Um Milhão de Árvores no Cantareira”);
(cid:131) Green Hug (Abraço Verde);
(cid:131) Community Gardens (Hortas Comunitárias);
(cid:131) Program of Lectures on Environmental Management (Ciclos de Conferências de Gestão
Ambiental);
(cid:131) Supporters of Sustainability (Audiências de Sustentabilidade);
(cid:131) ‘Nossa Guarapiranga’ Project (Programa Nossa Guarapiranga);
(cid:131) Water park in Campos do Jordão (Parque Lagoinha);
(cid:131) Environmental Support Actions (ecomobilizações);
(cid:131) First Green Building (Primeiro Predio Verde Certificado);
(cid:131) Recycling programs;
(cid:131) Radio Program ‘My Environment’ (Meu Ambiente);
(cid:131) Partnership with Abrafati in the a project for the cleaning of green areas (Pintou
Limpeza);
(cid:131) Green Post (Ecoposto Sabesp);
(cid:131) Maintaining of environmentally protected areas;
(cid:131) Green Life Program (Programa Verde Vida);
(cid:131) Plant a Tree, a Child Is Born (Nasce uma Criança Plante uma Árvore);
(cid:131) Sustainable purchasing policy;
(cid:131) Reuse of scrap material from construction;
(cid:131) Support and sponsoring to environmentally important projects and initiatives;
(cid:131) Cyan Bank (Banco Cyan) program for the reduction of water consumption.
Climate Change Regulations: Reduction of Greenhouse Gases (GHG)
We are required to comply with laws and regulations related to climate change, including
international agreements and treaties to which Brazil is a signatory.
The São Paulo State Climate Change Policy (Law No. 13,798), enacted on November 9, 2009, seeks
to reduce global emissions of carbon dioxide by 20.0% by 2020 compared with 2005 levels. Brazil’s
Climate Change Policy (Law No. 12,187), enacted on December 29, 2009, establishes a voluntary
national commitment to reduce Brazil’s currently projected GHG emissions for 2020 by a percentage
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between 36.1% and 38.9%. If legislation requires us to reduce our emissions, we may do so by
transforming biogas from the treatment of sewage into energy, for example, which may lead to potential
economic gains.
We have begun significant initiatives, such as the corporate program for water loss reduction and the
implementation of small hydroelectric power plants, to reduce GHG emissions during the coming years.
We recently launched the Aquapolo project, the fifth largest project in the world to use reclaimed water
production for industrial purposes, which uses treated sewage as input. This project, capable of
producing 1,000 liters per second (Ps) of reclaimed water, will increase the supply of treated water for the
São Paulo metropolitan region and may potentially reduce GHG emissions. Our investments in the
Aquapolo project amounted to approximately R$252 million. We created our inventory of GHG
emissions for the year 2008 and are verifying our inventories for the years 2009 and 2010. Moreover, we
are developing a management program for GHG emissions. The program includes studies of impacts and
risks related to climate change and the study of potential scenarios based on our emissions of GHG.
At this point, it is still not possible to predict if climate change policies will provide opportunities or
generate new costs for us. Reducing our emissions of carbon dioxide will involve costs and expenses in
implementing more stringent control mechanisms, adopting pollution prevention measures and actions to
minimize the generation of GHGs. We may not receive financial incentives to offset all or part of these
costs. In addition, if limitations in GHG emissions affect our supply chain and increase our costs, we may
not be able to pass on these costs to our end consumers. See “4.B. Business Overview—Tariffs.”
Regulation of GHG emissions could also benefit us in the short term, since we may be able to obtain
subsidies, financial investments and tax incentives for projects to protect and restore water sources,
conserve water, treat sewage, conserve energy, increase energy efficiency, and promote self-generated
energy, among other projects that seek to reduce the impact of climate change.
Carbon Disclosure Project
(cid:131) Carbon Disclosure Project Investors. We participate in the Carbon Disclosure Project – CDP, a
global initiative focused on the financial risks related to climate change. Through this project, main
international institutional investors ask the world’s largest companies to demonstrate that they are
managing carbon effectively. We have received and responded the project’s questionnaires since
2006. The companies that opt to have their answers disclosed to the public, such as our case, have
their answers published in an international website of public interest. The questionnaire asks
mainly questions related to the aspects of climate change and corporate governance, the physical,
financial and regulatory effects of climate change, and opportunities that affect or could positively
or negatively affect us.
(cid:131) Carbon Disclosure Project Supply Chain. On December 2010, we adhered to the Carbon
Disclosure Project – CDP Supply Chain 2011. The project seeks to encourage the adoption of a
standard methodology by our main suppliers of goods and services to measure risks related to
climate change and GHG emissions. We have invited 97 of our main suppliers of goods and
services to join the CDP Supply Chain, from which 20% have joined the project.
Physical Effects of Climate Change
Since our financial performance is closely linked to climate patterns that influence in the availability
of water (in terms of quantity and quality of water resources), extreme weather conditions may adversely
affect our business and operations. If long-term climate change causes significant alterations in
environmental conditions, such as an increase in the frequency of extreme weather conditions, this could
affect the quality and quantity of water available for abstraction, treatment and supply, affecting the costs
of services and tariffs.
An increase in heavy rainfall can impact water quality and the regular operation of water sources,
including abstraction of water from our dams, through increased soil erosion, silting, pollution and
eutrophication of aquatic ecosystems. In addition, increased flows of rainwater into sewage systems may
overwhelm the capacity of sewage treatment plants. We may need to build larger reservoirs, since it is
not feasible to increase the size of our existing reservoirs, or increase operational capacity by further
automating our existing equipment. To increase automation, we would need to purchase and operate
tools to measure dam levels and volumes, river output and the rain in hydrographic basins, create
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mathematical models for real time operations, and train technicians to operate these systems. As an
alternative, we may need to implement new production systems.
In the case of prolonged periods of drought, for example, reduced water levels in dams can cause an
increase in the concentration of plant matter by increasing eutrophication and, consequently, increasing
water treatment costs and operational complexity. In addition, prolonged periods of drought in
watersheds such as the São Paulo metropolitan region, where most of our production is concentrated, may
result in the growth of vegetation in the reservoir flooding areas, which can impact water quality due to
the accumulation of organic matter. In such cases our production costs may increase, affecting our
financial margins and the quality of water we produce. Droughts also lower reservoir levels available for
hydroelectric plants, which may lead to power shortages, particularly since hydroelectric power accounts
for most of Brazil’s electric energy supply. A lack of rainwater could lead to instability in domestic water
supplies and in sewage collection and treatment services, which could damage our reputation. In
addition, because we are one of the largest consumers of electricity in the State of São Paulo, a potential
increase in electricity tariffs due to a shortage of hydroelectric power could have a significant economic
impact on us.
We are also the concessionaire for water and sewage services for all the coastal municipalities of the
State of São Paulo. A rise in the sea level would result in increased salinity of inland water supplies,
which may affect water treatment in these areas. Rising sea levels may also increase infiltration rates and
alter the runoff regime of the sewage systems, which may affect the sanitary system.
Extreme climate changes may also affect the extraction, production and transportation of the
materials necessary for our operations, such as water treatment materials, and may lead to an increase in
the cost of these materials. A rise in air temperature could also increase consumer demand for water,
increasing the need to expand both water supply and sewage treatment.
See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—The enactment of new laws and
regulations relating to climate change and the change in existing regulation, as well as the physical effects
of climate change, may result in increased liabilities and increased capital expenditures, which could have
a material adverse effect on us”.
Government Regulation
Basic sanitation services in Brazil are subject to an extensive federal, state and local legislation and
regulation that, among other matters, regulates:
(cid:131) the granting of concessions to provide water and sewage services;
(cid:131) the development of public private partnerships;
(cid:131) the need of a public bidding process for the appointment of private water and sewage services
providers;
(cid:131) the need of setting up an agreement for the appointment of public water and sewage services
providers;
(cid:131) the joint management of public services through cooperation, allowing for a program agreement
without the need for a public bidding process for the service provider, subject to the condition that
the planning, execution and monitoring activities are not executed by the service provider;
(cid:131) minimum requirements for water and sewage services;
(cid:131) water usage;
(cid:131) water quality and environmental protection; and
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(cid:131) governmental restrictions on the incurrence of indebtedness applicable to state-controlled
companies.
General
Pursuant to Article 23 of the Brazilian Constitution, water and sewage services are the joint
responsibility of the federal government, the states and the municipalities. Article 216 of the Constitution
of the State of São Paulo provides that, by law, the State must provide the conditions for efficient
management and adequate expansion of water and sewage services rendered by its agencies and State-
controlled companies or any other concessionaire under its control. State law authorized our formation to
plan, provide and operate water and sewage services in the State and also acknowledged the autonomy of
the municipalities.
Pursuant to Article 175 of the Brazilian Constitution, the rendering of public services, such as water
and sewage services, is the responsibility of the applicable public authority. However, any such public
authority has the right to render these services directly or through a concession granted to a third party.
In Brazil, there are three federal legal regimes for contracting water and sewage services: (i) public
concessions, regulated by Law No. 8,987/1995, which require a prior public bidding process; (ii)
administration of public services through cooperation agreements between the federal government and
local public authorities at State and municipal level without the need for a public bidding process,
regulated by the Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law; and (iii) public-private partnerships,
regulated by Law No. 11,079/2004, used to grant concessions to private companies to provide public
services and used in relation with construction works associated with the provision of public services.
Until 2005, we had adopted the regime for public concessions. Following the entry into force of the
Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law, we adopted the administration of public services
through cooperation agreements, which can be used alongside the other two regimes.
The Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law and the Basic Sanitation Law have caused
significant impacts in the development of the state sanitation policy and the regulatory structuring of the
industry.
Because we are the legal concessionaire for the State of São Paulo for water and sewage services,
serving approximately 59% of the State’s population and providing sanitation services through
concession agreements, the Consortium Law affects us on the expiry of our concession agreements
entered into in the 1970s when the Brazilian Sanitation Plan (Plano Nacional de Saneamento), or
PLANASA, was created. The Consortium Law has caused important changes in the relationship among
municipalities, states and public sanitation service providers, most notably in mixed capital companies,
such as us, because of the implementation of the program agreements as a substitute for concession
agreements.
In addition, the Basic Sanitation Law in its role as a general guideline for the development of the
Brazilian sanitation industry, addresses the conditions for the delegation of water and sewage services, the
exercise of ownership by the granting authority and the regulatory conditions for the industry. The Basic
Sanitation Law also provides for a significant amendment to Article 42 of the Concessions Law, which
establishes the termination of concessions prior to the expiration date and the reversibility conditions for
unamortized assets. The amendment requires that the service provider be compensated for unamortized
assets, prioritizing an agreement between the parties setting out the criteria for calculation and payments
of indemnity.
The Basic Sanitation Law
On January 5, 2007, the Federal Law No. 11,445, or the Basic Sanitation Law, was enacted,
establishing nationwide guidelines for basic sanitation and seeking to create appropriate solutions for the
situation of each state and municipality, facilitating the technical cooperation between the state and
municipalities. In addition, the federal government will enact its public policy to facilitate access to
financing alternatives that are compatible with the costs and terms of the sanitation industry, in
substitution of the PLANASA model. On June 21, 2010, the federal government enacted Federal Decree
No. 7,217, regulating the Basic Sanitation Law. See “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to our Business—We
56
cannot anticipate the effects that further developments of the Basic Sanitation Law and its interpretation
will have on the basic sanitation industry in Brazil and on us.”
The Basic Sanitation Law establishes the following principles for basic sanitation public services:
universalization, integrality, efficiency and economic sustainability, transparency of actions, social
control and integration of infrastructure and services with the management of water resources. It does not
define the ownership of the sanitation services, but establishes the minimum liability for the exercise of
ownership, such as the development of the sanitation plan, definition of the person responsible for
regulation and control, establishment of the rights and obligations of the users and of the social control
mechanisms. It also defines the regionalized performance of the services (i.e., one single provider serves
two or more owners, for which there may be one plan for the combination of services).
In addition, the Basic Sanitation Law defines the guidelines and objectives of the federal basic
sanitation policy to be observed when securing public funds generated or operated by agencies or entities
of the federal government, and foresees the possibility of having subsidies as an instrument of social
policy to ensure access to basic sanitation services to everyone, particularly the low-income population.
The subsidies may be granted either directly, through tariffs or indirectly, depending on the characteristics
of the beneficiaries and on the source of the funds.
Furthermore, the Basic Sanitation Law also provides that the sanitation services may be interrupted
by the service provider, in the event of default of payment of the tariffs by the customer, among other
reasons, after written notice, as long as minimum health requirements are met.
The Basic Sanitation Law also establishes the criteria for the reversal of assets at the time of
termination of the agreement and with regard to the concessions, such as those that have expired or are
effective for an indefinite term, or those that were not formalized by an agreement. In addition, the Basic
Sanitation Law provides the basis for calculating the amount of an indemnity due, which must be
calculated by a specialized institution chosen by mutual agreement between the parties.
Pursuant to the Basic Sanitation Law, the parties of the concession may enter into an agreement with
respect to the payment of the indemnification due to the concessionaire. However, in the absence of an
agreement, the Basic Sanitation Law establishes that the indemnification must be paid in no more than
four equal and successive annual installments, with the first installment payable by the last business day
of the fiscal year in which the assets are reversed.
Tariff Regulation in the State of São Paulo
The tariffs for our services are subject to Federal and State regulation.
On December 16, 1996, the governor of the State of São Paulo issued a decree which approved the
existing tariff system and allowed us to continue to set our own tariffs. We used to set our tariffs based
on the general objectives of maintaining our financial condition and preserving “social equality” in terms
of the provision of water and sewage services to the population while providing a return on investment.
The governor’s decree also directs us to apply the following criteria in determining our tariffs:
(cid:131) category of use;
(cid:131) capacity of the water meter;
(cid:131) characteristics of consumption;
(cid:131) volume consumed;
(cid:131) fixed and floating costs;
(cid:131) seasonal variations of consumption; and
(cid:131) social and economic conditions of residential customers.
With the enactment of the Basic Sanitation Law and Federal Consortium Law, we are prohibited
from planning, overseeing and regulating services, which includes determining the tariff policy to be
adopted. Such activities are to be exercised by the owner of the concession. Other than the responsibility
for planning, the remaining activities may not be delegated.
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The current tariff structure maintains different tariff schedules, depending upon whether a customer
is located in the São Paulo metropolitan region or the Regional systems. There are four levels of volume
consumed for each category of customer, except for the residential social and favelas (shantytowns).
The residential social tariffs apply to residences of low income families, residences of persons
unemployed for up to 12 months and collective living residences. The favela tariffs apply to residences in
shantytowns characterized by a lack of urban infrastructure. The latter two sub categories were instituted
to assist lower income customers by providing lower tariffs for consumption. Customers are billed on a
monthly basis. Water and sewage bills are based upon water usage determined by monthly water meter
readings. Larger customers, however, have their meters read every 15 days to avoid nonphysical losses
resulting from faulty water meters. Sewage billing is included as part of the water bill and is based on the
water meter reading. We are also authorized to enter into individual contracts with certain customers,
such as municipalities, to supply water or sewage services on a wholesale basis.
Before the enactment of the Basic Sanitation Law in 2007, we were subject to a federal law which
limited the return on assets for water and sewage services to 12.0% per annum. Return on our assets was
calculated using operating income (before financial and certain other expenses) measured against our
operational assets (property, plant and equipment and certain other assets), based on our financial
statements prepared in accordance with the accounting practices adopted in Brazil, or Brazilian GAAP.
The Basic Sanitation Law revoked this law and extinguished this rule. Pursuant to the Basic Sanitation
Law, tariff regulation is to be performed by an independent regulatory entity. Municipalities can either
create their own regulatory agency or delegate tariff regulation to the ARSESP. With respect to the
criteria to calculate the return on assets, on July 30, 2010, the ARSESP adopted a new methodology for
the calculation of return on assets, which uses the replacement cost of the assets (assuming replacement
with new assets) as a basis for the calculation. Although the ARSESP has proceeded with public
consultations on tariff methodology and has indicated that it will implement the new methodology by
2012, we cannot assure you when the new rules will be enacted. Meanwhile, the ARSESP has not altered
the tariff formula and has continued to apply the same methodology as in prior years.
Since 2008, the ARSESP has been developing new concepts in the tariff structure and adjustment
formula. In July 30, 2010, the ARSESP published Resolution No. 156 establishing the methodology and
general criteria for the definition of our regulatory asset base, in order to move forward with the tariff
review process and to define the initial parameters of the auditing process that the ARSESP will have to
conduct pursuant to the terms of the Basic Sanitation Law. The methodology has been defined and, in
general terms, assets will be evaluated by reposition costs and weighted by the respective usage ratio.
In March 2011, the ARSESP published the tariff review schedule and opened a public hearing for the
proposed methodology for the calculation of the weighted average cost of capital (WACC). In May 2011,
the ARSESP released a regulatory post-tax weighted average cost of capital of 8.06%. In October 2011,
we presented to the ARSESP a detailed business plan that disclosed requested information regarding our
income, expenses and capital expenditures, so that the ARSESP could set an adjustment formula for our
tariffs.
In January 2012, the ARSESP commenced a public consultation regarding our methodology for tariff
revisions. The public consultation aims to: (i) set the initial framework for periodic tariff revisions for all
municipalities we serve that are under the supervision of the ARSESP; (ii) discuss the criteria adopted to
determine the cost of services, the tariff framework and the subsidies policy, among other issues; (iii)
create a methodology, standards and procedures for future revisions and adjustments; and (iv) ensure the
broad involvement of municipalities, concessionaires, consumers, investors and others.
In 2010, the ARSESP defined the rules to evaluate our asset base (Rule No. 156/2010). We have
hired companies to conduct such an evaluation using this methodology and by August 2012, we will
present to the ARSESP the evaluation of our asset base according to reposition cost and weighted by the
respective usage ratio in accordance with ARSESP Rule No. 156/2010, on which our regulatory
remuneration will be based. We will also present ARSESP with a detailed business plan that will serve as
a basis for the final tariff methodology process to be released by the ARSESP in the near future. In
September 2012, we expect to receive the ARSESP’s preliminary average tariff proposal and the
applicable efficiency gains factor that we will be required to include in the tariff structure proposal that
the ARSESP will then request from us. By October 2012, we expect to be able to propose such tariff
structure, and our preliminary average tariff, efficiency gains factor and tariff structure will then be
submitted for public hearing. The ARSESP estimates that a final public hearing at which our preliminary
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average tariff, efficiency gains factor and tariff structure will be subjected to public scrutiny will be
scheduled by November 2012. The aforementioned schedule may, however, suffer alterations or be
subject to delays. We cannot anticipate the additional changes that the ARSESP will implement on our
tariff structure and adjustment formula or the effects that these changes will have on us. If the changes
are unfavorable to us, they could materially and adversely affect us.
Furthermore, since Law No. 11,445 permits municipalities to create their own regulatory agencies
rather than being subjected to overview by the ARSESP, a number of municipalities created their own
regulatory agencies. The municipality of Lins, which had decided in 2007 to create its own regulatory
authority, revised this decision in 2010 and transferred the regulation of the water activities performed in
Lins, including the setting of tariffs to the ARSESP. Lins has retained, however, the power to ultimately
approve the tariff set by the ARSESP. The municipalities of São Bernardo do Campo and Magda retained
the power to readjust the tariffs applied therein. Additionally, the municipalities in which the
hydrographic basins of the rivers Piracicaba, Capivari and Jundiaí are located have created a consortium
for regulation and supervision of our activities in that area. As this entity has recently been created, we
cannot predict how it may implement regulatory changes that may affect our activities. If other
municipalities create new agencies, we will be subject to their regulation, supervision and limitations to
our services. See “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We cannot anticipate the effects that
further developments of the Basic Sanitation Law and its interpretation will have on the basic sanitation
industry in Brazil and on us”.
Consumer Relations in the State of São Paulo
Pursuant to the Basic Sanitation Law, in 2009, the ARSESP enacted certain rules establishing (i) the
general conditions for the services we render, (ii) the communication process for any failure in our
services; (iii) penalties for deficiencies in the provision of basic sanitation services; and (iv) procedures
for confidential treatment of our clients’ private information. We are currently evaluating the
enforceability and legality of some of these rules. Implementation of these rules started during 2011 and
is expected to continue for the next few years. The implementation of these rules will impact our
commercial and operations processes and may adversely affect us as described below and in other ways
we cannot currently predict.
In particular, regarding changes to the general conditions for our services, in 2011 the ARSESP
altered the standard contract that we are required to use in our relationships with retail costumers. The
ARSESP changed the rule regarding the collection of water and sewage tariff, requiring that collection be
directed to the consumer of our services, rather than to the owner of the served property, as used to be the
case. We estimate that this change will affect ongoing legal disputes, particularly those regarding
collection procedures, as well as business discussions in general. However, we are not currently able to
predict the impact of this change on our business, as the change is still being implemented.
Regarding changes to the communication process for the reporting of failures, the ARSESP has
modified the rules and standards for supervision and reporting of incidents. We have implemented these
requested changes. Currently. part of the reporting of incidents occurs online, through the Incident
Reporting System (“Sistema de Comunicação de Incidentes”) established by the ARSESP, implementing
more transparency and control in our operations.
We are attentive to these regulatory changes, have been working toward meeting the ARSESP’s
requirements and recommendations, and have presented technical, legal and factual reasons for any
conduct that the ARSESP may find irregular. As a result we are subject to few regulatory infractions and
to limited fines. See “Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—We cannot anticipate the effects
that further developments of the Basic Sanitation Law and its interpretation will have on the basic
sanitation industry in Brazil and on us”.
Concessions
Concessions for providing water and sewage services are formalized by agreements executed
between the state or municipality, as the case may be, and a concessionaire to which the performance of
these services is granted in a given municipality or region. Our concessions normally have a contractual
term of up to 30 years. However, our concessions in general can be revoked at any time if certain
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standards of quality and safety are not met, or in the event of default of the terms of the concession
agreement.
A municipality that chooses to assume the direct control of its water and sewage services must
terminate the current relationship by duly compensating the service provider. Subsequently, the
municipality will be in charge of rendering services or of conducting a public bidding process to grant the
concession to potential concessionaires, including agreements with public companies directly. Although
the Constitution of the State of São Paulo determines that the relevant municipality would have to pay us
for the unamortized book value of the assets related to the concession and assume any corresponding
debt, with the exclusion of any amounts that have been paid to us by the municipality, upon termination
or non-renewal of the concession, the payment for termination may not be effected immediately, and any
termination could negatively affect our cash flows, operating results and financial situation. See
“Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Municipalities may, under certain
circumstances, terminate our concessions before their expiration and the indemnification may be
inadequate to recover the full value of our investments.”
The Federal Concessions Law No. 8,987/1995 and the State Concessions Law No. 7,835/1992
require that the granting of a concession by the government be preceded by a public bidding process.
However, the Federal Public Bidding Law No. 8,666/1993, which establishes the rules for the public
bidding process, provides that a public bidding process can be waived under certain circumstances,
including in the case of services to be provided by a public entity created for such specific purpose on a
date prior to the effectiveness of this law, provided that the contracted price is compatible with what is
practiced in the market. Furthermore, a provision of the Federal Public Bidding Law, as amended by the
Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law, provides that the program contracted can be executed
with waiver of a public bidding process.
In the majority of municipalities where we operate, the new contracts have been formalized pursuant
to the provisions of the Federal Public Bidding Law that allows the public bidding process to be waived
under certain circumstances. However, due to the discussion over whether the State or municipal
authorities have the right to grant rights to provide basic sanitation services in municipal areas,
negotiations of the terms of our new contract for the provision of water and sewage services in the city of
São Paulo, were more complicated. See “Related Party Transactions―Agreement with the State and the
City of São Paulo”.
On June 18, 2009, Municipal Law No. 14,934/2009 was enacted and this law revoked Law No.
13,670/2003, which had originally created the discussion on whether the State or the Municipality was the
one with the powers to grant and monitor formal concessions for water and sewage services in the city of
São Paulo. Although the new law authorized the city of São Paulo to enter into an agreement with us,
because the issue of authority between the State or municipal government remain under judicial review,
on June 23, 2010, we entered into a formal agreement with both the State and the city of São Paulo to
regulate the provision of water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo for a 30-year period, which
may be extended for an additional 30-year period.
Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law for Joint Management
On April 6, 2005, the federal government enacted Federal Law No. 11,107, or the Federal Public
Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law, which regulates Article 241 of the Brazilian Constitution.
This statute provides general principles to be observed when a public consortia enters into contracts with
the Brazilian political divisions and subdivisions (the federal government, states, the Federal District and
municipalities) aiming at the joint management of public services of common interests.
Federal Decree No. 6,017/2007 details the conditions of establishment of joint management and the
execution of the program agreement regulating the Public Consortia and Cooperation Agreement Law.
This federal legislation introduces significant changes in the relationship among municipalities, states and
companies providing public sanitation services, prohibiting the latter from exercising activities of
planning, oversight and regulation, including tariff regulation, of the services and creating the program
agreement for contracting entities whose share control is held by one of the Brazilian political divisions
and subdivisions upon waiver of the public bidding process and compliance with concession legislation,
as applicable.
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On January 13, 2006, the Governor of the State of São Paulo enacted State Decree No. 50,470,
amended by State Decrees No. 52,020, dated July 30, 2007, and No. 53,192, dated July 1, 2008, which
provide for the rendering of water and sewage services in the State of São Paulo. According to these
decrees, we may enter into agreements with municipalities in connection with the provision of water and
sewage services by means of the so-called “program agreement without a public bidding process”. In
addition, these decrees establish that we will continue to render services in the areas covered by the
concession granted by the State.
Based on these statutes, in January 2007 we executed our first program agreement with the
municipality of Lins, located in the State of São Paulo. Subsequently, we formalized agreements with
other municipalities in the State of São Paulo. These other municipalities transferred the oversight and
regulation of our services to the State of São Paulo through a cooperation agreement.
On June 8, 2006, the State of São Paulo enacted Decree No. 50,868 creating the Commission for the
Regulation of Sanitation Service of the State of São Paulo (Comissão de Regulação do Serviço de
Saneamento do Estado de São Paulo – CORSANPA) to regulate sanitation services. The Commission for
the Regulation of Sanitation Service of the State of São Paulo is directly subordinated to the State
Secretariat for Sanitation and Water Resources.
The main duty of the Commission for the Regulation of Sanitation Service of the State of São Paulo
was conducting studies for the creation of a regulatory agency for the basic sanitation industry and the
presentation of legal and regulatory measures. The completion of such duties resulted in the publication
of supplementary Law No. 1,025 of December 7, 2007, which created the ARSESP. Furthermore,
Supplementary Law No. 1,025/2007 maintained the State Sanitation Council (Conselho Estadual de
Saneamento – CONESAN), created by Supplementary Law No. 7,750/92, as an advisory council to define
and implement the state basic sanitation policy, and the State Sanitation Fund (Fundo Estadual de
Saneamento - FESAN). The State Sanitation Fund is connected to the State Secretariat for Sanitation and
Water Resources, and collects and manages resources that support State-approved programs, as well as
the development of technology, management and human resources and a sanitation information system, in
addition to other support programs.
The ARSESP regulates the basic sanitation services that belong to the State, relating to the federal
and municipal jurisdictions and prerogatives, and is responsible for:
(cid:131) the compliance with and enforcement of state and federal basic sanitation legislation;
(cid:131) the publication of the organizational platform for the services, indicating the types of services
provided by the State, as well as the equipment and facilities that compose the system;
(cid:131) the acceptance, where applicable, of the legal attributions of the jurisdictional authority;
(cid:131) the establishment, in accordance with the tariff guidelines defined by Decree No. 41,446/96, of
tariffs and other methods that provide compensation for our services, adjustment and review of
such tariffs and methods to ensure the financial-economic balance of services and low-cost tariffs
through mechanisms that increase service efficiency and lead to the distribution of productivity
gains to society; and
(cid:131) the approval, oversight and regulation (including tariff issues) of the sewage treatment and
wholesale water supply agreements entered into between the state supplier and other suppliers,
pursuant to Article 12 of the Basic Sanitation Law.
With respect to municipal basic sanitation, the ARSESP oversees and regulates services (including
tariff issues) that have been delegated by municipalities to the State as a result of cooperation agreements,
that authorize program agreements between the municipalities and us for as long as it is convenient to the
municipality’s public interest.
For its services, the ARSESP charges 0.50% of the annual total invoice from sales and services
(excluding revenues relating to the construction of concession infrastructure) of the municipality. This
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fee is collected from municipalities that have a signed program agreement with us and the municipalities
located in the metropolitan regions.
In connection with the scope of our services, Supplementary Law No. 1,025/2007 expanded the
range of services that we can render, with the inclusion of urban rainwater drainage and management,
urban cleaning and solid waste management, as well as the operation of power generation, storage,
conservation and sales activities, for our own or third-party use.
In addition, the rules simplified the process for the expansion of our business in Brazil and abroad,
authorizing us:
(cid:131) to participate in the controlling block or the capital of other companies;
(cid:131) to create subsidiaries, which may become majority or minority shareholders in other companies;
and
(cid:131) to establish partnerships with national or foreign companies, including other state or municipal
basic sanitation companies in order to expand our activities, share technology and expand
investments related to basic sanitation services.
Public-Private Partnerships
The PPP is a form of agreement with the public administration used for the concession of services to
private enterprises, as well as for construction works coupled with the provision of services. PPPs are
regulated by the State of São Paulo through Law No. 11,688, which was enacted on May 19, 2004. PPPs
may be used for: (i) implantation, expansion, improvement, reform, maintenance, or management of
public infrastructure; (ii) provision of public services; and (iii) exploitation of public assets and non-
material rights belonging to the State.
Payment is conditional upon performance. The payment may be collected through: (i) tariffs paid by
users; (ii) use of resources from budget; (iii) assignment of credits belonging to the State; (iv) transfer of
rights related to the commercial exploitation of public assets; (v) paper of assets; (vi) paper from public
debts; and (vii) other revenues.
In our case, payment is conditional upon performance and is collected through the use of resources
from the budget.
Public Financing
In January 2007, the President of Brazil announced a new Growth Acceleration Plan, known as the
“PAC”, which includes major investments in infrastructure services, including the provision of water and
sewage, housing, as well as highways, airports, ports and energy services, that would benefit the poor
population of Brazil. PAC calls for a total investment of R$504.0 billion through 2010, including a
R$40.0 billion investment in the sanitation sector. The majority of the investment of the PAC would be
provided by State-owned companies and the private sector, while the rest would come from the federal
government. Of the amounts dedicated to the sanitation sector, we have obtained various loans from the
BNDES and Caixa Econômica Federal totaling R$2.8 billion, the proceeds of which are being used to
fund various projects. See “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Liquidity and
Capital Resources—Indebtedness Financing.”
Public Bidding Procedures
Pursuant to the Federal Public Bidding Law, the public bid process commences with publication by
the granting authority in a federal, state or municipal official newspaper, as the case may be, and another
leading Brazilian newspaper. The publication announces that the granting authority will carry out a
public bidding contest pursuant to provisions set forth in an edital (invitation to bid). The invitation to
bid must specify, among other terms: (i) the purpose, duration and goals of the bid; (ii) the participation
of bidders, either individually or forming a consortium; (iii) a description of the qualifications required
for adequate performance of the services covered by the bid; (iv) the deadlines for the submission of the
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bids; (v) the criteria used for the selection of the winning bidder; and (vi) a list of the documents required
to establish the bidder’s technical, financial and legal capabilities.
The invitation to bid is binding on the granting authority. Bidders may submit their proposals either
individually or in consortia, as provided for in the invitation to bid. After receiving proposals, the
granting authority will evaluate each proposal according to the following criteria, which must have been
set forth in the invitation to bid:
(cid:131)
the technical quality of the proposal;
(cid:131) lowest cost or lowest public service tariff offered;
(cid:131) a combination of the criteria above; or
(cid:131) the largest amount offered in consideration for the concession.
The provisions of State Law No. 6,544 of November 2, 1989, as amended, or the State Public
Bidding Law, parallel the provisions of the Federal Public Bidding Law. The Federal and State bidding
laws will apply to us in the event that we seek to secure new concessions. Moreover, these bidding laws
currently apply to us with respect to obtaining goods and services from third parties for our business
operations or in connection with our capital expenditure program, in each case subject to certain
exceptions.
Water Usage
State law establishes the basic principles governing the use of water resources in the State of São
Paulo in accordance with the State constitution. These principles include:
(cid:131) rational utilization of water resources, ensuring that its primary use is to supply water to the
population;
(cid:131) optimizing the economic and social benefits resulting from the use of water resources;
(cid:131) protection of water resources against actions which could compromise current and future use;
(cid:131) defense against critical hydrological events which could cause risk to the health and safety of the
population or economic and social losses;
(cid:131) development of hydro-transportation for economic benefit;
(cid:131) development of permanent programs of conservation and protection of underground water
against pollution and excessive exploitation; and
(cid:131) prevention of soil erosion in urban and rural areas, with a view to protecting against physical
pollution and silting of water resources.
Under State law, implementation of any project that involves the use of surface or underground water
requires prior authorization or licensing from the competent government authority. In order to implement
these principles, authorizations granting a right of use are required from the relevant public authority for
water usage (whether for collection, release of effluents or otherwise), modification of the regime and
modification of the quality or the quantity of the existing water. In the case of rivers under the federal
government’s domain (rivers crossing more than one state), ANA is the public authority which grants the
authorization. With respect to the rivers under a state’s domain, the applicable state authority has
jurisdiction to grant the right of use. In the State of São Paulo, DAEE is the public authority responsible
for granting such authorizations. DAEE has, as its objectives, establishing (i) a policy for the use of water
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resources with a view to developing the water business of the State, and (ii) plans, studies and projects
related to the use of water resources, directly or by means of agreements with third parties.
Our main operating units have been granted water usage rights; however, we also have several
operating units where water grants are not fully in place. To help obtain the remaining water grants, we
have established a corporate program for the legalization and maintenance of grants.
In July 2000, ANA was established to develop the National System for Water Resources
Management. According to existing law, the hydrographic basins committees are authorized to charge
users, such as us, for the abstraction of water from, or dumping of sewage into, water bodies controlled by
these agencies. Since 2003 and as of December 31, 2011, we have paid R$93.3 million to ANA and the
State Secretariat for the Environment (Secretaria do Estado do Meio Ambiente), and these agencies have
used these amounts to pay for expenses related to the National and the State Systems for the Management
of Water Resources (Sistema Nacional e Sistema Estadual de Gerenciamento de Recursos Hídricos) and
principally to sponsor studies, programs, projects and constructions provided for in the Water Basin Plan
(Plano de Bacia). Resources for these projects may be loaned or provided to governmental agencies and
corporations, including us, for use in projects related to the conservation and recovery of water resources.
State Law No. 12,183, which was enacted on December 29, 2005, established the basis for charging
for the use of the water resources under the domain of the State of São Paulo. To apply such charging,
the law provides for, among other provisions, the formulation of criteria by the basin committees, the
creation of basin agencies and the organization of a registered list of water resource users. The basin
committee’s proposals regarding the criteria to calculate the amounts to be charged at each basin must be
approved by the State Water Resource Council, and formalized by a decree issued by the State Governor.
Water Quality
Administrative Rule No. 2,914/2011, issued by the Ministry of Health of the federal government,
provides the standards for potable water for human consumption in Brazil. This rule is similar to the U.S.
Safe Drinking Water Act and the regulations enacted by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
which establishes rules for sampling and limits related to substances that are potentially hazardous to
human health.
In compliance with Brazilian law, the physical-chemical, organic and bacteriological analyses carried
out for water quality control follow the methodologies of the Standard Methods for Water and
Wastewater (21st edition) of the American Water Works Association.
Decree No. 5,440/2005 provides that the quality of water must be disclosed to consumers. We have
been complying with this regulation by publishing the required information in monthly bills and annual
reports delivered to all consumers that we serve.
Environmental Regulation
The implementation and operation of water and sewage systems are subject to strict federal, state and
municipal laws and regulations on environmental and water-resource protection. The National
Environmental Council (Conselho Nacional de Meio Ambiental), or the CONAMA, is the federal agency
responsible for the regulation of potentially polluting activities. In the State of São Paulo, the Companhia
Ambiental do Estado de São Paulo, or CETESB, is the governmental entity responsible for the control,
supervision, monitoring and licensing of polluting activities, pursuant to State Law No. 997 of 1976 and
State Law No. 13,542 of 2009. The CETESB regulates the control of environmental pollutants.
The control and environmental planning instruments are defined by several legal instruments, such as
State Law No. 997/1976, which regulates the environmental pollution control; the CONAMA Resolution
No. 05/1988, which requires licensing of sanitation projects that cause significant alterations to the
environment; the CONAMA Resolution No. 237/1997, which regulates (i) environmental licenses, (ii) the
federal, state and local jurisdiction over environmental issues, (iii) the list of activities subject to
licensing; and (iv) environmental impact studies and reports; State Decree No. 47,400/2002 and related
articles from State Law No. 9,509/1997 regarding environmental licensing; and State Decree No.
8,468/76, the CONAMA Resolution No. 357/2005, the CONAMA Resolution No. 397/08 and the
CONAMA Resolution No. 430/11 and the granting of rights for using and interfering with water
resources (Portaria Departamento de Águas e Energia Elétrica 717/96). Projects with significant
environmental impact are subject to specific studies prepared by multidisciplinary teams that present a
64
series of recommendations focused on minimizing the environmental impact. These studies are then
submitted for analysis and approval by the government authorities. The licensing process is composed of
three stages, including the following licenses:
(cid:131) preliminary license – granted in the planning stage, approving the location and concept and
attesting to the project’s environmental feasibility;
(cid:131) installation license – authorizing the beginning of works for the installation of the project, subject
to compliance with approved plans, programs and projects, including environmental control
measures and other necessary technical requirements; and
(cid:131) operation license – authorizing the operation of a unit or activity, subject to compliance with the
technical requirements contained in the installation license.
We have established a program (Programa Corporativo de Manutenção e Regularização de
Licenciamento Ambiental) to obtain all necessary licenses in an effort to bring us into full compliance
with environmental regulations within five years. As of the date of this annual report, we were not in
possession of all licenses required in connection with our operations. Our failure to obtain such licenses
may result in the imposition of fines and penalties. With respect to new operations, feasibility and
environmental compliance are carried out throughout the project.
Sewage Requirements
State law sets forth regulations regarding pollution control and environmental preservation in the
State of São Paulo. State law establishes the conditions and limitations for waste discharge that impacts
water, air and soil. According to this law, in areas in which there is a public sewage system, all effluents
of a “polluting source” must be discharged to such system. It is the responsibility of the polluting source
to connect itself to the public sewage system. All effluents to be discharged are required to meet the
standards and conditions established by the applicable environmental law, which allows such effluents to
be treated by our treatment facilities and discharged in an environmentally safe manner. Effluents that do
not comply with such criteria are prohibited from being discharged into the public sewage system. State
legislation also establishes that liquid effluents, except those related to basic sanitation, be subjected to
pre-treatment so that they meet the required mandatory levels before being discharged into the public
sewage system. National sanitation guidelines are also established in Article 45 of Federal Law No.
11,455/2007.
The CETESB is authorized under State law to monitor discharges of pollutants into the environment
and to enforce the requirements of State law. The CETESB is responsible for issuing preliminary
installation and operation licenses granted to the pollution sources, including sewage treatment facilities.
The CETESB also regulates the discharge of effluents into water bodies and must approve all of our
treatment facilities in accordance with federal and state regulations. State and federal water resource
legislation establish the charging of fees for the discharge of treated effluents into water bodies. This
provision is already in force in relation to some water basins, and is in different stages of implementation
in remaining basins. See “—Government Regulation—Water Usage.”
Governmental Restrictions on Incurrence of Debt
On June 30, 1998, the CMN issued Resolution No. 2,515/98 amending certain conditions that must
be observed with respect to the external credit operations (i.e., foreign currency borrowings) of states, the
Federal District of Brasilia, municipalities and their respective autarquias (agencies), foundations and
non-financial companies, including us. This resolution provides, among other things, that, with certain
exceptions applicable to the importation of goods and services:
(cid:131) the proceeds of external credit operations must be exclusively used to refinance outstanding
financial obligations of the borrower, with preference given to those obligations that have a higher
cost and a shorter term, and, until used for such purposes, the proceeds shall remain deposited, as
directed by the Central Bank, in a pledged account; and
65
(cid:131) the total amount of the contractual obligation must be subject to monthly deposits in a pledged
account, equal to the total debt service obligation, including principal and interest, divided by the
number of months that the obligation is to be outstanding.
The CMN resolution further provides that the requirements described above do not apply to financing
transactions involving multilateral or official organizations such as the International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development, or IBRD, the IADB or the JICA. The Central Bank regulation
implementing this resolution provides, among other things, that the account referred to in the first bullet
point above must be an account opened in a federal financial institution, which is to hold such funds until
released for the purpose of refinancing outstanding obligations of the borrower. The Central Bank
regulation further provides that the account described in the second bullet point above must be an escrow
account to be opened in a federal financial institution and to secure the payment of principal and interest
on the external debt.
Our foreign currency-denominated transactions are also subject to the approval of the National
Secretariat of Treasury (Secretaria do Tesouro Nacional) and the Central Bank. After reviewing the
financial terms and conditions of the transaction, the National Secretariat of Treasury and the Central
Bank will issue an approval for the closing of the foreign exchange transaction relating to the entry of the
funds into Brazil and, following such entry and at our request, an electronic certificate of registration
through which all scheduled payments of principal, interest and expenses will be remitted by us. The
electronic certificate of registration grants the borrower access to the market for foreign exchange.
Lending Limits of Brazilian Financial Institutions
The CMN Resolution No. 2,827 of March 30, 2001, as amended, limits the amount that Brazilian
financial institutions may lend to public sector companies, such as us. Financing of projects which are
put up for international bid and any financing in reais provided to the Brazilian counterpart of such
international bids are excluded from these limits.
Scope of Business
State Law No. 12,292, dated of March 2, 2006, amended State Law No. 119, dated of June 29, 1973,
which created our Company, authorizes us to provide water and sewage services outside São Paulo (in
other states of Brazil and other countries). This law also authorizes us to own interests in other public or
private-public companies and Brazilian or international consortiums. In addition, this law permitted us to
incorporate subsidiaries and enter into a partnership with or acquire interests in a private company with a
corporate purpose related to the sanitation business.
C. Organizational structure
Not applicable.
D. Property, Plant and Equipment
Our principal property, plant and equipment comprise administrative facilities which are stated at
historical costs less depreciation. The reservoirs, water treatment facilities, water distribution networks
consisting of water pipes, water mains, water connections and water meters, sewage treatment facilities,
and sewage collection networks consisting of sewer lines and sewage connections are recorded as
intangible assets (concession assets). As of December 31, 2011, we operated through 66,389 kilometers
of water pipes and mains and 45,073 kilometers of sewer lines. As of that same date, we operated 212
water treatment facilities and 490 sewage treatment facilities, as well as 16 water quality control
laboratories.
We own our headquarters building and all other major administrative buildings. We have pledged
some of our properties as collateral to the federal government in connection with a long-term financing
transaction we have entered into with the IBRD that was guaranteed by the federal government. We have
also pledged part of our assets in the amount of R$249.0 million as collateral as of December 31, 2011,
with respect to our indebtedness under the Special Program for Payment of Federal and Social Security
Related Taxes in Installments (Programa de Parcelamento Especial para Impostos Federais e
Previdenciários), or PAES program.
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As of December 31, 2011, the total net book value of our property, plant and equipment and
intangible assets (including concession assets) was R$20,498.1 million.
All of our material properties are located in the State of São Paulo.
ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
The following management’s discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations
should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in
this annual report. The consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this annual report have
been prepared in compliance with IFRS as issued by the IASB. This annual report contains forward-
looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from
those discussed in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, without
limitation, those set forth in “Risk Factors.”
In the following discussion, references to increases or decreases in any period are made by
comparison with the corresponding prior period, except as the context otherwise indicates.
A. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects
Overview
As of December 31, 2011, we operated water and sewage systems in the State of São Paulo,
including in the city of São Paulo, Brazil’s largest city, and in 363 municipalities in the State of São
Paulo, which represented 56.3% of all municipalities in the State. We also provided water services on a
wholesale basis to six municipalities located in the São Paulo metropolitan region and to the municipality
of Sumaré in which we did not operate water systems.
The São Paulo metropolitan region, which includes the city of São Paulo, is our most important
service region. With a total population of approximately 20.4 million, the São Paulo metropolitan region
accounted for 75.6%, 74.5% and 73.9% of our gross revenue from sales and services in 2009, 2010 and
2011 (excluding revenues relating to the construction of concession infrastructure), respectively. 60.6%
of the concession intangible assets reflected on our balance sheet as of December 31, 2011 was located in
this region. In an effort to respond to demand in the São Paulo metropolitan region and because the
region represents the principal opportunity to increase our net revenue from sales and services, we have
concentrated a major portion of our capital expenditure program to expand the water and sewage systems
and to increase and protect water sources in this region. Our capital expenditure program is our most
significant liquidity and capital resource requirement.
Factors Affecting Our Results of Operations
Our results of operations and financial condition are generally affected by our ability to raise tariffs,
general economic conditions in Brazil and, in some previous periods, meteorological conditions.
In 2008, our net income was strongly affected by the global financial and economic crisis, which
began in 2008 and whose effects were still present in 2009, resulted in a depreciation of the Brazilian
real against the U.S. dollar, which adversely affected our obligations denominated in foreign currency.
In order to ensure its economic and financial strength, we have been working on increasing our
efficiency and productivity gains. For this reason, we have attempted to reduce costs. In 2009, we
decreased our staff by 9.3% pursuant to an Agreement for the Adjustment of Conduct (Termo de
Ajustamento de Conduta), or TAC, with the State Public Attorney’s Office (Ministério Público
Estadual). Pursuant to the TAC, we laid off retirees who were still working for us and laid off employees
representing approximately 2% of our workforce. Our results of operations for the 2009, 2010 and 2011
fiscal years were also affected by a provision for severance payments in the amount of R$146.6 million
for employees who resigned in 2009, R$19.0 million for employees who resigned in 2010 and R$47.0
million for employees who resigned in 2011.
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In 2011, our costs and expenses increased 15.7% compared to a decrease of 25% in our net income.
In 2011, the volume invoiced increased 3.1% compared to 2010. The other increases are mainly related to
depreciation and amortization, wages, the agreement with São Paulo and credits write-off, which amount
to R$216.2 million, R$405.5 million, R$166.4 million and R$112.1 million, respectively.
Effects of Tariff Increases
Our results of operations and financial condition are highly dependent upon our ability to increase
tariffs for our water and sewage services. Since the enactment of the Basic Sanitation Law in 2007, as a
general rule, regulatory agencies will be responsible for setting, adjusting and reviewing tariffs, taking
into consideration, among other factors, the following:
(cid:131) political considerations arising from our status as a State-controlled company;
(cid:131) anti-inflation measures enacted by the federal government from time to time; and
(cid:131) when necessary, the readjustment to maintain the original balance between each party’s
obligation and economic gain (equilíbrio econômico-financeiro) under the agreement.
Readjustment of our tariffs continues to be set annually and depend on the parameters established by
the Basic Sanitation Law and the ARSESP. The guidelines also establish procedural steps and the terms
for annual adjustments. The annual adjustments must be announced 30 days prior to the effective date of
the new tariffs, which take effect in September and remain in place for a period of at least 12 months. See
“4.B. Business Overview—Tariffs.”
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the percentage increase of our tariffs, as
compared to three inflation indexes:
Year ended December 31,
2010
2011
2009
Increase in average tariff(1)
Inflation – IPC – FIPE
Inflation – IPCA
Inflation – IGP-M
__________________
(1) Since 2007, tariff readjustments have taken effect in September, one month after the readjustment announcement.
Sources: Central Bank, Fundação Getulio Vargas, or FGV, and Fundação Instituto de Pesquisas Econômicas.
4.1%
6.4%
5.9%
11.3%
4.4%
3.7%
4.3%
(1.7)%
6.8%
5.8%
6.5%
5.1%
Effects of Brazilian Economic Conditions
As a company with all of its operations in Brazil, our results of operations and financial condition are
affected by general economic conditions in Brazil, particularly by exchange rate fluctuations, inflation
rates and interest rate levels. For example, the general performance of the Brazilian economy affects our
cost of capital and inflation affects our costs and margins. The Brazilian economic environment has been
characterized by significant variations in economic growth rates.
General Economic Conditions
The year 2008 was characterized by the worsening of the global financial and economic crisis. As a
result, the real depreciated by 32.0% against the U.S. dollar in 2008. Nonetheless, at December 31, 2008,
Brazil had R$206.8 billion in currency reserves and a trade surplus of R$24.8 billion. The average
unemployment rate in Brazil’s principal metropolitan regions was 6.8% in 2009. The crisis’ main effect
on the Brazilian economy was a decline in expectations for economic activity in 2009 and, to a lesser
extent, in 2010. The year of 2011 was marked by the economic crises in the Euro zone. In Brazil, there
was a depreciation of 12.6% of the Brazilian real against the US dollar and Brazilian GDP increased by
2.7%.
In 2009, Brazilian GDP decreased 0.2% in comparison with 2008. Nonetheless, at that same year
Brazil had US$239.1 billion in currency reserves and its trade surplus was US$25.3 billion. The average
unemployment rate in Brazil’s principal metropolitan regions remained stable at 6.8% in 2009.
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In 2010, Brazilian GDP increased 7.5% in comparison with 2009. At that same year, Brazil had
US$288.6 billion in currency reserves and its trade surplus was US$20.3 billion. The average
unemployment rate in Brazil’s principal metropolitan regions was 6.7% in 2010.
In 2011, Brazilian GDP increased 2.7% in comparison with 2010. At that same year, Brazil had
US$352 billion in currency reserves and its trade surplus was US$29.8 billion. The average
unemployment rate in Brazil’s principal metropolitan regions was 6% in 2011.
Interest Rates
High domestic interest rates result in increases in our financial expenses and also negatively affect
our ability to obtain financing, on a cost-effective basis, in the domestic capital and lending markets. As a
result, we may continue to require substantial amounts of foreign currency-denominated indebtedness in
order to satisfy our liquidity and funding requirements, which may increase our exposure to exchange rate
fluctuations, as discussed below.
The official interest rate set by the Central Bank, the SELIC overnight rate, was 13.66% as of
December 31, 2008. In 2009, in order to boost the economy, the Central Bank reduced the official
interest rate significantly, reaching 8.65% as of December 31, 2009. In 2010, the Central Bank increased
interest rates, and the official interest rate, as defined by the SELIC overnight rate target, was 10.66% as
of December 31, 2010. As of December 31, 2011, the SELIC overnight rate, was 10.91%. We have not
utilized any derivative financial instruments or any hedging instruments to mitigate interest rate
fluctuations. We do, however, continually monitor market interest rates in order to evaluate the possible
need to refinance our debt.
Inflation
Inflation affects our financial performance by increasing our costs of services rendered and operating
expenses. In addition, all of our real-denominated debt is indexed to take into account the effects of
inflation. Most of our real-denominated debt provides for inflation-based increases in the respective
principal amounts of that indebtedness, which are determined by reference to the daily government
reference interest rate (Taxa Referencial), or TR, plus an agreed margin. We cannot assure you that our
tariffs will be increased, in future periods, to offset, in full or in part, the effects of inflation.
Currency Exchange Rates
We had total foreign currency-denominated indebtedness of R$3,053.4 million as of December 31,
2011, of which R$189.4 million relates to our short-term foreign currency-denominated obligations. In
the event of significant devaluations of the real in relation to the U.S. dollar or other currencies, the cost
of servicing our foreign currency-denominated obligations would increase as measured in reais,
particularly as our tariff and other revenue are based solely in reais. In addition, any significant
devaluation of the real will increase our financial expenses as a result of foreign exchange losses that we
must record. For example, the 32.0% devaluation of the real in 2008 increased our financial expenses
and negatively affected our overall results of operations for the year. In contrast, the 25.5% appreciation
of the real against the U.S. dollar in 2009 led to a foreign exchange gain of R$528.4 million. In 2010, the
4.3% appreciation of the real against the U.S. dollar led to a foreign exchange gain of R$66.1 million. In
2011, the 12.6% depreciation of the real against the U.S. dollar led to a foreign exchange loss of R$382.3
million.
We manage our indebtedness portfolio closely to decrease the cost of servicing our indebtedness as a
whole and our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations. We do not speculate in foreign currencies, and we
do not have any exposure to derivatives tied to foreign currencies.
The following table shows the fluctuation of the real against the U.S. dollar, the period-end exchange
rates and average exchange rates as of or for the periods indicated:
Depreciation (appreciation) of the real versus U.S. dollar
Period-end exchange rate – US$1.00
Average exchange rate – US$1.00(1)
(1) Represents the average for period indicated.
Source: Central Bank.
69
Year ended December 31,
2010
2011
2009
(25.5)%
R$1.741
R$1.994
(4.3)%
R$1.666
R$1.759
12.6%
R$1.876
R$1.675
From time to time, we may enter into forward exchange transactions to mitigate foreign currency
exposure. In addition, we have monitored, overseen and controlled our foreign currency-denominated
indebtedness, taking advantage of market opportunities to improve the profile of our indebtedness and
reduce our costs. As of December 31, 2011, we had no outstanding forward exchange transactions.
Effects of Climate Change (Drought and Intense Rainfalls)
We operate in a region of Brazil that has been prone to droughts, although historically droughts have
not impacted all of our water supply systems equally. Brazil experienced a prolonged and severe drought
during 2000 and 2001. As a result, from mid-June to mid-September of 2000, we rationed water in the
south of the São Paulo metropolitan region, affecting approximately 3.5 million people, or approximately
20% of the total population of this region, which reduced our total water production by approximately
8%. From April 2001 through January 2002 and from October to December 2003, we also rationed water
in certain regions of the São Paulo metropolitan region, but on a much smaller scale. This rationing on a
smaller scale caused our total water production volume to be reduced by only 0.8%. The effects of the
drought continued to affect our systems through 2004. Due to the water usage reduction bonus program
that we operated from March to September 2004, when rainfall was extremely low and our reservoirs
were at correspondingly low levels, and the return to normal rainfall levels that occurred throughout 2004
and early 2005, the conditions of our reservoirs improved in 2005. In 2006, rainfall was sufficient to
enable us to maintain our reservoirs at levels reflecting the historic average. In 2007 and 2008, rainfall
exceeded the levels of previous years, increasing the volume of water held in our reservoirs and thereby
providing a cushion to meet demand. In 2009, rainfall levels were higher than the historic average and by
the end of 2009, our reservoirs had a utilization rate of 87.0%, compared to a 50.0% and 41.0% utilization
as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, respectively. In 2011, rainfall levels were slightly lower than
historical averages and occurred during unusual times of year. As of December 31, 2011, our reservoirs
had a utilization rate of 62.8%, compared to a 74.4% utilization as of December 31, 2010.
Critical Accounting Estimates and Assumptions
We make estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will,
by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a
significant risk of causing material adjustment to the carrying amount of our assets and liabilities within
the next financial year are addressed below.
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
We record an allowance for doubtful accounts in an amount that our management considers sufficient
to cover probable losses, based on an analysis of customer accounts receivable, in accordance with the
accounting policy stated in Note 2.8 to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended
December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011. Provisions for the allowance for doubtful accounts are included in
selling expenses, net of recoveries. The net charge to this allowance was R$117.4 million, R$232.5
million and R$120.4 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
The methodology for determining the allowance for doubtful accounts requires significant estimates,
considering a number of factors, including historical collection experience, current economic trends,
estimates of forecast write-offs, the aging of the accounts receivable portfolio and other factors. While
we believe that the estimates used are reasonable, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
In accordance with Brazilian GAAP, management estimates the fair value of financial instruments
using information available in the market and appropriate estimating methodologies. Management uses
considerable personal judgment to interpret the information available in the market when developing
estimates of fair value. Therefore, the estimates presented may not necessarily indicate the value that
would be obtained for the financial instruments if they were realized on the market. The use of different
market assumptions and/or estimating methodologies could have a material effect on the estimated fair
values.
70
Indemnities Receivable
Indemnities receivable is a long-term asset representing amounts receivable from the municipalities
of Diadema and Mauá as indemnification for their unilateral termination of our water and sewage service
concessions in 1995. As of each of December 31, 2009 and 2010, this asset amounted to R$146.2
million. In 2011, the Company decided to record a provision for losses related to the amount receivable
from Mauá due to the uncertainty and recognized only the amount receivable from Diadema, since there
is an ongoing negotiation. The amount receivable from Diadema amounted as of December 31, 2011, to
R$60.3 million.
Prior to their termination, pursuant to our concession contracts, we invested in the construction of
water and sewage systems in these municipalities to meet our concession service commitments. Upon the
unilateral termination of the concessions by the municipalities of Diadema and Mauá, our assets were
impounded by the municipal authorities, which took on the responsibility of providing water and sewage
services in these areas. At that time, we reclassified our property, plant and equipment balances relating
to the impounded assets as long-term assets (indemnities receivable) and recorded impairment charges to
reduce the carrying value of the assets to the estimated recoverable amounts which we had contractually
agreed as fair compensation with these municipal authorities.
Our rights to recover these amounts are being disputed by the municipalities, and no amounts have
been received to date. Based on the advice of legal counsel, we continue to believe that we have the right
to receive those amounts, and we continue to monitor the status of the legal proceedings. The ultimate
amounts to be received however, if any, will most likely be subject to a final court decision. Therefore,
actual amounts received could differ from those recorded. For more information, see Note 9 to our
consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.
Valuation of Long-Lived Assets
As of December 31, 2011, we had property, plant and equipment and intangible assets of R$356.5
million and R$20,141.7 million, respectively.
We review long-lived assets, primarily buildings, water and sewage system assets and concession
intangible assets to be held and used in our business, for the purpose of determining and measuring
impairment on a recurring basis or when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying
value of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. According to IFRS, we evaluate possible
impairment by determining whether projected future operating income is sufficient to absorb the
depreciation or amortization of long-lived assets, within the context of the balance sheet as a whole.
Studies supporting the write-offs for obsolescence and abandonment of projects are conducted in the
accounting period of the write-offs based on discounted cash flow projections, and approved by our board
of directors. We monitor the carrying value of our property, plant and equipment on an on-going basis
and adjust the net book value to assure future projected operations will be sufficient to recover the
carrying value of the assets.
In evaluating impairment of our long-lived assets, we make significant assumptions and estimates
regarding matters that are inherently uncertain, including projections of future operating income and cash
flows, future growth rates and the remaining useful lives of the assets, among other factors. In addition,
projections are computed over an extended period of time, which subjects those assumptions and
estimates to an even larger degree of uncertainty. While we believe that the estimates we use are
reasonable, the use of different assumptions could materially affect our valuations.
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Amortization is calculated when the intangible assets are available for use in the necessary condition
established by the Company.
Amortization reflects the period over the expected future economic benefits generated by the
intangible asset and can be the period of the contract, depending on the contract. The utilization of the
assets is related to the useful life of the assets constructed by the Company and amortization of the
intangible assets is considered in the calculation of the tariff.
71
Amortization of the intangible assets finishes when the asset is totally consumed or is alienated, not
being considered in the calculation of the tariff any longer, whichever occurs first.
Depreciation of Property, Plant and Equipment
Depreciation of our property, plant and equipment, primarily buildings, water and sewage service and
other assets acquired, is provided using the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the
underlying assets. While we believe that our estimates of current remaining estimated lives is reasonable,
the use of different assumptions and estimates and changes in future circumstances, could affect the
remaining useful lives of our asset, which could have a significant impact on our results of operations in
the future.
Provision for Contingencies
tax matters, amounting
As of December 31, 2011, we were party to judicial and administrative proceedings, relating to civil,
environmental and
the amount of
R$120.7 million related to court deposits) with respect to which we considered the risk of loss as
probable. As of that date, proceedings with respect to which we considered the risk of loss as possible
amounted to R$2,621.8 million, and those with respect to which we considered the risk of loss as remote
amounted to R$19,958.3 million.
to R$1,571.8 million (excluding
We are a party to a number of legal proceedings involving significant monetary claims. These legal
proceedings include, among other types, disputes with customers and suppliers and tax, labor, civil,
environmental and other proceedings. For a more detailed discussion of these legal proceedings, see Note
15 to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and
2011. We accrue for probable losses resulting from these claims and proceedings when we determine that
the likelihood that a loss has occurred is probable and the amount of such loss can be reasonably
estimated. Therefore, we are required to make judgments regarding future events for which we often seek
the advice of legal counsel. As a result of the significant judgment required in assessing and estimating
these provisions for contingencies, actual losses realized in future periods could differ significantly from
our estimates and could exceed the amounts which we have provisioned.
Pension Plans
The present value of the pension obligations depend on a number of factors that are determined on an
actuarial basis using a number of assumptions. The assumptions used in determining the net cost
(income) for pensions include the discount rate. Any changes in these assumptions will impact the
carrying amount of pension obligations.
We determine the appropriate discount rates at the end of each year, which is the interest rate that
should be used to determine the present value of estimated future cash outflows expected to be required to
settle the pension obligations.
Other key assumptions for pension obligations are based in part on current market conditions.
Additional information on the pension plans under Plan G0 and G1 is disclosed in Note 16.
