CNX Resources Corp

Previous wording

Our producing properties are geographically concentrated in the Appalachian Basin, which exacerbates the impact of regional supply and demand factors on our business, including the pricing of our natural gas. Not all of the natural gas produced in this region can be consumed by regional demand and must, therefore, be exported to other regions, which causes natural gas produced and sold locally to be priced at a discount to many other market hubs, such as the benchmark Henry Hub price. This discount, or negative basis, to the Henry Hub price is forecasted to continue in future years for all Appalachian Basin producers. While new interstate pipeline projects could reduce this discount, it could increase further if production in the basin continues to grow and projects to move natural gas out of the basin are cancelled, delayed or denied for any reason, such as permitting and regulatory issues or environmental lawsuits. For example, in July 2020, the Atlantic Coast Pipeline project, which was designed to move produced natural gas out of the northeast, was cancelled by its partners after nearly six years of work; and the Mountain Valley Pipeline, which is to move produced natural gas from northwestern West Virginia through southern Virginia and into North Carolina, has experienced numerous delays.

Current wording

Our producing properties are geographically concentrated in the Appalachian Basin, which exacerbates the impact of regional supply and demand factors on our business, including the pricing of our natural gas. Not all of the natural gas produced in this region can be consumed by regional demand and must, therefore, be exported to other regions, which causes natural gas produced and sold locally to be priced at a discount to many other market hubs, such as the benchmark Henry Hub price. This discount, or negative basis, to the Henry Hub price is forecasted to continue in future years for all Appalachian Basin producers. While new interstate pipeline projects could reduce this discount, it could increase further if production in the basin continues to grow and projects to move natural gas out of the basin are cancelled, delayed or denied for any reason, such as permitting and regulatory issues or environmental lawsuits.

Previous wording

Our development plans and operations also include some activity in areas of Shale formations that may also contain NGLs. The price for NGLs is also volatile for reasons similar to those described above for natural gas. Although the Company is able to hedge natural gas benchmarks and local basis differentials, it generally does not hedge its relatively minor quantities of NGLs. In addition, similar to natural gas, increased drilling activity by third parties in formations containing NGLs may lead to a decline in the price CNX receives for our NGLs. International demand and storage levels also affect NGL prices. Further, an oversupply of NGLs in the local markets where CNX operates requires excess NGLs to be transported out of our region and into the broader market, including international exports. NGLs are transported by a variety of methods, including pipeline, rail, and truck. Any disruption in those means of transportation could have a further detrimental impact on the price CNX receives for our NGLs. Our results of operations may be adversely affected by a depressed level of, or downward fluctuations in the price for NGLs.

Current wording

Our development plans and operations also include some activity in areas of Shale formations that may also contain NGLs. The price for NGLs is also volatile for reasons similar to those described above for natural gas. Although the Company is able to hedge natural gas benchmarks and local basis differentials, it maintains only a small hedge position in its relatively minor quantities of NGLs. In addition, similar to natural gas, increased drilling activity by third parties in formations containing NGLs may lead to a decline in the price CNX receives for our NGLs. International demand and storage levels also affect NGL prices. Further, an oversupply of NGLs in the local markets where CNX operates requires excess NGLs to be transported out of our region and into the broader market, including international exports. NGLs are transported by a variety of methods, including pipeline, rail, and truck. Any disruption in those means of transportation could have a further detrimental impact on the price CNX receives for our NGLs. Our results of operations may be adversely affected by a depressed level of, or downward fluctuations in the price for NGLs.

Previous wording

Lower natural gas prices or wells that produce less than expected quantities of natural gas, have in the past and may in the future reduce the amount of natural gas that CNX can produce economically. This results in our having to make substantial downward adjustments to our estimated proved reserves. When this occurs, or when our estimates of development costs increase, production data factors change or our exploration results deteriorate, accounting rules require us to write down, as a non-cash charge to earnings, the carrying value of our natural gas properties. CNX is required to perform impairment tests on our assets at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances lead to a reduction of the estimated useful life or estimated future cash flows that would indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable, indicate a potential impairment in the carrying value of goodwill or intangible assets as defined by GAAP, or whenever development plans change with respect to those assets. In the past CNX has had to record an impairment charge related to certain assets and CNX may incur impairment charges in the future, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations in the period taken. There were no impairments for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021.

Current wording

Lower natural gas prices or wells that produce less than expected quantities of natural gas, have in the past and may in the future reduce the amount of natural gas that CNX can produce economically. This results in our having to make substantial downward adjustments to our estimated proved reserves. When this occurs, or when our estimates of development costs increase, production data factors change or our exploration results deteriorate, accounting rules require us to write down, as a non-cash charge to earnings, the carrying value of our natural gas properties. CNX is required to perform impairment tests on our assets at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances lead to a reduction of the estimated useful life or estimated future cash flows that would indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable, indicate a potential impairment in the carrying value of goodwill or intangible assets as defined by GAAP, or whenever development plans change with respect to those assets. In the past CNX has had to record an impairment charge related to certain assets and CNX may incur impairment charges in the future, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations in the period taken. There were no indicators of impairment for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023 and 2022.

Previous wording

To manage our exposure to fluctuations in the price of natural gas, CNX enters into hedging arrangements with respect to a portion of our expected production. As of January 5, 2024, CNX expects these transactions will represent approximately 434.2 Bcf of our estimated 2024 production at an average price of $2.53 per Mcf, 375.1 Bcf of our estimated 2025 production at an average price of $2.41 per Mcf, 339.0 Bcf of our estimated 2026 production at an average price of $2.53 per Mcf, and 216.2 Bcf of our estimated 2027 production at an average price of $3.35 per Mcf. To the extent that CNX engages in hedging activities, CNX may be prevented from realizing the near-term benefits of price increases above the levels of the hedges. If CNX chooses not to engage in or otherwise reduce our future use of hedging arrangements or is unable to engage in hedging arrangements due to lack of acceptable counterparties, CNX may be more adversely affected by declines in natural gas prices than our competitors who engage in hedging arrangements to a greater extent than CNX does. Increases or decreases in forward market prices could result in material unrealized (non-cash) losses or gains on commodity derivative instruments resulting in volatility in reported earnings. Future legislation regarding derivatives could have an adverse effect on our ability to use derivative instruments to reduce the effect of commodity price risks associated with our business.

