Suez DF 2006
Suez DF 2006
Suez DF 2006
REFERENCE Document
2006
06
Our values
Professionalism
Sense of partnership
Team spirit
Value creation
Respect for the environment
Ethics
This Reference Document was filed with the French Financial Markets Authority (Autorité des Marchés Financiers – AMF)
on April 4, 2007, in accordance with the provisions of Article 212-13 of the General Regulations of the AMF.
It may be used in support of a financial transaction if it is supplemented by a prospectus approved by the AMF.
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE:
Pursuant to Article 28 of European Regulation No. 809/2004 of April 29, 2004, this Reference Document incorporates
by reference the following information to which the reader is invited to refer:
• with regard to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2005: management report, consolidated financial statements and
related Statutory Auditors’ reports, as set out on pages 89-101, 154-275 and 281-282, respectively, of the English
version of the Reference Document filed with the AMF on April 11, 2006;
• with regard to the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004: management report, consolidated financial statements and
related Statutory Auditors’ reports, as set out on pages 109-119, 132-198 and 199, respectively, of the English version
of the Reference Document filed with the AMF on April 14, 2005.
The information included in these two Reference Documents, other than that referred to above, is replaced or updated,
where applicable, by the information contained in this Reference Document. Both these Reference Documents are
accessible under the conditions described in Section 24 “Documents accessible to the public” of this Reference
Document.
This Reference Document contains forward-looking information in Sections 6.1 “Principal activities”, 12 “Information on
trends” and 9.7 “Outlook for 2007”. This information does not constitute historical data and there is no assurance that
such forward-looking facts, data or objectives will occur or be met in the future. Such information is subject to external
factors, such as those described in Section 4 “Risk management”.
Unless expressly stated to the contrary, the market data included in this Reference Document is based on internal
estimates made by SUEZ using publicly available information.
11.2 Value creation label 137 16.3 Information on the Audit Committee
and the Compensation Committee 174
11.3 Patents and licenses 137
16.4 Compliance with corporate governance
regulations in the country of origin 174
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Party responsible for the accuracy of the information in the reference
document
Mr. Gérard Mestrallet, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
“After taking all reasonable measures for this purpose, I attest literature and standards applicable in France, of the financial
that, to my knowledge, the information presented in this Reference position and the financial statements presented or incorporated
Document fairly reflects the current situation and that no material by reference into this Reference Document and that they have
omissions have been made. read the Reference Document in full.”
The company has obtained from its statutory auditors a letter drawn
up at the end of their audit engagement in which they state that
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
they have carried out an audit, in accordance with accounting
Gérard Mestrallet
Deputy auditor for Ernst & Young et Autres 7-9, villa Houssay, 92200 Neuilly-sur-Seine
41, rue Ybry, 92576 Neuilly-sur-Seine Cedex Appointed on May 28, 1999, their term of office was most recently
renewed by the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting
Appointed on May 13, 2005 by the Combined Ordinary and
of May 13, 2005 for a period of six years and will expire at the
Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of the same date, his term of
close of the 2011 Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held to approve
office will expire at the close of the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting
the financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31,
2010.
Shareholders will not be asked to renew the term of Mr. Francis of Auditex as the deputy Statutory Auditor for Ernst & Young et
Gidoin at the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 4, 2007. Autres and its term of office shall expire at the same time as that of
Ernst & Young et Autres, at the close of the Shareholders’ Meeting
At the above-mentioned Shareholders’ Meeting, the Board of
held to approve the financial statements for fiscal year 2012.
Directors of SUEZ will ask shareholders to approve the appointment
Financial information concerning the assets, liabilities, financial The schedules below set out the key figures reported by SUEZ
position, and profit and loss of SUEZ has been provided for the for the four years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002,
3
last three reporting periods (ended December 2004, 2005 and prepared in accordance with French GAAP. The key figures
2006) and have been prepared in accordance with the European reported by SUEZ for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005
Regulation (EC) 1606/2002 on International Accounting Standards and 2004 are presented in accordance with IFRS:
(IFRS) dated July 19, 2002 as published by the International
Accouting Standards Board (IASB) and adopted for use in the
European Union at that date.
Key figures
The key figures reported by SUEZ for the years ended December 31, 2006, 2005 and 2004 are presented in accordance with IFRS:
SUEZ IFRS
The key figures reported by the SUEZ Group for the three years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, prepared in accordance with
French GAAP:
French GAAP
4 Risk factors
The Group has adopted a policy of integrated management of financial, operational, hazard), evaluated (in terms of significance
business risks (enterprise risk management, ERM) which organizes and frequency), and quantified insofar as possible, and the means
all the techniques for risk assessment and management already of addressing the risks is reviewed, a process which results in
existing within the Group. The goal of this policy is to provide action plans at various levels of the Group. There is no automatic
a complete overview of the portfolio of risks by using common exclusion based on the nature of the risks identified and the
methodologies and tools throughout all divisions and support business divisions covered within the scope of analysis of this risk
Departments, which are also responsible for operationally mapping. In order to improve the quality and depth of the risk
implementing risk management systems adapted to their specific mapping process, a program of training in the risk assessment
activities (principle of subsidiarity). techniques was set up in 2006 for the risk officers in the Group’s
operational entities.
The coordination of this integrated approach is the responsibility
of the Chief Risk Officer (CRO), a position that reports directly This process allows the Group to create an annual synthesis of its
to the Group Chairman. He supervises the ERM process, along major risks, based on the risk identification work performed in the
with Internal Audit and Insurance. A network of Risk Officers is operational entities and on the work performed in the divisions to
now in place within the various divisions of the Group in order to map major risks. This process is directed centrally by the Group
deploy these methods and tools. This network is directed by the Risk Officer and in the divisions by the network of Risk Officers. It
Group Risk Officer and he, along with the four functional directors includes steps to select significant individual risks and, if relevant,
(Audit, Insurance, Internal Control, Management Control), form to aggregate homogeneous risks. The risks factors presented below
the Risk Advisory Committee, which meets quarterly. A risk are based primarily on the results of this work.
mapping process for the entire Group has also been in place for
Through its ongoing integration into the key processes of the
several years. Risks are identified, classified by category (strategic,
business, this ERM structure has become part of the company’s
internal control system and is accordingly evaluated by Audit on The Group’s principal risks were reported to the Executive
a regular basis. The annual schedule for the Group’s internal Committee in 2006. Similar reporting is planned for 2007, as well
audit missions in 2006 was based primarily on the results of risk as reporting to the Audit Committee.
mapping work.
A great many aspects of the Group’s businesses, particularly is possible that such permits or licenses will not be obtained or will
the production, transmission and distribution of electricity, the be obtained late, despite the payment of substantial sums. Finally,
transport and distribution of natural gas and liquefied natural the regulations involue investments and operating expenditures not
gas (LNG), water management, the operation and maintenance only by the Group, but also by its customers, particularly the local
of nuclear plants, waste collection and treatment, are subject to government concessionaires, primarily because of compliance
stringent regulations at the European, national and local levels obligations. Failure by a customer to meet its obligations can harm
(competition, licenses, permits, authorizations, etc.). Regulatory the operator, damaging its reputation and its capacity for growth.
changes may affect the prices, margins, investments, operations, Beyond contractual precautions negotiated on a case-by-case
systems and, therefore, the strategy and profitability of the Group. basis, the Group works to limit its all these risks, particularly within
Recent example of such regulatory changes can be found, an active environmental policy (see Section 6.6.1.1, “Environmental
particularly in Section 6.1.1.5.4, for the energy business (including Policy”) and by managing a comprehensive insurance program
the liberalization and deregulation of the gas and power sectors (see Section 4.6 “Insurance”).
in Europe, with a risk of a freeze or cap on rates), and in Section
The competent regulatory agencies have broad prerogatives and
6.1.1.6.5 for the environmental business (including European
powers in the area of energy and environmental services, which
regulations on environmental responsibility, cross-border waste
cover problems related to ethics, money laundering, respect for
exchange, etc.). Despite the monitoring systems that have been
personal privacy, data protection, and the fight against corruption.
set up, it is impossible to predict all regulatory changes, but the
In addition, it is difficult to predict the effective date or the form
Group, by operating its principal businesses in different countries
of new regulations or enforcement measures. A change in the
equipped with their own inherent regulatory systems, diversifies this
current energy and environmental protection regulations could
risk. In contrast, some changes in regulations bring new market
have a significant impact on the businesses of the Group, and on
opportunities for the Group’s businesses.
its products and services and the value of its assets. If the Group
The Group’s businesses are also subject to a large number of does not succeed, or appears not to succeed, in satisfactorily
laws and regulations concerning respect for the environment, complying with such changes or enforcement measures, its
health protection, and safety standards. Those texts govern air reputation could be affected, and the Group could be exposed
quality, waste water, the quality of drinking water, the treatment to additional legal risks. This could result in an increase in the
of hazardous and household waste, the management of nuclear amount and number of claims and requests for indemnification
facilities and LNG terminals, and soil contamination. A change in made against the Group and expose the Group to compulsory
regulations or more stringent regulations could generate additional enforcement measures, fines and penalties. Despite the Group’s
costs or investments for the Group, which the Group cannot efforts to comply with the applicable regulations, there are still a
guarantee that it will be able to cover with sufficient revenues. large number of risks, resulting primarily from the lack of precision
Following such modified or stricter regulations, the Group may in certain regulations, or the fact that the regulatory agencies may
have to cease an activity, without any assurance that it will be modify their instructions for implementation and that courts may
able to offset the cost generated by ending the activity. Moreover, pronounce contradictory judgements. The regulatory agencies
continued performance of its businesses assumes that it will and legal bodies have the power to initiate administrative or legal
obtain or renew various permits and licenses from the regulatory proceedings against the Group which could, in particular, result
authorities, which implies an often long, unpredictable procedure. It in the suspension or revocation of one or more permits or licenses
held by the Group, or in injunctions to cease or desist from certain For other information concerning regulations, see Sections
activities or services, or fines, civil penalties, criminal convictions 6.1.1.5.4, 6.1.1.6.5 and 6.6.2.
or disciplinary sanctions, which would materially and negatively
impact the businesses and financial position of the Group.
Competitive risks
Most of the Group’s businesses are subject to strong competitive Asia. This could have a significant negative effect on selling prices,
pressure from major international operators and from “niche” margins and the market share of the Group’s businesses.
players in certain markets. (See Section 6.2. “Principal
In the Environmental sectors (Water and Waste Services), SUEZ’s
markets”)
activities are also subject to strong competitive pressures from both
In the energy sectors, the deregulation of the electricity and gas
markets, both in Europe and the United States, has opened the
local and international operators, resulting in pressure on selling
prices to industrial and municipal customers, as well as a risk of
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door to new competitors, introduced volatility in market prices non-renewal of major contracts as they expire. We are currently
and called into question long-term contracts. In recent years, a observing a trend towards the consolidation of the market players
trend towards the concentration of the major energy players has in Waste Services in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom,
materialized in Europe. The increase in competitive pressure is Germany, and the Benelux countries.
also perceptible in the Group’s operations in Latin America and
Certain of the Group’s businesses, particularly the services to costs are lower than in Western Europe. On the other hand,
industrial customers, are sensitive to economic cycles. Any economic development in these other countries represents an
slowdown in the economy, particularly in the developed countries, opportunity for strong growth.
creates a negative impact on industrial investments and, therefore,
These risks, tied closely both to the economic environment and
negatively influences the demand for the installation services and
to relocation, remain relatively low for the Group as a whole given
project engineering offered by the Group’s services entities. This
the diversity of the countries where it operates and its portfolio of
fluctuating demand results in substantial variations in the activity
industrial customers.
levels of these businesses which, despite their efforts to control
variable costs, cannot systematically offset the impact of the Similarly, changes in raw materials prices, particularly for
decline in their revenues in certain periods. It should, however, be petroleum products, which are subject to abrupt increases, may
noted that this risk does not impact the energy and multi-technical have a significant impact on the costs of production supplies for
services businesses, which profit from the growing trend among some of the Group’s activities. Although most contracts contain
industrial customers to outsource those services. cost indexing clauses, it is possible that the indexing formula is
imperfect or has a delayed effect so that the coverage would not
In Western Europe, these businesses providing services to
be complete. The profitability of these operations could, therefore,
industrial customers may be temporarily sensitive to the offshoring
be affected, most often temporarily. Plans for hedging this risk
of operations to low-wage countries. Likewise, in the energy
exist: tools for managing risks related to raw materials used by the
sectors, major customers which are heavy power users (metallurgy,
Group are explained in Section 4.4 below.
chemicals) may move their production to regions where energy
Partnership risks
The Group develops its operations in partnership with local public However, a change in the project, the local political and economic
municipalities or with private local operators. context, or even in the economic position of the partner, may lead
to the termination of a partnership, particularly through the exercise
These partnerships constitute one of the means for SUEZ to share
of options to buy or sell shares between the partners, a request to
the economic and financial risk inherent in certain major projects,
dissolve the joint venture by one of the partners, or the exercise of
by limiting its capital employed, and ensuring that it adapts better
a right of first refusal.
to the specific context of the local markets. In addition, such
partnerships may be required by the local regulatory environment. Such situations may also lead the Group to decide to increase its
The partial loss of operational control is often the price that must be financial commitments to certain projects or, in the case of conflicts
paid to reduce the exposure in capital employed, but this situation with a partner or partners, to seek solutions in the competent courts
4
is managed contractually on a case-by-case basis. or arbitration bodies.
Whether in the energy or the environmental sector, the Group’s In the same way, the Group’s companies may depend, in managing
subsidiaries have signed contracts, particularly with public water treatment plans, thermal power plants or waste treatment
authorities, the performance of which may depend on a few, or units, on a limited number of suppliers for their supplies of water,
even just one, customer. household waste, various fuels and equipment. For example, the
market for turbines and foundry parts for electrical power plants is,
This is the case, for example, for the water management agreements
by nature, oligopolistic and will be particularly tight in the coming
and certain power production and electricity sales activities with
years.
medium and long-term power purchase agreements, as well as
household waste incinerator management. Any interruption in supplies, any supply delay or any failure to
comply with the technical performance warranty for a piece of
The refusal or the inability of a customer to meet its contractual
equipment, even those caused by the contract default of a supplier,
commitments, particularly in the area of rate adjustments, may
could impact the profitability of a project, particularly in the area
compromise the economic balance of the contracts and the
of electricity production, with the arrival of new high-yield gas
profitability of any investments made by the operator. If the co-
turbines, despite the protective contractual measures set up.
contracting parties fail to meet their obligations, despite contractual
provisions for this purpose, total indemnification cannot always be The variety of the Group’s businesses and their diverse geographic
obtained, which could impact the Group’s revenues and results. locations result in a broad range of situations (payment terms for
The Group has encountered such situations in the past, particularly customers or suppliers, the use or non-use of subcontracting,
in Argentina. etc.) and types of customers (industries, local municipalities and
individuals). The Group believes that there is no relationship with supply providers and its geographic diversification, the Group is
a supplier, customer or subcontractor, the termination of which not dependent on a single source of energy or on a single supplier
could have a substantial impact on the financial position and country for the pursuit of its activities.
earnings of the Group. In particular, given the mix in its energy
The Group has commitments on pensions and other post- unfavorable impact on the Group’s balance sheet and financial
employment benefits for its employees. Where these commitments earnings.
arise from defined-benefit plans, provisions are made in the
In addition, the calculation of the commitments is based on a
accounts (see Note 24 to the consolidated financial statements,
discount rate related to market interest rates, a decline in which
Section 20) and their financing is partially covered through pension
could cause a substantial increase in the present value of the
funds and insurance companies.
commitments which would not necessarily be offset by an
The risks related to the management of those plans pertain to equivalent increase in the asset coverage. Considering the current
both the amounts of the commitments and the variation of their level of these discount rates, it seems unlikely that a significant
asset coverage. drop would occur.
The amounts of the commitments are calculated on the basis of For several years, the Group’s policy has been to replace, to the
estimates made using certain assumptions, including inflation, extent possible, defined-benefit plans with defined-contribution
wage increases, mortality, employee turnover, retirement age, and plans, which are more transparent and for which costs are easier
benefits provided by legal plans. to control. This trend continued in 2006 and will continue, leading
to a progressive reduction in the risks borne by the Group.
These assumptions may, in the future, have to be adjusted, which
could increase the Group’s current commitments for pensions and, With regard to the asset coverage for retirement plans, there is
therefore, mean an increase in the amount of the corresponding exposure to market risks. The risk policy on these investments
provisions and, in certain cases, the payment of additional involves moderate risk-taking and appropriate diversification so that
contributions. Specifically, changes in national laws may result a major correction in the stock markets, for example, would not
in the emergence of new mandatory adjustments, for example in have a disproportionate impact on the Group’s financial position,
terms of discrimination among beneficiaries. This could have an particularly with regard to the market value of SUEZ.
The Group faces legal risks in the conduct of all its businesses party are described in Section 20.5. In addition, the participation
in all its world markets. The legal risks arising from the legal and of the Group’s Legal Departments in implementing internal control
regulatory context, the partnerships set up, and the contracts objectives within the Group is discussed in the Chairman of the
signed with customers and suppliers are discussed in Section 4.2. Board of Directors’ Report on internal control.
The significant disputes and arbitration to which the Group is a
The exposure to energy trading is measured and managed on With regard to counterparty risks, the credit limits are set based
a daily basis in accordance with the limits and management on the rating of the counterparties. Counterparty risk is limited
policy defined by Management. The mechanism to control the by obtaining letters of credit, guarantees, collateral, and netting
risks related to this commodity trading activity include a team agreements if appropriate.
specialized in controlling market and credit risks (the Middle
Financial risks
The Group, through its Finance Committee, sets financial policies, reporting, based on data that is systematically reconciled with
particularly for managing financial risks. the data coming from the consolidation reporting. This reporting
covers all the companies of the Group and provides a very detailed
Financial risks (liquidity, rates, foreign exchange and counterparty)
understanding of the financial commitments. This reporting is
are managed globally by specialized financial teams at the central
quarterly, and is distributed to the Group Chief Financial Officer
level, in the Divisions and in the operational entities. They all
and to the Division Financial Officers. It ensures systematic tracking
ultimately report to the Group Chief Financial Officer.
of risks.
In order to monitor changes in financial risks and ensure the quality
of the financial information, the Group has set up management
Liquidity risk
The Group’s financing policy is based on the following principles: The Group diversifies its permanent capital resources by
completing, as applicable, public or private bond issues in the
• centralization of external financing;
within its Euro Medium Term Notes program and by issuing
• diversification of financing sources between the banking market commercial paper (billets de trésorerie) in France and Belgium,
and the capital markets; and Commercial Paper in the United States.
• balanced repayment profile of financial debt. As of December 31, 2006, bank resources represented 39%
of gross debt, (excluding bank overdrafts, amortized costs and
The centralization of financing needs and cash flow surpluses for
the effect of derivatives) with the balance financed by the capital
the Group is provided by its financing vehicles (long-term and
markets (including outstanding debt €9,633 million in bonds,
short-term) and its cash pooling vehicles.
4
representing 52% of gross debt). Outstanding short-term paper
The centralization of short-term needs and surpluses is organized (European and US commercial paper) represented 9% of gross
on the basis of dedicated financial vehicles. These vehicles are debt and totaled €1,651 million at December 31, 2006 (refer to
managed in Paris and in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (SUEZ Note 26 to the consolitated financial statements). These programs
Finance SA, Tractebel Cash Management Services, Electrabel are used in a cyclical or structural fashion to finance the Group’s
Finance Treasury & Management) for the European countries, short-term needs because of their attractive cost and their liquidity.
and in Houston, Texas, (SUEZ Finance LP) for North America. All of the outstanding amounts are backed by confirmed bank
These vehicles centralize almost all of the cash needs and available credit facilities so that the Group would be able to continue to
surpluses of the controlled companies. In 2006, the Group finance itself in the event that access to this financing source were
implemented an automated European cash pooling system that to dry up.
increases and systematizes cash centralization. In 2007, the full
Liquidity is based on maintaining cash equivalents and confirmed
untralized will be connected to this cash pooling system.
credit facilities. The Group has confirmed credit facilities appropriate
Access to long-term capital markets is primarily concentrated in to its size with appropriate debt maturity schedules. The amount
GIE Suez Alliance and Electrabel, which carry or guarantee 76% of these confirmed credit facilities represented €9,648 million as
of the Group’s bond debt, 100% of the commercial paper issued of December 31, 2006, of which €1,082 million was drawn down.
and 90% of the lines of credit. 90% of the total lines of credit and 92% of the lines not drawn are
centralized. None of these lines contains a default clause tied to
The financial vehicles ensure the refinancing of the needs of the
financial ratios or ratings.
Group’s subsidiaries in euros or in other currencies. The central
financial vehicles carry 54% of the Group’s net debt (including the Active cash (net of bank overdrafts) totaled €7,657 million at
debt carried by the parent company Suez). December 31, 2006. Surpluses are centralized under a uniform
policy. The management objective is to maintain the liquidity of the
Non-recourse or limited recourse financing for the Group’s entities
portfolio while ensuring a return greater than a risk-free fund. The
is also set up as part of the financing for projects in which the
underlying instruments are primarily term deposits, money market
Group wants to share specific risks with providers of funds. This
funds and negotiable debt securities.
type of financing totaled €1,386 million at the end of 2006.
Because of the geographic diversification of its activities, the that synthetically recreate debt in currencies: cross-currency
Group is exposed to currency translation risk, which means that its swaps, foreign exchange swaps, and foreign exchange options.
balance sheet and income statement are sensitive to fluctuations in
This policy cannot, however, be implemented if the cost of hedging
exchange rates at the time of the consolidation of the accounts of
(specifically the interest rate of the reference currency) is too high.
its foreign subsidiaries outside the Euro zone. The interests held by
This is the case for Brazil where, because of a rate differential
the Group in the United States, Brazil and Thailand generate most
that is too high and the local revenue indexing mechanism, the
of the currency risks (see Note 3.2 to the consolidated financial
Group opts for catastrophic coverage, i.e. insurance against a
statements).
major depreciation in the currency (risk of an abrupt temporary
For investments in currencies not included in the Euro zone, the decline).
hedging policy consists of creating liabilities denominated in the
The market context is reviewed monthly for the US dollar. It is
same currency as the cash flows generated by these assets.
monitored as often as needed in emerging countries to attempt to
Of the hedging instruments used, debt in foreign currencies is the anticipate extremely sharp devaluations. The hedging ratio of the
most natural hedge, but the Group also used currency derivatives assets is reviewed periodically as a function of the market context
and each time an asset is added or removed. Any substantial cash flows on raw materials are normally paid in US Dollars. The
change in the hedging ratio is first approved by the Group Chief cash flows are generally hedged by forward currency contracts.
Financial Officer.
The transactional currency risk is managed by dedicated teams.
The Group continues to watch developments in the situation in These specialized teams centrally and continually measure
Thailand as described in Section 6.1.1.5.4. exposures and implement policies and instruments to hedge
or limit these risks (see Note 27.5 to the financial consolidated
The Group is also exposed, but to a lesser extent, to transaction
statements).
risk. This risk is concentrated on the energy trading activity
(commitment to deliver or take delivery of energy) for which the
The positions are centrally managed. Rate positions are reviewed As of December 31, 2006, after taking into account the financial
quarterly and at the time of any new financing. Any substantial instruments, approximately 57% of the Group’s gross debt stet at
change in the rate structure must receive prior approval from the a variable rate and 43% was at a fixed rate. Since almost all of the
Group Chief Financial Officer. Group’s surplus is invested short-term, as of December 31, 2006,
78% of the net debt was at a fixed rate and 22% at a variable rate
The cost of the Group’s debt is sensitive to changes in rates for
(almost all capped variable rate). The result of this distribution is
all debt indexed to variable rates. The cost of the Group’s debt
to sharply limit the sensitivity to rate increases.
is also impacted by the change in market value on the financial
Counterparty risk
Cash surpluses are invested and financial instruments are traded rating agencies and the consolidated Group’s knowledge of the
with leading international banks. The Group’s counterparties counterparties (see Note 26.1 to the financial statements).
are diversified and selected on the basis of ratings provided by
The Group holds a number of stakes in public traded companies shareholders’ equity of the Group, depending on whether or not the
(see Note 19.1 to the consolidated financial statements), the value decline is considered significant and whether or not it is extended
of which fluctuates on the basis of the trends in the world’s stock (see Note 1, Section J.1.). The Group’s portfolio of listed and
markets. An overall decline of 10% in the value of these securities unlisted stocks is managed with a specific investment policy and
would have an impact of about €137 million on the income or is regularly reported to Management.
The Group owns and operates two nuclear power plants in Belgium One of the safety indicators for these facilities is their availability
at Doel and Tihange. These sites, which have been operating since rate which was 88.7% in 2006.
1975, have never had any incidents resulting in a danger for the
The personnel in charge of the operational activity on the sites hold
workers, subcontractors, general population or the environment.
special certifications obtained at the end of a specific program
of both theoretical and practical training, including simulator stored on the power production sites pending a political decision
exercises. on the choice of the fuel cycle downstream process (recycling or
not).
Compliance with safety rules and the conditions of the facilities are
subject to inspections by an independent agency (AVN) and by a The costs for managing spent fuel are recognized as costs of
government agency responsible for nuclear safety (AFCN). nuclear power production and provisioned (see Note 23 to the
consolidated financial statements). In addition, other provisions
The operators of nuclear plants share expertise at an international
are recognized for dismantling facilities (refer to Note 23 to the
level and submit to audits (World Association of Nuclear Operators
consolidated financial statements). The Law of April 11, 2003,
(WANO) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)) in
clearly defines the rules for using and monitoring the amounts
order to maintain a high degree of safety. All nuclear sites are
provisioned for the Belgian plants.
certified ISO 14001 and audited by EMAS (Eco-Management and
Audit Scheme). The Group regularly monitors and reduces the If the provisions of the Belgian law on the progressive withdrawal
volume of low and medium level waste produced during operation. from nuclear energy for the purpose of electrical production,
Within the boundaries of the European Union, the Group manages Teris, Electrabel and Fluxys conduct a policy to prevent major
eight “high threshold” Seveso classified sites in France, Belgium, accidents that guarantees a high level of protection of people
Poland, Hungary and Germany. For the environmental businesses, and the environment for its facilities. This risk prevention policy is
Teris, the hazardous industrial waste treatment subsidiary of SUEZ described in Section 6.6.1.4, “Active prevention of environmental
Environment, operates the sites at Pont-de-Claix (incineration of risks”.
chlorinated solvents) and Loon-Plage (incineration of hazardous
If the requirements of the Seveso directive were extended outside
industrial waste), and its subsidiary, SITA Remediation, in Germany
Europe, two sites of the SUEZ Energy International Division would
operates the Herne plant (hazardous industrial waste treatment).
be affected: SUEZ-LNG-NA, a liquefied gas terminal in the United
In the energy sector, Fluxys and Fluxys LNG (SEE) manage the
States, and Litoral Gas, a propane storage unit in Argentina.
sites at Zeebrugge (liquefied natural gas terminal), and Loenhout
(underground storage of natural gas), and Electrabel operates the The financial consequences of the civil liability which could be
Gelderland and Dunamenti sites. incurred by the operators are guaranteed by the Group’s insurance
coverage (refer to Section 4.6 Insurance).
Particularly in the areas of electricity and heat production and, to registers was only finalized in 2006. In the short-term, the risks
a lesser extent, in waste treatment and recycling and natural gas primarily include:
transmission, the Group carries out activities targeted by national,
• the disclosure of the emissions audit results obtained at an
international and community level programs to combat global
untimely moment;
warning as set forth in the Kyoto Protocols.
• the national allocation plans for the second reduction period
In Europe, the market for trading greenhouse gas emissions rights
(2008-2012), which were supposed to be submitted for the
(EU ETS1) became a reality on January 1, 2005. As of this date, it
approval of the European Commission in June 2006 and
is the only multinational market in the world that imposes industrial
approved no later than the end of September 2006. A significant
objectives for reducing carbon dioxide. Not all of the countries in
delay has occurred: to date, only 12 plans have been approved
the European Union have been in a position to take the necessary
subject to conditions by the Commission;
steps for implementation. The implementation of national emissions
• the availability of European quotas: during the approval (subject period was reduced by 20% from the first period on a constant
to conditions) of the first 12 plans, the quantity requested was basis. This very substantial effort is also differentiated by business
reduced by an average of about 7%; sectors. On the date of this document, the exact distribution of the
quotas by facility is not yet known. It appears clearly, however, that
• access to the emissions credits coming from the market for
the Elyo facilities will all be under restriction. New investments to
clean development mechanisms and joint implementation (the
reduce emissions are being studied to restore the balance.
so-called “projects” market).
For Electrabel Belgium, 32 facilities are covered by the EU ETS
In addition, discussions have been opened on the revision of the
directive (including one 50% joint venture with RWE). The request
EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) directive, including the scope
for temporary exclusion of the nuclear power plant backup facilities
of its application. Integration of new sectors or new gases could
has been approved. Fluxys has six sites covered by the EU ETS
have a direct impact on the Group (if the new sectors included
directive. At the request of the Belgian government, supported by
correspond to some of our activities) or an indirect impact,
the regional authorities, the facilities located in Flanders have been
depending on the market’s reactions to these new sectors.
temporarily excluded from the EU ETS for the period 2005-2007.
The proposal to modify the ETS directive to include the aviation
sector could result in a shortage of project credits for the 2011-
Outside Europe, no specific information allows any prediction of 4
the difficulties or additional costs in the near future. However, it
2012 period, as this sector is authorized to make up for its deficit
is still possible that a government will decide to adopt stringent
using European quotas or project credits.
measures in this area.
In the longer term, one of the major risks identified in the EU ETS
In the United States, a change in “climate” policies is taking place
market is the renewal of the national allocation plans every 5 years
at the State level, which complicates the overall view of the risk. For
beginning in 2008. This review opens the possibility of adjustments
this reason, SUEZ Energy North America (SENA) closely follows
in the volume of quotas allocated and the method of allocation itself
developments in the regulatory framework in each of the States
(including opting for a sale by auction). This situation does not allow
in which the Group engages in business activities that could be
manufacturers to clearly envision their long-term obligations. This
affected by restrictive measures in this area. The implementation of
uncertainty is also tied to the uncertainty of governments, which are
the “Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative” (RGGI) continues, and the
having difficulty making progress on international negotiations on
State of New York has introduced a proposal for implementation,
the structure and objectives for reducing greenhouse gas emissions
implying among other measures the auction of 100% of the
(GHG) over the long term (“post 2012”). The conference of the
emissions rights. The RGGI, which applies only to the electrical
Nairobi Parties in 2006 did not make significant progress in this
sector, will have impacts on the SENA facilities located in various
area.
states in the northeastern United States. Following the changes
Based on the initial decisions of the European Commission (11/2006 in the American political landscape after the November 2006
and 1/2007), it should be expected that the allocation of quotas for elections, the implementation of more ambitious policies to fight
the second period (2008-2012) will bring greater restrictions. In climate change could take place.
fact, the Commission requires that the member States comply with
The Group works to limit the “climate” risks through active
their Kyoto obligations without extensive purchases of rights on the
monitoring and diversification of its energy portfolio, which does
international market. The change in prices on the quota market
not exclude maintaining, upgrading or even increasing the “coal”
depends on numerous factors, including not only the shortage
facilities when economic and political circumstances justify it.
created, but also the availability of the means for businesses
to reduce their emissions (including means that rely heavily on In energy services, the optimization, operation and maintenance
external factors such as rainfall levels for hydroelectricity). Changes of the facilities help increase the energy efficiency of the facilities
in prices for petroleum and, therefore, of natural gas, in relation entrusted to us and, therefore, help control energy demand.
to coal has a major impact on the changes in the level of CO 2
In the medium term, efforts are converging to strengthen low
emissions and, thus, when the market is sufficiently liquid, on the
carbon energy sources (natural gas, renewable energy) in the
price of the quotas.
global energy mix, improve the capture of biogas from waste
A total of 129 SUEZ facilities are currently covered by the EU ETS storage sites, and consider the energy produced by the incineration
directive. of waste. Landfills and anaerobic sludge treatment facilities can by
considered as renewable energy.
For SES, 76 facilities were affected by the EU ETS directive in 2006.
New facilities were added to the scope of the directive, particularly In the long term, the Group is focusing on diversifying its energy
in Spain. However, the majority (93% in 2006) of the quotas sources and is now developing a program to upgrade awareness,
allocated concerned facilities in France (primarily heat networks as well as a demonstration project to capture and isolate coal
and combustion facilities outsourced to industrial sites). emissions in order to make it possible to maintain its coal facilities
in the context of stricter carbon emission restrictions.
The French plan was transmitted to the European Commission on
December 29, 2006, and the total amount allocated for the second
4.6 Insurance
The Insurance Department animates our internal network of In each of these areas:
specialists, the SUEZ Worldwide Insurance Network, or SWIN,
• the transfer of severity risks to the insurance market continues as
which provides its expertise to the divisions/business units and
often as possible, with the development of transversal programs
the Corporate in this specialized area where sharing of experiences
in areas that are considered strategic; and
contributes to more efficiency.
• the optimization of the financing of hazard risks of low, or
Our policy of transferring “hazard” risks to the insurance market
moderate amplitude, is largely based on self-insurance plans,
is applied to the traditional areas of insurance: the protection
either directly through deductibles and retentions or indirectly
of property (material damage and business interruption), the
4
through the use of captive tools.
protection of individuals (employee benefits), third party recourse
(civil liability) and the area of automobile insurance.
The protection of SUEZ assets follows generally accepted principles function of the nature of the equipment. In addition to the typical
for property damage and business interruption insurances and coverages for fire and explosion, generation facilities may subscribe
extends to assets owned and leased by, or entrusted to, SUEZ. risk extensions in the field of machinery breakdown according to
the nature of the equipment, for example gas turbines or boilers,
The facilities are covered by programs contracted by the operational
etc…
companies at the level of the Divisions and/or Business Units and/
or Entities. The nuclear plants operated by Electrabel in Doel and Tihange are
covered in material damage by the mutual insurance company,
The main programs provide for coverages based sometimes on
Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited, or NEIL/ONEIL.
total reported value but more often on maximum limits anyone loss
varying between €120,000,000 and close to US$2,000,000,000. Business interruption insurance is subscribed on a case-by-case
basis in function of the risk analysis performed at the appropriate
In order to cover their assets, the Environmental businesses favor
level, which may be the production unit itself or set of units
a layered solution in two successive lines, one designed to cover
belonging to the same division of activities, located in the same
medium-size sites and another which is reserved for the most
geographic zone.
important operating sites.
Construction projects are covered by “Erection All Risks” programs,
The Energy businesses, whose generation centers constitute
subscribed to by the project owner, project manager or lead
a major asset, have opted for a regional approach, which takes
company.
advantage of the capacity available in markets specialized in
Employee Benefits
In accordance with legislation in effect and with business These programs may be financed by retention, depending on the
agreements, employee benefits programs covering against risk of capacity of the operational entity, or by transfer to the insurance
accidents and medical expenses are developed at the level of the market.
operational entities.
Civil liability
We subscribe civil liability insurance under the following inspired by the desire to provide compensation to victims and to
categories: encourage solidarity among European countries.
In fiscal year 2006, the international political context remained December 12, 2005, and its implementing decree of February 23,
highly volatile and tense. Various countries in North Africa and the 2006. This law requires operators of vital infrastructures to
Middle East, as well as Southeast Asia, again suffered particularly participate in the fight against terrorism. In addition, the French
violent acts of terrorism. At the same time, Europe also continued Financial Security Act requires the same sectors (energy and
to suffer from the effects of Western intervention in Iraq, and has water) to prepare backup plans for vulnerable businesses to make
been threatened by terrorist attacks (as in London, for example), it possible for them to continue operation of a facility, even if such
most of which have been thwarted by to the intervention of and operation is “diminished” after a disaster.
exchanges among intelligence services.
Finally, court recognition and sanction of a “safety of result”
The Israeli intervention in Lebanon in July 2006 resulted in a very obligation in favor of the victims of an attack was recently applied
large scale evacuation operation of the populations threatened, by the courts to a workplace accident. This type of event is no
including French nationals. longer considered in and of itself as an event of force majeure that
exonerates the employer from liability when the employer knows
At the same time, the legal framework has also evolved toward
(or should know) the type of threat to which its employees are
greater rigor and is now characterized by the emergence of new
provisions recorded in the French Defense Code with the Law of
exposed in a high-risk zone, and if it does not adopt adequate zones and alerts directed to the appropriate entities is included in
prevention measures. this program.
4
currently under construction).
Employee security Given the reform of the French Defense Code, SGSN has developed
a methodology to analyze vulnerabilities and protect sensitive sites.
There should be coordination and centralization of security
This methodology is currently being deployed in the operational
measures for expatriate employees of the Group, to deal with the
units located in France, but it will become the reference standard
emergence of threats of all types to which they may be exposed.
for the SUEZ Group worldwide.
This mission also includes monitoring practices for sending
Finally, the operating subsidiaries have been made aware of the
employees on business trips and preventive measures
importance of developing operational continuity plans to deal with
to be implemented in the event of potentially dangerous
the occurrence of unconventional situations such as, for example,
demonstrations.
the conditions that would result from a global flu pandemic.
To accomplish this mission, SGSN may rely on outside service
providers who are specialized in the area of health as well as
security, and it has also created close ties with the appropriate Crisis management
government departments, particularly those of the Ministries for
Foreign Affairs and Defense. The SGSN may also be configured as a crisis unit. In this case,
it would receive the support of the Communications and Human
It was in this capacity that SGSN served as the general coordinator Resources Departments and help from specialized outside service
for the evacuation of our employees working in Lebanon during the providers.
conflict with Israel.
The crisis unit would take action primarily in the event of an attack
Finally, and for preventive reasons, a permanent “country watch on individuals or assets, and in the event of natural, industrial, and
list” has been instituted with the establishment of an Intranet site even political, catastrophic events.
specifically dedicated to traveling employees. A classification of risk
5
5.1 History and growth of the company
SUEZ.
5.1.2 Registration
5.1.3 Incorporation
The Company was incorporated on February 23, 1880, and extended in 1941 for a period of 99 years. The term of the Company will end on
December 31, 2040 unless wound-up or extended.
History of the creation of SUEZ In accordance with announcements made in 1997 at the time of the
merger, SUEZ gradually ceased to be a conglomerate, becoming
SUEZ is the result of a merger between Compagnie de SUEZ and an international industrial and services group. Today, SUEZ
Lyonnaise des Eaux, which took place in June 1997. At the time, designs sustainable and innovative solutions for the management
Compagnie de SUEZ, which had built and operated the SUEZ of public utilities as a partner of public authorities, businesses and
Canal until it was nationalized by the Egyptian government in 1956, individuals. It sees its mission as responding to essential needs in
was still a holding company with diversified equity investments electricity, gas, energy services, water and waste management.
in Belgium and France, mainly in the financial services and
Please refer to Section 6.1.1.3 below for the significant events of
energy sectors. Lyonnaise des Eaux was a diversified company
2006.
involved in water and waste management and treatment as well as
construction, communications and the management of technical
facilities.
5.2 Investments
In 2007, investment outlays are estimated at €3.4 billion in the In the environment sector, the major investments underway are in
energy business and €1.1 billion in the environment business. Europe and the United States.
6 Overview of activities
6.1.1.1 Description of Group activities In both its energy and environment sectors of activity, SUEZ holds
first tier market positions:
SUEZ provides services that respond to the basic needs of its
• in the Energy sector, SUEZ is a major participant, with a
diverse customer base.
reputation for expertise in various segments of the value chain,
SUEZ responds to the needs of local municipalities, consumers from electricity generation to energy trading and support
and businesses that are facing new demands due to population activities, transport and marketing of electricity and natural gas,
growth, urbanization, improved standards of living, and management of transport and distribution networks, services
environmental protection. The Group’s subsidiaries respond to including construction and operation on the sites of cogeneration
this challenge every day at the local level, with partnerships based units, technical management of facilities owned by customers,
on performance, innovation, and the exchange of ideas. Their optimization of systems, and engineering activities;
technical and managerial expertise enables them to control energy
• in the Environment sector, SUEZ is a major participant in water-
consumption, limit the release of greenhouse gases, preserve
related services. It designs and manages the production and
natural resources, and give access to sanitation services, while
distribution of systems for drinking water and the treatment
providing strict control of risks that could affect the health and
of wastewater, performs engineering activities, and supplies
safety of local populations.
industrial companies with a wide range of services. SUEZ is
SUEZ has a special talent for conceiving, designing, implementing, also a world-class player in waste management for municipal
and managing systems and networks in each of its businesses customers and businesses. Its capabilities cover the entire value
that best meet the needs of its customers: businesses, local chain: collection, sorting and recycling, incineration, landfill
governments, and individuals. SUEZ strives to bring them the – and the majority of categories of waste, both hazardous and
innovative and customized solutions they expect. non-hazardous.
As a result, the Group’s growth depends on a diversified offering SUEZ believes that its diversified customer base constitutes the
of services that is based on the Group’s wide-ranging expertise, basis for ongoing business with a potential for organic growth
its long experience and many satisfied customers, a financial and greater than that of the GDP.
geographic flexibility that provides dependable cash flows, and
lastly on its international network.
SUEZ provides services to two main customer segments: • a wide range of specialized services, which include the treatment
of hazardous industrial waste, the design and supply of water
treatment, electrical, and mechanical facilities, and HVAC
Municipalities and individual customers expertise;
Changes in public policies, national regulations, and increasing
urbanization are determining factors for the market potential for • management services for industrial, commercial, and service
the Group over the long term. facilities, ranging from maintenance to complex outsourcing
activities.
Demands from the private sector are growing as markets
deregulate, public authorities become aware of the limitations of SUEZ believes that the market for providing services to businesses
their resources and specialized knowledge, and environmental will continue to grow in the coming years; the rate of this growth
regulations regarding water and waste services become stronger. will be correlated with the soundness of national economies. The
These demands on the private sector may take the form of development of activities that businesses delegate to their service
privatizations, concessions, or operating and maintenance providers shows several strong, marked trends:
contracts. The same situation holds true for many communities and • the increasing trend from simple services (maintenance) to
international institutions that are striving for greater efficiency, in more complex services (facilities management, complete waste
the form of prices more in tune with economic realities, a superior management);
level of service, and an increase in the population served.
• the SUEZ Energy Services (SES) division handles all SUEZ multi-
Business customer base technical services activities;
Customers in the industrial and service sectors often seek • the SUEZ Environment division incorporates all Group activities
customized solutions, which the Group is well equipped to offer in in Water and Waste Management.
its areas of specialization.
See also Section 25, which presents a list of the principal
SUEZ offers all of the following: companies in each operational division.
Energy environment
6.1.1.3 The year 2006 was marked by • SUEZ Energy International also recorded dynamic, across-the-
board growth in all its business areas, with revenues increasing
6
continuing implementation of the organically by 11.4%. In North America, growth was mainly
Group’s profitable development driven by the commercial successes of industrial and commercial
strategy and preparation for the clients and the significant improvement of the price environment
for “merchant” power plants in Texas. In the Asia/Middle East
merger with Gaz de France region, the good performance of electricity prices, which was
driven by high gas prices, fueled the significant rise in sales in
In 2003, an action plan announced by the Group in January 2003
Thailand and Turkey. Sales surged as well in South America,
was implemented, which targeted the improvement and stability
particularly in Brazil. The increase was mainly driven by the
of Group profitability as well as the strengthening of its financial
replacement of the last batch of initial contracts with new bilateral
condition. At year-end 2003, performance was in line with all the
contracts with distributors and industrial clients.
objectives of the action plan, including debt reduction and cost-
cutting (Optimax program) and a reduction of SUEZ’s exposure in • SUEZ Energy Services also recorded 5.1% organic growth in its
emerging countries. revenues. Growth was particularly buoyant in the installation and
maintenance professions in France. Services in France recorded
In 2004, we refocused the Group on its two sectors of activity
4% organic growth due to commercial developments and
– Energy and the Environment – and launched the implementation
additional works. In the rest of Europe, SUEZ Energy Services
of a profitable organic growth strategy based on these two core
recorded across-the-board growth for its activities, in particular
activities.
heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning.
In 2005, we continued the integration of SUEZ through the success
• SUEZ Environment also performed extremely well, with organic
of the combined public offer launched on its Electrabel subsidiary
growth of 6.5% for its revenues. Growth was particularly strong
on August 9. As a result of this transaction, SUEZ owns 98.62%
in Water Europe activities with the remarkable results of Agbar,
of Electrabel’s share capital.
especially in its water and sanitation activities, and Lyonnaise des
In 2006, SUEZ continued to deploy its profitable organic Eaux France, due to the signature of new sanitation and works
development strategy throughout all its activities. services agreements. Waste Europe recorded growth in France
due to the increase in processed volumes (incineration, sorting,
• SUEZ Energy Europe continued its European commercial
landfilling). Waste Management in Germany and Central Europe
deployment, with a 10.4% organic increase in its revenues2. This
also recorded a sharp increase following the commissioning
growth reflects both growth in volume and an increase of
of new waste treatment plants in the second half of 2005.
electricity market prices, which are also strongly influenced by
In the United Kingdom, organic growth can be explained for
the trend of fossil-fuel prices. Although the volume of electricity
the most part by a favorable price environment on a market
sales shrank in Belgium (-2.4%), they rose in the Netherlands,
where the Group’s successful expansion is based on Private
thanks primarily to the acquisition of Rendo and Cogas, and,
Finance Initiative (PFI) contracts. Degrémont’s performance
more generally, on non-Benelux markets due to successful
was leveraged by the large international contracts won by the
commercial initiatives. In addition, Electrabel continued to
Group (Perth, Australia; Halifax, Canada; contracts in Algeria
expand its production capacity mainly through the commissioning
and Mexico). Degrémont also won new contracts in 2006 and
of the 758-megawatt high-speed train (TGV) power plant in
Castelnou in Spain. 2. With the same group structure and using the same accounting
methods and exchange rates, excluding energy trading and
fluctuations in gas prices.
affirmed its leadership in the Re-Use fields (Lusail, Qatar; Doha) • reduction of its ownership interest in Fluxys SA (owner of
and desalination (Barcelona; Barka, Oman). International transmission/storage installations in Belgium and, via its
recorded significant organic growth, which stemmed primarily subsidiary Fluxys LNG, the LNG terminal in Zeebrugge) to 45%
from a greater number of water and sanitation contracts in and loss of control of this company. Management autonomy will
China, increasing prices and volumes in Morocco, contracts also be reinforced by additional governance measures. At the
going into effect in Algiers, and the development of industrial same time, the new group will have a 60% ownership share in
and commercial waste collection activities in Australia. the Zeebrugge terminal, one of the largest terminals in Europe,
through the creation of a company called Fluxys International,
2006 was also marked by the preparation of the merger between
which will own the LNG terminal and manage the hub and other
SUEZ and Gaz de France which was approved, in principle, by the
assets outside Belgium.
SUEZ Board of Directors on February 25, 2006, and by the Gaz de
France Board of Directors on February 26, 2006. In addition, if the merger is completed, SUEZ and Gaz de France
have made the following promises to the European Commission
This project is a natural extension of existing cooperation between
concerning infrastructures and heating networks:
the two groups and the fruit of talks that have been taking place
since the end of 2005. • measures to facilitate access to the Zeebrugge hub; promise to
launch open season market surveys by the end of 2007 for the
The projected transaction is taking place in a climate of radical,
second extension of the Zeebrugge LNG terminal and increase
fast-paced changes to the energy sector in Europe. It corresponds
6 completely to the strategic ambitions of the two groups and allows
them to develop at an even faster pace. The projected merger
North-South transit capacity through Belgium, new storage
capacities; improvement of transparency rules on the Belgian
market;
is unrivalled in terms of complementary expertise, skilled human
resources, and assets and will make the new group a global leader • transfer of Distrigaz & Co. (which sells transit capacities on the
in energy and the environment. Troll and RtR lines) to Fluxys, in accordance with the agreement
signed with Publigaz; application in Belgium of the code of
Numerous major internal works were carried out between the SUEZ
conduct to new transit agreements;
and Gaz de France teams in 2006 on various construction sites
that had to do with the merger process and the future integration • transfer of the Gaz de France ownership interests (25%) in
of the two groups. These works helped to hone the assessment of Segeo (which owns a gas pipeline in Belgium that runs from the
the synergies arising from the merger, which were announced on Netherlands to France) to Fluxys;
May 4, 2006. They also helped to define the industrial organization
• significant increase of storage capacities in France by Gaz
of the future group, which was introduced to the market on
de France to accommodate upcoming market increases and
October 30, 2006.
significant growth in the unloading and regasification capacities
Furthermore, in 2006, several significant obstacles to the merger of the Montoir terminal in Brittany, whose current capacity of 8
were overcome. billion cubic meters will be increased to 12 billion cubic meters
in the medium term, then to 16 billion cubic meters;
At the EU level, Gaz de France and SUEZ jointly notified the
European Commission of the transaction on May 10, 2006. • spinning-off of management activities for the methane terminals
At the end of a so-called “Phase II” survey, the European in France, according to the model adopted in 2005 for the
Commission declared on November 14, 2006, that the transaction transmission network (GRTgaz) and, in the near future, the
was compatible with the common market and authorized its distribution network (GRD) in expectation of the complete
completion. opening of the market in 2007. Furthermore, Gaz de France
has already spun off the Fos Cavaou terminal;
In this context, if the merger is completed, SUEZ and Gaz de France
made the following promises to the European Commission: • improvement of corrective mechanisms with regard to delivery on
the GRTgaz transmission network and measures to strengthen
• sale of the 25.5% ownership interest held by Gaz de France
storage transparency in France;
in SPE;
• disposal of the Cofathec Services heating networks and disposal
• sale of the ownership interest held by SUEZ in its subsidiary
of Cofathec Coriance (a subsidiary that handles the management
Distrigaz. Subject to the agreement of producers, however,
of public service delegation contracts for heating networks for
Distrigaz supply contracts for a volume of 20 TWh may be
local governments), excluding its activities in cold networks.
transferred to the group which will result from the merger between
SUEZ and Gaz de France. In addition, prior to the disposal of its On March 9, 2006, the Belgian government gave its approval to the
ownership interest in Distrigaz, a supply contract for a volume of planned merger between SUEZ and Gaz de France and restated its
50 TWh will be signed between Distrigaz and the new group for commitment to improving the operation of the Belgian electricity
the supply of Electrabel. These various arrangements will help generation market. As part of this commitment, it expressed a
to secure gas volumes for supplies to customers and Electrabel desire that additional measures be added to the agreement that
power stations; was signed with the group in the fall of 2005 (the so-called “Pax
Electrica” agreement). In that agreement, the Group made the
following promises in anticipation of the merger between SUEZ upheld the constitutionality of the privatization of Gaz de France
and Gaz de France: but added an interpretative proviso to its approval that postponed
the possibility of an actual transfer of Gaz de France to the private
• the Group agreed to sign with SPE an agreement increasing
sector to July 1, 2007. Pursuant to the decision, it is only on this
its share by up to 250 MW in the existing nuclear facilities of
date that Gaz de France will no longer be the exclusive supplier
Doel 3 and 4 and Tihange 2 and 3 that are jointly owned by
of natural gas to individual clients and therefore lose its status as
Electrabel and the SPE. It also agreed to sign long-term sales
a national public utility due to the complete liberalization of the
agreements with SPE for 285 MW that may be converted into
energy markets.
joint ownership at maturity. These agreements will take place at
generally competitive and stable economic terms. Additionally, This deviation from the original calendar does not mean that the
there will be an exchange of the 100 MW held by the SPE in the two companies do not wish to successfully complete their merger,
Chooz B power plant for 100 MW in Doel 3 and 4 and Tihange 2 which will respect the interests of all participants, as quickly as
and 3, for a resulting increase of the Group’s nuclear power in possible. On December 8 and December 20, 2006, respectively,
France to 1,200 MW; the SUEZ and Gaz de France Boards of Directors reaffirmed that
the proposed merger was still most relevant to the future of the
• in accordance with the Group’s promises and in the context of
two groups. This working assumption was adopted by the two
the government’s objectives, the Group will continue to examine
compagnies in the perspective of holding two general shareholders’
the possibilities of asset exchanges with other market participants
meetings relating to the merger on June 21, 2007 for SUEZ and
based on negotiated and stable terms during the first half of
2007. This position is part of the Group’s strategy and will help
June 25, 2007 for Gaz de France. 6
to boost its development in Europe, without challenging its overall
production capacity and long-term profitability;
6.1.1.4 Strategic priorities for 2007
• in the wake of what has been observed on other European
markets, during the period for implementing the aforementioned The Group has excellent industrial prospects.
measures, the Group planned not to increase electricity rates SUEZ’s competitive position in its business segments, its
for its residential customers, except in the event of exceptional experience, and its technological leadership are strong drivers for
circumstances. The Group will contribute to ensuring secure future growth in changing markets (particularly with concentration
supply sources for the country through an investment plan and among major operators, regulation mechanisms in energy markets,
will continue its efforts to offer competitive prices. In addition, and new water treatment technologies).
it will develop long-term contract proposals for large industrial
consumers; Against this background, SUEZ will pursue the efforts already
underway to improve operating profitability and cash flow
• following the government’s intervention in the recent generation in all its businesses and increase its investment in
developments in household energy expenses, the Group industrial growth. Excluding major acquisitions, investments
confirmed its previous agreement in principle to support a single will rise to 15 billion euros over the period 2007-2009 period,
contribution €100 million; compared to 10.2 billion euros in the 2006-2006 period, excluding
• the government confirms the importance of maintaining a OPM Electrabel. Investments will be carried out while maintaining
sustainable relationship with the sector via adequate cooperation the Group’s financial disciplines (maintaining its A rating in the
mechanisms that will thus guarantee the overall stability of the medium term and observing its investment criteria).
regulatory framework applicable to the sector; In particular, the Group’s objective is to raise its worldwide electrical
• measures will be prepared to strengthen the Belgian government’s production capacity to 75,000 MW by 2012, and more specifically
control over the availability of nuclear provisions that will favor to augment its nuclear production capacity by building new plants
their allocation to investments in Belgium and not challenge the in Europe based on the expectations of national authorities. For the
existing rules regarding the rights and duties of nuclear operators. 2015-2020 period, the objective is to own and operate new third
A legal structure in which the Belgian State and Synatom act as generation nuclear plants. SUEZ will also pursue development in gas
partners will be developed to take over the current tasks of the and liquefied natural gas (LNG), capitalizing on its currently strong
Monitoring Committee. positions. In environment, the Group aims for dynamic growth with
internally financed and profitable revenue growth between 6% and
On November 8, 2006, the French Parliament passed a law to 10% per annum for the 2007-2009 period. Finally, SUEZ intends
allow the privatization of Gaz de France, which constituted an to seize the opportunities for growth provided in the field of energy
essential prerequisite to the merger due to the mechanical dilution services, while positioning SUEZ Energy Services among the most
of the French Government’s ownership share. profitable players in this sector.
This law was submitted to the Constitutional Council on November With these priorities in mind, the principal development strategies
13, 2006, due primarily to the fact that, since Gaz de France for the various branches are as follows:
combined the attributes of a de facto monopoly and a national
public utility, its privatization did not comply with the French
constitution. In its decision of November 30, 2006, the Council
SUEZ Energy Services On March 19, 2007 the Electrabel Board of Directors gave an
unanimously positive adivice on SUEZ’ squeeze-out bid.
• SUEZ intends to reinforce its European leadership position in
multi-technical services by pursuing growth in domestic markets In addition, SUEZ’s Board of Directors announced that it plans for
(France, Benelux) together with dynamic growth in neighboring SUEZ to sell its equity stake in Suez-Tractebel to Electrabel. This
countries, seizing opportunities offered by high-growth sectors proposal will be submitted to the Boards of Directors of Electrabel
(particularly in energy efficiency, health, transport and mobility, and SUEZ at a later date. The principal operating entities of Suez
outsourcing and nuclear) and marketing and technical synergies Tractebel are Suez Energy International, the consulting firm
with the other SUEZ business lines. Tractebel Engineering, and the equity stakes in Distrigaz (57.24%)
and Fluxys (57.25%).
This growth will occur in accordance with the SUEZ’s goal to attain
top levels of profitability in the sector.
SUEZ’s activities in the energy sector encompass the whole value International, and SUEZ Energy Services to develop tailor-made
chain (apart from gas exploration and production). Such diversity solutions corresponding to the many requirements of companies
makes it possible for Electrabel, Distrigaz, Fluxys, SUEZ Energy and local communities.
the Middle East, and Asia. The Group’s capacity, both installed
and under construction, at December 31, 2006, was 59,099 MW3 5000
(excluding development).
4000
Installed capacity and capacity under construction
5 062
3000
2000
Rest of world South America
20 % 16 %
1000
1 598
North America 746
9% 0 444 413
Belgium Europe - North South Rest
Europe - excluding America America of world
Belgium excluding Belgium Belgium
23 % 32 %
3. MW is always an expression of net power unless otherwise specified: 4. The projects under construction are the projects approved by SUEZ
gross power less self-consumption by the plant itself. Installed which the company is contractually bound to build. They are different
capacity corresponds to 100% of the power of the plants included from projects under development, as the latter are identified projects
within the scope of consolidation (equity affiliates and companies that and under study, but have not been approved.
are proportionately or fully consolidated).
prices (including fuel purchases and electricity sales), is directly For electricity and gas activities in Europe, the major companies
dependent on the company’s assets. Its purpose is to optimize the that comprise SEE are the following:
operating results of these facilities so that the margin on electricity
• Electrabel (98.62% ownership as at December 31, 2006),
sale agreements signed with final customers is guaranteed.
European provider of global and customized energy solutions
SUEZ Energy International manages its trading activities in the USA (production, trading, sales, distribution networks);
through SUEZ Energy Marketing NA, while Electrabel and Distrigaz
• Distrigaz and Fluxys, derived from the split of activities from the
assume this function in Europe for SUEZ Energy Europe (SEE).
former Distrigaz between the trading and transmission of gas.
The Group’s presence on the electricity and natural gas markets
At December 31, 2006 the Group’s ownership share is:
and in services is covered by three operating divisions:
• 57.24% in Distrigaz;
SUEZ Energy Europe
Development of the Group’s electricity and gas activities in Europe • 57.25% in Fluxys.
is entrusted to the SUEZ Energy Europe (SEE) division. Its purpose Electrabel, Distrigaz, and Fluxys are listed on Euronext Brussels.
is to maximize all synergies present within it to the benefit of its
customers.
Strategy, Communication,
Administration
Finance
On September 8, 2006, the Group and Publigaz (the other stable interest in Fluxys capital to 51.00% and raise Publigaz’s holding
shareholder in Fluxys and Distrigaz) signed a protocol of intent to to 37.50%.
submit to the Fluxys and Distrigaz Boards of Directors the transfer
• SUEZ-TRACTEBEL will buy 4.6% of Distrigaz capital from
by the latter of its natural gas transit activities to Fluxys. In both
Publigaz for a price of €3,739 per share and an amount of
respective Boards, this transaction will be subject to the procedure
€178.50 per share in consideration of the estimated gross
for intra-group transactions (Article 524 of the Belgian Code des
dividend for fiscal year 2006, which amounts to €126.64 million.
Sociétés (Companies’ Code)). Subject to the successful completion
This acquisition will raise the SUEZ-TRACTEBEL ownership of
of this transaction:
Distrigaz capital to 61.84% and reduce Publigaz’s to 26.65%.
• Publigaz will acquire a 6.25% stake in the capital of Fluxys
This transaction does not involve any change in the controlling
from SUEZ-TRACTEBEL for a price of €2,830 per share
interest of the companies concerned.
and an amount of €53.80 per share in consideration of the
estimated gross dividend for fiscal year 2006, which amounts to The memorandum of agreement of September 8, 2006, is an
€126.64 million. This disposal will reduce SUEZ-TRACTEBEL’s expression of the Group’s desire to continue in constructive
dialogue with the authorities as regards the gas sector in Belgium. The four regions are as follows:
It is an extension of the promises made by the SUEZ Group to the
• North America, where SUEZ Energy North America, a wholly-
Belgian Government as part of the “Pax Electrica” of 2005 on the
owned subsidiary of SEI based in Houston, manages all the
occasion of the takeover bid launched by SUEZ on Electrabel.
Group’s electricity and gas activities in the United States, Canada,
Altogether, SEE activities represent approximately €15.97 billion of and Mexico, including LNG Regasification facilities;
revenues in 2006 for a total workforce of 12,770 people.
• South America, where SUEZ Energy South America, a wholly-
SUEZ Energy International owned subsidiary of SEI based in Florianopolis (Brazil) manages
SUEZ Energy International (SEI) is responsible for the Group’s all of the Group’s electricity and gas activities in Brazil, Chili,
energy activities and services in markets outside of the European Peru, and Argentina;
Union. Electricity and natural gas are the core businesses of SEI. • Middle East – Asia, where SUEZ Energy Asia, a wholly-owned
This covers electricity production, and the trading, marketing, and subsidiary of SEI based in Bangkok, manages all of the Group’s
sale of energy, as well as the management of liquefied natural gas electricity, gas, and sea water desalination activities in Thailand,
(LNG), gas transmission and distribution networks. Laos, Turkey, and in countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council;
SEI is organized into four regional entities that are coordinated by • LNG, a sector in which SUEZ Global LNG, a wholly-owned
a central organization located in Brussels. subsidiary of SEI based in London and Luxembourg, is responsible
for LNG activities, supply, coordination of transmission, and
the management of ownership shares in liquefaction projects 6
worldwide.
SUEZ Energy SUEZ Energy SUEZ Energy Middle SUEZ GLOBAL LNG
North America South America East-Asia & Africa
Altogether, SEI activities represented nearly €6.24 billion of revenues in 2006 for a total workforce of 3,893 people.
SUEZ Energy Services of white certificates or energy-saving certificates throughout the EU,
A European leader in multi-technical services, SUEZ Energy which already existed in Italy, the United Kingdom, and France,
Services offers its industrial and service segment, local government, and the European directive regarding energy efficiency, which is
public administration, and infrastructure customers global particularly ambitious with regard to energy savings that are to be
solutions that include the design, development, and maintenance made by 2015. In this context, it is vital to choose a partner such
of equipment energy and utilities management, and long-term as SES which has the capacity to take charge of the entire issue
multi-technical management. With a presence on all parts of the and propose an offer sized to the specific needs of clients.
value chain of technical services, SUEZ Energy Services places its The SES offering may include techniques such as cogeneration
multiple skills at the disposal of its clients and accompanies them that have a high energy return, and it may also include the use of
throughout the life cycle of their installations and their sites. The renewable energy such as biomass, geothermal energy, or solar
services provided by SUEZ Energy Services enables its customers energy.
to optimize their assets, better manage their costs, and focus on
their core businesses. In addition, SES companies are ideally placed, in terms of technical
expertise, project management, contract relations, and geographic
Comprehensive solutions throughout the life cycle of our
networking to meet the major challenges faced by several industrial
customers’ facilities and sites
and service sector customers:
BU Electricity and
Gas Compagnies
ENERGY
SERVICES
BU Tractebel
Engineering
The organizational structure chosen is, for the most part, It has 65,044 employees in more than 22 countries, most of which
geographical and takes into account the proximity of the service are in Europe, where the Division’s activities are conducted on no
activity. Each BU is placed under the authority of a single fewer than 800 sites.
manager who answers for its results directly to the division’s
general management. The division’s management is deliberately
decentralized to ensure that decisions are made as close to the
6.1.1.5.2 Strategy and commercial development
ground as possible. Commercial and technical cooperation between In Europe, SUEZ’s energy strategy focuses primarily on profitable
the SES entities and other SUEZ entities are encouraged in order to organic growth that depends on our strong domestic positioning
achieve optimal efficiency in terms of sales and costs. and targeted developments in electricity and gas.
SUEZ Energy Services offerings cover the whole value chain for On an international scale, SUEZ’s primary goal is to exploit its
technical services: industrial expertise and encourage dynamic expansion based on
its 5 key high-growth-potential positions (USA, Brazil, Thailand,
• engineering – design; the Gulf region, and LNG).
• development of electrical, mechanical, and environmental
engineering facilities; systems integration; large projects;
SUEZ Energy Europe
• Develop activities in France from positions acquired in electricity
• multi-technical management and industrial maintenance;
and gas that rely on SUEZ’s existing sites in the environment and
• management of energy systems and utilities on site; services businesses.
• facilities management. • Defend and consolidate its position as a leader in the Benelux
market.
In addition, the Electricity and Gas Companies specialize in the
production and distribution of electricity in Monaco, Casablanca, • Ensure stable growth in the markets of historic operators (France,
Morocco and in the Pacific (New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Germany, Italy, Iberian Peninsula).
Vanuatu, Wallis and Futuna). They are also partners in the
• Develop growth portfolio in “Central”, Eastern, and Southeastern
development of these territories because they provide international
Europe.
quality services and the support of a major Group.
6
Electrabel gave an AlpEnergy certificate to its “green” clients to
begun to create bases for development in other countries, such as
thank them for their commitment and trust. The company signs an
Portugal and Greece, as well as Central Europe.
agreement with Whirlpool. The two companies merge their public
In this context, the strategic priorities of SUEZ Energy Services relations efforts to boost the image of AlpEnergy and Electrabel.
are as follows:
February-October 2006
• continue to improve profitability of SUEZ Energy Services by Belgium – Portugal
streamlining the current activities portfolio, harnessing internal Electrabel strengthens its wind power capacities with farms in
synergies, and developing cross-functional offerings; Belgium (Gembloux 3 MW) and Portugal (Caramulo 84 MW).
• strengthen its position as European leader in multi-technical March 2006
services by emphasizing sales dynamics and the development
Belgium
of innovative offerings: energy and environmental efficiency,
The Electrabel Board of Directors gives its approval to the creation
Public-Private Partnerships, new services, etc;
of a networks operator in Brussels, Brussels Network Operations.
• strengthen the Services component in management and The new company will combine the activities of Electrabel Netten
maintenance businesses and focus on the high-value-added Réseaux Bruxelles, Sibelga departments, and its subsidiary Sibelga
segments of facilities businesses, which will require a systems Operations. The operator is in charge of operating the Brussels
integration capacity or knowledge in facilities engineering; networks.
• implement profitable growth drivers: targeted acquisitions, Electrabel launched a new campaign aimed at promoting the
development in new geographical areas, or new activities. sensible use of energy by the population. The company also
encourages its associates to adopt good habits with regard to the
sensible use of energy.
6.1.1.5.3 Energy– 2006 month-by-month highlights
Launch of the new Distrigaz website. This is a more commercial
SUEZ Energy Europe site which presents a detailed overview of offerings to current
January-December 2006 and prospective customers. A secure extranet site allows them to
Belgium access information (tracking consumption, invoices, information
Electrabel prepares for the total opening of the energy markets in on market trends, etc.) online.
the Brussels and Wallonia regions scheduled for January 1, 2007. Netherlands
It establishes the WaLiBru program, which focuses on changes Distrigaz signs a third supply contract with a manufacturer located
in processes and IT systems, various marketing aspects such as in the southwestern part of the Netherlands.
campaigns and offerings, and regulatory matters.
France
Belgium-France In France, Distrigaz crosses the milestone of supplying
Electrabel proposes a more varied commercial offering to its 100 industrial sites.
customers. Electrabel Professional, Electrabel Partner, and
Electrabel Expert are new customized energy solutions for business April 2006
owners in Belgium, where it also begins to market the green Belgium
products Optivert and AlpEnergy. In France, the company develops Eandis, the new sole distribution operator in Flanders, becomes
the product ActivEnergy for professional users. operational. Electrabel contributes all the assets of its subsidiary
Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen to it. In addition, pursuant to the
implementation of prior agreements, Electrabel reduces its is the first concrete stage in the development of Electrabel’s wind
ownership share in Flemish inter-municipal distribution companies energy capacities in the country.
to 30%.
July 2006
Spain Belgium
Electrabel’s production activity takes off. The Castelnou high-speed Distrigaz places part of its contracted regasification capacity at
train (760 MW) produces its first megawatt hours, and the company the Zeebrugge terminal at the disposal of other LNG importers.
receives administrative authorization to build a TGV of 1,200 MW Two shipments in addition to the volumes imported on behalf of
in Morata in Tajuña. Service is scheduled to begin in 2009. Distrigaz were unloaded, regasified, and shipped to the market.
May 2006 Distrigaz signs an agreement for the delivery of 7 LNG cargos to
Belgium Zeebrugge during the winter with the supplier RasGas (Qatar).
Electrabel signs an agreement with Volvo Europa Trucks to share
Netherlands
its expertise as part of the construction of a CO2-free plant, which
Electrabel enters the residential market. The company acquires
is part of the truck manufacturer’s sensible energy use policy.
the activities of Rendo Energy and Cogas Energy. Since this fall, it
June 2006 provides electricity and natural gas to 400,000 customers.
Belgium
July-November 2006
6
The World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) carries out a
Italy
Peer Review at the Doel nuclear power plant. An international team
AceaElectrabel and the intercommunal company Consiage create
comprised of experts from various nuclear plants evaluates the
a joint-venture in Italy. Elettria sells electricity to professional
power plant’s performance with regard to organizational structure,
customers and, starting July 2007, to residential customers as
operation, maintenance, protection against radiation, etc.
well. An agreement with the intercommunal companies AMGAS
Electrabel presents its 2006-2010 Nuclear Safety Global Plan. Bari and AMET Trani leads to the creation of Elga Sud, which will
This plan includes medium-term goals in different fields, such as supply electricity and gas starting in early 2007.
training and qualification, operation, maintenance, management,
August 2006
and emergency planning.
Belgium
Fluxys decides to allocate more than €400 million to new Electrabel sells a site in Beringen to E.ON Kraftwerke. This
infrastructures in its budget. This money will extend underground transaction follows the agreements signed with the Belgian
storage capacity at the Loenhout facility in Northern Belgium federal government, the main purpose of which is to make unused
and increase East-West transmission capacity on the Zeebrugge- production sites available to other operators, for a total capacity of
Zelzate/Eynatten (RTR) axis. This increase will make it possible at least 1,500 MW.
to transport larger volumes of natural gas from both Eynatten and
Germany
Zelzate to the United Kingdom.
Distrigaz signs a third supply contract with a distribution company
Fluxys and Gazprom Export, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Gazprom, in Germany.
sign a Memorandum of Agreement to jointly investigate the
September 2006
possibilities for developing a new natural gas underground storage
facility in Poederlee. The site in question is located approximately Poland
18 kilometers as the crow flies from the underground storage Electrabel launches the Polish Power Index. On a daily basis, the
in Loenhout and belongs to the same underground geological company publishes the price at which it wishes to buy or sell blocks
structure. In December 2006, the Memorandum of Agreement of 5 MW of electricity on its website. This initiative improves the
was converted into agreements between Fluxys, Gazprom Export, liquidity and transparency of the Polish market.
and Gazprom Marketing & Trading, a wholly-owned subsidiary Belgium
of Gazprom Export. As these agreements have been signed, the Fluxys presents its new ZEE platform service. The service simplifies
feasibility studies will begin in 2007. physical access to the Zeebrugge Hub and offers shippers
maximum flexibility in moving gas from and to the Hub using the
Distrigaz buys 8 spot shiploads of LNG that come mainly from
Fluxys network. The ZEE platform service will strengthen the role of
Egypt and Qatar, thus illustrating its dynamic approach to liquefied
the entire Zeebrugge zone as a hub for gas flows in Northwestern
natural gas.
Europe, as simplified access to the Zeebrugge Hub and greater
Germany liquidity will help to enhance the appeal of this zone for new LNG
Distrigaz signs its first supply contracts in Germany with two local and gas transmission projects.
distribution companies (Stadtwerke).
October 2006
Italy
Belgium
AceaElectrabel acquires 51% of the Longano Eolica, which has
The Belgian government continues the discussions with
just begun construction of two wind energy farms (20 MW). This
Electrabel and SUEZ that began at the time of the takeover bid
in September 2005. The led to the promises made by the Group
in the context of the merger between SUEZ and Gaz de France. Netherlands/United Kingdom
These promises allow other operators to operate in the electricity Commissioning of the BBL underwater pipeline between Balgzand
production market in Belgium provide legal and regulatory stability (north of Amsterdam) and Bacton (on the British coast). The BBL
for the Group, and enable Electrabel to expand in Europe. pipeline is a joint venture between Gasunie (NL), Fluxys, and E.ON
Ruhrgas (D).
On October 1, the reverse flow capacity from the Interconnerctor to
the UK jumped from 16.5 bill. m3/year to 23.5 bill. m3/year.
SUEZ Energy International
Netherlands January 2006
The company completes the first stage in the construction of
Brazil
a coal/biomass power plant in the Maasvlakte industrial zone
Tractebel Energia was selected to participate in the ISE index.
in Rotterdam. It signs a Memorandum of Understanding with
This index comprises some of the most liquid shares, including
Europees Massagoed Overslagbedrijf that will form the basis of
28 companies traded on the Sao Paulo Stock Exchange that are
negotiations between the two parties. These negotiations are
widely recognized as being committed to social responsibility and
expected to result in the construction of an 800 MW facility, which
sustainable development.
is scheduled to open in 2011.
United States
Germany
Citizens Energy and Distrigas of Massachusetts continue their Heat
Electrabel and Vattenfall Europe Transmission sign an agreement
6
Assistance Program to help low-income Massachusetts natural gas
to connect a new 800 MW coal plant to be built in Brunsbüttel
consumers. The program was created for people who do not receive
to the high-tension network. This constitutes an important step
federal fuel assistance and struggle to pay their natural gas heating
towards a final decision concerning the investment
bills. The program is also for people who have used up their fuel
France assistance allowance from the government and require additional
Through the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône, a 49.9% Electrabel- assistance. Citizens Energy manages the program and Distrigas
owned subsidiary, Electrabel commissions its first wind energy farm finances it with part of the income from each LNG shipload that
at Fos-sur-Mer. The farm comprises four 2.5 MW turbines. It will arrives at its Everett (Massachusetts) import terminal for a total
be followed by the Beaucaire farm (11.5 MW). amount of one million dollars a year.
Brazil has submitted a plan regarding this matter to the Chilean Ministry
On April 23, the Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Executive for Mining and Energy.
Committee “registers” the biomass cogeneration plant in Lages
The plan advocates the installation of an LNG regasification
(State of Santa Catarina, Brazil) that is owned and operated by
terminal in the north of Chile to provide natural gas to the local
Tractebel Energia as a CDM project. Lages generates 28 MW of
power plants.
electricity and 25 tons of steam an hour. The facility will reduce
greenhouse gas emissions by 220,000 tons of CO2 equivalent It also includes the construction of two thermal production units
a year under normal operating conditions and will be assigned (Andino 1 and 2), with a net capacity of 200 MW each, capable of
220,000 certified emissions reduction credits a year over a period burning coal, petroleum coke, or a mixture of both. The first unit
of 10 years as a result. may be commissioned in 2011.
6
of the financial period in November 2004, and the first operational
September 2006
phase was completed at the end of April 2006.
LNG
Chile In late August 2006, an LNG tanker from Atlantic LNG, Trinidad
SUEZ Energy Andino announces the sale of its 19% ownership & Tobago, arrives in Japan and unloads 130,000 m3 of LNG for
share in the electricity production company Colbún. Half of the Osaka Gas (www.osakagas.co.jp). On its return trip, the LNG tanker
share was sold to the Angelini group at 82 Chilean pesos per loads cargo for Distrigaz (Zeebrugge) in Asia. To make these supply
share. trips, SUEZ Global LNG chartered a 137,000 m3 vessel for the
South Korea short term.
On May 25, SEI sells its entire ownership share (75%) in Hanjin October 2006
City Gas (HCG), the natural gas distribution company that operates Brazil
in the metropolitan districts in the Kyunggi province northeast of At the energy auction in Brazil on October 10, SUEZ Energy
Seoul. International sold 148 MW for a total of 2 billion euros. The sale
June 2006 covers a 30-year period of 30 years starting 2011. The power sold
Brazil will come from the hydroelectric power plant under construction
During the energy auction in Brazil on June 29, Tractebel Energia in São Salvador. The price obtained at the auction amounts to
successfully sells 493 MW of electricity for 6 billion euros. The 50 euros/MWh.
sale will occur over a 30-year period and takes effect in 2009. The São Salvador, the 241 MW hydroelectric power plant built by SEI
company sells 220 MW and 273 MW, which will be produced, in Brazil, is certified by Bureau Veritas (BVQI). Certification means
respectively, by the existing hydroelectrical power stations Itá and that the quality standards applied by SEI for socio-environmental
Cana Brava, at an average price of 46,67 euros/MWh, which is programs that are being implemented complies with Brazilian
greater than the average auction price. legislation and the standards used by the BNDES (Brazilian Bank
Tractebel Energia signs a power purchase agreement with Vega for Multilateral Development), the Inter-American Development
do Sul (Arcelor group). From September 2007 to December 2013, Bank, and the Ecuador principles, the financial industry benchmark
Tractebel Energia will supply up to 23 MW of power worth for assessing and managing social and environmental risk in
approximately USD 44 million to Arcelor. project financing.
conclude transactions quickly when market conditions are optimal. After receiving proposals from several international bidders,
This market allows SUEZ Global LNG and CNOOC to stabilize their Tractebel Energia signed an emissions reduction purchase
respective portfolios and meet the restrictions related to demand agreement on December 28. The agreement covers the sale of
and supply in their respective markets. 190,000 tons of CER (carbon credits) produced by the Lages
cogeneration unit to Chugoku Electric Power Company, a Japanese
November 2006
generation (12,000 MW installed) and distribution (7.7 million
United States
consumers) company.
SUEZ Energy Resources NA, the US retail energy sales subsidiary
belonging to SUEZ Energy North America, ranks as the third-largest Saudi Arabia
supplier of power to US commercial and industrial clients in terms SUEZ Energy International, in a consortium formed with Gulf
of size, according to the international consultant KEMA. Investment Corporation and Arabian Company for Water & Power
Projects, signs a BOOT (Build, Operate, Own, Transfer) contract
SUEZ LNG NA announces that its LNG tanker, the SUEZ MATTHEW,
for an independent water and electricity production project with
has loaded its 1000th cargo of LNG from the Trinidadian facility of
a capacity of 2,745 MW and 800,000 m3/day located at Jubail, in
Atlantic LNG. This event marks the 174th shipment made by the
the northeastern part of Saudi Arabia. The consortium will own
vessel with Atlantic LNG. SUEZ MATTHEW has handled a total of
60% of the project.
17.4% of all LNG shipments made from the site. The volume in
question is greater than the volume recorded by any other vessel United States
Chile
Neptune LNG, a subsidiary of SUEZ Energy North America,
announces that Governor Mitt Romney of Massachusetts, has
approved Neptune, its off-shore LNG terminal project located in
SUEZ and GasAtacama announce the signature of a Memorandum
Massachusetts Bay.
of Understanding to officialize their alliance as part of the design
and construction of a liquefied natural gas reception, storage, The governor’s approval allows the US Coast Guard and the
and regasification terminal. The terminal’s construction has been Maritime Administration (MARAD) to finalize the processing of
planned for Mejillones and is expected to provide a secure natural the Neptune deep-water port application. Neptune LNG expects
gas supply to all electricity producers and consumers in Northern that its project, which consists mainly of the construction of a gas
Chile. pipeline to the existing underwater gas line (HubLineSM), vessels
especially designed for this project, and a supply of LNG that will
December 2006 make it possible to serve the needs of customers in Massachusetts
Thailand and the rest of New England, will be fully operational by 2009.
