Willdan Group, Inc. (WLDN)

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Our Company

We are a provider of professional, technical and consulting services to utilities, private industry, and public agencies at all levels of government. As resource and infrastructure needs undergo continuous change, we help organizations and their communities evolve and thrive by providing a wide range of technical services for energy solutions, greenhouse gas reduction, and government infrastructure. Through engineering, program management, policy advisory, and software and data management, we plan, design and deliver trusted, comprehensive, innovative, and proven solutions to improve efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability in energy and infrastructure to our clients.

Our broad portfolio of services operates within two financial reporting segments: (1) Energy and (2) Engineering and Consulting. The interfaces and synergies between these segments are important elements of our strategy to design and deliver trusted, comprehensive, innovative, and proven solutions and services for our customers.

Our Energy segment provides specialized, innovative, comprehensive energy solutions to businesses, utilities, state agencies, municipalities, and non-profit organizations in the U.S. Our experienced engineers, consultants, and staff help our clients realize cost and energy savings by tailoring efficient and cost-effective solutions to assist in optimizing energy spend. Our energy efficiency services include comprehensive audit and surveys, program design, master planning, demand reduction, grid optimization, benchmarking analyses, design engineering, construction management, performance contracting, installation, alternative financing, measurement and verification services, and advances in software and data analytics for long-term planning.

Our Engineering and Consulting segment provides civil engineering-related construction management, building and safety, city engineering office management, city planning, civil design, geotechnical, material testing and other engineering consulting services to our clients. Our engineering services include traffic, bridges, rail, port, water, mining and other civil engineering projects. We also provide economic and financial consulting to public agencies. Lastly, we supplement the engineering services that we offer our clients by offering expertise and support for the various financing techniques public agencies utilize to finance their operations and infrastructure. We also support the mandated reporting and other requirements associated with these financings. We provide financial advisory services for municipal securities but do not provide underwriting services.

​

36

Table of Contents

Results of Operations

Summary Comparison of 2024, 2023, and 2022

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain information derived from our consolidated statements of comprehensive income(1):

​

​

37

Table of Contents

The following tables provides information about disaggregated revenue of our two segments, Energy and Engineering and Consulting by contract type, client type, and geographical region:

​

​

​

​

​

38

Table of Contents

Fiscal Year 2024 Compared to Fiscal Year 2023

Contract revenue. Consolidated contract revenue increased $55.7 million, or 10.9%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023, due to incremental revenues in both our Energy segment and in our Engineering and Consulting segment.

Contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $46.3 million, or 10.9%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023, primarily as a result of higher construction management revenues for government clients and increased demand for energy efficiency and electrification services under utility programs. Contract revenue in our Engineering and Consulting segment increased $9.4 million, or 11.3%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023, primarily due to increased demand for services provided to our clients.

Direct costs of contract revenue. Direct costs of consolidated contract revenue increased $32.7 million, or 9.9%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023, primarily as a result of the increase, and change of mix, in contract revenues as described above. As a percentage of contract revenue, direct salaries and wages decreased to 16.5% in fiscal year 2024, from 17.6% in fiscal year 2023, while subcontractor services and other direct costs increased to 47.6% in fiscal year 2024, from 47.1% in fiscal year 2023.

Direct costs of contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $30.2 million, or 10.4%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023. Direct costs of contract revenue in our Engineering and Consulting segment increased $2.5 million, or 6.4%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023.

Subcontractor services and other direct costs increased $29.1 million, or 12.1%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023, primarily due to the increase in construction management revenues, which utilize a higher percentage of material cost and installation subcontracting. Salaries and wages increased by $3.6 million, or 4.0%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023, primarily as a result of the increases in contract revenue as described above.

Gross Profit. Gross profit increased 12.8% to $202.8 million, or a 35.8% gross margin, for fiscal year 2024 compared to $179.8 million, or a 35.2% gross margin for fiscal year 2023. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by changes in the mix of revenues as described above.

​

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses increased by $13.7 million, or 8.7%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023. G&A expenses consisted of an increase of $7.4 million in the Energy segment combined with an increase of $4.2 million in the Engineering and Consulting segment, and an increase of $2.1 million in unallocated corporate expenses.

Within G&A expenses, the increase of $9.8 million in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits, combined with the increase of $3.4 million in other general and administrative expenses, and the increase of $2.1 million in stock-based compensation was partially offset by a decrease of $1.7 million in depreciation and amortization. The increase in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits was primarily due to an increase in incentive compensation, consistent with the improvement in operating profit, and higher fringe benefit costs, combined with increases in employee headcount. The increase in other general and administrative expenses was primarily due to increased professional service fees and computer-related expenses. The increase in stock-based compensation expenses was primarily related to new stock grants to current employees and executives at a higher stock price. The decrease in depreciation and amortization was primarily related to lower amortization of intangible assets from acquisitions prior to fiscal year 2024.

Income (loss) from operations. Operating income increased 42.0% to $31.4 million for fiscal year 2024, compared to an operating income of $22.1 million for fiscal year 2023, as a result of the factors noted above.

Total other expense, net. Total other expense, net, decreased $2.8 million, or 37.5%, in fiscal year 2024 compared to fiscal year 2023. The decrease in total other expense, net is primarily due to lower interest expense resulting from the reduced interest rate spread derived from lower debt leverage levels under our Credit Facilities, combined with increased income from interest as a result of our higher cash balances.

39

Table of Contents

Income tax expense (benefit). We recorded an income tax expense of $4.1 million for fiscal year 2024, compared to a tax expense of $3.7 million for fiscal year 2023. The tax expense is primarily attributable to the income before income tax combined with increases in discrete items related to stock compensation and additional energy efficiency building deductions. Compared to prior year, the lower effective tax rate in fiscal year 2024 resulted from increased deductions for energy efficiency building deductions.

Net income (loss). Our net income was $22.6 million for fiscal year 2024, as compared to a net income of $10.9 million for fiscal year 2023. The increase in net income was primarily attributable to the increase in income from operations combined with the decrease in total other expense and lower effective tax rate.

Fiscal Year 2023 Compared to Fiscal Year 2022

Contract revenue. Consolidated contract revenue increased $81.0 million, or 18.9%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily due to incremental revenues in both our Energy segment and in our Engineering and Consulting segment.

Contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $69.6 million, or 19.4%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily as a result of higher demand across the full spectrum of our energy services including increases in software licensing revenue. Contract revenue in our Engineering and Consulting segment increased $11.4 million, or 16.0%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily due to increased demand for services provided to our clients.

Direct costs of contract revenue. Direct costs of consolidated contract revenue increased $44.8 million, or 15.7%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily as a result of the increase, and change of mix, in contract revenues as described above. As a percentage of contract revenue, direct salaries and wages decreased to 17.6% in fiscal year 2023, from 19.3% in the fiscal 2022, while subcontractor services and other direct costs was relatively flat for the fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022.

Direct costs of contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $39.4 million, or 15.6%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022. Direct costs of contract revenue for the Engineering and Consulting segment increased $5.4 million, or 16.0%, for the fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022.

Subcontractor services and other direct costs increased $37.8 million, or 18.7%, and salaries and wages increased by $7.0 million, or 8.4%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily as a result of the increases in contract revenue.

Gross Profit. Gross profit increased 25.2% to $179.8 million, or a 35.2% gross margin, for fiscal year 2023 compared to $143.6 million, or a 33.5% gross margin for fiscal year 2022. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by higher software licensing revenue and changes in the mix of revenues as described above combined with the absence of project startup costs for new utility programs that were incurred during fiscal year 2022 but did not recur in the in fiscal year 2023.

​

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses increased by $7.1 million, or 4.7%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022. The increase in G&A expenses consisted of an increase of $3.8 million in the Energy segment combined with an increase of $6.5 million in the Engineering and Consulting segment, partially offset by a decrease of $3.2 million in unallocated corporate expenses.

Within G&A expenses, the increase of $13.8 million in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits was partially offset by a decrease of $3.1 million in stock-based compensation, a decrease of $2.9 million in other general and administrative expenses, and a decrease of $1.1 million in depreciation and amortization. The increase in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits was primarily due to an increase in incentive compensation, consistent with the improvement in operating profit, increased costs related to employee benefits, and increases in employee compensation as a result of additional employee headcount as well as employee compensation increases. The decrease in stock-based compensation expenses was primarily related to previously awarded stock grants reaching the

40

Table of Contents

end of their corresponding vesting periods, partially offset by new equity awards being issued at lower stock prices. The decrease in other general and administrative expenses was primarily due to contingent consideration expense related to prior acquisitions that occurred during fiscal year 2022 that did not recur in fiscal year 2023. The decrease in depreciation and amortization was primarily related to lower amortization of intangible assets from prior acquisitions.

Income (loss) from operations. Operating income was $22.1 million for fiscal year 2023, compared to an operating loss of $7.1 million for fiscal year 2022, as a result of the factors noted above.

Total other expense, net. Total other expense, net, increased $3.1 million, or 70.5%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022. The increase in total other expense, net is primarily due to higher interest expense as a result of the increase in market interest rates which directly affected our variable interest rates under our Credit Facilities, combined with a one-time charge of $0.5 million for unamortized debt issuance costs related to our prior credit facilities, partially offset by interest income related to bank deposits.