Current wording

To manage our exposure to fluctuations in the price of natural gas, CNX enters into hedging arrangements with respect to a portion of our expected production. As of January 15, 2025, CNX expects these transactions will represent approximately 478.9 Bcf of our estimated 2025 production at an average price of $2.58 per Mcf, 432.3 Bcf of our estimated 2026 production at an average price of $2.67 per Mcf, 304.4 Bcf of our estimated 2027 production at an average price of $3.28 per Mcf, 51.6 Bcf of our estimated 2028 production at an average price of $3.64 per Mcf, and a nominal amount of our estimated 2029 production. To the extent that CNX engages in hedging activities, CNX may be prevented from realizing the near-term benefits of price increases above the levels of the hedges. If CNX chooses not to engage in or otherwise reduce our future use of hedging arrangements or is unable to engage in hedging arrangements due to lack of acceptable counterparties, CNX may be more adversely affected by declines in natural gas prices than our competitors who engage in hedging arrangements to a greater extent than CNX does. Increases or decreases in forward market prices could result in material unrealized (non-cash) losses or gains on commodity derivative instruments resulting in volatility in reported earnings. Future legislation regarding derivatives could have an adverse effect on our ability to use derivative instruments to reduce the effect of commodity price risks associated with our business.

Previous wording

While CNX has not incurred significant disruptions to its operations during the past three fiscal years as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic or geopolitical conflict, including the ongoing war in Ukraine, the resulting global instability and any similar disruptions may materially and adversely affect, our business, operating and financial results and liquidity in the future. As the pandemic and global instability has significantly impacted economic activity and markets around the world, similar pandemics and conflicts could negatively impact our business in numerous ways, including, but not limited to, the following:

Current wording

While CNX has not incurred significant disruptions to its operations during the past three fiscal years as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic or geopolitical conflict, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, the resulting global instability and any similar disruptions may materially and adversely affect, our business, operating and financial results and liquidity in the future. As the pandemic and global instability has significantly impacted economic activity and markets around the world, similar pandemics and conflicts could negatively impact our business in numerous ways, including, but not limited to, the following:

Previous wording

Additionally, increased governmental attention to ESG matters, including rules promulgated by the SEC, as well as state actions such as, for example, California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and its Climate-Related Financial Risk Act, may require the production and public reporting of additional data for investors’ evaluation of investment and voting decisions. This could lead to negative investor sentiment toward us and to the diversion of their investment away from the fossil fuel industry to other industries. Such diversion could have a negative impact on our stock price and our access to and costs of capital.

Current wording

Additionally, increased governmental attention to ESG matters, including state actions such as California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act and its Climate-Related Financial Risk Act, may require the production and public reporting of additional data for investors’ evaluation of investment and voting decisions. This could lead to negative investor sentiment toward us and to the diversion of their investment away from the fossil fuel industry to other industries. Such a diversion could have a negative impact on our stock price and our access to and costs of capital.

Previous wording

Although CNX owns midstream facilities, we also depend on third party facilities to gather, process and transport our natural gas to market. Reductions, limitations or disruptions (including force majeure events) in pipeline, gathering, or processing facility capacity could force us to reduce our production, reduce our sales or transportation of natural gas and/or NGLs or purchase higher cost replacement gas, negatively affecting our profitability, and causing our unit costs to increase. A significant portion of our natural gas is sold on or through two pipeline systems, Texas Eastern Transmission and Columbia Gas Transmission, which could experience capacity issues, operational disruptions and unexpected downtime, including from cyberattacks, with either no or little alternative transportation options available for our natural gas. Further, if pipeline quality standards change or we cannot meet applicable standards, we might be required to install additional processing equipment which could increase our costs. Pipelines could also curtail our flows until the natural gas delivered to their pipeline is in compliance with predetermined gas quality specifications. Any reduction in our production of natural gas or increase in our costs could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

Although CNX owns midstream facilities, we also depend on third party facilities to gather, process and transport our natural gas to market. Reductions, limitations or disruptions (including force majeure events) in pipeline, gathering, or processing facility capacity could force us to reduce our production, reduce our sales or transportation of natural gas and/or NGLs or purchase higher cost replacement gas, negatively affecting our profitability, and causing our unit costs to increase. A significant portion of our natural gas is sold on or through two pipeline systems, Texas Eastern Transmission and Columbia Gas Transmission, which could experience capacity issues, operational disruptions and unexpected downtime, including from cybersecurity incidents and cyberattacks, with either no or little alternative transportation options available for our natural gas. Further, if pipeline quality standards change or we cannot meet applicable standards, we might be required to install additional processing equipment which could increase our costs. Pipelines could also curtail our flows until the natural gas delivered to their pipeline is in compliance with predetermined gas quality specifications. Any reduction in our production of natural gas or increase in our costs could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

Uncertainties exist in the estimation of economic recovery of natural gas reserves. Due to these uncertainties, estimates of revenues, operating and development costs and future profitability may prove to be inaccurate.

Current wording

Uncertainties exist in the estimation of the economic recovery of natural gas reserves. Due to these uncertainties, estimates of revenues, operating and development costs and future profitability may prove to be inaccurate.

Previous wording

The timing of both our production and our incurrence of expenses in connection with the development and production of natural gas, NGLs and oil and/or condensate will affect the timing of actual future net cash flows from proved reserves and thus their actual present value. In addition, the prescribed 10% discount factor used when calculating discounted future net cash flows may not be the most appropriate discount factor based on interest rates in effect from time to time and risks associated with us or the oil and natural gas industry in general. If natural gas prices decline by $0.10 per MMBtu, then the pre-tax present value using a 10% discount rate of our proved natural gas reserves as of December 31, 2023 would decrease from $4.2 billion to $4.0 billion.

Current wording

The timing of both our production and our incurrence of expenses in connection with the development and production of natural gas, NGLs and oil and/or condensate will affect the timing of actual future net cash flows from proved reserves and thus their actual present value. In addition, the prescribed 10% discount factor used when calculating discounted future net cash flows may not be the most appropriate discount factor based on interest rates in effect from time to time and risks associated with us or the oil and natural gas industry in general. If natural gas prices decline by $0.10 per MMBtu, then the pre-tax present value using a 10% discount rate of our proved natural gas reserves as of December 31, 2024 would decrease from $3.8 billion to $3.6 billion.

