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Fair Value Measurements
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2013
Fair Value Measurements

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

Fair Value Hierarchy and Valuation Techniques

 

The accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. When quoted market prices are not available, pricing may be completed using comparable securities, dealer values, operating data and general market conditions to determine fair value. Valuation models utilize various inputs such as commodity, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, volatility and credit that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, market corroborated inputs (i.e. inputs derived principally from, or correlated to, observable market data) and other observable inputs for the asset or liability. Our market risk oversight staff independently monitors our valuation policies and procedures and provides members of the Commercial Operations Risk Committee (CORC) various daily, weekly and monthly reports, regarding compliance with policies and procedures. The CORC consists of our Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Energy Supply, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and Chief Risk Officer.

 

For our commercial activities, exchange traded derivatives, namely futures contracts, are generally fair valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1. Level 2 inputs primarily consist of OTC broker quotes in moderately active or less active markets, as well as exchange traded contracts where there is insufficient market liquidity to warrant inclusion in Level 1. We verify our price curves using these broker quotes and classify these fair values within Level 2 when substantially all of the fair value can be corroborated. We typically obtain multiple broker quotes, which are nonbinding in nature, but are based on recent trades in the marketplace. When multiple broker quotes are obtained, we average the quoted bid and ask prices. In certain circumstances, we may discard a broker quote if it is a clear outlier. We use a historical correlation analysis between the broker quoted location and the illiquid locations. If the points are highly correlated, we include these locations within Level 2 as well. Certain OTC and bilaterally executed derivative instruments are executed in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information. Illiquid transactions, complex structured transactions, FTRs and counterparty credit risk may require nonmarket based inputs. Some of these inputs may be internally developed or extrapolated and utilized to estimate fair value. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized as Level 3. The main driver of our contracts being classified as Level 3 is the inability to substantiate our energy price curves in the market. A significant portion of our Level 3 instruments have been economically hedged which greatly limits potential earnings volatility.

 

We utilize our trustee's external pricing service in our estimate of the fair value of the underlying investments held in the nuclear trusts. Our investment managers review and validate the prices utilized by the trustee to determine fair value. We perform our own valuation testing to verify the fair values of the securities. We receive audit reports of our trustee's operating controls and valuation processes. The trustee uses multiple pricing vendors for the assets held in the trusts.

 

Assets in the nuclear trusts, Cash and Cash Equivalents and Other Temporary Investments are classified using the following methods. Equities are classified as Level 1 holdings if they are actively traded on exchanges. Items classified as Level 1 are investments in money market funds, fixed income and equity mutual funds and domestic equity securities. They are valued based on observable inputs primarily unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. Items classified as Level 2 are primarily investments in individual fixed income securities and cash equivalents funds. Fixed income securities do not trade on an exchange and do not have an official closing price but their valuation inputs are based on observable market data. Pricing vendors calculate bond valuations using financial models and matrices. The models use observable inputs including yields on benchmark securities, quotes by securities brokers, rating agency actions, discounts or premiums on securities compared to par prices, changes in yields for U.S. Treasury securities, corporate actions by bond issuers, prepayment schedules and histories, economic events and, for certain securities, adjustments to yields to reflect changes in the rate of inflation. Other securities with model-derived valuation inputs that are observable are also classified as Level 2 investments. Investments with unobservable valuation inputs are classified as Level 3 investments.

Fair Value Measurements of Long-term Debt

 

The fair values of Long-term Debt are based on quoted market prices, without credit enhancements, for the same or similar issues and the current interest rates offered for instruments with similar maturities classified as Level 2 measurement inputs. These instruments are not marked-to-market. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that we could realize in a current market exchange.

 

The book values and fair values of Long-term Debt as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized in the following table:

   September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
   Book Value Fair Value Book Value Fair Value
   (in millions)
 Long-term Debt $ 17,568 $ 19,316 $ 17,757 $ 20,907

Fair Value Measurements of Other Temporary Investments

 

Other Temporary Investments include funds held by trustees primarily for the payment of securitization bonds and Securities Available for Sale, including marketable securities that we intend to hold for less than one year and investments by our protected cell of EIS.

 

The following is a summary of Other Temporary Investments:

     September 30, 2013 
       Gross Gross Estimated 
        Unrealized Unrealized  Fair
 Other Temporary Investments Cost Gains Losses Value
     (in millions) 
 Restricted Cash (a) $ 188 $ - $ - $ 188 
 Fixed Income Securities:             
  Mutual Funds   79   -   -   79 
 Equity Securities - Mutual Funds   13   8   -   21 
 Total Other Temporary Investments $ 280 $ 8 $ - $ 288 
                 
     December 31, 2012 
       Gross Gross Estimated 
        Unrealized Unrealized  Fair 
 Other Temporary Investments Cost Gains Losses Value 
     (in millions) 
 Restricted Cash (a) $ 241 $ - $ - $ 241 
 Fixed Income Securities:             
  Mutual Funds   65   2   -   67 
 Equity Securities - Mutual Funds   10   6   -   16 
 Total Other Temporary Investments $ 316 $ 8 $ - $ 324 
                 
 (a)Primarily represents amounts held for the repayment of debt.

The following table provides the activity for our fixed income and equity securities within Other Temporary Investments for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

  Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
  2013 2012 2013 2012
  (in millions)
 Proceeds from Investment Sales$ - $ - $ - $ -
 Purchases of Investments  6   -   17   1
 Gross Realized Gains on Investment Sales  -   -   -   -
 Gross Realized Losses on Investment Sales  -   -   -   -

As of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, we had no Other Temporary Investments with an unrealized loss position. As of September 30, 2013, fixed income securities were primarily debt based mutual funds with short and intermediate maturities. Mutual funds may be sold and do not contain maturity dates.

 

For details of the reasons for changes in Securities Available for Sale included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, see Note 2.

Fair Value Measurements of Trust Assets for Decommissioning and SNF Disposal

 

Nuclear decommissioning and spent nuclear fuel trust funds represent funds that regulatory commissions allow us to collect through rates to fund future decommissioning and spent nuclear fuel disposal liabilities. By rules or orders, the IURC, the MPSC and the FERC established investment limitations and general risk management guidelines. In general, limitations include:

 

  • Acceptable investments (rated investment grade or above when purchased).
  • Maximum percentage invested in a specific type of investment.
  • Prohibition of investment in obligations of AEP or its affiliates.
  • Withdrawals permitted only for payment of decommissioning costs and trust expenses.

 

We maintain trust records for each regulatory jurisdiction. These funds are managed by external investment managers who must comply with the guidelines and rules of the applicable regulatory authorities. The trust assets are invested to optimize the net of tax earnings of the trust giving consideration to liquidity, risk, diversification and other prudent investment objectives.