Income tax expense (benefit). We recorded an income tax expense of $3.7 million for fiscal year 2023 compared to a tax benefit of $3.0 million for fiscal year 2022. The tax expense is primarily attributable to the income before income tax combined with the non-recurrence of a one-time tax benefit recognized during fiscal year 2022 related to additional energy efficiency building deductions.

Net income (loss). Our net income was $10.9 million for fiscal year 2023, as compared to a net loss of $8.4 million for fiscal year 2022. The increase in net income was primarily attributable to the increase in revenue and gross profit, partially offset by higher interest expense and income tax expense.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

​

Sources of Cash

Our primary sources of liquidity for the next 12 months and beyond are cash generated from operations, cash and cash equivalents, and available borrowings under our revolving credit facility under the Credit Agreement (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, cash generated by operating activities, and available borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility will be sufficient to finance our operating activities for at least the next 12 months.

As of December 27, 2024, we had a fully drawn $100 million term loan with $90.0 million outstanding (the “Term Loan”, and collectively with the Revolving Credit Facility, the “Credit Facilities”), and a $50.0 million Revolving Credit Facility with no borrowed amounts and $1.6 million in letters of credit issued, each scheduled to mature on September 29, 2026. In addition, as of December 27, 2024, we had $74.2 million of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents.

As of December 27, 2024, we were in compliance with the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement. As of December 27, 2024, unhedged borrowings under our Credit Facilities, exclusive of the effects of upfront fees, undrawn fees and issuance cost amortization, bore interest at an annual rate of 6.4%. See Part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for information regarding our indebtedness, including information about new borrowings and repayments, principal repayment terms, interest rates, covenants, and other key terms of our outstanding indebtedness.

41

Table of Contents

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash flows provided by operating activities were $72.1 million, $39.2 million, and $9.4 million for fiscal years 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Cash flows from operating activities primarily consists of net income, adjusted for non-cash charges, such as depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation, plus or minus changes in current operating assets and liabilities. Cash flows provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2024 resulted primarily from the increase in earnings, and lower working capital requirements resulting from more robust billing and payment terms and the timing of collections at the end of the fiscal year. Cash flows provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2023 resulted primarily from the increase in earnings, combined with lower working capital requirements. Cash flows provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2022 were unfavorably impacted by higher working capital requirements required to support the increase in contract revenues.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash flows used in investing activities were $15.7 million, $11.5 million, and $9.5 million for fiscal years 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. Cash flows used in investing activities for fiscal year 2024 were primarily due to cash paid for an acquisition, combined with cash paid for the development of proprietary software and the purchase of computers and equipment. Cash flows used in investing activities for fiscal years 2023, and 2022 were primarily due to cash paid for the development of proprietary software and the purchase of computers and other equipment.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows used in financing activities were $5.6 million and $23.8 million for fiscal years 2024 and 2023, respectively, compared to cash flows provided by financing activities of $8.4 million for fiscal year 2022. Cash flows used in financing activities for fiscal year 2024 were primarily attributable to the repayments of $8.1 million under our Term Loan, $1.4 million principal payments on finance leases, and $1.4 million cash used to pay withholding taxes on stock grants, partially offset by $2.8 million of proceeds from sales of common stock under employee stock purchase plan and $2.8 million in proceeds from stock option exercises. Cash flows used in financing activities for fiscal year 2023 were primarily attributable to the disbursement of $10.7 million in restricted cash for utility rebate incentives, payments of $4.0 million for contingent consideration related to prior acquisitions, combined with repayments and borrowings of $112.9 million and $105.0 million, respectively, under our term loan facility and line of credit, which resulted primarily from refinancing our Prior Credit Facility. Cash flows provided by financing activities for fiscal year 2022 were primarily attributable to borrowings of $20.0 million under our Delayed Draw Term Loan, $10.7 million in receipt of restricted cash, $3.0 million in proceeds from sales of common stock under our employee stock purchase plan, and $1.7 million proceeds from notes payable, partially offset by repayments of $13.0 million under our Term A Loan, combined with payments of $10.2 million for contingent consideration related to prior acquisitions, $1.9 million payments on notes payable, and $1.1 million principal payments on finance leases.

Under certain utility contracts, we periodically receive cash deposits to be held in trust for the payment of energy incentive rebates to be sent directly to the utility’s end-customer on behalf of the utility. We act solely as the utility’s agent to distribute these funds to the end-customer and, accordingly, we classify these contractually restricted funds as restricted cash. Because these funds are held in trust for pass through to the utility’s customers and have no impact on our working capital or operating cash flows, these cash receipts are presented in the consolidated statement of cash flows as financing cash inflows, “Receipt of restricted cash”, with the subsequent payments classified as financing cash outflows, “Payment of restricted cash”.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet financing arrangements or liabilities. In addition, our policy is not to enter into futures or forward contracts. Finally, we do not have any majority-owned subsidiaries or any interests in, or relationships with, any special-purpose entities that are not included in the consolidated financial statements. We have, however, an administrative services agreement with Genesys in which we provide Genesys with ongoing administrative, operational and other non-professional support services. We manage Genesys and have the power to direct the activities

42

Table of Contents

that most significantly impact Genesys’ performance, in addition to being obligated to absorb expected losses from Genesys. Accordingly, we are the primary beneficiary of Genesys and consolidate Genesys as a variable interest entity.

Short and Long-term Uses of Cash

General

Our principal uses of cash are to fund operating expenses, support working capital requirements, finance capital expenditures, and pay down outstanding debt. From time to time, we also use cash to help fund business acquisitions. Our cash and cash equivalents are impacted by the timing of when we are paid by our customers for services rendered and when we pay expenses as reflected in the change in our outstanding accounts payable and accrued expenses.

Contractual Obligations

The following table sets forth our known contractual obligations as of December 27, 2024:

​

We are obligated to pay earnout payments in connection with our acquisition of Enica Engineering, PLLC. (“Enica”). We are obligated to pay up to $6.0 million in cash if Enica exceeds certain financial targets during the two years after the Enica closing date of October 23, 2024 (the “Enica Closing Date”). As of December 27, 2024, we had contingent consideration payable of $4.2 million related to the Enica acquisition. For fiscal year 2024, our statement of operations includes $0.2 million of interest accretion (excluding fair value adjustments) related to the contingent consideration.

Outstanding Indebtedness

See Part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information regarding our indebtedness, including information about new borrowings and repayments, principal repayment terms, interest rates, covenants, and other key terms of our outstanding indebtedness.

43

Table of Contents

Insurance Premiums

We have also financed, from time to time, insurance premiums by entering into unsecured notes payable with insurance companies. See part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information regarding our financing arrangements related to our insurance premiums.

Interest Rate Swap

From time to time, we enter into interest rate swap agreements to moderate our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates underlying our variable rate debt. For more information, see Part I, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”, and Note 4, “Derivatives”, to the Notes of Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Impact of Inflation

Due to the average duration of our projects and our ability to negotiate prices as contracts end and new contracts begin, historically, our operations have not been materially impacted by inflation. While immaterial to our results of operations and financial condition, we have experienced higher cost of materials and delays in our supply chain for equipment. The prices of finished products from manufacturers are subject to fluctuation and increases. It is difficult to accurately measure the impact of inflation, tariffs, price escalation, raw material costs, and other factors that impact the cost of finished goods due to the imprecise nature of the estimates required.

​

We are often able to mitigate the impact of future price increases by entering into fixed price purchase orders for materials and equipment, and subcontracts on our projects, as well as, when appropriate, including cost escalation factors into our proposals. Despite our best mitigation efforts, significant price increases in equipment and disruptions to our supply chain could materially impact our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, inflationary pressures, including expectations of future inflation, may impact the customers of our utility clients, which may lead to delayed or deferred decisions regarding expenditures to improve energy efficiency, and therefore potentially impact our future revenues.

Components of Revenue and Expense

Contract Revenue

We generally provide our services under contracts, purchase orders or retainer letters. The agreements we enter into with our clients typically incorporate one of three principal types of pricing provisions: time-and-materials, unit-based, and fixed price. Revenue on our time-and-materials and unit-based contracts are recognized as the work is performed in accordance with specific terms of the contract. As of December 27, 2024, 18% of our contracts are time-and-materials contracts, 40% are unit-based contracts, and 42% are fixed price contracts, compared to 19% for time-and-materials contracts, 42% for unit-based contracts, and 39% for fixed price contracts, as of December 29, 2023.

Some of these contracts include maximum contract prices, but contract maximums are often adjusted to reflect the level of effort to achieve client objectives and thus the majority of these contracts are not expected to exceed the maximum. Contract revenue on our fixed price contracts is determined on the percentage of completion method based generally on the ratio of direct costs incurred to date to estimated total direct costs at completion. Many of our fixed price contracts involve a high degree of subcontracted fixed price effort and are relatively short in duration, thereby lowering the risks of not properly estimating the percent complete.

Adjustments to contract cost estimates are made in the periods in which the facts requiring such revisions become known. When the revised estimate indicates a loss, such loss is recognized in the current period in its entirety. Claims and change orders that have not been finalized are evaluated to determine whether or not a change has occurred in the enforceable rights and obligations of the original contract. If these non-finalized changes qualify as a contract modification, a determination is made whether to account for the change in contract value as a modification to the

44

Table of Contents

existing contract, or a separate contract and revenue under the claims or change orders is recognized accordingly. Costs related to un-priced change orders are expensed when incurred, and recognition of the related revenue is based on the assessment above of whether or not a contract modification has occurred. Estimated profit for un-priced change orders is recognized only if collection is probable.

