POWELL INDUSTRIES INC (POWL)

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2024 compared to the twelve months ended September 30, 2023 should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Annual Report. For discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for Fiscal Year 2023 as compared to Fiscal Year 2022, please refer to Part II, Item 7. “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023, filed with the SEC on December 6, 2023. Any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf are made pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and the actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties, please see “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” and Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Executive Overview

We develop, design, manufacture and service custom-engineered equipment and systems that distribute, control and monitor the flow of electrical energy and provide protection to motors, transformers and other electrically powered equipment. We are headquartered in Houston, Texas and primarily serve the oil and gas and petrochemical markets, the electric utility market, and commercial and other industrial markets. Beyond these major markets, we also provide products and services to the light rail traction power market and other markets that include universities and government entities. We are continuously developing new channels to electrical markets through original equipment manufacturers and distribution market channels. For additional information on the markets we serve, see “Markets” in Part I, Item 1 of this Annual Report.

In Fiscal 2024, we reported revenues of $1.0 billion, net income of $149.8 million, and generated $108.7 million in cash from operating activities. As of September 30, 2024, we had total assets of $928.2 million.

Outlook

Our backlog was $1.3 billion as of September 30, 2024, of which approximately $849 million is expected to be recognized as revenue during our fiscal year ending September 30, 2025. Although current commercial activity remains active in most of the markets that we compete in, we remain attentive to the macro environment and geopolitical events that may have an impact on future market activity.

Oil and gas and petrochemical markets. Our order activity remains strong in these markets. The North American market is responding to increased international demand for LNG and gas-to-chemical processes utilizing low-cost gas feedstocks. We believe the fundamentals of the U.S. natural gas market, through abundant supply and low cost, will continue to support investments in LNG, related gas processing, and petrochemical processes, and as a result, will continue to sustain our order activity associated with such markets. In addition to the traditional crude oil refining and other oil and gas downstream processes, we have recently expanded our end markets into hydrogen production, carbon capture as well as alternative fuels, such as biofuels and sustainable aviation fuel, in response to the demand for clean energy.

Electric utility market. Aligned with our strategy of end-market diversification, we seek to continue our focus and growth in electrical distribution substations, while also addressing a resurgence of power generation investment in this market.

Commercial and other industrial markets. We have experienced strong growth in these end markets driven by a mix of factors including increased investment in commercial and light industrial facilities for the production of various goods, the expansion of data centers and cloud computing, as well as the growing demand in industrial applications to support new technologies driving the energy transition. We are cautiously optimistic regarding the anticipated investment across AI applications that may drive data center growth and subsequently power generation demand.

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Business Environment

The markets in which we participate are capital-intensive and cyclical in nature. Cyclicality is predominantly driven by customer demand, global economic and geopolitical conditions and anticipated environmental, safety or regulatory changes that affect the manner in which our customers proceed with capital investments. Our customers analyze various factors, including the demand and price for oil, gas and electrical energy, the overall economic and financial environment, governmental budgets, regulatory actions and environmental concerns. These factors influence the release of new capital projects by our customers, which are traditionally awarded in competitive bid situations. Scheduling of projects is matched to customer requirements, and projects typically take a number of months to produce. Schedules may change during the course of any particular project, and our operating results can, therefore, be impacted by factors outside of our control.

Our operating results are impacted by several factors such as the timing of new order awards, project backlog, changes in project cost estimates, customer approval of final engineering specifications and delays in customer construction schedules, all of which contribute to short-term earnings variability and the timing of project execution. Our operating results also have been, and may continue to be, impacted by the timing and resolution of change orders and the resolution of potential contract claims and liquidated damages, all of which could improve or deteriorate gross margins during the period in which these items are resolved with our customers. Disruptions in the global supply chain have negatively impacted and may continue to negatively impact our business and operating results due to the limited supply of, delays for and uncertainty in the timing of the receipt of key component parts and commodities. We continue to remain focused on the variables that impact our markets as well as cost management, labor availability and supply chain challenges.

We are subject to inflation, which can cause increases in our costs of labor, indirect expenses and raw materials, primarily copper, aluminum and steel. Fixed-price contracts can limit our ability to pass these increases to our customers, thus negatively impacting our earnings and operations in future periods.

During Fiscal 2024, we experienced commodity price volatility, in addition to the ongoing supply chain delays for specific engineered components that have been persistent. We are working closely with our suppliers to meet our customer commitments. In response to the increased cost environment and supply chain challenges, we strive to effectively manage our product pricing, delivery schedules and bid validity dates with our customers, as well as improve factory efficiencies and project execution, and as a result our gross margins have been improved in Fiscal 2024.

Results of Operations

Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2024 Compared to Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2023

Revenue and Gross Profit

Revenues and costs are primarily related to custom engineered-to-order equipment and systems and are accounted for under percentage-of-completion accounting, which precludes us from providing detailed price and volume information.

Revenues increased by 45%, or $313.0 million, to $1.0 billion in Fiscal 2024, primarily driven by the increase in project backlog resulting from large contracts awarded during Fiscal 2023 and strong bookings throughout Fiscal 2024. Domestic revenues increased by 52%, or $288.6 million, to $846.5 million in Fiscal 2024. International revenues increased by 17%, or $24.5 million, to $165.8 million in Fiscal 2024. Our international revenues include both revenues generated from our international facilities as well as revenues from export projects generated at our domestic facilities.

In Fiscal 2024, revenue from our core oil and gas market (excluding petrochemical) increased by 53%, or $144.1 million, to $417.2 million in Fiscal 2024; petrochemical market revenue increased by 97%, or $91.4 million, to $185.6 million; revenue from our electric utility market increased by 18%, or $28.1 million, to $186.5 million; commercial and other industrial market revenue increased by 44%, or $45.9 million, to $149.9 million; and revenue from all other markets combined increased by 23%, or $9.6 million to $51.1 million. These increases in revenue were driven by improved market conditions in most of our end markets, increased capital spending in our core oil, gas and petrochemical markets, as well as our strategic effort to expand our business into electric utility and commercial and other industrial markets. Revenue from our light rail traction power market decreased by 22%, or $6.1 million, to $22.0 million in Fiscal 2024 due to less project volume in this market. For additional information on the markets we serve, see “Markets” in Part I, Item 1 of this Annual Report.

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Gross profit increased by 85%, or $125.5 million, to $273.1 million in Fiscal 2024. Gross profit as a percentage of revenues increased to 27% in Fiscal 2024 as compared to 21% in Fiscal 2023. This increase in gross profit is attributable to the higher volume levels across all of Powell's manufacturing facilities generating favorable volume leverage, strong project execution, and continuing effort to improve factory efficiencies while also managing product pricing that corresponds to current cost levels.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 8%, or $6.1 million, to $84.9 million in Fiscal 2024, primarily due to increased compensation expense and higher spending on infrastructure improvements. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues decreased to 8% in Fiscal 2024, compared to 11% in Fiscal 2023, resulting from higher revenues on our existing cost structure.

Income Tax Provision

We recorded an income tax provision of $46.2 million in Fiscal 2024, resulting in an effective tax rate of 24%, compared to an income tax provision of $14.4 million in Fiscal 2023 at an effective tax rate of 21%. In Fiscal 2024, the effective tax rate was favorably impacted by the estimated Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit and tax benefits related to the vesting of restricted stock units. These items were offset by state income tax expense, certain non-deductible items, and the tax impact of U.S. global intangible income.

In Fiscal 2023, the effective tax rate approximated the U.S. federal statutory rate. The favorable impacts of the estimated R&D Tax Credit and the release of the valuation allowance previously recorded against the U.K. net deferred tax assets in the amount of $1.9 million were offset by state income tax expense, certain non-deductible items and the tax impact of U.S. global intangible income.

Net Income

In Fiscal 2024, we recorded net income of $149.8 million, or $12.29 per diluted share, compared to net income of $54.5 million, or $4.50 per diluted share in Fiscal 2023. This increase in net income is primarily due to higher revenues coupled with improved gross profit margins, as well as our disciplined cost structure.

Backlog

The order backlog, which is our remaining unsatisfied performance obligations, represents the estimated transaction price for goods and services for which we have a material right, but work has not been performed. The order backlog at September 30, 2024 was $1.3 billion, consistent with our backlog at September 30, 2023. Bookings, net of cancellations and scope reductions, decreased by 24% in Fiscal 2024 to $1.1 billion, compared to $1.4 billion in Fiscal 2023. Despite strong bookings in Fiscal 2024, the decrease in bookings was due to a normalization of the oil and gas sector with fewer large orders awarded in this sector during Fiscal 2024.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 30, 2024, current assets exceeded current liabilities by 1.8 times.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments increased to $358.4 million at September 30, 2024, compared to $279.0 million at September 30, 2023. This increase in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments was primarily driven by our improved earnings due to increased project margins and volumes, partially offset by working capital allocated to projects in our order book, capital spending, as well as dividend payments. We believe that our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments, as well as available borrowings under our U.S. credit facility, will be sufficient to support our future operating activities, working capital requirements, payment of dividends and capital spending, as well as research and development initiatives for the next twelve months and beyond.