Differences in actual experience or changes in assumptions could affect the carrying amount of
pension obligations and expenses recognized in our results.
Certain Transactions with Controlling Shareholder
Reimbursement Due from the State
Reimbursement due from the State for pensions paid represent supplementary pensions (Plan G0)
that we pay, on behalf of the State, to former employees of State-owned companies which merged to form
our Company. These amounts must be reimbursed to us by the State, as primary obligor.
In November 2008, we entered into the third amendment to the agreement with the State relating to
payments of pension benefits made by us on its behalf. The State acknowledged that it owed us an
outstanding balance of R$915.3 million as of September 30, 2008, relating to payments of pension
benefits made by us on its behalf. We provisionally accepted, but it is not recognized in our books, the
reservoirs in the Alto Tietê System as partial payment in the amount of R$696.3 million, subject to the
72
transfer of the property rights of these reservoirs to us. Since November 2008, the State has been paying
the remaining balance in the amount of R$219.0 million in 114 successive monthly installments. See
Note 8 to our consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010
and 2011 and “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions.”
Accounts Receivable from the State for Water and Sewage Services Rendered
Certain of these accounts receivable have been overdue for a long period, and we do not reserve
against such accounts receivable as we fully expect to recover these amounts and loss is not considered
probable. We have entered into agreements with the State with respect to these accounts receivable. For
further information on these agreements, see Note 8 to our consolidated financial statements as of and for
the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 and “Item 7. Major Shareholders and Related Party
Transactions.”
Use of Certain Assets Owned by the State
We currently use certain reservoirs in the Billings and Guarapiranga reservoirs which are owned
indirectly by the State. We currently do not pay any fees with respect to the use of these reservoirs.
However, we are responsible for maintaining and meeting the operating costs of these reservoirs. If these
facilities had not been made available for our use, we would have had to obtain water from more distant
sources, which would be more costly. The State does not incur operating costs on our behalf.
The arrangement for use of the Billings and Guarapiranga reservoirs is provided for through a grant
issued by the DAEE. We have a right to use these reservoirs so long as we remain responsible for
maintaining and meeting their operating costs.
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain items in our statement of operations,
each expressed as a percentage of net revenue from sales and services:
Net revenue from sales and services
Cost of sales and services
Gross profit
Selling expenses
Administrative expenses
Other operating income (expenses), net
Operating profit
Finance cost, net
Profit before income tax and social
contribution
Income tax and social contribution
Net income for the year
2011
Year ended December 31,
2010
(in millions of reais, except percentages)
100.0%
9,231.0
(59.3)% (5,194.5)
4,036.5
(712.9)
(653.2)
1.8
2,672.2
(379.4)
2,292.8
100.0% 9,941.6 100.0%
(56.3)% (6,031.1)
(60.7%)
43.7% 3,910.5
39.3%
(7.7)% (619.5)
(6.2%)
(7.1)% (846.6)
(8.5%)
(90.1)
(0.9%)
28.9% 2,354.3
23.7%
(4.1)% (633.6)
(6.4%)
24.8% 1,720.7
17.3%
40.7%
(7.1)%
(8.4)%
(0.5)%
24.7%
(0.1)%
24.6%
−
2009
8,579.5
(5,087.3)
3,492.2
(610.4)
(717.1)
(44.4)
2,120.3
(10.0)
2,110.3
(602.6)
1,507.7
(7.0)%
17.6%
(662.3)
1,630.5
(7.2)% (497.3)
17.7% 1,223.4
(5.0%)
12.3%
Year Ended December 31, 2011 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2010
Net Revenue from Sales and Services
Net revenue from sales and services increased by R$710.6 million, or 7.7%, to R$9,941.6 million in
2011 from R$9,231.0 million in 2010. This increase was principally due to the increase in tariff rates to
6.83% in September 2011 from 4.05% in September 2010 and the 3.1% increase in sales volume.
Cost of Sales and Services
The cost of sales and services increased by R$836.6 million, or 16.1%, to R$6,031.1 million in 2011
from R$5,194.5 million in 2010. As a percentage of net revenue from sales and services, cost of sales and
services increased to 60.7% in 2011 from 56.3% in 2010.
73
The increase in costs of sales and services was principally due to the following factors:
(cid:131) an increase of R$216.2 million, or 41.3%, as a result of our increased amortization expense
related to our intangible assets for the services contract entered into with the municipality of São
Paulo as well as to 99 expired or informal agreements, which are in the process of being
formalized as program agreements. During 2011, we had a full year of the amortization of
intangible assets related to the services contract entered into with the municipality of São Paulo in
2010 and relating to those 99 expired or informal agreements. Under the aforementioned
agreements, the related intangible assets generate greater amortization expense as they are
amortized to zero (instead of a residual guaranteed amount reimbursed by the granting
municipality at the end of the previous respective concession contracts). This increase is also due
to the beginning of operations in 2011 of sites that had previously been under construction;
(cid:131) an increase of R$198.9 million, or 20.2%, in salaries and related charges as a result of: (i) the
R$61.2 million adjustment in 2010 of actuarial calculation due to the migration of employees from
defined benefit plan to defined contribution plan “SabesprevMais”; (ii) an increase of R$18.1
million due to the payment of termination fees related to the terminated employees security fund
(“Fundo de Garantia por Tempo de Serviço” or “FGTS”) incurred as a result of increased layoffs
in 2011; (iii) 8% salary readjustments since May 2011, which had a total impact of R$81.3
million; and (iv) the increase of R$21.6 million from the 2011 Cost of Sales and Services figure
due to the higher expense relating to the profit sharing program as compared to 2010.
(cid:131) an increase of R$166.4 million, or 82.1%, in general expenses, mainly due to the R$158.8 million
provision (corresponding to 7.5% of the gross revenue of capital after deduction of COFINS and
PASEP) pursuant to the agreement with the municipality of São Paulo;
(cid:131) an increase of R$65.1 million, or 10.8%, in costs of outsourced services, mainly due to (i) water
and sewage systems maintenance, which amounted to R$16.9 million; (ii) the R$14.7 million
increase in the Alto Tietê PPP designated amount for the contract’s second year, and the initiation
of operations in September 2011; (iii) maintenance, in the amount of R$9.2 million, of water and
sewer networks and connections in order to minimize losses and meet project deadlines set forth
by the ARSESP; (iv) the transport of mud in the amount of R$7.1 million as a result of increased
demand for water treatment, which causes increased quantities of mud to be transported; (v) an
increase of R$6.3 million resulting from socio-environmental services established together with
the municipality of São Paulo; (vi) R$4.4 million in costs related to mail and telegrams for the
delivery of water bills in certain areas via post following judicial decisions; and (vii) vehicle
rentals in the amount of R$2.8 million as part of the second phase of the renovation of our fleet.
The increase in costs of outsourced services was partially offset by a decrease in telephone and
data transmission charges in the amount of R$5.7 million, mainly due to the execution of a
contract with Telecomunicações de São Paulo S.A. (“TELESP”), which involves landlines and
long-distance data transfers as well as corporate cellular phones at lower costs to us.
(cid:131) an increase of R$53.9 million, or 10.2%, in the cost of electric energy due to the increase in
consumption and higher energy tariffs.
(cid:131) an increase of R$18.3 million, or 13.4%, in water-treatment products, mainly due to: (i) an
increase of approximately 43% in the consumption of polyaluminium chloride, readjusted by
approximately 11%. This product was used principally in the Guaraú water treatment station in
place of aluminum sulfate, guaranteeing maximum outflow without compromising the quality of
the treated water. This increase was partially offset on R$2.0 million by the decrease of the use of
activated charcoal due to climate conditions, as well as due to the decelerated proliferation of
algae in the reservoirs of the Alto Tietê System and Guarapiranga/Billings.
(cid:131) an increase of R$12.4 million, or 9.1%, in product-related expenses, mainly in connection with the
maintenance of our water and sewer structure (in the amount of R$7.4 million) and with the
increased expenses with fuel and lubricants for vehicles (in the amount of R$1.8 million), resulted
74
from an increase of 22% in the fuel price and from the expansion of our vehicle fleet.
Gross Profit
As a result of the factors discussed above, gross profit decreased by R$126.0 million, or 3.1%, to
R$3,910.5 million in 2011 from R$4,036.5 million in 2010. As a percentage of net revenue from sales
and services, gross profit decreased to 39.3% in 2011 from 43.7% in 2010.
Selling Expenses
Selling expenses decreased by R$93.4 million, or 13.1%, to R$619.5 million in 2011 from R$712.9
million in 2010. As a percentage of net revenue from sales and services, selling expenses decreased to
6.2% in 2011 from 7.7% in 2010.
The decrease in selling expenses was primarily due to the following factors:
(cid:131) a decrease of R$112.1 million, or 48.2%, in credit write-offs, mainly as a result of additional
provisions established in 2010 of R$34.2 million related to private clients and R$139.1 million
related to public municipal entities (R$54.8 million of which related to the municipality of São
Paulo);
(cid:131) a decrease of R$14.1 million, or 6.5%, in expenses with outsourced services mainly related to the
agreement with municipality of São Paulo and the R$34.4 million decrease in the provision
established in 2011 for new services to be provided under that agreement, and a R$4.9 million
increase resulting from services provided to satisfy the schedule for implementing the Rationed
Water Use Program (“Programa de Uso Racional da Água” or “PURA”) in city schools. This
decrease was partially offset by the following increases: (i) R$11.1 million in billing services,
mainly resulting from new billing technology related to the reading of usage, issuance of bills and
delivering bills, in addition to an increase in the number of connections and adjustments of the
contracts in the metropolitan region of São Paulo; and (ii) expenses in the amount of R$3.3
million relating to services for the collection of credits.
(cid:131) an increase of R$19.1 million, or 10.4 %, in the personel salaries and related charges as a result of:
(i) the R$ 9.3 million adjustment in 2010 of the actuarial calculation due to the migration of
employees from defined benefit plan to defined contribution plan "Sabesprev Mais"; (ii) a R$ 1.4
million increase due to the payment of termination fees related to the terminated employees
security fund ("Fundo de Garantia por Tempo de Serviço") incurred as a result of increased
layoffs in 2011; (iii) 8% salary readjustments since may 2011, which had a total impact of R$ 3.9
million.
(cid:131) an increase of R$9.1 million, or 13.0%, in general expenses, mainly due to (i) water bills for
banking institutions in the amount of R$4.2 million; and (ii) the R$3.3 million increase in tax
provisions relating to the services rendered in the cities of São José dos Campos,
Pindamonhangaba and Botucatu, resulting from increased collection during 2011 as compared to
2010;
(cid:131) an increase of R$3.5 million, or 89.6%, in depreciation and amortization expenses, mainly due to
the adjustment in amortization of intangible assets in connection with the agreement with the
municipality of São Paulo.
Administrative Expenses
Administrative expenses increased by R$193.4 million, or 29.6%, to R$846.6 million in 2011 from
R$653.2 million in 2010. As a percentage of net revenue from sales and services, administrative
expenses increased to 8.5% in 2011 from 7.1% in 2010.
The increase in administrative expenses was primarily due to:
75
(cid:131) an increase of R$187.4 million, or 79.6%, in salaries and related charges, mainly due to (i) the
covering of actuarial liability in the amount of R$157.5 million related to the supplementary
pension plan (plan G0) of the State of São Paulo (based on the non-recurring actuarial calculation
performed on December 31, 2010); (ii) the cover of actuarial liability in the amount of R$22.2
million related to the supplementary pension plan (plan G0) of the State of São Paulo for 2011;
(iii) a R$3.0 million increase due to the payment of termination fees related to the terminated
employees security fund (“Fundo de Garantia por Tempo de Serviço” or “FGTS”) incurred as a
result of increased layoffs in 2011; and (iv) 8% salary readjustments since May 2011, which had
the total impact of R$9.1 million;
(cid:131) an increase of R$36.7 million, or 21.3%, in general expenses due to (i) the need for larger
contingency provisions in the amount of R$59.7 million, particularly in connection with
environmental issues in the municipalities of Guareí and Paraguaçu Paulista. This increase was
partially offset by the R$17.9 million provisioning made in 2010 for losses relating to third party
claims;
(cid:131) a decrease of R$24.8 million, or 16.5%, in services provided by third parties in connection with a
variety of matters, including: (i) a decrease of R$18.4 million in advertisement campaigns due to
the termination of certain advertisement agreements; (ii) a R$5.5 million decrease due to
reorganization and management performance related to the work of consultants and specialized
service providers;
(cid:131) a decrease of R$3.1 million, or 12.2%, in depreciation expenses due to the decreased immobilized
assets of the controlling shareholder.
Other Operating Income (Expenses), Net
Other operating income (expenses), net decreased by R$91.9 million in 2011, to R$90.1 million
expense in 2011 from R$1.8 million income in 2010. This increase was primarily due to the provision
made in the amount of R$85.9 million related to assets used for our concession in the municipality of
Mauá, and to the write-off of assets in the amount of R$35.3 million.
Finance Cost, Net
Finance cost, net, consists primarily of interest on our indebtedness and foreign exchange losses (or
gains) in respect of our indebtedness, offset partially by interest income on cash and cash equivalents and
inflation based indexation accruals, mainly relating to agreements entered into with some customers to
settle overdue accounts receivable.
Finance cost, net increased by R$254.2 million, or 67.0%, to R$633.6 million in 2011 from R$379.4
million in 2010. As a percentage of net revenues from sales and services, finance cost, net increased to
6.4% in 2011 from 4.1% in 2010.
The increase was principally due to:
(cid:131) an increase in foreign exchange loss related to loans and financing of R$448.5 million as a result
of the 12.6% depreciation of the real against the U.S. dollar in 2011, compared to an appreciation
of 4.3% of the real against the U.S. dollar in 2010;
(cid:131) a decrease of R$46.0 million in monetary indexation, mainly due to (i) a higher expense in 2010
amounting to R$20.0 million, due to the alteration of the unit price of our eleventh debentures
issuance between their issuance date and their effective offering date in 2010; (ii) the depreciation
of the real against the Japanese Yen upon the disbursement by Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA) of R$14.0 million in 2011; and (iv) a decrease in the volume of refinancing of debt
in 2011 as compared to 2010, amounting to a decrease of R$12.0 million; and
(cid:131) other monetary revisions relating to our contracts in the amount of R$41.2 million.
76
The increase in finance cost, net was partially offset by:
(cid:131) an increase of R$153.5 million in interest income and other financial income due to the
increase in our cash and cash equivalents;
(cid:131) a decrease of R$95.5 million in financial expenses relating to judicial proceedings as a result
of the lower interest income regarding the proceedings involving clients and service
providers in 2011; and
(cid:131) a decrease of R$33.6 million in interest expenses mainly due to the amortization of our
eighth and ninth debentures in June and October 2011, respectively.
Income before Income Taxes
As a result of the factors discussed above, income before income taxes decreased by R$572.1
million, or 24.9%, to R$1,720.7 million in 2011 from R$2,292.8 million in 2010. As a percentage of net
revenue from sales and services, our income before income taxes increased to 17.3% in 2011 from 24.8%
in 2010.
Income Taxes
Income taxes decreased by R$165.0 million, or 24.9%, to R$497.3 million in 2011 from R$662.3
million in 2010. The increase was primarily due to a decrease in taxable income in 2011.
Net Income
As a result of the factors discussed above, net income decreased to R$1,223.4 million in 2011 from
R$1,630.5 million in 2010. Net profit margin decreased to 12.3% in 2011 from 17.7% in 2010.
Year Ended December 31, 2010 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2009
Net Revenue from Sales and Services
Net revenue from sales and services increased by R$651.5 million, or 7.6%, to R$9,231.0 million in
2010 from R$8,579.5 million in 2009.
Net revenue from sales and services relating to water services increased by R$125.4 million, or 3.3%,
to R$3,942.9 million in 2010 from R$3,817.5 million in 2009. This increase was principally due to:
(cid:131) an average 3.8% increase in the volume of water invoiced 2010; and
(cid:131) the effect of the 4.43% tariff increase in September 2009, and the 4.1% tariff increase in
September 2010.
Net revenue from sales and services relating to sewage services increased by R$244.5 million, or
8.4%, to R$3,157.5 million in 2010 from R$2,913.0 million in 2009. This increase was principally due
to:
(cid:131) an average 4.5% increase in the volume of sewage services invoiced in 2010; and
(cid:131) the effects of the 4.43% tariff increase in September 2009 and the 4.1% tariff increase in
September 2010.
Gross revenue from construction increased by R$90.9 million, or 4.5%, to R$2,130.7 million in
2010 from R$2,039.8 million in 2009.
77
Cost of Sales and Services
The cost of sales and services increased by R$107.2 million, or 2.1%, to R$5,194.5 million in 2010
from R$5,087.3 million in 2009. As a percentage of net revenue from sales and services, cost of sales and
services decreased to 56.3% in 2010 from 59.3% in 2009.
The increase in costs of sales and services was principally due to the following factors:
(cid:131) an increase of R$157.6 million, or 349.3%, in general costs on the provision of water and sewage
services, of which R$167.2 million relates to a fee to the Fund of Environmental Sanitation and
Infrastructure of the municipality of São Paulo which had to be paid according to the terms of the
agreement with the State and the city of São Paulo executed on June 23, 2010. This fee represents
7.5% of the gross revenue of the São Paulo municipality as from the date of execution of the
agreement;
(cid:131) an increase of R$71.4 million in construction costs in 2010;
(cid:131) an increase of R$51.2 million, or 9.3%, in outsourced services, mainly due to (i) the maintenance
of water and sewage structure amounting to R$18.4 million, (ii) pavement and maintenance of
side-walks amounting to R$14.2 million, and (iii) transportation of water and mud amounting to
R$8.4 million; and
(cid:131) an increase of R$45.8 million, or 9.5%, in the electricity expense mainly due to (i) an increase of
5.2% in the electricity tariff, and (ii) an increase of 1.9% in the electricity consumption.
The increase in costs of sales and services was partially offset by:
(cid:131) a decrease of R$196.8 million, or 16.7%, in salaries and related charges, mainly due to (i) a
R$113.5 million decrease as a result of the reduction in our staff pursuant to the TAC, with the
State Public Attorney’s Office (Ministério Público Estadual). Pursuant to the TAC, we laid off
retirees who were still working for us and laid off approximately 2% of our workforce; (ii)
decrease in actuarial liability due to the migration from defined benefit plan to defined
contribution plan amounting to R$79.3 million and (iii) a decrease of R$13.6 million related to
adjustment in the profit sharing program for 2010;
(cid:131) a decrease of R$14.7 million, or 2.7%, in depreciation and amortization expenses.
Gross Profit
As a result of the factors discussed above, gross profit increased by R$544.3 million, or 15.6%, to
R$4,036.5 million in 2010 from R$3,492.2 million in 2009. As a percentage of net revenue from sales
and services, gross profit increased to 43.7% in 2010 from 40.7% in 2009.
Selling Expenses
Selling expenses increased by R$102.5 million, or 16.8%, to R$712.9 million in 2010 from R$610.4
million in 2009. As a percentage of net revenue from sales and services, selling expenses increased to
7.7% in 2010 from 7.1% in 2009.
The increase in selling expenses was primarily due to the following factors:
(cid:131) an increase of R$115.1 million, or 98.1%, in the allowance for doubtful accounts related to
municipal public entities; and
(cid:131) an increase of R$11.8 million, or 5.8%, in outsourced services expenses, principally due to (i) a
R$9.7 million provision related to future payment to the City Hall of São Paulo (Prefeitura
78
Municipal de São Paulo), or PMSP, pursuant to the agreement we entered into with PMSP on
June 23, 2010; (ii) R$9.4 million in billing services, mainly related to an increase in network
connections and the utilization of new technologies, which resulted in an increase in outsourcing
expenses; and (iii) R$4.7 million related to increase in fraud control expenses.
The increase in selling expenses was partially offset by a R$28.2 million, or 13.3%, decrease in
salaries and related charges in 2010, due mainly to: (i) the reduction in our staff pursuant to the TAC,
which resulted in a decrease of R$15.5 million in 2010; (ii) gain from the migration of employees from
defined benefit plan to defined contribution plan “SabesprevMais” amounting to R$13.3 million; and (iii)
R$13.8 million decrease resulting from the implementation of the PURA program.
Administrative Expenses
Administrative expenses decreased by R$63.9 million, or 8.9%, to R$653.2 million in 2010 from
R$717.1 million in 2009. As a percentage of net revenue from sales and services, administrative
expenses decreased to 7.1% in 2010 from 8.4% in 2009.
The decrease in administrative expenses was primarily due to:
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
a decrease of R$96.8 million, or 36.0%, in general expenses due to a reduction in
contingency provisions mainly related to customer claims in 2010;
a decrease of R$11.5 million in termination expenses resulting from the 2009 staff
reduction pursuant to the TAC; and
a decrease of R$13.9 million in actuarial calculation due to the migration of employees
from defined benefit plan to defined contribution plan “SabesprevMais.”
The decrease in administrative expenses was partially offset by:
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
an increase in actuarial liability related to the payment by us on behalf of the State of São
Paulo of pension plan (plan G0) amounting to R$31.7 million due to a decrease in the
discount rate from 6.6% to 6.0%;
an increase of R$19.2 million related to the deficit in defined benefit plan, paid to the
employees who migrated to the defined contribution plan “SabesprevMais.”
Other Operating Income (Expenses), Net
Other operating income (expenses), net increased to R$1.8 million income in 2010 from R$44.4
million expenses in 2009. The increase was due to the reclassification of the expenses related to the
pension plan paid by us on behalf of the State of São Paulo (plan G0), which had been recorded as other
operating expenses, net 2009, as administrative expenses in 2010.
Finance Cost, Net
Finance cost, net, consists primarily of interest on our indebtedness and foreign exchange losses (or
gains) in respect of our indebtedness, offset partially by interest income on cash and cash equivalents and
inflation based indexation accruals, mainly relating to agreements entered into with some customers to
settle overdue accounts receivable.
Finance cost, net increased by R$369.4 million, or 3,694.0%, to R$379.4 million in 2010 from
R$10.0 million in 2009. As a percentage of net revenues from sales and services, finance cost, net
increased to 4.1% in 2010 from 0.1% in 2009.
The increase was principally due to:
(cid:131) an increase in foreign exchange loss related to loans and financing of R$470.6 million as a result
of the 4.3% appreciation of the real against the U.S. dollar in 2010, compared to an appreciation
of 25.5% of the real against the U.S. dollar in 2009;
79
(cid:131) an increase in interest expenses of R$91.0 million due to the issuance of (i) our tenth, eleventh and
twelfth debentures in November 2009, March 2010 and July 2010, respectively; (ii) our fifth
promissory notes in August 2010; and
(cid:131) an increase of R$85.9 million in expenses from monetary indexation resulting mainly from the
increase in the IGP-M rate of 11.3% in 2010 compared to its decrease of 1.7% in 2009.
The increase in finance cost, net was partially offset by:
(cid:131) a decrease of R$158.7 million in expenses related to the adjustment for inflation of our provision
for contingency due to a decrease in the inflation rate;
(cid:131) an increase of R$65.2 million in financial income mainly due to (i) the renegotiation of debts with
certain municipalities, mainly Taubaté and Ferraz de Vasconcelos, and (ii) the adjustment for
inflation of court deposits; and
(cid:131) an increase of R$59.3 million in interest and other financial income due to the increase in cash and
cash equivalents.
Income before Income Taxes
As a result of the factors discussed above, income before income taxes increased by R$182.5 million,
or 8.6%, to R$2,292.8 million in 2010 from R$2,110.3 million in 2009. As a percentage of net revenue
from sales and services, our income before income taxes increased to 24.8% in 2010 from 24.6% in 2009.
Income Taxes
Income taxes increased by R$59.7 million, or 9.9%, to R$662.3 million in 2010 from R$602.6
million in 2009. The increase was primarily due to the increase in our income before income taxes in
2010.
Net Income
As a result of the factors discussed above, net income increased by R$122.8 million, or 8.1%, to
R$1,630.5 million in 2010 from R$1,507.7 million in 2009.
B. Liquidity and Capital Resources
Capital Sources
In order to satisfy our liquidity and capital requirements, we have primarily relied on cash provided
by operating activities, borrowings from Brazilian federal and state governmental financial institutions,
and financing from multilateral organizations and from domestic and international capital markets. As of
December 31, 2011, we had R$2,150.0 million of cash and cash equivalents. Outstanding short-term
indebtedness was R$1,630.0 million as of December 31, 2011, of which R$189.4 million was
denominated in foreign currency. Long-term indebtedness was R$6,966.3 million as of December 31,
2011, of which R$2,864.0 million consisted of foreign currency-denominated obligations. We believe
that we have sufficient sources of liquidity and capital to meet our liquidity and capital requirements for
the next few years, in light of our current financial position and our expected cash generated by operating
activities.
Cash Provided by Operating Activities
Cash provided by operating activities is the single largest source of our liquidity and capital
resources, and we anticipate that it will continue to be so in the future. Our cash generated by operating
activities was R$2,072.5 million, R$2,083.0 million and R$2,717.1 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011,
respectively.
80
We have overdue accounts receivable from the State and from the municipalities to which we
provide water on a wholesale basis. For more information, see “Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions.”
Indebtedness Financing
Our total financial indebtedness increased by 4.0%, from R$8,264.6 million as of December 31, 2010
to R$8,596.3 million as of December 31, 2011. In addition, during the same period, our total foreign
denominated indebtedness recorded increased 35.8%, from R$2,248.9 million as of December 31, 2010 to
R$3,053.4 million as of December 31, 2011, mainly related to investments from the Japan International
Cooperation Agency, or the JICA, amounting to 19,169.0 million Yens or R$ 375.9 million, which will
be invested in the Metropolitan Coastal Region. We also made significant amortization payments relating
to certain Brazilian and foreign currency-denominated indebtedness.
As of December 31, 2011, we had R$6,966.3 million in long-term indebtedness outstanding
(excluding the current portion of long-term indebtedness), of which R$2,864.0 million consisted of
foreign currency-denominated long-term debt. We had outstanding short-term indebtedness of R$1,630.0
million as of December 31, 2011, representing the current portion of our long-term indebtedness. As of
December 31, 2011, R$189.4 million of this short-term indebtedness was denominated in foreign
currency. As of December 1, 2011, our Standard & Poor’s Rating Service domestic rating was braAA+
and our S&P international rating was BB+.
Various contractual agreements we have entered into, including certain financing agreements with
Caixa Econômica Federal and the BNDES, provide for liens over a portion of our cash flows from
operations. In addition to Caixa Econômica Federal and the BNDES, we have granted liens over a
portion of our cash flows deriving from our operations in connection with agreements relating to
securitization transactions, the Alto Tietê PPP and arrangements relating to the lease of certain assets.
Pursuant to these agreements, cash received from operations is required to pass through designated
accounts. In the event of a default under the relevant agreement, such cash and future cash flows that are
required to be deposited in such accounts become restricted and are subject to security interests in favor
of the relevant creditor. As of December 31, 2011, a substantial portion of our monthly cash flows from
operations was subject to these liens. As of that date, the total amount of our secured debt, including
indebtedness benefiting from these liens, was R$2,546.9 million.
The following table sets forth information on our indebtedness outstanding as of December 31, 2011:
Facility
Current
Long
Term
As of December 31, 2011
Total
Aggregate
Principal
Amount
Final
Maturity
(in millions of reais
Interest Rate(1)
Real-denominated loans and financings:
Federal Government/Banco do Brasil
348.7
479.5
828.2
2014
Debentures Tenth Issuance
2.0
283.3
285.3
2020
8.50% plus UPR
TJLP plus 1.92% (1st and 3rd
series) and 9.53% plus IPCA
(2nd series)
CDI(3) plus 1.95% (1st series)
and CDI plus 1.4% (2nd series)
2015
2025 TR plus 9.5%
2012 CDI plus 0.65%
2022 TJLP plus 1.92% and 9.19%
2029 TR plus 8.75%
2011/2032
2013
2019
2023
2025
5.0% to 9.5% plus UPR
3% plus TJLP (limited to
6.00%)
2.5% plus TJLP (limited to
6.00%)
2.15% plus TJLP (limited to
6.00%)
1.92% plus TJLP (limited to
6.0%)
2011/2018
12.00%, CDI and TJLP plus
6.00%
Debentures Eleventh Issuance
Debentures Twelfth Issuance
Debentures Thirteenth Issuance
Debentures Fourteenth Issuance
Debentures First Issuance – Aquapolo
Caixa Econômica Federal(2)
202.5
-
599.4
-
-
110.6
1,005.7
499.6
-
279.8
160.1
917.6
1,208.2
499.6
599.4
279.8
160.1
1,028.2
BNDES
37.6
3.5
41.1
BNDES (South coast area)
16.3
114.2
130.5
BNDES (PAC)
6.4
67.5
73.9
BNDES (Clean Wave Program)
Financial Leasing
Other
Interest and other charges
14.3
-
235.4
49.6
1.8
101.0
3.5
2.9
249.7
49.6
5.3
103.9
81
Facility
Current
Long
Term
As of December 31, 2011
Total
Aggregate
Principal
Amount
Final
Maturity
(in millions of reais
Interest Rate(1)
Foreign currency denominated loans and
financings:
Inter-American Development Bank
(IADB) US$386.9 million
International Bank for Reconstruction
and Development (IBRD) US$10.3 million
Eurobonds US$140.0 million
Eurobonds US$350.0 million
JICA Yen 39.5 billion
IADB AB Loan Financing US$226.1
million
Interest and Other Charges
71.6
652.1
723.7
2016/2035
1.14% to 3.29% plus currency
basket fluctuation plus U.S.
dollar
-
-
-
53.2
44.9
19.7
18.9
262.1
649.0
905.5
376.4
-
18.9
262.1
649.0
958.7
421.3
19.7
2034
2016
2020
2029
0.43%
7.50%
6.30%
0.01% to 2.5%
2023
2.49% to 2.99%
Total Debt
______________
(1) UPR stands for Standard Reference Unit (Unidade Padrão Referência) and is equal to the TR, which was 0.09% per month as
of December 31, 2011; CDI stands for Interbank Deposit Rate (Certificado de Depósitos Interbancários), which was 10.87% per
annum as of December 31, 2011; IGP-M was 5.1% per annum as of December 31, 2011; TJLP stands for Long-term Interest Rate
(Taxa de Juros a Longo Prazo), published quarterly by the Central Bank, which was 6.0% per annum as of December 31, 2011.
6,966.3
1,630.0
8,596.3
(2) This line item represents the aggregate amount outstanding under financing agreements we have entered into with Caixa
Econômica Federal, which mature on different dates and bear different interest rates. The numbers above reflect the range of
maturities and the weighted average interest rate under these agreements.
The following table shows the maturity profile of our debt, as of December 31, 2011, for the period
indicated (in millions of reais):
Loans and financing
1,630.0
1,227.2
744.6
655.4
651.7
3,687.4
8,596.3
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
After
2017
Total
Substantially all of our foreign currency-denominated indebtedness of R$2,088.0 million as of
December 31, 2011 was denominated in U.S. dollars or in baskets of foreign currencies. This
indebtedness consisted principally of:
(cid:131) R$723.7 million (US$386.9 million) in U.S. dollar denominated loans contracted with the Inter-
American Development Bank, or the IADB, composed of the following: (i) loan to finance the
first phase of the Tietê Project in 1992 and its second phase in 2000, under which payments of
principal are made in semi-annual installments with final maturity in July 2025. The principal
amount of this loan is adjusted semi-annually for the variation in a basket of foreign currencies
U.S. dollar, and accrues interest at a rate varying from 1.14% to 3.29% plus LIBOR. We have
pledged as collateral part of our receivables from our sales and services up to the amount due; (ii)
credit agreement executed in September 2010 with the IADB for the financing of the third phase
of the Tietê Project. This loan matures on September 3, 2035. Amortizations will be made in semi-
annual installments after a grace period of six years. The principal amount accrues interest at the
USD LIBOR.
(cid:131) R$18.9 million (US$10.3 million) in U.S. dollar denominated loans from the International Bank
for Reconstruction Development - IBRD which was entered into on October 28, 2009, amounting
to US$ 100,000 thousand and will be amortized during the period of the contract, for the financing
of the Water Source Program (Programa Mananciais). The loan matures in March, 2034.
Amortizations will be in semi-annual installments starting on September 2019. The principal
amount accrues interest at the USD LIBOR plus a variable spread.
(cid:131) R$421.3 million (US$226.0 million) in U.S. dollar denominated loans from the AB Loan
financing contracted with the IADB in May 2008. Under this loan, payments of principal are
82
made in annual installments with final maturity in May 2023. The principal amount is adjusted
semi-annually for the LIBOR plus spread and accrued interest at a rate varying from 2.49% to
2.99%. This loan was used to repay an outstanding series of debt securities in connection with the
implementation of our investment plan; and
(cid:131) R$911.1 million (US$490.0 million) in U.S. dollar denominated loans from Eurobonds contracted
in November 2006 (US$140.0 million) and in December 2010 (US$350.0 million). Under this
loan, payments of interest are made in semi-annual installments and principal will be paid in the
end of the contract with final maturities in 2016 and 2020. The interest rate for the November
2006 Eurobonds is 7.5% while for the December 2010 Eurobonds is 6.25%.
(cid:131) R$ 958.7 million (¥39,437.8 million) in Japanese yen denominated loans contracted with the
JICA, composed of the following: (i) ¥21,316.0 million in Japanese yen denominated loans
contracted with the JICA in August 2004 for the financing of the environmental recovery program
for the Baixada Santista metropolitan region, called the Clean Wave Program (Programa Onda
Limpa). Under this loan, payments of interest are made in semi-annual installments and principal
will be paid in the end of the contract with final maturities in August 2029. The principal amount
accrues interest at rates that vary from 1.8% to 2.5% per year; (ii) ¥6,208 billion in Japanese yen
denominated loans contracted with the JICA in October 2010 for the financing of the
environmental improvement program in the basin of the Billings dam, part of the New Life
Program (Programa Vida Nova). The loan matures in October, 2035. Amortizations will be made
in semi-annual installments after a grace period of seven years, starting on October 20, 2017. The
principal amount accrues interest at a rate of 1.2% per year related to civil work and 0.01% per
year related to consulting; and (iii) ¥19,169 billion in Japanese yen denominated loans contracted
with the JICA in February 2011 to complement the financing for the first stage of the Clean Wave
Program (Programa Onda Limpa), with commercial conditions similar to the ¥21,316.0 million
loan entered into in August 2004. These funds will be used for the provision of works and services
in the Baixada Santista metropolitan region. The credit agreement expires in 18 years and interest
varies from 1.8% to 2.5% per year.
In February 2012, we contracted a ¥33,584 million Japanese yen denominated loan with the JICA for
the financing of the Corporate Program for Water Loss Reduction. The loan matures on February 2037.
Amortizations will be in semi-annual installments starting on September 2019. The principal amount
accrues interest at a rate of 1.7% per year related to civil work and 0.01% per year related to consulting.
As of the date of this annual report, no disbursement had been made under this agreement.
Our borrowings from multilateral institutions, such as the IADB and IBRD, have in the past been,
and in the future are likely to be, guaranteed by the State or the federal government. We do not pay fees
for these guarantees. Under some of the loan agreements with the IADB, we have granted a guarantee
(contra garantia) to the federal government. For further information on the terms of these loan
agreements, see “Item 4.A. History and Development of the Company—Capital Expenditure Program—
Main Projects of Our Capital Expenditure Program—Metropolitan System Investment Program—Tietê
Project”;
For further information on the terms and guarantees of the financing agreements with the JICA, see
“Item 7.B. Related Party Transactions—Government Guarantees of Financing” and “Item 4.A. History
and Development of the Company—Capital Expenditure Program—Main Projects of Our Capital
Expenditure Program—Metropolitan System Investment Program—Clean Wave Program”.
Our outstanding domestic debt was R$5,542.9 million as of December 31, 2011 and consisted
primarily of real-denominated loans from federal and state-owned banks, in particular, Banco do Brasil
S.A., Caixa Econômica Federal and the BNDES, as well as debentures issued in November 2009,
March 2010 September 2010, January 2011, February 2011, the first debentures issuance of our investee
(Aquapolo) in August 2011 and financial leasing.
The following summarizes our principal borrowings from federal and State-owned banks:
(cid:131) in March 1994, we entered into a loan agreement with Banco do Brasil S.A., or Banco do Brasil,
in the amount of R$2.3 billion. Amortizations of the principal amount are made in 240 successive
83
monthly installments, with final maturity in 2014. The principal amount accrues interest at the
daily government interest rate plus 8.50% per annum and monetary adjustment;
(cid:131) from 1996 to 2009, we have entered into several line of credit agreements with Caixa Econômica
Federal, pursuant to which amortizations of principal are paid in 180 or 240 months in monthly
installments commencing 30 days following the applicable grace period, which varies from 14 to
48 months from the date of signature of the line of credit agreement. The final maturity is 2032.
The principal amount accrues interest from 5.0% to 9.5%. The lines of credit are collateralized
by (i) collections of daily billings of water supply and sewage services up to the total amount of
the debt, or (ii) by a monthly plan of billings corresponding to the minimum of three times the
monthly charge, depending on the terms of the relevant line of credit agreement;
(cid:131) in August 2002, we entered into a line of credit agreement with the BNDES. The final maturity
date is February 2013. The principal amount accrues interest at the long-term rate fixed by the
TJLP but limited to 6.0%, plus 3.0% per annum. If the TJLP exceeds 6.0%, such excess will be
added to the principal amount payable at maturity. The line of credit agreement is collateralized
by part of the billings from the provision of water and sewage services;
(cid:131) in November 2007, we entered into a R$129.9 million credit agreement with the BNDES.
Amortizations of the principal amount will be made in 96 successive monthly installments, with
final maturity in 2019. The principal amount accrues interest at the TJLP, but limited to 6.0%,
plus 2.50% per annum. If the TJLP exceeds 6.0%, such excess will be added to the principal
amount. The credit agreement is collateralized by part of the billings from the provision of water
and sewage services;
(cid:131) in May 2008, we entered into a R$174.0 million financing agreement with the BNDES.
Amortizations of the principal amount will be made in 150 successive monthly installments, with
final maturity in 2023. The principal amount accrues interest at the TJLP, but limited to 6.0%,
plus 2.15% per annum. If the TJLP exceeds 6.0% per annum, such excess will be added to the
principal amount. The financing agreement is collateralized by part of the billings from the
provision of water and sewage services;
(cid:131) in March 2010, we entered into a R$294.3 million financing agreement with the BNDES.
Amortizations of the principal amount will be made in 156 successive monthly installments
commencing 30 days after the 24-month grace period, with final maturity in 2025. The principal
amount accrues interest at the TJLP, but limited to 6.0%, plus 1.92% per annum. If the TJLP
exceeds 6.0%, such excess will be added to the principal amount. The financing agreement is
collateralized by part of the billings from the provision of water and sewage services; and
(cid:131) in 2011, we entered into financial leases in the total amount of R$49.6 million with certain
contractors for the construction of infrastructure on land we own. During the construction phase,
we recognize an intangible assets and the related liability of the lease at fair value. Upon the
conclusion of the construction, which is estimated to June 2013, we start to pay the rental of the
infrastructure (in 192 installments) and the lease is updated accordingly to the contract. On
December 31, 2011, there were no constructions completed. These contracts are recognized as
financial leasing.
Under the BNDES program, in the amount of R$826.1 million, we issued the first of three tranches
of debentures. In November 2009, we issued our tenth debentures in the aggregate principal amount of
R$275.4 million. The debentures are divided in three series: the first and second series will mature in
November 2020 and the third in December 2020. The debentures of the first and third series, in the
aggregate principal amount of R$77.1 million and R$115.7 million, respectively, bear interest at 1.92%
per year, plus the TJLP. If the TJLP exceeds 6.0%, such excess will be capitalized the 15th day of each
month that such debentures are outstanding. The debentures of the second series, in the aggregate
principal amount of R$82.6 million, bear interest at the rate of the IPCA index plus 9.53% per year. Our
tenth issuance was entirely subscribed by the BNDES. We used the funds raised from this tenth issuance
for investments primarily in the Corporate Program for Water Loss Reduction and on improvements and
reforms of the Rio Grande’s water treatment plant, including other projects for water supply and sewage
collection systems in the São Paulo Northern Coast, Paraíba Valley and Mantiqueira Regions.
84
In April 2010, we issued in two series our eleventh issuance of debentures in the aggregate principal
amount of R$1,215.0 million. The first and second series will mature in March 2015 and 2013,
respectively. The debentures of the first series, in the aggregate principal amount of R$810.0 million,
bear interest at the CDI plus 1.95% per year, and the second series, in the aggregate principal amount of
R$405.0 million, bear interest at the CDI plus 1.4% per year. The net proceeds from our eleventh
issuance of debentures were partially used to redeem the promissory notes issued in December 2009. The
remaining portion was used for general corporate purposes.
In June 2010, we issued 500,000 debentures to the Government Severance Indemnity Fund for
Employees (Fundo de Garantia por Tempo de Serviço), or FGTS, based on the FGTS’s program to
finance companies in the sanitation, transport and real estate businesses (our twelfth issuance). The
proceeds will be released in three tranches within a six-month period each, totaling R$500.0 million in the
aggregate, of which R$335 million was already released to us. The debentures will bear interest based on
the TR plus 9.5% per year. The debentures will mature in June 2025. The debentures have a grace period
of four years in respect of payments, and we have an option to redeem the debentures as from July 2014.
We intend to use the proceeds from the twelfth issuance to fund a portion of our capital expenditure
program in the water supply and sewage systems.
In January 2011, we issued in a single series our thirteenth debentures in the aggregate principal
amount of R$600.0 million. The debentures will mature in August 2012 and bear interest, paid semi-
annually, at the CDI rate plus 0.65% / 0.75% / 0.85% / 1.25% per year. The proceeds were used to
redeem the promissory notes issued in August 2010.
On February 15, 2011, we issued 100 debentures subscribed exclusively by the National Bank for
Economic and Social Development (BNDES). These debentures were distributed in three nonconvertible
series, at a nominal value of R$ 2,753.70, totaling R$ 275.4 million. This transaction was settled on April
15, 2011, for all series. The funds raised in this issuance will be used in expenditures in water supply and
sewage systems in the following projects: Water Treatment Stations at Rio Grande, Litoral Norte, Vale do
Paraíba and Mantiqueira, Bacia do Piracicaba-Capivari-Jundiai; and for program of reduction of losses.
The debentures will mature in March 2022 and bear interest, paid monthly, quarterly and semi-annually,
depending on the period, at the TJLP rate plus 1.92% per year or 9.19% per year.
In August 2011, the joint-controlled entity “Aquapolo” issued 326,732 debentures, registered as its
first issuance of simple debentures, nonconvertible, in a unique series amounting to R$326.7 million. The
debentures will mature in August 2029 and bear interest, paid monthly, at the TR plus 8.75% per year.
All of our real-denominated indebtedness is indexed to take into account the effects of inflation.
Most of our real-denominated debt provides for inflation-based increases in their respective principal
amounts; the increases are determined by reference to the TR plus an agreed margin.
In March 2011, our securitization fund (Fundo de Investimentos Creditórios) created in 2006 in the
amount of R$250 million expired. In addition, on June 1, 2011 the second series of our eighth issuance of
debentures was paid in the amount of R$465.0 million.
In December 2010, we issued US$350.0 million aggregate principal amount of 6.250% senior
unsecured notes due 2020. Interest on the notes will accrue from December 16, 2010 at a rate of 6.250%
per year and will be payable semi-annually in arrears on June 16 and December 16, commencing on
June 16, 2011. The notes will mature on December 16, 2020. The proceeds from the offering will be
used to repay financial commitments throughout 2011.
In February 2012, we issued our fifteenth issuance of debentures in two series in the aggregate
principal amount of R$771.0. The first and second series will mature in February 2017 and 2019,
respectively. The debentures of the first series (in the aggregate principal amount of R$287.3 million)
bear interest at a rate of CDI plus 0.99% per year. The second series (in the aggregate principal amount
R$483.7 million) bears interest at a rate of IPCA plus 6.2% per year. The net proceeds from out fifteenth
issuance of debentures were used to repay financial commitments throughout 2012.
Financial Covenants
We are subject to financial covenants under the agreements evidencing or governing our outstanding
indebtedness.
85
Foreign currency denominated indebtedness
With respect to our indebtedness denominated in U.S. dollars or in baskets of foreign currencies, we
are subject to financial covenants, including but not limited to those set forth in the loan agreements
entered into with the IADB. Each of these agreements contains, among other provisions, limitations on
our ability to incur debt.
The indenture relating to our US$140.0 million 7.5% notes due 2016 is the most stringent of these
debt agreements. The indenture prohibits, subject to some exceptions, the incurrence of additional debt in
the event that: (i) the ratio of Adjusted Total Debt to Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in the related
indenture) is greater than 3.65x; or (ii) the Debt Service Coverage Ratio (as defined in the indenture) is
less than 2.35x.
We do not believe that these covenants will impose constraints on our ability to finance our capital
expenditure program or, more generally, to develop our business and enhance our financial performance.
Local currency denominated indebtedness
With respect to our outstanding indebtedness denominated in reais, we have entered into several
credit agreements with the BNDES that requires us to maintain the following ratios:
Our credit agreements with the BNDES dated August 2002 and November 2007 require us to
maintain: (i) an EBITDA/net operational income ratio equal to or higher than 38%; (ii) an asset/short-
term liability (excluding the short-term portion of long-term liabilities) ratio higher than 1.0x; (iii) total
connections (water and sewage)/employees ratio equal to or higher than 520; (iv) EBITDA/debt service
equal to or higher than 1.5x; and (v) a shareholders’ equity/total debt ratio equal to or higher than 0.8x.
Our credit agreement with the BNDES dated May 2008 requires us to maintain: (i) an EBITDA/net
operational income ratio equal to or higher than 38%; (ii) an EBITDA/financial costs ratio equal to or
higher than 2.35x; and (iii) a net bank debt/EBITDA equal to or higher than 3.2x.
Our credit agreement with the BNDES dated March 2010 requires us to maintain: (i) an EBITDA/net
operational income ratio equal to or higher than 38%; (ii) an EBITDA/financial costs ratio equal to or
higher than 2.35x; and (iii) net bank debt/EBITDA equal to or higher than 3.65%.
In addition, our BNDES financings have the following financial covenants: (i) EBITDA/net
operational income ratio equal to or higher than 38%; and (ii) shareholders’ equity/total debt ratio equal
to or higher than 0.8x.
Pursuant to the terms of our credit agreements with the BNDES, the financial ratios mentioned above
must be calculated based on our year end audited financial statements.
Although we have been presenting our financial information in our annual reports on Form 20-F in
compliance with IFRS since fiscal year ended December 31, 2008, our Brazilian financial information
was presented under Brazilian GAAP for fiscal years through December 31, 2009. Accordingly,
compliance with the financial ratios mentioned above was calculated under Brazilian GAAP. Brazilian
Corporate Law was recently amended to facilitate the convergence of Brazilian GAAP with IFRS, and
thereafter the Accounting Pronouncement Committee (Comitê de Pronunciamentos Contábeis) issued
several new accounting standards that progressively adapted Brazilian GAAP to IFRS (the new Brazilian
GAAP). Beginning with the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010, all Brazilian publicly held companies,
such as us, must report under the new Brazilian GAAP. Due to the impact of this change, we requested a
temporary waiver from BNDES suspending compliance with these financial covenants in order to allow
us to analyze the impact of the new Brazilian GAAP on our ability to comply with the financial ratios.
BNDES granted the waiver on December 26, 2011, suspending compliance for 13 months beginning with
December 2011.
In addition, all of our financing agreements with the Caixa Econômica Federal and most of our
financing agreements with the BNDES are subject to a Performance Improvement Agreement (Acordo de
Melhoria de Desempenho). The Performance Improvement Agreement, dated May 28, 2007, as
amended, was entered into between us and the Federal government, and the Caixa Econômica Federal and
the BNDES as intervening parties. Pursuant to this agreement, we must comply with eight financial and
operating ratios during the next five years. If we fail to comply with any of these ratios, the Caixa
86
Econômica Federal and the BNDES may suspend our credit lines and we will be prevented from entering
into any other financing agreements with those entities. We have the ability, however, to renegotiate the
ratios during the five-year period if needed.
Our financing agreement with the federal government and Banco do Brasil S.A. and our credit
agreements with Caixa Econômica Federal do not contain material financial covenants.
With respect to our outstanding debentures, the eighth, ninth, eleventh and twelfth issuances require
us to maintain a current debt ratio (current assets divided by current liabilities, excluding the current
portion of long-term indebtedness) higher than 1.0x and an EBITDA/financial expenditures ratio equal to
or higher than 1.5x.
The tenth issuance requires us to maintain (i) an EBITDA/net operational revenue ratio equal to or
higher than 38 percent; (ii) an EBITDA/financial expenditures ratio equal to or higher than 2.35x; and
(iii) a net bank debt/EBITDA ratio equal to or higher than 3.65x.
The thirteenth issuance requires us to maintain (i) an EBITDA/financial expenditures ratio equal to or
higher than 1.5% and (ii) a net debt/EBITDA ratio equal to or higher than 3.65%.
As of the date of this annual report we were in compliance with all the financial ratios that are
currently applicable to us.
Capital Requirements
We have, and expect to continue to have, substantial liquidity and capital resource requirements.
These requirements include debt-service obligations, capital expenditures to maintain, improve and
expand our water and sewage systems, and dividend payments and other distributions to our shareholders,
including the State.
Capital Expenditures
Historically, we have funded and plan to continue funding our capital expenditures with funds
generated by operations and with long-term financing from international and national multilateral
agencies and development banks. We generally include in our capital expenditure program for the
following year the amount of investment that was not realized in the previous year. In 2011, we recorded
R$2.4 billion under our capital expenditure program. We have budgeted investments in the amount of
approximately R$7.9 billion from 2012 through 2015.
Dividend Distributions
We are required by our bylaws to make dividend distributions, which can be made as payments of
interest on shareholders’ equity to our shareholders in an amount equal to or higher than 25% of the
amounts available for distribution. We made aggregate distributions of R$394.2 million, R$456.0 million
and R$578.7 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
On June 25, 2010, we paid R$198.1 million as dividends to the State. See “Item 7.B. Related Party
Transactions—Dividends.”
Market Risk
We are exposed to various market risks, in particular, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk. We
are exposed to foreign currency risk because a substantial portion of our financial indebtedness is
denominated in foreign currencies, primarily the U.S. dollar, while we generate all of our net operating
revenues in reais. Similarly we are subject to interest rate risk based upon changes in interest rates, which
affect our net financial expenses. For further information on our market risks, see Note 3.1 to our
consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009
included elsewhere in this annual report.
Exchange Rate Risk
As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, R$1,745.6 million, R$2,248.9 million and R$3,053.4
million, or 26.6%, 27.2% and 35.5%, respectively, of our debt obligations were denominated in foreign
87
currencies (including debt pegged to baskets of foreign currencies). The basket of foreign currency-
pegged debt consists primarily of our debt with the IADB. As a result, we are exposed to exchange rate
risks that may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations, as well as our ability to
meet debt service obligations.
Exchange Rate Sensitivity
We estimate that the potential loss to us in connection with U.S. dollar-denominated debt that would
have resulted as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 from each hypothetical instantaneous and
unfavorable 1% change in the U.S. dollar against the real would have been approximately R$17.5
million, R$22.5 million and R$30.5 million, respectively. Consistent with these estimates, a hypothetical
instantaneous and unfavorable 10% change in this exchange rate would have resulted in losses of
approximately R$174.6 million, R$224.9 million and R$305.3 million as of December 31, 2009, 2010
and 2011, respectively. These estimates do not take into account that the changes in exchange rates
comprising the baskets of foreign currencies often present variations different from the devaluation of the
real in relation to the U.S. dollar.
The fluctuation of the real in relation to the U.S. dollar and with the IADB and IBRD basket of
currencies, for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011 were as follows:
Year ended December 31,
2010
(in percentages)
2011
2009
Depreciation (appreciation) of the real in relation to the U.S. dollar
IADB basket of currencies
We have not utilized derivative financial instruments.
(25.5)
0.032
(4.3)
4.3
12.6
1.01
As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, we had no short-term indebtedness outstanding, other than
the current portion of long-term debt.
Interest Rate Risk
As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, R$2,193.1 million, or 33.4%, R$2,529.4 million, or
30.6%, and R$2,537.1 million or 29.5%, respectively, of our total debt outstanding balance denominated
in reais was based on variable rates of interest based on the UPR, which is equivalent to the TR. In
addition, as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, R$1,132.4 million, or 17.3%, R$2,064.7 million, or
25.0%, and R$1,882.3 million or 21.9%, respectively, of our total debt denominated in reais was subject
to interest rates based on the CDI. As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, R$659.4 million, R$579.2
million and R$747.3 million, respectively, of our foreign-currency denominated debt was based on the
IADB and the IBRD variable rates of interest, which are determined based on the cost of funding of these
multilateral organizations in each period.
As of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, we did not have any derivative contracts outstanding
which limited exposure to changes in the UPR or the CDI or in the IADB or IBRD variable rates.
However, we are obliged by law to invest our excess cash with financial institutions controlled by the
Brazilian government. We invest these excess funds, which totaled R$671.1 million, R$1,852.6 million
and R$2,027.0 million as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively, mainly in short-term
instruments. As a result, our exposure to Brazilian interest rate risk is partially limited by our real-
denominated floating interest time deposits investments, which generally earn interest based on the CDI.
In addition to our exposure with respect to existing indebtedness, we may become exposed to interest rate
volatility with respect to indebtedness incurred in the future.
We estimate that we would have suffered a loss over periods of one year, respectively, of up to
R$65.6 million, R$82.6 million and R$86.0 million if a hypothetical instantaneous and unfavorable
change of 100 basis points in the interest rates applicable to financial liabilities as of December 31, 2009,
2010 and 2011, respectively, had occurred. Consistent with these estimates, a hypothetical instantaneous
and unfavorable 100 basis points change in these interest rates would have resulted in losses of
approximately R$655.8 million, R$826.5 million and R$859.6 million as of December 31, 2009, 2010
88
and 2011, respectively. This sensitivity analysis is based on the assumption of an unfavorable 100 basis
point movement of the interest rates applicable to each homogeneous category of financial liabilities and
sustained over a period of one year or nine months, as applicable, and that such movement may or may
not affect interest rates applicable to any other homogenous category of financial liabilities.
A homogeneous category is defined according to the currency in which financial liabilities are
denominated and assumes the same interest rate movement within each homogeneous category (i.e., U.S.
dollars). As a result, our interest rate risk sensitivity model may overstate the effect of interest rate
fluctuation on these financial instruments, as consistently unfavorable movements of all interest rates are
unlikely.
The tables below provide information about our interest rate-sensitive instruments. For variable
interest rate debt, the rate presented is the weighted average rate calculated as of December 31, 2011. For
the foreign currency denominated obligations, these amounts have been converted at the selling rates as
of December 31, 2011 and do not represent amounts which may actually be payable with respect to such
obligations on the dates indicated.
As of December 31, 2011
Expected maturity date
After 2015
2012
2013
2014
(in millions, except percentages)
Total
Average
annual
interest
rate
2,031.1
2,031.1
-
-
-
-
-
-
2,031.1
2,031.1
474.0
505.3
207.0
1,350.8
2,537.1
82.8
7.3
69.7
11.7
876.6
470.8
-
-
118.4
59.8
11.1
1,630.0
111.3
53.2
5.2
1,227.2
86.2
11.7
270.0
-
111.3
53.2
5.2
744.6
647.4
157.0
264.9
49.6
804.0
799.2
921.6
4,994.5
886.1
187.7
1,882.3
49.6
1,145.0
965.4
943.1
8,596.3
9.9%
2.3%
16.5%
12.4%
2.8%
2.4%
3.4%
7.4%
Assets
Cash equivalents denominated in reais
Total assets
Liabilities
Long-term debt
Floating rate, denominated in reais
indexed by TR or UPR
Floating rate, denominated in reais
indexed by TJLP
Floating rate, denominated in reais
indexed by IPCA
Floating rate, denominated in reais
indexed by CDI
Fixed rate, denominated in reais
Floating rate, denominated in U.S.
dollars
Fixed rate, denominated in Yen
Fixed rate, denominated in U.S. dollars
Total long-term debt
89
The percentage of our indebtedness subject to fixed and floating interest rate is as follows:
Floating rate debt:
Denominated in U.S. dollars
Denominated in reais
Fixed rate debt:
Denominated in reais
Denominated in Yen
Denominated in U.S. dollars
Total
As of December 31,
2010
2011
2009
16.1%
73.4%
-
6.2%
4.3%
100.0%
11.7%
72.8%
13.3%
63.9%
-
5.3%
10.2%
100.0%
0.6%
11.2%
11.0%
100.0%
C. Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, Etc.
Our policy is to invest continually in the modernization of equipment and in the technology needed to
identify, evaluate and improve our provision of basic sanitation services while promoting environmental
protection and maintaining our competitiveness and profitability. Our research and development activity
is divided into committees according to strategy and complexity. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we invested
R$3.8 million, R$3.8 million and R$3.2 million, respectively, in research and development.
In order to further develop our expansion plans, we created a new division for research, technology
development and innovation in May 2010. Among other initiatives, the new division is responsible for:
monitoring technological trends, defining our research projects portfolio, obtaining funding from
development agencies, developing an intellectual property protection policy and establishing cooperation
agreements for the development of researches that are of our interest. The new division will also enable
us to increase the quality of our procedural processes and technology portfolio.
With respect to our partnership with the State of São Paulo Research Foundation (Fundação de
Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo), or the FAPESP, to develop and support research projects
involving researchers from graduate schools, the State of São Paulo and our employees, in 2010 we
approved 12 projects related to: (i) the development of technology related to the use of filtering
membranes in water and sewage treatment, (ii) alternatives for the treatment, mud disposal and use in
water and sewage treatment stations, (iii) new technologies for the implementation, operation and
maintenance of water distribution and sewage collection systems, (iv) new technologies for improvements
in unitary operations processes, (v) water quality monitoring, (vi) energetics efficiency and (vii) sanitary
economy.
Intellectual Property
Trademarks
We have secured registration of our logo and composite trademark at the Brazilian Institute of
Industrial Property (Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial), or the INPI. We have registered with
the INPI the following trademarks: “Sabesp,” “Sabesp Soluções Ambientais,” “Projeto Tietê,” “Programa
Córrego Limpo,” “Programa Onda Limpa,” “Prol – Programa de Reciclagem do Óleo De Fritura,”
“Revista DAE,” “Ligação Sabesp,” “Clubinho Sabesp,” “Cauã,” “Denis,” “Gabi,” “Gotucho,” “Gota
Borralheira,” “Dr. Gastão,” “Iara,” “Ratantan,” “Sayuri” And “SuperH20.” Cauã, Denis, Gabi, Gotucho,
Gota Borralheira, Dr. Gastão, Iara, Sayuri and Ratantan are some of the characters of our children’s club
(Clubinho SABESP), which is a tool for environmental education directed to children through our
website).
We have also filed applications with the INPI for registration of the following trademarks: “Parque
Da Integração,” “Programa de Recuperação Ambiental,” “Signos” (Sistema De Informação Geográfica
No Saneamento), “Scorpion,” “Semana do Meio Ambiente Sabesp,” “Pura-Programa de Uso Racional da
Água,” “Agente da Gente – Sabesp na Comunidade,” “Sabesp Inteligência Ambiental,” “Aqualog –
Tecnologia Sabesp,” “Eficaz,” “Água De Reúso Sabesp,” “Água Sabesp Aquífero Guarani,” “Água
Sabesp Estação Cantareira,” “Contrato de Fidelização Sabesp,” “Esgotos não Domésticos Sabesp,” and
the following character of the Clubinho SABESP: “Cadu.”
90
Patents
We have a patent granted by the INPI for a constructive device in a building hydraulic simulator used
for didactic purposes. We have also filed patent requests for the following additional devices:
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
a water consumption measurement unit;
a biofilter odor control unit;
a device for the removal of supernatants in the treatment of sewage; and
a mobile device for the calibration of hydrometers.
We are currently awaiting responses to our patent requests from the INPI. While the requests are
under consideration, we are granted the exclusive right to use these devices.
Software
We have adopted an internal policy that provides for an active and effective audit and prevention of
unauthorized software. We have acquired the software licenses for all our workstations.
We have also developed certain computer programs for management and control of water and
sewage treatment facilities, as well as for third-party services management, called “AQUALOG (Control
Water Treatment Plants),” “SGL (Bid Management System), “SCORPION (software to Operacional
Control)”, “Electronic Price Quotation” (Cotação Eletrônica de Preços), “PREGÃO SABESP
ONLINE”, “SISDOC – Sistema de Controle de Documentos”, “Sistema de análise do comportamento
metrológico de hidrômetros”, “Modelo padronizado de Laudo técnico-MPLT,” and "SGH" - hydrometry
management system (Sistema de Gestão de Hidrometria). We have also secured registration of these
programs at the INPI.
AQUALOG is a Brazilian software designed to monitor water treatment through the employment of
artificial intelligence. In 2001, we completed the first rendering of services based on the AQUALOG
software to a third party with the automatization of a water treatment plant in the city of Jaguará do Sul,
State of Santa Catarina. We have entered into an agreement to license the software to Sanesul, in the state
of Mato Grosso do Sul and to Teuto’s drugs factory, in the city of Anapólis, state of Goiás. We currently
have a temporary license for the AQUALOG software and are awaiting its final registration with the
INPI.
