10-Q

United States

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

______________________________________ 

FORM 10-Q

 ______________________________________  

☒ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021

or

☐ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from to

Commission File Number: 001-37822

______________________________________  

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

______________________________________   

Delaware	27-5472457
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)	(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
8051 E. Maplewood Ave, Suite 210, Greenwood Village, CO	80111
(Address of principal executive offices)	(Zip Code)

(720) 598-3500
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Not Applicable

(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report)

______________________________________ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  ☒   No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically 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  ☒    No  ☐

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer	☐	Accelerated filer	☐
Non-accelerated filer	☒	Smaller reporting company	☒
		Emerging growth company	☐

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. ☐ 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes  ☐    No  ☒

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Class	Trading Symbol	Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, par value $0.001 per share	ADES	NASDAQ Global Market

As of May 5, 2021, there were 18,855,607 outstanding shares of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. common stock, par value $0.001 per share.

INDEX

		PAGE
PART I. - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.	Financial Statements (unaudited):
	Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020	1
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020	2
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020	3
	Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020	4
	Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements	4
Item 2.	Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations	25
Item 3.	Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk	38
Item 4.	Controls and Procedures	38
PART II. - OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.	Legal Proceedings	39
Item 1a.	Risk Factors	39
Item 2.	Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds	39
Item 3.	Defaults Upon Senior Securities	39
Item 4.	Mine Safety Disclosures	39
Item 5.	Other Information	39
Item 6.	Exhibits	40
	Signatures	41

Part I. – FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1. Consolidated Financial Statements

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited)

	As of
(in thousands, except share data)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	$	42,234	$	30,932
Receivables, net	10,349		13,125
Receivables, related parties	4,064		3,453
Inventories, net	8,040		9,882
Prepaid expenses and other assets	3,420		4,597
Total current assets	68,107		61,989
Restricted cash, long-term	10,000		5,000
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,172 and $3,340, respectively	29,777		29,433
Intangible assets, net	1,804		1,964
Equity method investments	2,753		7,692
Deferred tax assets, net	7,553		10,604
Other long-term assets, net	31,576		29,989
Total Assets	$	151,570	$	146,671
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	7,908	$	7,849
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	2,214		3,257
Current portion of long-term debt	9,913		18,441
Other current liabilities	14,888		12,996
Total current liabilities	34,923		42,543
Long-term debt, net of current portion	4,287		5,445
Other long-term liabilities	13,208		13,473
Total Liabilities	52,418		61,461
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock: par value of $.001 per share, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding	—		—
Common stock: par value of $.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 23,481,648 and 23,141,284 shares issued, and 18,863,502 and 18,523,138 shares outstanding at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively	23		23
Treasury stock, at cost: 4,618,146 and 4,618,146 shares as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively	(47,692)		(47,692)
Additional paid-in capital	100,630		100,425
Retained earnings	46,191		32,454
Total stockholders’ equity	99,152		85,210
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$	151,570	$	146,671

See Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

1

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited) 

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share data)	2021		2020
Revenues:
Consumables	$	17,031	$	9,217
License royalties, related party	4,066		3,046
Total revenues	21,097		12,263
Operating expenses:
Consumables cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	12,474		11,491
Payroll and benefits	2,469		2,742
Legal and professional fees	1,803		2,043
General and administrative	1,915		2,331
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	2,106		2,297
Total operating expenses	20,767		20,904
Operating income (loss)	330		(8,641)
Other income (expense):
Earnings from equity method investments	18,312		8,273
Interest expense	(837)		(1,210)
Other	421		43
Total other income	17,896		7,106
Income (loss) before income tax expense	18,226		(1,535)
Income tax expense	4,489		358
Net income (loss)	$	13,737	$	(1,893)
Earnings (loss) per common share (Note 1):
Basic	$	0.76	$	(0.11)
Diluted	$	0.75	$	(0.11)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic	18,166		17,932
Diluted	18,274		17,932

See Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

2

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity

(Unaudited)

	Common Stock			Treasury Stock
(Amounts in thousands, except share data)	Shares	Amount		Shares	Amount		Additional Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Total Stockholders’ Equity
January 1, 2021	23,141,284	$	23	(4,618,146)	$	(47,692)	$	100,425	$	32,454	$	85,210
Stock-based compensation	381,339	—		—	—		421		—		421
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(40,975)	—		—	—		(216)		—		(216)
Net income	—	—		—	—		—		13,737		13,737
Balances, March 31, 2021	23,481,648	$	23	(4,618,146)	$	(47,692)	$	100,630	$	46,191	$	99,152

	Common Stock			Treasury Stock
(Amounts in thousands, except share data)	Shares	Amount		Shares	Amount		Additional Paid-in Capital		Retained Earnings		Total Stockholders’ Equity
Balances, January 1, 2020	22,960,157	$	23	(4,597,533)	$	(47,533)	$	98,466	$	57,336	$	108,292
Stock-based compensation	218,259	—		—	—		506		—		506
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(64,198)	—		—	—		(376)		—		(376)
Cash dividends declared on common stock	—	—		—	—		—		(4,590)		(4,590)
Repurchase of common shares	—	—		(20,613)	(159)		—		—		(159)
Net loss	—	—		—	—		—		(1,893)		(1,893)
Balances, March 31, 2020	23,114,218	$	23	(4,618,146)	$	(47,692)	$	98,596	$	50,853	$	101,780

See Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

3

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	$	13,737	$	(1,893)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Deferred income tax expense	3,051		788
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	2,106		2,297
Operating lease expense	379		774
Amortization of debt discount and debt issuance costs	591		354
Stock-based compensation expense	421		506
Earnings from equity method investments	(18,312)		(8,273)
Other non-cash items, net	(273)		—
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables and related party receivables	2,147		2,988
Prepaid expenses and other assets	1,178		226
Inventories, net	1,548		1,572
Other long-term assets, net	(1,817)		(89)
Accounts payable	(706)		(1,477)
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	(1,043)		(973)
Other current liabilities	1,305		(23)
Operating lease liabilities	2,104		(634)
Other long-term liabilities	(2,113)		(22)
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment	17,644		17,116
Net cash provided by operating activities	21,947		13,237
Cash flows from investing activities
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of cumulative earnings	5,607		—
Acquisition of property, plant, equipment, and intangible assets, net	(1,321)		(1,289)
Mine development costs	(248)		(447)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	848		—
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	4,886		(1,736)
Cash flows from financing activities
Principal payments on term loan	(10,000)		(6,000)
Principal payments on finance lease obligations	(315)		(340)
Dividends paid	—		(4,518)
Repurchase of common shares	—		(159)
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy tax withholdings	(216)		(376)
Net cash used in financing activities	(10,531)		(11,393)
Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash	16,302		108
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, beginning of period	35,932		17,080
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, end of period	$	52,234	$	17,188
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment through accounts payable	$	765	$	1,890
Dividends payable	$	—	$	105

See Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

4

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 1 - Basis of Presentation

Nature of Operations

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. ("ADES" or the "Company") is a Delaware corporation with its principal office located in Greenwood Village, Colorado and operations located in Louisiana. The Company is principally engaged in the sale of consumable air and water treatment options including activated carbon ("AC") and chemical technologies. The Company's proprietary technologies in the advanced purification technologies ("APT") market enable customers to reduce air and water contaminants, including mercury and other pollutants, to maximize utilization levels and improve operating efficiencies to meet the challenges of existing and pending emission control regulations. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, ADA Carbon Solutions, LLC ("Carbon Solutions"), the Company manufactures and sells AC used to capture and remove contaminants for coal-fired power plants and industrial and water treatment markets. Carbon Solutions also owns an associated lignite mine that supplies the primary raw material for manufacturing AC.

Through its equity ownership in Tinuum Group, LLC ("Tinuum Group") and Tinuum Services, LLC ("Tinuum Services"), both of which are unconsolidated entities, the Company generates substantial earnings. Tinuum Group provides reduction of mercury and nitrogen oxide ("NOx") emissions at select coal-fired power generators through the production and sale of refined coal ("RC") that qualifies for tax credits under the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 45 - Production Tax Credit ("Section 45 tax credits"). The Company also earns royalties for technologies that are licensed to Tinuum Group and used at certain RC facilities to enhance combustion and reduced emissions of NOx and mercury from coal burned to generate electrical power. Tinuum Services operates and maintains the RC facilities under operating and maintenance agreements with Tinuum Group and owners or lessees of the RC facilities. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021.

The Company’s sales occur principally in the United States. See Note 16 for additional information regarding the Company's operating segments.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES are unaudited and have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") and with Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In compliance with those instructions, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted.

The unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES in this quarterly report ("Quarterly Report") are presented on a consolidated basis and include ADES and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company"). Also included within the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are the Company's unconsolidated equity investments: Tinuum Group, Tinuum Services and GWN Manager, LLC ("GWN Manager"), which are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, and Highview Enterprises Limited (the "Highview Investment"), which is accounted for in accordance with U.S. GAAP applicable to equity investments that do not qualify for the equity method of accounting.

Results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts were eliminated in consolidation for all periods presented in this Quarterly Report.

In the opinion of management, these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all normal and recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position, stockholders' equity and cash flows for the interim periods presented. These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (the "2020 Form 10-K"). Significant accounting policies disclosed therein have not changed.

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed using the two-class method, which is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings (loss) per share for common stock and any participating securities according to dividend and participating rights in undistributed earnings (losses). Pursuant to U.S. GAAP, the Company has elected not to separately present basic or diluted earnings per share attributable to participating securities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

5

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed in a manner consistent with that of basic earnings per share, while considering other potentially dilutive securities. Potentially dilutive securities consist of both unvested, participating and non-participating restricted stock awards ("RSA's"), as well as outstanding options to purchase common stock ("Stock Options") and contingent performance stock units ("PSU's") (collectively, "Potential dilutive shares"). The dilutive effect, if any, for non-participating RSA's, Stock Options and PSU's is determined using the greater of dilution as calculated under the treasury stock method or the two-class method. Potential dilutive shares are excluded from diluted earnings per share when their effect is anti-dilutive. When there is a net loss for a period, all Potential dilutive shares are anti-dilutive and are excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share for that period.

The following table sets forth the calculations of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share amounts)	2021		2020
Net income (loss)	$	13,737	$	(1,893)
Less: Dividends and undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities	—		(2)
Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$	13,737	$	(1,891)
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding	18,166		17,932
Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments	108		—
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	18,274		17,932
Earnings (loss) per share - basic	$	0.76	$	(0.11)
Earnings (loss) per share - diluted	$	0.75	$	(0.11)

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, RSA's, PSU's and Stock Options convertible to 0.1 million and 0.7 million shares of common stock, respectively, were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share because the effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. There have been no changes in the Company’s critical accounting estimates from those that were disclosed in the 2020 Form 10-K. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Due to the coronavirus ("COVID-19") pandemic, there has been uncertainty and disruption in the global economy and financial markets. Additionally, due to COVID-19, overall power generation and coal-fired power demand may change, which could also have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Company is not aware of any specific event or circumstance due to COVID-19 that would require an update to its estimates or judgments or a revision of the carrying values of its assets or liabilities through the date of this Quarterly Report. These estimates may change as new events occur and additional information is obtained. Actual results could differ materially from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company’s earnings are significantly affected by equity earnings from Tinuum Group. As of March 31, 2021, Tinuum Group has 23 invested RC facilities of which 9 are leased to a single customer. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021. The loss of Tinuum Group's customers, reduction in revenue streams as a result of lease renewals and the expiration of Section 45 tax credits will have a significant adverse impact on Tinuum Group's financial position, results of operations and cash flows, which in turn will have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

6

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

The Company's revenues, sales volumes, earnings and cash flows are significantly affected by prices of competing power generation sources such as natural gas and renewable energy. Low natural gas prices make it a competitive alternative to coal-fired power generation and therefore, coal consumption may be reduced, which reduces the demand for our products. In addition, coal consumption and demand for our products is also affected by the demand for electricity, which is higher in the warmer and colder months of the year. Abnormal temperatures during the summer and winter months may significantly reduce coal consumption and thus the demand for the Company's products.

Reclassifications

Certain balances have been reclassified from the prior year to conform to the current year presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position in any of the periods presented.

New Accounting Standards

Adopted

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740) Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU 2019-12"). The amendments in ASU 2019-12 simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions contained in Topic 740 and also clarify and amends existing guidance in Topic 740 to improve consistent application. ASU 2019-12 is effective for public business entities beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim periods within those years, and early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted ASU 2019-12 effective January 1, 2021 and it did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures.

Not Yet Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). The main objective of ASU 2016-13 is to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. To achieve this objective, the amendments in ASU 2016-13 replace the incurred loss impairment methodology in current U.S. GAAP with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. ASU 2016-13 is effective for "smaller reporting companies" (as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission) for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those years, and must be adopted under a modified retrospective method approach. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing the impact on its financial statements and disclosures and does not believe this standard will have a material impact on its financial statements and disclosures.

Note 2 - Customer Supply Agreement

On September 30, 2020, the Company and Cabot Norit Americas, Inc., ("Cabot") entered into a supply agreement (the "Supply Agreement") pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell and deliver to Cabot, and Cabot agreed to purchase and accept from the Company certain lignite-based AC products ("Furnace Products"). The term of the Supply Agreement is for 15 years with 10-year renewal terms that are automatic unless either party provides three years prior notice of intention not to renew before the end of any term.

As part of the Supply Agreement, the Company and Cabot agreed to additional terms whereby Cabot reimburses the Company for certain capital expenditures incurred by the Company that are necessary to manufacture the Furnace Products, and both the Company and Cabot must mutually agree on these capital expenditures in advance of procurement and commissioning. Capital expenditures incurred that benefit both the Company and Cabot ("Shared Capital") are partially reimbursable by Cabot and recognized as revenues based on a formula contained in the Supply Agreement. Revenues from, and reimbursements of, Shared Capital are recognized and billable, respectively, beginning on the first day of a half year (January 1 and July 1 of a calendar year) following the placed in service date of a Shared Capital asset(s).

Capital expenditures incurred that benefit Cabot exclusively ("Specific Capital") are fully reimbursable by Cabot and recognized as revenues based on a formula contained in the Supply Agreement. Revenues earned from Specific Capital are recognized beginning on the first day of a half year following the placed in service date of a Specific Capital asset(s). Reimbursements of Specific Capital are billable in quarterly installments beginning on the first day of a half year following the placed in service date of a Specific Capital asset(s). In the event that Cabot ceases to make purchases under the Supply Agreement, Cabot is obligated to pay the balance of any outstanding payments for Specific Capital.

Revenues earned from both Shared Capital and Specific Capital are reported in the Consumables revenue line item in the Statements of Operations.

7

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 3 - Acquisition of Marshall Mine

Concurrently with the execution of the Supply Agreement, on September 30, 2020, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase (the "Mine Purchase Agreement") from Cabot 100% of the membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC (the "Marshall Mine Acquisition") for a nominal cash purchase price. Marshall Mine, LLC owns a lignite mine located outside of Marshall, Texas (the "Marshall Mine"). The Company independently determined to immediately commence activities to shutter the Marshall Mine and will incur the associated reclamation costs.

In conjunction with the execution of the Supply Agreement and the Mine Purchase Agreement, on September 30, 2020, the Company entered into a reclamation contract (the "Reclamation Contract") with a third party that provides a capped cost, subject to certain contingencies, in the amount of approximately $19.7 million plus an obligation to pay certain direct costs of approximately $3.6 million (collectively, the "Reclamation Costs") over the estimated reclamation period of 10 years (the "Reclamation Period"). Under the terms of the Supply Agreement, Cabot is obligated to reimburse the Company for $10.2 million of Reclamation Costs (the "Reclamation Reimbursements"), which are payable semi-annually over 13 years and inclusive of interest. In the event that Cabot has a change in control as described in the Supply Agreement, all outstanding balances of the Reclamation Reimbursements shall be due and payable in full. See further discussion of the Reclamation Costs and Reclamation Reimbursements in Note 4.

The Marshall Mine Acquisition included the acquisition of certain assets that will be consumed and the assumption of certain liabilities that will be paid in reclamation of the Marshall Mine in addition to the incurrence of an obligation for the Reclamation Costs. The Company accounted for the Marshall Mine Acquisition as an asset acquisition as it did not meet the definition of a business. That is, the Company concluded that the Marshall Mine does not have any economic reserves, as the Company had commenced full reclamation as of September 30, 2020, and therefore lacked inputs.

As the Marshall Mine Acquisition represents a transaction with a customer of net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Cabot, the Company accounted for the excess of the fair value of liabilities assumed over assets acquired as upfront consideration transferred to a customer, Cabot (the "Upfront Customer Consideration"). The amount of the Upfront Customer Consideration was also recognized net of an additional asset recognized in the Marshall Mine Acquisition, which was comprised of a receivable from Cabot (the "Cabot Receivable") for the Reclamation Reimbursements. The Cabot Receivable is further discussed in Note 4.

The total Upfront Customer Consideration is being amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected 15-year contractual period of the Supply Agreement as a reduction to revenues.

As part of the Marshall Mine Acquisition, the Company assumed liabilities, whose fair value exceeded the fair value of assets acquired. A summary of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed and the additional assets recorded in the Marshall Mine Acquisition as of September 30, 2020 are shown in the table below. Subsequent to this date, the Company completed additional analysis of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and recorded adjustments as of December 31, 2020 as shown in the table below.

(in thousands)	As Originally Reported		Adjustments		As Adjusted
Assets acquired:
Receivables	$	—	$	513	$	513
Property, plant and equipment	3,863		—		3,863
Spare parts	100		—		100
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(673)		160		(513)
Asset retirement obligation	(21,328)		—		(21,328)
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Marshall Mine acquisition	(18,038)		673		(17,365)
Cabot receivable	9,749		—		9,749
Upfront Customer Consideration	$	8,289	$	(673)	$	7,616

The Company also evaluated the Marshall Mine entity as a potential variable interest entity ("VIE"), and determined that because of its structure and closing-stage status, it did not have sufficient equity at-risk and would not likely be able to obtain additional subordinated financial support to complete its closing stage obligations. The Company purchased all of the

8

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC and determined that the Company was the primary beneficiary. Therefore, Marshall Mine, LLC was determined to be a VIE and Marshall Mine, LLC’s assets and liabilities were consolidated.

Note 4 - Marshall Mine Asset Retirement Obligation and Cabot Receivable

Asset Retirement Obligation

In connection with the Supply Agreement, Purchase Agreement and the Reclamation Contract, the Company assumed the obligation to reclaim and restore the land associated with the Marshall Mine. The Company determined that the Marshall Mine did not have any remaining economic reserves. As of September 30, 2020, the Company recorded an asset retirement obligation (the "Marshall Mine ARO") for the total Reclamation Costs of $21.3 million as measured at the expected future cash flows of $23.7 million, inclusive of contingency costs, discounted to their present value using a discount rate based on a credit-adjusted, risk-free rate of 7.0%. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the carrying value of the Marshall Mine ARO was $16.1 million and $21.3 million, respectively.

Cabot Receivable

As of September 30, 2020, the Company recorded the Cabot Receivable at its estimated fair value of $9.7 million, reflecting a discount rate of approximately 1.5% or $0.5 million. There were no significant related fees or costs associated with the Cabot Receivable.

The Cabot Receivable requires Cabot to pay the Reclamation Reimbursements to the Company in the amount of $10.2 million inclusive of interest over its term. Interest is accreted on the Cabot Receivable and recognized as interest income. An Allowance for the Cabot Receivable asset is assessed periodically, and no allowance was deemed necessary as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Surety Bond

As the owner of the Marshall Mine, the Company is required to post a surety bond to ensure performance of its reclamation activities. On September 30, 2020, the Company and a third party entered into a surety bond indemnification agreement (the "Surety Agreement") pursuant to which the Company secured and posted a $30.0 million surety bond (the "Bond") with the local regulatory agency. The Bond will remain in place until the Marshall Mine is fully reclaimed, and it may be reduced in amount from time to time as the Company progresses with its reclamation activities. As of March 31, 2021, for the obligations due under the Reclamation Contract, the Company was required to post collateral of $10.0 million, which is recorded as long-term restricted cash on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Note 5 - COVID-19

In March 2020, the federal government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Security Act (the "CARES Act"), which provided among other things the creation of the Paycheck Protection Plan ("PPP"), which is sponsored and administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration ("SBA"). On April 20, 2020, the Company executed a loan agreement (the "PPP Loan") under the PPP, evidenced by a promissory note, with BOK, NA dba Bank of Oklahoma ("BOK") providing for $3.3 million in proceeds, which was funded to the Company on April 21, 2020. In June 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (the "PPPFA") was signed into law and established the payment dates in the event that amounts borrowed under the PPP are not forgiven. The PPP Loan matures April 21, 2022 but may be forgiven subject to the terms of the PPP and approval by the SBA. The Company recorded the PPP Loan as a debt obligation and is accruing interest over the term of the PPP Loan. There is no assurance that the PPP Loan will be forgiven.

The interest rate on the PPP Loan is 1.00%. The PPP Loan is unsecured and contains customary events of default relating to, among other things, payment defaults, making materially false and misleading representations to the SBA or BOK, or breaching the terms of the PPP Loan. The occurrence of an event of default may result in the repayment of all amounts outstanding, collection of all amounts owing from the Company, or filing suit and obtaining judgment against the Company.

Under the PPPFA, monthly payments of principal and interest commence on the later of 10 months following the "covered period" (as defined in the PPPFA) or the date that BOK notifies the Company that the SBA has notified BOK that all or a portion of the PPP Loan has not been forgiven. In January 2021, the Company submitted its application to the SBA for forgiveness of the PPP Loan, and the Company is awaiting the SBA's response on its application for forgiveness. Accordingly, for any amounts not forgiven, the Company has determined that the PPP Loan principal and interest payments would commence in August 2021 and, as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, has classified a portion of the PPP Loan principal and accrued interest as current in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The CARES Act also provided for the deferral of payroll tax payments for all payroll taxes incurred through December 31, 2020. The Company elected to defer payments of payroll taxes for the periods allowed under the CARES Act and will repay

9

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

50% by December 31, 2021 and 50% by December 31, 2022. As of March 31, 2021, the Company has deferred $0.4 million of payroll tax payments under the CARES Act.

Note 6 - Equity Method Investments

Tinuum Group, LLC

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company's ownership interest in Tinuum Group was 42.5%. Tinuum Group supplies technology equipment and technical services at select coal-fired generators, but its primary purpose is to put into operation facilities that produce and sell RC that lower emissions and also qualify for Section 45 tax credits. The Company has determined that Tinuum Group is a VIE; however, the Company does not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Tinuum Group's economic performance and has therefore accounted for the investment under the equity method of accounting. The Company determined that the voting partners of Tinuum Group have identical voting rights, equity control interests and board control interests, and therefore, concluded that the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Tinuum Group's economic performance was shared.

The following table summarizes the results of operations of Tinuum Group:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Gross profit	$	2,675	$	5,010
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	13,802		12,776
Loss from operations	(11,127)		(7,766)
Other income (expenses), net	853		3,643
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	35,578		19,271
Net income available to members	$	25,304	$	15,148
ADES equity earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recognized earnings from Tinuum Group's net income available to members that were different from its pro-rata share of Tinuum Group's net income available to members, as cash distributions for the three months ended March 31, 2021 exceeded the carrying value of the Tinuum Group equity investment. For 2021, the Company expects to recognize such excess contributions as equity method earnings in the period the distributions occur, limited to the carrying value of the Tinuum Group equity investment. For the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company recognized its pro-rata share of Tinuum Group's net income available to its members for the respective period.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020, the Company recognized equity earnings from Tinuum Group of $16.4 million and $6.4 million, respectively.

The following tables present the Company's investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions in excess of the investment balance, if any, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

Description	Date(s)	Investment balance		ADES equity earnings		Cash distributions		Memorandum Account: Cash distributions and equity earnings in (excess) of investment balance
Beginning balance	12/31/2020	$	3,387	$	—	$	—	$	—
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	10,755		10,755		—		—
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	(19,749)				19,749		—
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance	First Quarter	5,607		5,607		—		(5,607)
Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions	3/31/2021	$	—	$	16,362	$	19,749	$	(5,607)

10

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Description	Date(s)	Investment balance		ADES equity earnings		Cash distributions
Beginning balance	12/31/2019	$	32,280	$	—	$	—
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	6,438		6,438		—
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	(13,764)		—		13,764
Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions	3/31/2020	$	24,954	$	6,438	$	13,764

Tinuum Services, LLC

The Company has a 50% voting and economic interest in Tinuum Services. The Company has determined that Tinuum Services is not a VIE and has further evaluated it for consolidation under the voting interest model. Because the Company does not own greater than 50% of the outstanding voting shares, either directly or indirectly, it has accounted for its investment in Tinuum Services under the equity method of accounting. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s investment in Tinuum Services was $2.7 million and $4.2 million, respectively.

The following table summarizes the results of operations of Tinuum Services:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Gross loss	$	(18,522)	$	(22,259)
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	54,366		45,753
Loss from operations	(72,888)		(68,012)
Other income (expenses), net	(427)		(285)
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	77,215		71,972
Net income	$	3,900	$	3,675
ADES equity earnings from Tinuum Services	$	1,950	$	1,838

Included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations of Tinuum Services for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, were losses related to VIE entities that consolidated in Tinuum Services of $77.2 million and $72.0 million, respectively. These losses do not impact the Company's equity earnings from Tinuum Services as 100% of those losses are attributable to a noncontrolling interest and eliminated in the calculations of Tinuum Services' net income attributable to the Company's interest.