On October 4, 2023, we entered into a third amendment (the Third Amendment) to our credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A. (as amended, the U.S. Revolver). The Third Amendment which added Texas Capital Bank as Syndication Agent and a lender, increased the amount of the revolving line of credit from $125.0 million to $150.0 million, and extended the expiry date to October 4, 2028. The aggregate commitment of $150.0 million consists of $100.0 million committed by Bank of America and $50.0 million committed by Texas Capital Bank. As amended by the Third Amendment, the lesser of (a) $60 million, (b) 60% of available cash, and (c) the aggregate face amount of the issued but undrawn letters of credit that are not cash-secured shall be deducted from consolidated funded indebtedness, when calculating the consolidated net leverage ratio. We have the

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option to cash collateralize all or a portion of the letters of credit outstanding, which would favorably impact the consolidated funded indebtedness calculation and the consolidated net leverage ratio. On June 26, 2024, in connection with the expected discontinuation of the publication of the Canadian Dollar Offered Rate (CDOR), we further amended the U.S. Revolver by entering into a Canadian benchmark replacement conforming changes amendment with Bank of America, N.A. that added and amended certain terms related to the replacement of the CDOR as a benchmark rate with the forward-looking term rate based on the Canadian Overnight Repo Rate Average. On September 24, 2024, in connection with the expected discontinuation of the publication of the Bloomberg Short-Term Bank Yield Index Rate as administered by the Bloomberg Index Service Limited (BSBY), we further amended the U.S. Revolver by entering into a conforming changes amendment with Bank of America, N.A. that added and amended certain terms related to the replacement of the BSBY as a benchmark rate with the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) as administered by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

As of September 30, 2024, there were no amounts borrowed under the U.S. Revolver, and letters of credit outstanding were $63.8 million. There was $86.2 million available for the issuance of letters of credit and borrowings under the U.S. Revolver as of September 30, 2024. For further information regarding our debt, see Notes G and H of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Approximately $77.7 million of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments at September 30, 2024 was held outside of the U.S. for our international operations. It is our intention to indefinitely reinvest all current and future foreign earnings internationally in order to ensure sufficient working capital to support our international operations. In the event that we elect to repatriate some or all of the foreign earnings that were previously deemed to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S., we may incur additional tax expense upon such repatriation under current tax laws.

Cash Flows

Operating Activities

Operating activities provided net cash of $108.7 million during Fiscal 2024 and provided net cash of $182.6 million during Fiscal 2023. Cash flow from operations is primarily influenced by project volume and margins, as well as working capital requirements, the timing of milestone payments from our customers, and payment terms with our suppliers. The decrease in operating cash flow was primarily due to working capital impact as we allocate capital to the projects in the order book, partially offset by higher net income resulting from increased project volume and improved project margins.

Investing Activities

Investing activities used $21.9 million of cash during Fiscal 2024 and used $26.6 million in Fiscal 2023. The decrease in cash used in investing activities during Fiscal 2024 was primarily due to lower net purchase of short-term investments, partially offset by higher capital spending on property, plant and equipment in Fiscal 2024. During Fiscal 2024, our purchase of short-term investments was $9.7 million compared with net purchase of short-term investments of $18.8 million in Fiscal 2023. In July 2024, we made a cash purchase of land and buildings in Houston, Texas for $5.6 million to help further facilitate executing the current backlog as well as planning for modest future volume growth. In addition, we acquired intellectual property in December 2023 for a total consideration of $0.5 million, of which $250 thousand was paid in cash.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was $19.3 million during Fiscal 2024 compared to $13.1 million used during Fiscal 2023. The increase in cash used in financing activities was primarily due to cash payments related to shares withheld in lieu of employee tax withholding, largely driven by the significant increase in our share price during Fiscal 2024 compared to Fiscal 2023.

Planned Capital Spending

We have planned capital spending of approximately $11 million on a facility expansion project at our products factory in Houston. We expect to complete the expansion project by mid-Fiscal 2025. We have spent $1.5 million on the expansion project in Fiscal 2024.

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Other Commercial Commitments

We are contingently liable for letters of credit and bank guarantees totaling $71.0 million as of September 30, 2024, with the following potential cash outflows in the event that we are unable to perform under our contracts (in thousands):

We also had surety bonds totaling $426.8 million that were outstanding at September 30, 2024. Surety bonds are primarily used to guarantee our contract performance to our customers.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We had no significant off-balance sheet arrangements during the periods presented.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis, based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will be consistent with those estimates.

We believe the following accounting estimates to be critical in the preparation and reporting of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Our revenues are primarily generated from the manufacturing of custom-engineered products and systems under long-term fixed-price contracts under which we agree to manufacture various products such as traditional and arc-resistant distribution switchgear and control gear, medium-voltage circuit breakers, monitoring and control communications systems, motor control centers, switches and bus duct systems. These products may be sold separately as an engineered solution, but are typically integrated into custom-built enclosures which we also build. These enclosures are referred to as power control room substations (PCRs®), custom-engineered modules or electrical houses (E-Houses). Some contracts may also include the installation and commissioning of these enclosures.

Revenue from these contracts is generally recognized over time utilizing the cost-to-cost method. Under the cost-to-cost method, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation. We believe that this method is the most accurate representation of our performance because it directly measures the value of the services transferred to the customer over time as we incur costs on our contracts. Contract costs include all direct materials, labor and indirect costs related to contract performance, which may include indirect labor, supplies, tools, repairs and depreciation costs.

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Performance Obligations

A performance obligation is a promise in a contract or with a customer to transfer a distinct good or service. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied. To determine the proper revenue recognition for contracts, we evaluate whether a contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation or, less commonly, whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one performance obligation. This evaluation of performance obligations requires significant judgment. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation where multiple engineered products and services are combined into a single custom-engineered solution. Our contracts include a standard one-year assurance warranty. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. These extended warranties qualify as separate performance obligations, and revenue is deferred and recognized over the warranty period. If we determine during the evaluation of the contract that there are multiple performance obligations, we allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation using our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct good or service in the contract.

Contract Estimates

Actual revenues and project costs may vary from previous estimates due to changes in a variety of factors. The cost estimation process is based on the professional knowledge and experience of our engineers, project managers and financial professionals. Factors that are considered in estimating the work to be completed and ultimate contract recovery include the availability and productivity of labor, the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, the availability of materials, and the effect of any delays on our project performance. We periodically review our job performance, job conditions, estimated profitability and final contract settlements, including our estimate of total costs and make revisions to costs and income in the period in which the revisions are probable and reasonably estimable. We bear the risk of cost overruns in most of our contracts, which may result in reduced profits. Whenever revisions of estimated contract costs and contract values indicate that the contract costs will exceed estimated revenues, thus creating a loss, a provision for the total estimated loss is recorded in that period. See Note E of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to changes in contract estimates.

Variable Consideration

It is common for our long-term contracts to contain variable consideration that can either increase or decrease the transaction price. Due to the nature of our contracts, estimating total cost and revenue can be complex and subject to variability due to change orders, back charges, spare parts, early completion bonuses, customer allowances and liquidated damages. We estimate the amount of variable consideration based on the expected value method, which is the sum of probability-weighted amounts, or the most likely amount method, which uses various factors including experience with similar transactions and assessment of our anticipated performance. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if legally enforceable and to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur once the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved.

Contract Modifications

Contracts may be modified for changes in contract specifications and requirements. We consider contract modifications to exist when the modification either creates new or changes the enforceable rights and obligations under the contract. Most of our contract modifications are for goods and services that are not distinct from the existing performance obligation. Contract modifications result in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to revenue based on our measure of progress for the performance obligation.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be realizable. If an evaluation is required, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset are compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if recording an impairment of such asset is necessary. This requires us to make long-term forecasts of the future revenues and costs related to the assets subject to review. Forecasts require assumptions about demand for our products and future market conditions. Estimating future cash flows requires significant judgment, and our projections may vary from cash flows eventually realized. Future events and unanticipated changes to assumptions could require a provision for impairment in a future period. The effect of any impairment would be reflected in operating income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In addition, we estimate the useful lives of our long-lived assets and other intangibles, and periodically review these estimates to determine whether these lives are appropriate.

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Accruals for Contingent Liabilities

From time to time, contingencies such as insurance-related claims, liquidated damages and legal claims arise in the normal course of business. Pursuant to applicable accounting standards, we must evaluate such contingencies to subjectively determine the likelihood that an asset has been impaired, or a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements, as well as evaluate whether the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. If the likelihood is determined to be probable, and it can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss is recorded. The amounts we record for contingent liabilities require judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We use past experience and history, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding each contingent liability, including estimated legal costs, in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Actual results could differ from our estimates.

Warranty Costs

Estimated costs of warranties are accrued based on historical warranty claim costs in relation to current revenues. In addition, specific provisions are made when product failures are projected outside historical experience. Our standard terms and conditions of sale include a warranty for parts and service for one year. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. Actual results could differ from our estimate.

Projects may require, on occasion, warranty terms that are longer than our standard terms due to the nature of the project. Extended warranty terms may be negotiated and included in our contracts. The allocated revenue associated with the extended warranty is deferred and recorded as a contract liability and recognized as revenue over the extended warranty period.

Accounting for Income Taxes

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, based on the income tax laws and rates in the countries in which operations are conducted, and income is earned. This approach requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. Developing our provision for income taxes requires significant judgment and expertise in federal, international and state income tax laws, regulations and strategies, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and, if necessary, any valuation allowances that may be required for deferred tax assets. In assessing the extent to which net deferred tax assets may be realized, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets may not be realized. The ultimate realization of net deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Estimates may change as new events occur, estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced or increased, additional information becomes available, or operating environments change, which may result in a full or partial reversal of the valuation allowance. We will continue to assess the adequacy of the valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. Our judgments and tax strategies are subject to audit by various taxing authorities.

The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Accounting literature also provides guidance on derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. Variations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could materially impact our financial position and results of operations.

See Note I of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to the valuation allowance recorded in relation to deferred taxes.

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Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2023 compared to the twelve months ended September 30, 2022 should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes. We have elected to omit discussion on the earliest of the three years covered by the consolidated financial statements presented. Refer to Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations located in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2022, filed on December 6, 2022, for discussion of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021, the earliest of the three fiscal years presented. Any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf are made pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and the actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties, please see “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements; Risk Factors” and “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors,” included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Overview

We develop, design, manufacture and service custom-engineered equipment and systems that (1) distribute, control and monitor the flow of electrical energy and (2) provide protection to motors, transformers and other electrically powered equipment. We are headquartered in Houston, Texas and serve the oil and gas and petrochemical markets, which include onshore and offshore production, LNG facilities and terminals, pipelines, refineries and petrochemical plants. Additional markets include electric utility, light rail traction power as well as mining and metals, pulp and paper, data centers and other municipal, commercial and industrial markets. Revenues and costs are primarily related to custom engineered-to-order equipment and systems and are accounted for under percentage-of-completion accounting, which precludes us from providing detailed price and volume information. Our backlog includes various projects that typically take a number of months to produce.

