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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 8-K
CURRENT REPORT

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

Date of Report (Date of earliest event reported) August 8, 2017

WESTAR ENERGY, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

KANSAS
 
1-3523
 
48-0290150
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(Commission File Number)
 
(IRS Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
 
 
818 South Kansas Avenue, Topeka, Kansas
 
66612
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code
 (785) 575-6300

Not Applicable
(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)


Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

T Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

o Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

o Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

o Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an emerging growth company as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act of 1933 (17 CFR §230.405) or Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (17 CFR §240.12b-2).
Emerging growth company o

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






WESTAR ENERGY, INC.

Item 2.02. Results of Operations and Financial Condition.

On August 8, 2017, we issued a press release announcing our earnings for the period ended June 30, 2017. A copy of our August 8, 2017 press release is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.1 and is incorporated herein by reference. We are also including our 2017 Second Quarter Earnings package, which is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.2 and is incorporated herein by reference. The information furnished pursuant to this Item 2.02, including Exhibits 99.1 and 99.2, will not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement filed by us under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), unless specifically identified therein as being incorporated by reference.


Item 7.01. Regulation FD Disclosure

On August 8, 2017, we also released an investor presentation. A copy of that investor presentation is attached hereto as Exhibit 99.3. This information is available to the public on our website, http://www.WestarEnergy.com. The information furnished pursuant to this Item 7.01, except for the portions included in Item 8.01 and Exhibit 99.4 as set forth below, will not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement filed by us under the Securities Act, unless specifically identified therein as being incorporated by reference.


Item 8.01. Other Events.

As previously reported, on July 9, 2017 we entered into an Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger with Great Plains Energy Incorporated (“Great Plains Energy”), Monarch Energy Holding, Inc. (“Monarch”), and King Energy, Inc., and for certain limited purposes, GP Star, Inc. The portions of the investor presentation that relate to our pending merger with Great Plains Energy are being filed herewith as Exhibit 99.4 in compliance with Rule 425 of the Securities Act.


Item 9.01. Financial Statements and Exhibits.

Exhibit 99.1
Press Release dated August 8, 2017
Exhibit 99.2
2017 Second Quarter Earnings Package
Exhibit 99.3
Investor Update - August 8, 2017
Exhibit 99.4
Merger Excerpts from Investor Update - August 8, 2017

Additional Information and Where to Find It
 
This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any proxy, vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. In connection with the proposed transactions, Monarch will file a Registration Statement on Form S-4, that includes a joint proxy statement of Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy, which also constitutes a prospectus of Monarch. WE URGE INVESTORS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED BY MONARCH, GREAT PLAINS ENERGY AND WESTAR ENERGY WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT GREAT PLAINS ENERGY, WESTAR ENERGY, MONARCH AND THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.
 
Investors can obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by Monarch, Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, the SEC’s website, or free of charge from Great Plains Energy’s website (http://www.greatplainsenergy.com) under the tab, “Investor Relations” and then under the heading “SEC Filings.” These documents are also available free of charge from Westar’s website (http://www.westarenergy.com) under the tab “Investors” and then under the heading “SEC Filings.”
 





Participants in Proxy Solicitation

Great Plains Energy, Westar Energy and their respective directors and certain of their executive officers and employees may be deemed, under SEC rules, to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Great Plains Energy’s and Westar Energy’s shareholders with respect to the proposed transaction. Information regarding the officers and directors of Great Plains Energy is included in its definitive proxy statement for its 2017 annual meeting filed with SEC on March 23, 2017. Information regarding the officers and directors of Westar is included in an amendment to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the SEC on April 28, 2017. Additional information regarding the identity of potential participants, and their direct or indirect interests, by securities, holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the Registration Statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus and other materials filed with SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described in the paragraphs above.

Forward Looking Statements

Certain matters discussed in this communication are “forward-looking statements.” The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 has established that these statements qualify for safe harbors from liability. Forward-looking statements may include words like “believe,” “anticipate,” “target,” “expect,” “pro forma,” “estimate,” “intend,” “guidance” or words of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements describe future plans, objectives, expectations or goals. Although Westar Energy believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, all forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include those discussed herein as well as (1) those discussed in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016 (a) under the heading, “Forward-Looking Statements,” (b) in ITEM 1. Business, (c) in ITEM 1A. Risk Factors, (d) in ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and (e) in ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data: Notes 3, 14 and 16; (2) those discussed in the company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017 and Aug. 8, 2017, (a) under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements." (b) in ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, (c) in Part I, Financial Information, ITEM 1. Financial Statements: Notes 3, 11, 12 (in the Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017), and 13 (in the Form 10-Q filed on Aug. 8, 2017), and (d) ITEM 1A. Risk Factors; and (3) other factors discussed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date such statement was made, and the company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement was made.








SIGNATURE

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

 
 
 
 
WESTAR ENERGY, INC.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Date:
 
August 8, 2017
 
By:
 
/s/ Larry D. Irick
 
 
 
 
Name:
 
Larry D. Irick
 
 
 
 
Title:
 
Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary








EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit Number
 
Description of Exhibit
Exhibit 99.1
 
Press Release dated August 8, 2017
Exhibit 99.2
 
2017 Second Quarter Earnings package
Exhibit 99.3
 
Investor Update - August 8, 2017
Exhibit 99.4
 
Merger Excerpts from Investor Update - August 8, 2017




Exhibit
Exhibit 99.1

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Westar Energy announces 2nd quarter 2017 results.
TOPEKA, Kan., Aug. 8, 2017 - Westar Energy, Inc. (NYSE:WR) today announced earnings of $72 million, or $0.50 per share, for the second quarter 2017 compared with earnings of $72 million, or $0.51 per share, for the second quarter 2016. Earnings for the six months ended June 30, 2017 were $132 million, or $0.92 per share, compared with $138 million, or $0.97 per share, for the same period in 2016.

Lower earnings per share for the second quarter were driven by lower residential and commercial sales primarily due to milder weather this year compared to last year. The lower sales were partially offset by a decrease in merger-related expenses and lower employee benefit costs.
    
Lower earnings per share for the six months ended June 30, 2017 were also driven by the effect of mild weather this year when compared to last year resulting in lower residential and commercial sales. Also contributing to lower net income was a decrease in corporate-owned life insurance income. Partially offsetting lower sales was a decrease in merger-related expenses.
 
Conference Call and Additional Company Information

Westar Energy management will host a conference call Wednesday, Aug. 9 with the
investment community at 10:00 a.m. ET (9:00 a.m. CT). Investors, media and the public may
listen to the conference call by dialing (844) 646-4526, conference ID 59525914. A webcast of the live conference call will be available at www.WestarEnergy.com.

Members of the media are invited to listen to the conference call and then contact Gina
Penzig with any follow-up questions.

This earnings announcement, a package of detailed second-quarter financial information, the company's quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2017 and other filings the company has made with the Securities and Exchange Commission are available on the company's website at www.WestarEnergy.com.
- 30 -

As Kansas’ largest electric utility, Westar Energy, Inc. (NYSE:WR) provides customers the safe, reliable electricity
needed to power their businesses and homes. We have 7,800 MW of electric generation capacity that includes renewables and
traditional power sources with half the electricity supplied to our more than 700,000 customers from emissions free sources:
nuclear, wind and solar, with a third coming from renewables. We are a leader in electric transmission in Kansas coordinating a
network of lines and substations that supports one of the largest consolidations of wind energy in the nation. Our employees live,
volunteer and work in the communities we serve.

For more information about Westar Energy, visit us on the Internet at http://www.WestarEnergy.com.