The following table details the carrying value of the Company's respective equity method investments included in the Equity method investments line item on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and indicates the Company's maximum exposure to loss:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Equity method investment in Tinuum Group	$	—	$	3,387
Equity method investment in Tinuum Services	2,690		4,242
Equity method investment in other	63		63
Total equity method investments	$	2,753	$	7,692

11

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

The following table details the components of the Company's respective equity method investments included in the Earnings from equity method investments line item on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438
Earnings from Tinuum Services	1,950		1,838
Earnings (loss) from other	—		(3)
Earnings from equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273

The following table details the components of the cash distributions from the Company's respective equity method investments included as a component of cash flows from operating activities and investing activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Distributions from equity method investees are reported in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as "Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment" within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero. Thereafter, such distributions are reported as "distributions in excess of cumulative earnings" as a component of cash flows from investing activities.

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment
Tinuum Group	$	14,142	$	13,764
Tinuum Services	3,502		3,352
	$	17,644	$	17,116
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of investment basis
Tinuum Group	$	5,607	$	—
	$	5,607	$	—

Note 7 - Inventories, net

The following table summarizes the Company's inventories recorded at the lower of average cost or net realizable value as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Product inventory, net	$	7,185	$	8,361
Raw material inventory	855		1,521
	$	8,040	$	9,882

12

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 8 - Debt Obligations

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, related party	$	6,000	$	16,000
Less: net unamortized debt issuance costs	(175)		(465)
Less: net unamortized debt discount	(180)		(480)
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, net	5,645		15,055
Finance lease obligations	5,250		5,526
PPP Loan	3,305		3,305
	14,200		23,886
Less: Current maturities	(9,913)		(18,441)
Total long-term debt	$	4,287	$	5,445

Senior Term Loan

On December 7, 2018, the Company, and ADA-ES, Inc. ("ADA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, and certain other subsidiaries of the Company as guarantors, The Bank of New York Mellon as administrative agent, and Apollo Credit Strategies Master Fund Ltd and Apollo A-N Credit Fund (Delaware) L.P. (collectively "Apollo"), affiliates of a beneficial owner of greater than five percent of the Company's common stock and a related party, entered into the Term Loan and Security Agreement (the "Senior Term Loan") in the amount of $70.0 million less original issue discount of $2.1 million. Proceeds from the Senior Term Loan were used to fund the acquisition of Carbon Solutions. The Company also paid debt issuance costs of $2.0 million related to the Senior Term Loan. The Senior Term Loan matures on December 7, 2021 and bears interest at a rate equal to 3-month LIBOR (subject to a 1.5% floor) + 4.75% per annum, which is adjusted quarterly to the current 3-month LIBOR rate, and interest is payable quarterly in arrears. Quarterly principal payments of $6.0 million were required beginning in March 2019, and the Company may prepay the Senior Term Loan at any time without penalty. The Senior Term Loan is secured by substantially all the assets of the Company, including the cash flows from Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services (collectively, the "Tinuum Entities"), but excluding the Company's equity interests in the Tinuum entities.

The Senior Term Loan includes, among others, the following covenants: (1) As of the end of each fiscal quarter, the Company must maintain a minimum cash balance of $5.0 million and shall not permit "expected future net cash flows from the refined coal business" (as defined in the Senior Term Loan) to be less than 1.75 times the outstanding principal amount of the Senior Term Loan; (2) Annual collective dividends and buybacks of the Company shares of common stock in an aggregate amount, not to exceed $30.0 million, are permitted so long as (a) no default or event of default exists under the Senior Term Loan and (b) expected future net cash flows from the refined coal business as of the end of the most recent fiscal quarter exceed $100.0 million.

Waiver and Limited Consent on Senior Term Loan

Pursuant to entering into the PPP Loan, on April 20, 2020, the Company and Apollo executed the First Amendment to the Senior Term Loan, which permitted the Company to enter into the PPP Loan.

On September 30, 2020, the Company and Apollo entered into a limited consent, which permitted the Company to (i) enter into the Surety Agreement, open the collateral bank accounts and post collateral required under the Surety Agreement, and (ii) acquire the membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC., as described in Note 3.

Line of Credit

In September 2013, ADA-ES, Inc. ("ADA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, as borrower, and the Company, as guarantor, entered into a line credit (the "Line of Credit") with a bank (the "Lender") for an aggregate borrowing amount of $10.0 million, which was secured by certain amounts due to the Company from certain Tinuum Group RC leases. The Line of Credit has been amended 15 times from the period from December 2, 2013 through March 31, 2021 and included a reduction in the borrowing amount to $5.0 million in September 2018.

On March 23, 2021, ADA, the Company and the Lender entered into an amendment to the Line of Credit (the "Fifteenth Amendment"), which extended the maturity date of the Line of Credit to December 31, 2021 and increased the minimum cash requirement from $5.0 million to $6.0 million.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Line of Credit.

13

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 9 - Leases

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had obligations under finance leases of $5.3 million and $5.5 million, respectively, and obligations under operating leases of $5.1 million and $3.0 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had right of use ("ROU") assets, net of accumulated amortization, under finance leases of $2.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively, and ROU assets, net of accumulated amortization, under operating leases of $4.2 million and $1.9 million, respectively.

Finance leases

ROU assets under finance leases and finance lease liabilities are included in Property, plant and equipment and Current portion and Long-term portion of borrowings, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. Interest expense related to finance lease liabilities and amortization of ROU assets under finance leases are included in Interest expense and Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020.

Operating leases

ROU assets under operating leases and operating lease liabilities are included in Other long-term assets and Other liabilities and Other long-term liabilities, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Lease expense for operating leases for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $1.0 million, of which $0.9 million is included in Consumables - cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, and $0.1 million is included in General and administrative in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. Lease expense for operating leases for the three months ended March 31, 2020 was $1.2 million, of which $1.0 million is included in Consumables - cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, and $0.2 million is included in General and administrative in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Lease financial information as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is provided in the following table:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021			2020
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assets	$	174		$	514
Interest on lease liabilities	79			94
Operating lease cost	459			853
Short-term lease cost	567			282
Variable lease cost (1)	9			93
Total lease cost	$	1,288		$	1,836
Other Information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases	$	79		$	94
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	575		$	634
Financing cash flows from finance leases	$	315		$	340
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities	$	—		$	—
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities	$	2,679		$	60
Weighted-average remaining lease term - finance leases	3.3 years			4.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases	1.6 years			2.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate - finance leases	6.18		%	6.08		%
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases	8.46		%	8.54		%

(1) Primarily includes common area maintenance, property taxes and insurance payable to lessors.

14

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 10 - Revenues

Trade receivables represent an unconditional right to consideration in exchange for goods or services transferred to a customer. The Company invoices its customers in accordance with the terms of the contract. Credit terms are generally net 30 from the date of invoice. The timing between the satisfaction of performance obligations and when payment is due from the customer is generally not significant. The Company records allowances for doubtful trade receivables when it is probable that the balances will not be collected.

Trade receivables, net

The following table shows the components of the Company's Trade receivables, net:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Trade receivables	$	9,481	$	12,241
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(53)		(37)
Trade receivables, net	$	9,428	$	12,204

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company recognized zero and zero bad debt expense, respectively.

Cabot Receivable

The following table shows the components of the Cabot Receivable:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Receivables, net	$	921	$	921
Other long-term assets, net	7,914		8,852
Total Cabot Receivable	$	8,835	$	9,773

Disaggregation of Revenue and Earnings from Equity Method Investments

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, all performance obligations related to revenues recognized were satisfied at a point in time. The Company disaggregates its revenues by major components as well as between its two reportable segments, which are further discussed in Note 16 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The following tables disaggregate revenues by major component for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
	Segment
	APT		RC		Total
Revenue component
Consumables	$	17,031	$	—	$	17,031
License royalties, related party	—		4,066		4,066
Revenues from customers	17,031		4,066		21,097
Earnings from equity method investments	—		18,312		18,312
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	$	17,031	$	22,378	$	39,409

15

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
	Segment
	APT		RC		Total
Revenue component
Consumables	$	9,217	$	—	$	9,217
License royalties, related party	—		3,046		3,046
Revenues from customers	9,217		3,046		12,263
Earnings from equity method investments	—		8,273		8,273
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	$	9,217	$	11,319	$	20,536

Note 11 - Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Proceedings

The Company is from time to time subject to, and is presently involved in, various pending or threatened legal actions and proceedings, including those that arise in the ordinary course of its business. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties and outcomes, the financial impacts of which are not predictable with assurance and that may not be known for extended periods of time. The Company records a liability in its consolidated financial statements for costs related to claims, settlements, and judgments where management has assessed that a loss is probable and an amount can be reasonably estimated. There were no significant legal proceedings as of March 31, 2021.

Restricted Cash

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had short-term restricted cash of $6.0 million and $5.0 million, respectively, as required under a minimum cash balance requirement of a Line of Credit covenant, and long-term restricted cash of $10.0 million and $5.0 million, respectively, as required under the Surety Agreement.

Other Commitments and Contingencies

The Company has certain limited obligations contingent upon future events in connection with the activities of Tinuum Group. The Company, NexGen Refined Coal, LLC ("NexGen") and two entities affiliated with NexGen have provided an affiliate of the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. with limited guaranties (the "Tinuum Group Party Guaranties") related to certain losses it may suffer as a result of inaccuracies or breach of representations and covenants. The Company also is a party to a contribution agreement with NexGen under which any party called upon to pay on a Tinuum Group Party Guaranty is entitled to receive contributions from the other party equal to 50% of the amount paid. The Company has not recorded a liability or expense provision related to this contingent obligation as it believes that it is not probable that a loss will occur with respect to the Tinuum Group Party Guaranties.

Note 12 - Stockholders' Equity

Stock Repurchase Programs

In November 2018, the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") authorized the Company to purchase up to $20.0 million of its outstanding common stock under a stock repurchase program (the "Stock Repurchase Program"), which was to remain in effect until December 31, 2019 unless otherwise modified by the Board. As of November 2019, $2.9 million remained outstanding related to the Stock Repurchase Program. In November 2019, the Board authorized an incremental $7.1 million to the Stock Repurchase Program and provided that it will remain in effect until all amounts are utilized or it is otherwise modified by the Board.

Under the Stock Repurchase Program, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020, the Company purchased zero and 20,613 shares, respectively, of its common stock for cash of zero and $0.2 million, respectively, inclusive of commissions and fees. As of March 31, 2021, the Company had $7.0 million remaining under the Stock Repurchase Program.

Quarterly Cash Dividend

Dividends declared and paid quarterly on all outstanding shares of common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:

16

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

	2021			2020
	Per share		Date paid	Per share		Date paid
Dividends declared during quarter ended:
March 31	$	—	N/A	$	0.25	March 10, 2020
	$	—		$	0.25

A portion of the dividends declared remains accrued subsequent to the payment dates and represents dividends accumulated on nonvested shares of common stock held by employees and directors of the Company that contain forfeitable dividend rights that are not payable until the underlying shares of common stock vest. These amounts are included in both Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Tax Asset Protection Plan

U.S. federal income tax rules, and Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code in particular, could substantially limit the use of net operating losses and other tax assets if the Company experiences an "ownership change" (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code). In general, an ownership change occurs if there is a cumulative change in the ownership of the Company by "5 percent stockholders" that exceeds 50 percentage points over a rolling three-year period.

On May 5, 2017, the Board approved the declaration of a dividend of rights to purchase Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock for each outstanding share of common stock as part of a tax asset protection plan (the "TAPP") designed to protect the Company’s ability to utilize its net operating losses and tax credits. The TAPP is intended to act as a deterrent to any person acquiring beneficial ownership of 4.99% or more of the Company’s outstanding common stock.

On April 9, 2021, the Board approved the Fourth Amendment to the TAPP ("Fourth Amendment") that amends the TAPP, as previously amended by the First, Second and Third Amendments that were approved the Board on April 6, 2018, April 5, 2019 and April 9, 2020, respectively. The Fourth Amendment amends the definition of "Final Expiration Date" under the TAPP to extend the duration of the TAPP and makes associated changes in connection therewith. Pursuant to the Fourth Amendment, the Final Expiration Date shall be the close of business on the earlier of (i) December 31, 2022 or (ii) December 31, 2021 if stockholder approval of the Fourth Amendment has not been obtained prior to such date.

Note 13 - Stock-Based Compensation

The Company grants equity-based awards to employees, non-employee directors, and consultants that may include, but are not limited to, RSA's, restricted stock units ("RSU's"), performance stock units ("PSU's") and stock options. Stock-based compensation expense related to manufacturing employees and administrative employees is included within the Cost of revenue and Payroll and benefits line items, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. Stock-based compensation expense related to non-employee directors and consultants is included within the General and administrative line item in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Total stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
RSA expense	$	407	$	506
PSU expense	14		—
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	421	$	506

The amount of unrecognized compensation cost as of March 31, 2021, and the expected weighted-average period over which the cost will be recognized is as follows:

	As of March 31, 2021
(in thousands)	Unrecognized Compensation Cost		Expected Weighted- Average Period of Recognition (in years)
RSA expense	$	3,383	2.46
PSU expense	545		2.49
Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$	3,928	2.46

17

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Restricted Stock

Restricted stock is typically granted with vesting terms of three years. The fair value of RSA's and RSU's is determined based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the authorization date of the grant multiplied by the number of shares subject to the stock award. Compensation expense for RSA's is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the entire vesting period.

A summary of RSA activity under the Company's various stock compensation plans for the three months ended March 31, 2021 is presented below:

	Restricted Stock	Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2021	373,860	$	7.25
Granted	385,631	$	5.27
Vested	(152,021)	$	7.81
Forfeited	(4,292)	$	7.00
Non-vested at March 31, 2021	603,178	$	5.85

Performance Share Units

Compensation expense is recognized for PSU awards on a straight-line basis over the applicable service period, which is generally three years, based on the estimated fair value at the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model. A summary of PSU activity for the three months ended March 31, 2021 is presented below:

	Units	Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
PSU's outstanding, January 1, 2021	50,127	$	6.17
Granted	62,448	7.09
Vested / Settled	—	—
Forfeited / Canceled	—	—
PSU's outstanding, March 31, 2021	112,575	$	6.68	$	619	2.49

18

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

Note 14 - Supplemental Financial Information

Supplemental Balance Sheet Information

The following table summarizes the components of Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other long-term assets, net as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Prepaid expenses and other assets:
Prepaid income taxes and income tax refunds	$	263	$	1,605
Prepaid expenses	1,794		1,690
Other	1,363		1,302
	$	3,420	$	4,597
Other long-term assets, net:
Upfront customer consideration (1)	$	7,363	$	7,490
Cabot receivable (1)	7,914		8,852
Right of use assets, operating leases, net	4,230		1,930
Spare parts, net	3,883		3,727
Mine development costs, net	4,511		4,338
Mine reclamation asset, net	1,689		1,712
Highview Investment	552		552
Other long-term assets	1,434		1,388
	$	31,576	$	29,989

(1) See further discussion of Upfront customer consideration in Note 3 and Cabot receivable in Note 4 and Note 10.

Spare parts include critical spares required to support plant operations. Parts and supply costs are determined using the lower of cost or estimated replacement cost. Parts are recorded as maintenance expenses in the period in which they are consumed.

Mine development costs include acquisition costs, the cost of other development work and mitigation costs related to the Five Forks Mine and are depleted over the estimated life of the related mine reserves. The Company performs an evaluation of the recoverability of the carrying value of mine development costs to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that their carrying value may be impaired and if any adjustment is warranted. There were no indicators of impairment as of March 31, 2021. Mine reclamation asset, net represents an asset retirement obligation ("ARO") asset related to the Five Forks Mine and is depreciated over the estimated life of the mine.

The Company holds a long-term investment (the "Highview Investment") in Highview Enterprises Limited ("Highview"), a UK-based developmental stage company specializing in power storage. The Company accounts for the Highview Investment as an investment recorded at cost, less impairment, plus or minus observable changes in price for identical or similar investments of the same issuer.

The Highview Investment is evaluated for indicators of impairment such as an event or change in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. There were no changes to the carrying value of the Highview Investment for the three months ended March 31, 2021 as there were no indicators of impairment or observable price changes for identical or similar investments.

19

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

The following table details the components of Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Other current liabilities:
Current portion of operating lease obligations	$	2,434	$	1,883
Income and other taxes payable	2,810		1,305
Current portion of mine reclamation liability	9,169		9,370
Other current liabilities	475		438
	$	14,888	$	12,996
Other long-term liabilities:
Operating lease obligations, long-term	$	2,661	$	1,109
Mine reclamation liabilities	10,330		12,077
Other long-term liabilities	217		287
	$	13,208	$	13,473

The Mine reclamation liability related to the Five Forks Mine is included in Other long-term liabilities. The Mine reclamation liability related to Marshall Mine, which was assumed in the Marshall Mine Acquisition, is included in Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities. The Mine reclamation liabilities represent AROs. Changes in the AROs were as follows:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Asset retirement obligation, beginning of period	$	21,447	$	2,721
Asset retirement obligation assumed	—		21,328
Accretion	351		543
Liabilities settled	(2,315)		(3,565)
Changes due to scope and timing of reclamation	16		420
Asset retirement obligations, end of period	19,499		21,447
Less current portion	9,169		9,370
Asset retirement obligation, long-term	$	10,330	$	12,077

Supplemental Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Information

The following table details the components of Interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Interest on Senior Term Loan	$	155	$	630
Debt discount and debt issuance costs	591		354
453A interest	—		132
Other	91		94
	$	837	$	1,210

Note 15 - Income Taxes

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company's income tax expense and effective tax rates based on forecasted pretax income were:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except for rate)	2021			2020
Income tax expense	$	4,489		$	358
Effective tax rate	25		%	(23)		%

20

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

The effective rate for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was higher from the federal statutory rate primarily from the impact of estimated state income taxes. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recorded tax credits earned of $0.1 million, which were fully reserved in the valuation allowance as of March 31, 2021.

The Company assesses the valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets at each reporting date. The determination of whether a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is appropriate requires the evaluation of positive and negative evidence that can be objectively verified. Consideration must be given to all sources of taxable income available to realize deferred tax assets, including, as applicable, the future reversal of existing temporary differences, future taxable income forecasts exclusive of the reversal of temporary differences and carryforwards, taxable income in carryback years and tax planning strategies. In estimating income taxes, the Company assesses the relative merits and risks of the appropriate income tax treatment of transactions taking into account statutory, judicial, and regulatory guidance.

Note 16 - Business Segment Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by a company's chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), or a decision-making group, to allocate resources and assess financial performance. As of March 31, 2021, the Company's CODM was the Company's CEO. The Company's operating and reportable segments are identified by products and services provided.

As of March 31, 2021, the Company has two reportable segments: (1) Refined Coal ("RC"); and (2) Advanced Purification Technologies ("APT"). Effective December 31, 2020, and as reported in the 2020 Form 10-K, the Company revised its segments to RC and APT and amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2020 have been recast to conform with the current year presentation.

The business segment measurements provided to and evaluated by the CODM are computed in accordance with the principles listed below:

•The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in the 2020 Form 10-K.

•Segment revenues include equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments.

•Segment operating income (loss) includes segment revenues and allocation of certain "Corporate general and administrative expenses," which include Payroll and benefits, General and administrative and Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion.

•RC segment operating income includes interest expense directly attributable to the RC segment.

21

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, substantially all of the Company's material assets are located in the U.S. and substantially all of significant customers are U.S. companies. The following table presents the Company's operating segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Revenues:
Refined Coal:
Earnings in equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273
License royalties, related party	4,066		3,046
	22,378		11,319
Advanced Purification Technologies:
Consumables	17,031		9,217
	17,031		9,217
Total segment reporting revenues	39,409		20,536
Adjustments to reconcile to reported revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	(18,312)		(8,273)
Total reported revenues	$	21,097	$	12,263
Segment operating income (loss):
Refined Coal	$	22,271	$	10,860
Advanced Purification Technologies (1)	15		(7,370)
Total segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490

(1) Included in APT segment operating income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is $1.9 million and $2.2 million, respectively, of depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion expense on mine and plant long-lived assets and liabilities and $0.1 million and zero, respectively, of amortization of Upfront Customer Consideration.

A reconciliation of reportable segment operating income to consolidated income (loss) before income tax expense is as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Total reported segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490
Adjustments to reconcile to income (loss) before income tax expense attributable to the Company:
Corporate payroll and benefits	(639)		(709)
Corporate legal and professional fees	(1,754)		(1,749)
Corporate general and administrative	(1,176)		(1,599)
Corporate depreciation and amortization	(154)		(26)
Corporate interest expense, net	(650)		(942)
Other income (expense), net	313		—
Income (loss) before income tax expense	$	18,226	$	(1,535)

Corporate general and administrative expenses include certain costs that benefit the business as a whole but are not directly related to one of the Company's segments. Such costs include, but are not limited to, accounting and human resources staff, information systems costs, legal fees, facility costs, audit fees and corporate governance expenses. 

22

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

A reconciliation of reportable segment assets to consolidated assets is as follows:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Assets:
Refined Coal (1)	$	7,117	$	11,516
Advanced Purification Technologies (2)	78,373		80,877
Total segment assets	85,490		92,393
All Other and Corporate (3)	66,080		54,278
Consolidated	$	151,570	$	146,671

(1) Includes $2.8 million and $7.7 million of investments in equity method investees as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

(2) Includes $35.1 million and $34.6 million of long-lived assets, net. Expenditures for additions to long-lived assets were $1.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

(3) Includes the Company's deferred tax assets of $7.6 million and $10.6 million as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

Note 17 - Fair Value Measurements

Fair value of financial instruments

The carrying amounts of financial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The carrying amounts of the Senior Term Loan and other obligations, including finance leases, approximate fair value based on credit terms and market interest rates currently available for similar instruments. Accordingly, these instruments are not presented in the table below. The following table provides the estimated fair values of the remaining financial instruments:

	As of March 31, 2021				As of December 31, 2020
(in thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Financial Instruments:
Highview Investment	$	552	$	552	$	552	$	552
Highview Obligation	$	231	$	231	$	228	$	228

Concentration of credit risk

The Company's financial instruments that are exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents. The Company holds cash and cash equivalents at four financial institutions as of March 31, 2021. If an institution was unable to perform its obligations, the Company would be at risk regarding the amount of cash and investments in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limits (currently $250 thousand) that would be returned to the Company.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had no financial instruments carried and measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis

As disclosed in Note 3, the Company completed the asset acquisition of Marshall Mine, LLC. The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were determined based on Level 3 inputs.

As disclosed in Note 14, the Company accounts for the Highview Investment as an investment recorded at cost, less impairment, plus or minus observable changes in price for identical or similar investments of the same issuer. Fair value measurements, if any, represent either Level 2 or Level 3 measurements.

Note 18 - Subsequent Events

Unless disclosed elsewhere within the notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, the following are the significant matters that occurred subsequent to March 31, 2021.

On April 22, 2021, there was an incident at the Company's Red River Plant in Louisiana, which involved an isolated fire in one of the plant's coal handling systems. As a result, the Red River Plant was shut down for approximately one week for repair. The

23

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

(Unaudited)

cash flow impact associated with the incident, including maintenance and repairs, capital expenditures, inventory replacement due to lost production and other items, is not expected to exceed $3.0 million.

The Company entered into agreements ("Retention Agreements") with all of its executive officers and certain other key employees to retain those officers and employees in order to maintain the Company’s current business operations while it pursues and executes on its strategic initiatives. The total amount payable pursuant to the Retention Agreements is $2.4 million.

24

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of our operations should be read together with the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and notes of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. ("ADES" or the "Company") included elsewhere in Item 1 of Part I of this Quarterly Report and with the audited consolidated financial statements and the related notes of ADES included in the 2020 Form 10-K.

Overview

We operate two segments: RC and APT. Our RC segment is comprised of our equity ownership in Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services, both of which are unconsolidated entities in which we generate substantial earnings. Tinuum Group provides reduction of mercury and NOx emissions at select coal-fired power generators through the production and sale of RC that qualifies for Section 45 tax credits under IRC Section 45. We benefit from Tinuum Group's production and sale of RC, which generates tax credits, as well as its revenue from selling or leasing RC facilities to tax equity investors. We also earn royalties for technologies that we license to Tinuum Group and are used at certain RC facilities to enhance combustion and reduced emissions of NOx and mercury from coal burned to generate electrical power. Tinuum Services operates and maintains the RC facilities under operating and maintenance agreements with Tinuum Group and owners or lessees of the RC facilities. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021. As such, our earnings and distributions from our RC segment will substantially cease as of December 31, 2021.

Our APT segment is primarily operated through a wholly-owned subsidiary, Carbon Solutions. We sell consumable products that utilize AC and chemical based technologies to a broad range of customers, including coal-fired utilities, industrials, water treatment plants, and other diverse markets through the customer supply agreement defined below. Our primary products are comprised of AC, which is produced from lignite coal. Our AC products include both powdered activated carbon ("PAC") and granular activated carbon ("GAC"). Our proprietary technologies and associated product offerings provide purification solutions to enable our customers to reduce certain contaminants and pollutants to meet the challenges of existing and potential regulations. Additionally, we own an associated lignite mine that supplies the primary raw material for manufacturing our products.