The markets in which we participate are capital-intensive and cyclical in nature. Cyclicality is predominantly driven by customer demand, global economic and geopolitical conditions and anticipated environmental, safety or regulatory changes that affect the manner in which our customers proceed with capital investments. Our customers analyze various factors, including the demand and price for oil, gas and electrical energy, the overall economic and financial environment, governmental budgets, regulatory actions and environmental concerns. These factors influence the release of new capital projects by our customers, which are traditionally awarded in competitive bid situations. Scheduling of projects is matched to customer requirements, and projects typically take a number of months to produce. Schedules may change during the course of any particular project, and our operating results can, therefore, be impacted by factors outside of our control.

Within the industrial sector, specifically oil, gas and petrochemical, the demand for our electrical distribution solutions is very cyclical and closely correlated to the level of capital expenditures of our end-user customers as well as prevailing global economic conditions. The North American market is responding to increased international demand for LNG and gas-to-chemical processes utilizing low-cost gas feedstocks. As a result, the business has been awarded a number of large LNG and petrochemical contracts that have had a positive impact on our backlog.

One element of our strategic focus is to strengthen our project portfolio beyond our core oil, gas and petrochemical end market sectors. Diversification efforts outside of our core oil, gas and petrochemical end markets have resulted in an increase in backlog across the utility and commercial and other industrial sectors. Over the past year, these efforts have contributed to a strong backlog of projects coming into Fiscal 2023 and near record levels going into Fiscal 2024.

Various factors resulting in global economic uncertainty negatively impacted our results over the previous two years. Uncertainty and demand disruptions resulted in considerable volatility across commodity markets. We experienced supply chain disruptions driven predominantly by availability and cost volatility across our raw materials, components and labor force. All of these factors contributed to the lower margins realized in Fiscal 2022 relative to prior oil and gas cycles. Commodity prices have stabilized in Fiscal 2023; however, we continue to experience supply chain delays for specific engineered components and continue to work with our suppliers in order to meet our customer commitments. Additionally, we have adjusted our product pricing, delivery schedules and bid validity dates with our customers in response to the increased cost environment and supply chain delays, and as a result our gross margins have been improved in Fiscal 2023.

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Results of Operations

Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2023 Compared to Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2022

Revenue and Gross Profit

Revenues increased by 31%, or $166.7 million, to $699.3 million in Fiscal 2023, primarily driven by the increase in project backlog resulting from a recovery of our core oil, gas and petrochemical markets. Domestic revenues increased by 38%, or $153.0 million, to $557.9 million in Fiscal 2023. International revenues increased by 11%, or $13.8 million, to $141.4 million. Our international revenues include both revenues generated from our international facilities as well as revenues from export projects generated at our domestic facilities.

Revenue from our core oil and gas markets (excluding petrochemical) increased by 27%, or $57.9 million, to $273.1 million in Fiscal 2023, and petrochemical revenue increased by 42%, or $27.6 million, to $94.2 million in Fiscal 2023. Revenue from our utility end markets increased by 29%, or $36.0 million, to $158.4 million in Fiscal 2023. Commercial and other industrial market revenue increased by 84%, or $47.5 million, to $104.0 million driven by an increase in traditionally non-core markets such as data centers, university projects and other miscellaneous applications. Revenue from all other markets combined increased by $14.5 million to $41.5 million in Fiscal 2023. These increases in revenue were driven by improved market conditions and our strategic effort to diversify our business. Revenue from our traction market decreased by 37%, or $16.8 million, to $28.1 million in Fiscal 2023.

Gross profit increased by 74%, or $62.5 million, to $147.6 million in Fiscal 2023. Gross profit as a percentage of revenues increased to 21% in Fiscal 2023 as compared to 16% in the prior year. This increase in gross profit was favorably impacted by the higher volume levels across the manufacturing facilities driving key factory efficiencies, strong project execution as well as, effectively managing product pricing that corresponds to current cost levels. Additionally, project cancellations contributed $4.3 million to gross profit in Fiscal 2023.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 11%, or $8.0 million, to $78.8 million in Fiscal 2023, primarily due to increased variable performance-based compensation. Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of revenues, decreased to 11% in Fiscal 2023, compared to 13% in Fiscal 2022, based upon leveraging our cost structure on the increase in revenues.

Other Income

During Fiscal 2022 we recorded other income of $2.3 million related to a gain on the sale of a small, non-core, industrial valve repair and servicing business within our Canadian operations as well as the sale of an excess parcel of land in the U.S. We did not record other income in Fiscal 2023.

Income Tax Provision (Benefit)

We recorded an income tax provision of $14.4 million in Fiscal 2023, resulting in an effective tax rate of 21%, compared to an income tax benefit of $3.9 million in Fiscal 2022 at an effective tax rate of negative 40%. In Fiscal 2023, the effective tax rate approximated the U.S. federal statutory rate. The favorable impacts of the estimated Research and Development Tax Credit (R&D Tax Credit) and the release of the valuation allowance previously recorded against the U.K. net deferred tax assets in the amount of $1.9 million were offset by state income tax expense, certain non-deductible items and the tax impact of U.S. global intangible income.

In Fiscal 2022, the tax benefit primarily resulted from the release of the valuation allowance previously recorded against the Canadian net deferred tax assets in the amount of $5.9 million and the estimated R&D Tax Credit. The tax benefit was partially offset by certain non-deductible items, the tax expense related to the gain on the disposition of a small, non-core division of our Canadian operations and the tax impact of U.S. global intangible income.

Net Income

In Fiscal 2023, we recorded net income of $54.5 million, or $4.50 per diluted share, compared to net income of $13.7 million, or $1.15 per diluted share in Fiscal 2022. This increase in net income is primarily due to the increase in bookings which led to an increase in revenues coupled with increased project margins.

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Backlog

The order backlog at September 30, 2023 was $1.3 billion, a 118% increase from $592.2 million at September 30, 2022. This increase in backlog is driven primarily from our oil and gas markets, including LNG, petrochemical, utility and commercial and other industrial markets. Bookings, net of cancellations and scope reductions, increased by 94% in Fiscal 2023 to $1.4 billion, compared to $718.6 million in Fiscal 2022, primarily driven by continued strength from our core oil, gas and petrochemical markets, including several large LNG and petrochemical projects.

Outlook

Recently we have seen a cyclical recovery across our core oil, gas and petrochemical markets combined with increased global demand for cleaner-burning fuels as well as related processes utilizing lower cost gas feedstocks. Our order activity in most of our core markets has been strong and includes multiple large LNG and petrochemical projects. This elevated project activity has increased our backlog to approximately $1.3 billion. Diversification efforts outside of our core oil, gas and petrochemical end markets have also been a positive catalyst, helping to drive the increase in backlog. This strong backlog of projects, which incorporates pricing and productivity initiatives in response to persistent inflationary pressures, should continue to support an increasing level of revenue into Fiscal 2024. Approximately $648 million of the backlog is expected to be recognized as revenue within the next twelve months. We do not anticipate our backlog will continue to grow at the same pace as we have recognized in the last twelve months, which included several large LNG and petrochemical projects booked throughout Fiscal 2023.

Our operating results are impacted by several factors such as the timing of new order awards, project backlog, changes in project cost estimates, customer approval of final engineering specifications and delays in customer construction schedules, all of which contribute to short-term earnings variability and the timing of project execution. Our operating results also have been, and may continue to be, impacted by the timing and resolution of change orders and the resolution of potential contract claims and liquidated damages, all of which could improve or deteriorate gross margins during the period in which these items are resolved with our customers. Disruptions in the global supply chain have, in the past, negatively impacted our business and operating results due to the limited availability resulting in uncertainty in the timing of the receipt of key component parts and commodities. We continue to remain focused on the variables that impact our markets as well as cost management, labor availability and supply chain challenges.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 30, 2023, current assets exceeded current liabilities by 1.6 times.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments increased to $279.0 million at September 30, 2023, compared to $116.5 million at September 30, 2022. The increase in cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments was primarily driven by the increased project volume and favorable timing of contract billing milestones on some of our large projects. We typically allocate a significant percentage of the progress billing to the early stages of the contract. These favorable billing milestones along with our increase in project backlog are the primary drivers for the increase at September 30, 2023. We believe that our strong working capital position, available borrowings under our credit facility and available cash and cash equivalents should be sufficient to support our future operating activities, capital improvements and research and development initiatives for the foreseeable future.

On March 31, 2023, we entered into a second amendment (the Second Amendment) to our credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A. (as amended, the U.S. Revolver). The Second Amendment increased the revolving credit facility, which is available for both borrowings and letters of credit from $75.0 million to $125.0 million. As amended by the Second Amendment, the U.S. Revolver states the lesser of $50 million or 50% of available cash may be deducted from the amount of letters of credit outstanding (not to be less than zero) when calculating the consolidated funded indebtedness, which is a component of the consolidated net leverage ratio. We have the option to cash collateralize all or a portion of the letters of credit outstanding, which would favorably impact the consolidated funded indebtedness calculation and the consolidated net leverage ratio.

As of September 30, 2023, there were no amounts borrowed under the U.S. Revolver, and letters of credit outstanding were $89.1 million. There was $35.9 million available for the issuance of letters of credit and borrowings under the U.S. Revolver as of September 30, 2023. We are required to maintain certain financial covenants, the most significant of which are a

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consolidated net leverage ratio of less than 3.0 to 1.0 and a consolidated interest coverage ratio of greater than 3.0 to 1.0. Our most restrictive covenant, the consolidated net leverage ratio, is the ratio of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (EBITDAS) to funded indebtedness, which includes letters of credit. An increase in indebtedness or a decrease in EBITDAS could restrict our ability to issue letters of credit or borrow under the U.S. Revolver. For further information regarding our debt, see Notes G and H of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

On October 4, 2023, we entered into a third amendment to the U.S. Revolver (the Third Amendment) with Bank of America, N.A., and Texas Capital Bank has agreed to join as an additional lender under the U.S. Revolver. The Third Amendment increased the amount of the revolving line of credit from $125.0 million to $150.0 million and extended the expiry date to October 4, 2028. For further information regarding the Third Amendment, see Note G to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Approximately $57.4 million of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments at September 30, 2023 was held outside of the U.S. for our international operations. It is our intention to indefinitely reinvest all current and future foreign earnings internationally in order to ensure sufficient working capital to support our international operations. In the event that we elect to repatriate some or all of the foreign earnings that were previously deemed to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S., we may incur additional tax expense upon such repatriation under current tax laws.