Our contracts come up for renewal periodically and at the time of renewal may be subject to renegotiation, which could impact the profitability on that contract. In addition, during the term of a contract, public agencies may request additional or revised services which may impact the economics of the transaction. Most of our contracts permit our clients, with prior notice, to terminate the contracts at any time without cause. While we have a large volume of contracts, the renewal, termination or modification of a contract, in particular contracts with Consolidated Edison, the Dormitory Authority-State of New York, the New York City Housing Authority, and utility programs associated with Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and Duke Energy Corp., may have a material effect on our consolidated operations.

Some of our contracts include certain performance guarantees, such as a guaranteed energy saving quantity. Such guarantees are generally measured upon completion of a project. In the event that the measured performance level is less than the guaranteed level, any resulting financial penalty, including any additional work that may be required to fulfill the guarantee, is estimated and charged to direct expenses in the current period. We have not experienced any significant costs under such guarantees.

Direct Costs of Contract Revenue

Direct costs of contract revenue consist primarily of that portion of salaries and wages that have been incurred in connection with revenue producing projects. Direct costs of contract revenue also include material costs, subcontractor services, equipment and other expenses that are incurred in connection with revenue producing projects. Direct costs of contract revenue exclude that portion of salaries and wages related to marketing efforts, vacations, holidays and other time not spent directly generating revenue under existing contracts. Such costs are included in general and administrative expenses. Additionally, payroll taxes, bonuses and employee benefit costs for all of our personnel are included in general and administrative expenses since no allocation of these costs is made to direct costs of contract revenue.

Other companies may classify as direct costs of contract revenue some of the costs that we classify as general and administrative costs. We expense direct costs of contract revenue when incurred.

General and Administrative Expenses

G&A expenses include the costs of the marketing and support staff, other marketing expenses, management and administrative personnel costs, payroll taxes, bonuses and employee benefits for all of our employees and the portion of salaries and wages not allocated to direct costs of contract revenue for those employees who provide our services. G&A expenses also include facility costs, depreciation and amortization, professional services, legal and accounting fees and administrative operating costs. Within G&A expenses, “Other” includes expenses such as professional services, legal and accounting, computer costs, travel and entertainment, marketing costs and acquisition costs. We expense general and administrative costs when incurred.

45

Table of Contents

Critical Accounting Policies

This discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. (“GAAP”). To prepare these financial statements in conformity with GAAP, we must make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenue and expenses in the reporting period. Our actual results may differ from these estimates. We have provided a summary of our significant accounting policies in Part II, Item 8, Note 1, “Organization and Operations of the Company”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We describe below those accounting policies that require material subjective or complex judgments and that have the most significant impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Our management evaluates these estimates on an ongoing basis, based upon information currently available and on various assumptions management believes are reasonable as of the date of this report.

Contract Assets and Liabilities

Billing practices are governed by the contract terms of each project based upon costs incurred, achievement of milestones or pre-agreed schedules. Billings in any given fiscal period do not necessarily correlate with revenue recognized for that period. Contract assets include unbilled amounts typically resulting from revenue under contracts where the percentage-of-completion method of revenue recognition is utilized and revenue recognized exceeds the amount billed to the customer and right to repayment is not unconditional. Contract assets also include retainage amounts withheld from billings to our clients pursuant to provisions in our contracts and other revenues earned but not billed in the current period. Contract liabilities consist of advance payments and billings in excess of revenue recognized and deferred revenue.

Contract Accounting

We enter into contracts with our clients that contain various types of pricing provisions, including fixed price, time-and-materials, and unit-based provisions. We recognize revenues in accordance with ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customer, codified as ASC Topic 606 and the related amendments (collectively, “ASC 606”). As such, we identify a contract with a customer, identify the performance obligations in the contract, determine the transaction price, allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation in the contract and recognize revenue when (or as) we satisfy a performance obligation.

The following table reflects our two reportable segments and the types of contracts that each most commonly enters into for revenue generating activities.

​

Revenue on the vast majority of our contracts will continue to be recognized over time because of the continuous transfer of control to the customer. Revenue on fixed price contracts is recognized on the percentage-of-completion method based generally on the ratio of direct costs incurred-to-date to estimated total direct costs at completion. We use the percentage-of-completion method to better match the level of work performed at a certain point in time in relation to our effort that will be required to complete a project. In addition, the percentage-of-completion method is a common method of revenue recognition in our industry.

46

Table of Contents

Many of our fixed price contracts involve a high degree of subcontracted fixed price effort and are relatively short in duration, thereby lowering the risks of not properly estimating the percent complete. Revenue on time-and-materials and unit-based contracts is recognized as the work is performed in accordance with the specific rates and terms of the contract. We recognize revenues for time-and-materials contracts based upon the actual hours incurred during a reporting period at contractually agreed upon rates per hour and also includes in revenue all reimbursable costs incurred during a reporting period. Certain of our time-and-materials contracts are subject to maximum contract values and, accordingly, when revenue is expected to exceed the maximum contract value, these contracts are generally recognized under the percentage-of-completion method, consistent with fixed price contracts. For unit-based contracts, we recognize the contract price of units of a basic production product as revenue when the production product is delivered during a period. Revenue for amounts that have been billed but not earned is deferred, and such deferred revenue is referred to as contract liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We also derive revenue from software licenses and professional services and maintenance fees. In accordance with ASC 606, we perform an assessment of each contract to identify the performance obligations, determine the overall transaction price for the contract, allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations, and recognize the revenue when the performance obligations are satisfied. We utilize the residual approach by which we estimate the standalone selling price by reference to the total transaction price less the sum of the observable standalone selling prices of other goods or services promised in the contract. The software license revenue is typically recognized at a point in time when control is transferred to the client, which is defined as the point in time when the client can use and benefit from the license. The software license is delivered before related services are provided and is functional without services, updates, or technical support. Related professional services include training and support services in which the standalone selling price is determined based on an input measure of hours incurred to total estimated hours and is recognized over time, usually which is the life of the contract.

To determine the proper revenue recognition method for contracts, we evaluate whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one single contract and whether the combined contract should be accounted for as one performance obligation. With respect to our contracts, it is rare that multiple contracts should be combined into a single performance obligation. This evaluation requires significant judgment and the decision to combine a group of contracts or separate a single contract into multiple performance obligations could change the amount of revenue and profit recorded in a given period. Contracts are considered to have a single performance obligation if the promise to transfer the individual goods or services is not separately identifiable from other promises in the contracts, which is mainly because we provide a significant service of integrating a complex set of tasks and components into a single project or capability.

We may enter into contracts that include separate phases or elements. If each phase or element is negotiated separately based on the technical resources required and/or the supply and demand for the services being provided, we evaluate if the contracts should be segmented. If certain criteria are met, the contracts would be segmented which could result in revenues being assigned to the different elements or phases with different rates of profitability based on the relative value of each element or phase to the estimated total contract revenue. Segmented contracts may comprise up to approximately 2.0% to 3.0% of our consolidated contract revenue.

Contracts that cover multiple phases or elements of the project or service lifecycle (development, design, construction and maintenance and support) may be considered to have multiple performance obligations even when they are part of a single contract. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, we allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation using the best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct good or service in the contract. For the periods presented, the value of the separate performance obligations under contracts with multiple performance obligations (generally measurement and verification tasks under certain energy performance contracts) were not material. In cases where we do not provide the distinct good or service on a standalone basis, the primary method used to estimate standalone selling price is the expected cost plus a margin approach, under which we forecast our expected costs of satisfying a performance obligation and then adds an appropriate margin for the distinct good or service.

We provide quality of workmanship warranties to customers that are included in the sale and are not priced or sold separately or do not provide customers with a service in addition to assurance of compliance with agreed-upon specifications and industry standards. We do not consider these types of warranties to be separate performance obligations.

47

Table of Contents

In some cases, we have a master service or blanket agreement with a customer under which each task order releases us to perform specific portions of the overall scope in the service contract. Each task order is typically accounted for as a separate contract because the task order establishes the enforceable rights and obligations, and payment terms.

Under ASC 606, variable consideration should be considered when determining the transaction price and estimates should be made for the variable consideration component of the transaction price, as well as assessing whether an estimate of variable consideration is constrained. For certain of our contracts, variable consideration can arise from modifications to the scope of services resulting from unapproved change orders or customer claims. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. Our estimates of variable consideration and determination of whether to include estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on assessments of legal enforceability, our performance, and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to us.

Due to the nature of the work required to be performed on many of our performance obligations, the estimation of total revenue and cost at completion is complex, subject to many variables and requires significant judgment. As a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the profitability of our contracts, we review and update our contract-related estimates regularly through a company-wide disciplined project review process in which management reviews the progress and execution of our performance obligations and the estimate at completion (“EAC”). As part of this process, management reviews information including, but not limited to, any outstanding key contract matters, progress towards completion and the related program schedule and the related changes in estimates of revenues and costs. Management must make assumptions and estimates regarding labor productivity and availability, the complexity of the work to be performed, the cost and availability of materials, the performance of subcontractors, and the availability and timing of funding from the customer, among other variables.