Drivers of Demand and Key Factors Affecting Profitability

Drivers of demand and key factors affecting our profitability differ by segment. In the RC segment, demand is driven primarily from investors who purchase or lease RC facilities that qualify under the Section 45 tax credit period, which is expected to expire no later than December 31, 2021. Operating results in RC are affected by: (1) the ability to lease or operate RC facilities; (2) lease renegotiation or termination; and (3) changes in tonnage of RC due to changing coal-fired dispatch and electricity power generation sources. Earnings and distributions from our RC segment will substantially cease as of December 31, 2021 as a result of the significant wind down of both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021.

In the APT segment, demand is driven primarily by consumables-based solutions for coal-fired power generation and other industrials, municipal water customers, and since September 30, 2020, demand from Cabot's customers through the Supply Agreement discussed below. Operating results in the APT segment has been influenced by: (1) changes in our sales volumes; (2) changes in price and product mix; and (3) changes in coal-fired dispatch and electricity power generation sources.

On April 22, 2021, there was an incident at our Red River Plant in Louisiana ("Plant Incident"), which involved an isolated fire in one of the plant's coal handling systems. As a result, the Red River Plant was shut down for approximately one week for repair. The cash flow impact associated with the incident, including maintenance and repairs, capital expenditures, inventory replacement due to lost production and other items, is not expected to exceed $3.0 million.

Customer Supply Agreement

On September 30, 2020, we and Cabot entered into the Supply Agreement pursuant to which we agreed to sell and deliver to Cabot, and Cabot agreed to purchase and accept from us, Furnace Products. The term of the Supply Agreement is for 15 years with 10-year renewal terms that are automatic unless either party provides three years prior notice of intention not to renew before the end of any term.

In addition to the sale by us and purchase by Cabot of Furnace Products, we and Cabot have agreed to additional terms whereby Cabot will reimburse us for certain capital expenditures incurred by us that are necessary to manufacture the Furnace Products. Reimbursements will be in the form of revenues earned from capital expenditures incurred that will benefit both us and Cabot

25

(referred to as "Shared Capital") and capital expenditures incurred that will benefit Cabot exclusively (referred to as "Specific Capital").

We believe the Supply Agreement will provide material incremental volume and capture lower operating cost efficiencies of our manufacturing plant. As these incremental volumes come on-line and after our existing inventory balances are sold, we anticipate an increase in gross margins. Further, the Supply Agreement will expand our AC products to diverse end markets that are outside of coal-fired power generation.

Acquisition of Marshall Mine

Concurrently with the execution of the Supply Agreement, on September 30, 2020, we entered into the Mine Purchase Agreement with Cabot to purchase 100% of the membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC (the "Marshall Mine Acquisition") for a nominal cash purchase price. Marshall Mine, LLC owns a lignite mine located outside of Marshall, Texas (the "Marshall Mine"). We independently determined to immediately commence activities to shutter the Marshall Mine and will incur the associated reclamation costs.

In conjunction with the execution of the Supply Agreement and the Mine Purchase Agreement, on September 30, 2020, we entered into the Reclamation Contract with a third party that provides a capped cost, subject to certain contingencies, in the amount of approximately $19.7 million plus an obligation to pay certain direct costs of approximately $3.6 million (collectively, the "Reclamation Costs") over the estimated reclamation period of 10 years. We are accounting for this obligation as an asset retirement obligation under U.S. GAAP. Under the terms of the Supply Agreement, Cabot is obligated to reimburse us for $10.2 million of Reclamation Costs (the "Reclamation Reimbursements"), which are payable semi-annually over 13 years and inclusive of interest. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, we settled $2.3 million in of Reclamation Costs.

As the owner of the Marshall Mine, we were required to post a surety bond to ensure performance of our reclamation activities in the amount of $30.0 million under the Surety Agreement. As of March 31, 2021, for the obligations due under the Reclamation Contract, we were required to post collateral of $10.0 million in the form of restricted cash.

Impact of COVID-19

In March 2020, the WHO declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. We are designated by CISA of the Department of Homeland Security as a critical infrastructure supplier to the energy sector. Our operations have been deemed essential and, therefore, our facilities remain open and our employees employed. We follow the COVID-19 guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control concerning the health and safety of our personnel, including remote working for those that have the ability to do so, sequestered employees at our plant and other heath safety measures. Additionally, we have taken proactive and precautionary steps to ensure the safety of our employees, customers and suppliers, including frequent cleaning and disinfection of workspaces, property, plant and equipment, instituting social distancing measures and mandating remote working environments, where possible, for all employees. These measures have resulted in an increase in our personnel costs, operational inefficiencies and the incurrence of incremental costs to allow manufacturing operations to continue.

The duration of these measures is unknown, may be extended and additional measures may be imposed. We cannot predict the long-term effects on our business, including our financial position or results of operations, if governmental restrictions or other such directives continue for a prolonged period of time and cause a material negative change in power generation demand, materially disrupt our supply chain, substantially increase our operating costs or limit our ability to serve existing customers and seek new customers.

In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, in March 2020, the federal government passed the CARES Act. The CARES Act provided, among other things, the deferral of payroll tax payments for all payroll taxes incurred through December 31, 2020 and created the Paycheck Protection Program ("PPP"), which is sponsored and administered by the SBA. In June 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (the "PPPFA") was signed into law and established the payment dates in the event that amounts borrowed under the PPP are not forgiven. See further discussion below of the loan made to us under the PPP under the section "PPP Loan" under this Item.

The Company elected to defer payments of payroll taxes for the periods allowed under the CARES Act and will repay 50% by December 31, 2021 and 50% by December 31, 2022. As of March 31, 2021, total payroll tax payments deferred under the CARES Act were $0.4 million.

Our customers may also be impacted by COVID-19 pandemic as the utilization of energy has changed. We cannot predict the long-term impact on our customers and the subsequent impact on our business.

26

Results of Operations

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, we recognized net income of $13.7 million compared to net loss of $1.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020.

The following sections provide additional information regarding these comparative periods. For comparability purposes, the following tables set forth our results of operations for the periods presented in the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1 of this Quarterly Report. The period-to-period comparison of financial results may not be indicative of financial results to be achieved in future periods.

Comparison of the Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 and 2020

Total Revenue and Cost of Revenue

A summary of the components of our revenues and cost of revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,				Change
(in thousands, except percentages)	2021		2020		($)		(%)
Revenues:
Consumables	$	17,031	$	9,217	$	7,814	85	%
License royalties, related party	4,066		3,046		1,020		33	%
Total revenues	$	21,097	$	12,263	$	8,834	72	%
Operating expenses:
Consumables cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	$	12,474	$	11,491	$	983	9	%

Consumables and consumables cost of revenue

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, consumables revenues increased from the comparable quarter in 2020 primarily driven by higher product volumes, most significantly from product sold under the Supply Agreement, which impacted revenue by $7.1 million, and favorable pricing mix of $2.1 million. Negatively impacting revenue quarter over quarter was less favorable product mix of approximately $1.3 million. Our gross margin, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, increased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 primarily due to the higher volumes, which resulted in lower fixed cost per pound compared to the prior year.

We expect Consumables cost of revenue and gross margin to be negatively impacted due to routine scheduled maintenance outages planned for the second quarter of 2021. Further, as a result of the Plant Incident, the Red River Plant was shut down for approximately one week for repair, which will increase our Consumables cost of revenue and negatively impact gross margin in future quarters of 2021.

Consumables revenue continues to be affected by electricity demand driven by seasonal weather and related power generation needs, as well as competitor prices related to alternative power generation sources such as natural gas. According to data provided by the U.S. Energy Information Administration ("EIA"), for the three months ended March 31, 2021, power generation from coal-fired power dispatch increased approximately 37% compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020.

License royalties, related party

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, there were 14.7 million tons and 11.9 million tons, respectively, of RC produced using M-45TM and M-45-PCTM technologies ("M-45 Technology"), which Tinuum Group licenses from us ("M-45 License"). M-45 License royalties increased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 primarily from higher tonnage compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020. This was primarily a result of an increase quarter over quarter in RC facilities that use the M-45 Technology. The increase in tonnage as well as the additional RC facilities attributed to the royalty rate per ton increasing period over period. As both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021, we do not expect to continue earning M-45 License royalties after December 31, 2021.

Additional information related to revenue concentrations and contributions by class and reportable segment can be found within the Business Segments discussion and in Note 16 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

27

Other Operating Expenses

A summary of the components of our operating expenses, exclusive of cost of revenue items (presented above), for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,				Change
(in thousands, except percentages)	2021		2020		($)		(%)
Operating expenses:
Payroll and benefits	$	2,469	$	2,742	$	(273)	(10)	%
Legal and professional fees	1,803		2,043		(240)		(12)	%
General and administrative	1,915		2,331		(416)		(18)	%
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	2,106		2,297		(191)		(8)	%
	$	8,293	$	9,413	$	(1,120)	(12)	%

Payroll and benefits

Payroll and benefits expenses, which represent costs related to selling, general and administrative personnel, decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 primarily due to a decrease in payroll-related expenses of executive and personnel mix. Our headcount remained relatively constant quarter over quarter.

Legal and professional fees

Legal and professional fees decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 as a result of cost reductions related to professional fees of $0.5 million, primarily in consulting and outsourced IT costs specific to the completion of the integration of Carbon Solutions. Offsetting this decrease was an increase in outsourced shared service costs, including legal fees, of $0.3 million.

General and administrative

General and administrative expenses decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 primarily due to a reduction of general and administrative expenses included a reduction in product development of $0.4 million that occurred during the three months ended March 31, 2020. Further reduction of general and administrative expenses included a reduction of travel of $0.1 million. Offsetting these decreases was an increase in rent and occupancy expenses of approximately $0.1 million related to property taxes.

Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion

Depreciation and amortization expense decreased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 due to an impairment charge taken in the second quarter of 2020 that reduced the value of our fixed assets and intangibles and thus, reduced the corresponding depreciation and amortization expense by approximately $0.6 million. Offsetting this decrease was an increase in accretion expense of $0.3 million related to the ARO liability of Marshall Mine for the three months ended March 31, 2021. Further, the addition of leasehold improvements at our corporate headquarters in 2020 contributed to approximately $0.2 million of amortization expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021.

Other Income (Expense), net

A summary of the components of other income (expense), net for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,				Change
(in thousands, except percentages)	2021		2020		($)		(%)
Other income (expense):
Earnings from equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273	$	10,039	121	%
Interest expense	(837)		(1,210)		373		(31)	%
Other	421		43		378		879	%
Total other income	$	17,896	$	7,106	$	10,790	152	%

Earnings from equity method investments

The following table details the components of our respective equity method investments included within the Earnings from equity method investments line item in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

28

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438
Earnings from Tinuum Services	1,950		1,838
Earnings (loss) from other	—		(3)
Earnings from equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273

Earnings from equity method investments, and changes related thereto, are impacted by our significant equity method investees: Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, we recognized $16.4 million in equity earnings from Tinuum Group compared to our proportionate share of Tinuum Group's net income of $10.8 million for the quarter. The difference between our pro-rata share of Tinuum Group's net income and our earnings from Tinuum Group equity method investment as reported on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations is the result of cumulative distributions received from Tinuum Group being in excess of the carrying value of the investment, and therefore we recognize such excess distributions as equity method earnings in the period the distributions occur.

For the three months ended March 31, 2020, we recognized $6.4 million in equity earnings from Tinuum Group, which was equal to our proportionate share of Tinuum Group's net income for the respective quarter.

See further discussion of quarter over quarter changes in Earnings from Equity Investments in "Business Segments" under this Item. Additional information related to equity method investments is included in Note 6 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I - Item 1 of this Report.

For 2021, we expect to recognize such excess contributions as equity method earnings in the period the distributions occur, limited to the carrying value of the Tinuum Group equity investment.

Interest expense

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, interest expense decreased $0.4 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily due to a reduction in interest expense related to the Senior Term Loan, as the principal balance was reduced from payments of $28.0 million made during the period from March 31, 2020 to March 31, 2021. The remaining decrease in interest expense related to a reduction in the deferred balance during the period from March 31, 2020 to March 31, 2021 related to Internal Revenue Code section 453A ("453A"), which requires taxpayers to pay an interest charge ("453A interest") on the portion of the tax liability that is deferred under the installment method for tax purposes. 

Income tax expense

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, we recorded income tax expense of $4.5 million compared to income tax expense of $0.4 million for the three months ended March 31, 2020. The income tax expense recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was comprised of estimated federal income tax expense of $4.1 million and estimated state income tax expense of $0.4 million. The income tax expense recorded for the three months ended March 31, 2020 was comprised of estimated federal income tax expense of $0.3 million and estimated state income tax expense of $0.1 million.

The increase in income tax expense quarter over quarter was primarily due to pretax income for the three months ended March 31, 2021 of $18.2 million compared to a pretax loss for the three months ended March 31, 2020 of $1.5 million. In addition, for the three months ended March 31, 2020, we recorded tax expense of $0.9 million related to an increase in the valuation allowance on deferred tax assets as of March 31, 2020. This increase was based on changes in forecasts of future taxable income for 2020 and 2021.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

To supplement our financial information presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP (or "GAAP"), we are providing non-GAAP measures of certain financial performance. These non-GAAP measures include Consolidated EBITDA, Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA, RC Segment EBITDA, RC Segment Adjusted EBITDA, APT Segment EBITDA and APT Segment Adjusted EBITDA. We have included these non-GAAP measures because management believes that they help to facilitate period to period comparisons of our operating results. We believe the non-GAAP measures provide useful information to both management and users of the financial statements by excluding certain expenses, gains and losses that may not be indicative of core operating results and business outlook. Management uses these non-GAAP measures in evaluating the performance of our business.

29

These non-GAAP measures are not in accordance with, or an alternative to, measures prepared in accordance with GAAP and may be different from non-GAAP measures used by other companies. In addition, these non-GAAP measures are not based on any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles. These measures should only be used to evaluate our results of operations in conjunction with the corresponding GAAP measures.

We define Consolidated EBITDA as net income adjusted for the impact of the following items that are either non-cash or that we do not consider representative of our ongoing operating performance: depreciation, amortization, depletion, accretion, amortization of upfront customer consideration that was recorded as a component of the Marshall Mine Acquisition ("Upfront Customer Consideration"), interest expense, net and income tax expense. We define Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA as Consolidated EBITDA reduced by the non-cash impact of equity earnings from equity method investments and increased by cash distributions from equity method investments. Because Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA omits certain non-cash items, we believe that the measure is less susceptible to variances that affect our operating performance.

We define APT Segment EBITDA (Loss) as APT Segment Operating Income (Loss) adjusted for the impact of the following items that are either non-cash or that we do not consider representative of our ongoing operating performance: depreciation, amortization, depletion, accretion and interest expense, net and amortization of Upfront Customer Consideration. There were no additional adjustments made to APT Segment Adjusted EBITDA (Loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

We define RC Segment EBITDA as RC Segment operating income adjusted for the impact of the following items that are either non-cash or that we do not consider representative of our ongoing operating performance: depreciation, amortization, depletion, accretion and interest expense. We define RC Segment Adjusted EBITDA as RC Segment EBITDA reduced by the non-cash impact of equity earnings from equity method investments and increased by cash distributions from equity method investments.

When used in conjunction with GAAP financial measures, we believe these non-GAAP measures are supplemental measures of operating performance that explain our operating performance for our period to period comparisons and against our competitors' performance. Generally, we believe these non-GAAP measures are less susceptible to variances that affect our operating performance results.

We expect the adjustments to Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA and APT Segment Adjusted EBITDA in future periods will be generally similar. These non-GAAP measures have limitations as analytical tools, and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analyzing our results as reported under GAAP.

Consolidated EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Net income (loss)	$	13,737	$	(1,893)
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	2,106		2,297
Amortization of Upfront Customer Consideration	127		—
Interest expense, net	729		1,167
Income tax expense	4,489		358
Consolidated EBITDA	21,188		1,929
Cash distributions from equity method investees	23,251		17,116
Equity earnings	(18,312)		(8,273)
Consolidated Adjusted EBITDA	$	26,127	$	10,772

30

Business Segments

As of March 31, 2021, we have two reportable segments: (1) RC and (2) APT. The business segment measurements provided to and evaluated by our chief operating decision maker are computed in accordance with the principles listed below:

•The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in the 2020 Form 10-K.

•Segment revenues include equity method earnings and losses from our equity method investments.

•Segment operating income (loss) includes segment revenues and allocation of certain "Corporate general and administrative expenses," which include Payroll and benefits, Rent and occupancy, Legal and professional fees, and General and administrative.

•RC segment operating income includes interest expense directly attributable to the RC segment.

The principal products and services of our segments are:

1.RC - Our RC segment derives its earnings from equity method investments as well as royalty payment streams and other revenues related to enhanced combustion of and reduced emissions of both NOX and mercury from the burning of coal. Our equity method investments related to the RC segment include Tinuum Group, Tinuum Services and other immaterial equity method investments. Segment revenues include our equity method earnings (losses) from our equity method investments and M-45 License royalties earned from Tinuum Group. These earnings are included within the Earnings from equity method investments and License royalties, related party line items in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. Key drivers to the RC segment performance are the produced and sold RC from both operating and retained RC facilities, royalty-bearing tonnage and the number of operating (leased or sold) and retained RC facilities. These key drivers impact our earnings and cash distributions from equity method investments. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021. As such, our earnings and distributions from our RC segment will substantially cease as of December 31, 2021.

2.APT - Our APT segment includes revenues and related expenses from the sale of our AC and chemical products, which are used to purify coal-fired utilities, industrials, water treatment plants, and other markets. For the purification of air and gases, one of the uses of AC is to reduce mercury emissions and other air contaminants, specifically at coal-fired power generators and other industrial companies. These amounts are included within the Consumables and respective cost of revenue line items in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Management uses segment operating income (loss) to measure profitability and performance at the segment level. Management believes segment operating income (loss) provides investors with a useful measure of our operating performance and underlying trends of the businesses. Segment operating income (loss) may not be indicative of our overall consolidated performance and therefore, should be read in conjunction with our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

31

The following table presents our operating segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Revenues:
Refined Coal:
Earnings in equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273
License royalties, related party	4,066		3,046
	22,378		11,319
Advanced Purification Technologies:
Consumables	17,031		9,217
	17,031		9,217
Total segment reporting revenues	39,409		20,536
Adjustments to reconcile to reported revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	(18,312)		(8,273)
Total reported revenues	$	21,097	$	12,263
Segment operating income (loss):
Refined Coal	$	22,271	$	10,860
Advanced Purification Technologies	15		(7,370)
Total segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490

RC

The following table details the segment revenues of our respective equity method investments:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438
Earnings from Tinuum Services	1,950		1,838
Earnings (loss) from other	—		(3)
Earnings from equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020

RC earnings increased primarily due to an increase in equity earnings in Tinuum Group for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 primarily from the addition of three new RC facilities in 2020.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, earnings from Tinuum Services increased compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 primarily due to an increase in tonnage quarter over quarter and an increase in the number of operating RC facilities in which Tinuum Services provides operating and maintenance services from 19 to 22.

RC earnings related to M-45 License royalties increased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the corresponding quarter in 2020 due to higher tonnage quarter over quarter, which was primarily a result of an increase in RC facilities that use the M-45 Technology. The increase in tonnage as well as the additional RC facilities attributed to the royalty rate per ton to increase period over period.

32

Outlook

Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the planned expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021, and the loss of equity earnings, distributions and M-45 License royalties beginning in 2022, will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and consolidated operating results compared to historical periods. Earnings in the RC segment for 2021 will continue to be impacted by coal-fired dispatch and invested facilities with leases subject to periodic renewals being terminated, repriced, or otherwise subject to renegotiated terms. As a result of the wind-down in both Tinuum Group's and Tinuum Services' operations occurring throughout 2021, we expect our earnings in both entities to decrease in 2021 compared to 2020. However, in 2021, cash distributions should substantially exceed earnings.

RC Segment EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
RC Segment operating income	$	22,271	$	10,860
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	20		27
Interest expense	—		132
RC Segment EBITDA	22,291		11,019
Cash distributions from equity method investees	23,251		17,116
Equity earnings	(18,312)		(8,273)
RC Segment Adjusted EBITDA	$	27,230	$	19,862

APT

Discussion of revenues derived from our APT segment and costs related thereto are included above within our consolidated results.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020

APT segment operating income increased for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily due to an increase in consumable revenues and associated margins. The increase in our consumable revenue was driven by an increase in volume quarter over quarter, specifically product sold under the Supply Agreement. Our gross margin, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, increased primarily due to the higher volumes causing lower fixed cost per pound compared to the prior year.

APT Segment EBITDA (Loss)

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
APT Segment operating income (loss)	$	15	$	(7,370)
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	1,932		2,244
Amortization of Upfront Customer Consideration	127		—
Interest expense, net	79		94
APT Segment EBITDA (loss)	$	2,153	$	(5,032)

33

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview of Factors Affecting Our Liquidity

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, our liquidity position was positively affected primarily from distributions from Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services, M-45 License royalty payments from Tinuum Group and borrowing availability under our bank ("Lender") line of credit ("Line of Credit").

As of March 31, 2021, our principal sources of liquidity include:

•cash on hand;

•distributions from Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services;

•M-45 License royalty payments from Tinuum Group;

•operations of the APT segment; and

•the Line of Credit.

As of March 31, 2021, our principal uses of liquidity include:

•our business operating expenses, including federal and state tax payments and cash severance;

•payments of principal and interest on our debt and lease obligations;

•payments of ARO liabilities; and

•restricted cash of $16.0 million under the Line of Credit and Surety Agreement requirements.

Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services Distributions

The following table summarizes the cash distributions from our equity method investments that most significantly affected

our consolidated cash flow results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Tinuum Group	$	19,749	$	13,764
Tinuum Services	3,502		3,352
Distributions from equity method investees	$	23,251	$	17,116

Cash distributions from Tinuum Group for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $6.0 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily due to three RC facilities added in 2020.

Future cash flows from Tinuum through 2021 are expected to range from $50 million to $60 million. The key drivers in achieving these future cash flows are based on the following:

•23 invested facilities as of March 31, 2021 and inclusive of all net Tinuum cash flows (distributions and license

    royalties), offset by estimated federal and state income tax payments.

Expected future cash flows from Tinuum Group are based on the following key assumptions:

•Tinuum Group continues to not operate retained facilities;

•Tinuum Group does not have material unexpected capital expenditures or unusual operating expenses;

•Tax equity lease renewals on invested facilities are not terminated or repriced; and

•Coal-fired power generation remains consistent with contractual expectations.

Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021. As such, our distributions from our RC segment will substantially cease as of December 31, 2021.

PPP Loan

On April 20, 2020, we entered into the PPP Loan under the PPP, evidenced by a promissory note with BOK, providing for $3.3 million in proceeds, which was funded on April 21, 2020. The PPP Loan matures April 21, 2022. The PPP Loan principal may be forgiven subject to the terms of the PPP and approval by the SBA. The interest rate on the PPP Loan is 1.00%. The PPP Loan is unsecured and contains customary events of default relating to, among other things, payment defaults, making materially false and misleading representations to the SBA or BOK, or breaching the terms of the PPP Loan. The occurrence of an event of default may result in the repayment of all amounts outstanding, collection of all amounts owing from us, or filing suit and obtaining judgment against us.

Under the PPPFA, monthly payments of principal and interest commence on the later of 10 months following the "covered period" (as defined in the PPPFA) or the date that BOK notifies us that the SBA has notified BOK that all or a portion of the

34

PPP Loan has not been forgiven. In January 2021, we submitted an application to the SBA for forgiveness of the PPP Loan and we are awaiting the SBA's response on our application for forgiveness. Accordingly, for any amounts not forgiven, we have determined that PPP Loan principal and interest payments would commence in August 2021.

Our business has been classified as an essential business, and therefore we continue to operate on a modified basis to comply with governmental restrictions and public health authority guidelines. In April 2020, we sequestered approximately 60 employees to continue to run our manufacturing plant and build-up inventory in order to supply our customers. This resulted in additional costs as the sequestered employees received hazard pay. We used proceeds from the PPP Loan to fund our payroll costs.

Senior Term Loan

On December 7, 2018, we and ADA-ES, Inc. ("ADA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, and certain other subsidiaries of the Company as guarantors, The Bank of New York Mellon as administrative agent, and Apollo Credit Strategies Master Fund Ltd and Apollo A-N Credit Fund (Delaware) L.P. (collectively "Apollo”), affiliates of a beneficial owner of greater than five percent of our common stock and a related party, entered into the Senior Term Loan in the amount of $70.0 million, less original issue discount of $2.1 million. Proceeds from the Senior Term Loan were used to fund the acquisition of Carbon Solutions. We also paid debt issuance costs of $2.0 million related to the Senior Term Loan. The Senior Term Loan matures on December 7, 2021 and bears interest at a rate equal to 3-month LIBOR (subject to a 1.5% floor) + 4.75% per annum, which is adjusted quarterly to the current 3-month LIBOR rate, and interest is payable quarterly in arrears. Quarterly principal payments of $6.0 million were required beginning in March 2019, and we may prepay the Senior Term Loan at any time without penalty. The Senior Term Loan is secured by substantially all the assets of the Company, including the cash flows from the Tinuum Entities, but excluding the Company's equity interests in the Tinuum entities. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, we made principal payments of $10.0 million.

The Senior Term Loan includes, among others, the following covenants: (1) As of the end of each fiscal quarter, we must maintain a minimum cash balance of $5.0 million and shall not permit "expected future net cash flows from the refined coal business" (as defined in the Senior Term Loan) to be less than 1.75 times the outstanding principal amount of the Senior Term Loan; (2) Annual collective dividends and buybacks of shares of our common stock in an aggregate amount, not to exceed $30.0 million, are permitted so long as (a) no default or event of default exists under the Senior Term Loan and (b) expected future net cash flows from the refined coal business as of the end of the most recent fiscal quarter exceed $100.0 million.