Operating Activities

Operating activities provided net cash of $182.6 million during Fiscal 2023 and used net cash of $3.6 million during Fiscal 2022. Cash flow from operations is primarily influenced by the timing of milestone payments from our customers, project volume and the associated working capital requirements, as well as payment terms with our suppliers. This increase in operating cash flow was primarily due to the increase in project volume and the favorable timing of contract billing milestones, although partially offset by the increases in accounts receivable and inventory. Inventory has increased to support our increased backlog and stock levels to help mitigate global supply chain risks.

Investing Activities

Investing activities used $26.6 million of cash during Fiscal 2023 compared to $6.5 million of cash provided in Fiscal 2022. The increase in cash used in investing activities during Fiscal 2023 was primarily due to the timing of cash used to purchase short-term investments.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was $13.1 million during Fiscal 2023 compared to $13.3 million during Fiscal 2022, which primarily consisted of approximately $12.4 million and $12.2 million of dividends paid in the respective years.

Other Commercial Commitments

We are contingently liable for letters of credit and bank guarantees totaling $96.7 million as of September 30, 2023, with the following potential cash outflows in the event that we are unable to perform under our contracts (in thousands):

We also had surety bonds totaling $393.4 million that were outstanding at September 30, 2023. Surety bonds are primarily used to guarantee our contract performance to our customers.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We had no significant off-balance sheet arrangements during the periods presented.

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Effects of Inflation

We are subject to inflation, which can cause increases in our costs of labor, indirect expenses and raw materials, primarily copper, aluminum and steel. Fixed-price contracts can limit our ability to pass these increases to our customers, thus negatively impacting our earnings and operations in future quarters and years.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (U.S. GAAP) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis, based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates.

We believe the following accounting estimates to be critical in the preparation and reporting of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Our revenues are primarily generated from the manufacturing of custom-engineered products and systems under long-term fixed-price contracts under which we agree to manufacture various products such as traditional and arc-resistant distribution switchgear and control gear, medium-voltage circuit breakers, monitoring and control communications systems, motor control centers, switches and bus duct systems. These products may be sold separately as an engineered solution, but are typically integrated into custom-built enclosures which we also build. These enclosures are referred to as power control room substations (PCRs®), custom-engineered modules or electrical houses (E-Houses). Some contracts may also include the installation and commissioning of these enclosures.

Revenue from these contracts is generally recognized over time utilizing the cost-to-cost method. Under the cost-to-cost method, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation. We believe that this method is the most accurate representation of our performance because it directly measures the value of the services transferred to the customer over time as we incur costs on our contracts. Contract costs include all direct materials, labor and indirect costs related to contract performance, which may include indirect labor, supplies, tools, repairs and depreciation costs.

Performance Obligations

A performance obligation is a promise in a contract or with a customer to transfer a distinct good or service. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied. To determine the proper revenue recognition for contracts, we evaluate whether a contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation or, less commonly, whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one performance obligation. This evaluation of performance obligations requires significant judgment. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation where multiple engineered products and services are combined into a single custom-engineered solution. Our contracts include a standard one-year assurance warranty. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. These extended warranties qualify as separate performance obligations, and revenue is deferred and recognized over the warranty period. If we determine during the evaluation of the contract that there are multiple performance obligations, we allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation using our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct good or service in the contract.

Contract Estimates

Actual revenues and project costs may vary from previous estimates due to changes in a variety of factors. The cost estimation process is based on the professional knowledge and experience of our engineers, project managers and financial professionals. Factors that are considered in estimating the work to be completed and ultimate contract recovery include the availability and productivity of labor, the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, the availability of materials, and the effect of any delays on our project performance. We periodically review our job performance, job conditions, estimated profitability and final contract settlements, including our estimate of total costs and make revisions to costs and income in the period in which the revisions are probable and reasonably estimable. We bear the risk of cost overruns in most of our contracts, which may result in reduced profits. Whenever revisions of estimated contract costs and contract values indicate that the contract costs will exceed

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estimated revenues, thus creating a loss, a provision for the total estimated loss is recorded in that period. See Note E of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to changes in contract estimates.

Variable Consideration

It is common for our long-term contracts to contain variable consideration that can either increase or decrease the transaction price. Due to the nature of our contracts, estimating total cost and revenue can be complex and subject to variability due to change orders, back charges, spare parts, early completion bonuses, customer allowances and liquidated damages. We estimate the amount of variable consideration based on the expected value method, which is the sum of probability-weighted amounts, or the most likely amount method, which uses various factors including experience with similar transactions and assessment of our anticipated performance. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if legally enforceable and to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur once the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved.

Contract Modifications

Contracts may be modified for changes in contract specifications and requirements. We consider contract modifications to exist when the modification either creates new or changes the enforceable rights and obligations under the contract. Most of our contract modifications are for goods and services that are not distinct from the existing performance obligation. Contract modifications result in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to revenue based on our measure of progress for the performance obligation.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be realizable. If an evaluation is required, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset are compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if recording an impairment of such asset is necessary. This requires us to make long-term forecasts of the future revenues and costs related to the assets subject to review. Forecasts require assumptions about demand for our products and future market conditions. Estimating future cash flows requires significant judgment, and our projections may vary from cash flows eventually realized. Future events and unanticipated changes to assumptions could require a provision for impairment in a future period. The effect of any impairment would be reflected in operating income in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In addition, we estimate the useful lives of our long-lived assets and other intangibles, and periodically review these estimates to determine whether these lives are appropriate.

Accruals for Contingent Liabilities

From time to time, contingencies such as insurance-related claims, liquidated damages and legal claims arise in the normal course of business. Pursuant to applicable accounting standards, we must evaluate such contingencies to subjectively determine the likelihood that an asset has been impaired, or a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements, as well as evaluate whether the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. If the likelihood is determined to be probable, and it can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss is recorded. The amounts we record for contingent liabilities require judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We use past experience and history, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding each contingent liability, including estimated legal costs, in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Actual results could differ from our estimates.

Warranty Costs

Estimated costs of warranties are accrued based on historical warranty claim costs in relation to current revenues. In addition, specific provisions are made when product failures are projected outside historical experience. Our standard terms and conditions of sale include a warranty for parts and service for one year. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. Actual results could differ from our estimate.

Projects may require, on occasion, warranty terms that are longer than our standard terms due to the nature of the project. Extended warranty terms may be negotiated and included in our contracts. The allocated revenue associated with the extended warranty is deferred and recorded as a contract liability and recognized as revenue over the extended warranty period.

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Accounting for Income Taxes

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, based on the income tax laws and rates in the countries in which operations are conducted, and income is earned. This approach requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. Developing our provision for income taxes requires significant judgment and expertise in federal, international and state income tax laws, regulations and strategies, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and, if necessary, any valuation allowances that may be required for deferred tax assets. In assessing the extent to which net deferred tax assets may be realized, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets may not be realized. The ultimate realization of net deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Estimates may change as new events occur, estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced or increased, additional information becomes available, or operating environments change, which may result in a full or partial reversal of the valuation allowance. We will continue to assess the adequacy of the valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. Our judgments and tax strategies are subject to audit by various taxing authorities.

The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Accounting literature also provides guidance on derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. Variations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could materially impact our financial position and results of operations.

See Note I of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to the valuation allowance recorded in relation to deferred taxes.

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2022 compared to the twelve months ended September 30, 2021 should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes. We have elected to omit discussion on the earliest of the three years covered by the consolidated financial statements presented. Refer to Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations located in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021, filed on December 8, 2021, for discussion of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2020, the earliest of the three fiscal years presented. Any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf are made pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and the actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties, please see “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements; Risk Factors” and “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors,” included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Overview

We develop, design, manufacture and service custom-engineered equipment and systems which (1) distribute, control and monitor the flow of electrical energy and (2) provide protection to motors, transformers and other electrically powered equipment. We are headquartered in Houston, Texas, and serve the oil and gas and petrochemical markets, which include onshore and offshore production, LNG facilities and terminals, pipelines, refineries and petrochemical plants. Additional markets include electric utility and light rail traction power as well as mining and metals, pulp and paper and other municipal, commercial and other industrial markets. Revenues and costs are primarily related to custom engineered-to-order equipment and systems and are accounted for under percentage-of-completion accounting, which precludes us from providing detailed price and volume information. Our backlog includes various projects that typically take a number of months to produce.

The markets in which we participate are capital-intensive and cyclical in nature. Cyclicality is predominantly driven by customer demand, global economic and geopolitical conditions and anticipated environmental, safety or regulatory changes which affect the manner in which our customers proceed with capital investments. Our customers analyze various factors, including the demand and price for oil, gas and electrical energy, the overall economic and financial environment, governmental budgets, regulatory actions and environmental concerns. These factors influence the release of new capital projects by our customers, which are traditionally awarded in competitive bid situations. Scheduling of projects is matched to customer requirements, and projects typically take a number of months to produce. Schedules may change during the course of any particular project, and our operating results can, therefore, be impacted by factors outside of our control.

Within the industrial sector, specifically oil, gas and petrochemical, the demand for our electrical distribution solutions is very cyclical and closely correlated to the level of capital expenditures of our end-user customers as well as prevailing global economic conditions.

Over the past few years, there has been an increase in capital spending within North America on LNG facilities as the market responds to the increased international demand for LNG. As a result, the business was awarded a substantial contract in the second quarter of Fiscal 2020 that will support the integrated electrical distribution requirements for a large domestic LNG industrial complex that was substantially completed in Fiscal 2022.