Glow Energy, the largest private electricity producer in Thailand,
signs two major power-supply contracts for a term of 20 years SUEZ Energy Services
with petrochemicals companies that are subsidiaries of Siam The year 2006 was marked by commercial success stories for
Cement, which is based in the industrial zone of Map Ta SUEZ Energy Services. The contracts won by entities including
Phut. The agreements represent an approximate value of USD the Services and Energy Divisions were all part of the genuine
500-600 million. partnerships that we have with our customers. Furthermore, the
Peru backlog at the end of 2006 had a high number of installation
The President of Peru inaugurates the first Chilca facility (172 MW) activities compared to previous years.
of the new Enersur power plant, located in the outskirts of Lima. A
second facility is under construction and will raise the plant’s total France Energy Services BU
capacity to 344 MW. September 2006
Oman • The Elyo subsidiary Eseïs renewed its partnership with PSA
On December 11, 2006, SUEZ Energy International, which is part Peugeot Citroën until 2011. This contract, which represents
of a consortium made up of Mubadala Development and National revenues of 143 million euros, covers Facilities Management
Trading Company was selected for Barka 2 (an independent water services in the Paris Region sites.
and electricity generation project) in the Sultanate of Oman thanks December 2006
to the reverse osmosis technology used at Degrémont. The contract
• At the end of the call for bids launched by the French city
won by the consortium headed by SUEZ Energy International
of Besançon the Elyo subsidiary SECIP renewed its private
includes the construction and operation of a 678-MW electric
operator agreement for the city’s heating for a period of 12 years.
power plant, a sea water desalination facility with a capacity of
This contract represents revenues of 90 million euros. The
120,000 m3/day, and the purchase of an existing 665-MW (Al-
150,000 MWh of heat, which are distributed over a 30-km
Rusail Power Company) power plant from Electricity Holding
network, are produced from a mix of energy that is interesting in
Company, which is owned by the government of Oman.
terms of both economic and environmental concerns, including
Brazil energy recovered by the household waste incineration plant and
The Brazilian environment institute IBAMA grants a facilities license also a wood heater.
to the Estreito hydroelectric power plant (1, 086 MW).
6
that will mainly deal with the separation between network activities
May 2006
and competitive activities, powers of regulators, and coordination
• EEC and the City of Bourail (New Caledonia) renewed the
between GRTs. These proposals are part of a series of measures
concession agreement for the distribution of electrical power
which comprise the “the energy package“5. Chief among these
for a period of 20 years and an amount of 88 million euros. The
priorities are the fight against climate change and the completion
first power distribution concession contract had been signed on
of the domestic energy market. This ambitious agenda will be
September 20, 1976.
presented at the spring 2007 European Council meeting, which is
expected to adopt an action plan with regard to European energy
Post-balance-sheet events
policy. Concrete legislative proposals are expected in the 2nd half
February 2007 of 2007.
Peru/Panama
• In February 2007, SUEZ Energy International acquired a Finally, it is the duty of the Member states who have not yet
majority shareholding of 51%, which was previously held by opened their gas and electricity markets (i.e., France, and Italy
the British company Ashmore Group, in the largest thermal for electricity) to ensure that by July 1, 2007, their markets are
energy production complex in Panama (Bahia Las Minas Corp., completely liberalized.
280 MW). The transaction involves the total transfer of Cálidda, a Regarding CO2, pursuant to the Directive establishing a greenhouse
SUEZ natural gas distribution company based in Lima and Callao gas emission quota exchange system in 2006, EU member states
(Peru), to Ashmore Group and its Promigas subsidiary. submitted their national quota allocation plans for the period 2008-
On March 29, 2007 2012 to the European Commission.
announced that the Neptune Offshore LNG facility has received In Belgium, the existing institutional framework had already
its Deepwater Port License. Neptune is the first offshore LNG anticipated most of the measures repeated in the 2003 directives.
project on the United States’ East Cost to reach this milestone. Accordingly, transport activities had been placed within a separate
The license will allow Neptune LNG LLC to build, own and operate structure (Elia). Various corporate governance measures had been
the Neptune offshore LNG delivery system in Massachusetts implemented to ensure the independence of the transport network
Bay. manager. The producers SPE and Electrabel reduced their stake
in this company to 30%.
• SUEZ has received the firm commitment from Hoegh LNG AS,
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) and Samsung heavy Industries EC directives 2003/54/CE (for electricity) and 2003/55/CE (for gas)
that the two specially designed LNG Regasification Vessels (SRV) were incorporated into Belgian law by the Laws of June 1, 2005.
will be delivered at the targeted start-up date.
• Neptune LNG anticipates having a fully operational project, 5. The “energy pack” includes in particular: the strategic analysis of the
EU energy policy, the road map on renewable Energy, a report on the
including construction of a lateral pipeline connection to implementation of the “renewable” directive in the electricity sector,
HubLineSM, the existing sub-sea pipeline ; specially designed the priority interconnection plan, communication on “Sustainable
Coal”, the Nuclear indicative program for the Community, a report on
ships ; and the LNG supply to serve customers in Massachusetts the implementation of the directive on biofuels, a communication on
and the rest of New England at the latest in 2009. the announcement of the European strategic plan for energy, the report
on the domestic energy market and the sectoral survey.
In 2006, various initiatives to improve the liquidity of the electricity In 2006, Electrabel’s electricity sales, wholesale included,
production market in Belgium were undertaken. The principal amounted to 156.6 TWh. Of these sales 64% were made in the
initiatives include: Benelux countries, 21% in the France – Italy – Iberian peninsula
region, and 15% in the Poland – Germany – Hungary region.
• the auction of production sites to other interested producers: the
Beringen site was sold to E.ON in 2006; In Belgium, Electrabel manages an electrical capacity of more
than 13,100 MW in various forms: combined cycle gas-steam
• the commitments proposed by the group to the Belgian federal
power plants, cogeneration, nuclear plants, conventional coal, gas,
government in anticipation of the planned merger between Suez
and oil thermal units, hydroelectric power plants, wind energy,
and Gaz de France. These commitments include in particular
and energy recovery. This diversity is synonymous with flexibility
raising the SPE’s share in the Belgian nuclear capacity and
and polyvalence. The production capacity receives its supply
exchange of assets with other European producers.
from a wide rage of energy sources: natural gas, uranium, coal,
As regards transport, an increase of 700 MW in commercial fuel, industrial residual gas, hydraulic power, biomass, and wind
capacity has been made to interconnect the French and Belgian energy. The supply is procured from around the world. This twofold
transport networks with a mechanism for capacity allocation in diversity of energy sources and suppliers lessens the company’s
the form of auctions and the elimination of privileged historical production capacity to market price fluctuations and also allows it
contracts. to take advantage of price changes on fuel markets.
that is in mid-development. Projects to create a wind energy farm agreement with the Spanish group Gamesa to develop wind energy
with a capacity of 50 MW are underway. farms.
On the Iberian market, the import capacities situation is In other places in Northeastern Europe, Electrabel is expanding
necessitating the use of local means of production. In 2006, a on a selective basis. In Germany, the group’s sales have expanded
combined steam-gas cycle power plant with 758 MW of power in outside the regions of Saarbrücken and Gera, where Electrabel has
Castelnou (Aragon) was completed. Other projects to strengthen production assets. It is also planning on building new power plants,
the company’s local presence are being studied. They are taking especially in Brunsbüttel. In Poland, the company operates the
advantage of Electrabel’s expertise in using gas technologies to Polaniec power plant (1,654 MW), which is a major producer of
produce electricity. Furthermore, the Portuguese company Generg, green energy, thanks to biomass combustion. Electrabel is active
in which Electrabel owns a 42.5% share, currently manages an on PolPX, the Polish energy exchange. In Hungary, Electrabel is
approximately 250 MW wind energy farm of and 33 MW hydraulic continuing its restructuring program for the Dunamenti power
power stations. New wind energy projects totaling 400 MW are plant. Lastly, the company is exploring opportunities with a view
under development. In addition, Electrabel has signed an to investing in a production capacity in Romania.
Benelux
TWh
100.1
%
64.0
Net MW
18,213.4
%
63.0
Net MW
444.0
%
21.7
6
Europe excluding
Benelux 56.4 36.0 10,700.4 37.0 1,598.5 78.3
Gas transport and distribution It specifies certain obligations on the companies designated as
Directive 98/30 of June 22, 1998, for common rules for the internal operators of the transmission and distribution networks, especially
natural gas market was an important step in the deregulation of the in terms of legal, functional, and accounting separation. The
European gas market. The principal purpose of this legal text is to directive also promotes minimal regulation of access to the network
ensure the gradual opening of the European natural gas market to (specifying, in this area, an optional derogation system for new
competition by offering certain purchasers (eligible customers) the infrastructures).
possibility of signing supply contracts with producers or suppliers
In Belgium, this second directive was incorporated into Belgian law
of their choice and having access to the transport infrastructure for
through amendments made to the gas law of 1965. The new gas
that purpose. Starting August 10, 2000, EU regulation has imposed
law resulting from this was published in June 2005.
a minimum eligibility of between 20% and 30% of the market,
which will be raised to between 33% and 43% in the year 2008. • The law stipulates a procedure to appoint an operator for the
natural gas transmission network, for the natural gas storage
In Belgium, this first directive has been incorporated into Belgian
facilities and for the LNG terminaling facilities. Pursuant to the
law through amendments made to the gas law of 1965, particularly
law, Fluxys and Fluxys LNG were appointed operators under the
those made in 1999 and 2001. The gas law gives third-party
non-definitive scheme in 2006. A notice was published in the
access to the natural gas transport infrastructures on the basis of
Belgian Official Journal on February 21, 2007 inviting applicant
annual tariff that have received the regulator’s prior approval. The
operators to submit an application to be appointed operator
regulated tariffs system applies to natural gas transport services,
under the definitive system. Fluxys is currently preparing its
storage services, and LNG terminaling services. Pursuant to the
application. It is expected that operators will be appointed under
gas law, a code of conduct was drawn up in April 2003 which sets
the definitive system before the end of 2007: applicant operators
out the rights and obligations of the transport company and of the
must submit their file within 3 months, the Council of Ministers
users of its infrastructures.
then has 6 months to make a decision. The appointment as
The second EC gas directive, 2003/55 CE, adopted on June 26, a system operator under the definitive system is valid for a
2003, supersedes the abovementioned directive. Its purpose is renewable period of 20 years.
to accelerate the opening of markets by stipulating that Member
• Starting in 2008, the gas law stipulates the transition from annual
States should ensure eligibility as follows:
tariff system to a multi-year tariff system, which should increase
a) as of July 1, 2004, all non-residential customers; the predictability and stability of tariffs in the long term.
• Concerning specific projects, the gas law has made it possible As part of the regulated access to its infrastructures, Fluxys sells
to introduce long-term pricing stability in the context of annual transport capacities and storage capacities that allow natural
tariffs as of August 12, 2003. This concerns new infrastructures gas to consumers in Belgium to be supplied via third parties.
of national or European interest that are necessary to the long- In addition to its transport services, Fluxys also offers transit
term development of natural gas transportation companies. The services on the primary market. These services cover the cross-
introduction of pricing stability takes on special importance for the border transit of natural gas. Natural gas transits through the
development of the transit and LNG terminaling activities, which are Belgian network to the Netherlands, Germany, France, Spain,
primarily offered in long-term contracts to hedge investment risk. Italy and the United Kingdom. Fluxys is also a shareholder in BBL
Company, which is owns and operates BBL, a 225-kilometer-long
• The law also provides for the submission of cross-border transport
pipeline between Balgzand, located to the north of Amsterdam
of natural gas (transit) to a regulated tariff system. By virtue of
on the Dutch North Sea coast, and Bacton off the British coast
the principle of Sanctity of Contracts, the execution of transit
(Norfolk). BBL started operations on December 1, 2006.
contracts negotiated up to July 1, 2004, remains applicable
according to the conditions existing at that time, while the new – Fluxys LNG, a subsidiary of Fluxys, owns and operates the LNG
transit contracts will be governed by a specific regulated tariff terminal of Zeebrugge and markets LNG terminalling capacities
system to be developed. and auxiliary services. The Fluxys LNG terminal in Zeebrugge
has a current maximum capacity of 4.5 billion m3 a year. Since
In Belgium, in accordance with the principles of the second gas
its commission in 1987, the terminal has offloaded almost
6 directive, all non-residential customers have been eligible since
July 1, 2004. Furthermore, residential clients in the Flemish region
1,000 LNG ships. Fluxys LNG uses the cogeneration process
to increase the rational use of energy in electricity production
have also been eligible since July 1, 2004. Residential clients in the
units, and it uses residual heat to regasify LNG. Compared to
Walloon region and the Brussels-Capital region have been eligible
separate production of steam and electricity, the combined
since January 1, 2007.
system costs less to operate. A project to extend the facilities to
In France, pursuant to the principles of the second gas directive, all double capacities for 2007/2008 is in progress.
non-residential customers have been eligible since July 1, 2004.
– Huberator, a subsidiary of Fluxys, is operator of the Zeebrugge
Description of activities hub, the largest international short-term gas market in Europe.
The Group is the largest natural gas supplier in Belgium, via Thanks to the services offered by Huberator, customers can rest
Distrigaz, Electrabel and Electrabel’s holdings in mixed inter- assured that the gas volumes that they sell or buy are effectively
municipal companies. In Belgium, the transport network, managed available at the hub for trading and subsequent transport.
by Fluxys, comprises 3,800 kilometers of ducts, some 80% of
• Distrigaz
which are high-pressure pipelines.
Distrigaz is a trading company whose principal activity is the
As for electricity, the regional governments would like Electrabel to
purchase and sale of natural gas in Europe. Distrigaz also sells the
reduce the level of its holdings in inter-municipal gas distribution
international transport capacity that it has under contract or owns
structures to a minority interest.
(transit contracts, capacity in the interconnector, underwater gas
In Belgium, the Group has provided gas activities (apart from pipeline linking Belgium and the United Kingdom, LNG shipping
distribution) since the end of 2001 through two legally distinct capacities). Thanks to its natural gas supply portfolio, Distrigaz’s
Groups: Fluxys and Distrigaz. activities include the following areas: natural gas sales in Belgium
and in Europe (plus LNG in other markets); arbitrage activities
• Fluxys
on natural gas spot markets; contract management for transit in
– Fluxys is the independent operator of the natural gas transmission Belgium (cross-border capacity); marketing of transport capacities
infrastructure in Belgium. Its principal activity is the operation, outside Belgium; and LNG shipping.
maintenance, and development of its integrated natural gas
Currently, to the benefit of deregulated energy markets in Europe,
transmission infrastructure and storage facilities in Zeebrugge
Distrigaz is deploying its commercial activities in the Benelux
and Loenhout. The Fluxys network is well interconnected and is
countries, Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom. In 2006, it
ideally located at the heart of the continental mass. It effectively
extended its sales to the Netherlands and Germany.
provides access to the main sources of natural gas production
in Europe and of the major natural gas-consuming countries in In 2006, Distrigaz sold nearly 202 TWh of natural gas; 80% of
northwestern Europe. these volumes were sold in Belgium. Sales outside Belgium and
trade-offs amounted to 20% of volumes.
Breakdown of
TWh 2005 2006 Difference sales
Resellers/distribution 66.3 67.9* 2.4% 34%
Industry 51.4 49.1 -4.4% 24%
Electricity producers 54.2 44.8 -17.2% 22%
Sales in Belgium 171.8 161.8 -5.8% 80%
Sales outside Belgium 24.5 31.7 29.6% 16%
Arbitrage 15.0 8.2 -45.5% 4%
Total sales outside Belgium and arbitrage 39.5 39.9 1.1% 20%
Total sales 211.3 201.7 -4.5% 100%
Total in billions m3
(1m3 (n) = 0.01163 MWh) 18.2 17.3 6
* Including a correction of allocations for previous years.
Gm3 % Number %
North America 7.68 54.7 114,913 17.8
South America 5.09 36.2 531,369 82.2
Middle-East and Asia 0.88 6.3 127 -
LNG 0.39 2.8 4 -
North America and Texas), plus the District of Columbia. It is active in nine of
In North America, SUEZ Energy North America manages SEI these states (Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Jersey, New
activities carried out through several energy companies operating York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Washington DC, and Texas). SUEZ
within an integrated value chain ranging from fuels (natural gas Energy Resources NA continues to expand its customer portfolio,
and LNG, oil and coal) to the direct sale of electricity to commercial both geographically and vertically. SUEZ Energy Resources NA
and industrial customers, including the generation of electricity and ranks third among North American retail energy sales companies
wholesale electricity activities and gas distribution (Mexico). The in terms of size.
companies that carry out these activities are SUEZ LNG NA, SUEZ
In Mexico, SUEZ Energía de México, SA de C.V., operates three
Energy Generation NA, SUEZ Energy Marketing NA, SUEZ Energy
local regulated natural gas distribution companies, as well as three
Resources NA et SUEZ Energía de México, and SA de C.V
steam and electricity cogeneration projects.
SUEZ LNG NA operates the Everett (Massachusetts) LNG
Regarding the activities of SUEZ Energy North America, the appeal
regasification plant and owns the entire capacity and all related
of the commercial environment varies significantly from one state
rights. SUEZ LNG NA supplies in addition LNG to the Cove Point
to another and is dominated by the regulatory framework, which
(Maryland) terminal and to the Lake Charles (Louisiana) terminal,
ranges from deregulation with deintegration of the energy value
in the Gulf of Mexico. SUEZ LNG NA also supplies LNG to the
chain to total vertical integration accompanied by strong regulation.
EcoElectrica complex in Puerto Rico. The LNG is resold in the
In the case of natural gas, where wholesale markets have been
form of natural gas to electricity producers, wholesale sellers, and
6 local distributors.
deregulated for some time, SUEZ Energy North America is able to
operate under equitable competitiveness conditions.
SUEZ LNG NA is still developing the Neptune LNG project, a
Regarding electricity, the differences between regions are much
deep-water port LNG receiving facility that will be located in US
greater. In regions such as New England, (ISO NE), Pennsylvania,
federal waters off the coast of Massachusetts. When Neptune
New Jersey, and Maryland (PJM); New York (NYISO); and Texas
is completed, specially designed LNG tankers with onboard
(ERCOT), the deregulation of wholesale electricity sectors and retail
regasification equipment will moor at off-shore buoys and deliver
electricity sales is quite advanced and appears irreversible. The
a daily average of slightly over 11.3 million cubic meters of natural
level of spark spreads (profit margin per MWh for a benchmark
gas to the New England market. This volume supplements the
combined-cycle gas turbine unit) and attractiveness of merchant
delivers to this market through the existing Everett terminal.
power operations in these regions have generally continued to
SUEZ Energy North America is still working on its LNG project to improve from the difficult market conditions experienced after
supply natural gas to Florida through the Calypso deep-water port the Enron bankruptcy. These are regions where SUEZ Energy
project. Calypso will be located along the designated undersea Generation NA and SUEZ Energy Resources NA are active and
pipeline route on the east coast of Florida. Calypso will initially well positioned. In other regions, such as the Southeastern and
use a technology identical to Neptune, which requires specially Western United States, the pace of deregulation is considerably
designed LNG tankers. Nevertheless, new possibilities of using slower, or even stagnant, with the result that the timing of recovery
more advanced offshore technologies to increase the capacity to in the merchant power sector is unclear.
Florida are being studied.
South America
SUEZ Energy Generation NA has ownership in 42 electrical power In South America, the regulatory environment and the extent of
plants and operates 40 power stations. The electricity generated market deregulation vary from country to country.
by these plants is sold to distribution companies and industrial
In this region, SEI’s main positions are concentrated in Brazil and
companies under power purchase agreements (PPA) or in a
Peru, with a few facilities in Chile and Argentina.
merchant capacity to the wholesale market. Numerous facilities
produce steam, which is sold under contract to industrial clients. In Brazil, the privatization of the electricity sector stopped in 2001,
while 80% of the production capacity remained the property of
SUEZ Energy NA is developing projects whose operation is to be
the State. Contrary to the distribution segment, where privatization
transferred to SUEZ Energy Generation NA or to SUEZ LNG NA
continued in the largest States of the country, the production
according to the nature of the investment. The largest of SUEZ
segment remained dominated by large public companies, and the
Energy North America’s current development activities include the
market is not expecting other privatizations in the short term.
development of two offshore LNG regasification terminals, Neptune
and Calypso. From 2003 to 2005, the government set up a new regulation model
for the electricity market. Generally, the model gives the federal
SUEZ Energy Marketing NA is consolidating the management of
government a more obvious presence at all levels of the system
all risks linked to raw materials and credit for North America. For
(regulation agency, network manager and wholesale market). A
this purpose, it is supplying risk hedging services to all operational
pool system has been designed to create a transparent framework
entities.
for the signing of long-term contracts. The pool constitutes a
SUEZ Energy Resources NA is licensed to operate in twelve mandatory supply channel for distribution companies and operates
states (Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Jersey, New York, as a risk-sharing instrument between producers.
Pennsylvania, Ohio, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Illinois, Michigan,
The model results in auctions (“leilões”), which are organized at In December 2006, Enersur commissioned the Chilca 1 thermal
regular intervals by the public authority, and new concessions plant for commercial use. Chilca 1 is an open-cycle facility
for the construction of new production capacities (mainly hydro- representing 172 MW of power, located close to the capital city
electric in Brazil) are being granted to those ready to offer the of Lima.
lowers power rates.
The Chilean regulatory environment has remained relatively stable
These auctions are indeed organized in several phases. A since its transposition in 1982, when the electricity sector was
distinction is made between “old” energy (existing capacities) and entirely privatized.
“new” (new developments/extensions of existing sites), with the
The regulatory amendments in early 2004 mainly concerned the
latter benefiting from contracts with longer terms.
clarification of the transmission issues. The Corta law (Ley Corta)
Private and public producers participated actively in the new clearly defines the allocation of transmission costs.
energy auctions, and the government believes that the system is an
SEI also maintains a significant presence in the Chilean market
efficient vector for attracting the investments required to increase
(in association with local partners), where it is one of the leading
energy production.
operators with Electroandina (33.25% stake), the largest producer
In Brazil, SEI holds 68.71% of Tractebel Energia (TBLE), the in the SING network (northern Chile), with an installed capacity of
largest independent power producer in Brazil, with 6,870 MW of 938 MW, and Edelnor (27.38% stake), the third-largest producer
installed capacity. SEI sells its electricity primarily through long- in the SING network with 681 MW.
term agreements with distributors and industrial customers.
Since the resale of its minority position in the power generator 6
The auctions held in June 2006 allowed Tractebel Energia to sell Colbun (19% presence) SEI is no longer present on the SIC
an average of 220 MW and 273 MW, generated by the existing network (central Chile).
hydroelectric power plants of Itá and Cana Brava, respectively,
The gas crisis, which started in Argentina in 2004, has affected
at a current average price indexed at IPCA of €46.67/MWh. The
Chilean activities since then. Individualized negotiations conducted
supply will spread over 30 years starting in 2009.
by the Argentine government in the context of its negotiations with
In October 2006, Tractebel Energia sold an average of 148 MW at gas producers complicated the planning and management of the
euros 50/MWh. The power will be generated by the São Salvador crisis for the sector’s players (gas and electricity in Argentina,
power plant (241 MW) over a period of 30 years starting in 2011. electricity in Chile) to a considerable degree. SEI is expecting to
face unpredictable supply conditions, depending on the climate
Since the end of the 1990s, Peru has been gradually restructuring
and decisions from the Argentine side.
its power market, especially through privatization and deregulation
efforts. The uncertain supply conditions of the Bolivian market are another
factor in the crisis. The Argentine authorities have decided to
A significant part of the country’s hydroelectric production still
accept the expensive purchase conditions set by La Paz to resolve
belongs to the State. The weight of private participants should
the supply crisis in the short term and use exports to Chile to
nevertheless continue to grow even in the absence of new
amortize the price.
privatizations, as long as public companies refrain from increasing
their capacities. Gasoducto Norandino, in which SEI has a 84.7% stake, owns and
operates a gas pipeline designed to import 3.22 billion m³ of natural
The latest development in regulation can be explained by the
gas a year, which is used primarily for power generation, between
relative reluctance of private players to close PPA deals with
Argentina and northern Chile. SEI also owns a small distribution
distribution companies at node prices. Private businesses focus on
company called Distrinor, which is supported by Norandino and
power sales at higher spot prices, and show only a limited interest
focuses on industrial demand.
in regulated sales. Discussions occurred between the regulator and
private businesses in order to divide medium-term PPA contracts SEI has a presence in Argentina through Litoral Gas, one of the four
for supplying distribution companies between producers. largest gas distribution companies in the country, in which it has
a 64.16% interest, and Energy Consulting Services, a consulting
In Peru, SEI is present through Enersur (power generation), Cálidda
and sales company in which it owns 46.6%.
(GNLC) (gas distribution), TIS (retail power sales in the medium
and large power segment), and a minority interest in TGP (the Asia, Middle East, and Africa
respective gas pipelines of Camisea for gas and condensates). In the Asia, Middle East, and Africa area, SEI is mostly present
in Thailand, Laos, the countries of the Persian Gulf Cooperation
SEI holds a 61.73% interest in Enersur, its principal activity. It was
Council, and in Turkey.
the fourth-largest electricity generator in terms of size in 2005, with
674 MW in service. Thailand
In Thailand, SEI holds a 69.11% stake in Glow Energy. SEI
The company operates two thermal power plants and holds successfully completed the extension of its facilities (by adding
exclusive usufruct rights to the Yuncan hydroelectric power plant 38 MW and 70 tons/hour of steam) in early 2006 and currently
(130 MW). has an installed capacity of 1,704 MW and 900 metric tons of
steam. Glow Energy supplies power to the public distributor
EGAT as well as power, steam, and treated water to a portfolio of • a 20% ownership share in Taweelah A1, a desalination water
approximately 30 large industrial clients in the Map Ta Phut region. facility generating 1,360 MW of power and 385,000 cubic meters
Glow Energy has been listed on the Bangkok stock exchange since of desalinized water a day in Abu Dhabi;
April 2005.
• a 50% ownership share in Sohar, a project comprising a
In December 2006, Glow Energy signed two new major power combined cycle turbine of 586 MW and a desalinization plant
supply contracts with petrochemical companies subsidiaries with a capacity of 150,000 m 3/day. This plant is currently
of the Siam Cement group. The agreements are for a period of under construction. It successfully supplied its first megawatts
20 years and represent an approximate value of 500-600 million (maximum capacity of 360 MW) in May 2006. The facility should
dollars. To meet the terms of this contract and other new contracts, be fully operational on the commercial level in April 2007;
Glow Energy is planning the construction of additional production
• a 45% ownership share in Al Ezzel, the first independent power
capacity.
generation project granted in the context of the privatization
Thailand experienced political instability in 2006. On September 19, program implemented by the Bahrain government. This project
the military overthrew the Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra. In comprises a 954-MW combined cycle turbine power plant. It
October, Sonthi Boonyaratglin, head of the military and leader of successfully supplied its first megawatts (maximum capacity
the coup d’état, installed Surayad Chulanont as Prime Minister of 470 MW) in May 2006. The installation should be fully
and presented a provisional constitution. King Bhumibol Adulyadej operational on the commercial level by April 2007;
SUEZ Global LNG, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI based or so employees offer advanced solutions in engineering and
in Luxembourg and London, is responsible for the following consulting to public and private clients in the electricity, nuclear,
activities: gas, industry, and infrastructures sectors. Tractebel Engineering
also offers a range of innovative and sustainable solutions
• sourcing the LNG supply for SEI;
throughout the life cycle of its clients’ facilities such as feasibility
• executing all SEI’s short-term LNG trading activities; studies, investment projects, operations and maintenance
assistance, and dismantling.
• managing SEI’s fleet of LNG tankers;
Facilities and related services – building and
• coordinating LNG supply negotiations for the SUEZ Group; maintenance
Through subsidiaries such as Axima, Endel, Ineo, Fabricom GTI,
• promoting the development of new long-term LNG projects;
and GTI, SUEZ Energy Services builds and maintains electrical,
and
mechanical, and HVAC facilities for industry, the services sector,
• management of all SEI interests in liquefaction projects. buildings, and major infrastructure works. The division also
provides services related to these activities:
The development projects for regasification terminals and existing
installations, as well as certain LNG long term supply contracts, • in local activities, the entrepreneurial culture is reflected in giving
are the responsibility of SEI regional entities. For example, the customers service at their facilities that meets their needs and is
Everett regasification facility near Boston belongs to SUEZ Energy enhanced by access to the leverage of a European network and
North America. SEI currently operates four LNG tankers, with a
total capacity of 539,000 m3. Three new vessels were ordered to
the complementary nature of the services offered; 6
• in specialty activities, development is supported by a high
ensure the supply of Yemen LNG (2.5 million tons/year), whose
degree of proficiency in basic technologies, so that cutting edge
launch is scheduled for mid 2009.
developments can be offered and relevant assistance to clients
In 2006, SUEZ LNG Trading SA also signed with Brass LNG a in their technological development provided.
Memorandum of Understanding for the purchase of 2 million tons
Project management remains a decisive factor in facilities and
of liquefied natural gas (LNG) a year over a period of 20 years.
related services activities: the strict control of offerings such as
In Trinidad and Tobago, SUEZ Global LNG manages a 10% interest costs and contractual aspects during performance will determine
in Atlantic LNG 1, which owns and operates one of the three existing the final profitability of each project.
liquefaction trains, with a production capacity of 3.3 million tons
Energy services – optimizing and operating
of LNG per year. Atlantic LNG 1 shareholders also own the rights
As experts in Energy Services Solutions derived from the concept of
and related privileges to future expansions of up to six liquefaction
delegated management and outsourcing, Elyo and Axima Services
trains. SEI is not a co-investor in trains 2, 3 and 4.
offer comprehensive, innovative solutions to highly diversified
clients (companies, local governments, managers of residential
Suez Energy Services
or industrial sites). Elyo and Axima Services design and operate
Regulatory environment long-term, effective, and all-inclusive solutions with guaranteed
The primary regulatory changes that have had an impact on SES results while remaining environmentally friendly:
businesses include, both at the European and national or regional
• management of the energy and utilities required in industrial
level:
processes;
• wider and more restrictive environmental standards regarding,
• management and maintenance of thermal and technical
in particular, the goal to control greenhouse gases;
equipment;
• the introduction of restrictions to improve energy efficiency;
• facilities management;
• the deregulation of energy contracts;
• management of local energy networks.
• the development of public-private partnerships.
With a wealth of expertise as integrators and strong local
This regulatory trend, combined with increased energy prices, relationships, Elyo and Axima Services intend to confirm their
provide SES with opportunities for growth. As these regulations are positions as European leaders by taking advantage of the growth
imposed on clients, they need the services of specialists in heating, opportunities afforded by cost optimization, the reorientation of
electricity, and the environment who are capable of designing, companies towards their core businesses, the opening up of
developing, and managing their facilities under optimal financial energy markets, and the recognition of environmental restrictions.
conditions. Through the unique complementarity of its activities and Axima Services has also expanded its services to include airport
expertise, SES is ideally placed to meet these growing needs. technologies, baggage sorting systems, boarding bridges, and
Description of activities aircraft approach systems.
Engineering – design Electricity and gas companies
Tractebel Engineering, SUEZ Group, is one of the leading Electricity and Gas Companies specialize in the production and
engineering consulting firms in Europe. Its approximately 2,400 distribution of electricity in Monaco, Casablanca, Morocco, and
the Pacific (New Caledonia, French Polynesia, Vanuatu, Wallis and wastewater and managers, and recycles the waste produced
Futuna). They are partners in the development of these territories by domestic and industrial activities. The Group also provides
because they provide international quality services with the support surveying and consulting services in the field of water and the
of a major Group. environment.
Organizational structure
SUEZ Environment brings together delegated water and sanitation management, water treatment engineering, and waste collection and
treatment activities.
The various activities are divided between the following four business units:
• Europe Water; 6
• Europe Waste Services;
• Degrémont.
ENVIRONMENT
EUROPE WASTE
EUROPE WATER SERVICES DEGREMONT INTERNATIONAL
United Water
Lyonnaise des Eaux
Sita France Sita Australia
Ondeo IS
Sita UK Lydec
Agbar
Sita Netherlands Sita El Beida
Eurawasser
Sita Germany Star
Ondeo CZ Dégrémont
Sita Sweden Palyja
Hungariavitz
Sita Finland Macao Water
Ondeo Italia
Sita CZ CEM
Safège
Sita Polska Sino French Water
Swire Sita
Europe Water (2006 revenues: 3.8 billion euros) intends to rely on local partnerships in order to limit risks and
Europe is the domestic market for the SUEZ Environment water ensure a long-term presence.
business. For waste services, it is the goal of SUEZ Environment to achieve
Lyonnaise des Eaux accounts for 48% of revenues earned in critical mass in the countries where it does business and control the
Europe, with the balance being generated by Spain via the Group’s entire cycle as part of dynamic consolidation in Northern Europe.
partnership with Aguas de Barcelona (Agbar). Outside the European region, the Group also aims to consolidate
its positions around existing bases, especially in China.
SUEZ Environment is also present in Germany (Eurawasser), and
Central Europe (Hungariavitz, Ovak and Spas). The extremely high and restrictive environmental standards in
Europe sustain growing demand for comprehensive, sophisticated,
Europe Waste Services (2006 revenues: 5 billion euros) and reliable services. Due to requirements to control public
SUEZ Environment is centered on the following subsidiaries: SITA expenditures and search for optimum efficiency, these markets
France and its specialized subsidiaries, including Novergie and are receptive to private companies and the use of various contract
TERIS for hazardous waste, SITA UK, SITA Deutschland, SITA forms to organize the collaboration of public and private players
Nederland, SITA Sverige in Scandinavia, and SITA Belgium. In - as evidenced in 2006, with the materialization of Private Finance
2006, SUEZ Environment created Terralys, subsidiary specialized Initiatives in the UK in particular.
in sludge treatment.
On the strength of its status as a major player in environmental
6 International Water and Waste Services (2006 revenues:
1.6 billion euros)
services in this zone, SUEZ Environment believes that its proven
experience, competitive position, and size are advantages that allow
Outside of Europe, SUEZ Environment has Water and Waste it to build on developing trends while making best use of available
Services operations in 15 countries but has focused primarily external financing to fund infrastructures (European funds, bilateral
on building a strong presence in certain regions: North America, aid, etc.) and/or partnership agreements with local companies.
Australia, North Africa, the Middle East and China.
In 2006, SUEZ Environment won or renewed numerous contracts
As the Water and Waste Services business share a common in France, which remains its principal market. Contracts on the
structure, they are able to implement operating cost synergies on French water market included the 25-year public service sanitation
the ground, provide joint offers, and, depending on the country, concession between the Briançonnais community of Municipalities
make use of the commercial development already accomplished and Lyonnaise des Eaux. In waste services, SE was awarded the
by each business. contract to construct and operate a complex multi-channel waste
treatment complex in Clermont-Ferrand, in addition to the contract
Degrémont (2006 revenues: 1 billion euros)
that was jointly awarded to TIRU for the operation of the waste
Degrémont, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SUEZ Environment,
treatment facility in Issy-les-Moulineaux (ISSEANE). The new
specializes in water treatment stations.
contract that was awarded in 2005 for household waste collection
Degrémont’s organization is modeled on the structure of its markets. and sorting by the urban community of Dijon went into effect on
For example, the Europe Business Line (sub-divided into southern January 1, 2006.
and northern Europe) and the International Business Line are
In addition, Suez Environment has acquired a benchmark
organized as profit centers and have their own funds for marketing
position on the waste management services market in the UK, to
and work sites. Sharing engineering capabilities and expertise and
the benefit of two very large projects: the enforcement of Private
implementing a network of local associates (technical directors,
Finance Initiative (PFI) contracts between the County of Cornwall
executive directors, etc.) and a global network of engineering
and Suez Environment for the management of all waste from
offices (India, China, Chile, Europe) allows the business lines not
the district over 30 years and the signature of the same type of
to be geographically bound, thereby mobilizing all the Group’s
contract for the management of all household waste generated by
resources when required to meet needs. In 2006, the Business
the 300,000 inhabitants of the Northumberland region, located in
Line comprising the equipment subsidiaries (Innoplana, Ozonia,
the northeastern part of the country, over 28 years.
Aquasource and Infilco Degrémont…) took the name of Degrémont
Technologies. Outside the European Union, SUEZ Environment has focused
on consolidating its presence around bases established in key
countries for its activities, in particular in China, the United States,
6.1.1.6.2 Commercial strategy and development Australia, the Middle East, and North Africa. In these countries, the
Pursuant to its 2005-2012 strategic plan, SUEZ Environment primary challenge faced by SUEZ Environment is to consolidate
continued its policy of mainly organic, selective, controlled, and its positions and optimize profitability before considering new
profitable growth. developments.
For water businesses, this involves offering water services that The implementation of the Algiers management contract is a key
cover the entire cycle, at a municipal or regional scale, to optimize factor in the deployment of this strategy in 2006, as are several
resources and know-how. On the international scene, the Group major agreements in China. The joint venture, in which the
Chongqing Water Corporation (32 million inhabitants, one of the
largest urban areas in the world) and SUEZ Group subsidiary Sino- After the references acquired in Australia, the United Arab Emirates,
French Water Developmentare represented equally, was granted Jordan, Curaçao, and Chile, Degrémont confirmed its leadership
a concession to manage, operate, and maintain a wastewater position in the design of optimized solutions in desalinization
treatment facility with a capacity of 300,000 m3/day in Tangjiatuo by reverse osmosis by conducting multiple projects of various
for period of 30 years. SUEZ Environment also signed a 30-year sizes everywhere in the world, such as the design, construction,
concession contract for water service management for the city and operation of a plant with a capacity of 200,000 m3/jour for
of Changshu, near Shanghai. Lastly, in 2006, the authorities of the city of Barcelona (in partnership with Aguas de Barcelona),
the City of Shanghai and Suez Environment inaugurated the first the largest desalinization plant in Europe, for 2 years or for the
Research and Development center devoted to industrial waste Independent Water and Power Project of Barka (Sultanate of
water and hazardous waste. The R&D center is located in the Oman), the construction of the desalinization unit for a capacity
center of the Shanghai Chemical Industry Park (SCIP), the largest of 120,000 m3/day.
industrial petrochemicals site in Asia. This event, which occurred at
These references are completed by those of Ondeo IS, which
the same time as the Group’s commissioning of the incinerator for
delivered a desalinization unit on skid (reverse osmosis) to Total.
the park’s hazardous waste (which was awarded in 2003), marks
the desire to explore new methods of industrial cooperation and In 2006, SUEZ Environment continued the dynamic management
services improvement. of its asset portfolio, which complemented its commercial
developments.
In the rest of the world, SUEZ Environment continued its highly
selective development, which is driven primarily by its equipment
supply and services activities (see paragraph below on Degrémont)
In Argentina, Aguas Provinciales of Santa Fe requested, the
termination of the concession contract from the local authorities
6
and supported by international financial institutions, in accordance in May 2005, and the local authorities resumed services in
with the Group’s self-imposed profitability and risk-control February 2006. Furthermore, the term of the Aguas Argentinas
requirements, especially in so-called emerging countries. contract ended on March 21, 2006, and the service was taken over
by an entity created and controlled by the government. In Cordoba,
Through the positioning of its businesses, Degrémont plays a
SUEZ Environment and Agbar transferred the control of ACSA to
special role in all of these developments, particularly on the
local partners. In Bolivia, due to political developments, the State
international level.
decided to take over control of Aguas del Ilimani, subsidiary of SUEZ
The company experienced yet another year with a high number Environment. In this context, an amicable solution that allowed the
of orders for its design-construction services, which remain its return of the service to the public sector was reached at the end of
principal growth vectors, as evidenced by the major contracts won 2006; the transfer became effective on January 4, 2007. In Brazil,
in 2006: the awarding of the design, construction, and operation SUEZ Environment successfully transferred its entire ownership
contract of the wastewater depollution station in Budapest, the share in the water and waste management sectors. Accordingly, at
largest in Hungary to the consortium CSEPEL (Degrémont, OTV, the end of 2006, SUEZ Environment terminated its public service
Colas) for a period of 4 years; the signature of a contract with the delegation activities in Latin America. Other Group entities such
investment company Qatari Diar for the design, construction, and as Degrémont, Safège, or Agbar will continue and develop our
operation of the Lusail wastewater treatment plant (after the Doha activities in this region, based on other types of agreements.
West plant in 2005) for a period of 10 years. In 2006, Degrémont
In Australia, SUEZ Environment created a joint venture with CEC
also closed 3 deals in India (the construction of the Delhi wastewater
Group by acquiring 50% of CEC Group Recovery Ltd and thereby
treatment plant, the construction of the extension and operation
expanded its recovery of waste products through composting
of the Bangalore drinking water plant, and the construction of the
business.
Jaipur drinking water plant in partnership with Larson&Toubro),
as well as the design and construction of the drinking water plants In the United States, SUEZ Environment transferred its subsidiary
of the city of Tianjin (China) and Macao. Lastly, in partnership Teris NA, which specializes in toxic wastes, to Clean Harbor Inc.
with Acciona Agua and Acciona Infrastructuras, Degrémont won
In France, SITA acquired, among others, the company SIREC,
the contract for the design and construction of the Cabo Priorino
which specializes in waste recycling, in particular steel, ferrous
Ferrol purification station in Spain.
and non-ferrous metals, pneumatic plastics, rubbers, cables, and
In France, Degrémont won several contracts in drinking water electrical equipment.
production, with its ultra-filtering membranes, and wastewater
In Indonesia, SUEZ Environment transferred 30% of its ownership
treatment. For the production of drinking water, Degrémont will
share in PT PAM Lyonnaise Jaya to a local partner (PT Astratel
ensure the construction of the new plant of the Syndicat de la
Nusantra) and 19% to Citigroup Financial Products Inc. The Group
Haute Vallée de la Vie (2 000 m3/h – Apremont, Vendée), just as
retains a majority interest of 51%.
that of the SIDEDA plant in Bolbec-Gruchet Le Valasse (7 800 m3/
j – Seine-Maritime) and the Saintes plant. Furthermore, the In the UK, Aguas de Barcelona (Agbar) acquired the company
Syndicat Intercommunal de la Vallée supérieure de l’Orge (SIVSO) Bristol Water, which supplies drinking water to 1 million people.
selected Degrémont, in partnership with Razel, for the design and
construction of the new wastewater treatment station in Ollainville
(60,000 eq. inhabitants).
• Extension with Agbar of the Granada water and waste June 2006
treatment contract for a term of 25 years and a population of
• The SYCTOM of the Paris metropolitan area awards SITA France
333,000 inhabitants served.
the operation of the Isseane incineration plant, in partnership
with TIRU (an EDF subsidiary). Total revenues over a 13-year
February 2006
period will be 253 million euros (60% TIRU / 40% SITA).
6 • The Research and Development Center of SUEZ Environment
(CIRSEE) inaugurates a new olfactometry laboratory, an essential • Ondeo Industrial Services launches an operating and maintenance
tool in its research program dedicated to managing nuisance agreement with SEAGATE Technologies (the world leader in the
odors around its facilities. manufacture of hard drives) for complete management of the
water cycle at their site in Limavidy (Northern Ireland) for a
• Sita Deutschland successfully extends its contract with Rhein-
period of five years and a total of 16 million euros.
Sieg-Kreis for five years.
July-August 2006
March 2006
• SUEZ Environment sells 49% of its stake in PT PAM Lyonnaise
• Lyonnaise des Eaux signs a public service concession agreement
Jaya (PALYJA) to local partner PT Astratel Nusantara (30%)
for waste treatment for a term of 25 years with the Briançonnais
and Citigroup Financial Products Inc. (19%). SUEZ Environment
Community of Municipalities (Hautes-Alpes). Total revenues
remains the majority owner at 51%.
amount to 115 million euros.
• Degrémont and Aguas de Barcelona win a two-year contract for
• The Aguas Argentinas water and waste treatment concession
the design, construction and, operation of the reverse osmosis
expired on March 21, 2006, and service was assumed by an
desalination plant in the city of Barcelona. The contract totals
entity created and controlled by the government.
159 million euros. This plant will have a capacity of 200,000 m3/
day and be the largest desalination plant in Europe.
April 2006
• SUEZ Environment begins its service agreement in Algiers to • Extension with Agbar of the Alicante water and waste treatment
modernize the city’s water and waste treatment service. This contract (50% Agbar) for a term of 20 years and a population
contract, the initial term of which lasts five years, represents a of 725,000 served.
total of approximately 120 million euros. • SITA UK acquires the Hemmings waste treatment company
• Degrémont wins a 10-year contract to design, build, and operate based in Bristol in southwest England. Hemmings’ total revenues
the waste water treatment plant in Lusail (Qatar). The plant will amount to 20 million euros.
treat 60,000 m3/day of waste water for a population of about • SITA Nederland wins a 10-year management contract for
200,000 inhabitants and a total amount of 143 million euros. selective glass collection for 14 municipalities in the Peel and
• Agbar subsidiary Applus acquires RTD, the European leader in Kempen region for a total amount of 30 million euros.
non-destructive tests and inspection services. RTD’s revenues • United Water signs water rate increases in the states of
total 94 million euros. Pennsylvania and Idaho.
• Agbar acquires the Bristol Water company, which supplies water • SITA USA, a wholly-owned subsidiary of SUEZ Environment,
to one million persons in an area of 2,400 km2. The annual sells Teris LLC, its waste treatment subsidiary that specializes
revenues of Bristol Water Group total 122 million euros. in hazardous wastes based in Dallas, Texas, to Clean Harbors,
Inc.
September 2006 • Esterra (a 50% subsidiary of SITA France) renews its contract for
the collection of household waste and the management of drop-
• SUEZ and the city of Chongqing sign a 30-year concession rights
off centers for the Urban Community of Metropolitan Lille for a
agreement for the operation of a waste water treatment plan with
period of 7 years and a total amount of 53 million euros.
a capacity of 300,000 m3/day in Tangjiatuo. This contract also
includes management of the waste water treatment service for
December 2006
the Jiang Bei / Yubei sector (northern section of Chongqing) for
30 years. • Degrémont, which is part of a consortium led by SUEZ Energy
International, wins the IWPP (Independent Water and Power
• Lyonnaise des Eaux renews the public service water delegation Project) for Barka, in the Sultanate of Oman. This project includes
contract with the city of Créteil in France for a period of 15 years the construction and operation of a power plant coupled with a
and a total amount of 124 million euros. seawater desalinization plant built by Degrémont. This plant will
produce 678 MW and 120,000 m3/day of water. The contract
October 2006 will generate total revenues of USD 3 billion over a period of
• Lyonnaise des Eaux renews its water and waste treatment public 15 years.
service contract for Saint-Martin-de-Belleville, les Ménuires,
• SITA UK signs a 28-year Private Finance Initiative (PFI) contract
and Val-Thorens for a period of 12 years and a total amount of
representing more than 1 billion euros to manage all the
38 million euros.
6
household waste for 300,000 residents of the Northumberland
• SITA France and ENDEL win the first contract to dismantle a region in northeastern England.
military vessel, the Lucifer, for 3.3 million euros.
• An agreement to sell the ownership share held by SUEZ/Agbar
• SITA France creates a Recycling Unit (after acquiring the SIREC in Aguas Cordobesas is signed with the local partner, the Roggio
company, which has annual revenues of 95 million euros) that group, thus terminating Water activity in Argentina.
is made up of 5 divisions: SITA Tires, SITA Plastics, SITA Wood,
• Lyonnaise des Eaux renews its waste and waste treatment public
SITA Metals, and SITA Corrugated Paper. This Unit will have
service agreement with the Syndicat d’Agglomération Nouvelle de
projected revenues of 315 million euros.
Sénart for a period of 15 years and a total amount of 118 million
• SUEZ Environment wins a concession to manage the water euros.
service for the city of Changshu, near Shanghai. The total
• Agbar sells EMTE, its engineering subsidiary.
revenues from this 30-year contract will be more than one billion
euros. • United Water signs water rate hikes in the State of New York.
Water • service agreements. In this case, the operations and work are
invoiced to the customer municipality.
Complete management of the water cycle
SUEZ Environment provides equipment and services in water and In addition to services to municipalities, the Group also operates
waste treatment in 21 countries in the world. It serves 30.2 millions over the entire water value chain with industrial customers. In this
inhabitants with drinking water and 20.6 million inhabitants with case, the contracts are signed for shorter periods, usually from 2
waste treatment in Europe, and ranks second 6 in water cycle to 5 years.
management services in this region. SUEZ Environment carries
In France
out 71% of its water and waste treatment management operations
In France, the local municipalities are responsible for the
in Europe, which remains the core target of its businesses and
distribution and management of drinking water and for the
growth.
collection and treatment of waste water. Operators may take over
Through Lyonnaise des Eaux, Eurawasser, Agbar, LYDEC, United the management of all or some of these activities under delegation
Water, Sino French, Ondeo Industrial Solutions, Degrémont, and contracts (farm-outs, concessions) or service agreements. Thus,
Safège, SUEZ Environment covers the entire value chain of the based on its 2006 survey, the industry believes that in 2005, as in
water cycle: 2004, private companies managed drinking water services for 74%
of the population7. In the waste water treatment market, 52%8 of
• studies and general principles, modeling of underground
the volumes are invoiced by a private operator. However, out of a
resources, general contracting;
total bill of 11.3 billion euros, the share going to private delegated
• engineering, design, construction and operation of water operators represented only 41% (BIPE, 2004). The remaining 59%
6 treatment plants; corresponds to the share of the local municipalities (approximately
40%) and to the amount of taxes and royalties collected for Water
• operation and delegation of services: SUEZ Environment
and State Agencies (about 19%)9.
manages the capture, treatment, and distribution of drinking
water, network maintenance, collection and treatment of Lyonnaise des Eaux France, a subsidiary of SUEZ Environment, is
municipal and industrial waste water, recovery of the sludge the second-largest private participant in the French market10.
from purification, and collection and treatment of rain water on
The term of the Group’s contracts in France, for both water
behalf of municipalities, other local communities, and industrial
distribution and waste water treatment services, is generally
facilities.
between ten and twenty years.
Its operations also include the management of customer relations,
Finally, although it is often of less importance in terms of amount
meter reading, and the collection of the payments made by the end
and duration, the waste treatment agreements, particularly the
consumers. The scope of the operations varies based on the needs
management of non-collective waste for municipalities or waste
of the customers and the situations in the countries concerned.
services and the treatment of industrial process waste water,
The Group relies on advanced research centers, which allow it to
represent additional dynamic markets for the companies of the
offer long-term partnerships and solutions adapted to the needs
Group.
of its customers.
In the European Union
The Group generally operates under the following types of
In the European Union outside France, the principal SUEZ
contracts:
Environment sites are located in Spain, Italy, and Germany.
• public service delegation contracts;
In Spain, SUEZ Environment holds a 25.90% ownership interest in
• contracts to manage and maintain water and waste treatment Aguas de Barcelona (Agbar, publicly traded group), which ranks
facilities financed and built by the local municipality. In the first in the Spanish water distribution market. Agbar is also located
contract signed with the municipality, the SUEZ subsidiary is in Latin America, in Chile and Colombia in particular, and most of
designated as the operator for a period generally ranging from 5 the SUEZ projects in Latin America were completed in partnership
to 20 years and invoices its services to the local municipality; with Agbar. In 2006, Agbar continued to expand its operations,
successfully completing the purchase of Bristol Water, which
• concession agreements, in which the Group provides the
serves approximately 1 million people in the United Kingdom. In
construction and financing of new specific investments in addition
Italy, the Group is established as an operator in Arezzo, in Tuscany,
to distribution, maintenance and management services. In the
and in Pisa, with ACEA; in 2006, SUEZ Environment increased its
case of an existing facility, it is responsible for the renovation
ownership share in Acqua Blu Fiorentine.
and sometimes the extension of the facility. In this type of
contract, it invoices its services to the end consumers most of In Germany, the Group has a strong presence in Rostock and in
the time. When a Group subsidiary builds water treatment and Cottbus, mostly through water and waste treatment concessions.
management facilities, it generally operates them for periods
SUEZ Environment has been active for many years in certain new
ranging from ten to thirty years, after which the facilities are
members of the European Union: the Group provides drinking
transferred to the local authorities. The Group may also own
water and waste treatment services in several regions of the Czech
assets in some cases;
Republic, where it has had a presence since 1993, and drinking
water services in Budapest, Hungary (in partnership with RWE); a satisfactory resolution to these negotiations, the Group and
it has also been established since 1994 in two other Hungarian other European shareholders decided to request termination of
cities (Pécs and Kaposvar) and, since 1999, in Trencin in Slovakia. the Aguas de Santa Fe contract (in May 2005) and the Aguas
It manages a contract for the construction and operation of the Argentinas contract (in September 2005). Government authorities
Maribor purification station in Slovenia. in Santa Fe province took over the responsibility for these services
in February 2006. In addition, the Aguas Argentinas contract
Worldwide
terminated on March 21, 2006, and services were taken over by
Elsewhere in the world, SUEZ Environment provides drinking
an entity created and controlled by the government. In Cordoba,
water and sanitation services in partnership with local investors
SUEZ and Agbar transferred control of the company ACSA to local
and local authorities, as well as through affiliated companies and
partners.
businesses that are majority-owned by local interests. In water
management activities, revenues earned by the Group outside of In Asia, the Group has a presence in China through 19 subsidiaries
Europe represent approximately 29% of total sales. Concession that were created with local authorities to produce drinking water.
contracts generally have a term of twenty-five to thirty years. It operates through various types of contracts, including BOT
(Build Operate Transfer) for the construction and overhaul of
In Algeria, SUEZ Environment and national authorities implemented
water treatment facilities, and through concession agreements.
an agreement of the type known as a “management contract”
The Group also has a twenty-five year concession contract for
that was signed at the end of 2005. This contract covers the
water management in Macao. Several significant contracts signed
management of drinking water and sanitation in the city of Algiers,
providing services to a population of approximately 3.5 million.
in 2006 strengthen the presence of SUEZ Environment in China:
refer to Section 6.1.1.6.2 “Strategy and Commercial Development”
6
The contract stipulates two principal measurement standards for
above.
progress: modernization of the infrastructure and systems, and the
supply of water on a 24-hour basis. In Morocco, the Group was The world’s specialist in water treatment
awarded a thirty-year concession contract in 1997 that covers water Through its wholly owned subsidiary Degrémont, SUEZ Environment
distribution, sanitation, and electricity supply for approximately is one of the world’s major players in the treatment of urban water.
3.5 million consumers in Casablanca. The Group also has an Degrémont designs, constructs, and operates water treatment
operating and maintenance contract in Amman in Jordan (set to facilities. The reorganization of all the equipment subsidiaries into
expire on December 31, 2006) and a similar contract for Tripoli in a single division was initiated in 2006. All of these activities are
Libya (set to expire at the end of January 2007). based on four major areas of expertise:
In the United States, over 80% of water services are provided by • the production of drinking water;
municipal or governmental agencies, which are increasingly
seeking partnerships with private operators for the supply of • the purification of wastewater, as well as its reuse, as in, e.g.,
drinking water and sanitation services. The Group has a presence Milan (Italy) and San Luis Potosi (Mexico);
through United Water, the second-largest operator in the private • desalinization of sea or saline water by inverse osmosis (as in
sector, which acts through its 82 subsidiaries11. Its principal activity Barcelona, where the largest desalinization facility in Europe is
is water distribution for users in areas where its regulated operating operated in partnership with Agbar);
subsidiaries have franchises or other licenses to provide these
• sludge treatment.
services (regulated markets). In the deregulated sector, United
Water provides water distribution and sanitation services under Degrémont provides all services necessary to deliver turnkey
operating and management contracts signed with municipal facilities, including engineering, design, construction, work site
authorities. United Water has a presence in eighteen states, management, purchasing, equipment installation, and plant
primarily in the eastern and central part of the United States. start-up. Since it was established in 1939, Degrémont has
built over 10,000 water treatment plants worldwide. As urban
In South America, SUEZ Environment has provided services to up
populations have grown, water quality and sanitation requirements
to 20 million inhabitants. Argentina was the first country in Latin
have increased, resulting in rising demand for water treatment
America to call upon private operators to manage water services.
infrastructure.
The Group entered the market in Buenos Aires through Aguas
Argentinas after receiving a thirty-year concession for water and Now more than ever, Degrémont bases its international growth
sanitation services (for 7.9 million consumers) in 1993, as well as strategy on rigorous criteria, providing contracts that are well-
in Santa Fe and Cordoba, where it received concessions for the balanced, establishing a carefully weighted sharing of risk among
same length of time. Despite the difficulties encountered following all the project participants.
the devaluation of the Argentine peso and the non-application of
contractual pricing increases, the Group continued its operating Collecting and converting waste to energy
presence under the three concession contracts and initiated SUEZ Environment manages the entire waste services cycle under
international arbitration proceedings, as well as negotiations with the SITA name through its SITA subsidiaries, including SITA
the licensing authorities and banks, in an effort to enforce its France, Terralys, SITA Deutschland, SITA Belgium, SITA Sweden,
rights and try to reestablish the economic and financial stability SITA UK, SITA Australia, and Swire Sita.
of the contracts. Recognizing that it would be impossible to obtain
11. In the United States, United Water is ranked second-largest in the non-
regulated market in terms of revenues and third-largest in the regulated
market (internal source).
2006 REfErence Document 63
6 Overview of activities
Principal activities
These activities have broadened in scope to keep pace with on the nature of the waste received, i.e., “green” waste or sludge
regulatory, technical, and economic developments, and demands from purification stations. In the latter case, additional technical
that are both broader and more specific on the part of both investments are carried out to deodorize the process and ensure
governmental and private clients: in Europe, increased reuse of that the product is sanitary. In 2006, the Group composted
waste, recycling, physical and waste-to-energy recovery associated 1.3 million tons of organic waste.
with growing restrictions on other treatment methods (landfills,
In 2006, SUEZ Environment carried out an operational
disposal without recovery), and the depollution and rehabilitation
reorganization (approved in 2005) of its activities and expertise
of industrial sites; in the Asia-Pacific region, improved reliability of
in sludge treatment in France and put them in a single entity,
treatment facilities and growth in urban services; In Latin America,
Terralys. This subsidiary now offers the entire range of procedures
adoption of environmental standards. SITA ranks as the third-
and multi-disciplinary expertise of the Group’s companies.
largest player in terms of revenues in these markets worldwide,
and ranks first in Europe. SUEZ Environment offers its expertise in the incineration of urban
waste throughout the world through 47 facilities, of which 45 have
The Group is active in every stage of the waste management cycle
waste-to-energy capacity. These are located mainly in France
in all its forms:
(Novergie), Germany, Belgium, the United Kingdom, and Taiwan.
• collection and treatment of municipal and non-hazardous This activity is subject to numerous regulatory restrictions, which
waste: physical recovery (sorting and recycling, composting and are aimed at reducing its impact (smoke emission, production of
companies with sanitation services, industrial cleaning (particularly • service and construction contracts are subject to the French
for decommissioned factories), collection of hazardous industrial Code on Public Contracts and, more generally, to the European
wastes, and more specialized services, such as oil-related activities, directives mandating the use of competitive bidding for awarding
network control, or water tower cleaning. The Group has also contracts. Activities related to waste services and those carried
developed recognized expertise in the area of depollution and out by Lyonnaise des Eaux and Degrémont are generally subject
conversion of industrial sites. On the chemical industry complex to this type of procedure.
site in Spoana (Czech Republic), which is considered one of the
In the United States, the federal government plays a major role in
most polluted in Europe and has been untouched since 1968,
the water sector, but the individual states exercise powers related
Sita Bohemia, in a partnership with BCD CZ, is spearheading a
to the management and regulation of operations and the planning
decontamination project that will treat 35,000 tons of materials
of investments. Two main types of contracts co-exist: the first is
of all types onsite. Based on preparatory work in progress since
regulated, as in England, while the second is non-regulated, as
2003, decontamination operations were begun in July 2006. In
in France.
France, Sita Agora provides management of the decontamination
and rehabilitation project on the site of the former METALEUROP Each state has a Public Utility Commission which sets pricing
Nord foundry site. Work initiated in 2004 was continued in 2006 structures (for water and sanitation services) and the return
(dismantling and confinement) with the goal of final conversion of on shareholders’ equity granted to companies operating in the
the site and the inauguration of new activities (completion of project regulated sector.
scheduled for 2008).
• The directive of November 3, 1998, on the quality of drinking imposes certain obligations on the manager for a period of 30
water strengthened certain quality standards. The deadline for years after the site is decommissioned;
compliance with all the new requirements was December 2003,
• the directive of December 4, 2000 regarding the incineration of
excluding the requirement related to lead, for which compliance
waste applies to all categories of hazardous and non-hazardous
was extended to 2013.
waste and sets strict limits for incineration equipment in order
• The water framework directive of October 23, 2000, established to protect the quality of air and water;
a regulatory framework for a Community policy on the protection
• the Commission presented a directive proposal on December 21,
of inland surface waters, coastal waters and groundwater, in
2005 to carry out a substantive revision of the framework directive
order to prevent and reduce pollution, promote sustainable water
of July 15, 1975. The purpose was to simplify the existing legal
use and protect the environment. It established an objective
framework, especially by clarifying the notions of waste, recovery
for “good ecological status” and mandated the change from
and elimination. As the text currently stands, this proposal could
a resources-based logic to an objectives-based logic. It also
be expected to have a significant impact on our waste services
introduces the obligation for Member States to implement a
businesses (tri-recycling, emergence of a refuse-derived fuel
pricing policy that will provide adequate incentives for consumers
(RDF) market, cross-border transfers, etc.).
to use resources efficiently beginning in 2010. This important
directive was transposed into French law on April 22, 2004. The In the main European countries where the Group operates, these
recent law of December 30, 2006, on water and the aquatic directives have been transposed into national law and are often
6 environment has defined new tools for meeting the objectives of
the framework directive, in particular by making the operations of
complemented by specific legal provisions in each country.
The activities of the Group in the United States are also subject to
the water and sanitation public services more transparent.
regulations – federal and local – with respect to the environment,
• The directive of December 12, 2006, on the protection of hygiene and security. The water sector is governed at the national
groundwater against pollution and deterioration specifies the level by the Clean Water Act of 1972 and the Safe Drinking
objectives laid down by the framework water directive with respect Water Act of 1987 implemented by the Environmental Protection
to groundwater. The objectives dealt with by this directive are Agency.
primarily the good chemical status of water and the prevention
The primary effects of the strengthened directives have been
and limitation of the introduction of pollutants into groundwater.
increased capital expenditure on infrastructure and higher
It must be transposed into national law by Member States before
operating expenses for operators. As a general rule, contracts
January 16, 2009.
concluded by SUEZ Environment protect it from regulatory changes
• It must be noted that two directive proposals will be added to this by authorizing some form of adjustment in contractual pricing. Due
regulatory structure. The first aims at setting up environmental to the increasingly stringent nature of environmental objectives,
quality standards in the water sector (proposal adopted by the local authorities have been required to call upon the expertise of
Commission on July 17, 2006) and the second changes the ever more qualified professionals to manage their resources. The
sludge spreading system (proposal under discussion). need to build new plants, or replace or adapt old ones, and obtain
access to cutting-edge technology bodes well for the activities of
For waste services
Degrémont. Therefore, in principle, the changing regulatory context
The directives relating to waste management are: has created development opportunities for SUEZ Environment.
• the framework directive of July 15, 1975, the first European
directive regulating waste treatment, encourages the prevention Environmental responsibility
and reduction of waste production by imposing the use of After almost 15 years of discussions, Europe has issued a new
cleaner technologies to protect the natural habitat. This text directive on environmental responsibility (directive 2004/35 of
also introduces the Polluter Pays principle. It was amended by April 21, 2004) which strengthens the Polluter Pays principle within
the directive of March 18, 1991, which defines objectives with the European Union. This directive is to be implemented, under the
respect to at-source reduction of waste, and sets out the different national law of each country, by April 30, 2007, at the latest.
methods of treatment (recycling, composting, incineration with
The directive covers three categories of environmental damage:
energy recovery, and elimination);
damage to species and natural habitats, water damage and soil
• the directive of December 20, 1994 regarding waste from contamination.
packaging, which aims to reduce the impact of packaging waste
According to this directive, it is the operator’s duty to take the
on the environment. This guideline sets quantifiable objectives
necessary steps to prevent or repair such damage.
for the recycling and conversion of packaging placed on the
European market. The directive was revised in 2004 and sets SUEZ Environment has commenced a study to evaluate the impact
new recycling objectives by material; of this directive on its activities:
• the directive of April 26, 1999, regarding the burying of waste • as the manager of a potentially polluting facility (pollution by
in landfills defines new standards for the management of sites treatment facilities or the burial of waste, river pollution by the
including standards for containment and controls. This directive
effluents of a purifying station, agricultural conversion of sludge • China is in the process of strengthening its environmental
or compost); regulations to ensure that they comply with more stringent
standards, especially with regard to marine pollution, air
• as a victim of pollution (pollution by a classified facility of the
pollution, and the protection of groundwater, species and natural
raw water which SUEZ Environment uses to produce drinking
habitats. When the process of strengthening these environmental
water, pollution by a third party of a landfill, or purifying station,
regulations is completed, it will probably have an impact on
or contaminated soil).
the costs for managing water and waste services. As a result,
Elsewhere in the world, the regulatory changes with respect to contracts signed by SUEZ Environment are very mindful of the
environmental responsibility are as follows: changing dimensions of Chinese environmental law.
The production and marketing of electricity and the marketing of While a resurgence of electricity generation using coal and nuclear
gas are sectors of activity which are largely open to competition in power could constitute an additional threat for the long-term
Europe and the United States. However, activities which constitute profitability of combined cycle power plants against a backdrop of
natural monopolies – like the transport of electricity and, to some high gas prices, the political and environmental issues tied to these
extent, the transport of gas – are strictly regulated. Elsewhere in fuels are obstacles that will be difficult to overcome, especially in
the world, with just a few exceptions, markets are less open to markets such as the Northeastern United States. Nuclear power is
competition, and international players operate in more regulated not well-perceived by the general public, despite the fact that the
environments, usually under the terms of long-term contracts. sector has on the whole continued the operation of existing power
plant without any incidents. The American government has adopted
In Europe, the main competitors of Electrabel and Distrigaz
a limited incentive program aimed at marketing integrated coal
on markets open to competition are: in electricity, the German
6 companies E.ON and RWE, the French company EDF and the
Italian company ENEL; in gas, all the major gas companies
gasification technologies. However, this technology is not expected
to experience significant rapid growth because of its high capital
cost and lack of flexibility. The technology could pose a threat at
such as E.ON – Ruhrgas and WinGas. New competitors are also
some point if the obstacles to the installation of new transmission
emerging, such as the large European gas producers or other
lines that could connect existing or planned coal facilities to high
players specialized in marketing activities, like the British company
consumption markets are removed.
Centrica (which has established a position on the Belgian market).
With respect to Fluxys, one of the new requirements to emerge There are many LNG supply projects on the East Coast of the United
from the transposition into Belgian law of the 2nd European gas States. Most of them have not obtained all the necessary licenses.
directive, is the official designation of one or more operators. The The Canaport LNG regasification terminal, which is expected to
law stipulates a procedure to appoint an operator for the natural supply markets in Eastern Canada and New England and is to be
gas transmission network, for the natural gas storage facilities and built in the Canadian maritime provinces, received government
for the LNG terminaling facilities. Pursuant to the law, Fluxys and approval in 2005. Construction began in 2006. Apart from supplies
Fluxys LNG were appointed operators under the non-definitive from Repsol, a member of the consortium, the source of supply
scheme in 2006. A notice was published in the Belgian Official of this terminal remains unknown. Given that the terminal is
Journal on February 21, 2007 inviting applicant operators to located upstream of the gas pipeline of the Maritime Provinces, its
submit an application to be appointed operator under the definitive effects on the price of gas in New England remain very uncertain.
system. Fluxys is currently preparing its application. It is expected Another LNG project planned in Weaver’s Cove in southeastern
that operators will be appointed under the definitive system before Massachusetts, was granted a license by FERC in 2005. However,
the end of 2007: applicant operators must submit their file within the project is facing serious problems related to its location, supply
3 months, the Council of Ministers then has 6 months to take a sources, and the provisions of the most recent energy legislation,
decision. The appointment as a system operator under the definitive which will prevent traffic to the site. Its success is therefore in
system is valid for a renewable period of 20 years. question. The FERC rejected another application concerning an
LNG terminal project in Rhode Island. Two projects that are to
The Group is also applying an ambitious LNG development strategy.
be located on the Massachusetts coast have received preliminary
With SUEZ LNG NA and Fluxys, SUEZ has LNG terminals on both
authorization from the federal authorities, prior to the finalization
sides of the Atlantic. It also has an equity interest in a liquefaction
of the application procedure for federal approval. Suez owns and
plant in Trinidad and has been awarded several long-term LNG
operates one of these projects, Neptune LNG. The two projects aim
supply contracts. This gives it significant arbitrage capacities. SUEZ
to provide the region with additional natural gas supplies via the
reckons that the LNG segment of the gas sector will be growing
utilization of a leading-edge offshore LNG technology.
rapidly, in the face of declining gas reserves in the United States
and the improvement of LNG technologies in particular. Energy demand continued to grow steadily in most of South
America. Reserve margins have dropped in all the markets of the
There are no more electricity over-capacities in most American
continent and are becoming very narrow.
regions, although a few areas are still suffering from surplus
capacity, aggravated by the slowing down of the deregulation Prices are generally on the increase in accordance with fuel
process. In the short term, spark-spreads are too low in several trends. However, the specific characteristics of each market
regions for electricity producers to obtain a profitability ratio that are significantly different. The Pacific axis (Chile, Peru) remains
is higher than their cost of capital when they trade on the spot more orthodox, and prices tend to be influenced by hydrological
market. It is difficult to predict whether the increase in demand conditions, fuel trends, and the cost of new expansions. On the
and the shutting down of obsolete power plants will succeed in Atlantic Coast, while Brazil attracts new private investments and
absorbing the excess capacity in the medium-term. Argentina is relying on public investment, governments have
succeeded in keeping down price increases. Priority was given to
preventing or delaying these price increases, at least for existing Oil and gas companies like ExxonMobil, Shell, BP, Total and BG
power plants. Complex, specific regulations have been set up to Group have emerged as major competitors for LNG activities in
encourage and boost new expansions. the Atlantic basin.
Demand for gas has significantly increased on all South American The geographic area covered by SUEZ Energy Services is
markets because of economic growth and its substitution for liquid essentially in Europe: this division is ranked number one in France,
fuels. Belgium and the Netherlands, has a strong position in neighboring
countries, and offers an initial base for expansion into countries
Oil companies continued to invest in Peru and Brazil, but have
located further away, such as Central Europe.
put projects on hold in Argentina and Bolivia because of state
intervention and uncertainty about the future regulatory framework. Since its three market segments – Industry, Services (including
This situation has led to the fragmentation of the market and collective housing), and Infrastructure – have different economic
resulted in unmet demand in Chile, Uruguay and Argentina. cycles, this division has relatively little exposure to risks related to
changes in the economic outlook.
In Asia, the Middle-East and Africa, SEI mainly operates as an
independent electricity producer and sells its production to state- Although the Industry market is experiencing stagnation in its
owned distribution companies or directly to its industrial clients. investments, this segment offers growth opportunities for targeted
The growth in energy demand is generally high in this region. The service activities, which benefit from the outsourcing trend, the
contracting of additional capacity requirements to independent strengthening of environmental constraints and the search for
electricity producers varies from one market to another. Saudi
Arabia plays an increasingly key role in the regional organization,
efficient energy. 6
The development of public/private partnerships, especially in the
the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (formerly
Services sector, is a favorable factor for the growth in facilities and
known as the Gulf Cooperation Council), which is respected for
services activities.
the clarity of its regulatory framework. Opportunities for new viable
investments in independent electricity production projects should Finally, the Infrastructure market remains attractive due to
also appear in other parts of Asia, the Middle-East and Africa, numerous initiatives taken by local authorities to improve mobility
particularly in Southeast Asia, North Africa and the southern region and security. SUEZ Energy Services is also recognized as a major
of Africa. player in this market through niche activities in transportation and
intelligent security technologies.
SEI is a company with diverse businesses that operates in several
countries and in a number of segments of the gas and electricity With a good balance of activities (50% in production facilities and
value chain. Consequently, it also has a large and diverse range of related services, 44% in services and 6% in engineering), the
competitors, that are often regional public corporations and local division holds a unique portfolio of complementary businesses in
private players, as well as regional or international corporations. the European market that sets it apart from its competitors.
Since the withdrawal of a certain number of American and European
Its competitors are generally smaller in size and include, most
companies that chose to refocus on their traditional markets after
notably, Vinci Energy, ACS, Cegelec, Amec-Spie and Imtech for
the collapse of Enron, new players from Japan, Korea, Hong Kong,
operations at facilities and Dalkia, Cofatech and Johnson Controls
Malaysia and Singapore have emerged as regional competitors.
for service-related activities.
These companies, which have taken part in projects under long-
term contracts in their country of origin, have stepped up efforts The complementarity of the Group’s different divisions is also an
to export their expertise via their export credit agencies. With the advantage for SUEZ Energy Services, if, for example, it is called
free circulation of capital, financial investors, attracted by the low upon to provide services while supplying electricity and gas to a
level of risk and the profitability of these programs, are increasingly deregulated market and/or provide services related to water and
seeking out energy projects and acquisitions featuring regulated waste services.
or fixed revenues.
The markets United States, however, private sector intervention with respect to
water management is limited to less than 20% of the population.
The entire water sector has changed since the end of the 1980s,
The waste management market has great potential for growth,
moving from operations largely dominated by government-owned
especially in Europe where the environmental framework is very
organizations, to a market where the private sector has gained
different from the U.S. model. Europe is becoming increasingly
market share and is consolidating.
strict (higher recycling objectives and stricter conditions for landfill
The Group considers that public/private partnerships have major disposal), and therefore offers organic growth potential. Although
long-term growth potential, especially in Europe: European household waste volumes continue to increase regularly
in municipal markets (between 1% and 3% per year14), the trend
• consumer demands for quality will continue to increase;
seems to be leveling off in some of the more mature countries.
• the revision of major European directives (see Section 6.1.1.6.5.) Public clients are increasingly using the services of private partners.
clarify and reinforce the applicable regulatory obligations; The shortage of treatment facilities in certain regions is a concern,
and calls into question the current regulations on transporting
• most of the fifteen “original members” of the European Union are
6
these materials.
behind schedule with respect to the application of the technical
directives related to water, and specifically, the 1991 directive The first signs of a decline in the quantity of waste produced
on urban waste water; are now emerging in industrial markets: this is not simply a
consequence of the economic slowdown, but is also attributable
• “new member countries” are required to ensure compliance with
to the increased preponderance of the service economy (which
the European standards;
produces less waste), as well as industry’s efforts to optimize
• pressure on government spending, greater demands from manufacturing processes and adopt clean technologies. This
consumers in terms of the efficiency of their public services, trend has prompted SITA to provide more than just basic services
and the higher level of technical expertise required in the sector relating to waste disposal and to develop new value-added services,
have motivated several local authorities to endorse public/private in particular the collection and treatment of separated flows and
partnerships and sustainable development. the dismantling of transportation devices, to help public and
private clients comply with increasingly stringent environmental
In emerging countries, where immense needs are yet to be
standards (raising the recycling and conversion objectives for
satisfied, the action plan of the World Summit for Sustainable
packaging, directives for vehicles at the end of their useful lives
Development emphasizes the fact that the supply of clean drinking
and for electrical and electronic equipment waste, and obligations
water and adequate sanitation services are essential for the
relating to soil depollution).
protection of human health and the environment. In this regard,
the Millennium Declaration urges countries to commit to reducing Some of SITA’s initiatives in 2006 in these fields include: the contract
the number of people without access to drinking water or without for the collection and sorting of household electrical appliances for
the means to procure it by half by 2015. The World Bank estimates the City of Zoetemeer (Netherlands); contracts signed in France
that US$267 billion12 in investments will be required to achieve this with eco-organizations for the collection and recycling of electrical
objective. The affected countries therefore present major and electronic waste; the platform for dismantling airplanes at the
opportunities for development with respect to the construction and end of their useful lives; the Agora project; the first-ever contract
operation of water treatment facilities and the management of for dismantling and breaking down a naval vessel in France (Le
water-related services. However, opportunities related to the Lucifer); the reinforcement of the partnership with INDRA as part
operation of water treatment facilities come with potentially high of the Re-Use Industries joint venture to study and implement the
risks that need to be controlled before any intervention can be process for treating, recycling and converting vehicles (VHU) at the
considered for these countries. The main risks are foreign exchange end of their useful lives; and the building or acquisition of plants
risks and the risk of non-compliance with contracts by the authority for sorting, trading and reprocessing plastic waste.
granting the concessions.
is dominated by two major trends: the investment and significant A similar momentum of takeovers and consolidation is now
moves of financial investors (private equity and investment funds) sweeping over the waste services sector, particularly in Northern
and insurers on one hand, and the dynamism and positions taken Europe (Germany, the Netherlands, United Kingdom) and Australia.
by Spanish companies, on the other. The changes that affected the FCC bought the Waste Recycling Group from the investment fund
main players in our businesses in 2006 illustrate these trends. Terra Firma and also acquired the Austrian operator ASA. Veolia
bought Biffa Belgium and Cleanaway UK from the Australian group
In the water and sanitation sector, asset exchanges continued at a
Brambles, thus becoming number one on the British market.
rapid pace, especially in the United Kingdom. RWE implemented its
Several other major transactions are currently being negotiated:
withdrawal plan, notably by selling Thames Water to a consortium
EnBW’s s plan to sell its waste treatment subsidiary U-Plus, the
led by Macquarie and considering an initial public offering for its
sale of the Van Gansewinkel group by the family that owns it, and
activities in the United States (American Water Works). Several
the takeover of the Belgian group Indaver by the Dutch company
other British shareholders also changed owners, and Kelda
Delta NV. In addition to financiers, insurers are also entering the
withdrew from the United States by selling off Aquarion. In Spain,
market: AXA invested in Cornwall’s private finance initiative (PFI)
competitors benefited from the effects of the Agua Plan program
that had been awarded to SUEZ Environment and Allianz took over
(about twenty desalination plants as an alternative to diverting the
John Laing’s PFI unit.
Ebro River). In the Czech Republic, FCC acquired Severomoravské
Vodovody, the country’s third largest operator. In this area, the Against this background, it is important to note Veolia’s continued
Group’s main international competitor continues to be Veolia Water, development and the even more dynamic positioning of Spanish
a subsidiary of Veolia Environment. companies (particularly FCC) among other factors. 6
Furthermore, the emergence of strong local companies, especially
in Asia (such as Manila Water and development projects by FCC
and OHL in China through their subsidiaries Aqualia and Inima), as
well as the ambition of new equipment manufacturers (GE) to shift
their activities towards providing services, are ongoing trends.