Previous wording

Our future development activities may not be successful, and if they are unsuccessful, such failure will have an adverse effect on our future results of operations and financial condition. CNX may be unable to develop identified or budgeted wells within our expected time frame, or at all for various reasons, and a final determination with respect to the development of any scheduled or budgeted wells will be dependent on a number of factors, including:

Current wording

The development of natural gas involves numerous risks, including the risk that an encountered well does not produce in sufficient quantities to make the well economically viable. The cost of drilling, completing and operating wells is substantial and uncertain, and our operations may be curtailed, delayed or canceled as a result of a variety of factors beyond our control. Our future development activities may not be successful, and if they are unsuccessful, such failure will have an adverse effect on our future results of operations and financial condition. CNX may be unable to develop identified or budgeted wells within our expected time frame, or at all for various reasons, and a final determination with respect to the development of any scheduled or budgeted wells will be dependent on a number of factors, including:

Previous wording

As part of our strategic determinations, CNX expects to continue to make substantial capital expenditures in the development and acquisition of natural gas reserves and the maintenance, purchase or construction of midstream systems. If CNX is unable to make sufficient or effective capital expenditures, we will be unable to maintain and grow our business. The gas gathering agreements that we have with third parties may impose obligations on us to invest capital in our midstream systems which are not fully protected against volumetric risks associated with lower-than-forecast volumes flowing through our gathering systems. If our customers fail to develop their properties in the areas covered by these acreage dedications, or otherwise sell, exchange, farm-out or otherwise dispose of all of, or an undivided interest in, the development of the dedicated acreage, the resulting decrease in the development of reserves by our midstream customers could result in reduced volumes serviced by us and a commensurate decline in revenues and cash flows.

Current wording

As part of our strategic determinations, CNX expects to continue to make substantial capital expenditures in the development and acquisition of natural gas reserves and the maintenance, purchase or construction of midstream systems. If CNX is unable to make sufficient or effective capital expenditures, we will be unable to maintain and grow our business. The gas gathering agreements that we have with third parties may impose obligations on us to invest capital in our midstream systems that are not fully protected against volumetric risks associated with lower-than-forecast volumes flowing through our gathering systems. If our customers fail to develop their properties in the areas covered by these acreage dedications, or otherwise sell, exchange, farm-out or otherwise dispose of all of, or an undivided interest in, the development of the dedicated acreage, the resulting decrease in the development of reserves by our midstream customers could result in reduced volumes serviced by us and a commensurate decline in revenues and cash flows.

Previous wording

CNX may not be able to obtain required personnel, services, equipment, parts and raw materials in a timely manner, in sufficient quantities or at reasonable costs to support our operations.

Current wording

CNX may not be able to obtain the required personnel, services, equipment, parts and raw materials in a timely manner, in sufficient quantities or at reasonable costs to support our operations.

Previous wording

In addition, accelerated levels of inflation may lead to price increases beyond CNX’s control that could lead to CNX incurring increased costs for contractors and/or materials. For example, fuel pricing and labor shortages have led to increased ground transportation costs. Accordingly, CNX cannot be assured that we will be able to obtain necessary services, drilling and completions equipment and supplies in a timely manner or on satisfactory terms, and CNX may experience shortages of or quality assurance issues with, or increases in the costs of, drilling and completions equipment, crews and associated supplies, equipment and field services used in the support of our operations.

Current wording

In addition, accelerated levels of inflation, including through the introduction of new tariffs, may lead to price increases beyond CNX’s control that could lead to CNX incurring increased costs for contractors and/or materials. For example, fuel pricing and labor shortages have led to increased ground transportation costs. Accordingly, CNX cannot be assured that we will be able to obtain necessary services, drilling and completions equipment and supplies in a timely manner or on satisfactory terms, and CNX may experience shortages of or quality assurance issues with, or increases in the costs of, drilling and completions equipment, crews and associated supplies, equipment and field services used in the support of our operations.

Previous wording

Further, our operations generate significant volumes of wastewater that must be treated, reused or disposed. This produced water or wastewater can be generated from various aspects of our operations, including from drilling fluids, completions activities and normal production over the life of the well, and are associated with all types of natural gas wells. A significant portion of this water can be recycled for use in other hydraulic fracturing operations. To the extent we must dispose of water rather than recycle it, our costs may increase, which will detrimentally affect our cash flows. We attempt to minimize the expense associated with the transportation of wastewater by optimizing the transportation between the sources of wastewater and locations where the wastewater can be reused or disposed. Various interruptions in our planned transportation of this wastewater, including operational issues and regulatory matters, could increase our operating costs, which would detrimentally affect our cash flows. The risk of pollution also exists while handling, transferring, storing, recycling and disposing wastewater and other wastes, as well as in development or production of a well.

Current wording

Further, our operations generate significant volumes of wastewater that must be treated, reused or disposed. This produced water or wastewater can be generated from various aspects of our operations, including from drilling fluids, completions activities and normal production over the life of the well, and are associated with all types of natural gas wells. A significant portion of this water can be recycled for use in other hydraulic fracturing operations. To the extent we must dispose of water rather than recycle it, our costs may increase, which will detrimentally affect our cash flows. We attempt to minimize the expense associated with the transportation of wastewater by optimizing the transportation between the sources of wastewater and locations where the wastewater can be reused or disposed. Various interruptions in our planned transportation of this wastewater, including operational issues and regulatory matters, could increase our operating costs, which would detrimentally affect our cash flows. The risk of pollution also exists while handling, transferring, storing, recycling and disposing of wastewater and other wastes, as well as in development or production of a well.

Previous wording

CNX may incur losses as a result of title defects in the properties in which CNX invests or the loss of certain leasehold or other rights related to our midstream activities.

Current wording

CNX may incur losses as a result of title defects in the properties in which CNX invests or that it acquires, or the loss of certain leasehold or other rights related to our midstream activities.

Previous wording

As is common in the oil and natural gas industry, it is our practice when CNX acquires natural gas leases or interests not to conduct a comprehensive chain of title examination to the mineral interest. Prior to the drilling of a well, however, it is the normal practice in our industry for the operator to obtain a complete title review to ensure there are no obvious defects in title to the underlying property interest. As a result of such examinations, certain curative work may be required to correct defects in the marketability of the title and such curative work entails expense. Our inability to cure any title defects in a timely and cost-efficient manner may delay or prevent us from utilizing the associated mineral interest, which may adversely impact our ability in the future to increase production and reserves. The existence of a material title deficiency can render a lease worthless and can adversely affect our results of operations and financial position.

Current wording

As is common in the oil and natural gas industry, it is our practice when CNX acquires natural gas leases or interests not to conduct a comprehensive chain of title examination to the mineral interest. Prior to the drilling of a well, however, it is the normal practice in our industry for the operator to obtain a complete title review to ensure there are no obvious defects in title to the underlying property interest, including interests acquired through any completed acquisition. As a result of such examinations, certain curative work may be required to correct defects in the marketability of the title and such curative work entails expense. Our inability to cure any title defects in a timely and cost-efficient manner may delay or prevent us from utilizing the associated mineral interest, which may adversely impact our ability in the future to increase production and reserves. The existence of a material title deficiency can render a lease worthless and can adversely affect our results of operations and financial position.