SGL is an electronic price quotation system that allows us to view and control all bid and acquisition
proceedings in real time.
Domain Names
We own the domain names described below which have been registered with the relevant entity in
Brazil, Regristro.br:
(cid:131) www.sabesp.com.br;
(cid:131) www.corregolimpo.com.br;
(cid:131) www.projetotiete.com.br;
(cid:131) www.revistadae.com.br;
(cid:131) blogdasabesp.com.br;
(cid:131) blogsabesp.com.br;
(cid:131) sustentabilidadesabesp.com.br;
(cid:131) clubinhosabesp.com.br; and
(cid:131) superh2o.com.br.
D. Trend Information
Several factors may affect our future results of operations, liquidity and capital resources, including:
(cid:131)
the interests of our controlling shareholder;
91
(cid:131)
regulations issued by the ARSESP regarding several aspects of our business, including
with respect to our ability to adjust our tariffs;
(cid:131) Brazilian economic conditions;
(cid:131) meteorological conditions;
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
the effects of any continued international financial turmoil that may affect liquidity in the
Brazilian capital and lending markets;
the effects that further changes in the Basic Sanitation Law and its interpretation may
have on the basic sanitation industry in Brazil and on us;
the effects of inflation in our results of operations;
the effects of fluctuations in the value of the Brazilian real and in interest rates on our net
interest income;
the effects from the increase in tariff that occurred on September 11, 2011;
the renewal of our concession agreements; and
the formalization of agreements with certain of the municipalities we serve.
Each of these factors is described in more detail under “5.A. Operating and Financial Review and
Prospects.”
In addition, you should read “3.D. Risk Factors” for a discussion of the risks we face in our business
operations, which could affect our business, results of operations or financial condition.
E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
We had no off-balance sheet arrangements as of December 31, 2011.
F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations
Our debt obligations and other contractual obligations as of December 31, 2011 were as follows:
Less than 1
year
1-3 years
3-5 years
(in millions of reais)
More than
5 years
Total
1,630.0
485.8
64.1
85.9
77.3
36.7
346.5
2,726.3
1,971.8
875.3
178.9
94.7
169.7
18.4
249.9
3,558.7
1,307.1
543.9
169.6
182.8
195.5
-
81.4
2,480.3
3,687.4
1,475.5
2,599.5
862.2
1,312.5
-
-
9,937.1
8,596.3
3,380.5
3,012.1
1,225.6
1,755.0
55.1
677.8
18,702.4
Loans and financing
Estimated interest payments(1)
Operating and capital lease
obligations(2)
Alto Tietê PPP
Pension plan contributions(3)
PAES program(4)
Purchase obligations
Total
___________
(1) Estimated interest payments on loans and financing were determined considering the interest rates as of December 31, 2011.
However, our loans and financing are subject to variable interest indexation and foreign exchange fluctuations, and these
estimated interest payments may differ significantly from payments actually made.
(2) Includes capital lease obligations which are collateralized by part of the billings from the provision of water and sewage
services.
(3) Consists of pension plan contributions estimated for the following year.
(4) The PAES program, as set forth by Law No. 10,684, dated May 30, 2003.
92
We believe that we can meet the maturity schedule through a combination of funds generated by
operations, the net proceeds of new issuances of debt securities in the Brazilian and international capital
markets and additional borrowings from domestic and foreign lenders. Our borrowings are not affected
by seasonality. For information concerning the interest rates on our indebtedness outstanding as of
December 31, 2011, see Note 12 to our consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this
annual report.
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
A. Directors and Senior Management
Under our bylaws and Brazilian Corporate Law, we are managed by our board of directors (Conselho
de Administração), which currently consists of ten directors, and a board of executive officers (Diretoria),
which currently consists of six executive officers.
As our controlling shareholder, the State has the ability to control the election of our board of
directors and, therefore, our direction and future operations. Upon the election of a new State governor
and any resulting change in the administration of the State, all or some of the members of our board of
directors, including our chairman, have historically been replaced by designees of the new
administration. Our board of directors may in turn replace some or all of the executive officers. See
“Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Control by the State of São Paulo—We are controlled by
the State of São Paulo, whose interests may differ from ours or from minority shareholders’ interests, and
which could have a material adverse effect on us.”
Board of Directors
Our bylaws provide for a minimum of five and a maximum of 15 directors. The members of our
board of directors are elected at a general shareholders’ meeting to serve renewable two-year terms.
Pursuant to our bylaws, our employees have the option to elect one member of our board of directors.
Currently, our employees have not elected a director. In addition, pursuant to Brazilian Corporate Law,
at least one member of the board of directors of mixed capital companies, such as us, must be appointed
by the minority shareholders. Finally, according to the Novo Mercado rules, at least 20.0% of the board
of directors must be comprised of independent members.
The current members of our board of directors were elected in the general shareholders’ meeting held
on April 23, 2012. The tenure of the directors will end upon the election of the new members at the
general shareholders’ meeting to be held in April 2014. Currently, we have three directors considered
independent under the Novo Mercado rules.
Our board of directors ordinarily meets once a month or when called by a majority of the directors or
the chairman. Its responsibilities include the establishment of policy and general orientation of our
business, and the appointment and supervision of our executive officers.
The following are the names, ages, positions, dates of election and brief biographical descriptions of
the current members of our board of directors:
Position
Date Elected
Director
Edson de Oliveira Giriboni
Sidney Estanislau Beraldo
Dilma Seli Pena
Walter Tesch
Alberto Goldman
Heraldo Gilberto de Oliveira
Jerônimo Antunes
Reinaldo Guerreiro
Andrea Sandro Calabi
Alexander Bialer
______________________
* These directors comply with the independence requirements established by the Novo Mercado rules.
Chairman
Director
Director
Director
Director
Independent Director*
Independent Director*
Independent Director*
Director
Independent Director*
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
Age
59
61
62
68
74
47
56
59
66
65
Edson Giriboni. Mr. Giriboni has been the chairman of our board of directors since April 2011.
Mr. Giriboni holds a degree in civil engineering from the Escola Politécnica of the Universidade de São
Paulo, a degree in business administration from the Associação Educacional de Itapetininga, and post-
93
graduate degrees from the Universidade de Campinas and the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais.
Mr. Giriboni has been the Secretary of Sanitation and Water Resources of the State of São Paulo since
January 2011. He is also a State Deputy in São Paulo. Mr. Giriboni was the general manager of Fepasa
and the vice-mayor of the city of Itapetininga where he also worked at the Municipal Department of
Works and Public Utilities, and subsequently, in the Municipal Department of Industry and Development.
Sidney de Oliveira Beraldo. Mr. Beraldo has been a member of our board of directors since
April 2011. Mr. Beraldo holds a degree in biological sciences and a degree in business administration
and a post-graduate degree in business administration. He has been the Chief of Staff of the São Paulo
State Government Office since January 2011. Mr. Beraldo started his career in politics as city
councilman in 1977 and was the mayor of the city São João da Boa Vista between 1983 and 1988. In
1994, Mr. Beraldo was elected State Deputy, position he held until March 2011 after several re-elections.
He was the president of the Legislative Assembly from 2003 to 2005, president of the State Council of the
political party PSDB from 2005 to 2006, head of the Public Management Department until April 2010
and the general coordinator of Governor Geraldo Alckmin’s campaign.
Dilma Seli Pena. Ms. Pena has been a member of our board of directors since January 2007 and our
Chief Executive Officer since January 2011. She holds a master’s degree in public administration from
FGV and a degree in geography from the Universidade de Brasília. In 1976, she began her career as a
public servant working for the Research Institute of Applied Economics (Instituto de Pesquisa Econômica
Aplicada), or IPEA. She was director of the sanitation division of the Urban Policy Secretariat of the
Ministry of Planning Office (Secretaria de Política de Saneamento Urbano), director of the strategic
investments division of the Ministry of Planning (Investimentos Estratégicos do Ministério de
Planejamento) and director of the Brazilian National Water Agency (Agência Nacional de Águas). She
was a deputy secretary of the Economics and Planning Secretariat of the São Paulo state government
(Secretaria de Economia e Planejamento do Estado de São Paulo) and an effective member of the
Environmental Board of the Industry Federation of the State of São Paulo (Conselho Ambiental da
Federação das Indústrias do Estado de São Paulo). From 2007 to 2011, she was responsible for the State
Secretariat of Sanitation and Water Resources (formerly known as the State Secretariat of Sanitation and
Energy) and has been the chairperson of the board of directors of EMAE and CESP, companies owned by
the State of São Paulo. She has authored a number of articles, texts and books in the areas of sanitation,
water resources and planning.
Walter Tesch. Mr. Tesch has been a member of our board of directors since April 2011. He holds a
degree in sociology from the University of Uruguay and a master’s degree in social sciences from the
Pontifical Catholic University of Peru. Mr. Tesch has worked in Peru, Venezuela and several Latin
American countries. Between 2005 and 2008, Mr. Tesch was the head of the administrative district of
Parelheiros, a water source region in the city of São Paulo, and until 2010 he was the deputy Executive
Secretary of the “Water Defense” (“Defesa das Águas”) operation, an agreement between the São Paulo
Municipal and State governments. Mr. Tesch is also the author of books on cooperativism and water
sources in the city of São Paulo.
Alberto Goldman. Mr. Goldman has been a member of our board of directors since April 2011.
Mr. Goldman holds a degree in civil engineering from the Escola Politécnica of the Universidade de São
Paulo. Mr. Goldman was vice-governor of São Paulo from January 2007 to March 2010 and governor of
São Paulo from April 2010 to December 2010. He was a member of our board of directors from
April 2009 to March 2010. He was also the State Secretary of Development (currently, Development,
Science and Technology State Department) from January 2007 to February 2009, State Deputy for two
terms and Federal Deputy for six terms. Mr. Goldman was the president of the Budget Mixed Committee
in 2000 and rapporteur of the General Telecommunications Law. He was the Special Secretary of State
of the Program Coordination in 1987 and of the Administration Coordination between 1988 and 1990.
Mr. Goldman was the Minister of Transportation from 1992 to 1994.
Heraldo Gilberto de Oliveira. Mr. Oliveira has been a member of our board of directors since
November 2009. He holds a degree in accounting and a degree in business administration. He also holds
a master’s degree in controllership and accounting from the Faculdade de Economia, Administração e
Contabilidade of the Universidade de São Paulo, or FEA-USP. Mr. de Oliveira is a professor of Capital
Markets and Investor Relations in the post-graduation and MBA courses at the Fundação Instituto de
94
Pesquisas Contábeis, Atuariais e Financeiras, or FIPECAFI. Mr. Oliveira is a partner at FCO
Consultores Associados and works as an accounting and financial expert consultant. He worked for ten
years as an independent accountant. Mr. Oliveira was a member of the board of directors and the
coordinator of the audit committee of Banco Nossa Caixa S.A. from 2007 to August 2009 and since
September 2009 has been the coordinator of the audit committee of Banco Industrial e Comercial S.A. –
BICBANCO. He has been a director of the Instituto de Executivos em Finanças of São Paulo since
September 2009.
Jerônimo Antunes. Mr. Antunes has been a member of our board of directors since April 2008. He
holds a master’s and Ph.D. degree in controllership and accounting from the Universidade de São Paulo
and holds a degree in business administration and accounting. He has been a certified independent
accountant and consultant in accountability and corporate finance since 1977. He has been a professor at
FEA-USP since 1999, a professor of several MBA courses, at FIPECAFI since 2000, at FEA-USP, since
2000, and at FIA – Fundação Instituto de Administração since 2006. He was a professor at the
Universidade Federal do Ceará from 2000 to 2005 and in several other institutions. He was a director of
FIPECAFI, from 2000 to 2007. He was a board member and director of IBRACON from 1998 to 2006
and a director of Associação Nacional dos Executivos de Finanças, Administração e Contabilidade, or
ANEFAC, from 1994 to 2000.
Reinaldo Guerreiro. Mr. Guerreiro has been a member of our board of directors since January 2007.
He holds a Ph.D. in accounting and controllership, a master’s degree in accounting and controllership and
a bachelor’s degree in accounting sciences, all of them from FEA-USP. Currently, he is both professor
and Director at FEA-USP. He has also authored the books “A meta da empresa, seu alcance sem
mistérios,” “Gestão do lucro,” “Estruturação de sistemas de custos para gestão de rentabilidade,” and
co-autored “Controladoria uma abordagem de gestão econômica” and “Contabilidade gerencial.” He is
a researcher at CNPQ and has published various scientific articles In domestic and international
magazines. He is a specialized consultant in financial management. He has worked on various projects
in the areas of financial management, costs, budget and IT in a variety of companies. Other than for us,
Mr. Guerreiro does not serve on the board of directors of any other public companies.
Andrea Sandro Calabi. Mr. Calabi has been a member of our board of directors since April 2011.
Mr. Calabi holds a degree in economics from FEA-USP, a master’s degree in economics from the
Instituto de Economia e Pesquisa of the Universidade de São Paulo (IPE-USP), a master’s of arts and
Ph.D. in economics from the University of California, Berkeley. Mr. Calabi has been the State Secretary
of the São Paulo State Treasury since January 2011. He was the São Paulo State Secretary of Economics
and Planning from January 2003 to February 2005. Mr. Calabi was the president of the BNDES,
FINAME (the Special Agency of Industrial Financing), BNDESPAR (the holding company of BNDES)
from July 1999 to February 2000 and also of Banco do Brasil, from January to July to 1999. He was
Executive Secretary of the Ministry of Planning and president of the Institute of Applied Economics
Research of Ministry of Planning, or IPEA, from 1995 to 1996, Secretary of the National Treasury of the
Ministry of Finance from 1986 to 1988, General Secretary of the Department of Planning of Presidency
and Chief Executive Officer of the IPEA from 1985 to 1986. Mr. Calabi was a member and chairman of
several boards of directors and currently is a member of the board of directors of CESP, Higher
Economics Council of FIESP, Institute of Cancer, Centro Cultural, FFM – Faculty of Medicine
Foundation – USP, Albert Einstein Hospital and of the IBGC – Brazilian Institute of Corporate
Governance.
Alexander Bialer. Mr. Bialer has been a member of our board of directors since April 2003. He
holds a degree in mechanical engineering from Instituto Tecnológico da Aeronáutica—ITA and a
specialization degree in systems administration from the FGV. He is a member of the board of directors
of ROMI, AVIANCATACA, Andritz Hydro Inepar and pacific Rubiales energy. In addition, Mr. Bialer
was Director of Business Development of GE in Brazil and Latin America, from which he retired in 2002.
He also collaborated with AVON, Máquinas Piratininga and ASEA.
Board of Executive Officers
Our board of executive officers is composed of six executive officers appointed by our board of
directors for renewable two year terms. Our executive officers are responsible for all matters concerning
our day-to-day management and operations. Members of our board of executive officers have individual
responsibilities established by our board of directors and our bylaws.
95
The following are the names, ages, positions, dates of election and brief biographical descriptions of
our board of executive officers:
Executive Officer
Dilma Seli Pena
Manuelito Pereira Magalhães
Junior
Rui de Britto Álvares
Affonso
Paulo Massato Yoshimoto
Luiz Paulo de Almeida Neto
João Baptista Comparani
Age
62
44
54
59
55
55
Position
Chief Executive Officer
Corporate Management
Officer
Chief Financial Officer and
Investor Relations Officer
Metropolitan Region Officer
Regional Systems Officer
Technology, Enterprises and
Environment Officer
Date Elected
June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011
September 15, 2011
Dilma Seli Pena. See above “—Board of Directors.”
Manuelito Pereira Magalhães Júnior. Mr. Magalhães has been our Corporate Management Officer
since January 2011. Mr. Magalhães was a member of our board of directors from January 2007 to
February 2011. He holds a degree in economic sciences and a master’s degree in economic sciences from
the Instituto de Economia, Universidade Estadual de Campinas. He was a member of the board of
directors of the Companhia de Engenharia de Tráfego de São Paulo, of the COHAB and, of the Empresa
de Tecnologia de Informação e Comunicação de São Paulo. He was a parliamentary advisor in the
Federal Senate. From 1998 to 2002, he was the special advisor of the Minister of Health. From 2005 to
2006 he was the ombudsman of the National Supplementary Health Agency, or ANS. From 2005 to
2006, he was the deputy secretary of the Planning Secretariat and the secretary of Planning of the
Municipality of São Paulo. He was also the technical advisor, the secretary of finance and the director of
the Department of Advisory, Planning and Management in the municipality of Campinas, State of São
Paulo.
Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso. Mr. Affonso has been our Chief Financial Officer and Investor
Relations Officer since July 2003. Mr. Affonso holds a Ph.D. and a master’s degree in economics from
the Universidade Estadual de Campinas, or UNICAMP, and a degree in economics from the
Universidade de São Paulo. He has been a professor at UNICAMP since 1986, a professor at FEA-USP
from 1983 to 1989, and a director of public economy at Fundação do Desenvolvimento Administrativo
from 1994 to 2003. He also represented Brazil on the board of the Forum of Federations (a
non-governmental entity based in Canada) from 2000 to 2006. Mr. Affonso has also held several
positions at the State government.
Paulo Massato Yoshimoto. Mr. Yoshimoto has been our metropolitan officer since February 2004.
He holds a degree in civil engineering from the Escola de Engenharia de Lins. Mr. Yoshimoto joined us
in 1983, and has held the positions of executive assistant to the operations office and head of the water
production and maintenance and metropolitan planning departments. Mr. Yoshimoto has also held the
position of senior planning professional at Empresa Metropolitana de Planejamento, from 1975 to 1983.
Luiz Paulo de Almeida Neto. Mr. Almeida Neto has been our regional systems officer since
January 2011. He holds a degree in civil engineering from the Escola Politécnica of the Universidade de
São Paulo, a business administration degree from Fundação Educacional Votuporanga/SP and a post-
graduate degree in sanitary engineering from Faculdade de Saúde Pública of the Universidade de São
Paulo. Mr. Almeida joined us in 1979 and has worked with us as head of the Baixo Tietê Business Unit
responsible for the management of areas located in the hydrographic basins of Baixo Tietê, Tietê-Batalha,
São José dos Dourados and Turvo Grande. Mr. Almeida Neto has authored several articles.
João Baptista Comparini. Mr. Comparini has been our Technology, Enterprises and Environment
Officer since September 2011 He holds a degree in civil engineering with especialization in public health
engineering, and holds a masters and a doctorate degree all from the Escola Politécnica of the
Universidade de São Paulo. He holds an MBA in management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas. He
joined us in 1980 and holding different positions. From 2002 until September 2011, he was the head of
the business unit of Pardo e Grade, responsible for the management of services in the municipalities of
Sapucaí-Mirim/Grande, Mogi-Guaçu, Pardo and Baixo Pardo/Grande. Mr. Comparini is author of several
articles and co-author of the book Biossólidos na Agricultura.
96
B. Compensation
Pursuant to Brazilian Corporate Law, our shareholders are responsible for establishing the aggregate
amount of compensation we pay to the members of our board of directors, members of our fiscal
committee and our executive officers. According to Instruction No. 480 issued by CVM, we have to
periodically disclose certain information on the aggregate compensation such as averages and fringe
benefits.
For the year ended December 31, 2011, the aggregate compensation, including benefits in kind
granted that we paid to members of our board of directors, board of executive officers and fiscal
committee for services in all capacities was R$3.9 million.
The tables below sets forth the break down of the total compensation received by our directors and
members of our board of executive officers and fiscal committee and other data related to their
compensation for the periods indicated:
Year ended December 31,
2010
2011
2009
Total compensation per administrative body (in thousands of
R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Total amount of compensation (in thousands of R$)
Number of members:
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Fixed annual compensation
Salary (in thousands of R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Direct and indirect benefits (in thousands of R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Variable compensation
Bonus (in thousands of R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Maximum amount of compensation (in thousands of R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Minimum amount of compensation (in thousands of R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Average amount compensation (in thousands of R$):
Board of directors
Board of executive officers
Fiscal committee
Profit Sharing and Pension Plans
97
1,225
2,200
231
3,656
13
6
5
918
1,283
231
-
406
-
307
511
-
108
396
38
41
303
38
94
367
46
1,215
2,231
229
3,675
10
6
6
903
1,304
229
-
394
-
312
533
-
148
477
38
100
324
38
113
372
38
1,240
2,442
217
3,899
10
6
5
853
1,265
217
-
495
-
387
681
-
169
444
46
81
276
46
128
407
46
We have established a pension and benefit fund (Fundação SABESP de Seguridade Social), or
SABESPREV, to provide our employees with retirement and pension benefits. This pension plan
provides benefit payments to former employees and their families. Both we and our employees make
contributions to the pension plan. We are also required to pay supplemental pension payments relating to
the employment contract of certain employees prior to the creation of SABESPREV. Our total
contributions to the pension plan totaled R$12.9 million, R$13.8 million and R$8.9 million in 2009, 2010
and 2011, respectively. Based on independent actuarial reports, as of December 31, 2011, our obligation
under these plans totaled R$1,638.2 million. For further information on our pension plans see Note 16 to
our consolidated financial statements.
Beginning in 2008, payments under the profit-sharing plan were based both on general goals that
evaluate us as a whole and on other goals that evaluate the performance our different business units.
Payments are proportionally reduced annually if the goals are not completely achieved.
We recorded profit-sharing expenses of R$53.4 million, R$52.6 million and R$56.6 million in 2009,
2010 and 2011, respectively. We do not have a stock-option plan for our employees.
C. Board Practices
The members of our board of directors are elected at a general shareholders’ meeting to serve
renewable two-year terms. Our board of directors ordinarily meets once a month or when called by a
majority of the directors or the chairman. See “Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management—Board of
Directors.”
Our board of executive officers is composed of six executive officers appointed by our board of
directors for renewable two-year terms. Meetings of our board of executive officers are held weekly in
the case of ordinary meetings or when called by the chief executive officer in the case of special or
extraordinary meetings. See “Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management—Board of Executive
Officers.”
None of our directors and/or executive officers is a party to an employment contract providing for
benefits upon termination of employment. Those directors and officers who are also our employees will
remain as our employees after their tenure as directors and/or officers, in this case, maintaining all
benefits granted to our employees.
Fiscal Committee (Conselho Fiscal)
Our fiscal committee, which is established on a permanent basis, consists of a minimum of three and
a maximum of five members and generally meets once a month consists of four members and four
alternates. Furthermore, each member has its respective alternate. The current members of our fiscal
committee were elected in the shareholders’ meeting held on April 23, 2012. Their tenure will end in
2013, depending on when they were elected. The primary responsibility of the fiscal committee, which is
independent from management and from the external auditors appointed by our board of directors, is to
review our consolidated financial statements and report on them to our shareholders.
The following are the names, ages, position, date of election and brief biographical descriptions of
the current and alternate members of our fiscal committee:
Fiscal Committee Members
José Antonio Xavier
Humberto Macedo Puccinelli
Horácio José Ferragino
Alexandre Luiz Oliveira de Toledo
Tomás Bruginski de Paula
Antônio Cláudio Zeituni
José Rubens Gozzo Pereira
Joaldir Reynaldo Machado
Age
51
54
61
52
50
41
64
63
Position
Member
Member
Member
Member
Alternate
Alternate
Alternate
Alternate
Date Elected
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
April 23, 2012
José Antonio Xavier. Mr. Xavier has been a member of our fiscal committee since April 2011. He
holds a degree in economy and a post-graduate degree in governmental controllership from the Pontifícia
Universidade Católica de São Paulo (PUC-SP). Mr. Xavier was an auditor of the State Treasury from
98
1993 to 1998 and the Technical Director of the State Treasury since 1998. He was a member of the Fiscal
Committee at BANESCARD, CESP and CDHU.
Humberto Macedo Puccinelli. Mr. Puccinelli has been a member of our fiscal committee since
April 2011. Mr. Puccinelli holds a degree in economics from the Pontifícia Universidade Católica de
São Paulo (PUC-SP). He worked at the Department of Planning from 1985 to 1995, at the Health State
Department as secretary assistant from 1995 to1996, at the State Treasury from 1996 to 2002, and at the
Planning Department as secretary assistant in 2003. Since January 2004 he has been the Technical
Assistant of the State Treasury.
Horácio José Ferragino. Mr. Ferragino was elected to our fiscal committee on April 23, 2012. He
holds a degree in accounting from the Faculdades Integradas Santo Antônio – FISA-SP. He worked in
the public sector for the State Fund for School Buildings (FECE – Fundo Estadual de Construções
Escolares) from 1970 to 1976, for the School Building Company from 1976 to 1988 (CONESP – Cia de
Construções Escolares), for the Educational Development Foundation (FDE – Fundação para o
Desenvolvimento da Educação from 1988 – 1995) and Casa Civil e Secretaria de Gestão Pública (1995 –
2012), where he coordinated projects involving public purchase policies. He currently works as Project
Coordinator for the Department of Planning and Regional Development.
Alexandre Luiz de Oliveira Toledo. Mr. Toledo has been a member of our fiscal committee since
April 2010. He holds a degree in law from the Universidade de São Paulo. Mr. Toledo has worked with
financial institutions for 20 years, especially in capital markets transactions, defending minority
shareholders. He has worked in the legal departments of Bradesco de Investimentos and Schahin Cury
S.A. Mr. Toledo is and has been a member of various fiscal committees and board of directors including
CELG, COPEL, CST and Plascar.
Tomás Bruginski de Paula. Mr. de Paula has been an alternate member of our fiscal committee since
April 2006. He holds a degree and a master’s degree in economics from UNICAMP. He has been a
Professor at the Economics Department of Pontifícia Universidade Católica – PUC since 1986. He has
been an executive officer at Companhia Paulista de Parcerias since 2004 and Companhia Paulista de
Securitização since 2009. Mr. de Paula has worked as a consultant for several entities, including the
Economic Committee for Latin America (CEPAL), the United Nations Development Program (PNUD),
the Brazilian Institute of Municipal Administration (IBAM), the Brazilian School of Public and Business
Administration of FGV (EBAPE/FGV), the State System Data Analysis Foundation (SEADE), and the
Brazilian Electricity Agency in the infrastructure and public policy financing areas. He is also a member
of the fiscal committee of the Nossa Caixa Desenvolvimento and a member of the Board of Directos of
DERSA. Mr. de Paula was also a member of the fiscal committee of the São Paulo Company of Electric
Power Transmission.
Antônio Cláudio Zeituni. Mr. Zeituni has been an alternate member of our fiscal committee since
April 2011. He holds a degree in law from the Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo.
Mr. Zeituni has worked with banking, civil and administrative law. He has also worked in several law
firms, including Oliveira de Toledo & Advogados Associados where he is currently a partner.
José Rubens Gozzo Pereira. Mr. Pereira has been an alternate member of our fiscal committee since
April 2010. He holds a degree in economics from Universidade Mackenzie, a graduate degree from FGV
and attended international studies extension programs at the Universities of London and Paris. He has
been responsible for the Funding department of the Finance Secretariat since 1989. Mr. Pereira held
positions in the public sector in the DAEE, where he was responsible for the Budget and Financing area;
he was an executive officer at Companhia de Engenharia de Tráfego – CET, and in the International
Cooperation department of Companhia Energetica de Silo Paulo – CESP. Mr. Pereira has been the
coordinator for the Funding Department of the Silo Paulo State Government in the Finance Secretariat
since 1991.
Joaldir Reinaldo Machado. Mr. Machado has been an alternate member of our fiscal committee
since April 2010. He holds a degree in economics from Universidade de São Paulo. Mr. Machado has
been an employee of SEADE since 1979. He has also held several other management positions,
including management advisor to Empresa Metropolitana de Planejamento – EMPLASA, financial
executive of the Finance Department of our Company, chief of staff of the Environment Secretariat and
99
chief of staff and head of department of the SEADE Foundation. Mr. Machado is currently the chief of
staff of the Economy and Planning Secretariat of the São Paulo State Government.
Audit Committee
Our bylaws provide for an audit committee to be comprised of three board members, who will
cumulatively comply with
the requirements of (i) independence, (ii) technical expertise, and
(iii) identifying and complying with applicable exemptions in accordance with the United States
Securities and Exchange Commission, or the SEC, and New York Stock Exchange, or NYSE, rules. The
members are appointed by the board of directors.
The audit committee is responsible for assisting and advising the board of directors in its
responsibilities to ensure the quality, transparency and integrity of our published financial information.
To this end, the audit committee supervises all matters relating to accounting, internal controls and the
internal and independent audit functions. The audit committee and its members have no decision making
powers or executive functions.
The minimum availability required from each member of the audit committee is thirty hours per
month. Under our bylaws, the members shall exercise their roles for the same period as their
corresponding term of office, or until otherwise resolved by the general shareholders’ meeting or by
resolution of the board of directors.
The following are the names, positions and dates of election of the members of our audit committee:
Director
Jerônimo Antunes
Reinaldo Guerreiro
Heraldo Gilberto de Oliveira
Position
Coordinator and Financial Expert
Member
Member
Date Elected
April 26, 2012
April 26, 2012
April 26, 2012
Regulatory Affairs Committee
Our bylaws provide for a regulatory issues committee to be comprised by the our Chief Executive
Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer, Metropolitan Officer, and Regional
System Officer. The regulatory affairs committee is responsible for defining our regulatory directives,
strategies and guidelines and coordinating our regulatory affairs department, subject to the guidelines
defined by our board of directors.
The Chief Executive Officer acts as chairman of our regulatory affairs committee and is responsible
for proposing its internal regulations to be approved by the committee. Pursuant our bylaws, the head of
regulation shall be the executive secretary of the committee.
Under our bylaws, the resolutions of our regulatory affairs committee shall be binding and our
executive boards shall be entitled to implement them in the scope of its jurisdiction. Meetings of our
regulatory affairs committee are held at least once a month, if ordinary, and when extraordinary can be
called by any of our committee’s members.
Corporate Governance Practices
The significant differences between our corporate governance practices and NYSE standards can be
found on our website, www.sabesp.com.br, at the following location: Investors Relations – Corporate
Governance – SABESP and NYSE Standards. The information found at this website is not incorporated
by reference into this document.
D. Employees
As of December 31, 2011, we had 14,896 full-time employees. In 2011, we had an average of 918
trainees and 506 apprentices (aprendizes), as defined by federal Law No. 10,097, dated December 19,
2000.
The following table sets forth the number of our full-time employees by main category of activity
and geographic location as of the dates indicated:
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Number of employees by category of activity:
Projects and operations
Administration
Finance
Marketing
Number of employees by corporate division:
Head office
São Paulo metropolitan region
Regional Systems
Total number of employees
As of December 31,
2010
2011
2009
9,763
2,574
490
2,276
1,541
7,055
6,507
15,103
10,092
2,527
477
2,234
1,496
7,135
6,699
15,330
9,782
2,501
454
2,159
1,475
6,861
6,560
14,896
The average tenure of our employees is approximately 17 years. We also outsource certain services
such as maintenance, delivery of water and sewage bills, meter reading, catering and security. We
believe that our relations with our employees are generally satisfactory.
Approximately 70% of all our employees are members of unions. The five main unions that represent
our employees are the Sindicato dos Trabalhadores em Água, Esgoto e Meio Ambiente de São Paulo -
SINTAEMA, Sindicato dos Trabalhadores da Região Urbana de Santos, São Vicente, Santos, Região
Metropolitana de Santos, Litoral Sul e Vale Ribeira - SINTIUS, the Sindicato dos Engenheiros do Estado
de São Paulo - SEESP, the Sindicato dos Advogados de São Paulo - SASP and the Sindicato dos Técnicos
Industriais de Nível Médio(2ºGrau) no Estado de São Paulo - SINTEC. As a result of the 2010 collective
bargaining discussions, wages were temporarily increased by 5.05%. The unions filed a claim with the
Labor Court seeking to, among other requests, increase wages by 1.5%, increase the salary base over
which the annual profit distribution is calculated, increase payment of overtime in 100% and increase
additional payment of working night hours from 20% to 50%. The Labor Court decided in favor of the
unions and we appealed from the decision. We are still waiting for the decision on our appeal. Any
unfavorable decision by the Labor Court will result in an increase in expenses with personnel. Our most
recent collective bargaining agreement, entered into in 2011: (i) increased wages by 6.39% (which
corresponds to the adjustment for inflation for the period) plus a real gain of 1.51%, (ii) established an
employment guarantee for 98% of our employees, (iii) increased the number of days permitted under
maternity leave from 120 to 180 days and (iv) increased meal vouchers by 10.07%, among other
provisions.
We have experienced the following strikes in the last seven years, none of which interrupted the
essential services that we provide: a two-day strike in June 2005, a one-day strike in May 2006, a four-
day strike in June 2008, a three-day strike in May 2009, an eight-day strike in May 2010 and a one day
strike in 2011. Under Brazilian law, our non-administrative employees are considered “essential
employees” and, therefore, are limited in their right to strike.
E. Share Ownership
As of April 23, 2012, the members of the board of directors and the executive officers owned an
aggregate of 2,612 common shares. The members of our board of directors and our executive officers, on
an individual basis and as a group, beneficially own less than 0.1% of our common shares. See
“Item 7.A. Major Shareholder” for more information. As of the same date, none of our directors and
executive officers owned any stock option plans.
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
A. Major Shareholder
Our outstanding capital stock as of December 31, 2011, consisted of 227,836,623 common shares,
without par value. Under our bylaws and the State laws, the State is required to own at least one-half plus
one of our outstanding common shares. All of our shareholders, including the State, have the same voting
rights.
The following table sets forth ownership information for each of our shareholders that beneficially
owned 5.0% or more of our common shares and for our officers and directors, individually and as a
group, as of April 23, 2012.
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State of São Paulo
Directors and executive officers of SABESP
Others
Total(1)
_____________
(1) As of April 23, 2012, 24.8% of our outstanding common shares were held by 2,977 registered shareholders in Brazil.
50.3%
−Less than 0.1%
49.7%
100.0%
Shares
114,508,086
2,612
113,325,925
227,836,623
%
Common shares
As of April 20, 2012, 24.9% of our outstanding common shares were held in the United States, in the
form of ADSs. According to the ADS depositary’s records, which contain information regarding the
ownership of our ADSs, there were, on March 30, 2012, 38 record holders of ADSs in the United States.
B. Related Party Transactions
Transactions with the State of São Paulo
We have entered into extensive transactions with the State, which is our controlling shareholder, and
we expect to continue to do so. The State is our largest customer. It owns some of the facilities that we
use in our business, it is one of the governmental entities that regulate our business, and it has assisted us
in obtaining financing on favorable terms.
Many of our transactions with the State reflect policies of the State that depend on decisions of
elected officials or public servants, and are accordingly subject to change. Among the practices that
could change are those described below concerning the provision of State guarantees, and the terms on
which we use State-owned reservoirs.
Rending Services
We provide water and sewage services to the federal government, state and municipal governments
and government entities in the ordinary course of our business. Sales of water and sewage services to the
State, including State entities, totaled R$358.3 million in 2009, R$383.5 million in 2010 and R$405.0
million in 2011. Our accounts receivable from the State for water supply and sewage services totaled
R$169.5 million, R$157.2 million and R$145.4 million, as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011,
respectively. In addition, as required by law, we invest our cash and cash equivalents with government
financial institutions in short-term securities.
Payment of Pensions
Pursuant to a law enacted by the State, certain former employees of some State-owned companies
that provided services to us in the past and later merged to form our Company acquired a legal right to
receive supplemental pension benefit payments. These rights are referred to as “Plan G0.” These
amounts are paid by us, on behalf of the State, and are claimed by us as reimbursements from the State, as
primary obligor. In 2009, 2010 and 2011, we made payments to former employees of R$108.0 million,
R$118.4 million and R$124.4 million, respectively, in respect of Plan G0. The State made
reimbursements in 2009, 2010 and 2011 in the amount of R$83.7 million, R$59.0 million and R$60.4
million, respectively.
Agreements with the State
In September 1997, we and the State entered into a memorandum of understanding providing that we
would, in effect, apply dividends we declared that were otherwise payable to the State to offset accounts
receivable in connection with the provision of water and sewage services to the State and its controlled
entities.
On December 11, 2001, we entered into an agreement with the State and the DAEE. Pursuant to this
agreement, the State acknowledged and agreed, subject to an audit by a State-appointed auditor, to pay us
amounts it owed to us in respect of:
(cid:131) water and sewage services we provided to governmental agencies, State-owned
autonomous entities and foundations through December 1, 2001, and that was not offset
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in accordance with the September 1997 memorandum of understanding, in the total
amount of R$358.2 million. This amount was renegotiated and included in the second
amendment to this agreement discussed below; and
(cid:131)
to
supplemental retirement and pension benefits we paid from March 1986
November 2001 on behalf of the State to former employees of the State-owned
companies which merged to form our Company; as we did not reach an agreement
regarding these amounts, a joint inquiry has commenced in order to ensure agreement
between us and the State, in the total amount of R$320.6 million. This amount was
renegotiated and included in the third amendment to this agreement discussed below.
The agreement provided that the DAEE would transfer to us ownership of the Taiaçupeba, Jundiaí,
Biritiba, Paraitinga and Ponte Nova reservoirs (herein after referred to as “the reservoirs”), which form
the Alto Tietê system, and that the fair value of these assets would reduce the amounts owed to us by the
State.
Under the December 2001 agreement, in 2002, a State-owned construction company (Companhia
Paulista de Obras e Serviços), or the CPOS, on behalf of the State, and an independent appraisal firm
(Engenharia de Avaliações), or the ENGEVAL, on our behalf, presented their valuation reports relating
to the reservoirs. Under the agreement, the arithmetic average of these appraisals is deemed the fair value
of the reservoirs. The appraisals contained in these reports were in the amounts of R$335.8 million and
R$341.2 million, respectively. Because we had already made investments in these reservoirs by then, the
arithmetic average of the appraisals submitted to our board of directors by August 2002, R$300.9 million,
was net of a percentage corresponding to these investments. Our board of directors approved the
valuation reports.
Under the December 2001 agreement, for amounts due in excess of the fair value of the reservoirs,
the State is to make payments in 114 consecutive monthly installments. The nominal amount owed by
the State would not be indexed to inflation or earn interest if there was a delay in concluding the appraisal
of fair value. The installments will be indexed on a monthly basis by the IGP-M index, plus 6.0% per
year, starting on the date the first installment becomes due.
On October 29, 2003, the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo (Ministério Público do
Estado de São Paulo), on behalf of the people of the State, brought a civil public action in a Trial Court of
the State of São Paulo (12a Vara da Fazenda Pública do Estado de São Paulo) alleging that a transfer to
us of ownership of the Alto Tietê system reservoirs from the DAEE would be illegal. An injunction
against the transfer of ownership of such reservoirs was granted but was later reversed. However, in
October 2004, the court of first instance handed down its judgment on the civil public action and declared
the agreement between us, DAEE and State of São Paulo null and void. This decision was suspended by
us, and the State treasury and DAEE appealed the decision. On August 23, 2010, the appeal was denied.
We have petitioned for clarification of the appeal court’s decision and will seek to take the case to the
Supreme Court. The effects of the appeal court’s decision will be suspended until the end of the legal
process. Our legal counsel has assessed the risk of loss as probable, which would prohibit the transfer of
the reservoirs in payment of the accounts receivable due from the State.
The December 2001 agreement also provided that the legal advisors of the State would carry out
specific analyses, which have commenced, to ensure agreement among the parties as to the methodology
employed in determining the amount of reimbursement for pension benefits owed to us by the State. The
commencement of payments with respect to pension amounts owed to us by the State has been postponed
until these analyses are completed, the appraisal report is approved and the credit assignments relating to
the transfer of the reservoirs are formalized. As discussed above, the transfer of these reservoirs is
currently being disputed and we are not certain whether the transfer will be legally permitted. Under the
December 2001 agreement, the first payment was to be made in July 2002.
On March 22, 2004, we and the State entered into a first amendment to the December 2001
agreement. Under this amendment, the State acknowledged that it owed R$581.8 million to us relating to
unpaid accounts receivable from the State until February 29, 2004, and we acknowledged that we owed
an aggregate amount of R$518.7 million to the State as dividends, in the form of interest on shareholders’
equity. Accordingly, we and the State agreed to offset each other’s credit up to the limit of
R$404.9 million, which was an amount adjusted up to February 2004. The outstanding balance of
R$176.9 million (as of February 29, 2004) of the State’s consolidated debt would be paid in consecutive
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monthly installments from May 2005 until April 2009. These installments would be indexed according to
the IPCA index, plus an interest rate of 0.5% per month. Upon the execution of the first amendment, part
of the debt that the State owed to us for the use of water and sewage services through February 2004 was
offset by the debt that we owed to the State as dividends, in the form of interest on shareholders’ equity.
The outstanding balance of R$113.8 million as dividends in the form of interest on shareholders’ equity
that we owed to the State was netted against accounts overdue after February 2004. The first amendment
did not amend the provisions of the December 2001 agreement regarding the supplemental retirement and
pension benefits we paid from March 1986 to November 2001 on behalf of the State to former employees
of the State-owned companies.
On December 28, 2007, we and the State entered into a second amendment to the December 2001
agreement, pursuant to which the State agreed to pay (i) the outstanding balance under the first
amendment, in the amount of R$133.7 million (as of November 30, 2007), in 60 consecutive monthly
installments, beginning on January 2, 2008, and (ii) the amount of R$236.1 million relating to part of the
accounts overdue and unpaid from March 2004 through October 2007 regarding the provision of water
supply and sewage collection services. As part of this amendment, we agreed to pay during the period
from January through March 2008 the outstanding balance of dividends in the amount of R$400.8
million, in the form of interest on shareholders’ equity, due from March 2004 through December 2006.
We paid these amounts as agreed. Under the second amendment, dividends payable by us are no longer
required to be applied to offset accounts receivable from the State, and as a result, we are currently unable
to determine the amount, if any, of the declared dividends that the State will apply to current and future
accounts receivable owed to us by the State or its entities. In addition, pursuant to the second
amendment, we and the State agreed on complying with certain mutual obligations relating (i) to the
improvement of payment processes and budget management procedures; (ii) the rationalization of the use
of water and the amount of water and sewage bills under the responsibility of the State; (iii) the recording
of government entities with accounts overdue in a delinquency system or reference file; and (iv) the
possibility of interrupting water supply to these entities in case of non-payment of water and sewage
bills. Finally, this second amendment did not amend the provisions of the December 2001 agreement
regarding the supplemental retirement and pension benefits we paid from March 1986 through
November 2001 on behalf of the State to former employees of the State-owned companies that merged to
form our Company.
In 2007, we received payment installments from the State in the amount of R$326.0 million. As of
December 31, 2007, our dividends payable to the State, due from 2004 through 2007, were in the amount
of R$552.0 million. We are currently unable to determine the amount, if any, of the declared dividends
that the State will apply to current and future accounts receivable owed to us by the State or its entities.
The second amendment no longer requires that dividends be applied to offset accounts receivable from
the State.
On March 26, 2008, we entered into a commitment agreement (termo de compromisso) with the State
with the purpose of finding an alternate solution to the deadlock related to the amount owed by the State
to us in connection with the supplemental retirement and pension benefits we paid from March 1986 to
November 2001 on behalf of the State to former employees of the State-owned companies which merged
to form our Company. In this agreement, we and State committed to hiring specialized companies to
carry out new valuations of the amounts owed to us by the State and of the reservoirs. An independent
consulting firm, FIPECAFI, has been retained to resolve the disagreement and validate the amount we
paid from March 1986 through November 2001 on behalf of the State to former employees of the State-
owned companies that merged to form our Company, which the State has not yet agreed to reimburse us
hereinafter referred to as the “Disputed Reimbursement Amount”. In addition, FIPECAFI is performing,
together with another independent consulting firm, a new evaluation of the reservoirs that might be
transferred to us as amortization of the reimbursement payable by the State to us.
On November 17, 2008, we, the State and DAEE entered into a third amendment to the
December 2001 agreement, pursuant to which the State recognized a debt balance payable to us totaling
R$915.3 million, hereinafter referred to as the “Undisputed Reimbursement Amount,” as adjusted based
on the IPCA. We accepted on a provisional basis the reservoirs as part of the payment of the Undisputed
Reimbursement Amount and offered to the State a provisional settlement, recognizing a credit totaling
R$696.3 million, corresponding to the value of the reservoirs located in the Alto Tietê region. We and the
State have agreed that the final offset will only be recorded when the effective transfer of the reservoirs is
recorded at the Real Estate Registry. The outstanding balance of Undisputed Reimbursement Amount,
amounting to R$219.0 million, is being paid by the State in 114 consecutive monthly installments, as
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adjusted by the annual IPCA variation, plus interest accruing at the annual rate of 6.0%. The first
installment was paid in November 2008.
In addition to the Undisputed Reimbursement Amount, there is an outstanding balance relating to the
Disputed Reimbursement Amount. As of December 31, 2011, the Disputed Reimbursement Amount
amounted to R$1,290.7 million, but due to the uncertainty regarding the recovery of the amount our
management decided not to recognize the reimbursements. See Note 8 to our consolidated financial
statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2011 regarding the Disputed Reimbursement
Amount. We and the State have agreed that the dispute relating to the Disputed Reimbursement Amount
will not prevent us from carrying out the commitments made in the December 2001 agreement. We are
working with the State government to obtain legislative authorization to transfer the reservoirs to us.
In addition, the third amendment to the December 2001 agreement provides for the regularization of
the monthly flow of benefits. While we are liable for the monthly flow of benefits to the former
employees of the state-owned companies that merged to form our Company, the State shall reimburse us
based on criteria identical to those applied when determining the Undisputed Reimbursement Amount.
Should there be no preventive court decision, the State will assume the flow of monthly payment of
benefits portion deemed as undisputed.
Finally, the third amendment to the December 2001 agreement established that the Public Attorney’s
Office of the State of São Paulo, or the Public Attorney’s Office, would issue a revised interpretation of
the calculation and eligibility criteria applicable to the Disputed Reimbursement Amount. At that time,
we believed that the Public Attorney’s Office would issue a revised interpretation which would have
helped us bring the negotiations with the State to a conclusion. However, contrary to our expectations,
the Public Attorney’s Office recent interpretation of the calculation and eligibility criteria applicable to
the Disputed Reimbursement Amount refuted the reimbursement of the largest portion of this amount. As
of December 31, 2011, we had made a provision of R$1,512.1 million in our pension obligations accounts
in respect of the Disputed Reimbursement Amount.
Even though the negotiations with the State are still progressing, we cannot assure you that we will
recover the receivables related to the Disputed Reimbursement Amount.
We will not waive the receivables from the State to which we consider ourselves to be legally
entitled. Accordingly, we will take all possible actions to resolve the issue at all administrative and court
levels. Should this conflict persist, we will take all the necessary actions to protect our interests. On
March 24, 2010, we sent to the controlling shareholder the official letter approved by our executive
committee, proposing that the matter be discussed at the BM&FBOVESPA Arbitration Chamber. In
June 2010, we sent a settlement proposal to the Secretary of Treasury, which was denied, and (iii) on
November 9, 2010, we filed a civil lawsuit against the State of São Paulo seeking full reimbursement of
the amounts paid as benefits granted by Law No. 4,819/58. Regardless of the civil lawsuit, we will
continue to actively seek a settlement with the State government.
Agreement with the State and the city of São Paulo
On June 23, 2010 the State and the city of São Paulo entered into a convention (convênio) with the
intermediation and consent of our Company and of the ARSESP pursuant to which they agreed to jointly
manage the planning of and investment in the basic sanitation system of the city of São Paulo, among
other things. This agreement established that the State and the city of São Paulo would enter into an
agreement with us, granting us exclusive rights in the provision of water and sewage services in the city
of São Paulo. In addition, the agreement established the role of the ARSESP in regulating and overseeing
our activities, and established a management committee that will be responsible for planning the water
and sewage services and for reviewing our investment plans. The management committee is composed of
six members appointed for renewable two-year terms. The State and the city of São Paulo have the right
to appoint three members each. We are permitted to participate in the meetings of the management
committee, but we are not afforded any voting rights.
On June 23, 2010, we entered into a formal agreement with the State and the city of São Paulo to
regulate the provision of water and sewage services in the city of São Paulo for a 30-year period, which
may be extended for an additional 30-year period. Municipal Law No. 14,934/2009 authorized the city of
São Paulo to enter into an agreement with us. The agreement establishes, among other things, how
specific amounts of gross revenues from the services we render should be allocated (after deduction of
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COFINS and PASEP). This agreement requires, among other things, (i) to invest at least 13.0% of the
gross revenues from sales and services we obtain from the municipality of São Paulo, net of taxes on
revenues in the improvement of water and sewage infrastructure in the city of São Paulo; (ii) that our
investment plan must be compatible with the activities and programs included in the sanitation plan of the
State, the sanitation plan of the city of São Paulo and, if necessary, the sanitation plan of the metropolitan
region of São Paulo; and (iii) that we contribute 7.5% of the gross revenues we obtain from this
agreement to the São Paulo Municipal Sanitation Fund. The investment plan under this agreement is not
irrevocable and will be reviewed by our management committee every four years, especially with regards
to investments to be executed in the subsequent period. In addition, the agreement provides that the
ARSESP, the State agency responsible for regulating the basic sanitation industry, will ensure that the
tariffs charged (a) will adequately compensate us for the services we provide and (b) can be adjusted to
restore the original balance between each party’s obligation and economic gain (equilíbrio econômico-
financeiro). We currently have an investment plan in place that consider these obligations and also
addresses the compatibility with the activities and programs included in the sanitation plan of the State
and of the municipality of São Paulo and, if necessary, the plan of the metropolitan region of São
Paulo. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Our Operation—Operations in the City of São Paulo and
Certain Metropolitan Regions.”
Dividends
We regularly pay dividends to our shareholders, including the State of São Paulo. In the past, we
have withheld part of the dividends to which the State was entitled in order to offset it against our pending
receivables from the State.
In accordance with our agreements with the State, we do not anticipate that we will withhold
dividends to which the State was entitled in order to offset it against our pending receivables from the
State in the near future.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Our cash and cash equivalents invested with State financial institutions in short-term securities
amounted to R$722.2 million, R$1,945.7 million and R$2,070.2 million, as of December 31, 2009, 2010
and 2011, respectively. Interest income from these investments totaled R$74.2 million in 2009, R$137.7
million in 2010 and R$271.8 million in 2011.
Government Guarantees of Financing
In some situations, the federal government, the State or government agencies guarantee our
performance under debt- and project-related agreements.
Furthermore, the federal government has guaranteed, and the State has provided a counter-guarantee,
in respect of the financial agreements we entered into with the IADB (i) in 1992 and 2000 for the total
original aggregate amount of US$650.0 million related to the financing of the first and second phases of
the Tietê River recovery project to reduce pollution; and (ii) in 2010 for the aggregate amount of US$600
million related to the financing of the third phase of the Tiête River project. The federal government has
also guaranteed and the State of São Paulo has provided a counter-guarantee, in respect of the financial
agreement we entered with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) in the
amount of US$100 million for the Water Source Program (Programa Mananciais).
We also entered into credit agreements with the JICA, which were guaranteed by the federal
government, with counter-guarantee from the State of São Paulo, for the financing of (i) the Clean Wave
Program for the Baixada Santista metropolitan region, in August 6, 2004, for an aggregate principal
amount of ¥21,320 million; (ii) the second phase of the Clean Wave Program, in February 2011, for an
aggregate principal amount of ¥19,169 million; (iii) the environmental improvement program in the basin
of the Billings dam, as part of the New Life Program (Programa Vida Nova), in October 2010, for an
aggregate principal amount of ¥6,208 million; and (iv) the Corporate Program for Water Loss Reduction,
in February 2012, for an aggregate principal amount of ¥33,584 million
The State has also guaranteed a portion of our repayment obligations under loan agreements that we
entered into with the federal government in 1994 through its financial agent, Banco do Brasil S.A. which
totaled R$828.2 million as of December 31, 2011.
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In addition, we are currently negotiating with Caixa and BNDES for additional loans to finance
portions of our capital expenditure program.
For more information on the aforementioned loans, see “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—
Capital Sources—Indebtedness Financing.”
Use of State-Owned Reservoirs
We currently use the Guarapiranga and Billings reservoirs which are owned by another company
controlled by the State, based on a grant issued by the DAEE. We do not pay any fees with respect to the
use of these reservoirs. We are, however, responsible for maintaining them and funding their operating
costs. The State incurs no operating costs on our behalf. If these facilities were not available for our use,
we would have to obtain water from more distant sources, which would be more costly.
Agreements with Lower Tariffs
We have entered into agreements with public entities, including State entities and municipalities,
which manage approximately 5,700 properties. Under these agreements, these public entities pay a
different tariff which is approximately 25.0% lower than the tariff that applies for the public entities that
have not entered into these agreements, provided such entities implement our PURA program for the
rational use of water, which includes a reduction of at least 10.0% in water consumption. These
agreements are valid for a 12-month term with automatic renewal for equal periods. Pursuant to the terms
of these agreements, if these entities fail to make any payment on a timely basis to us, we have the right to
cancel the agreement, thereby revoking the 25.0% tariff reduction.
Personnel Assignment Agreement among Entities Related to the State Government
We have personnel assignment agreements with entities related to the State Government, under
which the expenses are fully passed on and monetarily reimbursed. The expenses related to personnel
assigned by us to other state government entities in 2009, 2010 and 2011 amounted to R$5.4 million,
R$5.6 million and R$10.9 million, respectively.
In 2011, none of our personnel had been assigned by other entities. In 2010 and 2009, the expenses
related to personnel assigned by other entities to us totaled R$0.3 million.
Services Obtained from State Government Entities
As of December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, we had an outstanding amount payable of R$12.1 million,
R$11.4 million and R$10.4 million, respectively, for services rendered by São Paulo State government
entities, including the supply of electric power by CESP.
Non-operating Assets
We lend land, free of charge, to associations, support entities, non-governmental organizations and to
DAEE, among others. Such non-operating assets totaled R$26.5 million, R$25.4 million and R$21.5
million as of December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011, of which R$2.3 million was lent to DAEE, as of
December 31, 2011.
Banco do Brasil
We filed a lawsuit against the Department of Finance of the State São Paulo seeking financial
compensation related to the transfer of our exclusive rights in bank services. On March 27, 2007, the
State of Sao Paulo sold exclusive rights in the provision of banking services administration entities
directly and indirectly in favor of Banco Nossa Caixa. On May 27, 2010, the State of Sao Paulo sold
them in favor of Banco do Brasil. In this lawsuit, we were pleading financial compensation for the sale of
its exclusive rights, requiring a percentage of the values that the State of São Paulo received from each of
the financial institutions for the services contract entered into.
On June 28, 2011, we entered into an agreement with the State of Sao Paulo for the , whereby we
received the amount of R$63.4 million upon reduction, as compensation of credit held by the State,
corresponding to interests on shareholders’ equity in the fiscal year 2010.
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Transactions with SABESPREV Pension Fund
SABESPREV is a pension fund we established to provide our employees with retirement and pension
benefits. The assets of SABESPREV are independently held, but we nominate 50.0% of SABESPREV’s
board of directors, including the chairman of the board, who has the deciding vote pursuant to the
applicable legislation. Both we and our employees make contributions to SABESPREV pension plans.
We contributed R$12.9 million, R$13.8 million and R$8.9 million in 2009, 2010 and 2011, respectively.
On May 29, 2001, a federal law was enacted which, among other provisions, limits the amount mixed
capital companies, like us, may contribute to their pension plans. Specifically, the ordinary contributions
made by us to our pension plans may not exceed the contributions made by the beneficiaries of these
plans.
Our original pension plan (the Defined Benefit Plan) has an actuarial deficit. We have commenced
studies to manage this deficit and have also created a new, defined contribution plan, Sabesprev Mais.
Our new plan was approved by the Previc in June 2010, after which our old plan stopped accepting new
members. Contributions to the new plan are also shared between plan members and Sabesp, and benefits
are established based on the balance of the individual member’s account when payment on his or her
benefit begins. This balance consists of contributions and profitability obtained when applying
resources. We intended to have members of the old plan migrate their reserves to the new plan. This
migration was temporarily interrupted by a judicial order as a result of proceedings brought by
representative entities for our employees and ex-employees. In October 2010, the judge presiding over
the case pronounced in an interim decision that people and reserves were not allowed to migrate between
the plans until a further decision was made. This decision also prevents the plan from charging
contributions to account for the deficit for those who remained covered by the original plan.
Compensation of Management
The compensation paid by us to the members of our board of directors, board of executive officers
and fiscal committee amounted to R$2.6 million in 2009, 2010, and 2011, and it refers to salaries and
other short-term benefits to employees and management. An additional amount of R$0.8 million,
R$0.8 million and R$1.1 million related to the bonus program, was accrued in 2009, 2010 and 2011.
For further information on management compensation, see “Item 6.B. Compensation.”
C. Interests of Experts and Counsel
Not applicable.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information
See “Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data” and “Item 18. Financial Statements.”
Legal Proceedings
In the ordinary course of our business, we are a party to judicial and administrative proceedings
relating to civil, environmental, labor and tax matters. As of December 31, 2011, we estimated that these
legal proceedings totaled R$24,152.0 million (excluding the amount of R$133.1 million related to court
deposits). This amount was based on probable, possible and remote losses and on the value attributed to
the lawsuit by the plaintiffs in some cases and on the economic value of the lawsuits in others. Out of the
total amount of contingencies as of December 31, 2011, approximately R$2,367.2 million relate to tariff-
related legal proceedings and consumers claims, approximately R$1,147.8 million relate to contractors’
claims, approximately R$1,105.7 million relate to tax proceedings, approximately R$349.7 million relate
to labor proceedings, approximately R$18,405.1 million relate to civil public actions related to
environmental matters and approximately R$776.4 million relate to other civil matters. As of December
31, 2011, the provision for legal contingencies totaled R$1,571.8 million (excluding the amount of
R$120.7 million related to court deposits), of which R$618.5 million relate to tariff-related legal
proceedings and consumers claims, R$420.8 million relate to contractors’ claims, R$76.4 million relate to
tax proceedings, R$156.5 million relate to labor proceedings, R$121.2 million relate to civil public
actions related to environmental matters and R$178.4 million relate to other civil matters.
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The table below sets forth, as of December 31, 2011, our estimated contingencies with respect to
legal proceedings, categorized by potential risk of loss:
Expected probable loss
Expected possible loss
Expected remote loss
Total
Total Value
(in thousands of reais)
1,571,829
2,621,800
19,958,346
24,151,975
The difference between the provisioned amount and the total amount of the contingencies derives
from the methodology for establishing our provisions. This methodology takes into account: (i) the
probability of loss of each lawsuit, based on the alleged facts, the claim based on the factual
circumstances vis-à-vis the law, as well as prevailing precedents in similar cases; and (ii) the calculation
of the provisioned amounts, which requires significant judgment and in certain circumstances, given the
nature of the claim, we are unable to estimate with accuracy our liability exposure. In these cases, we
have taken into account the value attributed to the lawsuits by the plaintiff and legal opinions of counsel
in charge of each lawsuit. Once the methodology is applied, as a general rule, we make the provisions
only for the lawsuits that are considered as probable losses.
We cannot give any assurances either as to the sufficiency of the provisioned amount to cover the
contingencies or as to the total amount of potential liabilities that we may incur or penalties that may be
imposed. We may not obtain a favorable outcome in the administrative or court proceedings to which we
are a party. In addition, the total amount of the contingencies, based on the value attributed to the lawsuit
by the plaintiff, may not correspond to the economic value of the lawsuits, which may be substantially
higher than the total estimated amount of contingencies. If the economic outcome of these lawsuits is
higher than the amount attributed to the lawsuit by the plaintiff or, in the event the total amount of our
provisions are not sufficient to pay the contingencies due, we could incur greater costs than those that
were originally estimated. If these costs are significant, our results of operations and financial condition
could be negatively affected. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Business—Any
substantial monetary judgment against us in legal proceedings may have a material adverse effect on us.”
Civil Public Actions Related to Environmental Matters
We have been sued by the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo (Ministério Público do
Estado de São Paulo), by some municipalities and by some non-governmental organizations in a number
of environmental civil public actions: (i) seeking that we cease releasing raw sewage into certain local
water courses; (ii) in some cases seeking remedies for environmental damages, which have not yet been
specified and evaluated by the court’s technical experts; and (iii) seeking to require us to install and
operate sewage treatment facilities in the locations referred to in the civil public actions. In each case, we
are subject to daily fines for non-compliance. In our response to these lawsuits we emphasize that the
installation and operation of sewage treatment facilities in the locations referred to in the civil public
actions is included in our investment plan and that the immediate cessation of the release of raw sewage
into the relevant local water courses would hinder us from collecting sewage, a primary necessity, in
those locations, causing even more damage to the environment and public health. There have already
been unfavorable judicial decisions against us. The effects may include: (i) investment in works or
services not considered by the long-term investment plan; (ii) early execution of works or services that
were considered for execution in future years in the long-term investment plan; (iii) payments related to
environmental indemnification; and (iv) a negative impact on our image in national and international
markets and in public bodies.
Although we are not able to predict the final outcome of these lawsuits, we believe that the outcome,
if unfavorable to us, may have a material adverse effect on us.