 

I&M records securities held in trust funds for decommissioning nuclear facilities and for the disposal of SNF at fair value. I&M classifies securities in the trust funds as available-for-sale due to their long-term purpose. Other-than-temporary impairments for investments in both fixed income and equity securities are considered realized losses as a result of securities being managed by an external investment management firm. The external investment management firm makes specific investment decisions regarding the equity and fixed income investments held in these trusts and generally intends to sell fixed income securities in an unrealized loss position as part of a tax optimization strategy. Impairments reduce the cost basis of the securities which will affect any future unrealized gain or realized gain or loss due to the adjusted cost of investment. I&M records unrealized gains and other-than-temporary impairments from securities in the trust funds as adjustments to the regulatory liability account for the nuclear decommissioning trust funds and to regulatory assets or liabilities for the SNF disposal trust funds in accordance with their treatment in rates. Consequently, changes in fair value of trust assets do not affect earnings or AOCI. The trust assets are recorded by jurisdiction and may not be used for another jurisdiction's liabilities. Regulatory approval is required to withdraw decommissioning funds.

 

The following is a summary of nuclear trust fund investments as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Estimated Gross Other-Than-  Estimated Gross Other-Than-
   FairUnrealizedTemporaryFairUnrealizedTemporary
   ValueGainsImpairmentsValueGainsImpairments
    (in millions)
 Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 15 $ - $ - $ 17 $ - $ -
 Fixed Income Securities:                  
  United States Government   621   34   (3)   648   58   (1)
  Corporate Debt   38   2   (2)   35   5   (1)
  State and Local Government   244   1   -   270   1   (1)
   Subtotal Fixed Income Securities  903   37   (5)   953   64   (3)
 Equity Securities - Domestic   921   415   (81)   736   285   (77)
 Spent Nuclear Fuel and                  
  Decommissioning Trusts $ 1,839 $ 452 $ (86) $ 1,706 $ 349 $ (80)

The following table provides the securities activity within the decommissioning and SNF trusts for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

  Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
  2013 2012 2013 2012
  (in millions)
 Proceeds from Investment Sales$ 250 $ 182 $ 635 $ 699
 Purchases of Investments  264   199   676   744
 Gross Realized Gains on Investment Sales  4   2   16   7
 Gross Realized Losses on Investment Sales  2   1   12   3

The adjusted cost of fixed income securities was $866 million and $889 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The adjusted cost of equity securities was $506 million and $451 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

The fair value of fixed income securities held in the nuclear trust funds, summarized by contractual maturities, as of September 30, 2013 was as follows:

  Fair Value of 
  Fixed Income 
  Securities 
  (in millions) 
 Within 1 year$ 74 
 1 year – 5 years  378 
 5 years – 10 years  210 
 After 10 years  241 
 Total$ 903 

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, our financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As required by the accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Our assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There have not been any significant changes in our valuation techniques.

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
September 30, 2013
            
   Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                 
Assets:(in millions)
                 
Cash and Cash Equivalents (a)$ 14 $ 1 $ - $ 132 $ 147
                 
Other Temporary Investments              
Restricted Cash (a)  173   7   -   8   188
Fixed Income Securities:              
 Mutual Funds  79   -   -   -   79
Equity Securities - Mutual Funds (b)  21   -   -   -   21
Total Other Temporary Investments  273   7   -   8   288
                 
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (c) (d)  34   680   147   (399)   462
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (c)  2   22   -   (15)   9
Fair Value Hedges  -   2   -   3   5
De-designated Risk Management Contracts (e)  -   -   -   9   9
Total Risk Management Assets   36   704   147   (402)   485
                 
Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts              
Cash and Cash Equivalents (f)  6   -   -   9   15
Fixed Income Securities:              
 United States Government  -   621   -   -   621
 Corporate Debt  -   38   -   -   38
 State and Local Government  -   244   -   -   244
  Subtotal Fixed Income Securities  -   903   -   -   903
Equity Securities - Domestic (b)  921   -   -   -   921
Total Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts  927   903   -   9   1,839
                 
Total Assets$ 1,250 $ 1,615 $ 147 $ (253) $ 2,759
                 
Liabilities:              
                 
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (c) (d)$ 40 $ 613 $ 24 $ (418) $ 259
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (c)  -   23   3   (15)   11
 Interest Rate/Foreign Currency Hedges  -   2   -   -   2
Fair Value Hedges  -   9   -   3   12
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 40 $ 647 $ 27 $ (430) $ 284

Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
December 31, 2012
            
   Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                 
Assets:(in millions)
                 
Cash and Cash Equivalents (a)$ 6 $ 1 $ - $ 272 $ 279
                 
Other Temporary Investments              
Restricted Cash (a)  227   5   -   9   241
Fixed Income Securities:              
 Mutual Funds  67   -   -   -   67
Equity Securities - Mutual Funds (b)  16   -   -   -   16
Total Other Temporary Investments  310   5   -   9   324
                 
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (c) (g)  47   938   131   (599)   517
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (c)  8   28   -   (12)   24
Fair Value Hedges  -   2   -   2   4
De-designated Risk Management Contracts (e)  -   -   -   14   14
Total Risk Management Assets   55   968   131   (595)   559
                 
Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts              
Cash and Cash Equivalents (f)  7   -   -   10   17
Fixed Income Securities:              
 United States Government  -   648   -   -   648
 Corporate Debt  -   35   -   -   35
 State and Local Government  -   270   -   -   270
  Subtotal Fixed Income Securities  -   953   -   -   953
Equity Securities - Domestic (b)  736   -   -   -   736
Total Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts  743   953   -   10   1,706
                 
Total Assets$ 1,114 $ 1,927 $ 131 $ (304) $ 2,868
                 
Liabilities:              
                 
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (c) (g)$ 45 $ 838 $ 45 $ (636) $ 292
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (c)  -   48   -   (12)   36
 Interest Rate/Foreign Currency Hedges  -   37   -   -   37
Fair Value Hedges  -   2   -   2   4
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 45 $ 925 $ 45 $ (646) $ 369

(a)       Amounts in ''Other'' column primarily represent cash deposits in bank accounts with financial institutions or with third parties. Level 1 and Level 2 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(b)       Amounts represent publicly traded equity securities and equity-based mutual funds.

(c)       Amounts in ''Other'' column primarily represent counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral under the accounting guidance for ''Derivatives and Hedging.''

(d)       The September 30, 2013 maturity of the net fair value of risk management contracts prior to cash collateral, assets/(liabilities), is as follows: Level 1 matures $1 million in 2013, ($3) million in periods 2014-2016 and ($4) million in periods 2017-2018; Level 2 matures $4 million in 2013, $48 million in periods 2014-2016, $8 million in periods 2017-2018 and $7 million in periods 2019-2030; Level 3 matures $6 million in 2013, $60 million in periods 2014-2016, $32 million in periods 2017-2018 and $25 million in periods 2019-2030. Risk management commodity contracts are substantially comprised of power contracts.

(e)       Represents contracts that were originally MTM but were subsequently elected as normal under the accounting guidance for ''Derivatives and Hedging.'' At the time of the normal election, the MTM value was frozen and no longer fair valued. This MTM value will be amortized into revenues over the remaining life of the contracts.