We recognize adjustments in estimated profit on contracts under the cumulative catch-up method. Under this method, the impact of the adjustment on profit recorded to date is recognized in the period the adjustment is identified. Revenue and profit in future periods of contract performance is recognized using the adjusted estimate. If at any time the estimate of contract profitability indicates an anticipated loss on the contract, we recognize the total loss in the period it is identified.

Contracts are often modified to account for changes in contract specifications and requirements. We consider contract modifications to exist when the modification either creates new rights or obligations or changes the existing enforceable rights or obligations. Most of our contract modifications are for goods or services that are not distinct from existing contracts due to the significant integration provided in the context of the contract and are accounted for as if they were part of the original contract. The effect of a contract modification that is not distinct from the existing contract on the transaction price and our measure of progress for the performance obligation to which it relates is recognized as an adjustment to revenue (either as an increase in or a reduction of revenue) on a cumulative catch-up basis.

For contract modifications that result in the promise to deliver goods or services that are distinct from the existing contract and the increase in price of the contract is for the same amount as the standalone selling price of the additional goods or services included in the modification, we account for such contract modifications as a separate contract.

We include claims to vendors, subcontractors and others as a receivable and a reduction in recognized costs when enforceability of the claim is established by the contract and the amounts are reasonably estimable and probable of being recovered. The amounts are recorded up to the extent of the lesser of the amounts management expects to recover or to costs incurred.

Billing practices are governed by the contract terms of each project based upon costs incurred, achievement of milestones or pre-agreed schedules. Billings do not necessarily correlate with revenue recognized using the percentage-of-completion method of revenue recognition.

48

Table of Contents

Accounts receivable are carried at original invoice amount less an estimate made for doubtful accounts based upon our review of all outstanding amounts on a quarterly basis. Management determines allowances for doubtful accounts through specific identification of amounts considered to be uncollectible and potential write-offs, plus a non-specific allowance for other amounts for which some potential loss has been determined to be probable based on current and past experience. Historical credit losses have been minimal with governmental entities and large public utilities, but disputes may arise related to these receivable amounts. Accounts receivable are written off when deemed uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts receivable previously written off are recorded when received.

For further information on the types of contracts under which we perform our services, see Part II, Item 8, Note 1, “Organization and Operations of the Company”, of the Notes to consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Goodwill

We test our goodwill at least annually for possible impairment. We complete our annual testing of goodwill as of the last day of the first month of our fourth fiscal quarter each year to determine whether there is impairment. In addition to our annual test, we regularly evaluate whether events and circumstances have occurred that may indicate a potential impairment of goodwill. We did not recognize any goodwill impairment charges in fiscal years 2024, 2023, or 2022.

We test our goodwill for impairment at the level of our reporting units, which are components of our operating segments. In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) Update No. 2017-04 (“ASU 2017-04”), Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Goodwill for Impairment. This accounting guidance eliminates the requirement to compare the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill (commonly referred to as Step 2) from the goodwill impairment test. The new standard does not change how a goodwill impairment is identified. We will continue to perform our quantitative and qualitative goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount, but if we are required to recognize a goodwill impairment charge, under the new standard the amount of the charge will be calculated by subtracting the reporting unit’s fair value from its carrying amount. Under the prior standard, if we were required to recognize a goodwill impairment charge, Step 2 required us to calculate the implied value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as if that reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the amount of the charge was calculated by subtracting the reporting unit’s implied fair value of goodwill from its actual goodwill balance.

To estimate the fair value of our reporting units, we use both an income approach based on management’s estimates of future cash flows and other market data and a market approach based upon multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, earned by similar public companies. Once the fair value is determined, we then compare the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit is determined to be less than the carrying value, we perform an additional assessment to determine the extent of the impairment based on the implied fair value of goodwill compared with the carrying amount of the goodwill. In the event that the current implied fair value of the goodwill is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized.

Inherent in such fair value determinations are significant judgments and estimates, including but not limited to assumptions about our future revenue, profitability and cash flows, our operational plans and our interpretation of current economic indicators and market valuations. To the extent these assumptions are incorrect or economic conditions that would impact the future operations of our reporting units change, any goodwill may be deemed to be impaired, and an impairment charge could have in a material impact on our financial position or results of operation. Almost all of our goodwill is contained in our Energy segment, with the remainder in our Engineering and Consulting segment. At our measurement date, the estimated fair value of our Energy segment exceeded its carrying value. Any reduction in the estimated fair value of our Energy segment could result in an impairment charge of goodwill associated with this segment in future periods.

49

Table of Contents

Business Combinations

The acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires us to use significant estimates and assumptions, including fair value estimates, as of the business combination date. For reporting periods prior to the completion of our procedures to value assets and liabilities, the acquisition method requires us to refine those estimates as necessary during the measurement period (defined as the period, not to exceed one year, in which we may adjust the provisional amounts recognized for a business combination) based upon new information about facts that existed on the business combination date.

Under the acquisition method of accounting, we recognize separately from goodwill the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interests in an acquiree, at the acquisition date fair value. We measure goodwill as of the acquisition date as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Costs that we incur to complete the business combination such as investment banking, legal and other professional fees are not considered part of consideration. We charge these acquisition costs to other general and administrative expense as they are incurred.

Should the initial accounting for a business combination be incomplete by the end of a reporting period that falls within the measurement period, we report provisional amounts in our financial statements. During the measurement period, we adjust the provisional amounts recognized at the acquisition date to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized as of that date and we record those adjustments to our financial statements. We recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, including the effect on earnings of changes in depreciation, amortization or other income effects, if any, as a result of the change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date.

During fiscal year 2024, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Enica. As of December 27, 2024, we had not yet completed our final estimate of fair value of the assets acquired relating to the acquisitions of Enica due to the timing of the transactions and lack of complete information necessary to finalize such estimates of fair value. Accordingly, we have preliminarily estimated the fair values of the assets acquired and will finalize such fair value estimates within twelve months of the Enica Closing Date. During fiscal years 2023 and 2022, we did not have any material acquisitions.

For further discussion of our acquisitions, see Part II, Item 8, Note 13, “Business Combinations” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of our assets and liabilities, subject to a judgmental assessment of the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more-likely-than-not that some of the deferred tax assets may not be realized. Significant judgment is applied when assessing the need for valuation allowances and includes the evaluation of historical income (loss) adjusted for the effects of non-recurring items and the impact of recent business combinations. Areas of estimation include our consideration of future taxable income which is driven by verifiable signed contracts and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. Should a change in circumstances lead to a change in judgment about the utilization of deferred tax assets in future years, we would adjust the related valuation allowances in the period that the change in circumstances occurs, along with a corresponding increase or charge to income.

For acquired business entities, if we identify changes to acquired deferred tax asset valuation allowances or liabilities related to uncertain tax positions during the measurement period and they relate to new information obtained

50

Table of Contents

about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date, those changes are considered a measurement period adjustment and we record the offset to goodwill. We record all other changes to deferred tax asset valuation allowances and liabilities related to uncertain tax positions in current period income tax expense.

We recognize the tax benefit from uncertain tax positions if it is more-likely-than-not that the tax positions will be sustained on examination by the tax authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit is measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

For further discussion of our income taxes, see Part II, Item 8, Note 11, “Income Taxes” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Recent Accounting Standards

​

For a description of recently issued and adopted accounting pronouncements, including adoption dates and expected effects on our results of operations and financial condition, see Part II, Item 8, Note 2, “Recent Accounting Pronouncements”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

​

51

Table of Contents

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Our Company

We are a provider of professional, technical and consulting services to utilities, private industry, and public agencies at all levels of government. As resource and infrastructure needs undergo continuous change, we help organizations and their communities evolve and thrive by providing a wide range of technical services for energy solutions, greenhouse gas reduction, and government infrastructure. Through engineering, program management, policy advisory, and software and data management, we plan, design and deliver trusted, comprehensive, innovative, and proven solutions to improve efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability in energy and infrastructure to our clients.

Our broad portfolio of services operates within two financial reporting segments: (1) Energy and (2) Engineering and Consulting. The interfaces and synergies between these segments are important elements of our strategy to design and deliver trusted, comprehensive, innovative, and proven solutions and services for our customers.

Our Energy segment provides specialized, innovative, comprehensive energy solutions to businesses, utilities, state agencies, municipalities, and non-profit organizations in the U.S. Our experienced engineers, consultants, and staff help our clients realize cost and energy savings by tailoring efficient and cost-effective solutions to assist in optimizing energy spend. Our energy efficiency services include comprehensive audit and surveys, program design, master planning, demand reduction, grid optimization, benchmarking analyses, design engineering, construction management, performance contracting, installation, alternative financing, measurement and verification services, and advances in software and data analytics for long-term planning.

Our Engineering and Consulting segment provides civil engineering-related construction management, building and safety, city engineering office management, city planning, civil design, geotechnical, material testing and other engineering consulting services to our clients. Our engineering services include traffic, bridges, rail, port, water, mining and other civil engineering projects. We also provide economic and financial consulting to public agencies. Lastly, we supplement the engineering services that we offer our clients by offering expertise and support for the various financing techniques public agencies utilize to finance their operations and infrastructure. We also support the mandated reporting and other requirements associated with these financings. We provide financial advisory services for municipal securities but do not provide underwriting services.