The civil public lawsuits related to environmental matters to which we are party include the
following:
(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo has brought a civil public action
requesting remedies due to environmental damage caused by the release of sludge from the Rio
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Grande water treatment facilities into certain receiving waters and the Billings reservoir and
seeking the immediate cessation of this activity and the implementation of an environmental
recovery project. The Trial Court ruled in our favor, and there was a subsequent appeal against
this decision. In May 2006, the appellate court ruled against us and ordered us to cease the release
of sludge within a year from the final ruling. The court also determined that the environmental
recovery must be carried out within two years of the date of the ruling, under the penalty of a daily
fine of R$10,000 to compensate for environmental damage. We appealed from this decision and
the court decided against us in a final decision. We are currently studying a proposal to be made
to the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo on how to implement the environmental
recovery we have been imposed. As of December 31, 2011, we had provisioned R$1.2 million for
the effects of this lawsuit.
(cid:131) A public civil action filed by the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo against us
and the Cotia Mayor’s Office seeking individual and joint adverse judgments against the
defendants and requesting: (i) the permanent cessation of the release of untreated water effluents
into the Cotia River or its tributaries, subject to a daily fine in the case of non-compliance; (ii) the
treatment of sewage prior to its release into the Cotia River, under the penalty of a daily fine in the
event of non-compliance; (iii) the full restoration of soil, of surface and underground water bodies
and of vegetation to their original condition, under the penalty of a daily fine in the event of non-
compliance; (iv) the payment of compensation for environmental damage caused to soil, water
sources and underground and surface water bodies that cannot be recovered. The appellate court
rendered decisions favorable to us with respect to items (i), (iii) and (iv) mentioned above.
According to evaluations by the court’s technical expert, as of October 17, 2006, compensation for
environmental damages was R$826.8 thousand or R$5.8 million if damage caused to the
neighboring Cotia River is included. This amount is under discussion, and its approval is subject
to a final decision by the court of first instance. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as
probable. In December 2011, the court’s technical expert’s evaluation for the compensation was
adjusted to R$11.6 million. The lawsuit is currently being enforced against us. We are in
negotiation with the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo to settle this lawsuit.
(cid:131) In 2003, the Piracicaba Civil Entities Coordination Board filed a public civil action against us, the
ANA and the Government of the State of São Paulo, seeking remedy for damage caused by the
use of the Piracicaba, Jundiaí and Capivari river basins to supply the São Paulo metropolitan
region through the Cantareira Water System for nearly 30 years. The value attributed to the claim
was R$11.4 billion on December 10, 2003, and later adjusted to R$17.2 billion as of
December 31, 2011. The lawsuit was dismissed on July 8, 2011, but the Piracicaba Civil Entities
Coordination Board filed a motion for the clarification of a certain aspect of that decision. Having
the motion rejected, the plaintiff may file an appeal to the Superior Courts. So far no value has
been set for the damages alleged. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as remote. No
provision has been made for this lawsuit.
(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo has filed a public civil action against us,
AES Eletropaulo, DAEE, CETESB and the State Secretariat of Treasury seeking a joint
condemnation for alleged environmental damage caused by the reversal of the Pinheiros River
into the Billings Dam. A Trial Court found the defendants guilty and, based on an expert’s report
which estimated the amount of damages, ruled that the defendants jointly pay R$284.5 million in
damages. As of December 31, 2011, the amount of damages totaled R$618.3 million, after
monetary adjustment. We, DAEE, AES Eletropaulo, CETESB and the State Treasury
Department have filed an appeal against the ruling at the appellate court. The appellate court
ruled in our favor, and the plaintiff appealed from this decision. We are currently awaiting the
decision on the plaintiff’s appeal. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as remote. No
provision has been made for this lawsuit.
(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo has filed a civil public action against us
seeking (i) that we cease releasing untreated sewage into receiving waters and into the soil; (ii)
that we implement a sewage system in the municipality of Vargem Grande Paulista and the
necessary infrastructure for the sewage treatment; and (iii) indemnification for irreversible
damages caused to the environment and public health, subject to daily fines. The trial court ruled
partially against us, and we appealed unsuccessfully. We have filed appeals for the Superior
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Courts. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as probable. The value attributed to the lawsuit
was R$3.0 million as of November 20, 2007, and later adjusted to R$3.8 million as of
December 31, 2011.
(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo filed a civil public action against us and
the Piracaia Mayor’s Office seeking that we cease to release untreated residential sewage in the
Atibaia River or be subject to specific performance or a daily fine. The value attributed to the
lawsuit was R$3.5 million as of July 11, 1996, and later adjusted to R$100 thousand, which was
updated to R$262 thousand as of December 31, 2011. This lawsuit is in its initial stage, pending
judgment from the trial court. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as possible. No
provision has been made for this lawsuit.
(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo filed a civil public action against us
seeking that we (i) cease to release untreated sewage effluents into the Capivari river in the
municipality of Campos do Jordão within 540 days from the filing of the lawsuit, subject to a
daily fine of R$100,000; and (ii) fully restore the environmental damage or indemnify the State
for such damages if restoration is not viable. The court of first instance ruled against us, and we
appealed. The appellate court also ruled against us, but reduced the daily fine to R$10,000. We
have appealed the appellate court’s ruling and are currently waiting for a ruling on our appeal.
Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as probable. We have entered into a settlement with the
Public Prosecution Office of the São Paulo on July 11, 2011 agreeing to build a sewage treatment
station by December 31, 2013. As compensation for the environmental damage, we have agreed
to recover 10 (ten) hectares of the damaged area in Campos do Jordão, planting approximately
16,667 trees, of which 39% should be of exotic species for public exhibition at certain blocks of
Avenue Emílio Ribas, at Capivari. We also agreed to expand the sewage system of that
municipality and to create a center for environmental education.
(cid:131) On April 12, 2005, the Federal Public Prosecution Office and the Federal Government sued us
and the Santos Mayor’s Office requesting (i) the full restoration of the area where the outlet pipes
were built to its original condition, with appropriate technical safeguards, and the conservation of
the remaining trees; (ii) the maintenance of the area in a condition that is adequate for its use for
the population; (iii) that an environmental license be obtained before any modification to the
sewage outlet pipes, with the requirement that the license and an obligatory environmental impact
study and report (Estudo Prévio de Impacto Ambiental e Relatório de Impacto Ambiental, or EIA-
RIMA, be submitted for approval to the appropriate federal authorities; and (iv) the restoration of
the area to the condition it was in prior to the construction of the sewage outlet pipe platform,
provided this is determined to be feasible pursuant to the EIA-RIMA. The trial court ruled in our
favor, but the Federal Public Prosecution Office and the Federal Government filed an appeal
against that decision. We have submitted additional evidence for consideration, and we are
waiting for the decision of the Regional Federal Court. Our legal counsel has assessed the risk of
loss as possible. The value attributed to the lawsuit was R$2.1 million as of December 31, 2011.
No provision has been made for this lawsuit.
(cid:131) On October 19, 2009, the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo filed a civil public
action against us and the municipality of Itatiba seeking that we (i) cease releasing untreated
sewage in Itatiba or be subject to a daily fine of R$10,000; (ii) fully restore within one year the
soil, the surface and underground water bodies and vegetation to their original condition, or be
subject to a daily fine of R$10,000 in the event of non compliance; (iii) indemnify the State for
damages when restoration is not viable; and (iv) indemnify the State in an amount not less than
R$2.0 million for moral damages. This lawsuit is in its initial stage and is pending judgment from
the trial court. As of December 31, 2011, the value attributed to this lawsuit was R$31.4
thousand. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as possible. No provision has been made for
this lawsuit.
(cid:131) On August 8, 2008, the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo won a civil public
action against us requiring us, within a maximum of three years, to treat all domestic sewage in
Águas de Santa Bárbara before releasing it into any waterway, or be subject to a daily fine of
R$1,000, as from August 8, 2008 for a maximum period of 18 months. We appealed and were
waiting the appeal court’s judgment until we entered entered into a settlement with the
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Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo on August 05, 2011. Through this settlement, we
agreed to create a treatment facility for the domestic sewage of Águas de Santa Bárbara until
October 2012, and also to abstain from releasing any non-treated domestic sewage into a
waterway in that area.
(cid:131) A civil public action was brought against us by the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São
Paulo. We appealed an unfavorable decision of the trial court, and the appeal court ruled against
us, requiring us (i) to cease to release any untreated sewage into the river system in the Guareí
region, or be subject to a fine of R$150,000 for each violation; (ii) to invest as necessary in the
municipality of Guareí’s water treatment and sewage system so as to complete within 180 days all
works necessary for sewage treatment, or be subject to a daily fine of R$100,000; (iii) to pay an
indemnity in respect of all damage caused to the environment and to clean up any such damage in
settlement of the judgment. The judgment was not clear as to the fines imposed and this led to an
appeal, which the court refused in May 2010. After the appeal court ruled against us, we applied
to have this lawsuit heard by the State of São Paulo Court of Special and Extraordinary Measures
(Recursos Especial e Extraordinário pelo Tribunal de Justiça do Estado de São Paulo), and that
court is currently considering whether to hear the case. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss
as probable. As of December 31, 2011, the value attributed to this lawsuit was R$38.4 million,
based on the settlement offered by the State Public Prosecution Office in July 2010, and we have
recorded provisions in this amount as of that date.
(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo filed a civil public action against us,
requiring us (i) to cease to release any untreated sewage from the Araça pre-treatment plant
(Estação de Pré Condicionamento), or EPC, into the São Sebastião canal without obtaining the
necessary environmental licenses, or be subject to a daily fine of R$100,000; (ii) to obtain and
maintain the necessary environmental license to operate the Araça EPC, or be subject to a daily
fine of R$100,000; (iii) to release into the São Sebastião canal only domestic sewage that complies
with legal guidelines; (iv) to comply with all of the technical requirements set out in the
environmental license, as well as the requirements specified following inspections by the
CETESB; and (v) to pay an indemnity of R$50.0 million for environmental damage. The
preliminary judgment was deferred, and we were required (i) to present to the court within six
months the environmental license for the Araça EPC, or be subject to a daily fine of R$100,000,
and (ii) to present to the court within 30 days a contract with a company to carry out an
independent technical study with monthly reporting to monitor and collect samples from the areas
of São Sebastião canal where there are underwater outlets from the Araça EPC, as well as from the
beaches and mangroves within 8 km to the north of south of the Araça EPC. The sediment
samples from the mangroves were required to be analyzed for the existence of fecal coliforms as
well as water quality. This lawsuit is in its initial stage and is pending judgment from the court of
first instance. Our legal counsel has assessed the risk of loss as possible. The value attributed to
the lawsuit as of December 31, 2011 was R$123.4 million. No provision has been made for this
lawsuit.
(cid:131) The municipality of Águas de São Pedro filed a civil public action against us on September 14,
2004, with a request for summary judgment or the imposition of a daily fine. This lawsuit aims to
require us to undertake works and services necessary to remove the direct discharge of sewage
beside the green areas and the Pantanal source and lake that are located close to Rua dos
Pinheiros, in the Bairro Jardim Iporangadistrict of the municipality of Águas de São Pedro. It
also aims to require us to pay indemnities for alleged damage caused to the environment, to health
and to citizen’s property. On June 26, 2006, the court of first instance ruled that the claim was
without merit. However, on September 22, 2009, the appeals court ruled that the claim was
proven and granted an injunction, ordering us to comply with the requirement to clean up the
environmental damage within 180 days in satisfaction of the judgment, and imposing a daily fine
of R$5,000. We appealed from this decision, and the court decided against us. We filed another
appeal from this decision and are currently awaiting its decision. Our legal counsel has assessed
the risk of loss as probable. The value attributed to this lawsuit as of December 31, 2011 was R$2
million, and we have recorded provisions in this amount as of that date. Currently, we are
awaiting the response from the State of São Paulo Court of Special and Extraordinary Measures
(Recursos Especial e Extraordinário pelo Tribunal de Justiça do Estado de São Paulo) in relation
to this lawsuit.
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(cid:131) The Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo filed a civil public action against us for
the indemnification on environmental damages and for us to cease the discharge of untreated
sewage into the Alegre river in the area of the municipality of Paraguaçu Paulista. The first
instance judge has ruled against us so that we (i) cease the discharge of untreated sewage into
Alegre river; (ii) to invest as necessary in that municipality’s water treatment and sewage system;
and (iii) pay indemnities for alleged damage caused to the environment, which the court arbitrated
at R$168.9 million. The court has also imposed a daily fine in case of disobedience of item (i) and
(ii) above. We appealed from this decision, and the court decided against us. We then entered
into a settlement with the Public Prosecution Office of the State of São Paulo, having agreed to
pay R$34 million as indemnity for environmental damages and invest R$8.7 million within 54
months on the water treatment and sewage system. The deadlines and planning for the
performance of the agreement have not yet been settled. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of
loss as probable. As of December 31, 2011, we provisioned R$43.7 million for this matter.
(cid:131) The municipality of Atibaia filed a civil public action against us on August 2010, for the
indemnification on environmental and urban damages related to flood that took place in
December 2009 and January 2010 and for us to take preventive steps to avoid new damages
related to similar events. The first instance judge has granted the municipality of Atibaia an
injunction ordering us to perform emergency repairs around the area of the Atibaia river, or be
subject to a daily fine of R$50,000. We appealed from that decision, and the injunction was
suspended by the second instance court. We currently await the decision of the superior courts on
the injunction. We still await a final judgment to resolve all matters of the lawsuit. The estimated
amount for this lawsuit is R$ 1.9 million. Our legal counsel assessed the risk of loss as possible
and no provision was made for this lawsuit.
We are currently involved in other environmental lawsuits and administrative proceedings against the
release of untreated sewage in the municipalities, which have been evaluated as probable and possible
losses. The amounts provisioned may not always represent the final amount to be paid as compensation
for the alleged damages, in view of the current status of the lawsuits and since our management cannot
reasonably estimate the amounts of future disbursements. As of December 31, 2011, the total amount
provisioned was R$121.2 million.
Labor Proceedings
We are party to labor proceedings, mainly regarding unpaid overtime, health and safety conditions in
the workplace, among others. We make provisions for part or the entire amounts involved in the
proceedings. For those cases in which the probability of loss is assessed as probable, we provision the
full amounts being discussed.
As of December 31, 2011, we were party to approximately 5,432 labor proceedings and one public
civil action filed by some of our current and former employees. Some of these lawsuits seek to negotiate
certain benefits granted by Law No. 4,819 of August 26, 1958. Our position in these lawsuits is that the
State government, and not us, should be responsible for the payments due to the plaintiffs. In the public
civil action filed against us and the State Treasury, a temporary injunction was granted in the trial court
requiring us to pay the benefits set forth in Law No. 4,819/58 to all the plaintiffs. A trial court ruled on
April 5, 2005, granting the relief sought under this proceeding and confirming the temporary injunction
requiring us to continue to pay the benefits. We have appealed this decision. There are currently other
pending individual lawsuits discussing the same claims, and up to the date of this report neither we nor
the State government had reached an agreement as to the indemnification amounts related to these
proceedings.
In order to continue to seek reimbursement of the amounts related to the payment of retirement
benefits and pensions paid by us that our management understands is in fact owed by the State
government, we have taken the following measures: (i) on March 24, 2010, we sent a letter to our
controlling shareholder in an attempt to start an arbitration proceeding before the BM&FBOVESPA
arbitration chamber, (ii) In June 2010, we sent a settlement proposal to the Secretary of Treasury, which
was denied, and (iii) on November 9, 2010, we filed a civil lawsuit against the State of São Paulo seeking
full reimbursement of the amounts paid as benefits granted by Law No. 4,819/58 and we are waiting on
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the court’s decision. Regardless of the civil lawsuit, we will continue to actively seek a settlement with
the State government.
Among the mentioned labor proceedings, as of December 31, 2011, we were party to two collective
lawsuits brought by the syndicate of the workers of the water and sewage systems and environment of the
State of São Paulo (SINTAEMA). The first relates to the scheduling of the workers and we had a ruling
against us in the amount of approximately R$62.6 million. This lawsuit in currently under enforcement
calculations. A second lawsuit filed by that syndicate relates to the increase in 1.5% of our salary base for
2010/2011, as well as overtime adjustments. The court has ruled against us and we have filed an appeal to
the superior labor court, where the appeal is currently under review. The approximated amount in dispute
in this lawsuit is R$11.8 million as of December 31, 2011, with a probable risk of loss.
As of December 31, 2011, the total amount in controversy in the labor proceedings was R$301.6
million for risks considered as probable and possible losses. We have established a provision of R$156.5
million as of December 31, 2011 for these contingencies, including the lawsuits described in the
preceding paragraphs, based on calculations made by our legal and human resources departments.
Tax Proceedings
Our tax proceedings and our contingency reserves for tax proceedings refer mainly to tax collection
suits resulting from different interpretations by us and the competent government authority with respect to
the applicable law. The tax proceedings to which we are party include the following:
(cid:131) We are challenging the city of São Paulo’s taxation of the use of public areas for the installation of
water and sewage mains for the provision of public sanitation services. The tax was originally
established by municipal decree No. 38,139/99 and later replaced by municipal decree No.
40,532/2001 and finally by the municipal Law No. 13,614/2003. On February 22, 2000, we filed
a writ of mandamus requesting an injunction to challenge this tax. This first lawsuit covers the
taxation before the enactment of municipal Law No. 13,614/2003. The trial court ruled partially
in our favor, by prohibiting the requirement to pay the tax provided for in this law, and the
appellate court confirmed that the tax was not due. The city of São Paulo appealed this decision,
and a final decision is pending. On April 20, 2004, we filed a writ of mandamus requesting
temporary injunction against the collection of this tax based on challenges to Law No.
13,614/2003. The court granted this injunction. The São Paulo city government appealed this
decision, and an appellate court decision is still pending. We cannot estimate the potential
increase in our expenses should we have to pay this tax for the use of public areas for the
installation of water and sewage mains for the provision of public sanitation services should we be
required to pay such tax since 1999. We have not provisioned for any type of potential expense
deriving from this municipal tax.
(cid:131) The municipality of São Paulo has notified us of alleged infractions on the payment of Brazilian
Service Tax (Imposto Sobre Serviço), or ISS. This charge is related to the enactment of municipal
Law No. 13,476/2002, before which we were exempted from such charge. The municipality is
charging the amount of approximately R$223.9 million in charges and penalties. We filed a writ
of mandamus against the administrative decision that imposed those charges. The trial court
originally granted a preliminary injunction in our favor in the writ of mandamus, suspending the
levy of the tax, but later ruled against us. In July 2005, we filed an appeal to maintain the
injunction previously granted, which was denied in January 2012. We filed a motion to clarify
items in this decision, which is under the review of the court. On the same matter, we filed a
lawsuit confronting the basis for the charge, challenging Law No. 13,476/2002. We have been
granted an injunction within this lawsuit that suspended the levy of the tax until the final judgment
from the court. We are currently waiting for a final decision on this matter. The risk of loss has
been considered as possible and we have not provisioned for any type of potential expense
deriving from this municipal tax.
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(cid:131) We proposed to carry-over losses from previous years to offset an income tax liability of
approximately R$56.1 million and a social contribution tax liability of approximately R$8.7
million. These amounts refer to the period between January and April 2003. In 2005, the Federal
Revenue Service denied the set-off of approximately R$11.2 million related to income tax liability
and R$0.7 million related to social contribution tax liability, totaling R$11.9 million, and allowed
us to compensate the remaining portion. We appealed this decision, and our request was partially
granted. As of December 31, 2011, we recorded a provision of R$1.1 million as a probable loss.
(cid:131) In 2006, the Federal Revenue Service concluded that, for the year 2001, we had an income tax
liability and social contribution tax liability totaling R$277.0 million (R$379.3 million, as adjusted
as of December 31, 2011) and initiated administrative collection proceedings against us. We filed
an administrative objection to this collection proceeding. Based on the opinion of our legal
counsel, the risk of loss is remote with respect to approximately 90.0% of this amount and a
possible risk of loss with respect to the remaining 10.0%.
(cid:131) In 2008, the Federal Revenue Service denied six requests for compensation to offset income tax
and social contribution tax liabilities. We proposed to offset income tax and social contribution
tax paid in excess against our tax liability. The amount involved in these proceedings was R$44.7
million as of December 31, 2011. Based on the opinion of our internal legal counsel, the risk of
loss is possible and no amount was provisioned for this proceeding.
(cid:131) In November 2004, we filed a writ of mandamus against the municipality of Bragança Paulista
regarding the imposition of a new tax for the use of public areas for the installation of water and
sewage mains for the provision of public sanitation services. On February 16, 2005, we were
granted a temporary injunction suspending the imposition of this tax and preventing the
municipality from collecting any current or future amounts due in respect of this tax until a ruling
is rendered by the trial court. In June 2005, the trial court ruled in our favor by confirming the
injunction. In July 2005, the municipality of Bragança Paulista filed an appeal to the São Paulo
appellate court, which was denied. Although the municipality may take additional judicial steps,
it is probable that their attempts will be unsuccessful.
(cid:131) We proposed to carry-over losses from the years 1997 and 1998 to offset an income tax liability of
approximately R$41 million. This amount refers to the period between July and September 2002.
The Federal Revenue Service denied the set-off and we appealed this decision. Based on the
opinion of our internal legal counsel, the risk of loss is possible and no amount was provisioned
for this proceeding.
(cid:131) On June 23, 2010, we have entered into an agreement with the municipality of São Paulo for
public water supply and sewage services. As part of this settlement, certain tax collections
between the parties were settled amicably. As of December 31, 2011, the total amount related to
tax collection proceedings that remained outstanding from the municipality of São Paulo was
R$58.2 million, of which we provisioned R$27.7 million as a probable loss.
We cannot predict the outcome of any of these lawsuits, nor can we assure you that, in the event of
an adverse decision, we will be able to pass on to our customers any increase in our deductions from
gross revenue, operating expenses or other expenses. See Item 3.D. Risk Factors - Risks Relating to Our
Business - Any substantial monetary judgment against us in legal proceedings may have a material
adverse effect on us.”
Condemnation Proceedings
We are party to a significant number of condemnation proceedings arising from the partial or total
expropriation or use of private property for water mains, sewer lines and facilities. Under Brazilian law,
the State or the relevant municipality is entitled to condemn private property to the extent required for the
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construction, development or improvement of water and sewage systems operated by us. However, we
are required to provide compensation to affected property owners based upon appraised fair market
values. Although we generally provide compensation to property owners on the basis of negotiated
settlements, we are a party to many lawsuits related to compensation awards.
As of December 31, 2011, the future disbursement was estimated at R$448.6 million, as to all
proceedings regarding expropriation and easements. These payments are made over the years, according
to each court order or settlement. After making each payment, we will obtain the title to the respective
real property which will be recorded as an asset belonging to us after being expropriated. We have not
provisioned any amounts with regard to these proceedings.
Concession-Related Legal Proceedings
In December 1997, the municipality of Santos enacted a statute expropriating our water and sewage
systems located in Santos. We filed a writ of mandamus requesting a temporary injunction against the
expropriation, which was denied by the trial court. This decision was subsequently reversed by the
appellate court, which then issued a temporary injunction suspending the effectiveness of the statute. By
August 2, 2002, both the trial and appellate courts had ruled in our favor, but we are currently waiting for
a final decision.
On December 20, 2000, we brought an action against the municipality of Santos for payments due
under the concession agreement. Both parties appealed the decision of the courts of first and second
instance, and we are currently awaiting the decision of the higher appeal court. We continue to render
water and sewage collection services in the municipality of Santos.
On March 25, 2005, the municipality of Itapira approved a decree revoking our concession contract.
In addition, a municipal law was enacted revoking an earlier law authorizing the municipality to enter into
the contract with us. The municipality of Itapira has further filed a repossession lawsuit seeking to
repossess all of the reversible assets, rights, and privileges transferred to us in connection with water and
sewage collection services, and has obtained an injunction which was later confirmed by an appellate
court decision. We appealed this decision but we later decided to waive this appeal and filed a
compensation lawsuit against the municipality of Itapira.
The municipality of Tuiuti has filed a lawsuit seeking to recognize the inexistence of any judicial or
legal grounds for us to provide water and sewage collection services in the municipality of Tuiuti, and to
confirm the legality of the expropriation of these services by the municipality. We filed an answer to the
lawsuit requesting that the trial court (i) confirm the existence of a legal relationship between us and the
municipality of Tuiuti; and (ii) award damages for the expropriation of our assets. The trial court ruled
against us but awarded us an indemnity of R$541.0 thousand, to be updated since March 2006. Both
parties appealed this decision, and the court decided partially in our favor increasing the amount related to
damages to R$1.1 million. We are not currently operating in the municipality of Tuiuti.
The municipality of Cajobi has filed a repossession lawsuit. This lawsuit requests the repossession of
water and sewage collection services due to the termination of the concession agreement on
November 13, 2006, and an indemnity for all amounts paid to us for water and sewage collection services
after November 2006, as well as payments for the use of all the reversible assets, rights and privileges
transferred to us in the concession agreement. The municipality has been rendering the water and sewage
collection services since May 29, 2007, based on a judgment by the court of first instance. The amounts
involved in this lawsuit are still being evaluated in the judicial proceedings.
The municipality of Araçoiaba da Serra has filed a repossession lawsuit requesting the repossession
of water and sewage collection services due to the termination of the concession agreement entered into
with us and an indemnity for all amounts paid to us for water and sewage collection services after the
termination on September 23, 2006, as well as payment for the use of all the reversible assets, rights and
privileges transferred to us in the concession agreement. A temporary injunction was granted by the
appellate court in favor of the municipality of Araçoiaba da Serra and confirmed by the superior courts.
The first instance court has ruled in favor of the municipality in their requests, to which we filed an
appeal currently under the review of the trial court.
We have filed a lawsuit to collect indemnities from the municipalities of Diadema e Mauá.
These indemnities result from the unilateral termination by these municipalities of the concession
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contracts entered with us in 1995. We have invested in the construction of water and sewage collection
systems in these municipalities to render the contracted services. As a result of the termination of these
concession agreements, the municipalities started to directly render water and sewage collection services
With respect to the collection suit against the municipality of Diadema, in October 2009, the trial
court ruled in our favor. The municipality appealed from the decision to the appellate court, and the
appellate court decision is still pending. In December 2008, we entered into a memorandum of
understanding with the State of São Paulo, the municipality of Diadema and the State Secretariat for
Sanitation and Water Resources, formerly known as the State Secretariat for Sanitation and Energy
(Secretaria de Saneamento e Energia do Estado de São Paulo). This memorandum establishes our
agreement to conclude negotiations and settle all outstanding amounts and stayed the collection
proceedings we had filed against the municipality of Diadema. In 2011, the municipality of Diadema
agreed with us to develop a share infrastructure for the provision of water and sewage services through a
mixed-capital company called Companhia de Água e Esgoto de Diadema, or CAED. The amount owned
to us by that municipality would be returned to us through capital participation in CAED, through the
assignment of 49.9% shares of the new company to us.
With respect to the collection suit against the municipality of Mauá, the trial court ruled in our favor,
ordering the municipality to pay us R$153.2 million as compensation for our losses. The municipality
appealed this decision to the appellate court, which upheld the trial court’s decision in August 2008. The
municipality appealed to the Superior Court, which have denied the appeal making the decision in our
favor final. We are currently pursuing to collect the amount owed.
We have recorded the indemnities to be received from the municipality of Diadema as non-current
assets representing long-term receivables. As of December 31, 2011, this amount totaled R$60.3 million.
Following the expiry of our concession contract with the municipality of Iperó, the municipality filed
a repossession lawsuit requesting the repossession of assets relating to water and sewage services. In
response, we filed a lawsuit on December 30, 2009 to maintain possession or to collect indemnities. A
temporary injunction was granted in our favor on January 5, 2010, but it was thereafter annulled by the
court of first instance on January 6, 2010. We filed an interlocutory appeal, but it was not accepted.
Currently, this lawsuit is at the appeals stage with respect to the submissions by both parties. We also
filed a precautionary early evidence order in the jurisdiction of the Secretariat of Treasury, which resulted
in a summary judgment requiring the early presentation of evidence to establish what assets are related to
the provision of the services rendered by us in the municipality of Iperó.
The municipality of Tarumã filed a lawsuit against us in July 2010 requesting an interim injunction
requiring (i) the repossession of existing assets necessary for providing water and sewage collection,
distribution and treatment services, and (ii) the presentation of documentation demonstrating current
income and expenses in the municipality and invoices for services and goods purchased by us to provide
services, in order to calculate the indemnity due under article 35, paragraph 4, of the Federal Concessions
Law 8,987/95. The lawsuit requested (i) a search warrant if we did not provide the income and expenses
information and invoices, (ii) the imposition of a daily fine against us and (iii) that the interim injunction
be converted into a permanent order, with the declared assets remaining under the control of the
municipality until the payment of the indemnity provided for under article 36 of the Federal Concessions
Law. The court denied the municipality’s requested and we restarted the water distribution and sewage
collection services in that area. We await a final decision from the court on the matter.
We filed an ordinary action against the municipality of President Prudente on January 12, 2001,
seeking (i) a declaration in respect of its contractual right to continue to render the services under its
concession agreement in the municipality until the formal legal rescission of the concession agreement
and (ii) the payment of indemnities. The action also sought a declaration that the acts and threats of the
municipality in connection with its planned expropriation were illegal and abusive. A judgment has been
handed down confirming our right to continue to render the services. The decision was appealed, and the
decision of the appeal court is still pending. Under an injunction currently in force until an
indemnification is paid, we continue to render services in the municipality of Presidente Prudente.
In March 2011, we filed a repossession lawsuit against the municipality of Álvares Florence, which
terminated our concession contract and took possession of our installations. We requested an interim
injunction requiring (i) the repossession of existing assets necessary for providing water and sewage
collection, distribution and treatment services, and (ii) the observation of our contractual right to continue
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to render the services under its concession agreement in the municipality until the formal legal rescission
of the concession agreement. The lawsuit also requested that the interim injunction be converted into a
permanent order. The first instance court has denied our injunction claim, keeping the municipality in
charge of the water and sewage collection services. The court also denied our claim for a permanent
order to which we filed an appeal which is currently under the review of the trial court.
In August 2011, we filed a repossession lawsuit against the municipality of Macatuba, which
terminated our concession contract and took possession of our sewage collection and water installations.
We requested an interim injunction requiring (i) the repossession of existing assets necessary for
providing water and sewage collection, distribution and treatment services, and (ii) the observation of our
contractual right to continue to render the services under its concession agreement in the municipality
until the formal legal rescission of the concession agreement. The lawsuit also requested that the interim
injunction be converted into a permanent order. The first instance court has denied our injunction claim,
keeping the municipality in charge of the water and sewage collection services. We await the decision of
the first instance court on the merits of the claim.
Tariff-Related Legal Proceedings and Consumer Claims
As of December 31, 2011, approximately 1,500 lawsuits had been brought by our commercial
customers that claim that their tariff rates should be equal to those of another category of customers and,
consequently, seek the reimbursement of the difference between the amounts we collected and those
tariffs. We have obtained final decisions both in favor and against us in many of these lawsuits, and have
provisioned R$618.5 million as of December 31, 2011 for those lawsuits for which we have determined
that the risk of loss is probable.
The Association of Distinguished Bars and Restaurants (Associação de Bares e Restaurantes
Diferenciados) has initiated several lawsuits to challenge the 10.0% penalty fee we charge on late water
and sewage payments. In several of these cases, trial courts have dismissed the lawsuits based on the
plaintiffs’ lack of standing to initiate such a lawsuit. In other cases, the lawsuits were dismissed because a
civil public action with respect to the same matter was already being heard in the civil courts of the State
of São Paulo. In this civil public action, the civil courts ruled against us, and we have appealed the
decision and a decision from the appellate court is still pending. Notwithstanding these legal proceedings,
we have reduced to 2.0% the penalty fee we charge all of our customers on late bill payments.
Contractors’ Claims
Certain contractors have filed claims against us alleging damages and underpayment of inflation
indexation adjustments, monetary losses incurred in connection with introduction of the real and
economic instability of the contract, among other claims. These suits are being handled by different
courts, and we have established provisions for them when the expectation of loss is considered probable.
As of December 31, 2011, we had recorded a provision of R$420.8 million for claims whose likelihood of
loss is considered probable.
Other Legal Proceedings
We are a party to several civil lawsuits related to indemnities for property damage, pain and
suffering, and loss of profits allegedly caused to third parties. In the year ended December 31, 2011,
there was an increase both in the number of lawsuits with probable and possible risk of loss, arising from
the increase in lawsuits and the review of the expected outcomes, comprising monetary adjustment,
interest and fees. As of December 31, 2011, we had recorded a provision of R$178.4 million, for claims
whose likelihood of loss is considered probable.
The São Paulo State Public Attorney’s Office has filed a public civil action against us seeking (i) to
ensure water supply in the municipality of Guarujá is within accepted levels of potability and in
accordance with current legislation; (ii) to require us to start building a water treatment station; (iii) to
require us to reimburse fees charged to consumers; and (iv) to require us to pay compensation for physical
harm and pain and suffering caused by allegedly improper water consumption. A temporary injunction
was granted to the São Paulo State Public Attorney’s Office, and we appealed the decision. Our appeal
was rejected by the appellate court. We have presented an answer to the complaint, and the lawsuit is
currently in the discovery phase. We have not yet estimated our potential liability with respect to this
lawsuit because we currently do not have sufficient information to accurately do so. We evaluated this
proceeding as a possible loss.
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On October 29, 2003, the São Paulo State Public Attorney’s Office, on behalf of the people of the
State of São Paulo, filed a civil public action in a trial court of the State of São Paulo alleging that a
transfer to us of ownership of the Alto Tietê System reservoirs from the DAEE would be illegal. In
October 2004, the court of first instance handed down its judgment on the civil public action and declared
the agreement between us, DAEE and the State of São Paulo null and void. This decision was suspended
and we, the State Treasury and DAEE appealed the decision. On August 23, 2010, the appeal was denied.
We have petitioned for clarification of the appeal court’s decision and will seek to take the case to the
Supreme Court. The effects of the appeal court’s decision will be suspended until the end of the legal
process. Our legal counsel has assessed the risk of loss as probable, which would prohibit the transfer of
the reservoirs in payment of the accounts receivable due from the State.
We are a party to a substantial number of other legal proceedings, in addition to the lawsuits and
administrative proceedings discussed above, in the ordinary course of our business. These legal
proceedings include personal injury and property damage cases, environmental proceedings, challenges to
our ability to cease rendering water and sewage services upon default by our customers and a range of
other matters. We have not established provisions with respect to these other legal proceedings.
Dividends and Dividend Policy
Amounts Available for Distribution
At each annual shareholders’ meeting, the board of directors is required to recommend the allocation
of net profits for the preceding fiscal year. For purposes of Brazilian Corporate Law, net profits are
defined as net income after income tax and social contribution tax for such fiscal year, net of any
accumulated losses from prior fiscal years and any amounts allocated to employees’ and management’s
participation in our profits. In accordance with Brazilian Corporate Law, the amounts available for
dividend distribution are the amounts equal to our net profits less any amounts allocated from such net
profits to:
(cid:131) the legal reserve; and
(cid:131) retained earnings for investment reserve.
We are required to maintain a legal reserve, to which we must allocate 5.0% of net profits for each
fiscal year until the amount for such reserve equals 20.0% of our paid-in capital. However, we are not
required to make any allocations to our legal reserve in respect of any fiscal year in which the aggregate
amount of the legal reserve plus our other established capital reserves exceeds 30.0% of our capital. Net
losses, if any, may be offset against the legal reserve. As of December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 the
balance of our legal reserve was R$521.2 million, R$460.0 million and R$378.5 million, respectively,
which was equal to 8.4%, 7.4% and 6.1%, respectively, of our capital.
Brazilian Corporate Law also provides for two discretionary allocations of net profits that are subject
to approval by the shareholders at each annual shareholders’ meeting. First, a percentage of net profits
may be allocated to a contingency reserve for anticipated losses that are deemed probable in future years.
Any amount so allocated in a prior year must be either reversed in the fiscal year in which the loss was
anticipated if such loss does not in fact occur, or written off in the event that the anticipated loss occurs.
Second, if the mandatory distributable amount exceeds the sum of realized net profits in any given year,
such excess may be allocated to an unrealized revenue reserve. Under Brazilian Corporate Law, realized
net profits is defined as the amount of net profits that exceeds the net positive result of equity adjustments
and profits or revenues from operations with financial results after the end of the next succeeding fiscal
year.
Under Brazilian Corporate Law, any company may authorize in its bylaws the creation of a
discretionary reserve. Bylaws which authorize the allocation of a percentage of a company’s net income
to the discretionary reserve must also indicate the purpose, criteria for allocation and maximum amount of
the reserve. We may also allocate a portion of our net profits for discretionary allocations for plan
expansion and other capital investment projects, the amount of which would be based on a capital budget
previously presented by management and approved by our shareholders. Under Law No. 10,313 of
October 3, 2001, capital budgets for more than one year must be revised at each annual shareholders’
meeting. After completion of the relevant capital projects, we may retain the allocation until the
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shareholders vote to transfer all or a portion of the reserve to capital or retained earnings. As of
December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 we had an investment reserve of R$3,408.6 million, R$2,825.0
million and R$1,732.1 million, respectively.
The amounts available for distribution may be further increased by a reversion of the contingency
reserve for anticipated losses constituted in prior years but not realized. The amounts available for
distribution are determined on the basis of financial statements prepared in accordance with Brazilian
GAAP, which does not differ from IFRS.
The legal reserve is subject to approval by the shareholder vote at our annual shareholders’ meeting
and may be transferred to capital but is not available for the payment of dividends in subsequent years.
Our calculation of net profits and allocations to reserves for any fiscal year are determined on the basis of
financial statements prepared in accordance with Brazilian GAAP.
Mandatory Distribution
Brazilian Corporate Law generally requires that the bylaws of each Brazilian corporation specify a
minimum percentage of the amounts available for distribution by such corporation for each fiscal year
that must be distributed to shareholders as dividends, also known as the mandatory distributable amount.
Under our bylaws, the mandatory distributable amount has been fixed at an amount equal to not less than
25.0% of the amounts available for distribution, to the extent amounts are available for distribution at the
end of each given fiscal year.
The mandatory distribution is based on a percentage of adjusted net income, not lower than 25.0%,
rather than a fixed monetary amount per share. Brazilian Corporate Law, however, permits a publicly
held company, such as us, to suspend the mandatory distribution if the board of directors and the fiscal
committee report to the shareholders’ meeting that the distribution would be inadvisable in view of the
company’s financial condition. The suspension is subject to the approval of holders of common shares.
In this case, the board of directors must file a justification for such suspension with the CVM. Profits not
distributed by virtue of the suspension mentioned above shall be attributed to a special reserve and, if not
absorbed by subsequent losses, must be paid as dividends as soon as the financial condition of such
company permits such payments.
Payment of Dividends
We are required by Brazilian Corporate Law and by our bylaws to hold an annual shareholders’
meeting by the fourth month after the end of each fiscal year at which, among other things, the
shareholders have to decide on the payment of an annual dividend when profits were accrued. The
decision to distribute annual dividends is based on the financial statements prepared for the relevant fiscal
year. Under Brazilian Corporate Law, dividends generally are required to be paid within 60 days
following the date the dividend was declared, unless a shareholders’ resolution sets forth another date for
payment, which, in either case, must occur prior to the end of the fiscal year in which the dividend was
declared. A shareholder has a three year period from the dividend payment date to claim dividends (or
interest payments on shareholders’ equity as described under “—Record of Dividend Payments and
Interest on Shareholders’ Equity”) distributed on his or her shares, after which the amount of the
unclaimed dividends reverts to us. The depositary will set the currency exchange date to be used for
payments to ADS holders as soon as practicable upon receipt of those payments from us.
Our bylaws allow us to pay interim dividends from preexisting and accumulated profits related to the
current or preceding fiscal year.
In general, shareholders who are not residents of Brazil must register with the Central Bank to have
dividends, sales proceeds or other amounts with respect to their shares eligible to be remitted outside of
Brazil. The common shares underlying our ADSs are held in Brazil by Banco Itaú Unibanco S.A., as the
custodian and agent for the depositary, which is the registered owner of the common shares underlying
the ADSs. Our current registrar is Banco Itaú Unibanco S.A. The depositary electronically registers the
common shares underlying the ADSs with the Central Bank and, therefore, is able to have dividends,
sales proceeds or other amounts with respect to these shares eligible to be remitted outside Brazil. See
“Item 10.D. Exchange Controls.”
Payments of cash dividends and distributions, if any, will be made in Brazilian reais to the custodian
on behalf of the depositary, which will then convert such proceeds into U.S. dollars and will cause such
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U.S. dollars to be delivered to the depositary for distribution to holders of ADSs. See “Item 10.D.
Additional Information—Exchange Controls.” Under current Brazilian law, dividends generally paid to
shareholders who are not Brazilian residents, including holders of ADSs, will not be subject to Brazilian
withholding income tax, except for dividends declared based on profits generated prior to December 31,
1995. See “Item 10.E. Taxation.”
Record of Dividend Payments and Interest on Shareholders’ Equity
Brazilian corporations are permitted to distribute dividends in the form of a tax-deductible notional
interest expense on shareholders’ equity in accordance with Law No. 9,249 of December 26, 1995, as
amended. The rate at which tax-deductible interest may be paid is limited to the product of the average
TJLP and shareholders’ equity during the relevant period and cannot exceed the greater of:
(cid:131) 50.0% of net income (before taking into account such distribution and any deductions for income
taxes and after taking into account any deductions for social contributions on net profits) for the
period in respect of which the payment is made; or
(cid:131) 50.0% of earnings reserves and retained earnings.
Any payment of interest on shareholders’ equity to holders of ADSs or common shares, whether or
not they are Brazilian residents, is subject to Brazilian withholding income tax at the rate of 15.0% or
25.0% if the beneficiary is resident in a tax haven. See “Item 10.E. Taxation.” The amount paid to
shareholders as interest on shareholders’ equity, net of any withholding tax, may be included as part of
any mandatory distributable amount.
Dividends and interest on shareholders’ equity over the minimum established in a company’s bylaws
are recognized when approved by the shareholders in the general meeting. Consequently, the amounts
recognized as of December 31, 2011, correspond to the minimum established by law of 25.0% of the net
profit and the difference was recorded on April 23, 2012 totaling R$ 578.7 million.
Distributions of dividends
The following table sets forth the distributions of dividends that we made to our shareholders in
respect of our 2009, 2010 and 2011 earnings. All these amounts distributed or to be distributed were or
will be in the form of interest on shareholders’ equity.
Year ended December 31,
Aggregate
amount
distributed
(in millions of
reais)
Payment Dates
Payment per
share
Payment per
ADS
(in reais)
2009
2010
2011
___________
(*) We recorded dividends in the amount of R$387.2 million, which pursuant to our bylaws is our minimum dividend amount.
June 28, 2010
June 28, 2011
(**)
394.2
456.0(*)
578.7(**)
1.73
2.00
2.54
3.46
4.00
5.08
(**) We recorded dividends in the amount of R$290.6 million, which pursuant to our bylaws is our minimum dividend amount. The
dividends will be paid until 60 days after the Ordinary General Meeting, which occurred on April 23, 2012.
Dividend Policy
We intend to declare and pay dividends and/or interest on shareholders’ equity, as required by
Brazilian Corporate Law and our bylaws. Our board of directors may approve the distribution of interest
on shareholders’ equity, calculated based on our semiannual or quarterly financial statements. The
declaration of dividends is annual, including dividends in excess of the mandatory distribution, and
requires approval by the vote of the majority of the holders of our common shares. The amount of any
distributions will depend on many factors, such as our results of operations, financial condition, cash
requirements, prospects and other factors deemed relevant by our board of directors and shareholders.
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Within the context of our tax planning, we may in the future continue to determine that it is in our best
interest to distribute interest on shareholders’ equity.
B. Significant Changes
We are not aware of any significant changes bearing upon our financial condition since the date of
the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report.
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND LISTING
A. Offer and Listing Details
Market Price of Common Shares
Our common shares have been listed on the BM&FBOVESPA under the symbol “SBSP3” since
June 4, 1997 and, starting on April 24, 2002, have been included in the Novo Mercado segment of that
exchange. As of December 31, 2011, we had 2,767 registered holders of common shares.
On April 30, 2007, our shareholders approved a reverse stock split of 125 common shares into one
common share. IFRS requires the retroactive restatement of earnings-per-share computations for stock
dividends, stock splits, and reverse splits.
The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low closing sale prices in
reais for common shares on the BM&FBOVESPA. The table also sets forth prices per ADS assuming
that ADSs had been outstanding on all such dates and translated into U.S. dollars at the commercial
market rate for the sale of U.S. dollars for each of the respective dates of such quotations. In addition, the
table sets forth the average daily trading volume for our common shares.
Reais per common share
U.S. dollar equivalent per
ADS (1)
Low
High
Low
18.11
21.87
21.87
25.10
27.50
31.15
30.27
30.27
32.36
33.41
37.59
39.00
40.10
45.00
39.00
43.03
50.42
58.00
65.00
65.50
46.50
37.19
28.86
32.25
35.38
37.19
44.47
34.26
37.50
37.90
44.47
52.78
47.00
49.50
48.03
52.78
58.34
64.85
69.66
73.65
16.08
18.39
18.39
22.56
29.07
35.79
32.70
32.70
35.28
38.05
44.53
48.75
47.91
56.39
48.75
45.75
53.97
66.95
75.79
74.85
High
56.02
43.66
24.77
32.02
39.18
43.66
52.56
39.55
41.63
44.74
52.56
56.80
57.71
60.75
61.43
56.80
67.09
75.88
76.46
80.43
Average
daily trading
volume
384,463
351,874
360,725
334,721
397,366
306,677
311,996
323,739
416,256
265,725
242,943
258,827
282,548
267,042
245,275
241,197
349,214
495,100
288,000
332,131
2008
2009
2010
2011
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
2012
January
February
March
April (through April 23, 2012)
___________________
(1) Each ADS is equal 2 common shares
Market Price of ADSs
Our ADSs, each of which represent two of our common shares, as of the date of this annual report,
are listed on the NYSE under the symbol “SBS.” Prior to June 8, 2007, each ADS represented 250 of our
common shares. Our ADSs began trading on the NYSE on May 10, 2002 in connection with the initial
offering of our equity securities in the United States.
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The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low closing prices for our
ADSs on the NYSE.
Price in U.S. dollars per ADS
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
2011
First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
2012
January
February
March
April (through April 23, 2012)
Low
High
17.21
29.15
16.76
18.03
18.03
22.74
27.74
36.58
33.09
33.09
35.33
37.97
45.15
46.35
48.60
56.91
46.35
46.74
56.62
67.43
73.23
74.11
Average daily
trading volume
321,105
323,404
414,961
331,673
382,314
358,534
296,588
292,049
275,432
262,525
337,808
266,393
234,667
263,370
297,927
284,122
263,200
215,152
279,963
443,328
278,767
276,903
35.35
53.57
56.35
43.40
25.12
32.27
39.51
43.40
53.18
40.16
41.54
45.51
53.18
63.63
58.74
62.63
62.07
56.66
66.91
75.12
76.86
80.18
B. Plan of Distribution
Not applicable.
C. Markets
Trading on the Brazilian Stock Exchanges
The BM&FBOVESPA stock and futures exchange is a corporation where all stock and futures trades
in Brazil are carried out, with the exception of public-debt bonds, which are traded electronically, and the
privatization auctions, which are run by the Rio de Janeiro Stock Exchange.
Trading on the BM&FBOVESPA is limited to brokerage firms and is conducted between 10:00 a.m.
and 5:00 p.m., or between 11:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. during daylight savings time in Brazil. The
BM&FBOVESPA also permits trading from 5:45 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., or between 6:45 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
during daylight savings time in Brazil, during a different trading period of time, called the “after market.”
Trading on the after market is subject to regulatory limits on price volatility and on the volume of shares
transacted through Internet brokers.
In order to maintain better quality control over the fluctuation of its index, BM&FBOVESPA has
adopted a “circuit breaker” system pursuant to which trading sessions are suspended for a period of 30
minutes or an hour whenever the BM&FBOVESPA index falls below the limits of 10.0% or 15.0%,
respectively, in relation to the index at the closing of the previous trading session.
BM&FBOVESPA settles the sale of shares three business days after they have taken place, without
monetary adjustment of the purchase price. The shares are paid for and delivered through a settlement
agent affiliated with the BM&FBOVESPA. The BM&FBOVESPA performs multilateral compensation
for both the financial obligations and the delivery of shares. According to the BM&FBOVESPA’s
regulations, financial settlement is carried out by the Central Bank’s reserve transfer system. The
securities are transferred by the BM&FBOVESPA’s custody system. Both delivery and payment are final
and irrevocable.
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Trading on the BM&FBOVESPA is significantly less liquid than trading on the NYSE or other major
exchanges in the world. Although any of the outstanding shares of a listed company may trade on the
BM&FBOVESPA, in most cases fewer than half of the listed shares are actually available for trading by
the public, the remainder being held by a controlling group or by government entities. As of the end of
2011, the BM&FBOVESPA had a total market capitalization of approximately US$1.2 billion (R$2.3
billion) and an average daily trading volume of US$3.9 billion (R$6.2 billion). The top ten stocks in
terms of 2011 trading volume accounted for approximately 47.2% of all shares traded on the
BM&FBOVESPA as of December 31, 2011. As of December 31, 2011, we accounted for approximately
0.5% of the market capitalization of all listed companies on BM&FBOVESPA.
Trading on the BM&FBOVESPA by a holder not deemed to be domiciled in Brazil for Brazilian tax
and regulatory purposes, or a “non-Brazilian holder,” is subject to certain limitations under Brazilian
foreign investment regulations. With limited exceptions, non-Brazilian holders may trade on Brazilian
stock exchanges in accordance with the requirements of CMN Resolution No. 2,689, which requires that
securities held by non-Brazilian holders be maintained in the custody of financial institutions authorized
by the Central Bank and by the CVM or in deposit accounts with financial institutions. In addition,
Resolution No. 2,689 requires non-Brazilian holders to restrict their securities trading to transactions on
the BM&FBOVESPA or qualified over-the-counter markets. With limited exceptions, non-Brazilian
holders may not transfer the ownership of investments made under Resolution No. 2,689 to other
non-Brazilian holders through a private transaction. See “Item 10.E. Taxation—Brazilian Tax
Considerations—Taxation of Gains” for a description of certain tax benefits extended to non-Brazilian
holders who qualify under Resolution No. 2,689.
The Novo Mercado Segment
Since April 24, 2002, our common shares have been listed on the Novo Mercado segment of the
BM&FBOVESPA. The Novo Mercado is a listing segment designed for the trading of shares issued by
companies that voluntarily undertake to abide by some additional corporate governance practices and
disclosure requirements in addition to those already required under Brazilian law. A company in the
Novo Mercado must follow good practices of corporate governance. These rules generally increase
shareholders’ rights and enhance the quality of information provided to shareholders. On April 18, 2002
and on June 19, 2006, our shareholders approved changes to our bylaws to comply with the Novo
Mercado requirements. In addition, the Novo Mercado provides for the creation of a Market Arbitration
Chamber for conflict resolution between investors and companies listed in the Novo Mercado.
In addition to the obligations imposed by current Brazilian law, a company listed on the Novo
Mercado is obligated to:
(cid:131) maintain only voting shares;
(cid:131) hold public offerings of shares in a manner favoring diversification of the company’s shareholder
base and broader access to retail investors;
(cid:131) maintain a minimum free float of at least 25.0% of the outstanding capital stock of the company;
(cid:131) grant tag along rights for all shareholders in connection with a transfer of control of the company;
(cid:131) limit the term of all members of the board of directors to two years;
(cid:131)
ensure that at least 20.0% of the members of the board of directors are independent, as defined
under the Novo Mercado regulation;
(cid:131) prepare annual, including cash flow statements, in compliance with U.S. GAAP or IFRS or
reconciled from Brazilian GAAP to U.S. GAAP or IFRS;
(cid:131) disclose information on a quarterly basis, including share ownership of certain of our employees
and directors and amount of free float of shares;
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(cid:131) hold a tender offer by the company’s controlling shareholder (the minimum price of the shares to
be offered will be determined by an appraisal process) if it elects to delist from the Novo
Mercado; and
(cid:131) make greater disclosure of related party transactions.
On May 10, 2011, the Novo Mercado rules were revised and currently establish the following
additional obligations:
(cid:131) the chairman of the board of directors is prohibited from simultaneously holding the position of
chief executive officer;
(cid:131) the board of directors must disclose its opinion on take over proposals within 15 days from the
presentation of the proposal; and
(cid:131) the company must have a securities purchase policy and a code of ethics.
Regulation of Brazilian Securities Markets
The Brazilian securities markets are principally governed by Law No. 6,385 of December 7, 1976,
and Brazilian Corporate Law, each as amended and supplemented, and by regulations issued by the
CVM, which has regulatory authority over the stock exchanges and securities markets generally, by the
CMN, and by the Central Bank, which has licensing authority over brokerage firms and regulates foreign
investment and foreign exchange transactions. These laws and regulations, among others, provide for
disclosure requirements applicable to issuers of traded securities, protection of minority shareholders and
criminal penalties for insider trading and price manipulation. They also provide for licensing and
oversight of brokerage firms and governance of the Brazilian stock exchanges. Nevertheless, the
Brazilian securities markets are not as highly regulated and supervised as the U.S. securities markets.
Under Brazilian Corporate Law, a company is either public (companhia aberta), such as we are, or
closely held (companhia fechada). All public companies, including us, are registered with the CVM and
are subject to reporting requirements. A company registered with the CVM may have its securities traded
on the Brazilian stock exchanges or in the Brazilian over-the-counter market. Our common shares are
listed and traded on the BM&FBOVESPA and may be traded privately subject to some limitations.
To be listed on a Brazilian stock exchange a company must apply for registration with the CVM and
the stock exchange where the head office of the company is located.
We have the option to ask that trading in our securities on the BM&FBOVESPA be suspended in
anticipation of a material announcement. Trading may also be suspended on the initiative of the
BM&FBOVESPA or the CVM, among other reasons, based on or due to a belief that a company has
provided inadequate information regarding a material event or has provided inadequate responses to the
inquiries by the CVM or the São Paulo Stock Exchange.
The Brazilian over-the-counter market consists of direct trades between individuals in which a
financial institution registered with the CVM serves as intermediary. No special application, other than
registration with the CVM, is necessary for securities of a public company to be traded in this market.
The CVM requires that it be given notice of all trades carried out in the Brazilian over-the-counter market
by the respective intermediaries.
Trading on the BM&FBOVESPA by non-residents of Brazil is subject to limitations under Brazilian
foreign investment and tax legislation. The Brazilian custodian for our common shares underlying the
ADSs must, on behalf of the depositary for our ADSs, obtain registration from the Central Bank to remit
U.S. dollars abroad for payments of dividends, any other cash distributions, or upon the disposition of the
shares and sales proceeds thereto. In the event that a holder of ADSs exchanges ADSs for common
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shares, the holder will be entitled to continue to rely on the custodian’s registration for five business days
after the exchange. Thereafter, the holder may not be able to obtain and remit U.S. dollars abroad upon
the disposition of our common shares, or distributions relating to our common shares, unless the holder
obtains a new registration. See “Item 10.D. Exchange Controls.”
D. Selling Shareholders
Not applicable.
E. Dilution
Not applicable.
F. Expenses of the Issue
Not applicable.
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
A. Share Capital
Not applicable.
B. Memorandum and Articles of Association
The following is a summary of the material terms of our common shares, including related provisions
of our bylaws and Brazilian Corporate Law. This description is qualified by reference to our bylaws and
to Brazilian law.
Corporate Purposes
We are a mixed capital company (sociedade de economia mista) of unlimited duration, incorporated
on September 6, 1973, with limited liability, duly organized and operating under Brazilian Corporate
Law. As set forth in Article 2 of our bylaws, our corporate purpose is to render basic sanitation services,
aimed at the universalization of basic sanitation in the State of São Paulo without harming our long-term
financial sustainability. Our activities comprise water supply, sanitary sewage services, urban rainwater
management and drainage services, urban cleaning services solid waste management services and related
activities, including the planning, operation, maintenance and commercialization of energy, and the
commercialization of services, products, benefits and rights that directly or indirectly arise from its assets,
operations and activities. We are allowed to act, in a subsidiary form, in other Brazilian locations and
abroad.
Directors’ Powers
Although our bylaws contain no specific provisions regarding a director or executive officer’s power
to vote on a proposal, arrangement or contract in which that director has a material interest, under
Brazilian Corporate Law, a director or an executive officer is prohibited from voting in any meeting or
with respect to any transaction in which that director or executive officer has a conflict of interest with the
company and must disclose the nature and extent of the conflicting interest to be recorded in the minutes
of the meeting. In any case, a director or an executive officer may not transact any business with the
company, including any borrowing, except on reasonable or fair terms and conditions that are identical to
the terms and conditions prevailing in the market or offered by third parties.
Under our bylaws, our shareholders are responsible for establishing the compensation we pay to the
members of our board of directors, members of the fiscal committee and the executive officers.
Pursuant to Brazilian Corporate Law, each member of our board of directors must be a resident of
Brazil. Our bylaws do not establish any mandatory retirement age limit.
See also “Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management.”
Description of Common Shares
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General
Each common share entitles the holder thereof to one vote at our annual or special shareholders’
meetings. Brazilian Corporate Law requires that all our shareholders’ meetings be called by publication
of a notice in the Diário Oficial do Estado de São Paulo, the official government publication of the State
of São Paulo, and in a newspaper of general circulation in our principal place of business, currently the
city of São Paulo, at least fifteen days prior to the meeting. In addition, the CVM may also require the
first call for a shareholders’ meeting to be up to 30 days before such shareholders’ meeting. The quorum
to hold shareholders’ meetings on first call requires the attendance of shareholders, either in person or by
proxy, representing at least 25.0% of the shares entitled to vote and, on second call, the meetings can be
held with the attendance of shareholders, also either in person or by proxy, representing any number of
shares entitled to vote.
Under Brazilian Corporate Law, our common shares are entitled to dividends or other distributions
made in respect of our common shares in proportion to their share of the amount available for the
dividend or distribution. See “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—
Dividends and Dividend Policy” for a more complete description of payment of dividends and other
distributions on our common shares. In addition, upon any liquidation of our Company, our common
shares are entitled to our remaining capital after paying our creditors in proportion to their ownership
interest in us.
In principle, a change in shareholder rights, such as the reduction of the compulsory minimum
dividend, is subject to a favorable vote of the shareholders representing at least one half of our voting
shares. Under some circumstances that may result in a change in the shareholder rights, such as the
creation of preferred shares, Brazilian Corporate Law requires the approval of a majority of the
shareholders who would be adversely affected by the change attending a special meeting called for such
reason. It should be emphasized, however, that our by-laws expressly prevents us from issuing preferred
shares. Brazilian Corporate Law specifies other circumstances where a dissenting shareholder may also
have appraisal rights.
According to Brazilian Corporate Law, neither a company’s bylaws nor actions taken at a general
meeting of shareholders may deprive a shareholder of certain rights, such as:
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
the right to participate in the distribution of profits;
the right to participate equally and ratably in any remaining residual assets in the event of
liquidation of the company;
the right to supervise the management of the corporate business as specified in Brazilian
Corporate Law;
the right to preemptive rights in the event of a subscription of shares, debentures convertible into
shares or subscription bonuses (except in some specific circumstances under Brazilian law); and
(cid:131) the right to withdraw from the company in the cases specified in Brazilian Corporate Law.
Pursuant to Brazilian Corporate Law and our bylaws, each of our common shares carries the right to
one vote at our shareholders’ meetings. We may not restrain or deny that right without the consent of the
holders of a majority of the shares affected.
Neither Brazilian Corporate Law nor our bylaws expressly addresses:
(cid:131) staggered terms for directors;
(cid:131) cumulative voting, except as described below; or
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(cid:131) measures that could prevent a takeover attempt.
However, under the laws of the State of São Paulo, the State is required to own at least a majority of
our outstanding common shares.
According to Brazilian Corporate Law and its regulations, shareholders representing at least five per
cent of our capital, may request that a multiple voting procedure be adopted to entitle each share to as
many votes as there are board members and to give each shareholder the right to vote cumulatively for
only one candidate or to distribute their votes among several candidates. Pursuant to Brazilian Corporate
Law, shareholder action must be taken at a shareholders meeting, duly called for and not by written
consent.
In addition, shareholders owning at least 15.0% of the capital may request the right to elect,
separately a member of the Board of Directors.
Preemptive Rights
Each of our shareholders has a general preemptive right to subscribe for shares or securities
convertible into shares in any capital increase, in proportion to his or her ownership interest in us, except
in the event of the grant and exercise of any option to acquire shares of our capital stock. The preemptive
rights are valid for a 30-day period from the publication of the announcement of the capital increase.
Shareholders are also entitled to sell this preemptive right to third parties. Under Brazilian Corporate
Law, we may amend our bylaws to eliminate preemptive rights or to reduce the exercise period in
connection with a public offering of shares or an exchange offer made to acquire another company.
Currently, our bylaws provide our shareholders with preemptive rights with respect to any offering.