SUEZ participates in this fight by controlling its own emissions and Development that is connected through a network that operates
those of its customers. within the Group’s various entities. This network passes on best
practices and monitors the completion of the action plans in the
2. Preservation of resources field.
The depletion of our natural resources and damage to biological
In order to provide a better response to its stakeholders, SUEZ
diversity are realities directly tied to meeting the needs of modern
has defined an action plan for the entire Group based on five
society. As a power company and a manager of water and
priorities:
waste treatment services, SUEZ is committed to controlling its
consumption of fossil fuels, assisting its customers to reduce their 1. translate the values of sustainable development into our
consumption, and preserving our water resources, while developing practices and our culture:
its industrial facilities with respect for ecosystems. – develop a sustainable development program in each SUEZ
subsidiary,
3. Quality of life
Guaranteeing the quality of life for current and future generations – share best practices within the Group,
is the purpose of sustainable development. For SUEZ, it goes – integrate criteria for social, societal and environmental evaluation
beyond simple compliance with environmental and societal in our management practices,
regulations. The Group must constantly anticipate the potential
effects of its activities and its strategic choices on its employees,
the populations it serves, and the residents near its sites, and it
– present an annual progress report to the Ethics, Environment and
Sustainable Development Committee of the Board of Directors, 6
must also participate in the economic and social development of – expand the scope of the coverage of the environmental and
the communities within which its teams work. social reporting,
4. Changing markets – raise the level of external certification of the environmental and
social reporting;
The globalization of markets and environmental challenges are
profoundly changing the economy. Certain sectors, like the energy 2. integrate sustainable development into our product offerings
sector in Europe, are deregulating, new economies are emerging, for the benefit of customers and users:
and regulations and technologies are evolving. These are all
– adapt our business models to changing markets and a changing
opportunities for the Group to transform into sources of sustainable
local political and regulatory environment,
and profitable growth.
– build products that allow local communities and manufacturers
5. Local foundation to improve their environmental and social performance,
While the problems of sustainable development are global, the – consolidate customer relationships through regular monitoring
solutions are often designed at the local level based on geographic, of customer satisfaction;
political, economic, and social contexts. The preservation of water
resources does not call for the same response in a temperate or 3. protect the environment:
wealthy country as in an arid or emerging country. Whether it – maintain our site compliance and manage regulatory changes,
is fighting climate changes, improving the quality of life of local
communities, or adapting to economic shifts, the efficiency of a – inventory and control environmental risks as part of the SUEZ
business’s actions depends on its position in its territory. This reality risk management policy,
is even more vital for a local, long-term player like SUEZ. Water and – minimize the environmental impact of our operations over the
energy distribution and waste or effluent treatment are, above all, long term,
local activities: wherever it operates, the Group establishes itself
– expand environmental management systems (EMAS);
for the long term, and the jobs that it creates cannot be moved
elsewhere. For SUEZ, strengthening its local ties is an operational 4. promote the company’s social commitment:
priority in order to meet all its challenges.
– promote equal opportunity,
In order to support its strategy, SUEZ has set up an organization
– attract and retain talent,
dedicated to sustainable development and has defined management
tools and a priority action plan throughout the Group. – promote diversity and respect human rights,
To guarantee effectiveness, SUEZ’s commitments to sustainable – maintain a good faith social dialogue at all levels,
development are carried out at the highest level, by the Group’s
– develop skills in order to promote employability,
Chairman and Board of Directors. They are backed by an
organization that is both group-wide and in direct contact with – guarantee health and safety in the workplace,
the local communities: a Steering Committee, composed of five
– strengthen motivation and the professional growth of all employees
members of the Executive Committee, and one representative
through regular collective and individual assessment;
from each division of the Group, and a Department of Sustainable
5. act as responsible corporate citizen: The Group regularly evaluates the implementation of its action
plan, primarily through the environmental and social reporting tools
– ensure our operations are grounded in the community,
it created in 1999, in order to ensure that it is effectively deployed
– identify the stakeholders in each subsidiary, and that there is continuing progress.
6 6.6.1.1 Environmental policy Through the network of Environmental Officers, the Group
encourages the subsidiaries to implement an environmental
Due to the nature of its activities, SUEZ is positioned at the core policy based on their activities, local economic conditions, and
of environmental concerns: climate change, pressure on water the expectations of their industrial and community customers.
and energy resources, as well as the protection of our natural
Risk management is a daily function, based on the growing number
environment and heritage. While the Group’s activities can have
of certified environmental management systems implemented
a positive impact on the environment, they also have impacts on
within the group and on risk management plans developed for that
natural resources and the environment that must be measured,
purpose. Training of partners, innovation, and research programs
controlled and reduced to a minimum through a process of
all contribute to the operational control of these risks. The Group
continuous improvement. Moreover, potential environmental
also commissions studies on the impact of its activities on the
nuisances or damages expose the Group to various types of risk,
environment.
which may generate additional costs, and also affect its image and
reputation (see Section 4.5 Environmental risks). At the end of 2006, the entities which published a Statement of
Environmental Commitment represented 89.8% of pertinent sales
SUEZ takes concrete measures to reduce the direct impact that the
in terms of the Group’s environmental impact (versus 90.2% in
production of electricity, energy-related services and gas-related
2005). These commitments may lead to the implementation of
activities have on the environment. The Group has implemented a
environmental management systems (EMAS) based on economic
Sustainable Development management program that includes an
conditions and the business interest in this type of process. These
objective to reduce the financial risk associated with environmental
systems therefore rely on documentation, a comprehensive
management. In addition, compliance with national, regional and
set of procedures, and specific objectives defined as part of a
European regulations remains an ongoing objective.
process of continuous improvement. These environmental
SUEZ innovates and is able to offer its customers, both municipalities management systems may then, when justified, be subject to
and businesses, solutions that can effectively and at a lower cost external certification. At December 31, 2006, 47.9% of pertinent
solve their environmental problems and assist them to meet the sales (48.2% at December 31, 2005) were covered by certified
responsibilities entrusted to them by lawmakers to manage water environmental management systems (ISO 14001 certificates,
and waste and energy efficiency. In addition to conducting its EMAS registrations, ISO 9001 version 2000 certificates with
operations, SUEZ is attentive to the local communities with which an environmental element, and local certifications). At the end
it has developed long-term partnerships, and considers how it can of 2006, the Group therefore held 269 ISO 14001 certificates,
make a major contribution to their sustainable development. 179 ISO 9001 version 2000 certificates with an environmental
element, 13 EMAS registrations and 103 local environment
The Group ensures that all managed facilities and services
certificates. The consolidation of ISO 14001 certificates now covers
constantly comply with the growing demands of environmental
1,082 sites, 157 more sites than in 2005.
regulations, and anticipates new legislation in order to ensure that
it best meets the expectations of its customers and stakeholders.
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Environmental policy or commitment statement 89.8% pertinent turnover 99.5%
Environmental management program 69.6% pertinent turnover 99.4%
✓-Certified environmental management system 47.9% pertinent turnover 99.8%
✓-Certified environmental management system – ISO 14001
- Number of certificates 269 99.8%
✓- Number of sites/activities covered 1,082 99.8%
Certified environmental management system – EMAS
- Number of certificates 13 100%
✓- Number of sites/activities covered 12 100%
Certified environmental management system– ISO 9000 v.2000 with environmental
element
- Number of certificates 179 100%
6
✓- Number of sites/activities covered 1,041 100%
Certified environmental management system– Other local standards
- Number of certificates 103 99.8%
✓- Number of sites/activities covered 122 99.8%
✓Reviewed by the Auditors.
Whenever the implementation of a certified or registered of their customers and, more generally, contribute to their
Management System is not economically justifiable, the entities progress targets, which can also be achieved by integrating the
involved are encouraged to define an internal environmental environmental dimension in the ISO 9000 procedures. Tractebel
management system which guarantees proper treatment of the Engineering makes a positive contribution through its consulting
environment during execution of their strategy. Some Group entities services for ISO 14001 and EMAS, which have been offered since
have therefore found it more useful to define their own management 1996.
system standards and have them recognized internally. There were
SUEZ Environment takes measures to have the quality of its
126 of these types of systems at the end of 2006.
operations certified ISO 14001 or equivalent under international
Nearly 73% of the total power of the Electrabel production plants in standards, by first ensuring that the process to inform and consult
Europe, including two nuclear sites, are covered by an ISO 14001 with residents, users, associations and employees is completed so
certificate and/or are EMAS registered. Processes designed to that this recognition is known and shared. In February 2006, the
improve environmental results continue to be implemented and Department of Operations, Research and Environment (DORE) of
certification processes have either been initiated or are being SUEZ Environment earned ISO 9001:2000 certification, awarded by
prepared for several sites. the BVQI firm, for all its activities, including networking through the
Business Technical Committees (BTC) process. SUEZ Environment
In 2006, the sites of Salisano and Voghera (Italy), Eget, Oule,
thus became the first company in its business sector to be certified
Olhadoko (France) earned their first ISO 14001 certification. A
for the support it provides to its subsidiaries. Issued on the basis
number of other sites are actively preparing for certification between
of international standards applied in over 100 countries, this
2007 and 2009 (Rosen and Roselectra in Italy, Castelnou in Spain,
certificate recognizes the maturity and efficiency of the operational
Amercoeur, Ruien, Rodenhuize and Langerlo in Belgium).
research and support services.
Several SUEZ Energy International (SEI) plants also earned
In 2006, SUEZ established a dynamic system for the self-
ISO 14001 certification. Others are presently engaged in the
assessment of the EMAS maturity level, which allows the operational
process of obtaining certification.
sites to easily identify the areas for improvement and evaluate the
SUEZ Energy Services now holds no fewer than 69 ISO 14001 adequacy of their environmental management systems based on
certifications, plus another ten certifications in progress. In 2006, local circumstances. This system also allows them to monitor their
three new ISO 14001 certificates were obtained, now covering progress and conduct a comparative analysis with other Group
148 sites, which is 47 sites more than in 2005. Through their sites.
environmental management, the entities also assist the certification
European Community (effective as of January 2005), any facility make it necessary to make new investments in order to be able to
which has not obtained a greenhouse gas emission permit is in continue operations.
principle not authorized to issue greenhouse gases and, therefore,
As with the energy sector, the Environmental Responsibility
not authorized to operate. In situations of failure to observe the
Directive, currently being transposed by Member States, may result
quota (the total of emission rights to be reduced equivalent to the
in accelerated protection and rehabilitation measures in the water
volume of emissions) in year n, the consequence will be to reduce
and waste management sectors.
the volume of quotas (rights) by that amount in year n+1.
Directive 2004/35/EC from the European Parliament and Council
Moreover, various political decisions, such as those regarding the
of April 21, 2004, concerning environmental responsibility for
abandonment of nuclear power in Belgium, where the difficulties
the prevention and repair of environmental damage must now be
encountered in procedures for obtaining new permits (for biomass
transposed into national laws. The transposition work has begun
in the Netherlands and offshore wind farms in Belgium) may also
in several European countries.
have a negative effect on the Group’s activities and the ongoing
improvement of its environmental performance. If the provisions The Directive, whatever the transposition, defines additional rules
of the Belgian law on the gradual exit from the use of nuclear of responsibility toward a new third party: the environment (limited
power to produce electricity adopted in January 2003 are actually to water, soil, species and natural habitats). Damage may be found
implemented, there could be a reduction in revenues related to the (by the government) even if there is no proven fault and even if
length of the discounted technical life of the plants starting from the facility causing the damage is in compliance with its permits
the date of the first effective shutdown (2015). and licenses. Under the terms of this directive, the operator bears
primary responsibility for such damage. However, the text stipulates
6
The SUEZ Energy Services activities affected are primarily the
non-retroactivity and will apply, therefore, only to damages caused
services that supply energy from facilities that they operate (heating
after the date of transposition.
networks under a concession, outsourced industrial cogeneration
units, etc.). Environmental questions likely to have an impact on The SUEZ group is preparing for the implementation of this text,
the utilization of intangible fixed assets are identical to those cited by identifying the sites most affected by damages identified in the
for SEE. However, the economic model for these activities generally text, i.e. the Natura 2000 zones and sensitive rivers. The sites have
makes it possible to define optimal solutions with the customer, been mapped in order to draw up a list of the vulnerable sites.
implement these adjustments, and integrate the economic There are two components to this vulnerability: these sites may
repercussions into the contracts. be potentially polluting (pollution by waste treatment and landfill
facilities, by effluents from wastewater treatment plant, spreading
The environmental questions addressed by the European texts are
of sludge) or potentially the victims of pollution (pollution of the
obviously not the only ones to affect the Group’s activities. National,
water resources used for drinking water, pollution from a landfill
regional and local legislation and regulations also have a direct
or of soil by a third party).
influence on the operation of our assets. An illustration would be
the application circulars in France on the prevention of the risk of The sites identified are subject to special procedures: a self-
Legionnaires’ disease from air conditioning units. evaluation questionnaire was sent to the SITA France sites, and
inspections and meetings were organized at SEE and Lyonnaise des
The same constraints affect SEI. These restrictions are imposed by
Eaux France in order to obtain information, increase awareness,
national and local laws, or, in their absence, by the World Bank’s
and identify the measures to be taken.
Environmental Guidelines.
Elsewhere in the world, the changes in regulations governing
The Group’s water and waste treatment activities are all affected by
environmental responsibility are as follows:
European directives and their national and regional transpositions,
as well as by local regulations. The current and future implications • in the United States, the principle of “Polluter Pays” is established
of environmental issues on the operation of facilities are understood by the legislation. The current American administration is fairly
and controlled. It should not be forgotten that most environmental reluctant to stiffen environmental regulations; however, private
issues raised, whether on the European or local levels, actually initiatives are increasing to set up compensation mechanisms,
represent business opportunities for the Group. The tightening of either financial (financial valuation of the threat to an endangered
restrictions encourages the use of outsourcing services provided by species), or in kind (compensation by establishing “equivalent”
companies such as SUEZ; and these increasingly strong restraints species);
also place demands on service providers which large companies
• in Brazil, the legislative framework has developed in recent years
are in a better position to handle.
based on environmental law 6.939/1981. The administration’s
Some directives have already had significant consequences and limited resources and the sheer size of the country mean that
have led to major investments in upgrades to meet standards. audits, which are infrequent, may result in punishments that
These directives include a directive regulating the incineration and are exemplary but are far from commonplace; in this regard, the
co-incineration of hazardous and non-hazardous waste (2000/76/ important role played by the NGOs in Latin American should be
EC) and directives on urban wastewater treatment (91/271/EEC and noted; they are increasingly serving as scientific referee;
98/15/EC). Work underway at the European level on composting,
the treatment of sludge, and the quality of drinking water may also
• China is in the process of strengthening its environmental The “Projects” directive (adopted in 2004), which has just amended
regulations to ensure that they comply with more stringent the EU ETS directive, establishes the means by which businesses
standards, especially with regard to marine pollution, air may use the emission reductions generated abroad in CDM (Clean
pollution, the protection of groundwater, species and natural Development Mechanism) and JI (Joint Implementation) projects,
habitats. These tighter environmental regulations will probably in order to meet their European objectives for the reduction of
have an impact on the costs for managing water and waste greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the EU ETS system. The
services. As a result, SUEZ Environment remains extremely implementation of this directive into the national laws of the
vigilant in its contracts due to the changing dimensions of 25 Member States must still determine the limits of use and the
Chinese environmental law. practical means by which the projects could be submitted for
approval. In this area again, there have been delays. Limits on
the use of the credits were introduced in the allocation plans for
b. Climate Change the period 2008-2012, and the Commission considerably reduced
The institutional framework governing carbon restrictions results the maneuvering room of the countries in its decision on the first
from the United Nations framework agreement on climate change, ten plans approved. The conditions required for trading emission
the Kyoto Protocol and, in Europe, the directive governing the credits, which are specified in the Kyoto Protocol, have not yet
European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS). been met by all countries. The countries of the European Union
The European directive which established the European market just published the initial report on the quantities allotted at the
In 2006, the Group’s greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), excluding its vehicle fleet, totaled 82.8 million tons eq. CO2, including 77.1 million
tons eq. CO2 for energy production and 5.14 million tons eq. CO2 for the environmental operations.
Scope covered
(% of pertinent
Indicator names 2006 data turnover)
✓ Total greenhouse gas emissions (excluding vehicle fleet) 82.8 Mt eq. CO2 100%
✓ CO2 emissions– Energy production 77.1 Mt 100%
✓ CO2 emissions – Transport and storage of gas 0.3 Mt 100%
✓ CH4 emissions – Transport, storage and distribution of gas 10.2 kt 100%
✓ GHG emissions – Landfills 2.4 Mt eq. CO2 100%
✓ GHG emissions – Incineration 2.6 Mt eq. CO2 100%
✓ GHG emissions – Wastewater treatment 0.11 Mt eq. CO2 100%
CO2 emissions – Vehicle fleet 0.7 Mt -
✓ Reviewed by Statutory Auditors.
The impact of the climate change has been, of course, particularly natural gas transmission sites concerned, a protocol for monitoring
important for the electricity and heat generation operations of SUEZ and declaring CO 2 emissions in compliance with European
within the European Union (primarily Electrabel and Elyo) since regulations as transposed in the three Regions of the country.
January 1, 2005 as a result of the EU ETS directive. However,
Some of these sites may use up to eight different fuels. These
the environmental activities (particularly the methane emissions
protocols allow detailed supervision of the information flow and an
in the landfills) and the industrial services (particularly the
understanding of the role and responsibility of each participant,
services intended to assist our customers to reduce their energy
without losing the advantage of centralized management of the
consumption) are also affected.
fuels used and the inventories to be declared. They are updated
SUEZ is both subject to a risk – the risk that its production costs for annually to monitor changes in the production processes, the
electricity and heat will increase in the countries listed in Appendix measuring equipment, and the fuels used.
B – and benefits from various opportunities, which range from
In 2005 and 2006, the monitoring process was optimized and
higher margins now possible on electricity produced without
integrated into the quality control system of Electrabel and
associated CO2 (nuclear, hydroelectricity, renewable sources) to
Fluxys. In this context, an internal audit procedure, including
the expected growth in the market for energy consulting and energy
detailed checklists, has been developed, and internal audits
efficiency services for major accounts. This is an area in which we
have been carried out in order to ensure optimum preparation for
have significant expertise, particularly at SES, the European leader
the declaration of emissions. The monitoring process has been
in this segment. Such opportunities include the development of
specific projects for reducing greenhouse gas emissions which
generate value in the frameworks of CDM (Clean Development
approved and is audited by the appropriate regional authorities.
Electrabel and Fluxys, in cooperation with Tractebel Engineering, In view of a development of so-called “domestic projects,” SUEZ
systematically developed, for all the Belgian production sites and Environment has also proposed initiatives that could result in
projects in France and the United Kingdom. These developments In the energy sector, the new combined cycle (CCGT) 758 MW
relate primarily to improving the capture and treatment of biogas plant at Castelnou (Aragon) in Spain produced its first MWh in
from landfills, especially from those already closed. April 2006. In Italy, the CCGT 385 MW Roselectra plant (located
in Rosignano in Tuscany), initially scheduled for start-up in late
Keeping pace with institutional developments at the United Nations
2006, produced its first MWh early in 2007.
and European levels, the SUEZ Group had all the structures and
knowledge required to manage the CO2 risk before early 2005, The use of biomass is encouraged, most often in combined
despite the institutional delays mentioned at the beginning of this production with coal. Electrabel has in fact intensified its research
section, over which the Group has no control. This preparation has effort in this area in recent years. They are becoming a reality
allowed entities within the group to perform an early integration of today in various plants. Electrabel achieved a world first in the
the economic trade-offs based on the choice of fossil fuels, and the Walloon region with Awirs 4, which previously ran on coal, and
use, purchase or sale of quotas. This experience has permitted it to is now exclusively fuelled by wood granules generating 80 MW of
gain a position in the market for emission rights through significant power. Various modifications have been made at the Langerlo and
trading activity. Rodenhuize facilities to allow biomass co-combustion:
Each of the Group’s subsidiaries, in every country where they are • permit applications have been filed for about one hundred
active, is involved in the national processes concerning greenhouse MW in Belgium, and even more in other European countries.
gas emissions. These processes vary from one area to another, and Numerous other projects are in the study phase or in the process
MW Natural gas
Castelnou Spain 758 combined cycle
Sombreffe Belgium 3 MW Wind
Beaucaire (CNR) France 11.5 MW Wind
Fos-sur-Mer (CNR) France 10 MW Wind
Caramulo (Generg) Portugal 90 MW Wind
Perdigao (Generg) Portugal 2 MW Wind
Pinhal (Generg) Portugal 128 MW Wind
Gardunha (Generg) Portugal 2 MW Wind
Doel 4 Belgium 22.1 MW Nuclear
For SES, only half of Elyo’s energy production is conventional, this area. In the meantime, Electrabel is actively participating in
primarily from natural gas. The other half comes from cogeneration, European projects like CASTOR in order to develop capture and
recovery of waste energy, and renewable energy. This energy mix, storage technologies and pave the way to clean coal plants.
with a growing portion consisting of renewable energy sources,
In the environmental sector, efforts are focused on optimizing
allows a minimal use of fossil fuels and significantly reduces
collection circuits, the progressive replacement of the vehicle
emissions when compared to traditional systems. In 2006, several
fleet and the use of less polluting alternative fuels, the collection
new biomass facilities started up, including the wood boiler for
and treatment of methane from landfills, and the retreatment of
the heating network in Besançon, and two industrial bio-electricity
purification sludge. With regard to the treatment of non-hazardous
production units.
waste, the policy consists of improving recycling, producing high
SUEZ Energy International is active in renewable Energy through quality compost and green energy from its incineration plants and
its subsidiaries. The figures presented below exclude minority its technical landfill centers. For the landfills, SITA has initiated a
interests. program to collect the methane resulting from waste fermentation:
the gas collected is either burned to reduce the impact on
• In Brazil, Tractebel Energia has four hydroelectric power plants
greenhouse gases or recovered with electricity production when
(3 170 MW installed capacity) and a cogeneration thermal plant
this is economically feasible.
using wood residue as fuel (28 MW and 25 t of steam/h (installed
capacity)). SUEZ Environment is improving its environmental performance.
Electrabel’s Trading division, which is specialized in the gas and investment opportunities. Several individuals in the Group have
electricity markets, has been able to use its knowledge and the also had the opportunity to undergo specialized training in the
Group’s experience, and has strongly developed its expertise in “Carbon Finance” center at the World Bank in Washington.
the area of trading emission rights, performing a growing number
With the exception of Canada, SEI is active only in countries not
of transactions on the emerging CO2 market. This has contributed
included in Appendix 1 of the Kyoto Protocol or the countries in
to Electrabel’s global position in emission rights, although the
Appendix 1 which have refused to ratify the Protocol and which are
current regulatory uncertainty prevents us from having a clear and
therefore not required to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
definitive picture of the quotas allocated to the Group.
In the near future, therefore, SEI’s subsidiaries will be faced with
SUEZ-TRACTEBEL is also an active member of the International regulatory restrictions in terms of greenhouse gas emissions
Emissions Trading Association, which includes the most proactive (except for the plant in West Windsor in Canada, which is a gas
companies in the area and also benefits from significant exchanges cogeneration facility of 112 MW). Very close monitoring of the
of operational information and the respected voice of the association situation is conducted for various countries in which SEI operates.
with international authorities. In the United States, in particular, the adoption of the Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) on the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative
Early in 2004, at the end of an international bidding process,
(RGGI) commits the signatory states (Connecticut, Delaware,
the European Commission selected Trasys to implement the
Maine, New Hampshire, New York, New Jersey and Vermont) to
Community Independent Transaction Log (CITL). CITL is an
reducing CO2 emissions as part of a “cap and trade program”.
6 electronic information base which records all transactions involving
European emission quotas and verifies that they conform to
Other legislative initiatives adopted in the United States in 2006
(California, Arizona) that may have a ratchet effect at the federal
European legislation in terms of trading emission quotas. Experts
level. These changes are being closely monitored by the Group.
from the European Commission and Trasys, assisted by experts
from Tractebel Engineering, collaborated in the development of Knowledge acquired at the Group level on flexibility mechanisms
this system, which has been operational since January 1, 2005, has allowed SEI’s subsidiaries to design and document projects to
the start-up date for the EU ETS. facilitate their integration into CDM, while remaining close to their
basic areas of expertise. Thus, SEI is well prepared to seize the
In August 2006, the United Nations awarded to Trasys, in
opportunities in this market.
collaboration with Tractebel Engineering, the contract to develop
and manage the International Transaction Log (ITL), the electronic New CDM projects are in preparation in Latin America and Asia.
system that records and validates transactions under the Kyoto
One of the critical phases in an evaluation of the profitability of
Protocol. This system is crucial for using emissions credits in the
CDM or JI projects is establishing the basis on which the emissions
EU ETS.
reductions will be measured. Aware of this challenge, Tractebel
Electrabel has invested US$ 5 million in the World Bank’s Engineering has developed skills and experience so that it can
Prototype Carbon Fund, and for the fourth consecutive year will offer the Group and its customers intensive expertise in this area.
chair its Investment Committee. In 2005, the Fund continued to As part of this effort, Tractebel Engineering has participated every
select projects in developing countries and in central and Eastern year since 2005 in the CarbonExpo trade show and conference
Europe. A remarkable breakthrough occurred with the first Chinese in Cologne.
initiatives in the CDM (Clean Development Mechanism) framework.
Despite the delays due to the difficulties in financing such innovative
projects, the purchasing contracts for the emissions saved allowed
c. Access to renewable energy sources
the first phase of the fund (prospecting and development) to be The Group continues to make progress in gaining access to
completed, with a portfolio of some 25 projects. In four years, the renewable energy sources. Electrabel’s strategy demonstrates its
Fund will have studied over 400 projects to build this portfolio, firm commitment to reduce CO2 emissions, in compliance with
which is diversified in the technologies employed, the type of gas the Kyoto Protocol and European regulations concerning the
targeted, and the geographic distribution. The experience gained reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (see Section 6.6.1.3.b,
in the development of projects for combating climate change is Climate Change).
centralized and disseminated among subsidiaries to allow them
to launch their own projects and thus encourage the discovery of
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Installed power:
✓ – Total renewable sources 6.55 GW el eq. 100%
✓ – Small hydraulic 0.23 GW 100%
✓– Large hydraulic 5.27 GW 100%
✓ – Wind 0.13 GW 100%
✓ – Geothermal 0.02 GW el eq 100%
✓ – Biomass (specific + co-combustion) 0.32 GW el eq 100%
✓ – Biogas 0.15 GW el eq 100%
✓ – Incineration (biodegradable portion of waste) 0.44 GW el eq 100%
✓ Reviewed by the Auditors.
The use of hydraulic power for a portion of its production, as well of 5,760 MW, and intends to begin construction of two new units
6
as the growing use of other renewable energy sources, allows the with combined nominal power of 1,328 MW.
Group to combine its ambitious environmental objectives with a
In Laos, Houay Ho Power Cy operates a hydroelectric plant of
high level of performance.
153 MW.
Electrabel is making a special effort to adapt some of its traditional
In Peru, EnerSur operates a hydroelectric plant of 130 MW.
plants to production based on biomass. Major projects have now
been completed, are under construction, or are being studied. It should be noted that SEI is not the 100% owner of all the projects
In addition, wind farms and wind projects are on the increase. that it operates; the figures provided here represent the total of the
In this area, projects are being developed in Belgium, France (in capacities operated by SEI.
partnership with the CNR), in the Iberian Peninsula (in partnership
with Gamesa), and in Italy.
d. Energy efficiency
In the United States, SEI has an installation with thirteen plants Energy efficiency is at the very core of the SUEZ businesses.
burning biomass (wood, biogas, and black liquor) with a net total
capacity of 174 MWeq.
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent sales)
Primary energy consumption for:
✓ - Energy production 309,158 GWh 100%
✓ - Gas transport, distribution and storage 2,097 GWh 100%
✓ - Waste treatment 2,761 GWh 100%
✓ - Waste water collection and treatment 651 GWh 100%
Electricity consumption for:
✓ - Energy production 8,251 GWh 90.7%
✓ - Waste treatment 209 GWh 100%
✓ - Waste water collection and treatment 1,050 GWh 100%
✓ - Drinking water treatment and distribution 1,380 GWh 100%
✓Reviewed by the Statutory Auditors.
At SUEZ Energy Services (SES), Elyo and Axima Services are 1997. This result was achieved due to continual efforts to improve
defined as service providers in energy and environmental the technology and organization. However, a limit has been reached
efficiency. They are optimizing their facilities and those of their given current technologies.
customers in order to reduce consumption without, however,
The corresponding emissions of liquids and gases remain well
affecting the effectiveness or quality of the supply. This policy
below authorized limits.
also holds for every step in the service, from the initial diagnostics
to implementation, in the selection of equipment and the energy Pursuant to the Belgian government agreement of 1999, the
source. In addition, they ensure that the technical efficiency of proposed law on the progressive withdrawal from nuclear energy
the energy systems do not decline over time. As the operator of for power production was adopted in January 2003. This text
the facilities entrusted to them, they react to every anomaly and essentially provides for the decommissioning of plants forty years
mobilize their expertise. They make a long-term commitment after they were commissioned for industrial service and a ban
through result-oriented contracts, and thereby guarantee the on the creation or operation of new nuclear power production
continuity of the environmental performance. units. However, one section of the law authorizes adjustments
in an event of force majeure related to power supply security
To support this general approach, each of the entities of SUEZ
with the government’s authorization. Under this law, the first
Energy Services has developed its expertise in an ongoing effort to
decommissioning would take place in 2015.
achieve gains in energy efficiency: public lighting for INEO, turbines
The fuel used in Electrabel’s nuclear plants is essentially enriched
6
for Fabricom GTI, Energy master plan for Tractebel Engineering,
etc. uranium and, in certain cases, a mixed fuel containing plutonium
oxide and uranium oxide. All supplies for the plants are provided
Since 1990, Electrabel has started up approximately twenty natural
by Synatom, a company held by Electrabel, in which the Belgian
gas plants fitted with gas turbines, combined cycle plants (CCGT)
government holds a “golden share.” This “golden share” allows the
and cogeneration units. At various sites in Spain and Italy, new
government to oppose any decision it deems contrary to national
CCGT units are under construction. Other investments are under
interests and to be represented on the Board of Directors, where
study for other countries. The use of CCGT plants, which are
the Belgian government has two members. Synatom is supplied
among the highest performing production technologies, allow us
under long-term contracts with several foreign suppliers.
to obtain returns in the range of 55%.
The downstream segment of the nuclear fuel cycle represents
In addition, Electrabel is a member of the European association
all the operations related to this fuel after it is used in a nuclear
that includes the largest electricity producers and plant builders.
reactor. The costs related to this part of the cycle are, and will be,
This consortium is developing a project aimed at significantly
covered by provisions at Synatom. These provisions, which totaled
improving the return of future coal plants to over 50%.
euros 3.01 billion at the end of 2006, are governed by the Law of
In addition to improving its own performance, Electrabel offers April 11, 2003.
its customers a broad range of services, allowing customers to
The costs for dismantling nuclear plants after decommissioning
monitor their consumption of electricity, natural gas, water and
are also provisioned as required by the Law of April 11, 2003.
fuel via secure Internet connections, and thus to adapt their
The provisions established at year-end 2006 totaled euros 1.52
consumption and develop an efficient energy policy. Electrabel
billion. Tractebel Engineering contributes, through its permanent
also makes available to its customers a wide range of training
assistance to Electrabel, to improving all aspects of operating
programs focused on the rational use of energy. In addition, it
performance of the nuclear plants at Doel and Tihange, from
offers customized energy and technical audits.
managing major modifications up through validation of the
dismantling principles, and including operational support, safety
e. Nuclear energy studies, managing equipment life cycles, and optimizing fuel use,
The two Belgian nuclear sites offer a very high rate of availability as well as managing waste.
and, in 2006, provided 66% of Electrabel’s total power production In addition, Tractebel Engineering actively participates in improving
in Belgium. This output, compared with the best natural gas the environmental impact of the nuclear sector in several countries
technologies, prevents the emission of at least 20 million tons and in the development of high-performance and reliable methods
of carbon dioxide every year; thus, it makes a very substantial for storing radioactive waste (in Brazil, France, Belgium, etc.).
contribution to the effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. A
steady reduction in the volumes of low and medium radioactive
waste was also achieved. In fact, compared to the kWh produced,
the volume of those wastes in 2006 represented half the volume in
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Radioactive gaseous emissions:
– Rare gases 18.2 TBq 100%
– Iodines 0.10 GBq 100%
– Aerosols 1.73 GBq 100%
Radioactive nuclear waste (weak and average activity) 229.1 m3 100%
Radioactive liquid discharge:
– Beta and Gamma emitters 34.4 GBq 100%
– Tritium 90.2 TBq 100%
f. Managing and protecting natural resources Procedures to monitor the quality of drinking water that is produced
and distributed, as well as the landfills from wastewater treatment
The loss of water resources or the deterioration in the quality of
those resources in certain countries where the Group operates
plants, are carried out at the local level through self-inspections
that are reported to head office; which assesses the changes
6
is driving SUEZ to increase awareness at the operational level of
in performance. In the area of waste-water purification, SUEZ
the need for integrated management of water resources. This is
Environment, in partnership with the communities for which it
an approach that integrates all the issues related to water and
operates, ensures compliance with and, if possible, anticipates
sanitation services (preservation of the resource, agriculture,
the standards for waste water landfills and the use of sludge.
land management) and the resolution of potential conflicts
through negotiations with all stakeholders. This approach gives
the Group a better understanding and, therefore, better control of
the related risks, forms the basis for its legitimacy as a player in
water management and a partner with public authorities, as well as
allowing the Group to anticipate future trends and markets.
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Consumption of water for industrial use:
✓ – Surface water 54.7 Mm3 81.5%
✓ – Water tables 4.5 mm 3
95.8%
✓ – Public networks 18.9 mm3 96.6%
Water consumption for cooling:
✓ – Evaporated surface water 130.5 mm3 100%
✓ – Water tables 7.1 mm 3
96.4%
✓ – Public networks 4.4 mm3 96.4%
Technical yield from drinking water adduction networks 75.2% 100%
✓ Volume of leachates collected 2.9 mm 3
100%
✓ Volume of leachates treated 3.1 mm 3
100%
✓ Pollution load treated in sanitation networks (DBO5 treated) 472 kt/y 100%
✓ Reviewed by the Auditors.
Natural resources are also protected by promoting the recovery of SUEZ Environment is also developing its high-temperature
non-hazardous and hazardous industrial waste. The percentage of incineration operations for hazardous wastes in specialized
waste recovered in the form of matter or energy represents 42% furnaces or recovering those wastes as replacement fuels with its
of the total waste treated in the waste treatment sector. The Group cement plant partners. Another way to recycle hazardous wastes
believes that the recovery of treated sewage sludge (56.3% in is the regeneration of used oils and solvents. SUEZ Environment
2006) as agricultural fertilizers is also a promising market. In 2005, is also substantially expanding its activities in soil reclamation and
the Department of Operations and Research of SUEZ Environment ground depollution, by operations performed on the contaminated
developed and tested a sludge compostability test (BIODEC) that sites, or by extracting materials for treatment in its network of
guarantees the quality of the finished products, particularly the specialized facilities.
spreading conditions. The first tool to assist in the formulation of
the initial sludge mixtures and other supports will be offered to the
Group’s operators in 2007.
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Production of specific waste:
SUEZ Environment works from the very outset to integrate g. Reducing and controlling pollutants
environmental policies in its Research and Development programs.
In Flanders, Electrabel, via the Belgian Federation of Electricity and
Those programs develop innovative solutions for recovering
Gas (FEBEG), and the Flemish Region reached an agreement on
waste products, reusing waste water, reducing water leaks in the
future reductions in SO2 and NOx emissions. This environmental
networks, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
policy agreement set ambitious objectives for the period 2005-
The businesses of the SUEZ group are implicitly tied to the 2009. It became effective on January 1, 2005, and affects the
resources provided by the natural environment and may, existing facilities of Electrabel and the power producer SPE. In
therefore, be negatively affected by environmental deterioration. Wallonia, discussions to enter into a new sector agreement are
While the question of water resources is vital for the drinking water still in progress.
businesses, the preservation of energy resources is also strategic
In order to continue to reduce acidifying gas emissions, Electrabel
for the energy companies. This management implies, above all,
has initiated the adaptation of three units of the Ruien (Belgium)
the continual improvement of energy efficiency and the increased
plant, with the installation of NOx -SOx treatment units.
use of renewable energy sources (see Sections C and D). All
the wood used in the SUEZ plants is purchased from certified
producers. Electrabel signs agreements with wood producers,
which certify that they are using a wood to produce pellets that
does not reduce the natural resources and does not damage the
balance of threatened ecosystems.
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
✓ NOx emissions 105,525 tons 100%
✓ SO2 emissions 204,926 tons 100%
✓ Particulate matters emissions 9,976 tons 100%
✓ Reviewed by the Auditors.
Elyo uses a broad variety of techniques to continue to cut its approach over the long term. It is the result of specific work
emissions: reduction at source using an adapted energy package: performed by the Group’s research centers, combined with Elyo’s
water injection to reduce particulates, urea injection to control operational experience, which covers tertiary and residential sites
nitrogen oxides, and optimization of combustion and smoke as well as industrial facilities. Climespace has developed with the
treatment. This series of measures already compares very favorably Paris Ecole des Mines and patented a new type of cooling tower
with those for competing facilities; this is particularly true for the for its activity which eliminates the risk of spreading Legionnaire’s
urban heating networks, the emissions from which are significantly disease by eliminating the plume.
lower than those that would be generated by tens of thousands of
individual facilities. PCBs 6
In the 1980s, a number of government administrations and
In addition, Elyo has installed a high-performance system to
insurance companies recommended using transformers with
track its emissions. Its VALERI software application automates
askarel in order to reduce the risks of fire in the Group’s facilities.
the continuous auto-control system in the major combustion and
It was subsequently found that the principal chemical component
incineration facilities. It is now offered in a version that meets in
in the product, i.e. the “PCBs,” was hazardous to the environment
all details the very strict requirements of the two corresponding
and that its use would be prohibited by 2010. In order to comply
European directives (which are being gradually implemented
with this international agreement and its implementation in both
between 2003 and 2008), making it an unparalleled resource.
Europe and Belgium, conventions were signed with the Belgian
Distribution has been industrialized with TINEA, a specialized entity
authorities to identify the facilities concerned and schedule
of INEO.
their decommissioning pursuant to authorized procedures. This
Pathogens decommissioning is being done linearly; and the Group is ahead
of schedule. Moreover, Electrabel has developed Electrabel PCB
Certain portions of the cooling system in our facilities use river water.
Full Service which can be used by its customers to remove devices
At certain times of the year, pathogenic organisms can develop in
containing PCBs.
the cooling system, influenced by an appropriate temperature. In
order to prevent or at least control this phenomenon, analyses and
studies have been conducted for several years, and methods to h. Managing biodiversity
combat these organisms have been developed. A decision-making Biodiversity represents the biological wealth formed by all living
logic diagram was developed and implemented in 2004. The initial organisms and their relationships with their environments. It
results are in line with the objectives. The Belgian laboratory of the provides a large number of natural products and “free” services.
Laborelec group conducts the scientific monitoring and manages The protection of biodiversity is vital. Deterioration of biodiversity
the various application phases. In addition, in 2004, a plume is now a concern and may result in the decline in the natural
condensation method was developed in order to evaluate the resources vital to the group’s businesses.
concentrations of pathogens in the steam at the outlet from the
cooling towers. The SUEZ Group bases its Biodiversity policy on the actions
proposed under Convention on Biological Diversity adopted in Rio
In 2005, Laborelec consolidated the experience acquired over in 1992.
the last ten years in management pathogenic organisms in water
with the development of Governance Rules that stipulate the In 2006, a census of the most fragile zones was conducted in
templates necessary to assess the risks and the plan to manage Europe based on Natura 2000, and the zones identified by the
those risks. The Governance Rules were approved by Electrabel’s PNUE and the WWF in the rest of the world (ecoregions). This
Safety department and distributed for implementation within the process will result in the development of a mapping tool to classify
organization at the end of 2005. Measurement campaigns are the sensitivity of our activities with respect to biodiversity and the
regularly conducted by a specialized laboratory. resulting actions.
In terms of the risk of Legionnaire’s disease, Elyo offers its Now a list of sites close to the Natura 2000 zones has been
customers an optimized operating approach adapted to each prepared by SUEZ Environment, and sensitivity programs are
facility, which can be easily integrated with pre-existing services. being developed (preparation of action plans). As part of the future
In contrast to partial and occasional measures, this is a global application of the Directive on Environmental Responsibility, the
study on water and waste treatment effects on the environment took serious events are carefully assessed. These procedures are
into consideration the Natura 2000 zones, classified according to established to reduce to a minimum the risk of failure to comply
their sensitivity to protect biodiversity. A more detailed investigation with regulations or an operating permit, and to demonstrate the
of the sites located near Natura 2000 zones will be launched to Group’s commitment to contribute to the protection of human
verify the state of preservation of biodiversity there, and a study and lives and the environment. SUEZ Environment methodically takes
search for tracking indicators has been entrusted to the Museum environmental risks into consideration: at least one environmental
of Natural History in Paris. audit has been conducted at each waste treatment site over the
last three years. These audits identify any failures to comply with
For example, Compagnie Nationale du Rhône must, under its
current regulations, detect specific risks, and implement correction
contract with the French government and the Rhône Alpes Region,
plans. Non-compliance arises from ongoing changes in regulations
take all measures necessary to ensure the maintenance of the
which require upgrades at the operating level. They also result from
Rhone river banks. Today the entire Rhône has been classified
acquisitions of facilities for which investments have been planned
as a Natura 2000 zone. Current actions include CNR’s program
or because of the simple ageing of managed facilities. The use
to rehabilitate the banks of the Rhône by eliminating the cement
of private operators is often justified by difficulties in managing
embankments and restoring the fauna and flora as closely as
facilities subject to increasingly strict regulations. When SUEZ
possible to what existed on the banks of the Rhône 100 years
assumes the management of facilities, some of those facilities
ago. This program provides better riverbank stability and protects
do not necessarily yet meet regulatory requirements. It is clear
threatened species like the beaver or otter.
6
that, given the size of the infrastructures, the investment and work
Landfills sites may also be located in or near zones identified needed to upgrade the system sometimes require several years in
as having a fragile biodiversity. In addition to the impact study certain countries. When a situation of non-compliance arises, SUEZ
conducted at the start-up of the site operations, ongoing programs uses a variety of responses that may consist of an improvement in
are also necessary. For example, one site was improved in a landfill the operational management of a site, or an investment to enhance
in eastern France to host a rate breed of owl, which can now or replace equipment.
continue to nest on the site operated by SITA.
Under service delegation contracts, these decisions must be
Most of the industrial sites managed by the Group are large in made with the approval of the customers, local authorities or
area. The use of a portion of these sites as a passage point for manufacturers. Some investments remain their entire responsibility.
migrating birds is increasingly frequent, and exchanges of good However, the Group works to alert its customers so that they can
practices continue within the group. For example, peregrine falcons anticipate future standards. A major program to increase awareness
nest on the flues of certain thermal plants in Belgium, and greater among local communities that have entrusted the management
flamingos have settled on the Marseillan lagoon, near the Thau of their household waste incinerator to the Group was launched
pond. by SUEZ Environment to anticipate the applicable European
environmental regulations in place since December 2005; those
In 2006, Tractebel Engineering, in partnership with SEI and the
regulations require a reduction in authorized emissions thresholds.
European Space Agency, began research on the development
In some cases, when our customer has not made the investments
and monitoring of sustainable development indicators for major
to bring its facility into compliance, we have withdrawn from our
hydroelectric facilities. In this effort, biodiversity is one of the
management role. This audit program, which is monitored by
major factors considered, primarily in terms of the richness of the
the Department of Operations, Research and the Environment
ecosystems.
(DORE), is regularly presented to the Management Committee and
subject to regular reports. In the water segment, each subsidiary is
6.6.1.4 Active prevention of responsible for its own system to manage its environmental risks. A
centralized audit process that is similar to the one set up for waste
environmental risks has been in place for two years now. Audits will be conducted as
a priority on waste treatment facilities, storage of water treatment
To support the central audit program to control environmental
products, and the management sludge produced by wastewater
issues, operational divisions are encouraged to implement their
treatment plants. Finally, risk-prevention plans are included or
own environmental audit systems in order to speed up the coverage
precede the implementation of an environmental management
of their sites.
system.
In the Energy segments, specific internal procedures are being
There were 54 complaints and 9 judgments resulting from
deployed over most of the sites in order to define responsibilities
environmental damage, totaling €0.12 million in compensation.
for environmental management and to monitor the performance
This is low given the size of the Group, the industrial nature of
of environmental audits to assess the level of environmental
its businesses, and its direct expenditures for the environment.
compliance of facilities. Special attention is paid to operating
In 2006, environmental expenditures (investments and current
permits on aspects related to impacts on the air, water, waste and
operating expenditures related to environmental protection)
noise. In addition, the compliance of subcontractors’ practices,
amounted to more than €485.4 million for energy activities and
the prevention of accidental landfills, the temporary on-site storage
over €2,624.5 million for the water and waste businesses.
of hazardous wastes, and the existence of procedures to manage
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Environment-related complaints 54 99.8%
Environmental judgments 9 99.8%
Amount of compensation euros 119,000 99.8%
Environment-related expenses:
– Energy activities euros 485.4 million 100%
– Environmental activities euros 2,624.5 million 100%
Environment-related provisions (see Note 15) euros 5,436.6 million 100%
The management of industrial and environmental risks breaks down into two components: risk prevention and crisis management.
Scope covered
Indicator names 2006 data (% of pertinent turnover)
Environmental analyses
Environmental risk prevention plan
58% of pertinent turnover
65.1% of pertinent turnover
99.6%
99.6%
6
✓ Environmental crisis management plan 76.9% of pertinent turnover 99.8%
✓ Reviewed by the Auditors.
a. Crisis management for operating continuity international regulations and are subject to regular inspections by
public authorities and the Group’s experts.
The operating entities have established crisis management plans
that involve two levels of response: an emergency standby system Inside the European Union, the Group operated eight Seveso “high
to ensure immediate mobilization of the crisis management threshold” sites, located in France, Belgium, Germany, Hungary
resources, and an actual crisis mechanism that effectively and the Netherlands.
manages crises over an extended period of time. This plan
For the environmental businesses, Teris, the hazardous industrial
particularly provides for the organization of a crisis unit that is
waste treatment subsidiary of SUEZ Environment, operates the
capable of taking into consideration internal or external impacts,
French sites of Pont-de-Claix (incineration of chlorinated solvents)
whether they are technical, social, health-related, economic, or
and Loon-Plage (incineration of hazardous industrial waste), and
image-related. For this purpose, the emphasis is on increasing the
its subsidiary SITA Remediation in Germany operates the Herne
awareness and training of crisis management teams, particularly
plant (treatment of hazardous industrial waste).
through simulations, and on developing a culture of exchanging
information among local teams and their outside contacts. For the Energy businesses, Fluxys and Fluxys LNG (SEE) operate
the sites of Zeebrugge (liquefied natural gas terminal), Dudzele
The procedure known as “crisis emergency standby” ensures
(LNG storage unit) and Loenhout (underground natural gas
that the Group’s Management is informed of any serious event as
storage), and Electrabel operates the Gelderland and Dunamenti
necessary. This emergency standby system covers the Water and
sites.
Waste Treatment activities in particular, along with the nuclear
activities, and is active 24 hours a day, every day of the year. It SUEZ Environment high-threshold Seveso sites are audited every
also ensures the feedback needed to improve the Group’s crisis three years by the corporate audit department. The Teris Pont-de-
management procedures and risk control. Exercises to test these Claix site, which was audited in 2006, is classified under the Seveso
procedures were organized in 2006. directive as “high threshold” because of its storage of hazardous
industrial waste that may include highly toxic categories. This site
is located in the center of a chemical complex that includes other
b. Environmental risk management policy – Law “high threshold” Seveso establishments, with which it shares
of July 30, 2003, governing the prevention of response resources within an economic interest grouping and a
technological risk health, safety and environmental charter common to all operators
Risk management is an essential component of the Group’s on the complex. In particular, there is an internal 35-person fire
environmental policy. The environmental risks related to the most department. The policy for preventing major accidents is based on
dangerous sites are framed by strict and specific national and a methodology for risk assessment, a policy on health and safety
in the workplace, and an environmental protection policy that has
earned ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification, an annual safety- complex. Each of these three establishments has a notification
environmental quality progress plan, and an inspection policy that system, which is relayed to the management teams of Teris and
minimizes the risks related to the operation of the equipment that SUEZ Environment. These emergency standby systems define
is backed by the chemical complex inspection department and procedures in the event of a crisis.
recognized by the government. The safety management system is
Fluxys and Fluxys LNG conduct a proactive policy to control risks
audited by a third party at least every three years, which complies
related to well-being in the workplace, industrial safety and the
with the order of May 10, 2000, and the health, safety and
environment.
environmental charter of the chemical complex. An internal study
of the dangers on the Teris sites evaluates the risks of accidents Within the framework of this policy, Fluxys and Fluxys LNG strive
that could occur and the precautionary measures that would to:
reduce the gravity or probability of such an accident. Since 2000,
• with respect to the environment:
the frequency rate and the gravity rate of workplace accidents has
been zero. No environmental accident or external complaint has – show concern for and demonstrate responsibility towards the
been recorded. well-being and protection of their employees, third parties, local
residents, and the environment,
The Teris-Loon Plage site, which was audited in 2004 and will
be audited in 2007, is a Seveso “high threshold” site because – implement the best technologies available while taking economic
of the storage of hazardous industrial waste that may include realities into account,
6 toxic materials. This establishment was acquired from Du Pont
early in 2003. The policy to prevent major accidents is based on
– meet the expectations of all participants, both inside and outside
the company,
a methodology for risk assessment, a policy on health and safety
in the workplace, an environmental protection policy, and an – take the concept of “sustainable development” into account in
annual environment and safety quality progress plan. The site was their activities,
integrated within the Teris ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certification – conform with legal requirements;
perimeter in 2004. Its safety management system (SMS) complies
with the order of May 10, 2000. A hazard study conducted by • with respect to their employees:
Fairtec/Veritas was submitted for critical analysis by a third party – define and distribute responsibilities, tasks and competencies,
expert (Technip) at the request of the authorities as a condition for
granting authorization to operate. This authorization was granted – regularly define targeted objectives by business line and by
on April 23, 2003. The assessment of risks of accidents that are employee,
likely to occur and the protective measures that reduce the gravity – provide adequate training for each employee;
or likelihood of accidents was conducted according to Du Pont’s
Hazop procedure. Since Teris acquired the site, the accident • with respect to processes:
frequency and gravity rates have been zero. – manage risks proactively and through processes using the Quality
The Herne site operated by SITA Remediation, a Teris subsidiary, & Safety Management System (QSMS),
uses pyrolisis to treat 30,000 tons/year of soil polluted with – consolidate expertise as well as all the data concerning
mercury, pyralene and polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons. The facilities,
site is classified as a Seveso “high threshold” site because of the
– act responsibly when designing, building, operating and retiring
potential stock of polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons contained
facilities from service,
in the soil, which is greater than 200 tons, the limit in Germany.
The site meets its regulatory obligations. A special impact study – set up and implement the required inspection, monitoring and
was conducted in 2003. An environmental officer and a Seveso maintenance programs,
officer were appointed by the company and they are responsible
– be prepared to cope with emergency situations and serious
for the correct application of the regulations. An annual three-day
accidents;
audit is conducted by the German Department of Environment
and Labor. This site was audited in 2006 by the environmental • with respect to cooperation:
audit team of SUEZ Environment. No major non-compliance or
– make this policy known and cooperate actively and efficiently at
major environmental risk was detected on the site. In addition,
all corporate levels,
the site is certified as “Entsorgungsfachbetrieb”, a German
environmental certification, the renewal of which is verified annually – use the PPT Committee as a platform for consultation,
by government audit.
– continually adapt the policies on well-being, industrial safety,
Each of the Seveso sites has an internal operations plan that environment and quality through the HSEQ Steering Committee
includes a “crisis unit” component which is filed with the authorities. according to the responsibilities attributed to it;
This plan is tested every year during exercises conducted jointly
• with respect to feedback:
with the Civil Protection Administration. The plan of Teris Pont-de-
Claix is included in the internal operations plan of the chemical – measure and regularly follow up on efforts and results,
– ensure that each accident, incident or non-compliance event expanded, which allowed the auditors to extend their opinion to
that occurs in the organization is disclosed, examined and encompass all data, and not only to the business lines visited.
addressed, In 2006, the number of audited indicators was increased and
new methodological guidelines were applied in accordance with
– draw lessons from experiences both inside and outside the
recommendations made by the auditors the previous year.
company,
For environmental reporting, the year 2006 was marked by the
– regularly update the prevention policy, and assess and adapt the
completion of work in the following areas: revision and deployment
necessary action plans,
of reporting procedures, revision of certain definitions and
– seek to improve using internal and external audits. consistency checks, revision of existing methodological guidelines
(CO2 and CH4) and provision of new guidelines for SF6, mercury,
Each employee contributes to the implementation of this policy
electricity auto-consumption and water consumption, securing of
through the responsibilities, tasks and authority assigned to him.
the environmental reporting workflow, and increased use of CERIS,
The management structure will apply available resources in the the Group’s environmental reporting tool.
most effective manner.
The procedures for defining the scope of environmental reporting
Management and supervisors are responsible for compliance with were clarified in order to cover all the operations and impact of
and improvements to this policy. the facilities where the Group holds technical operational control.
Appendices: methodology for the 2006 procedures and work instructions at the Group and division
level detail the collection, control, consolidation, validation
environmental reporting
and transmission of environmental data at the various levels of
To ensure the transparency and reliability of the data it
the organization as well as the rules that define the scope and
publishes, SUEZ has initiated the progressive verification by its
consolidation. They include technical documents that provide
Statutory Auditors of the quality of certain indicators related to
methodological guidelines for calculating certain indicators. The
the environmental and corporate data published. The first step
list of the entities included in the scope of environmental reporting
performed for the data from fiscal 2001 consisted of a review of
is attached to the procedures and instructions.
the reporting procedures for performance indicators. In 2003 and
2004, the work performed led to an opinion of moderate assurance The documents defining the indicators used to measure the
on the reporting procedures for environmental and corporate data environmental performance of the Group have been reviewed
and on the quality of a limited number of indicators for selected and explained in compliance with the legal disclosure obligations
business lines. SUEZ has implemented the recommendations stipulated by the French New Economic Regulations act and the
made by the Statutory Auditors to enable it to strengthen its non- law on technological risks. They have also been created based on
financial reporting systems. In 2005, the scope of the audits was comments from operational managers represented in a dedicated
work group. Each indicator has also been studied to define and 5. methodological details have been added to the calculation of
formalize the type of validation controls to be used. These controls air emissions. These are measured continuously, estimated
are based on studies of changes from one reporting year to another by extrapolating from frequent but separate measurements or
and on analyses of consistency and relevance within a business. calculated using average emission factors;
They are integrated into the reporting tool. All the documentation
6. the data reported by Sita UK are less reliable on the whole
can be obtained by simply requesting for it from the Group’s
because few audits were conducted for the business line.
environmental division.
Most of the anomalies observed in the data transmitted by Sita
The following information should be noted about the data published UK were corrected using information available at the entity’s
in this report and in the Activity and Sustainable Development head office. Sita UK’s contribution to the data published by the
Report: Group is especially significant for the following indicators: CH4
emissions from landfills (40.4% of Group total), non-hazardous
1. the definition of the “electricity consumption” indicator
non-specific waste (44.4% of Group total) and treated leachates
for energy production activities has been modified to take
(28% of Group total).
the auto-consumption of power plants into account. When
the information required for calculating auto-consumption The reliability of the reporting process, the scope of the
is not available, this figure is estimated in proportion to net reporting perimeter, and the improvement in the definition of
production. Currently, SUEZ Environment’s energy producing the environmental performance indicators are continually being
6
At the same time, a pool of 1,200 potential successors has
and in particular, its Works Council. The European Consultative
been created to fill the Group’s 400 key positions. These high-
Committee and the French Works Council were informed and
potential employees follow the Leaders for the Future (LFF)
consulted very regularly through an ad hoc follow-up committee,
program that is geared to three categories of future executives.
through the various stages of the merger strategy in the two
“L1s” are eligible to take over from Top Executives. “L2s” still need
companies. This consultation momentum also made it possible to
to add to their professional experience, while “L3s” have yet to
set milestones for new collective agreements negotiated at Group
realize their potential. It should be noted that the HR Department
level (see item 6).
is particularly vigilant about the diversity of LFF profiles. A full
At the same time, the Human Resources Department also program of assessment, conditioning and training is made available
ensured that its ambitious medium-term action plan was being to the LFF. The SUEZ Centre for Development and Assessment
implemented. It has defined six priorities: management forecast of runs two specific programs, one for L2s and the other for L1s
human resources, spreading of Group culture, support for change, and Top Executives, aimed primarily at finding out their potential
optimization of information exchange and interface tools, quality of and drawing up a career development plan. SUEZ University is
employee information, and management of labor relations and HR also currently proposing new training modules for L1s and Top
themes as part of the company’s social responsibility. Executives: Learning Expeditions are designed as a leadership
development tool and as a means of acquiring the competencies
As the HR function positions itself as a business partner of the
required to collectively meet challenges. These sessions are
operational teams, the assessment of its contribution to the Group
compulsory for Top Executives. They are the next stage after the
is becoming more systematic. More than ever, HR departments
Global Player program, which is required for L1s and new Top
have positioned themselves to support operational personnel in
Executives, and which trains experienced managers to define and
preparing and managing change within the company. The overall
apply corporate strategies as well as to lead change.
backdrop of demographic transition has heightened the urgency
of this approach: attraction and retention of talent, training efforts, Recruitment and skills development is another priority for the
definition of new career paths, enhancement of the value of HR Department. This is because attraction, retention and talent
seniority, and adaptation to fast-changing businesses and markets development are the mainstays of SUEZ’s strategy. With respect
require strong commitment and a high standard of efficiency. to recruitment, in coordination with activities carried out by the
business lines, the Schools policy aims at standardizing practices,
As at December 31, 2006, the Group had 139,814 employees,
attracting new talent, and consolidating SUEZ’s brand image. The
down 11% as compared with the end of 2005. This sharp drop
Campus program aims at establishing close relationships with
was primarily due to the closing of two major concessions that
business and engineering schools. In 2006, SUEZ was represented
employed a large number of people. The water distribution
as a Group at 15 recruitment fairs in France and in Belgium. A
contracts in Argentina and the waste treatment contracts in Brazil
program intended to create a pool of young executives and to
and Peru involved nearly 14,000 employees. The withdrawal of the
facilitate their integration into the group through a succession of
two concessions did not have a negative impact on employment
positions occupied in SUEZ’s various businesses is also being
since the employees were transferred to the new operators. A few
implemented (Young Executive Program).
adjustments made in each of the four divisions (removals from
the scope of consolidation, adaptations to economic constraints) The “Developing Talents” guide formalizes the “HR career
explain the rest of the changes recorded. development cycle” and provides HR managers with tools best
suited to preparing for career management, from welcoming
new employees to mobility measures and annual assessments.
This guide, which was first published in 2005, was re-edited
in 2006. Training and simulation workshops were organized The “HR Guidelines” formalize the principles of the HR approach
with non-managerial staff to familiarize them with the principles and set out the role of HR managers inside SUEZ. They were
and objectives behind career stages, managerial reviews, and updated in 2006, with the participation of the HR division.
succession plans. The complementary “2006-2007 Guide to Concurrently, a glossary has been created to standardize the
reference functions” presents a broad overview of professional definitions of SUEZ’s 23 Human Resources Key Performance
opportunities currently available at SUEZ. Its aim is to describe, for Indicators. These two programs contribute to the creation and
human resources managers as well as for employees, the various consistency of a common language and managerial practices.
opportunities that exist in the four divisions.
The Group’s Health Safety benchmark has also been extended
The Group makes available to employees the resources that they for standardization purposes. Two rules were created concerning
need to acquire the competencies essential to the performance subcontractors and temporary staff. A few others are currently
of their duties. Whereas training needs are primarily decided being prepared: health and safety risk management and analyses,
within the divisions and operational units to guarantee they meet work permits, serious accidents, and health protection and
practical needs, the programs offered to Group managers by SUEZ surveillance.
University are a driving force for career management.
The various training modules offered by SUEZ University are also
By creating a job market policy that can be accessed from all the an opportunity to build a shared vocabulary and to reinforce the
Group’s Intranet sites, the recruitment management and mobility consistency of managerial practices. In 2006, 106 seminars were
The HR department’s contribution to Group performance is processed for one position, time lapsed between the publication
at the heart of the action plan. Forecast management tools are of the job offer and the signing of the contract, etc. The HR
being implemented to facilitate the anticipation of future needs Who’s Who brings together the detailed profiles of 700 Group HR
and measure the effectiveness of Human Resource functions. executives to facilitate the sharing of experience inside the Group
Beginning in 2007, an operating report will be created to sum up and also to enable operational personnel to draw on the expertise
the main HR trends, thus facilitating forecast management. This inside the company.
approach follows up on the comprehensive study conducted by
Under the framework of possible synergies, the HR Department
the business lines to identify and control labor risks that may arise
has renegotiated the insurance terms of contingency plans. This
in connection with their activities.
resulted in savings in France and Belgium. The size of the Group
The programs offered by SUEZ University also prepare for and its international scope have also enabled it to pool the needs
change management: there are “HR for HR” training courses of subsidiaries in terms of contingency plans and health expenses,
for HR managers as well as for employees in positions with an thereby improving the efficiency of the financing for these schemes.
HR dimension (for example, heads of entities or site managers). As part of its Human Resources development policy, the HR
The “Global Player” module for Top Executives and LFFs, which department has also contributed to setting up pension plans
complements the strategic reflection forum for senior managers and has paid special attention to the contents of individual and
(“Semafor”) and the SUEZ Prospective conferences, includes a collective information for supplementary pension plans, particularly
part dedicated to change management. The “Focus Leadership in France and Belgium.
& Change Management” module also provides insight into the
challenges presented by change processes and their impact on
6
results. 6.6.2.5 Consolidation and control of
employee information
6.6.2.4 Optimization of HR processes and In 2006, further efforts were made to make the reporting of
development of shared interfaces employee data more accurate. The definitions of some indicators
were enriched to eliminate all ambiguity. Control procedures during
In the SHERPA organization project, the Group-wide optimization the feedback of employee information were completed with new
of support functions holds a prominent place. A mapping of HR functionalities. This fine-tuning of consistency checks also benefited
processes is being used to ensure the readability and consistency the Health & Safety Network, which manages the consolidation
of decision and action circuits. of data related to occupational injuries. Consequently, employee
reporting covers an increasingly large proportion of Group activities,
HR Expertise Centers have been developed at SUEZ on topics such
thus providing a true reflection of what actually goes on in the
as expatriate management, pensions and the training of executives
business entities. In 2006, the average rate of coverage for the
(SUEZ University) that require a high level of specialization. These
120 indicators published was 96%. Plans are under way to switch
dedicated structures offer the business lines top quality services
to a consolidation software package with more functionalities that
and advice. They create added value and support the decision-
can be accessed via the Internet in 2007.
making process, as well as playing an active role in operational
management (information on employees and calculating pension As in previous fiscal years, the specialized services of the Statutory
contributions, for example). Furthermore, studies are currently Auditors were at the forefront of a mission to verify selected
underway to create a Group-wide network that can build on employee indicators published by the Group. Derived from work
knowledge and expertise to support operating personnel in a carried out on-site as well as in Division and Group head offices, the
targeted, timely fashion. recommendations made in 2006 have enabled SUEZ to implement
various improvements.
The Group is also developing “Shared Service Centers” for
accounting management, personnel administration, and the IT
infrastructure. By using their “critical mass” to create economies
of scale, these centers ensure significant productivity and
6.6.2.6 Social Responsibility and
quality gains (optimized costs, creation of a real client/supplier Management of social issues
relationship) and, at the same time, standardize practices within
The SUEZ European Consultative Committee (ECC) and the Group
SUEZ. Initially implemented in major French and Belgian business
Works Council have held discussions with the management and
lines, these centers cover all business lines in France, Belgium
personnel representatives about SUEZ’s economic and social
and the Netherlands.
strategy. The consultation momentum that has been developed by
The optimization and pooling of HR processes is based on efficient the merger project with GDF accelerated the pace of negotiations
IT tools. The Group’s recruitment software package offers an relating to new collective agreements on manpower and skills
interface for assisting recruitment and internal mobility, while planning, diversity, and equal opportunity, as well as a Group
coordinating the practices of the 450 SUEZ recruiters. The tool Profit-sharing system. The aim is to spread the corporate dynamic
also establishes a very complete set of indicators that measure the that already exists at the entity level by defining a common Group
performance of the recruitment process: number of applications
framework. The European Consultative Committee also continued being studied and will be further addressed by the working
its work relating to “the right to lifelong education and training” group on “Globalization, Social responsibility and Governance”.
through its Steering Committee: Although the implementation Finally, an ambitious reflection on HR management in China was
of the training passport is still under review, mentoring and launched at a Symposium on the theme in Paris in June 2006,
literacy education have produced results in the field that are very where academics, law professionals and managers shared their
satisfactory. research and experiences. This issue will treated in further detail
throughout the year from the social regulation perspective.
The ECC continued its supervision of commitments made by the
group regarding labor rights. For example, the supervision of the The company’s social responsibility principles are embedded
application of the International Social Charter has resulted in a in the priorities of the HR action plan and are included in the
detailed analysis of results achieved in divisions and in countries “HR for HR” training course offered by SUEZ University. More
where SUEZ operates. In 2006, the company carried out an in- specifically, a series of projects relating to diversity has been
depth analysis of the social performance of its Italian entities. launched. Their underlying theme is basing work on local needs
and using locally available resources. After signing the Corporate
A social audit module has been created based on the principles
Diversity Charter in 2005, an internal network devoted to diversity
of this International Social Charter, to shed light on the social
issues was set up in France. The national agreement signed with
practices of Group business lines in the field. It is a participatory
the French employment agency, ANPE, in January 2006 marked
tool that directly challenges the company’s internal stakeholders
the beginning of a dynamic cooperation between the agency’s
6 (employees, members of the HR department and trade union
representatives). The assessment grid used maps the various
branches and SUEZ’s French subsidiaries. This agreement has
two objectives: to facilitate the recruitment of people affected by
components of a business line’s HR policy. This procedure
exclusion from the job market and to meet the demand of business
complements the quantitative approach to social reporting. It was
segments faced with a relative labor shortage. Signed at the end of
first tested and validated in 2006 and will be reproduced on a
2006 with institutional partners and associations, the “expansion
larger scale within the company.
of diversity sourcing” aims at increasing the recruitment pool of
The Health & Safety Executive Committee, which is made up of SUEZ subsidiaries, by enabling these partners to recommend
representatives of the Management and the European Consultative applicants who have been affected by job discrimination. Moreover,
Committee, regularly follows the Group’s social performance, and the reinsertion policy is defined in line with local needs: intake of
analyzes the causes of serious accidents and the preventive actions apprentices or a return to work policy. The approach encouraging
implemented. The deployment of the Global Action Plan for 2005- the employment of disabled employees is along the same lines: in
2010 is high on the agenda of the Health & Safety Network. It has 2006, specific diagnostics were carried out to help French entities
already led to a significant improvement in the performance of overcome resistance to the employment of disabled persons.
the divisions. An intensive audit program checks compliance with Training and awareness campaigns have also been launched on
the requirements of the Health & Safety Charter and assesses the the subject.
maturity of the management systems in place, and then implements
Published in March 2006, the “White Paper” lists good practices
corrective measures. SUEZ University has been offering a specific
in terms of the social responsibility of the Group’s various entities.
course since 2005. In 2006, participation doubled (nearly
This document’s success accelerated the structuring of initiatives
1,200 executives have participated). Finally, campaigns to raise
implemented in Belgium, particularly the creation of a Steering
awareness, operational training, and the inclusion of health and
Committee to deal with these issues. This document also provided
safety objectives in the manager assessments are all intended
a reminder that partnerships with external stakeholders can also
to enforce health and safety concerns in the daily operations of
contribute to the Group’s success. SUEZ is in this respect at the
entities.
forefront of corporate clubs in the areas of equal opportunity and
SUEZ has also continued to promote exchanges with all local “citizenship”. The Group also draws on programs developed
stakeholders, particularly through the activity of the International in partnership with local governments, such as “A goal for work,
Social Observatory. The Observatory’s work, which is at the origin a goal for life”, which provides young people trying to get into
of the Group’s commitment to “a right to lifelong education and the job market with professional training for about six months in
training”, enhances the pilot experiments conducted by some participating companies.
SUEZ entities. The definition of social performance indicators,
such as performance management tools, is among the subjects
SEE SEI
EMPLOYEES BY
GEOGRAPHIC REGION
BREAKDOWN OF
EMPLOYEES BY
CATEGORY
PERCENTAGE OF
WOMEN IN THE GROUP
✓ Percentage of
women employees 21.1% 23.0% 25.3% 17.9% 19.0% 19.9%
(100.0%) (100%) (100%) (100.0%) (100%) (100%)
Percentage of women
in management 13.5% 15.0% 16.6% 18.7% 21.1% 20.5%
(100.0%) (100%) (100%) (100.0%) (100%) (100%)
BREAKDOWN OF
EMPLOYEES BY TYPE
OF CONTRACT
SEE SEI
AGE PYRAMID
(employees under
indefinite contracts)
EMPLOYMENT S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2
✓ Turnover* 1.6% 1.9% 2.0% 1.7% 2.1% 2.4% 3.7% 4.9% 5.7% 5.8% 7.0% 6.3%
(99.8%) (91.3%) (98.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.1%) (99.4%) (99.5%) (99.5%) (100%) (100%) (100%)
Voluntary turnover 1.2% 1.4% 1.6% 1.3% 1.7% 1.8% 3.4% 3.9% 4.0% 4.4% 6.0% 5.6%
(99.8%) (91.3%) (98.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.1%) (99.4%) (99.5%) (99.5%) (100%) (100%) (100%)
Hiring rate 4.2% 5.2% 5.5% 7.2% 6.3% 8.8% 7.6% 6.8% 8.0% 6.9% 10.0% 7.6%
(99.8%) (91.3%) (98.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.1%) (99.4%) (99.5%) (99.5%) (100%) (100%) (100%)
Hiring under indefinite
contracts 40.9% 43.5% 46.2% 42.3% 55.0% 59.0% 58.7% 59.4% 93.9% 98.6% 88.0% 58.5%
(99.8%) (91.3%) (98.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.1%) (99.4%) (99.5%) (99.5%) (100%) (100%) (100%)
Percentage disables/
average number of
employees 0.3% 0.28% 0.30% 0.27% 0.24% 0.22% 0.12% 0.07% 0.07% 0.07% 0.08% 0.08%
WORKING CONDITIONS S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2
Absentee rate
(days absent/employee) 13.1 11.3 9.6 8.29 10.8 7.36 7.6 8.3 3.8 2.8 2.4 2.3
(99.6%) (99.5%) (99.7%) (99.8%) (99.8%) (99.1%) (100%) (87.1%) (100%) (100%) (100%) (100%)
Overtime 2.3% 2.3% 2.6% 3.3% 2.5% 2.8% 5.8% 5.4% 6.1% 6.7% 6.9% 6.7%
(100.0%) (88.9%) (99.8%) (98.5%) (99.9%) (98.9%) (98.4%) (71.9%) (100%) (100%) (100%) (100%)
SEE SEI
COMPENSATION
✓ Worker gross
average salary #/local
gross min. salary 4.0 4.0 4.8 11.5 9.3 8.7
(Minimum value) 1.6 1.5 1.2 2.9 3.8 2.1
(94.2%) (95.5%) (99.7%) (78.3%) (88%) (99.4%)
Gross average salary/
Gross average salary in
sector
Managers 1.6 1.6 1.4 1.9 1.7 2.0
(95.6%) (94.5%) (99.7%) (92.4%) (99%) (96.6%)
Senior technicians,
supervisors 1.6 1.4 1.2 2.4 1.8 1.9
6
(83.6%) (90.6%) (98.5%) (86.5%) (98.6%) (97.4%)
Workers, employees,
technicians 1.4 1.8 1.4 2.3 1.8 2.1
(94.2%) (95.5%) (99.7) (78.3%) (97.8%) (99.4%)
Gross average salary/
local cost of living 4.0 3.7 2.9 6.8 5.3 5.8
(94.2%) (95.5%) (99.7%) (78.3%) (97.8%) (99.4%)
WORK SAFETY
✓ Number of fatal
accidents (employees) 1 0 0 0 0 0
✓ Frequency rate 4.19 4.61 3.97 4.49 2.46 3.01
✓ Rate of gravity 0.10 0.18 0.13 0.08 0.06 0.05
(99.1%) (99.6%) (100%) (100.0%) (94.7%) (99.83%)
SEE SEI
TRAINING
✓ Percentage
employees trained 72.7 68.2 79.8 66.6 72.8 76.3
(99.5%) (94.6%) (99.5%) (94.1%) (78.7%) (100%)
Proportion of
managers and non-
managers trained
Managers 15.3% 18.9% 21.4% 15.8% 24.0% 24.1%
Technicians,
supervisors, workers,
employees 84.7% 81.1% 78.6% 84.2% 75.9% 75.9%
6 Training expenses
(99.5%) (94.6%) (97.8%) (94.1%) (78.7%) (100%)
SES SE
EMPLOYEES BY
GEOGRAPHIC REGION
✓ TOTAL 66,396
(100.0%)
65,024
(100%)
65,044
(100%)
72,781
(100.0%)
72,130
(100%)
57,446
(100%)
6
BREAKDOWN OF
EMPLOYEES BY
CATEGORY
PERCENTAGE OF
WOMEN IN THE GROUP
✓ Percentage of
women employees 10.7% 10.7% 10.7% 18.1% 18.5% 18.0%
(99.9%) (100%) (100%) (99.7%) (99.9%) (99.9%)
Percentage of women in
management 11.6% 10.8% 11.2% 20.8% 21.4% 22.7%
(99.9%) (100%) (100%) (99.7%) (99.9%) (99.9%)
BREAKDOWN OF
EMPLOYEES BY TYPE OF
CONTRACT
SES SE
AGE PYRAMID
(employees under
indefinite contracts)
EMPLOYMENT S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2
✓ Turnover* 4.4% 4.4% 3.6% 5.1% 4.4% 4.8% 3.1% 5.6% 5.0% 5.6% 4.3% 4.7%
(58.3%) (95.9%) (81.8%) (99.8%) (100%) (98.3%) (37.5%) (90.7%) (96.7%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%)
Voluntary turnover 2.5% 2.1% 2.2% 2.9% 2.9% 3.5% 1.4% 2.5% 2.0% 2.3% 2.4% 2.9%
(58.3%) (95.9%) (81.8%) (99.8%) (100%) (99.3%) (37.5%) (90.7%) (96.7%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%)
Hiring rate 7.6% 13.1% 6.2% 8.6% 8.1% 9.3% 7.7% 7.6% 9.7% 9.1% 7.9% 8.7%
(58.3%) (95.9%) (81.8%) (99.8%) (100%) (98.3%) (37.5%) (90.7%) (96.7%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%)
Hiring under
indefinite contracts 61.2% 76.3% 69.2% 60.7% 67.8% 54.2% 56.8% 57.2% 65.3% 69.8% 59.8% 58.1%
(58.3%) (95.9%) (81.8%) (99.8%) (100%) (98.3%) (37.5%) (90.7%) (96.7%) (99.9%) (99.9%) (99.9%)
Percentage disables/
average number of
employees 1.1% 1.1% 1.34% 1.30% 1.31% 1.37% 1.1% 2.7% 1.34% 1.42% 1.60% 2.25%
WORKING CONDITIONS S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2 S1 S2
Absentee rate
(days absent/employee) 10.6 15.4 7.1 7 7.2 6.5 11 11 8.0 7.3 8.5 8.8
(84.0%) (83.0%) (97.6%) (99.1%) (100%) (100%) (71.2%) (90.0%) (99.6%) (99.6%) (99.1%) (99.9%)
Overtime 2.6% 3.1% 2.7% 3.2% 2.9% 3.1% 4.1% 4.0% 4.9% 4.6% 5.2% 5.0%
(83.1%) (68.6%) (99.0%) (78.8%) (99.9%) (100%) (86.6%) (71.9%) (99.6%) (94.7%) (94.6%) (99.5%)
SES SE
COMPENSATION
✓ Worker gross
average salary #/local
gross min. salary 1.9 1.9 1.7 2.4 2.3 2.2
(Minimum value) 0.8 0.7 0.8 0.7 0.7 0.7
(92.2%) (89%) (91.5%) (93.0%) (91.3%) (83.6%)
Gross average salary/
Gross average salary
in sector
Managers 0.9 1.0 1.0 1.3 1.3 1.2
(95.4%) (85.3%) (85%) (81.2%) (98.3%) (93.7%)
Senior technicians,
supervisors 0.9 1.0 1.0 1.2 1.0 1.1
6
(96.0%) (75.1%) (79.2%) (87.0%) (97.3%) (92.2%)
Workers, employees,
technicians 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.5 1.2 1.2
(92.4%) (87.9%) (92.7%) (92.7%) (99.1%) (93.5%)
Gross average salary/
local cost of living 2 1.7 1.5 2.1 2.1 2.0
(92.2%) (90.9%) (92.7%) (92.8%) (99.2%) (93.5%)
WORK SAFETY
✓ Number of fatal
accidents (employees) 2 7 4 9 4 4
✓ Frequency rate 20.04 18.41 14.69 24.41 21.50 21.89
✓ Rate of gravity 0.57 0.65 0.57 0.95 0.87 0.83
(98.3%) (98.2%) (99.85%) (98.2%) (95.9%) (98.88%)
SES SE
TRAINING
✓ Percentage
employees trained 48.3 50.8 55.4 59.3 59.8 58.6
(92.5%) (77.1%) (87.9%) (86.9%) (95.5%) (99.9%)
Proportion of managers
and non-managers trained
Managers 14.7% 15.5% 15.3% 8.6% 9.8% 13.6%
Technicians,
supervisors, workers,
employees 85.3% 84.5% 84.7% 91.4% 90.1% 86.4%
(92.5%) (77.1%) (87.9%) (86.9%) (95.5%) (99.9%)
6 Training expenses
per person (euro/per) 715.4 667.2 711.1 502.8 519.8 703.8
(91.6%) (76.9%) (87.9%) (86.2%) (95%) (99.9%)
No. of hours training
per person (hr/per) 24.3 25.6 32.5 21.7 23.1 24.8
(89.7%) (76.9%) (87.9%) (86.5%) (96.3%) (99.9%)
Training expenditures
per hour of training (euro/
hour) 29.4 26.1 21.9 23.1 22.5 28.4
(92.9%) (76.8%) (87.9%) (89.1%) (95.8%) (99.9%)
Breakdown of training
hours by theme
Business techniques 40.0% 46.0% 58.5% 33.4% 30.0% 29.8%
Quality, Environment,
Safety 31.4% 29.3% 24.0% 34.6% 40.7% 38.5%
Languages 3.5% 4.0% 2.4% 4.2% 5.2% 8.2%
Other 25.1% 20.7% 15.1% 27.8% 24.1% 23.6%
(94.3%) (76.9%) (87.9%) (91.8%) (96.2%) (99.9%)
✓ Verified by Auditors.
^ Verified for 1st time in 2006.
# In this ratio, only “worker gross average salary” has been verified.
* Change in calculation method as of first half 2004. See methodology note.