Waiver and Limited Consent on Senior Term Loan

Pursuant to entering into the PPP Loan, on April 20, 2020, we and Apollo executed the First Amendment to the Senior Term Loan, which permitted us to enter into the PPP Loan.

On September 30, 2020, we and Apollo entered into a limited consent, which permitted the Company to (i) enter into the Surety Agreement, open the collateral bank accounts and post collateral required under the Surety Agreement, and (ii) acquire the membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC.

Line of Credit

In September 2013, ADA, as borrower, and us, as guarantor, entered into the Line of Credit with the Lender for an aggregate borrowing amount of $10.0 million, which was secured by certain amounts due to us from certain Tinuum Group RC leases. The Line of Credit has been amended 15 times from the period from December 2, 2013 through March 31, 2021 and included a reduction in the borrowing amount to $5.0 million in September 2018.

On March 23, 2021, ADA), the Company and the Lender entered into an amendment to the Line of Credit (the "Fifteenth Amendment"), which extended the maturity date of the Line of Credit to December 31, 2021 and increased the minimum cash requirement from $5.0 million to $6.0 million.

As of March 31, 2021, we have $4.7 million of borrowing availability and no outstanding borrowings under the Line of Credit.

Stock Repurchases and Dividends

In November 2018, the Board authorized us to purchase up to $20.0 million of our outstanding common stock under a stock repurchase program (the "Stock Repurchase Program"), which was to remain in effect until December 31, 2019 unless otherwise modified by the Board. As of November 2019, $2.9 million remained outstanding related to the Stock Repurchase Program. In November 2019, the Board authorized an incremental $7.1 million to the Stock Repurchase Program and provided that it will remain in effect until all amounts are utilized or it is otherwise modified by the Board.

35

Under the Stock Repurchase Program, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020, we purchased zero and 20,613 shares, respectively, of our common stock for cash of zero and $0.2 million, respectively, inclusive of commissions and fees. As of March 31, 2021, we had $7.0 million remaining under the Stock Repurchase Program.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, we declared and paid quarterly cash dividends to stockholders of zero and $4.5 million, respectively.

Liquidity Outlook

Our ability to continue to generate sufficient cash flow required to meet ongoing operational needs and obligations, and make potential future dividend payments and share repurchases depends upon several factors, including executing on our contracts and initiatives, receiving M-45 License royalty payments from Tinuum Group and distributions from Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services, increasing our share of the market for APT consumables, including expanding our overall AC business into additional adjacent markets and improving our customer and product mix.

In 2021, our primary source of liquidity is expected to be distributions from Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services. These distributions in 2021 will provide sufficient cash on hand to fund operations in 2021 and 2022. For 2021, we expect to spend $9.5 million in capital expenditures compared to $7.1 million incurred in 2020. This increase is primarily the result of product specific capital related to the Supply Agreement and routine scheduled maintenance outages planned for the second quarter of 2021. As a result of the Plant Incident, the Red River Plant was shut down for approximately one week for repair. The cash flow impact associated with the incident, including maintenance and repairs, capital expenditures, inventory replacement due to lost production and other items, is not expected to exceed $3.0 million.

Due to the expiration of the Section 45 tax period as of December 31, 2021 and the resultant wind down of Tinuum Group's and Tinuum Services' operations by the end of 2021, distributions from Tinuum Group will no longer be a source of liquidity after 2021.

As we look to 2022 and beyond, our primary source of liquidity is expected to be through our ongoing operations from our APT segment. We believe the Supply Agreement will provide material incremental volume and capture lower operating cost efficiencies of our Red River plant, providing additional sources of operating cash flows in the future. Full and partial reimbursements on capital expenditures from Cabot will help limit our uses of investing cash flows. Further, we intend to fund the remaining portion of the Reclamation Costs from cash on hand as well as cash generated from the Supply Agreement. In 2022 and beyond, our annual capital expenditures are expected to average approximately $5.0 million.

Sources and Uses of Cash

Three Months Ended March 31, 2021 vs. Three Months Ended March 31, 2020

Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash increased from $35.9 million as of December 31, 2020 to $52.2 million as of March 31, 2021. The following table summarizes our cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020		Change
Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash provided by (used in):
Operating activities	$	21,947	$	13,237	$	8,710
Investing activities	4,886		(1,736)		6,622
Financing activities	(10,531)		(11,393)		862
Net change in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash	$	16,302	$	108	$	16,194

Cash flow from operating activities

Cash flows provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $8.7 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020. The net increase was primarily attributable to an increase in net income for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to net loss for the three months ended March 31, 2020 of $15.6 million and an increase period over period in the net increase in operating lease liabilities of $2.7 million. Offsetting this net increase in cash flows provided by operating activities was an increase period over period in earnings from equity method investees of $10.0 million for the three months ended March 31, 2021 compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020.

Cash flow from investing activities

Cash flows provided in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2021 increased by $6.6 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily from distributions from equity earnings in excess of cumulative earnings.

36

Cash flow from financing activities

Cash flows used in financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2021 decreased by $0.9 million compared to the three months ended March 31, 2020 primarily from decreases period over period in dividends paid of $4.5 million and repurchases of common shares of $0.2 million. Offsetting these decrease was an increase in principal loan repayments on the Senior Term Loan of $4.0 million.

Contractual Obligations

During the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no material changes to our contractual obligations outside of the ordinary course of business from those reported as of December 31, 2020.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

As of March 31, 2021, we had outstanding surety bonds of $36.7 million related to performance requirements under reclamation contracts associated with both the Five Forks Mine and the Marshall Mine. As of March 31, 2021, we had restricted cash of $10.0 million securing the Surety Agreement. We expect that the obligations secured by these surety bonds will be performed in the ordinary course of business and in accordance with the applicable contractual terms. To the extent that the obligations are performed, the related surety bonds should be released, and we should not have any continuing obligations. However, in the event any surety bond is called, our indemnity obligations could require us to reimburse the issuer of the surety bond.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

Our significant accounting policies and estimates have not changed from those reported in Item 7 - "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" in the 2020 10-K.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Refer to Note 1 of the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 1 of this Quarterly Report for information regarding recently issued accounting standards applicable to us.

Forward-Looking Statements Found in this Report

This Quarterly Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or the Exchange Act, that involve risks and uncertainties. In particular, such forward-looking statements are found in this Part I, Item 2 above. Words or phrases such as "anticipates," "believes," "expects," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "predicts," the negative expressions of such words, or similar expressions are used in this Quarterly Report to identify forward-looking statements, and such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements or expectations regarding:

(a)the scheduled expiration of the IRC Section 45 tax credit period in 2021 and the resulting wind down of the business of, and loss of revenue from, Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services;

(b)the production and sale of RC by RC facilities through the remainder of 2021 that will qualify for Section 45 tax credits and associated cash flows from Tinuum expected through 2021;

(c)expected growth or contraction in and potential size of our target APT markets, including the water purification, food and beverage and pharmaceuticals markets;

(d)expected supply and demand for our APT products and services;

(e)increasing competition in the APT market;

(f)future level of research and development activities;

(g)the effectiveness of our technologies and the benefits they provide;

(h)probability of any loss occurring with respect to certain guarantees made by Tinuum Group;

(i)the timing of awards of, and work and related testing under, our contracts and agreements and their value;

(j)the timing and amounts of or changes in future revenues, royalties earned, backlog, funding for our business and projects, margins, expenses, earnings, tax rates, cash flows, royalty payment obligations, working capital, liquidity and other financial and accounting measures;

(k)the amount of future capital expenditures needed for our business, including, those associated with the Plant Incident;

(l)awards of patents designed to protect our proprietary technologies both in the U.S. and other countries;

(m)the adoption and scope of regulations to control certain chemicals in drinking water; and

(n)opportunities to effectively provide solutions to U.S. coal-related businesses to comply with regulations, improve efficiency, lower costs and maintain reliability.

37

The forward-looking statements included in this Quarterly Report involve risks and uncertainties. Actual events or results could differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors including, but not limited to, timing of new and pending regulations and any legal challenges to or extensions of compliance dates of them; the U.S. government’s failure to promulgate regulations that benefit our business; changes in laws and regulations, accounting rules, prices, economic conditions and market demand; impact of competition; availability, cost of and demand for alternative energy sources and other technologies; technical, start up and operational difficulties; decreases in the production of RC; our inability to commercialize our APT technologies on favorable terms; our inability to ramp up our operations to effectively address recent and expected growth in our APT business; loss of key personnel; availability of materials and equipment for our businesses; intellectual property infringement claims from third parties; pending litigation; as well as other factors relating to our business, as described in our filings with the SEC, with particular emphasis on the risk factor disclosures contained in those filings. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements made in this Quarterly Report and to consult filings we have made and will make with the SEC for additional discussion concerning risks and uncertainties that may apply to our business and the ownership of our securities. The forward-looking statements contained in this Quarterly Report are presented as of the date hereof, and we disclaim any duty to update such statements unless required by law to do so.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

The information under this Item is not required to be provided by smaller reporting companies.

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

As required by Rule 13a‑15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"), we have evaluated, under the supervision of and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a‑15(e) and 15d‑15(e) under the Exchange Act) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Our disclosure controls and procedures are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Based upon this evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of March 31, 2021.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a‑15(f) and 15d‑15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2021 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

38

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

From time to time, we are involved in litigation, claims and other proceedings related to the conduct of our business. Information with respect to this item may be found in Note 11 "Commitments and Contingencies" to the consolidated financial statements included in Item 1 of Part I of this Quarterly Report.

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There are no material updates to our risk factors as disclosed in the 2020 Form 10-K.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

None.

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

None.

Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures

The statement concerning mine safety violations or other regulatory matters required by Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and Item 104 of Regulation S-K is included in Exhibit 95.1 to this Quarterly Report.

Item 5. Other Information

The Company entered into agreements ("Retention Agreements") with all of its executive officers and certain other key employees of the organization for the benefit of retaining those officers and key employees in order to maintain the Company’s current business operations while it pursues and executes on its strategic initiatives. The Retention Agreements with the executive officers were approved by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and the Board of Directors on May 5, 2021.

The total amount payable pursuant to the Retention Agreements is $2.4 million. Under the Retention Agreements, the following executive officers will be paid the following amounts if they satisfy the conditions for payment: Greg Marken, Interim Chief Executive Officer, $460,000; Morgan Fields, Vice President of Accounting, $129,000; and Joe Wong, Chief Technology Officer, $153,001. The other key employees would be paid an aggregate amount of $1.6 million.

In order to receive the Retention Agreement payments, the employees must remain employed at the Company through the earliest of the following: (1) the date the employee’s employment is terminated without Cause or for Good Reason (as those terms are defined in the Retention Agreement or the employee’s employment agreement, as applicable), (2) 90 days after a Transaction Date or a Change in Control (as those terms are defined in the Retention Agreement or the employee’s employment agreement, as applicable), or (3) 15 days following the date the Company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2022 is filed with the SEC.

The foregoing description of the Retention Agreements is qualified in its entirety by reference to the forms of Retention Agreement, copies of which are filed as Exhibits 10.4 and 10.5 to this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and incorporated herein by reference.

39

Item 6. Exhibits

Exhibit No.	Description	Form	File No.	Incorporated by Reference  Exhibit	Filing Date
10.1	Fifteenth Amendment of 2013 Loan and Security Agreement by and among ADA-ES,Inc., Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc., and BOK, NA d/b/a Bank of Oklahoma dated as of March 23, 2021	8-K	001-37822	10.1	March 29, 2021
10.2	Fourth Amendment to Tax Asset Protection Plan dated as of April 9, 2021, by and between the Company and Computershare Trust Company, N.A., as rights agent.	8-K	001-37822	4.5	April 13, 2021
10.3	Employment Agreement dated February 26, 2021 between the Company and Morgan Fields**	8-K	001-37822	10.1	March 3, 2021
10.4	Form of Retention Agreement dated May 5, 2021 of Greg Marken and Morgan Fields*,**
10.5	Retention Agreement dated May 5, 2021 between the Company and Joe Wong*,**
31.1	Certification of Principal Executive Officer of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. Pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a) or 17 CFR 240.15d-14(a)*
31.2	Certification of Principal Financial Officer of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. Pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a) or 17 CFR 240.15d-14(a)*
32.1	Certification of Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. Pursuant to 18 U.S.C Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002*
95.1	Mine Safety Disclosure Exhibit*
101. INS	XBRL Instance Document
101.SCH	XBRL Schema Document
101.CAL	XBRL Calculation Linkbase Document
101.LAB	XBRL Label Linkbase Document
101.PRE	XBRL Presentation Linkbase Document
101.DEF	Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

Notes:

*    – Filed herewith.

**    – Portions of this exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for confidential treatment.

40

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

	Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.
	(Registrant)
May 10, 2021	By:	/s/ Greg Marken
		Greg Marken
		Interim Chief Executive Officer
		(Principal Executive Officer)
May 10, 2021	By:	/s/ Morgan Fields
		Morgan Fields
		Vice President of Accounting
		(Principal Financial Officer)

41

EX-10.4

CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETED ASTERISKS [*], HAS BEEN OMITTED PURSUANT TO RULE 24B-2 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934. AS AMENDED BECAUSE IT IS BOTH (I) NOT MATERIAL AND (II) WOULD BE COMPETITIVELY HARMFUL IF PUBLICLY DISCLOSED

RETENTION AGREEMENT

The following is a Retention Agreement (“Retention Agreement”), by and between [NAME] (referred to as “Employee,” “you,” “your” or “I”) and Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc., (together with its subsidiaries, the “COMPANY”). Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein have the meaning set forth in your Executive Rider and Amendment to Employment Agreement dated [XXX] (the “Executive Agreement”).

This Retention Agreement will become effective on the date you return a signed copy of the Retention Agreement to the COMPANY provided it is returned no later than 12:00 p.m. Mountain time on May 10, 2021 (the “Return Date”). If you do not return this Retention Agreement signed by you to the COMPANY by the Return Date, this offer will expire.

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the COMPANY recognizes that it has important customer and corporate initiatives that it has to complete over the next few months, and

WHEREAS, you have been identified as an important contributor to assist the COMPANY to complete its business objectives and delivery obligations to COMPANY customers, and

WHEREAS, in order to meet the COMPANY’s objectives and delivery obligations and to recognize your contribution to COMPANY, the COMPANY and Employee are willing to enter into this Retention Agreement.

WHEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the parties hereby agree as follows:

DEFINITIONS

    Whenever used in this Retention Agreement, the following words and phrases have the meanings specified below:

1.“Return Date” means May 10, 2021, the date by which you must return a signed copy of this Retention Agreement.

2.“Retention Pay” means the payment you are eligible to receive under Section B of this Retention Agreement.

3.“Retention Period” means your continued employment with COMPANY through the earliest of: (i) the Termination Date; (ii) Retention Date; (iii) 90 days following the date of a Change in Control; or (iv) 90 days following the Transaction Date.

4.“Retention Date” means 15 days following the filing of the 2022 Second Quarter 10-Q with the SEC.

5.“Termination Date” means the date your employment is terminated by the COMPANY without Cause or for Good Reason.

6.“Transaction Date” means the date on which [*].

Section A – Retention Terms

7.Retention. If (i) you are continuously employed by COMPANY from the date of this Retention Agreement through the Retention Period or (ii) the Company terminates your employment without Cause or for Good Reason before the date of the Retention Period, the COMPANY shall pay you as consideration the Retention Pay set forth in Section B below. Notwithstanding anything herein, your employment shall remain at-will, meaning that both you and COMPANY have the right to

terminate your employment at any time for any reason, with notice as provided in the Executive Agreement, and all other terms of your pay and benefits shall remain the same.

8.Termination of Employment prior to the Retention Date. Company may terminate your employment without Cause prior to the Retention Date, subject to the terms of the Executive Agreement, with the last day of employment being the Termination Date. If your employment ends on the Termination Date, subject to your signing a waiver and release agreement, the COMPANY shall pay you the Retention Pay as outlined in Section B. If you separate from service with COMPANY by reason of voluntary resignation, death, disability, or dismissal for Cause or without Good Reason prior to the end of the Retention Period, you shall forfeit your right to the Retention Pay.

Section B - Retention Pay

9.In exchange for your execution of this Retention Agreement, your compliance with its terms and conditions, and your continued employment through the Retention Period, the COMPANY agrees to pay you the following:

a.Upon completion of the Retention Period, the COMPANY will pay you the retention Pay as a lump sum in the amount of $[XXX]. All compensation paid to you, whether pursuant to this paragraph or otherwise, shall be subject to applicable tax withholdings and payroll deductions.

Section C - Miscellaneous

10.No Guarantee of Employment. This Retention Agreement is not an employment policy or contract. It does not give you the right to remain an employee of COMPANY nor does it interfere with the Company’s right to discharge you. It also does not require you to remain an employee nor interfere with your right to terminate employment at any time, subject to the terms of the Executive Agreement.

11.Severability. If a court determines that any provision of this Retention Agreement or portion thereof is invalid or unenforceable, any invalidity or unenforceability will affect only that provision or portion of that provision and shall not make any other provision of this Retention Agreement invalid or unenforceable. Instead, the court shall strike, modify, amend or limit the provision or portion thereof to the extent necessary to render it valid and enforceable.

12.Entire Agreement. This Retention Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding between you and the COMPANY regarding the eligibility and payment of Retention Pay. This Retention Agreement shall not be modified, amended, supplemented, altered, or varied, nor shall any term or condition contained in this Retention Agreement be waived, except by a written instrument signed by the parties.

13.Confidential Information. You acknowledge that by reason of your position with the Company you have been given access to confidential, proprietary or private materials or information with respect to the COMPANY and its affairs. You represent that you have held all such information confidential and will continue to do so, and that you will not use such information without the prior written consent of the COMPANY.

14.Choice of Law. The parties agree that the laws of the State of Colorado shall govern this Retention Agreement without reference to choice of law provisions thereunder.    

15.Dispute Resolution and Attorney’s Fees. If any suit or action is instituted under or in relation to this Retention Agreement, including without limitation to enforce any provision in this Retention Agreement, the parties will submit the matter to be mediated by a professional mediator mutually acceptable to the parties. The mediation and all documentation, hearings, and communications relating thereto will be confidential. The parties will share equally the costs of the mediator and

shall be responsible for their own costs, travel and related expenses associated with the mediation. If a good faith attempt of mediation does not settle the dispute, after sixty (60) days either party may refer the matter to a court of competent jurisdiction located in the greater Denver, Colorado area. The prevailing party in such any litigation shall be entitled to recover from the other party all fees, costs and expenses of enforcing any right of such prevailing party under or with respect to this Retention Agreement, including without limitation, reasonable fees and expenses of attorneys’ and all fees, costs and expenses of appeals.

16.No Legal Advice. You acknowledge that you were advised to consult with an attorney about this Retention Agreement before signing it. Any costs or fees for consultation with private attorneys are your responsibility.

In order to accept this Retention Agreement, you must electronically sign the Retention Agreement no later than 12:00 p.m. Mountain time on May 10, 2021. You understand that if you do not return this Retention Agreement signed by you to the COMPANY by this date, this offer will expire.

I have carefully read all aspects of this Retention Agreement, and I execute it voluntarily, fully understanding and accepting all provisions of this Retention Agreement in its entirety and without reservation after having had sufficient time and opportunity to consult with my legal advisors prior to executing this Retention Agreement.

EMPLOYEE	Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.
	By:
[NAME]	[Authorized Signatory]
Date:	Date:

EX-10.5

CERTAIN CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DOCUMENT, MARKED BY BRACKETED ASTERISKS [*], HAS BEEN OMITTED PURSUANT TO RULE 24B-2 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934. AS AMENDED BECAUSE IT IS BOTH (I) NOT MATERIAL AND (II) WOULD BE COMPETITIVELY HARMFUL IF PUBLICLY DISCLOSED

RETENTION AGREEMENT

The following is a Retention Agreement (“Retention Agreement”), by and between Joe Wong (referred to as “Employee,” “you,” “your” or “I”) and ADA Carbon Solutions, LLC, (together with its subsidiaries, the “COMPANY”). Capitalized terms not otherwise defined herein have the meaning set forth in your Addendum to Employment Agreement dated May 30, 2019 (the “Executive Agreement”).

This Retention Agreement will become effective on the date you return a signed copy of the Retention Agreement to the COMPANY provided it is returned no later than 12:00 p.m. Mountain time on May 10, 2021 (the “Return Date”). If you do not return this Retention Agreement signed by you to the COMPANY by the Return Date, this offer will expire.

RECITALS

WHEREAS, the COMPANY recognizes that it has important customer and corporate initiatives that it has to complete over the next few months, and

WHEREAS, you have been identified as an important contributor to assist the COMPANY to complete its business objectives and delivery obligations to COMPANY customers, and

WHEREAS, in order to meet the COMPANY’s objectives and delivery obligations and to recognize your contribution to COMPANY, the COMPANY and Employee are willing to enter into this Retention Agreement.

WHEREFORE, for good and valuable consideration, the parties hereby agree as follows:

DEFINITIONS

    Whenever used in this Retention Agreement, the following words and phrases have the meanings specified below:

1.“Return Date” means May 10, 2021, the date by which you must return a signed copy of this Retention Agreement.

2.“Retention Pay” means the payment you are eligible to receive under Section B of this Retention Agreement.

3.“Retention Period” means your continued employment with COMPANY through the earliest of: (i) the Termination Date; (ii) Retention Date; (iii) 90 days following the Transaction Date.

4.“Retention Date” means 15 days following the filing of the 2022 Second Quarter 10-Q with the SEC.

5.“Termination Date” means the date your employment is terminated by the COMPANY without Cause or for Good Reason.

6.“Transaction Date” means the date on which [*].

Section A – Retention Terms

7.Retention. If (i) you are continuously employed by COMPANY from the date of this Retention Agreement through the Retention Period or (ii) the Company terminates your employment without Cause before the date of the Retention Period, the COMPANY shall pay you as consideration the Retention Pay set forth in Section B below. Notwithstanding anything herein, your employment shall remain at-will, meaning that both you and COMPANY have the right to terminate your employment at any time for any reason, and all other terms of your pay and benefits shall remain the same. For purposes of this Retention Agreement, “Cause” shall mean: (a) dishonesty, misconduct, fraud or breach of fiduciary duty on the part of Employee; (b) repeated failure to perform assigned duties or responsibilities (with opportunity to cure after notice from COMPANY within five (5) days); (c) violation of any reasonable established COMPANY policy (including but not limited to the COMPANY’s Code of Ethics and Business Conduct and the Insider Trading Policy); or (d) a conviction, guilty plea, or no contest plea, for any felony or any misdemeanor involving moral turpitude.

8.Termination of Employment prior to the Retention Date. Company may terminate your employment without Cause prior to the Retention Date, with the last day of employment being the Termination Date. If your employment ends on the Termination Date, subject to your signing a waiver and release agreement, the COMPANY shall pay you the Retention Pay as outlined in Section B. If you separate from service with COMPANY by reason of voluntary resignation, death, disability, or dismissal for Cause prior to the end of the Retention Period, you shall forfeit your right to the Retention Pay.

Section B - Retention Pay

9.In exchange for your execution of this Retention Agreement, your compliance with its terms and conditions, and your continued employment through the Retention Period, the COMPANY agrees to pay you the following:

a.Upon completion of the Retention Period, the COMPANY will pay you the retention Pay as a lump sum in the amount of $153,000.00. All compensation paid to you, whether pursuant to this paragraph or otherwise, shall be subject to applicable tax withholdings and payroll deductions.

Section C - Miscellaneous

10.No Guarantee of Employment. This Retention Agreement is not an employment policy or contract. It does not give you the right to remain an employee of COMPANY nor does it interfere with the Company’s right to discharge you. It also does not require you to remain an employee nor interfere with your right to terminate employment at any time, subject to the terms of the Executive Agreement.

11.Severability. If a court determines that any provision of this Retention Agreement or portion thereof is invalid or unenforceable, any invalidity or unenforceability will affect only that provision or portion of that provision and shall not make any other provision of this Retention Agreement invalid or unenforceable. Instead, the court shall strike, modify, amend or limit the provision or portion thereof to the extent necessary to render it valid and enforceable.

12.Entire Agreement. This Retention Agreement represents the entire agreement and understanding between you and the COMPANY regarding the eligibility and payment of Retention Pay. This Retention Agreement shall not be modified, amended, supplemented, altered, or varied, nor shall any term or condition contained in this Retention Agreement be waived, except by a written instrument signed by the parties.

13.Confidential Information. You acknowledge that by reason of your position with the Company you have been given access to confidential, proprietary or private materials or information with respect to the COMPANY and its affairs. You represent that you have held all such information confidential and will continue to do so, and that you will not use such information without the prior written consent of the COMPANY.

14.Choice of Law. The parties agree that the laws of the State of Colorado shall govern this Retention Agreement without reference to choice of law provisions thereunder.    

15.Dispute Resolution and Attorney’s Fees. If any suit or action is instituted under or in relation to this Retention Agreement, including without limitation to enforce any provision in this Retention Agreement, the parties will submit the matter to be mediated by a professional mediator mutually acceptable to the parties. The mediation and all documentation, hearings, and communications relating thereto will be confidential. The parties will share equally the costs of the mediator and shall be responsible for their own costs, travel and related expenses associated with the mediation. If a good faith attempt of mediation does not settle the dispute, after sixty (60) days either party may refer the matter to a court of competent jurisdiction located in the greater Denver, Colorado area. The prevailing party in such any litigation shall be entitled to recover from the other party all fees, costs and expenses of enforcing any right of such prevailing party under or with respect to this Retention Agreement, including without limitation, reasonable fees and expenses of attorneys’ and all fees, costs and expenses of appeals.