In the event of a capital increase by means of the issuance of new shares, holders of ADSs, or of
common shares, would, except under circumstances described above, have preemptive rights to subscribe
for any class of our newly issued shares. However, an ADS holder may not be able to exercise the
preemptive rights relating to the common shares underlying his or her ADSs unless a registration
statement under the Securities Act is effective with respect to those rights or an exemption from the
registration requirements of the Securities Act is available. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors - Risks Relating
to Our Common Shares and ADSs - A holder of our common shares and ADSs might be unable to
exercise preemptive rights and tag-along rights with respect to the common shares.”
Redemption and Rights of Withdrawal
Brazilian Corporate Law provides that, under limited circumstances, a shareholder has the right to
withdraw his or her equity interest from the company and to receive payment for the portion of
shareholder’s equity attributable to his or her equity interest. This right of withdrawal may be exercised
by dissenting our shareholders in the event that at least half of all voting shares outstanding authorize us:
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
to reduce the mandatory distribution of dividends;
to merge into another company or to consolidate with another company, subject to the conditions
set forth in Brazilian Corporate Law;
to participate in a centralized group of companies, as defined under Brazilian Corporate Law and
subject to the conditions set forth therein;
(cid:131) to change our corporate purpose;
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
to split up, subject to the conditions set forth in Brazilian Corporate Law;
to transform into another type of company;
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(cid:131)
to transfer all of our shares to another company or to receive shares of another company in order
to make the company whose shares are transferred a wholly owned subsidiary of such company,
known as incorporação de ações; or
(cid:131) to acquire control of another company at a price which exceeds the limits set forth in Brazilian
Corporate Law.
The right of withdrawal lapses 30 days after publication of the minutes of the shareholders’ meeting
that approved a corporate action described above. We would be entitled to reconsider any action giving
rise to withdrawal rights within 10 days following the expiration of such rights if the withdrawal of shares
of dissenting shareholders would jeopardize our financial condition. Brazilian Corporate Law allows
companies to redeem their shares at their economic value, subject to the provisions of their bylaws and
certain other requirements. Our bylaws currently do not provide that our capital stock will be redeemable
at its economic value and, consequently, any redemption pursuant to Brazilian Corporate Law would be
made based on the book value per share, determined on the basis of the last balance sheet approved by the
shareholders. However, if a shareholders’ meeting giving rise to redemption rights occurred more than
60 days after the date of the last approved balance sheet, a shareholder would be entitled to demand that
his or her shares be valued on the basis of a new balance sheet dated within 60 days of such shareholders’
meeting.
In addition, the rights of withdrawal in the third, fourth and eighth bullet points above may not be
exercised by holders of shares if such shares (i) are liquid, defined as being part of the BM&FBOVESPA
index or other stock exchange index (as defined by the CVM), and (ii) are widely held, such that the
controlling shareholder or companies it controls have less than 50.0% of our shares. Our common shares
are included on the BM&FBOVESPA index.
This right of withdrawal may also be exercised in the event that the entity resulting from a merger,
incorporação de ações, as described above, consolidation or spin-off of a listed company fails to become a
listed company within 120 days of the shareholders’ meeting at which such transaction was approved.
We may cancel the right of withdrawal if the payment amount has a material adverse effect on our
finances.
Conversion Right
Not applicable because our capital stock is only comprised of common shares.
Especial and General Meetings
Unlike the laws governing corporations incorporated under the laws of the State of Delaware, the
Brazilian corporation law does not allow shareholders to approve matters by written consent obtained as a
response to a consent solicitation procedure. All matters subject to approval by the shareholders must be
approved in a general meeting, duly convened pursuant to the provisions of Brazilian corporation law.
Shareholders may be represented at a shareholders’ meeting by attorneys-in-fact who are (i) shareholders
of the corporation, (ii) a Brazilian attorney, (iii) a member of management or (iv) a financial institution.
General shareholders’ meetings may be called by publication of a notice in the Diário Oficial do
Estado de São Paulo and in a newspaper of general circulation in our principal place of business at least
15 days prior to the meeting. Special meetings are convened in the same manner as general shareholders’
meetings and may occur immediately before or after a general meeting.
At duly called and convened meetings, our shareholders are empowered to take any action regarding
our business. Shareholders have the exclusive right, during our annual shareholders’ meetings required to
be hold within 120 days of the end of our fiscal year, to approve our financial statements and to determine
the allocation of our net income and the distribution of dividends related to the fiscal year immediately
preceding the meeting. The members of our board of directors are generally elected at annual
shareholders’ meetings. However, according to Brazilian corporation law, they can also be elected at
extraordinary shareholders’ meetings. At the request of shareholders holding a sufficient number of
shares, a fiscal committee can be established and its members elected at any shareholders’ meeting.
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A special shareholders’ meeting may be held concurrently with the annual shareholders’ meeting and
at other times during the year. Our shareholders may take the following actions, among others,
exclusively at shareholders’ meetings:
(cid:131) election and dismissal of the members of our board of directors and our fiscal committee, if the
shareholders have requested the set up of the latter;
(cid:131)
approval of the aggregate compensation of the members of our board of directors and board of
executive officers, as well as the compensation of the members of the fiscal committee, if one
has been established;
(cid:131)
amendment of our bylaws;
(cid:131)
approval of our merger, consolidation or spin-off;
(cid:131)
approval of our dissolution or liquidation, as well as the election and dismissal of liquidators and
the approval of their accounts;
(cid:131) granting stock awards and approval of stock splits or reverse stock splits;
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
(cid:131)
approval of stock option plans for our management and employees, as well as for the
management and employees of other companies directly or indirectly controlled by us;
approval, in accordance with the proposal submitted by our board of directors, of the distribution
of our net income and payment of dividends;
authorization to delist from the Level 2 of Differentiated Corporate Governance Practices and to
become a private company, except if the cancellation is due to a breach of the Level 2 regulations
by management, and to retain a specialized firm to prepare a valuation report with respect to the
value of our shares, in any such events;
approval of our management accounts and our financial statements;
approval of any primary public offering of our shares or securities convertible into our shares;
and
(cid:131) deliberate upon any matter submitted by the board of directors.
Limitations on Rights to Own Securities
There are no limitations under Brazilian law and our bylaws on the rights of non-residents or foreign
shareholders to own securities, including the rights of such non-resident or foreign shareholders to hold or
exercise voting rights.
Anti-Takeover Provisions
Pursuant to article 40 of our bylaws and the Novo Mercado regulations, any party that acquires our
control must extend a tender offer for the shares held by non-controlling shareholders at the same
conditions and purchase price paid to the controlling shareholder. In addition, State Law No. 119/73,
which created our Company, requires the State to hold the majority of our shares at all times.
Reserves
General
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The Brazilian Corporate Law provides that all discretionary allocations of “adjusted income” are
subject to shareholder approval and may be added to capital or distributed as dividends in subsequent
years. In the case of our capital reserve and the legal reserve, they are also subject to shareholder
approval; however, the use of their respective balances is restricted to being added to capital or absorbed
by losses. They cannot be used as a source for income distribution to shareholders.
Capital Reserve
Our capital reserve is comprised of tax incentives and donations from government agencies and
private entities received through December 31, 2007. As of December 31, 2011, we had a capital reserve
of R$124.3 million.
Investment Reserve
Our investment reserve is comprised specifically of internal funds for expansion of water and sewage
service systems. As of December 31, 2011, we had an investment reserve of R$3,408.6 million.
Legal Reserve
Under Brazilian Corporate Law, we are required to record a legal reserve to which we must allocate
5% of the adjusted net income each year until the amount of the reserve equals 20.0% of paid-in capital.
Any accumulated deficit may be charged against the legal reserve. As of December 31, 2011, the balance
of our legal reserve was R$521.2 million.
Arbitration
In connection with our listing with the Novo Mercado segment of the BM&FBOVESPA, we, our
shareholders, directors and officers have undertaken to refer to arbitration any and all disputes or
controversies arising out of the Novo Mercado rules or any other corporate matters. See “Item 9.C.
Markets.” Under our bylaws, any dispute among us, our shareholders and our management with respect
to the application of Novo Mercado rules, Brazilian Corporate Law, the application of the rules and
regulations regarding Brazilian capital markets, will be resolved by arbitration conducted pursuant to the
BM&FBOVESPA Arbitration Rules in the Market Arbitration Chamber. Any dispute among
shareholders, including holders of ADSs, and any dispute between us and shareholders, including holders
of ADSs, will also be submitted to arbitration.
Options
There are currently no outstanding options to purchase any of our common shares.
C. Material Contracts
For a description of the material contracts entered into by the State and us, see “Item 7.B. Related
Party Transactions—Transactions with the State of São Paulo—Agreements with the State.”
D. Exchange Controls
The right to convert dividend or interest payments and proceeds from the sale of shares into foreign
currency and to remit such amounts outside Brazil is subject to restrictions under foreign investment
legislation which generally requires, among other things, that the relevant investments have been
registered with the Central Bank and the CVM. Such restrictions on the remittance of foreign capital
abroad may hinder or prevent the custodian for our common shares represented by our ADSs or the
holders of our common shares from converting dividends, distributions or the proceeds from any sale of
these shares into U.S. dollars and remitting the U.S. dollars abroad. Holders of our ADSs could be
adversely affected by delays in, or refusal to grant any, required government approval to convert Brazilian
currency payments on the common shares underlying our ADS and to remit the proceeds abroad.
Resolution No. 1,927 of the CMN provides for the issuance of depositary receipts in foreign markets
in respect of shares of Brazilian issuers. The ADS program was approved under the Annex V
Regulations by the Central Bank and the CVM prior to the issuance of the ADSs. Accordingly, the
proceeds from the sale of ADSs by ADR holders outside Brazil are not subject to Brazilian foreign
investment controls, and holders of the ADSs are entitled to favorable tax treatment under certain
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circumstances. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors—Risks Relating to Our Common Shares and ADSs—
Investors who exchange ADSs for common shares may lose their ability to remit foreign currency abroad
and to obtain Brazilian tax advantages” and “Item 10.E. Taxation—Brazilian Tax Considerations.”
E. Taxation
This summary contains a description of certain Brazilian and U.S. federal income tax consequences
of the purchase, ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs by a holder.
The summary is based upon the tax laws of Brazil and the federal income tax laws of the United
States as in effect on the date of this annual report, which laws are subject to change, possibly with
retroactive effect, regarding the U.S. federal income tax, and to differing interpretations. Holders of
common shares or ADSs should consult their own tax advisors as to the Brazilian, U.S. or other tax
consequences of the purchase, ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs, including, in
particular, the effect of any non-Brazilian, non-U.S., state or local tax laws.
Although there presently is no income tax treaty between Brazil and the United States, the tax
authorities of the two countries have had discussions in the past regarding such a treaty. No assurance
can be given, however, as to if or when a treaty will enter into force or how it will affect the U.S. holders
of common shares or ADSs.
Brazilian Tax Considerations
The following discussion summarizes the principal Brazilian tax consequences of the acquisition,
ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs by a holder that is not domiciled in Brazil for
purposes of Brazilian taxation (a “non-Brazilian holder”). It is based on Brazilian laws and regulations as
currently in effect, and, therefore, any change in such law may change the consequences described
below. Each non-Brazilian holder should consult his or her own tax adviser concerning the Brazilian tax
consequences of an investment in common shares or ADSs.
A non-Brazilian holder of ADSs may withdraw them in exchange for common shares in Brazil.
Pursuant to Brazilian law, the non-Brazilian holder may invest in the common shares under Resolution
2,689, of January 26, 2000, of the CMN (“2,689 holder”).
Taxation of Dividends
As a result of the tax legislation adopted on December 26, 1995, dividends based on profits generated
after January 1, 1996, including dividends paid in kind, payable by us in respect of common shares or
ADSs, are exempt from withholding income tax. Dividends relating to profits generated prior to
January 1, 1996 may be subject to Brazilian withholding income tax at varying rates, depending on the
year the profits were generated.
Taxation of Gains
Gains realized outside Brazil by a non-Brazilian holder on the disposition of ADSs to another
non-Brazilian holder are not currently subject to Brazilian tax. However, according to certain
interpretations of Law no. 10,833 of December 2003, or Law No. 10,833, the disposition of assets located
in Brazil by a non-Brazilian holder, whether to other non-Brazilian holder or Brazilian holders, may
become subject to taxation in Brazil. Although we believe that the ADSs do not fall within the definition
of assets located in Brazil for the purposes of Law no. 10,833, considering the general and unclear scope
of it and the lack of definitive judicial court ruling to act as the leading case in respect thereto, we are
unable to predict whether such understanding will ultimately prevail in the courts of Brazil.
Thus, the gain on disposition of ADSs by a non-Brazilian holder to a resident in Brazil (or even to a
non Brazilian resident in case the argument above does not prevail) may be subject to income tax in
Brazil according to the rules described below for ADSs or the tax rules applicable to common shares, as
applicable.
The withdrawal of ADSs in exchange for common shares is not subject to Brazilian income tax
provided that the regulatory rules are appropriately observed in respect to the registration of the
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investment before the Central Bank of Brazil. The deposit of common shares in exchange for ADSs may
be subject to Brazilian capital income tax at the rate of 15% or 25%, in case the non-Brazilian holder is
located in a tax haven, if the acquisition cost of the common shares is lower than (1) the average price per
common share on a Brazilian stock exchange on which the greatest number of such shares were sold on
the day of deposit, or (2) if no common shares were sold on that day, the average price on the Brazilian
stock exchange on which the greatest number of common shares were sold in the fifteen trading sessions
immediately preceding such deposit. In this case, the difference between the acquisition cost and the
average price of the common shares, calculated as above, shall be considered a capital gain.
For Brazilian purposes, as of January 2009, a tax haven is considered a regime: (i) which does not
impose income tax or does so at a rate of 20% or lower, or (ii) where applicable local legislation imposes
restrictions on the disclosure of the shareholding composition or the ownership of investments, or on the
ultimate beneficiary of the income derived from transactions carried out and attributable to a non-
Brazilian holder.
On June 24, 2008, Law No. 11,727 was enacted defining the concept of a “privileged tax regime” in
connection with transactions subject to transfer pricing and thin capitalization rules. In this conception,
privileged tax regimes are more comprehensive than tax havens. A “privileged tax regime” is considered
to be a jurisdiction that meets any of the following requirements: (i) which does not tax income or taxes
income at a maximum rate lower than 20.0%; (ii) grants tax advantages to a non-resident entity or
individual (a) without requiring substantial economic activity in the jurisdiction of such non-resident
entity or individual or (b) to the extent such non-resident entity or individual does not conduct substantial
economic activity in the jurisdiction of such non-resident entity or individual; (iii) does not tax income
generated abroad, or imposes tax on income generated abroad at a maximum rate lower than 20.0%, or
(iv) restricts the ownership disclosure of assets and ownership rights or restricts disclosure about
economic transactions.
Notwithstanding the fact that the “privileged tax regime” concept was enacted in connection with
Brazilian transfer pricing and thin capitalization rules, there is no assurance that Brazilian tax authorities
will not attempt to apply the concept of privileged tax regimes to other types of transactions, such as
investments in the Brazilian financial and capital markets. We recommend that prospective investors
consult their own tax advisors from time to time to verify any possible tax consequences of Law No.
11,727.
Gains realized on disposition of common shares, are subject to income tax in Brazil, regardless of
whether the sale or the disposition is made by the non-Brazilian holder to a resident or person domiciled
in Brazil or not, based on the fact that the common shares could be considered as assets located in Brazil
for purposes of Law No. 10,833.
Thus, for purposes of taxation of gains earned in a sale or disposition of common shares carried out
on the Brazilian stock exchange (which includes the transactions carried out on the organized
over-the-counter market):
(cid:131) are exempt from income tax when assessed by a 2,689 holder and is not a tax haven based holder;
and
(cid:131) are subject to income tax at a rate of 15% in any other case, including gains assessed by a non-
Brazilian holder that (1) is not a 2,689 holder, or (2) is a 2,689 holder but is a tax haven based
holder. In these cases, a withholding income tax of 0.005% shall be applicable and can be offset
with the eventual income tax due on the capital gain.
Any other gains assessed on the disposition of the common shares that are not carried out on the
Brazilian stock exchange are subject to income tax a rate of 15%, except for tax haven holder which, in
this case, is subject to income tax at a rate of 25%. In case these gains are related to transactions
conducted on the Brazilian non-organized over-the-counter market with intermediation, the withholding
income tax of 0.005% shall also be applicable and can be offset with the eventual income tax due on the
capital gain.
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In the case of redemption of securities or capital reduction by a Brazilian corporation, such as
ourselves, the positive difference between the amount effectively received by the non-Brazilian holder
and the corresponding acquisition cost is treated, for tax purposes, as capital gain derived from disposition
of common shares not carried out on a Brazilian stock exchange market, and is therefore subject to
income tax at the rate of 15% or 25%, as the case may be.
Any exercise of preemptive rights relating to the common shares will not be subject to Brazilian
income tax. Any gain on the sale or assignment of preemptive rights relating to the common shares by a
non-Brazilian holder of common shares or ADSs will be subject to Brazilian taxation at the same rate
applicable to the sale or disposition of common shares.
There is no assurance that the current preferential treatment for holders of ADSs and non-Brazilian
holders of common shares under Resolution 2,689 will continue in the future or that it will not be changed
in the future. Reductions in the rate of tax provided for by Brazil’s tax treaties do not apply to the tax on
gains realized on sales or exchange of common shares.
Interest Attributed to Shareholders’ Equity
According to Brazilian laws and our bylaws, we may opt to distribute income as interest attributed to
shareholders’ equity as an alternative to the payment of dividends.
Distribution of an interest on equity charge attributed to shareholders’ equity in respect of the
common shares or ADSs as an alternative form of payment to shareholders, including non-Brazilian
holders of common shares or ADSs, is subject to Brazilian withholding income tax at the rate of 15% or
25%, in case of a tax-haven based holder. Such payments, subject to certain limitations and requirements,
are deductible for Brazilian income tax purposes.
Other Brazilian Taxes
There are no Brazilian inheritance, gift or succession taxes applicable to the ownership, transfer or
disposition of common shares or ADSs by a non-Brazilian holder, except for gift and inheritance taxes,
which are levied by some states of Brazil on gifts made or inheritances bestowed by a non-Brazilian
holder to individuals or entities resident or domiciled within such states in Brazil. There is no Brazilian
stamp, issue, registration, or similar taxes or duties payable by a non-Brazilian holder of common shares
or ADSs.
Tax on Financial Transactions (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras, or IOF)
The IOF is a tax on foreign exchange, securities, credit and insurance transactions. The IOF rate may
be changed by an Presidential Decree (rather than a law). In addition, the IOF rate is not subject to the
ex-post-facto principle, which provides that laws increasing the rate of or creating new taxes will only
come into effect as of the latter of (i) the first day of the year following their publication, or (ii) ninety
days after their publication, and therefore, any increase in the IOF rate has an immediate effect. A statute
increasing the IOF rate will as a result only take effect from its publication date.
Although the maximum rate of IOF is 25% for foreign exchange transactions, the inflow and outflow
of funds are generally subject to IOF at a rate of 0.38%; however, effective as of December 1, 2011,
exchange transactions for the inflow of funds in Brazil for investments made by foreign investors are
subject to IOF at a rate of 0% for variable income transactions carried out on the Brazilian stock, futures
and commodities exchanges, as well as for acquisitions of common shares of Brazilian publicly-held
companies in public offerings or subscription of common shares related to capital contributions, provided
that the company has registered its common shares for trading on the stock exchange. The IOF rate will
also be 0% for the outflow of funds from Brazil related to these type of investments, including payments
of dividends and interest on shareholders' equity. Lastly, the 0% rate also applies to settlements of
simultaneous foreign exchange transactions for the cancellation of depositary receipts transferred into
shares traded on the stock exchange.
The IOF may also be imposed on any transactions involving bonds and securities, including those
carried out on Brazilian futures and commodities stock exchanges. As a general rule, the rate of this tax
for transactions involving common shares or ADSs is currently zero, although the assignment of shares
traded on Brazilian stock exchanges to issue depositary receipts traded abroad is subject to IOF at the rate
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of 1.5%. The executive branch, also by a Presidential Decree, may increase the IOF rate by up to 1.5%
per day, but only with respect to future transactions.
United States Federal Income Tax Considerations
The following discussion is a summary of certain U.S. federal income tax consequences of the
acquisition, ownership and disposition of common shares or ADSs as of the date hereof. This discussion
applies only to a beneficial owner of common shares or ADSs that is a “U.S. holder”. As used herein, the
term “U.S. holder” means a beneficial owner of a common share or ADS that, for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, is:
(cid:131) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States;
(cid:131) a corporation (or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes)
created or organized in or under the laws of the United States any state thereof or the District of
Columbia;
(cid:131) an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or
(cid:131) a trust if it (1) is subject to the primary supervision of a court within the United States and one or
more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust or (2) has a
valid election in effect under applicable U.S. Treasury Department regulations to be treated as a
U.S. person.
If a partnership (or other entity treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds
common shares or ADSs, the tax treatment of a partner will generally depend upon the status of the
partner and the activities of the partnership. A U.S. holder that is a partner of a partnership holding
common shares or ADSs should consult its tax advisors.
Except where noted, this discussion deals only with common shares or ADSs held as capital assets
within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the Code, and
does not deal with U.S. holders that may be subject to special U.S. federal income tax rules, such
as dealers in securities or currencies, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of
accounting for their securities holdings, banks or other financial institutions, tax-exempt organizations,
insurance companies, real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, persons holding
common shares or ADSs as part of a hedging, integrated, conversion or constructive sale transaction or a
straddle, persons liable for alternative minimum tax, pass-through entities and investors in a pass-through
entity, persons owning 10% or more of our voting stock, or persons whose “functional currency” is not
the U.S. dollar.
This discussion is based upon the provisions of the Code, and existing and proposed U.S. Treasury
Department regulations, administrative pronouncements of the Internal Revenue Service, or the IRS, and
judicial decisions as of the date hereof. Such authorities may be repealed, revoked or modified so as to
result in U.S. federal income tax consequences different from those discussed below, possibly with
retroactive effect. In addition, this discussion is based, in part, upon representations made by the
Depositary to us and assumes that the deposit agreement, and all other related agreements, will be
performed in accordance with their terms.
Except as specifically described below, this discussion assumes that we are not a passive foreign
investment company, or PFIC, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Please see the discussion under “—
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules” below. Further, this discussion does not address the U.S.
federal estate and gift, alternative minimum tax, state, local or non-U.S. tax consequences of acquiring,
holding or disposing of common shares or ADSs.
ADSs
In general, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, U.S. holders of ADSs will be treated as the owners
of the underlying common shares that are represented by such ADSs. Deposits or withdrawals of
common shares by U.S. holders for ADSs will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax. However, the
135
U.S. Treasury Department has expressed concerns that parties involved in transactions wherein depositary
shares are pre-released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits
by the holders of ADSs. Accordingly, the analysis of the creditability of Brazilian income taxes
described herein could be affected by future actions that may be taken by the U.S. Treasury Department.
Taxation of Dividends
The gross amount of distributions paid to a U.S. holder (including amounts withheld by the Brazilian
taxing authority, if any, and any payments of interest on shareholders’ equity, as described above under
“—Brazilian Tax Considerations”) will be treated as dividend income to the extent paid out of our current
or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles. Such
income generally will be includable in a U.S. holder's gross income as ordinary income when actually or
constructively received by the U.S. holder, in the case of common shares, or when actually or
constructively received by the Depositary, in the case of ADSs. Such dividends will not be eligible for
the dividends received deduction allowed to corporations under the Code. To the extent that the amount
of any distribution exceeds our current and accumulated earnings and profits for a taxable year, the
distribution will first be treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the U.S. holder’s adjusted
tax basis in the common shares or ADS, causing a reduction in such adjusted tax basis (and thereby
increasing the amount of gain, or decreasing the amount of loss, to be recognized on a subsequent
disposition of our common shares or ADSs), and thereafter as capital gain recognized on a sale or
exchange. Because we do not expect to maintain calculations of earnings and profits in accordance with
U.S. federal income tax principles, U.S. holders should expect that a distribution will generally be treated
as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Distributions of additional common shares or ADSs
to U.S. holders that are part of a pro rata distribution to all of our shareholders generally will not be
subject to U.S. federal income tax.
The amount of any dividend paid in reais will equal the U.S. dollar value of the reais received
calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date the dividend is received by the U.S.
holder, in the case of common shares, or by the Depositary, in the case of ADSs, regardless of whether
the reais are converted into U.S. dollars. If the reais received as a dividend are not converted into U.S.
dollars on the date of receipt, the U.S. holder will have a tax basis in the reais equal to their U.S. dollar
value on the date of receipt. Any gain or loss realized on a subsequent conversion or other disposition of
the reais will be foreign currency gain or loss that is treated as U.S. source ordinary income or loss. If
dividends paid in reais are converted into U.S. dollars on the day they are received by the U.S. holder or
the Depositary, as the case may be, U.S. holders generally should not be required to recognize foreign
currency gain or loss in respect of the dividend income. U.S. holders should consult their own tax
advisors regarding the treatment of any foreign currency gain or loss if any reais received by the U.S.
holder or the Depositary or its agent are not converted into U.S. dollars on the date of receipt.
Certain dividends received by certain non-corporate U.S. holders may be eligible for preferential tax
rates so long as (1) specified holding period requirements are met, (2) the U.S. holder is not under an
obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to
positions in substantially similar or related property, (3) the company paying the dividend is a “qualified
foreign corporation” and (4) the company is not a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes, in the year
of distribution or the prior year. We do not believe that we were classified as a PFIC for our prior taxable
year nor do we expect to be classified as a PFIC for the current taxable year. We generally will be treated
as a qualified foreign corporation with respect to our ADSs so long as the ADS remain listed on the
NYSE. Based on existing guidance, however, it is not entirely clear whether dividends received with
respect to the common shares (to the extent not represented by ADSs) will be eligible for this treatment,
because the common shares are not themselves listed on a U.S. exchange. U.S. holders should
consult their own tax advisors about the application of this preferential tax rate to dividends paid directly
on common shares.
Subject to certain complex limitations and conditions (including a minimum holding period
requirement), Brazilian income taxes withheld on dividends, if any, may be treated as foreign income
taxes eligible for credit against a U.S. holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. Alternatively, at a U.S.
holder’s election if it does not elect to claim a foreign income tax credit for any foreign taxes paid during
the taxable year, all foreign income taxes paid may instead be deducted in computing such U.S. holder’s
taxable income. For purposes of calculating the foreign tax credit, dividends paid on our common shares
will be treated as income from sources outside the United States. For the purposes of the U.S. foreign tax
credit limitations, the dividends paid by us should generally constitute “passive category income” for
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most U.S. holders. The rules governing the foreign tax credit are complex. U.S. holders should
consult their tax advisors regarding the availability of the foreign tax credit under their particular
circumstances.
Taxation of Capital Gains
For U.S. federal income tax purposes, a U.S. holder generally will recognize taxable gain or loss on
any sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of a common share or ADS in an amount equal to the
difference between the U.S. dollar value of the amount realized for the common share or ADS and the
U.S. holder's adjusted tax basis in the common share or ADS, determined in U.S. dollars. Such gain or
loss will generally be capital gain or loss. The capital gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or loss if
at the time of sale, exchange or other taxable disposition the U.S. holder has held our common shares or
ADSs for more than one year. Capital gains of individuals derived with respect to capital assets held for
more than one year are eligible for reduced rates of taxation. The deductibility of capital losses is subject
to limitations. Any gain or loss recognized by a U.S. holder will generally be treated as U.S. source gain
or loss. Consequently, a U.S. holder may not be able to use the foreign tax credit arising from Brazilian
income tax imposed, if any, on the disposition of a common share or ADS unless such credit can be
applied (subject to applicable limitations) against U.S. federal income tax due on other income treated as
derived from foreign sources. Although we do not believe that U.S. holders will be entitled to a credit or
deduction with respect to any IOF tax paid on our common shares (as discussed above in “—Brazilian
Tax Considerations—Tax on Financial Transactions (Imposto sobre Operações Financeiras, or IOF)”,
U.S. holders should, however, be entitled to include the amount of the IOF tax paid as part of their initial
tax basis in such common shares.
Passive Foreign Investment Company Rules
Based upon our current and projected income, assets, activities and business plans, we do not expect
the common shares or ADSs to be considered shares of a PFIC for our current fiscal year (although the
determination cannot be made until the end of such fiscal year), and we intend to continue our operations
in such a manner that we do not expect to be classified as a PFIC in the foreseeable future. However,
because the determination of whether the common shares or ADSs constitute shares of a PFIC will be
based upon the composition of our income, assets and the nature of our business, as well as the income,
assets and business of entities in which we hold at least a 25% interest, from time to time, and because
there are uncertainties in the application of the relevant rules, there can be no assurance that the common
shares or ADSs will not be considered shares of a PFIC for any fiscal year. If the common shares or
ADSs were shares of a PFIC for any fiscal year, U.S. holders (including certain indirect U.S. holders)
may be subject to adverse tax consequences, including the possible imposition of an interest charge on
gains or “excess distributions” allocable to prior years in the U.S. holder’s holding period during which
we were determined to be a PFIC. If we are deemed to be a PFIC for a taxable year, dividends on our
ADSs would not be qualified dividend income eligible for preferential rates of U.S. federal income
taxation. In addition, a U.S. holder that owns common shares or ADSs during any taxable year that we
are treated as a PFIC would generally be required to file IRS form 8621, as well as comply with
additional annual filing requirements imposed under recently enacted legislation. U.S. holders should
consult their own tax advisors regarding the application of the PFIC rules (including any information
reporting requirements in connection therewith) to the common shares or ADSs.
Information Reporting and Backup Withholding
In general, information reporting requirements will apply to dividends in respect of our common
shares or ADSs or the proceeds received on the sale, exchange, or redemption of our ADSs, in each case
to the extent treated as being paid within the United States (and in certain cases, outside of the United
States) to a U.S. holder unless a U.S. holder establishes its status as an exempt recipient, and backup
withholding may apply to such amounts if the U.S. holder does not establish its status as an exempt
recipient or fails to provide a correct taxpayer identification number and certify that such U.S. holder is
not subject to backup withholding. The amount of any backup withholding from a payment to a U.S.
holder will be allowed as a refund or credit against such U.S. holder's U.S. federal income tax liability
provided the U.S. holder timely furnishes the required information to the IRS.
In addition, U.S. holders should be aware that recently enacted legislation imposes new reporting
requirements with respect to the holding of certain foreign financial assets, including stock of foreign
issuers which is not held in an account maintained by a financial institution, if the aggregate value of all
137
of such assets exceeds US$50,000. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors regarding the
application of the information reporting rules to our common shares and ADSs and the application of the
recently enacted legislation to their particular situation.
F. Dividends and Payments Agents
Not applicable.
G. Statements by Experts
Not applicable.
H. Documents on Display
We are subject to the periodic reporting and other informational requirements of the U.S. Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and supplemented, or the Exchange Act. Accordingly, we are
required to file reports and other information with the SEC. You may inspect and copy reports and other
information filed by us at the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at 100 F Street, N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20549. You may obtain copies of these materials upon written request from the Public
Reference Section of the Commission at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20549 for certain fees.
You may also inspect this material at the offices of the NYSE at 20 Broad Street, New York, New York
10005. In addition to the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC and the NYSE, you may
obtain a copy of the annual report, upon written request from the depositary for our ADSs at its corporate
trust office located at 101 Barclay Street, New York, New York 10286.
We also furnish to the depositary annual reports in English including audited annual financial
statements and unaudited quarterly financial statements in English for each of the first three quarters of
the fiscal year. We also furnish to the depositary English translations or summaries of all notices of
shareholders’ meetings and other reports and communications that are made generally available to holders
of common shares.
I. Subsidiary Information
Not applicable.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to various market risks—in particular, foreign currency risk and interest rate risk.
We are exposed to foreign currency risk because a substantial portion of our financial indebtedness is
denominated in foreign currencies, primarily the U.S. dollar, while we generate all of our net operating
revenues in reais. Similarly, we are subject to interest rate risk based upon changes in interest rates,
which affect our net financial expenses. For further information on our market risks, see Note 3.1 to our
consolidated financial statements.
ITEM 12. DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES
A. Debt Securities
Not applicable.
B. Warrants and Rights
Not applicable.
C. Other Securities
Not applicable.
D. American Depositary Shares
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In the United States, our common shares trade in the form of ADS. Each ADS represents two
common shares, issued by The Bank of New York Mellon, as Depositary pursuant to a Deposit
Agreement. The ADSs commenced trading on the NYSE on May 10, 2002.
Fees and Expenses
The following table summarizes the fees and expenses payable by holders of ADRs:
Persons depositing common shares or ADR holders must
pay:
US$5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs (or portion of 100 ADSs)
For:
Issuance of ADSs, including issuances resulting from
a distribution of common shares or rights or other
property
Cancellation of ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal,
including if the deposit agreement terminates
US$0.02 (or less) per ADS (to the extent not prohibited by
the rules of any stock exchange on which the ADSs are listed
for trading)
Any cash distribution to you
A fee equivalent to the fee that would be payable if securities
distributed to you had been common shares and the shares
had been deposited for issuance of ADSs
Distribution of securities distributed to holders of
deposited securities which are distributed by the
depositary to ADR holders
US$0.02 (or less) per ADS per calendar year (to the extent
the depositary has not collected a cash distribution fee of
$.02 per ADS during the year)
Depositary services
Persons depositing common shares or ADR holders must
pay:
Registration or transfer fees
For:
Transfer and registration of common shares on our
common share register to or from the name of the
depositary or its agent when you deposit or withdraw
common shares
Expenses of the depositary in converting foreign currency to
U.S. dollars
Cable, telex and facsimile transmissions (when
expressly provided in the deposit agreement)
Expenses of the depositary
Taxes and other governmental charges the depositary or the
custodian have to pay on any ADR or common share
underlying an ADR, for example, stock transfer taxes, stamp
duty or withholding taxes
As necessary
Any charges incurred by the depositary or its agents for
servicing the deposited securities
No charges of this type are currently made in the
Brazilian market
Payment of Taxes
The depositary may deduct the amount of any taxes owed from any payments to you. It may also sell
deposited securities, by public or private sale, to pay any taxes owed. You will remain liable if the
proceeds of the sale are not sufficient to pay the taxes. If the depositary sells deposited securities, it will,
if appropriate, reduce the number of ADSs to reflect the sale and pay to you any proceeds, or send to you
any property, remaining after it has paid the taxes.
Reimbursement of Fees
The Bank of New York Mellon, as depositary, has agreed to reimburse us for expenses we incur that
are related to establishment and maintenance expenses of the ADS program. The depositary has agreed to
139
reimburse us for our continuing annual stock exchange listing fees. The depositary has also agreed to pay
the standard out-of-pocket maintenance costs for the ADRs, which consist of the expenses of postage and
envelopes for mailing annual and interim financial reports, printing and distributing dividend checks,
electronic filing of United States federal tax information, mailing required tax forms, stationery, postage,
facsimile, and telephone calls. It has also agreed to reimburse us annually for certain investor relationship
programs or special investor relations promotional activities. In certain instances, the depositary has
agreed to provide additional payments to us based on any applicable performance indicators relating to
the ADR facility. There are limits on the amount of expenses for which the depositary will reimburse us,
but the amount of reimbursement available to the Company is not necessarily tied to the amount of fees
the depositary collects from investors.
The depositary collects its fees for delivery and surrender of ADSs directly from investors depositing
shares or surrendering ADSs for the purpose of withdrawal or from intermediaries acting for them. The
depositary collects fees for making distributions to investors by deducting those fees from the amounts
distributed or by selling a portion of distributable property to pay the fees. The depositary may collect its
annual fee for depositary services by deduction from cash distributions or by directly billing investors or
by charging the book-entry system accounts of participants acting for them. The depositary may
generally refuse to provide fee-attracting services until its fees for those services are paid.
Reimbursement of Fees Incurred in 2011
From January 1, 2011 until December 31, 2011, the Company received from the depositary
US$484,895.87 for standard out-of-pocket maintenance costs for the ADRs (consisting of the expenses of
postage and envelopes for mailing annual and interim financial reports, printing and distributing dividend
checks, electronic filing of U.S. Federal tax information, mailing required tax forms, stationery, postage,
facsimile, and telephone calls), any applicable performance indicators relating to the ADR facility,
underwriting fees and legal fees.
PART II
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
Not applicable.
ITEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS
AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Not applicable.
ITEM 15. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures.
We carried out an evaluation under the supervision of and with the participation of our management,
including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer, of the
effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, including those
defined in the United States Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e), as of the year ended December 31, 2011.
As a result of this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded
that our disclosure controls and procedures were both designed and effective at the reasonable assurance
level as of December 31, 2011, that the information required to be disclosed in our filings and
submissions under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported within the time
periods specified by the SEC’s rules and forms, and that this information is accumulated and
communicated to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
and Investor Relations Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
b) Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Our management’s annual report on internal control over financial reporting is included in this
annual report on page F-2.
c) Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm
140
The opinion by our independent registered public accounting firm on the effectiveness of our internal
control over financial reporting is included in the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores
Independentes that is included in this annual report on page F-3.
d) Changes in internal control over financial reporting
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2011 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially
affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
ITEM 16
A. Audit Committee Financial Expert
At our board meeting held on June 26, 2006, we established an audit committee, as defined under
section 3(a)(58) of the Exchange Act. Our board of directors has determined that Jerônimo Antunes
qualifies as an “audit committee financial expert” as defined for the purposes of this Item 16A in Item 16
of Form 20-F. Jerônimo Antunes is an “independent director” within the meaning of the SEC rules.
B. Code of Ethics
We have adopted a code of business conduct and ethics, as defined in Item 16B of Form 20-F under
the Exchange Act. Our code of business conduct and ethics, called Code of Ethics and Conduct, applies
to all of our employees, including our directors, chief executive officer, chief financial officer and chief
accounting officer, as well as our suppliers and third-party contractors. Our Code of Ethics and Conduct
is available on our web site at http://www.sabesp.com.br at the following location: Investors Relations –
Corporate Governance. If we amend the provisions of our Code of Ethics and Conduct, or if we grant any
waiver of such provisions, we will disclose the amendment or waiver on our web site at the same
address. You can obtain copies of our Code of Ethics and Conduct, without charge, upon request to
sabesp.ri@sabesp.com.br.
C. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes served as our independent registered public
accounting firm for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2010 and 2011.
The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional services and other services rendered
to us by PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes in 2010 and 2011:
Audit Fees(1)
Audit-Related Fees
Tax Fees
All Other Fees
Total
_________________
Year ended December 31,
2010
2011
(in millions of reais)
2.6
-
-
-
2.6
3.9
-
-
-
3.9
(1) Audit Fees are the fees billed by PricewaterhouseCoopers for the audit of our annual financial statements, reviews of interim
financial statements and attestation services that are provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or
engagements.
Pre-approval policies and procedures
Pursuant to Brazilian law, our board of directors is responsible, among other matters, for the
selection, dismissal and oversight of our independent registered public accounting firm. Our management
is required to obtain the board of directors’ approval before engaging an independent registered public
accounting firm to provide any audit or permitted non-audit services to us. The Brazilian Federal and
141
State Public Bidding Laws also apply to us with respect to obtaining services from third parties for our
business, including the services provided by our independent registered public accounting firm. As part
of the bidding process, the independent registered public accounting firm is required to submit proposals,
and are then selected by us based on certain criteria including technical expertise and cost.
During 2010 and 2011, PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes did not provide non-audit
services to us.
D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees
None.
E. Purchases of Equity Securities by Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers
Not applicable.
F. Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant
Not applicable.
G. Corporate Governance
Significant Differences between our Corporate Governance Practices and NYSE Corporate
Governance Standards
We are subject to the NYSE corporate governance listing standards. As a foreign private issuer, the
standards applicable to us are considerably different than the standards applied to U.S. listed companies.
Under the NYSE rules, we are required only to: (a) have an audit committee or audit board, pursuant to
an applicable exemption available to foreign private issuers, that meets certain requirements, as discussed
below, (b) provide prompt certification by our chief executive officer of any material non-compliance
with any corporate governance rules, and (c) provide a brief description of the significant differences
between our corporate governance practices and the NYSE corporate governance practice required to be
followed by U.S. listed companies. The discussion of the significant differences between our corporate
governance practices and those required of U.S. listed companies follows below.
Majority of Independent Directors
The NYSE rules require that a majority of the board must consist of independent directors.
Independence is defined by various criteria, including the absence of a material relationship between the
director and the listed company. Brazilian law does not have a similar requirement. Under Brazilian law,
neither our board of directors nor our management is required to test the independence of directors before
their election to the board. However, both the Brazilian Corporate Law and the CVM have established
rules that require directors to meet certain qualification requirements and that address the compensation
and duties and responsibilities of, as well as the restrictions applicable to, a company’s executive officers
and directors. Our board of directors must have a minimum of five members and 20% of the board (even
if the board consists of greater than five members) must be independent as defined under Novo Mercado
Regulations. Currently, three of our ten directors are independent, pursuant to the Novo Mercado Listing
Regulations. We believe these rules provide adequate assurances that our directors are independent;
however, they do not require that we have a majority of independent directors, as required under the
NYSE rules.
Executive Sessions
NYSE rules require that the non-management directors must meet at regularly scheduled executive
sessions without management present. The Brazilian Corporate Law does not have a similar provision.
According to the Brazilian Corporate Law, up to one-third of the members of the board of directors can
be elected from management. There is no requirement that non-management directors meet regularly
without management. Our chairperson and Chief Executive Officer is a member of our board of
directors. All other members of our Board of Directors meet the NYSE’s definition of “non-
management” directors. The non-management directors on our board do not typically meet in executive
session. Our board of directors consists of ten non-management directors.
142
Fiscal Committee
Under the Brazilian Corporate Law, the Conselho Fiscal, or fiscal committee, is a corporate body
independent of management and a company’s external auditors. The fiscal committee may be either
permanent or non-permanent, in which case it is appointed by the shareholders to act during a specific
fiscal year. A fiscal committee is not equivalent to, or comparable with, a U.S. audit committee. The
primary responsibility of the fiscal committee is to review management’s activities and a company’s
financial statements, and to report its findings to a company’s shareholders. The Brazilian Corporate Law
requires fiscal committee members to receive as remuneration at least 10% of the average annual amount
paid to a company’s executive officers. The Brazilian Corporate Law requires a fiscal committee to be
composed of a minimum of three and a maximum of five members and their respective alternates.
Under the Brazilian Corporate Law, the fiscal committee may not contain members that (i) are on our
board of directors, (ii) are on the board of executive officers, (iii) are employed by us or a controlled
company, or (iv) are spouses or relatives of any member of our management, up to the third degree.
Our fiscal committee consists of five members and five alternates and the members meet once a
month.
Audit Committee
NYSE rules require that listed companies have an audit committee that (i) is composed of a minimum
of three independent directors who are all financially literate, (ii) meets the SEC rules regarding audit
committees for listed companies, (iii) has at least one member who has accounting or financial
management expertise and (iv) is governed by a written charter addressing the committee’s required
purpose and detailing its required responsibilities. However, as a foreign private issuer, we need only to
comply with the requirement that the audit committee meet the SEC rules regarding audit committees for
listed companies to the extent compatible with Brazilian Corporate Law. Our audit committee, which is
not equivalent to, or comparable with, a U.S. audit committee, provides assistance to our board of
directors on matters involving accounting, internal controls, financial reporting and compliance. The
audit committee recommends the appointment of our independent auditors to our board of directors and
reviews the compensation of our independent auditors and helps coordinate their activities. It also
evaluates the effectiveness of our internal financial and legal compliance controls. The audit committee
comprises three members elected by the board of directors for a one-year term with the right to re-
election, all three of which are independent. The current members of our audit committee are Jerônimo
Antunes, Reinaldo Guerreiro and Heraldo Gilberto de Oliveira. All members meet the independent
membership requirements of the SEC and NYSE as well as other NYSE requirements. Jerônimo Antunes
is the committee’s “financial expert” within the scope of the SEC rules covering the disclosure of
financial experts on audit committees in periodic filings pursuant to the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of
1934.
Nomination/Corporate Governance and Compensation Committees
NYSE rules require that listed companies have a nominating/corporate governance committee and a
compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors and governed by a written charter
addressing the committee’s required purpose and detailing its required responsibilities. Required
responsibilities for the nominating/corporate governance committee include, among other things,
identifying and selecting qualified board member nominees and developing a set of corporate governance
principles applicable to the company. Required responsibilities for the compensation committee include,
among other things, reviewing corporate goals relevant to the chief executive officer’s compensation,
evaluating
the chief executive officer’s
compensation levels and recommending to the board non-chief executive officer compensation, incentive-
compensation and equity-based plans.
the chief executive officer’s performance, approving
We are not required under applicable Brazilian law to have a nomination/corporate governance
committee or compensation committee. Under the Brazilian Corporate Law, the total amount available
for compensation of our directors and executive officers and for profit-sharing payments to our executive
officers is established by our shareholders at the annual general meeting. The board of directors is then
responsible for determining the individual compensation and profit-sharing of each executive officer, as
well as the compensation of our board and committee members. In making such determinations, the
143
board reviews the performance of the executive officers, including the performance of our chief executive
officer, who typically excuses himself from discussions regarding his performance and compensation.
Shareholder Approval of Equity Compensation Plans
NYSE rules require that shareholders be given the opportunity to vote on all equity compensation
plans and material revisions thereto, with limited exceptions. We do not currently have any equity
compensation plan. If such a plan were to be implemented, there is no requirement under Brazilian
Corporate Law for the plan to be approved by our shareholders. However, if the issuance of new shares
in connection with any equity compensation plan exceeded the authorized capital under our bylaws, the
increase in capital would require shareholder approval.
Corporate Governance Guidelines
NYSE rules require that listed companies adopt and disclose corporate governance guidelines. We
are in compliance with the adoption of corporate governance provisions and guidelines required under the
Novo Mercado Regulations. Additionally, under the CVM’s guidelines, we have established (i) the
Policy of Publicizing Acts or Relevant Facts and the Preservation of Confidentiality which requires us to
publicly disclose all relevant information and (ii) the Securities Negotiation Policy which requires
management to inform the CVM and the BM&FBOVESPA of any purchases or sales of our securities.
We believe the corporate governance guidelines applicable to us under the Novo Mercado Regulations, as
well as the CVM, do not conflict with the guidelines established by the NYSE. Our corporate governance
guidelines and practices are available in our website at www.sabesp.com.br and in our annual
management report.
Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
NYSE rules require that listed companies adopt and disclose a code of business conduct and ethics
for directors, officers and employees, and promptly disclose any waivers of the code for directors or
executive officers. Applicable Brazilian law does not have a similar requirement. We have decided to
adopt and disclose a code of ethics and conduct applicable to all our officers, directors and employees.
The adoption and disclosure of a formal code is not required under the Brazilian Corporate Law. We
believe our formal code addresses the matters required to be addressed by the applicable NYSE and SEC
rules.
Internal Audit Function
NYSE rules require that listed companies maintain an internal audit function to provide management
and the audit committee with ongoing assessments of the company’s risk management processes and
system of internal control. Our internal audit department is under the supervision of our Chief Executive
Officer and our audit committee and is responsible for our compliance with the requirements of Section
404 of the U.S. Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002 regarding internal control over financial reporting. Our
internal audit department reports to our chief executive officer and the audit committee.
144
PART III
ITEM 17. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
We have responded to Item 18 in lieu of responding to this Item.
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The following financial statements, together with the Report of Independent Registered Public
Accounting Firms, are filed as part of this annual report. See “Index to Consolidated Financial
Statements.”
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
Item
1.1
Description
By-laws of the Registrant (English translation) (incorporated by reference to the Form 6-K
filed on April 27, 2012).
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
4.8
4.9
Agreement between the Registrant and the State Department of Water and Energy
(Departamento de Águas e Energia Elétrica—DAEE), dated April 24, 1997 (English
translation) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Registration
Statement on Form F-1 filed on April 8, 2002 (the “April 8, 2002 Form F-1”).
Protocol of Understanding between the Registrant and the State of São Paulo, dated
September 30, 1997 (English translation) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to the
April 8, 2002 Form F-1).
Agreement between the Registrant and the State of São Paulo, through the Secretariat of
Finance, dated September 10, 2001 (English translation) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.3 to the April 8, 2002 Form F-1).
Agreement between the Registrant and the State of São Paulo, through the Secretariat of the
Treasury, dated December 11, 2001 (English translation) (incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.4 to the April 8, 2002 Form F-1).
Amendment to the Agreement, dated April 24, 1997, between the Registrant and the DAEE,
dated March 16, 2000 (English translation) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the
April 8, 2002 Form F-1).
Amendment to the Agreement, dated April 24, 1997, between the Registrant and the DAEE,
dated November 21, 2001 (English translation) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to
the April 8, 2002 Form F-1).
First Amendment to the Agreement, dated December 11, 2001, between the Registrant and
the State of São Paulo, dated March 22, 2004. (English Translation) (incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the Form 20-F filed on June 28, 2004).
Second Amendment to the Agreement, dated December 11, 2001, between the Registrant and
the State of São Paulo, dated December 28, 2007. (English Translation) (incorporated by
reference to the Form 6-K filed on February 25, 2008).
Third Amendment to the Agreement, dated December 11, 2001, between the Registrant and
the State of São Paulo, dated November 17, 2008. (English Translation) (incorporated by
reference to the Form 6-K filed on December 23, 2008).
4.10
Commitment Agreement, between the Registrant and the State of São Paulo, dated March 26,
2008. (English Translation) (incorporated by reference to the Form 6-K filed on April 28,
2008).
145
Item
4.11
4.12
4.14
4.15
4.16
11.1
12.1
12.2
13.1
13.2
Description
Agreement Executed between the Registrant and the São Paulo City Government, dated
November 14, 2007 (English Translation) (incorporated by reference to the Form 6-K filed on
March 12, 2008).
Amendment to the Agreement Executed between the Registrant and the São Paulo City
government, dated February 10, 2008 (English Translation) (incorporated by reference to the
Form 6-K filed on May 12, 2008).
The Audit Committee Charter dated February 11, 2010 (English Translation) (incorporated by
reference to the Form 6-K filed on April 20, 2010).
Convention between the State and the city of São Paulo, dated June 23, 2010, with the
intermediation and consent of the Registrant and of the ARSESP (English Translation)
(incorporated by reference to the Form 6-K filed on July 13, 2010).
Contract to provide public water supply and sewage services, among the Registrant, the State
and the city of São Paulo, dated June 23, 2010 (English Translation) (incorporated by
reference to the Form 6-K filed on July 13, 2010).
Code of Ethics and Conduct dated January 26, 2006 (English Translation) (incorporated by
reference to the Form 6-K filed on July 7, 2008).
Certification of Dilma Seli Pena, Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the
Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso, Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations
Officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Dilma Seli Pena, Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section
1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
Certification of Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso, Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations
Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the
Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
146
The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and
that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.
SIGNATURES
COMPANHIA DE SANEAMENTO BÁSICO
DO ESTADO DE SÃO PAULO - SABESP
By: /s/ Dilma Seli Pena
Name: Dilma Seli Pena
Title: Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Name: Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Title: Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer
Date: June 22, 2012
147
Companhia de Saneamento
Básico do Estado de São Paulo -
SABESP
IFRS Consolidated Financial Statements
as of and for the years ended
December 31, 2011 and 2010
INDEX TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010
and 2009
Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and
2009
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2011,
2010 and 2009
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
F-2
F-3
F-4
F-5
F-6
F-7
F-9
Management Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting
The management of Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP ("Company” or
“SABESP") is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial
reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as defined
in Rules 13a-15(f) under the U.S. Exchange Act Rule.
The Company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision
of, the Company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and effected by the Company's Board
of Directors, Audit Committee, management, and other personnel 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. The Company's internal control
over financial reporting 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
material misstatements on a timely basis. Therefore even those systems determined to be effective can
provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation. 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.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of
December 31, 2011, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by
the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission - COSO. Based on that
assessment, management has concluded that as of December 31, 2011, the Company's internal control over
financial reporting is effective. As a result of this evaluation, the principal executive officer and principal
financial officer of the Company concluded that its disclosure controls and procedures were both designed
and effective at the reasonable assurance level as of December 31, 2011.
The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011 has
been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes, an independent registered public
accounting firm, as stated in their report which appears herein.
_________________________
/S/ Dilma Seli Pena
Chief Executive Officer
March 23, 2012
_________________________
/s/ Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Chief Financial Officer and
Investor Relations Officer
March 23, 2012
F - 2
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related consolidated statements of
income, of changes in equity and of cash flows present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position
of Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP at December 31, 2011 and
December 31, 2010, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 2011 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued
by the International Accounting Standards Board. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all
material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2011, based on
criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring
Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these
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 Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express
opinions on these financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting
based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public
Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and International Standards of Auditing. Those
standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the
financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial
reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements,
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating
the overall financial statement presentation. 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.
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 includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records
that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the
company; (ii) 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 (iii) 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.
March 23, 2012
PricewaterhouseCoopers Auditores Independentes
F - 3
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2011 and 2010
Amounts in thousands of reais
Note
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
Liabilities and equity
Note
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Customer accounts receivable, net
Accounts receivable from related party, net
Inventories
Taxes recoverable
Other assets
Total current assets
Noncurrent assets
Customer accounts receivable, net
Accounts receivable from related party, net
Indemnities receivable
Escrow deposits
Deferred income taxes
Investments property
Intangible assets, net
Property, plant and equipment, net
Other assets
5
6
7
8
7
8
9
14
10
11
2,149,989
99,729
1,072,659
185,333
44,611
118,116
55,396
1,989,179
302,570
971,318
137,772
36,096
108,675
44,511
3,725,833
3,590,121
333,713
170,288
60,295
54,178
179,463
52,585
20,141,677
356,468
140,484
352,839
231,076
146,213
43,543
78,440
-
18,546,836
249,606
111,910
Current liabilities
Accounts payable to suppliers and contractors
Services payable
Current portion of long-term loans and financing
Accrued payroll and related charges
Other taxes payable
Interest on shareholders' equity payable
Provisions
Other liabilities
Total current liabilities
Noncurrent liabilities
Loans and financing
Other taxes payable
Accrued taxes on revenues
Provisions
Pension obligations
Other liabilities
Total noncurrent liabilities
Total noncurrent assets
21,489,151
19,760,463
Total liabilities
Equity
Capital stock
Capital reserve
Earnings reserves and retained earnings
Total equity
12
13
15
12
13
15
16
17
255,557
383,116
1,630,010
243,876
181,122
247,486
764,070
263,431
144,043
295,172
1,242,143
246,467
158,050
354,254
766,603
299,382
3,968,668
3,506,114
6,966,285
18,363
114,957
807,759
2,050,697
742,359
7,022,472
53,045
112,962
693,227
1,804,038
476,926
10,700,420
10,162,670
14,669,088
13,668,784
6,203,688
124,255
4,217,953
6,203,688
124,255
3,353,857
10,545,896
9,681,800
Total assets
25,214,984
23,350, 584
Total equity and liabilities
25,214,984
23,350,584
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F - 4
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Consolidated Statements of Income
Years Ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Continuing operations:
Net revenue from sales and services
Cost of sales and services
Gross profit
Selling expenses
Administrative expenses
Other operating income (expenses), net
Operating profit
Financial expenses
Financial income
Inflation adjustment and foreign exchange result, net
Note
2011
2010
2009
20
21
9,941,637
(6,030,977)
9,231,027
(5,194,548)
8,579,519
(5,087,254)
3,910,660
4,036,479
3,492,265
(619,542)
(846,593)
(90,138)
(712,946)
(653,200)
1,830
(610,422)
(717,100)
(44,425)
2,354,387
2,672,163
2,120,318
(702,766)
465,926
(396,801)
(789,467)
343,914
66,146
(765,197)
226,782
528,449
21
21
23
22
22
22
Financing cost, net
(633,641)
(379,407)
(9,966)
Profit before income tax and social contribution
Income tax and social contribution
Current
Deferred
1,720,746
2,292,756
2,110,352
14
14
(598,303)
100,976
(697,115)
34,806
(748,708)
146,103
Net income for the year
attributable to the Company's shareholders
(497,327)
(662,309)
(602,605)
1,223,419
1,630,447
1,507,747
Earnings per share - basic and diluted (in reais)
18
5.37
7.16
6.62
The Company does not have cumulative comprehensive income; therefore, the statement of comprehensive income has
not been presented in the consolidated financial statements
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F - 5
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Statements of Changes in Equity
as of December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009
Amounts in thousands of reais unless otherwise indicated
Balances as of December 31, 2008
Comprehensive income
Net income for the year
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Allocation to legal reserve
Interest on shareholders' equity (R$ 1.73 per share)
Allocation to investments reserve
Total transactions with owners
Balances as of December 31, 2009
Comprehensive income
Net income for the year
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Allocation to legal reserves
Interest on shareholders' equity (R$ 1.70 per share)
Additional proposed dividends
Allocation to investments reserve
Total transactions with owners
Balances as of December 31, 2010
Comprehensive income
Net income for the year
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Allocation to legal reserves
Distributed dividends of 2010
Interest on shareholders' equity (R$ 1.27 per share)
Additional proposed dividends
Allocation to investments reserve
Total transactions with owners
Balances as of December 31, 2011
Note
Capital stock
Capital reserve
Legal reserve
Attributable to owners of the parent
Earnings reserves
Investments
reserve
Additional
proposed dividend
Retained
earnings (losses)
Total
17(e)
17(c)
17 (e)
17 (c)
17 (e)
17 (c)
17 (c)
6,203,688
124,255
309,832
687,219
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
68,694
-
-
-
-
1,044,896
68,694
1,044,896
6,203,688
124,255
378,526
1,732,115
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
81,522
-
-
-
-
-
-
1,092,933
81,522
1,092,933
6,203,688
124,255
460,048
2,825,048
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
61,171
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
583,543
61,171
583,543
6,203,688
124,255
521,219
3,408,591
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
68,761
-
68,761
68,761
-
-
-
(68,761)
-
288,143
-
288,143
288,143
-
7,324,994
1,507,747
1,507,747
1,507,747
1,507,747
(68,694)
(394,157)
(1,044,896)
-
(394,157)
-
(1,507,747)
(394,157)
-
8,438,584
1,630,447
1,630,447
1,630,447
1,630,447
(81,522)
(387,231)
(68,761)
(1,092,933)
-
(387,231)
-
-
1,630,447
(387,231)
-
9,681,800
1,223,419
1,223,419
1,223,419
1,223,419
(61,171)
-
(290,562)
(288,143)
(583,543)
-
(68,761)
(290,562)
-
-
1,223,419
(373,917)
-
10,545,896
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F - 6
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009
Amounts in thousands of reais unless otherwise indicated
Profit before income tax and social contribution
1,720,746
2,292,756
2,110,352
Note
2011
2010
2009
Adjustments for:
Depreciation and amortization
Losses on disposal of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
Allowance for doubtful accounts expense
Change in provisions
Interest on loans and financing
Foreign exchange and monetary (gains) losses on loans and financing
Indemnities Receivable
Interest and inflation adjustment gains
Provision from São Paulo agreement
Provision for defined contribution plan
Fair value margin on intangible assets arising from concession contracts
Other adjustments
Adjusted net income
Changes in assets
Customer accounts receivable
Accounts receivable from related party
Inventories
Taxes recoverable
Indemnities receivable
Escrow deposits
Other assets
Changes in liabilities
Accounts payable to suppliers and contractors
Services payable
Accrued payroll and related charges
Other taxes payable
Accrued taxes on revenues
Provisions
Pension obligations
Other liabilities
Changes in assets and liabilities
Cash generated from operations
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
F - 7
768,769
56,548
289,589
614,993
439,117
442,954
85,918
(2,167)
15,386
(8,746)
(47,589)
4,833
552,184
16,385
402,694
352,614
450,297
21,139
-
(55,804)
80,368
32,587
(49,603)
19,331
562,236
23,372
308,188
596,543
395,897
(535,409)
-
(14,252)
-
-
(30,145)
8,197
4,380,351
4,114,948
3,424,979
(358,516)
20,455
(8,519)
(62,149)
-
573
(43,025)
145,451
87,944
(49,582)
(14,649)
1,995
(197,521)
(11,268)
150,855
(245,683)
36,708
3,484
(157,916)
-
(14,864)
(30,508)
(66,087)
55,678
(17,525)
(8,316)
(7,455)
(330,256)
(15,881)
118,774
(285,854)
91,547
6,758
(24,491)
2,581
(34,009)
3,444
(15,249)
48,533
43,077
(19,505)
(8,792)
(240,032)
88,549
190,277
(337,956)
(679,847)
(153,166)
4,042,395
3,435,101
3,271,813
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Years Ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009
Amounts in thousands of reais unless otherwise indicated
Cash generated from operations
Interest paid
Income tax and social contribution paid
(Continued)
Note
2011
2010
2009
(736,853)
(588,484)
(618,600)
(733,452)
(555,573)
(643,788)
Net cash generated from operating activities
2,717,058
2,083,049
2,072,452
Cash flows from investing activities
Restricted cash
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
Purchases of intangible assets
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
Net cash used in investing activities
Cash flows from financing activities
Loans and financing
Proceeds from borrowings
Repayments of borrowings
Payment of interest on shareholders' equity
202,841
(143,684)
(2,067,435)
-
(189,820)
(87,383)
(1,814,166)
-
(10,748)
(9,347)
(1,973,096)
29,161
(2,008,278)
(2,091,369)
(1,964,030)
1,854,052
(1,979,099)
(422,923)
3,425,417
(1,800,507)
(398,419)
2,237,056
(1,896,480)
(303,722)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
(547,970)
1,226,491
36,854
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
160,810
1,218,171
145,276
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year
5
5
1,989,179
2,149,989
771,008
1,989,179
625,732
771,008
Increase in cash and cash equivalents
160,810
1,218,171
145,276
Additional information
Interest and other charges capitalized
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
261,886
228,899
51,625
F - 8
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
1 Operations
Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo ("SABESP" or the "Company") is a
mixed-capital company headquartered in São Paulo, controlled by the São Paulo State
Government. The Company is engaged in the provision of basic and environmental sanitation
services in the State of São Paulo, and supplies treated water on a wholesale basis.