Methodological factors in 2006 corporate 4. External data used for the calculation of salary indicators are
provided by UBIFRANCE as part of a country information
reporting collection agreement by the network of local economic missions.
As in previous fiscal years, the specialized services of the Statutory This data is complemented by statistics from the United Nations
Auditors were at the forefront of a mission to verify selected (United Nations Population Fund), the World Bank, and the
company indicators published by the Group. Derived from work OECD. UBIFRANCE procedures are ISO 9000 certified, and
carried out on-site as well as in Division and Group head offices, the information provided as part of this partnership is available from
recommendations made in 2006 have enabled SUEZ to implement the SUEZ head office.
various improvements. The following should be noted regarding the data published in
The “User Guide” which was drafted in close cooperation with the this report:
divisions and the business units, contains all the definitions and 1. The total number of employees in the divisions is 661 persons
procedures that comprise the Group’s common frame of reference. lower than the total published number of employees. This
There have been many additions and extra details since the first difference is due primarily to the number of employees in
version in 2005. Consequently, definitions of certain indicators the Paris and Brussels headquarters and to the number of
were enhanced to eliminate all ambiguity. employees in financial sector activities who are not attached to
On the other hand, control procedures on the feedback of company any of the operational branches.
information were complemented with new functionalities made
available to reporting coordinators. All these developments have
2. The new breakdown of the workforce by socio-professional
category that was defined in 2005 has been confirmed.
6
resulted in greater consistency and increased reliability in practices Administrative employees are classified under “senior
by reporting coordinators. technicians and line supervisors” for more consistency. We
New indicators that were introduced as an experiment in the 2005 note a significant shift of “workers, employees and technicians”
reporting tool were tested in 2006. They will be published when to “senior technicians and line supervisors” at SEE. This
they have met the necessary quality and reliability requirements. corresponds to the application of new definitions and should
contribute to stabilizing the classifications within this division.
The quantitative employee data in this report comes from the HR
phase of TOPAZ, a Group consolidation tool. After collection, the 3. Unlike company reporting, health and safety reporting includes
data is processed and consolidated according to clearly defined data from entities that were removed from the scope of
procedures and criteria. consolidation during the year, in compliance with applicable
regulatory obligations. This is reflected in a slight difference in
1. TOPAZ/CARAT, a consolidation software package, collects,
the scope of the workforce covered by the two reports.
processes, and reports the data entered by local legal entities
that are subsidiaries of the SUEZ Group. Each company, 4. Since 2004, this turnover indicator takes only terminations of
including those in the HRD phase, is dealt with according to employment and resignations into account. It is calculated on
the following financial consolidation method: full consolidation the basis of semi-annual movements related to the average
(FC), proportional consolidation (PC), and equity affiliates (EA). workforce of the half-year period.
The analyses of the companies in this report deal exclusively 5. Given the time constraints, the training data is based on
with business lines in the FC phase, in which SUEZ controls preliminary information. Definitive data are available only in
both capital and management. Once a company is included in the second half of the year.
SUEZ’s financial statements as fully consolidated, its company
data are completely integrated, regardless of SUEZ’s stake in 6. The creation of remuneration indicators benefited from
the company. substantive improvements as a result of work carried out
in 2005 and 2006, particularly with respect to the precise
2. Scope of reporting. A scope of reporting corresponding to identification of benchmark lines of business. This made it
the coverage of the indicator as a percentage of the Group possible to better understand national wage practices, which
workforce (workforce of companies fully consolidated in the partly explain the slight variations in “gross average salary/ gross
SUEZ financial statements) is attached to each indicator. Some average salary of the sector” ratios. Information on salaries
companies may not have sent their data, or there may be some paid in each sector according to country is available from the
inconsistencies in the data that was synchronized. This will Group’s Industrial Relations Office at the SUEZ head office.
cause us to exclude the data in question from the scope of Cost of living is determined by private consumption per person,
reporting. based on information provided by Ubifrance and additional
3. Two methods are used in consolidating indicators: information from the Organization for Economic Cooperation
and Development (OECD) and national statistics offices.
– clustering for workforce structure and flow data and work training
and safety conditions, 7. Some values lower than 1.0 were recorded under the indicator
“gross worker’s wage/local gross minimum wage.” After
– weighting by personnel level for salaries.
verification, it turned out that this was due to Group businesses
that are dedicated to reinsertion or have a high percentage of 10. A s for the number of disabled persons, the figures given
part-time staff. represent the total number of declared disabled employees
in relation to the average monthly and half-yearly number of
8. The salaries of some French business lines (excluding overseas
employees for the Division concerned. These figures provide
departments and territories) in the SES division covered under
the best possible information about the integration of disabled
the collective agreement for the Building and Civil Works
persons in SUEZ companies. We do not think that it is relevant
industry were restated. The average amount reported was
to provide a coverage scope for this indicator.
therefore increased by 13.14% to take into account the fact
that the industry’s paid vacation funds directly cover paid
vacation.
The organization of SUEZ is grouped around four operational • the SUEZ Energy Services (SES) division is in charge of SUEZ’s
divisions in its two sectors of activity – energy and environment: activities in the field of industrial installation and maintenance
services and services associated with energy and engineering;
• the SUEZ Energy Europe (SEE) division handles all activities in
the gas and electricity sectors in Europe; • the SUEZ Environment division incorporates all Group activities
in Water and Waste Management.
• the SUEZ Energy International (SEI) division is in charge of
SUEZ’s activities in the gas and electricity sectors outside
Europe;
7
ENERGY ENVIRONMENT
See Section 25.
Capacity is
Country City/Region/State missing Business
France SHEM 773 MW Hydroelectric power plant
CNR 2 937 MW Hydroelectric power plant
Belgium Doel 2 759 MW Nuclear power plant
Tihange 2 423 MW Nuclear power plant
Belgium (nationwide) 7 944 MW Thermal power plants, CCGT, Cogeneration, Hydraulic power plants
Zeebrugge 4,5 GM3/y LNG terminals
Brazil Santo Santiago 1 420 MW Hydroelectric power plant
Salto Osorio 1 074 MW Hydroelectric power plant
Cana Brava 450 MW Hydroelectric power plant
Jorge Lacerda 773 MW Thermal power plant
Chile Electroandina 939 MW Thermal power plant
Spain Castelnou 758 MW Natural gas power plant
United States Everett, Massachusetts 10,1 GM3/an LNG terminals
Red Hills, Mississippi 440 MW Thermal power plant
Chehalis 520 MW Natural gas power plant
8 Wise County
Hot Spring
746 MW
746 MW
Natural gas power plant
Natural gas power plant
Hungary Dunamenti 1 676 MW Thermal power plant, cogeneration and combined-cycle gas turbine power plant
Italy Rosen 356 MW Natural gas power plant
Tirreno Power 380 MW Thermal power plant
Torrevaldaliga 722 MW Thermal power plant
Peru Enersur 372 MW Thermal power plant
Yuncan 130 MW Hydroelectric power plant
Poland Polianec 1 654 MW Thermal power plant
Netherlands Eems 1 705 MW Thermal power plant
Thailand Map ta Phut, Rayong 991 MW Cogeneration and combined-cycle gas turbine power plant
Bowin, Chonburi 713 MW Thermal power plant
Turkey Baymina 763 MW Natural gas power plant
8.1.1.2 Environment and Taiwan, as well as 180 landfills, most of which are located in
France and the United Kingdom.
SUEZ owns and operates several drinking water production plants,
Information on the principal sites and plants owned by SUEZ
waste water treatment plants, and water reservoirs and distribution
Environment as of December 31, 2006 is provided in the table
networks.
below. Information on leased property is presented in Section 20,
As of December 31, 2006, SUEZ owned 61 waste incineration Notes 31 and 32.
plants in France, the United Kingdom, the Benelux countries,
See Section 6.6.1.3.a.
8
9 Management report1
9.3 Other income statement items p. 121 9.6 Parent company financial statements p. 125
9
The Group stepped up the pace of performance improvements the year fell within the 2004-2006 target framework, and asset
in 2006, posting €3.6 billion in net income group share. Organic disposals (non-strategic assets and interests in Flemish mixed
growth in gross operating income and current operating income, at inter-municipal companies) were up slightly on 2005. As a result,
respectively 11.2% and 15.9%, outpaced organic revenue growth net debt at December 31, 2006 decreased to €10.4 billion from
(8.2%). €13.8 billion one year earlier, and represented 46.3% of equity
(73.4% at December 31, 2005).
Organic growth in revenues and gross operating income both came
in above the medium-term objectives set by the Group for the On account of the Group’s robust performance and outlook going
period 2004-2006. forward, the Board of Directors has decided to step up industrial
expansion over the coming three years, and to distribute a dividend
Cash generated from operations before income tax and working
of €1.20 per share in 2007 (up 20% on the dividend paid in
capital requirements also improved, investment expenditure for
2006).
In 2006, the Group reported a sustained increase in business with environment activities in Chile (water), Argentina (water) and
accompanied by a 6.7% rise in revenues. Brazil (water and waste services), and the reduction of the Group’s
interest in various Flemish mixed inter-municipal companies.
Growth in revenues on a reported basis, amounting to
The €59 million positive currency impact results mainly from the
€2,800 million, can be broken down as follows:
appreciation in the value of the Brazilian real. Growth in gross
• organic growth of €3,289 million; operating income bears testimony to groupwide efforts to scale
back costs and improve profitability, and also reflects favorable
• a positive €1,144 million impact driven by higher gas prices;
gas and electricity prices in Europe. However, this improvement
• a negative €1,724 million impact relating to changes in the scope was largely offset by the negative €170 million impact of special
of consolidation; levies introduced by the Belgian government at the end of 2006
(“gas vouchers” and a tax on idle sites).
• exchange rate fluctuations, generating a positive impact of
€91 million, due primarily to changes in the value of the Brazilian Growth in current operating income (15.2% based on reported
real (€104 million). Fluctuations in the US dollar had a negative figures and 15.9% on an organic basis) reflects:
€38 million impact.
• mainly, operating items with an impact on gross operating income
Organic revenue growth, at 8.2%, was boosted by higher revenue (accounting for a rise of €575 million, including €705 million of
contributions from: organic growth);
• SUEZ Energy Europe (up €1,461 million, or 10.4%), on the back • the non-recurring nature of the provision booked in 2005 for the
of surging sales outside of the Benelux region, in particular in AEP dispute in the US (positive impact of €111 million);
France, Germany, Italy and Spain, as well as higher electricity
• and conversely, the absence of the positive impacts recorded in
prices across Europe;
2005 relating to the reform of electricity and gas industry (EGI)
• SUEZ Energy International (up €636 million, or 11.4%), thanks pensions arrangements in France (a positive impact of €33 million
Gross operating income reported by the Group advanced 8.8%, Income from operating activities was also impacted in 2006 by
or 11.2% on a like-for-like basis (after adjusting for changes in asset write-downs amounting to €150 million (€658 million in
Group structure and exchange rates). Changes in Group structure 2005), in particular concerning property, plant and equipment in
led to a negative impact of €189 million, mainly in connection the US, as well as restructuring costs totaling €89 million.
9.2.1.2 SUEZ Energy Europe • In the Netherlands, volumes sold climbed 4.7%. The favorable
development of the customer portfolio, increases in selling
Revenues reported by SUEZ Energy Europe increased by prices and the consolidation of Rendo and Cogas from the fourth
€1,778 million or 12.5% on a reported basis compared to 2005 on quarter contributed to a 26% surge in revenues.
a like-for-like basis, and excluding the positive €855 million impact
• In the rest of Europe, electricity sales continue to record double-
of higher gas prices and the sale of Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen,
digit growth on almost all markets, in terms of both value and
organic revenue growth came out at €1,461 million.
volume. This performance comes on the back of a strong sales
momentum, notably in France (up 48.6% in value), Germany
Electricity (up 43.1% in value) and Italy (up 34.6% in value). It also reflects
certain production facilities which entered into or returned to
Electricity volumes sold totaled 156.3 TWh in 2006, including
service (positive impact of €92 million in connection with the
100.1 TWh in the Benelux region. Sales of electricity in the year
start-up of the combined cycle gas turbine plant at Castelnou in
amounted to €9,594 million, representing organic growth of 15.4%
Spain in July 2006), and higher selling prices.
or 16.9% on a reported basis. This increase essentially reflects the
overall rise in market prices triggered by higher fossil fuel prices,
and higher sales volumes outside the Benelux region (up 24.6%). Gas
More than two-thirds of revenue growth in 2006 is powered by
Excluding the positive €359 million impact of higher gas prices, gas
sales outside this area.
sales recorded by Electrabel swelled by €173 million on an organic
• In Belgium, sales volumes dropped by 2.4%, mainly as a result basis, up 7.9% on the prior-year figure. Sales volumes grew by
of lower wholesale volumes. Revenue growth of 4.2% was driven 15.7% thanks to a strong performance in the industrial sector in
by the business segment (industry and resellers), boosted by the Netherlands, the first-time consolidation of Rendo and Cogas,
the renewal of contracts for a number of industrial customers and wholesale volumes, mainly in the Benelux region. Mild weather
on the basis of upward price revisions, as well as an increase in the fourth quarter countered the positive impact of harsh winter
in volumes sold. conditions in the first three months of the year.
Distrigaz posted a rise in industrial sales, notably in France extended shutdowns in 2005, and by the full effect of the start-up or
(113 industrial sites now supplied) and the Netherlands. On an renovation of production facilities in recent months, mainly in Italy
organic basis, however, sales contracted by €162 million or 6.7%, (the 270 MW plant at Voghera and the 1,495 MW Torrevaldaliga
as a result of lower LNG sales (after the one-off opportunities in 5 and 6 units that came onstream in 2005) and in Spain (the
2005) and a fall-off in sales to power plants outside the Group. 800 MW power plant at Castelnou).
• on December 8, 2006, the Belgian parliament voted to introduce SUEZ Energy Europe reported a 5.3% increase in income from
a tax on idle production facilities; Electrabel paid €70.4 million operating activities on a reported basis, to €2,509 million, driven
by the positive €66 million impact of marking-to-market commodity
9
in this respect at end-2006;
derivatives at December 31, 2006, attributable mainly to the
• at the end of December 2006, the Belgian parliament voted a unwinding or remeasurement in 2006 of economic hedges of gas
one-off contribution from the main players in the natural gas commodities. This item also includes €288 million in capital gains
resale and distribution market, designed to offset price reductions on disposals, mainly consisting of €236 million from the disposal
granted by the Belgian State to end customers. The full amount of a portion of the Group’s interest in the Flemish mixed inter-
of this contribution was paid by Electrabel and Distrigaz for a municipal companies. In 2005, capital gains on disposals included
sum of €100 million. €626 million in connection with the listing of 36.6% of Elia.
Excluding the impact of these special tax measures, organic growth
in current operating income as reported by SUEZ Energy Europe
was in the region of 18%, in line with the performance observed 9.2.1.3 SUEZ Energy International
in first-half 2006.
SUEZ Energy International reported revenue growth of 6.2%,
Gross operating income shows organic growth of 9.2% (or or 11.4% (€636 million) on a like-for-like basis (after adjusting
€257 million), to €3,060 million, but was also impacted by the for changes in Group structure, exchange rates and gas prices)
Belgian government’s taxation measures described above. organic growth stems from:
Excluding the impact of these taxes and contributions, organic
• North America (up €193 million), essentially due to the
growth in gross operating income comes in closer to 15%.
commercial success of Serna (SUEZ Energy Resources North
The growth in these two performance indicators was buoyed by America), the number three supplier of electricity to business
sound operating fundamentals and favorable market conditions. and industrial customers in the US, and to the improvement in
the merchant energy business (€55 million), notably in Texas
The electricity business profited from sustained increases in
(Ercot);
electricity prices, despite the rise in the average price of fossil
fuels. Due to the various existing mechanisms to establish selling • the Asia/Middle East region (up €179 million), where sales
prices, changes in market prices are passed on to average selling increases in Thailand (€98 million) and Turkey (€47 million)
prices progressively, whereas increases in fossil fuel prices have a are essentially attributable to the impact of higher electricity
more immediate impact on thermal production costs. This effect is prices;
partly countered by the diversity of the Group’s production assets
• Latin America (up €163 million), and particularly Brazil, where
and fuels, as well as by the current hedging policy. In particular,
sales increased by €143 million following the replacement in
the impact of increases in the cost of fossil fuels on margins is
2005 of the last tranche of initial contract volumes by bilateral
tempered by the fact that 45.5% of the Group’s electricity output
contracts with distributors and industrial customers. In addition,
in the Benelux region is from nuclear sources.
Peru reported revenue growth of €25 million, essentially reflecting
Gross operating income was also boosted by improved capacity increases in gas sales;
availability at power stations in the Netherlands, which suffered
• the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) business, which posted revenue volumes by higher-margin bilateral contracts) were offset by the
growth of €101 million compared to the previous year. increase in net power purchases at high spot prices due to the
drought suffered in the south of the country;
Current operating income as reported by SUEZ Energy International
leapt by 47.2% to €1,099 million, with organic growth coming in at • organic growth in gross operating income in the Middle East
45.7%, or €345 million. and Asia region came in at 9.8%, thanks to a sales advance in
Thailand (with a notable improvement in output availability at
Excluding the €111 million non-recurring impact of the AEP
plants in 2006), as well as to EPC contract fees and margins on
provision for litigation in the United States booked in 2005, organic
new projects in the Middle East;
growth in current operating income comes to €234 million. This
performance is chiefly due to the sustained improvement in gross • lastly, increases in gas prices drove up dividends and production
operating income which, once changes in scope and exchange payments received from Atlantic LNG.
rates are factored out, grew by 17.1% compared to the previous
SUEZ Energy International delivered a 38.5% increase in income
year. Growth in gross operating income can be broken down by
from operating activities on a reported basis, to €1,110 million. In
region, as follows:
addition to the afore-mentioned items impacting current operating
• North America spearheads the growth momentum (49.2%), income, this change reflects:
essentially as a result of the performance recorded by SLNGNA
• a decrease in impairment expenses, which amounted to
(SUEZ LNG North America), the improvement in the merchant
€86 million in 2006 (versus €269 million in 2005), and mainly
energy business, notably in Texas (Ercot), and improved sales
correspond to write-downs on merchant power plants in the
volumes and margins booked by Serna (SUEZ Energy Resources
US;
North America);
• the negative €48 million impact of marking-to-market commodity
• SLNGNA reported organic growth in gross operating income of
derivatives at December 31, 2006 (versus a positive €79 million
135%, despite the strong downward pressure on gas prices in
impact at December 31, 2005), relating in particular to economic
the US during the first quarter. This strong increase reflects a
robust performance in the second half of the year secured by the
hedges of gas and electricity purchases and sales entered into
in respect of North American operations;
9
hedging policy, compared to an extremely difficult second half
in 2005, where results were impacted by production outages at • capital gains of €145 million from disposals, relating mainly to
the Atlantic LNG sites; the sale of the Group’s interests in Colbùn in Chile and Hanjin
City Gas in South Korea (proceeds of €245 million in 2005
• Latin America posted organic growth of 2.7%, held back by a
mainly reflected the partial sale of Tractebel Energia, Enersur
modest performance in Brazil where the positive impacts of
and Glow).
increased sales volumes and average selling prices (boosted
by the replacement in 2005 of the last tranche of initial contract
% change
(in millions of euros) 2006 2005 (reported basis)
Revenues 10,637 10,329 3.0%
Gross operating income (a) 591 563 5.0%
Depreciation, amortization and provisions (b) (163) (140) -16.1%
Net expenses on concessions/stock options (c) (29) (17) N/A
Share in net income / (loss) of associates (d) (3) 33 N/A
Financial income not related to net debt (e) 10 13 -23.1%
Current operating income = a + b + c - d - e 392 359 9.3%
Mark-to-market on commodity contracts other than trading instruments N/A
Impairment (23) (84) N/A
Restructuring costs (25) (87) N/A
Disposals of assets, net 112 42 N/A
Income from operating activities 456 230 98.6%
9 SUEZ Energy Services delivered organic revenue growth of • the Belgian installation business boosted its profitability thanks to
€515 million, or 5.1% in 2006, excluding the impact of higher organizational streamlining measures. At the same time, services
gas prices. Once higher gas prices are factored back in, organic activities continued to expand very satisfactorily;
revenue growth reported by SUEZ Energy Services comes in at
• the international installation business also continued to gain
6.5%.
ground, notably in the HVAC sector. However, the results of
Organic growth held firm in installation and maintenance services SES International were affected by overruns on several projects
in France (up €339 million, or 12.1%) driven notably by strong recorded by UK subsidiary ABS;
performances from Ineo and Axima.
• in the Netherlands, GTI continued its recovery and adjusted its
Service activities in France (Elyo) reported organic revenue growth organizational structure to allow it to focus on improving margins
of €87 million, or 4%, on the back of increased sales momentum rather than increasing volumes;
and additional services provided. The impact of climatic conditions
• Tractebel Engineering enjoyed breakthroughs in several sectors
over the year was broadly neutral, with mild weather in November
(energy, infrastructures, etc.), and despite having discontinued
and December 2006 balancing out the harsher conditions
its turnkey gas infrastructure business, continued to provide
experienced in the early months of the year.
engineering consulting services in that sector.
In the rest of Europe, SUEZ Energy Services benefited from the
SUEZ Energy Services recorded 9.3% growth in current operating
overall expansion of operations, notably in the climate engineering
income, which stands at €392 million. Organic growth in current
business.
operating income came to €38 million, or close to 11%, growing at
Gross operating income reported by SUEZ Energy Services came twice the pace of revenues. SES was buoyed by improved operating
in at €591 million. The year-on-year increase stems from sustained performances that enabled it to make up for the absence in 2006
activity level and operational improvements, including: of non-recurring items booked in the previous year, including
adjustments to provisions for pension obligations relating to EGI
• ongoing commercial expansion in services provided in France
companies (positive impact of €33 million on current operating
and Europe, which helped improve the cost structure of these
income in 2005) and the reversal of a provision for litigation
businesses. CPCU’s activities were hampered by the temporary
recorded by GTI that was no longer justified.
steam supply outage at the Tiru plant in Issy-Les-Moulineaux,
France, as well as by the impact of caps on electricity revenues 2006 was characterized by further restructuring measures
from cogeneration facilities; (representing a negative amount of €25 million, versus a negative
€87 million in 2005), particularly at GTI and Axima Building
• the installation business in France enjoyed robust commercial
Services in the UK. Asset impairments amounted to €23 million,
activity as well as ongoing structural and productivity
down sharply on the €84 million figure recorded in 2005, which
improvements;
chiefly consisted of a €50 million write down on GTI goodwill. These
positive impacts were bolstered by capital gains on disposals of On the back of this performance, SUEZ Energy Services delivered a
non-strategic businesses and assets in an amount of €112 million €455 million increase in income from operating activities – almost
(compared to €42 million in 2005), essentially in connection with double the prior-year figure.
the sale of Reva, which generated a gain of €129 million.
% change
(in millions of euros) 2006 2005 (reported basis)
Revenues 11,439 11,089 3.2%
Gross operating income (a) 1,983 1,914 3.6%
Depreciation, amortization and provisions (b) (685) (695) 1.4%
Net expenses on concessions/stock options (c) (207) (167) -23.8%
Share in net income / (loss) of associates (d) 21 24 -11.5%
Financial income not related to net debt (e) 26 25 4.5%
Current operating income = a + b + c - d - e 1,044 1,004 4.0%
Mark-to-market on commodity contracts other than trading instruments (2) N/A
Impairment
Restructuring costs
(54)
1
(209)
(22)
N/A
N/A
9
Disposals of assets, net 154 493 N/A
Income from operating activities 1,143 1,266 -9.7%
SUEZ Environment delivered strong 6.5% (€677 million) organic • International operations reported organic growth of €98 million,
revenue growth in 2006. Revenue growth on a reported basis was or 6.7%, reflecting mainly the ramp-up of water and waste
hit by changes in the structure of the international operations, services contracts in China (accounting for a rise of 15.3%),
mainly the deconsolidation of Latin American companies further rising prices and volumes in Morocco (Lydec, +3.8%), the start-
to the termination of the Aguas Argentina contract at the end of up of the water contract in Algeria, and the expansion of the
February, which contributed to a €396 million fall in revenues. waste services business in Australia (+7.3%).
Organic growth performance by region breaks down as follows:
Thanks to divestments carried out in 2005 and 2006 (withdrawal
• European water services posted revenue growth of €249 million from Latin America, sale of the North American waste services
or 7.2%, on the back of strong results from Agbar (up business, partial sale of Palyja in Jakarta, etc.), and the early-2007
€141 million, or 9.7%) – particularly its water and wastewater sale of its Bolivian operations, SUEZ Environment has completed
business – and France (up €87 million, or 5.0%), boosted by its geographical shift, anchored around a strong European base
fast-paced commercial expansion; and a deep international footprint; namely the water business in
the US, waste services in Australia, and water and waste services
• revenues generated by European waste services advanced
in China, North Africa and the Middle East. This new strategic
across the region, fueled by either favorable price and volume
geographical thrust already seems to have paid off, with Europe
effects, particularly in France (€105 million or 4.2%) and the UK
contributing more than 75% of SUEZ Environment’s organic
(€41 million, or 5.6%), or by the start-up of new waste sorting
revenue growth in 2006.
and processing units in the second half of 2005, particularly
in Germany and central Europe which both delivered a robust Current operating income for SUEZ Environment came in at
performance (revenues up €28 million or 6.4%, and €46 million €1,044 million in 2006, up 4% on a reported basis or 7.3% on
or 44.1%, respectively); an organic basis. Building on an already excellent year in 2005,
the sharp advance in SUEZ Environment’s operating performance
• Degrémont benefited from an advance in major international
in 2006 outpaced revenue growth. Operating results are mainly
contracts (Perth in Australia, Halifax in Canada, Algeria, Mexico,
powered by a surge in gross operating income, which jumped
etc.), which lifted organic growth to €81 million, or 8.7%;
€140 million or 7.8% after adjusting for changes in the scope of
consolidation and exchange rates.
This excellent showing is attributable to: income, thanks mainly to the Algiers contract, Sita Australia and
Lydec. Conversely, European water services delivered modest
• capital development expenditure generating sustained organic
2.3% organic growth, with Agbar reporting a downturn in year-on-
growth in waste services (Zorbau, Spolana, Sleco, SCIP, etc.) and
year growth due to a fall-off in its certification business. Growth
water businesses (new concession contracts awarded to LDE in
reported by water services in France held firm, however, at 4.9%.
Vallauris, Briançon and Dunkirk);
Revenues reported by the Americas region tumbled 17.1%,
• further improvement in entities’ operating performance on the mainly as a result of the positive non-recurring impact of events in
back of a more favorable economic climate in Europe; Argentina during 2005.
• value-driven external growth to consolidate SUEZ Environment’s Organic growth in current operating income lags slightly behind
strong positions, notably through acquisitions carried out by Sita organic growth in gross operating income, chiefly due to the
France, Sita UK, Sita Nordic, Sita NL, etc.; better-than-expected outcome upon termination of the Puerto Rico
contract in 2005 (+€30 million compared to 2006).
• selective commercial development, mainly focused on non-
capital-intensive models, and including services provided by SUEZ Environment reported €1,143 million in income from
the French water business, PFI UK, Chinese water operations operating activities, down 9.7% on 2005 which was inflated
and the Algerian contract. by proceeds of €493 million from asset disposals (mainly the
residual interest in Northumbrian), compared to capital gains of
By region, this robust performance was led by European waste
€154 million in 2006 generated on sales carried out by Agbar.
services, which reported an excellent €119 million (15.9%) organic
growth in gross operating income, underpinned by a tight rein on Impairment losses totaled €54 million and were taken mainly on
costs, firm business volumes and the start-up of new facilities. Asia, property, plant and equipment in Argentina and France. Impairment
the Middle East and Africa also contribute to the strong results, losses in 2005 were €209 million and chiefly concerned property,
with organic growth of €41 million, or 24.8%, in gross operating plant and equipment and intangible assets.
9
9.2.4. Key figures for Other
% change
(in millions of euros) 2006 2005 (reported basis)
Gross operating loss (117) (158) 25.9%
Current operating loss (180) (170) -6.1%
Income/(loss) from operating activities 150 (157) NA
Gross operating loss for the Other segment in 2006 includes a Income from operating activities was boosted by capital gains from
€72.8 million non-recurring gain on SI Finance’s private equity asset disposals (€395 million in 2006 versus €36 million in 2005),
portfolio. further to sales of residual interests in M6 (€120 million) and Neuf
Cegetel (€270 million). These positive results were only very slightly
The “Other” Segment delivered income from operating activities of
offset by the minor increase in current operating loss (€180 million
€150 million in 2006 (compared to a loss from operating activities
in 2006 versus €170 million a year earlier).
of €157 million in 2005), taking into account costs of €57 million
incurred in connection with the SUEZ-Gaz de France merger plan.
% change
(in millions of euros) 2006 2005 (reported basis)
Income from operating activities 5,368 4,522 18.7%
Financial loss (731) (725) -0.8%
Income tax (815) (585) -39.2%
Share in net income of associates 372 565 -34.2%
Net income 4,194 3,776 11.1%
Minority interests 588 1,264 -53.5%
Net income Group share 3,606 2,513 43.5%
Financial loss for the years presented remained stable (€731 million reflecting fewer non-taxable capital gains included within the
in 2006 compared to €725 million in 2005). Group’s income before tax as compared to 2005.
• a €191 million increase in other financial income and expenses, • the positive non-recurring impact on certain SES subsidiaries of
primarily due to a rise in dividends received from non- the reform of EGI pensions in 2005, amounting to €25 million.
consolidated companies;
Minority interests fell €676 million, reflecting the impact of the
• the non-recurring gain in 2005 on the early redemption of bonds cash and share bid for the interests not already owned by SUEZ in
repayable in Fortis shares, amounting to €167 million. Electrabel (49.9%) which ended on December 6, 2005; and the
ownership of 98.6% of Electrabel’s capital over the full year. This
Income tax expense climbed €230 million year-on-year following
transaction contributed an additional €766 million after financing
the Group’s earnings growth. The effective tax rate rose by 2.2
costs, with an accretive impact on earnings per share of €0.13.
percentage points to 17.6%, versus 15.4% in 2005, mainly
9.4 Financing
Cash generated from operations before income tax and working capital requirements
% change
(in millions of euros) 2006 2005 (reported basis)
Electricity and gas 4,367 3,913 11.6%
SUEZ Energy Europe 2,953 2,646 11.6%
SUEZ Energy International 1,414 1,267 11.6%
SUEZ Energy Services 500 457 9.4%
SUEZ Environment 1,785 1,656 7.8%
Other Services (269) (275) -2.2%
SUEZ Group 6,383 5,751 11.0%
On a reported basis, cash flow generated from operations before capital requirements at Electrabel is due to the non-recurring nature
Investments in 2006 totaled €3.8 billion and include: programs in Italy) and SUEZ Environment (€0.7 billion, including
€0.2 billion in European water services and €0.3 billion for
• financial investments amounting to €1.4 billion, including
European waste services);
€0.5 billion relating to the acquisition of the shares in SHEM not
already owned by the Group; • development expenditure of almost €1 billion, concerning mainly
facilities in Spain (Castelnou), Italy (Roselectra and Leini), the
• maintenance expenditure totaling €1.4 billion (€1.5 billion
United States (completion of the merchant program), and
in 2005), to which the main contributors were Electrabel
Brazil.
(€0.5 billion, relating to conventional and nuclear power stations
in Belgium and the Netherlands, as well as ongoing repowering
Disposals totaled close to €3 billion in 2006 (as in 2005) and • the sale of the residual interests in M6 and Neuf Cegetel for a
relate to: total amount of €633 million.
• the sale of interests in Flemish inter-municipal companies and Interest and dividends from non-current financial assets generated
the corresponding repayment of capital totaling €1,234 million; €0.4 billion in cash flows.
• the sale of Colbùn and Hanjin City Gas by SEI for €341 million In total, investing activities resulted in a €0.4 billion cash
and €108 million, respectively; shortfall.
Dividends paid in 2006 totaled €1.7 billion (€1.5 billion in 2005), In the context of the Group’s policy of optimizing its financial
and include dividends paid by SUEZ SA to its shareholders structure, repayments of debt were higher than new borrowings,
amounting to €1,260 million versus €807 million in 2005, and led to an outflow of €5,206 million in cash.
due to the increase in both dividends per share as well as the
Capital increases and movements in the parent company’s shares
number of shares carrying dividend rights. This item also includes
relate mainly to stock subscription and purchase options awarded
€456 million in dividends paid by various subsidiaries to minority
to Group employees, representing cash inflows of €396 million.
shareholders, representing a significant decrease on the 2005
figure (€715 million) further to the buyout of minority interests Overall, financing activities resulted in a cash outflow of €6.9 billion
in Electrabel at the end of 2005. Net interest expense totaled in 2006.
€754 million in 2006 versus €682 million a year earlier.
9
9.4.4 Net debt at December 31, 2006
After edging up slightly to €13.8 billion at end-2005, net debt was Due to significantly high liquidity at December 31, 2006
pared back to €10.4 billion at December 31, 2006. In parallel, total (€7.9 billion) and the Group’s policy of favoring fixed-rate debt
equity was reinforced, resulting in a historically low gearing ratio: when interest rates are at a historically low level, 78% of net debt
46.3% at end-2006 versus 73.4% at December 31, 2005. is at fixed rates. The average maturity of net debt is 8.1 years.
Net debt, including the impact of financial instruments, is 48%- At December 31, 2006, the Group had undrawn credit facilities and
denominated in euros, 32% in US dollars and 7% in pounds treasury note back-up lines totaling €8.6 billion, versus €7.1 billion
sterling (49%, 37%, and 3%, respectively, at year-end 2005). at December 31, 2005.
Property, plant and equipment, net stands at €21 billion, Provisions decreased €1.2 billion to €9.8 billion, from €11 billion
compared to €20.2 billion at end-2005. This €0.8 billion increase at end-2005. Provisions set aside in the period (€1.1 billion, of
was driven primarily by capital expenditure (€2.1 billion) and which €0.3 billion relates to the unwinding of the discount) were at
changes in the scope of consolidation (€1.2 billion), which offset the same level as provisions released (€1.1 billion), while changes
depreciation charges and impairment losses recognized in the in the scope of consolidation had a negative €0.9 billion impact,
period for an amount of €1.6 billion. chiefly reflecting the transfer of personnel (pension obligations)
in connection with the restructuring of the distribution sector in
Goodwill remained relatively stable, at €13.4 billion.
Belgium.
Investments in associates fell by almost €2 billion, due mainly to
Derivative instruments (including commodity derivatives) recorded
the sales of interests in Flemish inter-municipal companies and to
in assets amount to €4.3 billion (€6.7 billion at December 31,
the full consolidation of CNR.
2005), while the same item in liabilities amounts to €4.1 billion
Total equity rose €3.7 billion year-on-year, to €22.6 billion, despite (€7.4 billion at end-2005). These movements chiefly reflect a
the €1.7 billion dividend payout and a negative €0.4 billion in decrease in variances between market and contractual prices at
translation adjustments. The increase is attributable to net year-end 2006.
income for 2006 (€4.2 billion) and the impacts of IAS 32/39
(€1.1 billion).
The full version of the parent company financial statements is available from SUEZ on request.
Key figures of the parent company financial statements, prepared in accordance with French GAAP, are presented below:
The main events reflected in the 2006 financial statements are The year-on-year increase in net income reflects:
as follows:
• a rise of €5,165 million in income from operating activities, mainly
• the purchase of Electrabel shares from SUEZ-Tractebel for attributable to the dividend payouts detailed above, which only
€11,421 million. Payment of this acquisition has been deferred partially offset the reduction in dividends received from Genfina
until December 31, 2007. SUEZ SA also increased its direct and SI Finance;
shareholding in Electrabel to 96.7% through purchases of shares
• exceptional income of €401 million, boosted by write-backs of
from SES entities;
provisions on shares further to the sale of Neuf Cegetel. The
• ordinary and interim dividends received from SUEZ-Tractebel and exceptional €355 million loss reported in 2005 included primarily
Electrabel for €5,066 million and €1,387 million, respectively. the impact of the early redemption of bonds repayable in Fortis
shares.
Thanks to buoyant energy and environmental markets, coupled Firmly upholding the Group’s outlook for each of its business, at its
with the dynamism of its sales teams, the industrial outlook for meeting of March 7, 2007 the Board of Directors announced that
SUEZ going forward is excellent. it would continue to pursue its vigorous dividend payout policy. It
also specified that:
The Group’s competitive positioning across its businesses, its
experience and its technological leadership are strong growth • in respect of 2006, it will recommend an ordinary dividend of
drivers in markets that are continually evolving (increased €1.20 per share at the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, up 20%
concentration of major operators, new energy market regulations on the dividends paid in respect of 2005;
and water treatment technology, etc.).
• for subsequent years, a dividend payout representing at least
In this context, the Group will press ahead with its industrial 50% of recurring net income.1
expansion (with investments excluding major acquisitions
The Group also intends to launch a share buyback program.
estimated at €15 billion over the period 2007-2009 compared with
€10.2 billion over the period 2004-2006 excluding the cash and In 2007 the Group’s teams will continue to work on the planned
share bid for Electrabel), while ensuring strict financial discipline merger between SUEZ and Gaz de France. The industrial logic
by maintaining its A rating and selective investment criteria. of this project is unquestionable, and it will create value for all
of the stakeholders concerned: shareholders, employees and
SUEZ intends to pursue its efforts to increase operating profitability
customers.
and liquidity across all of its business lines, and is set to benefit
from operational synergies stemming from the full integration Preliminary work was undertaken in 2006 in connection with this
1. Recurring net income = net attributable income adjusted for (i) capital
gains, (ii) the impact of the application of IAS 32/39 on income from
operating activities, and (iii) any other material non-recurring items.
Cash generated from operations before income tax and working capital requirements
Cash flow generated from operations before income tax and of certain items which had a positive effect in 2005 not carried over
working capital requirements came in 11% higher year-on-year in 2006 (in particular, a significant backlog of outstanding invoices
• maintenance expenditure totaling €1.4 billion (€1.5 billion • the sale of SEI’s stakes in Colbùn in Chile (€341 million) and
in 2005), to which the main contributors were Electrabel Hanjin City Gas in South Korea (€108 million);
(€0.5 billion, chiefly relating to conventional and nuclear
• the sale of Reva in Spain by SES for €175 million; and
power stations in Belgium and the Netherlands, as well as
ongoing repowering programs in Italy) and SUEZ Environment • the sale of 49% of the shares held in Palija (Jakarta, Indonesia)
(€0.7 billion, including €0.2 billion in European water services for €32 million.
and €0.3 billion for European waste services);
The Group’s refocusing around its core businesses was completed
• development expenditure of almost €1 billion, concerning mainly by the divestment of its residual interest in Neuf Cegetel
greenfield plants in Spain (Castelnou), Italy (Roselectra and (€470 million) and M6 (€163 million).
Leini), the United States (completion of the merchant program),
Interest and dividends from non-current financial assets generated
and Brazil.
€0.4 billion in cash flows.
10
10.3.2 Main developments in 2006
In 2006, the Group set up an automated cash pooling system Power, to fund the acquisition and extension of a power plant at
between its various subsidiaries with the aim of optimizing treasury Al Hidd in Bahrain. As the Group holds a 30% interest in the share
management. Thanks to this cash pooling structure, the Group capital of this project company, this facility is not fully consolidated
repaid the outstanding €3.2 billion loan used out to purchase 49% in the Group’s consolidated financial statements.
of Electrabel, and refunded borrowings under commercial paper
In July 2006, the Group modified its European Medium Term Notes
and bank lines of credit in an amount of €1.8 billion.
program in Luxembourg in order to comply with new European
In January 2006, Electrabel issued an 18-month Floating Rate directives. This program is for a total amount of €5 billion, and now
Note for €1 billion, designed to bolster the Group’s liquidity via includes Electrabel SA among the issuers, alongside GIE SUEZ
the repayment of borrowings under commercial paper and lines Alliance and SUEZ Finance SA. All bond issues under this program
of credit. are guaranteed by GIE SUEZ Alliance.
During the same month, the Group also completed the financial On February 28, 2007, the Group bought back bonds issued by
restructuring of certain Thai assets through two locally-contracted GIE SUEZ Alliance for an amount of €1,235 million (€670.5 million
bank loans amounting to €84 million and 6 billion Thai bahts. on the bond maturing in February 2009 and €564.6 million on
the bond maturing in June 2010), in order to smooth out the
In the first half of the year, the Group set up a USD 1,169 million
repayment profile of its bond debt.
non-recourse financing facility in cooperation with International
At December 31, 2006, the Group had €8.6 billion in undrawn In the case of project financing, a loan life cover ratio is sometimes
confirmed credit facilities (that can be used as back-up lines for requested in addition to the debt-service cover ratio. This is equal
commercial paper and treasury bills). 90% of these facilities are to the net present value of cash available for debt service divided
managed centrally and are not subject to financial covenants or
credit ratios.
by outstanding debt. 10
For other financing facilities that are not guaranteed by the parent
The Group also arranges credit facilities to cover subsidiaries’ company, banks sometimes require compliance with a balance
funding requirements. Drawdowns on the facilities depend on sheet ratio – chiefly either a debt-equity ratio or a stipulated
compliance with financial ratios (known as covenants) set for the minimum level of equity.
borrower. These lines of credit are not guaranteed by SUEZ SA or
At December 31, 2006, there were no reported payment defaults
GIE SUEZ Alliance.
on the Group’s consolidated debt. All Group companies comply
The definition and the level of these covenants are determined with the covenants and representations stipulated in their financial
in agreement with lenders and may be reviewed during the life documentation, with the exception of a debt-service cover ratio on
of the loan. a €2.5 million loan (which is not in default) and a covenant relating
to insurance cover on two projects for which a waiver is currently
With most loans subject to covenants, lenders require subsidiaries
being discussed.
to comply with certain ratios assessing their ability to service the
debt (debt-service cover ratio, equal to free cash flow divided by
principal plus interest costs) or the related interest (interest cover
ratio, equal to EBITDA divided by interest costs).
Amounts by maturity
Due in less than Due in 1 to Due in more than
In millions of euros 1 year 5 years 5 years Total
Net debt (including finance leases) (2,302) 8,067 4,955 10,720
Operating leases 221 663 821 1,705
Non-cancelable purchase commitments *
842 752 241 1,835
Firm purchases and sales of commodities and fuels (2,753) 5,392 18,127 20,766
Financing commitments given 661 409 2,547 3,617
Financing commitments received 1,095 2,218 5,834 9,147
10
Other long-term commitments 298 281 290 869
*
Net from sale commitments
Contractual commitments may have a material impact on operating Contassur – SUEZ Group’s pension fund management company in
income or Group sources of financing, in the event of changes in Belgium. For further information on these obligations, please refer
the parameters underlying these specific arrangements. to Section 20, Note 24 of this Reference Document.
The table above does not include obligations related to pensions Capital expenditure commitments in an amount of approximately
and other employee benefits. At December 31, 2006, payment €869 million are also included in the above table under “Other
obligations relating to pension and employee benefit obligations long-term commitments”. These commitments are primarily related
exceeded plan assets in an amount of €2,776 million, excluding to the construction of several power generation plants, and include
(i) the amount due to the Group from Belgian municipalities purchases of turbines, gas power plants, cogeneration plants and
further to the transfer of obligations relating to certain distribution incinerators (€493 million), and investments in connection with
companies to a third party, and (ii) the fair value of the assets of concession contracts (€376 million).
The Group expects that its funding requirements will be covered A total of €4.5 billion of the Group’s credit facilities and financing
by cash on hand, cash flows from operating activities and, if need matures in 2007. SUEZ Group also has €7.8 billion in available
be, existing credit facilities. cash at December 31, 2006 and, as described in Section 10.4,
€8.6 billion in available lines of credit (excluding drawdowns on
The Group may set up specific financing facilities on a project-
the commercial paper program).
by-project basis.
11.1 The Innovation-Initiatives Trophies p. 136 11.3 Patents and licenses p. 137
At SUEZ, innovation is a strategic element that enables the Group Research activities are primarily conducted in specialized R&D
to meet the expectations of its customers with respect to their centers:
current and future needs, improve the productivity of its production
• Laborelec is based near Brussels and specializes in activities
capacity, and increase financial profitability.
related to the production, distribution, and use of electricity and
This policy is developed based on the work of experts in the related forms of energy and sustainable development.
operational units, research programs developed in the Group’s R&D
It is on the cutting edge in the control of energy quality and
centers, and the sharing of results and exchange of information
the knowledge of procedures and equipment for energy
among researchers and experts.
production, including renewable energy sources (particularly
The Group has also established a proactive approach to stimulate from biomass).
and promote initiatives and innovative projects in the technical,
The monitoring of the behavior of equipment, particularly the
11
sales and managerial fields by carefully examining proposals for
vibratory control of rotating machines, is a special strength, as
various projects submitted by teams in the field.
well as expertise on the behavior of gas turbine materials, steam
In 2006, three goals underpinned this strategy: generators and high-pressure boilers.
• satisfying increasingly rigorous requirements in terms of Laborelec has developed and applied specialized services for
sustainable development due to its presence in both the energy industry essentially focused on energy efficiency.
and environmental sectors; reduce CO2 emissions, improve
Its expertise is evident in all its four product lines:
energy efficiency for all client use, cut down on environmental
pollution, and increase the use of renewable energies; – “Electric and metrological systems”,
• developing new services for private, municipal and industrial – “Technology for sustainable procedures”,
customers with targeted offers to match their expectations;
– “Electrotechnical engineering materials and equipment”,
• improving the productivity of production capacity, especially
– “Materials and sound and vibratory control technology”.
through the increased sharing of advances between entities,
a high level of use of new information and communications A multi-functional management provides underlying support to
technologies, and advances in the simulation field. these 4 areas of expertise:
In the technical field, SUEZ relies on Research and Development For certain highly sensitive activities, Laborelec’s professionalism
(R&D), where it invested a total of €86 million in 2006. and impartiality are guaranteed by ISO 17025 and ISO 9001
certifications;
On a like-for-like basis, SUEZ spent €84.8 million in 2005,
€85 million in 2004 and €79 million in 2003. • Elyo Cylergie based near Lyon. Its capabilities are used in the
energy services business. Special emphasis is placed on energy
In all, there are over 600 researchers and experts working on
efficiency, minimizing environmental impact, health and comfort,
technological Research and Development projects in the R&D
and monitoring performance commitments.
centers and in expert networks.
To this end, Elyo Cylergie has developed specialties in four United Water, SUEZ Environment and Northumbrian Water Ltd,
primary areas: which continue to work together on R&D issues;
– energy efficiency, • The SCIP Water Research Centre (10 researchers planned in
2007, in addition to an analytical laboratory of 15 engineers and
– maintenance and reliability of equipment,
technicians) based in Shanghai, China, carries out research on
– environment, health and comfort, the treatment of industrial wastewater;
– metrology and result indicators; • ONDEO IS has a European network dedicated to the industrial
market. It specializes primaryily in the delivery of industrial water
• CIRCEE, based in the Paris region. It specializes mainly in
to various sectors such as oil and energy, pharmaceuticals,
activities related to drinking water, waste water and waste
microelectronics and agro-foods.
businesses. Its concentrates in four areas of expertise:
The research topics covered in 2006 include:
– drinking water: from the management of the water resources to
the quality of tap water, – the optimization of sludge reduction processes and the treatment
of specific sludge types,
– sanitation and the environment: wastewater treatment, the
conversion of sludge and environmental control, – the recycling of industrial wastewater with the use of
membranes.
– environmental health and analytical expertise, where analytical
tools necessary for the evaluation of potential risks are For technological development, expenses for which were not taken
implemented, into account in the R&D figures restated to IFRS standards, SUEZ
draws on the work carried out by its experts in the operational units,
– IT relevant to the business line;
and in particular, in three engineering companies:
• CERDEG, based in the Paris Region and DENARD in the
• Tractebel Engineering, established in Belgium, France, Italy,
United States. These two centers specialize in the design of new
Poland, Romania, the Czech Republic, India and Brazil, develops
products and processes in the treatment of wastewater, drinking
innovative technological solutions in five areas:
water, and the desalination of sea water.
– electrical production,
Cerdeg’s research is concentrated in five areas of expertise:
– physico-chemical products and separation, • SAFEGE, established in France, Belgium, Argentina, Lithuania,
Poland, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, is a leading consulting
– odors and improvement of the environment.
engineering company specialized in the water and environment
Additionally, Denard specializes in 2 specific areas: UV businesses.
disinfection and rapid separation.
• FAIRTEC, established in France, handles SUEZ’ technical
• Cirade based in the Paris region specializes in: development programs.
– the management of facilities for storing household and related Among R&D achievements in 2006, we can also mention:
waste and their liquid and gaseous effluents,
For SUEZ Energy Europe and International:
– waste transformation and recovery;
• the establishment of rules on good practices and operational
• SUEZ Environment also draws on the expertise of its research assistance for the co-combustion of pulverized wood in coal
centers and operational companies (water and solid waste): power plants (especially everything that concerns the preparation
and handling of fuel), which made it possible to fit out 9 power
– the Centre Technique Comptage de Lyonnaise des Eaux France
plants in Europe;
in Lyon, the research laboratories of the AGBAR group in the
field of water and waste treatment, • the development and launch of a diagnostic center that gathers
sensitive surveillance data from electric power plants, to monitor
– the technical divisions and laboratories of SITA France and its
trends (early detection of errors) and perform long-distance
subsidiaries, in particular the laboratories of SITA FD (Villeparisis)
diagnostics. This diagnostic center is used by 10 SEE power
and SITA Remédiation (Lyon).
plants;
The R+I Alliance structure was created to pool human and
• the development of new control and regulation structures
financial resources among Lyonnaise des Eaux France, AGBAR,
with improved performances that made it possible to optimize
the dynamic behavior of electricity production units and EU-DEEP, and defining R&D requirements for managers of
sub-systems; tomorrow’s networks with RELIANCE;
• impact studies for the European Integrated Pollution Prevention • in the nuclear field, Tractebel Engineering contributes to work
and Control (IPPC) directive, the Water Framework Directive, and on the safety of facilities (the OECD-MCCI program), the issue of
the Clean Air for Europe (CAFE) program; nuclear waste (EUNDETRAF II, XADS-EUROTRANS) and new
reactor concepts (RAPHAEL, EUR). Lastly, the Group shows
• the development of an online surveillance system for transformers
its expertise in simulation with the modeling of electric power
and alternators;
generating plants as well as simulation of railway networks.
• the initiation of a program to create a model of the life cycle of
For SUEZ Environment:
gas turbine blades;
• significant work is currently being done on the renewal policy
• a model is currently being created to find out the effects of the
for functioning pipelines, to determine how long they can still be
addition of biogas in gas turbines;
used depending on local conditions, their age, and their material
• in 2006, a major study program on CO2 capture technologies in properties. The goal of this very important program is to develop
solid fuel electricity production units was launched; a “sustained maintenance” policy for underground systems.
The significant results obtained will lead to modifications of
• the development of diagnostic methods for electrical cables
some product standards and finalization of the implementation
continues;
of good manufacturing practices. The program has three main
• studies have been carried out on renovating public lighting focuses: the definition of characteristic features of systems, their
systems to save energy; management and maintenance, and investment forecasts;
• work continues on the specification of connection rules • SUEZ Environment has brought together 12 operational units to
and methods in the event of disrupted loads and distributed handle a major program to combat odor pollution in the vicinity
production. This program covers setting up the protections, of its sanitation and waste facilities. The Group is currently
verification of the network’s accommodation capacity, and the expert in measuring and modeling of odor dispersal systems,
influence on centralized remote control signals; can identify emissions from numerous sources and has remedial
resources at its disposal. As a result, new deodorizing facilities
• an electronic meter infrastructure is currently being developed;
• in the field of disinfection using ultraviolet light, Degrémont has particular concerning research on bioreactors and leachate
expanded its range of products in order to meet the needs for recirculation systems, SUEZ Environment has launched major
higher flow systems; programs to improve the treatment of solid organic waste;
• it has developed a skid that combines ultra-filtration and reverse • the impact of the Waste Incineration Directive on this business
osmosis units on the same platform to treat surface water and has emphasized the need to optimize and control incineration.
industrial water. This skid is used for discharges of between 5 Computer-calculated fluid dynamics simulation instruments
and 50 m3/h and six applications have been sold to date; and tools used in the real-time control of the functioning of
incineration plants are now being transferred from water-related
• research on industrial discharges continues to be focused on
activities to incineration activities. Research has been initiated on
client requirements, although a new cooperation launched with
new tracers for monitoring polluting elements in real time;
the opening of the SCIP laboratory in China should reinforce
expertise in the characterization of specific effluents and the • research has also begun on recycling, based on market
optimization of their treatment. In the future, the group’s funds expectations. In this case, it is essential to coordinate closely
should contribute to specific programs in this field; with manufacturers.
• SUEZ Environment has also increased its contribution to waste As regards innovation, SUEZ uses two main tools for its promotion
management R&D. While continuing with major programs and management.
concerning the management of controlled landfill sites, in
These reward the employees or teams for operational • onsite reloading of valve seats (ENDEL);
11 achievements in four categories: technical, sales, management,
and cross-category.
• legal portal site: access to SUEZ’ specific expertise (SUEZ);
It is awarded for projects that won an Innovation Initiatives Trophy • TELESOUD 2000: an automatic welding process that protects
three or four years earlier and that created maximum value when welders from radiation (Endel) – 2004 Trophy;
they were implemented.
• ECOFLOW: a new concept of commercial product offering for
In 2006, the winners of the 2002, 2003 and 2004 Trophies were off-site treatment of industrial effluents (OIS) – 2004 Trophy;
reviewed.
• PAMELA: real-time information by telephone (Lyonnaise des
Four winners received the label: Eaux) – 2004 Trophy.
In 2006, SUEZ filed 21 patents. The Group had filed 13 patents in However, the company considers that its business does not depend
2005, 15 in 2004, 13 in 2003 and 19 in 2002. on any particular license.
11
addressed in the corresponding paragraphs.
11
12
12
None.
13
13
14 Corporate governance
In 2006, the SUEZ Board of Directors comprised 15 Directors, At its meeting of March 8, 2006, the SUEZ Board of Directors
including 6 French Directors, 7 non-French Directors and reviewed the status of the Directors. 8 Directors were deemed to be
2 Directors with dual nationality (French and one other). independent and 7 other Directors to be non-independent.
14
As of December 31, 2006
Expiration of
First Most recent current term
appointment appointment of office Address
Gérard Mestrallet (57 years old) June 15, 1994 2005 2009 SUEZ, 16, rue de la Ville l’Evêque
Chairman and Chief Executive 75008 Paris, France
Officer
Albert Frère (80 years old) June 19, 1997 2004 2008 Groupe Bruxelles Lambert
Vice-Chairman Avenue Marnix 24, B-1000 BRUSSELS
Edmond Alphandéry (63 years old)* April 27, 2004 2004 2008 CNP Assurances
Director 4, place Raoul-Dautry, 75015 PARIS
Antonio Brufau (58 years old)* April 25, 2003 2003 2007 REPSOL YPF, SA
Director Paseo de la Castellana, 278 E-28046 Madrid
René Carron (64 years old) April 27, 2004 2004 2008 Crédit Agricole SA
Director 91-93, boulevard Pasteur, 75015 PARIS
Gerhard Cromme (63 years old)* June 14, 1995 2004 2008 ThyssenKrupp AG
Director August-Thyssen Strasse 1,
D-40211 DUSSELDORF
Etienne Davignon (74 years old) August 3, 2004 2008 SUEZ-TRACTEBEL
Director 1989 place du Trône, 1, B-1000 BRUSSELS
Paul Desmarais Jr. (52 years old) April 14, 1998 2005 2009 Power Corporation du Canada
Director 751 Square Victoria, MONTREAL,
H2Y 2J3 QUEBEC
Richard Goblet d’Alviella May 13, 2005 2005 2009 Sofina
(59 years old)*Director Rue de l’Industrie, 31 B-1040 BRUSSELS
Jacques Lagarde (68 years old)* June 14, 1995 2003 2007 1314 Arch Street,
Director BERKELEY, CA 94708, USA
Anne Lauvergeon (47 years old)* May 5, 2000 2003 2007 Areva
Director 33, rue La Fayette, 75009 PARIS
Jean Peyrelevade (67 years old) June 22, 1983 2004 2008 Leonardo France (previously Toulouse &
Director Associés)
73, rue d’Anjou, 75008 PARIS
Thierry de Rudder (57 years old) April 27, 2004 2004 2008 Groupe Bruxelles Lambert
14 Director
Jean-Jacques Salane (55 years old) April 26, 2002 2006 2010
Avenue Marnix 24, B-1000 BRUSSELS
Lyonnaise des Eaux Pays basque
Director 15, Avenue Charles Floquet BP 87,
64202 BIARRITZ Cedex
Lord Simon of Highbury May 4, 2001 2005 2009 53 Davies Street,
(67 years old)* LONDON W1K 5JH, UK
Director
Secretary of the Board of Directors:
Patrick Billioud
* Independent Director.
“A Director is considered “independent” when he/she has no relations of any kind with the Company, its group or its management, which could impair the
free exercise of his/her judgment.” (Source: Bouton report which lays down a list of criteria based on which the Board of Directors reached its decision of
March 8, 2006).
1. Directors in office
Gérard Mestrallet, born April 1, 1949 in Paris (18th district), is a Director and Chairman of the Management Committee of Société
French citizen. Générale de Belgique. In 1995, he became Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of Compagnie de SUEZ and in June 1997,
A graduate of the prestigious French engineering school,
Chairman of the SUEZ Lyonnaise des Eaux Executive Board. On
Polytechnique, and the Ecole Nationale d’Administration (ENA),
May 4, 2001, Gérard Mestrallet was appointed Chairman and Chief
Gérard Mestrallet joined Compagnie de SUEZ in 1984 as Vice-
Executive Officer of SUEZ. He is also Chairman of the Association
President, Special Projects. In 1986, he was appointed Executive
Paris Europlace and a member of the Board of the Institut Français
Vice-President, Industry and then in February 1991, Executive
des Administrateurs (French institute of corporate directors).
Over the last five years, Mr. Mestrallet has ceased to exercise the • member of the Supervisory Board of Casino, Crédit Agricole
following functions: Indosuez, Métropole Télévision M6, Sagem SA, Société du
Louvre and Taittinger;
• Chairman of the Board of Directors of Société Générale de
Belgique; • non-voting Director of Casino;
Albert Frère, born February 4, 1926 in Fontaine l’Evêque in the Charleroi basin, Albert Frère founded the company Pargesa
(Belgium), is a Belgian citizen. Holding in 1981 in Geneva, in association with several other
businessmen. In 1982, this company acquired an interest in
After having occupied a number of positions in the family company
Groupe Bruxelles Lambert.
and acquiring in-depth knowledge of the iron and steel industry
Over the last five years, Mr. Frère has ceased to exercise the • Commissioner of Agesca Nederland N.V., Frères-Bourgeois
following functions: Holding BV, Parjointco N.V.;
• Chairman of Petrofina (Belgium); • member of the International Advisory Board of Power Corporation
of Canada*.
14 • Director of Coparex International S.A.;
Albert Frère holds 2,000 SUEZ shares.
Edmond Alphandéry, born September 2, 1943 in Avignon He was the French Minister of the Economy from March 1993 to
(Vaucluse), is a French citizen. May 1995. He chaired the Supervisory Board of CNP from 1988
to 1993 and was Chairman of Electricité de France from 1995 to
Edmond Alphandéry is a graduate of the Paris Institute of Political
1998. Since July 1998, he has once again served as Chairman of
Studies (IEP) and a qualified lecturer (agrégé) in economics. He is
the Supervisory Board of CNP Assurances. In addition, he has been
Professor Emeritus at the University of Paris II as well as mayor of
a Director of Calyon since 2002. He has also been Chairman of the
Longué-Jumelles and departmental councilor of Maine and Loire.
Centre National des Professions Financières since June 2003.
Over the last five years, Mr. Alphandéry has ceased to exercise Edmond Alphandéry holds 2,223 SUEZ shares. He is a member
the following functions: of the Audit Committee.
Antonio Brufau, born March 12, 1948 in Mollerussa (Spain), is in 1986. In 1988, he became Senior Executive Vice-President of
a Spanish citizen. Caja de Ahorros y Pensiones de Barcelona “la Caixa”. He was also
Chairman and Chief Executive of “la Caixa” Group from 1999 to
Antonio Brufau has an economics degree from the University of
2004. Since October 27, 2004, he has been Chairman and Chief
Barcelona. He is a chartered accountant and graduate of the IESE.
Executive of Repsol YPF, SA.
After holding various positions at Arthur Andersen, he became
14
a member of the Arthur Andersen Worldwide Advisory Council
Over the last five years, Mr. Brufau has ceased to exercise the • Director of Abertis Infraestructuras, Caixa Capital Desarollo SCR,
following functions: Caixa Holding S.A.U., Caixa Capital Risc S.G.E.C.R., Enagás,
Inmobiliaria Colonial, Sociedad General de Aguas de Barcelona
• Chairman of Hodefi (France), Repsol Portugal Petroleo e
(Spain), CaixaBank France and SUEZ;
Derivados (Portugal), Gas Natural SDG, and Fundació Barcelona
Digital (Spain); • Caixa Holding’s permanent representative on the Board of
CaixaBank Andorra.
• Chief Executive Officer of Caja de Ahorros y Pensiones de
Barcelona “la Caixa” (Spain); Antonio Brufau holds 2,222 SUEZ shares. He was a member of
the Audit Committee until January 16, 2007.
René Carron, born June 13, 1942 in Yenne (Savoie), is a French Régionale de la Savoie, which became Caisse Régionale des Savoie
citizen. after its merger with Caisse de Haute-Savoie in 1994. In 1995,
he joined the committee of the Fédération Nationale du Crédit
René Carron operates a farm in Yenne. He is a Knight of the Legion
Agricole, where he was Chairman from July 2000 to April 2003
of Honor and the National Order of Merit and a Commander of the
and subsequently appointed Vice-Chairman. In December 2002,
Order of Agricultural Merit. He has held a variety of elected offices
he was appointed Chairman of the Board of Directors of Crédit
in the Savoie region of France. In 1981, René Carron joined the
Agricole SA.
Crédit Agricole group. In 1992, he became Chairman of Caisse
Over the last five years, Mr. Carron has ceased to exercise the • member of the Supervisory Board of Eurazeo;
14 following functions:
Gerhard Cromme, born February 25, 1943 in Vechta/Oldenburg Gerhard Cromme has a doctorate in Law and a number of diplomas
(Germany), is a German citizen. in economics (Münster, Lausanne, Paris and Harvard Universities).
He joined the Saint-Gobain Group in Germany in 1971, before
joining the Krupp Group in 1986.
Over the last five years, Mr. Cromme has ceased to exercise the • Member of the Supervisory Board of ABB AG, E.ON Ruhrgas AG,
following functions: Hochtief AG, Volkswagen AG (Germany).
Etienne Davignon, born October 4, 1932 in Budapest (Hungary), Community Commission (1981-1985), and Chairman of the Royal
is a Belgian citizen. Institute of International Relations. In 1985, he joined Société
Générale de Belgique, where he was Chairman from April 1988
Etienne Davignon successively occupied the functions in Belgium
to February 2001 and Vice-Chairman until the merger of Société
of Principal Private Secretary to the Foreign Minister (1964-
Générale de Belgique and Tractebel on October 31, 2003. He then
1969), Chairman of the International Energy Agency Management
became Vice-Chairman of SUEZ-Tractebel.
Committee (1974-1977), Vice-Chairman of the European
Over the last five years, Mr. Davignon has ceased to exercise the • Director of BASF (Germany), Biac, Petrofina and Solvay
following functions: (Belgium).
• Chairman of Société Générale de Belgique; Etienne Davignon holds 11,111 SUEZ shares. He is Chairman of
the Ethics, Environment and Sustainable Development Committee
• Vice-Chairman of Accor, Fortis, Tractebel, Umicore and Sibeka
and a member of the Compensation Committee.
(Belgium);
Paul Desmarais Jr., born July 3, 1954 in Sudbury, Ontario Financial Corporation, a company he helped set up, becoming
(Canada), is a Canadian citizen. Chairman of the Board in 1990 and Chairman of the Executive
Committee in May 2005. He was appointed Chairman of the Board
Paul Desmarais Jr. studied at McGill University in Montreal and
and Co-Chief Executive Officer of Power Corporation of Canada
then at INSEAD in Fontainebleau. He has a Masters in Business
in 1996.
Administration. In 1984, he was appointed Vice-Chairman of Power
Over the last five years, Mr. Desmarais has ceased to exercise the Paul Desmarais Jr. holds 2,222 SUEZ shares. He is a member of
following functions: the Compensation Committee.
Richard Goblet d’Alviella, born July 6, 1948 in Brussels (Belgium), School. He has a background in investment banking, specializing
is a Belgian citizen. for fifteen years in international finance, both in London and New
York. He was Managing Director of the Paine Webber Group before
Mr. Goblet d’Alviella holds a commercial engineer’s degree from the
joining Sofina where he has been Executive Director since 1989.
Free University of Brussels and an MBA from the Harvard Business
Over the last five years, Mr. Goblet d’Alviella has ceased to exercise Richard Goblet d’Alviella holds 2,000 SUEZ shares. He is a
the following functions: member of the Audit Committee.
Jean Peyrelevade, born October 24, 1939 in Marseilles (Bouches- Compagnie de SUEZ, Banque Stern, UAP and Crédit Lyonnais.
du-Rhône), is a French citizen. He resigned as Chairman of the latter in October 2003. Since
September 1, 2004 he has been a partner of Toulouse & Associés,
A graduate of the prestigious French engineering school,
which was acquired by Banca Leonardo (Italy) and renamed
Polytechnique, and the Paris Institute of Political Studies (IEP),
Leonardo France in November 2006.
Jean Peyrelevade successively held the positions of Chairman of
Over the last five years, Mr. Peyrelevade has ceased to exercise • Partner of Toulouse & Associés.
the following functions:
In February 2006, Jean Peyrelevade entered into an Alford Guilty
• Chairman of Crédit Lyonnais; Plea agreement with the federal prosecutor in California and a
cease and desist order was issued against him by the FED in
• Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Clinvest;
the Executive Life case. Pursuant to these documents, he paid
• Director of AGF, Air Liquide, Club Méditerranée, LVMH (France), a $500,000 fine, is refused entry to the US for three years and is
and Power Corporation of Canada; banned from working for banks operating in the US.
• member of the Supervisory Board of Lagardère; Jean Peyrelevade holds 3,694 SUEZ shares.
Thierry de Rudder, born September 3, 1949 in Paris (8th district), the Wharton School of Business in Philadelphia. He began his
holds dual Belgian and French nationality. career in the United States, joining Citibank in 1975 and holding
various positions in New York and Europe. He joined Groupe
Thierry de Rudder has a degree in mathematics from the University
Bruxelles Lambert in 1986 and is now Executive Director.
of Geneva and the Free University of Brussels and an MBA from
Over the last five years, Mr. de Rudder has ceased to exercise the CLT-UFA (Luxembourg)
following functions:
Thierry de Rudder holds 2,222 SUEZ shares.
• Director of Petrofina (Belgium), SI Finance, Rhodia (France),
Jean-Jacques Salane, born September 16, 1951 in Bayonne member of the Board of Directors of Lyonnaise des Eaux, where
(Pyrénées-Atlantiques), is a French citizen. he represented the Workers’ Council.
Over the last five years, Mr. Lagarde has ceased to exercise the Jean-Jacques Salane holds 2,000 SUEZ shares. He is a member
following function: of the Ethics, Environment and Sustainable Development
Committee.
• Union representative on the SUEZ Workers’ Council.
Lord Simon of Highbury, born July 24, 1939 in London (Great appointed Chairman in 1995. After exercising several ministerial
Britain), is a British citizen. positions from May 1997, he became advisor to the British
Prime Minister for the modernization of government. He was also
Lord Simon has an MA from Cambridge and an MBA from INSEAD,
appointed advisor to President Prodi for the reform of the European
Fontainebleau. In 1961 he joined British Petroleum, where
Union. Lord Simon entered the House of Lords in 1997.
he occupied a number of management positions before being
Over the last five years, Lord Simon has ceased to exercise the • Member of the Supervisory Board of Volkswagen Group
following functions: (Germany);
2. Directors whose term of office is submitted to the Shareholders’ Meeting for approval
14
Jacques Lagarde, born May 2, 1938 in Rennes (Ille-et-Vilaine), of the Lyon Business School, Chief Executive Officer of Gillette
holds dual French-US nationality. France, President of Oral-B Laboratories (USA), Chairman of
the Executive Board of Braun AG (Germany), Chairman of the
Jacques Lagarde is a graduate of the prestigious French business
Supervisory Board of Braun AG and Executive Vice-President of
school HEC and of Harvard Business School. He has been Director
The Gillette Company (USA).
Over the last five years, Mr. Lagarde has ceased to exercise the Jacques Lagarde holds 5,778 SUEZ shares. He is Chairman of
following function: the Audit Committee.
Anne Lauvergeon, born August 2, 1959 in Dijon (Côte d’Or), is a foreign trade and in 1991, became Deputy General Secretary
French citizen. as well as Aide to the French President for the organization of
international summits (G7). In 1995 she was appointed Managing
A graduate of the prestigious French engineering school, the Ecole
Partner of Lazard Frères et Cie. She has been Executive Vice-Chair
des Mines and also the Ecole Normal Supérieure, Anne Lauvergeon
and member of the Executive Committee of Alcatel in charge of
is a qualified lecturer (agrégée) in physics. Anne Lauvergeon began
industrial holdings since 1997. Anne Lauvergeon has been Chair
her career in 1983 in the iron and steel industry before joining CEA
of the Areva group Executive Board since July 2001 and Chair
where she studied the problems of chemical safety in Europe.
and Chief Executive Officer of the Areva NC (previously Cogema)
In 1990 she was appointed Special Advisor to the office of the
group since June 1999.
French President in the area of the international economy and
Over the last five years, Mrs. Lauvergeon has ceased to exercise Anne Lauvergeon holds 3,390 SUEZ shares. She is a member of
the following functions: the Ethics, Environment and Sustainable Development Committee
and a member of the Compensation Committee.
• Director of Eramet, Pechiney, Usinor;
14
Directors deemed to be
independent “I” non independent “NI”
in accordance with the criteria of the Bouton report
Chairman and Chief
Gérard Mestrallet Executive Officer NI – Executive
Albert Frère Vice-Chairman NI(a)
Edmond Alphandéry Director I
René Carron Director NI(b)
Gerhard Cromme Director I
Etienne Davignon Director NI(c)
Paul Desmarais Jr. Director NI(a)
Richard Goblet d’Alviella Director I
Jacques Lagarde Director I
Anne Lauvergeon Director I
Jean Peyrelevade Director NI(d)
Thierry de Rudder Director NI(a)
Jean-Jacques Salane Director NI – Group employee
Lord Simon of Highbury Director I
6 8
Executive officer or representative of a group, Groupe Bruxelles Lambert, holding more than 10% of SUEZ’s voting rights.
(a)
14
(b)
Chairman of a banking group, Crédit Agricole, which is one of SUEZ’s main banks.
Executive officer of subsidiaries of the SUEZ group.
(c)
(d)
Important agreements entered into with the company Toulouse & Associés, (renamed Leonardo France in November 2006) of which he is Vice-Chairman.
There is no family link between the members of the Board of his ability to administer or manage non-banking companies, or
Directors and SUEZ’s other main senior managers. banks outside of the United States.
To the best of SUEZ’s knowledge, none of the members of the Board There are no potential conflicts of interests between the Board
of Directors or the executive officers of SUEZ has been convicted members’ duties with regard to SUEZ and their private interests.
of fraud over the last five years. None of these members has been It should be noted that SUEZ maintains extensive business
involved as an executive officer in a bankruptcy, sequestration or relationships with the Crédit Agricole group, represented on SUEZ’s
liquidation over the last five years and none have been incriminated Board of Directors by René Carron and with Areva, represented
and/or subject to an official public sanction issued by a statutory or by Anne Lauvergeon. In addition, in 2005, Calyon, a subsidiary of
regulatory authority. None of these members has been prevented the Crédit Agricole group, granted SUEZ a line of credit to finance
by a court to act as a member of an administrative, management SUEZ’s cash and share bid for Electrabel described in Section 7.1
or supervisory body of an issuer or to take part in managing or of the revised version of the 2004 Reference Document, filed with
conducting the business of an issuer over the last five years. the French securities regulator (AMF) on September 7, 2005 under
no. D.05-0429-A01. SUEZ has given an investigative and analytical
Jean Peyrelevade was indicted by a grand jury in the Central
assignment to Toulouse & Associés, renamed Leonardo France, of
District of California in 2004 at the request of the federal prosecutor
which Jean Peyrelevade is the Vice-Chairman.
in connection with the “Executive Life” case. This indictment was
lifted after Jean Peyrelevade entered an Alford Guilty Plea early in In the interests of transparency and public information, SUEZ has
2006, whereby he accepted a certain number of sanctions, while incorporated the recommendations of the task force for improving
continuing to claim his innocence. These sanctions do not affect corporate governance headed by Daniel Bouton which were
presented to the public on September 23, 2002. These principles
underlie the SUEZ Board of Directors’ Internal Regulations and The Audit Committee met eight times during 2006 and the overall
Directors’ Charter. In addition, the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act, attendance rate was 81%. The Statutory Auditors attended six of
published in 2002, applies to the Company as a foreign issuer and the Audit Committee meetings.
registrant with the SEC (Securities and Exchange Commission) and
Six meetings have been scheduled for 2007 and two meetings had
in relation to the listing of its shares in the form of ADS (American
already been held as of March 31, 2007.
Depository Shares) on the New York Stock Exchange.
This committee has two key roles. The first is to examine in detail The Nomination Committee met three times during 2006 and the
the draft financial statements, the relevance and consistency of the overall attendance rate was 67%.
accounting principles and policies that are used and the content
of the documents that are made public. The second role is to gain
an understanding of the internal and external control procedures in
order to ensure that such procedures provide appropriate coverage
of all risk areas.
The Compensation Committee Article 7 of the Board of Directors’ Internal Regulations defines the
rules and operating procedures of this Committee. It reviews and
The Committee has three members, including one Director who is makes recommendations to the Board of Directors regarding the
deemed to be “independent”* according to the criteria set out in compensation of the Board, including the Chairman.
the Bouton Report on corporate governance:
This Committee is also consulted with respect to compensation
• Lord Simon of Highbury, Chairman*; conditions for the members of group’s Executive Committee.
• Etienne Davignon; The Compensation Committee met three times during 2006 and
the overall attendance rate was 78%.
• Paul Desmarais Jr.
14
In addition to these 10 members, the following individual has the right to attend Executive Committee meetings:
Henry Masson Group Senior Vice-President for Risk, Organization and Central Services
In addition to these 10 members, the following individual has the right to attend Executive Committee meetings:
Henry Masson Group Senior Vice-President for Risk, Organization and Central Services
The Executive Committee Members, other than the two division heads, Dirk Beeuwsaert and Jean-Louis Chaussade, and with the addition
of Henry Masson, whose functions are set out above, together with:
Audit Committee Report • As the shares of SUEZ have been traded as ADRs on the New
York Stock Exchange since September 18, 2001, the Committee
The Audit Committee met eight times during fiscal year 2006 was provided with a presentation of the consolidated financial
and twice at the beginning of 2007, with the main individuals statements for fiscal year 2005 in accordance with US GAAP
responsible for the Company’s accounting, financial, internal and it reviewed the reconciliation of these statements with the
• smoothing and gradual extension of the maturity of bond to the added buying power of Electrabel. The Committee noted the
issues; actions planned for the period 2006-2008.
These risks are: • follow-up of the work performed by the different teams of Suez
/ Gaz de France;
• interest rate risks with respect to net debt, including outstanding
derivative positions to hedge assets which are mainly • follow-up of the due diligence work performed;
denominated in euros and in US dollars; • presentation of the merger agreement and the legal
• currency risks in relation to assets (impact on the balance sheet documents;
and the income statement of the consolidation of the subsidiaries’ • presentation of the synergies to be achieved through the planned
financial statements) which are mainly denominated in US dollars SUEZ / Gaz de France merger, particularly regarding the analysis
and Brazilian reals, and to a lesser extent in Thai bahts, Chilean of the accounting principles of each group and the preparation
pesos and pounds sterling; of pro forma financial statements;
• currency risks in relation to unrealized transactions in the • follow-up of the “remedies” proposed by SUEZ and Gaz de
functional currency of the Group entity concerned. France to the European Commission to obtain its approval
The Committee noted that: regarding the merger;
• the Group had certain currency positions mainly concentrated • presentation of the “Pax Electrica II” agreements entered into
with the Belgian government;
14
on US Dollars and Brazilian reals;
• the managing of interest rate and currency risk in relation to • presentation of the valuations on which the exchange ratio will
assets was coordinated by the Group Finance function. be based;
8. Implementation of internal control procedures decided to combine the internal audit and internal control teams
under a single leadership, at the Headquarters and in the Divisions,
The Audit Committee was informed about the work of the CODIS
from September 1, 2006 to May 2007.
(Control and Disclosure) Program, developed under the impetus of
Financial Management and intended to strengthen internal controls
in all areas and improve financial reporting. 10. Pre-approval procedures for engagements
The program is part of the Group implementation of the French
performed by the Statutory Auditors
Loi de Sécurité Financière (Financial Security Act) and the US In accordance with US regulations, the Committee set up a system
Sarbanes-Oxley Act and has led to attestation reports being issued, to verify the independence of Statutory Auditors, in particular with
as required under the provisions of these Acts. regard to the prior approval of certain engagements.
In 2005, the Committee encouraged the strengthening of the Depending on their nature and within certain limits, some
internal audit teams to meet the requirements of US law in relation engagements are subject to general prior approval, while others
to internal control (application of section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley are subject to specific approval ahead of the engagement.
Act for 2006). As the term of office of Ernst & Young et Autres expires at the end
of the Shareholders’ Meeting approving the financial statements
9. Combining, on a temporary basis, the internal of SUEZ as of December 31, 2006, the Committee accepted the
audit and internal control teams under a single Executive Management’s proposal not to issue an invitation for bids
leadership given the time required to implement such a procedure and the
proposed merger between Suez and Gaz de France.
The Committee was informed that in view of the progress of the
CODIS program within the Group, Suez executive management
Statutory Auditors’ fees and fees paid to members of audit networks by the Group during 2006
The amounts in relation to proportionally consolidated entities which essentially concern the Statutory Auditor engagements are €256,000 in 2006
(2)
compared to €101,000 in 2005 for E&Y and €1,460,000 in 2006 compared to €1,249,000 in 2005 for Deloitte.
Ethics, Environment and Sustainable the statutory auditors and the rating agencies (ethics, sustainable
development, etc.);
Development Committee Report
• the Committee spent a substantial part of its meetings reviewing
The Ethics, Environment and Sustainable Development Committee the positions, actions and measures taken by SUEZ with respect
held four meetings: on January 18, September 6, October 18 and to the environment and sustainable development. In terms of
December 8. A report on each of these meetings was presented environmental compliance and reporting processes, the various
by the Committee Chairman to the Board of Directors. processes related to the treatment of environmental information,
control methods and external verification procedures were
In general, the Committee monitored the development of ethical
presented to the Committee. In the same way, the Committee
programs within the Group in order to ensure that they had
focused on issues relating to health and safety in the workplace,
been correctly implemented and that they had been subject
an area in which it consulted certain presidents in charge of
to application and control procedures in order to maintain the
the Group’s Divisions. It was thus able to assess directly with
high standards and reputation of the Group, its subsidiaries and
management the action plan decided by the Group COMEX. The
affiliated companies.