Previous wording

Affordable Clean Energy Rule was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit on the last day of the Trump administration in January 2021. Accordingly, the Biden administration is taking a different direction than the Trump administration regarding these regulatory actions. For example, the Biden administration re-entered the United States in the Paris Climate Accord, and the EPA adopted a new Climate Adaptation Action Plan in October of 2021. Additionally, in 2022, President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) which could accelerate the transition to a lower carbon economy. The IRA provides incentives for the development of renewable energy, clean hydrogen, clean fuels and supporting infrastructure and carbon capture and sequestration. In addition, the IRA amends the federal Clean Air Act to impose a fee on the emission of methane from sources required to report their GHG emissions to the EPA, including those sources in natural gas production and gathering. The methane emissions charge would be imposed on emissions above specified limits and would start in calendar year 2024 at $900 per ton of methane, increase to $1,200 in 2025, and be set at $1,500 for 2026 and each year after. The methane charge and the incentives for renewable energy infrastructure development could impose additional costs on our operations and further accelerate the transition of the economy away from the use of natural gas towards lower- or zero-carbon emissions alternatives. This could decrease demand for natural gas and consequently adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Current wording

In 2013, the EPA began regulating GHGs under the Clean Air Act to limit emissions of CO 2 from natural gas-fired power plants. Subsequently, the EPA reviewed and proposed repealing the Clean Power Plan in 2017, replacing it with the Affordable Clean Energy Rule (ACER) in 2019. ACER was vacated on the last day of the Trump administration in January 2021. Adopting an alternative approach, the Biden administration re-entered the United States in the Paris Climate Accord, and the EPA adopted a new Climate Adaptation Action Plan in October of 2021. In 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was signed, promoting renewable energy and imposing a fee on the emission of methane above specified limits from sources required to report their emissions to the EPA beginning in calendar year 2024. The methane charge and the incentives for renewable energy infrastructure development could increase operational costs and further accelerate the transition of the economy away from the use of natural gas towards lower carbon emissions alternatives. As these rules and any replacements or updates thereto are adopted, changed, rescinded or modified, these rules could decrease demand for natural gas and consequently adversely affect our business and results of operations.

Previous wording

The EPA has also adopted, changed and amended rules to control volatile organic compound emissions from certain oil and natural gas equipment and operations as part of its initiative to reduce methane emissions. In response to subsequent judicial involvement, the EPA issued a proposed rule in July 2017 that would stay the methane rule for two years (which rule was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit). Thereafter in September 2018, the EPA proposed revisions to the 2016 New Source Performance Standards for the oil and natural gas industry. Additional revisions were proposed in August 2019, August 2020 and November 2021. As these proposed rules and any replacements or updates thereto are adopted, changed, rescinded or modified, these rules may result in increased costs for permitting, equipping, and monitoring methane emissions or otherwise restrict operations or increase the costs thereof.

Current wording

The EPA has also adopted, changed and amended rules to control volatile organic compound emissions from certain oil and natural gas equipment and operations as part of its initiative to reduce methane emissions. In response to subsequent judicial involvement, the EPA issued a proposed rule in July 2017 that would stay the methane rule for two years (which rule was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit). Thereafter in September 2018, the EPA proposed revisions to the 2016 New Source Performance Standards for the oil and natural gas industry. Additional revisions were proposed in August 2019, August 2020 and November 2021. On December 2, 2023, the EPA finalized New Source Performance Standards to reduce methane and smog-forming volatile organic compounds from new, modified and reconstructed sources. This final action also includes Emissions Guidelines, which set procedures for states to follow as they develop plans to limit methane from existing sources. These rules may result in increased costs for permitting, equipping, and monitoring methane emissions or otherwise restrict operations or increase the costs thereof.

Previous wording

Additionally, some states have issued mandates to reduce emissions of GHGs, primarily through the planned development of GHG emission inventories and potential cap-and-trade programs. For example, Pennsylvania has taken steps to bring Pennsylvania into an eleven -state consortium of Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic States - the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) -- that sets price and declining limits on CO 2 emissions from power plants. In December 2021, the Pennsylvania Attorney General approved a proposed regulation which would allow Pennsylvania to join RGGI; however, the Pennsylvania General Assembly issued a concurrent regulatory review resolution process disapproving the proposed regulation. The regulation has been subject to challenges pending in Pennsylvania appellate courts, with one of Pennsylvania’s intermediate appellate courts ruling in November 2023 against the regulation as an improperly imposed tax in violation of the Pennsylvania Constitution. Most of these types of programs require major sources of emissions or major producers of fuels to acquire and subsequently surrender emission allowances, with the number of allowances available being reduced each year until a target goal is achieved. The cost of these allowances could increase over time. While new laws and regulations that are aimed at reducing GHG emissions will increase demand for natural gas, they may also result in increased costs for permitting, equipping, monitoring and reporting GHGs associated with natural gas production and use.

Current wording

General Assembly issued a concurrent regulatory review resolution process disapproving the proposed regulation. The regulation has been subject to challenges pending in Pennsylvania appellate courts, with one of Pennsylvania’s intermediate appellate courts ruling in November 2023 against the regulation as an improperly imposed tax in violation of the Pennsylvania Constitution. Most of these types of programs require major sources of emissions or major producers of fuels to acquire and subsequently surrender emission allowances, with the number of allowances available being reduced each year until a target goal is achieved. The cost of these allowances could increase over time. While new laws and regulations that are aimed at reducing GHG emissions will increase demand for natural gas, they may also result in increased costs for permitting, equipping, monitoring and reporting GHGs associated with natural gas production and use.

Previous wording

In addition, spurred by increasing concerns regarding climate change, the oil and natural gas industry faces growing demand for corporate transparency and a demonstrated commitment to sustainability goals. Environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals and programs, which typically include extralegal targets related to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and corporate governance, have become an increasing focus of investors and stakeholders across the industry.

Current wording

In addition, spurred by increasing concerns regarding climate change, the oil and natural gas industry faces growing demand for corporate transparency and a demonstrated commitment to sustainability goals. ESG goals and programs, which typically include extralegal targets related to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and corporate governance, have become an increasing focus of investors and stakeholders across the industry.