(f)       Amounts in ''Other'' column primarily represent accrued interest receivables from financial institutions. Level 1 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(g)       The December 31, 2012 maturity of the net fair value of risk management contracts prior to cash collateral, assets/(liabilities), is as follows: Level 1 matures $9 million in 2013, ($3) million in periods 2014-2016 and ($4) million in periods 2017-2018; Level 2 matures $16 million in 2013, $61 million in periods 2014-2016, $16 million in periods 2017-2018 and $7 million in periods 2019-2030; Level 3 matures $18 million in 2013, $31 million in periods 2014-2016, $13 million in periods 2017-2018 and $24 million in periods 2019-2030. Risk management commodity contracts are substantially comprised of power contracts.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

 

The following tables set forth a reconciliation of changes in the fair value of net trading derivatives and other investments classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy:

    Net Risk Management
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 Assets (Liabilities)
    (in millions)
 Balance as of June 30, 2013 $ 122
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (2)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets)   
  Relating to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   13
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Other Comprehensive Income   (3)
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   (8)
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   -
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (2)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated Jurisdictions (g)   -
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 120

    Net Risk Management
 Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 Assets (Liabilities)
    (in millions)
 Balance as of June 30, 2012 $ 97
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (5)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets)   
  Relating to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   7
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Other Comprehensive Income   5
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   4
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   (3)
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (1)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated Jurisdictions (g)   -
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 104

    Net Risk Management
 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 Assets (Liabilities)
    (in millions)
 Balance as of December 31, 2012 $ 86
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (9)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets)   
  Relating to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   32
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Other Comprehensive Income   (3)
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   (7)
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   18
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (1)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated Jurisdictions (g)   4
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 120

    Net Risk Management
 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 Assets (Liabilities)
    (in millions)
 Balance as of December 31, 2011 $ 69
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (16)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income (or Changes in Net Assets)   
  Relating to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   20
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses) Included in Other Comprehensive Income   2
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   33
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   10
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (21)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated Jurisdictions (g)   7
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 104

(a)       Included in revenues on the condensed statements of income.

(b)       Represents the change in fair value between the beginning of the reporting period and the settlement of the risk management commodity contract.

(c)       Represents the settlement of risk management commodity contracts for the reporting period.

(d)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 2.

(e)       Transfers are recognized based on their value at the beginning of the reporting period that the transfer occurred.

(f)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 3.

(g)       Relates to the net gains (losses) of those contracts that are not reflected on the condensed statements of income. These net gains (losses) are recorded as regulatory liabilities/assets.

The following table quantifies the significant unobservable inputs used in developing the fair value of our Level 3 positions as of September 30, 2013:

  Fair Value Valuation Significant Input/Range
 Assets LiabilitiesTechniqueUnobservable Input Low High
  (in millions)          
Energy Contracts $ 139 $ 23 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price (a) $ 10.86 $ 126.65
          Counterparty Credit Risk (b)  374
FTRs   8   4 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price (a)   (11.44)   13.11
Total $ 147 $ 27          

(a)       Represents market prices in dollars per MWh.

(b)       Represents average price of credit default swaps used to calculate counterparty credit risk, reported in basis points.

Appalachian Power Co [Member]
 
Fair Value Measurements

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

Fair Value Hierarchy and Valuation Techniques

 

The accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. When quoted market prices are not available, pricing may be completed using comparable securities, dealer values, operating data and general market conditions to determine fair value. Valuation models utilize various inputs such as commodity, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, volatility and credit that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, market corroborated inputs (i.e. inputs derived principally from, or correlated to, observable market data) and other observable inputs for the asset or liability. The AEP System's market risk oversight staff independently monitors its valuation policies and procedures and provides members of the Commercial Operations Risk Committee (CORC) various daily, weekly and monthly reports, regarding compliance with policies and procedures. The CORC consists of AEPSC's Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Energy Supply, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and Chief Risk Officer.

 

For commercial activities, exchange traded derivatives, namely futures contracts, are generally fair valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1. Level 2 inputs primarily consist of OTC broker quotes in moderately active or less active markets, as well as exchange traded contracts where there is insufficient market liquidity to warrant inclusion in Level 1. Management verifies price curves using these broker quotes and classifies these fair values within Level 2 when substantially all of the fair value can be corroborated. Management typically obtains multiple broker quotes, which are nonbinding in nature, but are based on recent trades in the marketplace. When multiple broker quotes are obtained, the quoted bid and ask prices are averaged. In certain circumstances, a broker quote may be discarded if it is a clear outlier. Management uses a historical correlation analysis between the broker quoted location and the illiquid locations. If the points are highly correlated, these locations are included within Level 2 as well. Certain OTC and bilaterally executed derivative instruments are executed in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information. Illiquid transactions, complex structured transactions, FTRs and counterparty credit risk may require nonmarket based inputs. Some of these inputs may be internally developed or extrapolated and utilized to estimate fair value. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized as Level 3. The main driver of the contracts being classified as Level 3 is the inability to substantiate energy price curves in the market. A significant portion of the Level 3 instruments have been economically hedged which greatly limits potential earnings volatility.

 

Fair Value Measurements of Long-term Debt

 

The fair values of Long-term Debt are based on quoted market prices, without credit enhancements, for the same or similar issues and the current interest rates offered for instruments with similar maturities classified as Level 2 measurement inputs. These instruments are not marked-to-market. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange.

 

The book values and fair values of Long-term Debt for the Registrant Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized in the following table:

   September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
 Company Book Value Fair Value Book Value Fair Value
   (in thousands)
 APCo $ 3,427,917 $ 3,957,321 $ 3,702,442 $ 4,555,143
 I&M   2,271,613   2,461,671   2,057,666   2,372,017
 OPCo   3,698,574   4,071,613   3,860,440   4,560,337
 PSO   949,826   1,090,934   949,871   1,175,759
 SWEPCo   2,043,244   2,254,078   2,046,228   2,400,509

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Registrant Subsidiaries' financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As required by the accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Management's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There have not been any significant changes in management's valuation techniques.

 

APCo              
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
September 30, 2013
           
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 1,799 $ 85,442 $ 13,701 $ (55,860) $ 45,082
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   452   -   (145)   307
Total Risk Management Assets $ 1,799 $ 85,894 $ 13,701 $ (56,005) $ 45,389
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 1,274 $ 80,580 $ 2,790 $ (61,352) $ 23,292
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   575   -   (145)   430
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 1,274 $ 81,155 $ 2,790 $ (61,497) $ 23,722

APCo              
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
December 31, 2012
           
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 4,161 $ 166,916 $ 17,058 $ (123,117) $ 65,018
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   498   -   (196)   302
Total Risk Management Assets $ 4,161 $ 167,414 $ 17,058 $ (123,313) $ 65,320
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 1,959 $ 158,665 $ 6,079 $ (132,884) $ 33,819
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   1,551   -   (196)   1,355
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 1,959 $ 160,216 $ 6,079 $ (133,080) $ 35,174

(a)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.”

(b)       Substantially comprised of power contracts for APCo, I&M and OPCo and coal contracts for PSO and SWEPCo.

(c)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent accrued interest receivables from financial institutions. Level 1 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(d)       Amounts represent publicly traded equity securities and equity-based mutual funds.