Committee is informed each year of the plan’s progress;
Certain specific points should be highlighted:
• in terms of governance, as is the case each year, the Committee
• as is the case each year, a report was submitted to the Committee also wished to continue the evaluation process relating to
on the results of the compliance letter procedure, which requires the functioning of the Board of Directors. The evaluation was
the Chairmen of the Group’s principal subsidiaries to confirm their conducted at the end of 2006 under the responsibility of the
company’s compliance with the Group’s Ethical Charter during Chairman Etienne Davignon, in partnership with an outside
the last year. This process was applied in coordination with the expert. It revealed the improvements made in the functioning
compliance measures required by the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act for of the Board through the application of the previous studies and
companies listed on the New York Stock Exchange; made it possible to assess the functioning of the Board during the
preparatory stage of the proposed merger with Gaz de France.
• the Committee was also informed about the work carried out
Regarding the proposed merger, the Committee determined
by the Group’s network of ethics managers, in particular during
the timetable and the conditions for the award of stock-options,
their annual conference held on June 22 and 23. The Committee
the exercise price of the options or the disclosure requirements
duly noted the operational issues that were dealt with at this
applicable to insiders;
conference in consultation with a large number of Business Unit
managers and the work of developing and improving SUEZ’s • lastly, it should be noted that the Chairman Etienne Davignon
ethical initiatives. One such project, in which the Committee took presented, for the second time, the Committee’s activities directly
part, was the implementation of the Values and Ethics action to the shareholders during the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5,
plan based on three main criteria: first, the use of the three 2006.
founding documents of SUEZ ethics policy, i.e., the document
on the “Group’s Values”, “Ethics Charter” and “Company Rules
of Organization and Codes of Conduct”. These documents, Nomination Committee
14
which were drafted eight years ago, are amended, simplified or
supplemented under the heading “Our Values, Our Ethics”; Regarding appointments to the Board of Directors, the Nomination
Committee proposed to the Board to submit to the Shareholders’
• second, an in-depth internal information campaign, sufficiently
Meeting the renewal of the term of office of the Director Jean-
wide in scope, i.e. published in many languages (16 compared
Jacques Salane. As is the case each year, the Committee also
to 6 currently), sent to at least one out of two employees in the
reviewed the status of Directors with regard to the criteria of
world, in various forms (printed or electronic documents, notices,
independence as set forth in the Bouton report.
internet, intranet, extranet used by staff);
Refer to Section 14.1.
14
The following table presents, firstly, the total compensation received In regards to 2006, the total amount paid to members of the Board
by members of the Board of Directors, excluding the Chairman of Directors equally included compensation to SUEZ SA directors
and Chief Executive Officer, and, secondly the total compensation who are also directors of SUEZ-Tractebel, a wholly-owned SUEZ
15
received by members of the Executive Committee, including the subsidiary.
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
A table showing total compensation received by the senior managers is presented in Note 35 of Section 20 relating to financial information
included in this report.
Executive compensation
There is both a fixed and variable component to the compensation The change in the fixed part of the compensation is linked to
of senior management. changes in specific situations, such as an increase or material
change in specific responsibilities, adjustments made necessary in quantitative criteria, which were based solely on the performance
light of the principles of equity applied internally within the Group of SUEZ.
or as a result of blatant discrepancies in relation to the external
The variable part of compensation, the balance of which is payable
“market”.
in 2007 in respect of fiscal year 2006, for Gérard Mestrallet, Jean-
The variable part of the compensation primarily seeks to Pierre Hansen and Gérard Lamarche is 25% based on qualitative
compensate the senior management’s contribution to the profits objectives and 75% based on quantitative criteria. The quantitative
of the company and the Group. criteria applied are, like in 2005, operating income for 50% and
cash flow from operating activities before disposals for 50%.
The variable part of the compensation, the balance of which was
paid in 2006 in respect of fiscal year 2005, for Gérard Mestrallet, For Executive Committee members who are responsible for a Group
Jean-Pierre Hansen and Gérard Lamarche, was 25% based on operating division, half the variable compensation is based on
qualitative objectives and 75% based on quantitative criteria. The qualitative criteria and half on quantitative criteria. The quantitative
quantitative criteria applied were operating income for 50% and criteria applied – current operating income, net income, cash flow
cash flow from operating activities before disposals for 50%. from operating activities – are calculated at the level of SUEZ for
40% and 60% at division level.
For Executive Committee members who are responsible for a Group
operating division, half the variable compensation was based on For the other members of the Executive Committee, the variable
qualitative criteria and half on quantitative criteria. The quantitative portion is calculated in the same way, save in respect of the
criteria applied (growth in gross cash flow before finance costs, quantitative criteria, which are based solely on the performance
total cash flow for the year, income from ordinary activities and of SUEZ.
net income) were calculated at the level of SUEZ for 40% and
The following table presents total compensation paid to all
60% at division level.
members of the Executive Committee during the 2006 and 2005
For the other members of the Executive Committee, the variable fiscal years.
portion was calculated in the same way, save in respect of the
15 The number of members of the Executive Committee reverted to 11 as from November 1, 2005.
(1)
Variable compensation represented 55.4% of total compensation in 2006. The Executive Committee comprises all deputy vice
in 2006, compared to 53% in 2005. presidents in charge of divisions, several of whom are subject to
the benchmark criteria of the Belgian market.
Total average compensation paid to members of the Executive
Committee increased from €1.27 million in 2005 to €1.34 million
The Group paid Gérard Mestrallet, Chairman and Chief Executive attendance fees received in Gérard Mestrallet’s capacity as Director
Officer, total compensation of €2,715,792 in 2006 (versus of several Group companies (€194,249 in 2005).
€2,532,819 in 2005), of which €1,253,026 (€1,104,411 in
Pursuant to the recommendation of the Compensation Committee,
2005) was fixed, including a benefit in kind in relation to the use
as approved by the Board of Directors, the variable part of his
of his company vehicle (€3,026). The variable part of €1,462,766
remuneration for 2006 will amount to €1,470,000.
(€1,428,408 in 2005) represents 54% of total compensation
(compared with 56% in 2005), an increase of 2.4% compared In terms of pension benefits, Gérard Mestrallet has no special
with 2005. This variable part includes €220,261 paid in respect of entitlements. He enjoys the same conditions as all SUEZ SA
employees under the Group plan, which combines an individualized
defined-contribution scheme (as per a company agreement signed within the company at the time of retirement. The plan concerns
in 1988 and amended in 2005) and a defined-benefit scheme employees earning 4 to 50 times the annual French social security
(as per a company agreement signed in 1991 and amended in ceiling. Gérard Mestrallet currently has no compensation, indemnity
1998 and 2005). Payments under the defined-benefit plan are
not guaranteed, as they depend on the employee being active
or benefit due, or liable to be due, in the event of his duties being terminated or changed, either at the time of occurrence or
subsequently.
Bonus shares
See Section below.
15
Bonus share awards
The 2005 French Finance Act, voted on December 30, 2004, April 27, 2004, the total number of such shares being limited to
introduced new provisions, under which French companies are 3% of the share capital.
able to award bonus shares to senior managers and employees of
The Board of Directors of SUEZ decided, at its meeting of
the company and of certain related companies.
December 9, 2005, to implement this system, with two main
In accordance with these provisions, the Combined Ordinary and goals:
Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of SUEZ held on May 13,
• to round out the system applicable to current beneficiaries of
2005, decided in its sixteenth resolution to authorize the Board
the stock option plans, by partly replacing stock options with
of Directors to carry out free grants of SUEZ shares for a period of
bonus share awards;
26 months. The amount of bonus shares thus granted is limited to
1% of the share capital (by number of shares). The total number • to grant bonus shares to a category of employees not covered
of bonus shares granted will be deducted from the total number by stock option plans. This step, intended to be non-recurring,
of shares which can be subscribed for or purchased pursuant to will make it possible to recognize the contributions of other staff
stock options under the terms of the eighteenth resolution of the members and promote their involvement in the company and
Combined Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of the SUEZ Group.
• up to 4,000 stock options:
The timing and conditions set by the Board of Directors are as
follows: – 40% of the stock options will be replaced by bonus shares;
1. length of vesting period for rights grant of SUEZ shares for no • from 4,001 to 7,000 stock options:
consideration: two years from February 13, 2006;
– 30% of the stock options will be replaced by bonus shares;
2. vesting date for the shares, subject to compliance with the
• from 7,001 to 19,000 stock options:
conditions outlined below: March 15, 2008.
– 20% of the stock options will be replaced by bonus shares;
Conditions:
• over and above 19,000 stock-options:
1. presence on company payroll on March 15, 2008, i.e., current
employment contract with a Group company at that date, except – 10% of the stock options will be replaced by bonus shares.
in cases of retirement, death or disability; The Board of Directors also decided to limit to 2,000 bonus shares
2. performance condition based on the Group’s Return On Capital the maximum grant attributable per person. This restriction applies
Employed (ROCE) for fiscal year 2007; to all Group employees, including members of the Executive
Committee and the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
3. length of the mandatory retention period for the shares: two
years from the vesting date of March 15, 2008, meaning that
a sale will be allowed from March 15, 2010. 2. Other beneficiaries
The Board of Directors also decided, at its meeting of December 9,
2005, to grant bonus shares to persons other than recipients of
B. Conversion rate for exchanges of stock stock options. This grant concerned 1,205 employees.
options for bonus shares The number of bonus shares granted per person ranged from 50
to 150.
The Board of Directors considered that a conversion rate of
one bonus share for five stock options seemed reasonable and Overall, the distribution policy for bonus shares concerned
acceptable to the beneficiaries. 3,420 individuals and involved a total number of 660,780 shares.
As regards Group senior management (Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer, members of the Executive Committee), in
C. Target population and number accordance with the rule limiting the total number of shares that
of shares granted can be granted per person, the Board of Directors granted 2,000
The grants resulting from the partial replacement of the shares), with this limitation concerning all the Group employees
proposed stock option awards concern 2,180 employees and including the members of the Executive Committee; the Chairman
698,104 shares. For the other beneficiaries, as a general rule, the and Chief Executive Officer received 3,000 Performance Shares
number of bonus shares granted per person ranged from 50 to (February 12, 2007 plan).
150 for 249,050 shares and 2,180 employees.
Complete final information concerning this plan will be published
A decision was made to limit the maximum number of shares that in the next reference document.
could be granted per person to 3,000 Performance Shares (bonus
Stock subscription options granted by the Company and all Group companies
during fiscal year 2006 to corporate officers in office at December 31, 2006
There was no stock option plan for 2006, but at its meeting on of an award of stock subscription options, with the final award of
October 18, 2006, the Board of Directors decided on the principle such stock options becoming effective on January 17, 2007.
Stock subscription options granted by the Company and all Group companies
at January 17, 2007 to corporate officers in office at December 31, 2006
Number
of stock options granted Subscription price Plan Expiration date
Gérard Mestrallet 380,000 €38.89 01/17/2007 01/16/2015
Number 15
of stock options exercised Subscription price Plan Expiration date
Gérard Mestrallet 264,739 €28.16 11/16/1998* 11/16/2006
* Stock purchase options.
SUEZ Shares
No transactions.
Stock options
Date of Type of Number of stock
transaction transaction Plan concerned options exercised Exercise price Net sale price
Gérard Mestrallet 11/06/2006 Exercise 11/16/1998* 164,739 €28.16 -
02/02/2006 Exercise/sale 11/16/1998 *
100,000 €28.16 €30.35
Jean-Pierre Hansen 03/13/2006 Exercise/sale 01/31/2000 *
52,935 €28.46 €34.00
Gérard Lamarche 03/14/2006 Exercise/sale 11/16/1998* 23,827 €28.16 €34.18
03/14/2006 Exercise/sale 11/16/1999* 26,472 €28.54 €34.18
* Stock purchase options.
Number of shares and stock options held by the members of the Board of Directors
at December 31, 2006
Number of shares held at Number of stock options held at
December 31, 2006 December 31, 2006
Gérard Mestrallet 204,652 2,681,370
Albert Frère 2,000 -
Edmond Alphandéry 2,223 -
Antonio Brufau 2,222 -
René Carron 3,500 -
Gerhard Cromme 2,000 -
Etienne Davignon 11,111 95,294
Paul Desmarais Jr 2,222 -
Richard Goblet d’Alviella 2,000 -
Jacques Lagarde 5,778 -
Loans and guarantees granted to or issued in favor of members of the Board of Directors
or management structures.
None.
In the financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2006, provisions booked in respect of pension obligations in favor of members
of the Executive Committee stood at €15.2 million.
15
15
16.1 Dates on which Directors’ terms 16.3 Information on the Audit Committee
of office expire p. 173 and the Compensation Committee p. 174
Article 15 of the Bylaws defines the powers of the Board of Article 5 of the aforementioned Charter also provides for the
Directors. completion of regular evaluations of the Board of Directors’
performance, by an independent Director. Jacques Lagarde was
“The Board of Directors determines the strategic direction of the
asked to perform such evaluations of the Board of Directors and
Company’s activities and ensures its implementation. It considers
its committees in 2002 and 2003
all issues concerning the proper functioning of the Company and
settles all matters relating thereto, within the scope of the corporate In October 2004, the Ethics, Environment and Sustainable
purpose and subject to those powers expressly granted by law to Development Committee chose a methodology for evaluating the
shareholders’ meetings. Board and its Committees based on a document prepared by an
external consultancy firm, and after having issued an invitation
The Board of Directors performs all controls and verifications it
for bids from three specialized consultancy firms, it appointed an
considers appropriate. Each Director receives all information
external consultant to carry out this evaluation. This procedure has
necessary to the performance of his or her duties and may request
been repeated each year since 2004.
any documents he or she considers necessary.”
The summary report on the evaluation work, carried out under
Reaffirming its commitment to rules of corporate governance, the
the responsibility of Etienne Davignon, was approved by the
Board of Directors adopted Internal Regulations in May 2001,
Ethics, Environment and Sustainable Development Committee
which have been amended on several occasions, and a Directors’
at its meeting of January 18, 2006 and was submitted to the
Charter in January 2002. These documents provide the Board with
meeting of the Board of Directors held on the same day. The
the channels and means necessary to operate efficiently, while
Board of Directors meeting held on January 18, 2006 recorded
serving the interests of the Company and its shareholders, and set
the suggestions for improvements in the functioning of the Board of
out with full transparency the rights and obligations of Directors
(these documents are available at the Company’s corporate
headquarters and on its website: www.suez.com).
Directors and its Committees and will oversee their implementation.
The evaluation for 2006 was decided at the Ethics Committee 16
meeting on December 8, 2006.
In addition, the SUEZ Ethics Charter and related documents,
Pursuant to Article 11 of the Company’s Bylaws, each Director
notably the “Confidentiality and Privileged Information” guide,
must hold at least 2,000 SUEZ shares throughout his/her term
are applicable to Directors. These documents forbid Directors,
of office
in particular, from trading in SUEZ securities or the securities of
any of its listed subsidiaries during the period of preparation and The Board of Directors meets whenever required by the interests of
approval of the financial statements which begins thirty calendar the Company and, in any event, at least four times a year.
days prior to the date of the Board of Directors meeting held to
It met 12 times during fiscal year 2006 and the overall attendance
approve the annual and interim financial statements and terminates
rate was 82%. From January 1, 2007 to the end of March 2007,
two days after this meeting. This general measure is supplemented
the Board of Directors met twice.
by Article 8 of the Directors’ Charter, which requires Directors to
seek and obtain the advice of SUEZ’s Company Secretary before Directors receive directors’ fees based on attendance, the total
transacting with or having a transaction carried out by a third party amount of which was set during the General Shareholders’ Meeting
in the securities of Group companies. of April 26, 2002 at an aggregate of €800,000 per year for fiscal
year 2002 and all subsequent fiscal years until a new decision is
made in this respect.
Pursuant to the recommendation of the Compensation and Nomination Committee made on April 27, 2004, the Board of Directors meeting
held on the same day set the following allocation rules:
Directors
Fixed fee €35,000 per year
Variable fee, dependant on attendance €1,500 per meeting
Committee chairman (other than Audit Committee)
Fixed fee €15,000 per year
Variable fee, dependent on attendance None, given that the Board considers that a Committee meeting cannot be held in
the absence of its Chairman.
Committee member (other than Audit Committee)
Fixed fee €7,000 per year
Variable fee, dependant on attendance euros1,000 per meeting
Taking into account the substantial increase in the Audit Committee’s workload due to the implementation of the French Financial Security
Act (Loi de Sécurité Financière) and the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the Board of Directors, acting on a recommendation from the Compensation
and Nomination Committee, decided at its meeting held on May 13, 2005, to increase the Audit Committee’s annual fees as follows:
Gérard Mestrallet, as Chairman of the Board, and Jean-Jacques Salane, as a Group employee, do not receive directors’ fees. On this basis,
the following attendance fees were paid to Directors in respect of fiscal year 2006:
(b)
Etienne Davignon, Richard Goblet d’Alviella, and Thierry de Rudder have respectively received 132,860 euros, 88,573 €and 86,094 €in their capacity as
members of the Directors and Audit Commitee of SUEZ-TRACTEBEL.
In 2006, the total amount of attendance fees distributed was €793,500, compared with €767,334 in 2005.
See Section 14.1 “Members and functioning of the Board of Directors and management structures”.
Acquisition by SUEZ from SUEZ Tractebel The consolidated capital gain, recorded in the financial statements
for the first half of 2006, is €120 million.
of 47.55% of the share capital
At the request of the purchaser, SWILUX S.A., the transaction was
of Electrabel carried out off the stock market in accordance with Article 512-2
In order to simplify the Group’s structures, SUEZ decided that it of the General Regulation of the AMF.
would hold the entire stake owned by the Group in Electrabel. SUEZ had previously informed the Conseil Supérieur de
As the first step, SUEZ acquired from SUEZ-Tractebel the 47.55% l’Audiovisuel (the French Regulatory Authority for Broadcasting)
interest held by SUEZ-Tractebel in the capital of Electrabel, of the envisaged transaction and this authority did not make any
namely 26,096,262 Electrabel shares, thus increasing its direct objection or opposition to its completion.
shareholding in Electrabel from 48.55% to 96.10%. This transaction was expressly approved by the Board of Directors
The purchase price was set on the basis of the average of the at its meeting on June 7, 2006.
closing trading prices for the Electrabel share for the last 20 trading
sessions prior to the transaction, i.e. €437.64.
Toulouse & Associés (renamed Leonardo
On this basis, the sale price amounted to €11.4 billion, leading
to an accounting capital gain of around €5.3 billion for SUEZ-
France in November 2006)
Tractebel. The purchase agreement included a price adjustment Within the scope of its strategic review and analysis of development
clause that ran until November 30, 2006. This capital gain had options in the electricity and gas markets, approved by the Board
no impact on the consolidated financial statements inasmuch as of Directors at its meeting of January 19, 2005 and undertaken as
it involved an intercompany transaction.
In February 2004, SUEZ sold 29.2% of the capital of M6 on the The engagement is scheduled to last until December 31, 2007,
basis of a unit sale price of €26.11, representing a total sale price and may be extended, where applicable, by successive 6-month
of €1 billion and a net capital gain of €752.8 million. periods.
In the spring of 2006, SUEZ decided to sell its remaining 5% In consideration for its work, Léonardo France would receive fees
interest in M6 to a Luxembourg company, called SWILUX S.A., in the event of:
a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Belgian company, Compagnie • a merger between SUEZ and Gaz de France;
Nationale à Portefeuille.
• acquisition of a controlling interest in Gaz de France by SUEZ
SUEZ thus sold 6,594,435 M6 shares, representing 5% of the and vice versa;
capital and 5.88% of the voting rights, on the basis of a unit sale
price of €24.70, representing a total share price of €162.9 million. • takeover of SUEZ, following a hostile bid leading to SUEZ
adopting defense mechanisms.
The amount of the flat-fee commission payable on completion of Furthermore, in the event that the transaction were to take place
the transaction would be €2.5 million exclusive of taxes. This flat- in a different form to those provided for in the agreement, SUEZ
fee commission would be accompanied by a variable commission and Léonardo France would discuss the conditions of a flat-fee
calculated on the basis of the closing price of the SUEZ share compensation.
on the day before the date of completion of the transaction.
16
17 Employees
17.1 Number of employees and breakdown Stock options granted by the Company and by all
by principal business segment companies included within the stock option plan
and by site p. 175 during fiscal year 2006 and January 2007 to the
ten employees of the issuer and such companies
17.2 Shareholdings and stock options p. 175 who are not corporate officers and to whom the
greatest number of stock options was allocated 176
17.3 Agreement with regard to employee
ownership of the issuer’s capital p. 176 Stock-options exercised during 2006 by the ten
Employee profit sharing and incentive plans 176 Group employees who are not corporate officers
Employee shareholdings 176 who exercised the greatest number of stock options 177
Reference should be made to Section 15.1 which contains a table showing the number of shares and stock options owned by the members
of the Board of Directors as of December 31, 2006 and Note 33 of Section 20.2 relating to financial information.
17
Amounts paid in this respect during the last six years were as follows:
Furthermore, an incentive agreement was signed on June 30, 1997. In accordance with French law, the amounts paid do not give rise to an
additional contribution by the employer. Amounts paid in this respect during the last six years were as follows:
Employee shareholdings
SUEZ promotes a voluntary employee share ownership policy. Since the launch of its first international corporate savings plan
with leveraged formulae in 1999, SUEZ has renewed its offer
As of December 31, 2006, employees held 3.1% of the share
to employees of the Group including the offer of new products
capital which they acquired through a corporate savings plan
developed using new techniques.
offering standard subscription formulae and also leveraged formulae
with guaranteed capital in connection with the Spring 1999, 2000, In 2006, no corporate savings plan was proposed to the group’s
2002, 2004 and 2005 programs. employees.
17 Stock options granted by the Company and by all companies included within
the stock option plan during fiscal year 2006 and January 2007 to the ten
employees of the issuer and such companies who are not corporate officers
and to whom the greatest number of stock options was allocated
No stock option plan was offered in 2006; on the other hand, at its meeting on October 18, 2006, the Board of Directors decided on the
principle of an award of stock subscription options with the final award being effective on January 17, 2007.
Stock options exercised during 2006 by the ten Group employees who are not
corporate officers who exercised the greatest number of stock options
Number of options allocated Subscription price Plan Expiration date
537,422 €28.16 11/16/1998 *
11/16/2006
16,320 €30.56 06/30/1999* 06/30/2007
187,952 €28.54 11/15/1999* 11/15/2007
51,883 €28.46 01/31/2000 *
01/31/2008
82,053 €34.39 11/28/2000 **
11/28/2010
73,062 €35.74 12/21/2000** 12/20/2010
316,206 €32.59 11/28/2001** 11/27/2011
340,191 €16.69 11/20/2002 **
11/19/2012
*
Stock purchase options.
**
Stock subscription options.
17
17
18 Major shareholders
As of December 31, 2006, the share capital of SUEZ was As of December 31, 2006, SUEZ performed a survey of
€2,554,888,806, made up of 1,277,444,403 fully paid-up shares all identifiable bearer shares and identified approximately
with a par value of €2 each, representing 1,424,711,350 voting 420,000 individual shareholders.
rights.
100% 100%
Calculated based on the number of shares and voting rights outstanding as of 12/31/2006.
(a)
(b)
See Section on “Exceeding Statutory Threshold Disclosure Requirements” below.
The difference observed between percentage interests in the share • applicable law cancels voting rights attached to treasury stock
capital and voting rights is due to the following: held by the Company.
• the Company’s bylaws confer double voting rights on SUEZ To the Company’s knowledge, there are no shareholder agreements
shares held by the same shareholder for over two years in with regard to the capital of SUEZ.
registered form;
18
100% 100%
Calculated based on the number of shares and voting rights outstanding as of 12/31/2006
(a)
(b)
See Section on “Exceeding Statutory Threshold Disclosure Requirements” above.
18
Double voting rights are attributed, in proportion to the percentage Double voting rights attached to shares cease on the conversion
of share capital they represent, to all fully paid-up shares held in of such shares to bearer shares or their transfer to another
registered form for at least two years in the name of the same shareholder, with the exception of registered to registered transfers
shareholder or of this shareholder and individuals whose rights as a result of an inheritance or family gift.
he holds, either intestate or by virtue of a will, as a result of the
Double voting rights can only be cancelled:
division of marital property between spouses or through inter
vivos donation to a spouse or relative entitled to a share in the • by a decision made at an Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting by
deceased’s estate. all the shareholders with a view to amending the bylaws;
In the event of an increase in share capital by capitalization of • subject to the ratification of such decision by the Special Meeting
earnings, reserves or additional paid-in capital, double voting rights of shareholders that hold double voting rights, which must
shall be conferred, from issuance, on registered shares allotted approve this cancellation by a two-thirds majority.
free to shareholders in respect of existing shares which benefit
As of December 31, 2006, after deduction of treasury stock, the
from such rights.
Company had 151,345,449 shares carrying double voting rights.
18.3 Control
Not applicable.
As of the date hereof, to SUEZ’s knowledge, there is no agreement relating to an option with regard to any entity that is a member of the
SUEZ Group or any agreement which, if implemented, could lead to a change in its control.
18
18
The inclusion of this note within the Reference Document is aimed Only material transactions are described below.
at ensuring transparency in the relationship between the Group
Compensation payable to members of the Executive Committee
and its shareholders and their representatives, as well as in the
and to directors is disclosed in a separate note (see Chapter 20,
links between the Group and related companies that it does not
Note 35, “Executive compensation”).
exclusively control (joint ventures or associates).
19.2 Associates
Elia System Operator (ESO)/Elia Receivables relating to gas and electricity supply and other services
stood at €111.4 million at December 31, 2006 versus €78.1 million
Elia is a listed company 27.1%-owned by Electrabel. at December 31, 2005.
Elia, a subsidiary of Elia System Operator (ESO), was set up in 2001 Electrabel’s payables to the mixed inter-municipal companies stood
as grid operator of the high-voltage electricity transmission network at €274.8 million at December 31, 2006, versus €337.4 million at
in Belgium. ESO and Elia have been accounted for by the equity December 31, 2005.
method since ESO was appointed to manage the transmission
At December 31, 2006, Electrabel had granted cash advances
network by the Belgian Federal Council of Ministers. Transmission
totaling €341 million to the mixed inter-municipal companies,
fees are subject to the approval of the Belgian Electricity and Gas
compared to €398.8 million at December 31, 2005. Amounts
Regulatory Commission (CREG).
due to the mixed inter-municipal companies by Electrabel came
Electrabel paid ESO/Elia electricity transmission fees totaling to €44.2 million at end-2006, compared with €26.2 million at
€200.2 million in 2006 and €251.2 million in 2005. Amounts owed end-2005.
to ESO/Elia totaled €5.5 million at December 31, 2006, versus
Electrabel’s reimbursement right in connection with the pension
€12.5 million at December 31, 2005.
obligations relating to its distribution employees stood at
The Group billed ESO/Elia for services totaling €97 million in 2006, €377.9 million at December 31, 2006, versus €1,191 million at
compared to €100 million in 2005. December 31, 2005. The change in this item reflects the sale of
Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen and the creation of Brussels Network
Finally, the Group had granted ESO/Elia a loan amounting to
Operations.
€808.4 million at December 31, 2006 (€354.8 million maturing
in 2009 and €453.6 million maturing in 2010 and thereafter),
compared to €808.4 million at December 31, 2005. In 2006, the
loan generated financial revenues of €31.8 million, compared to
Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (CNR)
€29.9 million in 2005. CNR is 49.3%-owned by Electrabel.
Electrabel SA granted Elia guarantees for an amount of Within the scope of purchase and sale agreements signed with
€10.6 million corresponding to future payments of access rights CNR, the Group acquired €82.6 million of electricity in 2006 from
to high-voltage networks. CNR, compared with €42.9 million in 2005. The Group also sold
€22.7 million of electricity under these contracts in 2006, versus
€27.5 million in 2005.
Mixed inter-municipal companies
Electrabel exercises significant influence over the mixed inter-
municipal companies.
Sohar
The equity-accounted mixed inter-municipal companies distribute Sohar is 50%-owned by Suez-Tractebel, itself wholly owned by
gas and electricity produced by Electrabel and Distrigas to non- SUEZ Group.
industrial Belgian customers that are not eligible for deregulation. SUEZ provided Sohar with performance bonds and delivery
Electrabel sold the mixed inter-municipal companies €931.1 million guarantees capped at €67.8 million. Sohar builds and operates a
of electricity and gas in 2006 versus €738.6 million in 2005.
19
power station and a water desalination plant in Oman.
Electrabel and Electrabel Customer Solutions paid gas and
electricity distribution costs to the mixed inter-municipal
companies amounting to €1,203.2 million in 2006, compared to Contassur
€1,078.7 million in 2005.
Contassur is 10%-owned by Suez-Tractebel and 5%-owned by
Some of the mixed inter-municipal companies employ no personnel. Electrabel.
In accordance with the bylaws, Electrabel makes personnel
Contassur is a captive insurance company accounted for under the
available to these companies with a view to carrying out daily
equity method. The pension fund trusts for certain employees of
distribution services. Electrabel bills these mixed inter-municipal
the Group have entered into insurance contracts with Contassur.
companies for all work, supplies and services provided to them.
Amounts billed to the mixed inter-municipal companies totaled These insurance contracts give rise to reimbursement rights, and
€582.7 million in 2006, versus €1,431.2 million in 2005. This are therefore recorded under “Other assets” in the balance sheet in
change results from the disposal of Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen the amounts of €186.6 million and €318 million at December 31,
and the creation of Brussels Network Operations. 2006 and 2005, respectively.
19.3 Shareholders
Compagnie Nationale à Portefeuille (CNP) recognized a net capital gain of €120 million on this transaction in
first-half 2006. SUEZ no longer holds any interests in M6.
In the organization chart of Groupe Bruxelles Lambert’s 2005
The Group has also sold all of its shares in Trasys, a specialized
annual report, CNP is shown as one of its controlling entities. At
IT consulting and services company, to GIB for €32.8 million. GIB
December 31, 2006, Groupe Bruxelles Lambert owns an 8% stake
is jointly controlled by Ackermans & Van Haaren and CNP. This
in SUEZ.
transaction generated a net capital gain of €24 million for SUEZ.
SUEZ sold its residual 5% interest in M6 to CNP’s wholly-owned
subsidiary, Swilux, for an amount of €163 million. The Group
19
19
20.1 Consolidated financial statements p. 190 20.4 Dividend distribution policy p. 301
Key figures 190 20.4.1 Dividend per share 301
Consolidated balance sheets 192
Consolidated income statements 194 20.5 Legal procedings and arbitrations p. 302
Consolidated cash flow statements 195 Competition and industry concentration 302
Consolidated statements of changes in equity 196 Disputes and arbitration 302
20.2 Notes to the consolidated financial 20.6 Significant change in the financial
statements p. 198 or commercial situation p. 305
20
Key figures
20 (a) Earnings per share is calculated based on the average number of shares outstanding, net of treasury shares.
(b) 2004 IFRS dividend adjusted for the impact of the capital increase with preferential subscription rights carried out in 2005.
2007 dividend: as recommended.
20
Assets
Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31, 2004*
In millions of euros Notes 2006 2005* Jan. 1, 2005* (IAS 32/39 format)
Non-current assets
Intangible assets, net 15 3,488.1 3,453.5 3,352.9 3,352.9
Goodwill 14 13,404.6 13,033.2 5,322.3 5,322.3
Property, plant and equipment, net 16.1 21,002.8 20,212.4 19,366.7 19,366.7
Available-for-sale securities 19.1 2,816.5 2,671.5 2,222.6 1,654.7
Loans and receivables carried at amortized cost 19.3 2,170.1 2,440.2 2,532.8 2,036.3
Derivative instruments (incl. commodity derivatives) 19.2 1,014.1 2,145.9 1,072.9
Investments in associates 17 1,259.7 3,154.9 2,487.1 2,922.6
Other non-current assets 21 778.8 1,686.5 1,726.8 1,727.8
Deferred tax assets 12.3 871.0 1,225.2 984.1 756.8
Total non-current assets 46,805.7 50,023.3 39,068.2 37,140.1
Current assets
Available-for-sale securities 19.1 1,424.5 1,232.7
Loans and receivables carried at amortized cost 19.3 298.8 194.0 591.7 584.6
Derivative instruments (incl. commodity derivatives) 19.2 3,318.6 4,533.3 1,034.4
Trade and other receivables 19.4 10,412.2 10,394.7 9,733.4 9,733.9
Inventories 20 1,483.4 1,344.8 1,145.6 1,145.7
Other current assets 21 2,336.6 2,693.1 2,740.5 3,130.8
Financial assets at fair value through income 19.5 833.0 885.6 420.3 412.9
Cash and cash equivalents 26 7,946.3 10,374.4 6,886.2 6,911.6
Total current assets 26,628.9 30,419.8 23,976.6 23,152.2
20
Liabilities
Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31, 2004 *
In millions of euros Notes 2006 2005* Jan. 1, 2005* (IAS 32/39 format)
Shareholders’ equity 22 19,503.8 16,255.9 7,965.8 7,773.8
Minority interests 3,060.0 2,567.3 5,104.0 5,054.4
Total equity 22,563.8 18,823.2 13,069.8 12,828.2
Non-current liabilities
Provisions 23 8,419.7 9,118.8 8,515.6 8,543.9
Long-term borrowings 26 13,000.6 16,406.9 16,708.7 16,251.6
Derivative instruments (incl. commodity derivatives) 25.2 711.7 2,191.7 600.7
Other financial liabilities 25.4 467.5 858.5 442.5 443.1
Other non-current liabilities 917.3 949.5 1,078.8 1,080.5
Deferred tax liabilities 12.3 1,444.5 1,165.8 1,082.7 964.4
Total non-current liabilities 24,961.3 30,691.2 28,429.0 27,283.5
Current liabilities
Provisions 23 1,366.1 1,724.4 1,861.2 1,872.3
Short-term borrowings 26 6,678.5 9,079.9 4,214.7 4,001.5
Derivative instruments (incl. commodity derivatives) 25.2 3,369.5 5,188.9 1,340.0
Trade and other payables 25.3 9,209.4 10,078.8 9,199.0 9,204.2
Other current liabilities 5,286.0 4,856.7 4,931.1 5,102.6
Total current liabilities 25,909.5 30,928.7 21,546.0 20,180.6
20
20
20
Increase in capital(1) 162.4 2,962.1 318.4
Assignment of litigious receivables 995.4
Treasury stock movements 234.3 2.9 18.5
Cash flow from (used in) financing activities (6,938.1) 6,488.3 (8,083.4)
Effect of changes consolidation method, exchange rates and other (296.3) 166.3 97.7
Fair Cumu-
Con- value lative
Addi solidated adjust- transla-
tional reserves ments tion Share-
Number of Share paid-in and net and Treasury adjust- holders’ Minority
shares capital capital income other stock ment equity interests Total
Equity under French GAAP
at December 31, 2003 1,007,679,806 2,015.3 6,470.0 1,021.7 (372.6) (2,238.8) 6,895.6 4,847.3 11,742.9
Impact of the first-time
adoption of IFRS at January
1, 2004 (2,185.8) 2,238.8 53.0 327.9 380.9
Equity under IFRS at
January 1, 2004 1,007,679,806 2,015.3 6,470.0 (1,164.1) (372.6) 6,948.6 5,175.2 12,123.8
Translation adjustments (156.2) (156.2) 42.1 (114.1)
Impact of discontinuation of
the “corridor method” (IAS
19) (89.5) (89.5) (34.3) (123.8)
Deferred taxes 25.8 25.8 10.0 35.8
Net income and expenses
recognized directly in equity (63.7) (156.2) (219.9) 17.8 (202.1)
Net income 1,697.0 (0.6) 1,696.4 831.4 2,527.8
Total recognized income
and expenses for the period 1,697.0 (63.7) (0.6) (156.2) 1,476.5 849.2 2,325.7
Conversion of bonds 4,222 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.1
Shares issued for employees
and share-based payment 12,781,358 25.6 151.7 17.8 195.1 195.1
Dividends paid (859.1) 0.6 (858.5) (631.7) (1,490.2)
Net acquisitions of treasury
stock (1.8) 20.3 18.5 18.5
Other changes (6.5) (6.5) (338.3) (344.8)
Equity under IFRS at
December 31, 2004 1,020,465,386 2,040.9 6,621.8 (316.7) (63.7) (352.3) (156.2) 7,773.8 5,054.4 12,828.2
First-time adoption of IAS
32/39 (364.9) 629.1 (3.0) (68.9) 192.3 49.6 241.9
Available-for-sale financial
assets 64.6 64.6 (33.7) 30.9
Net investment hedges (117.7) (117.7) 11.9 (105.8)
Cash flow hedges (24.0) (24.0) 9.7 (14.3)
Commodity cash flow hedges (406.3) (406.3) (15.6) (421.9)
Actuarial gains and losses (261.5) (261.5) 20.3 (241.2)
Deferred taxes 246.2 246.2 (8.5) 237.7
Assignment of litigious
receivables 995.4 995.4 995.4
Translation adjustments (29.4) 817.4 788.0 126.0 914.0
20
Net income and expenses
recognized directly in equity 630.5 101.0 (3.0) 748.5 1,477.0 159.7 1,636.7
Net income 2,512.7 2,512.7 1,263.8 3,776.5
Total recognized income
and expenses for the period 3,143.2 101.0 (3.0) 748.5 3,989.7 1,423.5 5,413.2
Conversion of bonds 11,665,701 23.3 183.5 206.8 206.8
Shares issued for employees
and share-based payment 17,315,417 34.6 266.2 35.5 336.3 336.3
Increase in capital 221,309,751 442.6 4,307.4 4,750.0 4,750.0
Dividends paid (806.7) (806.7) (714.5) (1,521.2)
Net acquisitions of treasury
stock 3.3 (0.4) 2.9 2.9
Other changes 3.1 3.1 (3,196.1) (3,193.0)
Equity under IFRS at
December 31, 2005 1,270,756,255 2,541.4 11,378.9 2,061.7 37.3 (355.7) 592.3 16,255.9 2,567.3 18,823.2
Fair Cumu-
Con- value lative
Addi solidated adjust- transla-
tional reserves ments tion Share-
Number of Share paid-in and net and Treasury adjust- holders’ Minority
shares capital capital income other stock ment equity interests Total
Equity under IFRS at
December 31, 2005 1,270,756,255 2,541.4 11,378.9 2,061.7 37.3 (355.7) 592.3 16,255.9 2,567.3 18,823.2
Available-for-sale financial
assets 290.4 290.4 3.2 293.6
Net investment hedges 42.4 42.4 0.0 42.4
Cash flow hedges 87.3 87.3 2.6 89.9
Commodity cash flow hedges 658.5 658.5 (18.5) 640.0
Actuarial gains and losses 52.4 52.4 2.0 54.4
Deferred taxes (318.3) (318.3) 4.0 (314.3)
Translation adjustments 30.2 (349.9) (319.7) (77.8) (397.5)
Net income and expenses
recognized directly in equity 842.9 (349.9) 493.0 (84.5) 408.5
Net income 3,606.3 3,606.3 587.9 4,194.2
Total recognized income
and expenses for the period 3,606.3 842.9 (349.9) 4,099.3 503.4 4,602.7
Shares issued for employees
and share-based payment 6,388,344 12.8 149.3 42.9 205.0 205.0
Non-cash capital increase 299,804 0.6 6.2 6.8 6.8
Dividends paid (1,260.2) (1,260.2) (460.7) (1,720.9)
Net acquisitions of treasury
stock 10.7 223.5 234.2 234.2
Other changes (37.2) (37.2) 450.0 412.8
Equity under IFRS at
December 31, 2006 1,277,444,403 2,554.8 11,534.4 4,424.2 880.2 (132.2) 242.4 19,503.8 3,060.0 22,563.8
The comparative statements have been restated in respect of the amendment to IAS 19, Employee Benefits (see note 24)*
20
SUEZ was incorporated on February 23, 1880. Its corporate life It is governed by current and future laws and by regulations
was extended for an additional 99 years in 1941. applicable to sociétés anonymes and its bylaws.
The Company is headquartered at 16, rue de la Ville l’Evêque SUEZ shares are listed on the Paris, New York (United States),
75008 Paris – France. Brussels (Belgium), Zurich (Switzerland) and Luxembourg stock
markets.
SUEZ is a French société anonyme with a Board of Directors that
is subject to the provisions of Book II of the French Commercial On March 7, 2007, the Board of Directors of SUEZ approved and
Code, as well as all other provisions of French law applicable to authorized for issue the consolidated financial statements of SUEZ
commercial companies. and its subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2006.
Note 1
Summary of significant accounting policies
20
Investment in a Foreign Operation amendment;
Interpretations D12, D13 and D14. However, the Group had not
• IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, used the specific transitional provisions available in the Exposure
Fair Value Option amendment; Drafts and had restated all such contracts at January 1, 2004. For
the year ended December 31, 2006, SUEZ decided to apply the
• IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement,
provisions of IFRIC 12 as adopted by the IASB. This decision has
Financial Guarantee Contracts amendment;
no impact on the Group’s consolidated financial statements since
• IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement,
Cash Flow Hedge Accounting of Forecast Intra-group
Transactions amendment; 1. As stipulated in the comments concerning certain Articles of European
Regulation (EC) 1606/2002 of the European Parliament and of the
Council on the application of international accounting standards, the
• IFRS 6 – Exploration for and Evaluation of Mineral Assets;
Fourth Council Directive 78/660/EEC of July 25, 1978 and the Seventh
Council Directive 83/349/EEC of June 13, 1983 on accounting, as
released in November 2003.
the methods used by SUEZ in 2004 and 2005 comply with the treatment of different categories of financial assets and liabilities
final IFRIC interpretation. defined by IAS 39.
• IFRIC 7 – Applying the Restatement Approach under IAS 29 • financial instruments (see Note 1.J);
– Financial Reporting in Hyperinflationary Economies. • un-metered revenues.
• IFRIC 8 – Scope of IFRS 2 clarifies the scope of IFRS 2 with
regard to transactions in which the entity cannot identify Recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment
specifically some or all of the goods or services received.
and intangible assets
The recoverable amount of goodwill, intangible assets and property,
• IFRIC 10 – Interim Financial Reporting and Impairment
plant and equipment is based on estimates and assumptions
addresses an apparent conflict between the requirements of IAS
regarding in particular the expected market outlook and future
34 – Interim Financial Reporting and those in other standards on
cash flows associated with the assets. Any changes in these
the recognition and reversal in financial statements of impairment
assumptions may have a material impact on the measurement
losses on goodwill or available-for-sale securities.
of the recoverable amount and could result in adjustments to the
• IFRIC 11 – Group and Treasury Share Transactions provides impairment expenses already booked.
guidance on (i) accounting for share-based payments involving a
buyback of the entity’s own equity instruments and (ii) accounting Estimates of provisions
for share-based payments involving the equity instruments of the Parameters having a significant influence on the amount of
parent in the subsidiary’s financial statements. provisions, and particularly, but not solely, those relating to nuclear
power generation sites include the timing of expenditure and the
The Group does not expect the impact of applying these
discount rate applied to cash flows, as well as the actual level
standards or interpretations to be material.
20 The SUEZ Group has elected to apply IAS 32 and IAS 39 with
of expenditure. These parameters are based on information and
estimates deemed to be appropriate by the Group at the current
effect from January 1, 2005. Accordingly, the comparative data time.
for the year ended December 31, 2004 do not reflect the impact
To the Group’s best knowledge, there is no information suggesting
of these standards.
that the parameters used taken as a whole are not appropriate.
Further, the Group is not aware of any developments that are likely
Measurement basis to have a material impact on the booked provisions.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using
a historical cost convention, except in the case of some financial
Pensions and other employee benefit obligations
instruments which are measured at fair value in conformity with the Pension commitments and other employee benefit obligations
are measured on the basis of actuarial assumptions. The Group
considers that the assumptions used to measure its obligations are Significant accounting policies
appropriate and fair. However, any changes in these assumptions
may have a material impact on the resulting calculations. A. Scope and methods of consolidation
The consolidation methods used by the Group consist of the full
Financial instruments consolidation method, the proportionate consolidation method or
To determine the fair value of financial instruments that are not the equity method:
listed on an active market, the Group uses valuation techniques
• subsidiaries (companies over which the Group exercises
that are based on certain assumptions. Any change in these
exclusive control) are fully consolidated;
assumptions could have a material impact on the resulting
calculations. • companies over which the Group exercises joint control are
consolidated by the proportionate method, based on the Group’s
Revenues percentage interest;
Revenues generated from types of customers whose energy
• the equity method is used for all associate companies over
consumption is metered during the accounting period, particularly
which the Group exercises significant influence. In accordance
customers supplied with low-voltage electricity or low-pressure gas,
with this method, the Group recognizes its proportionate share
must be estimated at the balance sheet date based on historic data,
of the investee’s net income or loss on a separate line of the
consumption statistics and estimated selling prices. Network sales
consolidated income statement under “Share in net income of
have become more difficult to calculate since the deregulation of
associates”.
the Belgian energy market in view of the larger number of grid
operators. The Group is allocated a certain volume of energy The Group analyzes what type of control exists on a case-by-case
transiting through the networks by the grid managers. The final basis, taking into account the situations illustrated in IAS 27, 28
allocations are often only known several months down the line, and 31.
which means that revenue figures are only an estimate. However, The special purpose entities set up in connection with the
the Group has developed measuring and modeling tools allowing Group’s securitization programs that are controlled by the Group
it to estimate revenues with a satisfactory degree of accuracy and are consolidated in accordance with the provisions of IAS 27
subsequently ensure that risks of error associated with estimating concerning consolidated financial statements and the related
quantities sold and the resulting revenues can be considered as interpretation SIC 12 concerning the consolidation of special
not material. purpose entities.
Current/non-current assets and liabilities All intra-group balances and transactions are eliminated on
In accordance with IAS 1, the Group’s current and non-current consolidation.
assets and liabilities are shown separately on the consolidated A list of the main fully consolidated companies, investments
balance sheet. For most of the Group’s activities, the breakdown accounted for by the equity method and proportionately
into current and non-current items is based on when assets are consolidated companies is presented in the Notes.
expected to be realized, or liabilities extinguished. Assets expected
to be realized or liabilities extinguished within 12 months of the B. Foreign currency translation methods
balance sheet date are classified as current, while all other items 1. Presentation currency of the consolidated financial
are classified as non-current. statements
The Group’s consolidated financial statements are presented in
Judgments
euros (€), which is the functional currency of SUEZ SA.
As well as relying on estimates, Group management also has to
use judgment to define the appropriate accounting treatment to 2. Functional currency
apply to certain activities and transactions when the effective IFRS Functional currency is the currency of the primary economic
standards and interpretations in force do not specifically deal with environment in which an entity operates, which in most cases
corresponds to local currency. However, certain entities may have
20
certain accounting issues.
a functional currency different from local currency when that
This particularly applies in relation to the recognition of concession
other currency is used for an entity’s main transactions and better
arrangements (see Note 1.F), the classification of services contracts
reflects its economic environment.
(see Note 1.H), the accounting treatment of acquisitions of minority
interests and the identification of operations carried out in the 3. Foreign currency transactions
normal course of business, as defined by IAS 39 for electricity Foreign currency transactions are recorded in the functional
and natural gas purchase and sale contracts. currency at the exchange rate prevailing on the date of the
transaction. At each balance sheet date:
gains and losses are recorded in the consolidated statement of For a business combination achieved in stages – i.e., where the
income for the year to which they relate; Group acquires a subsidiary through successive share purchases –
the amount of goodwill is determined for each exchange transaction
• non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign
separately based on the fair values of the acquiree’s identifiable
currencies are recognized at the historical cost applicable at the
assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities at the date of each
date of the transaction.
exchange transaction. Any difference arising from the application
4. Translation of the financial statements of subsidiaries of these fair values to the Group’s existing interest and to minority
with a functional currency other than the euro (the interests is a revaluation and is therefore recognized in equity.
presentation currency)
In the absence of specific IFRS guidance addressing acquisitions
The balance sheets of these subsidiaries are translated into euros
of minority interests, the Group continues not to recognize
at the official year-end exchange rates. Income statement and cash
any additional fair value adjustments to identifiable assets and
flow statement items are translated using the average exchange
liabilities when it acquires additional shares in a subsidiary that is
rate for the year. Any differences arising from the translation of
already fully consolidated. In such a case, the additional goodwill
the financial statements of these subsidiaries are recorded under
corresponds to the excess of the acquisition price of the additional
“Cumulative translation adjustment” within equity.
shares purchased over the Group’s additional interest in the net
Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on the acquisition of assets of the company concerned.
foreign entities are qualified as assets and liabilities of those foreign
If the Group’s interest in the net fair value of the identifiable assets,
entities and are therefore denominated in the functional currencies
liabilities and contingent liabilities acquired exceeds the cost of the
of the entities and translated at the year-end exchange rate.
business combination, the excess is recognized immediately in the
Translation adjustments previously recorded under equity are consolidated income statement.
taken to the consolidated income statement on the disposal of a
Goodwill relating to investments in associates is recorded under
foreign entity.
“Investments in associates”.
C. Business combinations Measurement of goodwill
For business combinations carried out since January 1, 2004, the Goodwill is not amortized. Impairment tests are carried out each
Group applies the purchase method as defined in IFRS 3, which year, or more frequently where an indication of impairment is
consists in recognizing the acquiree’s identifiable assets, liabilities identified. Impairment tests are carried out at the level of Cash
and contingent liabilities at their fair values at the acquisition Generating Units (CGUs) which constitute groups of assets
date. generating cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash
inflows from other Cash Generating Units (CGUs).
The cost of a business combination is the aggregate of the fair
value, at the date of exchange, of assets given, liabilities incurred The methods used to carry out these impairment tests are
or assumed, and equity instruments issued by the acquirer, in described in Note 1.G “Recoverable amount of property, plant
exchange for control of the acquiree; plus any costs directly and equipment and intangible assets”.
attributable to the business combination. When a business
Impairment losses in relation to goodwill cannot be reversed
combination agreement provides for an adjustment to the cost of
and are shown under “Impairment” in the consolidated income
the combination contingent on future events, the Group includes
statement.
the amount of that adjustment in the cost of the combination at the
acquisition date if the adjustment is probable and can be measured Impairment losses on goodwill relating to associate companies are
reliably. reported under “Share in net income of associates”.
The Group may recognize any adjustments to provisional values 2. Other intangible assets
as a result of completing the initial accounting of a business Development costs
combination within twelve months of the acquisition date. Research costs are expensed as incurred.
20
Development costs are capitalized when the asset recognition
D. Intangible assets
criteria set out in IAS 38 are met. Capitalized development costs
Intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated
are amortized over the useful life of the intangible asset recognized.
amortization and any accumulated impairment losses.
In view of the Group’s activities, capitalized development costs are
1. Goodwill not material.
Recognition of goodwill Other internally-generated or acquired intangible assets
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of a business
combination (acquisition price of shares plus any costs directly Other intangible assets include mainly:
attributable to the business combination) over the Group’s interest • amounts paid or payable as consideration for rights relating to
in the fair value of the identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent concession contracts or public service contracts;
liabilities recognized at the acquisition date (except if the business
• customer portfolios acquired on business combinations;
combination is achieved in stages).
• power station capacity rights: the Group helped to finance the Intangible assets that are not amortized are tested for impairment
construction of certain nuclear power stations operated by third annually.
parties and in consideration received the right to purchase a
Intangible assets are tested for impairment at the level of the
share of the production over the useful life of the assets. These
individual asset or the Cash Generating Unit as appropriate,
capacity rights are amortized on a straight-line basis over the
determined in accordance with IAS 36. If the recoverable amount
useful life of the underlying assets, not to exceed 40 years;
of an asset is lower than its carrying amount, the carrying amount
• surface and underground water drawing rights, which are not is reduced to the recoverable amount by recording an impairment
amortized as they are granted indefinitely; loss. After the recognition of an impairment loss, the amortization
expense for the asset is adjusted in future periods to allocate the
• concession assets;
asset’s revised carrying amount, less its residual value (if any), on
• greenhouse gas (CO2) emission allowances. a systematic basis over its remaining useful life. Impairment losses
recorded in relation to intangible assets may be subsequently
Intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over the
reversed if their recoverable amount is once again higher than their
following useful lives (in years):
carrying amount. The increased carrying amount of an intangible
attributable to a reversal of an impairment loss may not exceed
Useful life the carrying amount that would have been determined (net of
MinimumMaximum amortization) had no impairment loss been recognized in prior
periods. The methods used for performing these impairment tests
Concession rights 10 65 are described in Note 1.G.
Customer portfolios 10 40
E. Property, plant and equipment
Other intangible assets 1 40
Initial recognition and subsequent measurement
Some intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not Items of property, plant and equipment are recognized at historical
amortized. cost less any accumulated depreciation and any accumulated
Accounting treatment of greenhouse gas emissions allowances impairment losses.
Under European Directive 2003/87/EC establishing a greenhouse The carrying amount of these items is not revalued as the Group
gas (GHG) emissions allowance trading scheme within the has elected not to apply the allowed alternative method, which
European Union, several of the Group’s industrial sites were consists of regularly revaluing one or more categories of property,
granted GHG emission rights free of charge. In accordance with plant and equipment.
the Directive, each year the sites concerned have to surrender
Investment subsidies are deducted from the gross value of the
a number of allowances equal to the total emissions from the
assets concerned.
installations during the previous calendar year. Therefore, the
Group may have to purchase emissions allowances on pollution In accordance with IAS 16, the initial cost of the item of property,
rights markets in order to cover any shortfall in the allowances plant and equipment includes an initial estimate of the costs of
required for surrender. dismantling and removing the item and restoring the site on which
it is located, when the entity has a present legal or constructive
As there are no specific rules under IFRS dealing with the
obligation to dismantle the item or restore the site. The amount
accounting treatment of GHG emissions allowances, the Group
recognized in assets for dismantling costs is recorded as a liability
has decided to apply the following principles:
in the same amount (see Note 1.P).
• pollution rights are classified as intangible assets;
Property, plant and equipment acquired under finance leases
• GHG emissions allowances granted free of charge by the State are carried in the consolidated balance sheet at the lower of
are recorded in the consolidated balance sheet at nil; market value and the present value of the related minimum
lease payments. The corresponding liability is recognized under
• rights purchased for consideration on the market are recognized
at acquisition cost.
borrowings. These assets are depreciated using the same methods
and useful lives as set out below. 20
The Group records a liability at year-end in the event that it does
In accordance with the allowed alternative accounting treatment
not have enough allowances to cover its GHG emissions during the
provided for in IAS 23, borrowing costs that are directly attributable
period. This liability is measured on the basis of the market price of
to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset
the allowances required to meet its obligations at year-end.
are capitalized as part of the cost of that asset.
Impairment tests
In accordance with IAS 36, impairment tests are carried out on Depreciation
intangible assets where there is an indication that the assets may In accordance with the components approach, each significant
be impaired. Such indications may be based on events or changes component of an item of property, plant and equipment with a
in the market environment, or on internal sources of information. different useful life from that of the main asset to which it relates
is depreciated separately over its own useful life.
Items of property, plant and equipment are tested for impairment In view of the above, concession infrastructure that does not meet
at the level of the individual asset or the Cash Generating Unit the requirements of IFRIC 12 is still presented as property, plant
as appropriate, determined in accordance with IAS 36. If the and equipment.
recoverable amount of an asset is lower than its carrying amount,
Under IFRIC 12, the operator’s rights over infrastructure operated
the carrying amount is reduced to the recoverable amount by
under concession arrangements should be accounted for based
recording an impairment loss. Upon recognition of an impairment
on the party primarily responsible for payment:
loss, the depreciable amount – and possibly the useful life – of the
item of property, plant and equipment concerned is revised. • the “intangible asset model” is applied when users have primary
equipment may be subsequently reversed if their recoverable • and the “financial asset model” is applied when the grantor has
value is once again higher than their carrying value. The increased the primary responsibility to pay the operator for the concession
carrying amount of an item of property, plant or equipment services.
attributable to a reversal of an impairment loss may not exceed
“Primary responsibility” signifies that while the identity of the payer
the carrying amount that would have been determined (net of
of the services is not an essential criterion, the person ultimately
depreciation) had no impairment loss been recognized in prior
responsible for payment should be identified.
periods.
In cases where the local authority pays the Group but merely
The methods used for performing these impairment tests are
acts as an intermediary fee collector and does not guarantee the
described in Note 1.G.
amounts receivable (“pass through arrangement”), the intangible
asset model should be used to account for the concession since G. Recoverable amount of property, plant and equipment
the users are, in substance, primarily responsible for payment. and intangible assets
However, where the users pay the Group, but the local authority In order to review the recoverable amount of property, plant and
guarantees the amounts that will be paid over the term of the equipment and intangible assets, where appropriate, the assets
contract (e.g., via a guaranteed internal rate of return), the are grouped into Cash Generating Units (CGUs) and the carrying
financial asset model should be used to account for the concession amount of each unit is compared with its recoverable amount.
infrastructure, since the local authority is, in substance, primarily For operating entities which the Group intends to hold on a long-
responsible for payment. In practice, the financial asset model is term and going concern basis, the recoverable amount of an asset
used to account for BOT (Build, Operate and Transfer) contracts corresponds to the higher of its fair value less costs to sell and its
entered into with local authorities for public services such as waste value in use. Value in use is primarily determined based on the
treatment and household waste incineration. present value of future operating cash flows and a terminal value.
Pursuant to these principles: Standard valuation techniques are used based on the following
main economic data:
• infrastructure to which the operator is given access by the grantor
of the concession at no consideration is not recognized in the a. discount rates based on the specific characteristics of the
consolidated balance sheet; operating entities concerned;
• start-up capital expenditure is recognized as follows: b. revenue growth rates (excluding inflation) not exceeding 2%,
and terminal values in line with the available market data
– under the intangible asset model, the fair value of construction specific to the operating segments concerned.
and other work on the infrastructure represents the cost of the
intangible asset and should be recognized when the infrastructure Discount rates are determined on a post-tax basis and applied to
is built provided that this work is expected to generate future post-tax cash flows. The recoverable amounts calculated on the
economic benefits (e.g., the case of work carried out to extend basis of these discount rates are the same as the amounts obtained
the network). Where no such economic benefits are expected, by applying the pre-tax discount rates to cash flows estimated on
the present value of commitments in respect of construction and a pre-tax basis, as required by IAS 36.
other work on the infrastructure is recognized from the outset, For operating entities which the Group has decided to sell, the
with a corresponding adjustment to concession liabilities, related carrying amount of the assets concerned is written down to
– under the financial asset model, the amount receivable from the estimated market value less costs of disposal. Where negotiations
grantor is recognized at the time the infrastructure is built, at the are ongoing, this value is determined based on the best estimate
fair value of the construction and other work carried out, of their outcome as of the balance sheet date.
– when the grantor has a payment obligation for only part of When impairment in value is required, the impairment loss
the investment, the cost is recognized in receivables for the is recorded in the consolidated income statement under
amount guaranteed by the grantor, with the balance included “Impairment”.
in intangible assets.
H. Leases
Renewal costs consist of obligations under concession arrangements
The Group holds assets for its various activities under lease
with potentially different terms and conditions (obligation to restore
contracts.
the site, renewal plan, tracking account, etc.).
These leases are analyzed based on the situations and indicators
Renewal costs are recognized as either (i) intangible or financial
set out in IAS 17 in order to determine whether they constitute
assets depending on the applicable model, when the costs are
operating leases or finance leases.
expected to generate future economic benefits (i.e., they bring
about an improvement); or (ii) expenses, where no such benefits A finance lease is defined as a lease which transfers substantially
are expected to be generated (i.e., the infrastructure is restored to all the risks and rewards incidental to the ownership of the related
its original condition). asset to the lessee. All leases which do not comply with the
Payments made under operating leases are recognized as an At each balance sheet date, available-for-sale securities are
expense on a straight-line basis over the lease term. measured at fair value. For listed companies, fair value is
determined based on the quoted market price at the balance
Accounting for arrangements that contain a lease
sheet date. For unlisted companies, fair value is measured based
IFRIC 4 deals with the identification of services and take-or-pay
on standard valuation techniques (reference to similar recent
sales or purchasing contracts that do not take the legal form of
transactions, discounted future cash flows, etc.).
a lease but convey rights to customers/suppliers to use an asset
or a group of assets in return for a payment or a series of fixed Changes in fair value are recorded directly in equity, except when an
payments. Contracts meeting these criteria should be identified impairment test shows that the value of the related asset has fallen
as either operating leases or finance leases. In the latter case, a to below its historical acquisition cost and the asset has therefore
finance receivable would be recognized to reflect the financing suffered a significant or prolonged decline in value, in which case
deemed to be granted by the Group where it is considered as the cumulative loss is recognized in income under “Impairment”.
acting as lessor and its customers as lessees. Only impairment losses recognized on debt instruments (debt
securities/bonds) may be reversed through income.
The Group is concerned by this interpretation mainly with respect
to: Loans and receivables carried at amortized cost (excluding
trade and other receivables)
• some energy purchase and sale contracts, particularly where This item primarily includes loans and advances to associates or
the contract conveys to the purchaser of the energy an exclusive non-consolidated companies, and guarantee deposits.
right to use a production asset;
On initial recognition, these loans and receivables are recorded
• some contracts with industrial customers relating to assets held at fair value plus transaction costs. At each balance sheet date,
by the Group. they are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest
rate method.
I. Inventories
Trade and other receivables
Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realizable
On initial recognition, receivables are recorded at fair value, which
value. Net realizable value corresponds to the estimated selling
generally corresponds to their nominal value. Impairment losses
price in the ordinary course of business, less the estimated costs of
are recorded based on the estimated risk of non-recovery. This
completion and the estimated costs necessary to make the sale.
item includes amounts due from customers under construction
The cost of inventories is determined based on the first-in, first-out contracts (see Note 1.N).
method or the weighted average cost formula.
The Group considers that it does not have any material exposure
Nuclear fuel purchased is consumed in the process of producing to significant concentration of credit risk, given the diverse nature
electricity over a number of years. The consumption of this nuclear of its operations, customers and their geographic location.
fuel inventory is recorded based on estimates of the quantity of
Financial assets measured at fair value through income
electricity produced per unit of fuel.
These financial assets meet the qualification or designation criteria
set out in IAS 39.
J. Financial instruments
20 Financial instruments are recognized and measured in accordance
with IAS 32 and IAS 39.
This item mainly includes trading securities and short-term
investments which do not meet the criteria for classification as
cash or cash equivalents (see Note 1.N). The financial assets are
J.1 Financial assets measured at fair value at the balance sheet date and changes in
Financial assets comprise available-for-sale securities, loans and fair value are recorded in the consolidated income statement.
receivables carried at amortized cost including trade and other
receivables, derivative financial instruments, and financial assets J.2 Financial liabilities
measured at fair value through income. Financial liabilities include borrowings, trade and other payables,
derivative financial instruments, capital renewal and replacement
obligations and other financial liabilities.
Financial liabilities are broken down into current and non-current • payments of dividends to minority interests result in an increase
liabilities in the consolidated balance sheet. Current financial in goodwill;
liabilities primarily comprise:
• in the consolidated income statement, minority interests are
• financial liabilities with a settlement or maturity date within 12 allocated their share in income. In the consolidated balance
months of the balance sheet date; sheet, the share in income allocated to minority interests reduces
the carrying amount of goodwill. No finance costs are recognized
• financial liabilities in respect of which the Group does not have
in respect of changes in the fair value of liabilities recognized
an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months
against goodwill.
after the balance sheet date;
In the case of a fixed-price put, the liability corresponds to the
• financial liabilities held primarily for trading purposes;
present value of the exercise price.
• derivative financial instruments qualifying as fair value hedges
In the case of a fair value or variable-price put, the liability is
where the underlying is classified as a current item;
measured based on estimates of the fair value at the consolidated
• all commodity trading derivatives not qualifying as hedges. balance sheet date or contractual conditions applicable to the
exercise price based on the latest available information.
Measurement of borrowings and other financial liabilities
Borrowings and other financial liabilities are measured at amortized The difference between the amount of the liability and the
cost using the effective interest rate method. amount of minority interests is allocated in full to goodwill, with no
adjustment to fair value, in line with the method used by the Group
On initial recognition, any issue premiums/discounts, redemption
to account for acquisitions of minority interests (see Note 1.D.1).
premiums/discounts and issuing costs are added to/deducted from
the nominal value of the borrowings concerned. These items are J.3 Derivatives and hedge accounting
taken into account when calculating the effective interest rate and In line with its policy for managing interest rate, currency and
are therefore recorded in the consolidated income statement over commodity risks, the Group uses financial instruments to manage
the life of the borrowings using the amortized cost method. and reduce its exposure to market risks arising from fluctuations
As regards structured debt instruments that do not have an equity in interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and commodity
component, the Group may separate an “embedded” derivative prices, mainly for gas and electricity. Use of derivative instruments
instrument from its host contract. The conditions under which is governed by a Group policy for managing interest rate, currency
these instruments must be separated are detailed below. When and commodity risks.
an embedded derivative is separated from its host contract, the 1. Definition and scope of derivative financial instruments
initial carrying amount of the structured instrument is broken Derivative financial instruments are contracts: (i) whose value
down into an embedded derivative component, corresponding to changes in response to the change in one or more observable
the fair value of the embedded derivative, and a financial liability variables; (ii) that do not require any material initial net investment;
component, corresponding to the difference between the amount and (iii) are settled at a future date.
of the issue and the fair value of the embedded derivative. The
separation of components upon initial recognition does not give Derivative instruments therefore include swaps, options, futures
rise to any gains or losses. Subsequently, the debt is recorded and swaptions, as well as forward commitments to purchase or sell
at amortized cost using the effective interest method, while the listed and unlisted securities, and firm commitments or options to
derivative is measured at fair value, with changes in fair value purchase or sell non-financial assets that involve physical delivery
taken to income. of the underlying.
Put options on minority stakes Electricity and natural gas purchase and sale contracts, in
Other financial liabilities primarily include put options granted by particular, are systematically analyzed to determine whether they
the Group to minority interests. represent sales and purchases arising in the ordinary course of
business, in which case they can be excluded from the scope of
As no specific guidance is provided by IFRS as regards accounting IAS 39. The first step of the analysis consists in demonstrating
for put options on minority stakes, the Group has adopted the
following accounting treatment for these commitments:
that the contract was entered into and continues to be held for
the purpose of the receipt or delivery of a non-financial item in
20
• when the put option is initially granted, the present value of accordance with the Group’s expected sale or usage requirements
the exercise price is recognized as a financial liability, with a in the foreseeable future in the ordinary course of its operations.
corresponding reduction in minority interests. When the value of The second step is to demonstrate that:
the put option is greater than the carrying amount of the minority • the Group has no practice of settling similar contracts on a net
interests, the difference is recognized as goodwill; basis. In particular, forward purchases or sales with physical
• at each balance sheet date, the amount of the financial liability delivery of the underlying that are carried out with the sole
is revised and any changes in the amount are recorded with a purpose of balancing Group energy volumes are not considered
corresponding adjustment to goodwill; by the Group as contracts that are settled net;
• the contract is not negotiated with the aim of realizing financial fair value hedges
arbitration;
A fair value hedge is defined as a hedge of the exposure to changes
• the contract is not equivalent to a written option. In particular, in in fair value of a recognized asset or liability, such as a fixed-rate
the case of electricity sales allowing the buyer a certain degree loan or borrowing, or of assets, liabilities or an unrecognized firm
of flexibility concerning the volumes delivered, the Group commitment denominated in a foreign currency.
distinguishes between contracts that are equivalent to capacity
The gain or loss from remeasuring the hedging instrument at fair
sales – considered as transactions falling within the scope of
value is recognized in income. The gain or loss on the hedged
ordinary operations – and those that are equivalent to written
item attributable to the hedged risk adjusts the carrying amount
financial options, which are accounted for as derivative financial
of the hedged item and is also recognized in income even if the
instruments.
hedged item is in a category in respect of which changes in fair
Only contracts that fulfill all of the above conditions are considered value are recognized through equity. These two adjustments are
as falling outside the scope of IAS 39. Adequate specific presented net in the consolidated income statement, with the net
documentation is compiled to support this analysis. effect corresponding to the ineffective portion of the hedge.
between the hedging instrument and the hedged item are offset In accordance with IAS 11, the Group applies the percentage of
within a range of 80%-125%. completion method as described in Note 1.Q (“Revenues”) to
determine the contract revenue and costs to be recorded in the
Hedge effectiveness is demonstrated both prospectively and
consolidated income statement for each period.
retrospectively using various methods, based mainly on a
comparison between changes in the fair value or cash flows When it is probable that total contract costs will exceed total
between the hedging instrument and the hedged item. Methods contract revenue, the expected loss is recognized as an expense
based on an analysis of statistical correlations between historical immediately.
price data are also used.
Progress payments received under construction contracts before
4. D
erivative instruments not qualifying for hedge accounting: the corresponding work has been carried out are recorded
recognition and presentation in liabilities as advances and down-payments received from
These items mainly concern derivative financial instruments customers. The costs incurred plus any recognized profit less any
used in economic hedges that have not been – or are no longer recognized losses and progress billings are then determined. If
– documented as hedging relationships for accounting purposes. this amount is positive, it is recognized as an asset under “Amount
When a derivative financial instrument does not qualify or no longer due from customers under construction contracts” within “Trade
qualifies for hedge accounting, changes in fair value are recognized and other receivables”. If the amount is negative, it is recognized
directly in income, under “Mark-to-market” or “Mark-to-market on as a liability under “Amount due to customers under construction
commodity contracts other than trading instruments” in current contracts” within “Trade and other payables”.
operating income for derivative instruments with non-financial
assets as the underlying, and in financial income or expense for
O. Share based payment
currency, interest rate and equity derivatives. Under IFRS 2, the Group is required to recognize an expense
corresponding to benefits granted to employees in the form of
Derivative instruments used by the Group in connection with
share-based payments, in consideration for services provided.
proprietary energy trading activities and energy trading on behalf
of customers and other derivatives expiring in less than 12 months Stock option plans
are recognized in the consolidated balance sheet in current assets Options granted by the Group to its employees are measured at
and liabilities. the grant date using a binomial pricing model, which takes into
account the characteristics of the plan concerned (exercise price,
K. Cash and cash equivalents exercise period), market data at the time of grant (risk-free rate,
These items include cash equivalents as well as short-term share price, volatility, expected dividends), and a behavioral
investments that are considered to be readily convertible into a assumption in relation to beneficiaries. The value determined is
known amount of cash and where the risk of a change in their recorded in personnel costs over the vesting period, offset through
value is deemed to be negligible based on the criteria set out in equity.
IAS 7.
Bonus shares
Bank overdrafts are not included in the calculation of cash and cash SUEZ bonus share plans are also accounted for in accordance
equivalents and are recorded under “Short-term borrowings”. with IFRS 2 and measured using a similar method to that used to
assess the value of options. The corresponding personnel cost is
L. Treasury shares recorded in the consolidated income statement over the vesting
Treasury shares are recognized at cost and deducted from equity. period, offset through equity.
Gains and losses on disposals of treasury shares are recorded
Employee share purchase plans
directly in equity and do not therefore impact income for the
The Group’s corporate savings plans, which enable employees to
period.
subscribe to shares at a lower-than-market price, are accounted
M. Reimbursement rights for in accordance with IFRS 2. The cost relating to the required
five-year holding period for the shares, as provided for in French
20
Some plan assets in relation to pensions and other employee
law, was measured on the basis of the lowest financing rate (in a
benefit obligations do not correspond to plan assets as defined
given range) available to an individual shareholder.
in IAS 19. These assets – which are described in Note 1.S – are
therefore recognized and measured as reimbursement rights. They
P. Provisions
are recorded in the consolidated balance sheet under “Other non-
current assets” and “Other current assets” symmetrically with the 1. Provisions for pensions and other employee benefit
obligations
corresponding pension and other employee benefit obligations.
Depending on the laws and practices in force in the countries
N. Construction contracts where SUEZ operates, Group companies have obligations in terms
of pensions, early retirement payments, retirement bonuses and
The engineering and construction operations carried out by SUEZ
other benefit plans. Such obligations generally apply to all of the
fall within the scope of IAS 11 – Construction Contracts.
employees within the companies concerned.
The Group’s obligations in relation to pensions and other employee Similarly, insurance policies taken out with related parties to fund
benefits are recognized and measured in accordance with IAS 19. pensions and other employee benefit obligations are recognized
Accordingly: as reimbursement rights in accordance with IAS 19.
• the cost of defined contribution plans is expensed based on the In accordance with IAS 19, these reimbursement rights are
amount of contributions payable in the period; recognized and measured in the same way as plan assets.
• the Group’s obligations concerning pensions and other employee 2. Other provisions
benefits payable under defined benefit plans are assessed on The Group records a provision where it has a present obligation
an actuarial basis using the projected unit credit method. These (legal or constructive), the settlement of which is expected to result
calculations are based on assumptions relating to mortality, staff in an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits with no
turnover and estimated future salary increases, as well as the corresponding consideration in return.
economic conditions specific to each country or subsidiary of
A provision for restructuring costs is recorded when the general
the Group. Discount rates are determined by reference to the
criteria for setting up a provision are met, i.e., when the Group
yield, at the measurement date, on high-quality corporate bonds
has a detailed formal plan relating to the restructuring and has
in the related geographical area (or on government bonds in
raised a valid expectation in those affected that it will carry out the
countries where no representative market for such corporate
restructuring by starting to implement that plan or announcing its
bonds exists).
main features to those affected by it.
Provisions are recorded when commitments under these plans less
Provisions with a maturity of over 12 months are discounted when
the unrecognized past service cost exceed the fair value of plan
the effect of discounting is material. The Group’s main long-term
assets. Where the value of plan assets is greater than the related
provisions are provisions for nuclear waste reprocessing and
commitments, the surplus is recorded as an asset under “Other
storage, provisions for dismantling facilities and provisions for site
current assets” or “Other non-current assets”.
restoration costs. The discount rate (or rates) used reflect current
As regards employee benefit obligations, the Group has elected to market assessments of the time value of money and the risks
use the option available under IAS 19 and to discontinue the specific to the liability concerned. Expenses corresponding to the
corridor method.2 Actuarial gains and losses resulting from changes reversal of discounting adjustments to long-term provisions are
in actuarial assumptions and experience adjustments are recorded under other financial income and expenses.
henceforth recognized directly in equity and are shown in a
A provision is recognized when the Group has a present legal or
statement of recognized income and expense (SORIE) within the
constructive obligation to dismantle facilities or to restore a site.
statement of changes in equity. Where appropriate, adjustments
An asset is recorded simultaneously by including this dismantling
resulting from applying the asset ceiling to net assets relating to
obligation in the carrying amount of the facilities concerned
overfunded plans are treated in a similar way.
(see Note 1.E). Adjustments to the provision due to subsequent
However, actuarial gains and losses on other long-term benefits changes in the expected outflow of resources, the dismantling date
such as long-service awards, continue to be recognized immediately or the discount rate are deducted from or added to the cost of
in income. the corresponding asset in a symmetrical manner. The impacts
The interest cost in respect of pensions and other employee benefit of unwinding the discount are recognized as expenses of the
obligations is presented as a financial expense and the expected period.
return on plan assets is presented as financial income.
Q. Revenues
Some of the mixed inter-municipal companies do not have staff
Group revenues (as defined by IAS 18), are mainly generated from
of their own and use Electrabel’s distribution services, skills
the following:
and experience for the day-to-day operation of the networks.
All related personnel costs (including pension costs) are billed • sale, transport and distribution of electricity and gas;
by Electrabel to the mixed inter-municipal companies based on • water and waste services;
20
actual costs. Electrabel’s obligation in relation to these staff is
recognized as a liability in the consolidated balance sheet under • rendering of services, engineering and construction contracts,
provisions for pensions and other employee benefit obligations and and other services.
a reimbursement right on the mixed inter-municipal companies is Revenues on sales of goods are recognized on delivery, i.e., when
recognized as an asset in the same amount under “Other current the significant risks and rewards of ownership are transferred to
assets” and “Other non-current assets” (see Note 1.M). the buyer. For services and construction contracts, revenues are
recognized using the percentage of completion method. In both
cases, revenues are recognized solely when the transaction price
is fixed or can be reliably determined and the recovery of the
2. Previously, only the portion of actuarial gains and losses arising after amounts due is probable.
January 1, 2004 that exceeded the greater of 10% of the present
value of the obligation and 10% of the fair value of any plan assets
were recognized through the consolidated income statement over the
average remaining service lives of plan participants.
Revenues are measured at the fair value of the consideration Revenues from other forms of treatment (principally sorting and
received or receivable. Where deferred payment has a material incineration) are recognized based on volumes processed by the
impact on the measurement of the fair value of this consideration, operator and the incidental revenues generated by recycling and
this is taken into account by discounting future receipts. reuse, such as the sale of paper, cardboard, glass, metals and
plastics for sorting centers, and the sale of electricity and heat for
Gains and losses from the Group’s proprietary energy trading
incinerators.
activities are presented net, after offsetting purchases and sales
against the “Revenues” line. 3. Rendering of services, engineering and construction
contracts and other services
1. Sale, transport and distribution of energy
Revenues from services contracts are determined using the
These revenues primarily include sales of electricity and gas,
percentage of completion method and more generally according
transport and distribution fees relating to services such as electricity
to the provisions of IAS 18.
and gas distribution network maintenance, and heating network
sales. Revenues from engineering and construction contracts are
determined using the percentage of completion method and more
They are recognized when a formal contract is signed with the
generally according to the provisions of IAS 11 (see Note 1.Q).
other party to the transaction.
Depending on the contract concerned, the stage of completion may
For residential customers eligible for deregulated services whose be determined either based on the proportion that costs incurred
consumption is metered annually, energy delivered but un-metered to date bear to the estimated total costs of the transaction, or on
at year-end is measured based on historical data and consumption the physical progress of the contract based on factors such as
statistics as well as the estimated selling price. contractually defined stages.
Part of the price received by the Group under certain long-term Other services consist mainly of services rebilled to certain
energy sales contracts is fixed, rather than being based on mixed inter-municipal companies. Some mixed inter-municipal
volumes. The fixed amount changes over the term of the contract. companies do not have staff of their own. In accordance with
In accordance with IAS 18, revenues from these contracts are the by-laws, Electrabel provides them with “services, skills and
recognized on a straight-line basis because, in substance, the fair experience in terms of distribution with a view to ensuring the
value of the services rendered does not vary from one period to daily running of the mixed inter-municipal company.” All work,
the next. supplies and services required for the purposes of the Flemish
mixed inter-municipal company are, with the exception of duly
In accordance with IAS 1 and IAS 18, both proprietary energy
justified and authorized services of third parties, performed by
trading transactions and energy trading carried out on behalf of
Electrabel and its staff, with all expenditures being billed to the
customers are recorded within “Revenues” after netting off sales
mixed inter-municipal companies. Thus, wages and salaries that
and purchases. Under the same principle, when sale contracts
are rebilled by Electrabel include all expenses paid for the staff
are offset by similar purchase contracts, or if the sale contracts
assigned, directly or indirectly, to run the mixed inter-municipal
are entered into as part of an offset strategy, the contribution of
company.
operational energy trading activities (wholesale or arbitrage) relating
to assets, aimed at optimizing production assets and fuel purchase Other services also include income from financial concession
and energy sale portfolios, is recognized in revenues based on the assets (IFRIC 12) and lease receivables (IFRIC 4).
net amount.