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Impact of Global Economic Uncertainty and Commodity Market Volatility on Powell

Various factors resulting in global economic uncertainty have negatively impacted our results over the past two years. Uncertainty and demand disruptions have resulted in considerable volatility across commodity markets. Although global oil prices have rebounded, our industrial end markets have responded with modest increases in capital expenditures. Additionally, we continue to experience supply chain disruptions driven predominately by availability and cost volatility across our raw materials, components and labor force. All of these factors have contributed to the lower margins realized in Fiscal 2021 and 2022. As we address disruptions and increased costs, we continue to work with our suppliers of key components and commodities to ensure that we are able to meet our customer commitments. Additionally, we have adjusted our pricing models with our customers in response to the increased cost environment.

In response to the lower demand and uncertainty across select end markets, we have taken and will continue to take various actions to maintain or reduce costs. We continue to operate below capacity in some areas and will consistently monitor the macro-economic conditions as we head into our fiscal year ending September 30, 2023.

As discussed further under the heading "Outlook" below, it is difficult to predict the economic impact that this global economic uncertainty, as well as commodity price volatility, may have on our business, results of operations and cash flows going forward.

Results of Operations

Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2022 Compared to Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2021

Revenue and Gross Profit

Revenues increased by 13%, or $62.0 million, to $532.6 million in Fiscal 2022. Domestic revenues increased by 15%, or $53.5 million, to $405.0 million in Fiscal 2022. International revenues increased by 7%, or $8.5 million, to $127.6 million. Our international revenues include both revenues generated from our international facilities as well as revenues from export projects generated at our domestic facilities.

Revenue from our core oil and gas markets (excluding petrochemical) increased by 15%, or $27.5 million, to $215.2 million while petrochemical revenue increased by 13%, or $7.6 million, to $66.5 million in Fiscal 2022, primarily due to increased market activity. Revenue from our utility end markets increased by 10%, or $11.1 million, to $122.4 million and traction market revenue decreased by 24%, or $14.2 million, to $44.9 million in Fiscal 2022. Commercial and other industrial market revenue increased by 109%, or $29.4 million, to $56.5 million driven by an increase in traditionally non-core markets such as data centers, university projects and other miscellaneous applications. Revenue from all other markets combined increased by $0.6 million to $27.1 million in Fiscal 2022.

Gross profit increased by 13%, or $10.0 million, to $85.0 million in Fiscal 2022. Despite the increase in revenues, gross profit as a percentage of revenues remained flat to the prior fiscal year at 16% in Fiscal 2022 due to increased costs impacting older projects in our backlog that were subject to inflationary pressures on raw materials and components, with little or no recourse from the customer to reprice the project. On more recent projects in the backlog, we were able to successfully pass the inflationary impact to the customer in the form of increased pricing. Additionally, favorable project execution, volume leverage and product mix, including fast track service and replacement projects across our service division, all helped to offset the negative inflationary pressure carried by the older projects in the backlog. Additionally, gross profit from our international operations improved over the prior year driven by favorable project execution and increased volume. Throughout the second half of Fiscal 2022, gross margins benefited from favorable close out gains and associated productivity on select projects. Additionally, revenue and gross profit increased by $2.5 million resulting from the settlement of a claim for cost overruns from prior years related to a U.S. based municipal transit project.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 5%, or $3.6 million, to $70.8 million in Fiscal 2022, primarily due to increased variable performance based compensation. Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of revenues, decreased to 13% in Fiscal 2022, compared to 14% in Fiscal 2021, primarily due to the ability to leverage our cost structure with the increase in revenues.

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Other Income

During Fiscal 2022 we recorded other income of $2.3 million related to a gain on the sale of a small, non-core, industrial valve repair and servicing business within our Canadian operations as well as the sale of an excess parcel of land in the U.S. We did not record other income in Fiscal 2021.

Income Tax Provision (Benefit)

We recorded an income tax benefit of $3.9 million in Fiscal 2022, resulting in an effective tax rate of negative 40%, compared to an income tax provision of $0.5 million in Fiscal 2021 at an effective tax rate of 42%. In Fiscal 2022, the tax benefit primarily resulted from the release of the valuation allowance previously recorded against the Canadian net deferred tax assets in the amount of $5.9 million and the estimated Research and Development Tax Credit (R&D Tax Credit). The tax benefit was partially offset by certain non-deductible items, the tax expense related to the gain on the disposition of a small, non-core division of our Canadian operations and the tax impact of U.S. global intangible income.

In Fiscal 2021, the effective tax rate was negatively impacted by our inability to recognize a tax benefit related to losses incurred in various jurisdictions outside of the United States as well as the establishment of a valuation allowance against the deferred tax assets in Mexico. The estimated R&D Tax Credit as well as the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards in Canada that were fully reserved with a valuation allowance provided a tax benefit for Fiscal 2021.

Net Income

In Fiscal 2022, we recorded net income of $13.7 million, or $1.15 per diluted share, compared to net income of $0.6 million, or $0.05 per diluted share in Fiscal 2021. This increase in net income is primarily due to the increase in bookings which led to an increase in revenues, the release of a Canadian valuation allowance recorded against net deferred tax assets, the gain on the sale of a non-core business within our Canadian operations and the settlement of a claim from a project completed in prior years.

Backlog

The order backlog at September 30, 2022 was $592.2 million, a 43% increase from $414.9 million at September 30, 2021. Bookings, net of cancellations and scope reductions, increased by 78% in Fiscal 2022 to $718.6 million, compared to $403.9 million in Fiscal 2021. The large year-over-year increase was due to strength across our utility, petrochemical, and commercial and other industrial end markets.

Outlook

As noted in "Overview" above, the markets in which we participate are capital-intensive and generally cyclical in nature. A significant portion of our revenues has historically been from the oil, gas and petrochemical markets. Oil and gas commodity price levels have been volatile over the last several years, and our customers have in certain cases, delayed or cancelled some of their major capital investment projects due to price volatility and changes in return expectations. Recently we have seen increased global demand for cleaner-burning fuels; however, the uncertainty in oil prices and the global economic impacts from COVID-19, including supply chain disruptions and associated inflationary pressures, as well as other geopolitical events may have a negative impact on our business going forward, as discussed in more detail below. Specific to the energy industry focus on transitioning to natural gas and cleaner-burning fuels, the business was awarded a substantial contract in Fiscal 2020 that will support the integrated electrical distribution requirements for a large domestic industrial complex and was substantially completed in Fiscal 2022. We continue to experience increased demand from markets outside our core oil, gas and petrochemical end markets, as we increase focus on diversification of our project portfolio.

Our operating results are impacted by factors such as the timing of new order awards, customer approval of final engineering and design specifications and delays in customer construction schedules, all of which contribute to short-term earnings variability and the timing of project execution. Our operating results also have been, and may continue to be, impacted by the timing and resolution of change orders, project close-out and resolution of potential contract claims and liquidated damages, all of which could improve or deteriorate gross margins during the period in which these items are resolved with our customers. Disruption in the global supply chain has negatively impacted our business and operating results as well due to the reduction in availability and uncertainty in the timing of the receipt of certain key component parts and commodities. These factors may result in periods of underutilization of our resources and facilities, which may negatively impact our ability to cover our fixed costs or inhibit our ability to deliver completed products on time. Additionally, the increases in commodity and component costs from projects awarded in prior years and increased labor costs may have a negative impact on our operating results in the

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event that we are not able to pass these cost increases to our customers. Prior to Fiscal 2022, we experienced periods of lower commercial activity driven in large part from the uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, as discussed in "Overview" above. Considering the long cycle nature of our business, we are exposed to cyclical conditions in our business. We will continue to remain focused on the variables that impact our markets as well as cost management, labor and supply chain challenges. We will also continue to adjust to the global conditions in order to maintain competitive cost and technological advantages in the markets that we serve.

The consequences of a prolonged economic decline could include, but are not limited to, a reduction in commercial and industrial activity. The Company cannot reasonably estimate the duration or severity of these global economic challenges, or the extent to which the resulting disruptions may materially impact our business, results of operations or cash flows. We will take prudent measures to maintain our strong liquidity and cash position, which may include reducing our capital expenditures and research and development costs, as well as reducing or eliminating future dividend payments.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 30, 2022, current assets exceeded current liabilities by 2.0 times.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments decreased to $116.5 million at September 30, 2022, compared to $134.0 million at September 30, 2021. This decrease in cash was primarily driven by the timing of contract billing milestones which increased accounts receivable and the strategic increase in inventory from the advance purchase of certain raw materials and component parts in response to uncertainty from the global supply challenges. We believe that our strong working capital position, available borrowings under our credit facility and available cash should be sufficient to finance future operating activities, capital improvements and research and development initiatives for the foreseeable future.

We have a credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A. (the U.S. Revolver) which is a $75.0 million revolving credit facility available for both borrowings and letters of credit and expires September 27, 2024. The U.S. Revolver states that up to $30 million may be deducted from the amount of letters of credit outstanding (not to be less than zero) when calculating the consolidated funded indebtedness which is a component of the consolidated net leverage ratio. Additionally, we have the option to cash collateralize all or a portion of the letters of credit outstanding, which would favorably impact the consolidated funded indebtedness calculation and the consolidated net leverage ratio.

On October 1, 2021, our industrial development revenue bonds matured and as a result we had no long-term debt at September 30, 2022. As of September 30, 2022, there were no amounts borrowed under the U.S. Revolver, and letters of credit outstanding were $36.7 million. As of September 30, 2022, $38.3 million was available for the issuance of letters of credit and borrowing under the U.S. Revolver. We are required to maintain certain financial covenants, the most significant of which are a consolidated net leverage ratio of less than 3.0 to 1.0 and a consolidated interest coverage ratio of greater than 3.0 to 1.0. Our most restrictive covenant, the consolidated net leverage ratio, is the ratio of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (EBITDAS) to funded indebtedness, which includes letters of credit. An increase in indebtedness or a decrease in EBITDAS could restrict our ability to issue letters of credit or borrow under the U.S. Revolver. For further information regarding our debt, see Notes G and H of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Approximately $25.8 million of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments at September 30, 2022 was held outside of the U.S. for our international operations. It is our intention to indefinitely reinvest all current and future foreign earnings internationally in order to ensure sufficient working capital to support our international operations. In the event that we elect to repatriate some or all of the foreign earnings that were previously deemed to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S., we may incur additional tax expense upon such repatriation under current tax laws.