(e)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent cash deposits with third parties. Level 1 and Level 2 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

 

The following tables set forth a reconciliation of changes in the fair value of net trading derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy:

 

 Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of June 30, 2013 $ 12,976 $ 8,967 $ 18,347
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (1,200)   (754)   (1,616)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   (89)
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   -   -   -
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   (1,058)   (757)   (1,504)
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   13   9   18
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (15)   (11)   (21)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   195   (275)   (164)
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 10,911 $ 7,179 $ 14,971

 Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of June 30, 2012 $ 12,864 $ 9,049 $ 18,969
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (3,540)   (2,440)   (5,024)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   (1,030)
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   403   277   571
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   929   635   1,299
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   654   460   964
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (287)   (202)   (423)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   17   (193)   253
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 11,040 $ 7,586 $ 15,579

 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of December 31, 2012 $ 10,979 $ 7,541 $ 15,429
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (3,450)   (2,386)   (4,879)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   351
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   -   -   -
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   1,712   1,213   2,463
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   961   661   1,353
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (925)   (637)   (1,303)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   1,634   787   1,557
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 10,911 $ 7,179 $ 14,971

 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of December 31, 2011 $ 1,971 $ 1,263 $ 2,666
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (5,108)   (3,488)   (7,316)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   4,973
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   312   211   435
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   10,605   7,325   15,375
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   4,142   2,749   5,789
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (4,910)   (3,193)   (6,733)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   4,028   2,719   390
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 11,040 $ 7,586 $ 15,579

(a)       Included in revenues on the condensed statements of income.

(b)       Represents the change in fair value between the beginning of the reporting period and the settlement of the risk management commodity contract.

(c)       Represents the settlement of risk management commodity contracts for the reporting period.

(d)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 2.

(e)       Transfers are recognized based on their value at the beginning of the reporting period that the transfer occurred.

(f)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 3.

(g)       Relates to the net gains (losses) of those contracts that are not reflected on the condensed statements of income. These net gains (losses) are recorded as regulatory liabilities/assets.

The following tables quantify the significant unobservable inputs used in developing the fair value of Level 3 positions as of September 30, 2013:

 APCo                
   Fair Value Valuation Significant Forward Price Range
  Assets LiabilitiesTechniqueUnobservable Input (a) Low High
   (in thousands)          
 Energy Contracts $ 11,506 $ 1,940 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price $ 12.52 $ 55.40
 FTRs   2,195   850 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price   (5.26)   10.85
 Total $ 13,701 $ 2,790          

(a)       Represents market prices in dollars per MWh.

Indiana Michigan Power Co [Member]
 
Fair Value Measurements

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

Fair Value Hierarchy and Valuation Techniques

 

The accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. When quoted market prices are not available, pricing may be completed using comparable securities, dealer values, operating data and general market conditions to determine fair value. Valuation models utilize various inputs such as commodity, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, volatility and credit that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, market corroborated inputs (i.e. inputs derived principally from, or correlated to, observable market data) and other observable inputs for the asset or liability. The AEP System's market risk oversight staff independently monitors its valuation policies and procedures and provides members of the Commercial Operations Risk Committee (CORC) various daily, weekly and monthly reports, regarding compliance with policies and procedures. The CORC consists of AEPSC's Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Energy Supply, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and Chief Risk Officer.

 

For commercial activities, exchange traded derivatives, namely futures contracts, are generally fair valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1. Level 2 inputs primarily consist of OTC broker quotes in moderately active or less active markets, as well as exchange traded contracts where there is insufficient market liquidity to warrant inclusion in Level 1. Management verifies price curves using these broker quotes and classifies these fair values within Level 2 when substantially all of the fair value can be corroborated. Management typically obtains multiple broker quotes, which are nonbinding in nature, but are based on recent trades in the marketplace. When multiple broker quotes are obtained, the quoted bid and ask prices are averaged. In certain circumstances, a broker quote may be discarded if it is a clear outlier. Management uses a historical correlation analysis between the broker quoted location and the illiquid locations. If the points are highly correlated, these locations are included within Level 2 as well. Certain OTC and bilaterally executed derivative instruments are executed in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information. Illiquid transactions, complex structured transactions, FTRs and counterparty credit risk may require nonmarket based inputs. Some of these inputs may be internally developed or extrapolated and utilized to estimate fair value. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized as Level 3. The main driver of the contracts being classified as Level 3 is the inability to substantiate energy price curves in the market. A significant portion of the Level 3 instruments have been economically hedged which greatly limits potential earnings volatility.

 

AEP utilizes its trustee's external pricing service in its estimate of the fair value of the underlying investments held in the nuclear trusts. AEP's investment managers review and validate the prices utilized by the trustee to determine fair value. AEP's management performs its own valuation testing to verify the fair values of the securities. AEP receives audit reports of the trustee's operating controls and valuation processes. The trustee uses multiple pricing vendors for the assets held in the trusts.

 

Assets in the nuclear trusts, Other Cash Deposits and Cash and Cash Equivalents are classified using the following methods. Equities are classified as Level 1 holdings if they are actively traded on exchanges. Items classified as Level 1 are investments in money market funds, fixed income and equity mutual funds and domestic equity securities. They are valued based on observable inputs primarily unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. Items classified as Level 2 are primarily investments in individual fixed income securities and cash equivalents funds. Fixed income securities do not trade on an exchange and do not have an official closing price but their valuation inputs are based on observable market data. Pricing vendors calculate bond valuations using financial models and matrices. The models use observable inputs including yields on benchmark securities, quotes by securities brokers, rating agency actions, discounts or premiums on securities compared to par prices, changes in yields for U.S. Treasury securities, corporate actions by bond issuers, prepayment schedules and histories, economic events and, for certain securities, adjustments to yields to reflect changes in the rate of inflation. Other securities with model-derived valuation inputs that are observable are also classified as Level 2 investments. Investments with unobservable valuation inputs are classified as Level 3 investments.

Fair Value Measurements of Long-term Debt

 

The fair values of Long-term Debt are based on quoted market prices, without credit enhancements, for the same or similar issues and the current interest rates offered for instruments with similar maturities classified as Level 2 measurement inputs. These instruments are not marked-to-market. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange.

 

The book values and fair values of Long-term Debt for the Registrant Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized in the following table:

   September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
 Company Book Value Fair Value Book Value Fair Value
   (in thousands)
 APCo $ 3,427,917 $ 3,957,321 $ 3,702,442 $ 4,555,143
 I&M   2,271,613   2,461,671   2,057,666   2,372,017
 OPCo   3,698,574   4,071,613   3,860,440   4,560,337
 PSO   949,826   1,090,934   949,871   1,175,759
 SWEPCo   2,043,244   2,254,078   2,046,228   2,400,509

Fair Value Measurements of Trust Assets for Decommissioning and SNF Disposal

 

Nuclear decommissioning and spent nuclear fuel trust funds represent funds that regulatory commissions allow I&M to collect through rates to fund future decommissioning and spent nuclear fuel disposal liabilities. By rules or orders, the IURC, the MPSC and the FERC established investment limitations and general risk management guidelines. In general, limitations include:

 

  • Acceptable investments (rated investment grade or above when purchased).
  • Maximum percentage invested in a specific type of investment.
  • Prohibition of investment in obligations of AEP or its affiliates.
  • Withdrawals permitted only for payment of decommissioning costs and trust expenses.