R. Current operating income
2. Water and waste services
Current operating income is an indicator used by the SUEZ Group
Water
to present “a level of operational performance that can be used as
Revenues generated by water distribution are recognized based
part of an approach to forecast recurring performance.”3 Current
on volumes delivered to customers, either specifically metered
operating income is a sub-total which helps management to better
and invoiced or estimated based on the output of the supply
understand the Group’s performance because it excludes elements
networks.
which have inherently a low level of predictibility due to their
For sanitation services and wastewater treatment, either the price
of the services is included in the water distribution invoice or it is
unusual, irregular or non-recurring nature. For SUEZ, such
elements relate to asset impairments and disposals, restructuring
20
specifically invoiced to the local authority or industrial customer costs and mark-to-market on commodity contracts other than
concerned. trading instruments:
Commission fees received from the grantors of concessions are • impairment: this item includes impairment losses on non-current
recorded as revenues. assets;
Waste services
Revenues arising from waste collection are generally recognized
based on the tonnage collected and the service provided by the
3. In accordance with CNC Recommendation 2004-R02 on consolidated
operator. income statements, cash flow statements and statements of changes in
equity.
• disposal of assets: this item includes capital gains and losses on that it is probable that taxable income will be available against
disposals of non-current assets, consolidated companies and which the deductible temporary difference can be utilized.
available-for-sale securities;
Temporary differences arising on restatements of finance leases
• restructuring costs: this item concerns costs corresponding to a result in the recognition of deferred taxes.
restructuring program planned and controlled by management
A deferred tax liability is recognized for all taxable temporary
that materially changes either the scope of a business undertaken
differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, branches
by an entity, or the manner in which that business is conducted,
and associates, and interests in joint ventures, except if the Group
based on the criteria set out in IAS 37;
is able to control the timing of the reversal of the temporary
• mark-to-market on commodity contracts other than trading difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not
instruments: this item corresponds to changes in the fair reverse in the foreseeable future.
value (mark-to-market) of financial instruments relating to
Net balances of deferred tax are calculated based on the tax
commodities, gas and electricity, which do not qualify as either
position of each company or on the total income of companies
trading or hedging instruments. These contracts are used in
included within the consolidated tax group and are presented in
economic hedges of operating transactions in the energy sector.
assets or liabilities for their net amount per tax entity.
Since changes in the fair value of these instruments – which
must be recognized through income in IAS 39 – can be material Deferred taxes are reviewed at each balance sheet date to take
and difficult to predict, they are presented on a separate line of into account factors including the impact of changes in tax laws
the consolidated income statement. and the prospects of recovering deferred tax assets arising from
deductible temporary differences.
S. Consolidated cash flow statement
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are not discounted.
“Interest received on non-current financial assets” is classified
within investing activities because it represents a return on U. Earnings per share
investments. “Interest received on cash and cash equivalents” is
Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing net income
shown as a component of financing activities because the interest
Group share for the year by the weighted average number of
can be used to reduce borrowing costs. This classification is
ordinary shares outstanding during the year. The average number
consistent with the Group’s internal organization, where debt and
of ordinary shares outstanding during the year is the number of
cash and cash equivalents are centrally managed by the treasury
ordinary shares outstanding at the beginning of the year, adjusted
department.
by the number of ordinary shares bought back or issued during
the year.
T. Tax
The Group computes taxes in accordance with prevailing tax The weighted average number of shares and earnings per share
legislation in the countries where income is earned. are adjusted to take into account the impact of the conversion or
exercise of any dilutive potential ordinary shares (options, warrants
In accordance with IAS 12, deferred taxes are recognized and convertible bonds, etc.).
according to the liability method on temporary differences between
the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities in the consolidated V. US GAAP reconciled financial statements
financial statements and their tax bases, using tax rates that have
As part of its ADR program, SUEZ files a 20-F report each year
been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet date.
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the USA,
However, under the provisions of IAS 12, no deferred taxes are
comprising a reconciliation with net income Group share and
recognized for temporary differences arising from goodwill for
shareholders’ equity (exclusive of minority interests) determined
which impairment losses are not deductible for tax purposes,
in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
or the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction
which (i) is not a business combination; and (ii) at the time of the Once filed (June 30 at the latest), a copy of the 20-F report can
transaction, affects neither accounting income nor taxable income. be obtained from the Company’s corporate headquarters or its
20 In addition, deferred tax assets are only recognized to the extent website www.suez.com.
Note 2
Significant events
2.1 Significant events in 2006 • its contribution to the consolidated income statement at
December 31, 2005 may be summarized as follows:
2.1.1 Withdrawal from Argentina
– revenues: €787 million,
Following the termination of the contract by the Argentinean
government on March 21, 2006, all of the associated assets – current operating income: €33 million,
were confiscated. All resources of the concession as well as all – net income: €19 million.
personnel were taken over by Aysa, a state-owned company.
Aguas Argentinas was placed in judicial administration (concurso Disposal of shareholdings in Flemish mixed inter-municipal
preventivo) in May 2006. As a consequence, the contribution of companies
Aguas Argentinas to the consolidated financial statements for the In application of prior agreements, Electrabel was required to
year ended December 31, 2006 is limited to the first two months reduce its shareholding in the Flemish mixed inter-municipal
of the year. It should be recalled that the assets were written off companies to an agreed level of 30% by September 5, 2006
in full in the 2005 consolidated financial statements (see Note 37 at the latest. These transactions were duly completed and the
“Claims and litigation”). resulting capital gain of €236 million was recognized in the 2006
consolidated financial statements.
2.1.2 Restructuring of the Belgian distribution sector
Brussels Network Operations
In application of the 1996 European Directive regarding the
Similarly, on May 11, 2006 Electrabel created a new subsidiary,
deregulation of electricity and natural gas markets, the Flemish
Brussels Network Operations (BNO), set to operate the distribution
Government adopted a number of decrees (Electricity on July 17,
network when the energy market is fully deregulated in the Brussels
2000, and Gas on July 6, 2001) and orders (Electricity on June 15,
region in 2007. On July 1, 2006 BNO took over the activities carried
2001, and Gas on October 11, 2002) aimed at deregulating the
out by Electrabel’s former Brussels Network division, as well as
market, notably as regards the independence of grid operators.
certain support services previously carried out by Electrabel.
Electrabel and the Flemish municipalities signed agreements in
On September 1, 2006, BNO’s shareholder base changed
2001 and 2005 with the objective of implementing these legal and
significantly. With the aim of gradually discontinuing its distribution
regulatory provisions. In 2006 this resulted in:
network operation activities in Brussels, Electrabel sold all BNO
The creation of Eandis shares to Sibelga (a Brussels-based grid operator), Interfin (inter-
In 2006, Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen (grid operator), GeDIS municipal financing company) and RDE (association of energy
(energy strategy, rationalization of energy usage, and public distributors in the Brussels-Capital region). This transaction, and
service commitments) and the Flemish platform Indexis (collection, the deconsolidation of BNO, have only a minor impact on income.
processing and transmission of metering data) merged, paving However, the transactions do lead to a reduction in certain lines of
the way for a “single operator” on the electricity and natural gas the consolidated balance sheet and income statement.
distribution networks in Flanders. Eandis, the new entity, is a
wholly-owned subsidiary of the Flemish mixed inter-municipal 2.2 Significant events in 2005
network distribution companies. It combines all of the personnel
of the merged entities in addition to certain employees transferred 2.2.1 Cash and share bid for Electrabel
from Electrabel’s corporate headquarters. As part of this In its meeting of August 9, 2005, the Board of Directors of SUEZ
operation, ENV has been deconsolidated. ENV’s contribution to approved the launch of a cash and share bid for the portion of
the consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2005 can be Electrabel not already owned by the Group (49.9%).
analyzed as follows:
20
SUEZ offered €322 in cash and four SUEZ shares for each
• €856 million of assets, mainly composed of: Electrabel share.
– trade receivables: €145 million, Electrabel’s Board of Directors approved the cash and share bid at
its meeting of August 24, 2005. The impact of the transaction on
– Other assets, principally reimbursement rights in respect of
the financial statements at December 31, 2005 is as follows:
pension obligations: €691 million;
• financial investment: €11,092 million of which 2,414 million paid
• €814 million of liabilities, mainly composed of:
in shares;
– provisions for pensions and other employee benefit obligations:
• capital increase: €2,335 million in cash;
€691 million,
• recognition of goodwill: €7,332 million;
– operating liabilities: €120 million;
• decrease in minority interests: €3,760 million;
• additional share in net income: €117 million (corresponding to on the stock market. This transaction resulted in a consolidated
the additional interest acquired in Electrabel as from November 1, capital gain of €626 million for the Group. Its interest in Elia
2005). System Operator was therefore reduced to 27.45% versus 64.1%
at December 31, 2004, and continues to be accounted for by the
2.2.2 Assignment of litigious receivables equity method.
On September 5, 2005, SUEZ sold without recourse disputed
After taking into account Elia’s capital increase to which Electrabel
receivables from the French State to a financial institution for a
subscribed in an amount of €43 million, net cash inflows from this
firm and definitive price of €995.4 million. The impacts of this sale
transaction amounted to €352 million.
were recognized in the consolidated financial statements for the
year as (i) SUEZ has no commitments to reimburse the sale price;
(ii) the triggering of the statutory warranties granted by SUEZ is 2.3 Significant events in 2004
deemed to be improbable; and (iii) the Group no longer has any
2.3.1 Discontinued operations
active involvement in the recovery procedures.
In 2004, the Group sold 29.2% of Métropole TV (M6). Proceeds
As the assigned receivables relate to tax previously paid by the from the sale came to €753 million and were recognized within
Group via a deduction from equity, the corresponding sale price income from discontinued operations. The remaining 5% interest
has been recorded as an increase of equity. held by the Group was sold in 2006 (see Note 10 “Disposals of
assets, net”). Furthermore, in accordance with an agreement
2.2.3 Sale of Eso/Elia entered into between SUEZ and United Global Com (UGC) on
As part of the commitments undertaken at the time the Belgian March 15, 2004, and following the lifting of the applicable
Federal Council of Ministers appointed Eso/Elia operator of the conditions precedent in June of that year, SUEZ sold Noos to
transport network on September 13, 2002, Electrabel floated a UPC Broadband France, the holding company of the UGC France
significant portion of its interest in Elia System Operator (57.14%) group. The impact of this transaction was not material.
Note 3
Segment information
In accordance with IAS 14, the Group’s primary reporting format electricity and natural gas, primarily in the United States, Brazil,
is business segments and its secondary reporting format is Chile, Thailand and the Middle East;
geographical location. This distinction also reflects the Group’s
• SUEZ Energy Services (SES) – these subsidiaries provide
organizational and management structure.
engineering, installation, maintenance and delegated
management services, particularly in relation to electrical or
3.1 Business segments heating facilities, pipeline systems and energy networks;
SUEZ’s operations are organized around four core segments: • SUEZ Environment (SE) – subsidiaries operating in this business
Electricity and Gas, Energy Services, Environment, and Other segment provide private customers, industrial customers and
Services. In order to make its segment information easier to local authorities with:
understand, the Electricity and Gas segment has been further
broken down between Europe (SUEZ Energy Europe – SEE) and – water distribution and treatment services, notably under
International (SUEZ Energy International – SEI). concession contracts (water management), and water purification
facility design and construction services (turnkey engineering),
These sectors are all managed separately as each of them
develops, produces and sells different products and services or – as well as waste collection and treatment services including
targets different client markets. The operations of these sectors sorting, recycling, composting, landfilling, energy recovering
• Electricity and Gas – the subsidiaries in this segment produce • Other Services – this segment includes the contributions of
electricity, and/or provide electricity transmission and distribution holding companies and entities used for centralized Group
services, and/or supply, transport or distribute natural gas: financing purposes.
– in Europe, SUEZ Energy Europe (SEE): through Electrabel, The accounting policies applied to segment information are
Distrigaz and Fluxys (listed companies controlled by the identical to those used for the consolidated financial statements.
Group),
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2006 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services Eliminations TOTAL
Total revenues 15,990.0 6,297.4 22,287.4 10,680.9 11,443.5 0.0 (122.6) 44,289.2
- Revenues (external sales) 15,971.4 6,241.6 22,213.0 10,637.2 11,439.0 0.0 44,289.2
- Inter-segment sales (intra-Group) 18.6 55.8 74.4 43.6 4.5 0.0 (122.6) 0.0
Gross operating income/(loss) 3,059.8 1,566.2 4,626.0 591.3 1,983.1 (117.0) 7,083.3
Current operating income/(loss) 2,140.8 1,099.1 3,239.9 392.4 1,044.1 (179.9) 4,496.5
- Mark-to-market on commodity
contracts other than trading
instruments 65.7 (47.6) 18.1 0.0 (1.9) 0.9 17.1
- Impairment 22.3 (86.6) (64.3) (23.5) (53.9) (8.7) (150.3)
- Restructuring costs (7.7) 0.0 (7.7) (25.0) 1.0 (57.1) (88.8)
Segment income (IAS 14) 2,221.2 964.9 3,186.0 343.9 989.4 (244.8) 4,274.6
- Asset disposals 288.3 145.0 433.2 111.8 153.5 394.6 1,093.1
Income/(loss) from
operating activities 2,509.4 1,109.8 3,619.3 455.7 1,142.8 149.9 5,367.6
Depreciation and amortization (585.7) (386.1) (971.8) (234.5) (733.8) (2.0) (1,942.1)
Share in income/(loss)
of associates 325.7 17.7 343.4 (3.2) 20.6 11.9 372.7
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2005 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services Eliminations TOTAL
Total revenues 14,214.4 5,878.5 20,092.9 10,359.9 11,091.5 0.0 (55.4) 41,488.9
- Revenues (external sales) 14,193.0 5,878.5 20,071.6 10,328.7 11,088.6 0.0 0.0 41,488.9
- Inter-segment sales (intra-Group) 21.4 0.0 21.4 31.1 2.9 0.0 (55.4) 0.0
Gross operating income/(loss) 2,854.4 1,334.7 4,189.1 562.7 1,914.3 (157.9) 0.0 6,508.2
Current operating income/(loss) 1,963.2 746.6 2,709.8 358.8 1,003.5 (169.9) 0.0 3,902.2
- Mark-to-market on commodity
contracts other than trading
instruments (IAS 32/39) (229.1) 78.9 (150.2) (0.5) 0.5 (0.9) 0.0 (151.1)
- Impairment (78.9) (269.4) (348.3) (84.0) (209.1) (16.5) 0.0 (657.9)
- Restructuring costs 13.0 0.0 13.0 (86.7) (22.4) (5.4) 0.0 (101.5)
Segment income (IAS 14) 1,668.2 556.1 2,224.3 187.6 772.5 (192.7) 0.0 2,991.7
- Asset disposals
Income/(loss) from
714.4 245.2 959.6 41.5 493.0 35.8 0.0 1,529.9
20
operating activities 2,382.6 801.3 3,183.9 229.1 1,265.5 (156.9) 0.0 4,521.6
Depreciation and amortization (457.6) (353.9) (811.5) (210.0) (721.7) (10.1) (1,753.3)
Share in income/(loss)
of associates 473.8 33.1 506.9 33.3 18.8 6.5 0.0 565.5
Sub-total
Electricity Other
Dec. 31, 2004 In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services Eliminations TOTAL
Total revenues 12,914.9 4,892.0 17,806.9 9,764.8 10,543.6 28.4 (86.0) 38,057.7
- Revenues (external sales) 12,895.5 4,892.0 17,787.5 9,732.6 10,537.6 0.0 0.0 38,057.7
- Inter-segment sales (intra-Group) 19.4 0.0 19.4 32.2 6.0 28.4 (86.0) 0.0
Gross operating income/(loss) 2,650.7 1,178.4 3,829.1 557.8 1,765.1 (219.6) 0.0 5,932.4
Current operating income/(loss) 1,997.7 779.3 2,777.0 217.6 939.8 (197.7) 0.0 3,736.7
- Mark-to-market on commodity
contracts other than trading
instruments (IAS 32/39) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
- Impairment 10.8 (0.6) 10.2 (9.0) (210.5) (58.9) 0.0 (268.2)
- Restructuring costs (7.9) 0.0 (7.9) (28.2) (26.1) (11.6) 0.0 (73.8)
Segment income (IAS 14) 2,000.6 778.7 2,779.3 180.4 703.2 (268.2) 0.0 3,394.7
- Asset disposals 6.0 (47.2) (41.2) 19.9 69.5 96.7 0.0 144.9
Income/(loss) from
operating activities 2,006.6 731.5 2,738.1 200.3 772.7 (171.5) 0.0 3,539.6
Depreciation and amortization (603.1) (355.9) (959.0) (235.2) (827.2) (12.6) (2,034.0)
Share in income/(loss)
of associates 227.5 8.6 236.1 1.7 32.5 6.6 0.0 276.9
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2006 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services TOTAL
Segment assets (IAS 14) 26,413.2 8,929.4 35,342.5 7,357.4 13,684.1 264.4 56,648.5
Segment liabilities (IAS 14) 13,699.6 2,148.9 15,848.5 5,990.7 6,865.5 435.5 29,140.2
Investments in associates 801.0 95.7 896.7 6.9 220.7 135.3 1,259.7
Capital employed (at year-end) 15,221.1 7,371.3 22,592.4 1,643.4 8,249.7 616.2 33,101.8
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2005 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services TOTAL
Segment assets (IAS 14) 27,653.6 10,527.5 38,181.1 7,157.3 13,214.4 282.7 58,835.5
Segment liabilities (IAS 14) 16,707.4 3,672.9 20,380.3 5,679.6 7,145.7 638.6 33,844.2
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2004 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services TOTAL
Segment assets (IAS 14) 15,106.1 9,038.1 24,144.2 6,709.0 12,608.7 393.2 43,855.0
Segment liabilities (IAS 14) 11,822.6 1,490.4 13,313.0 5,095.8 6,674.8 720.6 25,804.2
Investments in associates 2,397.3 110.3 2,507.6 (19.5) 345.1 89.5 2,922.6
Capital employed (at year-end) 7,112.8 7,926.2 15,039.0 1,864.2 7,380.1 591.9 24,875.2
Changes in the assets and liabilities of the SEE and SEI segments are closely related to changes in derivative instruments concerning items
other than net debt.
Changes in figures for SEE between December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2005 mainly reflect the recognition of Electrabel goodwill relating
to the cash and share bid.
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2006 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services TOTAL
Cash generated from operations before income tax
and working capital requirements 2,952.9 1,414.2 4,367.1 500.3 1,784.5 (268.5) 6,383.4
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment
and intangible assets(a) 786.8 315.5 1,102.3 250.9 993.0 7.9 2,354.1
Disposals of property, plant and equipment
and intangible assets(b) 29.1 14.3 43.4 78.2 52.9 1.9 176.4
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2005 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services TOTAL
Cash generated from operations before income tax
and working capital requirements 2,646.1 1,267.2 3,913.3 457.0 1,656.2 (275.6) 5,750.9
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and
intangible assets(a) 1,116.1 256.1 1,372.2 264.1 977.5 7.5 2,621.3
Disposals of property, plant and equipment and
intangible assets(b) 263.7 16.1 279.8 37.6 73.5 (0.6) 390.3
Sub-total
Dec. 31, 2004 Electricity Other
In millions of euros SEE SEI and Gas SES SE services TOTAL
Cash generated from operations before income tax
and working capital requirements 2,695.3 1,159.7 3,855.0 493.4 1,501.7 (169.2) 5,680.9
Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and
intangible assets(a) 591.9 286.1 878.0 240.1 950.8 4.4 2,073.3
Disposals of property, plant and equipment and
intangible assets(b) 137.1 9.6 146.7 17.5 189.5 0.2 353.9
20
(a) Acquisitions of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets presented in this table do not include the impact of the change in accounts payable on
fixed assets, which totaled €13.5 million at December 31, 2006, €45.8 million at December 31, 2005, and a negative €36.6 million at December 31, 2004.
(b) Similarly, disposals of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets do not include the impact of the change in accounts receivable from sales of
fixed assets, which totaled €5.5 million at December 31, 2006, a negative €35.4 million at December 31, 2005 and a negative €12.8 million at December
31, 2004.
Total 44,289.2 41,488.9 38,057.7 56,648.5 58,835.5 43,855.0 2,354.1 2,621.3 2,073.3 33,101.8 33,249.5 24,875.2
At December 31, 2004 and December 31, 2005, the contribution of Aguas Andinas was shown within the figures for “South America”. At
December 31, 2006, Aguas Andinas was consolidated by Spanish-based Agbar and therefore presented within Spain and hence “Other
EU countries”. The entire contribution of Aguas Andinas to segment assets and capital employed in 2004 and 2005 has therefore been
reclassified from “South America” to “Other EU countries”.
20
Derivative instruments not related to net debt (Note 19.2) 3,742.0 5,996.6 0.0
Trade and other receivables (Note 19.4) 10,412.2 10,394.7 9,733.9
Inventories 1,483.4 1,344.8 1,145.7
Other current and non-current assets (Note 21) 3,115.4 4,379.4 4,858.6
Note 4
Revenues
Group revenues per category (see Note 1.Q) break down as follows:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Energy sales, transmission and distribution 22,669.1 18,756.8 15,630.7
Water and waste services 8,146.8 7,813.7 7,964.7
Rendering of services, engineering and construction contracts, and other
services 13,473.3 14,918.4 14,462.3
Revenues related to the application of IFRIC 4 (rights to use an The decrease in revenues from “Rendering of services, engineering
asset) are included in the line “Rendering of services, engineering and construction contracts, and other services” stems mainly
and construction contracts, and other services” for an amount of from the sale by the Group of its subsidiary Electrabel Netten
€752.2 million in 2006, €694.5 million in 2005, and €574.0 million Vlaanderen.
in 2004.
Note 5
Personnel costs
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Salaries (5,700.6) (5,865.5) (5,877.9)
Social security charges/pension costs (defined contribution plans) (1,821.0) (1,948.6) (1,885.8)
Employee profit-sharing and incentive schemes (60.4) (50.2) (50.3)
Share-based payment (58.8) (38.6) (17.9)
Personnel costs for 2006 fell by €262.1 million (3.3%) compared negative €37 million relating to the withdrawal from water contracts
to 2005. This mainly reflects the impacts of changes in the scope in Argentina.
of consolidation, including a negative €302 million relating to
The net costs relating to defined benefit pension plans are
the sale of Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen, a negative €50 million
presented in Note 24.
relating to the sale of SUEZ Environment entities in Brazil, and a
20
Note 6
Other operating income and expenses
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Other operating income 919.6 957.9 1,155.5
Other operating expenses (10,376.7) (10,261.1) (9,871.2)
Purchases (5,625.0) (5,566.9) (5,219.0)
Repairs and maintenance (898.8) (1,354.2) (1,303.8)
Other (3,852.9) (3,340.0) (3,348.4)
In 2004, the line “Other operating income” included a gain of “Other” relates mainly to rental expenses, external personnel costs,
€140 million in respect of the amount receivable for supplementary commissions and fees paid to intermediaries, and taxes other than
pension and similar benefits paid by the Group to employees income tax.
providing services on behalf of distribution and grid operators in
Belgium.
Note 7
Depreciation, amortization and provisions
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Depreciation and amortization
Amortization charge for intangible assets (380.2) (301.8) (230.1)
Depreciation charge for property, plant and equipment (1,494.5) (1,467.3) (1,659.1)
Write-down of inventories and trade receivables (67.3) 15.6 (144.7)
Provisions
Contingencies 255.8 52.5 370.7
Other 1.4 (0.9) 26.3
20
Note 8
Impairment of property, plant and equipment, intangible assets and financial assets
Write-downs of inventories and trade receivables are presented in Note 7 “Depreciation, amortization and provisions”.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Net impairment losses
Goodwill (11.6) (114.8) (109.0)
Property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets (123.7) (437.8) (148.7)
Financial assets (14.9) (105.3) (10.6)
8.1 Net impairment expenses recognized 8.2 Material Cash Generating Unit
As a result of a series of significant unfavorable events (contractual With the exception of the Electrabel Benelux Cash Generating Unit
disputes, downturn in the economic environment for certain (CGU), no individual amount of goodwill allocated to other CGUs
business segments or countries), the Group reviewed the value represents more than 5% of the Group’s total goodwill.
in use of the assets affected by these events and recognized
The total amount of goodwill allocated to this CGU was €8.6 billion
impairment losses on some of those assets. In 2005, this concerned
at December 31, 2006. This CGU covers the Group’s electricity
in particular the international activities of SUEZ Environment (Brazil,
production, sale and distribution activities in Belgium, the
Argentina, etc.), SUEZ Energy International in the US, and SUEZ
Netherlands and Luxembourg.
Energy Services in the Netherlands, while in 2006 it concerned
mainly SUEZ Energy International in the US. The annual review of this CGU’s recoverable amount was based
on its estimated value in use at December 31, 2006.
The discount rates used in 2006 to calculate the present value
of cash flows in the impairment test ranged from 5.1% to 12.3%, To calculate estimated value in use, the Group uses cash flow
compared with discount rates between 5% and 14.6% in 2005. projections based on financial forecasts approved by management
covering a period of four years, and a discount rate of 6.7%. Cash
In the particular case of the US, given the regulatory environment
flow projections beyond this four-year period are extrapolated and
and downbeat market conditions for certain Group production
incorporate a terminal value.
units, the Group has decided to carry out impairment tests on the
basis of future cash flows discounted at a rate of 9% after tax in Key assumptions used in the calculation include expected trends
2006 (unchanged from 2005), resulting in the recognition of a pre- in long-term prices for electricity and fuel. These amounts reflect
tax impairment loss of €68 million (€217 million in 2005). the best estimates of market prices, while fuel consumption is
estimated taking into account expected changes in production
In the 2006 consolidated financial statements, reversals of
assets. The risk-free rate and market risk premium represent
impairment concerned property, plant and equipment and
external available sources of information.
intangible assets for an amount of €8 million, and financial assets
for an amount of €33.7 million. Based on events that are reasonably likely to occur as of the
balance sheet date, the Group considers that any changes in the
Impairment losses recognized in 2004 related to the assets of
20
key assumptions described above would not increase the carrying
concession holders in Argentina and to international contracts in
amount in excess of the recoverable amount.
the Environment segment.
Note 9
Restructuring costs
In 2006, implementation of the planned restructuring measures essentially in the Netherlands and France under restructuring
has only a marginal impact on the consolidated financial statements provisions. Costs for the year incurred during the implementation
once provisions booked in previous years have been reversed. The of restructuring programs came to €211.3 million, and were offset
main costs for the year are related to the Gaz de France merger by reversals of provisions in an amount of €194.2 million.
plan (€57 million), which the Group has decided to expense as
Restructuring costs in 2004 concerned primarily the Energy
incurred in accordance with applicable accounting policies.
Services and Environment segments for €28.2 million and
In 2005, the restructuring measures carried out mainly in the €32.2 million, respectively.
Energy Services segment represented a charge of €84.4 million,
Note 10
Disposals of assets, net
Disposal of shares in M6
SUEZ sold its remaining 5% shareholding in M6 to Compagnie
Nationale à Portefeuille (CNP), booking a net capital gain of
€120 million in 2006.
20
Note 11
Financial income/(loss)
In millions of euros Expenses Income Net Expenses Income Net Expenses Income Net
Net finance costs (1,157.8) 327.6 (830.2) (1,090.8) 290.6 (800.2) (1,161.6) 204.6 (957.0)
Interest on gross borrowings (1,097.7) (1,097.7) (1,077.3) (1,077.3) (1,109.7) (1,109.7)
Exchange differences on borrowings
and hedges (9.6) (9.6) 0.4 0.4 20.2 20.2
Gains and losses on hedges of
borrowings (50.5) (50.5) (11.1) (11.1) (4.2) (4.2)
Income from cash and cash equivalent
and financial assets at fair value
through income 325.4 325.4 290.2 290.2 184.4 184.4
Changes in the fair value of financial
assets at fair value through income 2.2 2.2 (2.4) (2.4) (47.7) (47.7)
Early redemption of bonds
repayable in Fortis shares - 166.6 166.6 -
Other financial income and
expenses (452.8) 552.0 99.2 (491.4) 399.7 (91.7) (497.0) 374.9 (122.1)
Financial income/(loss) (1,610.6) 879.6 (731.0) (1,582.2) 856.9 (725.3) (1,658.6) 579.5 (1,079.1)
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Interest on gross borrowings (1,097.7) (1,077.3) (1,109.7)
Exchange differences on borrowings and hedges (9.6) 0.4 20.2
Gains and losses on hedges of borrowings (50.5) (11.1) (4.2)
Income from cash and cash equivalent and financial assets at fair value
through income 325.4 290.2 184.4
Changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through income 2.2 (2.4) (47.7)
20
Total (830.2) (800.2) (957.0)
Following these operations, which generated net financial income of €166.6 million, the Group no longer holds any interests in Fortis.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Unwinding of discounting adjustments to provisions (335.5) (330.1) (339.2)
Interest on trade and other payables (22.4) (21.1) (18.2)
Exchange losses (21.1) (17.7) (19.3)
Other financial expenses (73.8) (122.5) (120.3)
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Income from available-for-sale securities 288.7 134.3 104.8
Interest on trade and other receivables 23.8 15.9 27.5
Interest on loans and receivables carried at amortized cost 63.7 80.1 95.3
Exchange gains 11.3 15.7 3.6
Other financial income 164.5 153.7 143.7
“Other financial income” includes a positive impact of €19 million relating to the renegotiation of Santa Fe’s debt in Argentina in 2005, and
a positive impact of €56.4 million in 2006 relating to the renegotiation of Aguas Argentinas’ debt.
20
Note 12
Income tax expense
12.1 Analysis of the income tax charge recognized in the income statement
12.1.1 Breakdown of the income tax expense
The income tax expense recognized in income for 2006 amounts to €815.1 million, compared with €585.3 million in 2005. This expense
breaks down as follows:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Current income tax
France (59.1) (41.8) (58.0)
Outside France (726.3) (705.5) (567.9)
SUEZ is the parent of a tax consolidation group comprising 251 In 2006, income tax relating to prior periods and tax due on
companies in 2006. Other tax consolidation groups have been set disposals are not material.
up where possible.
20
12.1.2 Reconciliation between the theoretical income tax expense and the Group’s actual income tax expense
A reconciliation between the theoretical income tax expense and the Group’s actual income tax expense is presented below:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Net income 4,194.2 3,776.5 2,527.8
- Share in net income of associates 372.7 565.5 276.9
- Income tax (815.1) (585.3) (926.0)
Income before income tax and share in net income of associates (a) 4,636.6 3,796.3 3,176.9
of which French companies 464.2 44.4 526.0
of which companies outside France 4,172.4 3,751.9 2,650.9
Statutory income tax rate in France (b) 34.43% 34.93% 35.43%
Theoretical income tax expense (c) = (a) x (b) (1,596.4) (1,326.0) (1,125.6)
Difference between normal tax rate applicable in France and normal tax
rate in force in jurisdictions outside France 177.1 140.8 100.0
Permanent differences (9.9) 170.1 215.5
Income taxed at a reduced rate or nil(a) 538.1 483.3 157.7
Additional tax expense(b) (94.7) (115.5) (94.4)
Effect of unrecognized deferred tax assets on tax loss carry-forwards and
other tax-deductible temporary differences (125.0) (201.5) (346.8)
Recognition or utilization of tax income on previously unrecognized tax loss
carry-forwards and other tax-deductible temporary differences 220.5 163.5 237.8
Impact of changes in tax rates (27.0) 3.2 (118.6)
Tax credits 36.7 61.9 42.0
Other 65.6 34.9 6.4
Actual income tax expense (815.1) (585.3) (926.0)
Effective tax rate (actual income tax expense divided by income before
income tax and share in net income of associates) 17.6% 15.4% 29.1%
(a) Includes mainly capital gains on tax-exempt disposals of shares in Belgium; the effect of lower tax rates applicable to securities transactions in France; and
the impact of the special tax regimes used for the coordination centers in Belgium.
(b) Includes mainly the 5% tax payable on dividends in Belgium.
Type of underlying
In millions of euros Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2005 Change(a) Dec. 31, 2006
20
Available-for-sale financial assets (40.1) (17.0) (31.2) (48.2)
Actuarial gains and losses 35.8 92.8 (14.8) 78.0
Net investment hedges 8.5 12.4 (4.0) 8.4
Cash flow hedges 89.1 262.5 (279.1) (16.6)
In 2005, SUEZ sold without recourse litigious receivables due from No other current income tax effect was recognized in equity in
the French State for a firm and definitive price of €995.4 million. 2005.
20
(b) Consisting mainly of changes in the scope of consolidation and exchange rate (primarily related to the US dollar, Brazilian real, Chilean peso and
the Thai baht).
Net income
Dec. 31, Dec. 31, recognized Dec. 31,
In millions of euros 2004 2005 Income directly in equity(a) Other(b) 2006
Net deferred tax (liabilities)/assets (207.8) 59.4 (29.7) (329.1) (274.1) (573.5)
(a) See Note 12.2.
(b) Reflecting mainly the impact of changes in the scope of consolidation and exchange rates (primarily related to the US dollar, Brazilian real, Chilean peso and
the Thai baht).
Movements in deferred taxes recorded in the consolidated balance sheet, after netting off deferred tax assets and liabilities by tax entity,
break down as follows:
12.3.2 Deductible temporary differences not recognized in the balance sheet at December 31, 2006
At December 31, 2006, unused tax losses carried forward – which (unrecognized deferred tax asset effect of €1,479.1 million). The
were not recorded in the balance sheet as they did not meet amount of other tax-deductible temporary differences not recorded
the criteria for recognition as a deferred tax asset – amounted in the balance sheet amounted to €852.8 million (unrecognized
to €4,266.7 million in respect of ordinary tax loss carry-forwards deferred tax asset effect of €304.2 million).
The expiry dates for using unrecognized tax loss carry-forwards 12.3.3 Unrecognized deferred taxes on taxable
are presented below: temporary differences relating to investments in
subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates
No deferred tax liabilities have been recognized on temporary
In millions of euros Ordinary tax losses
differences when the Group is able to control the timing of their
2007 160.6 reversal and it is probable that the temporary difference will not
reverse in the foreseeable future. The taxable temporary difference
2008 325.0
does not give rise to any payment of tax when it reverses (in
2009 47.3 particular as regards tax-exempt capital gains on disposals of
2010 31.7 investments in Belgium and the elimination of the taxation of
capital gains tax in France with effect from 2007).
2011 27.8
2012 and beyond 3,674.3
Total 4,266.7
20
Note 13
Earnings per share
Denominator
Average number of shares outstanding (in millions) 1,261.3 1,053.2 995.1
Impact of dilutive instruments
- Convertible bonds 6.7 13.5
- Bonus share plan reserved for employees 0.3
- Stock subscription and purchase plans reserved for employees 14.6 6.0 1.0
Diluted average number of shares outstanding 1,276.2 1,065.9 1,009.6
Note 14
Goodwill
in millions of euros
A. Gross amount
At December 31, 2004 5,438.9
At January 1, 2005 5,438.9
Acquisitions 7,866.7
Disposals and goodwill classified as “assets held for sale” 0.0
Translation adjustments 171.1
Other (241.7)
At December 31, 2005 13,235.0
Acquisitions 534.4
Disposals and goodwill classified as “assets held for sale” (226.3)
Translation adjustments (70.6)
Other 115.2
B. Impairment
At December 31, 2004 (116.6)
At January 1, 2005 (116.6)
Impairment losses (114.8)
Disposals and goodwill classified as “assets held for sale” 0.0
Translation adjustments (6.3)
Other 35.9
At December 31, 2005 (201.8)
Impairment losses (11.6)
Disposals and goodwill classified as “assets held for sale” 35.7
Translation adjustments (1.1)
20 Other (4.2)
In 2006, additional goodwill relates mainly to the SEE’s acquisition Additional goodwill recorded in 2005 primarily arose as a result
of Rendo and Cogas for €65 million and €75 million, respectively, of the buyout of minority interests in Electrabel (€7,332 million)
and to Agbar’s acquisition of Bristol Water for €118.3 million and the first-time consolidation of SHEM (€230 million). “Other”
and RTD for €87.2 million. Changes in the “Disposals and mainly corresponded to an adjustment to goodwill recognized when
goodwill” line (gross amount) in the above table chiefly reflect the finalizing the acquisition price of Electrabel Nederland.
disposal of certain Flemish mixed inter-municipal companies for
Goodwill recognized in respect of acquisitions of minority interests
€171.3 million. “Other” mainly consists of goodwill on Compagnie
amounts to €78.3 million at December 31, 2006 and €7,338 million
Nationale du Rhône previously included within “Investments in
at December 31, 2005 (mainly relating to the 48.54% interest
associates” and transferred due to the change in the method used
acquired in Electrabel). In the absence of specific IFRS guidance,
to consolidate CNR (see also Note 17).
goodwill is recognized as described in Note 1.D.1.
in millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Suez Energy Europe 9,963.1 9,862.3 2,260.1
Suez Energy International 428.9 467.0 414.0
Suez Energy Services 682.5 673.0 711.3
Suez Environment 2,305.4 2,005.5 1,914.5
Other 24.6 25.4 22.4
The analysis above is based on the business segments of the relates to Electrabel and €771.2 million to Electrabel Nederland
acquired entity rather than those of the acquirer. NV), France (€697 million relating to SHEM and CNR), Polaniec
(€270 million), United Water (€398 million), Sita UK (€346 million),
The main goodwill balances relate to the following Cash Generating
and Sita Nederland BV (€223 million).
Units (CGUs): Benelux (€8,609.8 million, of which €7,513.6 million
20
Note 15
Intangible assets, net
A. Gross amount
At December 31, 2004 478.1 3,456.9 1,163.0 1,025.9 6,123.9
At January 1, 2005 478.1 3,456.9 1,163.0 1,025.9 6,123.9
Acquisitions 46.8 170.1 260.9 477.8
Disposals (14.1) (21.4) (226.7) (262.2)
Translation adjustments 6.2 77.4 89.7 173.4
Changes in scope of consolidation (4.4) (32.2) (17.0) (53.6)
Other 24.0 35.2 32.1 91.3
At December 31, 2005 536.6 3,686.0 1,163.0 1,164.9 6,550.6
Acquisitions 83.1 192.5 42.0 317.5
Disposals (9.2) (6.0) (71.5) (86.8)
Translation adjustments (0.5) (35.7) (68.8) (104.9)
Changes in scope of consolidation (23.8) (129.9) 15.1 (138.6)
Other 2.0 299.3 (33.6) 267.7
The Group was involved in financing the construction of several 2006 the carrying amount of these entitlements amounted to
power stations operated by third parties and in consideration, €631.9 million.
received the right to purchase a share of the production over
Recognized impairment losses for the periods presented amounted
the useful life of the assets. These rights are amortized over the
to €3.6 million in 2006, €19 million in 2005 and €11.3 million in
useful life of the underlying assets, not to exceed 40 years. The
2004 (see Note 8).
Group currently holds entitlements in the Chooz B power plant in
France and the MKV and HKV plants in Germany. At December 31,
15.3 Research and development costs Research and development costs with no specific contractual
right of recovery are expensed as incurred. Excluding technical
Research and development activities primarily relate to various
assistance costs, R&D costs in 2006, 2005 and 2004 amounted
studies regarding technological innovation, improvements in plant
to €86 million, €84.8 million and €85 million, respectively.
efficiency, safety, environmental protection, service quality and the
use of energy resources.
20
Note 16
Property, plant and equipment, net
16.1 Movements in property, plant and equipment
Assets
Assets leased
Capita held to others
lized under under Construc-
Plant and dismant finance operating tion in
In millions of euros Land Buildings equipment Vehicles ling costs leases leases progress Other Total
A. Gross amount
At December 31, 2004 1,931.4 4,419.7 25,252.4 1,357.4 752.3 1,747.6 1,647.8 2,423.3 2,278.7 41,810.6
At January 1, 2005 1,931.4 4,419.7 25,252.4 1,357.4 752.3 1,747.6 1,647.8 2,423.3 2,278.7 41,810.6
Acquisitions 54.7 107.7 502.3 89.8 0.5 10.1 7.6 1,286.4 95.3 2,154.4
Disposals (25.6) (102.2) (326.9) (142.2) (0.3) (16.8) (0.4) 0.0 (87.5) (701.9)
Translation adjustments 76.4 454.0 933.5 12.4 4.8 1.1 224.0 150.5 214.9 2,071.6
Changes in scope of
consolidation (140.3) (183.2) (178.7) (31.4) (0.1) (693.0) 0.0 (99.4) 10.6 (1,315.5)
Other (199.2) 158.6 1,865.9 20.9 (78.6) (269.9) 9.1 (1,664.9) (55.8) (213.9)
At December 31, 2005 1,697.4 4,854.6 28,048.5 1,306.9 678.6 779.1 1,888.1 2,095.9 2,456.2 43,805.3
Acquisitions 42.7 63.0 456.4 120.0 19.6 43.1 25.2 1,198.6 129.6 2,098.1
Disposals (36.2) (125.7) (151.2) (104.9) (0.2) (15.0) (1.4) 0.0 (101.4) (536.0)
Translation adjustments (0.7) (50.1) (417.9) (10.5) 2.5 (0.3) (158.4) (62.8) (153.9) (852.2)
Changes in scope of
consolidation 42.4 158.4 513.3 12.7 2.0 (1.7) 3.3 (87.5) 228.6 871.5
Other (34.8) (10.5) 1,302.4 28.9 29.5 (12.3) (412.0) (1,255.5) 69.7 (294.5)
At December 31,
2006 1,710.7 4,889.8 29,751.5 1,353.0 732.1 792.9 1,344.8 1,888.7 2,628.7 45,092.3
20 Translation adjustments
Changes in scope of
(3.7) 11.8 91.6 0.3 (2.3) (0.2) 37.8 2.2 43.5 180.9
consolidation 4.8 469.0 (212.7) 0.0 (1.8) (0.6) (3.2) 49.6 2.7 307.8
Other 3.6 (19.5) (42.3) (5.1) (29.1) 8.8 290.0 0.3 21.2 228.0
At December 31,
2006 (858.0) (1,614.4) (18,099.9) (932.0) (619.7) (451.7) (334.2) (44.8) (1,134.8) (24,089.5)
C. Carrying amount
At December 31, 2004 1,069.7 2,656.4 9,163.3 418.8 152.5 1,190.1 1,171.9 2,375.0 1,168.9 19,366.5
At January 1, 2005 1,069.7 2,656.4 9,163.3 418.8 152.5 1,190.1 1,171.9 2,375.0 1,168.9 19,366.5
At December 31, 2005 883.7 2,871.8 11,002.4 401.0 105.8 351.9 1,284.5 2,020.4 1,290.9 20,212.4
At December 31,
2006 852.8 3,275.5 11,651.6 421.0 112.4 341.2 1,010.6 1,844.0 1,493.9 21,002.8
(a) Net impairment losses recognized in property, plant and equipment amount to €128.1 million at December 31, 2006, versus €418.9 million at end-2005
(see Note 8).
236 2006 REFErence Document
Financial information concerning the assets and liabilities, financial position and results of the issuer
Notes to the consolidated financial statements
20
The main translation adjustments recorded in relation to the gross of €33 million), the sale of VEA in Brazil (negative impact of
amount of property, plant and equipment at December 31, 2006 €42 million, and from the effects of a change in consolidation
concern the US dollar for a negative €725.0 million. Net changes method (from equity accounting to full consolidation) in respect
in the scope of consolidation mainly result from the disposal of of London Waste (Sita UK – positive impact of €99.5 million) and
the Hanjin City Gas distribution network in South Korea (negative CNR (positive impact of €1,035.0 million – see Note 17).
impact of €142.3 million), the sale of REVA (negative impact
16.2 Analysis of property, plant and equipment held under finance leases by type
Property, plant and equipment held under finance leases break down as follows:
Total assets
held under
Plant and Construction finance
In millions of euros Land Buildings equipment Vehicles in progress Other leases
A. Gross amount
At December 31, 2004 41.0 239.4 1,226.8 240.4 0.0 0.0 1,747.6
At January 1, 2005 41.0 239.4 1,226.8 240.4 0.0 0.0 1,747.6
At December 31, 2005 35.6 192.8 412.7 133.2 0.0 4.8 779.1
At December 31, 2006 32.6 204.3 414.9 136.3 0.0 4.8 792.9
At December 31, 2006 (8.0) (105.8) (229.7) (105.7) 0.0 (2.6) (451.7)
C. Carrying amount
At December 31, 2004 38.8 129.0 975.3 47.0 0.0 0.0 1,190.1
At January 1, 2005 38.8 129.0 975.3 47.0 0.0 0.0 1,190.1
At December 31, 2005 27.5 89.2 197.9 35.4 0.0 1.9 351.9
At December 31, 2006 24.6 98.5 185.2 30.7 0.0 2.2 341.2
20
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Maturity
Y+1 360.6 416.1 249.8
Y+2 48.7 89.9 128.0
Y+3 25.2 95.6 161.6
Y+4 24.3 101.2 171.2
Y+5 46.1 85.5 168.4
Beyond 1,496.1 1,364.8 1,179.4
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Maturity
Y+1 831.8 921.4 672.7
Y+2 550.2 188.7 298.4
Y+3 149.8 24.0 98.7
Y+4 9.4 5.8 259.2
Y+5 10.0 0.0 222.4
Beyond 239.3 226.4 44.6
Note 17
Investments in associates
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004 Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Belgian mixed inter-municipal
companies 866.8 1,927.0 1,830.3 235.3 407.9 162.5
Compagnie Nationale du Rhône 0.0 511.8 458.8 67.6 28.8 22.8
Northumbrian 0.0 0.0 102.4 0.0 7.1 19.7
Elia (119.2) (126.5) 49.9 21.1 36.7 39.6
Colbùn 0.0 296.8 0.0 0.0 7.1 0.0
Other 512.1 545.8 481.2 48.7 77.9 32.3
The main changes in 2006 arise from the disposals of Colbùn and under “Loans and receivables carried at amortized cost”, leading
of shareholdings in the Flemish mixed inter-municipal companies, to a €481.2 million decrease in “Investments in associates”.
and from the full consolidation of CNR at December 31, 2006,
The main changes in this item in 2005 result from the sale of
following a review which determined that the Group exercised de
Northumbrian, the partial sale of ESO/Elia and the change in
facto control over that company.
the consolidation method regarding Colbùn from proportional
At December 31, 2004, the carrying amount of the Group’s consolidation to equity method accounting, due to the reduction
investment in ESO/Elia (€49.9 million) was made up of the following in the Group’s interest in this company from 29% in 2004 to 19%
two items: in 2005.
• the Group’s share in ESO/Elia’s equity restated in accordance Dividends received by the Group from its associates amounted to
with IFRS, representing a negative amount of €431.2 million. €355.7 million in 2006, €467.1 million in 2005, and €531.6 million
This negative contribution is due to the elimination in the Group’s in 2004.
consolidated financial statements of the intercompany gain
Goodwill recognized by the Group on the acquisition of associates
realized in 2002 when Electrabel transferred its transportation
is also included in this item for a net amount of €23.4 million
network to Elia at market value (through its subsidiary CPTE);
at December 31, 2006, compared with €179.6 million at
• a portion of the long-term receivable held by Electrabel on ESO/ December 31, 2005, and €133.1 million at December 31, 2004.
Elia, representing an amount of €481.2 million. This receivable
had been offset by the Group’s negative share in ESO/Elia’s
restated equity, as Electrabel provided a significant part of ESO/
17.2 Fair value of investments in listed associates
Elia’s financing, particularly in the context of the acquisition of The net carrying amount of investments in listed associates was
the transportation network. €(27.6) million at December 31, 2006, compared to €262.0 million
at December 31, 2005 and €187.8 million at December 31, 2004.
As from January 1, 2005, the Group presents all financial assets
falling within the scope of IAS 32/39 in one of the four categories
The market value of these companies at year-end 2006 amounts
to €463.5 million, versus €811.9 million and €385.2 million,
20
defined in these standards. Therefore, the full amount of the long- respectively, at December 31, 2005 and 2004. The main changes
term receivable due to the Group by ESO/Elia has been reclassified in 2006 result from the sale of Colbùn.
20
Note 18
Investments in joint ventures
The condensed financial statements of the main joint ventures are presented below:
20
Note 19
Financial assets
The Group’s financial assets are broken down into the following categories:
Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Non- Non- Non- Non-
In millions of euros current Current Total current Current Total
Total current Current current Current Total
Available-for-sale
securities 2,816.5 - 2,816.5 2,671.5 - 2,671.5 2,222.6 1,424.5 3,647.1 1,654.7 1,232.7 2,887.4
Derivative
instruments
(incl. commodity
derivatives) 1,014.1 3,318.6 4,332.7 2,145.9 4,533.3 6,679.2 1,072.9 1,034.4 2,107.3 - - -
Loans and
receivables
carried at
amortized cost 2,170.1 298.8 2,468.9 2,440.2 194.0 2,634.2 2,532.8 591.7 3,124.5 2,036.3 584.6 2,620.9
Trade and other
receivables, net 10,412.2 10,412.2 10,394.7 10,394.7 - 9,733.4 9,733.4 - 9,733.9 9,733.9
Financial assets
at fair value
through income 833.0 833.0 885.6 885.6 - 420.3 420.3 - 412.9 412.9
Total 6,000.7 14,862.6 20,863.3 7,257.6 16,007.6 23,265.2 5,828.3 13,204.3 19,032.6 3,691.0 11,964.0 15,655.0
In millions of euros
The available for sale securities has a contribution of €289 million to the gross operating income of the 2006 period (see Note 3.3).
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005
Derivatives hedging borrowings 590.7 682.6 985.1
Commodity instruments 3,650.6 5,951.2 1,056.3
Derivatives hedging other items 91.4 45.4 65.9
Commodity instruments (commodity derivatives and commodity contracts classified as derivative instruments), as well as derivatives hedging
borrowings and other items are set up as part of the Group’s risk management policy and are analyzed in Notes 27.5 and 27.3, respectively.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Loans granted to affiliated companies 1,648.8 1,737.8 2,275.5 1,746.7
Other receivables carried at amortized cost 217.0 129.7 202.4 227.6
Amounts receivable under concession contracts 236.3 413.5 342.0 342.0
Amounts receivable under finance leases 366.8 353.2 304.6 304.6
Impact of
measurement at
Beyond amortized cost Carrying
In millions of euros 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2011 Total and impairment amount
Loans granted to affiliated
companies 584.7 59.6 387.3 34.1 38.0 948.9 2,052.6 (403.8) 1,648.8
Analysis by currency:
Total 2,052.6
Impact of measurement at amortized cost and impairment (403.8)
Carrying amount 1,648.8
Impairment losses recorded in relation to receivables essentially concern receivables of the Argentinean companies.
The fair value of loans granted to affiliated companies stood at €1,651.8 million at December 31, 2006, compared with a carrying amount
of €1,648.8 million.
In millions of euros Gross Allowance Net Gross Allowance Net Gross Allowance Net
Trade and other
receivables 10,970.6 (558.4) 10,412.2 11,010.6 (615.9) 10,394.7 10,369.2 (635.8) 9,733.4
Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Acquisi- Fair Acquisi- Fair Acquisi- Fair Acquisi- Fair
In millions of euros tion cost value tion cost value tion cost value tion cost value
Financial assets at fair value through
income 841.2 833.0 901.1 885.6 436.1 420.3 442.1 412.9
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Less than 1 year 1 to 5 years More than 5 years Dec. 31, 2005
Assets pledged as collateral 139.9 136.5 0.0 3.4 123.8
Note 20
Inventories
Inventories mainly comprise fuel (coal, gas and uranium) and amount to €1,483.4 million at December 31, 2006 versus €1,344.8 million at
December 31, 2005 and €1,145.7 million at December 31, 2004.
Note 21
Other assets
In millions of euros Non-current Current Total Non-current Current Total Total Total
Reimbursement rights 523.7 40.8 564.5 1,393.6 267.3 1,660.9 1,586.7 1,586.7
Tax receivables 923.1 923.1 726.3 726.3 468.0 468.0
Other receivables 255.1 1,372.7 1,627.8 292.9 1,699.5 1,992.4 2,412.5 2,803.9
Reimbursement rights (see Note 1.M) include: • insurance policies taken out with Contassur, a related party, in
order to finance certain Group pension obligations, representing
• Electrabel’s reimbursement rights relating to pension obligations
€186.6 million.
for employees of the distribution business in an amount of
€377.9 million (including a current portion of €40.8 million); Changes in reimbursement rights are mainly attributable to the sale
of Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen and to the creation of Brussels
Network Operations (see Note 2.1.2).
Note 22
Equity
Shares issued 20
Fully paid up shares:
Ordinary shares with a par value of €2 1,277,444,403 2,554.89 1,270,756,255 2,541.51
Shares not fully paid up:
Ordinary shares with a par value of €2 Nil Nil
Shares were issued during the year as a result of the following operations:
Additional Shareholders’
Number of shares Share capital paid-in capital equity
Share capital increase in exchange for the contribution
of Electrabel shares(a) 299,804 0.6 6.2 6.8
Exercise of stock subscription options 6,388,344 12.8 149.2 162.0
Each shareholder is entitled to one vote per share at any shareholder’s meeting of the Group. A double voting right is, however, granted
to holders of fully paid up registered shares when such shares have been registered for more than two years in the name of the same
shareholder.
22.3 Instruments providing a right to subscribe for stood as of the Shareholders’ Meeting date. Under the program, the
new shares aggregate amount of acquisitions net of charges cannot exceed the
sum of €5 billion and the purchase price cannot exceed €40 per
Stock subscription options share. Details of these terms and conditions are provided in the
The Group has granted stock subscription options to its employees report of the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting
as part of stock option plans. These plans are described in in the Resolutions section of this document. In the context of this
Note 33. program, 10,211,710 shares were purchased in 2006 for a total
amount of €338.2 million and 10,467,710 shares were sold for
At the Shareholders’ Meeting held on May 5, 2006, the Group €347.2 million.
asked shareholders to approve the issue of free equity warrants in
the event of an unsolicited bid for the Company launched within Treasury stock (see Note 1.L) deducted from consolidated equity
the 18 months following the Shareholders’ Meeting, by a company represented 4,692,915 shares at December 31, 2006 (versus
that is itself protected from such a bid. The nominal amount of the 12,896,121 shares at December 31, 2005 and 12,578,681 shares
issue is limited to €2.7 billion. at December 31, 2004) for a total amount of €132.2 million
(€355.7 million at December 31, 2005 and €352.3 million at end-
2004), representing a decrease of 8,203,206 shares.
22.5 Changes in fair value (attributable to equity holders of the parent Company)
French companies must be transferred to the legal reserve until 2004 (paid May 16, 2005) 806.7 0.80
the legal reserve reaches 10% of the share capital. This reserve
2005 (paid May 8, 2006) 1,260.2 1.00
cannot be distributed to shareholders other than in the case of
liquidation.
Proposed dividend for 2006
The distributable paid-in capital and reserves of SUEZ SA, the
Shareholders at SUEZ Group’s General Meeting convened to
parent company, totaled €28,908.7 million at December 31,
approve the financial statements for the year ended December 31,
2006 (versus €23,044.8 million at December 31, 2005 and
2006 will be asked to approve a dividend of €1.20 per share,
€17,180.9 million at December 31, 2004).
representing a total amount of €1,532.9 million.
Income tax recognized directly in equity is detailed in Note 12.2.
Subject to approval by the Shareholders’ Meeting, this dividend
shall be paid from Monday May 7, 2007 and is not recognized
as a liability in the accounts at December 31, 2006. The financial
statements at December 31, 2006 are therefore presented before
20
the appropriation of earnings.
Note 23
Provisions
Changes Unwind-
Reversals in the ing of dis- Trans-
Reversals (surplus scope of counting lation
Dec. 31, Alloca- (utiliza- provi- consoli- adjust- adjust- Dec. 31,
In millions of euros 2005 tions tions) sions) dation ments ments Other 2006
Pensions and other
employee benefit
obligations 3,942.4 67.4 (197.2) (5.1) (839.6) 78.5 (14.1) (234.8) 2,797.5
Reprocessing and
storage of nuclear fuels 2,875.5 100.4 (86.5) 0.0 0.0 141.7 0.0 0.0 3,031.1
Sector-related risks 188.0 153.4 (58.5) (20.4) 7.2 0.0 0.0 (9.2) 260.4
Dismantling of plant
and equipment 1,717.2 16.2 (10.4) (0.6) (0.1) 86.8 0.8 10.8 1,820.7
Warranties 75.9 40.7 (38.2) (5.2) (3.5) 0.0 (1.4) (3.0) 65.3
Disputes, claims and
tax risks 650.2 113.8 (157.6) (24.6) (140.9) 0.0 (33.3) (4.6) 403.0
Site rehabilitation 447.4 54.8 (46.6) (0.8) 6.6 15.7 2.3 6.5 485.9
Restructuring costs 132.0 32.0 (68.8) (6.0) (12.2) 1.4 (0.1) 2.5 80.8
Other contingencies 814.5 264.5 (343.9) (53.0) 56.5 11.3 (0.9) 91.9 841.1
Total provisions 10,843.1 843.2 (1,007.8) (115.7) (925.9) 335.5 (46.6) (139.9) 9,785.8
The changes in scope of consolidation of €(839.6) million in The “Other” column notably includes, in respect of pensions
provisions for pensions and other employee benefit obligations and other employee benefit obligations, a negative amount of
mainly reflects the restructuring of the Belgian distribution sector €121.5 million relating to Electrabel, representing the change in
(see Note 3.2 for further information). reimbursement rights from the mixed inter-municipal companies
in respect of distribution personnel, and a negative amount of
The impact of unwinding discount adjustments in respect of
€54.4 million concerning actuarial gains and losses generated in
pensions and other employee benefit obligations relates to the
2006 and recognized in equity.
interest cost on the pension obligations, net of the expected return
on plan assets.
Allocations, reversals and changes relating to unwinding the discount are presented as follows in the income statement:
The different types of provisions and the calculation principles applied are described below.
23.2 Reprocessing and storage of nuclear fuels, and The main plant and equipment concerned are nuclear power
dismantling of plant and equipment stations, for which the provision covers all dismantling-related
costs, including:
Reprocessing and storage of nuclear fuels
• removal of spent nuclear fuel, drainage of liquid systems,
When nuclear fuel is removed from a reactor, it remains radioactive disconnection of operating systems:
and requires treatment. This provision covers all the costs related
to the reprocessing cycle for the volume of nuclear fuel consumed • full dismantling of the reactor core and biological shielding;
at year-end, including costs incurred through on-site storage, • full dismantling of the reactor and removal of all radioactive
transportation, fuel reprocessing by an approved centre, and finally material.
storage and disposal of the waste fuel after treatment.
In accordance with an agreement with the Belgian Government,
The provision is based on actual internal costs incurred and on the costs of dismantling nuclear power stations are estimated every
external costs determined on the basis of signed contracts with five years on the basis of a detailed analysis carried out by an
third parties, such as independent transporters, reprocessing and independent expert. The most recent analysis was performed in
storage companies, or on the basis of detailed pricing proposals 2003.
received from independent bodies. These estimates are based on
current technical reprocessing capabilities. Actual costs incurred Electricity and Gas Monitoring Committee
in the future may vary compared with the estimates used. Over the The Electricity and Gas Monitoring Committee set up in 2004
period from 1979 to date, the costs of reprocessing nuclear fuel in accordance with the Belgian law of April 11, 2003 governing
have tended generally to reduce over time thanks to improvements provisions for dismantling nuclear power stations and managing
in technology and increases in reprocessing capacity. However radioactive and fissile materials, is responsible for controlling the
this trend is no indication as to the likely future changes in these process for recording provisions in relation to these commitments.
costs. This process will be reviewed every three years. In February 2005,
The provision has been calculated based on the assumption that the Committee approved the methods for measuring and recording
all nuclear fuel used will be reprocessed. Spent fuel produced dismantling provisions and provisions related to downstream
subsequent to 1989 is currently stored on-site and has not yet operations.
been reprocessed. A second option would be for the nuclear fuel To allow the Monitoring Committee to carry out its work in
to be disposed of after storage and appropriate conditioning, in accordance with the above-mentioned law, Synatom is required
an underground facility. The Belgian government has not yet to send the Committee a report every three years describing the
definitively prescribed this option and it is not clear when the core inputs to be used to calculate these provisions.
final decision will be made. It is extremely difficult to estimate the
potential costs of this option given that the process, timetable, and At December 31, 2006, the provisions recognized were determined
location for storage are not yet known. Based on currently available on the basis of the inputs and elements set out in Synatom’s
information, it is unlikely that the costs to be accrued if the nuclear January 2004 report to the Monitoring Committee, as approved
fuel were permanently stored would have a material impact on the by said Committee on January 25, 2005.
valuation of the provision. A new report was submitted by Synatom on January 15, 2007.
The provision is calculated to incorporate all existing or planned Since the Monitoring Committee may announce its decision on
environmental regulatory requirements issued on a European, the report after a certain period of time, the review process was
national and regional level. If additional legislation were to be still in progress at the date of preparation of the 2006 financial
introduced in the future, the cost estimates used as a basis for statements. Notwithstanding the above, the new recommendations
the calculation could vary. However, the Group is not aware of do not change the core inputs set out in the previous report,
additional planned legislation which would materially impact the namely the estimation methods, financial parameters and
value of the provision. management scenarios to be used. The changes recommended
seek to incorporate economic data and the latest detailed analyses
Based on current forecasts for the operating lives of nuclear power
20
into the calculation, and would not therefore call into question the
stations, nuclear reprocessing and storage costs will be incurred provisions as determined at year-end.
approximately through to 2080. The present value of the cost of
the liability is based on a 5% discount rate, in line with long-term, Provisions for legal and constructive obligations to dismantle
risk-free interest rates. conventional power stations and to restore sites are also measured
on the basis of the most suitable technical and budgetary
Dismantling of plant and equipment estimates.
Certain plant and equipment, primarily including conventional An allocation to provisions is recorded after the item of plant or
and nuclear power stations, have to be dismantled at the end of equipment has been commissioned, and throughout its useful life,
their operational lives. This obligation is the result of prevailing to reflect the passage of time. The offsetting asset (see Note 1.E)
environmental regulations in the countries concerned, contracts, is depreciated on a straight-line basis.
or an implicit Group commitment.
Note 24
Pensions and other employee benefit obligations
24.1 Description of the main pension plans and “Wage-rated” employees recruited after June 1, 2002 and
related benefits managerial staff recruited after May 1, 1999 are covered under
defined contribution plans. However, for contributions paid since
24.1.1 Companies belonging to the Electricity and Gas January 1, 2004, Belgian law specifies a minimum average annual
sector in Belgium return of 3.25% over the beneficiary’s service life. Any deficit has
In Belgium, the rights of employees in Electricity and Gas sector to be borne by the employer. Therefore, for the portion of pension
companies, principally Electrabel, ECS, Distrigaz, Fluxys and obligations corresponding to contributions paid since January 1,
Laborelec, and some SUEZ-Tractebel SA employee categories, 2004, these plans should be considered as defined benefit plans.
are governed by collective bargaining agreements. Returns on the contributions paid since 2004 far exceed the
minimum average annual return of 3.25%.
These agreements, applicable to “wage-rated” employees
recruited prior to June 1, 2002 and managerial staff recruited The Electricity and Gas sector companies also grant other employee
prior to May 1, 1999, specify the benefits entitling employees to benefits such as the reimbursement of medical expenses, electricity
a supplementary pension equivalent to 75% of their most recent and gas price reductions, as well as jubilee benefits and early
annual income, for a full career and in addition to the statutory retirement schemes. These benefits are not pre-funded.
pension. These supplements, which are provided under defined
The valuation of obligations takes into account, within the
benefit plans, are partly reversionary. In practice, the benefits have
framework of the current regulatory context and of the collective
20 to be paid in the form of a lump sum for the majority of plan
participants.
bargaining agreements in force, the methods used by the electricity
and gas supply sector in Belgium (see Note 1.P). With regard to the
Most of the obligations resulting from these pension plans are separation of production and distribution activities, the breakdown
financed through pension funds set up for the Electricity and Gas of obligations has been reviewed and the ensuing consequences
sector and by certain insurance companies. were taken into account at December 31, 2006.
Pre-funded pension plans are financed by employer and employee The projected benefit obligation relating to these plans represents
contributions. Employer contributions are calculated annually around 48% of the total pension obligations and related liabilities
based on actuarial assessments, in order to verify that the minimum at December 31, 2006.
legal financing requirements are met and that the benefits will be
financed in the long-term.
24.1.2 Companies belonging to the Electricity and Gas and other long-term benefits such as jubilee and other long-service
Industries (EGI) sector in France awards.
The pension plan for the statutory agents of companies belonging Benefits granted under defined benefit plans are allocated in
to the EGI sector in France is partly covered by the legislation the form of a lump sum paid upon the employee’s retirement or
governing mandatory state pension plans within the meaning of the annuities, both of which are generally based on the final salary
French Social Security Code. The Group companies participating in and length of service.
this plan are CPCU, SMEG, TIRU, GEG, CNR and, more recently,
SHEM. In the United States and United Kingdom, the annuities paid on
retirement are generally determined as a percentage of the final
Since January 1, 2005, the Caisse Nationale des Industries salary.
Electriques et Gazières (CNIEG) has operated the pension,
disability, life, industrial accident and occupational illness benefit In France, retirement bonuses are paid to employees, and the
plans for EGI sector companies. Salaried employees and retirees amount, set by the applicable collective bargaining agreement, is
of EGI sector companies have been automatically affiliated to the defined in terms of a number of months’ salary calculated based
CNIEG since January 1, 2005. on the employee’s length of service at retirement. Certain French
subsidiaries also offer supplementary defined benefit plans that
At January 1, 2005, the pension plan of EGI sector companies was guarantee a level of annuity upon retirement.
incorporated into the statutory pension system, as well as into the
ARRCO and AGIRC plans (mandatory supplementary pension Defined benefit pension plans may be fully or partly pre-funded
schemes). The EGI sector companies are affiliated to the state plan by employer contributions to a pension fund (as is the case in the
on a “full integration” basis1. In respect of the ARRCO and AGIRC United States, and United Kingdom) or a dedicated fund managed
plans, the EGI sector companies have opted for “minimum by an insurance company (France). With the exception of the
integration”2. United States, other employee benefit plans and other long-term
benefits are generally not pre-funded.
Benefits in excess of those granted by the statutory pension system
are known as “specific benefits” (droits spécifiques). These are For the record, Lydec’s pension obligations were transferred in
defined benefits financed in accordance with the French law 2004 to the RCAR, which is the compulsory retirement scheme
of August 9, 2004. The financing is structured differently for for the company’s business sector and is classified as a state plan.
past specific benefits (corresponding to the periods prior to Accordingly, they are treated as a defined contribution plan for
December 31, 2004) and future specific benefits (corresponding which no provision is required.
to periods after December 31, 2004).
24.1.4 Multi-employer plans
The law of August 9, 2004 and its implementing decrees Some companies, notably in the Netherlands, participate in multi-
separate out past specific benefits relating to the different EGI employer pension plans. Multi-employer plans can be classified
sector companies into (i) benefits relating to electricity and natural as either defined contribution or defined benefit plans, depending
gas transport and distribution services (“regulated past specific on the terms and conditions applicable to the plan (and any
benefits” – droits spécifiques passés régulés), and (ii) benefits constructive obligation beyond the formal terms and conditions
relating to other activities (“other non-regulated past specific of the plan).
benefits” – autres droits spécifiques passés non régulés).
Where no information is available on the share of the underlying
A levy on electricity and natural gas transmission and distribution financial position and the performance attributable to each
services was introduced, the proceeds of which are channeled participating employer, or on any surplus or shortfall that could
into the CNIEG scheme in order to fund regulated past specific affect future levels of contributions, these multi-employer plans are
benefits. treated as defined contribution plans in accordance with IAS 19.
Other non-regulated past specific benefits are financed by the EGI
sector companies as stipulated by the decree. For each company, 24.2 Impact of the change in accounting method
the allocation mainly depends on the 2004 payroll and employees’
length of service under EGI sector status. Provisions must therefore
be set up for each company in respect of these benefits.
SUEZ now recognizes in equity the full amount of any actuarial
gains and losses resulting from defined benefit post-employment
20
plans, as permitted by the December 2004 amendment to IAS 19
Future specific benefits are wholly funded by each company pro (see Note 1.P.1 concerning the accounting policies applicable to
rata to its share of the plan’s total payroll, and are therefore fully pensions and other employee benefit obligations).
covered by a provision.
24.1.3 Other companies 1. The French statutory pension scheme is liable for all past benefits,
in exchange for a balancing cash adjustment (soulte) designed to
Most of other Group companies also grant their staff other maintain its stability following the affiliation of EGI sector personnel.
employee benefit plans (pension and early retirement plans, 2. The ARRCO and AGIRC plans are liable for their portion of past
retirement indemnities, medical coverage, benefits in kind, etc.) benefits, allocated using a coefficient calculated in such a way as to
prevent instability in these schemes following the affiliation of EGI
sector personnel. In this case, no balancing cash payment is due.
The impact of these retrospective adjustments on the financial statements are as follows:
The tables below have been adjusted to present comparative data for fiscal years 2004 and 2005.
20
Accrued benefit liability (2,019.6) (777.4) (2,797.0) (2,905.1) (1,037.3) (3,942.4) (2,835.6) (880.8) (3,716.4)
Prepaid benefit cost 18.7 2.6 21.3 29.9 3.2 33.1 28.9 3.1 32.0
(a) Pensions and retirement bonuses.
(b) Long-service awards, healthcare and other employee benefits.
Actuarial gains and losses recognized in equity amount to €310.6 million in 2006 compared to €365 million in 2005.
SUEZ Group’s obligations as presented above are grossed up with All related personnel costs (including pension costs) are billed
the reimbursement rights resulting from the pension obligations by Electrabel to the mixed inter-municipal companies based on
of the mixed inter-municipal companies and against the portion actual costs.
of plan assets held by Contassur following its reclassification as a
In light of Electrabel’s right to reimbursement from the mixed
related party1.
inter-municipal companies, pension obligations in relation to
Obligations towards employees of Electrabel’s distribution business distribution employees (€377.9 million at December 31, 2006)
are covered by a reimbursement right granted by the mixed inter- are subsequently grossed up with the receivable recognized as an
municipal companies. As explained in Note 1.P to the consolidated asset in the same amount.
financial statements, the mixed inter-municipal companies do
This item decreased significantly in 2006 due to the transfer of
not employ any staff and use Electrabel’s distribution services,
distribution employees to Eandis.
skills and experience for the day-to-day operation of the networks.
Changes in the fair value of Electrabel’s reimbursement rights during 2006 may be summarized as follows:
In respect of Contassur, the modifications to IAS 19 in 2000 and to recognize them as reimbursement rights under assets on
concerning the notion of related parties led the Group to gross up the balance sheet. This operation had no impact on the income
its pension obligations against the plan assets held by Contassur, statement.
20
Changes in the fair value of the reimbursement rights relating to Contassur during 2006 may be summarized as follows:
Reimbursement rights are recorded in the balance sheet under “Other assets”.
Total net
obligations (1,615.8) 10.8 (1,170.6) (2,775.6) (2,649.7) 28.6 (1,288.2) (3,909.3) (3,715.1) 30.7 NA (3,684.4)
20
In addition, the amount recorded under financial loss includes depending on the investment practices specific to the country
a positive €26 million relating to changes in receivables concerned. The investment strategies underlying these defined
(reimbursement rights) from the mixed inter-municipal companies benefit plans are aimed at striking the right balance between return
and from Contassur. on investment and reducing the related risks.
• to achieve a long-term return on investment that is at least equal assets are invested with an insurance company, the latter manages
to the future returns expected by plan participants. the investment portfolio and generally guarantees a rate of return
on the related assets. The insurer’s sole obligation in this case is
When plan assets are invested in pension funds, investment
to ensure a fixed minimum return on the plan assets.
decisions and the allocation of plan assets are the responsibility of
the fund manager concerned. For French companies, where plan
The allocation of plan assets by principal asset category can be analyzed as follows:
According to the Group’s estimates, a +/-1% change in the discount • the rate of return on equities includes a risk premium of 3%
rate would result in a change in obligations of approximately compared with the bond yields;
7.5%.
• the premium included in the rate of return on real estate assets
The expected return on plan assets, calculated based on prevailing corresponds to a 1% risk premium, calculated pro rata to the
market conditions, are as follows: expected return on equities.
• bond yield rates correspond to yields on government bonds, The assumptions used for healthcare cost trend rates (including
which are consistent with current yields on inflation-indexed inflation) are 3.3% for 2007, 2008 and 2009, and 3.2% for 2010
bonds; and 2011.
20
The breakdown of experience adjustments giving rise to actuarial gains and losses is as follows:
A one percentage point change in assumed healthcare cost rates would have the following impacts:
20
Note 25
Financial liabilities
The Group’s financial liabilities are classified under the following categories at December 31, 2006:
Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Non- Non- Non- Non-
In millions of euros current Current Total current Current Total current Current Total current Current Total
Borrowings 13,000.6 6,678.5 19,679.1 16,406.9 9,079.9 25,486.8 16,708.7 4,214.7 20,923.4 16,251.6 4,001.5 20,253.1
Derivative
instruments
(including
commodity
derivatives) 711.7 3,369.5 4,081.2 2,191.7 5,188.9 7,380.6 600.7 1,340.0 1,940.7 - - -
Trade and other
payables - 9,209.4 9,209.4 - 10,078.8 10,078.8 - 9,199.0 9,199.0 - 9,204.2 9,204.2
Other financial
liabilities 467.5 467.5 858.5 858.5 442.5 442.5 443.1 - 443.1
25.1 Borrowings
Borrowings are analyzed in Note 26 “Net debt”.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005
Derivatives hedging borrowings 139.5 264.5 427.5
Commodity derivatives 3,915.7 7,090.1 1,395.1
Derivatives hedging other items 26.0 26.0 118.1
These instruments are put in place as part of the Group’s risk management policy and are analyzed in Note 27.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Trade payables 6,833.6 7,684.6 6,853.2 6,858.4
Advances and down-payments received 601.0 524.3 282.0 282.0 20
Payable on fixed assets 940.8 1,016.1 1,210.5 1,210.5
Concession liabilities 133.6 141.3 148.4 148.4
Capital renewal and replacement liabilities 700.4 712.5 704.9 704.9
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Payables relating to the acquisition of securities 331.1 722.1 21.5 22.1
Other 136.4 136.4 421.0 421.0
Other financial liabilities chiefly relate to a liability in respect of a Fer Français (SNCF). This amount comprised (i) the deferred
counterparty resulting from the put option granted by Electrabel acquisition of a 40% tranche of Société Hydro-Electrique du
to minority shareholders for 33.2% of Compagnie Nationale du Midi (SHEM) securities; and (ii) the additional put option granted
Rhone (CNR)’s share capital. As the interest was fully consolidated by Electrabel on 19.6% of SHEM’s capital. In December 2006,
at December 31, 2006, this undertaking is recognized under other SNCF’s payment of the 40% tranche was carried out concomitantly
financial liabilities (see Note 1.J.). with the exercise of the put option. The commitments were settled
and at the balance sheet date, Electrabel holds 99.6% of SHEM’s
The exercise of these options is contingent on the abrogation of
share capital.
the French Murcef law. Electrabel also holds a corresponding call
option on the same interest, as part of the agreement entered into At December 31, 2005, other financial liabilities also included an
by both parties. amount of €179 million relating to goodwill on energy distribution
activities that were deregulated in Flanders, as well as €44 million
At December 31, 2005, this item included an amount of
in respect of the conditional earn-out payable for CNR’s securities.
€498 million in respect of Société Nationale des Chemins de
These liabilities were settled in 2006.
20
Note 26
Net debt
Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Non- Non- Non- Non-
In millions of euros current Current Total current Current Total current Current Total current Current Total
Outstanding
borrowings 13,031.4 6,468.0 19,499.4 16,271.5 8,792.3 25,063.8 16,459.8 4,048.7 20,508.5 16,438.4 3,880.7 20,319.1
Impact of
measurement at
amortized cost (45.0) 207.6 162.6 (21.1) 216.8 195.7 56.0 139.3 195.3 (186.8) 120.8 (66.0)
Impact of fair
value hedge(a) 14.2 2.9 17.1 156.5 70.8 227.3 192.9 26.7 219.6 0.0 0.0 0.0
Borrowings 13,000.6 6,678.5 19,679.1 16,406.9 9,079.9 25,486.8 16,708.7 4,214.7 20,923.4 16,251.6 4,001.5 20,253.1
Derivatives
hedging
borrowings in a
liability position(b)
(see Note 25.2) 122.8 16.7 139.5 206.8 57.6 264.4 168.2 259.3 427.5 0.0 0.0 0.0
Gross debt 13,123.4 6,695.2 19,818.6 16,613.7 9,137.5 25,751.2 16,876.9 4,474.0 21,350.9 16,251.6 4,001.5 20,253.1
Available-for-sale
securities 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (1,424.5) (1,424.5) 0.0 (1,232.7) (1,232.7)
Financial assets at
fair value through
income (see Note
19.5) 0.0 (833.0) (833.0) 0.0 (885.6) (885.6) 0.0 (420.3) (420.3) 0.0 (412.9) (412.9)
Cash and cash
equivalents 0.0 (7,946.3) (7,946.3) 0.0 (10,374.4) (10,374.4) 0.0 (6,886.2) (6,886.2) 0.0 (6,911.6) (6,911.6)
Derivatives
hedging
borrowings in an
asset position(b)
(see Note 19.2) (570.0) (20.7) (590.7) (670.3) (12.3) (682.6) (826.6) (158.5) (985.1) 0.0 0.0 0.0
Net cash (570.0) (8,800.0) (9,370.0) (670.3) (11,272.3) (11,942.6) (826.6) (8,889.5) (9,716.1) 0.0 (8,557.2) (8,557.2)
Net debt 12,553.4 (2,104.8) 10,448.6 15,943.4 (2,134.8) 13,808.6 16,050.3 (4,415.5) 11,634.8 16,251.6 (4,555.7) 11,695.9
Outstanding
borrowings 13,031.4 6,468.0 19,499.4 16,271.5 8,792.3 25,063.8 16,459.8 4,048.7 20,508.5 16,438.4 3,880.7 20,319.1
Available-for-sale
securities 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 (1,424.5) (1,424.5) 0.0 (1,232.7) (1,232.7)
Financial assets at
fair value through
income (see Note
19.5) 0.0 (833.0) (833.0) 0.0 (885.6) (885.6) 0.0 (420.3) (420.3) 0.0 (412.9) (412.9)
Cash and cash
equivalents 0.0 (7,946.3) (7,946.3) 0.0 (10,374.4) (10,374.4) 0.0 (6,886.2) (6,886.2) 0.0 (6,911.6) (6,911.6)
20
Net debt excluding
the impact of
derivative financial
instruments and
amortized cost 13,031.4 (2,311.3) 10,720.1 16,271.5 (2,467.7) 13,803.8 16,459.8 (4,682.3) 11,777.5 16,438.4 (4,676.5) 11,761.9
(a) This item corresponds to the revaluation of the interest rate component of debt in a designated fair value hedging relationship.
