e10vq
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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
     
þ   Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended: September 30, 2009
     
o   Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the transition period from                      to                    
Commission File Number: 0-15905
BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
     
Delaware   73-1268729
(State or other jurisdiction of   (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)   Identification No.)
801 Travis Street, Suite 2100, Houston, Texas 77002
(Address of principal executive offices)
(713) 568-4725
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes o No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
             
Large accelerated filer o   Accelerated filer o   Non-accelerated filer o   Smaller reporting company þ
    (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
As of October 30, 2009, there were 11,826,967 shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $.01 per share, outstanding.
 
 

 


 

BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
INDEX TO QUARTERLY REPORT
ON FORM 10-Q
             
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION     3  
 
           
  FINANCIAL STATEMENTS     3  
 
  Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets     3  
 
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)     4  
 
  Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)     5  
 
  Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)     6  
  MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS     14  
  QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK     18  
  CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES     18  
 
           
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION     18  
 
           
  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS     18  
  RISK FACTORS     18  
  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS     18  
  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES     18  
  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS     18  
  OTHER INFORMATION     18  
  EXHIBITS     19  
 
           
SIGNATURES     20  
 EX-31.1
 EX-31.2
 EX-32.1
 EX-32.2

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PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
                 
    September 30,     December 31,  
    2009     2008  
    (unaudited)          
Assets
               
Current assets:
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 1,164,921     $ 3,864,876  
Accounts receivable
    462,161       442,715  
Loan receivable
    2,000,000        
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    279,512       436,242  
 
           
Total current assets
    3,906,594       4,743,833  
 
               
Property and equipment, at cost:
               
Oil and gas properties (full-cost method)
    1,086,733       1,286,700  
Pipelines
    4,659,686       4,659,686  
Onshore separation and handling facilities
    1,919,402       1,919,402  
Land
    860,275       860,275  
Other property and equipment
    302,813       290,313  
 
           
 
    8,828,909       9,016,376  
Less: Accumulated depletion, depreciation and amortization
    (4,890,561 )     (4,494,059 )
 
           
Net property and equipment
    3,938,348       4,522,317  
 
               
Other assets
    9,463       9,463  
 
           
 
               
Total Assets
  $ 7,854,405     $ 9,275,613  
 
           
 
               
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
               
Current liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 234,328     $ 389,268  
Accrued expenses and other liabilities
    421,123       9,593  
Other long-term liabilities — current portion
    25,996       25,996  
Note payable — insurance
    143,930        
 
           
Total current liabilities
    825,377       424,857  
 
               
Long-term liabilities:
               
Other long-term liabilities, net of current portion
          25,996  
Asset retirement obligations, net of current portion
    2,234,576       2,183,190  
 
           
Total long-term liabilities
    2,234,576       2,209,186  
 
               
 
           
Total Liabilities
    3,059,953       2,634,043  
 
               
Commitments and contingencies
               
 
               
Stockholders’ Equity:
               
Common stock ($.01 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized, 11,826,967 and 11,691,243 shares issued and outstanding at September 30, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively)
    118,270       116,912  
Additional paid-in capital
    32,718,585       32,495,417  
Accumulated deficit
    (28,042,403 )     (25,970,759 )
 
           
Total Stockholders’ Equity
    4,794,452       6,641,570  
 
           
 
               
Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
  $ 7,854,405     $ 9,275,613  
 
           
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
Revenue from operations:
                               
Pipeline operations
  $ 442,249     $ 561,171     $ 1,505,644     $ 1,804,390  
Oil and gas sales
    42,269       120,108       108,290       544,381  
 
                       
Total revenue from operations
    484,518       681,279       1,613,934       2,348,771  
 
                               
Cost of operations:
                               
Pipeline operating expenses
    309,695       415,581       1,267,416       1,233,633  
Lease operating expenses
    29,731       40,710       78,436       173,977  
Depletion, depreciation and amortizaton
    133,362       164,689       396,502       413,717  
Impairment of oil and gas properties
                203,110        
General and administrative
    434,721       501,564       1,790,633       1,696,921  
Accretion expense
    27,586       26,356       83,423       81,665  
 
                       
Total cost of operations
    935,095       1,148,900       3,819,520       3,599,913  
 
                       
 
                               
Loss from operations
    (450,577 )     (467,621 )     (2,205,586 )     (1,251,142 )
 
                               
Other income (expense):
                               
Interest and other income
    129,191       24,884       133,942       107,552  
 
                       
 
                               
Loss before income taxes
    (321,386 )     (442,737 )     (2,071,644 )     (1,143,590 )
 
                               
Income taxes
                       
 
                       
 
                               
Net loss
  $ (321,386 )   $ (442,737 )   $ (2,071,644 )   $ (1,143,590 )
 
                       
 
                               
Loss per common share
                               
Basic
  $ (0.03 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.18 )   $ (0.10 )
 
                       
Diluted
  $ (0.03 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.18 )   $ (0.10 )
 
                       
 
                               
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding
                               
Basic
    11,806,133       11,646,961       11,763,431       11,632,205  
 
                       
Diluted
    11,806,133       11,646,961       11,763,431       11,632,205  
 
                       
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited)
                 
    Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,  
    2009     2008  
Operating Activities
               
Net loss
  $ (2,071,644 )   $ (1,143,590 )
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in operating activities:
               
Depletion, depreciation and amortization
    396,502       413,717  
Accretion of asset retirement obligations
    83,423       81,665  
Common stock issued for services
    60,000       60,000  
Compensation from issuance of stock options
    164,526       219,590  
Impairment of oil and gas properties
    203,110        
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable
    (19,446 )     238,950  
Loan receivable
    (2,000,000 )      
Prepaid expenses and other assets
    372,625       60,120  
Abandonment costs incurred
    (32,037 )     (14,190 )
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, and other liabilities
    230,594       3,463  
 
           
Net cash used in operating activities
    (2,612,347 )     (80,275 )
 
               
Investing Activities
               
Purchases of property and equipment
    (12,500 )     (698,972 )
Exploration and development costs
    (3,143 )      
 
           
Net cash used in investing activities
    (15,643 )     (698,972 )
 
               
Financing Activities
               
Payments on borrowings
    (71,965 )      
 
           
Net cash used in financing activities
    (71,965 )      
 
           
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (2,699,955 )     (779,247 )
 
               
Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning of Period
    3,864,876       5,226,779  
 
           
Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period
  $ 1,164,921     $ 4,447,532  
 
           
 
               
Supplemental Information:
               
Non-cash financing activities
               
Financing of insurance premiums
  $ 215,895     $  
 
           
See accompanying notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
1. Organization and Operation of the Company
Organization
Blue Dolphin Energy Company was incorporated in Delaware in January 1986 to engage in oil and gas exploration, production and acquisition activities and oil and gas transportation and marketing. We were formed pursuant to a reorganization that was effective as of June 9, 1986.
The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements of Blue Dolphin Energy Company and its wholly-owned subsidiaries (referred to herein, with its predecessors and subsidiaries, as “Blue Dolphin,” “we,” “us” and “our”) included herein have been prepared by us, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and, in the opinion of management, reflect all adjustments necessary to present fair consolidated statements of operations, financial position and cash flows. We believe that the disclosures are adequate and the information presented is not misleading. This report has been prepared in accordance with Form 10-Q instructions and therefore, certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in audited financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the SEC’s rules and regulations.
Our accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations to be expected for the year ended December 31, 2009.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Accounting Estimates. We have made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of consolidated assets and liabilities and to the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with GAAP. This includes the estimated useful life of pipeline assets, valuation of stock-based payments and reserve information, which affects the depletion calculation as well as the full-cost ceiling limitation. While we believe current estimates are reasonable and appropriate, actual results could differ from those estimated.
Fair Value Measurements. On January 1, 2008, we adopted the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s (“FASB”) new standards on fair value measurements, which clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands the disclosures on fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued guidance that deferred the effective date for one year for nonfinancial assets and liabilities recorded at fair value on a non-recurring basis. The effect of adoption of the new standards for financial assets and liabilities recognized at fair value on a recurring basis did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial position and results of operations. We are assessing the impact for nonfinancial assets and liabilities.
On January 1, 2008, we adopted the FASB’s new guidance on the fair value option for financial assets and financial liabilities. This guidance permits companies to choose an irrevocable election to measure certain financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value. Unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected are reported in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. We did not elect the fair value option under the new guidance for any of our financial assets or liabilities upon adoption.
Full-Cost Method of Accounting. We follow the full-cost method of accounting for oil and gas properties, wherein costs incurred in the acquisition, exploration and development of oil and gas reserves are capitalized. Under this method of accounting, we recognized an impairment to our oil and gas properties of $203,110 for the nine months ended September 30, 2009. We did not record an impairment for the three months ended September 30, 2009.
Earnings per Share. Basic earnings per share (“EPS”), which excludes the dilutive effect of securities or contracts to issue common stock, is computed by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding for the period. Diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income (loss) available to common stockholders by the diluted weighted average number of shares of

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
common stock outstanding, which includes the potential dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were converted to common stock that then shared in the earnings of the entity.
Employee stock options and stock warrants outstanding at September 30, 2009 were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because their assumed exercise and conversion would have an antidilutive effect on the computation of diluted loss per share.
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Nine Months Ended  
    September 30,     September 30,  
Basic and Diluted   2009     2008     2009     2008  
Net loss
  $ (321,386 )   $ (442,737 )   $ (2,071,644 )   $ (1,143,590 )
 
                       
 
                               
Weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding and potential dilutive shares of common stock
    11,806,133       11,646,961       11,763,431       11,632,205  
 
                       
 
                               
Per share amount
  $ (0.03 )   $ (0.04 )   $ (0.18 )   $ (0.10 )
 