 

I&M maintains trust records for each regulatory jurisdiction. These funds are managed by external investment managers who must comply with the guidelines and rules of the applicable regulatory authorities. The trust assets are invested to optimize the net of tax earnings of the trust giving consideration to liquidity, risk, diversification and other prudent investment objectives.

 

I&M records securities held in trust funds for decommissioning nuclear facilities and for the disposal of SNF at fair value. I&M classifies securities in the trust funds as available-for-sale due to their long-term purpose. Other-than-temporary impairments for investments in both fixed income and equity securities are considered realized losses as a result of securities being managed by an external investment management firm. The external investment management firm makes specific investment decisions regarding the equity and fixed income investments held in these trusts and generally intends to sell fixed income securities in an unrealized loss position as part of a tax optimization strategy. Impairments reduce the cost basis of the securities which will affect any future unrealized gain or realized gain or loss due to the adjusted cost of investment. I&M records unrealized gains and other-than-temporary impairments from securities in these trust funds as adjustments to the regulatory liability account for the nuclear decommissioning trust funds and to regulatory assets or liabilities for the SNF disposal trust funds in accordance with their treatment in rates. Consequently, changes in fair value of trust assets do not affect earnings or AOCI. The trust assets are recorded by jurisdiction and may not be used for another jurisdiction's liabilities. Regulatory approval is required to withdraw decommissioning funds.

 

The following is a summary of nuclear trust fund investments as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012:

    September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
    Estimated Gross Other-Than-  Estimated Gross Other-Than-
   FairUnrealizedTemporaryFairUnrealizedTemporary
   ValueGains ImpairmentsValueGainsImpairments
    (in thousands)
 Cash and Cash Equivalents $ 14,438 $ - $ - $ 16,783 $ - $ -
 Fixed Income Securities:                  
  United States Government   620,944   34,377   (2,662)   647,918   58,268   (747)
  Corporate Debt   38,272   2,684   (1,786)   35,399   4,903   (1,352)
  State and Local Government   244,172   851   (358)   270,090   1,006   (863)
   Subtotal Fixed Income Securities  903,388   37,912   (4,806)   953,407   64,177   (2,962)
 Equity Securities - Domestic   921,292   414,931   (81,125)   735,582   284,599   (76,557)
 Spent Nuclear Fuel and                  
  Decommissioning Trusts $ 1,839,118 $ 452,843 $ (85,931) $ 1,705,772 $ 348,776 $ (79,519)

The following table provides the securities activity within the decommissioning and SNF trusts for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012:

  Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
  2013 2012 2013 2012
  (in thousands)
 Proceeds from Investment Sales$ 249,314 $ 181,988 $ 635,256 $ 698,567
 Purchases of Investments  263,958   199,150   675,727   744,131
 Gross Realized Gains on Investment Sales  4,113   2,046   16,011   6,978
 Gross Realized Losses on Investment Sales  2,147   924   11,859   3,143

The adjusted cost of fixed income securities was $866 million and $889 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The adjusted cost of equity securities was $506 million and $451 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

The fair value of fixed income securities held in the nuclear trust funds, summarized by contractual maturities, as of September 30, 2013 was as follows:

  Fair Value of 
  Fixed Income 
  Securities 
     
  (in thousands) 
 Within 1 year$ 73,908 
 1 year – 5 years  378,271 
 5 years – 10 years  210,201 
 After 10 years  241,008 
 Total$ 903,388 

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Registrant Subsidiaries' financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As required by the accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Management's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There have not been any significant changes in management's valuation techniques.

 

I&M              
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
September 30, 2013
            
   Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                 
Assets:(in thousands)
                 
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 1,184 $ 56,155 $ 9,015 $ (36,670) $ 29,684
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   294   -   (95)   199
Total Risk Management Assets   1,184   56,449   9,015   (36,765)   29,883
                 
Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts              
Cash and Cash Equivalents (c)  5,684   -   -   8,754   14,438
Fixed Income Securities:              
 United States Government  -   620,944   -   -   620,944
 Corporate Debt  -   38,272   -   -   38,272
 State and Local Government  -   244,172   -   -   244,172
  Subtotal Fixed Income Securities  -   903,388   -   -   903,388
Equity Securities - Domestic (d)  921,292   -   -   -   921,292
Total Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts  926,976   903,388   -   8,754   1,839,118
                 
Total Assets$ 928,160 $ 959,837 $ 9,015 $ (28,011) $ 1,869,001
                 
Liabilities:              
                 
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 838 $ 54,905 $ 1,836 $ (40,282) $ 17,297
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   373   -   (95)   278
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 838 $ 55,278 $ 1,836 $ (40,377) $ 17,575

I&M              
  Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
  December 31, 2012
            
   Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                 
Assets:(in thousands)
                 
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 2,858 $ 120,242 $ 11,717 $ (84,474) $ 50,343
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   330   -   (130)   200
Total Risk Management Assets   2,858   120,572   11,717   (84,604)   50,543
                 
Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts              
Cash and Cash Equivalents (c)  6,508   -   -   10,275   16,783
Fixed Income Securities:              
 United States Government  -   647,918   -   -   647,918
 Corporate Debt  -   35,399   -   -   35,399
 State and Local Government  -   270,090   -   -   270,090
  Subtotal Fixed Income Securities  -   953,407   -   -   953,407
Equity Securities - Domestic (d)  735,582   -   -   -   735,582
Total Spent Nuclear Fuel and Decommissioning Trusts  742,090   953,407   -   10,275   1,705,772
                 
Total Assets$ 744,948 $ 1,073,979 $ 11,717 $ (74,329) $ 1,756,315
                 
Liabilities:              
                 
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 1,346 $ 110,621 $ 4,176 $ (91,183) $ 24,960
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   1,061   -   (130)   931
 Interest Rate/Foreign Currency Hedges  -   19,524   -   -   19,524
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 1,346 $ 131,206 $ 4,176 $ (91,313) $ 45,415

(a)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.”

(b)       Substantially comprised of power contracts for APCo, I&M and OPCo and coal contracts for PSO and SWEPCo.

(c)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent accrued interest receivables from financial institutions. Level 1 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(d)       Amounts represent publicly traded equity securities and equity-based mutual funds.