16.No Legal Advice. You acknowledge that you were advised to consult with an attorney about this Retention Agreement before signing it. Any costs or fees for consultation with private attorneys are your responsibility.

In order to accept this Retention Agreement, you must electronically sign the Retention Agreement no later than 12:00 p.m. Mountain time on May 10, 2021. You understand that if you do not return this Retention Agreement signed by you to the COMPANY by this date, this offer will expire.

I have carefully read all aspects of this Retention Agreement, and I execute it voluntarily, fully understanding and accepting all provisions of this Retention Agreement in its entirety and without reservation after having had sufficient time and opportunity to consult with my legal advisors prior to executing this Retention Agreement.

EMPLOYEE	ADA Carbon Solutions, LLC
	By:
Joe Wong	Greg Marken, authorized signatory
Date:	Date:

EX-31.1

Exhibit 31.1

Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Amended

I, Greg Marken, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.;

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 registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’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 registrant 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 registrant, 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 registrant’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 such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(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 registrant’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 registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 10, 2021

/s/ Greg Marken

Greg Marken

Interim Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

EX-31.2

Exhibit 31.2

Pursuant to Rules 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as Amended

I, Morgan Fields, certify that:

1. I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.;

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 registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4. The registrant’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 registrant 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 registrant, 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 registrant’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 such evaluation; and

(d) Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5. The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

(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 registrant’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 registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

Date: May 10, 2021

/s/ Morgan Fields

Morgan Fields

Vice President of Accounting

(Principal Financial Officer)

EX-32.1

Exhibit 32.1

Certification

Pursuant to

18 U.S.C. Section 1350,

as Adopted Pursuant to

Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002

In connection with the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. (the "Company") for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2021, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the "Report"), Greg Marken, as the Principal Executive Officer of the Company, and Morgan Fields, as the Principal Financial Officer of the Company, each hereby certifies, pursuant to and solely for the purpose of 18 U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to §906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, to the best of his knowledge and belief, that:

(1) the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

/s/ Greg Marken

Greg Marken

Interim Chief Executive Officer

May 10, 2021

/s/ Morgan Fields

Morgan Fields

Vice President of Accounting

May 10, 2021

EX-95.1

EXHIBIT 95.1

Mine Safety and Health Administration Safety Data

We are committed to maintaining a safe work environment and working to ensure environmental compliance across all of our operations. The health and safety of our employees and limiting the impact to communities in which we operate are critical to our long-term success. We employ practices and conduct training to help ensure that our employees work safely. Furthermore, we utilize processes for managing, monitoring and improving safety and environmental performance.

The following disclosures are provided pursuant to Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, which require certain disclosures by companies required to file periodic reports under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that operate coal mines regulated under the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 (the "Mine Act"). The disclosures reflect United States (U.S.) mining operations only.

Mine Safety Information. Whenever the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) believes that a violation of the Mine Act, any health or safety standard, or any regulation has occurred, it may issue a violation which describes the associated condition or practice and designates a time frame within which the operator must abate the violation. In some situations, such as when MSHA believes that conditions pose a hazard to miners, MSHA may issue an order removing miners from the area of the mine affected by the condition until hazards are corrected. Whenever MSHA issues a citation or order, it generally proposes a civil penalty, or fine, as a result of the violation that the operator is ordered to pay. Citations and orders can be contested and appealed and, as part of that process, are often reduced in severity and amount, and are sometimes vacated. The number of citations, orders and proposed assessments vary depending on the size and type (underground or surface) of the company and mine.

We are required to report citations and orders issued to us by MSHA during the three months ended March 31, 2021, as reflected in our systems. Our required disclosure covers only those mines that were issued orders or citations during the period presented and, commensurate with SEC regulations, does not reflect orders or citations issued to independent contractors working at our mines. Due to timing and other factors, our data may not agree with the mine data retrieval system maintained by MSHA. The proposed assessments for the three months ended March 31, 2021 were taken from the MSHA system as of May 7, 2021.

Additional information about MSHA references we are required to report is as follows:

•Section 104 S&S Violations: The total number of violations received from MSHA under section 104(a) of the Mine Act that could significantly and substantially contribute to a serious injury if left unabated.

•Section 104(b)Orders: The total number of orders issued by MSHA under section 104(b) of the Mine Act, which represents a failure to abate a citation under section 104(a) within the period of time prescribed by MSHA. This results in an order of immediate withdrawal from the area of the mine affected by the condition until MSHA determines that the violation has been abated.

•Section 104(d) Citations and Orders: The total number of citations and orders issued by MSHA under section 104(d) of the Mine Act for unwarrantable failure to comply with mandatory health or safety standards.

•Section 104(e) Notices: The total number of notices issued by MSHA under section 104(e) of the Mine Act for a pattern of violations that could contribute to mine health or safety hazards.

•Section 110(b)(2)Violations: The total number of flagrant violations issued by MSHA under section 110(b)(2) of the Mine Act.

•Section 107(a) Orders: The total number of orders issued by MSHA under section 107(a) of the Mine Act for situations in which MSHA determined an imminent danger existed.

•Proposed MSHA Assessments: The total dollar value of proposed assessments from MSHA.

•Fatalities: The total number of mining-related fatalities.

Our first mine is located in the Gulf Coast Lignite Region, in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana ("Five Forks Mine"). For the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no citations or orders issued to the Five Forks Mine.Our second mine is located in the Gulf Coast Lignite Region, in Harrison and Panola Counties, Texas ("Marshall Mine").For the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no citations or orders issued to the Marshall Mine.

Pending Legal Actions. The Federal Mine Safety and Health Review Commission (the Commission) is an independent adjudicative agency that provides administrative trial and appellate review of legal disputes arising under the Mine Act. These cases may involve, among other questions, challenges by operators to citations, orders and penalties they have received from MSHA, or complaints of discrimination by miners under section 105 of the Mine Act. The following is a brief description of the types of legal actions that may be brought before the Commission.

•Contests of Citations and Orders: A contest proceeding may be filed with the Commission by operators, miners or miners’ representatives to challenge the issuance of a citation or order issued by MSHA, including citations related to disputed provisions of operators' emergency response plans.

•Contests of Proposed Penalties (Petitions for Assessment of Penalties): A contest of a proposed penalty is an administrative proceeding before the Commission challenging a civil penalty that MSHA has proposed for the violation. Such proceedings may also involve appeals of judges' decisions or orders to the Commission on proposed penalties, including petitions for discretionary review and review by the Commission on its own motion.

•Complaints for Compensation: A complaint for compensation may be filed with the Commission by miners entitled to compensation when a mine is closed by certain withdrawal orders issued by MSHA. The purpose of the proceeding is to determine the amount of compensation, if any, due miners idled by the orders.

•Complaints of Discharge, Discrimination or Interference: A discrimination proceeding is a case that involves a miner’s allegation that he or she has suffered a wrong by the operator because he or she engaged in some type of activity protected under the Mine Act, such as making a safety complaint. This category includes temporary reinstatement proceedings, which involve cases in which a miner has filed a complaint with MSHA stating he or she has suffered discrimination and the miner has lost his or her position.

•Applications for Temporary Relief: An application for temporary relief from any modification or termination of any order or from any order issued under certain subparts of section 104 of the Mine Act may be filed with the Commission at any time before such order becomes final.

•Appeals of Judges' Decisions or Orders.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no pending or legal actions before the Commission at the Five Forks Mine.For the three months ended March 31, 2021, there were no pending or legal actions before the Commission at the Marshall Mine.

XML

Cover Page - shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	May 05, 2021
Cover [Abstract]
Document Type	10-Q
Document Quarterly Report	true
Document Period End Date	Mar. 31, 2021
Document Transition Report	false
Entity File Number	001-37822
Entity Registrant Name	Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc.
Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code	DE
Entity Tax Identification Number	27-5472457
Entity Address, Address Line One	8051 E. Maplewood Ave
Entity Address, Address Line Two	Suite 210
Entity Address, City or Town	Greenwood Village
Entity Address, State or Province	CO
Entity Address, Postal Zip Code	80111
City Area Code	720
Local Phone Number	598-3500
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Interactive Data Current	Yes
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Entity Small Business	true
Entity Emerging Growth Company	false
Entity Shell Company	false
Title of 12(b) Security	Common stock, par value $0.001 per share
Trading Symbol	ADES
Security Exchange Name	NASDAQ
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		18,855,607
Entity Central Index Key	0001515156
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--12-31
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2021
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	false

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Current assets:
Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash	$ 42,234	$ 30,932
Receivables, net	10,349	13,125
Receivables, related parties	4,064	3,453
Inventories, net	8,040	9,882
Prepaid expenses and other assets	3,420	4,597
Total current assets	68,107	61,989
Restricted cash, long-term	10,000	5,000
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,172 and $3,340, respectively	29,777	29,433
Intangible assets, net	1,804	1,964
Equity method investments	2,753	7,692
Deferred tax assets, net	7,553	10,604
Other long-term assets, net	31,576	29,989
Total Assets	151,570	146,671
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	7,908	7,849
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	2,214	3,257
Current portion of long-term debt	9,913	18,441
Other current liabilities	14,888	12,996
Total current liabilities	34,923	42,543
Long-term debt, net of current portion	4,287	5,445
Other long-term liabilities	13,208	13,473
Total Liabilities	52,418	61,461
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
Stockholders’ equity:
Preferred stock: par value of $.001 per share, 50,000,000 shares authorized, none outstanding	0	0
Common stock: par value of $.001 per share, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 23,481,648 and 23,141,284 shares issued, and 18,863,502 and 18,523,138 shares outstanding at March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively	23	23
Treasury stock, at cost: 4,618,146 and 4,618,146 shares as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively	(47,692)	(47,692)
Additional paid-in capital	100,630	100,425
Retained earnings	46,191	32,454
Total stockholders’ equity	99,152	85,210
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity	$ 151,570	$ 146,671

XML

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Accumulated depreciation and amortization	$ 4,172	$ 3,340
Preferred stock par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Preferred stock, shares authorized (in shares)	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common stock par value (in dollars per share)	$ 0.001	$ 0.001
Common stock, shares authorized (in shares)	100,000,000	100,000,000
Common stock, shares issued (in shares)	23,481,648	23,141,284
Common stock, shares outstanding (in shares)	18,863,502	18,523,138
Treasury stock (in shares)	4,618,146	4,618,146

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Revenues:
Total revenues	$ 21,097	$ 12,263
Operating expenses:
Payroll and benefits	2,469	2,742
Legal and professional fees	1,803	2,043
General and administrative	1,915	2,331
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	2,106	2,297
Total operating expenses	20,767	20,904
Operating income (loss)	330	(8,641)
Other income (expense):
Earnings from equity method investments	18,312	8,273
Interest expense	(837)	(1,210)
Other	421	43
Total other income	17,896	7,106
Income (loss) before income tax expense	18,226	(1,535)
Income tax expense	4,489	358
Net income (loss)	$ 13,737	$ (1,893)
Earnings (loss) per common share (Note 1):
Basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.76	$ (0.11)
Diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.75	$ (0.11)
Weighted-average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	18,166	17,932
Diluted (in shares)	18,274	17,932
Consumables
Revenues:
Total revenues	$ 17,031	$ 9,217
Operating expenses:
Consumables cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization	12,474	11,491
License royalties, related party
Revenues:
Total revenues	$ 4,066	$ 3,046

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Treasury Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Retained Earnings
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2019		22,960,157	(4,597,533)
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2019	$ 108,292	$ 23	$ (47,533)	$ 98,466	$ 57,336
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Stock-based compensation (in shares)		218,259
Stock-based compensation	506			506
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings (in shares)		(64,198)
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(376)			(376)
Cash dividends declared on common stock	(4,590)				(4,590)
Repurchase of common shares (in shares)			(20,613)
Repurchase of common shares	(159)		$ (159)
Net income (loss)	(1,893)				(1,893)
Ending Balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2020		23,114,218	(4,618,146)
Ending Balance at Mar. 31, 2020	101,780	$ 23	$ (47,692)	98,596	50,853
Beginning Balance (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2020		23,141,284	(4,618,146)
Beginning Balance at Dec. 31, 2020	85,210	$ 23	$ (47,692)	100,425	32,454
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Stock-based compensation (in shares)		381,339
Stock-based compensation	421			421
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings (in shares)		(40,975)
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy minimum tax withholdings	(216)			(216)
Net income (loss)	13,737				13,737
Ending Balance (in shares) at Mar. 31, 2021		23,481,648	(4,618,146)
Ending Balance at Mar. 31, 2021	$ 99,152	$ 23	$ (47,692)	$ 100,630	$ 46,191

XML

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities
Net income (loss)	$ 13,737	$ (1,893)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:
Deferred income tax expense	3,051	788
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	2,106	2,297
Operating lease expense	379	774
Amortization of debt discount and debt issuance costs	591	354
Stock-based compensation expense	421	506
Earnings from equity method investments	(18,312)	(8,273)
Other non-cash items, net	(273)	0
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Receivables and related party receivables	2,147	2,988
Prepaid expenses and other assets	1,178	226
Inventories, net	1,548	1,572
Other long-term assets, net	(1,817)	(89)
Accounts payable	(706)	(1,477)
Accrued payroll and related liabilities	(1,043)	(973)
Other current liabilities	1,305	(23)
Operating lease liabilities	2,104	(634)
Other long-term liabilities	(2,113)	(22)
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment	17,644	17,116
Net cash provided by operating activities	21,947	13,237
Cash flows from investing activities
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of cumulative earnings	5,607	0
Acquisition of property, plant, equipment, and intangible assets, net	(1,321)	(1,289)
Mine development costs	(248)	(447)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	848	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	4,886	(1,736)
Cash flows from financing activities
Principal payments on term loan	(10,000)	(6,000)
Principal payments on finance lease obligations	(315)	(340)
Dividends paid	0	(4,518)
Repurchase of common shares	0	(159)
Repurchase of common shares to satisfy tax withholdings	(216)	(376)
Net cash used in financing activities	(10,531)	(11,393)
Increase in Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash	16,302	108
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, beginning of period	35,932	17,080
Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash, end of period	52,234	17,188
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash investing and financing activities:
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment through accounts payable	765	1,890
Dividends payable	$ 0	$ 105

XML

Basis of Presentation

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

Nature of Operations

Advanced Emissions Solutions, Inc. ("ADES" or the "Company") is a Delaware corporation with its principal office located in Greenwood Village, Colorado and operations located in Louisiana. The Company is principally engaged in the sale of consumable air and water treatment options including activated carbon ("AC") and chemical technologies. The Company's proprietary technologies in the advanced purification technologies ("APT") market enable customers to reduce air and water contaminants, including mercury and other pollutants, to maximize utilization levels and improve operating efficiencies to meet the challenges of existing and pending emission control regulations. Through its wholly-owned subsidiary, ADA Carbon Solutions, LLC ("Carbon Solutions"), the Company manufactures and sells AC used to capture and remove contaminants for coal-fired power plants and industrial and water treatment markets. Carbon Solutions also owns an associated lignite mine that supplies the primary raw material for manufacturing AC.

Through its equity ownership in Tinuum Group, LLC ("Tinuum Group") and Tinuum Services, LLC ("Tinuum Services"), both of which are unconsolidated entities, the Company generates substantial earnings. Tinuum Group provides reduction of mercury and nitrogen oxide ("NOx") emissions at select coal-fired power generators through the production and sale of refined coal ("RC") that qualifies for tax credits under the Internal Revenue Code ("IRC") Section 45 - Production Tax Credit ("Section 45 tax credits"). The Company also earns royalties for technologies that are licensed to Tinuum Group and used at certain RC facilities to enhance combustion and reduced emissions of NOx and mercury from coal burned to generate electrical power. Tinuum Services operates and maintains the RC facilities under operating and maintenance agreements with Tinuum Group and owners or lessees of the RC facilities. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021.

The Company’s sales occur principally in the United States. See Note 16 for additional information regarding the Company's operating segments.

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES are unaudited and have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") and with Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In compliance with those instructions, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted.

The unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES in this quarterly report ("Quarterly Report") are presented on a consolidated basis and include ADES and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company"). Also included within the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are the Company's unconsolidated equity investments: Tinuum Group, Tinuum Services and GWN Manager, LLC ("GWN Manager"), which are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, and Highview Enterprises Limited (the "Highview Investment"), which is accounted for in accordance with U.S. GAAP applicable to equity investments that do not qualify for the equity method of accounting.

Results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts were eliminated in consolidation for all periods presented in this Quarterly Report.

In the opinion of management, these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all normal and recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position, stockholders' equity and cash flows for the interim periods presented. These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (the "2020 Form 10-K"). Significant accounting policies disclosed therein have not changed.

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed using the two-class method, which is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings (loss) per share for common stock and any participating securities according to dividend and participating rights in undistributed earnings (losses). Pursuant to U.S. GAAP, the Company has elected not to separately present basic or diluted earnings per share attributable to participating securities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed in a manner consistent with that of basic earnings per share, while considering other potentially dilutive securities. Potentially dilutive securities consist of both unvested, participating and non-participating restricted stock awards ("RSA's"), as well as outstanding options to purchase common stock ("Stock Options") and contingent performance stock units ("PSU's") (collectively, "Potential dilutive shares"). The dilutive effect, if any, for non-participating RSA's, Stock Options and PSU's is determined using the greater of dilution as calculated under the treasury stock method or the two-class method. Potential dilutive shares are excluded from diluted earnings per share when their effect is anti-dilutive. When there is a net loss for a period, all Potential dilutive shares are anti-dilutive and are excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share for that period.

The following table sets forth the calculations of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share amounts)	2021		2020
Net income (loss)	$	13,737	$	(1,893)
Less: Dividends and undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities	—		(2)
Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$	13,737	$	(1,891)
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding	18,166		17,932
Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments	108		—
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	18,274		17,932
Earnings (loss) per share - basic	$	0.76	$	(0.11)
Earnings (loss) per share - diluted	$	0.75	$	(0.11)

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, RSA's, PSU's and Stock Options convertible to 0.1 million and 0.7 million shares of common stock, respectively, were outstanding but were not included in the computation of diluted net income (loss) per share because the effect would have been anti-dilutive.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. There have been no changes in the Company’s critical accounting estimates from those that were disclosed in the 2020 Form 10-K. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Due to the coronavirus ("COVID-19") pandemic, there has been uncertainty and disruption in the global economy and financial markets. Additionally, due to COVID-19, overall power generation and coal-fired power demand may change, which could also have a material adverse effect on the Company. The Company is not aware of any specific event or circumstance due to COVID-19 that would require an update to its estimates or judgments or a revision of the carrying values of its assets or liabilities through the date of this Quarterly Report. These estimates may change as new events occur and additional information is obtained. Actual results could differ materially from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company’s earnings are significantly affected by equity earnings from Tinuum Group. As of March 31, 2021, Tinuum Group has 23 invested RC facilities of which 9 are leased to a single customer. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021. The loss of Tinuum Group's customers, reduction in revenue streams as a result of lease renewals and the expiration of Section 45 tax credits will have a significant adverse impact on Tinuum Group's financial position, results of operations and cash flows, which in turn will have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.

The Company's revenues, sales volumes, earnings and cash flows are significantly affected by prices of competing power generation sources such as natural gas and renewable energy. Low natural gas prices make it a competitive alternative to coal-fired power generation and therefore, coal consumption may be reduced, which reduces the demand for our products. In addition, coal consumption and demand for our products is also affected by the demand for electricity, which is higher in the warmer and colder months of the year. Abnormal temperatures during the summer and winter months may significantly reduce coal consumption and thus the demand for the Company's products.

Reclassifications

Certain balances have been reclassified from the prior year to conform to the current year presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position in any of the periods presented.

New Accounting Standards

Adopted

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740) Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU 2019-12"). The amendments in ASU 2019-12 simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions contained in Topic 740 and also clarify and amends existing guidance in Topic 740 to improve consistent application. ASU 2019-12 is effective for public business entities beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim periods within those years, and early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted ASU 2019-12 effective January 1, 2021 and it did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures.

Not Yet Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). The main objective of ASU 2016-13 is to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. To achieve this objective, the amendments in ASU 2016-13 replace the incurred loss impairment methodology in current U.S. GAAP with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. ASU 2016-13 is effective for "smaller reporting companies" (as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission) for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those years, and must be adopted under a modified retrospective method approach. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing the impact on its financial statements and disclosures and does not believe this standard will have a material impact on its financial statements and disclosures.

XML

Customer Supply Agreement

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Additional Term of Contract [Abstract]

Customer Supply Agreement

Customer Supply Agreement

On September 30, 2020, the Company and Cabot Norit Americas, Inc., ("Cabot") entered into a supply agreement (the "Supply Agreement") pursuant to which the Company agreed to sell and deliver to Cabot, and Cabot agreed to purchase and accept from the Company certain lignite-based AC products ("Furnace Products"). The term of the Supply Agreement is for 15 years with 10-year renewal terms that are automatic unless either party provides three years prior notice of intention not to renew before the end of any term.

As part of the Supply Agreement, the Company and Cabot agreed to additional terms whereby Cabot reimburses the Company for certain capital expenditures incurred by the Company that are necessary to manufacture the Furnace Products, and both the Company and Cabot must mutually agree on these capital expenditures in advance of procurement and commissioning. Capital expenditures incurred that benefit both the Company and Cabot ("Shared Capital") are partially reimbursable by Cabot and recognized as revenues based on a formula contained in the Supply Agreement. Revenues from, and reimbursements of, Shared Capital are recognized and billable, respectively, beginning on the first day of a half year (January 1 and July 1 of a calendar year) following the placed in service date of a Shared Capital asset(s).

Capital expenditures incurred that benefit Cabot exclusively ("Specific Capital") are fully reimbursable by Cabot and recognized as revenues based on a formula contained in the Supply Agreement. Revenues earned from Specific Capital are recognized beginning on the first day of a half year following the placed in service date of a Specific Capital asset(s). Reimbursements of Specific Capital are billable in quarterly installments beginning on the first day of a half year following the placed in service date of a Specific Capital asset(s). In the event that Cabot ceases to make purchases under the Supply Agreement, Cabot is obligated to pay the balance of any outstanding payments for Specific Capital.

Revenues earned from both Shared Capital and Specific Capital are reported in the Consumables revenue line item in the Statements of Operations.

XML

Acquisition of Marshall Mine

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Acquisition of Marshall Mine

Acquisition of Marshall Mine

Concurrently with the execution of the Supply Agreement, on September 30, 2020, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase (the "Mine Purchase Agreement") from Cabot 100% of the membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC (the "Marshall Mine Acquisition") for a nominal cash purchase price. Marshall Mine, LLC owns a lignite mine located outside of Marshall, Texas (the "Marshall Mine"). The Company independently determined to immediately commence activities to shutter the Marshall Mine and will incur the associated reclamation costs.

In conjunction with the execution of the Supply Agreement and the Mine Purchase Agreement, on September 30, 2020, the Company entered into a reclamation contract (the "Reclamation Contract") with a third party that provides a capped cost, subject to certain contingencies, in the amount of approximately $19.7 million plus an obligation to pay certain direct costs of approximately $3.6 million (collectively, the "Reclamation Costs") over the estimated reclamation period of 10 years (the "Reclamation Period"). Under the terms of the Supply Agreement, Cabot is obligated to reimburse the Company for $10.2 million of Reclamation Costs (the "Reclamation Reimbursements"), which are payable semi-annually over 13 years and inclusive of interest. In the event that Cabot has a change in control as described in the Supply Agreement, all outstanding balances of the Reclamation Reimbursements shall be due and payable in full. See further discussion of the Reclamation Costs and Reclamation Reimbursements in Note 4.

The Marshall Mine Acquisition included the acquisition of certain assets that will be consumed and the assumption of certain liabilities that will be paid in reclamation of the Marshall Mine in addition to the incurrence of an obligation for the Reclamation Costs. The Company accounted for the Marshall Mine Acquisition as an asset acquisition as it did not meet the definition of a business. That is, the Company concluded that the Marshall Mine does not have any economic reserves, as the Company had commenced full reclamation as of September 30, 2020, and therefore lacked inputs.

As the Marshall Mine Acquisition represents a transaction with a customer of net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Cabot, the Company accounted for the excess of the fair value of liabilities assumed over assets acquired as upfront consideration transferred to a customer, Cabot (the "Upfront Customer Consideration"). The amount of the Upfront Customer Consideration was also recognized net of an additional asset recognized in the Marshall Mine Acquisition, which was comprised of a receivable from Cabot (the "Cabot Receivable") for the Reclamation Reimbursements. The Cabot Receivable is further discussed in Note 4.

The total Upfront Customer Consideration is being amortized on a straight-line basis over the expected 15-year contractual period of the Supply Agreement as a reduction to revenues.

As part of the Marshall Mine Acquisition, the Company assumed liabilities, whose fair value exceeded the fair value of assets acquired. A summary of the net assets acquired and liabilities assumed and the additional assets recorded in the Marshall Mine Acquisition as of September 30, 2020 are shown in the table below. Subsequent to this date, the Company completed additional analysis of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and recorded adjustments as of December 31, 2020 as shown in the table below.