Previous wording

CNX utilizes pipelines extensively for its operations. Stream encroachment and crossing permits from the states in which we operate and/or the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) are often required for the location of or certain impacts these pipelines cause to streams and wetlands. The EPA and the ACOE have developed a rule that revised the definition of “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act. The EPA moved forward with the first step on December 11, 2018, when it issued a proposed, revised rule which would replace a prior 2015 rule with pre-2015 regulations, and which narrowed language defining “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act that existed prior to that time. In September 2019, the EPA and the ACOE announced that the agencies were repealing the 2015 rule. This second step was a notice-and-comment rulemaking in which federal agencies conducted a substantive reevaluation of such definition. On June 22, 2020, the Navigable Waters Protection Rule became effective. On June 9, 2021, the EPA announced its intent to revise the rule again. On August 4, 2021, the EPA and ACOE announced a rulemaking process to revise the definition of “waters of the United States.” On December 30, 2022, the EPA and ACOE announced a final rule for a “Revised Definition of ‘Waters of the United States’” which will be effective sixty days after publication in the Federal Register. On January 18, 2023, the EPA and ACOE published the final rule, which became effective on March 20, 2023. While CNX cannot at this time predict how this rule will be enforced by the Biden administration, such rulemaking, its enforcement, and future revisions to, or replacement of, the rulemaking could lead to additional mitigation costs and severely limit CNX’s operations.

Current wording

CNX utilizes pipelines extensively for its operations. Stream encroachment and crossing permits from the states in which we operate and/or the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) are often required for the location of or certain impacts these pipelines cause to streams and wetlands. The EPA and the ACOE have developed a rule that revised the definition of “waters of the United States” under the Clean Water Act. Beginning in 2018, the EPA and ACOE issued various revisions to the rule before publishing the final rule on January 18, 2023, which became effective on March 20, 2023. Not long after, on May 25, 2023, a United States Supreme Court ruling further modified the definition of “waters of the United States.” While CNX cannot at this time predict how this rule will be enforced, such rulemaking, its enforcement, and future revisions to, or replacement of, the rulemaking could lead to additional mitigation costs and severely limit CNX’s operations.

Previous wording

The foregoing and other regulations applicable to the natural gas industry are under constant review for modification, amendment or expansion at both the federal and state levels. Any future changes may increase the costs of producing natural gas and other hydrocarbons, which would adversely impact our cash flows and results of operations. For example, hydraulic fracturing is an important and common practice that is used to stimulate production of hydrocarbons from tight unconventional Shale formations. The process involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into formations to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production. The process is typically regulated by state environmental or oil and natural gas agencies. The disposal of flowback and produced water and other wastes in underground injection disposal wells is regulated by the EPA under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and by various states in which we conduct operations under counterpart state laws and regulations. The imposition of new environmental initiatives and regulations could include restrictions on our ability to conduct hydraulic fracturing operations or to dispose of waste resulting from such operations.

Current wording

Shale formations. The process involves the injection of water, sand and chemicals under pressure into formations to fracture the surrounding rock and stimulate production. The process is typically regulated by state environmental or oil and natural gas agencies. The disposal of flowback and produced water and other wastes in underground injection disposal wells is regulated by the EPA under the federal Safe Drinking Water Act and by various states in which we conduct operations under counterpart state laws and regulations. The imposition of new environmental initiatives and regulations could include restrictions on our ability to conduct hydraulic fracturing operations or to dispose of waste resulting from such operations.

Previous wording

Public interest in the protection of the environment has increased dramatically in recent years. The trend of more expansive and stringent environmental legislation and regulations applied to the oil and natural gas industry could continue, potentially resulting in increased costs of doing business and consequently affecting profitability. Please read “Business - Regulation of Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health Matters” under Item 1 of Part I of this Form 10-K.

Current wording

Public interest in the protection of the environment has increased dramatically in recent years. The trend of more expansive and stringent environmental legislation and regulations applied to the oil and natural gas industry could continue, potentially resulting in increased costs of doing business and consequently affecting profitability. Please read “Laws and Regulations” under Item 1 of Part I of this Form 10-K.

Previous wording

Further, the Biden administration has taken a different direction than the Trump administration regarding certain regulatory measures impacting air emissions or clean water standards. For example, the Biden administration re-entered the United States in the Paris Climate Accords and the EPA adopted a new Climate Adaptation Action Plan in October of 2021, and may attempt to establish more stringent standards to replace the Affordable Clean Energy Rule, which was vacated by the United States Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit on the last day of the Trump administration in January 2021. For additional detail regarding the risks to our business resulting from governmental regulation, see Risk Factor titled, “Climate change risk, legislation, litigation and regulation of greenhouse gas emissions at the federal or state level may increase our operating costs and reduce the value of our natural gas assets. Any such regulation that may be implemented, as well as uncertainty concerning such regulation and public policy pressures, could adversely impact the market for natural gas, as well as for our securities”(See Note 20 – Commitments and Contingent Liabilities in the Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for further discussion of pending legal proceedings).

Current wording

For additional detail regarding the risks to our business resulting from governmental regulation, see Risk Factor titled, “Climate change risk, legislation, litigation and regulation of greenhouse gas emissions at the federal or state level may increase our operating costs and reduce the value of our natural gas assets. Any such regulation that may be implemented, as well as uncertainty concerning such regulation and public policy pressures, could adversely impact the market for natural gas, as well as for our securities”(See Note 20 – Commitments and Contingent Liabilities in the Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for further discussion of pending legal proceedings).

Previous wording

In October 2019, PHMSA published a final rule that significantly modifies existing regulations related to reporting, impact, design, construction, maintenance, operations and integrity management of gas transmission and gathering pipelines. Compliance with the rule could materially adversely affect our operations. In May 2020, PHMSA proposed additional amendments to Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations. In November 2021, PHMSA published a final rule in the Federal Register with an effective date of May 15, 2022, expanding certain federal pipeline safety requirements to all onshore gas gathering pipelines. The adoption of these regulations, which may apply different and/or more comprehensive or stringent safety standards than CNX has been subject to, could require us to install new or modified safety controls, pursue new capital projects, or conduct maintenance programs on an accelerated basis, all of which could require us to incur increased operational costs that could be significant. While CNX cannot predict the outcome of legislative or regulatory initiatives, such legislative and regulatory changes could have a material effect on our cash flow.

Current wording

In October 2019, PHMSA published a final rule that significantly modifies existing regulations related to reporting, impact, design, construction, maintenance, operations and integrity management of gas transmission and gathering pipelines. Compliance with the rule could materially adversely affect our operations. In May 2020, PHMSA proposed additional amendments to the Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations. In November 2021, PHMSA published a final rule in the Federal Register with an effective date of May 15, 2022, expanding certain federal pipeline safety requirements to all onshore gas gathering pipelines. The adoption of these regulations, which may apply different and/or more comprehensive or stringent safety standards than CNX has been subject to, could require us to install new or modified safety controls, pursue new capital projects, or conduct maintenance programs on an accelerated basis, all of which could require us to incur increased operational costs that could be significant. While CNX cannot predict the outcome of legislative or regulatory initiatives, such legislative and regulatory changes could have a material effect on our cash flow.