(e)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent cash deposits with third parties. Level 1 and Level 2 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

 

The following tables set forth a reconciliation of changes in the fair value of net trading derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy:

 

 Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of June 30, 2013 $ 12,976 $ 8,967 $ 18,347
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (1,200)   (754)   (1,616)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   (89)
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   -   -   -
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   (1,058)   (757)   (1,504)
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   13   9   18
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (15)   (11)   (21)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   195   (275)   (164)
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 10,911 $ 7,179 $ 14,971

 Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of June 30, 2012 $ 12,864 $ 9,049 $ 18,969
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (3,540)   (2,440)   (5,024)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   (1,030)
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   403   277   571
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   929   635   1,299
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   654   460   964
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (287)   (202)   (423)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   17   (193)   253
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 11,040 $ 7,586 $ 15,579

 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of December 31, 2012 $ 10,979 $ 7,541 $ 15,429
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (3,450)   (2,386)   (4,879)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   351
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   -   -   -
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   1,712   1,213   2,463
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   961   661   1,353
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (925)   (637)   (1,303)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   1,634   787   1,557
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 10,911 $ 7,179 $ 14,971

 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of December 31, 2011 $ 1,971 $ 1,263 $ 2,666
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (5,108)   (3,488)   (7,316)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   4,973
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   312   211   435
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   10,605   7,325   15,375
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   4,142   2,749   5,789
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (4,910)   (3,193)   (6,733)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   4,028   2,719   390
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 11,040 $ 7,586 $ 15,579

(a)       Included in revenues on the condensed statements of income.

(b)       Represents the change in fair value between the beginning of the reporting period and the settlement of the risk management commodity contract.

(c)       Represents the settlement of risk management commodity contracts for the reporting period.

(d)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 2.

(e)       Transfers are recognized based on their value at the beginning of the reporting period that the transfer occurred.

(f)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 3.

(g)       Relates to the net gains (losses) of those contracts that are not reflected on the condensed statements of income. These net gains (losses) are recorded as regulatory liabilities/assets.

The following tables quantify the significant unobservable inputs used in developing the fair value of Level 3 positions as of September 30, 2013:

 I&M                
   Fair Value Valuation Significant Forward Price Range
  Assets LiabilitiesTechniqueUnobservable Input (a) Low High
   (in thousands)          
 Energy Contracts $ 7,571 $ 1,276 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price $ 12.52 $ 55.40
 FTRs   1,444   560 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price   (5.26)   10.85
 Total $ 9,015 $ 1,836          

(a)       Represents market prices in dollars per MWh.

Ohio Power Co [Member]
 
Fair Value Measurements

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

Fair Value Hierarchy and Valuation Techniques

 

The accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. When quoted market prices are not available, pricing may be completed using comparable securities, dealer values, operating data and general market conditions to determine fair value. Valuation models utilize various inputs such as commodity, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, volatility and credit that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, market corroborated inputs (i.e. inputs derived principally from, or correlated to, observable market data) and other observable inputs for the asset or liability. The AEP System's market risk oversight staff independently monitors its valuation policies and procedures and provides members of the Commercial Operations Risk Committee (CORC) various daily, weekly and monthly reports, regarding compliance with policies and procedures. The CORC consists of AEPSC's Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Energy Supply, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and Chief Risk Officer.

 

For commercial activities, exchange traded derivatives, namely futures contracts, are generally fair valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1. Level 2 inputs primarily consist of OTC broker quotes in moderately active or less active markets, as well as exchange traded contracts where there is insufficient market liquidity to warrant inclusion in Level 1. Management verifies price curves using these broker quotes and classifies these fair values within Level 2 when substantially all of the fair value can be corroborated. Management typically obtains multiple broker quotes, which are nonbinding in nature, but are based on recent trades in the marketplace. When multiple broker quotes are obtained, the quoted bid and ask prices are averaged. In certain circumstances, a broker quote may be discarded if it is a clear outlier. Management uses a historical correlation analysis between the broker quoted location and the illiquid locations. If the points are highly correlated, these locations are included within Level 2 as well. Certain OTC and bilaterally executed derivative instruments are executed in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information. Illiquid transactions, complex structured transactions, FTRs and counterparty credit risk may require nonmarket based inputs. Some of these inputs may be internally developed or extrapolated and utilized to estimate fair value. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized as Level 3. The main driver of the contracts being classified as Level 3 is the inability to substantiate energy price curves in the market. A significant portion of the Level 3 instruments have been economically hedged which greatly limits potential earnings volatility.

 

Assets in the nuclear trusts, Other Cash Deposits and Cash and Cash Equivalents are classified using the following methods. Equities are classified as Level 1 holdings if they are actively traded on exchanges. Items classified as Level 1 are investments in money market funds, fixed income and equity mutual funds and domestic equity securities. They are valued based on observable inputs primarily unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. Items classified as Level 2 are primarily investments in individual fixed income securities and cash equivalents funds. Fixed income securities do not trade on an exchange and do not have an official closing price but their valuation inputs are based on observable market data. Pricing vendors calculate bond valuations using financial models and matrices. The models use observable inputs including yields on benchmark securities, quotes by securities brokers, rating agency actions, discounts or premiums on securities compared to par prices, changes in yields for U.S. Treasury securities, corporate actions by bond issuers, prepayment schedules and histories, economic events and, for certain securities, adjustments to yields to reflect changes in the rate of inflation. Other securities with model-derived valuation inputs that are observable are also classified as Level 2 investments. Investments with unobservable valuation inputs are classified as Level 3 investments.

Fair Value Measurements of Long-term Debt

 

The fair values of Long-term Debt are based on quoted market prices, without credit enhancements, for the same or similar issues and the current interest rates offered for instruments with similar maturities classified as Level 2 measurement inputs. These instruments are not marked-to-market. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange.

 

The book values and fair values of Long-term Debt for the Registrant Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized in the following table:

   September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
 Company Book Value Fair Value Book Value Fair Value
   (in thousands)
 APCo $ 3,427,917 $ 3,957,321 $ 3,702,442 $ 4,555,143
 I&M   2,271,613   2,461,671   2,057,666   2,372,017
 OPCo   3,698,574   4,071,613   3,860,440   4,560,337
 PSO   949,826   1,090,934   949,871   1,175,759
 SWEPCo   2,043,244   2,254,078   2,046,228   2,400,509

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Registrant Subsidiaries' financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As required by the accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Management's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There have not been any significant changes in management's valuation techniques.

 

OPCo              
 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
 September 30, 2013
                
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Other Cash Deposits (e)$ 8,022 $ 26 $ - $ 17 $ 8,065
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)  2,469   119,749   18,799   (78,663)   62,354
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   616   -   (198)   418
Total Risk Management Assets   2,469   120,365   18,799   (78,861)   62,772
                
Total Assets$ 10,491 $ 120,391 $ 18,799 $ (78,844) $ 70,837
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 1,748 $ 113,044 $ 3,828 $ (86,197) $ 32,423
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   783   -   (198)   585
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 1,748 $ 113,827 $ 3,828 $ (86,395) $ 33,008

OPCo              
 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
 December 31, 2012
           
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Other Cash Deposits (e)$ - $ 26 $ - $ 39 $ 65
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)  5,848   238,254   23,973   (175,890)   92,185
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   688   -   (272)   416
Total Risk Management Assets   5,848   238,942   23,973   (176,162)   92,601
                
Total Assets$ 5,848 $ 238,968 $ 23,973 $ (176,123) $ 92,666
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ 2,753 $ 226,536 $ 8,544 $ (189,616) $ 48,217
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   2,175   -   (272)   1,903
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ 2,753 $ 228,711 $ 8,544 $ (189,888) $ 50,120

(a)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.”