Operating Activities

Operating activities used net cash of $3.6 million in Fiscal 2022 and $30.5 million in Fiscal 2021. Cash flow from operations is primarily influenced by the timing of milestone payments from our customers, project volume and the associated working capital requirements, as well as payment terms with our suppliers. This decrease in cash flows used in operations was primarily due to the timing of contract billing milestones and an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities, although offset by the increase in accounts receivable and inventory safety stock levels to mitigate global supply chain risks.

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Investing Activities

Investing activities provided $6.5 million of cash during Fiscal 2022 compared to $2.5 million of cash used in Fiscal 2021. The increase in cash provided by investing activities in Fiscal 2022 was primarily due to proceeds of $4.3 million received from the sale of a small, non-core division of our Canadian operations.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was $13.3 million in Fiscal 2022 and $13.2 million during the same period in Fiscal 2021, which primarily consisted of approximately $12.2 million and $12.1 million of dividends paid in the respective years.

Other Commercial Commitments

We are contingently liable for letters of credit and bank guarantees totaling $39.7 million as of September 30, 2022, with the following potential cash outflows in the event that we are unable to perform under our contracts (in thousands):

We also had surety bonds totaling $241.0 million that were outstanding at September 30, 2022. Surety bonds are primarily used to guarantee our contract performance to our customers.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We had no significant off-balance sheet arrangements during the periods presented.

Effects of Inflation

We are subject to inflation, which can cause increases in our costs of labor, indirect expenses and raw materials, primarily copper, aluminum and steel. Fixed-price contracts can limit our ability to pass these increases to our customers, thus negatively impacting our earnings. Inflation in commodity prices and general indirect expenses had a negative impact on our financial results in Fiscal 2022. Additionally, inflation related specifically to commodity and labor prices may potentially impact our operations in future years.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis, based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates.

We believe the following accounting estimates to be critical in the preparation and reporting of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

Our revenues are primarily generated from the manufacturing of custom-engineered products and systems under long-term fixed-price contracts under which we agree to manufacture various products such as traditional and arc-resistant distribution switchgear and control gear, medium-voltage circuit breakers, monitoring and control communications systems, motor control centers, switches and bus duct systems. These products may be sold separately as an engineered solution, but are typically integrated into custom-built enclosures which we also build. These enclosures are referred to as power control room

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substations (PCRs®), custom-engineered modules or electrical houses (E-Houses). Some contracts may also include the installation and the commissioning of these enclosures.

Revenue from these contracts is generally recognized over time utilizing the cost-to-cost method. Under the cost-to-cost method, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation. We believe that this method is the most accurate representation of our performance, because it directly measures the value of the services transferred to the customer over time as we incur costs on our contracts. Contract costs include all direct materials, labor, and indirect costs related to contract performance, which may include indirect labor, supplies, tools, repairs and depreciation costs.

Contract Estimates

Actual revenues and project costs may vary from previous estimates due to changes in a variety of factors. The cost estimation process is based upon the professional knowledge and experience of our engineers, project managers and financial professionals. Factors that are considered in estimating the work to be completed and ultimate contract recovery include the availability and productivity of labor, the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, the availability of materials, and the effect of any delays on our project performance. We periodically review our job performance, job conditions, estimated profitability and final contract settlements, including our estimate of total costs and make revisions to costs and income in the period in which the revisions are probable and reasonably estimable. We bear the risk of cost overruns in most of our contracts, which may result in reduced profits. Whenever revisions of estimated contract costs and contract values indicate that the contract costs will exceed estimated revenues, thus creating a loss, a provision for the total estimated loss is recorded in that period. See Note E of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to changes in contract estimates.

Performance Obligations

A performance obligation is a promise in a contract or with a customer to transfer a distinct good or service. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied. To determine the proper revenue recognition for contracts, we evaluate whether a contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation or, less commonly, whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one performance obligation. This evaluation of performance obligations requires significant judgment. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation where multiple engineered products and services are combined into a single, custom-engineered solution. Our contracts include a standard one-year assurance warranty. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. These extended warranties qualify as separate performance obligations, and revenue is deferred and recognized over the warranty period. If we determine during the evaluation of the contract that there are multiple performance obligations, we allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation using our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct good or service in the contract.

Variable Consideration

It is common for our long-term contracts to contain variable consideration that can either increase or decrease the transaction price. Due to the nature of our contracts, estimating total cost and revenue can be complex and subject to variability due to change orders, back charges, spare parts, early completion bonuses, customer allowances and liquidated damages. We estimate the amount of variable consideration based on the expected value method, which is the sum of probability-weighted amounts, or the most likely amount method, which uses various factors including experience with similar transactions and assessment of our anticipated performance. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if legally enforceable and to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur once the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved.

Contract Modifications

Contracts may be modified for changes in contract specifications and requirements. We consider contract modifications to exist when the modification either creates new or changes the enforceable rights and obligations under the contract. Most of our contract modifications are for goods and services that are not distinct from the existing performance obligation. Contract modifications result in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to revenue based on our measure of progress for the performance obligation.

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Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be realizable. If an evaluation is required, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset are compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if recording an impairment of such asset is necessary. This requires us to make long-term forecasts of the future revenues and costs related to the assets subject to review. Forecasts require assumptions about demand for our products and future market conditions. Estimating future cash flows requires significant judgment, and our projections may vary from cash flows eventually realized. Future events and unanticipated changes to assumptions could require a provision for impairment in a future period. The effect of any impairment would be reflected in income (loss) from operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In addition, we estimate the useful lives of our long-lived assets and other intangibles and periodically review these estimates to determine whether these lives are appropriate.

Accruals for Contingent Liabilities

From time to time, contingencies such as insurance-related claims, liquidated damages and legal claims arise in the normal course of business. Pursuant to applicable accounting standards, we must evaluate such contingencies to subjectively determine the likelihood that an asset has been impaired, or a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements, as well as evaluate whether the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. If the likelihood is determined to be probable, and it can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss is recorded. The amounts we record for contingent liabilities require judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We use past experience and history, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding each contingent liability, including estimated legal costs, in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Actual results could differ from our estimates.

Warranty Costs

Estimated costs of warranties are accrued based on historical warranty claim costs in relation to current revenues. In addition, specific provisions are made when product failures are projected outside historical experience. Our standard terms and conditions of sale include a warranty for parts and service for one year. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. Actual results could differ from our estimate.

Projects may require, on occasion, warranty terms that are longer than our standard terms due to the nature of the project. Extended warranty terms may be negotiated and included in our contracts. The allocated revenue associated with the extended warranty is deferred and recorded as a contract liability and recognized as revenue over the extended warranty period.

Accounting for Income Taxes

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, based on the income tax laws and rates in the countries in which operations are conducted, and income is earned. This approach requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. Developing our provision for income taxes requires significant judgment and expertise in federal, international and state income tax laws, regulations and strategies, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and, if necessary, any valuation allowances that may be required for deferred tax assets. In assessing the extent to which net deferred tax assets may be realized, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets may not be realized. The ultimate realization of net deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Estimates may change as new events occur, estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced or increased, additional information becomes available, or operating environments change, which may result in a full or partial reversal of the valuation allowance. We will continue to assess the adequacy of the valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. Our judgments and tax strategies are subject to audit by various taxing authorities.

The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Accounting literature also provides guidance on derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. Variations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could materially impact our financial position and results of operations.

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See Note I of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to the valuation allowance recorded in relation to deferred taxes.

Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

The following discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations for the twelve months ended September 30, 2021 compared to the twelve months ended September 30, 2020 should be read in conjunction with the accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes. We have elected to omit discussion on the earliest of the three years covered by the consolidated financial statements presented. Refer to Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Liquidity and Capital Resources located in our Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2020, filed on December 9, 2020, for reference to discussion of the fiscal year ended September 30, 2019, the earliest of the three fiscal years presented. Any forward-looking statements made by or on our behalf are made pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Readers are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, and the actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. For a description of the risks and uncertainties, please see “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements; Risk Factors” and “Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors,” included elsewhere in this Annual Report.

Overview

We develop, design, manufacture and service custom-engineered equipment and systems which (1) distribute, control and monitor the flow of electrical energy and (2) provide protection to motors, transformers and other electrically powered equipment. We are headquartered in Houston, Texas, and serve the oil and gas and petrochemical markets, which includes onshore and offshore production, LNG facilities and terminals, pipelines, refineries and petrochemical plants. Additional markets include electric utility and light rail traction power as well as mining and metals, pulp and paper and other municipal, commercial and industrial markets. Revenues and costs are primarily related to custom engineered-to-order equipment and systems and are accounted for under percentage-of-completion accounting, which precludes us from providing detailed price and volume information. Our backlog includes various projects that typically take a number of months to produce.

The markets in which we participate are capital-intensive and cyclical in nature. Cyclicality is predominantly driven by customer demand, global economic conditions and anticipated environmental, safety or regulatory changes that affect the manner in which our customers proceed with capital investments. Our customers analyze various factors, including the demand and price for oil, gas and electrical energy, the overall economic and financial environment, governmental budgets, regulatory actions and environmental concerns. These factors influence the release of new capital projects by our customers, which are traditionally awarded in competitive bid situations. Scheduling of projects is matched to the customer requirements, and projects typically take a number of months to produce. Schedules may change during the course of any particular project, and our operating results can, therefore, be impacted by factors outside of our control.

Within the industrial sector, specifically oil, gas and petrochemical, the demand for our electrical distribution solutions is very cyclical and closely correlated to the level of capital expenditures of our end-user customers as well as prevailing global economic conditions.