In addition to providing basic sanitation services in the State of São Paulo, SABESP may
perform these activities in other states and countries, and can operate in drainage, urban
cleaning, solid waste handling and energy markets. The objective set in the new vision of
SABESP is to be recognized as the company that ensured universal access to water and sewage
services in its marketplace, focused on the customer, and in a sustainable and competitive
manner, with excellence in environmental solutions.
On December 31, 2011, the company operates water and sewage services in 363 of municipalities
of the State of São Paulo, having temporarily discontinued operations in the municipalities of
Araçoiaba da Serra, Iperó, Cajobi, Alvaro Florense and Macatuba, due to judicial orders under
ongoing lawsuits. Most of these municipalities operations are based on 30-year concession
agreements. As of December 31, 2011, 99 concessions had expired and are being negotiated.
From 2012 to 2033, 39 concessions will expire, and the remaining concessions operate on
rollover basis. These concessions with indefinite terms and expired concessions under
negotiation are amortized over the useful lives of the underlying assets. By December 31, 2011,
the concession program contracts signed totaled 225 (2010 - 201 concession program
contracts).
Management believes that all concessions expired and not yet renewed will result in new
contracts or contract extensions. Therefore, the risk of discontinuity in the provision of
municipal water supply and sewage services was considered remote by Management. As of
December 31, 2011, the carrying amount of the underlying assets used in the 99 concessions of
the municipalities under negotiation totaled R$ 6,588 million which represents 32.44% of the
total intangible assets and the related gross revenue for the year then ended totaled R$ 2,513
million which represents 23.87% of the total gross revenue.
The Company's operations are concentrated in the municipality of São Paulo, which represents
55.1% of the gross revenues in 2011 (54.7% in 2010).
On June 23, 2010, the State of São Paulo, the Municipality of São Paulo and the Company
signed an agreement to share the responsibility for water supply and sewage services to the
Municipality of São Paulo based on a 30-year concession agreement. This agreement is
extendable for another 30 years. This agreement sets forth SABESP as the exclusive service
provider and designates Agência Reguladora de Saneamento e Energia (“ARSESP”) as
regulator, establishing prices, controlling and monitoring services.
Also, on June 23, 2010, the State of São Paulo, the city of São Paulo and SABESP signed the
“Public service provision agreement of water supply and sewage services”, a 30-year concession
agreement which is extendable for another 30 years. This agreement involves the following
activities:
(i) protection of the sources of water in collaboration with other agencies of the State and
the City;
(ii) capture, transport and treat of water;
(iii) collect, transport, treatment and final dispose of sanitary sewage; and
(iv) adoption of other actions of basic and environmental sanitation.
F - 9
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
In the municipality of Santos, in the Baixada Santista region, which has a significant population,
the Company operates under an authorization by public deed, a situation similar to other
municipalities in that region and in the Ribeira valley, where the Company started to operate
after the merger of the companies that formed it.
On January 5, 2007, Law 11,445 was enacted, establishing the basic sanitation regulatory
framework, providing for the nationwide guidelines and basic principles for the provision of
such services, such as social control, transparency, the integration authority of sanitation
infrastructure, water resources management, and the articulation between industry policies and
public policies for urban and regional development, housing, suppression of poverty, promotion
of health and environmental protection, and other related issues.
The Company's shares have been listed in the Novo Mercado (New Market) segment of
BM&FBOVESPA (the São Paulo Stock Exchange) since April 2002 and on the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) as American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) since May 2002.
Since 2008, the Company has been entering in joint venture with other companies, resulting in
the following companies: Sesamm, Águas de Andradina, Saneaqua Mairinque, Aquapolo
Ambiental, Águas de Castilho e Attend Ambiental. However, SABESP is not the majority
stockholder of those companies and the agreement of stockholder consider a power of veto and
a quality vote to SABESP, in some subjects, with others stockholders, indicating join control in
strategic decisions over those companies. Those companies are considered “joint controlled
entities” according to IAS 31.
These financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on March 22, 2012.
2 Summary of Significant Accounting Practices
2.1 Basis of preparation
The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in compliance with
International Financial Reporting Standards ("IFRS"), issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board ("IASB"). These policies have been consistently applied to all the years
presented.
The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost except for certain
financial instruments which were measured at fair value according to IFRS.
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of certain
critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise its judgment in the
process of applying the Company's accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree to
judgment or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the
consolidated financial statements are described in Note 4.
2.2 Proportional consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the financial statements of the Company and its
investees: Sesamm – Serviços de Saneamento de Mogi Mirim S/A, Águas de Andradina S.A.,
Saneaqua Mairinque S.A., Aquapolo Ambiental S.A., Attend Ambiental e Águas de Castilho,
which were proportionally consolidated according to the equity interest in these investees.
The Company has no majority shares of its investees, but according to investees’ By-Laws
approvals of any subject by shareholders in general meeting, except for the approval of any
subject mentioned in the investees’ By-Laws, which relates to decisions that affect financial and
F - 10
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
operational policies, for example, approval of the business plan, will be made by a majority vote,
and SABESP has power of veto.
For the purposes of calculating the Company's proportional share of revenues, expenses, assets
and liabilities of its investees, unrealized gains or transactions between the Company and its
investees were eliminated in proportion to the Company's interest; unrealized losses are also
eliminated, unless the transaction presents evidence of impairment of the transferred asset. The
accounting policies applied by the investees are consistent with the accounting policies adopted
by the Company.
Sesamm
On August 15, 2008, the Company, together with the companies OHL Médio Ambiente, Inima
S.A.U. Unipersonal ("Inima"), Técnicas y Gestión Medioambiental S.A.U. ("TGM") and Estudos
Técnicos e Projetos ETEP Ltda. ("ETEP") incorporated the company Serviços de Saneamento de
Mogi Mirim S.A. - SESAMM ("SESAMM"), for a period of 30 years from the date the concession
agreement with the municipality of Mogi Mirim for the purpose of providing complementary
services to the sewage diversion system and implementing and operating sewage treatment
system in the municipality of Mogi Mirim, including the disposal of solid waste.
SESAMM's capital as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, totaled R$ 19,532, and was represented by
19,532,409 registered shares without a par value. SABESP holds 36% of its equity interest and
Inima holds another 46% of its equity interest. The Company concluded that both, SABESP and
Inima, have joint control over SESAMM. Accordingly, SABESP records their interest over
SESAMM applying the proportional consolidation method, equivalent to the 36% of SESAMM's
assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses.
As of December 31, 2011, SESAMM´s operations had not been started yet.
Águas de Andradina
On September 15, 2010, the Company, together with the company Companhia de Águas do
Brasil – Cab Ambiental incorporated the company Águas de Andradina S.A., with indefinite
term, for the purpose of providing water supply and sewage services to the municipality of
Andradina.
On December 31, 2011, the capital of Águas de Andradina totaled R$ 2,908, and was
represented by 2,908,085 registered shares without a par value. SABESP holds 30%of its equity
interest.
The operations started in October 2010.
Saneaqua Mairinque
On June 14, 2010, the Company, together with the company Foz do Brasil S.A. incorporated the
company Saneaqua Mairinque S.A., with indefinite term, for the purpose of exploring the public
service of water supply and sewage services to the municipality of Mairinque.
On December 31, 2011, the capital of Saneaqua Mairinque totaled R$ 2,000, and was
represented by 2,000,000 registered shares without a par value. SABESP holds 30%of its equity
interest.
The operations initiated in October 2010.
F - 11
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Aquapolo
On October 8, 2009, the Company, together with the company Foz do Brasil S.A. incorporated
the company Aquapolo Ambiental S.A., for the purpose of producing, providing and
commercializing of reused water.
On December 31, 2011, the capital of Aquapolo totaled R$ 36,412, and was represented by
42,419,045 registered shares without a par value. SABESP holds 49%of its equity interest.
The operations are expected to initiate in April 2012.
Águas de Castilho
On October 29, 2010, the Company, together with the company Águas do Brasil – Cab
Ambiental, incorporated the company Águas de Castilho, for the purpose of providing water
supply and sewage services to the municipality of Castilho.
The capital of Águas de Castilho totaled R$ 622, and was represented by 622,160 registered
shares without a par value. SABESP holds 30%of its equity interest.
The operations initiated in January 2011.
Attend Ambiental
On August 23, 2010 the Company Estre Ambiental S.A, incorporated the company Attend
Ambiental S.A, for constructing and operating a pretreatment of non domestic effluent station,
mud transportation and related services in the city of São Paulo as well as implement similar
structures in other areasin Brazil and abroad.
The capital totaled R$ 2,000, and it is represented by 2,000,000 registered shares without a par
value. SABESP holds 45%of its equity interest.
The operations initiated in January 2011.
See below a summary of financial information of the joint-controlled entities:
Sesamm
36%
2,658
14,447
832
11,120
5,153
9,203
(10,494)
115
(1,176)
Águas de
Andradina
30%
360
1,300
815
84
761
2,985
(2,954)
31
62
Águas de
Castilho
30%
133
423
256
47
253
651
(568)
5
88
2011
Saneaqua
Mairinque
30%
561
164
228
28
469
Aguapolo
Ambiental
49%
12,424
180,717
10,262
167,498
15,381
Attend
Ambiental
45%
5,003
223
127
5,130
(31)
2,498
(2,730)
44
(188)
-
(1,438)
-
(1,438)
-
(992)
60
(932)
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Stockholders’ equity
Operating revenue
Operating expenses
Financial income, net
Profit (loss) for the year
F - 12
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
2010
Águas de
Andradina
30%
178
106
119
301
(136)
Saneaqua
Mairinque
30%
851
10
177
9
675
247
(451)
-
(204)
447
(384)
12
75
Aguapolo
Ambiental
49%
13,798
46,094
1,331
53,909
4,652
-
(1.023)
-
(1.023)
Sesamm
36%
420
5,353
2,702
-
3,071
-
(638)
95
(543)
Current assets
Non-current assets
Current liabilities
Non-current liabilities
Stockholders’ equity
Operating revenue
Operating expenses
Financial income, net
Profit (loss) for the year
2.3 Segment reporting
IFRS 8 requires that segment report is identified based in internal reporting regularly reviewed
by decision-maker in order to define the allocation of resources and evaluate performances.
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to
the chief operating decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker, is responsible for
allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified
as the Executive Board that makes strategic decisions.
Based in the manner that the Company defines the allocation of resources, two operating
segments (water and sewage services) are presented on note 19.
2.4 Translation into foreign currency
(a) Functional and reporting currency
Items included in the financial statements are measured using the currency of the primary
economic environment in which the company operates ("the functional currency"). The financial
statements are presented in Brazilian reais (R$ or reais), which is also the Company's
functional and presentation currency. All financial information presented has been presented in
reais, except where indicated.
(b) Foreign currency translation
Foreign currency-denominated transactions are translated into Brazilian reais using the
exchange rates prevailing at the transaction dates. Balance sheet accounts are translated at the
exchange rate prevailing at balance sheet date. Exchange gains and losses arising on the
settlement of these transactions and the translation of foreign currency-denominated cash
assets and liabilities are recognized in Foreign exchange result in the statement of income.
2.5 Financial Instruments
2.5.1 Classification
The Company classifies its financial assets according to the following categories: measured at
fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held-to-maturity and available for sale.
The classification depends on the purpose for which the financial assets were recognized at fair
value and subsequently acquired. Management determines the classification of the financial
assets at inception. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had no financial assets
classified in the category held-to-maturity and available for sale.
F - 13
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(a) Financial assets calculated at fair value through profit or loss
These are financial assets held for active and frequent trading. Financial asset is classified in this
category if it was acquired to be negotiated in short-term. These assets are classified as current
assets. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of financial assets measured at fair
value through profit or loss are presented in the statement of income in 'Financial income' or
'Financial expenses' in the period they occur, unless the instrument has been contracted in
connection to another transaction. In this case, changes are recognized in the same line item of
income affected by this transaction.
(b) Loans and receivables
These comprise receivables which are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable
payments, not quoted in an active market. Loans and receivables are presented in current assets
or liabilities, except for those with maturity of more than 12 months after the balance sheet date
(these are classified as noncurrent assets or liabilities). The Company's loans and receivables
include cash and cash equivalent trade accounts receivable, other accounts receivable and loans.
Loans and receivables are recognized at fair value e subsequently recorded at amortized cost,
under the effective interest rate method.
2.6 Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash in hand, deposits held at call with banks, other short-
term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three month or less.
2.7 Revenue from sales and services
a) Revenue from sales and services
Revenue from water supply and sewage collection are recognized as the water is consumed and
services are provided. Revenues, including the revenues unbilled, are recognized at the fair value
of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of those services in the ordinary course of
the Company’s activities. Revenue is shown net of value-added tax, rebates and discounts.
Revenues from unbilled represent incurred revenues in which the services were provided, but
not yet billed until the end of the each period. Water supply and sewage services are recorded as
trade accounts receivable based on monthly estimates of the completed services.
The Company recognizes revenue when: i) products are delivered or services are rendered; ii)
the amount of revenue can be reliably measured, iii) it is probable that future economic benefits
will flow to the Company and iv) it is probable that the amounts will be collected. The amount of
revenue is not considered to be reliably measurable until all conditions relating to the sale have
been satisfied. Amounts in dispute are recognized as revenue when collected.
b) Construction revenue
Revenue from concession construction contracts is recognized in accordance with IAS 11
Construction Contracts using the percentage-of-completion method, provided that the
applicable conditions for application are fulfilled. The percentage of completion is calculated
from the ratio of the actual costs incurred on the balance sheet date to the planned total costs
(cost-to-cost method). Revenue is recognized by reference to the construction costs incurred
during the period plus a fee earned. The fee represents the additional margin related to the work
performed by the Company in relation to such construction contracts and it is added to the
construction costs incurred and the total is recognized as construction revenue.
F - 14
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
2.8 Customer accounts receivable and allowance for doubtful accounts
Customer accounts receivable are amounts due from customers for services performed in the
ordinary course of business. If collection is expected in one year or less, they are classified as
current assets. If not, they are presented as noncurrent assets.
The Company records an allowance for doubtful accounts for receivable balances in an amount
that is deemed by management to be sufficient to cover probable losses in accounts receivable,
based on the analysis of the history of receipts and existing warranties, and it does not expect to
incur in additional significant losses, mainly in relation to the municipalities.
2.9 Inventories
Inventories of supplies for consumption and maintenance of the water and sewage systems are
stated at the lower of average cost of acquisition or realizable value, and are classified in current
assets.
2.10 Investment property
The investment property is recognized by the cost of acquisition or the construction cost, less
the related accumulated depreciation. The depreciation is calculated by straight line basis
considering the useful life of the assets. The maintenance expense is recognized in the profit and
loss when occurred.
The Company held some assets for a currently undetermined future use. The Company is
analyzing whether the assets will be used in the operation or will be sold in short-therm.
2.11 Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment comprise mainly administrative facilities which are not related
to the concession contracts. Those assets are stated at historical cost of acquisition or
construction less depreciation, net of impairment charge, when necessary, and include interest
capitalized incurred during the construction period where applicable, for the qualifying assets.
Subsequent costs included in the asset's carrying amount or recognized as a separate asset, as
appropriate, only when it is probable that the future economic benefit associated with the item
will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and
maintenance are charged to the income statement during the financial period in which they
were incurred.
Land is not depreciated. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate
their cost and is described in Note 11(a).
The residual amount and the useful life of the underlying assets are reviewed and adjusted, if
necessary, in the end of the year.
Gain and losses on disposals are determined by comparing the proceeds with the carrying
amount and are recognized within other operating income (expenses) in the income statements.
2.12 Intangible assets
Intangibles are stated at acquisition cost and/or construction of the underlying assets, including
the construction margin, interest and other financial charges capitalized during the construction
period, in this case, for the qualifying assets when applicable. Qualifying assets are assets that,
necessarily, take a substantial period to get ready for its intended use or sale. The Company
F - 15
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
considers that substantial period means a period greater than 12 months. This period was
established by considering the completion period of the majority of its constructions which is
greater than 12 months.
The amortization is calculated when the intangible assets are available for use in the necessary
condition established by the Company.
The amortization reflects the period over the expected future economic benefits generated by
the intangible asset and can be the period of the contract or the useful life of the underlying
assets constructed, what occurs first.
The amortization of the intangible assets finish when the underlying asset is totally consumed or
its is alienated, what occurs first.
Infrastructure to which the operator is given access by the grantor of the concession or donation
received from third parties is not recognized in the consolidated balance sheet, since such
donations are controlled by the concession grantor.
The amount received to construct infrastructures is recognized in the profit and loss as “Other
operating income (expenses), net”.
(a) Concession arrangements
The Company operates concession contracts covering the provision of basic and environmental
sanitation services, water supply and sewage services agreed with the concession grantor. The
infrastructure used by SABESP subject to service concession arrangements is considered to be
controlled by the concession grantor when:
(i)
(ii)
The grantor controls or regulates what services the operator must provide with
the infrastructure, to whom it most provide them, and at what price; and
The grantor controls the infrastructure, i.e., retains the right to take back the
infrastructure at the end of the concession.
SABESP's rights over infrastructure operated under concession arrangements is accounted for
as an intangible asset as SABESP has the right to charge for use of the infrastructure assets, and
users (consumers) have the primary responsibility to pay SABESP for the services.
The fair value of construction and other work on the infrastructure represents the cost of the
intangible asset and is recognized as revenue when the infrastructure is built, provided that this
work is expected to generate future economic benefits. The account policy for revenue
recognition for construction services is detailed on note 2.7 “Revenue from sales and services”.
Intangible assets under Concession contracts and Program contracts, when there is no right to
receive the residual value of the assets at the end of the contract, are amortized on a straight-line
basis over the period of the contract, or the useful life of the underlying asset, what occurs first.
The investments not recovered in the services provided, during the contract, will be indemnity
by the concession grantor, (1) in cash or cash equivalent or (2) extend the contract period. These
investments are amortized over the useful life of the assets.
(1) Financial assets are recognized when the Company has the inconditioning right to
receive cash or cash equivalent in the end of the contract period, as an indemnity for the
investments not recovered in the services provided, during the contract period. The
Company did not recognized any financial assets due to the fact that there is no
F - 16
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
expectation that the Company will receive cash (historically the contracts period are
extended);
(2) Continuing the operation, the assets will be maintained in the intangible assets.
(b) Software licenses
Software licensing of computer programs and business management systems acquired are
capitalized and amortized over the period of the license and the expenses associated with
maintaining these are recognized as expenses when incurred.
2.13 Impairment
Property and equipment, intangibles and other noncurrent assets, with defined useful life, are
reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount may not be recoverable.
The recoverable amount is the higher of value in use and fair value less cost to sell. An
impairment loss is recognized for the amount by which the asset's carrying amount exceeds its
recoverable amount. For assets with undefined useful life, so not subject to amortization, it is
tested annually, not considering the expectation of loss (impairment). The recoverable amount
is the higher between the amount in use and the fair value less the cost to sell. Impairment is
recognized in the profit and loss for the amount where the amount of the asset is higher than the
recoverable amount. For the purposes of measuring impairment, assets are grouped in the
lowest level for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (CGU - Cash Generating
Units). The assets adjusted by impairment are reviewed subsequently to analyze the possible
reversion of the impairment in the date covered by the financial statements, except for goodwill.
The CGU’s analyzed by the Company to evaluate the recoverable value of the assets were defined
according to the business decision-maker. Analyzes are performed by business unit, which
consist in a group of municipalities which has cost sharing or are supported by the same
hydrological basin.
The methodology applied was the discounted cash flow mainly related to the assets related to
the concessions, considering a five-year period operating cash flow. From 2017 until the
maturity date of each contract, the operating cash flow is adjusted, annually, by a 4.5% inflation
rate and discounted by the weighted average cost of capital (WACC).
The process to estimate the value in use involves premises, judgments and estimates about the
future cash flows and represents the best estimates of the Company, approved by the board.
As of December 31, 2011 the Management evaluated that there is no indication that the amounts
of property and equipment, intangibles and other noncurrent assets will not be recovered by
future operations.
2.14 Accounts payable to suppliers and contractors
Accounts payable to contractors and suppliers are obligations to pay for goods or services
purchased from suppliers in the ordinary course of business and are classified as current
liabilities if the payment is due in the period up to one year. Otherwise, the accounts payable are
presented as non-current liabilities and are initially measured at fair value which generally
correspond to the amount billed and subsequently to the amortized cost.
2.15 Loans and financing
F - 17
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Borrowings are initially recognized at fair value, upon receipt of funds, net of transaction costs.
Subsequently, borrowings are stated at amortized cost, and interest is accrued based on the
effective interest method, as presented in Note 12. Loans and financing are classified as current
liabilities unless the Company has an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for
at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.
Nonconvertible debentures are recognized in a similar manner to borrowings.
2.16 Borrowing costs
Borrowing costs related to acquisition, construction or production of an asset which, necessarily,
takes long time to be ready for use or sell are capitalized as cost of the asset. Other costs of the
loan are recognized as expenses in the period that it occurs. Borrowing costs are interest and
other financial charges over the loan, including exchange rate variation, in the terms described
below.
The capitalization occurs during the period of the construction, considering the weighted
average rate of the loans in place in the date of the capitalization.
The loans and financing acquired in foreign currency, are analyzed as they were acquired in
local currency, and the capitalization of the interest and/or exchange rate variation is limited by
the amount which would be capitalized if the loans and financing were acquired in local
currency.
2.17 Payroll and related charges
Salaries include an accrual for vacations and the 13th salary and additional payments negotiated
in collective labor agreements plus related charges and are recorded on the accruals basis.
2.18 Profit sharing
The Company's profit sharing plan for its employees is based on general targets of the Company
as a whole, and based on the performance of each business units. The Company recognizes a
provision when has a contract or when there is a prior practice which gave rise to a non formal
obligation (constructive obligation). The expense for profit sharing is recorded on the accruals
basis as an operating expense and cost of sales and services.
2.19 Provisions, legal obligation, escrow deposits and contingent assets
Provisions for legal claims are recognized when: i) the Company has a present legal or
constructive obligation as a result of past events; ii) it is probable that an outflow of resources
will be required to settle the obligation; and iii) the amount can be reliably estimated. Where
there are a number of similar obligations, the likelihood that an outflow will be required in
settlement is determined by considering the class of obligations as a whole.
Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to
settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time
value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to
passage of time is recognized as interest expense.
For financial statement presentation purposes, the provisions are stated net of the related
escrow deposits based on the legal right to offset. The bases and the nature of the provision for
civil, tax, labor and environmental risks are described in Note 15.
F - 18
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Escrow deposits not linked to related liabilities are recorded in noncurrent assets. The escrow
deposits are restated according to fiscal authorities.
Legal obligations occur from tax obligation which objective is to claim the legality. The
obligations are recognized in the financial statements.
Contingent assets are not recognized, except when the gain is virtually certain or when there are
real warrants or final judicial decision favorable to the Company.
2.20 Environmental costs
Costs related to ongoing environmental programs are expensed as incurred. Ongoing programs
are designed to minimize the environmental impact of the operations and to manage the
environmental risks inherent to the Company's activities.
2.21 Income taxes and social contribution – current and deferred
The Company adopted a transitory tax regime (RTT) to calculate income tax and social
contribution, as enacted by law 11,941/09, considering the account effects by law 6,404/76,
before the changes considered in law 11,638/07.
This regime will be in place until a new law be enacted. This regime was optional in 2008 and
2009 and was obliged from 2010 on.
The Company opted for this regime in 2008. Consequently, the Company adopted the rules
established in the RTT to December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.
The tax expense for the period comprises current and deferred tax.
(a) Current tax
The current income tax and social contribution expense are calculated on the basis of the laws
enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, pursuant to Brazilian tax regulations.
Income taxes in Brazil comprise Federal income tax (15%), increased by 10% what exceeded
R$240, and social contribution (9%). Taxable income differs from net income (profit presented
in the statement of income), because it excludes income and expenses taxable or deductible in
other years, and excludes items not permanently taxable or not deductible. Management
periodically evaluates and measures the positions taken in the income tax return with respect to
situations in which applicable tax regulations are subject to interpretation. It establishes
provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.
(b) Deferred tax
Deferred income and social contribution taxes are recognized, using the liability method, on
temporary differences arising between the tax basis of assets and liabilities and their carrying
amounts in the consolidated financial statements, according to IAS 12. However, the deferred
income tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a
transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither
accounting nor taxable profit nor loss. Deferred income and social contribution taxes are
determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the
balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is
realized or the deferred income tax liability is settled.
F - 19
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Deferred income and social contribution taxes assets are recognized only to the extent that it is
probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can
be utilized.
Deferred income and social contribution taxes assets and liabilities are offset when there is a
legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the
deferred income taxes assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation
authority on either the taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to
settle the balances on a net basis.
2.22 Accrued taxes on revenues
Accrued taxes on revenues are recognized on accrual basis for PASEP (Public Servant Fund) and
Cofins (Social Security Financing Contribution). These taxes are calculated on differences from
tax basis of billing to government entities, which are taxable when the invoices are settled. As
these taxes are non-cumulative, they are presented net of tax credits, as deductions from gross
revenues. Debts and credits arising from other operating income and expenses, respectively, are
presented as deductions from the respective operating income or expense.
2.23 Pension obligations
(a) Defined benefit
Liabilities from defined benefit pension plan obligations correspond to the present value of the
defined benefit obligation at balance sheet date, less the fair value of the plan's assets, and
adjusted by unrecognized actuarial gains or losses. The defined benefit obligation is calculated
on an annual basis by independent actuaries, using the projected unit credit method. The
estimated future cash outflows is discounted to its present value, using the interest rates of
Government bonds with maturities that approximate the maturity of the related liability.
The Company adopted the corridor approach to recognize the actuarial gains and losses.
Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in actuarial
assumptions are in excess of the greater of 10% of the fair value of plan assets or 10% of the
present value of the defined benefit obligation are charged or credited to income over the
employees' expected average remaining working lives. The expenses related to pension plan are
recognized in profit and loss of the year as cost of sales and services, selling expenses or
administrative expenses, according to employee’s allocation.
In a event where a curtailment relates to only some of the employees covered by a plan, or where
only part of an obligation is settled, the gain or loss includes a proportionate share of the
previously unrecognized past service cost and actuarial gains and losses. The proportionate
share is determined on the basis of the present value of the obligations before and after the
curtailment or settlement.
The Company pays contributions to an unlisted private pension entity, Fundação Sabesp de
Seguridade Social – Sabesprev, in a compulsory basis, contracted or not. The regular
contributions consist of the net costs of the plan and are recognized in the profit and loss of the
period.
(b) Defined contribution
The Company participates in a defined contribution plan (Sabesprev Mais), controlled by a
closed private pension entity – Fundação SABESP de Seguridade Social (Sabesprev) that
provide postretirement benefits to the Company´s employees.
F - 20
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
A defined contribution plan is a pension plan under which the Company makes fixed
contribution to a closed private pension entity. The Company has no further legal or contractual
obligation to provide further contributions in case the pension fund is not sufficient to pay the
benefits to all employees related to the service cost of current or prior period.
With respect to the defined contribution plan, the Company contributes to Sabesprev on
mandatory, contractual or voluntary basis. The regular contributions are recognized in the
income statement of the period.
2.24 Financial income and expenses
Financial income is primarily comprised of interest, inflation adjustments and exchange
variations on short term investments and client negotiation. Financial expenses are primarily
comprised of interest, inflation adjustments and exchange variations on loans and financing and
provisions. These financial income and expenses are calculated using the effective interest rate
method.
2.25 Leases
According to IAS 17, leases are classified as financial leases when there is transfer substantially
all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of an asset. Other leases are classified as
operational lease. Operational leases are recognized as expenses in the profit and loss on a linear
basis during the contract.
Financial leases are recognized based at lower of the present value of the minimum payment of
the contract or the fair value of the related asset in the beginning of the contract. The payments
are recognized as expenses or reducing the leasing in order to obtain a linear interest rate. The
corresponding obligation is recognized as short or long term debt.
2.26 Other current and noncurrent assets and liabilities
Other assets are stated at cost of acquisition, net of any impairment loss, when applicable. The
amounts recognized as other liabilities are stated at known or estimated amounts, including,
where applicable, related charges and monetary variations.
2.27 Dividends and Interest on Shareholders' Equity
The Company uses the tax benefits of distributing dividends as interest on shareholders' equity,
as permitted by Brazilian Law. This distribution of dividend is accounted for in accordance with
Brazilian Law 9,249/95 for tax deductibility purposes, limited to the daily pro rata fluctuation of
the Long-term Interest Rate (TJLP). The benefit attributed to the shareholders is recognized in
the current liability against Equity, based on the articles of association. Dividends and interest
on shareholders´ equity over the minimum established in the articles of association are
recognized when approved by the shareholders in the general meeting. The tax effects of the
interest on shareholders’ equity are recognized in the income statement of the year.
2.28 Present value adjustment
Current and noncurrent financial assets and liabilities are adjusted to present value based on
discount rate at current market rate as of the transaction date, when the effects are relevant.
2.29 New and amended standards adopted by the Company
In 2009, the Company has early adopted IAS 24 - Related Party Disclosures (as amended in
November 2009). The disclosure requirements for entities that are controlled, jointly-controlled
F - 21
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
or significantly influenced by a government (referred to as government-related entities) are
simplified and so detailed disclosures of all transactions with entities controlled by the São
Paulo State Government are not presented in these financial statements.
2.30 Standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards that are not yet
effective
Standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards that are not yet
effective and have not been early adopted by the Company
The following new standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards were
issued by IASB but are not effective for 2011. The early adoption of these standards, even though
encouraged by IASB, has not been implemented in Brazil by the Brazilian Accounting
Pronouncements Committee (CPC).
. IAS 19, "Employee benefits" was amended in June 2011. The impact on the Group will be as
follows: (i) to eliminate the corridor approach; (ii) to recognize all actuarial gains and losses
in other comprehensive income as they occur; (iii) to immediately recognize all past service
costs; and (iv) to replace interest cost and expected return on plan assets with a net interest
amount that is calculated by applying the discount rate to the net defined benefit liability
(asset). Management is evaluating the total impact of these changes for the Company. The
standard is applicable as from January 1, 2013.
. IFRS 9, "Financial instruments" addresses the classification, measurement and recognition
of financial assets and financial liabilities. IFRS 9 was issued in November 2009 and October
2010. It replaces the parts of IAS 39 that relate to the classification and measurement of
financial instruments. IFRS 9 requires financial assets to be classified into two measurement
categories: those measured at fair value and those measured at amortized cost. The
determination is made at initial recognition. The basis of classification depends on the
entity’s business model and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial
instruments. For financial liabilities, the standard retains most of the IAS 39 requirements.
The main change is that, in cases where the fair value option is taken for financial liabilities,
the part of a fair value change due to an entity’s own credit risk is recorded in other
comprehensive income rather than the statement of income, unless this creates an
accounting mismatch. Management is evaluating the impact of this standard for the
Company. The standard is applicable as from January 1, 2013.
. IFRS 10, "Consolidated financial statements" builds on existing principles by identifying the
concept of control as the determining factor in whether an entity should be included within
the consolidated financial statements of the parent company. The standard provides
additional guidance to assist in the determination of control. Management is evaluating the
impact of this standard for the Company. The standard is applicable as from January 1, 2013.
. IFRS 11,"Joint arrangements" was issued in May 2011. The standard provides for a more
realistic reflection of joint arrangements by focusing on the rights and obligations of the
arrangement, rather than its legal form. There are two types of joint arrangements: (i) joint
operations - arise where a joint operator has rights to the assets and obligations relating to
the arrangement and hence accounts for its interest in assets, liabilities, revenue and
expenses; and (ii) joint ventures - arise where the joint operator has rights to the net assets of
the arrangement and hence equity accounts for its interest. The proportional consolidation
method will no longer be permitted in joint ventures. Management is evaluating the impact
of this standard for the Company. The standard is applicable as from January 1, 2013.
. IFRS 12, "Disclosures of interests in other entities" includes the disclosure requirements for
all forms of interests in other entities, including joint arrangements, associates, special
F - 22
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
purpose vehicles and other off balance sheet vehicles. Management is evaluating the impact
of this standard for the Company. The standard is applicable as from January 1, 2013.
. IFRS 13, “Fair value measurement” was issued in May 2011. IFRS 13 aims to improve
consistency and reduce complexity by providing a precise definition of fair value and a single
source of fair value measurement and disclosure requirements for use across IFRSs. The
requirements, which are largely aligned between IFRSs and US GAAP, do not extend the use
of fair value accounting but provide guidance on how it should be applied where its use is
already required or permitted by other standards within IFRSs or US GAAP. The Company is
yet to assess IFRS 13’s full impact. The standard is applicable as from January 1, 2013.
There are no other IFRSs or IFRIC interpretations that are not yet effective that would be
expected to have a material impact on the Company.
3 Financial Risk Management
3.1 Financial risk factors
The Company's activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including foreign
currency risk and interest rate risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Company analyzes the
global risk considering the unpredictability of the financial market and tries to minimize the
potential adverse financial impacts.
The Company has not utilized derivative instruments, although it may enter in forward
exchange transactions and financing funding transactions in Brazilian reais to mitigate the
foreign currency exposure.
(a) Market risk
Foreign currency risk
The Company is exposed to exchange rate fluctuations from Brazilian reais to US dollars and
Yens. Liabilities in foreign currency include loans in US dollars and Yens.
Depreciation of Brazilian reais comparing to loans in foreign currency will incur in losses related
to such liability.
Foreign currency risks to SABESP are related to the exposure of short and long term loans in
foreign currency.
SABESP’s foreign currency risk are monitored considering several actual and projected
economic factors, beside the market condition. The Company does not have hedge or swap
contracts to hedge against this risk. The Company monitors the financial debts to reduce the
exposure to exchange rate variation taking advantage of opportunities to exchange expensive
debts to cheaper debts by reducing financing costs through early payment of its debts. The
priority is to acquire new debts with multilateral banks and official agencies from foreign
governments, which are characterized by low cost and long term maturity.
On December 31, 2011 and 2010, R$ 3,053.4 million and R$2,248.9 million, which correspond
to 36.4% and 27.2%, respectively, of the debt of SABESP was denominated in foreign currency.
The debts of SABESP denominated in foreign currency were acquired, mainly, with Inter-
American Development Bank (IADB). Considering those facts, the Company is exposed to
foreign exchange fluctuations which can result in material adverse effects to the business.
The Company's exposure to currency risks are summarized as follows:
F - 23
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Foreign currency
R$ Foreign currency
R$
Loans and financing - US$
Loans and financing - Yen
Debt issuance cost
Interest and other charges
Total
39,456,912
1,113,236 2,088,208
959,198
(13,656)
19,671
3,053,421
1,084,898 1,807,657
21,316,000
436,978
(10,801)
15,094
2,248,928
As of December 31, 2011, if the Brazilian real had weakened or strengthened by 10% against the
US dollar and Yen with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year and in the
shareholders’ equity would have been R$ 201,129 (2010 - R$ 148,146) lower or higher, mainly
as a result of foreign exchange losses or gains on the translation of foreign currency
denominated loans.
Projection of valuation / devaluation of Real by 10%
Loans and financing
Variation Dolar/ Yen
Valuation or devaluation of Real
Income taxes rate
Income taxes
Valuation or devaluation net of taxes
Interest rate risk
December 31,
2011
December 31,
2010
3,047,406
10%
304,741
34%
103,612
201,129
2,244,635
10%
224,464
34%
76,318
148,146
This risk arises from the possibility that the Company could incur losses due to fluctuations in
interest rates, increasing the financial expenses related to loans and financing.
On December 31, 2011 and 2010, R$ 2,537.1 million or 29.5% and R$2.529,4 million or 30.6%,
respectively, of the debt of SABESP were denominated in Brazilian reais and indexed to UPR
(“Unidade Padrão de Referência”, a Reference Standard Unit, which is equal to the TR “Taxa
Referencial”, a Reference Rate). On December 31, 2011 and 2010, R$1,882.3 million or 21.9%
and R$2,064.7 million or 25.0%, respectively, of the debt of SABESP were denominated in
Brazilian reais and indexed to the fluctuation of DI (Interbank Deposit) rate.
On December 31, 2011 and 2010, R$ 1,152.1 million and R$996.1 million, respectively, of the
debt of SABESP were denominated in US dollars and indexed to the fluctuation of rates of Inter-
American Development Bank (IADB).
On December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company has not entered into any derivative contracts to
hedge againstthe UPR (Reference Standard Unit), DI (Interbank Deposit) or for IADB (Inter-
American Development Bank) rates; however, it continually monitors market interest rates, in
order to evaluate the possible need to replace its debt. The Company is obliged to invest the
excess of cash in financial institutions controlled by the Federal Government.
The Company invest the excess of cash, which corresponded to R$ 2,031.1 million and
R$1,853.2 million, on December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, mainly in short term
investments. As a result, the exposure of SABESP to interest rate risk is partially limited to the
F - 24
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
financial gain of such investments, which normally are indexed to the fluctuation of DI
(Interbank Deposit) rate.
The Company maintained approximately 28% of its loans and financing in local and foreign
currency indexed to fixes rates. During 2011 and 2010, the loans and financing indexed to
variable rates were in local and foreign currency.
The table below provides the Company's loans and financing denominated in reais subject to
variable interest rate:
UPR(i)
CDI(ii)
IGP-M(iii)
TJLP(iv)
IPCA(v)
Fixed rate
December 31,
2011
December 31,
2010
2,537,089
1,882,341
-
886,138
187,697
49,609
2,529,398
2,064,714
493,869
703,710
223,996
-
Total loans and financing in local currency
5,542,874
6,015,687
(i) UPR (Unidade Padrão de Referência), a Reference Standard Unit, which is equal to the TR (Taxa Referencial), a
Reference Rate.
(ii) CDI (Certificado de Depósito Interbancário), an interbank deposit certificate.
(iii) IGP-M (Índice Geral de Preços do Mercado), a general market price index.
(iv) TJLP (Taxa de Juros a Longo Prazo),a long-term interest rate index.
(v) IPCA (Índice Nacional de Preços ao Consumidor Amplo), a consumer price index.
Another risk to which the Company is exposed, is the mismatch of the monetary restatement
indices of its loans and financing with those of its receivables. Water supply and sewage services
tariffs do not necessarily follow the increases in the interest rates affecting the Company's
indebtedness.
As of December 31, 2011, if interest rates on loans and financing denominated in Brazilian reais
had been 100 basis points higher or lower with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit
would have been R$ 35,114 (2010 - R$ 39,338) lower or higher, mainly as a result of a lower or
higher interest expense on floating rate loans and financing.
(b) Credit risk
Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents, deposits in banks and financial institutions, as
well as credit exposures to wholesale and retail customers, including outstanding accounts
receivable. The Company is required by law to invest its surplus cash with financial institutions
controlled by the State Government. Credit risk exposure to retail customers is mitigated by
sales to a geographically dispersed customer base. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the
reporting date are the amounts of cash equivalents, deposits in banks and financial institutions,
wholesale and retail customers in the balance sheet. (See notes 5, 6 and 7).
The credit quality of financial assets that are neither past due nor impaired can be assessed by
reference to external credit ratings (if available) or to historical information about counterparty
default rates. The credit quality of counterparties which are banks, such as cash and cash
equivalents, the Company considers the lower rating of the counterparty published by three
mainly international agency of rating (Moody's, Fitch e S&P), according to internal policy of
management of market risk:
F - 25
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Cash at bank and short term bank deposits
brAAA
brAA+
Others (*)
December 31,
2011
December 31,
2010
38,058
2,102,304
1,717
2,142,079
27,673
1,945,697
14,634
1,988,004
(*) This category is comprised by banks which have no credit rating information available.
The available credit rating information of the banks in which the Company made transactions
during 2011 is as follow:
Banks
Fitch
Moody's
Agencies’ rate
Standard Poor's
Banco do Brasil S.A.
Banco Santander Brasil S.A.
Caixa Economica Federal
Banco Bradesco S.A.
Itaú Unibanco Holding S.A.
AA+ (bra)
AAA (bra)
AA+ (bra)
AAA (bra)
AAA (bra)
Aaa.br
Aaa.br
Aaa.br
Aaa.br
Aaa.br
brAAA
brAAA
-
brAAA
AAAbr
(c) Liquidity risk
The Company's liquidity is primarily reliant upon cash provided by operating activities,
borrowings from Brazilian Federal and State governmental financial institutions, and financing
in the domestic and international capital markets. The liquidity risk management considers the
assessment of its liquidity requirements to ensure it has sufficient cash to meet operational and
capital expenditures needs.
The excess of cash is invested in short-term investment indexed by interest, deposits held at call
with banks, other short-term highly liquid investments considering appropriate maturity date
and liquidity.
The table below provides the Company's contractual undiscounted cash flows of the financial
liabilities into relevant maturities based on the balance sheet as of December 31, 2011 and 2010.
2012
2013
2014 / 2015 /
2016
from 2017
then on
Total
As of December 31, 2011
Loans and financing
Accounts payable to suppliers and
contractor
Services payable
As of December 31, 2010
Loans and financing
Accounts payable to suppliers and
contractor
Services payable
2,115,837
1,689,526
3,008,577
5,162,889
11,976,829
255,557
383,116
-
-
-
-
-
-
255,557
383,116
1,744,324
2,071,161
3,834,599
4,880,026
12,530,110
144,043
295,172
-
-
-
-
-
-
144,043
295,172
F - 26
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
There are no financial assets or liabilities included in “Other assets” or “Other liabilities”.
3.2 Capital management
The Company's objectives when managing capital are ensure its ability to continue as a going
concern in order to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders, and to
maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital.
The Company monitors capital based on the leverage ratio. This ratio corresponds to net debt
divided by total capital. Net debt corresponds to total loans and financing (including short and
long term loan and financing, as presented in the financial statements) less cash and cash
equivalents. Total capital is calculated as total equity as shown in the balance sheet plus net
debt.
The financial leverage rate on December 31, 2011 and 2010 as summarized below:
Total loans and financing
Less: cash and cash equivalents
Net debt
Total equity
Total capital
Leverage ratio
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
8,596,295
(2,149,989)
8,264,615
(1,989,179)
6,446,306
10,545,896
6,275,436
9,681,800
16,992,202
15,957,236
37.9%
39.3%
In 2010, the Company's leverage ratio decreased to 37.9% as of December 31, 2011, compared to
39.3% as of December 31, 2010, due to increase in short term investments.
The capital is not managed at consolidated level, but only at parent company level, whereas the
subsidiaries are not relevant.
3.3 Fair value estimates
The Company adopted the amendment to IFRS 7 for financial instruments that are measured in
balance sheet at fair value, which requires the disclosure of fair value measurements by level of
the following fair value measurement hierarchy:
. Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (level 1).
. Inputs other than quoted prices included within level 1 that are observable for the asset or
liability, either directly (that is, as prices) or indirectly (that is, derived from prices) (level 2).
. Inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market data (that is,
unobservable inputs) (level 3).
The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets is based on quoted market prices
at the balance sheet date. A market is regarded as active if quoted prices are readily and
regularly available from an exchange, dealer, broker, industry group, pricing or service, or
F - 27
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
regulatory agency, and those prices represent actual and regularly occurring market
transactions on an arm's length basis. The quoted market price used for financial assets is the
current bid price. These instruments are included in level 1.
The fair value of financial instruments that are not traded in an active market (for example, time
deposits and certificates of bank deposit) is determined by using valuation techniques. These
valuation techniques maximize the use of observable market data where it is available and rely
as little as possible on entity specific estimates. If all significant inputs required to fair value an
instrument are observable, the instrument is included in level 2.
If one or more of the significant inputs is not based on observable market data, the instrument is
included in level 3.
Specific valuation techniques used to value financial instruments include:
. Quoted market prices or dealer quotes for similar instruments.
. Other techniques, such as analysis of discounted cash flows, are used to determine the fair
value of the remaining financial instruments.
The only financial instrument measured at fair value are represented by the short-term
investment on Certified of Bank Deposits (CDB), classified as cash equivalent, amounting to R$
2,031,122 and R$ 1,853,177 in December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. These investments are
measured at fair value through profit and loss at level 2.
3.4 Financial Instruments
The Company operates with many financial instruments, particularly cash and cash equivalents,
including financial investments, and loans and financing as described below.
The estimated fair values of financial instruments are as follows:
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Carrying
amount
Fair
value
Carrying
amount
Fair
value
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Customer accounts receivable,net
Accounts receivable from related party, net
Escrow deposits
Financial liabilities
Loans and financing
Accounts payable to suppliers
and Contractors
Loans and financing
99,729
2,149,989 2,149,989
99,729
1,406,372 1,406,372
355,621
54,178
355,621
54,178
1,989,179 1,989,179
302,570
1,324,157
368,848
43,543
302,570
1,324,157
368,848
43,543
8,596,295 8,500,515
8,264,615 9,698,547
255,557
255,557
144,043
144,043
The fair value of the loans and financing as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 are as follow.
F - 28
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Carrying
amount
Market value
Carrying
amount
Market value
Bank loans
Loans and finance local currency (i)
1,866,936
1,756,889
2,721,818
2,866,244
Debêntures (ii)
BNDES (iii)
3,124,159
2,901,483
2,771,562
3,372,377
496,823
496,823
509,572
509,572
Financial lease (vi)
49,609
49,609
-
-
Foreign currency (iv)
3,053,421
3,290,364
2,248,928
2,937,619
Other (v)
5,347
5,347
12,735
12,735
8,596,295
8,500,515
8,264,615
9,698,547
The fair value was obtained as follow:
(i)
(ii)
(iii)
(iv)
(v)
(vi)
Loans and finance – local currency are considered by carrying amount plus
contractual interest rate till mature date, discounted to present value
considering a future interest rate published by BM&F.
Debentures are considered by their carrying amount plus contractual interest
rate till mature date and discounted to present value considering the future
interest rate published by ANBIMA in the secondary market, as of December 31,
2010 and the Company’s share traded in the Brazilian market.
BNDES loans are financial instruments valued at carrying amount plus
contractual interest rate till mature date, and are indexed by long term interest
rate – TJLP, which is a specific rate and cannot be compared to any other rate
available in the market. The Company considers the market value of the
financing the same amount recognized in the financial statements as of
December 31, 2011.
Financing in foreign currency are controlled in the original currency, converted
using the exchange rate as of the balance sheet date, discounted to present value
considering an future exchange rate published by Bloomberg, based on the price
of the shares negotiated in the open market.
Other financing in local currency are considered by carrying amount plus
contractual interest rate till mature date, discounted to present value
considering a future interest rate published by BM&F.
Financial lease are financial instruments valued at carrying amount plus
contractual interest rate till mature date, and are indexed by pre-fixed
contractual interest rate, which is a specific rate and cannot be compared to any
other rate available in the market. The Company considers the market value of
the financing the same amount recognized in the financial statements as of
December 31, 2011.
F - 29
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
4 Critical accounting estimates and judgments
Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and
on other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under
the circumstances.
The Company makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting
accounting estimates will, by definition, seldom equal the related actual results. The estimates
and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing material adjustment to the carrying
amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are addressed below:
(a) Allowance for doubtful accounts
The Company records allowance for doubtful accounts in an amount that management
considers sufficient to cover probable losses, based on an analysis of customer accounts
receivable, in accordance with the accounting policy stated in Note 2.8.
The methodology for determining the allowance for doubtful accounts receivable requires
significant estimates, considering a number of factors including historical collection experience,
current economic trends, estimates of forecast write-offs, the aging of the accounts receivable
portfolio and other factors. While the Company believes that the estimates used are reasonable,
actual results could differ from those estimates.
(b) Intangible assets arising from concession contracts
The Company recognizes intangible assets arising from concession contracts under IFRIC 12.
The Company estimates the fair value of construction and other work on the infrastructure to
recognize the cost of the intangible asset, which is recognized when the infrastructure is built
and provided that it will generate future economic benefits. The great majority of the Company's
contracts for service concession arrangements entered with each grantor is under service
concession agreements in which the Company has the right to receive, at the end of the contract,
a payment equivalent to the unamortized asset balance of the concession intangible asset, which
in this case, are amortized over the useful life of the underlying physical assets, thus at the end
of the contract, the remaining value of the intangible would be equal to the residual value of the
related physical asset.
Concession intangible assets under Concession contracts and Program contracts, in which, at
the end of the contract, the Company has no right to receive a payment equivalent to the
unamortized asset balance of the concession intangible, are amortized on a straight-line basis
over the useful life of the asset or the contract, what incur first. Additional information on the
accounting for intangible assets arising from concession contracts is disclosed in Note 2.12(a).
The recognition of fair value for the intangible assets arising on concession contracts is subject
to assumptions and estimates, and the use of different assumptions could affect the balances
recorded. The estimated useful lives of the underlying assets also requires significant
assumptions and estimates, which different assumptions and estimates and changes in future
circumstances, could affect the remaining useful lives of the intangible assets and can have a
significant impact on the results of operations.
(c) Impairment of long-lived assets
The Company reviews annually long-lived assets for indicators of impairment, primarily
intangible assets arising from concession contracts, which include water and sewage system
F - 30
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
physical assets to be held and used in the business, for the purpose of determining and
measuring impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value
of an asset or group of assets may not be recoverable. The assets include the intangible asset of
the concession contracts related to water and sewage systems.
In evaluating impairment of long-lived assets, the evaluation requires significant assumptions
and estimates regarding matters that are inherently uncertain, including projections of future
operating income and cash flows, future growth rates, and the remaining useful lives of the
assets and/or the period of the contract, among other factors. In addition, projections are
computed over an extended period of time, which subjects those assumptions and estimates to
an even larger degree of uncertainty. While the Company believes that the estimates used are
reasonable, the use of different assumptions could materially affect the recoverable amount.
(d) Provisions
The Company is party to a number of legal proceedings involving significant claims. These legal
proceedings include, among other types, tax, labor, civil, environmental, dispute with customers
and suppliers and other proceedings. Additional information of these legal proceedings is
disclosed in Note 15. The Company accrues for probable losses resulting from these claims and
proceedings when the Company determines that the likelihood that a loss has occurred is
probable and the amount of such loss can be reasonably estimated. Therefore, the Company is
required to make judgments regarding future events. As a result of the significant judgment
required in assessing and estimating these provisions for contingencies, actual losses realized in
future periods could differ significantly from actual estimates and could exceed the amounts
provisioned.
Provisions are measured at the present value of the expenditures expected to be required to
settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time
value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to
passage of time is recognized as interest expense.
(e) Pension benefits
The present value of the pension obligations depends on a number of factors that are
determined on an actuarial basis using a number of assumptions, which can differ materially
from the real, due to the changes in economic and market conditions. The assumptions used in
determining the net cost (income) for pensions include the discount rate. Any changes in these
assumptions will impact the carrying amount of pension obligations.
The Company determines the appropriate discount rates at the end of each year, which is the
interest rate that should be used to determine the present value of estimated future cash
outflows expected to be required to settle the pension obligations. The Company utilizes the
interest rate of high quality private papers to determine the appropriate discount rate, which are
in the same currency of the payments of the benefits and which has the maturity date close to
the respective obligation.
Other key assumptions for pension obligations are based in part on current market conditions.
Additional information on the pension plans under Plan G0 and G1 is disclosed in Note 16.
F - 31
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
5 Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and banks
Cash equivalents
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
118,867
2,031,122
136,002
1,853,177
2,149,989
1,989,179
Cash and cash equivalents are denominated in Reais. Cash equivalents are mainly represented
by Bank Deposit Certificates - CDB's, deposited in financial institutions controlled by the São
Paulo State Government, which has maturity date less than three months and are ready to be
converted in cash and has an insignificant risk to change the total amount.
In December 2011, the average rate of such Cash equivalents was 100.19% of CDI (Interbank
Deposit Certificates). In December 2010, the average rate was 99.2% of CDI.
6 Restricted Cash
In December 31, 2011, the restricted cash totaled R$ 99,729 (R$ 302,570 in 2010) and was
recognized in the current asset. Approximately R$8,280 was related to BNDES guarantees and
R$ 90,984 referred to proceeds from services provided to entities related to the Municipal
Government of São Paulo, net of taxes, which include: day-care centres, schools, management
offices, and health centres, whose funds shall be reinvested in the water and sewage system of
the city of São Paulo.
7 Customer Accounts Receivable
(a) Balance sheet balances
Private sector:
General and special customers (i) (ii)
Agreements (iii)
Government entities:
Municipal
Federal
Agreements (iii)
Wholesale customers - Municipal governments: (iv)
Guarulhos
Mauá
Mogi das Cruzes
Santo André
São Caetano do Sul
Diadema
Total wholesale customers
Unbilled revenue
Subtotal
Allowance for doubtful accounts
Total
Current
Noncurrent (v)
F - 32
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
885,847
249,929
828,261
250,300
1,135,776
1,078,561
578,463
2,517
182,381
556,212
2,645
170,892
763,361
729,749
513,218
244,204
14,864
547,764
1,955
164,337
462,221
220,228
18,818
489,486
3,537
149,155
1,486,342
1,343,445
457,321
391,822
3,842,800
(2,436,428)
3,543,577
(2,219,420)
1,406,372
1,324,157
1,072,659
333,713
971,318
352,839
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(i) General customers - residential and small and mid-sized companies.
(ii) Special customers - large consumers, commercial, industries, condominiums and special billing consumers
(industrial waste, wells, etc.).
(iii) Agreements - installment payments of past-due receivables, plus monetary restatement and interest.
(iv) Wholesale customers - municipal governments - This balance refers to the sale of treated water to municipalities,
which are responsible for distributing to, billing and charging final customers. Some of these municipalities are
questioning in court the tariffs charged by SABESP and do not pay for the amounts in dispute. These amounts are
not recognized as operational revenue, due to the uncertainty in the collection.
The amounts past due, which are substantially included in the allowance for doubtful accounts, are classified in
noncurrent assets pursuant to the changes below:
Balance at beginning of year
Services provided
Receipts - services in the current year
Receipts - services in previous years
2011
2010
2009
1,343,445
340,068
(167,024)
(30,147)
1,182,744
353,546
(183,882)
(8,963)
1,074,368
332,975
(164,266)
(60,333)
Balance at end of year
1,486,342
1,343,445
1,182,744
Current
Noncurrent
26,485
1,459,857
38,665
1,304,780
68,898
1,113,846
(v) The noncurrent portion consists of trade accounts receivable that are past due and renegotiated with customers and
amounts past due related to wholesale to municipal governments, and the amounts are net of allowance for
doubtful account.
(b) The aging of trade accounts receivable is as follows:
Current
Past-due:
Up to 30 days
From 31 to 60 days
From 61 to 90 days
From 91 to 120 days
From 121 to 180 days
From 181 to 360 days
Over 360 days
Total past-due
Total
(c) Allowance for doubtful accounts
Previous balance
Private sector/government entities
Wholesale customers
Additions for the year
Balance
Current
Noncurrent
F - 33
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
1,129,981
1,086,344
184,958
79,720
50,020
39,686
70,037
137,039
2,151,359
150,358
67,539
45,153
39,084
73,300
119,967
1,961,832
2,712,819
2,457,233
3,842,800
3,543,577
2011
2010
2,219,420
47,679
169,329
1,854,231
200,321
164,868
217,008
365,189
2,436,428
2,219,420
1,132,638
1,303,790
1,075,939
1,143,481
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The Company accounted for probable losses on accounts receivable in 2011 totaling R$ 120,260
(December 31, 2010 – R$ 232,505), of which R$ 77,905 (net of recoveries) were written off from
accounts receivable (in 2010 - R$ 37,505), under Selling expenses.
The Company does not rely on any specific major customers and no single external customer
segment represents 10% or more of its revenues.
8 Related Party Balances and Transactions
The Company is a party to transactions with its controlling shareholder, the State Government,
and companies related to it.
(a) Accounts receivable, interest on shareholders' equity payable and revenue and expenses with
the São Paulo State Government
Accounts receivable
Current:
Water and sewage services (i)
GESP Agreement (iii)
Allowance for losses (i)
Reimbursement for pension benefits paid -
GESP Agreement (ii)
Reimbursement for
pension benefits paid - Monthly flow (ii)
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
116,441
41,360
(12,389)
31,887
8,034
96,004
21,360
(12,389)
28,203
4,594
Total current
185,333
137,772
Non-current:
Water and sewage services - GESP
Agreement (iii)
Reimbursement for
pension benefits paid - GESP Agreement (ii)
Total noncurrent
Total receivables from shareholder
Provision of water and sewage services
Reimbursement of additional retirement and
pension benefits
Total
-
52,228
170,288
178,848
170,288
231,076
355,621
368,848
145,412
157,203
210,209
211,645
355,621
368,848
Interest on shareholders' equity payable to related party
153,368
179,319
Gross revenue from sales and services
Water supply
Sewage services
Payments received from related parties
Financial income
2011
2010
2009
216,933
188,059
(425,129)
271,847
204,595
178,935
(401,626)
137,613
193,771
164,532
(349,983)
73,927
F - 34
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(i) Water and sewage services
The Company provides water supply and sewage collection services to the São Paulo State
Government and other companies related to it in accordance, considered by management,
as usual market terms and conditions, except for the settlement of receivables which may
occur as mentioned in items (iii), (iv) and (v).
(ii) Reimbursement for pension benefits paid
Refers to amounts of supplementary retirement and pension benefits provided for in State
Law 4,819/58 ("Benefits") paid by the Company to former employees and pensioners.
Under the Agreement with the São Paulo State Government ("GESP" or the "State"), dated
December 11, 2001, GESP recognizes its liability from charges arising from the Benefits,
provided that the payment criteria set forth by the State Department of Personnel (DDPE),
based on legal guidance of the Legal Consultancy of the Department of Finance and of the
State Attorney General's Office (PGE).
As discussed on item (vii), during the assessment of the debt due from GESP to the
Company there were certain divergences in the calculation and eligibility criteria of the
benefits paid by the Company on behalf of GESP.
For the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, 2,492, 2,554 and 2,597 retired
employees, respectively, received additional retirement benefits, and for the years ended
December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company paid R$ 124,421, R$ 118,408 and
R$ 116,082 respectively. There were 14 active employees as of December 31, 2011 who will
be entitled to these benefits as a result to their retirement as compared to 32 as of
December 31, 2010 and 91 as of December 31, 2009.
In January 2004, the payments of supplement retirement and pension benefits were
transferred to the Department of Finance and would be made in accordance with the
calculation criteria determined by the PGE. As a result of a court decision, the
responsibility for making the payments returned to SABESP, as originally established.
(iii) GESP Agreement
On December 11, 2001, the Company, the São Paulo State Government (through the State
Department of Finance Affairs, currently Department of Finance) and the Water and
Electricity Department (DAEE), with the intermediation of the State Department of
Sanitation and Energy (former Department of Water Resources, Sanitation and
Construction Works), entered into the Obligations, Payment Commitment and Other
Covenants Acknowledgement and Consolidation Agreement ("GESP Agreement") for the
settlement of outstanding debts between GESP and the Company related to the provision of
water supply and sewage services and to the Benefits.
In view of the strategic importance of the Taiaçupeba, Jundiaí, Biritiba, Paraitinga and
Ponte Nova reservoirs for ensuring and maintaining the Upper Tietê water volume, the
Company agreed to receive them as partial repayment of the reimbursement related to the
Benefits. The DAEE would transfer the reservoirs to the Company, replacing the amount
owed by GESP. However, the São Paulo State Public Prosecution Office challenged the legal
validity of this agreement, and its main argument is the absence of a specific legislative
authorization for disposal of DAEE's assets. The Company's legal advisors assess the risk of
loss in this lawsuit as probable, in case the legislative authorization is not obtained, which
would hinder the transfer of the related reservoirs as a partial settlement of the balance
receivable.
F - 35
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(iv) First Amendment to the GESP Agreement
On March 22, 2004, the Company and the São Paulo State Government amended the terms
of the original GESP Agreement, (1) consolidating and recognizing the amounts due by the
São Paulo State Government for water supply and sewage collection services provided,
monetarily adjusted through February 2004; (2) formally authorizing the offset of amounts
due by the São Paulo State Government with interest on shareholders' equity declared by
the Company and any other debt owed to the São Paulo State Government as of December
31, 2003, monetarily adjusted through February 2004; and (3) defining the payment
conditions of the remaining liabilities of the São Paulo State Government for the receipt of
the water supply and sewage services.