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WESTAR ENERGY NEWS RELEASE    Page 1 of 3

Westar Energy announces 2nd quarter results



Forward-looking statements: Certain matters discussed in this news release are “forward-looking statements.” The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 has established that these statements qualify for safe harbors from liability. Forward-looking statements may include words like “believe,” “anticipate,” “target,” “expect,” “pro forma,” “estimate,” “intend,” “guidance” or words of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements describe future plans, objectives, expectations or goals. Although Westar Energy believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, all forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include those discussed herein as well as (1) those discussed in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016 (a) under the heading, “Forward-Looking Statements,” (b) in ITEM 1. Business, (c) in ITEM 1A. Risk Factors, (d) in ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and (e) in ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data: Notes 3, 14 and 16; (2) those discussed in the company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017 and Aug. 8, 2017, (a) under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements." (b) in ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, (c) in Part I, Financial Information, ITEM 1. Financial Statements: Notes 3, 11, 12 (in the Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017), and 13 (in the Form 10-Q filed on Aug. 8, 2017), and (d) ITEM 1A. Risk Factors; and (3) other factors discussed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date such statement was made, and the company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement was made.


Media Contact:
Gina Penzig
Media Relations Manager
Phone: 785-575-8089
Gina.Penzig@westarenergy.com
Media line: 888-613-0003

Investor Contact:
Cody VandeVelde
Director, Investor Relations
Phone: 785-575-8227
Cody.VandeVelde@westarenergy.com


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WESTAR ENERGY NEWS RELEASE    Page 2 of 3

Westar Energy announces 2nd quarter results

Westar Energy, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
 
(Dollars In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
REVENUES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
$
188,142

 
$
202,838

 
$
(14,696
)
 
(7.2
)
 
$
364,310

 
$
382,128

 
$
(17,818
)
 
(4.7
)
Commercial
182,110

 
188,197

 
(6,087
)
 
(3.2
)
 
337,817

 
353,870

 
(16,053
)
 
(4.5
)
Industrial
107,990

 
108,004

 
(14
)
 

 
206,506

 
208,702

 
(2,196
)
 
(1.1
)
Other retail
(10,092
)
 
(16,502
)
 
6,410

 
38.8

 
(22,440
)
 
(30,884
)
 
8,444

 
27.3

Total Retail Revenues
468,150

 
482,537

 
(14,387
)
 
(3.0
)
 
886,193

 
913,816

 
(27,623
)
 
(3.0
)
Wholesale
63,044

 
66,687

 
(3,643
)
 
(5.5
)
 
140,411

 
134,099

 
6,312

 
4.7

Transmission
70,152

 
66,620

 
3,532

 
5.3

 
139,593

 
130,535

 
9,058

 
6.9

Other
7,975

 
5,604

 
2,371

 
42.3

 
15,698

 
12,448

 
3,250

 
26.1

Total Revenues
609,321

 
621,448

 
(12,127
)
 
(2.0
)
 
1,181,895

 
1,190,898

 
(9,003
)
 
(0.8
)
OPERATING EXPENSES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Fuel and purchased power
111,790

 
118,630

 
(6,840
)
 
(5.8
)
 
225,645

 
218,688

 
6,957

 
3.2

SPP network transmission costs
61,763

 
55,227

 
6,536

 
11.8

 
122,437

 
115,987

 
6,450

 
5.6

Operating and maintenance
87,158

 
85,619

 
1,539

 
1.8

 
168,356

 
163,377

 
4,979

 
3.0

Depreciation and amortization
94,029

 
84,226

 
9,803

 
11.6

 
182,655

 
167,866

 
14,789

 
8.8

Selling, general and administrative
57,579

 
75,724

 
(18,145
)
 
(24.0
)
 
116,735

 
132,179

 
(15,444
)
 
(11.7
)
Taxes other than income tax
41,890

 
48,407

 
(6,517
)
 
(13.5
)
 
84,606

 
97,375

 
(12,769
)
 
(13.1
)
Total Operating Expenses
454,209

 
467,833

 
(13,624
)
 
(2.9
)
 
900,434

 
895,472

 
4,962

 
0.6

INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
155,112

 
153,615

 
1,497

 
1.0

 
281,461

 
295,426

 
(13,965
)
 
(4.7
)
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


Investment earnings
2,636

 
2,280

 
356

 
15.6

 
5,790

 
4,296

 
1,494

 
34.8

Other income
523

 
3,382

 
(2,859
)
 
(84.5
)
 
1,823

 
12,860

 
(11,037
)
 
(85.8
)
Other expense
(2,647
)
 
(2,908
)
 
261

 
9.0

 
(7,963
)
 
(8,451
)
 
488

 
5.8

Total Other Income (Expense)
512

 
2,754

 
(2,242
)
 
(81.4
)
 
(350
)
 
8,705

 
(9,055
)
 
(104.0
)
Interest expense
43,679

 
39,683

 
3,996

 
10.1

 
84,774

 
80,114

 
4,660

 
5.8

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
111,945

 
116,686

 
(4,741
)
 
(4.1
)
 
196,337

 
224,017

 
(27,680
)
 
(12.4
)
Income tax expense
35,906

 
40,542

 
(4,636
)
 
(11.4
)
 
56,816

 
79,165

 
(22,349
)
 
(28.2
)
NET INCOME
76,039

 
76,144

 
(105
)
 
(0.1
)
 
139,521

 
144,852

 
(5,331
)
 
(3.7
)
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
3,974

 
3,804

 
170

 
4.5

 
7,795

 
6,927

 
868

 
12.5

NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO WESTAR ENERGY, INC.
$
72,065

 
$
72,340

 
$
(275
)
 
(0.4
)
 
$
131,726

 
$
137,925

 
$
(6,199
)
 
(4.5
)
BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER AVERAGE COMMON SHARE OUTSTANDING ATTRIBUTABLE TO WESTAR ENERGY, INC. (See 10-Q Note 2):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per common share
$
0.50

 
$
0.51

 
$
(0.01
)
 
(2.0
)
 
$
0.92

 
$
0.97

 
$
(0.05
)
 
(5.2
)
Diluted earnings per common share
$
0.50

 
$
0.51

 
$
(0.01
)
 
(2.0
)
 
$
0.92

 
$
0.97

 
$
(0.05
)
 
(5.2
)
AVERAGE EQUIVALENT COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
142,466

 
142,034

 
432

 
0.3

 
142,451

 
142,013

 
438

 
0.3

Diluted
142,596

 
142,497

 
99

 
0.1

 
142,579

 
142,361

 
218

 
0.2

DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE
$
0.40

 
$
0.38

 
$
0.02

 
5.3

 
$
0.80

 
$
0.76

 
$
0.04

 
5.3

Effective income tax rate
32
%
 
35
%
 
 
 
 
 
29
%
 
35
%
 
 
 
 

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WESTAR ENERGY NEWS RELEASE    Page 3 of 3
Exhibit


Exhibit 99.2
Westar Energy, Inc.
Second Quarter 2017 Earnings
Released August 8, 2017





Contents
Page
 
 











Cody VandeVelde
Director Investor Relations
785-575-8227
Cody.VandeVelde@WestarEnergy.com



NOTE:
The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information. The enclosed statements have been prepared for the purpose of providing information concerning the Company and not in connection with any sale, offer for sale, or solicitation to buy any securities.