(b) This item represents the fair value of debt-related derivatives irrespective of whether or not they are designated as hedges. It also includes instruments
designated as net investment hedges (see Notes 25.2 and 19.2).
26.1 Cash management Cash surpluses are pooled as part of the Group’s policy of
maintaining the liquidity of its portfolio while ensuring that
Short-term cash requirements and cash surpluses are managed
returns are higher than on risk-free funds. Cash surpluses are
by dedicated financial vehicles in Paris and in the Grand Duchy
mainly invested in time deposits, UCITS and negotiable debt
of Luxembourg (SUEZ Finance SA, Tractebel Cash Management
instruments.
Services, Electrabel Finance & Treasury Management) for Europe,
and in Houston, Texas (SUEZ Finance LP) for North America. Any residual balance after utilization within the Group is invested
These vehicles manage virtually all of the cash requirements with leading counterparties selected based on their rating and the
and surpluses of the companies controlled by SUEZ. In 2006, Group’s knowledge of such counterparties, with the aim of ensuring
an electronic pooling system was set up for Europe to ensure a maximum liquidity at minimum risk.
standardized cash pooling process.
At December 31, 2006, no single counterparty represented more
than 12% of cash surplus investments.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Net debt 10,448.6 13,808.6 11,634.8 11,695.9
Total equity 22,563.8 18,823.2 13,069.9 12,828.2
Debt/equity ratio 46.3% 73.4% 89.0% 91.2%
Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
In millions of euros Gross Net Gross Net Gross Net Gross Net
SEE 3,790.2 (680.9) 3,918.2 (3,287.2) 2,547.2 (1,681.2) 2,502.7 (1,710.4)
SEI 2,619.2 1,718.4 2,941.7 1,519.8 2,809.8 1,965.9 2,667.6 2,086.7
SES 1,189.2 546.1 1,148.1 515.4 1,194.2 701.5 1,189.6 702.3
SE 4,127.6 3,218.8 4,588.1 3,609.2 4,580.3 3,800.1 4,521.7 3,753.0
Other 8,092.4 5,646.2 13,155.1 11,451.4 10,219.4 6,848.5 9,371.5 6,864.3
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
SEE (3,655.8) (3,688.1) (2,284.9) (2,314.9)
20 SEI
SES
4,767.9
241.9
6,184.3
607.3
6,537.0
658.3
6,670.6
659.1
SE 3,854.2 3,844.7 4,512.2 4,474.2
Other 5,240.4 6,860.4 2,212.2 2,206.9
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Jan. 1, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Bond issues 9,632.7 8,959.3 10,606.4 10,606.3
Commercial paper 1,650.7 2,520.8 1,108.1 1,108.1
Withdrawals on credit facilities 1,082.1 5,495.1 955.1 961.3
Liabilities under finance leases 1,194.4 1,251.3 1,274.4 1,275.9
Other bank borrowings 4,135.0 5,639.4 5,278.6 5,270.1
Other borrowings 682.6 424.1 463.5 464.1
Total borrowings 18,377.5 24,290.0 19,686.1 19,685.8
Bank overdrafts and current accounts 1,121.9 773.8 822.4 633.3
Outstanding borrowings 19,499.4 25,063.8 20,508.5 20,319.1
Available-for-sale securities 0.0 0.0 (1,424.5) (1,232.7)
Financial assets at fair value through income (833.0) (885.6) (420.3) (412.9)
Cash and cash equivalents (7,946.3) (10,374.4) (6,886.2) (6,911.6)
Cash and cash equivalents include restricted cash of €138 million at December 31, 2006 and €269 million at December 31, 2005.
20
Outstanding borrowings 19,499.4 6,468.2 931.8 3,760.3 2,715.0 664.3 4,959.8
Cash and cash equivalents (7,946.3) (7,946.3) 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Financial assets at fair value through income (833.0) (823.7) (1.5) (2.9) 0.0 0.0 (4.9)
The Group uses centralized financial vehicles for its external and covenants will not have any impact on the financing set up in
financing. The liabilities carried by these entities are not subject relation to the financial vehicles.
to covenants based on financial and accounting ratios.
At December 31, 2006, there were no outstanding defaults on
As regards financing carried by operating entities, the Group the Group’s consolidated debt. All Group companies comply with
may set up bank facilities whose availability and drawdowns are the covenants and representations stipulated in their financial
contingent on compliance with financial ratios by the borrowing documents, with the exception of a debt-service coverage ratio
entity or the entity guaranteeing the borrowings. on a debt of €2.5 million (which is not in default) and the non-
compliance with a covenant relating to insurance cover on two
The level and definition of these ratios are set prospectively in
projects for which a waiver is currently being discussed.
conjunction with lenders and are sometimes readjusted during
the life of the facilities. Any failure to comply with these ratios
20
In millions of euros
Total 8,566.2
Of these undrawn programs, €1,650.7 million are allocated to bilateral credit lines maturing in 2010. These lines are not subject
covering commercial paper issues. to ratios or credit ratings.
Confirmed undrawn credit lines mainly include a €4,500 million At December 31, 2006, no single counterparty represented more
syndicated credit facility maturing in 2012, as well as several than 8.6% of the Group’s confirmed undrawn credit facilities.
Net debt
Including the impact of derivative financial instruments Excluding the impact of derivative financial instruments
Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Jan. 1, Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Dec. 31, Jan. 1, Dec. 31,
In millions of euros 2006 2005 2005 2004 2006 2005 2005 2004
Floating rate 11,099.8 16,226.9 11,613.1 11,423.4 8,844.7 13,644.7 6,915.1 6,933.8
High 14.4% 20.9% 21.6% 21.6% 14.4% 20.9% 21.6% 21.6%
Low 0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1% 0.1%
Weighted average 4.7% 3.7% 3.6% 3.6% 4.3% 3.5% 3.7% 3.7%
Fixed rate 8,399.6 8,836.9 8,895.4 8,895.7 10,654.7 11,419.1 13,593.4 13,385.3
High 13.9% 18.2% 17.3% 17.3% 16.8% 18.2% 21.3% 21.3%
Low 0.1% 0.1% 0.0% 0.0% 0.1% 0.1% 0.0% 0.0%
Weighted average 5.8% 5.6% 5.0% 5.0% 5.7% 5.5% 5.4% 5.4%
20 Floating interest rates are generally linked to interbank rates offered was 5.3% at December 31, 2006 versus 4.4% at December 31,
in the relevant currency zones. The weighted average interest rate 2005 and 4.3% at December 31, 2004.
applied to bank overdrafts was at December 31, 2006, 2.8%,
Cash and cash equivalents are mainly subject to floating rates.
versus 2.6% at December 31, 2005, and 2.8% at December 31,
2004. The weighted average interest rate applied to long-term debt
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Market value 19,671.5 25,158.4 21,546.4
Carrying amount 19,228.5 25,069.1 20,071.8
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Market value 20,122.0 25,576.2 21,191.0
Carrying amount 19,679.1 25,486.8 20,072.0
Personal securities cover the repayment of principal and interest before the balance sheet date under which the related funds will
on borrowings and long-term debt not carried in the Group’s not be available until the beginning of the following period.
consolidated balance sheet. Unlike collateral, these guarantees
“Other guarantees received” include all types of financing
do not involve the pledge of an asset (see Notes 16.3, 19.6 and
guarantees but relate mainly to counter-guarantees granted by
19.7).
Arbed to Electrabel in connection with a capital investment loan
Commitments related to financing mainly concern confirmed taken out by Twinerg.
undrawn credit facilities given and received, and loans contracted
20
Note 27
Derivative instruments and market-related exposures
27.1 Purpose of derivative instruments off commitments) where commodities are usually settled in US
dollars and pounds sterling. The related cash flows are generally
The Group uses derivative instruments mainly to manage its
hedged by forward exchange rate agreements.
exposure to changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates,
commodity prices and the price of certain listed equities. With Taking account of financial instruments, 48% of net debt is
the exception of specific commodity trading contracts, these denominated in euros, 32% in US dollars and 7% in pounds
instruments are used in economic hedging relationships, even sterling at the end of 2006, compared to 49% in euros, 37% in
though they may not qualify as hedges of liabilities or cash flows US dollars and 3% in pounds sterling at the end of 2005.
for accounting purposes.
Interest rate risk
The Group’s main exposure to interest rate risk arises from loans
27.2 Counterparty risk and borrowings denominated in euros and US dollars, which
Cash surpluses are invested and financial instruments negotiated represent 80% of net debt at December 31, 2006.
with leading international banks. The Group deals with a diverse
The Group seeks to reduce financing costs by minimizing the
range of counterparties who are selected based on the Group’s
impact of interest rate fluctuations on its income statement.
knowledge of them and their credit rating.
The Group’s aim is to achieve a balanced interest rate structure
In commodity trading, credit limits are set in line with counterparties’
in the medium term (5 years) by using a mixture of fixed rates,
credit rating. Where necessary, counterparty risk is reduced by
floating rates and capped floating rates for its net debt. The interest
means of letters of credit, security, and netting agreements.
rate mix may change in line with market trends.
At December 31, 2006, no single counterparty represented more than
In order to manage the interest rate profile of its net debt, the
22% of the notional amount of the financial instruments used.
Group uses hedging instruments, particularly interest swaps and
options.
27.3 Currency risk and interest rate risk At December 31, 2006, approximately 57% of the Group’s gross
Currency risk debt was at floating rates and 43% at fixed rates, after taking
The Group is exposed to financial statement translation risk due into account the impact of financial instruments. As substantially
to the geographical spread of its activities: its balance sheet and all cash surpluses are invested short-term, 78% of net debt at
income statement are impacted by changes in exchange rates upon December 31, 2006 was at fixed rates, which means that the
consolidation of the financial statements of its foreign subsidiaries Group is relatively insensitive to changes in interest rates in the
outside the euro zone. The Group’s exposure to translation risk short term.
results essentially from investments in companies in the United
Notional amounts and market value
States, Brazil and Thailand.
The following table shows the market value of financial instruments
The Group’s hedging policy with regard to investments in non-euro at December 31, 2006 and the notional amounts analyzed by
zone currencies consists of contracting liabilities denominated in maturity.
the same currency as the cash flows expected to flow from the
Notional amounts correspond to the nominal value of derivative
hedged assets.
instruments, which generally reflects the face value of the hedged
Contracting a liability in the same currency is the most natural form underlying item (assets, liabilities, future cash flows or firm
of hedging, although the Group also enters into foreign currency commitments hedged).
derivatives which allow it to artificially recreate a foreign currency
Notional amounts in foreign currencies are converted into euros at
Financial instruments held as hedges of interest rate and currency risks break down as follows:
In millions of euros Average rate 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 > 5 years Total Fair value
Interest rate swaps
– fixed-rate borrower 701.0 266.3 572.5 403.3 196.7 496.1 2,635.9 -11.3
EUR 5.9% 298.6 170.3 342.0 131.3 156.8 321.3 1,420.3 2.3
GBP 5.6% 1.4 15.6 1.8 150.7 1.7 19.4 190.6 -2.2
USD 4.9% 362.8 46.6 214.7 92.9 34.1 125.0 876.1 -8.2
Other currencies 7.0% 38.1 33.8 14.0 28.3 4.0 30.4 148.6 -3.2
Interest rate swaps
– fixed-rate lender 1,058.8 3.3 2,388.0 1,353.6 12.0 1,055.9 5,871.6 108.6
EUR 4.8% 1,058.8 3.3 2,342.4 1,353.6 12.0 1,055.9 5,826.0 108.6
USD 4.3% - - 45.6 - - - 45.6 -
Interest rate swaps
– floating/floating 141.7 - 303.7 - - - 445.4 1.0
EUR 0.0% 141.7 - - - - - 141.7 0.3
USD 0.0% - - 303.7 - - - 303.7 0.7
Futures Rate
Agreement – buyer 9.9 9.9 - - - - 19.8 -
EUR 7.0% 9.9 9.9 - - - - 19.8 -
Caps – buyer 96.8 3.7 981.1 600.0 - 1,160.0 2,841.6 38.5
EUR 4.5% 96.8 3.7 677.4 600.0 - 750.0 2,127.9 22.7
USD 4.3% - - 303.7 - - 410.0 713.7 15.8
Floors – buyer 45.0 35.0 - - - - 80.0 -
EUR 3.1% 45.0 35.0 - - - - 80.0 -
Collars – cap buyer/
floor seller (int. rate) - - - 60.7 - 45.6 106.3 2.1
USD 5.1%–2.8% - - - 60.7 - 45.6 106.3 2.1
Collars – cap seller/
floor buyer (int. rate) 4.2 4.8 5.5 - - - 14.5 0.1
EUR 4.2%–3.3% 4.2 4.8 5.5 - - - 14.5 0.1
Cross-currency swaps
(int. payments) -
borrower 77.1 54.7 541.6 255.2 - 702.8 1,631.4 294.0
GBP - - - 148.9 - - 148.9 -1.8
USD 28.8 23.1 541.6 106.3 - 702.8 1,402.6 287.3
Other currencies 48.3 31.6 - - - - 79.9 8.4 20
Cross-currency swaps
(int. payments) - lender 61.2 31.6 53.2 201.7 229.9 - 577.6 -1.8
EUR 42.3 - - 100.0 50.0 - 192.3 39.1
USD 19.0 - 53.2 83.5 - - 155.6 -32.7
Other currencies - 31.6 - 18.2 179.9 - 229.7 -8.2
In millions of euros Average rate 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 > 5 years Total Fair value
Forex swaps – borrower 1,242.4 65.0 53.6 - 57.2 2.3 1,420.4 28.5
GBP 403.8 26.6 - - - - 430.4 -3.8
USD 618.6 - 2.6 - 5.4 2.3 628.9 20.3
Other currencies 220.0 38.4 51.0 - 51.8 - 361.1 12.0
Forex swaps – lender 241.7 - - - - - 241.7 -0.6
GBP 56.8 - - - - - 56.8 0.0
USD 181.7 - - - - - 181.7 -0.6
Other currencies 3.3 - - - - - 3.3 -0.0
Forward contracts
– buyer 1,015.8 398.6 144.8 6.0 1.4 - 1,566.6 -32.8
EUR 174.9 - - - - - 174.9 1.8
GBP 259.1 25.5 - - - - 284.5 3.3
USD 565.8 342.5 144.8 6.0 1.4 - 1,060.5 -36.8
Other currencies 16.1 30.6 - - - - 46.7 -1.1
Forward contracts
– seller 650.9 175.4 25.5 5.8 5.7 48.1 911.5 37.0
EUR 10.1 5.7 5.7 5.7 5.7 48.1 80.9 20.6
GBP 218.6 8.2 - - - - 226.8 -3.6
USD 347.2 151.6 19.8 0.1 - - 518.8 19.7
Other currencies 75.0 9.9 0.0 - - - 85.0 0.3
Currency options
– purchased calls 3.1 - - - - - 3.1 0.0
USD 3.1 - - - - - 3.1 0.0
Currency options
– purchased puts 12.8 - - - - - 12.8 0.3
EUR 0.1 - - - - - 0.1 0.1
Other currencies 12.8 - - - - - 12.8 0.2
Currency options
– written puts 3.1 - - - - - 3.1 -0.0
USD 3.1 - - - - - 3.1 -0.0
Collars – purchased
call/written put
(currency) 8.5 0.6 - - - - 9.1 0.1
20 USD
Collars – written
8.5 0.6 - - - - 9.1 0.1
call/purchased put
(currency) 8.5 0.6 - - - - 9.1 -0.2
EUR 8.5 0.6 - - - - 9.1 -0.2
The fair value of these instruments is included in the calculation of of their share capital, the Group entered into a number of general
net debt for an amount of €451.2 million (€590.7 million in assets agreements with its local partners from 2002 onwards. These
– see Note 19.2; €139.5 million in liabilities – see Note 25.2). agreements were set up in light of the new regulatory environment
with a view to maintaining as far as possible the financial and
operational equilibrium that existed in the energy sector before
27.4 Equity derivatives the deregulation measures.
27.4.1 Derivatives on listed equity instruments Electrabel has undertaken to reduce its interest in line with certain
At December 31, 2006, the Group had not entered into any thresholds set by region. The conditions under which Electrabel
derivatives on listed equity instruments. will sell its interests in the mixed inter-municipal companies to its
local partners, and the timeframe for such transactions, have been
27.4.2 Derivatives on unlisted equity instruments defined separately according to each region.
The Group has entered into commitments to buy or sell equity
In 2006, all such commitments regarding the sale of interests in
instruments that are not quoted on an active market. These
commitments meet the definition of a derivative set out in IAS 32
and IAS 39.
Flemish mixed inter-municipal companies had been fulfilled. The
only outstanding commitments at year-end relate to interests in 20
mixed inter-municipal companies in Wallonia and Brussels.
The main commitments outstanding at December 31, 2006 are
The corresponding transactions will be carried out at the fair value
as follows.
of the assets concerned, with the aim of ensuring that each party is
Commitments regarding shares in mixed inter-municipal treated fairly in light of the respective benefits to be gained or lost in
companies relation to the previous situation. The new regulatory environment
In application of the legal and regulatory provisions providing for should maintain the economic equilibrium that existed before
the gradual deregulation of energy distribution activities previously deregulation. Accordingly, no valuation of the commitments
entrusted to mixed inter-municipal companies, as well as the undertaken needs to be performed.
reduction of Electrabel’s interest in said companies to below 50%
Natural gas and electricity (149.0) (166.7) (36.4) (21.0) (4.0) (377.1)
Swaps (178.4) (173.4) (40.6) (22.9) (4.9) (420.2)
Options
Forwards/futures 29.4 6.7 4.2 1.9 0.9 43.1
20
Natural gas and electricity (70.6) (40.1) (37.2) (39.4) (3.7) (191.0)
Swaps (56.4) (46.4) (40.3) (39.7) (3.3) (186.1)
Options
Forwards/futures (14.2) 6.3 3.1 0.3 (0.4) (4.9)
In accordance with IAS 39, cumulative gains and losses on cash underlying positions are sensitive to price movements and may
flow hedges recognized in equity are reclassified into income when also be modified by new transactions.
the hedged item affects income. The fair values taken to equity
are not representative of probable future cash flows because the
27.5.2 Trading activities In accordance with internal risk control procedures, the Group’s
risk management departments are responsible for fair value
The Group enters into spot and forward transactions for natural gas,
calculations, and for managing market and credit risks. These
electricity and various oil products on organized markets and over-
departments are completely independent from the dealing
the-counter. It also offers commodity risk management services
teams who initiate and actively manage commodity positions.
to customers. These transactions are executed in Europe and the
Fair values and risk exposures are calculated on a daily basis.
United States using various instruments. Derivative instruments
Information about the credit quality of the Group’s energy trading
used include: (a) futures contracts involving physical delivery of
counterparties is collected and assessed daily and credit limits are
an energy commodity; (b) swaps providing for payments to or
systematically adjusted based on financial data concerning these
by counterparties of an amount corresponding to the difference
counterparties.
between a fixed and variable price for the commodity; and (c)
options and other contracts. The Group uses commodity derivatives The contribution of trading activities to consolidated income from
to optimize the prices offered to customers and also in connection operating activities was €151 million in 2006, versus €105 million
with proprietary trading positions. in 2005. The contribution of trading activities corresponds to the
net margin on these transactions after brokerage fees.
Notional amounts
The following table shows the notional amount of these instruments, expressed in MMBTU (millions of British Thermal Units – the standard
conversion unit for energy contracts):
20 Options
Forwards/futures (0.6)
Total 39.6
* Long position/(short position).
The above notional amounts reflect the volume of open transactions amounts reported above for the various maturities are not indicative
and not the amounts exchanged between the parties in respect of probable future cash flows, because the positions may be
of the instruments. As a result, they are not an exact measure offset at any time on the market as part of the Group’s price risk
of the Group’s exposure to market or credit risks. The notional management policy, within the limit of available funds.
Fair value
The following table shows the fair values of derivative instruments used in energy trading activities at December 31, 2006, December 31,
2005 and December 31, 2004:
These fair values are not representative of probable future cash The table below shows the fair values of derivatives held by the
flows because the underlying positions are sensitive to price Group at December 31, 2006 as part of its energy trading activities,
movements and may also be modified by new transactions. analyzed by valuation method:
Total 103.2
See below – Method used to calculate the fair value of commodity derivatives.
20
Market risk transversal measure of risk taking all markets and products into
Value at Risk (VaR) account. Use of these methods requires the determination of key
In accordance with internal risk management procedures, market assumptions, notably selection of a confidence interval and a
risks are managed by the risk management teams. These teams holding period.
are completely independent from the dealing teams who initiate
Value at Risk (VaR) represents the maximum potential loss on a
and actively manage commodity positions. Trading activities expose
portfolio of assets over a given holding period based on a given
the Group to market risk resulting from unfavorable changes in
confidence interval. It is not an indication of expected results.
commodity and electricity prices. Market risks on commodity
The Group uses a 1-day holding period and a 95% confidence
and electricity positions are assessed, measured and managed
interval.
based on daily calculations of Value at Risk and other market risk
limits. The use of Value at Risk to quantify market risk provides a
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 2006 average(a) 2005 average(a) 2004 average(a) 2006 maximum(b) 2006 minimum(b)
Value at Risk 5.2 5.8 2.5 2.7 10.1 3.6
(a) Average of daily VaR figures.
(b) Based on month-end highs and lows observed in 2006.
27.5.3 Other commodity derivatives This mainly concerns contracts that are (i) used to manage the
20 The Group holds contracts providing for the physical delivery of the
goods, which comply with the definition of derivative instruments
Group’s overall exposure to certain market risks; (ii) entered into
for the purpose of taking advantage of differences in market prices
in order to increase Group margins; (iii) sale contracts qualified as
contained in IAS 39. These contracts fall within the scope of
written options under IAS 39; or (iv) contracts that the Group has
IAS 39 because they cannot be qualified as contracts entered
the practice of settling net.
into by the Group for the receipt or delivery of a non-financial
item in accordance with its expected purchase, sale or usage The Group also holds certain purchase and sale contracts providing
requirements, and could not be documented as effective hedging for the physical delivery of the goods, which are documented as
instruments. Consequently, they are measured at fair value, with being ”normal” purchases and sales but include clauses qualifying
changes in fair value taken to income. as embedded derivatives under IAS 39. For some of the contracts,
these clauses are recognized and measured separately from the
host contract with changes in fair value recognized in income. commodity from the one that is being delivered; (ii) indexation
Specifically, certain embedded derivatives have been recognized clauses based on foreign exchange rates that are not considered as
separately from host contracts containing (i) price clauses that link being closely linked to the host contract, or (iii) other clauses.
the contract price to changes in an index or the price of a different
Commodity derivatives 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 > 5 years Total
Economic hedges not qualifying for
hedge accounting under IAS 39 47.4 63.7 0.3 1.2 0.5 113.1
Arbitrage and optimization contracts 13.7 8.6 6.7 (0.0) 29.0
Other contracts qualifying as
derivatives (30.3) (17.4) (13.8) (11.5) (10.0) (17.3) (100.3)
Embedded derivatives 2.1 (3.2) 19.9 17.6 17.6 35.3 89.3
These fair values are not representative of probable future cash Credit risk reflects the loss that the Group would incur as a result of
flows because the underlying positions are sensitive to price the failure by counterparties to fulfill their contractual obligations.
movements and may also be modified by new transactions.
The risk is minimized by credit procedures and the Group’s risk
At December 31, 2006, 96.2% of the Group’s exposure to credit risk concerned counterparties rated investment grade:
2006
27.5.5 Method used to calculate the fair value 27.5.6 Mark-to-market on commodity contracts
of commodity derivatives other than trading instruments
The best indication of a contract’s fair value is the price that would Successive changes in the fair value of the foregoing commodity
be agreed between knowledgeable, willing parties in an arm’s derivatives are recognized under “Mark-to-market on commodity
length transaction. On the transaction date, fair value generally contracts other than trading instruments” within current operating
corresponds to the transaction price. Subsequently, fair value is income. Gains and losses on these instruments are presented in
determined based on observable market data, which provide the revenues (sale contracts) or within cost of purchases (purchase
most reliable indication of a change in the contract’s fair value. contracts), respectively.
Market data used by the Group include:
The contribution of commodity contracts other than trading
(a) Prices quoted on an organized market instruments to consolidated income from operating activities is a
Prices are available at the end of each trading day. Fair value gain of €17 million at December 31, 2006. This amount reflects
calculations performed based on the Black & Scholes method using changes during the period in the fair value of commodity contracts
prices quoted on an active market are considered as equivalent to other than trading instruments falling within the scope of IAS 39
market prices, if use of the Black & Scholes method represents a – Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement.
standard market practice. It breaks down as follows:
(b) Prices obtained from other external sources • to optimize their margins, certain Group companies have
For over-the-counter contracts, the Group primarily uses price implemented economic hedging strategies using forward
information provided by brokers. Prices reflect current economic contracts (with or without physical delivery of the underlying)
and regulatory conditions related to these markets and are traded on wholesale markets. These contracts aim to reduce
subject to short-term fluctuations triggered by changes in market the sensitivity of the Group’s margins to changes in commodity
conditions. The availability of listed prices on organized markets prices. However, as these contracts cover the entities’ net
varies depending on the period and the commodity. In periods exposure to price risk, they are not eligible for hedge accounting
when quoted prices are not available or when the market is not under IAS 39 – Financial Instruments: Recognition and
sufficiently liquid, fair value is estimated based on the prices on Measurement. Consequently, all changes in fair value of forward
organized markets or prices available on less liquid markets. The contracts in 2006 should be reflected in the income statement.
prices at which recent comparable transactions were executed Changes in the fair value of these positions therefore represent
by the Group are also taken into account in the measurement an opportunity gain rather than economic gain, and led to a net
process. gain of €27 million in 2006;
(c) Valuation models and other techniques • the Group offers capacity entitlements on the market at peak
The fair value of non-standard instruments is estimated using hours, by means of “Virtual Power Plant” auctions. These
models and other valuation techniques, reflecting the most contracts qualify as derivatives under IAS 39. Changes in the
appropriate available information. The techniques include option fair value of these options led to net gains of €31 million at
27.5.7 Contingent liabilities related to commodity future commitments, relating to contracts of SUEZ Energy Europe,
derivatives SUEZ Energy International and Elyo, are presented in the table
Certain Group operating companies have entered into long- below. They are valued at the closing spot rate or the price specified
term contracts and take-or-pay contracts. These consist of a in the contract if this is not exclusively based on market conditions,
firm commitment to purchase or sell specified quantities of discounted over their remaining life at a rate corresponding to
gas, electricity and steam and related services, in exchange for the yield to maturity of investment grade corporate bonds. The
a commitment from the other party to deliver or purchase said Group is also committed to purchasing and selling future services
quantities and services. These contracts have been documented as in connection with the performance of long-term contracts.
being excluded from the scope of application of IAS 39. The main
Dec. 31, Less than 1 More than 5 Dec. 31, Dec. 31,
In millions of euros 2006 year 1 to 5 years years 2005 2004
Firm purchases of commodities, fuel
and services 56,705.0 9,160.6 20,733.7 26,810.7 65,277.2 28,968.7
27.6 Country risk between the face value and market value of a USD-denominated
Brazilian government bond, in the event of a “credit event” (default,
During 2005, the Group considered that it would be appropriate to
restructuring, acceleration, etc.) affecting Brazil. The nominal
hedge its exposure to country risk with respect to its investments
amount of this protection is USD 300 million, of which USD 200
in Brazil. The underlying risk identified in this case corresponds to
million matures between March and September 2007, and USD
a potential sudden increase in sovereign credit spreads in Brazil
100 million matures in March 2009.
(e.g., further to a major economic or political crisis). This would
impact the value of the Group’s investments as the discount factors At December 31, 2006, the market value of these swaps, which do
used in calculations would be higher. In order to protect itself not meet the hedging documentation requirements under IAS 39,
against this country risk, the Group has purchased credit default is a negative €3 million (including the portion of outstanding
swaps. With these swaps, the Group pays a limited premium and premiums).
will receive a significant pay-off, corresponding to the difference
Note 28
Construction contracts
28.1 Construction contracts 2005 and 2006, IAS 18 is now considered applicable to certain SES
contracts previously accounted for as construction contracts.
In 2006, SUEZ refined its criteria for determining whether contracts
fall within the scope of IAS 11 – Construction Contracts. For 2004,
Figures in the tables shown below have been adjusted to reflect this change: 20
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Amounts due from customers under construction contracts 21.2 19.3 1.2
Amounts due to customers under construction contracts 203.2 225.3 157.4
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Cumulative income and expenses recognized 2,330.1 2,625.2 1,713.4
Advances received 77.8 60.6 39.8
“Amounts due from customers under construction contracts” and “Amounts due to customers under construction contracts” are presented
in the balance sheet within “Trade and other receivables, net” and “Trade and other payables, net”, respectively.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Performance bonds and delivery guarantees given on construction contracts 224.3 247.3 261.6
Other commitments given on construction contracts 25.5 26.0 71.2
Note 29
Finance leases
The main finance lease agreements entered into by the SUEZ Group primarily concern Elyo’s co-generation plants, Novergie’s incineration
facilities and the Choctaw power station in the US.
The present values of future minimum lease payments break down as follows:
The following table provides a reconciliation of maturities of liabilities under finance leases as reported in Note 26.4.1 with the maturities of
undiscounted future minimum lease payments:
Between year
2 and year 5
In millions of euros Total Year 1 inclusive Beyond year 5
Liabilities under finance leases 1,194.4 107.5 371.9 715.0
Discounting effect of future capital reimbursements and finance charges 540.3 46.0 144.9 349.4
The Group has recognized finance lease receivables in relation to its co-generation plants for Solvay, Total (Belgium), Bowin (Thailand)
and Air Products (the Netherlands).
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Undiscounted future minimum lease payments 464.5 518.2 517.4
Unguaranteed residual value accruing to the lessor 24.0 25.3 23.8
Amounts recognized in the balance sheet in connection with finance leases are detailed in Note 19.3 “Loans and receivables carried at
amortized cost”.
Note 30
Operating leases
20
Operating lease income and expense for 2006, 2005 and 2004 can be analyzed as follows:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Minimum lease payments (403.4) (379.6) (333.9)
Contingent lease payments (161.6) (161.2) (179.7)
Sub-letting income 4.1 0.2 0.0
Sub-letting expenses (2.5) (11.5) (10.8)
Other operating lease expenses (115.9) (93.8) (95.3)
Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases can be analyzed as follows:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Year 1 221.3 209.4 237.9
Between year 2 and year 5 inclusive 663.1 539.9 511.0
Beyond year 5 820.5 941.5 467.9
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Minimum lease payments 668.5 611.9 494.3
Contingent lease payments 43.1 52.4 48.5
Future minimum lease payments receivable under non-cancelable operating leases can be analyzed as follows:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Year 1 458.0 475.5 363.5
Between year 2 and year 5 inclusive 1,591.1 1,546.0 1,163.4
Beyond Year 5 2,487.3 2,859.6 2,344.9
Note 31
Concession contracts
SUEZ manages a large number of concessions as defined by A general obligation also exists to return the concession infrastructure
SIC 29 covering drinking water distribution, water treatment, waste in good working condition at the end of the concession. Where
collection and treatment, and electricity distribution. appropriate, this obligation leads to the recognition of a capital
As consideration for these obligations, SUEZ is entitled to Services are generally billed at a fixed price which is linked to
bill either the local authority granting the concession (mainly a particular index over the term of the contract. However, the
incineration activities and BOT water treatment contracts) or the contracts include price adjustment clauses (usually at the end of
users (distribution of drinking water or electricity) for the services a five-year period) if there is a change in the economic conditions
provided. The rights to bill for expenses incurred in extending or forecasted at the inception of the contracts. By exception, contracts
improving the concession infrastructure gives rise to a receivable exist in certain countries (e.g., United States and Spain), under
or an intangible asset, depending on the party responsible for which the price is fixed on a yearly basis according to the costs
payment (see Note 1.F). incurred in connection with the concession, which is therefore
recognized in assets (see Note 1.F).
Note 32
Cash flows
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Impact in the income statement (815.1) (585.3) (926.0)
- provisions for income taxes 5.8 8.6 (4.8)
- deferred tax 29.6 (162.0) 300.1
- other (205.7) 15.8 (98.6)
Impact in the cash flow statement (985.4) (722.9) (729.3)
The “Other” item mainly includes the €(265.9) million net variation of income tax payables and receivables, and a €56.2 million impact in
income tax expense relating to disposals.
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Impact in the income statement (731.0) (725.3) (1,079.1)
Changes in amortized cost 28.2 55.3 (107.5)
Exchange rate impacts and changes in fair value 64.5 (129.7) 71.5
Unwinding of discounting adjustments to provisions 340.4 330.0 339.2
Other (16.6) (8.1) (79.1)
Impact in the cash flow statement (314.5) (477.8) (855.0)
20
Note 33
Share-based payment
33.1 Stock option plans be exercised if, during the period from November 17, 2008 to
November 16, 2012, the SUEZ share price is equal to or greater
33.1.1 Stock option policy than the exercise price of €18.14, adjusted for the change in
The SUEZ stock option plan aims to closely involve executive and the Eurostoxx Utilities Index observed over the period from
senior management, as well as managers showing high potential, in November 17, 2004 to November 17, 2008.
the future development of the Company and in creating shareholder 2005 plan
value. The exercise of half of the stock subscription options granted to
The award of stock purchase or subscription options is also a mean the Group’s senior managers and members of the Group Executive
of fostering loyalty, taking into account contribution to strategic Committee (after deduction of approximately 10% of their options,
policies as well as adhesion to Group values. Conditions for the which are subject to the enhanced conditional system) is subject to
award of options and the list of beneficiaries are defined by the a performance condition. The options subject to this performance
Board of Directors in accordance with authorizations granted at condition may be exercised if, during the period from December 8,
Shareholders’ Meetings. 2009 to December 7, 2013, the SUEZ share price is equal to or
greater than the exercise price of €24.20, adjusted for the change
In 2005, stock options were awarded based on the wish of executive
in the Eurostoxx Utilities Index observed over the period from
management to maintain a growing base of beneficiaries, so as to
December 8, 2005 to December 8, 2009.
preserve the coherence of SUEZ’s policy in this area. The decision
taken in 2000 not to apply a discount when determining the option 2006/2007 plan
price was renewed in 2005. The exercise of half of the stock subscription options granted to
the Group’s senior managers and members of the Group Executive
In 2005 the Board of Directors decided to reduce the number of Committee (for the later ones, after deduction of approximately
options awarded and replace them in part by an award of bonus 10% of their options which are subject to the enhanced conditional
SUEZ shares. The bonus shares were awarded in the first half system) is subject to a performance condition which is identical
of 2006 to a higher number of employees than those eligible to to the 2005 one.
receive stock options.
Enhanced conditional system
No stock options were awarded in 2006. On the other hand, the
2004 plan
Board of Directors meeting of October 18, 2006, decided for the
Approximately 10% of the stock subscription options awarded
principle of an award of stock-options with an effective date of
to members of the Group Executive Committee are subject to
January 17, 2007.
a more demanding performance condition. After deduction of
Furthermore, the Board of Directors decided that the exercise of a this 10% portion, half of the remaining options are subject to
portion of options awarded would be subject to certain conditions, the conditional system above, and the other half are free from
provided for in the conditional system for senior management performance conditions. The 10% of options subject to this
executives and in the enhanced conditional system for members enhanced performance condition may be exercised if the SUEZ
of the Group Executive Committee. share price on November 17, 2008 (as measured by the arithmetic
mean of the share price during the previous 20 trading days) is
Conditional system
equal to or greater than the exercise price of the options, adjusted
2003 plan
for the change in the Eurostoxx Utilities Index observed over the
For the stock subscription options granted to senior management
period from November 17, 2004 to November 17, 2008, plus 1%
executives and members of the Group Executive Committee, the
per annum. If this condition is met, then the associated options
exercise of options is subject to the following conditions:
may be exercised; if the condition is not met, then the options are
2005 plan
equal or exceed that of the Eurostoxx Utilities Index over the Approximately 10% of the stock subscription options awarded
same period, plus 1% per annum; to members of the Group Executive Committee are subject to
• the SUEZ share price must be equal to or exceed €20. a more demanding performance condition. After deduction of
this 10% portion, half of the remaining options are subject to
2004 plan
the conditional system above, and the other half are free from
The exercise of half of the stock subscription options granted to
performance conditions. The 10% of options subject to this
the Group’s senior managers and half of the options awarded
enhanced performance condition may be exercised if the SUEZ
to members of the Group Executive Committee (after deduction
share price on December 8, 2009 (as measured by the arithmetic
of approximately 10% of their options, which are subject to
mean of the share price during the previous 20 trading days) is
the enhanced conditional system), is subject to a performance
equal to or greater than the exercise price of the options, adjusted
condition. The options subject to this performance condition may
for the change in the Eurostoxx Utilities Index observed over the the conditional system above, and the other half are free from
period from December 8, 2005 to December 8, 2009, plus 1% performance conditions. The performance condition applies to
per annum. If this condition is met, then the associated options 2006/2007 plan under the same conditions as those applied to
may be exercised; if the condition is not met, then the options are 2004 and 2005 plans.
irrevocably forfeited.
The board of Directors has also decided that if the merger with
2006/2007 plan Gaz de France be approved, the objectives being part of the
Approximately 10% of the stock subscription options granted to performance conditions linked to stock options plan as of November
the members of the Group’s Executive Committee are subject 19, 2003, November 17, 2004, December 9, 2005 and January
to a more demanding performance condition. After deduction 17, 2007 should decreased in applying a 0.8 coefficient.
of this 10% portion, half of the remaining options are subject to
Number of
Number Outstanding shares to be Outstanding
Date of of benefi options at subscribed by options at
authorizing ciaries Dec. 31, the Executive Options Options Dec. 31, Expiry Residual
Plan SM Vesting date Strike price per plan 2005 Committee** exercised*** canceled 2006 date life
11/28/2000* 05/05/2000 11/28/2004 34.39 1,347 6,571,934 1,193,708 644,115 59,834 5,867,985 11/28/2010 3.9
12/21/2000 *
05/05/2000 12/21/2004 35.74 510 3,026,078 153,516 361,125 1,618 2,663,335 12/20/2010 4.0
11/28/2001* 05/04/2001 11/28/2005 32.59 3,161 13,027,856 1,784,447 2,341,320 195,830 10,490,706 11/27/2011 4.9
11/20/2002 *
05/04/2001 11/20/2006 16.69 2,528 9,202,437 1,327,819 2,951,926 116,460 6,134,051 11/19/2012 5.9
11/19/2003 05/04/2001 11/19/2007 13.16 2,069 8,102,086 1,337,540 49,208 107,100 7,945,778 11/18/2011 4.9
11/17/2004 05/03/2004 11/17/2008 17.88 2,229 8,755,344 1,320,908 33,840 112,842 8,608,662 11/16/2012 5.9
12/09/2005 05/13/2005 12/09/2009 24.20 2,251 6,531,100 1,352,000 6,810 62,100 6,462,190 12/09/2013 6.9
Total 55,216,835 8,469,938 6,388,344 655,784 48,172,707
Number of
Outstanding shares to be Outstanding
Date of Number of options at subscribed by options at
authorizing beneficia- Dec. 31, the Executive Options Options Dec. 31, Expiry Residual
Plan SM Vesting date Strike price ries per plan 2005 Committee** exercised canceled 2006 date life
11/16/1998* 06/11/1998 11/16/2003 28.16 971 4,969,476 1,311,461 4,756,147 213,329 11/16/2006
6/30/1999* 06/11/1998 06/30/2004 30.56 29 254,963 31,772 122,447 132,516 06/30/2007 0.5
11/15/1999 *
06/11/1998 11/15/2004 28.54 1,115 5,190,352 1,183,464 2,557,284 28,594 2,604,474 11/15/2007 0.9
1/31/2000* 06/11/1998 01/31/2005 28.46 143 919,904 52,941 511,328 5,295 403,281 01/31/2008 1.1
Total 11,334,695 2,579,638 7,947,206 247,218 3,140,271
Pursuant to Article 174 of French Decree 67-236 on commercial companies dated March 23, 1967, the cash capital increase carried out
for an amount of €2.37 billion on October 13, 2005 led to an adjustment of the strike price and the number of options outstanding at the
date of said increase.
In euros
20 (a) The volatility calculated corresponds to a moving average of volatilities over the life of the plan.
(b) The discount rate corresponds to a risk-free rate over the life of the plan.
(c) Dividend paid.
As allowed under IFRS 2, an expense has been recognized only for options granted after November 7, 2002 which had not yet vested at
January 1, 2006.
Target population All beneficiaries of stock options under the 2006 plan will be
Partial substitution of stock options with bonus shares: concerned by this substitution. The rate at which the stock
options will be replaced differs according to the seniority of the
All beneficiaries of stock options under the 2005 plan will be
beneficiaries (translated in number of options). The maximum
concerned by this substitution. The rate at which the stock options
number of performance shares attributable per person is limited
will be replaced differs according to the seniority of the beneficiaries
to 3000 shares.
(translated in numbers of options). The maximum number of bonus
shares attributable per person is limited to 2,000 shares. Other beneficiaries :
In total, the bonus share award policy concerned 3,420 individuals 33.3.2 Valuation method and impact on income for
for an overall total of 660,780 shares. the period
2006/2007 plan The cost of the bonus share award was estimated in the same way as
At its meeting of October 18, 2006, the Board of Directors approved for stock option plans. The fair value of the benefits granted in respect
a new performance share award scheme which came into force of the 658,232 bonus shares awarded was €17.7 million at the date
on February 12, 2007. of grant. This amount is recognized over the vesting period.
The timing and conditions set by the Board of Directors are as The resulting expense for 2006 is €7.5 million.
follows:
20 Note 34
Related party transactions
The inclusion of this note within the financial statements is aimed Compensation payable to members of the Executive Committee
at ensuring transparency in the relationship between the Group and to directors is disclosed in a separate note (see Note 35
and its shareholders and their representatives, as well as in the “Executive compensation”).
links between the Group and related companies that it does not
exclusively control (joint ventures or associates).
34.1 Joint ventures Electrabel paid ESO/Elia electricity transmission fees totaling
€200.2 million in 2006 and €251.2 million in 2005. Amounts owed
Itasa to ESO/Elia totaled €5.5 million at December 31, 2006, versus
Itasa is a Brazilian subsidiary 48.75%-owned by Tractebel Energia €12.5 million at December 31, 2005.
which is 68.7%-owned by SUEZ Group.
The Group billed ESO/Elia for services totaling €97 million in 2006,
Tractebel Energia entered into an electricity purchase agreement compared to €100 million in 2005.
with Itasa, which generated costs of €38.6 million for Tractebel
Finally, the Group had granted ESO/Elia a loan amounting to
Energia in 2006, unchanged from 2005.
€808.4 million at December 31, 2006 (€354.8 million maturing
in 2009 and €453.6 million maturing in 2010 and thereafter),
Electroandina
compared to €808.4 million at December 31, 2005. In 2006, the
The Group holds a 33.25% interest in Chile-based Electroandina loan generated financial revenues of €31.8 million, compared to
through Suez-Tractebel and Inversiones Tocopilla. €29.9 million in 2005.
Gasoducto Nor Andino transports gas purchased by Electroandina. Electrabel SA granted Elia guarantees for an amount of
In connection with this arrangement, Gasoducto invoiced services €10.6 million corresponding to future payments of access rights
in an amount of €38.2 million in 2006, compared to €38.9 million to high-voltage networks.
in 2005.
Mixed inter-municipal companies
Acea-Electrabel group (Italy)
Electrabel exercises significant influence over some mixed inter-
Electrabel Italia is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Electrabel, and municipal companies.
has a 40.59% interest in Acea-Electrabel which itself owns several
subsidiaries. The equity-accounted mixed inter-municipal companies distribute
gas and electricity produced by Electrabel and Distrigas to non-
In 2006 Electrabel SA sold Alp Energy to the Acea-Electrabel industrial Belgian customers that are not eligible for deregulation.
group. Electrabel sold the mixed inter-municipal companies €931.1 million
Alp Energy, which sold on to its customers the electricity sold by of electricity and gas in 2006 versus €738.6 million in 2005.
Acea-Electrabel group entities, was absorbed by Acea Electrabel Electrabel and Electrabel Customer Solutions paid gas and
Elettricita Spa. In 2006, purchases by the SUEZ Group to the Acea- electricity distribution costs to the mixed inter-municipal
Electrabel group amounted to €28.8 million. companies amounting to €1,203.2 million in 2006, compared to
In addition, SUEZ sold electricity and gas to the Acea-Electrabel €1,078.7 million in 2005.
group for an amount of €146.4 million in 2006, compared to Some mixed inter-municipal companies do not employ any
€77.2 million in 2005. personnel. In accordance with the bylaws, Electrabel makes
The SUEZ Group also granted loans totaling €380 million to the personnel available to them with a view to carrying out daily
Acea-Electrabel group in 2006. distribution services. Electrabel bills some of these mixed inter-
municipal companies for all work, supplies and services provided
Zandvliet Power to them. Amounts billed totaled €582.7 million in 2006, versus
Zandvliet Power is a 50%-50% joint venture between Electrabel €1,431.2 million in 2005. This change results from the disposal of
(98.62%-owned by SUEZ) and RWE. Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen and the creation of Brussels Network
Operations.
Electrabel granted a loan to Zandvliet Power totaling €95.8 million at
December 31, 2006, compared to €95.3 million at December 31, Receivables relating to gas and electricity supply and other services
2005. stood at €111.4 million at December 31, 2006 versus €78.1 million
at December 31, 2005.
December 31, 2005. The change in this item reflects the sale of Contassur is a captive insurance company accounted for under the
Electrabel Netten Vlaanderen and the creation of Brussels Network equity method. The pension fund trusts for certain employees of
Operations. the Group have entered into insurance contracts with Contassur.
Note 35
Executive compensation
The following table presents the compensation received by directors and members of the Executive Committee:
In millions of euros Dec. 31, 2006 Dec. 31, 2005 Dec. 31, 2004
Short-term benefits 20.8 17.8 17.0
Post-employment benefits 3.9 2.9 2.0
Share-based payment 6.0 3.5 1.9
The increase in share-based payment is attributable to the 2006 full year impact of the 2005 plan.
20
Note 36
Contingent assets and liabilities
The Group gives and receives various guarantees in the course out by SUEZ in previous years. Eighty percent of the guarantees
of its business. A liability is recognized when it is probable that were given in connection with the sales of Nalco, Indosuez and
guarantees given will be settled by an outflow of resources with no Northumbrian.
corresponding consideration in return.
Other contingent liabilities (€1,335.3 million) relate mainly to
The guarantees presented below qualify as contingent liabilities and commitments undertaken by Electrabel in connection with cross-
are not therefore recognized in the consolidated balance sheet. border leases of Belgian and Dutch power plants, as well as to
guarantees given by Sita France to local and regional authorities
The Group has given seller’s guarantees totaling €1,515.0 million
to cover risks relating to landfill sites.
(€1,507.4 million in 2005) in the context of various sales carried
Note 37
Claims and litigation
37.1 Competition and industry concentration the two groups. Although the Anti-Trust Council did not impose
sanctions, it requested the Minister of the Economy to order the two
Energy companies to modify or terminate the agreements that combine
A sector inquiry was launched into the energy markets during their resources within joint subsidiaries.
the summer of 2005. These inquiries do not concern particular
Further to a final appeal by Compagnie Générale des Eaux,
operators, but rather seek to analyze the overall functioning of
France’s highest civil court, the Court of Cassation (Cour de
specific markets, like those for the supply of gas and electricity.
Cassation) recently overturned a ruling by the Paris Court of Appeal
On January 10, 2007, the European Commission made public the
that had upheld the decision of the Anti-Trust Council. The Court of
final results of this inquiry specifying what it considered to be the
Cassation’s decision was made on the procedural grounds that the
major weaknesses of the electricity and gas sectors in Europe.
Paris Court of Appeal did not have jurisdiction for measures relating
It is now up to the European Council and the member States to
to merger control. As this court decision did not actually overturn
assess the Commission’s report and take any necessary initiatives
the decision made by the Anti-Trust Council, the Minister of the
with regard to their legislation. Since the Group is a major player
Economy may issue an order requiring that the two groups unwind
in both these sectors, such measures would have an impact on
their cross-shareholdings in their joint subsidiaries (Société des
its activities. However, it is impossible to assess such impact at
Eaux de Marseille, Société des Eaux du Nord, SEVESC, Stéphanoise
the present time.
des Eaux, Martiniquaise et Guyanaise des Eaux).
Alongside the sector inquiry, the Commission completed its
review of systems with respect to long-term agreements signed
37.2 Disputes and arbitration
during the privatization of electricity-producing companies in
In the normal course of its business, the Group is involved in a
Hungary and Poland. It has invited the Hungarian and Polish
certain amount of litigation and arbitration with third parties or with
governments to review these systems and where necessary
the tax administrations of certain countries. Provisions are recorded
indemnify the signatories. The Group is directly involved in its
for this litigation and arbitration when (i) a legal, contractual,
capacity as contracting party in Hungary (Dunamenti) and in
or constructive obligation exists at the balance sheet date with
Poland (Polaniec).
respect to a third party; (ii) it is probable that there will be an
The Commission is also continuing to review gas supply contracts
for industrial clients in Belgium with a view to determining whether
outflow of resources without economic benefits in order to settle
the obligation; and (iii) a reliable estimate can be made of this
20
the period of the contracts entered into by Distrigaz leads to obligation. Provisions recorded in respect of these claims, disputes
them being of a market restrictive type in Belgium. Distrigas is and tax risks totaled €403 million at December 31, 2006.
cooperating fully with the Directorate-General for Competition on
this issue. Disputes with the Argentine government
In Argentina, tariffs under concession contracts have been frozen
Environment since the Public Emergency and Exchange Regime Reform Law
In France, the Anti-Trust Council (Conseil de la Concurrence) ruled (Emergency Act) was passed in January 2002. Consequently,
that the existence of equal stakes in water distribution companies in 2003, pursuant to the Franco-Argentine Bilateral Investment
held by Compagnie Générale des Eaux (Veolia) and Lyonnaise des Protection Treaties, SUEZ and certain other shareholders and
Eaux France (Suez) created a collective dominant position between concession holders (Aguas Argentinas in Buenos Aires, Aguas
Provinciales de Santa Fe in Rosario and Aguas Cordobesas in cases. The decision on jurisdiction in the Aguas Provinciales de
Cordoba) launched arbitration proceedings in relation to this Santa Fe case was delivered on May 16, 2006 and that regarding
issue before the International Centre for Settlement of Investment the Aguas Argentinas’ case on August 3, 2006. Hearings on the
Disputes (ICSID). These proceedings aim at obtaining indemnities merits of the cases are scheduled to take place between May 28,
to compensate for the loss of value of the investments made since 2007 and June 2, 2007 for the Aguas Provinciales de Santa Fe
the start of the concession due to the measures adopted by the case, and between October 29, 2007 and November 6, 2007 for
Argentine goverment following the adoption of the abovementioned Aguas Argentina case.
Emergency Act.
A claim was filed with the Federal District Court of New York in late
Negotiations with the concession-granting authorities were September 2006 by an entity entitled “Aguas Recovery Lenders’
immediately initiated in each case. Group”, in order to obtain the payment by Suez, Agbar and AYSA
(the Argentine wholly-owned company that succeeded to Aguas
With respect to Aguas Cordobesas, an agreement providing for a
Argentinas) of US$130 million owed by Aguas Argentinas to
new tariff regime was reached with the Province of Cordoba on
unsecured lenders,. The Federal District Court of New York is not
October 13, 2006 and approved by the Provincial Congress on
expected to hand down its decision before the end of April 2007.
November 11, 2006. At the same time, Suez and Agbar sold control
of the company to Roggio S.A., a private Argentine utilities group,
AEP dispute
keeping only 10% (5% Suez, 5% Agbar) in Aguas Cordobesas.
In the United States, Suez Energy Marketing North American
Pursuant to the terms of the agreement with the Province and the
(SEMNA, formerly TEMI) is currently involved in a dispute with
sale agreement with Roggio S.A., Aguas Cordobesas and its foreign
AEP (AEP Power Marketing Inc.) concerning a long-term Power
shareholders (including Suez) withdrew from the ICSID arbitration
Purchase and Sale Agreement within the scope of which SEMNA
proceeding on December 22, 2006.
put in a bid for electricity to be produced by the owner (AEP) of a
With respect to Aguas Argentinas and Aguas Provinciales de power station located in Plaquemine in Louisiana.
Santa Fe, negotiations between the concession holder and the
At the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York (First
concession-granting authorities continued in 2005, but stopped
Circuit), SEMNA claimed damages in excess of US$17 million on
in 2006 without having resulted in the implementation of tariff
the grounds that, due to failure by the parties to agree on one of
increases or the drafting of new guidelines to restore a sustainable
the essential elements of the agreement (operational protocols),
financial and economic equilibrium for the two Argentine contracts.
the agreement was not capable of enforcement. AEP made a
Given this context and the resulting decline in the companies’
counterclaim for damages in excess of US$643 million mainly on
financial and operational performance, Aguas Argentinas and
the grounds of the termination of the agreement by SEMNA and
Aguas Provinciales de Santa Fe were obliged to launch termination
to a lesser extent for unpaid bills.
proceedings in respect of their concession contracts.
On August 8, 2005, the Court awarded damages in the amount
The voluntary liquidation of Aguas Provinciales de Santa Fe was
of US$122 million to AEP (the portion of the claim relating to
announced at the company’s annual Shareholders’ Meeting on
unpaid bills), to be increased by prejudgment interest. SEMNA
January 13, 2006. On January 31, 2006, an administrative decree
firstly appealed the decision before the United States Court of
was issued by the authorities terminating the current concession
Appeal (Second Circuit) and secondly filed an appeal before the
contract and duly acknowledging the transfer of services back
court requesting reconsideration of the damages awarded to AEP.
to the grantor, with effect from February 8, 2006. On April 20,
AEP filed a counter-appeal requesting total damages of more than
2006, Aguas Povinciales de Santa Fe challenged the validity of
US$500 million. On January 20, 2006, the court rejected SEMNA’s
this administrative decree.
appeal and partially rejected AEP’s claim. In the amendment to
The concession-granting authorities rejected Aguas Argentinas’ the Opinion and Order, SEMNA was required to pay a further
termination request. Negotiations with a view to selling US$50 million to AEP pursuant to the guarantee provided by
European shareholders’ interests in Aguas Argentinas failed. SUEZ-Tractebel SA (STSA). SEMNA requested a review of this
On March 21, 2006, the Argentine government issued a decree decision on the grounds that this amount is not owed directly by
20
terminating the Aguas Argentinas concession contract citing SEMNA, but by STSA, assuming that SEMNA did not pay the full
alleged infringement by the concession holder, and transferred all amount owed to AEP. The court acceded to SEMNA’s request for
its assets to AYSA, a newly established, Argentine wholly-owned a review of this decision.
company. The decision of the Argentine authorities resulted in
Within the scope of the above-mentioned appeal proceeding before
the suspension of the company’s payments. On April 28 Aguas
the United States Court of Appeal, all pleadings and exhibits were
Argentinas filed for Concurso Preventivo (a similar mechanism to
exchanged and the case was argued orally on December 14, 2006.
bankruptcy in France, leading to the temporary suspension of legal
The court is currently considering this issue. No deadline has been
actions against the company).
set for the appeal judges to hand down their decision. SEMNA
ICSID arbitration proceedings in relation to the protection of foreign recorded a provision in relation to these proceedings, without this
shareholders’ interests in both of these contracts are ongoing. The entailing any binding recognition with respect to its accountability
ICSID tribunal rejected the Argentine government’s objections for this sum.
regarding the jurisdiction of the ICSID tribunal to rule on the two
three months for the Energy Charter Treaty. At the same time charges as Fluxys. On February 20, 2007, Electrabel was indicted
Dunamenti initiated out-of-court proceedings pursuant to the in its capacity as a legal entity on the same charges as Fluxys.
power purchase agreement with MVM.
To date, twenty-two legal entities and individuals have been
The period of out-of-Court proceedings engaged with MVM to settle indicted.
the dispute regarding the power purchase agreement ended on
The investigation is continuing. Various parties have requested
November 20, 2006, without any agreement being reached. On
additional matters to be included within the scope of the
November 16, 2006, the Hungarian Ministry of Transport and
investigation and a court-ordered expert appraisal is also in
Economy sent a reply to the above-mentioned formal notice of
progress.
September 4, 2006, requesting to meet with high-level Electrabel
representatives. After an initial meeting in January 2007 between Victims of the disaster have also instituted legal proceedings before
Electrabel and the Hungarian Government, represented by the the regional and commercial courts of Brussels against Fluxys and/
Secretary of State of Energy, another meeting is expected to take or its insurers. Thirteen civil cases are currently pending.
place in early March 2007.
Claim by the Belgian tax authorities
Ghislenghien dispute The Special Inspection department of the Belgian tax authorities is
On July 30, 2004, carelessness by a third party resulted in a leak claiming €188 million from SUEZ-Tractebel SA (formerly Tractebel),
in one of Fluxys’ gas transit pipes in Ghislenghien in Belgium. concerning past investments in Kazakhstan. SUEZ-Tractebel has
Twenty-four people died as a result of this accident, and over one filed an appeal with the administrative courts against those claims.
hundred and thirty people were injured. SUEZ-Tractebel continues to contest this claim which, based on
the advice of legal counsel, it considers unfounded.
In September 2005, Fluxys was indicted, in its capacity as a legal
entity, by the Investigating Judge of Tournai for involuntary homicide SUEZ is not aware of any other dispute or arbitration which is likely
and injuries due to failure to take protective or precautionary to have, or has recently had, a material impact on the financial
measures. On February 1, 2007, a management-level employee position, results of operations, business or assets of the Company
of Fluxys’ Dispatching division was personally indicted on the same or the Group.
Note 38
Subsequent events
38.1 Buyback of GIE SUEZ Alliance bonds maturing 38.2 Electrabel squeeze-out
in 2009 and 2010 Suez announced on March 8, 2007, its intent to launch a squeeze-
SUEZ launched a public tender offer to bondholders starting out bid on the remaining 1.38% of Electrabel’s share capital not
February 15, 2007 and ending February 22, 2007 through its already owned by the Group. The investment amounts to about
dedicated financing vehicle GIE SUEZ Alliance. The offer was €450 million.
designed to improve the Group’s debt maturity profile and reduce
gross debt.
20
Note 39
List of the main consolidated companies at December 31, 2006
Company name Corporate headquarters Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005
SUEZ ENERGY EUROPE (SEE)
ELECTRABEL Boulevard du Regent, 8 - 98.6 98.6 98.6 98.6 FC FC
1000 Brussels - Belgium
ELIA/ELIA SYSTEM Boulevard de l’Empereur 20 - 27.1 27.1 27.5 27.5 EM EM
OPERATOR - ESO 1000 Brussels - Belgium
ELECTRABEL France Le César - 20 Place Louis Pradel 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
- 69001 Lyon - France
ELECTRABEL CUSTOMER Boulevard du Regent, 8 - 60.0 60.0 95.8 95.8 FC FC
SOLUTIONS 1000 Brussels - Belgium
ENERGY EUROPE INVEST Place du Trône 1 - 98.6 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
1000 Brussels - Belgium
ELECTRABEL NETTEN Guldensporenpark 52-56 - 98.6 100.0 NC FC
VLAANDEREN 9820 Merelbeke - Belgium
DUNAMENTI Erömü ut 2 - 2442 73.8 73.8 74.8 74.8 FC FC
Szazhalombatta - Hungary
ELECTRABEL NEDERLAND Dr. Stolteweg 92 - 8025 AZ 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
NV Zwolle - Netherlands
ELECTRABEL FriedrichstaBe 200 - 10117 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
DEUTSCHLAND AG Berlin - Germany
ENERGY SAARLORLUX Richard Wagner Strasse 14 - 16 50.3 50.3 51.0 51.0 FC FC
Gmbh - 66111 Saarbrücken - Germany
ELECTRABEL NEDERLAND Dr. Stolteweg 92 - 8025 AZ 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
SALES BV Zwolle - Netherlands
POLANIEC Zawada 26 - 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
28-230 Polaniec - Poland
ROSIGNANO ENERGIA Via Piave N° 6 - 98.1 98.1 99.5 99.5 FC FC
SPA Rosignano Maritimo - Italy
ACEA Electrabel group(a)(b) Piazzale Ostiense, 2 - 40.0 40.0 40.6 40.6 PC PC
00100 Rome - Italy
CASTELNOU Calle General Castanõs 4 - 3a 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
planta - 28004 Madrid - Spain
TIRRENO POWER SPA 47, Via Barberini - 34.5 34.5 35.0 35.0 PC PC
00187 Rome - Italy
COMPAGNIE NATIONALE 2, rue André Bonin - 49.3 49.3 47.9 47.9 FC EM
DU RHONE (CNR) (c) 69004 Lyon - France
SYNATOM Avenue Ariane 7 - 98.6 98.6 100.0 100.0 FC FC
1200 Brussels - Belgium
SHEM(d) 28, Boulevard Raspail - 98.2 78.9 99.6 80.0 FC FC
DISTRIGAZ
75007 Paris - France
Rue de l’Industrie, 10 - 57.2 57.2 57.2 57.2 FC FC
20
1000 Brussels - Belgium
DISTRIGAZ & Co Rue de l’Industrie, 10 - 57.2 57.2 100.0 100.0 FC FC
1000 Brussels - Belgium
FLUXYS Avenue des Arts, 31 - 57.2 57.2 57.2 57.2 FC FC
1040 Brussels - Belgium
FLUXYS LNG Rue Guimard 4 - 1040 Brussels 60.2 60.2 100.0 100.0 FC FC
- Belgium
(a) Ownership interest in the ACEA/Electrabel holding company.
(b) ALP Energia Italia was included in the accounts of ACEA Electrabel group in 2006.
(c) See Note 17.
(d) In 2006, the option on 19.6% of SHEM’s capital was exercised before maturity.
Company name Corporate headquarters Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005
SUEZ ENERGY INTERNATIONAL (SEI)
TRACTEBEL ENERGIA Rua Antonio Dib Mussi, 68.7 68.7 68.7 68.7 FC FC
(formerly GERASUL) 366 Centro – 88015-110
Florianopolis – Santa Catarina
– Brazil
COMPANHIA ENERGETICA Rua Antonio Dib Mussi, 366 68.7 68.7 100.0 100.0 FC FC
MERIDIONAL Centro – Florianopolis –
Santa Catarina – Brazil
ENERSUR Av. República de Panamá 3490 61.7 61.7 61.7 61.7 FC FC
– San Isidro – Lima 27 – Peru
GLOW (THAILAND) 195 Empire Tower – 38th Floor- 69.1 69.1 69.1 69.1 FC FC
park Wing – South Sathorn Road
– Yannawa – Sathorn – Bangkok
10120 – Thailand
SUEZ LNG FINANCE SA 1st Floor – Chamber of 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
Commerce Building Columbus
Circle – Westmoorings Trinidad
W.I. – Trinidad & Tobago
SUEZ ENERGY 1990 Post Oak Boulevard – Suite 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
RESOURCES NORTH 1900 Houston – TX 77056-
AMERICA 4499 – USA
SUEZ ENERGY 1990 Post Oak Boulevard – Suite 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
MARKETING NORTH 1900 Houston – TX 77056-
AMERICA 4499 – USA
SUEZ ENERGY 1990 Post Oak Boulevard – Suite 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
GENERATION NORTH 1900 Houston – TX 77056-
AMERICA 4499 – USA
SUEZ LNG AMERICA One Liberty Square – Boston 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
– MA 02109 – USA
HANJIN CITY GAS 711 Sang-Gye-6-Dong 139-206 75.0 75.0 NC FC
Seoul – Korea
COLBUN Av. Apoquindo 4775, Piso 11, 19.0 32.5 NC EM
12 & 13 – Las Condes –
Santiago – Chile
BAYMINA Ankara Dogal Gaz Santrali 95.0 95.0 95.0 95.0 FC FC
– Ankara Eskisehir Yolu 40.Km
– Malioy Mevkii –
06900 Polatki/Ankara – Turkey
TBL ENERGIA DE Carretera a Villa de Garcia km.9 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
MONTEREY – C.P. 66000 Garcia Nuevo Leon
– Mexico
20
Company name Corporate headquarters Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005
SUEZ ENERGY SERVICES (SES)
ELYO 1, place des degrés 92059 Paris 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
La Défense – France
AXIMA AG 12, Zürcherstrasse – 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
8401 Winterthur – Switzerland
CPCU 185, Rue de Bercy, 64.4 64.4 64.4 64.4 FC FC
75012 Paris – France
FABRICOM SA 254 Rue de Gatti de Gamond 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
– 1180 Brussels – Belgium
ENDEL 1, place des degrés 92059 Paris 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
La Défense – France
FABRICOM GTI SA Rue de Gatti de Gamond 254 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
– 1180 Brussels – Belgium
GTI GROUP Hogeweg 35A – 5301 LJ 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
Zaltbommel – Netherlands
INEO 2 allée Jacques Brel 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
92247 Malakoff Cedex – France
Company name Corporate headquarters Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005
ENVIRONMENT
SUEZ ENVIRONMENT 1, rue d’Astorg 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
75008 Paris – France
LYONNAISE DES EAUX 1, rue d’Astorg 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
France 75008 Paris – France
DEGREMONT 183, avenue du 18 juin 1940 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
92500 Rueil Malmaison
– France
AGBAR Torre Agbar, Avenida Diagonal, 25.9 25.5 48.5 48.5 PC PC
211 – 08018 Barcelona – Spain
SITA HOLDINGS UK LTD Grenfell road – Maidenhead 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
– Berkshire SL6 1ES –
United Kingdom
SITA DEUTSCHLAND Industriestrasse 161 D-50999 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
GmbH – Köln – Germany
SITA NEDERLAND BV Mr. E.N. van Kleffensstraat 6, 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
Postbis 7009, NL – 6801 HA
Arnhem – Netherlands
SITA France 123, rue des 3 Fontanot 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
92000 Nanterre – France
SITA SVERIGE AB. Kungsgardsleden –
26271 Angelholm – Sweden
75.0 75.0 75.0 75.0 FC FC 20
AGUAS ANDINAS(e) Avenida Presidente Balmaceda 7.4 48.5 NC PC
1398, Piso – 4 – Santiago – Chile
AGUAS ARGENTINAS Reconquista 823 – 1003 Buenos 46.3 39.9 NC FC
Aires – Argentina
LYDEC 20, boulevard Rachidi 51.0 51.0 51.0 51.0 FC FC
– Casablanca – Morocco
UNITED WATER 200 Old Hook Road – Harrington 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
RESOURCES Park New Jersey – USA
(e) Aguas Andinas is consolidated within the Agbar group from 2006.
Consolidation
% interest % control method
Company name Corporate headquarters Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005 Dec. 2006 Dec. 2005
OTHER
SUEZ SA 16 Rue de la Ville L’Evêque 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
– 75008 Paris – France
SUEZ-TRACTEBEL Place du Trône 1 – 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
1000 – Brussels – Belgium
GIE - SUEZ ALLIANCE 16, rue de la Ville l’Evêque – 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
75383 Paris Cedex 08 – France
SUEZ FINANCE SA 16, rue de la Ville l’Evêque – 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
75383 Paris Cedex 08 – France
GENFINA Place du Trône 1 – 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
1000 – Brussels – Belgium
SI FINANCES 68, Rue du Faubourg Saint- 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 FC FC
Honoré – 75008 Paris – France
20
To the Shareholders,
In accorda nce with our appointement as statutory auditors by your Annual General Meetings, we have audited the accompanying consolidated
financial statements of SUEZ for the year ended December 31, 2006.
These consolidated financial statements have been approved by the Board of Directors. Our role is to express an opinion on those financial
statements based on our audit.
Dividends over the last five years (after adjustment following the cash capital increase
with preferential subscription rights on October 12, 2005)
Fiscal year (in euros) Net dividend Tax credit Gross dividend
After a period of five years, unclaimed dividends are automatically paid to the French Treasury.
20
1. Recurring net income = net attributable income adjusted for (i) capital
gains, (ii) the impact of the application of IAS 32/39 on income from
operating activities, and (iii) any other material non-recurring items.
The voluntary liquidation of Aguas Provinciales de Santa Fe was On August 8, 2005, the Court awarded damages in the amount
announced at the company’s annual Shareholders’ Meeting on of US$122 million to AEP (the portion of the claim relating to
January 13, 2006. On Januaryr 31, 2006, an administrative decree unpaid bills), to be increased by prejudgment interest. SEMNA
was issued by the authorities terminating the current concession firstly appealed the decision before the United States Court of
contract and duly acknowledging the transfer of services back Appeal (Second Circuit) and secondly filed an appeal before the
to the grantor, with effect from February 8, 2006. On April 20, court requesting reconsideration of the damages awarded to AEP.
2006, Aguas Povinciales de Santa Fe challenged the validity of AEP filed a counter-appeal requesting total damages of more than
this administrative decree. US$500 million. On January 20, 2006, the court rejected SEMNA’s
appeal and partially rejected AEP’s claim. In the amendment to
The concession-granting authorities rejected Aguas Argentinas’
the Opinion and Order, SEMNA was required to pay a further
termination request. Negotiations with a view to selling
US$50 million to AEP pursuant to the guarantee provided by
European shareholders’ interests in Aguas Argentinas failed.
SUEZ-Tractebel SA (STSA). SEMNA requested a review of this
On March 21, 2006, the Argentine government issued a decree
decision on the grounds that this amount is not owed directly by
terminating the Aguas Argentinas concession contract citing
SEMNA, but by STSA, assuming that SEMNA did not pay the full
alleged infringement by the concession holder, and transferred all
amount owed to AEP. The court acceded to SEMNA’s request for
its assets to AYSA, a newly established, Argentine wholly-owned
a review of this decision.
company. The decision of the Argentine authorities resulted in
the suspension of the company’s payments. On April 28 Aguas Within the scope of the above-mentioned appeal proceeding before
Argentinas filed for Concurso Preventivo (a similar mechanism to the United States Court of Appeal, all pleadings and exhibits were
bankruptcy in France, leading to the temporary suspension of legal exchanged and the case was argued orally on December 14, 2006.
actions against the company). The court is currently considering this issue. No deadline has been
set for the appeal judges to hand down their decision. SEMNA
ICSID arbitration proceedings in relation to the protection of foreign
recorded a provision in relation to these proceedings, without this
shareholders’ interests in both of these contracts are ongoing. The
entailing any binding recognition with respect to its accountability
ICSID tribunal rejected the Argentine government’s objections
for this sum.
regarding the jurisdiction of the ICSID tribunal to rule on the two
cases. The decision on jurisdiction in the Aguas Provinciales de
Santa Fe case was delivered on May 16, 2006 and that regarding
the Aguas Argentinas’ case on August 3, 2006. Hearings on the
Snohvit dispute
merits of the cases are scheduled to take place between May 28,
2007 and June 2, 2007 for the Aguas Provinciales de Santa Fe
On July 16, 2002, Tractebel Gas Engineering Belgium S.A. (TGE)
as leader of the TGE - Fabricom-GTI S.A. - Entrepose Contracting
20
case, and between October 29, 2007 and November 6, 2007 for S.A. consortium (the “Contractor”) entered into a contract with
Aguas Argentina case. Statoil ASA (the “Company”) regarding the construction of storage
A claim was filed with the Federal District Court of New York in late and loading facilities at Hammerfest (Norway) within the framework
September 2006 by an entity entitled “Aguas Recovery Lenders’ of the Snohvit LNG project.
Group”, in order to obtain the payment by Suez, Agbar and AYSA The performance of this contract was affected by excessive
(the Argentine wholly-owned company that succeeded to Aguas requests for modifications and other readjustments on behalf of the
Argentinas) of US$130 million owed by Aguas Argentinas to Company. As the Company refused to compensate the Contractor
unsecured lenders,. The Federal District Court of New York is not for the fact that the budget and the deadline for completion were
expected to hand down its decision before the end of April 2007. exceeded, TGE as leader of the consortium, sued the Company
before the Stavanger City Court (Norway) for a principal amount €50 million) to the Togolese government for breach of Agreement.
of €243 million. In March 2006, Togo Electricité instituted arbitration proceedings
before the International Center for Settlement of Investment
The Contractor’s position is that the Company deviated so far from
Disputes (ICSID) citing the existence of an arbitration clause in
the initial provisions of the contract that the contract is no longer
the Contract. Preliminary claims are currently being submitted in
valid and that the Contractor can thus request full payment of the
the proceedings, which S.E.S. is proposing to join.
project on a cost reimbursement basis. The Contractor also argued
that the significant number of modifications and the cumulative In light of the few legal arguments put forward by the Togolese
effect thereof largely exceeded expectations the parties’ could government in support of its claim, at this stage provisions have
have had upon signature of the contract and that the Company only been booked for court costs and legal fees.
had overstepped its right to request modifications pursuant to the
contract.
Dispute with Togo Electricité Endel and four of its employees were amongst a group of
people criminally indicted on July 28, 2005. The investigation is
In December 2000, Togo Electricité signed a concession contract pending.
(the “Contract”) with the Togolese government for the management
of Togo’s public power distribution service.
November 20, 2006, without any agreement being reached. On and injuries due to failure to take protective or precautionary
November 16, 2006, the Hungarian Ministry of Transport and measures. On February 1, 2007, a management-level employee
Economy sent a reply to the above-mentioned formal notice of of Fluxys’ Dispatching division was personally indicted on the same
September 4, 2006, requesting to meet with high-level Electrabel charges as Fluxys. On February 20, 2007, Electrabel was indicted
representatives. After an initial meeting in January 2007 between in its capacity as a legal entity on the same charges as Fluxys.
Electrabel and the Hungarian Government, represented by the
To date, twenty-two legal entities and individuals have been
Secretary of State of Energy, another meeting is expected to take
indicted.
place in early March 2007.
The investigation is continuing. Various parties have requested
additional matters to be included within the scope of the
Ghislenghien dispute investigation and a court-ordered expert appraisal is also in
progress.
On July 30, 2004, carelessness by a third party resulted in a leak
in one of Fluxys’ gas transit pipes in Ghislenghien in Belgium. Victims of the disaster have also instituted legal proceedings before
Twenty-four people died as a result of this accident, and over one the regional and commercial courts of Brussels against Fluxys and/
hundred and thirty people were injured. or its insurers. Thirteen civil cases are currently pending.
The Special Inspection department of the Belgian tax authorities is SUEZ is not aware of any other dispute or arbitration which is likely
claiming €188 million from SUEZ-Tractebel SA (formerly Tractebel), to have, or has recently had, a material impact on the financial
concerning past investments in Kazakhstan. SUEZ-Tractebel has position, results of operations, business or assets of the Company
filed an appeal with the administrative courts against those claims. or the Group.
SUEZ-Tractebel continues to contest this claim which, based on
the advice of legal counsel, it considers unfounded.
20
20
21 Additional information
Issued capital
As of December 31, 2006, the share capital of the Company was Since September 18, 2001, SUEZ shares are also listed on the New
€2,554,888,806, divided into 1,277,444,403 fully paid-up shares York Stock Exchange in the form of American Depositary Shares
with a par value of €2 each. (ADS). Each ADS represents one SUEZ share.
SUEZ shares are listed on Euronext Paris, Euronext Brussels, and SUEZ stock appears in all the major international stock indexes:
on the stock exchanges in Luxembourg and Zurich. CAC 40, BEL 20, Dow-Jones STOXX 50, Dow-Jones EURO
STOXX 50, Euronext 100, FTSE Eurotop 100, FTSE Eurotop MSCI
Europe and ASPI Eurozone.
21
Share price highs and lows and trading volumes in SUEZ shares in Paris
Capital(a)
High (€) Low (€) Trading volume(a) (in thousand of euros)
2005
July 22.89 21.50 4,636,325 104,149
August 25.12 21.95 7,667,470 182,689
September 24.44 22.85 9,642,316 225,716
October 24.41 21.62 6,424,130 148,036
November 24.47 21.66 6,544,921 153,783
December 27.05 24.09 5,619,283 142,682
2006
January 30.44 26.49 5,889,845 166,494
February 33.89 29.60 9,081,493 277,948
March 35.84 31.20 9,878,487 331,799
April 32.76 30.72 6,262,940 198,460
May 32.93 28.54 9,314,349 285,475
June 32.50 29.20 7,305,707 221,458
July 32.75 30.14 4,507,560 142,565
August 33.69 31.65 3,350,881 109,661
September 35.04 33.20 4,645,175 159,014
October 35.50 34.08 4,790,641 167,074
November 36.95 34.95 5,025,844 181,463
December 39.23 35.90 5,732,859 216,335
2007
January 40.34 37.16 6,611,078 255,003
February 40.34 28.54 6,242,433 211,725
Daily average. (source: Fininfo SA for 2005 and thereafter Bloomberg)
(a)
21
ADS price highs and lows and trading volumes on the New York Stock Exchange
Capital(a)
High (USD) Low (USD) Trading volume(a) (in millions of USD)
2005
July 27.80 27.80 25,705 –
August 30.87 26.96 33,683 –
September 30.72 28.40 52,343 –
October 29.36 26.48 42,124 –
November 28.99 26.25 37,057 –
December 32.05 28.60 41,752 –
2006
January 37.17 32.95 39,125 1.4
February 39.99 35.24 80,389 2.9
March 42.75 37.55 121,074 4.9
April 40.43 37.60 50,947 2.0
May 40.89 37.14 49,986 1.9
June 41.75 36.70 69,277 2.7
July 41.85 38.15 96,990 3.9
August 43.40 40.84 46,248 1.9
September 44.65 42.12 51,245 2.2
October 44.91 43.04 109,523 4.8
November 47.99 44.71 59,595 2.8
December 51.96 48.09 70,725 3.5
2007
January 52.37 48.22 94,685 4.7
February 51.44 48.33 46,856 2.4
Daily average. (source: Fininfo SA for 2005 and thereafter Bloomberg)
(a)
Potential capital
The Company’s potential capital as of December 31, 2006 is The tables relating to the various stock option plans are set out in
48,172,707 shares (+3.77%) that may result from the exercise of
stock subscription options.
Note 33 of Section 20.
21
Other pledges
from
Total 2012 to Account corresponding
In millions of euros value 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2016 > 2016 total % Control
Intangible assets 6.7 6.7 3,488.1 0.2 0.0
Property, plant &
equipment 2,001.0 360.6 48.7 25.2 24.3 46.1 347.8 1,148.3 21,002.8 9.5 0.0
Equity instruments 640.7 4.4 636.3 4,076.2 15.7 0.0
Bank accounts 54.2 49.7 0.7 3.8 7,946.3 0.7 0.0
Other assets 139.9 136.5 3.4 15,009.8 0.9 0.0
Total 2,842.5 546.8 53.1 25.9 24.3 46.1 354.5 1,791.8 51,523.2 5.5 0.0
Note: the total amount of the pledge relating to equity instruments may relate to consolidated equity instruments with zero value in the
consolidated balance sheet (elimination of these equity instruments upon consolidation).
The main transactions affecting the share capital in 2006 were the tendering of shares, following satisfaction of the condition
as follows: precedent of the last legal entity (Intercommunale belge) taking
part in the combined public purchase and exchange offer for
• issuance of 6,388,344 shares, with dividend rights as of
Electrabel shares not yet owned by SUEZ and its subsidiaries.