​

38

Table of Contents

Results of Operations

Summary Comparison of 2023, 2022, and 2021

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain information derived from our consolidated statements of comprehensive income(1):

​

​

39

Table of Contents

The following tables provides information about disaggregated revenue of our two segments, Energy and Engineering and Consulting by contract type, client type, and geographical region:

​

​

​

​

​

40

Table of Contents

Fiscal Year 2023 Compared to Fiscal Year 2022

Contract revenue. Consolidated contract revenue increased $81.0 million, or 18.9%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily due to incremental revenues in both our Energy segment and in our Engineering and Consulting segment.

Contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $69.6 million, or 19.4%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily as a result of higher demand across the full spectrum of our energy services including increases in software licensing revenue. Contract revenue in our Engineering and Consulting segment increased $11.4 million, or 16.0%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily due to increased demand for services provided to our clients.

Direct costs of contract revenue. Direct costs of consolidated contract revenue increased $44.8 million, or 15.7%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily as a result of the increase, and change of mix, in contract revenues as described above. As a percentage of contract revenue, direct salaries and wages decreased to 17.6% in fiscal year 2023, from 19.3% in the fiscal 2022, while subcontractor services and other direct costs was relatively flat for the fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022.

Direct costs of contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $39.4 million, or 15.6%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022. Direct costs of contract revenue for the Engineering and Consulting segment increased $5.4 million, or 16.0%, for the fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022.

Subcontractor services and other direct costs increased $37.8 million, or 18.7%, and salaries and wages increased by $7.0 million, or 8.4%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022, primarily as a result of the increases in contract revenue.

Gross Profit. Gross profit increased 25.2% to $179.8 million, or a 35.2% gross margin, for fiscal year 2023 compared to $143.6 million, or a 33.5% gross margin for fiscal year 2022. The increase in gross margin was primarily driven by higher software licensing revenue and changes in the mix of revenues as described above combined with the absence of project startup costs for new utility programs that were incurred during fiscal year 2022 but did not recur in the in fiscal year 2023.

​

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses increased by $7.1 million, or 4.7%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022. The increase in G&A expenses consisted of an increase of $3.8 million in the Energy segment combined with an increase of $6.5 million in the Engineering and Consulting segment, partially offset by a decrease of $3.2 million in unallocated corporate expenses.

Within G&A expenses, the increase of $13.8 million in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits was partially offset by a decrease of $3.1 million in stock-based compensation, a decrease of $2.9 million in other general and administrative expenses, and a decrease of $1.1 million in depreciation and amortization. The increase in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits was primarily due to an increase in incentive compensation, consistent with the improvement in operating profit, increased costs related to employee benefits, and increases in employee compensation as a result of additional employee headcount as well as employee compensation increases. The decrease in stock-based compensation expenses was primarily related to previously awarded stock grants reaching the end of their corresponding vesting periods, partially offset by new equity awards being issued at lower stock prices. The decrease in other general and administrative expenses was primarily due to contingent consideration expense related to prior acquisitions that occurred during fiscal year 2022 that did not recur in fiscal year 2023. The decrease in depreciation and amortization was primarily related to lower amortization of intangible assets from prior acquisitions.

Income (loss) from operations. Operating income was $22.1 million for fiscal year 2023, compared to an operating loss of $7.1 million for fiscal year 2022, as a result of the factors noted above.

Total other expense, net. Total other expense, net, increased $3.1 million, or 70.5%, in fiscal year 2023 compared to fiscal year 2022. The increase in total other expense, net is primarily due to higher interest expense as a

41

Table of Contents

result of the increase in market interest rates which directly affected our variable interest rates under our credit facilities, combined with a one-time charge of $0.5 million for unamortized debt issuance costs related to our prior credit facilities, partially offset by interest income related to bank deposits.

Income tax expense (benefit). We recorded an income tax expense of $3.7 million for fiscal year 2023 compared to a tax benefit of $3.0 million for fiscal year 2022. The tax expense is primarily attributable to the income before income tax combined with the non-recurrence of a one-time tax benefit recognized during fiscal year 2022 related to additional energy efficiency building deductions.

Net income (loss). Our net income was $10.9 million for fiscal year 2023, as compared to a net loss of $8.4 million for fiscal year 2022. The increase in net income was primarily attributable to the increase in revenue and gross profit, partially offset by higher interest expense and income tax expense.

Fiscal Year 2022 Compared to Fiscal Year 2021

Contract revenue. Consolidated contract revenue increased $75.4 million, or 21.3%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021, primarily due to incremental revenues in our Energy segment generated from new governmental construction-management and design-build projects, combined with incremental revenues from the resumption of projects that had been suspended in fiscal year 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and increased governmental revenues in our Engineering and Consulting segment, partially offset by lower software licensing revenue.

Contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $71.1 million, or 24.8%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021, primarily as a result of incremental revenues from new governmental construction-management and design-build projects, combined with incremental revenues from the resumption of projects that had been suspended in fiscal year 2021 due to the Covid-19 pandemic, partially offset by lower software licensing revenue.

Contract revenue in our Engineering and Consulting segment increased $4.3 million, or 6.4%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021, primarily due to increased demand for services provided to our governmental clients.

Direct costs of contract revenue. Direct costs of consolidated contract revenue increased $67.7 million, or 31.1%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021, primarily due to increases in our contract revenues in our Energy segment as described above as well as the ramping up of new projects for which we saw higher project startup costs relative to the revenue recognized.

Direct costs of contract revenue in our Energy segment increased $67.3 million, or 36.5%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021, primarily as a result of the reasons described above. Direct costs of contract revenue for the Engineering and Consulting segment increased $0.4 million, or 1.2%, for the fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021.

Subcontractor services and other direct costs increased by $50.4 million, or 33.1%, and salaries and wages increased by $17.3 million, or 26.4%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021, primarily due to the increases in contract revenues as described above combined with changes in the mix of those contract revenues to those which contain a higher percentage of material costs and installation subcontracting and lower percentage of labor costs, as well as the ramping up of new projects for which we saw higher project startup costs relative to the revenue recognized.

Gross Profit. Gross profit increased 5.7% to $143.6 million, or a 33.5% gross margin, for fiscal year 2022 compared to $135.9 million, or a 38.4% gross margin for fiscal year 2021. The decrease in gross margin percentage was primarily driven by changes in the mix of revenues as described above, combined with a reduction in software licensing revenues and the ramping up of new projects for which we saw higher project startup costs relative to the revenue recognized.

​

General and administrative expenses. General and administrative (“G&A”) expenses increased by $6.1 million, or 4.2%, in fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021. The increase in G&A expenses consisted of an increase of $9.2 million in the Energy segment combined with an increase of $2.3 million in the Engineering and Consulting

42

Table of Contents

segment, partially offset by a decrease of $5.4 million in unallocated corporate expenses. The increase in G&A expenses was primarily attributed to higher salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits, increased contingent consideration expense related to prior acquisitions, and higher computer-related expenses, partially offset by lower stock-based compensation expenses.

Within G&A expenses, the increase of $8.0 million in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits combined with the increase of $6.5 million in other general and administrative expenses was partially offset by a decrease of $8.2 million in stock-based compensation and a decrease of $0.6 million in facilities and facility related expenses. The increase in salaries and wages, payroll taxes and employee benefits was primarily due to increases in personnel. The increase in other general and administrative expenses was primarily due to increased contingent consideration expense related to prior acquisitions, higher computer-related expenses and higher professional service fees. The decrease in stock-based compensation expenses was primarily related to previously awarded stock grants reaching the end of their corresponding vesting periods. The decrease in facilities and facility related expenses was due to satisfied facility leases that were not renewed. Depreciation and amortization was relatively flat for the fiscal year 2022 compared to fiscal year 2021.

Income (loss) from operations. Operating loss was $7.1 million for fiscal year 2022, compared to an operating loss of $8.7 million for fiscal year 2021, as a result of the factors noted above. As a percentage of contract revenue, the operating loss improved to 1.6% for fiscal year 2022 from an operating loss of 2.5% for fiscal year 2021.

Total other expense, net. Total other expense, net, was $4.4 million for fiscal year 2022 compared to $3.7 million for fiscal year 2021. The increase in total other expense, net is primarily due to higher interest expense as a result of higher variable interest rates under our credit facilities, partially offset by income from indemnification agreements.

Income tax expense (benefit). We recorded an income tax benefit of $3.0 million for fiscal year 2022 compared to a tax benefit of $4.0 million for fiscal year 2021. The decrease in the income tax benefit is primarily attributable to the lower loss before income tax expense, the non-recurrence tax benefits provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act of 2020 (“CARES Act”), and various tax deductions and tax credits.

Net income (loss). Our net loss was relatively flat for fiscal year 2022, compared to fiscal year 2021, as a result of the factors described above.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

​

Sources of Cash

Our primary sources of liquidity for the next 12 months and beyond are cash generated from operations, cash and cash equivalents, and available borrowings under our revolving credit facility under the Credit Agreement (the “Revolving Credit Facility”). We believe that our cash and cash equivalents, cash generated by operating activities, and available borrowings under our Revolving Credit Facility will be sufficient to finance our operating activities for at least the next 12 months.