Westar Energy, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
 
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
REVENUES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
$
188,142

 
$
202,838

 
$
(14,696
)
 
(7.2
)
Commercial
182,110

 
188,197

 
(6,087
)
 
(3.2
)
Industrial
107,990

 
108,004

 
(14
)
 

Other retail
(10,092
)
 
(16,502
)
 
6,410

 
38.8

Total Retail Revenues
468,150

 
482,537

 
(14,387
)
 
(3.0
)
Wholesale
63,044

 
66,687

 
(3,643
)
 
(5.5
)
Transmission
70,152

 
66,620

 
3,532

 
5.3

Other
7,975

 
5,604

 
2,371

 
42.3

Total Revenues
609,321

 
621,448

 
(12,127
)
 
(2.0
)
OPERATING EXPENSES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel and purchased power
111,790

 
118,630

 
(6,840
)
 
(5.8
)
SPP network transmission costs
61,763

 
55,227

 
6,536

 
11.8

Operating and maintenance
87,158

 
85,619

 
1,539

 
1.8

Depreciation and amortization
94,029

 
84,226

 
9,803

 
11.6

Selling, general and administrative
57,579

 
75,724

 
(18,145
)
 
(24.0
)
Taxes other than income tax
41,890

 
48,407

 
(6,517
)
 
(13.5
)
Total Operating Expenses
454,209

 
467,833

 
(13,624
)
 
(2.9
)
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
155,112

 
153,615

 
1,497

 
1.0

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment earnings
2,636

 
2,280

 
356

 
15.6

Other income
523

 
3,382

 
(2,859
)
 
(84.5
)
Other expense
(2,647
)
 
(2,908
)
 
261

 
9.0

Total Other Income
512

 
2,754

 
(2,242
)
 
(81.4
)
Interest expense
43,679

 
39,683

 
3,996

 
10.1

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
111,945

 
116,686

 
(4,741
)
 
(4.1
)
Income tax expense
35,906

 
40,542

 
(4,636
)
 
(11.4
)
NET INCOME
76,039

 
76,144

 
(105
)
 
(0.1
)
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
3,974

 
3,804

 
170

 
4.5

NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO WESTAR ENERGY, INC.
$
72,065

 
$
72,340

 
$
(275
)
 
(0.4
)
BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER AVERAGE COMMON SHARE OUTSTANDING ATTRIBUTABLE TO WESTAR ENERGY, INC. (See 10-Q Note 2):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per common share
$
0.50

 
$
0.51

 
$
(0.01
)
 
(2.0
)
Diluted earnings per common share
$
0.50

 
$
0.51

 
$
(0.01
)
 
(2.0
)
AVERAGE EQUIVALENT COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
142,466

 
142,034

 
432

 
0.3

Diluted
142,596

 
142,497

 
99

 
0.1

DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE
$
0.40

 
$
0.38

 
$
0.02

 
5.3

Effective income tax rate
32
%
 
35
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 1





Westar Energy, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)

 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
 
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
REVENUES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Residential
$
364,310

 
$
382,128

 
$
(17,818
)
 
(4.7
)
Commercial
337,817

 
353,870

 
(16,053
)
 
(4.5
)
Industrial
206,506

 
208,702

 
(2,196
)
 
(1.1
)
Other retail
(22,440
)
 
(30,884
)
 
8,444

 
27.3

Total Retail Revenues
886,193

 
913,816

 
(27,623
)
 
(3.0
)
Wholesale
140,411

 
134,099

 
6,312

 
4.7

Transmission
139,593

 
130,535

 
9,058

 
6.9

Other
15,698

 
12,448

 
3,250

 
26.1

Total Revenues
1,181,895

 
1,190,898

 
(9,003
)
 
(0.8
)
OPERATING EXPENSES:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel and purchased power
225,645

 
218,688

 
6,957

 
3.2

SPP network transmission costs
122,437

 
115,987

 
6,450

 
5.6

Operating and maintenance
168,356

 
163,377

 
4,979

 
3.0

Depreciation and amortization
182,655

 
167,866

 
14,789

 
8.8

Selling, general and administrative
116,735

 
132,179

 
(15,444
)
 
(11.7
)
Taxes other than income tax
84,606

 
97,375

 
(12,769
)
 
(13.1
)
Total Operating Expenses
900,434

 
895,472

 
4,962

 
0.6

INCOME FROM OPERATIONS
281,461

 
295,426

 
(13,965
)
 
(4.7
)
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment earnings
5,790

 
4,296

 
1,494

 
34.8

Other income
1,823

 
12,860

 
(11,037
)
 
(85.8
)
Other expense
(7,963
)
 
(8,451
)
 
488

 
5.8

Total Other Income
(350
)
 
8,705

 
(9,055
)
 
(104.0
)
Interest expense
84,774

 
80,114

 
4,660

 
5.8

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES
196,337

 
224,017

 
(27,680
)
 
(12.4
)
Income tax expense
56,816

 
79,165

 
(22,349
)
 
(28.2
)
NET INCOME
139,521

 
144,852

 
(5,331
)
 
(3.7
)
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
7,795

 
6,927

 
868

 
12.5

NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO WESTAR ENERGY, INC.
$
131,726

 
$
137,925

 
$
(6,199
)
 
(4.5
)
BASIC AND DILUTED EARNINGS PER AVERAGE COMMON SHARE OUTSTANDING ATTRIBUTABLE TO WESTAR ENERGY, INC. (See 10-Q Note 2):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per common share
$
0.92

 
$
0.97

 
$
(0.05
)
 
(5.2
)
Diluted earnings per common share
$
0.92

 
$
0.97

 
$
(0.05
)
 
(5.2
)
AVERAGE EQUIVALENT COMMON SHARES OUTSTANDING (in thousands):
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
142,451

 
142,013

 
438

 
0.3

Diluted
142,579

 
142,361

 
218

 
0.2

DIVIDENDS DECLARED PER COMMON SHARE
$
0.80

 
$
0.76

 
$
0.04

 
5.3

Effective income tax rate
29
%
 
35
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 2



Westar Energy, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(Dollars in Thousands, Except Par Values)
(Unaudited)

 
June 30, 2017
 
December 31, 2016
ASSETS
 
 
 
CURRENT ASSETS:
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
3,210

 
$
3,066

Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5,697 and $6,667, respectively
274,426

 
288,579

Fuel inventory and supplies
302,696

 
300,125

Taxes receivable

 
13,000

Prepaid expenses
19,077

 
16,528

Regulatory assets
110,179

 
117,383

Other
30,638

 
29,701

Total Current Assets
740,226

 
768,382

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET
9,406,054

 
9,248,359

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT OF VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES, NET
252,737

 
257,904

OTHER ASSETS:
 
 
 
Regulatory assets
750,888

 
762,479

Nuclear decommissioning trust
220,031

 
200,122

Other
226,214

 
249,828

Total Other Assets
1,197,133

 
1,212,429

TOTAL ASSETS
$
11,596,150

 
$
11,487,074

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
 
 
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
$

 
$
125,000

Current maturities of long-term debt of variable interest entities
28,538

 
26,842

Short-term debt
329,200

 
366,700

Accounts payable
139,628

 
220,522

Accrued dividends
53,743

 
52,885

Accrued taxes
89,742

 
85,729

Accrued interest
45,124

 
72,519

Regulatory liabilities
11,903

 
15,760

Other
76,294

 
81,236

Total Current Liabilities
774,172

 
1,047,193

LONG-TERM LIABILITIES:
 
 
 
Long-term debt, net
3,686,180

 
3,388,670

Long-term debt of variable interest entities, net
82,653

 
111,209

Deferred income taxes
1,794,177

 
1,752,776

Unamortized investment tax credits
209,283

 
210,654

Regulatory liabilities
230,355

 
223,693

Accrued employee benefits
511,073

 
512,412

Asset retirement obligations
368,233

 
323,951

Other
85,145

 
83,326

Total Long-Term Liabilities
6,967,099

 
6,606,691

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (See 10-Q Notes 11 and 13)
 
 
 
EQUITY:
 
 
 
Westar Energy, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity:
 
 
 
Common stock, par value $5 per share; authorized 275,000,000 shares; issued and outstanding 142,093,387 shares and 141,791,153 shares, respective to each date
710,467

 
708,956

Paid-in capital
2,019,815

 
2,018,317

Retained earnings
1,095,247

 
1,078,602

Total Westar Energy, Inc. Shareholders’ Equity
3,825,529

 
3,805,875

Noncontrolling Interests
29,350

 
27,315

Total Equity
3,854,879

 
3,833,190

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
$
11,596,150

 
$
11,487,074


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 3



Westar Energy, Inc.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)