(v) Second Amendment to the GESP Agreement
On December 28, 2007, the Company and the São Paulo State Government, represented by
the Department of Finance, signed the second amendment to the terms of the original
GESP Agreement, agreeing upon the payment in installments of the remaining balance of
the First Amendment, amounting to R$ 133,709 at November 30, 2007, to be paid in 60
monthly and consecutive installments of the same amount, beginning on January 2, 2008.
The amount of the installments will be monetarily restated according to the fluctuation of
the IPCA-IBGE, plus interest of 0.5% per month.
The State and SABESP agreed on immediately resuming their compliance with their mutual
obligations under new assumptions: (a) implementation of an electronic bill management
system to facilitate and speed up the monitoring of payment processes and budget
management procedures; (b) structuring of the Rational Water Use Program (PURA) to
rationalize the consumption of water and the amount of the water and sewage bills under
the responsibility of the State; (c) establishment, by the State, of criteria for budgeting so
as to avoid the reallocation of amounts to a specific water and sewage accounts as from
2008; (d) possibility of registering state bodies and entities in a delinquency system or
reference file; (e) possibility of interrupting water supply to state bodies and entities in the
case of nonpayment of water and sewage bills.
(vi) Third Amendment to the GESP Agreement
On November 17, 2008, GESP, SABESP and DAEE signed the third amendment to the
GESP Agreement, through which GESP recognized a debt balance payable to SABESP
totaling R$ 915,251, monetarily adjusted up to September 2008 in accordance with the
fluctuation of the IPCA-IBGE, corresponding to the Undisputed Reimbursement (see item
(iii) above), determined by FIPECAFI. SABESP accepted on a provisional basis the
reservoirs as part of the payment of the Undisputed Reimbursement and offered to GESP a
provisional settlement, recognizing a credit totaling R$ 696,283, corresponding to the
value of the reservoirs in the Upper Tietê system. The Company did not recognize the
reimbursement receivable of R$696,283 related to the reservoirs, as it is not virtually
certain that will be transferred by the State. The final settlement will only be effected with
the actual transfer of the property with the proper Registry of Deeds Office. The remaining
balance totaling R$ 218,967 is being paid in 114 monthly, consecutive installments,
totaling R$ 1,920 each, including the annual IPCA/FIPE fluctuation, plus interest of 0.5%
p.m., the first of which fell due on November 25, 2008.
The Company and the São Paulo State Government are working together to obtain
legislative authorization to transfer the reservoirs to SABESP, overcoming the uncertainties
arising from the public lawsuit challenging the absence of a specific legislative
authorization for the transfer of the property of the reservoirs.
F - 36
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
In addition, the third amendment provides for the regularization of the monthly flow of
benefits. While SABESP is liable for the flow of monthly payment of benefits, the State shall
reimburse SABESP based on the criteria identical to those applied when determining the
Undisputed Reimbursement. Should there be no preventive court decision, the State will
assume the flow of monthly payment of benefits portion deemed as undisputed.
(vii) Controversial Amount of Benefits
As mentioned before, on November 17, 2008 the Company and the State signed the third
amendment to the GESP Agreement, when the reimbursements called disputed and
undisputed were quantified. The amendment established the efforts to calculate the so-
called Disputed Reimbursement of the Benefits. Under the fourth clause of the amendment,
the Disputed Reimbursement represents the difference between the Undisputable
Reimbursement and the amount actually paid by the Company as pension benefits and
pensioners set out in Law 4,819/58, for which, the Company understands, the State of São
Paulo is originally liable, but paid by SABESP by May 2008, under a court order.
By entering into the third amendment, the State's Legal Representative (PGE) agreed to
reassess the differences that gave rise to the disposed reimbursement of benefits set out in
Law 4,819/58. At the time, the expectation was based on the willingness of the PGE to
reanalyze the issue and the implied right of the Company to the reimbursement, including
based on opinions from outside legal advisors.
However, new opinions issued by the PGE and received on September 4 and 22, 2009 and
January 4, 2010, refute the reimbursement of the largest portion of the controversial
amount.
Even though the negotiations with the State are still in progress, it is not possible to assure
that the Company will recover the receivables related to the Disputed Reimbursement
without dispute.
As part of the actions intended to recover the receivables that management considers due
by the State, related to discrepancies in the reimbursement of the pension benefits paid by
the Company, the Company: (i) on March 24, 2010, reported to the controlling shareholder
the official letter approved by the executive committee, proposing that the matter be
discussed at the São Paulo Stock Exchange (BM&FBovespa) Arbitration Chamber; (ii) in
June 2010, presented to Department of Finance a proposal to solve the outstanding items,
such proposal was not accepted; (iii) on November 9, 2010, filed a judicial action against
the State of São Paulo pleading the entire reimbursement related to employee benefits set
out in Law 4,819/58 to finalize the discussion between the Company and GESP. The
Company will persist to obtain an agreement with GESP since the management believes
that it is the better to the Company and to its shareholders than wait until the end of the
judicial action.
The Company's management decided to not recognize the reimbursements which were not
considered virtually certain that will be reimbursed by the State. As of December 31, 2011
and 2010, the amounts not recorded by the Company, related to the pension benefits paid
on behalf of the State by the Company, totaled R$ 1,290,663 and R$ 1,230,064,
respectively, including the amount of R$ 696,283 related to the transfer of the reservoirs in
the Upper Tietê system. As a result, the Company also recognized the obligation related to
the pension benefit obligations maintained with the beneficiaries and pensioners of Plan
G0, whose right it is to be paid by SABESP and is not considered virtually certain that
SABESP will be reimbursed by the State. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the pension
benefit obligations of Plan G0 totaled R$ 1,512,078 and R$ 1,316,706, respectively. For
detailed information on the pension benefit obligations refer to Note 16.
F - 37
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(b) Agreements for the use of reservoirs
In its operations, the Company uses the Guarapiranga and Billings reservoirs, which are owned
by another entity controlled by the São Paulo State Government; should these reservoirs not be
available for use to the Company, there could be the need to collect water in more distant places.
The Company does not pay any fee for the use of these reservoirs but it is responsible for their
maintenance and operating costs.
(c) Agreements with reduced tariffs with State and Municipal Government Entities that joined the
Rational Water Use Program (PURA).
The Company has signed agreements with government entities related to the State Government
and municipalities where it operates that benefit from a reduction of 25% in the tariff of water
supply and sewage services when they are not in default. These agreements provide for the
implementation of the rational water use program, which takes into consideration the reduction
in the consumption of water.
(d) Guarantees
The State Government provides guarantees for some loans and financing of the Company and
does not charge any fee with respect to such guarantees.
(e) Personnel assignment agreement among entities related to the State Government
The Company has personnel assignment agreements with entities related to the State
Government, under which the expenses are fully passed on and monetarily reimbursed. In 2011,
the expenses related to personnel assigned by SABESP to other state government entities
amounted to R$ 10,888 (2010 - R$ 5,640 and 2009 - R$ 5,359).
In 2011 there was no personnel assigned by other entities to SABESP. In 2010, the expenses
related to personnel assigned by other entities to SABESP totaled R$264 and in 2009 totaled R$
335.
(f) Services obtained from entities related to the State Government
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, SABESP had an outstanding amount payable of R$ 12,062
and R$ 11,395, respectively, for services rendered by São Paulo State Government entities,
including the supply of electric power by Companhia Energética de São Paulo – CESP, which
represents 86% in 2011.
(g) Nonoperating assets
As of December 31, 2011 the Company had an amount of R$ 21,531 (December 31, 2010 - R$
25,371) mainly related to free land lend to the associations, support entities, non-governmental
organizations and to DAEE (Water and Electricity Department), among others. The free land
lend to DAEE amounts to R$ 2,289.
(h) Banco do Brasil
The State of Sao Paulo sold exclusive rights in the provision of banking services administration
entities directly and indirectly in favor of Banco Nossa Caixa, on March 27, 2007, and in favor of
Banco do Brasil, May 27, 2010. Through the lawsuit in question, SABESP pleads financial
compensation for the sale of its exclusive rights, requiring a percentage of the values that the
State of São Paulo received from each of the financial institutions.
F - 38
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
On June 28, 2011 it was executed the Term of Settlement between the Company and the State of
Sao Paulo, whereby the Company received the amount of R$ 63,366 upon reduction, as
compensation of credit held by the State, corresponding to interests on shareholders’ equity in
fiscal 2010.
(i) SABESPREV
The Company sponsors a private defined benefit pension plan, which is operated and
administered by Fundação SABESP de Seguridade Social - SABESPREV. The net actuarial
liability recognized as of December 31, 2011 amounted to R$ 538,619 (December 31, 2010 -
R$ 487,332).
(j) Key management compensation
Management Fees:
SABESP's compensation policy for directors and officers is set out according to guidelines of the
São Paulo State Government, the CODEC (State Capital protection Board), and are based on
performance, market competitiveness, or other indicators related to the Company's business,
and is subject to approval by shareholders at an Annual Shareholders' Meeting.
Officers' compensation is limited to the compensation of the State Governor, and the Board of
Directors' compensation is equivalent to 30 percent of the executive committee' overall
compensation, contingent on attendance of at least one monthly meeting.
The objective of the compensation policy is to set a private sector management paradigm to
retain its staff and recruit competent, experienced and motivated professionals, considering the
level of management efficiency currently required by the Company.
In addition to monthly fee, the members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee
receive:
Bonuses:
For the purposes of compensating directors and officers of the companies where the State is the
controlling shareholder, as an incentive policy, providing the company records quarterly, half-
yearly, and yearly profits, and distributes mandatory dividends to shareholders, even if in the
form of interest on shareholders' equity. Annual bonuses cannot exceed the lower of six times
the monthly compensation of the officers/directors nor 10 percent of the interest on
shareholders' equity paid by the company.
Annual award:
Equivalent to a monthly fee, calculated on a prorated basis in December of each year.
The purpose of this award is to correspond to the thirteenth salary paid to Company employees,
as officers and directors' relationship with the Company is governed by its bylaws and not the
labor code.
Benefits: paid only to officers - meal ticket, basket of food staples, medical care, weekly paid rest
typified as a paid leave of 30 calendar days, and payment of a premium equivalent to one third
of the monthly fee.
The compensation related to the members of its board of directors and officers amounted to
R$ 2,614, R$ 2,601 and R$ 2,606 for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009,
F - 39
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
respectively, and it refers to salaries and other short-term benefits to employees and
management. An additional amount of R$ 1,069, related to the bonus program, also a short
term benefit, was accrued as of December 31, 2011 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 845; December 31,
2009 – R$ 856).
9 Indemnities Receivable
Indemnities receivable are a noncurrent asset that represents amounts receivable from the
Municipality of Diadema as an indemnity for their unilateral termination of the concession for
water supply and sewage services of the Company in 1995. As of December 31, 2011, this balance
totaled R$ 60,295. As of December 31, 2010, the indemnities receivable was R$146,213 related
to the municipalities of Diadema R$ 60,295 and Mauá R$85,918.
The Company invested in the construction of water and sewage systems in the municipalities of
Diadema and Mauá in order to meet the concession service commitments. For the unilateral
termination of the Diadema and Mauá concessions, the municipalities assumed the
responsibility of supplying water and sewage services in those regions. At that time, the
Company reclassified the balances of property, plant and equipment related to the assets used in
those municipalities to noncurrent assets (indemnities receivable).
As of December 31, 2011, the net book value of property, plant, and equipment relating to the
municipality of Diadema, reclassified in December 1996, amounted to R$ 75,231 and the
indemnity balance from the municipality amounted to R$ 60,295, on December 31, 2011.
SABESP filed lawsuits to collect the amounts due by the municipalities. With respect to
Diadema, the decision of the lower court judge was unfavorable to SABESP. The Company filed
an appeal and in December 2005, SABESP's appeal to have the agreement entered into with the
municipality of Diadema declared valid was partially accepted. In December 2007, the decision
that accepted the execution of the Companhia de Saneamento the Diadema - Saned was
rendered, ordering this company to be summoned to pay the full amount of the debt within 15
days under the penalty of fine. The judge approved the seizure of cash from Saned's bank
accounts and short-term investments (online seizure) of up to 10% of the adjusted debt. An
appeal was filed against this decision, but the Appellate Court upheld the final and unappealable
decision. R$ 2,919 were seized and withdrawn on March 3, 2009. Subsequently, the Court of
Justice issued an injunction determining the seizure through weekly deposits by Saned in the
amount corresponding to 20% of everything received in its bank accounts and short-term
investments.
In October 2009, a judicial decision recognized the debt and the execution against the
municipality which will pay using precatory. In September 2011, the Company received a
favorable decision from the Court of Justice, considering constitutional the municipal law which
permitted the retention of the ICMS.
On December 29, 2008, Saned and the Municipality of Diadema entered into a Letter of Intent
with the São Paulo State and SABESP for the purpose of preparing studies and conducting
negotiations to guide Diadema's and SABESP's decisions, aiming to establish SABESP as the
exclusive provider of water supply and sewage services for the City of Diadema.
The parties agree that the settlement of the existing conflicts between the companies is
indispensable for the proper development of the public utility services of water supply and
sewage services in the municipality of Diadema.
In January 2009, the parties filed a joint petition requesting the suspension of new seizures, for
a three-month period, trying to enable an agreement. The suspension was confirmed by the Tax
Court. As the settlement on which a possible agreement will be based was maintained, the
suspension request was last renewed in November 2011.
F - 40
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
As of December 31, 2011, the net book value of property, plant, and equipment relating to the
municipality of Mauá, reclassified in December 1999, totaled R$ 103,763 and the indemnities
receivables the municipality totaled R$ 85,918. The decisions are being favorable to the
Company and the collection will be made by precatory, which will be recognized in the financial
statements when realized, due to the uncertainties in the collection. Due to this fact, in
December 2011, the Company recognized a provision for losses in the total amount and the
judicial demand is still in progress.
With respect to Mauá, a lower court decision demanded this Municipality pay the amount of
R$ 153.2 million to SABESP as a compensation for the investments made by SABESP in the city
and for the loss of profits. In August 2008, the Court of Justice decided for the integral
maintenance of the lower court decision. The Municipality of Mauá filed special and
extraordinary appeals against the decision. Both appeals were denied by the Court of Justice,
which led to the filing of a bill of review with the Superior Court of Justice and Federal Supreme
Court. The Federal Supreme Court partially accepted the appeal to reduce the fees.
Based on legal opinion, management believes that the Company has legal rights to receive the
indemnities and is monitoring the judicial lawsuit.
10 Intangible Assets
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Accumulated
Cost amortization
Net
Accumulated
Cost amortization
Net
Intangible rights arising from
concession contracts
Service concession
Agreements (i)
Concession contracts (ii)
Program contracts (iii)
Program contracts – commitments (iv)
Service contract – São Paulo (v)
New businesses (vi)
Software licenses
14,404,168
762,987
1,120,104
473,327
7,039,763
21,400
23,821,749
52,755
(223,693)
539,294
(49,324) 1,070,780
(38,341) 434,986
(2,848,829) 11,555,339 13,980,141
706,423
900,686
333,942
(517,288) 6,522,475 6,196,699
12,129
(4,923)
16,477
(3,682,398) 20,139,351 22,130,020
49,458
(50,429)
2,326
(3,242,270) 10,737,871
(189,145)
517,278
864,384
(36,302)
(22,666)
311,276
(99,837) 6,096,862
11,228
(901)
(3,591,121) 18,538,899
7,937
(41,521)
Total
23,874,504
(3,732,827) 20,141,677 22,179,478
(3,632,642) 18,546,836
Movements on the intangible assets are as follows:
Intangible rights arising on concession
contracts
Service concession agreements (i)
Concession contracts (ii)
Program contracts (iii)
Program contracts – commitments (iv)
Software licenses (vi)
December 31,
2008
Additions
Write-off and
disposals
Amortization
December 31,
2009
14,071,507
509,724
622,383
249,639
1,849,993
17,429
162,466
18,424
15,453,253
9,602
2,048,312
12,954
(51,778)
-
-
-
(51,778)
-
(497,607)
(23,008)
(12,060)
(9,260)
(541,935)
(12,991)
15,372,115
504,145
772,789
258,803
16,907,852
9,565
15,462,855
2,061,266
(51,778)
(554,926)
16,917,417
F - 41
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
December
31, 2009
Additions
Reclassification
Write-off and
disposals
Amortization
December
31, 2010
Intangible rights on
concession contracts
Service concession
agreements (i)
Concession contracts (ii)
Program contracts (iii)
Program contracts –
15,372,115
504,145
772,789
1,767,747
37,122
106,125
(6,019,568)
-
-
(15,857)
-
-
(366,566)
(23,989)
(14,530)
10,737,871
517,278
864,384
commitments (iv)
258,803
62,748
-
Service contract – São
Paulo (v)
New businesses (vi)
-
-
177,131
12,129
6,019,568
-
-
-
-
(10,275)
311,276
(99,837)
(901)
6,096,862
11,228
16,907,852
2,163,002
Software licenses
9,565
6,779
16,917,417
2,169,781
-
-
-
(15,857)
(516,098)
18,538,899
-
(8,407)
7,937
(15,857)
(524,505)
18,546,836
December 31,
2010
Additions
Reclassification
Write-off and
disposals
Amortization
December
31, 2011
Intangible rights on
concession contracts
Service concession
agreements (i)
Concession contracts (ii)
Program contracts (iii)
Program contracts –
commitments
(iv)
Service contract – São
Paulo (v)
New businesses (vi)
Software licenses
10,737,871
517,278
864,384
1,125,335
2,167
225,510
311,276
139,385
6,096,862
11,228
930,959
9,271
18,538,899
7,937
2,432,627
3,297
(63,487)
57,718
(31)
-
(36,234)
-
(42,034)
-
(16,228)
(2,780)
(3,810)
(228,152)
(35,089)
(15,273)
11,555,339
539,294
1,070,780
-
(15,675)
434,986
(32,383)
-
(55,201)
-
(436,729)
(4,022)
6,522,475
16,477
(734,940)
(8,908)
20,139,351
2,326
18,546,836
2,435,924
(42,034)
(55,201)
(743,848)
20,141,677
The reclassification amounting to R$ 42,034 is related to the accounts “investment property”.
The status of our aggregated construction in progress of the underlying assets of concession
contracts at the end of the year is as follows:
As of December 31, 2009
Water
Sewage
Total
Construction costs incurred
Recognized construction revenue
760,707
772,118
1,248,957
1,267,691
2,009,664
2,039,809
F - 42
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
As of December 31, 2010
Water
Sewage
Total
Construction costs incurred
Recognized construction revenue
1,028,115
1,051,419
1,052,966
1,079,265
2,081,081
2,130,684
As of December 31, 2011
Water
Sewage
Total
Construction costs incurred
Recognized construction revenue
1,044,122
1,066,524
1,142,198
1,168,254
2,186,320
2,234,778
There are no contingent assets or liabilities related to the construction contracts outstanding.
Investments committed
The estimated amount related to investments is R$ 2,274 million to be spent from 2012 to 2015
(unaudited).
Intangible rights arising from concession contracts
The Company operates concession contracts as defined by IFRIC 12 covering the provision of basic
and environmental sanitation services, water supply and sewage services. These concession
arrangements set out rights and obligations relative to the infrastructure and to the public service
(See Note 2.12(a)). A general obligation also exists to return the concession infrastructure to the
grantor in good working condition at the end of the concession.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company operates in 363 municipalities in the State of São
Paulo. In most of these municipalities operations are based on 30-year concession period. The
agreement with the municipality of São Paulo is accounted for as a service concession arrangement.
The services provided by the Company are billed at a price established by the "Agência Reguladora
de Saneamento e Energia do Estado de São Paulo" ("ARSESP").Intangible rights arising on
concession contracts are comprised of:
(i) Service concession agreements
The concession contracts state that the property will revert to the grantor at the end of the
period, through compensation for the residual value or market value of the underlying
physical assets in accordance with the stipulations in each contract and amortization are
calculated using the straight-line method, which consider the physical assets economic useful
lives.
(ii) Concession contracts
From 1999 through 2006, the negotiations for new concessions were conducted on the basis
of the economic and financial profit or loss of the transaction, determined in a valuation
report issued by independent appraisers.
F - 43
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The amount determined in the related contract, after the transaction is closed with the
municipal authorities, realized through the subscription of the Company's shares or in cash,
is recorded as "concession contract" and amortized over the period of the related concession
(usually 30 years). As of December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 there were no amounts pending
related to these payments to the municipalities.
Intangible assets are amortized on a straight line basis over the term of the concession
agreements or for the useful lives of the underlying assets, which was lower, entered into
with the related municipality.
(iii) Program contracts
It refers to the renew of contracts formerly denominated full concession to operation
concession, by program contracts which purpose is the water supply, sewage and sanitation
public service. The assets acquired or constructed are being amortized during the contract
period (30 years) or for the useful lives of the underlying assets, which was lower.
(iv) Program contracts - Commitments
After the enactment of the regulatory framework law 11,445 in 2007, renewals of concession
agreements are made through "program contracts". In some program contracts the Company
committed to financially participate in social and environmental sanitation actions. These
assets built and commitments assumed are being amortized on a straight line basis according
to the effective period of the program contract (mostly 30 years).
As of December 31, 2011, the amounts not yet disbursed related to commitments under the
program contracts are recorded in “Other obligations” in current liabilities in the amount of
(R$ 62,287 and R$ 83,084), and noncurrent liabilities in the amount of (R$ 130,978 and R$
66,856), as of December 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
(v) Service contract – São Paulo
On November 14, 2007, the Company and the Municipality of São Paulo (the Parties) entered
into an Agreement to establish the conditions that ensure the stability in the provision of
water supply and sewage services, and environmental utility services in the city of São Paulo,
the main provisions of which are as follows:
(a) the Parties made the commitment to take basic sanitation and environmental actions,
complementary to the actions of the Municipality of São Paulo, by investing in the
deployment and continuity of programs such as: Programa Córrego Limpo (Clean
River Program) and Programa de Uso Racional da Água - PURA (Rational Water Use
Program), the purpose of which is to ensure a decrease in water consumption by City
government units, ensuring water supply to and the quality of living of the population;
(b) starting November 14, 2007, all the amounts paid by the Municipality of São Paulo to
SABESP, referring to consumption by City departments, agencies, and foundations,
net of taxes, will be used in basic sanitation and environmental actions in the
municipality; and
(c) the Municipality is committed to restart the payment of consumption bills issued by
SABESP, starting from November 14, 2007.
The payments referred on item (b) are not being recognized in a specific account related to
basic sanitation services and environmental services. The remaining amount received and
not yet distributed, on December 31, 2011 was R$ 86,956 (R$80,379 on December 31, 2010).
F - 44
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
On June 23, 2010, the Company entered into an agreement with the State of São Paulo and
the Municipality of São Paulo, approved by the Regulatory agency of Sanitation and Energy
of the State of São Paulo - ARSESP, to regulate the provision of water and sewage services in
the city of São Paulo for a 30-year period, which is extendable for an another 30-year period.
The main terms of the agreement are as follow:
1. The State and the Municipality of São Paulo grant to SABESP the right to explore
the sanitation service in the capital of the State of São Paulo, which consists of the
obligation to such provide service and charge the respective tariff for this service;
2. The State and the Municipality sets forth ARSESP as the agency responsible for
regulating the tariff, controlling and monitoring the services;
3. The evaluation model of the contract was the discounted cash flow which
considered the financial and economic sustainability of the operation;
4. All operational costs, taxes, investments and the opportunity cost of the investees
and the creditors of SABESP were considered in the cash flow analysis;
5. The estimated investments mentioned in the agreement comply with 13% of the
gross revenue from the municipality of São Paulo, net of the taxes on revenues.
The investment plan, considering the execution of SABESP, must be compatible
to the activities and programs included in the sanitation plan of the State,
Municipality, and if necessary, in the plan of the Metropolitan region. The invest
plan is not irrevocable and will be reviewed by management committee each four
years, specially the investments to be executed in the subsequent period;
6. The payment related to the Municipal Fund of Environmental Sanitation and
Infrastructure to be applied in the sanitation service within the municipality must
be recovered through the tariffs charges. Such payment represents 7.5% of the
total revenue from the municipality of São Paulo, net of the taxes on revenue;
7. The opportunity cost of the investees and the creditors was established by the
Weighted Average Cost of Capital (WACC) methodology. The WACC was the
interest rate used to discount the cash flow of the operation;
8. The agreement considers the recovery of the assets in operation, evaluated by
external specialists or by historical costs plus monetary indexation, to be defined
by ARSESP. There should be no residual amount of the assets at the end of the
contract.
The agreement represents approximately 55.1% of the total revenue of the Company.
The Company and the municipality of São Paulo did not achieve an agreement to solve the
financial pending accounts in place in the date of the contract signature, related to the water
and sewage services provided to the property of the municipality. Due to this fact, the
Company filed a lawsuit to collect the amounts due by the municipality.
(vi) New businesses
In August 2009, the Company and Companhia de Saneamento de Alagoas – CASAL signed
60 month-period agreement to provide specialized technical services to implement a
program to reduce the losses and retain revenues in the municipality of Maceio. The
construction started in 2010.
F - 45
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
As of December 31, 2011, the total amount recognized in “New businesses” caption amount to
R$ 16,477 (R$ 11,228 in 2010), and the amount of CASAL amount to R$ 15,664 (December
31, 2010 R$11,228).
(a) Disposals of concession intangible assets
In 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company wrote off concession intangible assets items totaling R$
55,202, R$ 15,857 and R$ 51,778, respectively, due to obsolescence, theft, misplacements,
unproductive wells and projects considered economically unfeasible.
(b) Capitalization of interest and others financial charges
In 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company capitalized interest and inflation adjustment, including
related foreign currency exchange effects, in concession intangible assets during the
construction period of the qualifying assets totaling R$ 261,886, R$ 228,899, and R$ 51,625,
respectively.
(c) Revenue from construction
The Company is responsible to construct and install the infrastructure related to the concession
contract, using its own resources or contracting third parties to perform the work, being exposed
to its risks and benefits.
The Company recognizes revenue from construction related to construction costs added by gross
margin. In general, the constructions regarding the concessions are performed by third parties.
In this case the margin is lower and it is to cover the costs of management and supervision of the
construction. Based on the studies and the benchmark with companies in the construction
market the margin used in 2011 was 2.3% (2010 was 2.6%).
The construction margin in 2011, 2010 and 2009 was R$ 48,458, R$ 49,603, and R$ 30,145,
respectively.
(d) Expropriations
As a result of the construction of priority projects related to water and sewage systems, the
Company was required to expropriate or establish rights of way in third-parties' properties, and
the owners of these properties will be compensated either amicably or through courts.
The assets received as a result of expropriations are recorded as concession intangible assets
after the transaction is completed. In 2011, 2010 and 2009, the total amount related to
expropriations was R$ 12,167, R$ 10,779 and R$ 6,244, respectively.
(e) Assets pledged as guarantee
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had underlying physical assets totaling
R$ 249,034 offered as guarantee to the request for the PAES (tax debt refinancing program)
(Note 13).
(f) Public-Private-Partnership (PPP)
The Company and CAB-Sistema Produtor Alto Tiete S.A., special purpose entity, formed by
Galvão Engenharia S.A. and Companhia Águas do Brasil – Cab Ambiental, signed in June 2008
the contract of public-private-partnership of Alto Tiete production system.
F - 46
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The contract last 15 years which purpose is expand the capacity of treated water of Taiaçupeba
from 10 thousand to 15 thousand of liters per second. The operation initiated in October 2011.
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010 the amount recognized as intangible asset related to PPP was
R$ 474,818 and R$ 353,468, respectively.
(g) Impairment
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, no provision for impairment was recognized.
(h) Construction in progress
As of December 31, 2011, the construction in progress recognized in the intangible assets
amounts to R$ 5.7 billion (R$ 5.3 billion in 2010).
11 Property, Plant and Equipment
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Accumulated
depreciation
Cost
Net
Accumulated
Cost depreciation
Net
109,303
Land
39,574
Buildings
160,915
Equipment
21,071
Transportation equipment
Furniture, fixtures and equipment 27,810
174,668
Construction in progress
2,758
Other
9,432
(30,142)
- 109,303 119,567
41,014
(100,626) 60,289 162,270
1,522 20,025
209 26,831
- 174,668 43,222
2,590
(19,549)
(27,601)
(1,713)
1,045
- 119,567
(28,983) 12,031
(90,804) 71,466
(18,364)
1,661
(26,378)
453
- 43,222
1,206
(1,384)
536,099
(179,631) 356,468 415,519
(165,913) 249,606
Movements on the property, plant and equipment are as follows:
December
Write-off and
31, 2008 Additions
Disposals Depreciation
December
31, 2009
Land
Buildings
Equipment
Transportation equipment
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
Other
106,227
16,744
47,760
1,172
6,334
1,173
14,193
172
4,870
1,262
6,756
564
(535)
(20)
(29)
-
(167)
(4)
-
(1,341)
(7,051)
(930)
(6,569)
(151)
119,885
15,555
45,550
1,504
6,354
1,582
179,410
27,817
(755)
(16,042)
190,430
F - 47
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
December
Write-off and
31, 2009 Additions
Disposals Depreciation
December
31, 2010
Land
Buildings
Equipment
Transportation equipment
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
Construction in progress
Other
119,885
15,555
45,550
1,504
6,354
-
1,582
-
-
41,251
1,831
1,079
43,222
-
(318)
(210)
-
-
-
-
-
-
(3,314)
(15,335)
(1,674)
(6,980)
-
(376)
119,567
12,031
71,466
1,661
453
43,222
1,206
190,430
87,383
(528)
(27,679)
249,606
December
Write-off
and
31, 2010 Additions Reclassification Disposals Depreciation
December
31, 2011
Land
Buildings
Equipment
Transportation
equipment
Furniture, fixtures and
equipment
Construction in progress
Other
119,567
12,031
71,466
-
-
9,940
1,661
1,050
453
43,222
1,206
1,081
131,446
174
(10,264)
(287)
-
-
(3)
(1,333)
-
(2,309)
(19,784)
109,303
9,432
60,289
-
-
-
-
(4)
(7)
-
-
(1,185)
1,522
(1,318)
-
(335)
209
174,668
1,045
249,606
143,691
(10,551)
(1,347)
(24,931)
356,468
The reclassification amounting to R$ 10,551 is related to the account “investment property”.
(a) Depreciation
The Company revises the estimated useful lives of its property, plant and equipment annually.
In 2009, the Company adjusted the estimated useful lives of its property, plant and equipment,
which were accounted for prospectively from January 1, 2009. The annual depreciation rates
were as follows:
Property, plant and equipment
Buildings
Equipment
Transportation equipment
Furniture, fixtures and equipment
2011
2%
5%
10%
6.7%
2010
2009
2%
5%
10%
6.7%
2%
5%
10%
6.7%
F - 48
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
12 Loans and Financing
Denominated in local currency
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Current Noncurrent
Total Current Noncurrent
Total
Federal Government/Banco do Brasil 348,695
-
8th issue debentures
-
9th issue debentures
2,008
10th issue debentures
202,500
11th issue debentures
-
12th issue debentures
599,411
13th issue debentures
-
14th issue debentures
-
1st issue debentures – Aquapolo
110,646
Caixa Econômica Federal
-
Promissory notes
-
FIDC - SABESP I
National Bank for Economic and
Social Development (BNDES)
National Bank for Economic and
Social Development (BNDES)
Baixada Santista
National Bank for Economic and
Social Development (BNDES) PAC
National Bank for Economic and
Social Development (BNDES) Onda
Limpa
16,309
37,554
6,428
Foz do Brasil – Mutual
Santander
Financial leasing
Other
Interest and others charges
14,270
-
-
-
1,784
101,028
-
-
479,548 828,243 316,541
- 465,086
-
33,333
283,293 285,301
-
1,005,748 1,208,248
-
499,613 499,613
-
599,411
-
279,810 279,810
-
160,099 160,099
-
917,574 1,028,220
91,031
-
-
-
13,889
-
-
-
818,359 1,134,900
- 465,086
198,242
231,575
279,497 279,497
1,205,451 1,205,451
499,715 499,715
-
-
-
783,426 874,457
599,755 599,755
13,889
-
-
-
-
3,491
41,045 43,403
40,518
83,921
114,165
130,474
-
130,474
130,474
67,489
73,917
1,649
44,352
46,001
235,383 249,653
-
-
49,609
5,287
103,944
-
-
49,609
3,503
2,916
-
-
2,427
-
2,816
141,991
246,986 246,986
52,896
2,427
-
6,666
141,991
52,896
-
-
3,850
-
Total denominated in local currency
1,440,633
4,102,241 5,542,874 1,112,166
4,903,521 6,015,687
Denominated in foreign currency
Inter-American Development Bank
(IADB) US$386,862,000 (2010 -
US$ 344,898,000)
International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development
(IBRD) US$10,316,000
Eurobonds - US$ 140,000,000 (2010
- US$ 140,000,000)
Eurobonds - US$ 350,000,000
(2010 – US$ 350,000,000)
JICA - ¥ 39,456,912,000 (2010 -
¥ 21,316,000,000)
IADB 1983AB - US$ 226,058,000
(2010 - US$ 250,000,000)
Interest and others charges
71,591
652,141 723,732
63,185
511,484 574,669
-
-
-
18,928
18,928
262,067 262,067
649,024 649,024
-
-
-
-
-
232,612 232,612
576,107
576,107
53,204
905,529 958,733
11,810
425,168 436,978
44,911
19,671
376,355 421,266 39,893
15,089
19,671
-
373,575 413,468
15,094
5
Total denominated in foreign currency
189,377
2,864,044 3,053,421 129,977
2,118,951 2,248,928
Total loans and financing
1,630,010
6,966,285 8,596,295 1,242,143
7,022,472 8,264,615
F - 49
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Currency
Guarantees
Maturity
Annual
interest rates
Foreign
exchange
adjustment
Financial institution
Local currency
Federal Government/Banco do Brasil
10th issue debentures
11th issue debentures
12th issue debentures
13th issue debentures
14th issue debentures
1st issue debentures - Aquapolo
Caixa Econômica Federal
National Bank for Economic and Social
Development (BNDES)
National Bank for Economic and Social
Development (BNDES) Coastal region
National Bank for Economic and Social
Development (BNDES) PAC
National Bank for Economic and Social
Development (BNDES) ONDA LIMPA
Foz do Brasil - Mutual
Santander
Other
Foreign currency
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
Real
São Paulo
State
Government
and Own
funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
Own funds
-
-
-
UPR + 8.50%
2014
2020 TJLP + 1.92%
(1st & 3rd
series) & IPCA
+ 9.53%
(2nd series)
2015 DI + 1.95% &
DI + 1.4%
(2nd series)
2025 TR + 9.5%
2012 CDI + 0.65%
2022 TJLP + 1.92%
and 9.19%
2029 TR + 8.75%
UPR + 5% to
9.5%
3% + TJLP 6%
LIMIT
2.5% + TJLP
6% LIMIT
2.15% + TJLP
6% LIMIT
1.92% + TJLP
6% LIMIT
CDI + 1.75% +
2012
IOF
2011 CDI
2023
2025
2019
2013
2011/2032
2011/2018
12%/CDI/TJLP
+ 6%
Inter-American Development Bank (IADB)
US$ 344,898,000 (2009 -
US$ 374,647,000)
International Bank for Reconstruction and
Development - BIRD
Eurobonds - US$ 140,000,000 (2010 -
US$ 140,000,000)
Eurobonds - US$ 350,000,000
JICA - ¥ 39,456,912,000 (2010 -
¥ 21,316,000,000)
U.S. dollar
U.S. dollar
Federal
Government
Federal
Government
U.S. dollar
-
U.S. dollar -
Yen
Federal
Government
IADB 1983AB - US$ 250,000,000 (2009 -
US$ 250,000,000)
U.S. dollar
-
Currency
Basket
Fluctuation +
US$
1.14% to 3.29%
2016/2035
2034
0.43%
7.50%
2016
2020 6.30%
2029
2023
0.01 to 2.5%
2.49% to
2.99%
US$
US$
US$
Yen
US$
Exchange rate as of December 31, 2011: US$ 1.8758; Yen 0.024310 - (December 31, 2010 - US$ 1.6662; Yen 0.0205).
(a) Banco do Brasil
In March 1994, the Company refinanced the existing loan agreements with Caixa Econômica
Federal, which assigned loans rights represented by receivables to the Federal Government, with
Banco do Brasil acting as financial agent. Under the agreement entered into with the Federal
F - 50
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Government, payments are made based on the Price amortization system, monthly indexed by
the Standard Reference Unit (UPR), which is equal to the Government's benchmark Interest
Rate (TR), plus interest of 8.5% per year. The interest and principal amount are monthly paid
with final maturity in 2014. This financing is guaranteed by the São Paulo State Government by
a pledge of its own revenues and revenues of the Company.
(b) Debentures
(i) 8th issue
To terminate the program registered with the CVM on September 17, 2004, the Company issued
on June 1, 2005, 700,000 debentures, using the option to increase the number of debentures
allowed by up to 20%, distributed in two series, without renegotiation, with the face value of
R$ 1 each, totaling R$ 700,000. The date for the financial settlement of the operation was June
24, 2005. Proceeds were used in the settlement of Eurobonds agreement.
The debentures were placed on the market as follows:
Number Adjustment Interest
Interest payment Repayment
Maturity
Series 1
Series 2
350,000 -
350,000 IGP-M
CDI+1.5% p.a.
10.75% p.a.
Semiannual
Annual
Single installment June 2009
Single installment June 2011
Interest expense totaled R$ 18,520 and R$ 47,580 in 2009 and 2008, respectively, related to
series 1 and R$ 22,742, R$ 49,863 and R$ 44,441 in 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, related
to series 2.
Series 1 of the 8th issue of debentures was fully repaid on June 1, 2009.
On June 1, 2011 the 8th issue of debentures was fully repaid.
(ii) 9th issue
On October 23, 2008, the Company registered with the CVM a securities program for a total
amount of R$ 3 billion and made a Public Offering of Simple Debentures, unsecured and non-
convertible, of the 9th issue, in the context of the said program.
The debentures were placed on the market as follows:
Number
Adjustment
Interest
Interest payment
Repayment
Maturity
Series 1 100,000 -
Series 2 100,000 IPCA
CDI+2.75%
p.a.
12.87% p.a.
Semiannual
Annual
2011)
Annually (from October 15,
Annually (from October 15,
October 15, 2013
October 15, 2015
2013)
Repayment will be made in three annual and consecutive installments of the same amount, the
first of which falls due on October 15, 2011 for series 1 and October 15, 2013 for the series 2.
Settlement date of series 1 was on November 7, 2008 and of series 2 on November 10, 2008.
The funds arising from this issuance were used to refinance debts falling due.
F - 51
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Interest expenses totaled R$ 11,896, R$ 12,354 and R$12,546 in 2011, 2010 and 2009,
respectively, related to series 1 and R$ 16,486, R$ 16,993 and R$16,120, respectively, related to
series 2.
On October 17, 2011 the 9th issue of debentures was fully repaid.
(iii) 10th issue
On November 15, 2009, the Company launched 100 debentures, subscribed exclusively by the
National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). These debentures were
distributed in three nonconvertible series, at a nominal value of R$ 2,753, totaling R$ 275,370.
This transactions was settled on December 15, 2009, for all series.
The debentures were placed on the market as follows:
Number Adjustment Interest
Interest payment
Repayment
Maturity
Series 1
28 -
Series 2
Series 3
30 IPCA
42 -
TJLP + 1.92%
p.a.
9.53% p.a.
TJLP + 1.92%
p.a.
Quarterly to
November 2012 and
monthly from then
on
Annual
Quarterly to
November 2012 and
monthly from then
on
Monthly (from
December 2012)
November
2020
Annual (from
December 2013)
Monthly (from
December 2012)
December
2020
November
2020
The funds raised in this issuance will be used in expenditures in water supply and sewage
systems in the following projects: Water Treatement Stations at Rio Grande, Litoral Norte, Vale
do Paraíba and Mantiqueira, Bacia do Piracicaba-Capivari-Jundiai; and for program of
reduction of losses.
In 2011, 2010 and 2009, interest expense related to 10th issue totaled R$ 6,016, R$ 6,016 and
R$755, respectively, related to series 1; R$ 8,862, R$ 9,156 and R$207, respectively, related to
series 2 and, R$ 9,025, R$ 9,025 and R$1,132, respectively, related to series 3.
Financial covenants
. EBITDA / Net revenue: equal or higher than 38%.
. EBITDA / Financial expenses ratio: equal to or higher than 2.35.
. Net debt / EBITDA: equal to or lower than 3.65.
(iv) 11th issue
On March 1, 2010, the Company launched 1,215,000 debentures. On April 30 and May 3, 2010
the Company settled series 1 and 2, respectively, through a public offering, as summarized
below:
F - 52
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Number Adjustment Interest
Interest payment
Repayment
Maturity
Series 1 810,000 -
DI + 1.95% p.a. Semiannual (September
Annual (from March
March 2015
and March)
2013)
Series 2 405,000 -
DI + 1.40% p.a. Semiannual (September
Annual (from March
and March)
2012)
March
2013
The interest expense related to the 11th issue was R$ 107,081 and R$ 80,077 related to series 1
and R$ 52,369 and R$38,103 related to series 2 in 2011 and 2010, respectively.
(v) 12th issue
The Company issued R$ 500 million in debentures to Government Severance Indemnity Fund
for Employees (FGTS). The debentures will be invested in program of structures to comply with
the goal to universalize the sanitation service in the State of São Paulo until 2018. Among the
programs that will receive this investment are Vida Nova (water sources), Programa
Metropolitano de Água (Water Metropolitan Program), Programa Metropolitano de Esgoto
(Sewage Metropolitan Program), Programas de Àgua e Esgotos do Interior e Litoral (Water and
Sewage Program inside the state and coastal region).
Initially, R$ 170 million was released and R$ 330 million is invested in a restricted bank
account and will be released in 2 installments. The first installment will be released after 6
months and the second installment will be released after 12 months from the issuance date. The
condition for releasing these installments is the execution of the investment in these projects by
SABESP.
One of the conditions for approving this transaction is the allocation of 60% of the investments
in poor areas.
The issuance of the debentures occurred on September 22, 2010 through a public offer under
the Brazilian securities exchange commission rules, as follows:
Number Adjustment Interest
Interest payment
Repayment
Maturity
Unique Serie 500,000 -
TR + 9.5% p.a. Monthly (from July 2010) Monthly (from July 2014) June 2025
The interest expense related to the 12th issue was R$ 51,434 and R$ 26,879 in 2011 and 2010,
respectively.
Financial covenants of the 11th and 12th issue of debentures:
. Adjusted current ratio (current assets divided by current liabilities, excluding from current
liabilities the current portion of noncurrent debts incurred by the Company that are recorded
in current liabilities) higher than 1.0.
. EBITDA / financial expenses ratio equal to or higher than 1.5.
. Noncompliance with these obligations will only be typified when verified in the quarterly
financial statements for at least two consecutive quarters or two nonconsecutive quarters
within a twelve-month period.
F - 53
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
In case of noncompliance with the covenants, the trustee should call an extraordinary
debentureholers' meeting within 48 hours from the acknowledgement of the noncompliance to
resolve on the declaration of accelerated maturity of the debentures.
(vi) 13th issue
On January 11, 2011, the Company registered the 13th issue of simple debentures,
nonconvertible, in a unique series with public distribution and strict efforts according to
Brazilian Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM), instruction nº 476.
Number
Interest
Interest payment Repayment
Maturity
Unique Serie 600,000 DI + 0.65% / 0.75% / 0.85% / 1.25% p.a. Semi-annualy
Single installment August 29, 2012
Issue date: January 11, 2011
Series: Unique
Total amount: R$ 600,000
Quantity: 60
Unitary amount: R$ 10,000
Payment: semi-annually
Maturity date: August 29, 2012
Repayment:
Interest:
Partial or total, any time
1st period: January 11, 2011 to February 26, 2011 = 0.65%
2nd period: February 26, 2011 to August 30, 2011 = 0.75%
3rd period: August 30, 2011 to March 1, 2012 = 0.85%
4th period: March 1, 2012 to August 29, 2012 = 1.25%
The amount obtained in the 13th issue of debentures was utilized to repay the 60 promissory
notes with maturity date on February 26, 2011. On January 11, 2011 the promissory notes were
fully repaid.
Financial covenants
. EBITDA / Financial expenses ratio: equal to or higher than 1.5.
. Total debt / EBITDA: equal to or lower than 3.65.
(vii) 14th issue
On February 15, 2011, the Company launched 100 debentures, subscribed exclusively by the
National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES). These debentures were
distributed in three nonconvertible series, at a nominal value of R$ 2,753.70, totaling
R$ 275,370. This transaction was settled on April 15, 2011, for all series.
F - 54
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The debentures were placed on the market as follows:
Number
Adjustment
Interest
Interest payment
Repayment
Maturity
Series 1
28
-
TJLP + 1.92%
p.a.
Series 2
30
IPCA
9.19% p.a.
Quarterly to February 2014
and monthly from then
on
Annual
Series 3
42
-
TJLP + 1.92%
p.a.
Quarterly to February 2014
and monthly from then
on
Monthly (from March
2014)
February
2022
Annual (from March
2015)
Monthly (from March
2014)
March
2022
February
2022
The funds raised in this issuance will be used in expenditures in water supply and sewage
systems in the following projects: Water Treatement Stations at Rio Grande, Litoral Norte, Vale
do Paraíba and Mantiqueira, Bacia do Piracicaba-Capivari-Jundiai; and for program of
reduction of losses.
In 2011, interest expense related to series 1 was R$ 5,254, related to series 2 was R$ 6,916 and
R$ 7,881 related to series 3.
Financial covenants
. EBITDA / Net revenue: equal or higher than 38%.
. EBITDA / Financial expenses ratio: equal to or higher than 2.35.
. Net debt / EBITDA: equal to or lower than 3.65.
(viii) 1st issue - Aquapolo
In August 2011, the joint-controlled entity “Aquapolo” launched 326,732 debentures, the 1st
issue of simple debentures, nonconvertible, in a unique series.
Number Interest
Payment
Amortization
Maturity
Unique serie 326,732 TR + 8.75%
p.a.
Monthly (from
December 2013) Monthly (from December
2013)
Agosto/2029
(c) Caixa Econômica Federal - Pro-sanitation Program
(i) Water and sewage
Several loan agreements were entered into from 1996 to 2004 under the Pro-Sanitation
Program for expanding and improving the water supply and sewage systems of several
municipalities of the State of São Paulo and of the City of São Paulo. Loans are collateralized by
the collections of the daily billings of water supply and sewage services up to the total amount of
the debt.
Contractually established repayment terms range from 120 to 180 months, after the beginning
of the repayment period.
F - 55
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The balance of these facilities as of December 31, 2011 was R$ 563,750 (December 31, 2010 - R$
607,638).
The contractual charges are:
Contract signed in
1996
1997
1998 to 2004
Interest rate
9.5% p.a.
6.5% to 8.0% p.a.
6.5% to 8.0% p.a.
During grace period:
Risk rate
Management fee
1.0% p.a. on amount
disbursed
1.0% p.a. on amount
disbursed
0.6% p.a. or 2% p.a. on
outstanding debt balance
0.12% p.m. on the contract
amount
2.0% p.a. on amount
disbursed
1.0% p.a. on amount
disbursed or 2% p.a. on debt
balance for contracts entered
into in 2003 and 2004
During repayment period :
Management fee
Difference between
installment calculation and
a 10.5% p.a. rate less the
9.5% p.a. rate
1.0% on the debt balance 1.0% on the debt balance
(ii) Pró-Sanear Program
In 1997, 1998 and 2008, contracts were signed under the Pró-Sanear Program for the
improvement of water and sewage services, with the involvement of the communities receiving
the services, in several municipalities of the Metropolitan Region of São Paulo. The credit
facilities are collateralized by the collections of the daily billings of water supply and sewage
services up to the total amount of the debt. Repayment will be made in 180 months after the
beginning of the repayment period. As of December 31, 2011, the balance was R$ 14,448
(December 31, 2010 - R$ 16,752).
The financial charges are:
. interest rate - 5.0% p.a.;
. management fee (grace period) - 2.0% p.a. on debt outstanding balance;
. management fee (repayment phase) - 1.0% p.a. on debt outstanding balance;
. risk rate (grace period) - 1.0% p.a. on amounts disbursed.
(iii) Growth Acceleration Program (PAC)
In 2007 and 2008, the Company entered into agreements linked to the Universal Water and
Sewage Services were entered with several municipalities, with funds from the Government
Severance Indemnity Fund for Employees (FGTS). The credits facilities are guaranteed by a
monthly flow of the billings corresponding to the minimum of three times the monthly charge.
Repayments will be made in 240 months after the beginning of the repayment period. The
balance as of December 31, 2011 was R$ 440,733 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 250,067).
The financial charges are:
. interest rate - 6% p.a.;
. management fee - 1.05% p.a. during the period of the contract;
. risk rate - 0.3% p.a. on the adjusted debt balances.
F - 56
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Covenants
An Agreement for Performance Improvement sets targets for financial indicators (billing losses,
revenue evasion, cash and cash equivalents and reduction of the number of days of committed
receivables), and operating indicators that, based on the past two years, are annually projected
for the following five years.
Noncompliance with 4 of the 8 covenant clauses will accelerate the maturity of the contract.
(d) BNDES
Contract 01.2.619.3.1 - Entered into in August 2002, totaling up to R$ 60,000, for the purpose
of financing part of the Company's contribution to the Tietê River Pollution Abatement Project -
Stage II, related to loan agreement 1212/OC - BR with the Inter-American Development Bank
(IADB). The related project is in progress and the outstanding balance as of December 31, 2011
was R$ 11,638 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 20,980).
The related project is in performance of works stage and the debt balance as of December 31,
2011 was R$ 29,407 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 62,941). The funds are onlent from BNDES to the
agents and from the latter to SABESP. The onlending agreement has the same purpose as the
agreement between BNDES and SABESP, and the same interest and repayment terms, as
follows:
Interest - TJLP limited to 6% p.a., plus a 3% p.a. spread, paid quarterly during the grace period
and monthly in the repayment period. The TJLP portion exceeding 6% p.a. will be added to the
debt outstanding balance.
Repayment of borrowings was initiated in September 2005, with monthly payments, and
conclusion scheduled for February 2013.
Loans are collateralized by part of revenues from the provision of water and sewage services.
Covenants
. Adjusted current ratio: higher than 1.0.
. Ebitda/Net Operating Revenue: equal to or higher than 38%.
. Total connections (water and sewage)/own employees: equal to or higher than 520.
. EBITDA/Debt Service cost: equal to or higher than 1.5.
. Equity / Total Liabilities: equal to or higher than 0.8.
Noncompliance with covenants will accelerate the maturity of the contract.
The Company obtained from BNDES the suspension for 13 months of the compliance of
covenants as from December 2011.
(e) BNDES Baixada Santista
In November 2007, the Company entered into a financing agreement with BNDES for the
Environmental Recovery Program of the Santos Metropolitan Region, totaling R$ 129,973 with
interest of 2.5% p.a. plus TJLP limited to 6%.
Repayment will be made in 96 monthly, consecutive installments, starting January 2012 to
December 2019.
F - 57
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
A portion of the Company's revenue is pledged as guarantee for this financing.
The agreement is in progress and the debt balance as of December 31, 2011 and 2010 was R$
130,474 and R$ 130,474.
(f) Receivables Investment Funds (FIDC – SABESP I)
On March 23, 2006, a single series of senior shares and 26 subordinated shares, held in a
deposit account in the name of its holders, were issued with unit value on issue date
corresponding to R$ 500. The senior shares are being repaid in 54 monthly installments,
starting October 2006, and their final maturity is in March 2011. In March 2011 the FIDC was
totally repaid.
The Fund is managed by Caixa Econômica Federal and its custodian and recording agent is
Banco do Brasil S.A.
The funds raised, totaling R$ 250 million, were used by the Company to settle debts in 2006.
(g) Financial leasing
The Company signed contracts of assets rental with some suppliers which consist in
constructing an infrastructure by the supplier and rent this construction to SABESP. After
finishing the contract the infrastructure will be transferred to SABESP. During the construction
phase, the Company recognizes an intangible assets and the related liability at fair value. The
conclusion of the construction is estimated to June 2013.
When the construction is completed, the Company starts to pay the rental (192 installments)
and the lease is updated accordingly to the contract.
On December 31, 2011, there were no constructions completed.
(h) Eurobonds
On November 3, 2006, the Company issued Eurobonds abroad (Eurobonds 2016) totaling
US$ 140 million. The issue was led by Deutsche Bank Trust Company Americas and the
principal agent was Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A. The interest rate is 7.5% p.a., paid
semiannually, and maturity is in November 2016. As mentioned in item (i) above, the funds
raised were used for the early repayment and partial issue of US$ 225 million in the Eurobonds,
with final maturity in June 2008, and the amount redeemed was US$ 126,948 thousand.
As of December 31, 2011 the balance of the Eurobonds was R$ 262,067 equivalent to US$
140,000 thousand (December 31, 2010 was R$ 232,612), net of cost to issue of R$ 546, which
will be amortized until the maturity date.
Covenants - for Eurobonds 2016.
Limit new debt so that:
. adjusted total debt to EBITDA does not exceed 3.65;
. the Company's debt service coverage ratio, determined on the date this debt was incurred,
shall not be lower than 2.35.
F - 58
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
On December 9, 2010, the Company issued a US$ 350 million senior unsecured notes due 2020
(the Eurobonds 2020). The interest rate is 6.25% p.a., paid semi-annually and maturity date in
December 2020. The funds were used for partial repayment of outstanding debts of the
Company.
As of December 31, 2011 the balance of the Eurobonds was US$ 350,000 thousand, equivalent
to R$ 649,024 (December 31, 2010 was R$ 576,107), net of cost to issue of R$ 7,507, which will
be amortized during the period of the contract.
Noncompliance with covenants will accelerate the maturity of the contract.
(i) Inter-American Development Bank (IADB)
Loan Agreement 713- In December 1992, the Company entered into a loan agreement with
the IADB for US$ 400 million to finance the first stage of the Tietê River Pollution Abatement
Project. The repayment period started in June 1999 in semiannual installments, subject to
annual floating rate interest, varying according to the loans raised by the Bank in each six-
month period, and final maturity in December 2017. In December 1992, the Federal Republic of
Brazil signed a guarantee contract with the IADB guaranteeing the funds for the fulfillment of
the contractual obligations. The outstanding balance as of December 31, 2011 was US$ 150,658
thousand, equivalent to R$ 282,605 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 290,019).
Loan Agreement 896- In December 1992, the Company entered into a loan agreement with
the IADB for US$ 50 million to finance the first stage of the Tietê River Pollution Abatement
Project. Semiannual repayments started in June 1999, with annual interest of 3% and final
maturity in December 2016. In December 1992, the Federal Republic of Brazil signed a
guarantee contract with the IADB guaranteeing the funds for the fulfillment of the contractual
obligations. The outstanding balance as of December 31, 2011 was US$ 13,889 thousand,
equivalent to R$ 26,053 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 27,770).
Loan Agreement 1,212- In July 2000, the Company entered into a loan agreement with the
IADB for US$ 200 million to finance the second stage of the Tietê River Pollution Abatement
Project. In 2008, total disbursement for this agreement was US$ 2,434 thousand and there are
no amounts to be disbursed. The loan is being amortized semiannually and final maturity in
July 2025. Interest is being paid on a semiannual basis, based on daily balances, at an annual
variable rate according to the costs of loans of the Bank in the preceding six-month period, plus
a spread, and changes every six months. The debt balance as of December 31, 2011 was
US$ 143,893 thousand, equivalent to R$ 269,915 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 256,880).
Loan Agreement 2,202/OC-BR– On September 3, 2010 the Company and the Inter-
American Development Bank (Banco Interamericano de Desenvolvimento or BID) signed the
contract for partially finance the third stage of the Tietê River Project, denominated the
decontamination of the Tietê river. The total estimated cost of this investment is US$800
million, of which US$ 600 million will be financed by the BID and US$ 200 million will be
invested by the Company´s own resources. The final maturity of the loan is in 25 years and the
repayment period commences in September 2016.The interest is based on USD-Libor.
On March 17, 2011, the Company received US$1,829 thousand, corresponding to R$ 3,044. This
amount will be utilized in the recovery of the Tiete river basin, located in the metropolitan
region of São Paulo. The maturity date is 2035.
On December 31, 2011, the total amount of this contract was US$ 78,422 thousand,
corresponding to R$ 145,159, net of cost to issue amounting to R$ 1,944, which will be
amortized during the period of the contract.
F - 59
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Covenants
. Loan agreements 713, 896 and 1,212 - Tariffs must: (a) produce revenues sufficient to cover
the system's operating expenses, including administrative, operating, maintenance, and
depreciation expenses; (b) provide a return on property, plant, and equipment no less than
7%; and (c) during project execution, the balances of short-term loans must not exceed 8.5%
of total equity.
Noncompliance with covenants will accelerate the maturity of the contract.
(j) Japan International Cooperation Agency – JICA ("JBIC")
On August 6, 2004, the Company entered into a financing agreement with the JBIC - Japan
Bank for International Cooperation, actual JICA, amounting to ¥21,320 million, equivalent to
approximately R$ 337,687, for the Environmental Recovery Program of the Santos Metropolitan
Region. Total financing period is 25 years, with a seven-year grace period and 18 years of
repayment in semi-annual installments. Interest is being paid on a semiannual basis since 2006,
and is 2.5% p.a. for the sewage network and 1.8% p.a. for sewage treatment facilities.
On February 15, 2011, the Company signed a complementary agreement with JICA (Japan
International Cooperation Agency), former JBIC, for the Environmental Recovery Program of
the Santos Metropolitan Region amounting to ¥ 19,169 million, equivalent to R$ 375,904 as of
March 31, 2011. The agreement last 18 years and the interest rate vary from 1.8% to 2.5% per
annum.
The balance of this loan agreement as of December 31, 2011 was R$ 958,733 (December 31,
2010 - R$ 436,978).
(k) AB Loan (IADB 1983AB)
On May 27, 2008, the Company entered into a loan agreement AB loan with IADB, totaling
US$ 250.0 million, which was fully disbursed in June 2008. The funds obtained were used to
settle Eurobonds 2008 and to partly perform the Company's investment plan.
The characteristics of this loan agreement are as follows:
US$ Repayment from Maturity
Interest
(LIBOR + spread)
1983 A
1983 B1
1983 B2
100.0 million May 2011
100.0 million May 2011
50.0 million May 2011
May 2023
May 2020
May 2018
Libor + 2.99%
Libor + 2.69%
Libor + 2.49%
Interest is being paid on a semiannual basis since November 2008. The balance of this loan
agreement as of December 31, 2011 was US$ 226.0 million, equivalent to R$ 421,266 (2010 -
R$ 413,468), net of debt issuance costs, totaling R$ 2,771 (2010 - R$ 3,080), which will be
repaid over the agreement term.
(l) Promissory notes
On May 3, 2010, the Company fully paid the 4th issue of promissory notes.
F - 60
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
On August 30, 2010 was issued Promissory Notes amounting to R$600,000 as a bridge loan,
related to an advance to the 13th issue of debentures.
The amount obtained from the 13th issue of debentures was fully used to repay the 60
promissory notes of the 5th issue of the Company which had maturity date on February 26, 2011.
On January 11, 2011 the 5th issue of promissory notes was fully repaid.
(m) International Bank for Reconstruction and Development - IBRD
On October 28, 2009, the Company and “The World Bank” – Banco Internacional para
Reconstrução do Desenvolvimento (BIRD) signed a contract (the BIRD agreement 7662BR)
amounting to US$ 100,000 thousand. On December 31, 2011, the total amount was US$10,316
thousand equivalent to R$ 18,928, net of cost to issue of R$ 424, which will be amortized during
the period of the contract.
(n) Covenants
As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had met all the requirements set forth by its
loan and financing agreements.
The Company obtained from BNDES, for special purpose, the suspension for 13 months of the
compliance of covenants as from December 2011.
(o) Maturities of loans and financing
The following table provides the maturities of loans and financing as of December 31, 2010:
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016
2017 2018 to 2035
Total
In local currency
In foreign currency
1,440,633 1,057,490 574,884 485,664
169,707
189,377 169,707 169,707
219,927 222,304
172,360
431,774
1,541,971 5,542,874
1,750,789 3,053,421
Total
1,630,010 1,227,197 744,591
655,372
651,701 394,664
3,292,760 8,596,295
13 Other Taxes Payable
December
31, 2011
Current
December
31, 2010
December
31, 2011
Noncurrent
December
31, 2010
COFINS and PASEP
PAES (tax debt refinancing program)
INSS (Social Security contribution)
IRRF (Withholding taxes)
Other
57,073
36,716
25,645
44,172
17,516
48,149
35,364
24,112
34,572
15,853
-
18,363
-
-
-
-
53,045
-
-
-
Total
181,122
158,050
18,363
53,045
The Company applied for enrollment in PAES on July 15, 2003, in accordance with Law
No 10684 of May 30, 2003, and included in its application the debts related to COFINS
and PASEP which were involved in a legal action challenging application of Law
9718/98, and the outstanding balance under the Tax Recovery Program (REFIS). The
original amount included in PAES in July 2003 was R$ 316,953, as follow:
F - 61
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Tax
COFINS
PASEP
REFIS
Total
Principal
Fine
Interest
Total
132,499
5,001
112,639
250,139
13,250
509
-
13,759
50,994
2,061
-
53,055
196,743
7,571
112,639
316,953
The loan related to PAES is being paid in 120 months. The amounts paid in 2011, 2010 and
2009 were R$ 36,091, R$ 34,744 and R$ 33,386, respectively, and financial expenses of R$
2,761, R$ 4,112 and R$ 5,585, respectively, were recorded. The outstanding balance as of
December 31, 2011 and 2010 was R$ 55,079 and R$ 88,409, respectively. The assets offered as
guarantee in REFIS, totaling R$ 249,034, are still guaranteeing the amounts in the PAES
program.