Previous wording

Any passage of future legislation or any other changes in U.S. federal or state income tax laws that would eliminate or postpone certain tax deductions that are currently available with respect to natural gas exploration and development could negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations. For example, previous tax law legislation decreased the regular U.S. federal income tax rate, limited the ability of corporations to take certain interest deductions, increased the limitation on deductibility of executive compensation, and eliminated a corporation’s ability to take deductions for income attributable to domestic production activities.

Current wording

Any passage of future legislation or any other changes in U.S. federal or state income tax laws that would eliminate or postpone certain tax deductions that are currently available with respect to natural gas exploration and development could negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations. For example, previous tax law legislation decreased the regular U.S. federal income tax rate, limited the ability of corporations to take certain interest deductions, increased the limitation on deductibility of executive compensation, and decreased a corporation’s ability to take deductions for capital expenditures.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, CNX has U.S. federal and state NOL carryforwards of $0.8 billion and $1.6 billion, respectively, some of which expire at various dates from 2024 to 2041 while others have no expiration date. CNX expects to be able to utilize these NOL carryforwards and generate deductions to offset our future taxable income. This expectation is based upon assumptions we have made regarding, among other things, our income, capital expenditures and net working capital and the current expectation that our NOL carryforwards will not become subject to future limitations under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 or otherwise. Additionally, any significant variance in our interpretation of current income tax laws, including as result of the release of any Treasury Regulations or other interpretive guidance or a challenge of one or more of our tax positions by the IRS or other tax authorities could affect our tax position. While CNX expects to be able to utilize our NOL carryforwards and generate deductions to offset our future taxable income, in the event that deductions are not generated as expected, one or more of our tax positions are successfully challenged by the IRS (in a tax audit or otherwise), or our NOL carryforwards are subject to future limitations, our future tax liability may be greater than expected.

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, CNX has U.S. federal and state NOL carryforwards of $0.7 billion and $1.5 billion, respectively, some of which expire at various dates from 2025 to 2041 while others have no expiration date. CNX expects to be able to utilize these NOL carryforwards and generate deductions to offset our future taxable income. This expectation is based upon assumptions we have made regarding, among other things, our income, capital expenditures and net working capital and the current expectation that our NOL carryforwards will not become subject to future limitations under Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 or otherwise. Additionally, any significant variance in our interpretation of current income tax laws, including as result of the release of any Treasury Regulations or other interpretive guidance or a challenge of one or more of our tax positions by the IRS or other tax authorities could affect our tax position. While CNX expects to be able to utilize our NOL carryforwards and generate deductions to offset our future taxable income, in the event that deductions are not generated as expected, one or more of our tax positions are successfully challenged by the IRS (in a tax audit or otherwise), or our NOL carryforwards are subject to future limitations, our future tax liability may be greater than expected.

Previous wording

We expect environmental attributes (including but not limited to carbon credits, air quality credits, renewable or alternative energy credits, alternate energy credits, methane capture credits, methane performance certificates, emission reductions, differentiated energy attribute tokens, offsets and/or allowances) to continue to grow as a source of future revenue. These new markets are volatile and have significant risk associated with current market conditions. We have limited experience in marketing and selling environmental attributes and as such, our ability to sell environmental attributes or credits is currently dependent on third parties to market them on our behalf. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that our environmental attributes will generate significant revenue, as pricing continues to be volatile and program qualification requirements can change. Additionally, the value of environmental attributes may fluctuate based on the quantities and types of environmental attributes we sell and the associated revenue can vary depending on a number of factors, including the market for these credits, changes to the various voluntary or compliance programs under which the credits are generated and sold, and our ability to strictly comply with the programs under which the attributes can be sold. CNX also does not have control over the availability of environmental attributes, competition for those attributes, markets for those attributes, or pricing and other terms related to such attributes. The value of environmental attributes may also be adversely affected by legislative, agency, or judicial determinations. These and other factors could impact our future results of operations and cash flows.

Current wording

We expect environmental attributes (including but not limited to carbon credits, air quality credits, renewable or alternative energy credits, alternate energy credits, methane capture credits, methane performance certificates, emission reductions, differentiated energy attribute tokens, production tax credits, investment tax credits, grants, energy attribute certificates, carbon intensity claims, renewable thermal certificates, offsets and/or allowances) to continue to grow as a source of future revenue. These new markets are volatile and have significant risk associated with current policy and market conditions. We have limited experience in marketing and selling environmental attributes and as such, our ability to sell environmental attributes or credits is currently dependent on third parties to market them on our behalf. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that our environmental attributes will generate significant revenue, as pricing continues to be volatile and program qualification requirements can change. Additionally, the value of environmental attributes may fluctuate based on the quantities and types of environmental attributes we sell and the associated revenue can vary depending on a number of factors, including the market for these credits, changes to the various voluntary or compliance programs under which the credits are generated and sold, and our ability to strictly comply with the programs under which the attributes can be sold. CNX also does not have control over the availability of environmental attributes, competition for those attributes, markets for those attributes, or pricing and other terms related to such attributes. The value of environmental attributes may also be adversely affected by eligibility determinations, policies, conditional restrictions, mischaracterizations, uncertainty, or penalties associated with certain legislative, agency, registry, verifier, certification system, or judicial determinations, updates or rulemakings. These and other factors could impact our future results of operations and cash flows.