 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Net income
$
139,521

 
$
144,852

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
182,655

 
167,866

Amortization of nuclear fuel
15,948

 
16,831

Amortization of deferred regulatory gain from sale leaseback
(2,748
)
 
(2,748
)
Amortization of corporate-owned life insurance
8,920

 
8,819

Non-cash compensation
4,613

 
4,778

Net deferred income taxes and credits
53,852

 
75,334

Allowance for equity funds used during construction
(773
)
 
(5,247
)
Changes in working capital items:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
14,154

 
(40,555
)
Fuel inventory and supplies
(2,262
)
 
2,140

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
39,167

 
7,126

Accounts payable
(20,012
)
 
(21,364
)
Accrued taxes
11,019

 
16,272

Other current liabilities
(103,316
)
 
(62,434
)
Changes in other assets
14,891

 
1,848

Changes in other liabilities
7,695

 
15,163

Cash Flows from Operating Activities
363,324

 
328,681

CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Additions to property, plant and equipment
(383,627
)
 
(503,631
)
Purchase of securities - trusts
(12,140
)
 
(39,603
)
Sale of securities - trusts
13,538

 
41,201

Investment in corporate-owned life insurance
(13,875
)
 
(14,648
)
Proceeds from investment in corporate-owned life insurance
185

 
24,171

Investment in affiliated company

 
(655
)
Other investing activities
(3,199
)
 
(2,798
)
Cash Flows used in Investing Activities
(399,118
)
 
(495,963
)
CASH FLOWS FROM (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
 
 
 
Short-term debt, net
(37,632
)
 
(73,300
)
Proceeds from long-term debt
296,296

 
396,577

Proceeds from long-term debt of variable interest entities

 
162,048

Retirements of long-term debt
(125,000
)
 
(50,000
)
Retirements of long-term debt of variable interest entities
(26,840
)
 
(190,355
)
Repayment of capital leases
(1,663
)
 
(401
)
Borrowings against cash surrender value of corporate-owned life insurance
52,302

 
54,910

Repayment of borrowings against cash surrender value of corporate-owned life insurance

 
(22,921
)
Issuance of common stock
659

 
1,354

Distributions to shareholders of noncontrolling interests
(5,760
)
 
(2,551
)
Cash dividends paid
(109,418
)
 
(101,137
)
Other financing activities
(7,006
)
 
(4,960
)
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
35,938

 
169,264

NET INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
144

 
1,982

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS:
 
 
 
Beginning of period
3,066

 
3,231

End of period
$
3,210

 
$
5,213


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 4



Westar Energy, Inc.
2nd Quarter 2017 vs. 2016
Earnings Variances
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
($ per share)
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
 
($ per share)
June 30, 2016 basic earnings attributable to common stock
 
 
 
$
72,340

 
 
 
$
0.51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Favorable/(Unfavorable)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Margin
 
 
 
(11,823
)
 
A
 
 
 
Operating and maintenance
 
 
 
(1,539
)
 
B
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
 
 
(9,803
)
 
C
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative
 
 
 
18,145

 
D
 
 
 
Taxes other than income tax
 
 
 
6,517

 
E
 
 
 
Other income (expense)
 
 
 
(2,242
)
 
F
 
 
 
Interest expense
 
 
 
(3,996
)
 
G
 
 
 
Income tax expense
 
 
 
4,636

 
H
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
(170
)
 
 
 
 
 
Change in shares outstanding
 
(0.01
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
June 30, 2017 basic earnings attributable to common stock
 
 
 
$
72,065

 
 
 
$
0.50

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Major factors influencing the period to period change in EPS -- Favorable/(Unfavorable)
 
 
A
Due primarily to lower residential and commercial sales because of milder weather in 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
B
Due primarily to: higher operating and maintenance costs at coal fired plants mainly from scheduled outages -- ($3.6M); higher operating expense due to start of Western Plains Wind Farm -- ($1.3M); partially offset by a decrease in nuclear operating and maintenance costs due primarily to receipt of proceeds from a legal settlement at Wolf Creek -- $4.6M
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
C
Due principally to property additions at Western Plains Wind Farm in March 2017
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
D
Due primarily to: decrease in merger-related expense -- $7.5M; and decrease in employee benefit costs attributable partially to having fewer employees -- $4.9M

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
E
Due primarily to decreased property tax amortization expense that is largely offset by decreased prices --
$6.7M

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
F
Due primarily to a decrease in equity AFUDC -- ($2.8M)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
G
Due primarily to: an increase in interest expense of long-term debt from issuances of FMBs during June 2016 -- ($2.8M); and a decrease in debt AFUDC -- ($1.4M)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
H
Due primarily to an increase in tax benefits from production tax credits from Western Plains Wind Farm



The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 5



Westar Energy, Inc.
YTD June 2017 vs. 2016
Earnings Variances
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
($ per share)
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
 
($ per share)
June 30, 2016 basic earnings attributable to common stock
 
 
 
$
137,925

 
 
 
$
0.97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Favorable/(Unfavorable)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Margin
 
 
 
(22,410
)
 
A
 
 
 
Operating and maintenance
 
 
 
(4,979
)
 
B
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
 
 
(14,789
)
 
C
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative
 
 
 
15,444

 
D
 
 
 
Taxes other than income tax
 
 
 
12,769

 
E
 
 
 
Other income (expense)
 
 
 
(9,055
)
 
F
 
 
 
Interest expense
 
 
 
(4,660
)
 
G
 
 
 
Income tax expense
 
 
 
22,349

 
H
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
(868
)
 
 
 
 
 
Change in shares outstanding
 
(0.01
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
June 30, 2017 basic earnings attributable to common stock
 
 
 
$
131,726

 
 
 
$
0.92

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Major factors influencing the period to period change in EPS -- Favorable/(Unfavorable)
 
 
A
Due primarily to lower residential and commercial sales because of milder weather in 2017 and one less calendar day due to 2016 being a leap year

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
B
Due primarily to: higher distribution maintenance expense -- ($5.6M); higher operating and maintenance costs at coal fired plants due primarily to scheduled outage -- ($3.1M); higher operating expense due to start of Western Plains Wind Farm -- ($1.7M); partially offset by a decrease in nuclear operating and maintenance costs due primarily to receipt of proceeds from a legal settlement at Wolf Creek -- $6.0M


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
C
Due principally to property additions at Western Plains Wind Farm in March 2017


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
D
Due primarily to: decrease in merger-related expense -- $7.1M; and decrease in employee benefit costs attributable partially to having fewer employees -- $3.1M


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
E
Due primarily to decreased property tax amortization expense that is largely offset by decreased prices --
$13.4M




 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
F
Due primarily to: lower COLI benefit -- ($6.6M); and a decrease in equity AFUDC -- ($4.5M)


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
G
Due primarily to: an increase in interest expense of long-term debt from the issuances of FMBs during June 2016 -- ($4.2M); and a decrease in debt AFUDC -- ($1.6M)


 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
H
Due primarily to lower income before income taxes and increases in tax benefits from production tax credits from Western Plains Wind Farm



 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 6



Westar Energy, Inc.
Revenue, Sales and Energy Supply
Supplemental Data
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
Revenues
(Dollars In Thousands)
Residential
$
188,142

 
$
202,838

 
$
(14,696
)
 
(7.2
)
Commercial
182,110

 
188,197

 
(6,087
)
 
(3.2
)
Industrial
107,990

 
108,004

 
(14
)
 

Other retail
5,706

 
4,013

 
1,693

 
42.2

Provision for rate refunds
(15,798
)
 
(20,515
)
 
4,717

 
23.0

Total Retail Revenues
468,150

 
482,537

 
(14,387
)
 