Historically, the combination of a growing global economy, abundant sources of favorably priced natural gas feedstock, and an energy industry focus on transition to natural gas and cleaner-burning fuels drove an increase in capital investment opportunities, specifically across the oil, gas and petrochemical sectors. Some of these opportunities were for natural gas related projects targeting global demand for cleaner-burning fuels. Additionally, projects within the domestic petrochemical sector benefited from the low feedstock prices of natural gas. Specific to natural gas, the business was awarded a substantial contract in the second quarter of Fiscal 2020 that will support the integrated electrical distribution requirements for a large domestic industrial complex and should be substantially completed in Fiscal 2022. We began to experience reduced commercial activity in Fiscal 2020 driven in large part by the uncertainties across our industrial end markets in the U.S. resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Considering the long cycle nature of our business, these cyclical conditions may persist into Fiscal 2022.

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Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic and Oil and Gas Commodity Market Volatility on Powell

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact global energy markets. This pandemic has negatively impacted demand, which in turn has resulted in considerable volatility across global oil and gas commodity markets. Throughout the pandemic, the demand for our products and services as well as our operations have been negatively impacted, resulting from the associated reduction in oil and gas demand and volatility in commodity prices noted above. As a result, some of our industrial customers are deferring or suspending their planned capital expenditures. Certain of our customers have asked that we delay or cancel our manufacturing on their projects as their operations have been negatively impacted by this pandemic and the reduced oil and gas demand which has resulted in recognition of cancellation fees based on contract terms and the extent of our progress on the projects. We continue to work with our key suppliers who have been impacted by this pandemic to ensure that we are able to meet our customer commitments.

In response to the lower demand across select end markets, we have taken and will continue to take various actions to reduce costs. During Fiscal 2020, we reduced our global workforce and reduced our capital and discretionary spending in response to business conditions. We continued to operate at these lower thresholds throughout Fiscal 2021 and are consistently monitoring macro-economic conditions as we head into Fiscal 2022.

As discussed further under the heading "Outlook" below, it is difficult to predict the economic impact that this pandemic, as well as reduced oil and gas demand and commodity price volatility, may have on our business, results of operations and cash flows going forward.

Results of Operations

Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2021 Compared to Twelve Months Ended September 30, 2020

Revenue and Gross Profit

Revenues decreased by 9%, or $47.9 million, to $470.6 million in Fiscal 2021, due to a decrease in orders as well as project delays and cancellations of potential projects associated with the global economic impact resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and associated reduction in demand across our industrial end markets. Domestic revenues decreased by 12%, or $46.6 million, to $351.5 million in Fiscal 2021. International revenues decreased by 1%, or $1.4 million, to $119.1 million. Our international revenues include both revenues generated from our international facilities as well as revenues from export projects generated at our domestic facilities.

Revenue from our core oil and gas markets (excluding petrochemical) decreased by 4%, or $7.5 million, to $187.7 million while petrochemical revenue decreased by 53%, or $67.7 million, to $59.0 million in Fiscal 2021 as noted above. Revenue from utility markets increased by 25%, or $22.4 million, to $111.2 million and traction market revenue increased by 39%, or $16.7 million, to $59.1 million in Fiscal 2021. Revenue from all other markets combined decreased by $11.8 million to $53.6 million in Fiscal 2021.

The reduction in revenue led to a reduction in gross profit of 21%, or $19.5 million, in Fiscal 2021. However, gross profit of $75.1 million in Fiscal 2021 benefited from favorable close out gains on certain projects resulting from cost and productivity efficiencies and to a lesser extent from cancellation fees from certain contracts in our North American manufacturing facilities, which was partially offset by international project execution, higher global commodity prices and U.S. factory underutilization. Gross profit as a percentage of revenues decreased to 16% in Fiscal 2021, compared to 18% in Fiscal 2020 as a result of the reduction in revenue noted above.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by 1%, or $0.4 million, to $67.2 million in Fiscal 2021, partially due to the restructuring action taken in Fiscal 2020 as well as lower travel-related costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of revenues, increased to 14% in Fiscal 2021, compared to 13% in Fiscal 2020, primarily due to the decrease in revenues.

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Restructuring and Other, Net

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, reductions in global oil and gas demand and volatility of commodity prices, we implemented workforce reductions across the business. As a result, we recorded $1.4 million of separation costs during Fiscal 2020.

Other Income

During Fiscal 2020, we recorded other income of $0.5 million related to a death benefit received from our company-owned life insurance policy related to a retired employee.

Income Tax Provision

We recorded an income tax provision of $0.5 million in Fiscal 2021, resulting in an effective tax rate of 42%, compared to an income tax provision of $3.7 million in Fiscal 2020 at an effective tax rate of 18%. In both Fiscal 2021 and Fiscal 2020, the effective tax rate was negatively impacted by our inability to recognize a tax benefit related to losses incurred in various jurisdictions outside of the United States. The effective tax rate was also negatively impacted by the valuation allowances set up against our deferred tax assets in Fiscal 2021 and Fiscal 2020 related to Mexico in the amount of $0.1 million and the U.K. in the amount of $0.5 million. The estimated Research and Development Tax Credit (R&D Tax Credit) as well as the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards in Canada that were fully reserved with a valuation allowance provided a tax benefit for Fiscal 2021 and Fiscal 2020. In Fiscal 2020, we reversed a reserve of $1.7 million resulting from a favorable settlement of an IRS audit and the expiration of statutes of limitations.

Net Income

In Fiscal 2021, we recorded net income of $0.6 million, or $0.05 per diluted share, compared to net income of $16.7 million, or $1.42 per diluted share in Fiscal 2020, primarily due to a decline in revenues and gross profit resulting from lower orders and project delays caused by the economic impact resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic and the associated reduction in global demand across our industrial end markets.

Backlog

The order backlog at September 30, 2021 was $414.9 million, a 13% decrease from $476.8 million at September 30, 2020. Bookings, net of cancellations and scope reductions, decreased by 30% in Fiscal 2021 to $403.9 million, compared to $576.8 million in Fiscal 2020. The large year-over-year decrease in bookings in Fiscal 2021 was primarily due to the large contract awarded in Fiscal 2020 and decreased global demand across our industrial end markets.

Outlook

As noted in "Overview" above, the markets in which we participate are capital-intensive and cyclical in nature. A significant portion of our revenues has historically been from the oil, gas and petrochemical markets. Oil and gas commodity price levels have been unstable over the last several years, and our customers have in certain cases, delayed or cancelled some of their major capital investment projects. Beginning in late Fiscal 2018 through the first quarter of Fiscal 2020, our customers' decisions to invest in projects in our key oil and gas and petrochemical markets were influenced to some extent by relative stabilization of commodity prices and the increased global demand for cleaner-burning fuels during that period of time. We believe that this change in market sentiment during that period of time had a favorable impact on our orders and backlog entering Fiscal 2020. However, the uncertainty in oil prices and the global economic impacts from COVID-19 have had, and may continue to have, a negative impact on our business going forward, as discussed in more detail below. Specific to the energy industry focus on transitioning to natural gas and cleaner-burning fuels, the business was awarded a substantial contract in Fiscal 2020 that will support the integrated electrical distribution requirements for a large domestic industrial complex and should be substantially completed in Fiscal 2022.

Our operating results are impacted by factors such as the timing of new order awards, customer approval of final engineering and design specifications and delays in customer construction schedules, all of which contribute to short-term earnings variability and the timing of project execution. Our operating results also have been, and may continue to be, impacted by the timing and resolution of change orders, project close-out and resolution of potential contract claims and liquidated damages, all of which could improve or deteriorate gross margins during the period in which these items are resolved with our customers. These factors may result in periods of underutilization of our resources and facilities, which may negatively impact our ability

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to cover our fixed costs. We will continue to monitor potential labor shortages and increased labor costs and the impact on our operations.

The strong commercial activity and subsequent orders in Fiscal 2018 and 2019 led to solid revenue and operating results for Fiscal 2020. We began to experience lower commercial activity in Fiscal 2020 driven in large part from the uncertainty resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, as discussed in "Overview" above. Considering the long cycle nature of our business, these cyclical conditions may persist into Fiscal 2022. We will continue to monitor the variables that impact our markets while adjusting to the global conditions in order to maintain competitive costs and technological advantages in the markets that we serve.

The consequences of a prolonged economic decline could include, but are not limited to, a continued reduction in commercial and industrial activity. Accordingly, the Company cannot reasonably estimate the duration or severity of this pandemic, potential labor shortages, increased labor costs, or the extent to which these disruptions may materially impact our business, results of operations or cash flows. We will take prudent measures to maintain our strong liquidity and cash position, which may include reducing our capital expenditures and research and development costs, as well as reducing or eliminating future dividend payments.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of September 30, 2021, current assets exceeded current liabilities by 2.5 times, and our debt to total capitalization was 0.13%.

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments decreased to $134.0 million at September 30, 2021, compared to $178.9 million at September 30, 2020. This decrease in cash was primarily driven by the timing of contract billing milestones. We believe that our strong working capital position, available borrowings under our credit facility and available cash should be sufficient to finance future operating activities, capital improvements, research and development initiatives and debt repayments for the foreseeable future.

We have a credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A. (the "U.S. Revolver") which is a $75.0 million revolving credit facility available for both borrowings and letters of credit and expires September 27, 2024. On March 12, 2021, we entered into a first amendment to the U.S. Revolver which, among other things, amended certain terms related to the calculation of the consolidated leverage ratio from gross leverage to net leverage. As a result of the first amendment, up to $30 million may be deducted from the amount of letters of credit outstanding (not to be less than zero) when calculating the consolidated funded indebtedness which is a component of the consolidated net leverage ratio. Additionally, we have the option to cash collateralize all or a portion of the letters of credit outstanding, which would favorably impact the consolidated funded indebtedness calculation and the consolidated net leverage ratio.

