EX-12 3 dex12.htm COMPUTATION OF RATIO OF EARNINGS TO FIXED CHARGES Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

EXHIBIT 12

NORTHWEST NATURAL GAS COMPANY

Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

(Thousands, except ratio of earnings to fixed charges)

(Unaudited)

 

     3 months * ended
June 30,
   6 Months* ended
June 30,
   12 Months ended
June 30,
   Dec. 31,
2007
     2008    2007    2008    2007    2008    2007   

Fixed Charges, as defined:

                    

Interest on Long-Term Debt

   $ 8,436    $ 8,529    $ 16,871    $ 17,424    $ 33,741    $ 34,659    $ 34,294

Other Interest

     522      975      1,564      1,260      4,420      4,978      4,116

Amortization of Debt Discount and Expense

     176      177      351      361      701      717      711

Interest Portion of Rentals

     379      377      772      756      1,539      1,490      1,523
                                                

Total Fixed Charges, as defined

   $ 9,513    $ 10,058    $ 19,558    $ 19,801    $ 40,401    $ 41,844    $ 40,644
                                                

Earnings, as defined:

                    

Net Income

   $ 3,297    $ 2,617    $ 46,465    $ 50,692    $ 70,270    $ 71,080    $ 74,497

Taxes on Income

     1,763      1,476      27,464      29,939      41,585      41,687      44,060

Fixed Charges, as above

     9,513      10,058      19,558      19,801      40,401      41,844      40,644
                                                

Total Earnings, as defined

   $ 14,573    $ 14,151    $ 93,487    $ 100,432    $ 152,256    $ 154,611    $ 159,201
                                                

Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges

     1.53      1.41      4.78      5.07      3.77      3.69      3.92
                                                

 

* A significant part of the business of NW Natural is of a seasonal nature; therefore, the ratio of earnings to fixed charges for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for a full year.