(b)       Substantially comprised of power contracts for APCo, I&M and OPCo and coal contracts for PSO and SWEPCo.

(c)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent accrued interest receivables from financial institutions. Level 1 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(d)       Amounts represent publicly traded equity securities and equity-based mutual funds.

(e)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent cash deposits with third parties. Level 1 and Level 2 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

 

The following tables set forth a reconciliation of changes in the fair value of net trading derivatives classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy:

 

 Three Months Ended September 30, 2013 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of June 30, 2013 $ 12,976 $ 8,967 $ 18,347
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (1,200)   (754)   (1,616)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   (89)
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   -   -   -
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   (1,058)   (757)   (1,504)
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   13   9   18
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (15)   (11)   (21)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   195   (275)   (164)
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 10,911 $ 7,179 $ 14,971

 Three Months Ended September 30, 2012 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of June 30, 2012 $ 12,864 $ 9,049 $ 18,969
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (3,540)   (2,440)   (5,024)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   (1,030)
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   403   277   571
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   929   635   1,299
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   654   460   964
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (287)   (202)   (423)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   17   (193)   253
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 11,040 $ 7,586 $ 15,579

 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of December 31, 2012 $ 10,979 $ 7,541 $ 15,429
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (3,450)   (2,386)   (4,879)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   351
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   -   -   -
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   1,712   1,213   2,463
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   961   661   1,353
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (925)   (637)   (1,303)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   1,634   787   1,557
 Balance as of September 30, 2013 $ 10,911 $ 7,179 $ 14,971

 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2012 APCo I&M OPCo
   (in thousands)
 Balance as of December 31, 2011 $ 1,971 $ 1,263 $ 2,666
 Realized Gain (Loss) Included in Net Income         
  (or Changes in Net Assets) (a) (b)   (5,108)   (3,488)   (7,316)
 Unrealized Gain (Loss) Included in Net         
  Income (or Changes in Net Assets) Relating         
  to Assets Still Held at the Reporting Date (a)   -   -   4,973
 Realized and Unrealized Gains (Losses)         
  Included in Other Comprehensive Income   312   211   435
 Purchases, Issuances and Settlements (c)   10,605   7,325   15,375
 Transfers into Level 3 (d) (e)   4,142   2,749   5,789
 Transfers out of Level 3 (e) (f)   (4,910)   (3,193)   (6,733)
 Changes in Fair Value Allocated to Regulated         
  Jurisdictions (g)   4,028   2,719   390
 Balance as of September 30, 2012 $ 11,040 $ 7,586 $ 15,579

(a)       Included in revenues on the condensed statements of income.

(b)       Represents the change in fair value between the beginning of the reporting period and the settlement of the risk management commodity contract.

(c)       Represents the settlement of risk management commodity contracts for the reporting period.

(d)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 2.

(e)       Transfers are recognized based on their value at the beginning of the reporting period that the transfer occurred.

(f)       Represents existing assets or liabilities that were previously categorized as Level 3.

(g)       Relates to the net gains (losses) of those contracts that are not reflected on the condensed statements of income. These net gains (losses) are recorded as regulatory liabilities/assets.

The following tables quantify the significant unobservable inputs used in developing the fair value of Level 3 positions as of September 30, 2013:

 OPCo                
   Fair Value Valuation Significant Forward Price Range
  Assets LiabilitiesTechniqueUnobservable Input (a) Low High
   (in thousands)          
 Energy Contracts $ 15,787 $ 2,661 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price $ 12.52 $ 55.40
 FTRs   3,012   1,167 Discounted Cash Flow Forward Market Price   (5.26)   10.85
 Total $ 18,799 $ 3,828          

(a)       Represents market prices in dollars per MWh.

Public Service Co Of Oklahoma [Member]
 
Fair Value Measurements

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

Fair Value Hierarchy and Valuation Techniques

 

The accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. When quoted market prices are not available, pricing may be completed using comparable securities, dealer values, operating data and general market conditions to determine fair value. Valuation models utilize various inputs such as commodity, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, volatility and credit that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, market corroborated inputs (i.e. inputs derived principally from, or correlated to, observable market data) and other observable inputs for the asset or liability. The AEP System's market risk oversight staff independently monitors its valuation policies and procedures and provides members of the Commercial Operations Risk Committee (CORC) various daily, weekly and monthly reports, regarding compliance with policies and procedures. The CORC consists of AEPSC's Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Energy Supply, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and Chief Risk Officer.

 

For commercial activities, exchange traded derivatives, namely futures contracts, are generally fair valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1. Level 2 inputs primarily consist of OTC broker quotes in moderately active or less active markets, as well as exchange traded contracts where there is insufficient market liquidity to warrant inclusion in Level 1. Management verifies price curves using these broker quotes and classifies these fair values within Level 2 when substantially all of the fair value can be corroborated. Management typically obtains multiple broker quotes, which are nonbinding in nature, but are based on recent trades in the marketplace. When multiple broker quotes are obtained, the quoted bid and ask prices are averaged. In certain circumstances, a broker quote may be discarded if it is a clear outlier. Management uses a historical correlation analysis between the broker quoted location and the illiquid locations. If the points are highly correlated, these locations are included within Level 2 as well. Certain OTC and bilaterally executed derivative instruments are executed in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information. Illiquid transactions, complex structured transactions, FTRs and counterparty credit risk may require nonmarket based inputs. Some of these inputs may be internally developed or extrapolated and utilized to estimate fair value. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized as Level 3. The main driver of the contracts being classified as Level 3 is the inability to substantiate energy price curves in the market. A significant portion of the Level 3 instruments have been economically hedged which greatly limits potential earnings volatility.

 

Fair Value Measurements of Long-term Debt

 

The fair values of Long-term Debt are based on quoted market prices, without credit enhancements, for the same or similar issues and the current interest rates offered for instruments with similar maturities classified as Level 2 measurement inputs. These instruments are not marked-to-market. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange.

 

The book values and fair values of Long-term Debt for the Registrant Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized in the following table:

   September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
 Company Book Value Fair Value Book Value Fair Value
   (in thousands)
 APCo $ 3,427,917 $ 3,957,321 $ 3,702,442 $ 4,555,143
 I&M   2,271,613   2,461,671   2,057,666   2,372,017
 OPCo   3,698,574   4,071,613   3,860,440   4,560,337
 PSO   949,826   1,090,934   949,871   1,175,759
 SWEPCo   2,043,244   2,254,078   2,046,228   2,400,509

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Registrant Subsidiaries' financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As required by the accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Management's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There have not been any significant changes in management's valuation techniques.

 

PSO              
 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
 September 30, 2013
           
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 1,543 $ - $ (552) $ 991
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   10   -   -   10
Total Risk Management Assets $ - $ 1,553 $ - $ (552) $ 1,001
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 1,931 $ - $ (559) $ 1,372
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   16   -   -   16
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ - $ 1,947 $ - $ (559) $ 1,388

PSO              
 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
 December 31, 2012
           
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 1,657 $ - $ (1,142) $ 515
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   42   -   (17)   25
Total Risk Management Assets$ - $ 1,699 $ - $ (1,159) $ 540
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 7,021 $ - $ (1,142) $ 5,879
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   17   -   (17)   -
Total Risk Management Liabilities$ - $ 7,038 $ - $ (1,159) $ 5,879

(a)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.”