Previous wording

As of December 31, 2023, CNX’s total long-term indebtedness was approximately $2.2 billion, excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, of which approximately (i) $500 million was under our 7.375% Senior Notes due 2031 less $5 million of unamortized discount, (ii) $500 million of 6.00% Senior Notes due 2029, (iii) $400 million of 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030 issued by our midstream business, less $4 million of unamortized bond discount (CNX is not a guarantor of these notes), (iv) $350 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2027 plus $2 million of unamortized bond premium, (v) $331 million of 2.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026 less $5 million of unamortized discount and issuance cost, (vi) $105 million in outstanding borrowings under our midstream revolver (CNX is not a guarantor of this revolving credit facility), and (vii) $52 million in outstanding borrowings under our senior secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”). The degree to which CNX is leveraged could have important consequences, including, but not limited to:

Current wording

As of December 31, 2024, CNX’s total long-term indebtedness was approximately $2.2 billion, excluding unamortized debt issuance costs, of which approximately (i) $500 million of 6.00% Senior Notes due 2029, (ii) $500 million was under our 7.375% Senior Notes due 2031 less $5 million of unamortized discount, (iii) $400 million of 7.25% Senior Notes due 2032 less $4 million of unamortized discount, (iv) $400 million of 4.75% Senior Notes due 2030 issued by our midstream business, less $3 million of unamortized bond discount (CNX is not a guarantor of these notes), (v) $331 million of 2.25% Convertible Senior Notes due 2026 less $3 million of unamortized discount and issuance cost, (vi) $16 million in outstanding borrowings under our midstream revolver (CNX is not a guarantor of this revolving credit facility), and (vii) $43 million in outstanding borrowings under our senior secured credit facility (the “CNX Credit Facility”). The degree to which CNX is leveraged could have important consequences, including, but not limited to:

Previous wording

Our ability to borrow and have letters of credit issued under our $1.4 billion senior secured revolving credit facility is generally limited to a borrowing base. Our borrowing base is determined by the required number of lenders in good faith calculating a loan value of the Company’s proved natural gas reserves. The borrowing base under our senior secured revolving credit facility is currently $2.3 billion. Our borrowing base is redetermined by the lenders twice per year, and the next scheduled borrowing base redetermination is expected to occur in the Spring of 2024. The various matters which we describe in other risk factors that can decrease our proved natural gas reserves including lower natural gas prices, operating difficulties and failure to replace our proved reserves could also decrease our borrowing base. Our borrowing base could also decrease as a result of new lending requirements or regulations or the issuance of new indebtedness. If our borrowing base declined significantly below $2.3 billion, CNX may be unable to implement our development plans, make acquisitions or otherwise execute our business plan which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. CNX also could be required to repay any outstanding indebtedness in excess of the redetermined borrowing base. CNX could face substantial liquidity problems, might not be able to access the equity or debt capital markets and might be required to sell material assets or operations to attempt to meet our debt service and other obligations. CNX may not be able to consummate those sales or to obtain the proceeds which CNX could realize from them, and those proceeds may not be adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due.

Current wording

Our ability to borrow and have letters of credit issued under our $1.4 billion senior secured revolving credit facility is generally limited to a borrowing base. Our borrowing base is determined by the required number of lenders in good faith calculating a loan value of the Company’s proved natural gas reserves. The borrowing base under our senior secured revolving credit facility is currently $2.3 billion. Our borrowing base is redetermined by the lenders twice per year, and the next scheduled borrowing base redetermination is expected to occur in the spring of 2025. The various matters which we describe in other risk factors that can decrease our proved natural gas reserves including lower natural gas prices, operating difficulties and failure to replace our proved reserves could also decrease our borrowing base. Our borrowing base could also decrease as a result of new lending requirements or regulations or the issuance of new indebtedness. If our borrowing base declined significantly below $2.3 billion, CNX may be unable to implement our development plans, make acquisitions or otherwise execute our business plan which could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations. CNX also could be required to repay any outstanding indebtedness in excess of the redetermined borrowing base. CNX could face substantial liquidity problems, might not be able to access the equity or debt capital markets and might be required to sell material assets or operations to attempt to meet our debt service and other obligations. CNX may not be able to consummate those sales or to obtain the proceeds that CNX could realize from them, and those proceeds may not be adequate to meet any debt service obligations then due.

Previous wording

In connection with establishing their initial hedges of the capped call transactions, these financial institutions or their respective affiliates purchased shares of our common stock and/or entered into various derivative transactions with respect to our common stock, and they may modify their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivatives and/or purchasing or selling our common stock or other securities of ours in secondary market transactions prior to the maturity of the Convertible Notes (and are likely to do so during any observation period related to a conversion of Convertible Notes). Further, CNX will be subject to the unsecured risk that the financial institutions might default under the capped call transactions. If a counterparty becomes subject to insolvency proceedings with respect to such counterparty’s obligations under the relevant capped call transaction, we will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to our exposure at that time under our transactions with that counterparty. Our exposure will depend on many factors, but, generally, the increase in our exposure will be positively correlated to the increase in the market price and in the volatility of our common stock.

Current wording

CNX will be subject to the unsecured risk that the financial institutions might default under the capped call transactions. If a counterparty becomes subject to insolvency proceedings with respect to such counterparty’s obligations under the relevant capped call transaction, we will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to our exposure at that time under our transactions with that counterparty. Our exposure will depend on many factors, but, generally, the increase in our exposure will be positively correlated to the increase in the market price and in the volatility of our common stock.

Previous wording

In the future, CNX may make acquisitions of assets or businesses that complement or expand our current business. No assurance can be given that CNX will be able to identify suitable acquisition opportunities, negotiate acceptable terms, obtain financing for acquisitions on acceptable terms or successfully acquire the identified targets. The success of any completed acquisition will depend on our ability to effectively integrate the acquired business into our existing operations and to identify and appropriately manage any liabilities assumed as part of the acquisition. The process of integrating acquired businesses or assets may involve unforeseen difficulties and may require a disproportionate amount of our managerial and financial resources. Our failure to make acquisitions in the future and successfully integrate the acquired businesses or assets into our existing operations could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Current wording

In the future, CNX may make acquisitions of assets or businesses that complement or expand our current business. For example, on January 27, 2025, CNX completed the Apex Transaction (See Note 22 – Subsequent Event in the Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for more information). No assurance can be given that CNX will be able to identify suitable acquisition opportunities, negotiate acceptable terms, obtain financing for acquisitions on acceptable terms or successfully acquire the identified targets. The success of any completed acquisition, including the Apex Transaction, will depend on our ability to effectively integrate the acquired business into our existing operations and to identify and appropriately manage any liabilities assumed as part of the acquisition. The process of integrating acquired businesses or assets may involve unforeseen difficulties and may require a disproportionate amount of our managerial and financial resources. Our failure to make acquisitions in the future and successfully integrate the acquired businesses or assets into our existing operations could materially adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

Previous wording

CNX currently has a repurchase program in place authorized by our board of directors, which is not subject to an expiration date, and for which $1.1 billion remains available for repurchases as of February 6, 2024. The repurchase program does not require us to acquire any specific number of shares. Our board of directors determination to repurchase shares of our common stock will depend upon market conditions, applicable legal requirements, contractual obligations and other factors that the board of directors deems relevant. Based on an evaluation of these factors, our board of directors may determine not to repurchase shares or to repurchase shares at reduced levels from those anticipated by our shareholders See Note 5 – Stock Repurchase in the Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for further discussion.