(in thousands)	As Originally Reported		Adjustments		As Adjusted
Assets acquired:
Receivables	$	—	$	513	$	513
Property, plant and equipment	3,863		—		3,863
Spare parts	100		—		100
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(673)		160		(513)
Asset retirement obligation	(21,328)		—		(21,328)
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Marshall Mine acquisition	(18,038)		673		(17,365)
Cabot receivable	9,749		—		9,749
Upfront Customer Consideration	$	8,289	$	(673)	$	7,616

The Company also evaluated the Marshall Mine entity as a potential variable interest entity ("VIE"), and determined that because of its structure and closing-stage status, it did not have sufficient equity at-risk and would not likely be able to obtain additional subordinated financial support to complete its closing stage obligations. The Company purchased all of the

membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC and determined that the Company was the primary beneficiary. Therefore, Marshall Mine, LLC was determined to be a VIE and Marshall Mine, LLC’s assets and liabilities were consolidated.

XML

Marshall Mine Asset Retirement Obligation and Cabot Receivable

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Asset Retirement Obligation and related Long-Term Receivable [Abstract]

Marshall Mine Asset Retirement Obligation and Cabot Receivable

Marshall Mine Asset Retirement Obligation and Cabot Receivable

Asset Retirement Obligation

In connection with the Supply Agreement, Purchase Agreement and the Reclamation Contract, the Company assumed the obligation to reclaim and restore the land associated with the Marshall Mine. The Company determined that the Marshall Mine did not have any remaining economic reserves. As of September 30, 2020, the Company recorded an asset retirement obligation (the "Marshall Mine ARO") for the total Reclamation Costs of $21.3 million as measured at the expected future cash flows of $23.7 million, inclusive of contingency costs, discounted to their present value using a discount rate based on a credit-adjusted, risk-free rate of 7.0%. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the carrying value of the Marshall Mine ARO was $16.1 million and $21.3 million, respectively.

Cabot Receivable

As of September 30, 2020, the Company recorded the Cabot Receivable at its estimated fair value of $9.7 million, reflecting a discount rate of approximately 1.5% or $0.5 million. There were no significant related fees or costs associated with the Cabot Receivable.

The Cabot Receivable requires Cabot to pay the Reclamation Reimbursements to the Company in the amount of $10.2 million inclusive of interest over its term. Interest is accreted on the Cabot Receivable and recognized as interest income. An Allowance for the Cabot Receivable asset is assessed periodically, and no allowance was deemed necessary as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Surety Bond

As the owner of the Marshall Mine, the Company is required to post a surety bond to ensure performance of its reclamation activities. On September 30, 2020, the Company and a third party entered into a surety bond indemnification agreement (the "Surety Agreement") pursuant to which the Company secured and posted a $30.0 million surety bond (the "Bond") with the local regulatory agency. The Bond will remain in place until the Marshall Mine is fully reclaimed, and it may be reduced in amount from time to time as the Company progresses with its reclamation activities. As of March 31, 2021, for the obligations due under the Reclamation Contract, the Company was required to post collateral of $10.0 million, which is recorded as long-term restricted cash on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet.

XML

COVID-19

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

CARES Act, Grant Income [Abstract]

COVID-19

COVID-19

In March 2020, the federal government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Security Act (the "CARES Act"), which provided among other things the creation of the Paycheck Protection Plan ("PPP"), which is sponsored and administered by the U.S. Small Business Administration ("SBA"). On April 20, 2020, the Company executed a loan agreement (the "PPP Loan") under the PPP, evidenced by a promissory note, with BOK, NA dba Bank of Oklahoma ("BOK") providing for $3.3 million in proceeds, which was funded to the Company on April 21, 2020. In June 2020, the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act of 2020 (the "PPPFA") was signed into law and established the payment dates in the event that amounts borrowed under the PPP are not forgiven. The PPP Loan matures April 21, 2022 but may be forgiven subject to the terms of the PPP and approval by the SBA. The Company recorded the PPP Loan as a debt obligation and is accruing interest over the term of the PPP Loan. There is no assurance that the PPP Loan will be forgiven.

The interest rate on the PPP Loan is 1.00%. The PPP Loan is unsecured and contains customary events of default relating to, among other things, payment defaults, making materially false and misleading representations to the SBA or BOK, or breaching the terms of the PPP Loan. The occurrence of an event of default may result in the repayment of all amounts outstanding, collection of all amounts owing from the Company, or filing suit and obtaining judgment against the Company.

Under the PPPFA, monthly payments of principal and interest commence on the later of 10 months following the "covered period" (as defined in the PPPFA) or the date that BOK notifies the Company that the SBA has notified BOK that all or a portion of the PPP Loan has not been forgiven. In January 2021, the Company submitted its application to the SBA for forgiveness of the PPP Loan, and the Company is awaiting the SBA's response on its application for forgiveness. Accordingly, for any amounts not forgiven, the Company has determined that the PPP Loan principal and interest payments would commence in August 2021 and, as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, has classified a portion of the PPP Loan principal and accrued interest as current in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.

The CARES Act also provided for the deferral of payroll tax payments for all payroll taxes incurred through December 31, 2020. The Company elected to defer payments of payroll taxes for the periods allowed under the CARES Act and will repay

50% by December 31, 2021 and 50% by December 31, 2022. As of March 31, 2021, the Company has deferred $0.4 million of payroll tax payments under the CARES Act.

XML

Equity Method Investments

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Equity Method Investments

Equity Method Investments

Tinuum Group, LLC

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company's ownership interest in Tinuum Group was 42.5%. Tinuum Group supplies technology equipment and technical services at select coal-fired generators, but its primary purpose is to put into operation facilities that produce and sell RC that lower emissions and also qualify for Section 45 tax credits. The Company has determined that Tinuum Group is a VIE; however, the Company does not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Tinuum Group's economic performance and has therefore accounted for the investment under the equity method of accounting. The Company determined that the voting partners of Tinuum Group have identical voting rights, equity control interests and board control interests, and therefore, concluded that the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Tinuum Group's economic performance was shared.

The following table summarizes the results of operations of Tinuum Group:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Gross profit	$	2,675	$	5,010
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	13,802		12,776
Loss from operations	(11,127)		(7,766)
Other income (expenses), net	853		3,643
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	35,578		19,271
Net income available to members	$	25,304	$	15,148
ADES equity earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438

For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recognized earnings from Tinuum Group's net income available to members that were different from its pro-rata share of Tinuum Group's net income available to members, as cash distributions for the three months ended March 31, 2021 exceeded the carrying value of the Tinuum Group equity investment. For 2021, the Company expects to recognize such excess contributions as equity method earnings in the period the distributions occur, limited to the carrying value of the Tinuum Group equity investment. For the three months ended March 31, 2020, the Company recognized its pro-rata share of Tinuum Group's net income available to its members for the respective period.

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020, the Company recognized equity earnings from Tinuum Group of $16.4 million and $6.4 million, respectively.

The following tables present the Company's investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions in excess of the investment balance, if any, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

Description	Date(s)	Investment balance		ADES equity earnings		Cash distributions		Memorandum Account: Cash distributions and equity earnings in (excess) of investment balance
Beginning balance	12/31/2020	$	3,387	$	—	$	—	$	—
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	10,755		10,755		—		—
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	(19,749)				19,749		—
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance	First Quarter	5,607		5,607		—		(5,607)
Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions	3/31/2021	$	—	$	16,362	$	19,749	$	(5,607)

Description	Date(s)	Investment balance		ADES equity earnings		Cash distributions
Beginning balance	12/31/2019	$	32,280	$	—	$	—
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	6,438		6,438		—
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	(13,764)		—		13,764
Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions	3/31/2020	$	24,954	$	6,438	$	13,764

Tinuum Services, LLC

The Company has a 50% voting and economic interest in Tinuum Services. The Company has determined that Tinuum Services is not a VIE and has further evaluated it for consolidation under the voting interest model. Because the Company does not own greater than 50% of the outstanding voting shares, either directly or indirectly, it has accounted for its investment in Tinuum Services under the equity method of accounting. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company’s investment in Tinuum Services was $2.7 million and $4.2 million, respectively.

The following table summarizes the results of operations of Tinuum Services:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Gross loss	$	(18,522)	$	(22,259)
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	54,366		45,753
Loss from operations	(72,888)		(68,012)
Other income (expenses), net	(427)		(285)
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	77,215		71,972
Net income	$	3,900	$	3,675
ADES equity earnings from Tinuum Services	$	1,950	$	1,838

Included in the Consolidated Statements of Operations of Tinuum Services for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, respectively, were losses related to VIE entities that consolidated in Tinuum Services of $77.2 million and $72.0 million, respectively. These losses do not impact the Company's equity earnings from Tinuum Services as 100% of those losses are attributable to a noncontrolling interest and eliminated in the calculations of Tinuum Services' net income attributable to the Company's interest.

The following table details the carrying value of the Company's respective equity method investments included in the Equity method investments line item on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and indicates the Company's maximum exposure to loss:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Equity method investment in Tinuum Group	$	—	$	3,387
Equity method investment in Tinuum Services	2,690		4,242
Equity method investment in other	63		63
Total equity method investments	$	2,753	$	7,692

The following table details the components of the Company's respective equity method investments included in the Earnings from equity method investments line item on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438
Earnings from Tinuum Services	1,950		1,838
Earnings (loss) from other	—		(3)
Earnings from equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273

The following table details the components of the cash distributions from the Company's respective equity method investments included as a component of cash flows from operating activities and investing activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Distributions from equity method investees are reported in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as "Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment" within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero. Thereafter, such distributions are reported as "distributions in excess of cumulative earnings" as a component of cash flows from investing activities.

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment
Tinuum Group	$	14,142	$	13,764
Tinuum Services	3,502		3,352
	$	17,644	$	17,116
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of investment basis
Tinuum Group	$	5,607	$	—
	$	5,607	$	—

XML

Inventories, net

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]

Inventories, net

Inventories, net

The following table summarizes the Company's inventories recorded at the lower of average cost or net realizable value as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Product inventory, net	$	7,185	$	8,361
Raw material inventory	855		1,521
	$	8,040	$	9,882

XML

Debt Obligations

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Debt Obligations

Debt Obligations

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, related party	$	6,000	$	16,000
Less: net unamortized debt issuance costs	(175)		(465)
Less: net unamortized debt discount	(180)		(480)
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, net	5,645		15,055
Finance lease obligations	5,250		5,526
PPP Loan	3,305		3,305
	14,200		23,886
Less: Current maturities	(9,913)		(18,441)
Total long-term debt	$	4,287	$	5,445

Senior Term Loan

On December 7, 2018, the Company, and ADA-ES, Inc. ("ADA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary, and certain other subsidiaries of the Company as guarantors, The Bank of New York Mellon as administrative agent, and Apollo Credit Strategies Master Fund Ltd and Apollo A-N Credit Fund (Delaware) L.P. (collectively "Apollo"), affiliates of a beneficial owner of greater than five percent of the Company's common stock and a related party, entered into the Term Loan and Security Agreement (the "Senior Term Loan") in the amount of $70.0 million less original issue discount of $2.1 million. Proceeds from the Senior Term Loan were used to fund the acquisition of Carbon Solutions. The Company also paid debt issuance costs of $2.0 million related to the Senior Term Loan. The Senior Term Loan matures on December 7, 2021 and bears interest at a rate equal to 3-month LIBOR (subject to a 1.5% floor) + 4.75% per annum, which is adjusted quarterly to the current 3-month LIBOR rate, and interest is payable quarterly in arrears. Quarterly principal payments of $6.0 million were required beginning in March 2019, and the Company may prepay the Senior Term Loan at any time without penalty. The Senior Term Loan is secured by substantially all the assets of the Company, including the cash flows from Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services (collectively, the "Tinuum Entities"), but excluding the Company's equity interests in the Tinuum entities.

The Senior Term Loan includes, among others, the following covenants: (1) As of the end of each fiscal quarter, the Company must maintain a minimum cash balance of $5.0 million and shall not permit "expected future net cash flows from the refined coal business" (as defined in the Senior Term Loan) to be less than 1.75 times the outstanding principal amount of the Senior Term Loan; (2) Annual collective dividends and buybacks of the Company shares of common stock in an aggregate amount, not to exceed $30.0 million, are permitted so long as (a) no default or event of default exists under the Senior Term Loan and (b) expected future net cash flows from the refined coal business as of the end of the most recent fiscal quarter exceed $100.0 million.

Waiver and Limited Consent on Senior Term Loan

Pursuant to entering into the PPP Loan, on April 20, 2020, the Company and Apollo executed the First Amendment to the Senior Term Loan, which permitted the Company to enter into the PPP Loan.

On September 30, 2020, the Company and Apollo entered into a limited consent, which permitted the Company to (i) enter into the Surety Agreement, open the collateral bank accounts and post collateral required under the Surety Agreement, and (ii) acquire the membership interests in Marshall Mine, LLC., as described in Note 3.

Line of Credit

In September 2013, ADA-ES, Inc. ("ADA"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, as borrower, and the Company, as guarantor, entered into a line credit (the "Line of Credit") with a bank (the "Lender") for an aggregate borrowing amount of $10.0 million, which was secured by certain amounts due to the Company from certain Tinuum Group RC leases. The Line of Credit has been amended 15 times from the period from December 2, 2013 through March 31, 2021 and included a reduction in the borrowing amount to $5.0 million in September 2018.

On March 23, 2021, ADA, the Company and the Lender entered into an amendment to the Line of Credit (the "Fifteenth Amendment"), which extended the maturity date of the Line of Credit to December 31, 2021 and increased the minimum cash requirement from $5.0 million to $6.0 million.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, there were no outstanding borrowings under the Line of Credit.

XML

Leases

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Leases [Abstract]

Leases

Leases

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had obligations under finance leases of $5.3 million and $5.5 million, respectively, and obligations under operating leases of $5.1 million and $3.0 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had right of use ("ROU") assets, net of accumulated amortization, under finance leases of $2.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively, and ROU assets, net of accumulated amortization, under operating leases of $4.2 million and $1.9 million, respectively.

Finance leases

ROU assets under finance leases and finance lease liabilities are included in Property, plant and equipment and Current portion and Long-term portion of borrowings, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. Interest expense related to finance lease liabilities and amortization of ROU assets under finance leases are included in Interest expense and Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020.

Operating leases

ROU assets under operating leases and operating lease liabilities are included in Other long-term assets and Other liabilities and Other long-term liabilities, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Lease expense for operating leases for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $1.0 million, of which $0.9 million is included in Consumables - cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, and $0.1 million is included in General and administrative in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. Lease expense for operating leases for the three months ended March 31, 2020 was $1.2 million, of which $1.0 million is included in Consumables - cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, and $0.2 million is included in General and administrative in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Lease financial information as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is provided in the following table:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021			2020
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assets	$	174		$	514
Interest on lease liabilities	79			94
Operating lease cost	459			853
Short-term lease cost	567			282
Variable lease cost (1)	9			93
Total lease cost	$	1,288		$	1,836
Other Information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases	$	79		$	94
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	575		$	634
Financing cash flows from finance leases	$	315		$	340
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities	$	—		$	—
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities	$	2,679		$	60
Weighted-average remaining lease term - finance leases	3.3 years			4.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases	1.6 years			2.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate - finance leases	6.18		%	6.08		%
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases	8.46		%	8.54		%

(1) Primarily includes common area maintenance, property taxes and insurance payable to lessors.

Leases

Leases

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had obligations under finance leases of $5.3 million and $5.5 million, respectively, and obligations under operating leases of $5.1 million and $3.0 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had right of use ("ROU") assets, net of accumulated amortization, under finance leases of $2.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively, and ROU assets, net of accumulated amortization, under operating leases of $4.2 million and $1.9 million, respectively.

Finance leases

ROU assets under finance leases and finance lease liabilities are included in Property, plant and equipment and Current portion and Long-term portion of borrowings, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020. Interest expense related to finance lease liabilities and amortization of ROU assets under finance leases are included in Interest expense and Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020.

Operating leases

ROU assets under operating leases and operating lease liabilities are included in Other long-term assets and Other liabilities and Other long-term liabilities, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Lease expense for operating leases for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was $1.0 million, of which $0.9 million is included in Consumables - cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, and $0.1 million is included in General and administrative in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations. Lease expense for operating leases for the three months ended March 31, 2020 was $1.2 million, of which $1.0 million is included in Consumables - cost of revenue, exclusive of depreciation and amortization, and $0.2 million is included in General and administrative in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.

Lease financial information as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is provided in the following table:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021			2020
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assets	$	174		$	514
Interest on lease liabilities	79			94
Operating lease cost	459			853
Short-term lease cost	567			282
Variable lease cost (1)	9			93
Total lease cost	$	1,288		$	1,836
Other Information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases	$	79		$	94
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	575		$	634
Financing cash flows from finance leases	$	315		$	340
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities	$	—		$	—
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities	$	2,679		$	60
Weighted-average remaining lease term - finance leases	3.3 years			4.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases	1.6 years			2.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate - finance leases	6.18		%	6.08		%
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases	8.46		%	8.54		%

(1) Primarily includes common area maintenance, property taxes and insurance payable to lessors.

XML

Revenues

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Revenues

Revenues

Trade receivables represent an unconditional right to consideration in exchange for goods or services transferred to a customer. The Company invoices its customers in accordance with the terms of the contract. Credit terms are generally net 30 from the date of invoice. The timing between the satisfaction of performance obligations and when payment is due from the customer is generally not significant. The Company records allowances for doubtful trade receivables when it is probable that the balances will not be collected.

Trade receivables, net

The following table shows the components of the Company's Trade receivables, net:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Trade receivables	$	9,481	$	12,241
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(53)		(37)
Trade receivables, net	$	9,428	$	12,204

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company recognized zero and zero bad debt expense, respectively.

Cabot Receivable

The following table shows the components of the Cabot Receivable:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Receivables, net	$	921	$	921
Other long-term assets, net	7,914		8,852
Total Cabot Receivable	$	8,835	$	9,773

Disaggregation of Revenue and Earnings from Equity Method Investments

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, all performance obligations related to revenues recognized were satisfied at a point in time. The Company disaggregates its revenues by major components as well as between its two reportable segments, which are further discussed in Note 16 to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements. The following tables disaggregate revenues by major component for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
	Segment
	APT		RC		Total
Revenue component
Consumables	$	17,031	$	—	$	17,031
License royalties, related party	—		4,066		4,066
Revenues from customers	17,031		4,066		21,097
Earnings from equity method investments	—		18,312		18,312
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	$	17,031	$	22,378	$	39,409

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
	Segment
	APT		RC		Total
Revenue component
Consumables	$	9,217	$	—	$	9,217
License royalties, related party	—		3,046		3,046
Revenues from customers	9,217		3,046		12,263
Earnings from equity method investments	—		8,273		8,273
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	$	9,217	$	11,319	$	20,536

XML

Commitments and Contingencies

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]

Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies

Legal Proceedings

The Company is from time to time subject to, and is presently involved in, various pending or threatened legal actions and proceedings, including those that arise in the ordinary course of its business. Such matters are subject to many uncertainties and outcomes, the financial impacts of which are not predictable with assurance and that may not be known for extended periods of time. The Company records a liability in its consolidated financial statements for costs related to claims, settlements, and judgments where management has assessed that a loss is probable and an amount can be reasonably estimated. There were no significant legal proceedings as of March 31, 2021.

Restricted Cash

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had short-term restricted cash of $6.0 million and $5.0 million, respectively, as required under a minimum cash balance requirement of a Line of Credit covenant, and long-term restricted cash of $10.0 million and $5.0 million, respectively, as required under the Surety Agreement.

Other Commitments and Contingencies

The Company has certain limited obligations contingent upon future events in connection with the activities of Tinuum Group. The Company, NexGen Refined Coal, LLC ("NexGen") and two entities affiliated with NexGen have provided an affiliate of the Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. with limited guaranties (the "Tinuum Group Party Guaranties") related to certain losses it may suffer as a result of inaccuracies or breach of representations and covenants. The Company also is a party to a contribution agreement with NexGen under which any party called upon to pay on a Tinuum Group Party Guaranty is entitled to receive contributions from the other party equal to 50% of the amount paid. The Company has not recorded a liability or expense provision related to this contingent obligation as it believes that it is not probable that a loss will occur with respect to the Tinuum Group Party Guaranties.

XML

Stockholders' Equity

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Equity [Abstract]

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity

Stock Repurchase Programs

In November 2018, the Company's Board of Directors (the "Board") authorized the Company to purchase up to $20.0 million of its outstanding common stock under a stock repurchase program (the "Stock Repurchase Program"), which was to remain in effect until December 31, 2019 unless otherwise modified by the Board. As of November 2019, $2.9 million remained outstanding related to the Stock Repurchase Program. In November 2019, the Board authorized an incremental $7.1 million to the Stock Repurchase Program and provided that it will remain in effect until all amounts are utilized or it is otherwise modified by the Board.

Under the Stock Repurchase Program, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and March 31, 2020, the Company purchased zero and 20,613 shares, respectively, of its common stock for cash of zero and $0.2 million, respectively, inclusive of commissions and fees. As of March 31, 2021, the Company had $7.0 million remaining under the Stock Repurchase Program.

Quarterly Cash Dividend

Dividends declared and paid quarterly on all outstanding shares of common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:

	2021			2020
	Per share		Date paid	Per share		Date paid
Dividends declared during quarter ended:
March 31	$	—	N/A	$	0.25	March 10, 2020
	$	—		$	0.25

A portion of the dividends declared remains accrued subsequent to the payment dates and represents dividends accumulated on nonvested shares of common stock held by employees and directors of the Company that contain forfeitable dividend rights that are not payable until the underlying shares of common stock vest. These amounts are included in both Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020.

Tax Asset Protection Plan

U.S. federal income tax rules, and Section 382 of the Internal Revenue Code in particular, could substantially limit the use of net operating losses and other tax assets if the Company experiences an "ownership change" (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code). In general, an ownership change occurs if there is a cumulative change in the ownership of the Company by "5 percent stockholders" that exceeds 50 percentage points over a rolling three-year period.

On May 5, 2017, the Board approved the declaration of a dividend of rights to purchase Series B Junior Participating Preferred Stock for each outstanding share of common stock as part of a tax asset protection plan (the "TAPP") designed to protect the Company’s ability to utilize its net operating losses and tax credits. The TAPP is intended to act as a deterrent to any person acquiring beneficial ownership of 4.99% or more of the Company’s outstanding common stock.

On April 9, 2021, the Board approved the Fourth Amendment to the TAPP ("Fourth Amendment") that amends the TAPP, as previously amended by the First, Second and Third Amendments that were approved the Board on April 6, 2018, April 5, 2019 and April 9, 2020, respectively. The Fourth Amendment amends the definition of "Final Expiration Date" under the TAPP to extend the duration of the TAPP and makes associated changes in connection therewith. Pursuant to the Fourth Amendment, the Final Expiration Date shall be the close of business on the earlier of (i) December 31, 2022 or (ii) December 31, 2021 if stockholder approval of the Fourth Amendment has not been obtained prior to such date.

XML

Stock-Based Compensation

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]

Stock-Based Compensation

Stock-Based Compensation

The Company grants equity-based awards to employees, non-employee directors, and consultants that may include, but are not limited to, RSA's, restricted stock units ("RSU's"), performance stock units ("PSU's") and stock options. Stock-based compensation expense related to manufacturing employees and administrative employees is included within the Cost of revenue and Payroll and benefits line items, respectively, in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. Stock-based compensation expense related to non-employee directors and consultants is included within the General and administrative line item in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Total stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
RSA expense	$	407	$	506
PSU expense	14		—
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	421	$	506

The amount of unrecognized compensation cost as of March 31, 2021, and the expected weighted-average period over which the cost will be recognized is as follows:

	As of March 31, 2021
(in thousands)	Unrecognized Compensation Cost		Expected Weighted- Average Period of Recognition (in years)
RSA expense	$	3,383	2.46
PSU expense	545		2.49
Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$	3,928	2.46

Restricted Stock

Restricted stock is typically granted with vesting terms of three years. The fair value of RSA's and RSU's is determined based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on the authorization date of the grant multiplied by the number of shares subject to the stock award. Compensation expense for RSA's is generally recognized on a straight-line basis over the entire vesting period.

A summary of RSA activity under the Company's various stock compensation plans for the three months ended March 31, 2021 is presented below:

	Restricted Stock	Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2021	373,860	$	7.25
Granted	385,631	$	5.27
Vested	(152,021)	$	7.81
Forfeited	(4,292)	$	7.00
Non-vested at March 31, 2021	603,178	$	5.85

Performance Share Units

Compensation expense is recognized for PSU awards on a straight-line basis over the applicable service period, which is generally three years, based on the estimated fair value at the date of grant using a Monte Carlo simulation model. A summary of PSU activity for the three months ended March 31, 2021 is presented below:

	Units	Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
PSU's outstanding, January 1, 2021	50,127	$	6.17
Granted	62,448	7.09
Vested / Settled	—	—
Forfeited / Canceled	—	—
PSU's outstanding, March 31, 2021	112,575	$	6.68	$	619	2.49

XML

Supplemental Financial Information

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Supplemental Financial Information

Supplemental Financial Information

Supplemental Balance Sheet Information

The following table summarizes the components of Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other long-term assets, net as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Prepaid expenses and other assets:
Prepaid income taxes and income tax refunds	$	263	$	1,605
Prepaid expenses	1,794		1,690
Other	1,363		1,302
	$	3,420	$	4,597
Other long-term assets, net:
Upfront customer consideration (1)	$	7,363	$	7,490
Cabot receivable (1)	7,914		8,852
Right of use assets, operating leases, net	4,230		1,930
Spare parts, net	3,883		3,727
Mine development costs, net	4,511		4,338
Mine reclamation asset, net	1,689		1,712
Highview Investment	552		552
Other long-term assets	1,434		1,388
	$	31,576	$	29,989

(1) See further discussion of Upfront customer consideration in Note 3 and Cabot receivable in Note 4 and Note 10.