As described in Part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations,” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, on September 29, 2023, we and certain of our subsidiaries entered into the Credit Agreement with a syndicate of financial institutions as lenders and BMO, as administrative agent. As of

43

Table of Contents

December 29, 2023, we had a fully drawn $100 million term loan with $98.1 million outstanding (the “Term Loan”), and a $50.0 million Revolving Credit Facility with no borrowed amounts and $4.1 million in letters of credit issued, each scheduled to mature on September 29, 2026. In addition, as of December 29, 2023, we had $23.4 million of unrestricted cash and cash equivalents.

As of December 29, 2023, we were in compliance with the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement and borrowings under our Credit Facilities, exclusive of the effects of upfront fees, undrawn fees and issuance cost amortization, bore interest at an annual rate of 8.5%. See Part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, for information regarding our indebtedness, including information about new borrowings and repayments, principal repayment terms, interest rates, covenants, and other key terms of our outstanding indebtedness.

Cash Flows from Operating Activities

Cash flows provided by operating activities were $39.2 million, $9.4 million, and $9.8 million for fiscal years 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. Cash flows from operating activities primarily consists of net income, adjusted for non-cash charges, such as depreciation and amortization and stock-based compensation, plus or minus changes in current operating assets and liabilities. Cash flows provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2023 resulted primarily from the increase in earnings, combined with lower working capital requirements. Cash flows provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2022 were unfavorably impacted by higher working capital requirements required to support the increase in contract revenues. Cash flows provided by operating activities for fiscal year 2021 resulted primarily from the changing mix of revenues, partially offset by increased demand for working capital related to the resumption of our utility programs that were suspended in 2020 and start-up costs associated with certain new contract awards.

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

Cash flows used in investing activities were $11.5 million, $9.5 million, and $8.5 million for fiscal years 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. Cash flows used in investing activities for fiscal years 2023, 2022, and 2021 were primarily due to cash paid for the development of software and the purchase of computers and other equipment.

Cash Flows from Financing Activities

Cash flows used in financing activities were $23.8 million for fiscal year 2023 compared to cash flows provided by financing activities of $8.4 million for fiscal year 2022 and cash flows used in financing activities of $18.5 million in fiscal year 2021. Cash flows used in financing activities for fiscal year 2023 were primarily attributable to the disbursement of $10.7 million in restricted cash for utility rebate incentives, payments of $4.0 million for contingent consideration related to prior acquisitions, combined with repayments and borrowings of $112.9 million and $105.0 million, respectively, under our term loan facility and line of credit, which resulted primarily from refinancing our Prior Credit Facility. Cash flows provided by financing activities for fiscal year 2022 were primarily attributable to borrowings of $20.0 million under our Delayed Draw Term Loan, $10.7 million in receipt of restricted cash, $3.0 million in proceeds from sales of common stock under our employee stock purchase plan, and $1.7 million proceeds from notes payable, partially offset by repayments of $13.0 million under our Term A Loan, combined with payments of $10.2 million for contingent consideration related to prior acquisitions, $1.9 million payments on notes payable, and $1.1 million principal payments on finance leases. Cash flows used in financing activities for fiscal year 2021 were primarily attributable to principal repayments of $13.0 million under our Term A Loan and Revolving Credit Facility, increases of $6.6 million for contingent consideration related to prior acquisitions, payments of taxes on stock grants of $3.1 million, payments on notes payable of $1.9 million, partially offset by $2.7 million in proceeds from sales of common stock under our employee stock purchase plan and $1.9 million in proceeds from stock option exercise.

Under certain utility contracts, we periodically receive cash deposits to be held in trust for the payment of energy incentive rebates to be sent directly to the utility’s end-customer on behalf of the utility. We act solely as the utility’s agent to distribute these funds to the end-customer and, accordingly, we classify these contractually restricted funds as restricted cash. Because these funds are held in trust for pass through to the utility’s customers and have no impact on our working capital or operating cash flows, these cash receipts are presented in the consolidated statement of

44

Table of Contents

cash flows as financing cash inflows, “Receipt of restricted cash”, with the subsequent payments classified as financing cash outflows, “Payment of restricted cash”.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We do not have any off-balance sheet financing arrangements or liabilities. In addition, our policy is not to enter into futures or forward contracts. Finally, we do not have any majority-owned subsidiaries or any interests in, or relationships with, any special-purpose entities that are not included in the consolidated financial statements. We have, however, an administrative services agreement with Genesys in which we provide Genesys with ongoing administrative, operational and other non-professional support services. We manage Genesys and have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact Genesys’ performance, in addition to being obligated to absorb expected losses from Genesys. Accordingly, we are the primary beneficiary of Genesys and consolidate Genesys as a variable interest entity.

Short and Long-term Uses of Cash

General

Our principal uses of cash are to fund operating expenses, support working capital requirements, finance capital expenditures, and pay down outstanding debt. From time to time, we also use cash to help fund business acquisitions. Our cash and cash equivalents are impacted by the timing of when we are paid by our customers for services rendered and when we pay expenses as reflected in the change in our outstanding accounts payable and accrued expenses.

Contractual Obligations

The following table sets forth our known contractual obligations as of December 29, 2023:

​

As of December 29, 2023, we did not have any remaining contingent consideration payable related to any prior acquisitions. In addition, as of December 29, 2023, we did not have any arrangements involving the potential incurrence of future contingent consideration.

Outstanding Indebtedness

See Part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information regarding our indebtedness, including information about new borrowings and repayments, principal repayment terms, interest rates, covenants, and other key terms of our outstanding indebtedness.

45

Table of Contents

Insurance Premiums

We have also financed, from time to time, insurance premiums by entering into unsecured notes payable with insurance companies. See part II, Item 8, Note 5, “Debt Obligations”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K for information regarding our financing arrangements related to our insurance premiums.

Interest Rate Swap

From time to time, we enter into interest rate swap agreements to moderate our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates underlying our variable rate debt. For more information, see Part I, Item 7A, “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk”, and Note 4, “Derivatives”, to the Notes of Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Impact of Inflation

Due to the average duration of our projects and our ability to negotiate prices as contracts end and new contracts begin, historically, our operations have not been materially impacted by inflation. While immaterial to our results of operations and financial condition, we have experienced higher cost of materials and delays in our supply chain for equipment. The prices of finished products from manufacturers are subject to fluctuation and increases. It is difficult to accurately measure the impact of inflation, tariffs, price escalation, raw material costs, and other factors that impact the cost of finished goods due to the imprecise nature of the estimates required.

​

We are often able to mitigate the impact of future price increases by entering into fixed price purchase orders for materials and equipment, and subcontracts on our projects, as well as, when appropriate, including cost escalation factors into our proposals. Despite our best mitigation efforts, significant price increases in equipment and disruptions to our supply chain could materially impact our results of operations and financial condition. In addition, inflationary pressures, including expectations of future inflation, may impact the customers of our utility clients, which may lead to delayed or deferred decisions regarding expenditures to improve energy efficiency, and therefore potentially impact our future revenues.

Components of Revenue and Expense

Contract Revenue

We generally provide our services under contracts, purchase orders or retainer letters. The agreements we enter into with our clients typically incorporate one of three principal types of pricing provisions: time-and-materials, unit-based, and fixed price. Revenue on our time-and-materials and unit-based contracts are recognized as the work is performed in accordance with specific terms of the contract. As of December 29, 2023, 19% of our contracts are time-and-materials contracts, 42% are unit-based contracts, and 39% are fixed price contracts, compared to 20% for time-and-materials contracts, 45% for unit-based contracts, and 35% for fixed price contracts, as of December 30, 2022.

Some of these contracts include maximum contract prices, but contract maximums are often adjusted to reflect the level of effort to achieve client objectives and thus the majority of these contracts are not expected to exceed the maximum. Contract revenue on our fixed price contracts is determined on the percentage of completion method based generally on the ratio of direct costs incurred to date to estimated total direct costs at completion. Many of our fixed price contracts involve a high degree of subcontracted fixed price effort and are relatively short in duration, thereby lowering the risks of not properly estimating the percent complete.

Adjustments to contract cost estimates are made in the periods in which the facts requiring such revisions become known. When the revised estimate indicates a loss, such loss is recognized in the current period in its entirety. Claims and change orders that have not been finalized are evaluated to determine whether or not a change has occurred in the enforceable rights and obligations of the original contract. If these non-finalized changes qualify as a contract modification, a determination is made whether to account for the change in contract value as a modification to the

46

Table of Contents

existing contract, or a separate contract and revenue under the claims or change orders is recognized accordingly. Costs related to un-priced change orders are expensed when incurred, and recognition of the related revenue is based on the assessment above of whether or not a contract modification has occurred. Estimated profit for un-priced change orders is recognized only if collection is probable.

Our contracts come up for renewal periodically and at the time of renewal may be subject to renegotiation, which could impact the profitability on that contract. In addition, during the term of a contract, public agencies may request additional or revised services which may impact the economics of the transaction. Most of our contracts permit our clients, with prior notice, to terminate the contracts at any time without cause. While we have a large volume of contracts, the renewal, termination or modification of a contract, in particular contracts with Consolidated Edison, the Dormitory Authority-State of New York, the New York City Housing Authority, and utility programs associated with Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, and Duke Energy Corp., may have a material effect on our consolidated operations.

Some of our contracts include certain performance guarantees, such as a guaranteed energy saving quantity. Such guarantees are generally measured upon completion of a project. In the event that the measured performance level is less than the guaranteed level, any resulting financial penalty, including any additional work that may be required to fulfill the guarantee, is estimated and charged to direct expenses in the current period. We have not experienced any significant costs under such guarantees.