(b)       Substantially comprised of power contracts for APCo, I&M and OPCo and coal contracts for PSO and SWEPCo.

(c)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent accrued interest receivables from financial institutions. Level 1 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(d)       Amounts represent publicly traded equity securities and equity-based mutual funds.

(e)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent cash deposits with third parties. Level 1 and Level 2 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

 

Southwestern Electric Power Co [Member]
 
Fair Value Measurements

9. FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS

 

Fair Value Hierarchy and Valuation Techniques

 

The accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs used to measure fair value. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurement) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurement). Where observable inputs are available for substantially the full term of the asset or liability, the instrument is categorized in Level 2. When quoted market prices are not available, pricing may be completed using comparable securities, dealer values, operating data and general market conditions to determine fair value. Valuation models utilize various inputs such as commodity, interest rate and, to a lesser degree, volatility and credit that include quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in inactive markets, market corroborated inputs (i.e. inputs derived principally from, or correlated to, observable market data) and other observable inputs for the asset or liability. The AEP System's market risk oversight staff independently monitors its valuation policies and procedures and provides members of the Commercial Operations Risk Committee (CORC) various daily, weekly and monthly reports, regarding compliance with policies and procedures. The CORC consists of AEPSC's Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President of Energy Supply, Senior Vice President of Commercial Operations and Chief Risk Officer.

 

For commercial activities, exchange traded derivatives, namely futures contracts, are generally fair valued based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets and are classified as Level 1. Level 2 inputs primarily consist of OTC broker quotes in moderately active or less active markets, as well as exchange traded contracts where there is insufficient market liquidity to warrant inclusion in Level 1. Management verifies price curves using these broker quotes and classifies these fair values within Level 2 when substantially all of the fair value can be corroborated. Management typically obtains multiple broker quotes, which are nonbinding in nature, but are based on recent trades in the marketplace. When multiple broker quotes are obtained, the quoted bid and ask prices are averaged. In certain circumstances, a broker quote may be discarded if it is a clear outlier. Management uses a historical correlation analysis between the broker quoted location and the illiquid locations. If the points are highly correlated, these locations are included within Level 2 as well. Certain OTC and bilaterally executed derivative instruments are executed in less active markets with a lower availability of pricing information. Illiquid transactions, complex structured transactions, FTRs and counterparty credit risk may require nonmarket based inputs. Some of these inputs may be internally developed or extrapolated and utilized to estimate fair value. When such inputs have a significant impact on the measurement of fair value, the instrument is categorized as Level 3. The main driver of the contracts being classified as Level 3 is the inability to substantiate energy price curves in the market. A significant portion of the Level 3 instruments have been economically hedged which greatly limits potential earnings volatility.

 

Assets in the nuclear trusts, Other Cash Deposits and Cash and Cash Equivalents are classified using the following methods. Equities are classified as Level 1 holdings if they are actively traded on exchanges. Items classified as Level 1 are investments in money market funds, fixed income and equity mutual funds and domestic equity securities. They are valued based on observable inputs primarily unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets. Items classified as Level 2 are primarily investments in individual fixed income securities and cash equivalents funds. Fixed income securities do not trade on an exchange and do not have an official closing price but their valuation inputs are based on observable market data. Pricing vendors calculate bond valuations using financial models and matrices. The models use observable inputs including yields on benchmark securities, quotes by securities brokers, rating agency actions, discounts or premiums on securities compared to par prices, changes in yields for U.S. Treasury securities, corporate actions by bond issuers, prepayment schedules and histories, economic events and, for certain securities, adjustments to yields to reflect changes in the rate of inflation. Other securities with model-derived valuation inputs that are observable are also classified as Level 2 investments. Investments with unobservable valuation inputs are classified as Level 3 investments.

Fair Value Measurements of Long-term Debt

 

The fair values of Long-term Debt are based on quoted market prices, without credit enhancements, for the same or similar issues and the current interest rates offered for instruments with similar maturities classified as Level 2 measurement inputs. These instruments are not marked-to-market. The estimates presented are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that could be realized in a current market exchange.

 

The book values and fair values of Long-term Debt for the Registrant Subsidiaries as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 are summarized in the following table:

   September 30, 2013 December 31, 2012
 Company Book Value Fair Value Book Value Fair Value
   (in thousands)
 APCo $ 3,427,917 $ 3,957,321 $ 3,702,442 $ 4,555,143
 I&M   2,271,613   2,461,671   2,057,666   2,372,017
 OPCo   3,698,574   4,071,613   3,860,440   4,560,337
 PSO   949,826   1,090,934   949,871   1,175,759
 SWEPCo   2,043,244   2,254,078   2,046,228   2,400,509

Fair Value Measurements of Financial Assets and Liabilities

 

The following tables set forth, by level within the fair value hierarchy, the Registrant Subsidiaries' financial assets and liabilities that were accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. As required by the accounting guidance for “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures,” financial assets and liabilities are classified in their entirety based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. Management's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement requires judgment and may affect the valuation of fair value assets and liabilities and their placement within the fair value hierarchy levels. There have not been any significant changes in management's valuation techniques.

 

SWEPCo              
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
September 30, 2013
          
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Cash and Cash Equivalents (e)$ 14,186 $ - $ - $ 3,465 $ 17,651
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)  -   1,464   -   (1,053)   411
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   12   -   -   12
Total Risk Management Assets   -   1,476   -   (1,053)   423
                
Total Assets $ 14,186 $ 1,476 $ - $ 2,412 $ 18,074
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 1,338 $ - $ (1,061) $ 277
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   19   -   -   19
Total Risk Management Liabilities $ - $ 1,357 $ - $ (1,061) $ 296

SWEPCo              
 Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
 December 31, 2012
           
  Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Other Total
                
Assets:(in thousands)
                
Risk Management Assets              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 2,804 $ - $ (2,133) $ 671
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   41   -   (17)   24
Total Risk Management Assets $ - $ 2,845 $ - $ (2,150) $ 695
                
Liabilities:              
                
Risk Management Liabilities              
Risk Management Commodity Contracts (a) (b)$ - $ 3,261 $ - $ (2,133) $ 1,128
Cash Flow Hedges:              
 Commodity Hedges (a)  -   17   -   (17)   -
Total Risk Management Liabilities$ - $ 3,278 $ - $ (2,150) $ 1,128

(a)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent counterparty netting of risk management and hedging contracts and associated cash collateral under the accounting guidance for “Derivatives and Hedging.”

(b)       Substantially comprised of power contracts for APCo, I&M and OPCo and coal contracts for PSO and SWEPCo.

(c)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent accrued interest receivables from financial institutions. Level 1 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

(d)       Amounts represent publicly traded equity securities and equity-based mutual funds.

(e)       Amounts in “Other” column primarily represent cash deposits with third parties. Level 1 and Level 2 amounts primarily represent investments in money market funds.

There were no transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.