14 Deferred Income Taxes
Breakdown of deferred taxes
Deferred income tax assets (i)
Provisions
Pension obligations – G1
Pension obligations – G0
Donations of underlying assets on concession agreements
Allowance for doubtful account
Other
Total deferred tax assets
Deferred income tax liabilities (ii)
Temporary differences of concession intangible assets
Capitalization of borrowing costs
Profit from public entities
Other
Total deferred tax liabilities
Deferred tax asset (liability) in the balance sheet
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
575,473
180,018
85,271
38,213
135,223
78,717
539,394
162,552
85,271
38,213
129,248
50,108
1,092,915
1,004,786
(692,210)
(101,507)
(76,773)
(42,962)
(711,283)
(102,339)
(72,968)
(39,756)
(913,452)
(926,346)
179,463
78,440
F - 62
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Deferred income tax assets (i)
To be realized within 1 year
To be realized after 1 year
Total
Deferred income tax liabilities (ii)
To be realized within 1 year
To be realized after 1 year
Total
Net deferred income taxes assets and liabilities
December 31, 2011
December
31, 2010
259,784
833,131
281,164
723,622
1,092,915 1,004,786
(27,282)
(886,170)
(913,452)
(13,663)
(912,683)
(926,346)
179,463
78,440
(i) The expectation of the Company’s management is to realize the deferred income tax
assets in 2013 in the same portion of 2012, and the residual amount to be realized in
2014.
(ii) The expectation of the Company’s management is to realize the deferred income tax
liabilities in 2013 in the same portion of 2012, and the residual amount to be
realized from 2014 then on.
If occur any relevant fact that modify the expectation, the management will review such
projections during the year.
The movements in deferred income tax assets and liabilities in 2011, 2010 and 2009 are as
follows:
F - 63
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Deferred income tax assets
Provisions
Pension
obligations –
G1
Pension
obligation –
G0
Donation of
underlying
assets on
concession
agreements
Allowance
for doubtful
account
As of December 31, 2008
Credited (charged) to income statement
As of December 31, 2009
Credit (changed) to income statement
As of December 31, 2010
Credit (changed) to income statement
411,475
130,036
541,511
(2,117)
539,394
36,079
157,258
20,478
177,736
(15,184)
162,552
17,466
85,271
-
85,271
-
85,271
-
34,247
1,087
35,334
2,879
38,213
-
Other
Total
7,391
31,880
39,271
10,837
745,530
181,399
926,929
77,857
49,888
(2,082)
47,806
81,442
129,248
50,108
1,004,786
5,975
28,609
88,129
As of December 31, 2011
575,473
180,018
85,271
38,213
135,223
78,717
1,092,915
Deferred income tax liabilities
As of December 31, 2008
Credited (charged) to income statement
As of December 31, 2009
Credit (changed) to income statement
As of December 31, 2010
Credit (changed) to income statement
As of December 31, 2011
Temporary
differences of
concession
intangible assets
Capitalization of
borrowing costs
Profit from public
entities
Other
Total
(758,722)
37,102
(721,620)
10,337
(711,283)
19,073
(692,210)
-
(66,507)
(66,507)
(35,832)
(102,339)
832
(101,507)
(74,370)
1,365
(73,005)
37
(72,968)
(3,805)
(76,773)
(14,905)
(7,256)
(22,161)
(17,595)
(39,756)
(3,206)
(42,962)
(847,997)
(35,296)
(883,293)
(43,053)
(926,346)
12,894
(913,452)
F - 64
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Reconciliation of the effective tax rate
The amounts recorded as income and social contribution tax expenses in the financial
statements are reconciled to the statutory rates, as shown below:
Profit before income taxes
Statutory rate
Estimated expenses at statutory rate
Tax benefits from interest on shareholders' equity
Permanent differences
Donations
Other differences
2011
2010
2009
1,720,746
34%
2,292,756
34%
(585,054)
122,170
(779,537)
131,658
(13,692)
(20,751)
(2,820)
(11,610)
2,110,352
34%
(717,520)
134,013
2,020
(21,118)
Income tax and social contribution
(497,327)
(662,309)
(602,605)
Current income tax and social contribution
Deferred income tax and social contribution
Effective rate
Transition Tax Regime (RTT)
(598,303)
100,976
29%
(697,115)
34,806
29%
(748,708)
146,103
29%
The Company opted to adopt the Transition Tax Regime (RTT), established by Provisional
Measure 449/08, converted into Law No. 11,941/2009. Accordingly, the effects from the
changes in Law 11,638/07 and from articles 36 and 37 of the said Provisional Measure had no
effects for tax purposes.
Due to the adoption of this regime, the Company maintained the tax incentives arising from
donations and government´s investment subsidy and the tax deductibility for debt issuance cost
on loans and financing.
15 Provisions
(a) Lawsuits with probable likelihood of loss
The Company is party to a number of claims and legal proceedings arising in the normal course
of business, including civil, tax, labor and environmental matters. Management, based on a
jointly analysis with its legal advisors, recognized provisions at an amount considered sufficient
to cover probable losses. These provisions, net of escrow deposits based on the legal right to
offset, are as follows:
Customer claims (i)
Supplier claims (ii)
Other civil claims (iii)
Tax claims (iv)
Labor claims (v)
Environmental claims (vi)
Total
Current
Noncurrent
December 31, 2011 December 31, 2010
618,533
420,767
178,366
76,448
156,536
121,179
659,182
372,035
167,628
58,658
137,232
65,095
1,571,829
1,459,830
764,070
807,759
766,603
693,227
F - 65
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Changes to the provisions for the year ended December 31, 2011
Payments Interest and
December
31, 2010 Additions
and
reversals adjustment
Inflation December
31, 2011
Customer claims
Supplier claims
Other civil claims
Tax claims
Labor claims
Environmental claims
770,205
372,889
175,932
58,658
137,232
65,095
136,026
10,199
28,983
6,944
39,126
81,305
(159,161)
(483)
(26,272)
(1,141)
(33,938)
(25,341)
(19,809)
39,990
9,903
11,987
14,116
120
727,261
422,595
188,546
76,448
156,536
121,179
Subtotal
Escrow deposits
1,580,011
(120,181)
302,583
(14,360)
(246,336)
18,785
56,307
(4,980)
1,692,565
(120,736)
Total
1,459,830
288,223
(227,551)
51,327
1,571,829
The total amount paid during the year related to judicial lawsuit was R$ 197,521 (R$ 330,256 -
December 31, 2010).
(b) Lawsuits with possible likelihood of loss
The lawsuits in course in administrative and judicial levels where the Company is the defendant
considered by management and its legal advisors and consultants of possible likelihood of loss,
not being, for this reason, provisioned in the financial statements, are as follows:
Customer claims (i)
Supplier claims (ii)
Other civil claims (iii)
Tax claims (iv)
Labor claims (v)
Environmental claims (vi)
Total
(i) Customer claims
December 31, 2011 December 31, 2010
844,100
699,300
359,600
420,400
145,100
153,300
827,500
606,600
275,200
348,900
127,800
111,900
2,621,800
2,297,900
Approximately 1,500 lawsuits were filed by commercial customers, which claim that their tariffs
should be equal to the tariffs of another consumer category, and therefore claim the refund of
the amounts collected by SABESP. The Company was granted both favorable and unfavorable
final decisions at several courts, and recognized a provision when the likelihood of loss is
considered probable. The change of R$ 40.6 million (net of escrow deposit) in the lawsuits
classified as probable loss (see item “a” above) arose from the change in the likelihood of
ongoing lawsuits, interest, fees and adjustments.
(ii) Supplier claims
include claims
Suppliers' claims
filed by some construction companies alleging an
underpayment of monetary adjustments, withholding of amounts related to the understatement
of official inflation rates after the Real economic plan, and the economic and financial imbalance
of the agreements. These lawsuits are in progress at different courts and a provision is
recognized when the likelihood of loss is
F - 66
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
considered probable. In 2011, the increase of R$ 48.7 million and R$ 92.7 million (net of escrow
deposit) in lawsuits whose likelihood of loss is considered probable and possible, respectively, is
related to interest, fees and inclusion of monetary restatement of the lawsuits in course.
(iii) Other civil claims
The Company is a party to several civil lawsuits related to indemnities for property damage, pain
and suffering, and loss of profits allegedly caused to third parties. As of December 31, 2011, total
accrued amount of R$ 178.4 million (December 31, 2010 - R$ 167.7 million) refers to claims
with a likelihood of loss is considered probable. There was an increase in lawsuits with probable
and possible risk of loss, arising from the increase in lawsuits and comprising monetary
adjustment, interest and fees.
(iv) Tax claims
The provision for tax contingencies refers mainly to issues related to tax collections challenged
due to differences in the interpretation of legislation by the Company's legal advisors. The
increase of R$71.5 million in the lawsuit considered as possible loss is mainly related to
monetary adjustments of the lawsuit claimed by the municipality of São Paulo, as described in
item (b) below.
(a) In 2006, the Federal Revenue Service, by means of a tax execution, audited the Company's
compliance with the tax obligations related to income tax and social contribution for calendar
year 2001, and recognized taxes payable in the amount of R$ 379.3 million, adjusted through
December 31, 2011 (R$ 357.7 million in 2010). The Company filed a timely objection and will
appeal against the tax assessment at administrative level and in courts. According to legal
advisors, the likelihood of loss of this administrative proceeding is considered remote to
approximately 90% and 10% is considered possible.
(b) The company filed for a preliminary injunction to challenge the revocation of the tax on service
revenue exemption granted by the Municipality of São Paulo, under a City Law enacted in 2002.
In April 2003, the exemption was granted and the tax payment was suspended by an injunction.
In May 2005, the courts issued a decision overruling the injunction. In July 2005, SABESP filed
an appeal to ensure the preliminary injunction granted remained in effect. In January 2012, the
appeal was denied, and due to omission existing in the decision the Company filed an
amendment of judgment including the requesting for modification of the decision, which is
awaiting judgment. The assessment note filed by the municipality of São Paulo, requesting the
tax credit related to ISS (municipal tax) and penalties due to non accomplishment of the duties,
are in place the injunction conceded in the precautionary action, still awaiting judgment to
annul the administrative decision. As of December 31, 2011, the estimated amount of the claim
is R$ 223.9 million (R$ 178.7 million in 2010). The Company's legal advisors assessed the
likelihood of loss as possible.
(c) The Federal Revenue Service rejected some offset requests made by the Company for the
extinction of IRPJ/CSLL payable, using favorable amounts, arising from undue payments of
IRPJ/CSLL, which were paid based on monthly estimates. The amount involved is estimated at
R$ 44.7 million adjusted through December 31, 2011 (R$ 40.9 million in 2010). The legal
advisors assessed it has a possible loss.
(d) The Company requested an authorization to offset the Corporate Income Tax (IRPJ) and Social
Contribution on Net Income (CSLL) of the period of July, August and September 2002 against
the amount of IRPJ paid in excess in 1997 and 1998, due to reallocation of monetary
adjustments in the financial statements (Law 8,200/91) which were anticipated in 1996 due to a
injunction, after excluded due to the give up of the process and acceptance of the Provisional
Measure 38/02, which was rejected. After the judgment by the Administrative Council of tax
resources, the credit related to 1997 was not accepted. The estimated amount is R$ 41.0 million
F - 67
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
as of December 31, 2011 (R$ 39.1 million in 2010). The Company´s legal advisors assessed this
claim as a possible loss.
(e) On June 23, 2010, the Company and the municipality of São Paulo signed an agreement to
provide water supply and sewage services. The negotiation of this agreement led to the
extinction of some judicial lawsuits. However, others did not take place in the adjustment and
are continuing regularly. The remaining judicial lawsuits considered as probable and possible
loss are mainly related to taxes and fines. As of December 31, 2011 the amounts of such judicial
lawsuits were R$ 27.7 million and R$ 30.6 million, respectively (R$ 22.3 million and R$27.2
million, respectively, in 2010).
(f) In 2005, the Federal Revenue Service partially rejected the Company´s request of offsetting tax
credits related to the Corporate Income Tax (IRPJ) and the Social Contribution on Net Income
(CSLL) in the amount of approximately R$ 56.1 million, and R$ 8.7 million, respectively, which
relate to the period from January to April 2003, for which the Company offset prior year IRPJ
and CSLL negative balances. The amounts not ratified by the authority of IRPJ and CSLL are
R$ 11.2 million and R$ 0.7 million, respectively, totaling R$11.9 million. As the Company
obtained a partial favorable decision on this matter, the Company´s legal advisors believe
likelihood of loss amounts to R$ 6.5 million and R$ 1.1 million are possible and probable,
respectively (R$6.2 million and R$ 1.1 million, respectively, in 2010).
(g) The Company filed lawsuits against the Municipalities of Bragança Paulista and São Paulo due
to the collection by these municipalities of a charge on the use of public areas to install the
structures used for the water supply and sewage services. In the lawsuit filed against the
Municipality of Bragança Paulista, the Company granted a preliminary injunction related to this
charge which prevents the municipality from any current or future of charge collection until is
the Company reaches a final court decision on this matter. In June 2005, the Company got a
favorable decision of the lower court and the initial remedy was maintained. The municipality
appealed against the decision, which has not been decided by the Court of Appeals yet. With
respect to the Municipality of São Paulo, the Company got an unfavorable decision in the lower
court which issued a decision confirming the legality of the municipal charge. The Company
filed an appeal and awaits the judgment. Subsequently, a new law was approved regarding the
implementation of the collection of a charge on the use of public areas in the Municipality of São
Paulo. In April 2004, the Company filed an injunction to suspend the collection of the municipal
charge. The Company had a favorable decision of the lower court, as the injunction was granted
which recognizes the municipal charge as undue. The municipality filed an appeal, which was
denied by the Court of Justice. The Company's legal advisors assessed the likelihood of gain on
this matter as a possible.
(v) Labor claims
The Company is a party to labor lawsuits, involving issues such as overtime, health hazard
premium and hazardous duty premium, prior notice, change of function, salary equalization,
and other. Part of the amount involved is in provisional or final execution, assessed the
likelihood of loss as probable and, consequently, recorded in the financial statements.
(a) On January 27, 2005, the São Paulo Water, Sewage and Environmental Workers' Union
("Sintaema") filed a lawsuit against the Company, claiming compensation for work shifts, which
was dismissed by the lower court under Company arguments that Sintaema did not have
legitimacy to file such lawsuit. However, the Labor Regional Court overruled this decision
favorably to Sintaema and required that the lawsuit returned to the original court for judgment.
The Company appealed to the Superior Labor Court but did not succeeded. The lawsuit returned
to the original court and was accepted. The Company appealed but the Labor Regional Court
maintained the decision and after filed an appeal in the Superior Court, which was not admitted
and the lawsuit had a final decision and initiate the execution. As of December 31, 2011, the
F - 68
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Company's legal advisors assess the likelihood of loss, totaling R$ 62.6 million (R$ 55.9 million
in 2010), as probable.
(b) The São Paulo Water, Sewage and Environmental Workers' Union ("Sintaema") and other
unions, filed a lawsuit against the Company claiming for, among other matters, over time rate at
100% and a 1.5% salary increase over inflation for the years of 2010 and 2011. The Labor
Regional Court decided partially favorably to Sintaema and conceded to the employees over
time rate at 100%, 1.5% salary increase, and other items. The Company appealed to the Superior
Labor Court to suspend such decision, which was accepted. Currently, the Company awaits the
judgment. The Company's legal advisors assess the likelihood of loss, totaling R$ 11.8 million
(R$ 10.5 million in 2010), as probable.
(vi) Environmental claims
The public civil actions to which the Company is party include the following:
(a) Public civil action filed by Paraguaçu Paulista city against SABESP requesting the court to
sentence the Company to environmental damages caused by the disposal of sewage “in natura”
in the Alegre River, located in the city of Paraguaçu Paulista. The decision was unfavorable to
SABESP in the lower court and the court ordered to: (a) cease the disposal of sewage “in natura”
in the Alegre River; (b) invest in the water and sewage service system of Paraguaçu Paulista city;
and (c) indemnity the city for the environmental damages, amounting to R$ 168.9 million. The
decision also determines that the noncompliance of items (a) and (b) would incur in daily
penalties. The Company filed an appeal against this decision. On September 21, 2006, the court
of justice of the state of São Paulo sustained the decision. The Company signed an agreement
with the Public Prosecutor amounting to R$ 42.7 million lasting 54 months to the execution of
the investments, R$34.0 million of this amount refers to the compensation of the environmental
damages. There are some issues related to the accomplishment of the agreement. The
Company's legal advisors' assessed the likelihood of loss as probable. The amount on December
31, 2011 corresponds to R$ 43.7 million (R$ 15 in 2010).
(b) A public civil action filed by the Public Prosecution Office against SABESP which result was
unfavorable. SABESP was condemned to: (i) stop disposing untreated sewage in the fluvial
system, a under a penalty of R$ 150 for each illegal act; ii) invest in water supply and sewage
treatment system in the municipality of Guarei, considering that all necessary actions to have
water supply and sewage treatment system concluded in 180 days, under a penalty of R$ 100
per day for noncompliance; iii) indemnity of environmental damages to be evaluated at the end
of the action. SABESP filed an appeal and awaits the decision. As of December 31, 2011, the
amount provisioned for this claim was R$ 38.4 million (R$ 4.4 million in 2010). The Company's
legal advisors' assessed the likelihood of loss as probable.
(c) Public civil action filed by the Public Prosecution Office against SABESP and the City of Cotia
seeking individual and joint sentencing of the defendants to: (i) the termination of untreated
water effluents discharges into the Cotia River or its tributaries, subject to a daily fine in the case
of noncompliance; (ii) the treatment of sewage prior to discharging it into the Cotia River,
subject to a daily fine, in the event of noncompliance;(iii) the full restoration of soil, of surface
and underground water bodies and of vegetation to their original condition, subject to a daily
fine, in the event of noncompliance; and(iv) the payment of compensation for environmental
damages caused to soil, to water sources and to underground and surface water bodies that
cannot be recovered. The appellate court rendered favorable decisions to us with respect to
items (i), (iii) and (iv) above. According to evaluations by the court's technical expert, on
October 17 2006, compensation for environmental damages was R$ 827 or, alternatively, R$ 5.8
million, if the Company includes the damages caused to the river banks (Cotia river). This
amount is still under discussion and its approval is subject to a final decision by a lower court.
As of December 31, 2011, the restated amount of the expert's report is R$ 11.6 million (R$ 10.7
million in 2010). The Company's legal advisors' assessed the likelihood of loss as probable.
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Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(d) The municipality of Águas de São Pedro filed a public civil action requesting SABESP to
implement projects to remove sewage disposals from green areas, fountain and the Pantanal
Lake located at the Pinheiros Street in the municipality of Águas de São Pedro. This claim is
also includes, indemnities due to environmental damages and attorney’s fees. The Company got
a favorable decision of the lower court. The Company got an unfavorable decision of the Court of
Justice and had 180 days to implement the necessary sewage services and to develop an
environmental study for remediation. The Court of Justice also established a fine of R$ 5 per
day. The Company filed amendment of judgment which was denied. The Company filed extreme
resources related to this decision. As of December 31, 2011, the total amount of the fine was R$
2.0 million (R$ 14.0 million in 2010). The Company's legal advisors assess the likelihood of loss
as probable.
(e) A public civil action filed by the Public Prosecution Office against SABESP which result was
unfavorable. SABESP was condemned to: (i) stop disposing untreated sewage in the São
Sebastião’s channel before getting the operating and inspection licenses, under a penalty of R$
100 per day; ii) obligation to prepare and maintain the operation of the EPC (Pre-conditioning
station) Araçá with the respective operating and inspection licenses, under a penalty of R$ 100
per day; iii) stop disposing untreated domicile sewage in the São Sebastião’s channel; iv) comply
with all requirements of the inspection and operating licenses, including the requirements from
CETESB; v) pay indemnity of R$ 50 million regarding environmental damages. The Company
must present to the court the operating and inspection licenses of Araçá in 6 months, under a
penalty of R$ 100 per day. The Company must also contract an expert to prepare an
environmental study, in 30 days To collect and analyze the São Sebastião’s channel and in the
beaches which are within 8 kilometers to south and to north, besides the mangrove swamp, that
must be analyzed the quality of the water and sediments. The auditors will check the
concentration of faecal coliforms, monthly reports which will be denominated as independent
auditors report. This action is commencing and the Company awaits the judgment in lower
court. As of December 31, 2011, this claim amounted to R$ 123.4 million (R$ 78.1 million in
2010). The Company's legal advisors' assessed the likelihood of loss as possible.
(f) Public civil action filed by the São Paulo Public Prosecution Office against SABESP and the
Municipality of Piracaia seeking conviction of the defendants for the obligation not to discharge
untreated household sewage into the Atibaia river, which is not in compliance with the quality
standards provided for in law, under the penalty of specific execution or a daily fine. This
lawsuit is awaiting ruling at the lower courts, but there was a change in the principal amount
from R$ 3.5 million to R$ 100. As of December 31, 2011, the restated amount of this lawsuit is
R$ 262 (R$ 9.6 million in 2010). The Company's legal advisors assessed it as a possible loss.
The Company is a party to other environmental lawsuits in municipalities where it operates,
arising from the discharge of untreated waste, assessed as probable and possible risks of loss by
legal advisors. The amounts recognized as provisions do not always represent the final amount
to be disbursed as indemnity of alleged damages, in view of the current stage in which the such
lawsuits are and management's ability to reasonably estimate the amounts of future
disbursements. As of December 31, 2011, total accrued amount represents the R$ 121.2 million
(R$ 65.1 million in December 31, 2010), already including the amounts referred to in items (a),
(b), (c) and (d).
(vii) Settlements reached in 2011
In 2011 the Company assigned several settlements related to environmental issues which were
booked as follows:
(a) Águas de Santa Barbara
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Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
On August 5, 2011, the Company and the Justice Department of municipality of Águas
de Santa Barbara signed a judicial agreement for the construction and provision of
sewage services to the entire domestic sewage produced in the municipality of Águas de
Santa Barbara and the environmental compensation, the mapping of the riparian forest
area of the existing municipality and to be recomposed. The estimated investment is R$
6.1 million and the estimated cost of the forest recovery is R$ 200.
(b) Campos do Jordão
On July 11, 2011, the Company and Justice Department of municipality of Campos do
Jordão signed a judicial agreement for the construction of the sewage service system in
the municipality of Campos do Jordão, amounting to R$108.7 million. The
environmental recovery represents indemnities caused by environmental damages and
related daily fines, amounting to R$ 850. The environmental social center amounting to
R$ 440 and an advance for construction amounting to R$ 41 million were also
negotiated in this agreement.
(c) Mococa
On May 3, 2011, the Company, the São Paulo State Prosecution Office and the Justice
Department of municipality of Ribeirão Preto signed a term of conduct regarding the
construction of sewage service system in the municipality of Mococa and Igaraí district.
The estimated cost amounts to R$ 2.9 million.
(viii) Other concession-related legal proceedings
(a) On March 25, 2005, the municipality of Itapira revoked the concession contract and filed an
Assets Repossession Action against SABESP. The outcome of this claim was unfavorable to the
Company. Besides that, was enacted a municipal law which revoke the prior law which
authorized the municipality to celebrate agreements with SABESP. The Company appealed the
decision, but in view of the compensation lawsuit filed against the aforementioned municipality,
the Company has waived the appeal. Company's legal advisors assessed it as a possible gain.
(b) The municipality of Cajobi has filed a Repossession Action that seeks the takeover the water
supply and sewage services, and sentencing the Company to pay for losses and damages for
amounts received as water and sewage tariffs not received in view of utilities explored since the
enactment of the Municipal Decree, and for the use of assets related to the concession. The court
decision confirmed the Municipality's takeover of the water and sewage services. On August 25,
2008, SABESP filed an appeal which was denied. The Municipality provides water supply and
sewage collection services since May 29, 2007 under injunction granted in the interlocutory
appeal. The Company's legal advisors assessed it as a possible gain.
(c) The City of Araçoiaba da Serra filed a Repossession Action seeking an authorization to enter
concession-related facilities, including all properties and chattels linked to the water supply and
sewage treatment services. The Municipality is now managing and operating these services in
view of the termination of the concession agreement on September 23, 2006. The Municipality
also claims the definitive takeover of the services, including due handover of all assets, rights
and privileges previously transferred to SABESP. The initially granted injunction and confirmed
by the appellate court maintain the Municipality as the service provider. The decision was
considered unfavorable for the Company and the Company filed an appeal against this decision.
The Company's legal advisors assessed it as a possible loss.
(d) On July 2, 2010, the City of Tarumã filed a writ of prevention related to all assets related to the
collection, treatment and water supply and sewage services systems. Initially, the Court
conceded an injunction, which was reviewed and on January 19, 2011 the Company restarted its
operation in this municipality. By other injunction decision, the Tarumã municipality requested
F - 71
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
the enrollment of assets existing and utilized in the water and sewage services in the
municipality, determining that the assets will be under SABESP´s custody due to eventual
liquidation of the indemnity to SABESP. By judicial injunction there was the enrollment of
assets and SABESP will be the depositary. Both actions are in the phase of knowing and there is
no definite decision. The Company's legal advisors assessed it as possible and remote loss,
respectively.
(e) In December 2, 1997, the municipality of Santos enacted a law expropriating the Company's
water and sewerage mains in Santos. The Company requested an injunction against the
expropriation which was denied by the lower court. This decision was subsequently reversed by
the State of São Paulo appellate court, which then issued an injunction suspending the law. The
Company was granted a favorable decision at the lower court, and the municipality of Santos
appealed against the decision. Although the decision was maintained by the Court of Justice, it
is not final. Despite the pending action, the Company is operating the water supply and sewage
collection systems in the municipality of Santos. The Company's legal advisors assessed it as a
probable gain.
(f) The municipality of Tuiuti has brought a declaratory action seeking to recognize the inexistence
of any judicial or legal grounds to justify our permanence as the provider of water supply and
sewage services in the municipality of Tuiuti, and the subsequent taking over of these services by
the municipality. The Company responded with a counterclaim against the municipality seeking
a statement corroborating the existence of a legal relationship between the two parties for
subsequent compensation for investments made. The lower court decision was partially
unfavorable to SABESP as it declared that there was no legal relationship between the
Municipality and SABESP relate to the service concession and confirmed the injunction
authorizing the takeover of the services. However, the court's decision was favorable to the
counterclaim filed by SABESP and sentenced the Municipality to pay R$ 541, restated from
March 1996. The Company filed an appeal on July 22, 2009. On the other hand, the
Municipality also filed an appeal. The State Appellate Court partially agreed with SABESP to
increase the indemnity to R$ 1.1 million (December/1995). SABESP is not operating in this
municipality as required by injunction granted to the Municipality. The Company's legal
advisors assessed it as a probable gain.
(g) On January 12, 2001, the Company filed an ordinary action against the municipality of
Presidente Prudente for the purpose of recognizing the contractual right to maintain SABESP as
the sanitation service until the legal and formal cancellation of the contract, including the
respective indemnity, which recognizes the abusive and illegal the acts of the municipality. The
Company still provides sanitation service in Presidente Prudente by judicial decision, which
extended the concession contract of Presidente Prudente up to the payment of the indemnity.
The Company's legal advisors assessed it as a remote loss.
(h) On March 15, 2011, the Company filed an asset repossession action against the municipality of
Álvares Florence related to the assets of the concession used in the water and sewage services
system, including the entire assets related to the water and sanitation services, managing,
operating and exploring again the services, as prior to the repossession forced by the
municipality after the period of the contract. In the end request the definitive repossession
assuring the maintenance of the sanitation services. The decision of the lower court was against
the Company and the Company appealed against this decision, which is pending. The
Company’s legal advisors assessed it as possible gain.
(i) On August 19, 2011, the Company filed an asset repossession action against the municipality of
Macatuba related to the assets of the concession used in the water and sewage services system,
including the entire assets related to the water and sanitation services, managing, operating and
exploring again the services, as prior to the end of the contract. The decision of the injunction
was unfavorable to SABESP and the Company is not operating in this municipality. The action is
awaiting the decision of the lower court. The Company is also requiring indemnities related to
F - 72
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
the investments realized in the municipality which was not amortized. The Company’s legal
advisors assessed it as possible gain.
(j) After the end of the concession contract the municipality of Iperó requested the resumption of
the services. On December 30, 2009, the Company filed an asset repossession action against the
municipality of Iperó requiring the repossession until the payment of the indemnity. Initially,
the injunction was obtained conceding the Company the maintenance of the operation. After the
decision in the lower court was unfavorable to SABESP. The Company appealed but there was
no change in the result. The municipality is operating the services. The action of repossession
was unfavorable to SABESP and is awaiting the result of the appealed action. The Company is
also promoting a precautionary action to anticipate proves, in which the injunction was
conceded to list the assets which belonged to the services. The experts are analyzing the list. The
Company’s legal advisors assessed it as remote gain.
16 Employee Benefits
(a) Health benefit plan
The health benefit plan is managed by Fundação SABESP de Seguridade Social - SABESPREV
and consists of optional, free choice, health plans sponsored by contributions of SABESP and
the active participants, as follows:
. Company - 7.5% (December 31, 2010 - 7.6%) on average, of gross payroll;
. Participating employees - 3.21% of base salary and premiums, equivalent to 2.2% of gross
payroll, on average.
(b) Pension plan benefits
The amounts recognized in the balance sheet are determined as follows:
Funded plan - G1
Present value of obligations
Fair value of plan assets
Unrecognized actuarial gains (losses)
Unfunded plan - G0
Present value of defined benefit obligations
Unrecognized actuarial gains (losses)
December 31, 2011 December 31, 2010
1,638,220
(1,203,493)
103,892
1,572,933
(1,113,189)
27,588
538,619
487,332
1,581,600
(69,522)
1,638,036
(321,330)
1,512,078
1,316,706
Liability as per balance sheet - Pension obligations
2,050,697
1,804,038
(i) Plan G1
The Company sponsors a defined benefit pension plan for its employees ("Plan G1"), which is
managed by Fundação SABESP de Seguridade Social - SABESPREV, the defined benefit pension
plan is sponsored by monthly contributions as follows: 2.10% from the Company and 2.3% from
the participants.
F - 73
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
As of December 31, 2011, SABESP had a net actuarial liability of R$ 538,619 (December 31, 2010
- R$ 487,332) representing the difference between the present value of the Company's defined
benefit obligations to the participating employees, retired employees, and pensioners; the fair
value of the related assets; and unrecognized actuarial gains.
Changes in the present value of defined benefit obligation over the year are as follows:
Defined benefit obligation, beginning of year
Service cost
Interest cost
Actuarial (gain) losses
Curtailment and partial settlement
Benefits paid
2011
2010
2009
1,572,933
26,869
158,069
(57,583)
-
(62,068)
1,422,993
27,200
152,470
222,510
(195,561)
(56,679)
1,433,710
31,116
155,514
(149,634)
-
(47,713)
Defined benefit obligation, end of year
1,638,220
1,572,933
1,422,993
Changes in the fair value of plan assets over the year are as follows:
Fair value of plan assets, beginning of year
Expected return on plan assets
Actuarial gain or (loss)
Company's contributions
Employees' contributions
Curtailment and partial settlement
Benefits paid
2011
2010
2009
1,113,189
111,307
18,805
8,853
13,407
-
(62,068)
1,123,695
122,630
28,318
13,835
15,574
(134,184)
(56,679)
976,545
113,544
47,230
12,854
21,235
-
(47,713)
Fair value of plan assets, end of year
1,203,493
1,113,189
1,123,695
The amounts recognized in the income statement are as follows:
Current service cost
Interest cost
Expected return on plan assets
(Gain) or loss amortization
Curtailment and partial settlement
Gain not recognized of curtailment
Total
2011
2010
2009
26,869
158,069
(111,307)
-
-
-
27,200
152,470
(122,630)
(10,397)
(61,377)
(15,266)
31,116
155,514
(113,544)
-
-
-
73,631
(30,000)
73,086
F - 74
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
In 2011, 2010 and 2009, the expense related to the defined benefit obligation under Plan G1 was
recorded as follows: R$56,613, R$ (24,314) and R$ 51,585 in cost of sales and services, R$
8,928, R$ (3,547) and R$ 9,714 in Selling expenses and R$ 8,090, R$ (2,139) and R$ 11,787 in
Administrative expenses, respectively.
Curtailment and partial settlement
As of July, 2010, aiming at resolving the deficit related to the Defined Benefit Plan (G1), SABESP
and SABESPREV have structured a process through which the participants may elect to move
from the Defined Benefit Plan to a Defined Contribution Plan, the SABESPREV Mais.
The migration from plan G1 to SABESPREV Mais resulted in actuarial gain, related to the
proportional part of the employees who migrated, determined by the present value of the assets
and liabilities of the pension plan. The Company recognized gain related to curtailment and
partial settlement of the present value of the defined benefit pension plan and the fair value of
the plan assets, amounting to R$ 61,377. The Company also recognized prior actuarial gains
amounting to R$ 15,266.
The period for the plan migration (from July to November 2010) was suspended through an
injunctive relief granted by the Court of Justice of the State of São Paulo, on October 20, 2010
until the claims from the parties involved are taken into consideration. As of October 20, 2010,
4,023 participants corresponding to 26.0% of the G1 plan migrated to defined contribution plan
(Sabesprev Mais).
Expected expenses
Current service cost
Interest cost
Expected return on plan assets
Total additional expenses
2012
27,764
176,762
(147,550)
56,976
The principal actuarial assumptions used were as follows:
Discount rate – real
Inflation rate
Expected rate of return on assets
Salary growth rate
2011
2010
2009
5.75% p.a.
5.0% p.a.
12.53% p.a.
7.1% p.a.
6.0% p.a.
4.0% p.a.
10.2% p.a.
6.1% p.a.
6.6% p.a.
4.0% p.a.
10.8% p.a.
6.6% p.a.
Assumptions regarding future mortality experience are set based on mortality table AT-2000
(90% of mortality table AT83 in 2010). The change did not cause a relevant impact and this
table is more adherent to the plan population.
The discount rate of 5.75% (6.0% in 2010) is similar to the federal public papers rate (NTN-B).
The number of active participants of G1 as of December 31, 2011 was 9,833 (December 31, 2010
– 10,444). The number of inactive participants as of December 31, 2011 was 5,936 (December
31, 2010 – 5,579).
F - 75
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Sensitivity of the pension plan
Funded plan - G1
Discount rate
Salary growth rate
Life expectation
Plan assets
Change in expectation Impact on liability
Increase of 0.5% Decrease of 6.19%
Decrease of 0.5%
Increase of 6.87%
Increase of 0.5%
Increase of 2.73%
Decrease of 0.5% Decrease of 2.46%
Increase of 1 year
Increase of 1.36%
The plan's investment policies and strategies are aimed to reduce investment risk through
diversification, considering such factors as the liquidity needs and funded status of plan
liabilities, types and availability of financial instruments in the local market, general economic
conditions and forecasts as well as requirements under local pension law. The plan's asset
allocation and external asset management strategies are determined with the support of reports
and analysis prepared by SABESPREV and independent financial consultants. Under its
allocation strategy, pension assets of the Company are comprised as follows:
Asset category
Fixed rate securities
Equity securities
Real estate
Loans
Total
Allocation - %
December
31, 2011
December
31, 2010
December
31, 2009
69%
26%
3%
2%
72%
21%
5%
2%
78%
15%
5%
2%
100%
100%
100%
Restrictions with respect to asset portfolio investments, in the case of federal government
securities for internal management, are as follows:
i) papers securitized by the National Treasury will not be permitted;
ii) exposure to fluctuations in exchange rates will not be permitted, i.e., if there are any exchange
bills in the portfolio, swaps must be used to hedge existing exposure.
Restrictions with respect to asset portfolio investments, in the case of variable-income securities
for external management, are as follows:
i) day-trade operations will not be permitted;
ii) sale of uncovered options is prohibited;
iii) swap operations without guarantee are prohibited;
F - 76
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
iv) leverage will not be permitted, i.e., operations with derivatives representing leverage of asset
or selling short are prohibited, such operations cannot result in losses higher than invested
amounts.
SABESPREV does not invest in stock or bonds issued by the Company. The investments in loans
and equity securities are held mainly in investment funds managed by government controlled
banks. The real estate held in the portfolio is not used by the Company.
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets was determined based on the weighted
average estimated return of the plan assets, which includes fixed rate securities, equity
securities, real estate, and loans, based on information obtained from SABESPREV. This
projected long-term rate includes the projected long-term inflation rate and takes into
consideration such factors as projected future interest yield curves and economic projections
available in the market.
The plan assets had a return of 14.9% in 2011 and 13.4% in 2010.
Expected contributions by the Company to Plan G1 for the year ending December 31, 2012 is R$
11,018.
SABESPREV's technical deficit as of December 31, 2011 was R$ 506,431 (December 31, 2010 -
R$ 437,652). The Company and the SABESPREV are in process of negotiation to resolve the
technical deficit, by changing the pension plan from a Defined Benefit Plan to Defined
Contribution Plan. Management expects not to incur in additional costs resulting from the
change of the referred plans.
(ii) Defined Contribution pension plan (SABESPREV MAIS)
On December 31, 2011, after the migration of the participants, the Defined Contribution Plan
remained with 4,452 participants (4,023 in 2010).
With respect to the defined contribution pension plan, the contributions from the sponsor
represent 100% over the total basic contribution from the participants.
Regarding the Defined Contribution Plan, the commitment to all participants who migrated up
to December 31, 2011, as per the actuarial report, amounted to R$ 14,688 relates to all
participants which migrated. The Company has already made payments in the amount of
R$ 10,241 in 2011 (R$13,256 in 2010).
(iii) Plan G0
The Company is also co-obligor to a supplemental defined benefit pension plan. Pursuant to a
law enacted by the State Government, certain employees who provided service to the Company
prior to May 1974 and retired as an employee of the Company acquired a legal right to receive
supplemental pension payments, which rights are referred as "Plan G0". The Company pays
these supplemental benefits on behalf of the State Government and makes claims for
reimbursements from the State Government, which are recorded as accounts receivable from
shareholder, limited to the amounts considered virtually certain that will be reimbursed by the
State Government. As of December 31, 2011, the Company recorded a defined benefit obligation
for Plan G0 of R$ 1,512,078 (December 31, 2010 - R$ 1,316,706).
Changes in the present value of defined benefit obligation over the year are as follows:
F - 77
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Defined benefit obligation, beginning of year
Service cost
Interest cost
Actuarial (gain) losses
Benefits paid
Unrecognized gains (losses)
2011
2010
2009
1,638,036
548
161,718
(94,281)
(124,421)
1,295,066
9
135,344
326,025
(118,408)
1,338,587
9
136,299
(71,837)
(107,991)
1,581,600
(69,522)
1,638,036
(321,330)
1,295,067
4,694
Defined benefit obligation, end of year
1,512,078
1,316,706
1,299,761
The amounts recognized in the income statement are as follows:
Current service cost
Interest cost
Amortized (gain) / losses
Total
2011
2010
2009
548
161,718
157,527
9
135,344
-
9
136,299
319,793
135,353
136,308
In 2011, 2010 and 2009, the expense related to the defined benefit obligation under
Plan G0 was recorded in administrative expenses.
Expected expenses
Current service cost
Interest cost
Total additional expenses
2012
400
167,387
167,787
The principal actuarial assumptions used were as follows:
Discount rate – real
Inflation rate
Salary growth rate
2011
2010
2009
5.75% p.a.
5.0% p.a.
7.1% p.a.
6.0% p.a.
4.0% p.a.
6.1% p.a.
6.6% p.a.
4.0% p.a.
6.6% p.a.
Assumptions regarding future mortality experience are set based on mortality table AT-2000
(90% of mortality table AT83 in 2010). The change did not cause a relevant impact and this
table is more adherent to the plan population.
The discount rate of 5.75% (6.0% in 2010) is similar to the federal public papers rate (NTN-B).
F - 78
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The number of active participants of G0 plan as of December 31, 2011 was 36 (December 31,
2010 - 62). The number of beneficiaries, retirees and survivors as of December 31, 2011 was
2,259 (December 31, 2010 - 2,474).
Expected benefits to be paid under Plan G0 for the year ending December 31, 2012 is R$
133,635.
Sensitivity of the pension plan
Change in expectation
Impact on liability
Plan – G0
Discount rate
Wages increase rate
Increase of 0.5%
Decrease of 0.5%
Increase of 0.5%
Decrease of 0.5%
Decrease of 4.47%
Increase of 4.86%
Increase of 0.02%
Decrease of 0.02%
Life expectation
Increase of 1 year
Increase of 1.88%
(c) Profit sharing
The Company has a profit sharing program in accordance with an agreement with labor union
and SABESP. The period covered represents the Company fiscal year, commence in January to
December. The limit of the profit sharing is one month salary for each employee, depending on
performance goals reached. As of December 31, 2011 the profit distribution accrued amounted
to R$ 56,576 (2010 – R$ 52,600).
17 Equity
(a) Authorized capital
The Company is authorized to increase capital by up to R$ 10,000,000, based on a Board of
Directors' resolution, after submission to the Fiscal Council.
(b) Subscribed and paid-in capital
Subscribed and paid-in capital is represented by 227,836,623 registered common shares,
without par value, held as follows:
December 31, 2011
December 31, 2010
Number of shares
% Number of shares
%
State Department of Finance
Companhia Brasileira de Liquidação e Custódia
The Bank Of New York ADR Department (equivalent
in shares) (*)
Other
114,508,086
52,990,545
50.26%
23.26%
114,508,085
51,707,376
50.26%
22.69%
60,144,856
193,136
26.40%
0.08%
61,418,144
203,018
26.96%
0.09%
227,836,623
100.0%
227,836,623
100.0%
(*) each ADR is equal to 2 shares
F - 79
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The quantity of shares as of January 1, 2011 and as of December 31, 2011 were 227,836,623
registered common shares, without par value. There was no change during the year.
(c) Distribution of earnings
Shareholders are entitled to a minimum mandatory dividend of 25% of the adjusted net income
under Brazilian GAAP, calculated according to the Brazilian corporate law. The dividends do not
bear interest and the amounts not claimed within three years from the date of the Shareholders'
Meeting that approved them mature in favor of the Company.
The mandatory minimum dividends are calculated as follows:
Net income of the year
Adjustments to old Brazilian GAAP
Net income according to Brazilian GAAP
(-) Legal reserve - 5%
(-) Donations
2011
2010
2009
1,223,419
-
1,630,447
-
1,507,747
(133,868)
1,223,419
(61,171)
-
1,630,447
(81,522)
-
1,373,879
(68,694)
(12,994)
1,162,248
1,548,925
1,292,191
Mandatory minimum dividend - 25%
290,562
387,231
323,048
On April 28, 2011, the general shareholders meeting approved the distribution of interest on
shareholders’ equity amounting to R$ 455,992, which was attributed to dividend in 2010. The
additional proposed dividend of 2010, amounting to R$ 68,761 (which exceeded the minimum
in 2010) was paid in June 2011. The interest on shareholders’ equity amounting toR$455,992,
net of the withholding income taxes of R$33,032, totaled R$422,960.
In 2011, the Company accrued interest on shareholders' equity in the amount of R$ 578,705
(2010 - R$ 455,992) of which R$ 535,537 (2010 – R$ 422,960) was attributed to dividends, net
of withholding income tax in the amount of R$ 43,168 (2010 - R$ 33,032). Interest on
shareholders' equity was calculated in conformity with Article 9 of Law 9249/95, at the Long-
term Interest Rate (TJLP) and recorded as dividends.
The Company declared dividends in the amount of R$ 578,705 to be approved at the general
shareholders meeting on April 23, 2012. The Company recorded dividends payable in the
amount of R$ 290,562, which considers the minimum dividend amount established by the
articles of association. The difference of R$288,143 was reclassified in the shareholders’ equity
in the caption “Additional proposed dividends”.
(d) Capital reserve
Capital reserves are comprised of tax incentives and donations received by the company and
may only be used for future capital increases.
F - 80
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
(e) Legal reserve
This reserve is formed by allocating 5% of annual statutory profits until the aggregate amount of
the reserve equals 20% of our capital stock. However, the Company is not required to make any
allocations to our legal reserve in a year in which the legal reserve, when added to our other
established capital and earnings reserves, exceeds 30% of our capital stock. The amounts
allocated to such reserve may only be used to increase our capital stock or to offset losses.
Therefore, they are not available for the payment of dividends.
(f) Investments reserve
This is created by allocation of statutory profits in order to fund the expansion of the water
supply and sewage treatment systems.
According to Brazilian Law 6404/76, a portion of the net profit of the year can be reserved for
investment, which amount is based on a budget presented by the management and previously
approved by shareholders’ meeting. The article of association does not mention about the
necessity of approval of the budget in the shareholders’ meeting, however the Company adopts
the rules regarding the Law 6404/76. After concluding the investments, the investment reserve
will be transferred to capital stock or to retained earnings, in part on in a whole, only after the
approval of the shareholders. According to Law 6404/76, if a project, which was reserved for
investment, takes more than one year to be finished, the budget related to such project must be
approved annually in the shareholders’ meeting, until the conclusion of the project.
According to article 29 paragraph fourth of the article of association, the Board of Directors can
propose in a general meeting that the residual profit of the year, after deducting the legal reserve
and the minimum dividend, can be reserved for investments which will have the following rules:
I – the amount, add-up by the others earning reserves, may not be higher than the capital stock;
II – the reserve is used to guarantee the investment plan to be used;
a) to absorb losses, when necessary;
b) to distribute dividends at any time;
c) to rescue, reimburse or acquire stocks, authorized by law;
d) to increase capital stock.
The investments reserve is specifically formed by the portion corresponding to own funds
assigned to the expansion of the water supply and sewage treatment systems, based on the
budget approved by the fiscal counsel. As of December 31, 2011 and 2010, this reserve was
recognized, pursuant to article 196 of Law 6404/76, in the total amount of R$ 3,408,591 and
R$ 2,825,048, respectively.
(g) Destination of profit of the year
Net profit
Legal reserve – 5%
Mandatory minimun dividend
Additional dividend
(+)
(-)
(-)
(-)
Investment reserve
(h) Retained earnings (losses)
2011
1,223,419
61,171
290,562
288,143
583,543
The statutory balance of this account is zero as all retained earnings must be distributed or
allocated to an earnings reserve at year end.
F - 81
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
18 Earnings Per Share
Basic and diluted
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the income attributable to the Company's
shareholders by the weighted average number of common shares during the year.
2011
2010
2009
Attributable income to the Company's shareholders
Weighted average number of common shares issued (in shares)
1,223,419
1,507,747
227,836,623 227,836,623 227,836,623
1,630,447
Basic and diluted earnings per share (reais per share)
5.370
7.156
6.618
The Company does not have potentially dilutive common shares outstanding or debts
convertible into common shares. Accordingly, basic and diluted earnings per share are equal.
19 Operating Segments
Management has determined the operating segments based on the reports that the Executive
Board reviews and uses to make strategic decisions to determine the allocation of resources and
evaluate the segments development.
The Executive Board considers the business from a rendering of services perspective (water
supply and sewage services). No operating segment has been aggregated.
The segment information for the reportable segments for the year ended December 31, 2011 is as
follows:
2011
Reconciliation
to the
financial
statements
(**)
Total per
Income
Statement
Water
Sewage
4,610,204
3,699,916
2,234,778
10,544,898
(334,616)
(268,645)
-
(603,261)
Gross revenue from sales and services - from
external customers
Gross sales deductions
Net revenue from sales and services - from external
Customers
4,275,588
3,431,271
2,234,778
9,941,637
Costs, selling and administrative expenses
(3,309,145)
(2,001,647)
(2,186,320)
(7,497,112)
Income from operations before other operating
expenses, net
Other operating expenses, net
Income from operations before financial income
(expenses) and income taxes
Depreciation and amortization
966,443
1,429,624
48,458
2,444,525
(90,138)
2,354,387
415,065
353,704
-
768,769
F - 82
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
The segment information for the reportable segments for the year ended December 31,
2010 is as follows:
2010 (*)
Water
Sewage
Reconciliation to
the
financial statements
(**)
Total per
Income
Statement
Gross revenue from sales and services - from
external customers
Gross sales deductions
4,257,158
3,398,733
2,130,684
9,786,575
(314,282)
(241,266)
-
(555,548)
Net revenue from sales and services - from
external Customers
3,942,876
3,157,467
2,130,684
9,231,027
Costs, selling and administrative expenses
(2,789,529) (1,690,084)
(2,081,081) (6,560,694)
Income from operations before other operating
expenses, net
Other operating expenses, net
Income from operations before financial income
(expenses) and income taxes
Depreciation and amortization
291,841
260,343
1,830
2,672,163
-
552,184
1,153,347
1,467,383
49,603
2,670,333
The segment information for the reportable segments for the year ended December 31,
2009 is as follows:
2009 (*)
Reconciliation
to the
financial
statements
(**)
Total per
Income
Statement
Water
Sewage
4,104,332
3,131,886
1,848,972
9,085,190
(286,813)
(218,858)
-
(505,671)
Gross revenue from sales and services - from
external customers
Gross sales deductions
Net revenue from sales and services - from external
Customers
3,817,519
2,913,028
1,848,972
8,579,519
Costs, selling and administrative expenses
(3,015,724)
(1,533,549)
(1,865,503)
(6,414,776)
Income from operations before other operating
expenses, net
Other operating expenses, net
Income from operations before financial income
(expenses) and income taxes
Depreciation and amortization
801,795
1,379,479
(16,531)
2,164,743
(44,425)
2,120,318
301,990
258,699
1,547
562,236
(*) Part of the amount presented as reconciliation in 2010 was reclassified as water and sewage
to better compare the operating segment of 2011. In 2009 the reclassification was not performed
due to a lack of information available.
(**) Adjustments details
F - 83
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Adjustments are comprised of:
Year ended December 31,
2011
2010
2009
Gross revenue from construction recognized under IFRIC 12
Construction costs recognized under IFRIC 12
(a)
(a)
2,234,778
(2,186,320)
2,130,684
(2,081,081)
2,039,809
(2,009,664)
48,458
49,603
30,145
(a) Revenue from concession construction contracts is recognized in accordance with IAS 11, Construction Contracts, using the
percentage-of-completion method. Revenue from cost-plus contracts is recognized by reference to the construction costs incurred
during the period plus a fee earned. In the operating report, construction costs are recognized as property, plant and equipment, as it
was presented in accordance with old Brazilian GAAP.
Reportable segment's assets are reconciled to total assets as follows:
Water supply
Sewage services
December 31, 2011 December 31, 2010
8,237,071
10,584,402
7,980,302
9,145,194
Segment assets for reportable segments
18,821,473
17,125,496
Total current assets
Noncurrent assets
Customer accounts receivable, net
Accounts receivable from related party, net
Indemnities receivable
Escrow deposits
Deferred income taxes
Property, plant and equipment, net
Other noncurrent assets
3,725,833
3,590,121
333,713
170,288
60,295
54,178
179,463
356,468
1,513,273
352,839
231,076
146,213
43,543
78,440
249,606
1,533,250
Total assets per the balance sheet
25,214,984
23,350,584
There are no liabilities allocated to the reportable segments.
20 Net Revenue from Sales and Services
The operating revenue comprises the following:
Gross revenue by region
Greater São Paulo Metropolitan area
Regional Systems (i)
Gross revenue from construction
Service taxes and deductions
Total
2011
2010
2009
6,144,669
2,165,451
2,234,778
(603,261)
5,699,618
1,956,273
2,130,684
(555,548)
5,280,758
1,764,623
2,039,809
(505,671)
9,941,637
9,231,027
8,579,519
(i) Comprises the municipalities operated in the countryside and the coast of São Paulo State.
F - 84
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
21 Operating Costs and Expenses
The operating costs and expenses are composed of the following:
Cost of sales and services
Salaries and payroll charges
Pension plan
Construction costs
General supplies
Treatment supplies
Outsourced services
Electricity
General expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Selling expenses
Salaries and payroll charges
Pension plan
General supplies
Outsourced services
Electricity
General expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Allowance for doubtful accounts, net of recoveries
Administrative expenses
Salaries and payroll charges
Pension plan
General supplies
Outsourced services
Electricity
General expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Tax expenses
Cost, Sales and Administrative expenses
Salaries and payroll charges
Pension plan
Construction costs
General supplies
Treatment supplies
Outsourced services
Electricity
General expenses
Depreciation and amortization
Tax expenses
Allowance for doubtful accounts, net of recoveries
F - 85
2011
2010
2009
1,132,403
49,374
2,186,320
147,464
154,867
668,994
583,418
369,054
739,083
994,631
(11,799)
2,081,081
135,113
136,546
603,924
529,480
202,645
522,927
1,124,655
54,948
2,009,664
142,154
136,722
552,708
483,675
45,099
537,629
6,030,977
5,194,548
5,087,254
194,832
7,942
7,703
201,955
622
78,660
7,435
120,393
185,012
(1,375)
6,488
216,038
775
69,581
3,922
232,505
202,090
9,714
7,600
204,235
739
63,474
5,219
117,351
619,542
712,946
610,422
160,262
262,597
4,267
125,502
1,052
208,978
22,251
61,684
141,749
93,683
5,167
150,300
1,268
172,241
25,335
63,457
155,719
56,409
6,211
154,341
1,043
268,971
19,388
55,018
846,593
653,200
717,100
1,487,497
319,913
2,186,320
159,434
154,867
996,451
585,092
656,692
768,769
61,684
120,393
1,321,392
80,509
2,081,081
146,768
136,546
970,262
531,523
444,467
552,184
63,457
232,505
1,482,464
121,071
2,009,664
155,965
136,722
911,284
485,457
377,544
562,236
55,018
117,351
7,497,112
6,560,694
6,414,776
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
22 Financial Expenses and Income
Financial expenses
Interest and others charges on loans and financing - local currency
Interest and others charges on loans and financing -
foreign currency
Other financial expenses (*)
Income tax over international remittance
Inflation adjustment on loans and financing
Inflation adjustment on pension plan incentive (SABESPREVMAIS)
Other inflation adjustments
Inflation adjustment on provisions
Total Financial expenses
Financial income
Inflation adjustment gains
Income on short-term investments
Interest and other income
Total Financial income
Financial expenses, net
Foreign exchange result, net
Foreign exchange variation on loans and financing
Other foreign exchange variations
Other foreign exchange variations
2011
2010
2009
(355,526) (388,502) (328,280)
(79,816) (50,797)
(61,852)
(81,675) (168,462)
(95,031)
(3,412)
(9,795)
(3,552)
(48,878) (87,330)
(1,356)
-
(1,794)
-
(68,975)
(47,041)
(22,481)
(56,307) (43,923) (252,645)
(702,766) (789,467) (765,197)
89,361
271,973
104,592
120,779
137,720
85,415
62,964
74,220
89,598
465,926 343,914 226,782
(236,840) (445,553) (538,415)
(382,304)
(97)
(14,400)
66,191 536,774
(214)
(1,028)
169
(7,297)
(396,801)
66,146 528,449
(*) Other financial expenses are mainly comprised of interest paid related to lawsuit and interest
related to liabilities of contract programs.
23 Other Operating Expenses, Net
The breakdown of other operating expenses, net is as follows:
Other net operating income
Other operating expenses
2011
2010
2009
72,501
(162,639)
39,456
(37,626)
45,473
(89,898)
Other operating income (expenses), net
(90,138)
1,830
(44,425)
F - 86
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Other operating income is comprised of sale of property, plant and equipment, sale of
contracts awarded in public bids, and indemnities and reimbursement of expenses,
fines and collaterals, property leases, reuse water, PURA and Aqualog projects and
services.
Other operating expenses consist mainly of write-off of property, plant and equipment
due to obsolescence, discontinued construction works, unproductive wells, projects
considered economically unfeasible, losses on property, plant and equipment and
expenses provision related to the indemnity of assets of Maua (R$85,918).
24 Commitments
(i) Operating leases
As of December 31, 2011, operating leases already contracted require the following minimum
payments, as follows:
2012
2013
2014
2015
Total
63,314
54,067
25,119
867
143,367
Lease expenses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 were R$ 34,337, R$
29,002 and R$ 22,270, respectively. Lease expenses refer to the following: property rentals,
vehicle rentals, machinery and equipment leases, IT equipment leases, and photocopiers leases.
The leasing contracts will mature in 2015.
(ii) Electricity
The Company has entered into long-term contracts with electric power providers. As of
December 31, 2011, the main amounts regarding this type of contracts are presented as follows:
2012
2013
2014
2015
Total
283,183
88,102
82,583
80,564
534,432
Electric power expenses for the years ended December 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 were R$
584,373, R$ 531,661 and R$ 485,766, respectively. The contract will mature in 2015.
25 Subsequent event
15th issue of debentures
On February 16, 2012, the Company registered the 13th issue of simple debentures,
nonconvertible, in two series with public distribution and strict efforts according to Brazilian
Securities and Exchange Commission (CVM), instruction nº 476.
Issue date: February 15, 2012
F - 87
Companhia de Saneamento Básico
do Estado de São Paulo - SABESP
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
Amounts in thousands of reais, unless otherwise indicated
Series: Two
Total amount: R$ 771,080
Quantity: 77,108
Unitary amount: R$ 10
1st Serie
Total amount: R$ 287,330
Quantity: 28,733
Payment: semi-annually
Maturity date: February 15, 2017
Repayment: from 24th month then on
Interest: DI + 0.99% p.a.
2nd Serie
Total amount: R$ 483,750
Quantity: 48,375
Payment: Annually
Maturity date: February 15, 2019
Repayment: not applicable
Interest: IPCA + 6.20% p.a.
The amount obtained in the 15th issue of debentures will be utilized to pay the liabilities of the
Company until December 31, 2012.
13th issue of debentures
On February 17, 2012, the Company fully repaid the 13th issue of debentures amounting to R$
633,343.
Japan International Cooperation Agency - JICA
On February 22, 2011, the Company signed an agreement amounting to ¥ 33.6 billion
(equivalent to R$ 710 million) with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to
accelarate the water recuperation program. The agreement last 25 years and the interest rate is
1.7% per annum.
* * *
F - 88
EXHIBIT 12.1
I, Dilma Seli Pena, certify that:
CERTIFICATION
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de
São Paulo - Sabesp;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit
to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under
which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements and other financial information included in this
report fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining
disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and
internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f))
for the company and have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures or caused such disclosure controls and
procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to
the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those
entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over
financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for
external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c) evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in
this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of
the end of the period covered by this report based on evaluation; and
d) disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is
reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting.
5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of
internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and to the audit committee of the
company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control
over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a
significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Date: September 20, 2012
By: /s/ Dilma Seli Pena
Name: Dilma Seli Pena
Title: Chief Executive Officer
EXHIBIT 12.2
I, Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso, certify that:
CERTIFICATION
1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 20-F of Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de
São Paulo - Sabesp;
2. Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit
to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under
which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;
3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements and other financial information included in this
report fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash
flows of the company as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;
4. The company’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining
disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and
internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f))
for the company and have:
a) designed such disclosure controls and procedures or caused such disclosure controls and
procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to
the company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those
entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;
b) designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over
financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance
regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for
external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;
c) evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in
this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures as of
the end of the period covered by this report based on evaluation; and
d) disclosed in this report any change in the company’s internal control over financial reporting that
occurred during the period covered by the annual report that has materially affected, or is
reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal control over financial reporting.
5. The company’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of
internal control over financial reporting, to the company’s auditors and to the audit committee of the
company’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):
a) all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control
over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the company’s ability to
record, process, summarize and report financial information; and
b) any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a
significant role in the company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Date: September 20, 2012
By: /s/ Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Name: Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Title: Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer
EXHIBIT 13.1
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE U.S. SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo –
Sabesp (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, as filed with the
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Dilma Seli Pena, Chief
Executive Officer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the
U.S. Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my knowledge:
(i) the Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the U.S. Securities
Exchange Act of 1934; and
(ii) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition
and results of operations of the Company.
Date: April 27, 2012
By: /s/ Dilma Seli Pena
Name: Dilma Seli Pena
Title: Chief Executive Officer
EXHIBIT 13.2
CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO 18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE U.S. SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002
In connection with the Annual Report of Companhia de Saneamento Básico do Estado de São Paulo –
Sabesp (the “Company”) on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2011, as filed with the
U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the “Report”), I, Rui de Britto Álvares
Affonso, Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. section
1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the U.S. Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002, that to the best of my
knowledge:
(i) the Report fully complies with the requirements of section 13(a) or 15(d) of the U.S. Securities
Exchange Act of 1934; and
(ii) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition
and results of operations of the Company.
Date: April 27, 2012
By: /s/ Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Name: Rui de Britto Álvares Affonso
Title: Chief Financial Officer and Investor Relations Officer