Direct Costs of Contract Revenue

Direct costs of contract revenue consist primarily of that portion of salaries and wages that have been incurred in connection with revenue producing projects. Direct costs of contract revenue also include material costs, subcontractor services, equipment and other expenses that are incurred in connection with revenue producing projects. Direct costs of contract revenue exclude that portion of salaries and wages related to marketing efforts, vacations, holidays and other time not spent directly generating revenue under existing contracts. Such costs are included in general and administrative expenses. Additionally, payroll taxes, bonuses and employee benefit costs for all of our personnel are included in general and administrative expenses since no allocation of these costs is made to direct costs of contract revenue.

Other companies may classify as direct costs of contract revenue some of the costs that we classify as general and administrative costs. We expense direct costs of contract revenue when incurred.

General and Administrative Expenses

G&A expenses include the costs of the marketing and support staff, other marketing expenses, management and administrative personnel costs, payroll taxes, bonuses and employee benefits for all of our employees and the portion of salaries and wages not allocated to direct costs of contract revenue for those employees who provide our services. G&A expenses also include facility costs, depreciation and amortization, professional services, legal and accounting fees and administrative operating costs. Within G&A expenses, “Other” includes expenses such as professional services, legal and accounting, computer costs, travel and entertainment, marketing costs and acquisition costs. We expense general and administrative costs when incurred.

47

Table of Contents

Critical Accounting Policies

This discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations is based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. (“GAAP”). To prepare these financial statements in conformity with GAAP, we must make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amount of revenue and expenses in the reporting period. Our actual results may differ from these estimates. We have provided a summary of our significant accounting policies in Part II, Item 8, Note 1, “Organization and Operations of the Company”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We describe below those accounting policies that require material subjective or complex judgments and that have the most significant impact on our financial condition and results of operations. Our management evaluates these estimates on an ongoing basis, based upon information currently available and on various assumptions management believes are reasonable as of the date of this report.

Contract Assets and Liabilities

Billing practices are governed by the contract terms of each project based upon costs incurred, achievement of milestones or pre-agreed schedules. Billings in any given fiscal period do not necessarily correlate with revenue recognized for that period. Contract assets include unbilled amounts typically resulting from revenue under contracts where the percentage-of-completion method of revenue recognition is utilized and revenue recognized exceeds the amount billed to the customer and right to repayment is not unconditional. Contract assets also include retainage amounts withheld from billings to our clients pursuant to provisions in our contracts and other revenues earned but not billed in the current period. Contract liabilities consist of advance payments and billings in excess of revenue recognized and deferred revenue.

Contract Accounting

We enter into contracts with our clients that contain various types of pricing provisions, including fixed price, time-and-materials, and unit-based provisions. We recognize revenues in accordance with ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customer, codified as ASC Topic 606 and the related amendments (collectively, “ASC 606”). As such, we identify a contract with a customer, identify the performance obligations in the contract, determine the transaction price, allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation in the contract and recognize revenue when (or as) we satisfy a performance obligation.

The following table reflects our two reportable segments and the types of contracts that each most commonly enters into for revenue generating activities.

​

Revenue on the vast majority of our contracts will continue to be recognized over time because of the continuous transfer of control to the customer. Revenue on fixed price contracts is recognized on the percentage-of-completion method based generally on the ratio of direct costs incurred-to-date to estimated total direct costs at completion. We use the percentage-of-completion method to better match the level of work performed at a certain point in time in relation to our effort that will be required to complete a project. In addition, the percentage-of-completion method is a common method of revenue recognition in our industry.

48

Table of Contents

Many of our fixed price contracts involve a high degree of subcontracted fixed price effort and are relatively short in duration, thereby lowering the risks of not properly estimating the percent complete. Revenue on time-and-materials and unit-based contracts is recognized as the work is performed in accordance with the specific rates and terms of the contract. We recognize revenues for time-and-materials contracts based upon the actual hours incurred during a reporting period at contractually agreed upon rates per hour and also includes in revenue all reimbursable costs incurred during a reporting period. Certain of our time-and-materials contracts are subject to maximum contract values and, accordingly, when revenue is expected to exceed the maximum contract value, these contracts are generally recognized under the percentage-of-completion method, consistent with fixed price contracts. For unit-based contracts, we recognize the contract price of units of a basic production product as revenue when the production product is delivered during a period. Revenue for amounts that have been billed but not earned is deferred, and such deferred revenue is referred to as contract liabilities in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. We also derive revenue from software licenses and professional services and maintenance fees. In accordance with ASC 606, we perform an assessment of each contract to identify the performance obligations, determine the overall transaction price for the contract, allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations, and recognize the revenue when the performance obligations are satisfied. We utilize the residual approach by which we estimate the standalone selling price by reference to the total transaction price less the sum of the observable standalone selling prices of other goods or services promised in the contract. The software license revenue is typically recognized at a point in time when control is transferred to the client, which is defined as the point in time when the client can use and benefit from the license. The software license is delivered before related services are provided and is functional without services, updates, or technical support. Related professional services include training and support services in which the standalone selling price is determined based on an input measure of hours incurred to total estimated hours and is recognized over time, usually which is the life of the contract.

To determine the proper revenue recognition method for contracts, we evaluate whether two or more contracts should be combined and accounted for as one single contract and whether the combined contract should be accounted for as one performance obligation. With respect to our contracts, it is rare that multiple contracts should be combined into a single performance obligation. This evaluation requires significant judgment and the decision to combine a group of contracts or separate a single contract into multiple performance obligations could change the amount of revenue and profit recorded in a given period. Contracts are considered to have a single performance obligation if the promise to transfer the individual goods or services is not separately identifiable from other promises in the contracts, which is mainly because we provide a significant service of integrating a complex set of tasks and components into a single project or capability.

We may enter into contracts that include separate phases or elements. If each phase or element is negotiated separately based on the technical resources required and/or the supply and demand for the services being provided, we evaluate if the contracts should be segmented. If certain criteria are met, the contracts would be segmented which could result in revenues being assigned to the different elements or phases with different rates of profitability based on the relative value of each element or phase to the estimated total contract revenue. Segmented contracts may comprise up to approximately 2.0% to 3.0% of our consolidated contract revenue.

Contracts that cover multiple phases or elements of the project or service lifecycle (development, design, construction and maintenance and support) may be considered to have multiple performance obligations even when they are part of a single contract. For contracts with multiple performance obligations, we allocate the transaction price to each performance obligation using the best estimate of the standalone selling price of each distinct good or service in the contract. For the periods presented, the value of the separate performance obligations under contracts with multiple performance obligations (generally measurement and verification tasks under certain energy performance contracts) were not material. In cases where we do not provide the distinct good or service on a standalone basis, the primary method used to estimate standalone selling price is the expected cost plus a margin approach, under which we forecast our expected costs of satisfying a performance obligation and then adds an appropriate margin for the distinct good or service.

We provide quality of workmanship warranties to customers that are included in the sale and are not priced or sold separately or do not provide customers with a service in addition to assurance of compliance with agreed-upon specifications and industry standards. We do not consider these types of warranties to be separate performance obligations.

49

Table of Contents

In some cases, we have a master service or blanket agreement with a customer under which each task order releases us to perform specific portions of the overall scope in the service contract. Each task order is typically accounted for as a separate contract because the task order establishes the enforceable rights and obligations, and payment terms.

Under ASC 606, variable consideration should be considered when determining the transaction price and estimates should be made for the variable consideration component of the transaction price, as well as assessing whether an estimate of variable consideration is constrained. For certain of our contracts, variable consideration can arise from modifications to the scope of services resulting from unapproved change orders or customer claims. Variable consideration is included in the transaction price to the extent it is probable that a significant reversal of cumulative revenue recognized will not occur when the uncertainty associated with the variable consideration is resolved. Our estimates of variable consideration and determination of whether to include estimated amounts in the transaction price are based largely on assessments of legal enforceability, our performance, and all information (historical, current and forecasted) that is reasonably available to us.

Due to the nature of the work required to be performed on many of our performance obligations, the estimation of total revenue and cost at completion is complex, subject to many variables and requires significant judgment. As a significant change in one or more of these estimates could affect the profitability of our contracts, we review and update our contract-related estimates regularly through a company-wide disciplined project review process in which management reviews the progress and execution of our performance obligations and the estimate at completion (“EAC”). As part of this process, management reviews information including, but not limited to, any outstanding key contract matters, progress towards completion and the related program schedule and the related changes in estimates of revenues and costs. Management must make assumptions and estimates regarding labor productivity and availability, the complexity of the work to be performed, the cost and availability of materials, the performance of subcontractors, and the availability and timing of funding from the customer, among other variables.

We recognize adjustments in estimated profit on contracts under the cumulative catch-up method. Under this method, the impact of the adjustment on profit recorded to date is recognized in the period the adjustment is identified. Revenue and profit in future periods of contract performance is recognized using the adjusted estimate. If at any time the estimate of contract profitability indicates an anticipated loss on the contract, we recognize the total loss in the period it is identified.