Spare parts include critical spares required to support plant operations. Parts and supply costs are determined using the lower of cost or estimated replacement cost. Parts are recorded as maintenance expenses in the period in which they are consumed.

Mine development costs include acquisition costs, the cost of other development work and mitigation costs related to the Five Forks Mine and are depleted over the estimated life of the related mine reserves. The Company performs an evaluation of the recoverability of the carrying value of mine development costs to determine if facts and circumstances indicate that their carrying value may be impaired and if any adjustment is warranted. There were no indicators of impairment as of March 31, 2021. Mine reclamation asset, net represents an asset retirement obligation ("ARO") asset related to the Five Forks Mine and is depreciated over the estimated life of the mine.

The Company holds a long-term investment (the "Highview Investment") in Highview Enterprises Limited ("Highview"), a UK-based developmental stage company specializing in power storage. The Company accounts for the Highview Investment as an investment recorded at cost, less impairment, plus or minus observable changes in price for identical or similar investments of the same issuer.

The Highview Investment is evaluated for indicators of impairment such as an event or change in circumstances that may have a significant adverse effect on the fair value of the investment. There were no changes to the carrying value of the Highview Investment for the three months ended March 31, 2021 as there were no indicators of impairment or observable price changes for identical or similar investments.

The following table details the components of Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Other current liabilities:
Current portion of operating lease obligations	$	2,434	$	1,883
Income and other taxes payable	2,810		1,305
Current portion of mine reclamation liability	9,169		9,370
Other current liabilities	475		438
	$	14,888	$	12,996
Other long-term liabilities:
Operating lease obligations, long-term	$	2,661	$	1,109
Mine reclamation liabilities	10,330		12,077
Other long-term liabilities	217		287
	$	13,208	$	13,473

The Mine reclamation liability related to the Five Forks Mine is included in Other long-term liabilities. The Mine reclamation liability related to Marshall Mine, which was assumed in the Marshall Mine Acquisition, is included in Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities. The Mine reclamation liabilities represent AROs. Changes in the AROs were as follows:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Asset retirement obligation, beginning of period	$	21,447	$	2,721
Asset retirement obligation assumed	—		21,328
Accretion	351		543
Liabilities settled	(2,315)		(3,565)
Changes due to scope and timing of reclamation	16		420
Asset retirement obligations, end of period	19,499		21,447
Less current portion	9,169		9,370
Asset retirement obligation, long-term	$	10,330	$	12,077

Supplemental Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations Information

The following table details the components of Interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Interest on Senior Term Loan	$	155	$	630
Debt discount and debt issuance costs	591		354
453A interest	—		132
Other	91		94
	$	837	$	1,210

XML

Income Taxes

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company's income tax expense and effective tax rates based on forecasted pretax income were:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except for rate)	2021			2020
Income tax expense	$	4,489		$	358
Effective tax rate	25		%	(23)		%

The effective rate for the three months ended March 31, 2021 was higher from the federal statutory rate primarily from the impact of estimated state income taxes. For the three months ended March 31, 2021, the Company recorded tax credits earned of $0.1 million, which were fully reserved in the valuation allowance as of March 31, 2021.

The Company assesses the valuation allowance recorded against deferred tax assets at each reporting date. The determination of whether a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets is appropriate requires the evaluation of positive and negative evidence that can be objectively verified. Consideration must be given to all sources of taxable income available to realize deferred tax assets, including, as applicable, the future reversal of existing temporary differences, future taxable income forecasts exclusive of the reversal of temporary differences and carryforwards, taxable income in carryback years and tax planning strategies. In estimating income taxes, the Company assesses the relative merits and risks of the appropriate income tax treatment of transactions taking into account statutory, judicial, and regulatory guidance.

XML

Business Segment Information

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Business Segment Information

Business Segment Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by a company's chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), or a decision-making group, to allocate resources and assess financial performance. As of March 31, 2021, the Company's CODM was the Company's CEO. The Company's operating and reportable segments are identified by products and services provided.

As of March 31, 2021, the Company has two reportable segments: (1) Refined Coal ("RC"); and (2) Advanced Purification Technologies ("APT"). Effective December 31, 2020, and as reported in the 2020 Form 10-K, the Company revised its segments to RC and APT and amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2020 have been recast to conform with the current year presentation.

The business segment measurements provided to and evaluated by the CODM are computed in accordance with the principles listed below:

•The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in the 2020 Form 10-K.

•Segment revenues include equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments.

•Segment operating income (loss) includes segment revenues and allocation of certain "Corporate general and administrative expenses," which include Payroll and benefits, General and administrative and Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion.

•RC segment operating income includes interest expense directly attributable to the RC segment.

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, substantially all of the Company's material assets are located in the U.S. and substantially all of significant customers are U.S. companies. The following table presents the Company's operating segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Revenues:
Refined Coal:
Earnings in equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273
License royalties, related party	4,066		3,046
	22,378		11,319
Advanced Purification Technologies:
Consumables	17,031		9,217
	17,031		9,217
Total segment reporting revenues	39,409		20,536
Adjustments to reconcile to reported revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	(18,312)		(8,273)
Total reported revenues	$	21,097	$	12,263
Segment operating income (loss):
Refined Coal	$	22,271	$	10,860
Advanced Purification Technologies (1)	15		(7,370)
Total segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490

(1) Included in APT segment operating income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is $1.9 million and $2.2 million, respectively, of depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion expense on mine and plant long-lived assets and liabilities and $0.1 million and zero, respectively, of amortization of Upfront Customer Consideration.

A reconciliation of reportable segment operating income to consolidated income (loss) before income tax expense is as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Total reported segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490
Adjustments to reconcile to income (loss) before income tax expense attributable to the Company:
Corporate payroll and benefits	(639)		(709)
Corporate legal and professional fees	(1,754)		(1,749)
Corporate general and administrative	(1,176)		(1,599)
Corporate depreciation and amortization	(154)		(26)
Corporate interest expense, net	(650)		(942)
Other income (expense), net	313		—
Income (loss) before income tax expense	$	18,226	$	(1,535)

Corporate general and administrative expenses include certain costs that benefit the business as a whole but are not directly related to one of the Company's segments. Such costs include, but are not limited to, accounting and human resources staff, information systems costs, legal fees, facility costs, audit fees and corporate governance expenses. 

A reconciliation of reportable segment assets to consolidated assets is as follows:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Assets:
Refined Coal (1)	$	7,117	$	11,516
Advanced Purification Technologies (2)	78,373		80,877
Total segment assets	85,490		92,393
All Other and Corporate (3)	66,080		54,278
Consolidated	$	151,570	$	146,671

(1) Includes $2.8 million and $7.7 million of investments in equity method investees as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

(2) Includes $35.1 million and $34.6 million of long-lived assets, net. Expenditures for additions to long-lived assets were $1.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

(3) Includes the Company's deferred tax assets

XML

Fair Value Measurements

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements

Fair value of financial instruments

The carrying amounts of financial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments. The carrying amounts of the Senior Term Loan and other obligations, including finance leases, approximate fair value based on credit terms and market interest rates currently available for similar instruments. Accordingly, these instruments are not presented in the table below. The following table provides the estimated fair values of the remaining financial instruments:

	As of March 31, 2021				As of December 31, 2020
(in thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Financial Instruments:
Highview Investment	$	552	$	552	$	552	$	552
Highview Obligation	$	231	$	231	$	228	$	228

Concentration of credit risk

The Company's financial instruments that are exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents. The Company holds cash and cash equivalents at four financial institutions as of March 31, 2021. If an institution was unable to perform its obligations, the Company would be at risk regarding the amount of cash and investments in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limits (currently $250 thousand) that would be returned to the Company.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis

As of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, the Company had no financial instruments carried and measured at fair value on a recurring basis.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Non-Recurring Basis

As disclosed in Note 3, the Company completed the asset acquisition of Marshall Mine, LLC. The estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed were determined based on Level 3 inputs.

As disclosed in Note 14, the Company accounts for the Highview Investment as an investment recorded at cost, less impairment, plus or minus observable changes in price for identical or similar investments of the same issuer. Fair value measurements, if any, represent either Level 2 or Level 3 measurements.

XML

Subsequent Events

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Subsequent Events [Abstract]

Subsequent Events

Subsequent Events

Unless disclosed elsewhere within the notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, the following are the significant matters that occurred subsequent to March 31, 2021.

On April 22, 2021, there was an incident at the Company's Red River Plant in Louisiana, which involved an isolated fire in one of the plant's coal handling systems. As a result, the Red River Plant was shut down for approximately one week for repair. The

cash flow impact associated with the incident, including maintenance and repairs, capital expenditures, inventory replacement due to lost production and other items, is not expected to exceed $3.0 million.The Company entered into agreements ("Retention Agreements") with all of its executive officers and certain other key employees to retain those officers and employees in order to maintain the Company’s current business operations while it pursues and executes on its strategic initiatives. The total amount payable pursuant to the Retention Agreements is $2.4 million.

XML

Basis of Presentation (Policies)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES are unaudited and have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") and with Article 10 of Regulation S-X of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In compliance with those instructions, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in annual consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP have been condensed or omitted.

The unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES in this quarterly report ("Quarterly Report") are presented on a consolidated basis and include ADES and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company"). Also included within the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are the Company's unconsolidated equity investments: Tinuum Group, Tinuum Services and GWN Manager, LLC ("GWN Manager"), which are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, and Highview Enterprises Limited (the "Highview Investment"), which is accounted for in accordance with U.S. GAAP applicable to equity investments that do not qualify for the equity method of accounting.

Results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. All significant intercompany transactions and accounts were eliminated in consolidation for all periods presented in this Quarterly Report.

In the opinion of management, these Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include all normal and recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position, stockholders' equity and cash flows for the interim periods presented. These Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of ADES should be read in conjunction with the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020 (the "2020 Form 10-K").

Earnings (Loss) Per Share

Basic earnings (loss) per share is computed using the two-class method, which is an earnings allocation formula that determines earnings (loss) per share for common stock and any participating securities according to dividend and participating rights in undistributed earnings (losses). Pursuant to U.S. GAAP, the Company has elected not to separately present basic or diluted earnings per share attributable to participating securities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.Diluted earnings (loss) per share is computed in a manner consistent with that of basic earnings per share, while considering other potentially dilutive securities. Potentially dilutive securities consist of both unvested, participating and non-participating restricted stock awards ("RSA's"), as well as outstanding options to purchase common stock ("Stock Options") and contingent performance stock units ("PSU's") (collectively, "Potential dilutive shares"). The dilutive effect, if any, for non-participating RSA's, Stock Options and PSU's is determined using the greater of dilution as calculated under the treasury stock method or the two-class method. Potential dilutive shares are excluded from diluted earnings per share when their effect is anti-dilutive. When there is a net loss for a period, all Potential dilutive shares are anti-dilutive and are excluded from the calculation of diluted loss per share for that period.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. There have been no changes in the Company’s critical accounting estimates from those that were disclosed in the 2020 Form 10-K. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

Risks and Uncertainties

The Company’s earnings are significantly affected by equity earnings from Tinuum Group. As of March 31, 2021, Tinuum Group has 23 invested RC facilities of which 9 are leased to a single customer. Both Tinuum Group and Tinuum Services expect to significantly wind down their operations by the end of 2021 due to the expected expiration of the Section 45 tax credit period as of December 31, 2021. The loss of Tinuum Group's customers, reduction in revenue streams as a result of lease renewals and the expiration of Section 45 tax credits will have a significant adverse impact on Tinuum Group's financial position, results of operations and cash flows, which in turn will have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.The Company's revenues, sales volumes, earnings and cash flows are significantly affected by prices of competing power generation sources such as natural gas and renewable energy. Low natural gas prices make it a competitive alternative to coal-fired power generation and therefore, coal consumption may be reduced, which reduces the demand for our products. In addition, coal consumption and demand for our products is also affected by the demand for electricity, which is higher in the warmer and colder months of the year. Abnormal temperatures during the summer and winter months may significantly reduce coal consumption and thus the demand for the Company's products.The Company's financial instruments that are exposed to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents. The Company holds cash and cash equivalents at four financial institutions as of March 31, 2021. If an institution was unable to perform its obligations, the Company would be at risk regarding the amount of cash and investments in excess of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation limits (currently $250 thousand) that would be returned to the Company.

Reclassifications

Certain balances have been reclassified from the prior year to conform to the current year presentation. Such reclassifications had no effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position in any of the periods presented.

New Accounting Guidance

Adopted

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, Income Taxes (Topic 740) Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes ("ASU 2019-12"). The amendments in ASU 2019-12 simplify various aspects related to accounting for income taxes by removing certain exceptions contained in Topic 740 and also clarify and amends existing guidance in Topic 740 to improve consistent application. ASU 2019-12 is effective for public business entities beginning after December 15, 2020, including interim periods within those years, and early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted ASU 2019-12 effective January 1, 2021 and it did not have a material impact on the Company's financial statements and disclosures.

Not Yet Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326) Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments ("ASU 2016-13"). The main objective of ASU 2016-13 is to provide financial statement users with more decision-useful information about the expected credit losses on financial instruments and other commitments to extend credit held by a reporting entity at each reporting date. To achieve this objective, the amendments in ASU 2016-13 replace the incurred loss impairment methodology in current U.S. GAAP with a methodology that reflects expected credit losses and requires consideration of a broader range of reasonable and supportable information to inform credit loss estimates. ASU 2016-13 is effective for "smaller reporting companies" (as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission) for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2022, including interim periods within those years, and must be adopted under a modified retrospective method approach. The Company is currently evaluating the provisions of this guidance and assessing the impact on its financial statements and disclosures and does not believe this standard will have a material impact on its financial statements and disclosures.

Business Segment Information

Operating segments are defined as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by a company's chief operating decision maker ("CODM"), or a decision-making group, to allocate resources and assess financial performance. As of March 31, 2021, the Company's CODM was the Company's CEO. The Company's operating and reportable segments are identified by products and services provided.

As of March 31, 2021, the Company has two reportable segments: (1) Refined Coal ("RC"); and (2) Advanced Purification Technologies ("APT"). Effective December 31, 2020, and as reported in the 2020 Form 10-K, the Company revised its segments to RC and APT and amounts for the three months ended March 31, 2020 have been recast to conform with the current year presentation.

The business segment measurements provided to and evaluated by the CODM are computed in accordance with the principles listed below:

•The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in the 2020 Form 10-K.

•Segment revenues include equity method earnings and losses from the Company's equity method investments.

•Segment operating income (loss) includes segment revenues and allocation of certain "Corporate general and administrative expenses," which include Payroll and benefits, General and administrative and Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion.

•RC segment operating income includes interest expense directly attributable to the RC segment.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments

The carrying amounts of financial instruments, including cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued expenses, approximate fair value due to the short maturity of these instruments.

XML

Basis of Presentation (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Accounting Policies [Abstract]

Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted

The following table sets forth the calculations of basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except per share amounts)	2021		2020
Net income (loss)	$	13,737	$	(1,893)
Less: Dividends and undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities	—		(2)
Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$	13,737	$	(1,891)
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding	18,166		17,932
Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments	108		—
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding	18,274		17,932
Earnings (loss) per share - basic	$	0.76	$	(0.11)
Earnings (loss) per share - diluted	$	0.75	$	(0.11)

XML

Acquisition of Marshall Mine (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Business Combinations [Abstract]

Summary of Purchase Consideration and Allocation

net assets acquired and liabilities assumed and the additional assets recorded in the Marshall Mine Acquisition as of September 30, 2020 are shown in the table below. Subsequent to this date, the Company completed additional analysis of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and recorded adjustments as of December 31, 2020 as shown in the table below.

(in thousands)	As Originally Reported		Adjustments		As Adjusted
Assets acquired:
Receivables	$	—	$	513	$	513
Property, plant and equipment	3,863		—		3,863
Spare parts	100		—		100
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(673)		160		(513)
Asset retirement obligation	(21,328)		—		(21,328)
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Marshall Mine acquisition	(18,038)		673		(17,365)
Cabot receivable	9,749		—		9,749
Upfront Customer Consideration	$	8,289	$	(673)	$	7,616

XML

Equity Method Investments (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures [Abstract]

Schedule of Equity Method Investments

The following table summarizes the results of operations of Tinuum Group:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Gross profit	$	2,675	$	5,010
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	13,802		12,776
Loss from operations	(11,127)		(7,766)
Other income (expenses), net	853		3,643
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	35,578		19,271
Net income available to members	$	25,304	$	15,148
ADES equity earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438

The following tables present the Company's investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions in excess of the investment balance, if any, for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

Description	Date(s)	Investment balance		ADES equity earnings		Cash distributions		Memorandum Account: Cash distributions and equity earnings in (excess) of investment balance
Beginning balance	12/31/2020	$	3,387	$	—	$	—	$	—
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	10,755		10,755		—		—
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	(19,749)				19,749		—
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance	First Quarter	5,607		5,607		—		(5,607)
Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions	3/31/2021	$	—	$	16,362	$	19,749	$	(5,607)

Description	Date(s)	Investment balance		ADES equity earnings		Cash distributions
Beginning balance	12/31/2019	$	32,280	$	—	$	—
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	6,438		6,438		—
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	First Quarter	(13,764)		—		13,764
Total investment balance, equity earnings and cash distributions	3/31/2020	$	24,954	$	6,438	$	13,764

The following table summarizes the results of operations of Tinuum Services:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Gross loss	$	(18,522)	$	(22,259)
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	54,366		45,753
Loss from operations	(72,888)		(68,012)
Other income (expenses), net	(427)		(285)
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	77,215		71,972
Net income	$	3,900	$	3,675
ADES equity earnings from Tinuum Services	$	1,950	$	1,838

The following table details the carrying value of the Company's respective equity method investments included in the Equity method investments line item on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and indicates the Company's maximum exposure to loss:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Equity method investment in Tinuum Group	$	—	$	3,387
Equity method investment in Tinuum Services	2,690		4,242
Equity method investment in other	63		63
Total equity method investments	$	2,753	$	7,692

The following table details the components of the Company's respective equity method investments included in the Earnings from equity method investments line item on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Earnings from Tinuum Group	$	16,362	$	6,438
Earnings from Tinuum Services	1,950		1,838
Earnings (loss) from other	—		(3)
Earnings from equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273

The following table details the components of the cash distributions from the Company's respective equity method investments included as a component of cash flows from operating activities and investing activities in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Distributions from equity method investees are reported in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as "Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment" within Operating cash flows until such time as the carrying value in an equity method investee company is reduced to zero. Thereafter, such distributions are reported as "distributions in excess of cumulative earnings" as a component of cash flows from investing activities.

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment
Tinuum Group	$	14,142	$	13,764
Tinuum Services	3,502		3,352
	$	17,644	$	17,116
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of investment basis
Tinuum Group	$	5,607	$	—
	$	5,607	$	—

XML

Inventories, net (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Inventory

The following table summarizes the Company's inventories recorded at the lower of average cost or net realizable value as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Product inventory, net	$	7,185	$	8,361
Raw material inventory	855		1,521
	$	8,040	$	9,882

XML

Debt Obligations (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Debt Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Borrowings

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, related party	$	6,000	$	16,000
Less: net unamortized debt issuance costs	(175)		(465)
Less: net unamortized debt discount	(180)		(480)
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, net	5,645		15,055
Finance lease obligations	5,250		5,526
PPP Loan	3,305		3,305
	14,200		23,886
Less: Current maturities	(9,913)		(18,441)
Total long-term debt	$	4,287	$	5,445

XML

Leases (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Leases [Abstract]

Lease, Cost

Lease financial information as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is provided in the following table:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021			2020
Finance lease cost:
Amortization of right-of-use assets	$	174		$	514
Interest on lease liabilities	79			94
Operating lease cost	459			853
Short-term lease cost	567			282
Variable lease cost (1)	9			93
Total lease cost	$	1,288		$	1,836
Other Information:
Cash paid for amounts included in the measurement of lease liabilities:
Operating cash flows from finance leases	$	79		$	94
Operating cash flows from operating leases	$	575		$	634
Financing cash flows from finance leases	$	315		$	340
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities	$	—		$	—
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities	$	2,679		$	60
Weighted-average remaining lease term - finance leases	3.3 years			4.1 years
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases	1.6 years			2.3 years
Weighted-average discount rate - finance leases	6.18		%	6.08		%
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases	8.46		%	8.54		%

(1) Primarily includes common area maintenance, property taxes and insurance payable to lessors.

XML

Revenues (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]

Schedule of Accounts Receivable

The following table shows the components of the Company's Trade receivables, net:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Trade receivables	$	9,481	$	12,241
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(53)		(37)
Trade receivables, net	$	9,428	$	12,204

The following table shows the components of the Cabot Receivable:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Receivables, net	$	921	$	921
Other long-term assets, net	7,914		8,852
Total Cabot Receivable	$	8,835	$	9,773

Schedule of Disaggregation of Revenue

The following tables disaggregate revenues by major component for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 (in thousands):

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2021
	Segment
	APT		RC		Total
Revenue component
Consumables	$	17,031	$	—	$	17,031
License royalties, related party	—		4,066		4,066
Revenues from customers	17,031		4,066		21,097
Earnings from equity method investments	—		18,312		18,312
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	$	17,031	$	22,378	$	39,409

	Three Months Ended March 31, 2020
	Segment
	APT		RC		Total
Revenue component
Consumables	$	9,217	$	—	$	9,217
License royalties, related party	—		3,046		3,046
Revenues from customers	9,217		3,046		12,263
Earnings from equity method investments	—		8,273		8,273
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	$	9,217	$	11,319	$	20,536

XML

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Equity [Abstract]

Schedule of Dividends Declared

Dividends declared and paid quarterly on all outstanding shares of common stock during the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 were as follows:

	2021			2020
	Per share		Date paid	Per share		Date paid
Dividends declared during quarter ended:
March 31	$	—	N/A	$	0.25	March 10, 2020
	$	—		$	0.25

XML

Stock-Based Compensation (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Share-based Payment Arrangement [Abstract]

Allocation of Compensation Expense

Total stock-based compensation expense for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 was as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
RSA expense	$	407	$	506
PSU expense	14		—
Total stock-based compensation expense	$	421	$	506

Schedule of Unrecognized Compensation Cost

The amount of unrecognized compensation cost as of March 31, 2021, and the expected weighted-average period over which the cost will be recognized is as follows:

	As of March 31, 2021
(in thousands)	Unrecognized Compensation Cost		Expected Weighted- Average Period of Recognition (in years)
RSA expense	$	3,383	2.46
PSU expense	545		2.49
Total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense	$	3,928	2.46

Summary of Restricted Stock Activity

A summary of RSA activity under the Company's various stock compensation plans for the three months ended March 31, 2021 is presented below:

	Restricted Stock	Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2021	373,860	$	7.25
Granted	385,631	$	5.27
Vested	(152,021)	$	7.81
Forfeited	(4,292)	$	7.00
Non-vested at March 31, 2021	603,178	$	5.85

Summary of Performance Shares Units

A summary of PSU activity for the three months ended March 31, 2021 is presented below:

	Units	Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value		Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in thousands)		Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)
PSU's outstanding, January 1, 2021	50,127	$	6.17
Granted	62,448	7.09
Vested / Settled	—	—
Forfeited / Canceled	—	—
PSU's outstanding, March 31, 2021	112,575	$	6.68	$	619	2.49

XML

Supplemental Financial Information (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Prepaid Expenses and Other Assets and Other assets

The following table summarizes the components of Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other long-term assets, net as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Prepaid expenses and other assets:
Prepaid income taxes and income tax refunds	$	263	$	1,605
Prepaid expenses	1,794		1,690
Other	1,363		1,302
	$	3,420	$	4,597
Other long-term assets, net:
Upfront customer consideration (1)	$	7,363	$	7,490
Cabot receivable (1)	7,914		8,852
Right of use assets, operating leases, net	4,230		1,930
Spare parts, net	3,883		3,727
Mine development costs, net	4,511		4,338
Mine reclamation asset, net	1,689		1,712
Highview Investment	552		552
Other long-term assets	1,434		1,388
	$	31,576	$	29,989

(1) See further discussion of Upfront customer consideration in Note 3 and Cabot receivable in Note 4 and Note 10.