(3.0
)
Tariff-based wholesale
53,332

 
56,260

 
(2,928
)
 
(5.2
)
Market-based wholesale
9,712

 
10,427

 
(715
)
 
(6.9
)
Transmission
70,152

 
66,620

 
3,532

 
5.3

Other
7,975

 
5,604

 
2,371

 
42.3

Total Revenues
$
609,321

 
$
621,448

 
$
(12,127
)
 
(2.0
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity Sales
(Thousands of MWh)
Residential
1,393

 
1,492

 
(99
)
 
(6.6
)
Commercial
1,814

 
1,875

 
(61
)
 
(3.3
)
Industrial
1,422

 
1,391

 
31

 
2.2

Other retail
25

 
19

 
6

 
31.6

Total Retail
4,654

 
4,777

 
(123
)
 
(2.6
)
Tariff-based wholesale
793

 
915

 
(122
)
 
(13.3
)
Market-based wholesale
1,200

 
781

 
419

 
53.6

Total wholesale
1,993

 
1,696

 
297

 
17.5

Total Electricity Sales
6,647

 
6,473

 
174

 
2.7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars per MWh)
Total retail
$
100.59

 
$
101.01

 
$
(0.42
)
 
(0.4
)
Tariff-based wholesale
$
67.25

 
$
61.49

 
$
5.76

 
9.4

Market-based wholesale
$
8.09

 
$
13.35

 
$
(5.26
)
 
(39.4
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel and Purchased Power
(Dollars In Thousands)
Fuel used for generation
$
79,595

 
$
91,980

 
$
(12,385
)
 
(13.5
)
Purchased power
42,815

 
34,071

 
8,744

 
25.7

Subtotal
122,410

 
126,051

 
(3,641
)
 
(2.9
)
RECA recovery and other
(10,620
)
 
(7,421
)
 
(3,199
)
 
(43.1
)
Total fuel and purchased power expense
$
111,790

 
$
118,630

 
$
(6,840
)
 
(5.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity Supply
(Thousands of MWh)
Generated - Gas
372

 
472

 
(100
)
 
(21.2
)
                    Coal
2,966

 
3,373

 
(407
)
 
(12.1
)
                    Nuclear
1,246

 
1,242

 
4

 
0.3

                    Wind
402

 
100

 
302

 
302.0

Subtotal electricity generated
4,986

 
5,187

 
(201
)
 
(3.9
)
Purchased
2,055

 
1,455

 
600

 
41.2

Total Electricity Supply
7,041

 
6,642

 
399

 
6.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars per MWh)
Average cost of fuel used for generation
$
15.96

 
$
17.73

 
$
(1.77
)
 
(10.0
)
Average cost of purchased power
$
20.83

 
$
23.42

 
$
(2.59
)
 
(11.1
)
Average cost of fuel and purchased power
$
17.39

 
$
18.98

 
$
(1.59
)
 
(8.4
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Degree Days
 
 
2016/
 
 
 
 
 
2017
 
20 yr Avg
 
 Change
 
 % Change
Cooling
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actual compared to last year
508

 
593

 
(85
)
 
(14.3
)
Actual compared to 20 year average
508

 
457

 
51

 
11.2

Heating
 
 
 
 
 
 


Actual compared to last year
310

 
285

 
25

 
8.8

Actual compared to 20 year average
310

 
386

 
(76
)
 
(19.7
)


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 7



Westar Energy, Inc.
Revenue, Sales and Energy Supply
Supplemental Data
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
% Change
Revenues
(Dollars In Thousands)
Residential
$
364,310

 
$
382,128

 
$
(17,818
)
 
(4.7
)
Commercial
337,817

 
353,870

 
(16,053
)
 
(4.5
)
Industrial
206,506

 
208,702

 
(2,196
)
 
(1.1
)
Other retail
9,643


7,854

 
1,789

 
22.8

Provision for rate refunds
(32,083
)
 
(38,738
)
 
6,655

 
17.2

Total Retail Revenues
886,193

 
913,816

 
(27,623
)
 
(3.0
)
Tariff-based wholesale
110,553

 
115,280

 
(4,727
)
 
(4.1
)
Market-based wholesale
29,858

 
18,819

 
11,039

 
58.7

Transmission
139,593

 
130,535

 
9,058

 
6.9

Other
15,698

 
12,448

 
3,250

 
26.1

Total Revenues
$
1,181,895

 
$
1,190,898

 
$
(9,003
)
 
(0.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity Sales
(Thousands of MWh)
Residential
2,747

 
2,889

 
(142
)
 
(4.9
)
Commercial
3,432

 
3,533

 
(101
)
 
(2.9
)
Industrial
2,756

 
2,693

 
63

 
2.3

Other retail
44

 
40

 
4

 
10.0

Total Retail
8,979

 
9,155

 
(176
)
 
(1.9
)
Tariff-based wholesale
1,802

 
1,910

 
(108
)
 
(5.7
)
Market-based wholesale
2,682

 
1,660

 
1,022

 
61.6

Total wholesale
4,484

 
3,570

 
914

 
25.6

Total Electricity Sales
13,463

 
12,725

 
738

 
5.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars per MWh)
Total retail
$
98.70

 
$
99.82

 
$
(1.12
)
 
(1.1
)
Tariff-based wholesale
$
61.35

 
$
60.36

 
$
0.99

 
1.6

Market-based wholesale
$
11.13

 
$
11.34

 
$
(0.21
)
 
(1.9
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fuel and Purchased Power
(Dollars In Thousands)
Fuel used for generation
$
169,442

 
$
173,619

 
$
(4,177
)
 
(2.4
)
Purchased power
86,267

 
72,901

 
13,366

 
18.3

Subtotal
255,709

 
246,520

 
9,189

 
3.7

RECA recovery and other
(30,064
)
 
(27,832
)
 
(2,232
)
 
(8.0
)
Total fuel and purchased power expense
$
225,645

 
$
218,688

 
$
6,957

 
3.2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity Supply
(Thousands of MWh)
Generated - Gas
694

 
697

 
(3
)
 
(0.4
)
                    Coal
6,424

 
6,661

 
(237
)
 
(3.6
)
                    Nuclear
2,490

 
2,494

 
(4
)
 
(0.2
)
                    Wind
696

 
222

 
474

 
213.5

Subtotal electricity generated
10,304

 
10,074

 
230

 
2.3

Purchased
3,810

 
3,011

 
799

 
26.5

Total Electricity Supply
14,114

 
13,085

 
1,029

 
7.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Dollars per MWh)
Average cost of fuel used for generation
$
16.44

 
$
17.23

 
$
(0.79
)
 
(4.6
)
Average cost of purchased power
$
22.64

 
$
24.21

 
$
(1.57
)
 
(6.5
)
Average cost of fuel and purchased power
$
18.12

 
$
18.84

 
$
(0.72
)
 
(3.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Degree Days
 
 
2016/
 
 
 
 
 
2017
 
20 yr Avg
 
 Change
 
 % Change
Cooling
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actual compared to last year
523

 
597

 
(74
)
 
(12.4
)
Actual compared to 20 year average
523

 
460

 
63

 
13.7

Heating
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Actual compared to last year
2,210

 
2,367

 
(157
)
 
(6.6
)
Actual compared to 20 year average
2,210

 
2,814

 
(604
)
 
(21.5
)
 

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 8



Westar Energy, Inc.
Capitalization
 
 
June 30, 2017
 
 
 
December 31, 2016
 
 
 
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
Current maturities of long-term debt
 
$

 
 
 
$
125,000

 
 
Current maturities of long-term debt of VIEs
 
28,538

 
 
 
26,842

 
 
Long-term debt, net
 
3,686,180

 
 
 
3,388,670

 
 
Long-term debt of variable interest entities, net
 
82,653

 
 
 
111,209

 
 