As of September 30, 2021, there were no amounts borrowed under this facility, and letters of credit outstanding were $34.8 million. As of September 30, 2021, $40.2 million was available for the issuance of letters of credit and borrowing under the U.S. Revolver. Total long-term debt, including current maturities, totaled $0.4 million at September 30, 2021 related to outstanding industrial development revenue bonds. We are required to maintain certain financial covenants, the most significant of which are a consolidated net leverage ratio less than 3.0 to 1.0 and a consolidated interest coverage ratio of greater than 3.0 to 1.0. Our most restrictive covenant, the consolidated net leverage ratio, is the ratio of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization and stock-based compensation (EBITDAS) to funded indebtedness, which includes letters of credit. An increase in indebtedness or a decrease in EBITDAS could restrict our ability to issue letters of credit or borrow under the U.S. Revolver. For further information regarding our debt, see Notes G and H of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

Approximately $30.6 million of our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments at September 30, 2021 was held outside of the U.S. for our international operations. It is our intention to indefinitely reinvest all current and future foreign earnings internationally in order to ensure sufficient working capital to support our international operations. In the event that we elect to repatriate some or all of the foreign earnings that were previously deemed to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S., we may incur additional tax expense upon such repatriation under current tax laws.

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Operating Activities

Operating activities used net cash of $30.5 million in Fiscal 2021 and provided net cash of $72.4 million in Fiscal 2020. Cash flow from operations is primarily influenced by the timing of milestone payments from our customers, project volume and the payment terms with our suppliers. This decrease in operating cash flows was primarily due to the timing of contract billing milestones and cash used on our large industrial project discussed above.

Investing Activities

Investing activities used $2.5 million of cash during Fiscal 2021 compared to $17.5 million of cash used in Fiscal 2020. The decrease in cash used by investing activities in Fiscal 2021 was primarily due to a decrease in net purchases of short-term investments and a decrease in capital expenditures. Additionally, the proceeds received from a Company-owned life insurance policy related to a retired employee provided investing cash flow in Fiscal 2021.

Financing Activities

Net cash used in financing activities was $13.2 million in Fiscal 2021 and $13.1 million in Fiscal 2020, which primarily consisted of $12.1 million of dividends paid in each year.

Other Commercial Commitments

We are contingently liable for letters of credit and bank guarantees totaling $42.2 million as of September 30, 2021, with the following potential cash outflows in the event that we are unable to perform under our contracts (in thousands):

We also had surety bonds totaling $143.0 million that were outstanding at September 30, 2021. Surety bonds are primarily used to guarantee our contract performance to our customers.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We had no significant off-balance sheet arrangements during the periods presented.

Effects of Inflation

We are subject to inflation, which can cause increases in our costs of labor and raw materials, primarily copper, aluminum and steel. Fixed-price contracts can limit our ability to pass these increases to our customers, thus negatively impacting our earnings. Inflation in commodity prices has negatively impacted our financial results in Fiscal 2021. Additionally, inflation related to commodity and labor prices may potentially impact our operations in future years.

Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities known to exist at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. We evaluate our estimates on an ongoing basis, based on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. There can be no assurance that actual results will not differ from those estimates.

We believe the following accounting estimates to be critical in the preparation and reporting of our consolidated financial statements.

Revenue Recognition

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Our revenues are primarily generated from the manufacturing of custom-engineered products and systems under long-term fixed-price contracts under which we agree to manufacture various products such as traditional and arc-resistant distribution switchgear and control gear, medium-voltage circuit breakers, monitoring and control communications systems, motor control centers, switches and bus duct systems. These products may be sold separately as an engineered solution, but are typically integrated into custom-built enclosures which we also build. These enclosures are referred to as power control room substations (PCRs®), custom-engineered modules or electrical houses (E-Houses). Some contracts may also include the installation and the commissioning of these enclosures.

Revenue from these contracts is generally recognized over time utilizing the cost-to-cost method. Under the cost-to-cost method, the extent of progress towards completion is measured based on the ratio of costs incurred to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the performance obligation. We believe that this method is the most accurate representation of our performance, because it directly measures the value of the services transferred to the customer over time as we incur costs on our contracts. Contract costs include all direct materials, labor, and indirect costs related to contract performance, which may include indirect labor, supplies, tools, repairs and depreciation costs.

Contract Estimates

Actual revenues and project costs may vary from previous estimates due to changes in a variety of factors. The cost estimation process is based upon the professional knowledge and experience of our engineers, project managers and financial professionals. Factors that are considered in estimating the work to be completed and ultimate contract recovery include the availability and productivity of labor, the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, the availability of materials, and the effect of any delays on our project performance. We periodically review our job performance, job conditions, estimated profitability and final contract settlements, including our estimate of total costs and make revisions to costs and income in the period in which the revisions are probable and reasonably estimable. We bear the risk of cost overruns in most of our contracts, which may result in reduced profits. Whenever revisions of estimated contract costs and contract values indicate that the contract costs will exceed estimated revenues, thus creating a loss, a provision for the total estimated loss is recorded in that period. See Note E of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to changes in contract estimates.

Performance Obligations

A performance obligation is a promise in a contract or with a customer to transfer a distinct good or service. A contract’s transaction price is allocated to each distinct performance obligation and recognized as revenue as the performance obligations are satisfied. To determine the proper revenue recognition for contracts, we evaluate whether a contract should be accounted for as more than one performance obligation or, less commonly, whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one performance obligation. This evaluation of performance obligations requires significant judgment. The majority of our contracts have a single performance obligation where multiple engineered products and services are combined into a single, custom-engineered solution. Our contracts include a standard one-year assurance warranty. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. These extended warranties qualify as separate performance obligations, and revenue is deferred and recognized over the warranty period. If we determine during the evaluation of the contract that there are multiple performance obligations, we allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation using our best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct good or service in the contract.

Variable Consideration

It is common for our long-term contracts to contain variable consideration that can either increase or decrease the transaction price. Due to the nature of our contracts, estimating total cost and revenue can be complex and subject to variability due to change orders, back charges, spare parts, early completion bonuses, customer allowances and liquidated damages. We estimate the amount of variable consideration based on the expected value method, which is the sum of probability-weighted amount, or the most likely amount method, which uses various factors including experience with similar transactions and assessment of our anticipated performance. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price if legally enforceable and to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur once the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved.

Contract Modifications

Contracts may be modified for changes in contract specifications and requirements. We consider contract modifications to exist when the modification either creates new or changes the enforceable rights and obligations under the contract. Most of our contract modifications are for goods and services that are not distinct from the existing performance obligation. Contract

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modifications result in a cumulative catch-up adjustment to revenue based on our measure of progress for the performance obligation.

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be realizable. If an evaluation is required, the estimated future undiscounted cash flows associated with the asset are compared to the asset’s carrying amount to determine if recording an impairment of such asset is necessary. This requires us to make long-term forecasts of the future revenues and costs related to the assets subject to review. Forecasts require assumptions about demand for our products and future market conditions. Estimating future cash flows requires significant judgment, and our projections may vary from cash flows eventually realized. Future events and unanticipated changes to assumptions could require a provision for impairment in a future period. The effect of any impairment would be reflected in income (loss) from operations in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. In addition, we estimate the useful lives of our long-lived assets and other intangibles and periodically review these estimates to determine whether these lives are appropriate.

Accruals for Contingent Liabilities

From time to time, contingencies such as insurance-related claims, liquidated damages and legal claims arise in the normal course of business. Pursuant to applicable accounting standards, we must evaluate such contingencies to subjectively determine the likelihood that an asset has been impaired, or a liability has been incurred at the date of the financial statements, as well as evaluate whether the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. If the likelihood is determined to be probable, and it can be reasonably estimated, the estimated loss is recorded. The amounts we record for contingent liabilities require judgments regarding the amount of expenses that will ultimately be incurred. We use past experience and history, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding each contingent liability, including estimated legal costs, in evaluating the amount of liability that should be recorded. Actual results could differ from our estimates.

Warranty Costs

Estimated costs of warranties are accrued based on historical warranty claim costs in relation to current revenues. In addition, specific provisions are made when product failures are projected outside historical experience. Our standard terms and conditions of sale include a warranty for parts and service for one year. Occasionally, we provide service-type warranties that will extend the warranty period. Actual results could differ from our estimate.

Projects may require, on occasion, warranty terms that are longer than our standard terms due to the nature of the project. Extended warranty terms may be negotiated and included in our contracts. The allocated revenue associated with the extended warranty is deferred and recorded as a contract liability and recognized as revenue over the extended warranty period.

Accounting for Income Taxes

We account for income taxes under the asset and liability method, based on the income tax laws and rates in the countries in which operations are conducted, and income is earned. This approach requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of temporary differences between the carrying amounts and the tax basis of assets and liabilities. Developing our provision for income taxes requires significant judgment and expertise in federal, international and state income tax laws, regulations and strategies, including the determination of deferred tax assets and liabilities and, if necessary, any valuation allowances that may be required for deferred tax assets. In assessing the extent to which net deferred tax assets may be realized, we consider whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the net deferred tax assets may not be realized. The ultimate realization of net deferred tax assets is dependent on the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible. Estimates may change as new events occur, estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward period are reduced or increased, additional information becomes available, or operating environments change, which may result in a full or partial reversal of the valuation allowance. We will continue to assess the adequacy of the valuation allowance on a quarterly basis. Our judgments and tax strategies are subject to audit by various taxing authorities.

The objectives of accounting for income taxes are to recognize the amount of taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred tax liabilities and assets for the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in an entity’s financial statements or tax returns. We recognize the tax benefit from an uncertain tax position only if it is more likely than not that the tax position will be sustained on examination by the taxing authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefits recognized in the financial statements from such a position should be measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. Accounting literature also provides guidance on

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derecognition of income tax assets and liabilities, classification of current and deferred income tax assets and liabilities, accounting for interest and penalties associated with tax positions, and income tax disclosures. Judgment is required in assessing the future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in our financial statements or tax returns. Variations in the actual outcome of these future tax consequences could materially impact our financial position and results of operations.

See Note I of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for disclosures related to the valuation allowance recorded in relation to foreign deferred taxes.