Contracts are often modified to account for changes in contract specifications and requirements. We consider contract modifications to exist when the modification either creates new rights or obligations or changes the existing enforceable rights or obligations. Most of our contract modifications are for goods or services that are not distinct from existing contracts due to the significant integration provided in the context of the contract and are accounted for as if they were part of the original contract. The effect of a contract modification that is not distinct from the existing contract on the transaction price and our measure of progress for the performance obligation to which it relates is recognized as an adjustment to revenue (either as an increase in or a reduction of revenue) on a cumulative catch-up basis.

For contract modifications that result in the promise to deliver goods or services that are distinct from the existing contract and the increase in price of the contract is for the same amount as the standalone selling price of the additional goods or services included in the modification, we account for such contract modifications as a separate contract.

We include claims to vendors, subcontractors and others as a receivable and a reduction in recognized costs when enforceability of the claim is established by the contract and the amounts are reasonably estimable and probable of being recovered. The amounts are recorded up to the extent of the lesser of the amounts management expects to recover or to costs incurred.

Billing practices are governed by the contract terms of each project based upon costs incurred, achievement of milestones or pre-agreed schedules. Billings do not necessarily correlate with revenue recognized using the percentage-of-completion method of revenue recognition.

50

Table of Contents

Accounts receivable are carried at original invoice amount less an estimate made for doubtful accounts based upon our review of all outstanding amounts on a quarterly basis. Management determines allowances for doubtful accounts through specific identification of amounts considered to be uncollectible and potential write-offs, plus a non-specific allowance for other amounts for which some potential loss has been determined to be probable based on current and past experience. Historical credit losses have been minimal with governmental entities and large public utilities, but disputes may arise related to these receivable amounts. Accounts receivable are written off when deemed uncollectible. Recoveries of accounts receivable previously written off are recorded when received.

For further information on the types of contracts under which we perform our services, see Part II, Item 8, Note 1, “Organization and Operations of the Company”, of the Notes to consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Goodwill

We test our goodwill at least annually for possible impairment. We complete our annual testing of goodwill as of the last day of the first month of our fourth fiscal quarter each year to determine whether there is impairment. In addition to our annual test, we regularly evaluate whether events and circumstances have occurred that may indicate a potential impairment of goodwill. We did not recognize any goodwill impairment charges in fiscal years 2023, 2022, or 2021.

We test our goodwill for impairment at the level of our reporting units, which are components of our operating segments. In January 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (the “FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) Update No. 2017-04 (“ASU 2017-04”), Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Testing Goodwill for Impairment. This accounting guidance eliminates the requirement to compare the implied fair value of reporting unit goodwill with the carrying amount of that goodwill (commonly referred to as Step 2) from the goodwill impairment test. The new standard does not change how a goodwill impairment is identified. We will continue to perform our quantitative and qualitative goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit to its carrying amount, but if we are required to recognize a goodwill impairment charge, under the new standard the amount of the charge will be calculated by subtracting the reporting unit’s fair value from its carrying amount. Under the prior standard, if we were required to recognize a goodwill impairment charge, Step 2 required us to calculate the implied value of goodwill by assigning the fair value of a reporting unit to all of its assets and liabilities as if that reporting unit had been acquired in a business combination and the amount of the charge was calculated by subtracting the reporting unit’s implied fair value of goodwill from its actual goodwill balance.

To estimate the fair value of our reporting units, we use both an income approach based on management’s estimates of future cash flows and other market data and a market approach based upon multiples of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, earned by similar public companies. Once the fair value is determined, we then compare the fair value of the reporting unit to its carrying value, including goodwill. If the fair value of the reporting unit is determined to be less than the carrying value, we perform an additional assessment to determine the extent of the impairment based on the implied fair value of goodwill compared with the carrying amount of the goodwill. In the event that the current implied fair value of the goodwill is less than the carrying value, an impairment charge is recognized.

Inherent in such fair value determinations are significant judgments and estimates, including but not limited to assumptions about our future revenue, profitability and cash flows, our operational plans and our interpretation of current economic indicators and market valuations. To the extent these assumptions are incorrect or economic conditions that would impact the future operations of our reporting units change, any goodwill may be deemed to be impaired, and an impairment charge could have in a material impact on our financial position or results of operation. Almost all of our goodwill is contained in our Energy segment, with the remainder in our Engineering and Consulting segment. At our measurement date, the estimated fair value of our Energy segment exceeded its carrying value. Any reduction in the estimated fair value of our Energy segment could result in an impairment charge of goodwill associated with this segment in future periods.

51

Table of Contents

Business Combinations

The acquisition method of accounting for business combinations requires us to use significant estimates and assumptions, including fair value estimates, as of the business combination date. For reporting periods prior to the completion of our procedures to value assets and liabilities, the acquisition method requires us to refine those estimates as necessary during the measurement period (defined as the period, not to exceed one year, in which we may adjust the provisional amounts recognized for a business combination) based upon new information about facts that existed on the business combination date.

Under the acquisition method of accounting, we recognize separately from goodwill the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any non-controlling interests in an acquiree, at the acquisition date fair value. We measure goodwill as of the acquisition date as the excess of consideration transferred over the net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. Costs that we incur to complete the business combination such as investment banking, legal and other professional fees are not considered part of consideration. We charge these acquisition costs to other general and administrative expense as they are incurred.

Should the initial accounting for a business combination be incomplete by the end of a reporting period that falls within the measurement period, we report provisional amounts in our financial statements. During the measurement period, we adjust the provisional amounts recognized at the acquisition date to reflect new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date that, if known, would have affected the measurement of the amounts recognized as of that date and we record those adjustments to our financial statements. We recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined, including the effect on earnings of changes in depreciation, amortization or other income effects, if any, as a result of the change to the provisional amounts, calculated as if the accounting had been completed at the acquisition date.

During fiscal years 2023, 2022 and 2021, we did not have any material acquisitions.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences of temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and tax basis of our assets and liabilities, subject to a judgmental assessment of the recoverability of deferred tax assets. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded when it is more-likely-than-not that some of the deferred tax assets may not be realized. Significant judgment is applied when assessing the need for valuation allowances and includes the evaluation of historical income (loss) adjusted for the effects of non-recurring items and the impact of recent business combinations. Areas of estimation include our consideration of future taxable income which is driven by verifiable signed contracts and ongoing prudent and feasible tax planning strategies. Should a change in circumstances lead to a change in judgment about the utilization of deferred tax assets in future years, we would adjust the related valuation allowances in the period that the change in circumstances occurs, along with a corresponding increase or charge to income.

For acquired business entities, if we identify changes to acquired deferred tax asset valuation allowances or liabilities related to uncertain tax positions during the measurement period and they relate to new information obtained about facts and circumstances that existed as of the acquisition date, those changes are considered a measurement period adjustment and we record the offset to goodwill. We record all other changes to deferred tax asset valuation allowances and liabilities related to uncertain tax positions in current period income tax expense.

We recognize the tax benefit from uncertain tax positions if it is more-likely-than-not that the tax positions will be sustained on examination by the tax authorities, based on the technical merits of the position. The tax benefit is measured based on the largest benefit that has a greater than 50% likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. We recognize interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

52

Table of Contents

For further discussion of our income taxes, see Part II, Item 8, Note 11, “Income Taxes” of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Recent Accounting Standards

​

For a description of recently issued and adopted accounting pronouncements, including adoption dates and expected effects on our results of operations and financial condition, see Part II, Item 8, Note 2, “Recent Accounting Pronouncements”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.

​

53

Table of Contents

ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Our Company

We are a provider of professional, technical and consulting services to utilities, private industry, and public agencies at all levels of government. As resource and infrastructure needs undergo continuous change, we help organizations and their communities evolve and thrive by providing a wide range of technical services for energy solutions, greenhouse gas reduction, and government infrastructure. Through engineering, program management, policy advisory, and software and data management, we plan, design and deliver trusted, comprehensive, innovative, and proven solutions to improve efficiency, resiliency, and sustainability in energy and infrastructure to our clients.

Our broad portfolio of services operates within two financial reporting segments: (1) Energy and (2) Engineering and Consulting. The interfaces and synergies between these segments are important elements of our strategy to design and deliver trusted, comprehensive, innovative, and proven solutions and services for our customers.

Our Energy segment provides specialized, innovative, comprehensive energy solutions to businesses, utilities, state agencies, municipalities, and non-profit organizations in the U.S. Our experienced engineers, consultants, and staff help our clients realize cost and energy savings by tailoring efficient and cost-effective solutions to assist in optimizing energy spend. Our energy efficiency services include comprehensive audit and surveys, program design, master planning, demand reduction, grid optimization, benchmarking analyses, design engineering, construction management, performance contracting, installation, alternative financing, measurement and verification services, and advances in software and data analytics for long-term planning.

Our Engineering and Consulting segment provides civil engineering-related construction management, building and safety, city engineering office management, city planning, civil design, geotechnical, material testing and other engineering consulting services to our clients. Our engineering services include traffic, bridges, rail, port, water, mining and other civil engineering projects. We also provide economic and financial consulting to public agencies. Lastly, we supplement the engineering services that we offer our clients by offering expertise and support for the various financing techniques public agencies utilize to finance their operations and infrastructure. We also support the mandated reporting and other requirements associated with these financings. We provide financial advisory services for municipal securities but do not provide underwriting services.

​

35

Table of Contents

Results of Operations

Summary Comparison of 2022, 2021, and 2020

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain information derived from our consolidated statements of comprehensive income(1):