Total long-term debt
 
3,797,371

 
49.6
%
 
3,651,721

 
48.8
%
Common equity
 
3,825,529

 
50.0
%
 
3,805,875

 
50.8
%
Noncontrolling interests
 
29,350

 
0.4
%
 
27,315

 
0.4
%
Total capitalization
 
$
7,652,250

 
100.0
%
 
$
7,484,911

 
100.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GAAP Book value per share
 
$
26.92

 
 
 
$
26.84

 


Period end shares outstanding (in thousands)
 
142,093

 
 
 
141,791

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding Long-Term Debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CUSIP
June 30, 2017
 
 
 
December 31, 2016
 
 
Westar Energy:
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
 
 
First Mortgage Bond series:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.15% Series due January 2017
95709TAB6
$

 
 
 
$
125,000

 
 
5.10% Series due July 2020
95709TAD2
250,000

 
 
 
250,000

 
 
3.25% Series due December 2025
95709TAL4
250,000

 
 
 
250,000

 
 
2.55% Series due June 2026
95709TAN0

350,000

 
 
 
350,000

 
 
3.10% Series due April 2027
95709TAP5
300,000

 
 
 

 
 
4.125% Series due March 2042
95709TAH3
550,000

 
 
 
550,000

 
 
4.10% Series due April 2043
95709TAJ9
430,000

 
 
 
430,000

 
 
4.625% Series due September 2043
95709TAK6
250,000

 
 
 
250,000

 
 
4.25% Series due December 2045
95709TAM2
300,000

 
 
 
300,000

 
 
 
 
2,680,000

 
 
 
2,505,000

 
 
Pollution control bond series:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable series due April 2032 (Wamego)
933623BN9
30,500

 
 
 
30,500

 
 
Variable series due April 2032 (St Marys)
792609AF6
45,000

 
 
 
45,000

 
 
 
 
75,500

 
 
 
75,500

 
 
Total Westar Energy
 
2,755,500

 
 
 
2,580,500

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
KGE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
First mortgage bond series:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6.70% Series due June 2019
485260BL6
300,000

 
 
 
300,000

 
 
6.15% Series due May 2023
485260B@1
50,000

 
 
 
50,000

 
 
6.53% Series due December 2037
485260BJ1
175,000

 
 
 
175,000

 
 
6.64% Series due May 2038
485260B#9
100,000

 
 
 
100,000

 
 
4.30% Series due July 2044
485260BM4
250,000

 
 
 
250,000

 
 
 
 
875,000

 
 
 
875,000

 
 
Pollution control bond series:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Variable rate series due April 2027 (LaCygne)
502828AJ5
21,940

 
 
 
21,940

 
 
2.50% Series due June 2031
N/A
50,000

 
 
 
50,000

 
 
Variable rate series due April 2032 (St Marys)
792609AE9
14,500

 
 
 
14,500

 
 
Variable rate series due April 2032 (Wamego)
933623BM1
10,000

 
 
 
10,000

 
 
 
 
96,440

 
 

96,440

 
 
Total KGE
 
971,440

 
 
 
971,440

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total long-term debt
 
3,726,940

 
 
 
3,551,940

 
 
Unamortized debt discount
 
(11,238
)
 
 
 
(10,358
)
 
 
Unamortized debt issuance expense
 
(29,522
)
 
 
 
(27,912
)
 
 
Long-term debt due within one year
 

 
 
 
(125,000
)
 
 
Total long-term debt, net
 
$
3,686,180

 
 
 
$
3,388,670

 
 

The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 9



Westar Energy, Inc.
GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation

Fuel and purchased power costs fluctuate with electricity sales and unit costs. As permitted by regulators, prices are adjusted to reflect changes in the costs of fuel and purchased power. Fuel and purchased power costs for wholesale customers are recovered at prevailing market prices or based on a predetermined formula with a price adjustment approved by FERC. As a result, changes in fuel and purchased power costs are offset in revenues with minimal impact on net income. For this reason, Westar management believes that gross margin is useful for understanding and analyzing changes in operating performance from one period to the next. Gross margin is calculated as total revenues, including transmission revenues, less the sum of fuel and purchased power costs and amounts billed by the SPP for network transmission costs (SPP NITS). Accordingly, gross margin reflects transmission revenues and costs on a net basis.

The calculations of gross margin for the three and six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 are shown in the table below. The table also includes a reconciliation of gross margin to income from operations for both periods. Income from operations is the GAAP financial measure most directly comparable to gross margin.
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
2017
 
2016
 
Change
 
(Dollars in Thousands)
Revenues
$
609,321

 
$
621,448


$
(12,127
)

$
1,181,895


$
1,190,898


$
(9,003
)
Less: Fuel and purchased power expense
111,790

 
118,630

 
(6,840
)
 
225,645

 
218,688

 
6,957

 SPP network transmission costs
61,763

 
55,227

 
6,536

 
122,437

 
115,987

 
6,450

Gross margin
$
435,768


$
447,591


$
(11,823
)

$
833,813


$
856,223


$
(22,410
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income from operations
$
155,112

 
$
153,615

 
$
1,497

 
$
281,461

 
$
295,426

 
$
(13,965
)
Plus: Operating and maintenance expense
87,158

 
85,619

 
1,539

 
168,356

 
163,377

 
4,979

Depreciation and amortization expense
94,029

 
84,226

 
9,803

 
182,655

 
167,866

 
14,789

Selling, general and administrative expense
57,579

 
75,724

 
(18,145
)
 
116,735

 
132,179

 
(15,444
)
Taxes other than income tax
41,890

 
48,407

 
(6,517
)
 
84,606

 
97,375

 
(12,769
)
Gross margin
$
435,768

 
$
447,591


$
(11,823
)

$
833,813


$
856,223


$
(22,410
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


The Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in the company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the period ended June 30, 2017 should be read in conjunction with this financial information.
Page 10
wr063020178kexhibit993
Westar Energy Investor Update – August 8, 2017 Exhibit 99.3


 
Forward-Looking Disclosures AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE 2 Forward Looking Statements Forward-looking statements: Certain matters discussed in this news release are “forward-looking statements.” The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 has established that these statements qualify for safe harbors from liability. Forward-looking statements may include words like “believe,” “anticipate,” “target,” “expect,” “pro forma,” “estimate,” “intend,” “guidance” or words of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements describe future plans, objectives, expectations or goals. Although Westar Energy believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, all forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include those discussed herein as well as (1) those discussed in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016 (a) under the heading, “Forward-Looking Statements,” (b) in ITEM 1. Business, (c) in ITEM 1A. Risk Factors, (d) in ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and (e) in ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data: Notes 3, 14 and 16; (2) those discussed in the company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017 and Aug. 8, 2017, (a) under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements." (b) in ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, (c) in Part I, Financial Information, ITEM 1. Financial Statements: Notes 3, 11, 12 (in the Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017), and 13 (in the Form 10-Q filed on Aug. 8, 2017), and (d) ITEM 1A. Risk Factors; and (3) other factors discussed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date such statement was made, and the company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement was made. Additional Information The information in this investor update is not complete, and is intended to be read in conjunction with Westar Energy, Inc.’s full earnings package for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 as well as other information regarding the company that is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The full earnings package is available is available under Supplemental Materials within the investor section of the company website at www.WestarEnergy.com, and the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission can be found in the same section under SEC Filings.