Current wording

CNX currently has a repurchase program in place authorized by our board of directors, which is not subject to an expiration date, and for which $1.0 billion remains available for repurchases as of February 4, 2025. The repurchase program does not require us to acquire any specific number of shares. Our Board of Directors determination to repurchase shares of our common stock will depend upon market conditions, applicable legal requirements, contractual obligations and other factors that the board of directors deems relevant. Based on an evaluation of these factors, our Board of Directors may determine not to repurchase shares or to repurchase shares at reduced levels from those anticipated by our shareholders See Note 5 – Stock Repurchase in the Notes to the Audited Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8 of this Form 10-K for further discussion.

Previous wording

Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement and certain other agreements with CONSOL Energy, CNX and CONSOL Energy have agreed to indemnify the other for certain liabilities in each case for uncapped amounts. We remain liable as a guarantor on certain liabilities that were assumed by CONSOL Energy in connection with the separation. The estimated value of these guarantees was approximately $114 million as of December 31, 2023. Although CONSOL Energy agreed to indemnify us to the extent that we are called upon to pay any of these liabilities, there is no assurance that CONSOL Energy will satisfy its obligations to indemnify us in these situations.

Current wording

Pursuant to the Separation and Distribution Agreement and certain other agreements with CONSOL Energy, CNX and CONSOL Energy have agreed to indemnify the other for certain liabilities in each case for uncapped amounts. We remain liable as a guarantor on certain liabilities that were assumed by CONSOL Energy in connection with the separation. The estimated value of these guarantees was approximately $103 million as of December 31, 2024. Although CONSOL Energy agreed to indemnify us to the extent that we are called upon to pay any of these liabilities, there is no assurance that CONSOL Energy will satisfy its obligations to indemnify us in these situations.

Previous wording

Cyber-incidents targeting our systems, oil and natural gas industry systems and infrastructure, or the systems of our third-party service providers could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Current wording

Cybersecurity incidents targeting our data, systems, oil and natural gas industry systems and infrastructure, or the systems of our third-party service providers or business partners could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Previous wording

Cyber-incidents, including cybersecurity incidents, data misuse and ransomware attacks, continue to proliferate and become more sophisticated, and could significantly affect us, third party operators on whom we depend, or the operations of our customers and business partners, as well as impact general economic conditions, consumer confidence and spending and market liquidity. Strategic targets, including energy-related assets, may be at greater risk of future incidents than other targets in the United States. A cyber incident could result in information theft, data corruption, operational disruption, including environmental and safety issues resulting from a loss of control of field equipment and assets, and/or financial loss. Consequently, it is possible that any of these occurrences, or a combination of them, could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and impact our production. Our insurance may not protect us against all such occurrences.

Current wording

Cybersecurity incidents, including cybersecurity attacks, data misuse and ransomware attacks, continue to proliferate and some may become more sophisticated, and could significantly affect us, third-party operators or business partners on whom we depend, or the operations of our customers and business partners, as well as impact general economic conditions, consumer confidence and spending and market liquidity. Strategic targets, including energy-related assets, may be at greater risk of future incidents than other targets in the United States. Cybersecurity incidents can also include employee or personnel failures, fraud, phishing or other social engineering attempts or other methods to cause confidential information, payments, account access or access credentials, or other data to be transmitted to an unintended recipient. Cybersecurity threat actors also may attempt to exploit vulnerabilities in software, including software commonly used by companies in cloud-based services and bundled software. A cybersecurity incident could result in information theft, data corruption, operational disruption, including environmental and safety issues resulting from a loss of control of field equipment and assets, and/or financial loss. Consequently, it is possible that any of these occurrences, or a combination of them, could materially adversely affect our business, financial condition and impact our production.

Previous wording

As dependence on digital technologies has increased the threat of cyber incidents, including deliberate attacks or unintentional events, have also increased. A cyber-incident could include gaining unauthorized access to digital systems for purposes of misappropriating assets or sensitive information, corrupting data, or causing operational disruption, or result in denial-of-service on websites. SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) based systems are potentially vulnerable to targeted cyber-attacks due to their critical role in operations.

Current wording

As dependence on digital technologies has increased the threat of cybersecurity incidents, including deliberate attacks or unintentional events, have also increased. A cybersecurity incident could include gaining unauthorized access to digital systems for purposes of misappropriating assets or sensitive information, corrupting data, or causing operational disruption, or result in denial-of-service on websites. SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) based systems are potentially vulnerable to targeted cyber-attacks due to their critical role in operations.

Previous wording

Our technologies, systems, networks, data centers and those of our business partners and suppliers may become the target of cyber-incidents or information security breaches that could result in the unauthorized release, gathering, monitoring, misuse, loss or destruction of proprietary and other information, or other disruption of our business operations. In addition, certain cyber incidents, such as surveillance, may remain undetected for an extended period.

Current wording

Our technologies, systems, networks, data centers and those of our business partners and suppliers may become the target of cybersecurity incidents or information systems security breaches that could result in the unauthorized release, gathering, monitoring, misuse, loss or destruction of proprietary and other information, or other disruption of our business operations. In addition, certain cybersecurity incidents, such as surveillance, may remain undetected for an extended period.

Previous wording

Deliberate attacks on our assets, or security breaches in our systems or infrastructure, the systems or infrastructure of third-parties or off-premise service providers could lead to corruption or loss of our proprietary data and potentially sensitive data, delays in production or delivery, difficulty in completing and settling transactions, challenges in maintaining our books and records, environmental damage, communication interruptions, damage to our reputation, other operational disruptions and third-party liability, including the following:

Current wording

Deliberate attacks on our assets, or security breaches in our systems or infrastructure, the systems or infrastructure of third parties or off-premise service providers could lead to corruption or loss of our data and potentially sensitive data, delays in production or delivery, difficulty in completing and settling transactions, challenges in maintaining our books and records, environmental damage, communication interruptions, costs related to remediation or the payment of ransom, and litigation, including individual claims or consumer class actions, commercial litigation, administrative, and civil or criminal investigations or actions, regulatory intervention and sanctions or fines, investigation costs, damage to our reputation, other operational disruptions and third-party liability, including the following:

Previous wording

•a cyber-incident impacting one of our vendors or service providers could result in supply chain disruptions, loss or corruption of our information or other negative consequences, any of which could delay or halt development of additional infrastructure, effectively delaying the start of cash flows from the project;

Current wording

•a cybersecurity incident impacting one of our vendors or service providers could result in supply chain disruptions, loss or corruption of our information or other negative consequences, any of which could delay or halt development of additional infrastructure, effectively delaying the start of cash flows from the project;