Schedule of Other Liabilities

The following table details the components of Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities as presented in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Other current liabilities:
Current portion of operating lease obligations	$	2,434	$	1,883
Income and other taxes payable	2,810		1,305
Current portion of mine reclamation liability	9,169		9,370
Other current liabilities	475		438
	$	14,888	$	12,996
Other long-term liabilities:
Operating lease obligations, long-term	$	2,661	$	1,109
Mine reclamation liabilities	10,330		12,077
Other long-term liabilities	217		287
	$	13,208	$	13,473

Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation

The Mine reclamation liability related to the Five Forks Mine is included in Other long-term liabilities. The Mine reclamation liability related to Marshall Mine, which was assumed in the Marshall Mine Acquisition, is included in Other current liabilities and Other long-term liabilities. The Mine reclamation liabilities represent AROs. Changes in the AROs were as follows:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Asset retirement obligation, beginning of period	$	21,447	$	2,721
Asset retirement obligation assumed	—		21,328
Accretion	351		543
Liabilities settled	(2,315)		(3,565)
Changes due to scope and timing of reclamation	16		420
Asset retirement obligations, end of period	19,499		21,447
Less current portion	9,169		9,370
Asset retirement obligation, long-term	$	10,330	$	12,077

Schedule of Statement of Operations, Supplemental Disclosures

The following table details the components of Interest expense in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Interest on Senior Term Loan	$	155	$	630
Debt discount and debt issuance costs	591		354
453A interest	—		132
Other	91		94
	$	837	$	1,210

XML

Income Taxes (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]

Schedule of Income Tax Expense and Effective Tax Rates

For the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company's income tax expense and effective tax rates based on forecasted pretax income were:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands, except for rate)	2021			2020
Income tax expense	$	4,489		$	358
Effective tax rate	25		%	(23)		%

XML

Business Segment Information (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Segment Reporting [Abstract]

Segment Operating Results

The following table presents the Company's operating segment results for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Revenues:
Refined Coal:
Earnings in equity method investments	$	18,312	$	8,273
License royalties, related party	4,066		3,046
	22,378		11,319
Advanced Purification Technologies:
Consumables	17,031		9,217
	17,031		9,217
Total segment reporting revenues	39,409		20,536
Adjustments to reconcile to reported revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	(18,312)		(8,273)
Total reported revenues	$	21,097	$	12,263
Segment operating income (loss):
Refined Coal	$	22,271	$	10,860
Advanced Purification Technologies (1)	15		(7,370)
Total segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490

(1) Included in APT segment operating income (loss) for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020 is $1.9 million and $2.2 million, respectively, of depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion expense on mine and plant long-lived assets and liabilities and $0.1 million and zero, respectively, of amortization of Upfront Customer Consideration.

Reconciliation of Reportable Segment Amounts to Consolidated Balances

A reconciliation of reportable segment operating income to consolidated income (loss) before income tax expense is as follows:

	Three Months Ended March 31,
(in thousands)	2021		2020
Total reported segment operating income	$	22,286	$	3,490
Adjustments to reconcile to income (loss) before income tax expense attributable to the Company:
Corporate payroll and benefits	(639)		(709)
Corporate legal and professional fees	(1,754)		(1,749)
Corporate general and administrative	(1,176)		(1,599)
Corporate depreciation and amortization	(154)		(26)
Corporate interest expense, net	(650)		(942)
Other income (expense), net	313		—
Income (loss) before income tax expense	$	18,226	$	(1,535)

Reconciliation of Assets from Segment to Consolidated

A reconciliation of reportable segment assets to consolidated assets is as follows:

	As of
(in thousands)	March 31, 2021		December 31, 2020
Assets:
Refined Coal (1)	$	7,117	$	11,516
Advanced Purification Technologies (2)	78,373		80,877
Total segment assets	85,490		92,393
All Other and Corporate (3)	66,080		54,278
Consolidated	$	151,570	$	146,671

(1) Includes $2.8 million and $7.7 million of investments in equity method investees as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

(2) Includes $35.1 million and $34.6 million of long-lived assets, net. Expenditures for additions to long-lived assets were $1.3 million and $0.7 million, respectively for the three months ended March 31, 2021 and 2020.

(3) Includes the Company's deferred tax assets of $7.6 million and $10.6 million as of March 31, 2021 and December 31, 2020, respectively.

XML

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2021

Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]

Schedule of Estimated Fair Values of Remaining Financial Instruments

The following table provides the estimated fair values of the remaining financial instruments:

	As of March 31, 2021				As of December 31, 2020
(in thousands)	Carrying Value		Fair Value		Carrying Value		Fair Value
Financial Instruments:
Highview Investment	$	552	$	552	$	552	$	552
Highview Obligation	$	231	$	231	$	228	$	228

XML

Basis of Presentation - Calculations of Basic and Diluted Earnings per Share (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 13,737	$ (1,893)
Less: Dividends and undistributed income (loss) allocated to participating securities	0	(2)
Income (loss) attributable to common stockholders	$ 13,737	$ (1,891)
Basic weighted-average common shares outstanding (in shares)	18,166	17,932
Add: dilutive effect of equity instruments (in shares)	108	0
Diluted weighted-average shares outstanding (in shares)	18,274	17,932
Earnings (loss) per share - basic (in dollars per share)	$ 0.76	$ (0.11)
Earnings (loss) per share - diluted (in dollars per share)	$ 0.75	$ (0.11)
Restricted Stock and Employee Stock Options
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total shares excluded from diluted shares outstanding (in shares)	100	700

XML

Basis of Presentation - Additional Information (Details) - Tinuum Group, LLC	Mar. 31, 2021 debt_instrument
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of instruments held	23
Customer Concentration Risk
Concentration Risk [Line Items]
Number of instruments held	9

XML

Customer Supply Agreement (Details)	Sep. 30, 2020
Additional Term of Contract [Abstract]
Term of contract	15 years
Additional term of contract	10 years
Period of termination notice	3 years

XML

Acquisition of Marshall Mine - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	Sep. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2021
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Reclamation reimbursements	$ 10.2
Term of contract	15 years
Marshall Mine
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Membership interest		100.00%
Capped cost	$ 19.7
Direct cost	$ 3.6
Estimated reclamation period	10 years
Term of contract	15 years
Marshall Mine | Cabot
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Reclamation reimbursements	$ 10.2

XML

Acquisition of Marshall Mine - Allocation (Details) - Marshall Mine - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Assets acquired:
Receivables	$ 0	$ 513
Property, plant and equipment	3,863	3,863
Spare parts	100	100
Liabilities assumed:
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	(673)	(513)
Asset retirement obligation	(21,328)	(21,328)
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Marshall Mine acquisition	(18,038)	(17,365)
Cabot receivable	9,749	9,749
Upfront Customer Consideration	$ 8,289	7,616
Adjustments
Receivables		513
Property, plant and equipment		0
Spare parts		0
Accounts payable and accrued expenses		160
Asset retirement obligation		0
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed from Marshall Mine acquisition		673
Cabot receivable		0
Upfront Customer Consideration		$ (673)

XML

Marshall Mine Asset Retirement Obligation and Cabot Receivable - ARO and Cabot Receivable (Details) - USD ($)	Sep. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Asset Retirement Obligation and related Long-Term Receivable [Abstract]
Reclamation costs	$ 21,300,000
Expected future cash flows	23,700,000
Risk-free rate		7.00%
Long-term receivable		$ 9,700,000
Discount rate		1.50%
Effect of discounting		$ 500,000
Reclamation reimbursements	$ 10,200,000
Allowance for credit losses		0	$ 0
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Asset retirement obligation		19,499,000	21,447,000	$ 2,721,000
Marshall Mine
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Asset retirement obligation		$ 16,100,000	$ 21,300,000

XML

Marshall Mine Asset Retirement Obligation and Cabot Receivable - Bonds (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Asset Retirement Obligation and related Long-Term Receivable [Abstract]
Surety bond amount	$ 30,000
Restricted cash, long-term	$ 10,000	$ 5,000

XML

COVID-19 (Details) - USD ($) $ in Millions	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Apr. 20, 2020
CARES Act, Grant Income [Abstract]
Payroll tax payments deferred under the CARES Act	$ 0.4
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Payroll tax payments deferred under the CARES Act	$ 0.4
Promissory Note | PPP Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount		$ 3.3
Interest rate, stated percentage		1.00%

XML

Equity Method Investments - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019	Sep. 30, 2019
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Earnings from equity method investments	$ 18,312,000	$ 8,273,000
Equity method investments	$ 2,753,000		$ 7,692,000
Tinuum Group, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent	42.50%		42.50%
Earnings from equity method investments	$ 16,362,000	6,438,000
Equity method investments	$ 0		$ 3,387,000	$ 0	$ 32,280,000	$ 24,954,000
Tinuum Services, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Ownership interest, percent	50.00%
Earnings from equity method investments	$ 1,950,000	1,838,000
Equity method investments	$ 2,690,000		$ 4,242,000
Percent of losses removed from net income, attributable to noncontrolling interest	100.00%
Equity Method Investment | Tinuum Group, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	$ (35,578,000)	(19,271,000)
Equity Method Investment | Tinuum Services, LLC
Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items]
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	$ (77,215,000)	$ (71,972,000)

XML

Equity Method Investments - Results of Operations and Summary of Distributions (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2019
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	$ 20,767,000	$ 20,904,000
Net income (loss)	13,737,000	(1,893,000)
ADES equity earnings	18,312,000	8,273,000
Equity method investments	2,753,000				$ 7,692,000
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment	17,644,000	17,116,000
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of investment basis	5,607,000	0
Tinuum Group, LLC
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
ADES equity earnings	16,362,000	6,438,000
Equity method investments	0		$ 0	$ 24,954,000	3,387,000	$ 32,280,000
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment	14,142,000	13,764,000
Distributions from equity method investees in excess of investment basis	5,607,000	0	$ 19,749,000	$ 13,764,000
Tinuum Services, LLC
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
ADES equity earnings	1,950,000	1,838,000
Equity method investments	2,690,000				4,242,000
Distributions from equity method investees, return on investment	3,502,000	3,352,000
Earnings (loss) from other
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
ADES equity earnings	0	(3,000)
Equity method investments	63,000				$ 63,000
Equity Method Investment | Tinuum Group, LLC
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Gross profit (loss)	2,675,000	5,010,000
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	13,802,000	12,776,000
Loss from operations	(11,127,000)	(7,766,000)
Other income (expenses), net	853,000	3,643,000
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	35,578,000	19,271,000
Net income (loss)	25,304,000	15,148,000
Equity Method Investment | Tinuum Services, LLC
Equity Method Investment, Financial Statement, Reported Amounts [Abstract]
Gross profit (loss)	(18,522,000)	(22,259,000)
Operating, selling, general and administrative expenses	54,366,000	45,753,000
Loss from operations	(72,888,000)	(68,012,000)
Other income (expenses), net	(427,000)	(285,000)
Loss attributable to noncontrolling interest	77,215,000	71,972,000
Net income (loss)	$ 3,900,000	$ 3,675,000

XML

Equity Method Investments - Rollforward of CCS Investment (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Sep. 30, 2019
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 7,692,000
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	5,607,000	$ 0
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	2,753,000
Tinuum Group, LLC
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	3,387,000	32,280,000	$ 32,280,000
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group			10,755,000	$ 6,438,000
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group	5,607,000	0	19,749,000	13,764,000
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance			5,607,000
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions	0		0	24,954,000
Tinuum Group, LLC | ADES equity earnings
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0	0	0
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group			10,755,000	6,438,000
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group				0
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance			5,607,000
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions			16,362,000	6,438,000
Tinuum Group, LLC | Cash distributions
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	0	$ 0	0
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group			0	0
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group			19,749,000	13,764,000
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance			0
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions			19,749,000	$ 13,764,000
Tinuum Group, LLC | Memorandum Account: Cash distributions and equity loss in (excess) of investment balance
Equity Method Investments [Roll Forward]
Beginning balance	$ 0
ADES proportionate share of income from Tinuum Group			0
Cash distributions from Tinuum Group			0
Adjustment for current year cash distributions in excess of investment balance			(5,607,000)
Total investment balance, equity earnings (loss) and cash distributions			$ (5,607,000)

XML

Inventories, net (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Product inventory, net	$ 7,185	$ 8,361
Raw material inventory	855	1,521
Inventories	$ 8,040	$ 9,882

XML

Debt Obligations - Schedule of Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Dec. 07, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Finance lease obligations	$ 5,250	$ 5,526
PPP Loan	3,305	3,305
Long-term Debt	14,200	23,886
Less: Current maturities	(9,913)	(18,441)
Total long-term debt	4,287	5,445
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, net
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Less: net unamortized debt issuance costs	(175)	(465)	$ (2,000)
Less: net unamortized debt discount	(180)	(480)	$ (2,100)
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, net	5,645	15,055
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, net | Senior Term Loan due December 2021, related party
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, related party	$ 6,000	$ 16,000

XML

Debt Obligations - Senior Term Loan (Details)		3 Months Ended
	Dec. 07, 2018 USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($)	Dec. 31, 2019 USD ($)
Senior Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Less: net unamortized debt discount	$ 2,100,000	$ 180,000	$ 480,000
Debt issuance costs	$ 2,000,000.0	$ 175,000	$ 465,000
Interest rate, stated percentage	4.75%
Minimum cash balance required				$ 5,000,000.0
Expected future net cash flows from refined coal business		1.75
Maximum annual collective dividends and buybacks		$ 30,000,000.0
Minimum requirement from future net cash flows from refined coal business		$ 100,000,000.0
Senior Term Loan | Beginning on March 1, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Periodic payment, principal	$ 6,000,000.0
Senior Term Loan | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.50%
ADA Carbon Solutions, LLC | Term Loan | Senior Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Proceeds from issuance of debt	$ 70,000,000.0
Senior Term Loan due December 2021, related party | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Percent of common stock owned	5.00%

XML

Debt Obligations - Line of Credit (Details) - USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 23, 2021	Dec. 31, 2018	Sep. 30, 2018	Dec. 31, 2013
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity			$ 5,000,000.0		$ 10,000,000.0
Line of credit	$ 0
Senior Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Minimum cash balance required		$ 6,000,000.0		$ 5,000,000.0

XML

Leases - Narrative (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Long-term lease liabilities	$ 5,250		$ 5,526
Operating lease, liability	5,100		3,000
Finance lease, right of use asset	2,200		2,400
Operating lease, right of use asset	4,230		$ 1,930
Operating lease, expense	1,000	$ 1,200
General and Administrative Expense
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating lease, expense	100	200
Consumables
Lessee, Lease, Description [Line Items]
Operating lease, expense	$ 900	$ 1,000

XML

Leases - Lease Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Lease, cost
Amortization of right-of-use assets	$ 174	$ 514
Interest on lease liabilities	79	94
Operating lease cost	459	853
Short-term lease cost	567	282
Variable lease cost	9	93
Total lease cost	1,288	1,836
Operating cash flows from finance leases	79	94
Operating cash flows from operating leases	575	634
Financing cash flows from finance leases	315	340
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new finance lease liabilities	0	0
Right-of-use assets obtained in exchange for new operating lease liabilities	$ 2,679	$ 60
Weighted-average remaining lease term - finance leases	3 years 3 months 18 days	4 years 1 month 6 days
Weighted-average remaining lease term - operating leases	1 year 7 months 6 days	2 years 3 months 18 days
Weighted-average discount rate - finance leases	6.18%	6.08%
Weighted-average discount rate - operating leases	8.46%	8.54%

XML

Revenues - Narrative (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($) segment	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Collection terms	Credit terms are generally net 30 from the date of invoice.
Provision for debt expense | $	$ 0	$ 0
Number of operating segments | segment	2

XML

Revenues - Trade Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total	$ 10,349	$ 13,125
Trade Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Trade receivables	9,481	12,241
Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts	(53)	(37)
Total	$ 9,428	$ 12,204

XML

Revenues - Cabot Receivables (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total Cabot Receivable	$ 8,835	$ 9,773
Accounts Receivable
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total Cabot Receivable	921	921
Other Noncurrent Assets
Accounts, Notes, Loans and Financing Receivable [Line Items]
Total Cabot Receivable	$ 7,914	$ 8,852

XML

Revenues - Disaggregation of Revenue (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	$ 21,097	$ 12,263
Earnings from equity method investments	18,312	8,273
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	21,097	12,263
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	39,409	20,536
Operating Segments
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	39,409	20,536
Consumables
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	17,031	9,217
License royalties, related party
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	4,066	3,046
APT
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	17,031	9,217
Earnings from equity method investments	0	0
APT | Operating Segments
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	17,031	9,217
APT | Consumables
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	17,031	9,217
APT | Consumables | Operating Segments
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	17,031	9,217
APT | License royalties, related party
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	0	0
RC
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	4,066	3,046
Earnings from equity method investments	18,312	8,273
RC | Operating Segments
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Earnings from equity method investments	18,312	8,273
Total revenues from customers and earnings from equity method investments	22,378	11,319
RC | Consumables
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	0	0
RC | License royalties, related party
Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items]
Revenue component	$ 4,066	$ 3,046

XML

Commitments and Contingencies (Details)	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($) entity	Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Restricted cash, short term	$ 6,000,000.0	$ 5,000,000.0
Restricted cash, long-term	$ 10,000,000	5,000,000
Tinuum Group, LLC
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Number of entities affiliated with related parties | entity	2
Limited guarantees, percent	50.00%
Liabilities or expense	$ 0
Surety Agreement
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Restricted cash, long-term	$ 10,000,000.0	$ 5,000,000.0

XML

Stockholders' Equity - Narrative (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Nov. 30, 2019	Nov. 30, 2018	May 05, 2017
Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Requirement to own shares outstanding as percent					4.99%
Common Stock
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Remaining authorized amount	$ 7,000,000.0		$ 2,900,000
Authorized incremental amount			$ 7,100,000
Stock repurchased (in shares)	0	20,613
Stock repurchased	$ 0	$ 200,000
Common Stock | Maximum
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Authorized amount				$ 20,000,000.0

XML

Stockholders' Equity - Dividends (Details) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Equity [Abstract]
Dividends declared (in dollars per share)	$ 0	$ 0.25

XML

Stock-Based Compensation - Allocation of Compensation Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 421	$ 506
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	407	506
Performance share units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total stock-based compensation expense	$ 14	$ 0

XML

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Unrecognized Compensation Cost (Details) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	$ 3,928
Expected Weighted-Average Period of Recognition (in years)	2 years 5 months 15 days
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	$ 3,383
Expected Weighted-Average Period of Recognition (in years)	2 years 5 months 15 days
Restricted stock units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized Compensation Cost	$ 545
Expected Weighted-Average Period of Recognition (in years)	2 years 5 months 26 days

XML

Stock-Based Compensation - Narrative (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021
Restricted stock awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period	3 years

XML

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Non-vested Restricted Stock Activity (Details) - Restricted stock awards	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021 $ / shares shares
Number of SAR's Outstanding and Exercisable
Non-vested shares, Beginning balance (in shares) | shares	373,860
Granted (in shares) | shares	385,631
Vested (in shares) | shares	(152,021)
Forfeited (in shares) | shares	(4,292)
Non-vested shares, Ending balance (in shares) | shares	603,178
Units
Non-vested shares, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 7.25
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	5.27
Vested in period, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	7.81
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	7.00
Non-vested shares, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 5.85

XML

Stock-Based Compensation - Summary of Non-vested PSUs (Details) - Performance share units $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($) $ / shares shares
Number of SAR's Outstanding and Exercisable
Non-vested shares, Beginning balance (in shares) | shares	50,127
Granted (in shares) | shares	62,448
Vested / Settled (in shares) | shares	0
Forfeited / Canceled (in shares) | shares	0
Non-vested shares, Ending balance (in shares) | shares	112,575
Units
Non-vested shares, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Beginning Balance (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 6.17
Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	7.09
Vested / Settled in period, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	0
Forfeited, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	0
Non-vested shares, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Ending Balance (in dollars per share) | $ / shares	$ 6.68
Outstanding, Aggregate Intrinsic Value | $	$ 619
Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (in years)	2 years 5 months 26 days

XML

Supplemental Financial Information - Prepaid expenses and other assets and Other assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020
Prepaid expenses and other assets:
Prepaid income taxes and income tax refunds	$ 263	$ 1,605
Prepaid expenses	1,794	1,690
Other	1,363	1,302
Other current assets	3,420	4,597
Other long-term assets, net:
Upfront customer consideration	7,363	7,490
Cabot receivable	7,914	8,852
Right of use assets, operating leases, net	4,230	1,930
Spare parts, net	3,883	3,727
Mine development costs, net	4,511	4,338
Mine reclamation asset, net	1,689	1,712
Highview Investment	552	552
Other long-term assets	1,434	1,388
Total	$ 31,576	$ 29,989

XML

Supplemental Financial Information - Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021	Dec. 31, 2020	Sep. 30, 2020	Mar. 31, 2020
Other current liabilities:
Operating Lease, Liability, Current, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]		Other current liabilities		Other current liabilities
Current portion of operating lease obligations	$ 2,434	$ 1,883
Income and other taxes payable	2,810	1,305
Current portion of mine reclamation liability	9,169	9,370
Other current liabilities	475	438
Other current liabilities	$ 14,888	$ 12,996
Other long-term liabilities:
Operating Lease, Liability, Noncurrent, Statement of Financial Position [Extensible List]	Other long-term liabilities	Other long-term liabilities
Operating lease obligations, long-term	$ 2,661	$ 1,109
Mine reclamation liabilities	10,330	12,077
Other long-term liabilities	217	287
Other long-term liabilities	$ 13,208	13,473
Marshall Mine
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Asset retirement obligation		$ 21,328	$ 21,328

XML

Supplemental Financial Information - Asset Retirement Obligation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward]
Asset retirement obligation, beginning of period	$ 21,447	$ 2,721
Asset retirement obligations assumed	0	21,328
Accretion	351	543
Liabilities settled	(2,315)	(3,565)
Changes due to amount and timing of reclamation	16	$ 420
Asset retirement obligations, end of period	19,499
Less current portion	9,169		$ 9,370
Asset retirement obligations, long-term	$ 10,330		$ 12,077

XML

Supplemental Financial Information - Supplemental Income Statement, Interest Expense (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Interest on Senior Term Loan	$ 155	$ 630
Debt discount and debt issuance costs	591	354
453A interest	0	132
Other	91	94
Interest expense	$ 837	$ 1,210

XML

Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income tax expense	$ 4,489	$ 358
Effective tax rate	25.00%	(23.00%)
Increase in valuation allowance	$ 100

XML

Business Segment Information - Segment Operating Results (Details)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($) segment	Mar. 31, 2020 USD ($)
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Number of reportable segments | segment	2
Revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	$ 18,312,000	$ 8,273,000
Total revenues	21,097,000	12,263,000
Total reported revenues	21,097,000	12,263,000
Segment operating income (loss):
Total segment operating income	330,000	(8,641,000)
Upfront customer consideration	100,000	0
Refined Coal
Revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	18,312,000	8,273,000
Total revenues	4,066,000	3,046,000
Advanced Purification Technologies
Revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	0	0
Total revenues	17,031,000	9,217,000
Consumables
Revenues:
Total revenues	17,031,000	9,217,000
Consumables | Refined Coal
Revenues:
Total revenues	0	0
Consumables | Advanced Purification Technologies
Revenues:
Total revenues	17,031,000	9,217,000
Operating Segments
Revenues:
Total reported revenues	39,409,000	20,536,000
Segment operating income (loss):
Total segment operating income	22,286,000	3,490,000
Operating Segments | Refined Coal
Revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	18,312,000	8,273,000
License royalties, related party	4,066,000	3,046,000
Total reported revenues	22,378,000	11,319,000
Segment operating income (loss):
Total segment operating income	22,271,000	10,860,000
Operating Segments | Advanced Purification Technologies
Revenues:
Total reported revenues	17,031,000	9,217,000
Segment operating income (loss):
Total segment operating income	15,000	(7,370,000)
Impairment expense on mine and plant long-lived assets	1,900,000	2,200,000
Operating Segments | Consumables | Advanced Purification Technologies
Revenues:
Total revenues	17,031,000	9,217,000
Intersegment Eliminations | Refined Coal
Revenues:
Earnings in equity method investments	$ (18,312,000)	$ (8,273,000)

XML

Business Segment Information - Reconciliation of Reportable Segment Amounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated operating income	$ 330	$ (8,641)
Adjustments to reconcile to income (loss) before income tax expense attributable to the Company:
Corporate payroll and benefits	(2,469)	(2,742)
Corporate legal and professional fees	(1,803)	(2,043)
Corporate general and administrative	(1,915)	(2,331)
Corporate depreciation and amortization	(2,106)	(2,297)
Other income (expense), net	421	43
Income (loss) before income tax expense	18,226	(1,535)
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Consolidated operating income	22,286	3,490
Segment Reconciling Items
Adjustments to reconcile to income (loss) before income tax expense attributable to the Company:
Corporate payroll and benefits	(639)	(709)
Corporate legal and professional fees	(1,754)	(1,749)
Corporate general and administrative	(1,176)	(1,599)
Corporate depreciation and amortization	(154)	(26)
Corporate interest expense, net	(650)	(942)
Other income (expense), net	313	0
Income (loss) before income tax expense	$ 18,226	$ (1,535)

XML

Business Segment Information - Segment Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2021	Mar. 31, 2020	Dec. 31, 2020
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 151,570		$ 146,671
Equity method investments	2,753		7,692
Deferred tax assets, net	7,553	$ 7,600	10,604
Operating Segments
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	85,490		92,393
Operating Segments | Refined Coal
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	7,117		11,516
Operating Segments | Advanced Purification Technologies
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	78,373		80,877
Long-lived assets	35,100		34,600
Expenditures	1,300	$ 700
All Other and Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Assets	$ 66,080		$ 54,278

XML

Fair Value Measurements (Details) $ in Thousands	Mar. 31, 2021 USD ($) numberOfFinancialInstitutions	Dec. 31, 2020 USD ($) numberOfFinancialInstitutions
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Highview Investment	$ 552	$ 552
Recurring Basis
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Number of instruments held | numberOfFinancialInstitutions	0	0
Carrying Value
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Highview Investment	$ 552	$ 552
Highview Obligation	231	228
Fair Value
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Highview Investment	552	552
Highview Obligation	$ 231	$ 228

XML

Subsequent Events (Details) - Subsequent Event $ in Millions	Apr. 22, 2021 USD ($)
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Employee-related liabilities	$ 2.4
Fire | Minimum
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Estimate of possible loss	$ 3.0