 
Company Update 3 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Recent Announcements & Focus  Merger of Equals with Great Plains Energy  100% stock-for-stock tax-free exchange  Westar: exchange 1 WR share for 1 share of new company stock  Great Plains: exchange 1 GXP share for .5981 share of new company stock  Targeted EPS CAGR at 6-8% (off WR‟s „16 EPS of $2.43)  Immediate 15% WR dividend boost at closing  Targeted dividend CAGR at 6-8% thereafter  Strong credit profile, outlook already improved  New structure addresses KCC objections to prior deal  Reported Q2 2017 EPS of $0.50  Abbreviated rate case effective mid-year ≈ $16M  New renewables online  Western Plains Wind  Community Solar  Not issuing 2017 guidance due to pending merger 4 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Clean Energy Leader 5 Westar’s recently completed 1.2MW community solar near Hutchinson, KS gives customers access to solar energy without upfront investment or commitment. Newly commissioned Kingman Wind Farm serves both retail and local wholesale partners. Emission Free Energy > 50% of Retail Sales AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Innovation drives efficiency 6 Drones help identify struggling equipment before it causes an outage. They are also safer and faster to inspect difficult- to-reach areas while locating the cause of a power outage. Westar deploys Unmanned Aircraft Systems A drone with a protective cage flown into a power plant condenser still at unsafe temperatures and atmosphere. Helped identify ruptured expansion joint about 12 hours sooner than with conventional inspection. AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Investing in Data Analytics and Technology  Big data to improve fossil & wind reliability  Pilot monitoring program at Jeffrey Energy Center and Central Plains Wind Farm  24/7 monitoring  Models compare real time data to expected values  Initial hit saved more than entire cost of pilot program  Recent technology investments  Finance & Accounting - PeopleSoft  Supply Chain – PeopleSoft  Human Resources – PeopleSoft  Enterprise Asset Management – Maximo  Customer Information System – Next to be replaced; will piggyback off of Great Plains Oracle installation 7 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Continued Focus of Safety 8 Gordon Evans Energy Center received the OSHA Voluntary Protection Program Region VII Star of Excellence award. National Safety Recognition 0.00 0.50 1.00 1.50 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 4.00 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 YTD 2017 OSHA Incident Rate PVA Rate 2017 on pace for one of our safest years ever! AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Improving Customer Experience 9 • Ranked #1 in customer service in the Midwest! • Ranked #2 nationally in utility website satisfaction! According to JD Power - 2017 Commitment to customers paying off! AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Earnings Update 10 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Year Over Year Earnings Variance $0.51 $0.50 $0.97 $0.92 2Q16 2Q17 YTD 16 YTD 17 EPS 2016 vs 2017 11  Q2 Variance Drivers 14% decrease in CDD Higher depreciation expense ~ ($10M) Higher expenses at fossil plants ~ ($4M) Decrease in merger-related expenses ~ $8M Lower income tax expense ~ $5M  YTD Variance Drivers 12% decrease in CDD Higher O&M ~ ($5M) Higher depreciation expense ~ ($15M) Lower COLI benefit ~ ($7M) Lower Equity AFUDC ~ ($5M) Decrease in merger-related expense ~ $7M Lower property tax amortization expense ~ $13M Lower income tax expense ~ $22M Full Earnings Package is available under Supplemental Materials within the investor section of the company website at www.WestarEnergy.com. AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Additional Earnings Detail  Merger Expenses  2016 -- $10.2M  2017 through July 31 -- $8.5M  Expected total upon closing -- $45M  Weather EPS Estimate  Q2 – $0.04 unfavorable to 2016 – $0.01 unfavorable to normal  2017 – $0.04 unfavorable to 2016 – $0.06 unfavorable to normal  COLI  Actual:  Q2 – $0M  2017 – $0M  2017 annual assumption – $20M  Transmission Margin Increase  2017 annual assumption – $18M 12 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Merger Update 13 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Merger Summary Transaction Structure • All stock merger of equals (100% stock-for-stock tax-free exchange); combined equity value of ~$14 billion • New company to be jointly named prior to close Exchange Ratio • Westar Energy exchanges 1 share of WR for 1 share of new holding company • Great Plains Energy exchanges 1 share of GXP for 0.5981 share of new holding company Approximate Pro Forma Ownership • Westar Energy 52.5% • Great Plains Energy 47.5% Pro Forma Dividend • 15% dividend uplift for Westar Energy; maintains current Great Plains Energy dividend Termination Fee • Reverse break-up fee of $190 million in favor of Westar Energy • Mutual fiduciary out break-up fees of $190 million in favor of the other • Great Plains Energy no-vote fee of $80 million in favor of Westar Energy Governance • Mark Ruelle, Westar Energy CEO to become non-executive chairman • Terry Bassham, Great Plains Energy President & CEO to remain President & CEO • Tony Somma (Westar Energy CFO) to be CFO; Kevin Bryant (Great Plains Energy CFO) to be COO • Equal board representation from each company, including Bassham and Ruelle Headquarters • Corporate Headquarters – Kansas City, Missouri • Operating Headquarters – Topeka, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri Timing / Approvals • Expected to close first half 2018 • Shareholders, federal and state regulators 14 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Merger Value 15 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE  Expected stronger EPS growth  New company EPS CAGR of 6-8%1 vs WR stand-alone EPS CAGR of 4-6%2  Merger savings – Improve “slope” of EPS growth  Share buybacks – Upward “shift” of EPS growth  Immediate ≈15% dividend increase  Not at expense of credit or payout ratio  Tax-free exchange  Structured to address regulatory order  Not as dependent on future ongoing rate relief 2016 2022e Westar Stand Alone Plan, Guidance 4%-6%, Middle of Range Merger, Opportunities for Additional Synergies/Buy-back Shares Merger, Modest Synergies Merger, No Synergies, Excess Cash Used to Buy-back Approximately 30 Million Shares EPS Growth Targets 6% 7% 8% Merger Close 2018e 1New company expected EPS CAGR based off ‘16 WR EPS of $2.43/sh. 2 WR stand-alone expected EPS CAGR based off normalized ‘15 WR EPS of $2.21/sh.


 
Strong Growth Targets 16 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE $2.19 $1.44 $1.52 $1.60 $1.84 $2.32 2015A 2016A 2017 Pro Forma 2018E Pro Forma 2021E $2.43 $3.57 2016A Pro Forma 2021E $3.25 Targeted EPS Growth 6-8%1 Targeted Dividend Growth 6-8%1 1Indicated annual earnings per share and dividend per share are historical Westar Energy and targeted combined company.


 
Path to Merger Close 17 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE Local & Political Support Proxy Effective Dialogue with Regulatory Parties Shareholder Approval (WR >50% outstanding; GXP >2/3 outstanding) Execute Agreement HSR Approval Initial positive reaction FCC Approval File KS/MO Applications NRC Approval File FERC Application FERC Approval File NRC / FCC / HSR KS Approval File Proxy MO Approval     Estimate Completion 1st Half 2018


 
Additional Information AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE 18 Additional Information and Where to Find It This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any proxy, vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. In connection with the proposed transactions, Monarch Energy Holding, Inc. (Monarch) will file a Registration Statement on Form S-4, that includes a joint proxy statement of Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy, which also constitutes a prospectus of Monarch. WE URGE INVESTORS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED BY MONARCH, GREAT PLAINS ENERGY AND WESTAR ENERGY WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT GREAT PLAINS ENERGY, WESTAR ENERGY, MONARCH AND THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors can obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by Monarch, Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, the SEC’s website, or free of charge from Great Plains Energy’s website (http://www.greatplainsenergy.com) under the tab, “Investor Relations” and then under the heading “SEC Filings.” These documents are also available free of charge from Westar’s website (http://www.westarenergy.com) under the tab “Investors” and then under the heading “SEC Filings.” Participants in Proxy Solicitation Great Plains Energy, Westar Energy and their respective directors and certain of their executive officers and employees may be deemed, under SEC rules, to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Great Plains Energy’s and Westar Energy’s shareholders with respect to the proposed transaction. Information regarding the officers and directors of Great Plains Energy is included in its definitive proxy statement for its 2017 annual meeting filed with SEC on March 23, 2017. Information regarding the officers and directors of Westar is included in an amendment to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the SEC on April 28, 2017. Additional information regarding the identity of potential participants, and their direct or indirect interests, by securities, holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the Registration Statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus and other materials filed with SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described in the paragraphs above.