January 1, 2006, following the exercise of stock subscription
options; In all, 6,688,148 SUEZ shares were issued during the 2006 fiscal
year.
• issuance, on February 21, 2006, of 299,804 new shares,
with dividend rights as of January 1, 2005, in exchange for
21
Reso. Purpose of the resolution Period Maximum amount Amount utilized Remaining balance
Aggregate amount of
purchases: ≤ €5 billion
7th Increase in the share capital 26 months €500 million for the shares* None Full amount of the
through the issue, with (as from (corresponding to an increase authorization
retention of preferential May 5, 2006) in the share capital of 19.7%)
subscription rights, of shares or the total amount of the
and/or securities convertible, sums that may be capitalized
redeemable or otherwise in the event of capitalization
exercisable for shares of the of additional paid-in capital,
Company or its subsidiaries, reserves, earnings or other
or by the capitalization of amounts
additional paid-in capital, +€5 billion for debt securities*
reserves, earnings or other
amounts
8th Increase in the share capital 26 months €500 million for shares* None Full amount of the
through the issue, with (as from (corresponding to an increase authorization
cancellation of preferential May 5, 2006) in the share capital of 19.7%)
subscription rights, of shares +€5 billion for debt securities*
and/or securities convertible,
redeemable or otherwise
exercisable for shares in the
Company or its subsidiaries,
or of shares in the Company
to which entitlement is
granted through securities to
be issued by the subsidiaries,
including in exchange for
shares tendered within
the context of a public
exchange offer or, subject
to a maximum limit of 10%
of the Company’s share
capital, in consideration for
contributions in kind to the
Company consisting of shares
or securities
9th In the event of an increase 26 months €254 million for shares* None Full amount of the
in capital, with cancellation (as from (corresponding to an increase authorization
of preferential subscription May 5, 2006) in the share capital of 10% per
rights, the possibility to set
the issue price, subject to a
12-month period)
21
maximum limit of 10% of the
capital, in accordance with
specific terms and conditions
(10% reduction)
10th Issue of free equity warrants 18 months €2.7 billion (corresponding None Full amount of the
in the event of an unsolicited (as from to doubling the fully diluted authorization
bid for the Company May 5, 2006) share capital)
Reso. Purpose of the resolution Period Maximum amount Amount utilized Remaining balance
11th Issue of complex debt 26 months €5 billion* None Full amount of the
securities (as from authorization
May 5, 2006)
12th Issue of shares reserved 26 months 3% of the share capital None Full amount of the
for employees belonging (as from authorization
to a SUEZ Group corporate May 5, 2006)
savings plan
13th Increase in the share 18 months €30 million, i.e.15 million None Full amount of the
capital, with cancellation (as from shares (approximately 1.2% of authorization
of preferential subscription May 5, 2006) the share capital)
rights, in favor of Spring
Multiple 2006 SCA and/or
any other company
14th Authorization to reduce the 18 months 10% of the share capital per None Full amount of the
share capital by canceling (as from 24-month period authorization
shares May 5, 2006)
21
0.45% of the capital as
of such date
*These amounts may not be cumulated (with the exception of additional paid-in capital that may be capitalized). This is a common ceiling,
set for the 7th, 8th, 9th and 11th resolutions of the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006.
First tranche
Issue amount: €1,250 million made up of 1,250,000 bonds of €1,000
nominal value each
Issue price: 101.045% of the nominal value
Issue and settlement date: October 13, 1999
Interest: 5.875% per annum payable on October 13 of each year and
for the first time on October 13, 2000
Redemption: At par, in full, on October 13, 2009
Early redemption: In the event of a change in the tax treatment applicable to
bonds
Term: 10 years
Repurchase: Bonds may be repurchased on or off the stock market. All
bonds repurchased will be cancelled.
Stock exchange listing: Euronext Paris
ISIN code: FR 0000495848
Second tranche
Issue amount: €1,500 million made up of 150,000 bonds of €1,000
nominal value each
Issue price: 100.813% of the nominal value
Issue and settlement date: October 13, 1999
Interest: 5.875% per annum payable on October 13 of each year and
for the first time on October 13, 2000
Redemption: At par, in full, on October 13, 2009
Early redemption: In the event of a change in the tax treatment applicable to
bonds
Term: 10 years
Repurchase: Bonds may be repurchased on or off the stock market. All
bonds repurchased will be cancelled.
Stock exchange listing: Euronext Paris
ISIN code: FR 0000495848
Repurchases and cancellations made by SUEZ with regard to both
tranches:
15,000 bonds in 2003 and 164,352 bonds in 2004
21
Number of bonds outstanding as of December 31, 2006: 1,220,648
Bond issues via GIE SUEZ Alliance GIE SUEZ Alliance made:
21
Issue price: €1,000 million: 99.731% of the nominal value, payable in full on the settlement date
€250 million: 98.704% of the nominal value, payable in full on the settlement date
Issue and settlement date: February 20, 2002
Interest: 5.50% per annum payable in arrears on February 20 each year and for the first time on February 20, 2003
Redemption: At par, in full, on February 20, 2009
Early redemption: In the event of a change in the tax treatment applicable to bonds
Term: 7 years
Repurchase: Bonds may be repurchased on the stock market. All bonds repurchased will be cancelled.
Stock exchange listing: Luxembourg Stock Exchange
ISIN code: FR 0000488207
As of December 31, 2006, none of the bonds from this issue had been repurchased by GIE SUEZ Alliance.
As of February 28, 2007, after repurchase and cancellation by that remained outstanding with regard to this issue amounts to
GIE SUEZ Alliance of 670,508 2002/2009 5.50% bonds, within 579,492.
the scope of a public repurchase offer, the number of bonds
21
21
Repurchase: Bonds may be repurchased on or off the stock market. All bonds repurchased will be
cancelled.
Stock exchange listing: Luxembourg Stock Exchange
ISIN code: FR 0000475758
As of December 31, 2006, none of the bonds from this issue had been repurchased by GIE SUEZ Alliance.
A list of the issues made by SUEZ of bonds exchangeable for In June 2002, GIE SUEZ Alliance was added to SUEZ and
shares is set out in Note 26.4 of Section 20. SUEZ Finance as an additional issuer and guarantor under this
program.
As of February 28, 2007, after repurchase and cancellation by GIE
SUEZ Alliance of 564,633 bonds of the 1st tranche at 4.25% for In October 2003, the amount of the program totaled €5 billion.
seven years (2003-2010), within the scope of a public repurchase
During 2006, neither SUEZ Finance nor GIE SUEZ Alliance made
offer, the number of bonds that remained outstanding on this
any further issues. As of December 31, 2006, the outstanding
1st tranche amounts to 685,367.
amount under these bond issues stood at €400 million.
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
21.1.6 Information on the share capital of any member of the Group that is
21 under option or subject to a conditional or unconditional agreement
providing that it be placed under option
Not applicable.
21
Share issues
Additional paid-in Share capital
Year Capital increase Par value (in €) capital (in €) (in € thousands) Number of shares
06/30/2002 (contd.) 2,054,066 1,027,032,930
Issuance of 182,215 shares
with a €2 par value each by
conversion of 36,443 January-
February 1996 4% convertible
bonds 364,430 2,524,407 2,014,658 1,007,329,023
Issuance of 93,380 shares
with a €2 par value each
by the exercise of stock
subscription options 186,760 1,207,730 2,014,845 1,007,422,403
12/31/2002 2,014,845 1,007,422,403
Issuance of 2,300 shares
with a €2 par value each by
conversion of January-February
1996 4% convertible bonds 4,600 31,864.20 2,014,849 1,007,424,703
Issuance of 199,603 shares
with a €2 par value each
by the exercise of stock
subscription options 399,206 2,600,654.20 2,015,249 1,007,624,306
06/30/2003 2,015,249 1,007,624,306
Issuance of 55,500 shares
with a €2 par value each
by the exercise of stock
subscription options 111,000 660,450.00 2,015,360 1,007,679,806
12/31/2003 2,015,360 1,007,679,806
Issuance of 2,392 shares
with a €2 par value each by
conversion of January-February
1996 4% convertible bonds 4,784 31,442.39 2,015,364 1,007,682,198
Issuance of 360,241 shares
with a €2 par value each
by the exercise of stock
subscription options 2,016,085 1,008,042,439
06/30/2004 2,016,085 1,008,042,439
Issuance of
11,996,123 shares with a
€2 par value each through a
share issue reserved for Group
employees (Spring 2004
program) 23,992,246 150,071,498.73 2,040,081 1,020,038,562
Issuance of 1,830 shares
with a €2 par value each by
conversion of January-February
Share issues
Additional paid-in Share capital
Year Capital increase Par value (in €) capital (in €) (in € thousands) Number of shares
12/31/2004 2,040,931 1,020,465,386
Issuance of 4,560,940 shares
with a €2 par value each
by the exercise of stock
subscription options 9,121,880 66,919,292.67 2,050,053 1,025,026,326
Issuance of
11,665,701 shares with a €2
par value by conversion and
early redemption of January-
February 1996 4% convertible
bonds 23,331,402 153,826,532.98 2,073,384 1,036,692,027
Issuance of
115,044,247 shares with a
€2 par value via a cash share
issue with retention of the
preferential subscription rights 230,088,494 2,104,814 310.18 2,303,473 1,151,736,274
Issuance of
106,265,504 shares with
a €2 par value following
the combined purchase
and exchange offer for the
Electrabel shares not yet
owned 212,531,008 2,202,536,946.72 2,516,004 1,258,001,778
Issuance of
12,754,477 shares with a
€2 par value each through
a share issue reserved
for Group employees
(Spring 2005 program) 25,508,954 199,218,071.97 2,541,513 1,270,756,255
12/31/2005 2,541,513 1,270,756,255
Issuance of 299,804 shares
with a €2 par value each,
with dividend rights as of
January 1, 2005 following
the combined purchase
and exchange offer for the
Electrabel shares not yet
owned 599,608 6,199,946.72 2,542,112 1,271,056,059
Issuance of
6,388,344 shares with
a €2 par value each by
the exercise of stock
subscription options 12,776,688 149,269,736.57 2,554,888 1,277,444,403
12/31/2006 2,554,888 1,277,444,403
21
a) obtaining, purchasing, leasing and operating any and all d) the acquisition of any and all investments through the
concessions and companies involved in supplying towns with subscription, purchase, transfer, exchange or by any other
drinking or industrial water, the evacuation and treatment of means, of shares, interests, bonds and any and all other
waste water, drying and draining operations, irrigation and securities in companies already in existence or to be created;
the development of all water transport, protection and storage
e) obtaining, purchasing, assigning, conceding and operating all
structures;
patents, licenses and processes;
b) obtaining, purchasing, leasing and operating any and all
f) and, more generally, any and all industrial, commercial,
selling and service activities to local public authorities and
financial, personal or real-estate transactions relating directly
private individuals with respect to urban development and
or indirectly to the corporate purpose or which are likely to favor
management of the environment;
and develop the business of the Company.
c) the design, development and performance of any and all
projects and any and all public or private works on behalf of
21
the owner, managing partner, manager, Director, Chief Executive
in which the Chairman reaches 65 years of age. The Board of
Officer or member of the Management Board or Supervisory Board
Directors is empowered, at the next Shareholders’ Meeting, on
of the other company. Furthermore, any agreement entered into
one or more occasions, to extend this age limit by a maximum of
between SUEZ and any shareholder holding more than 10% of the
five years. The Chairman represents the Board of Directors. He
voting rights or, in the case of a legal entity, a company controlling
organizes and directs the Board’s business activities, on which he
the other company in accordance with Article L. 233-3 of the
reports at Shareholders’ Meetings. He ensures that the Company’s
French Commercial Code, will be subject to the same authorization
management bodies function smoothly and ensures, in particular,
procedure. The Director, senior management executive or company
that the Directors are in a position to perform their duties.
concerned are required to a) inform the Board of Directors of such
agreement and b) obtain its consent. The Chairman of the Board Directors’ compensation. The total compensation of the Board
of Directors must inform the Statutory Auditors of the existence of of Directors is set at the Shareholders’ Meeting. The Board of
the agreement and the Shareholders’ Meeting will then have to vote Directors will allocate such compensation between its members.
on the basis of a special report drawn up by the Statutory Auditors The Board is empowered to award extra compensation to certain
with regard to the agreement. In the event that the Shareholders’ of its members in respect of the tasks or assignments entrusted
Meeting refuses to approve the agreement, such agreement will to them.
nevertheless be enforceable against third parties, but the Director
Age limit for Directors. The number of Directors who have reached
will be held liable with regard to the Company for any loss that the
70 years of age may not exceed one-third of the total number of
Company might incur as a result of such agreement. The party that
Directors in office at any time. Where the number of Directors is
has entered into the agreement may neither take part in the vote
not a multiple of three, the result is rounded off.
of the Board of Directors nor that of the Shareholders’ Meeting.
Furthermore, the shares held by the party to the agreement will
not be taken into account when calculating the quorum and
majority.
Attendance at Shareholders’ Meetings Where shares are subject to beneficial ownership, the voting rights
attached to these shares are exercised by the beneficial owner at
(Article 22 of the bylaws) Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meetings.
All shareholders, irrespective of the number of shares they hold, All shareholders can vote by mail, in accordance with the terms,
are entitled to attend meetings in person or be represented by a conditions and procedures of applicable law.
proxy holder, subject to proof of their identity and the number of
shares held, either through their registration or the filing, at the
locations specified in the notice of meeting, of a certificate from the
Double voting rights
authorized broker stating that the shares held in the shareholder’s Double voting rights are attributed, in proportion to the percentage
account will remain non-transferable up to the date of the meeting. of share capital they represent, to all fully paid-up shares held in
The period during which these formalities must be completed registered form for at least two years in the name of the same
expires the day before the date of the Shareholders’ Meeting. shareholder or of this shareholder and individuals whose rights
he holds, either intestate or by virtue of a will, as a result of the
All shareholders may also, if permitted by the Board of Directors or
division of marital property between spouses or through inter
its Chairman when the Shareholders’ Meeting is called, take part
vivos donation to a spouse or relative entitled to a share in the
in the Shareholders’ Meeting by video conference or via electronic
deceased’s estate.
telecommunications or remote transmission, subject to and in
accordance with the terms and conditions set by applicable law In the event of an increase in share capital by capitalization of
and regulations. Such shareholders are considered present at the earnings, reserves or additional paid-in capital, double voting rights
meeting when calculating the quorum and majority. shall be conferred, from issuance, on registered shares allotted
free to shareholders in respect of existing shares which benefit
Shareholders’ Meetings, duly called and held, represent all
from such rights.
shareholders.
Double voting rights attached to shares cease on the conversion
All shareholders are bound by the decisions of Shareholders’
of such shares to bearer shares or their transfer to another
Meetings made in accordance with applicable laws and the
shareholder, with the exception of registered to registered transfers
bylaws.
as a result of an inheritance or family gift.
Single voting rights • subject to the ratification of such decision by the Special Meeting
The voting rights attached to shares are in proportion to the of shareholders that hold double voting rights, which must
percentage of share capital they represent. Each share carries approve this cancellation by a two-thirds majority.
entitlement to at least one vote. As of December 31, 2006, after deduction of treasury stock, the
Company had 151,345,449 shares carrying double voting rights.
Any amendment to the bylaws, that define the rights attached two different classes of shares. However, a decision of any kind
to the SUEZ shares, must be approved by a two-thirds majority involving an amendment of the rights attached to a class of shares
at the Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting. The Extraordinary may only become final and binding if it is ratified by a two-thirds
Shareholders’ Meeting may not provide for any increase in the majority at a Special Shareholders’ Meeting for the class of shares
obligations of shareholders, except in the event of merger of concerned.
21
The bylaws do not contain any provision that could have the effect of delaying, postponing or preventing a change in our management.
Notices that must be made to the Failure to comply with the above requirements results in rescission
of the voting rights attached to those shares relating to the
Company (Article 7 of the bylaws) unreported fraction at all Shareholders’ Meetings held during a
two-year period following the date of filing of the aforementioned
All private individuals and legal entities, acting alone or in concert,
notice. Application of this penalty is subject to a request by one
who acquire or cease to hold, directly or indirectly, a fraction of the
or more shareholders holding at least 1% of the share capital
share capital equal to or greater than 1% or a multiple thereof, up
of the Company. This request is recorded in the minutes of the
to 34% of the share capital, are required to inform the Company, by
Shareholders’ Meeting.
registered letter with return receipt requested, within 5 days from
the date on which one of these thresholds is crossed, of the total
number of shares held directly, indirectly or in concert.
21
21
See Section 10 “Cash flow and share capital”, and Note 3 of Section 20.
22
22
Not applicable.
23
23
The documents relating to SUEZ that must be made available to throughout the entire validity period at the corporate headquarters
the public (the bylaws, reports, historical financial information of of SUEZ (16, rue de la Ville l’Evêque, 75008 PARIS, France). These
SUEZ and its subsidiaries included or referred to in this Reference documents may also be obtained in electronic format on the SUEZ
Document and those relating to each of the two fiscal years prior site (www.suez.com) and, for certain of them, on the site of the
to the filing of this Reference Document) may be consulted Autorité des Marchés Financiers (www.amf-france.org).
Valérie Bernis
Telephone: 33 (0)1 40 06 67 72
The SUEZ Reference Document is translated into English, Spanish and Dutch.
24
24
25 Information on investments
25
25
Resolutions
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Statutory
Report of auditors’
the Chairman
reportof the Board of Directors of SUEZ
Pursuant to Article L.225-37 of the French Commercial Code, I This report (and the preparatory work and procedures required)
hereby report to you on the terms and conditions governing the has been drawn up with the support of the General Secretary and
preparation and organization of the work performed by the Board the Internal Control Department. This report is presented to the
of Directors of SUEZ SA (hereinafter the “Company”), the internal Group’s Executive Committee and submitted to the Control &
control procedures implemented by the Company, the limitations Disclosure Committee for approval..
imposed by the Board on the powers of the Chief Executive Officer
and the principles and rules adopted by the Board of Directors
in order to determine the compensation and benefits granted to
corporate officers.
1.1 Board of Directors In 2001, the Board of Directors adopted Internal Regulations,
which have subsequently been amended on several occasions, and
SUEZ is incorporated in the form of a société anonyme (corporation) a Directors’ Charter. These documents provide the Board with the
with a Board of Directors subject to the provisions of Book II of channels and means necessary to operate efficiently, while serving
the French Commercial Code, as well as to all laws applicable to the interests of the Company and its shareholders, and set out with
business corporations. full transparency the rights and obligations of Directors. In addition,
the SUEZ Ethics Charter and, in particular, the Confidentiality and
Article 15 of the Company’s bylaws defines the powers of the Board
Privileged Information Guide are applicable to Directors.
of Directors:
The Board relies on the work of specialized committees: the
“The Board of Directors determines the strategic direction of the
Audit Committee, the Ethics, Environment and Sustainable
Company’s activities and ensures its implementation. It considers
Development Committee, the Nomination Committee and the
all issues concerning the proper functioning of the Company and
Compensation Committee. The powers, duties and methods of
settles all matters relating thereto, within the scope of the corporate
functioning of these committees are defined in the Board’s Internal
purpose and subject to those powers expressly granted by law to
Regulations. On July 9, 2003, following the conclusions of the
shareholders’ meetings.
Board’s performance evaluation, the Board of Directors decided
The Board of Directors performs all controls and verifications it to enlarge the Strategy Committee and approved the setting-up of
considers appropriate. Each Director receives all information periodic strategy consultation meetings, open to all Directors, so
necessary to the performance of his or her duties and may request as to prepare Board decisions.
any documents he or she considers necessary.”
Article 5 of the Directors’ Charter stipulates that the Board must
The Board met on twelve occasions during 2006. evaluate its own performance at regular intervals (every two years
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2.1. Introduction: Group objectives and These Departments are: Operations, Finance, Human Resources,
Communications and Sustainable Development, Business Strategy,
standards in the area of internal Risks, Organization and Central Services and General Secretary.
control The latter department includes the two branches of the Legal
Department: the Corporate Legal Department and the International
Legal Department.
Objectives
Coordination and monitoring of operations is based on a system
Internal control is a process implemented by the SUEZ Board of
of delegation of authority, put in place at both Headquarters and
Directors, management and other personnel designed to provide
subsidiary levels, which ensures that the decision-making process
reasonable assurance regarding the achievement of objectives in
is compliant with corporate governance principles.
the following categories:
The principles which guide the conduct and actions of Group
• compliance with applicable laws and regulations;
managers and personnel are set out in a number of Group codes
• risk prevention and management; and charters. The principal such documents are: the new Ethics
Charter, the Group Company Rules of Organization and Codes of
• reliability of financial and accounting information;
Conduct, the Code Ethic for Group Financial Officers, the Procedure
• effectiveness and efficiency of operations. for Application of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, the Practical Guide
for Ethical Business Relations, the Environmental Charter, the
However, as with any control system, it cannot provide absolute
Work Health and Safety Charter, the International Social Charter,
assurance that all risks of error or fraud are completely controlled
the Purchasing Ethics Charter and the Guidelines for Handling
or eliminated.
Information protecting the Confidentiality of Inside Information.
Standards applied
Coordination and monitoring of internal control
In order to achieve each of these objectives, the SUEZ Group
The SUEZ Group’s structure for coordination and monitoring of
has defined and implemented an internal control structure and
internal control is based on:
internal control procedures based on the “COSO” model, which
was developed by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of • the operational and functional Departments, which define their
the Treadway Commission.. own control procedures. Control procedures in the industrial and
commercial sectors are implemented and monitored mainly by
management and personnel of subsidiaries, on the basis of Group
2.2 Coordination and monitoring of policy and in a manner tailored to each of the businesses;
operations and internal control • the role of the Internal Control Department (which forms part of
the Finance Department) is to improve internal control systems
and to perform an analysis of such systems, in partnership with
Coordination and monitoring of operations the operational and functional Departments;
The SUEZ Group’s structure for coordination and monitoring of
operations is based around: • the Internal Audit Department (which forms part of the Risks,
Organization and Central Services Department) is in charge of
• the Executive Committee, which defines Group strategic assessing the effectiveness of internal control in the Group and
objectives and principles. The Executive Committee usually in each of its entities. It performs audit engagements, issues
meets each week to coordinate and control Group operations recommendations and oversees their implementation. As an
within the Divisions. Its composition and the manner in which independent function, the Internal Audit Department serves
operates are described in detail in Chapters 14.1 and 16 of the the Executive Committee and the SUEZ Audit Committee and
Reference Document; regularly reports to them on its activities.
• the operational Departments of the Group’s four Divisions which The Group’s methodology for the coordination and monitoring
are responsible for the conduct of business in the context of of internal control is communicated through an intranet system
the objectives so defined. These four Divisions, to which the which ensures that personnel are rapidly and fully informed of the
Group’s various subsidiaries are assigned, are: SUEZ Energy different standards, rules and instructions, as they are regularly
Europe (SEE), SUEZ Energy International (SEI), SUEZ Energy updated. In addition, information and training sessions are regularly
Services (SES) and SUEZ Environment (SE); organized on this subject.
• the seven Headquarters functional Departments which coordinate
activities that apply transversally to the entire Group.
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2.3 Implementation of internal control • the Environment and Innovation Department studies
environmental risks and coordinates actions required to
objectives strengthen control of such risks and ensure compliance with
environmental requirements (see also the annual Activity and
Sustainable Development Report);
Compliance with laws and regulations
Implementation of internal control objectives in respect of • the Information Systems Department analyzes and manages
compliance with laws and regulations is mainly performed by the system related risks in order to ensure availability, integrity and
Legal Departments. confidentiality of information.
Their role, carried out in liaison with the relevant operational and
functional Departments, notably involves preparing and negotiating Reliability of financial and accounting information
legal documentation, providing legal opinions and assisting with
The information systems
analysis of investment projects.
The implementation of internal control objectives with regards
Management of tax and related risks is performed by the Finance to the reliability of information systems is mainly performed by
Department. the Information Systems Department, which is responsible for
the definition, development and operation of information systems
Risk prevention and management and infrastructures, which are either specific to Headquarters or
transversal.
The main risks to which the Group is exposed, and the mechanisms
put in place to manage and control such risks are described in Other information systems are managed as appropriate on a
Chapter 4.1 of the Registration Document. decentralized basis by the various subsidiary IT departments.
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the latest developments in international standards and US • This Department, which is comprised of four sections (Financial
standards. The manual includes a definition of the performance Communication, External & Internal Branding Strategy, Press
indicators used by the Group; Relations, and External Relations), is notably responsible for:
• closing instructions distributed on the intranet prior to each • coordinating communication actions that could impact SUEZ in
consolidation phase: these instructions address the assumptions terms of image, reputation, brand integrity or share value;
in preparing the accounts (exchange rates, discount rates, tax),
• coordinating actions between the Headquarters and Division
the scope of consolidation and the timetable for submitting
communication teams;
data;
• implementing a validation process for each type of information
• the user manual for the consolidation IT system: this is distributed
communicated, whether internally or externally;
on the intranet and may be consulted by all members of finance
departments. • putting in place a crisis management system and steering
committees for each type of media.
• The standardization applicable under the reporting system (in
terms of configuration, maintenance, communication and control • In addition, control of the implementation of French, international
of compliance with instructions) secures and harmonizes data and US financial transparency regulations is carried out by the
processing. Control & Disclosure Committee, which is composed of SUEZ
Executive Committee members, working in relation with the
• Internal control of the financial and accounting information
Group Audit Committee.
produced involves:
• analysis and improvement of processes and internal control Effectiveness and efficiency of operations
pertaining to financial matters; • Implementation of internal control procedures aimed at
operational efficiency is subject to a Group-wide approach and
• coordination of a network of internal controllers within
is effected by all Group personnel, under the responsibility of
Headquarters and the Divisions with a view to ensuring the
management.
rigorous application of the “Codis” methodology designed to
strengthen internal control relating to the Group’s financial and • These procedures are monitored mainly by;
accounting processes;
• the Performance and Organization Department (which forms part
• assistance in preparation of annual and interim reports on of the Finance Department), which is notably in charge of:
organization, financial procedures and internal control, pursuant
• coordinating the Optimax action plan intended to improve
to French and US financial transparency laws;
control over operating expenses, working capital requirement
• reconciliation of financial, accounting and operational data and and investments in the Group,
information;
• developing a global purchasing policy for certain categories of
• production of a monthly reporting package covering investments, equipment under the Opting program;
the main operational management indicators and the trends in
• the Financial and Tax Department (which forms part of the
the main financial aggregates;
Finance Department) which is notably in charge of:
• ensuring the reliability of accounting and management data,
• ensuring that significant Group financial transactions are carried
specifically by determining the nature, scope, format and
out (raising capital on the bond and financial markets, project
frequency of relevant financial reporting at Group level that must
financing, disposals, mergers and acquisitions, listed security
be supplied by the Divisions;
transactions),
• communication of financial and accounting information to the
• analyzing Group investment projects and commitments; these
attention of the Group’s executive and administrative bodies,
projects are subject to an independent control by the Planning,
particularly to the Audit Committee;
Control and Accounting Department, which also performs
• verification of external financial information prior to its distribution secretariat services for committees which meet at SUEZ level
by the Communications Department. to consider projects which exceed the delegation thresholds
assigned to the Divisions,
Financial communications
• managing, in collaboration with the Divisions, Group treasury
• The growing importance of financial communications and the
(debt, cash, financial instruments) using a system for reporting
imperative of providing high-quality financial information have led
and forecasting of debt and controlling financial ratios and
the SUEZ Group to ensure that the Communications Department
covenants.
has the necessary resources to ensure the presentation of fair
and reliable information and the control of image risk.
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2.4 Internal control progress plan Group management and employees are responsible for the
maintenance of internal control at all levels of the organization.
The Codis Program is thus deployed in cascade from the Group
IFRS Executive Committee down to employees of subsidiaries. The
Internal Control Department coordinates and trains this broad
The adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards
network of participants. It manages an intranet database, performs
(IFRS) by the Group, and the resulting context of more extensive
ongoing reviews of developments in regulations, publishes a
and rigorous financial reporting, contributes to strengthen the
periodical information bulletin and provides methodology and
internal control environment. The implementation of IFRS enables
procedures for analyzing and testing internal control to this
continued harmonization of accounting policies used throughout
network.
the Group and led, notably, to the publication of an IFRS manual
applicable to the accounts as from January 1, 2004. In 2006, the Codis Program focused on the financial and
accounting processes and on the most relevant internal controls,
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Statutory auditors’ report
It is our responsibility to report to you our observations on the On the basis of these procedures, we have nothing to report
information set out in the Chairman’s report on the internal control on the information provided on the Company’s internal control
procedures relating to the preparation and processing of financial procedures relating to the preparation and processing of financial
and accounting information. and accounting information, contained in the Chairman of the
Board’s report, in accordance with Article L. 225-37 of the French
We performed our procedures in accordance with French
Commercial Code (Code de Commerce).
professional standards. These standards require that we
perform the necessary procedures to assess the fairness of the
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Auditors’ report on the review of environmental and social indicators
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We performed a limited review to provide moderate assurance • We performed validation tests at 24 sites belonging to 13 selected
that the selected data does not contain any material anomalies. entities1 for environmental data, representing on average 65% of
A higher level of assurance would have required more extensive SUEZ consolidated data2, and at 23 selected entities3 for social
work. Our work covers the consolidated data at Group level; it does data, representing 65% of SUEZ consolidated staff. In addition,
not include the rate of coverage related to the data. we have carried out analytical reviews and consistency tests for
6 additional entities for environmental reporting and 8 additional
• We assessed the environmental and social data reporting
entities for social reporting.
criteria with regard to its relevance, reliability, neutrality,
understandability, and completeness. • We examined, on a sampling basis, the calculations and
verified data reporting at different consolidation levels.
• We met with the persons responsible for the application of the
To assist us in conducting our work, we referred to the
reporting criteria at the Environment & Innovation Department,
environment and sustainable development experts of our firms
at the Social Relations Department, at the SUEZ headquarters,
under the responsibility of Mr. Eric Duvaud for Ernst & Young et
and in the branches : SUEZ Energy Europe (SEE), SUEZ
Autres and Mr. Frédéric Moulin for Deloitte & Associés.
Energy International (SEI), SUEZ Energy Services (SES), SUEZ
Environment (SE).
1 SEE : Electrabel SA (Drogenbos, Mol, and Les Awirs sites), Tirreno Power (Torrevaldaliga), Twinerg, Electrabel Nederland NV (Harculo site)– SEI : SEGNA
(Hot Spring Power, Golden Coors sites), Tractebel (Energia de Monterrey), Tractebel Energia (Jorge Lacerda, Lages Bioenergetica sites) - SES : Elyo
France (Elyo Nord Est headquarters and Dombasle site, Elyo Centre Est Méditerranée headquarters and Vaulx en Velin site) – SE : Lyonnaise des Eaux
(headquarters), Degrémont (Tomar and Mureaux sites), United Water (Milwaukee and New York sites), Sita France (headquarters, Retzwiller, Rochy Condé,
and Fertisère sites), SITA Treatment (headquarters and Herstal site), Sita UK (headquarters, Albury and Edmonton sites).
2 Percentage of relevant turnover covered by certified EMS: 57%, Number of certified EMS: 49%, Percentage of relevant turnover covered by a crisis
management plan : 55%, Greenhouse gas emissions: 66%, SOx emissions : 76%, NOx emissions : 62%, Dust emissions: 66%, Total primary energy
consumption: 63%, Total electricity consumption: 77%, Renewable energy – Net installed capacity : 75%, Renewable energy – Heat and electricity
generated : 66%, Industrial water consumption: 53%, Cooling process water : 90%, Pollution load treated : 57%, Non-specific and non-hazardous waste:
66%, Non-specific hazardous waste: 49%, Specific waste: 84% (total waste : 76%),Quantities of treated leachates : 57%.
3 SEE : Electrabel, Electrabel Nederland, SHEM – SEI : SENA, Tractebel Energia – SES : Fabricom GTI SA, Groupe Ineo, Endel SAS, GTI, Seitha, Axima AG,
Elyo France, Elyo Services – SE : Lyonnaise des Eaux France, SDEI, United Water, Degrémont SA, Lydec, Sita France, Sita Sweden, Sita UK, Sita Poland.
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Auditors’ report on the review of environmental and social indicators
Environmental reporting
Social reporting
• Controls at branch level have been improved, especially for SEE
and SEI. However, internal controls should be strengthened at • The reliability of the data collection and consolidation process has
entity and site level. improved, mainly due to the reinforcement of internal controls
at certain branches and entities level. These efforts should be
• Definitions of several indicators such as “NOx emissions”, “SO2
pursued by further implementation of controls for all entities.
emissions”, “dust emissions”, “industrial water and cooling water
consumption” and “electricity consumption” have been clarified. • With regard to certain indicators (number of staff trained, number
These efforts should be pursued, in particular for the indicator of hours worked and turnover), the controls of the application of
“Renewable energy – Net installed capacity”. the definitions provided by the Group should be reinforced
Conclusion
During our review, the following anomalies were identified: Based on our review and subject to the exceptions mentioned
above, we did not identify any material anomalies likely to call
• The indicator “industrial water consumption” for which we
into question the fact that the data examined was prepared, in
identified errors in certain entities, which have been corrected.
all material respects, in accordance with the above-mentioned
• The quantity of treated leachates for which errors in the reporting criteria.
application of the reporting criteria have been detected.
The Auditors
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Special report on the stock repurchase program authorized pursuant to the sixth resolution of the Ordinary and Extraordinary General Meeting of May 5, 2006,
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presented to the Ordinary and Extraordinary General Meeting of May 4, 2007
Statement by the issuer of transactions carried out on its own shares between
May 5, 2006 and February 28, 2007
Situation at February 28, 2007
Percentage of treasury stock: 0.35%
Number of shares cancelled over the last 24 months: 0
Number of own shares in portfolio: 4,463,209
Market value of portfolio: 163,442,713.58 euros
(as per the share price at February 28, 2007, i.e., €36.62) for an overall price of €270 million, and sold 8,495,131 shares
for a total of €301 million between May 5, 2006 and
These shares are appropriated as follows:
February 28, 2007.
• 3,788,209 held to cover stock purchase options; and
The Group did not use derivative instruments in relation to this
• 675,000 in respect of liquidity agreements entered into with stock repurchase program. There were no open positions via these
Rothschild & Cie Banque. derivative instruments, for purchase or sale, as of the date of this
report.
Within the scope of the liquidity agreement entered into with
Rothschild, the Company purchased 7,505,131 of its own shares
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Shareholders’ annual and extraordinary meeting of may 4, 2007
Agenda
• Appropriation of earnings and declaration of dividend. • Authorization for the Board of Directors to increase the Company’s
• Regulated agreements. share capital, with cancellation of preferential subscription rights
in favor of any entities whose sole purpose is to subscribe, hold
• Renewal of the terms of office of two Directors.
and dispose of SUEZ shares or other financial instruments within
• Change in the corporate name of one of the principal Statutory the scope of the implementation of one of the multiple formulae
Auditors. of the SUEZ Group’s international employee shareholding plan.
• Renewal of the appointment of one of the principal Statutory
• Authorization to grant stock subscription or purchase options to
Auditors.
corporate officers and employees of the Company and some of
• Appointment of a substitute Statutory Auditor. its affiliated companies or economic interest groups.
• Authorization for the Board of Directors to trade in the Company’s
• Authorization for the Board of Directors to allocate shares free of
shares.
consideration to corporate officers and employees the Company
and some of its affiliated companies or groupings.
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Board of Director’s Report
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Euros
Euros
6,970,079,567.45
If the shareholders approve this proposal, the net dividend for 2006 In the event that on the date the dividend is paid, the Company:
will be set at €1.20 per share. This entire distribution is eligible for
• holds a certain number of its own shares and
the 40% tax deduction provided for in paragraph 3 of Article 158
of the French Tax Code. • were to create less new shares, with dividend rights as of January
1, 2006, than the figure of 400,000 set out above,
This dividend shall be payable as from Monday, May 7, 2007.
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the sums corresponding to the dividend not paid on these shares
would be allocated to the “Other reserves” item.
This dividend compares as follows with the dividends paid over the last three years.
Breakdown of
Fiscal year Number of shares with dividends amounts Net dividend* Tax credit* Total earnings*
€ € € €
2003 992,256,980 shares fully paid in 704.5 million 0.70 0.35 1.05
3,273,914shares not paid in 2.3 million 0.70 0.35 1.05
2004 1,008,434,678 shares fully paid in 806.7 million 0.79 - 0.79
2005 1,260,366,555 shares fully paid in 1,260.3 million 1.00 - 1.00
*
after adjustment following the capital increase in cash of October 12, 2005, with retention of preferential subscription rights.
The shareholders are asked to renew his term of office for a further Change of corporate name and renewal
four-year period, which will expire at the close of the Ordinary of the appointment of a principal Statutory
Shareholders’ Meeting held to approve the financial statements
Auditor (7th and 8th resolutions)
for fiscal year 2010.
The shareholders are asked:
Mr. Lagarde is considered by the Board of Directors of SUEZ as
an independent Director. He is also the Chairman of the Audit • to record, as needs be, the change in corporate name of Barbier
Committee. Frinault & Autres, a principal Statutory Auditor, with effect from
July 1, 2006. The company’s new name is Ernst & Young et
Details of his background and activities are shown on page 157 of
Autres;
this Registration Document.
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• to renew the appointment of Ernst & Young et Autres, as principal • and sold on the Stock Market 8,495,131 shares for a total
Statutory Auditor, for a term of six fiscal years. amount of €302.4 million and at a price per share of €35.60.
The term of office of Ernst & Young et Autres will expire at the close The authorization granted by the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5,
of the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held to approve the financial 2006 to trade in the Company’s shares expires in November 2007.
statements for 2012. The shareholders are now asked to grant the Board of Directors a
further authorization to trade in the Company’s shares for a period
of eighteen months, with the corresponding cancellation of the
Appointment of a substitute Statutory previous authorization.
Auditor (9th resolution) Share purchases enable an investment services provider to stabilize
the share price on the Paris and Brussels stock exchanges, within
The appointment of Mr. Francis Gidoin, the substitute Statutory
the scope of a liquidity agreement entered into in accordance with
Auditor for Ernst & Young et Autres, is due to expire at the close of
the Code of Conduct of the AFEI (French Association of Investment
this Shareholders’ Meeting. The shareholders are asked to appoint
Firms) and the subsequent cancellation of the shares in order
Auditex to replace him as substitute Statutory Auditor.
to improve the return on equity and earnings per share. In this
Auditex will be the deputy Statutory Auditor for Ernst & Young et respect, the shareholders are asked in the 14th resolution to
Autres and its term of office will expire at the same time as that of renew the authorization to reduce the share capital by means of
Ernst & Young et Autres, at the close of the Ordinary Shareholders’ the cancellation of shares. The share purchases will also enable
Meeting held to approve the financial statements for fiscal year employee programs and stock option plans to be set up and allow
2012. financial transactions to be performed by way of the transfer, sale
or exchange of shares.
Authorization for the Board of Directors a public offer for the Company made by an offeror that does not
apply the passivity obligation for the Board of Directors in the event
to issue free equity warrants in the of an offer concerning the offeror itself.
event of a public offer for the Company These warrants would enable the shareholders to subscribe to
(11th resolution) shares in the Company under preferential conditions, it being
specified that these warrants would lapse should the offer, or
The authorization granted by the Shareholders’ Meeting of May
any competing offer, fail to succeed, be withdrawn or become
5, 2006 expires in November 2007. The shareholders are asked
invalid. The number of warrants to be issued would be limited to
today to grant the Board of Directors a further authorization for a
the number of shares making up the share capital at the time of
period of 18 months, with the corresponding cancellation of the
their issuance and the total par value of the shares that could be
prior authorization, to issue free equity warrants in the event of
issued in this manner would be limited to €2.7 billion.
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Board of Director’s Report
Authorization for the Board of Directors the SUEZ Group in the countries concerned, in light of the changes
in the applicable legislation.
to increase the share capital, with
In order to adapt the subscription formulae presented to the
cancellation of preferential subscription employees in each country concerned where applicable, the
rights in favor of all entities whose shareholders are asked to authorize the Board of Directors to
sole purpose is to subscribe, hold determine the subscription formulae and to make a breakdown
between countries according to those where employees will be
and dispose of SUEZ shares or other offered shares or equity interests in the above-mentioned entity or
financial instruments within the scope entities on the one hand, and those where employees will subscribe
of the implementation of one of the for SUEZ shares within the framework of the 12th resolution of
the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5,
multiple formulae of the SUEZ Group’s 2006 on the other.
international employee shareholding plan
The equitable nature of the conditions for the issuance of the SUEZ
(12th resolution) shares in favor of the entity or entities whose sole purpose is to
subscribe, hold and dispose of SUEZ shares or other financial
The shareholders are asked to authorize the Board of Directors for
instruments within the scope of the implementation of one of the
a period of 18 months, with the corresponding cancellation of the
multiple formulae of the SUEZ Group’s international employee
prior authorization, to issue shares reserved for all entities whose
shareholding plan, was submitted to an Independent Expert, Mr.
sole purpose is to subscribe, hold and dispose of SUEZ shares or
Jean Borjeix, whose report has been provided to you.
other financial instruments within the scope of the implementation
of one of the multiple formulae of the SUEZ Group’s international If, as a result of massive subscriptions, the number of subscriptions
employee shareholding plan, for a maximum total par value of were to exceed the maximum number of shares authorized for
€30 million. issue, the Board of Directors would carry out a reduction in the
subscriptions of the employees in accordance with the rules that it
The subscription price for the shares issued by the entity or entities
has then set in accordance with the provisions of French law and
would be equal to the price offered to employees subscribing to
the limits set by the authorization granted by the Shareholders’
the multiple formula within the scope of the 12th resolution of the
Meeting. These rules will be laid down by the Board of Directors,
Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006,
by applying, as the case my be, a principle of cutting back and/or
subject to the possibility offered to the Board of Directors to set the
a principle of proportionality, and could be inspired by the following
price and to eliminate or reduce the discount provided for in the
rules, it being specified that the final rules will be set by the Board
12th resolution of the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’
of Directors when it determines the subscription formulae:
Meeting of May 5, 2006.
• the reduction would be made resolution by resolution: if the
The shares or equity interests of the entity or entities that are the
maximum number of shares authorized for issue within the
beneficiaries of this reserved share issue may be proposed to the
framework of one of the two above-mentioned resolutions is
employees of foreign subsidiaries of the SUEZ Group falling within
not exceeded, the employees concerned by the resolution in
the scope of consolidation in the company’s financial statements
question would receive the full amount of their subscriptions,
pursuant to Article L. 444-3 of the French Labor Code and who, for
with the reduction in the subscriptions only concerning the
local regulatory or tax reasons, may not subscribe for SUEZ shares
oversubscribed share issue;
within the framework of the 12th resolution of the Ordinary and
Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006. • if, within the framework of only one of the two above-mentioned
resolutions, the number of subscriptions is greater than the
The SUEZ shares subscribed to by this entity or entities could,
maximum number of shares authorized for issue pursuant to
where applicable, be assigned in full or in part to one or more
the resolution concerned, a reduction would be made by cutting
credit institutions with their registered office either in France or in
back the number of subscriptions by employee and, as needs
a European Union Member State for the purpose of ensuring:
be, by a proportional reduction in such subscriptions;
• partly, the coverage of the multiple formula offered to the
• where, within the framework of one of the two above-mentioned
employees of foreign subsidiaries within the framework of the
resolutions, the number of subscriptions is greater than the
12th resolution submitted to this Shareholders’ Meeting,
maximum number of shares authorized for issue pursuant
• partly, the coverage of the multiple formula offered to the to the resolution concerned and where one of the countries
employees of foreign subsidiaries of the SUEZ Group subscribing falling within the scope covered by such resolution, which is
for SUEZ shares within the framework of the 12th resolution itself subject, for regulatory or tax reasons, to a maximum limit
of the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of on subscriptions (hereinafter the “country subject to an upper
May 5, 2006. limit”) also exceeds it own upper limit, a proportional reduction
would be made, in priority, in the subscriptions by the employees
The shareholders are asked to give the Board of Directors a certain
of the country subject to an upper limit;
amount of latitude in the choice of the structure allowing for the
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best implementation of the multiple formula for the employees of
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– Make-up”, Article 23 “Meetings” Participation and internet voting at the Shareholders’ Meeting, on
the issuer’s site, required the use, in order to be enforceable on
and Article 24 “Voting rights” of the anyone, of the “reliable electronic signature” system defined by
bylaws (Title VI – Shareholder Meetings) the French Decree of March 20, 2001 adopted for implementation
• simplification of internet voting. This is why it will only be legally unquestionable if it is expressly
provided for by the bylaws. This is a simple system consisting of
These two measures require an amendment to be made to the an identification code and a password which will be set up on the
bylaws. Company’s site.
Article 22 of the bylaws currently provides for shares to be rendered The reform only enters into force after the first Shareholders’
non-transferable, so its drafting should now be brought into line with Meeting in 2007 and such a system may therefore be used at the
the new provisions even if these new measures automatically apply next Shareholders’ Meeting after that on May 4, 2007 inasmuch as
as from the date of this year’s Shareholders’ Meeting. the market offers processes that are considered to be sufficiently
Articles 22 and 24 of the bylaws now provide for the possibility reliable to avoid a risk of interruption in the service during the
to use internet voting at Shareholders’ Meetings or mail voting in Shareholders’ Meeting.
accordance with the method described as the “simple electronic Article 22 of the bylaws (participation in Shareholders’ Meetings via
signature” method which is a simpler and cheaper method than the Internet) and Article 24 (mail voting) would thus provide for the
the “presumed reliable electronic signature” method which was up possibility to use the new system of simple electronic signature.
until now the only legally unquestionable method.
• Place of holding of Shareholders’ Meetings
• The elimination of the requirement for shares to be rendered non-
transferable will avoid, in future, the requirement for shareholders Furthermore, from the perspective of larger attendance by
shareholders at Shareholders’ Meetings, an increase in the choice
of “bearer shares” to ask their bank to block their shares in their
of meeting rooms for the holding of Shareholders’ Meetings should
account. The blocking of the shares could moreover only occur
be provided for.
once the transfer of title to the shares had been made in favor
of the shareholder. The shares had to have been acquired at A proposal is therefore made to provide, in Article 22 of the bylaws,
that the Shareholders’ Meeting may be held not only in Paris but
least three days prior to the request for them to be rendered
also in the neighboring départements.
non-transferable in order to take into account the three-day
settlement/delivery period which leads to transfer of title. In the event that the Shareholders’ Meeting were to authorize the
issue of securities with cancellation of the preferential subscription
From now on, the mere fact of entry of the name of the shareholder rights within the scope of the resolutions proposed above, the
in the accounts of its bank or the institution that manages their Board of Directors will draw up an additional report at the time of
account three days prior to the Shareholders’ Meeting, which takes application of such resolutions, in accordance with the provisions
place as soon as the share is purchased and prior to the transfer of of Article 155-2 of the French Decree of March 23, 1967.
title, makes it possible to participate in the Shareholders’ Meeting This report will describe the final conditions of the transaction
since, as of the date of the Shareholders’ Meeting, transfer of title and indicate:
will have taken place. • the impact of the proposed securities issue on the situation of the
Shareholders may trade in these shares during this period and will shareholder, and in particular with regard to the percentage of
equity held by him or her at fiscal year-end, it being specified that if
nevertheless be able to participate in the Shareholders’ Meeting
this year-end was over 6 months before the proposed transaction,
as they will continue to be the legal owner of the shares on the
this impact will be assessed in light of interim financial statements
date of the Shareholders’ Meeting, the settlement/delivery to the
drawn up using the same methods and the same presentation as
purchaser not having yet taken place.
the last annual balance sheet;
The new Article 22 of the bylaws would thus henceforth stipulate
• the theoretical impact on the current stock market value of the
that participation in the Shareholders’ Meeting is only contingent
share based on the average trading prices for the last 20 trading
on entry of the shares in the shareholder’s name in the share
sessions prior to the transaction.
register three days before the Shareholders’ Meeting, a different
notion to that of entry in an account which defines the transfer This information will be provided taking into account all the
of title and which is provided for in the current Article 22 of the securities that may grant entitlement to shares in the capital.
bylaws.
The Board of Directors
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Statutory Auditors’ special report on regulated agreements and commitments with related parties
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This is a free translation into English of the Auditors’ special report on regulated agreements and commitments with related parties that is issued in
the French language and is provided solely for the convenience of English speaking readers. This report on regulated agreements and commitments
should be read in conjunction with, and construed in accordance with, French law and professional auditing standards applicable in France. It
should be understood that the agreements reported on are only those provided by the French Commercial Code (Code de commerce) and that
the report does not apply to those related party transactions described in IAS 24 or other equivalent accounting standards.
To the Shareholders,
As statutory auditors of your Company, we hereby report to you on regulated agreements and commitments with related parties.
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The capital gains recorded in the annual financial statements and This transaction was authorized by the Board of Directors at its
in the consolidated financial statements amounted to €10 million November 22, 2006 meeting.
and €120 million, respectively.
At the buyer’s request, SWILUX S.A., the transaction was performed Terms and conditions
in an off-market transaction in accordance with Article 516-2 of the This assignment is expected to last until December 31, 2007, and
AMF General Regulations (French Financial Security Authority). may possibly be extended by successive periods of 6 months. As
consideration for these services Toulouse & Associés would receive
compensation in the event of:
3.With Toulouse & Associés (which
• a merger between SUEZ and Gaz de France,
became Leonardo France in
November 2006) • a takeover of Gaz de France by SUEZ and reciprocally,
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In its capacity as parent company of the Group, your Company In its meeting on January 9, 2002, your Board of Directors expressly
will be the ultimate guarantor with respect to these subsidiaries for authorized the agreements signed within this framework and
any debt incurred that exceeds the pro rata share of the member approved the participation of your Company in the securitization
company acting as guarantor. program for the Demeter part, containing SITA and some of its
subsidiaries, and the Helios part containing Suez Energy Services
This agreement had no impact on fiscal year 2006. In its meeting on September 4, 2002, your Board of Directors
approved the SUEZ Group’s participation in the securitization
program for the Nausikaa part containing the Fabricom group and
3.With Calyon and Morgan Stanley some of its subsidiaries.
• The issue of a guarantee from your Company, should SUEZ 5.With FirstMark Communication France
Finance, a wholly owned subsidiary of your Company, become
a party to the credit agreement in the capacity of borrower.
Nature and purpose
• The deposit account agreement, the unconditional credit In its meeting on April 26, 2002, your Board of Directors authorized
agreement and the engagement letter signed with Calyon the contribution of FirstMark Communication France shares to
Belgique. Neuf Telecom (formerly LD Com) by your Company, corresponding
Within the scope of the proposed cash increase of your Company’s to a value of €210 million. In accordance with the terms of this
capital, with retention of the preferential subscription rights, the contribution, your Company received approximately 16.7% of the
Board of Directors, in its meeting on September 7, 2005, expressly share capital of Neuf Telecom.
approved a guarantee agreement entitled “underwriting agreement,” This contribution includes certain direct commitments in favor of
signed, in particular, with Calyon and Morgan Stanley. Neuf Telecom and a guarantee for all of the obligations of three
of your Company’s subsidiaries that were merged with SUEZ
Communication during fiscal year 2004. Only warranties relating
to tax matters still exist.
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8.With Cofixel of the sale price, i.e., €40.4 million. As of the date hereof, only the
uncapped warranties related to tax matters are still in effect and
will expire in September 2008.
Nature and purpose Moreover, the Company provided joint and several guarantees
In its meeting on July 4, 2001, your Board of Directors authorized covering all of Findim’s undertakings with respect to the sale
the sale by your Company of INEO, Entrepose and Delattre-Levivier of Banque La Hénin. As of the date hereof, only the uncapped
to Cofixel (the French holding company of the Fabricom Group). warranties related to tax matters are still in effect and will expire
During this same meeting, your Board of Directors also authorized a in September 2008.
certain number of other guarantees, for an amount globally limited
to €40 million and relating to all the companies sold.
Terms and conditions
These agreements had no impact on fiscal year 2006.
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Statutory Auditors’ Reports on the Shareholders’ Annual and Extraordinary Meeting of May 4, 2007
To the Shareholders,
As statutory auditors of your Company, we hereby present our reports on the various transactions, upon which you are called to vote.
As statutory auditors of your Company and in accordance with Your Board of Directors is responsible for preparing a report in
Article L. 228-92 of the French Commercial Code (Code de accordance with Articles R.225-113, R.225-114 and R.225-117 of
Commerce) we hereby report on the proposed issue of warrants the French Commercial Code (Code de Commerce). Our role is to
for no consideration in the event of a takeover bid for the Company, report to you on the fair presentation of the quantified information
transaction, upon which you are called to vote. extracted from the accounts and on certain other information
concerning the transaction, contained in this report.
Your Board of Directors proposes, on the basis of its report and in
accordance with Article L.233-32 II the French Commercial Code We conducted our procedures in accordance with professional
(Code de Commerce), that it be delegated full power to decide on guidance applicable in France. This guidance requires that we
the following: plan and perform procedures to verify the contents of the Board
of Director’s report in respect of this transaction.
• the issue of warrants as set forth in Article L. 223-32-2 of the
French Commercial Code (Code de commerce) with retention We have no comment to make on the information contained in
of preferential subscription rights to one or several shares in the Board of Director’s report in respect of the proposed issue of
the Company, in addition to their allotment of warrants to all warrants in the event of a takeover bid for the Company.
Company shareholders enjoying preferential subscription rights
Pursuant to Article L. 233-32 III of the French Commercial Code
for no consideration, before the takeover offer period expires;
(Code de Commerce) should the Shareholders’ Meeting approve
• the final terms and conditions and the characteristics of these this transaction, and in accordance with Article R.225-116 of
warrants. French Commercial Code (Code de Commerce), we will prepare
a supplementary report when your Board of Directors exercises
The maximum overall nominal value of this share issue may not
its powers.
exceed €2.7 billion and the maximum number of warrants which
could be issued may not exceed the number of shares that make
up the share capital at the time the warrants are issued.
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In our capacity as statutory auditors of your Company and We conducted our procedures in accordance with professional
in accordance with Articles L. 225-135 etc. of the French standards applicable in France. Those standards require that
Commercial Code (Code de Commerce) we hereby report on we perform procedures to verify the contents of the Board of
the proposed delegation of powers to your Board of Directors to Directors’ report in respect of this transaction and on the methods
decide on an increase in capital through the issue of ordinary for determining the share issue price.
shares with cancellation of preferential subscription rights for a
Subject to a subsequent examination of the terms and conditions
maximum amount of €30 million, reserved for all entities whose
of the proposed issuance, we have no comment to make on the
sole object is to subscribe, hold and sell Suez shares or other
terms and conditions for determining the share issue price as set
financial instruments in order to implement one of the Group’s
forth in the Board of Directors’ report.
many international employee savings schemes, a transaction on
which you are called upon to vote. As the share issue price has not yet been set, we can not report
on the final terms and conditions under which the issuance will
This increase in capital is submitted for your approval in accordance
be performed. As a result, we cannot report on the cancellation
with Articles L. 225-129-6 of the French Commercial Code (Code
of your preferential share subscription rights which the Board of
de Commerce) and L. 443-5 of French Labour Code (Code du
Directors has proposed.
Travail).
In accordance with Article R.225-116 of the French Commercial
Based on its report, the Board of Directors asks shareholders
Code (Code de commerce), we will issue an additional report,
to delegate, for a period of 18 months, the necessary powers
if necessary, when your Board of Directors exercises this
to decide on one or more issues and proposes that you waive
authorization.
your preferential subscription rights. When necessary, the Board
of Directors will set the final issue terms and conditions of this
transaction.
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In our capacity as statutory auditors of your Company and in We conducted our procedures in accordance with professional
compliance with Articles L. 225-177 and R.225-144 of the French standards applicable in France. Those standards require that
Commercial Code (Code de Commerce), we hereby report on we perform the necessary procedures to verify that the methods
the stock options or share purchase plans reserved for directors proposed for determining the subscription and/or purchase
and employees of the Company and certain affiliated groups or price are disclosed in the Board of Directors’ report, are in
companies. accordance with legal requirements, and are sufficiently clear to
the shareholders and do not appear obviously inappropriate.
It is the responsibility of the Board of Directors to prepare a
report on the reasons for the granting of stock subscription or We have no comment to make on the methods proposed.
purchase options and the proposed terms and conditions
for determining the subscription or purchase price.
Our responsibility is to report on the proposed methods for
determining the subscription or purchase price.
In our capacity as statutory auditors of your Company and in In the absence of any professional accounting standards applicable
compliance with Article L.225-197.1 of the French Commercial to this transaction, pursuant to a legislative provision of December
Code (Code de Commerce), we hereby report on the proposed 30, 2004 and December 30, 2006, we performed the procedures
allotment for no consideration of existing shares or shares to that we deemed necessary. These procedures involved verifying
be issued to employees and directors of Suez and its affiliated that the proposed terms and conditions presented in the Board of
groups or companies, as set forth in Article L.225-197-2 of the Directors’ report conform to the provisions provided for by law.
French Commercial Code (Code de Commerce).
We have no comment to make on the information given in the
Your Board of Directors proposes that it be authorized to allot for Board of Directors’ report relating to the proposed transaction on
no consideration existing shares or shares to be issued. It is the the allotment of shares for no consideration.
Board’s responsibility to prepare a report on the transaction that
it wishes to implement. Our role is to report on the information
provided to you in respect of the proposed operation.
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In our capacity as statutory auditors of your Company and in Shareholders are requested to confer all necessary powers on
compliance with Article L.225-209, paragraph 7 of the French the Board of Directors, during a period of 18 months, to cancel
Commercial Code (Code de Commerce) in respect of the share the shares purchased by the Company, pursuant to the share
capital decrease by cancellation of shares previously purchased, purchase authorization, up to 10% of the share capital by 24-
we hereby report to you on our assessment of the reasons and month period.
terms and conditions of the proposed reduction in capital.
We have no comments on the reasons for or the terms and
We conducted our procedures in accordance with professional conditions of the proposed share capital decrease, which, you are
standards applicable in France. Those standards require that we reminded, may only be performed subject to the prior approval
perform the necessary procedures to examine the fairness of the by the shareholders of the purchase by the Company of its own
reasons for and the terms and conditions for the proposed share shares.
capital decrease.
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Independent Expert’s Report
To the Shareholders, • the subscription price will be exactly the same as that offered
to French employees, that is at a price 20% below the average
In my capacity as independent expert, I hereby present you with my
opening share price during the twenty stock market sessions
report on the share capital increase reserved for all entities whose
prior to the date of the decision to issue shares reserved for
sole purpose is to subscribe, hold and dispose of SUEZ shares or
French and non-French employees.
other financial instruments within the scope of the implementation
of one of the multiple formulae of the SUEZ Group’s international This report is based on a review of the terms and conditions of the
employee shareholding plan. share capital increase reserved for the Special Purpose Entity. It
did not focus on the detailed terms and conditions under which this
For ease of reference in this document, we will use the term
Special Purpose Entity is, or will in future be, organized in order to
“Special Purpose Entity” to refer to the company for which the
reproduce, for employees of non-French subsidiaries, an economic
reserved share issue is carried out; it is specified that this may be
profile as close as possible to that offered to employees of French
all entities whose sole purpose is to subscribe, hold and dispose
Group companies, using an identical subscription price.
of SUEZ shares or other financial instruments within the scope of
the implementation of one of the multiple formulae of the SUEZ Based on the various documents provided, my analysis of the
Group’s international employee shareholding plan. transaction which you are asked to approve leads me to confirm
that the subscription price offered to non-French employees of your
The aim of this transaction, if the Board of Directors decides on its
Group, through the Special Purpose Entity, is indeed identical to
implementation, is to enable non-French employees of the Group
that offered to French employees.
who wish to participate in the leveraged employee savings plan to
benefit, through the Special Purpose Entity, from subscription terms I would remind you that in order to preserve this equality of
and conditions for new SUEZ shares equivalent to those offered to subscription terms and conditions, share capital increases reserved
employees of French companies under the Group Savings Plan. for the employees of the French companies on the one hand and
those reserved for the employees of non-French subsidiaries on
In accordance with the legal provisions governing Group Savings
the other must be performed at the same time.
Plans, French employees will be able to subscribe through an
employee investment fund for SUEZ shares at a price which is It is consequently your responsibility to assess the subscription
20% below the average opening share price during the twenty terms and conditions offered to the Special Purpose Entity and
stock market sessions prior to the decision of the Board of Directors approve or reject the resolution regarding this transaction proposed
or the Chairman, as the case may be, to issue shares reserved by your Board of Directors.
for French employees, pursuant to the twelfth resolution of the
Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006.
Paris, March 8, 2007
The share capital increase reserved indirectly for employees of
non-French Group subsidiaries would enable them to subscribe for Jean Borjeix
SUEZ shares under the following terms and conditions:
• the share capital increase resulting from this subscription will not
exceed a maximum par value amount of €30 million, on one or
more occasions, within an eighteen-month period;
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Resolutions
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Resolutions
6,970,079,567.45
Accordingly, the shareholders declare a net dividend for fiscal • creates less new shares, with dividend rights as of January
year 2006 of €1.20 per share. This entire distribution is eligible 1, 2006, than the 400,000 referred to above,
for the 40% deduction provided for in paragraph 3 of Article 158
the sum corresponding to the dividend not paid on these shares
of the French Tax Code.
would be allocated to the “Other reserves” item.
This dividend shall be payable as from Monday, May 7, 2007.
In the event that on the date the dividend is paid, the Company:
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Resolutions
Pursuant to applicable law, the shareholders hereby record that distributions in respect of the previous three fiscal years were as follows:
Exercice Nombre d’actions rémunérées Sommes réparties Dividende net* Avoir fiscal* Revenu global*
€ € € €
2003 992,256,980 shares not paid in 704.5 million 0.70 0.35 1.05
* After adjustment following the capital increase in cash of October 12, 2005 with retention of preferential subscription rights.
Fourth resolution – Statutory Auditors’ Barbier Frinault & Autres, a principal Statutory Auditor, with effect
from July 1, 2006. The company’s new name is Ernst & Young
Report on regulated agreements et Autres.
of office of a Director (Jacques Lagarde) a French société par actions simplifiée (simplified joint-stock
company) with variable capital, having its registered office at
The shareholders, deliberating as an Ordinary Shareholders’ 41 rue Ybry, Neuilly-sur-Seine (92200), registered with the Nanterre
Meeting and having reviewed the Board of Directors’ Report, renew Trade and Companies Registry under number 438 476 913 R.C.S.
Jacques Lagarde’s term of office as Director for a period of four Nanterre, as principal Statutory Auditor, for a term of six fiscal
years. years.
Mr. Lagarde’s term of office shall expire at the close of the Ordinary The term of office of Ernst & Young et Autres shall expire at the
Shareholders’ Meeting held to approve the financial statements for close of the Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting held to approve the
fiscal year 2010. financial statements for fiscal year 2012.
principal Statutory Auditor La société AUDITEX sera le suppléant de la Société Ernst & Young
et Autres et son mandat prendra fin en même temps que celui de
The shareholders, deliberating as an Ordinary Shareholders’ cette dernière, à l’issue de l’Assemblée Générale Ordinaire qui
Meeting, record, as needs be, the change in corporate name of statuera sur les comptes de l’exercice 2012.
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Tenth resolution– Authorization for And in accordance with the following terms and conditions:
the Board of Directors to trade in the • the maximum number of shares purchased may not exceed
10% of the share capital on the date of this decision and the
Company’s shares aggregate amount of purchases, net of expenses, may not exceed
The shareholders, deliberating as an Ordinary Shareholders’ the amount of €7 billion;
Meeting and having reviewed the Board of Directors’ special report • the maximum purchase price may not exceed €55.
and the overview of the stock repurchase program, authorize the
Board of Directors to purchase Company shares in accordance • The purchase of shares, together with their sale or transfer, may
with the terms and conditions set forth in Article L. 225-209 of the be performed by any means, on the stock market or over-the-
French Commercial Code with a view to: counter. Such means include trading in financial derivatives, on
a regulated market or over-the-counter and the implementation
• enabling an investment services provider to stabilize the share of option transactions such as the purchase or sale of calls or
price under liquidity agreements; puts. These transactions may be performed at any time, except
• their subsequent cancellation as part of a reduction of share during the period of a public offer for the Company, pursuant
capital decided or authorized by an Extraordinary Shareholders’ to applicable law.
Meeting; In the event of a share capital increase by capitalization of reserves
• granting or selling them to employees, former employees, and the allocation of shares free of consideration, or a share split
corporate officers or former corporate officers of the Group, or or reverse share split, the aforementioned prices shall be adjusted
implementing stock option plans; arithmetically in the proportion required by the change in the total
number of shares as it results from the transaction.
• keeping them or subsequently tendering them in exchange or as
payment for external growth transactions, subject to a maximum This authorization shall come into effect at the close of this
limit of 5% of the share capital; Shareholders’ Meeting and be valid for a period of 18 months as
from the date hereof; it cancels and supersedes the authorization
• using them to cover issued securities which carry with them granted by the sixth resolution of the Ordinary and Extraordinary
rights to shares in the Company, by means of allocating shares Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006.
at the time when the rights attached to the issued securities
are exercised, which give entitlement by way of redemption, The shareholders confer full powers on the Board of Directors, with
conversion, exchange, presentation of a coupon or by any other the possibility of delegation, to implement this authorization, enter
means, to the allotment of shares in the Company. into any agreements, perform all formalities, file returns with all
appropriate bodies or entities and generally do all that is necessary
in this respect.
Eleventh resolution – Authorization expiry of the public offer period, as well as to determine the
conditions of exercise and features of the warrants. The total
granted to the Board of Directors to issue maximum par value of ordinary shares issued in this way may
free equity warrants in the event of a not exceed a limit of €2.7 billion and the maximum number of
public offer for the Company warrants issued may not exceed the number of shares making
up the share capital at the time that the warrants are issued;
The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’
2. decide that this authorization may only be used in the event of
Meeting under the quorum and majority requirements provided for
a public offer for the Company;
by Article L. 225-98 of the French Commercial Code, and having
reviewed the Board of Directors’ report and the Statutory Auditors’ 3. decide that the Board of Directors shall have full powers, with
Special Report: the possibility of subdelegation by the Board, to implement this
authorization pursuant to applicable law.
1. authorize the Board to issue, on one or several occasions,
equity warrants subject to the provisions of Articles L. 233-
32 II and L. 233-33 of the French Commercial Code enabling
subscription, under preferential terms, for a share or shares
in the Company, and the free allotment thereof to all of the
Company’s shareholders having shareholder status prior to the
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This authorization shall take effect at the close of this Shareholders’ not they have legal personality, whose sole purpose is to
Meeting. It shall be granted for a period of 18 months as from subscribe, hold and dispose of SUEZ shares or other financial
the date hereof and cancels and supersedes the authorization instruments within the scope of the implementation of one
granted by the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of the multiple formulae of the SUEZ Group’s international
of May 5, 2006 in its tenth resolution. employee shareholding plan;
7. decide that the issue price of the new shares shall be the
same as the price of shares to be issued in the next share
Twelfth resolution – Authorization for the capital increase reserved for employees who are members of
Board of Directors to increase the share a SUEZ Group corporate savings plan, pursuant to the twelfth
capital, with cancellation of preferential resolution of the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’
Meeting of May 5, 2006, and which shall be equal to 80%
subscription rights in favor of all entities of the average opening price of SUEZ shares on the Eurolist
whose sole purpose is to subscribe, hold market of Euronext Paris during the 20 stock market sessions
and dispose of SUEZ shares or other preceding the date of the decision setting the opening date of
the period for subscription to the share capital increase reserved
financial instruments within the scope for members of a SUEZ Group corporate savings plan.
of the implementation of one of the
8. decide that the Board of Directors may determine the
multiple formulae of the SUEZ Group’s subscription formulae which will be presented to the employees
international employee shareholding plan in each company concerned, in light of the constraints of
applicable local laws, and select the countries to be included
The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ from among those in which the SUEZ Group has subsidiaries
Meeting, in accordance with Article L. 225-138 of the French that fall within the scope of consolidation of SUEZ pursuant to
Commercial Code and having reviewed the Board of Directors’ Article L. 444-3 of the French Labor Code and those of such
Report, the Statutory Auditors’ Special Report and the Independent subsidiaries whose employees will be able to participate in the
Expert’s Report: transaction;
1. cancel the authorization granted by the Ordinary and 9. decide that the amount of the share issue or of each share
Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006 in its issue shall be limited, where applicable, to the amount of
thirteenth resolution to increase the share capital in favor subscriptions received by SUEZ, in accordance with applicable
of Spring Multiple 2006 SA and/or any company whose legal and regulatory requirements.
sole purpose is to subscribe, hold and dispose of SUEZ
shares or other financial instruments within the scope of the
implementation of one of the multiple formulae of the SUEZ Thirteenth resolution– Authorization
Group’s international employee shareholding plans;
to grant stock subscription or purchase
2. authorize the Board of Directors to increase the share capital,
on one or more occasions, over a period of 18 months as from
options to corporate officers and
the date of this Shareholders’ Meeting, by a maximum par employees of the Company and of some
value amount of €30 million via the issuance of a maximum of of its affiliated companies or economic
15 million new shares with a par value of €2 each;
interest grouping
3 . authorize the Board of Directors to choose the entity or entities
The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’
referred to in point 5 below;
Meeting, and having reviewed the Board of Directors’ Report and
4. decide that the final amount of the capital increase will be set the Statutory Auditors’ Special Report:
by the Board of Directors which shall have full powers for such
• authorize the Board of Directors to grant, on one or more
purpose;
occasions, over a period of 38 months as from the date of this
5. decide that the total amount of subscriptions by each employee Shareholders’ Meeting, to the corporate officers and employees
may not exceed the limits that will be provided for by the it designates from the Company and some of the companies
Board of Directors within the scope of this authorization and, or economic interest groups that are affiliated with it under
in the event of excess employee subscriptions, these shall be the conditions provided for in Article L. 225-180 of the French
reduced in accordance with the rules defined by the Board of Commercial Code, options granting entitlement to subscribe for
Directors; new shares of the Company, issued pursuant to the increase
6. decide to cancel the shareholders’ preferential subscription in its share capital, or to purchase existing shares held by the
rights and reserve subscription of all the shares to be issued, Company under the conditions provided for by law and the
in accordance with Article L. 25-138 of the French Commercial regulations;
Code, in favor of any French or foreign entities, whether or
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• record that this authorization shall entail, for the beneficiaries of carried out pursuant to this authorization, in accordance with the
stock subscription options, express waiver by the shareholders conditions provided for by the law and regulations in force;
of their preferential subscription rights to the shares that will be
• grant full powers to the Board of Directors to authorize, where
issued as and when the stock options are exercised;
applicable, any changes and adaptations to the conditions
• decide that: relating to the benefit of the stock subscription or purchase
options allocated prior to this Shareholders’ Meeting.
– the subscription price for new shares and the purchase price of
existing shares shall be set, without any discount, in accordance This resolution cancels and supersedes the authorization to grant
with the provisions of Articles L. 225-177 and L. 225-179 of the stock subscription or purchase options granted by the Ordinary
above-mentioned Code, and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of April 27, 2004 in its
eighteenth resolution.
– in the event of transactions carried out by the Company that
may lead to a change in the value of the shares making up its
share capital, an adjustment shall be made to the number and
subscription or purchase price of the option shares without this
Fourteenth resolution – Authorization for
adjustment leading to a decrease in the subscription price to the Board of Directors to allocate shares
below the par value of the share, free of consideration to corporate officers
without prejudice to the impact of the adjustment referred to and employees of the Company and some
above, the total amount of options subsequently offered pursuant
of its affiliated companies or economic
to this authorization may not grant entitlement to subscribe for or
purchase a total number of shares in excess of 3% of the share interest groupings
capital, at the time of the decision to grant the options;
The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’
• confer full powers on the Board of Directors to adopt, in Meeting, having reviewed the Board of Directors’ Report and
compliance with the laws and regulations in force and the the Statutory Auditors’ Special Report, in accordance with the
provisions of this resolution, all the terms and conditions provisions of the French Commercial Code and, in particular,
of the allocation and exercise of the stock options and, in Articles L. 225-197-1 et seq.:
particular, to:
• authorize the Board of Directors to allocate, on one or more
– designate the beneficiaries of the various types of stock occasions, over a period of 38 months as from the date of
options, this Shareholders’ Meeting, to the corporate officers and
employees it designates from the Company and some of the
– set the subscription prices for the new shares or purchase prices
companies or economic interest groups that are affiliated with
for existing shares, the time(s) for exercise of the stock options
it under the conditions provided for in Article L. 225-197-
over the period of validity of the stock options, which may not
2 of the aforementioned Code, existing or new shares free of
exceed ten years,
consideration;
– lay down, where applicable, a prohibition on reselling all or some
• decide that:
of the shares acquired through the exercise of the stock options
for a period which may not exceed three years as from the date – the Board will decide on the identity of the beneficiaries of the
of exercise of the option, share awards and the conditions including at least the mandatory
condition of a minimum return on capital employed for the Group
– where applicable, set the temporary suspension periods for
and, where applicable, the criteria for granting the shares,
exercise of the stock options which are required for certain
financial transactions, – in the event of transactions carried out by the Company that
may lead to a change in the value of the shares making up its
– record the share capital increases resulting from the exercise
share capital, an adjustment will be made to the number of
of stock options: amend the bylaws accordingly; carry out all
shares allocated,
formalities, directly or via an authorized representative,
– without prejudice to the impact of the adjustment referred to
– deduct the costs of the share capital increases from the amount
above, the total number of shares allocated pursuant to this
of the share premiums (additional paid-in capital) relating to
authorization may not exceed 1% of the share capital on the
these share capital increases and deduct from this amount the
date of the decision to allocate the shares, it being specified that
sums required to increase the legal reserve to one-tenth of the
the number of shares thus allocated shall be deducted from the
new share capital after each share capital increase,
total number of shares, within the limit of 3% of the share capital
– in general, take all appropriate measures and do whatever may on the date of the decision to allocate the shares, that may be
be required, subscribed for or purchased pursuant to the thirteenth resolution
of the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of
• give the Board of Directors responsibility for informing the
May 4, 2007 with regard to the grant of stock subscription or
Ordinary Shareholders’ Meeting each year of the transactions
purchase options,
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– the allocation of shares to their beneficiaries shall become final • make the appropriate amendments to the bylaws and generally
and binding at the end of a minimum period of 2 years for all do all that is necessary;
or part of the shares allocated and the minimum mandatory
• in accordance with applicable law as of the date of implementation
holding period required for the shares by the beneficiaries is set
of this authorization.
at 2 years. For those shares allocated for which the minimum
vesting period is set at 4 years, the minimum mandatory holding
period may be eliminated,
Sixteenth resolution – Amendment
– in the event of incapacity of the beneficiary fulfilling the of Article 22 «Categories – Make-up».
conditions laid down by law, the final allocation of shares may
take place prior to the end of the vesting period. This applies
Article 23 «Meetings» and Article 24
both to the allocations made in respect of this resolution and «Voting rights» of the bylaws (Title VI
to the allocations made in respect of the sixteenth resolution – Shareholder Meetings)
of the Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of
May 13, 2005; The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’
Meeting and having reviewed the Board of Directors’ Report, decide
• record that this decision shall entail the automatic waiver by
to amend Articles 22, 23 and 24 of the bylaws as follows:
the shareholders, in favor of those receiving share allocations
free of consideration, of the portion of the reserves which will
be capitalized, where applicable, in the event of the issuance «Article 22 – Categories – Make-up
of new shares; Shareholders’ Meetings are considered to be «Extraordinary» when
• grant full powers to the Board of Directors, with the possibility the decisions relate to a change in the bylaws and «Ordinary» in
of subdelegation, to implement this authorization in compliance all other cases.
with the laws and regulations in force. All shareholders, irrespective of the number of shares held,
This resolution cancels and supersedes the authorization to are entitled to attend meetings personally or be represented,
allocate shares free of consideration made by the Ordinary and on provision of proof of identity and ownership of the shares.
Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of May 13, 2005 in its Ownership of the shares is evidenced by an entry in the Company’s
sixteenth resolution. share register in the name of the shareholder (or of the intermediary
acting on their behalf, in accordance with the seventh paragraph of
Article L. 228-1 of the French Commercial Code) or in the register
Fifteenth resolution – Authorization for of bearer shares held by the applicable authorized intermediary.
the Board of Directors to reduce the share Such entries must be recorded by zero hours (Paris time), on the
third working day preceding the Meeting.
capital by canceling shares
All shareholders may also, if permitted by the Board of Directors or
The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’ its Chairman when the shareholders’ meeting is convened, attend
Meeting and having reviewed the Board of Directors’ Report and the meeting by video conference or by electronic communications
the Statutory Auditors’ Special Report, authorize the Board of means or remote transmission; the Company may, for this purpose,
Directors, pursuant to Article L. 225-209 of the French Commercial use an identification process meeting the conditions laid down in
Code, to reduce the share capital, on one or more occasions, by the first sentence of the second paragraph of Article 1316-4 of the
canceling all or part of the shares purchased by the Company, French Civil Code. Such shareholders are considered present at the
subject to a maximum limit of 10% of the share capital of the meeting when calculating quorum and majority requirements.
Company by 24-month period.
Shareholder meetings, regularly called and held, represent all
This authorization is granted for a period of 18 months as from the shareholders.
date of this Shareholders’ meeting and supersedes that granted
All shareholders are bound by decisions of shareholder meetings
by the fourteenth resolution of the Ordinary and Extraordinary
made in accordance with applicable laws and the bylaws.»
Shareholders’ Meeting of May 5, 2006 .
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The Chairman of the Board of Directors chairs meetings or, in his Shareholders may vote by correspondence in accordance with
absence, by the oldest Vice-Chairman present at the meeting, or the terms, conditions and procedures laid down by prevailing
failing this, is a Director specially appointed for this purpose by the law and regulations. Shareholders may submit a proxy or
Board of Directors. Failing this again, the shareholders’ meeting correspondence voting form on paper or, subject to a decision
appoints its own Chairman. by the Board of Directors published in the notice of meeting, by
remote transmission; the Company may use for this purpose an
Minutes of the meeting are prepared and copies certified and filed
identification process meeting the conditions provided for in the
in accordance with the law.»
first sentence of the second paragraph of Article 1316-4 of the
French Civil Code.»
«Article 24 – Voting rights
The voting rights attached to shares are in proportion to the
percentage of share capital they represent and each share carries Seventeenth resolution –Powers to carry
entitlement to at least one vote. out the shareholders’ decisions and
Where shares are subject to beneficial ownership, the voting rights perform the related formalities
attached to these shares are exercised by the beneficial owner at
Ordinary and Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meetings. The shareholders, deliberating as an Extraordinary Shareholders’
Meeting, confer full powers on the bearer of the original or a copy or
Double voting rights to those attached to other shares, in terms excerpt of the minutes of this meeting to comply with all necessary
of the portion of share capital they represent, are attributed to all filing or other formalities wherever required..
fully paid-up shares held in registered form for at least two years
in the name of the same shareholder or of this shareholder and
individuals whose rights he holds, either intestate or by virtue of
a will, the division of marital property between spouses or inter
vivos donation to a spouse or relative entitled to a share in the
deceased’s estate.
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