 
wr063020178kexhibit994
Westar Energy Investor Update – August 8, 2017 Exhibit 99.4 Filed by: Westar Energy, Inc. pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act of 1933 and deemed filed pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 Subject Company: Westar Energy, Inc. Commission File Number: 001-03523 Subject Company: Great Plains Energy Incorporated Commission File Number: 001-32206 Subject Company: Monarch Energy Holding, Inc. Commission File Number: 132-02816 Date: August 8, 2017 {Merger Excerpts}


 
Forward-Looking Disclosures AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE 2 Forward Looking Statements Forward-looking statements: Certain matters discussed in this news release are “forward-looking statements.” The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 has established that these statements qualify for safe harbors from liability. Forward-looking statements may include words like “believe,” “anticipate,” “target,” “expect,” “pro forma,” “estimate,” “intend,” “guidance” or words of similar meaning. Forward-looking statements describe future plans, objectives, expectations or goals. Although Westar Energy believes that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, all forward-looking statements involve risk and uncertainty. The factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from these forward-looking statements include those discussed herein as well as (1) those discussed in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 2016 (a) under the heading, “Forward-Looking Statements,” (b) in ITEM 1. Business, (c) in ITEM 1A. Risk Factors, (d) in ITEM 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, and (e) in ITEM 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data: Notes 3, 14 and 16; (2) those discussed in the company's Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017 and Aug. 8, 2017, (a) under the heading "Forward-Looking Statements." (b) in ITEM 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, (c) in Part I, Financial Information, ITEM 1. Financial Statements: Notes 3, 11, 12 (in the Form 10-Q filed on May 9, 2017), and 13 (in the Form 10-Q filed on Aug. 8, 2017), and (d) ITEM 1A. Risk Factors; and (3) other factors discussed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date such statement was made, and the company does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement was made. Additional Information The information in this investor update is not complete, and is intended to be read in conjunction with Westar Energy, Inc.’s full earnings package for the quarter ended June 30, 2017 as well as other information regarding the company that is filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The full earnings package is available is available under Supplemental Materials within the investor section of the company website at www.WestarEnergy.com, and the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission can be found in the same section under SEC Filings.


 
Recent Announcements & Focus  Merger of Equals with Great Plains Energy  100% stock-for-stock tax-free exchange  Westar: exchange 1 WR share for 1 share of new company stock  Great Plains: exchange 1 GXP share for .5981 share of new company stock  Targeted EPS CAGR at 6-8% (off WR‟s „16 EPS of $2.43)  Immediate 15% WR dividend boost at closing  Targeted dividend CAGR at 6-8% thereafter  Strong credit profile, outlook already improved  New structure addresses KCC objections to prior deal 3 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Merger Update 4 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Merger Summary Transaction Structure • All stock merger of equals (100% stock-for-stock tax-free exchange); combined equity value of ~$14 billion • New company to be jointly named prior to close Exchange Ratio • Westar Energy exchanges 1 share of WR for 1 share of new holding company • Great Plains Energy exchanges 1 share of GXP for 0.5981 share of new holding company Approximate Pro Forma Ownership • Westar Energy 52.5% • Great Plains Energy 47.5% Pro Forma Dividend • 15% dividend uplift for Westar Energy; maintains current Great Plains Energy dividend Termination Fee • Reverse break-up fee of $190 million in favor of Westar Energy • Mutual fiduciary out break-up fees of $190 million in favor of the other • Great Plains Energy no-vote fee of $80 million in favor of Westar Energy Governance • Mark Ruelle, Westar Energy CEO to become non-executive chairman • Terry Bassham, Great Plains Energy President & CEO to remain President & CEO • Tony Somma (Westar Energy CFO) to be CFO; Kevin Bryant (Great Plains Energy CFO) to be COO • Equal board representation from each company, including Bassham and Ruelle Headquarters • Corporate Headquarters – Kansas City, Missouri • Operating Headquarters – Topeka, Kansas; Kansas City, Missouri Timing / Approvals • Expected to close first half 2018 • Shareholders, federal and state regulators 5 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE


 
Merger Value 6 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE  Expected stronger EPS growth  New company EPS CAGR of 6-8%1 vs WR stand-alone EPS CAGR of 4-6%2  Merger savings – Improve “slope” of EPS growth  Share buybacks – Upward “shift” of EPS growth  Immediate ≈15% dividend increase  Not at expense of credit or payout ratio  Tax-free exchange  Structured to address regulatory order  Not as dependent on future ongoing rate relief 2016 2022e Westar Stand Alone Plan, Guidance 4%-6%, Middle of Range Merger, Opportunities for Additional Synergies/Buy-back Shares Merger, Modest Synergies Merger, No Synergies, Excess Cash Used to Buy-back Approximately 30 Million Shares EPS Growth Targets 6% 7% 8% Merger Close 2018e 1New company expected EPS CAGR based off ‘16 WR EPS of $2.43/sh. 2 WR stand-alone expected EPS CAGR based off normalized ‘15 WR EPS of $2.21/sh.


 
Strong Growth Targets 7 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE $2.19 $1.44 $1.52 $1.60 $1.84 $2.32 2015A 2016A 2017 Pro Forma 2018E Pro Forma 2021E $2.43 $3.57 2016A Pro Forma 2021E $3.25 Targeted EPS Growth 6-8%1 Targeted Dividend Growth 6-8%1 1Indicated annual earnings per share and dividend per share are historical Westar Energy and targeted combined company.


 
Path to Merger Close 8 AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE Local & Political Support Proxy Effective Dialogue with Regulatory Parties Shareholder Approval (WR >50% outstanding; GXP >2/3 outstanding) Execute Agreement HSR Approval Initial positive reaction FCC Approval File KS/MO Applications NRC Approval File FERC Application FERC Approval File NRC / FCC / HSR KS Approval File Proxy MO Approval     Estimate Completion 1st Half 2018


 
Additional Information AUGUST 8, 2017 INVESTOR UPDATE 9 Additional Information and Where to Find It This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a solicitation of any proxy, vote or approval, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction. In connection with the proposed transactions, Monarch Energy Holding, Inc. (Monarch) will file a Registration Statement on Form S-4, that includes a joint proxy statement of Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy, which also constitutes a prospectus of Monarch. WE URGE INVESTORS TO READ THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT AND JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED BY MONARCH, GREAT PLAINS ENERGY AND WESTAR ENERGY WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT GREAT PLAINS ENERGY, WESTAR ENERGY, MONARCH AND THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION. Investors can obtain free copies of the Registration Statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed by Monarch, Great Plains Energy and Westar Energy with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov, the SEC’s website, or free of charge from Great Plains Energy’s website (http://www.greatplainsenergy.com) under the tab, “Investor Relations” and then under the heading “SEC Filings.” These documents are also available free of charge from Westar’s website (http://www.westarenergy.com) under the tab “Investors” and then under the heading “SEC Filings.” Participants in Proxy Solicitation Great Plains Energy, Westar Energy and their respective directors and certain of their executive officers and employees may be deemed, under SEC rules, to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from Great Plains Energy’s and Westar Energy’s shareholders with respect to the proposed transaction. Information regarding the officers and directors of Great Plains Energy is included in its definitive proxy statement for its 2017 annual meeting filed with SEC on March 23, 2017. Information regarding the officers and directors of Westar is included in an amendment to its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016, filed with the SEC on April 28, 2017. Additional information regarding the identity of potential participants, and their direct or indirect interests, by securities, holdings or otherwise, will be set forth in the Registration Statement and joint proxy statement/prospectus and other materials filed with SEC in connection with the proposed transaction. Free copies of these documents may be obtained as described in the paragraphs above.