                       
Subsequent Events. In May 2009, the FASB established general standards of accounting for and disclosures of events that occur subsequent to the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or available to be issued. The guidance is effective for interim and annual periods ending after June 15, 2009. The adoption of the guidance did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements. We evaluated all subsequent events or transactions that occurred after September 30, 2009 up through November 2, 2009, the date our condensed consolidated interim financial statements as of and for the nine month period ended September 30, 2009 were issued, and during this period no material subsequent events occurred that would require recognition or disclosure in these condensed consolidated interim financial statements.
Recent Accounting Developments
Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities. In June 2008, the FASB issued guidance on determining whether instruments granted in share-based payment transactions are participating securities. This guidance provides that unvested share-based payment awards that contain nonforfeitable rights to dividends or dividend equivalents (whether paid or unpaid) are participating securities and shall be included in the computation of earnings per share under the two-class method. It is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008, and interim periods within those years and will require all earnings per share data presented for prior-periods to be restated retrospectively. We currently do not anticipate that this guidance will have a material impact on our earnings per share data for fiscal year 2009 or on earnings per share data for any prior periods presented.
Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets. In June 2009, the FASB issued new standards on accounting for transfers of financial assets which is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after November 15, 2009. The new standards amend previously issued standards by removing the concept of a qualifying special-purpose entity and eliminating the exception from applying FASB’s guidance on consolidation of variable interest entities, to variable interest entities that are qualifying special-purpose entities. It also changes the requirements for derecognition of financial assets and requires additional disclosures. Early adoption is prohibited. We are evaluating the impact, if any, this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.
Variable Interest Entities. In June 2009, the FASB issued a new standard for variable interest entities that is effective for interim and annual periods beginning after November 15, 2009. The new standard requires an analysis to determine whether a variable interest gives an entity a controlling financial interest in the variable interest entity.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
It also requires ongoing qualitative assessments of whether an entity is the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity and expands required disclosures. We are evaluating the impact, if any, this standard will have on our consolidated financial statements.
FASB Accounting Standards Codification. In June 2009, the FASB issued new standards on the codification of accounting standards and the hierarchy of generally accepted accounting principles which is effective for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. The new standards establish the codification as the single source of authoritative United States accounting and reporting standards. It combines existing authoritative standards into a comprehensive, topically organized database. The primary effect is in the notes to the consolidated financial statements where references to U.S. GAAP and to new FASB pronouncements will be based on the sections of the Codification rather than to individual FASB standards.
Oil and Gas Reporting. In September 2009, the FASB issued its proposed updates to oil and gas accounting rules to align the oil and gas reserve estimation and disclosure requirements of Extractive Industries-Oil and Gas (Topic 932) with the requirements in the SEC’s final rule, Modernization of the Oil and Gas Reporting Requirements, which was issued on December 31, 2008 and is effective for the year ended December 31, 2009. The public comment period for the FASB’s proposed updates ended October 15, 2009; however, no final guidance has been issued by the FASB.  We are evaluating the potential impact of any updates to the oil and gas accounting rules and will comply with any new accounting and disclosure requirements once they become effective. 
3. Business Segment Information
Our operations are conducted in two principal business segments: (i) pipeline transportation services and (ii) oil and gas exploration and production. Our segments are managed jointly mainly due to our size. Management uses earnings before interest expense and income taxes (“EBIT”) to assess the operating results and effectiveness of our business segments, which consist of our consolidated businesses and investments. We believe EBIT is useful to our investors because it allows them to evaluate our operating performance using the same performance measure analyzed internally by management. We define EBIT as net income (loss) adjusted for: (i) items that do not impact our income or loss from continuing operations, such as the impact of accounting changes, (ii) income taxes and (iii) interest expense (income). We exclude interest expense (income) and other expense or income not pertaining to the operations of our segments from this measure so that investors may evaluate our current operating results without regard to our financing methods or capital structure. We understand that EBIT may not be comparable to measurements used by other companies. Additionally, EBIT should be considered in conjunction with net income and other performance measures such as operating cash flows.
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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
Following is a reconciliation of our EBIT (by segment) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2009 and 2008, and at September 30, 2009 and 2008:
                                 
    Three Months Ended September 30, 2009  
    Segment              
            Oil and Gas              
    Pipeline     Exploration &     Corporate &        
    Transportation     Production     Other(1)     Total  
Revenues
  $ 442,249     $ 42,269     $     $ 484,518  
Operation cost(2)
    (651,504 )     (63,487 )     (86,742 )     (801,733 )
Depletion, depreciation and amortization
    (105,043 )     (26,381 )     (1,938 )     (133,362 )
 
                       
EBIT
  $ (314,298 )   $ (47,599 )   $ (88,680 )   $ (450,577 )
 
                       
 
                               
Capital expenditures
  $     $     $     $  
 
                       
 
                               
Identifiable assets(3)
  $ 4,694,321     $ 273,739     $ 2,886,345     $ 7,854,405  
 
                       
 
(1)   Includes unallocated G&A costs associated with corporate maintenance costs and legal expenses. It also includes as identifiable assets corporate available cash of $1.2 million.
 
(2)   Allocable G&A costs are allocated based on revenues.
 
(3)   Identifiable assets contain related legal obligations of each segment including cash, accounts receivable and payable and recorded net assets.
                                 
    Three Months Ended September 30, 2008  
    Segment              
            Oil and Gas              
    Pipeline     Exploration &     Corporate &        
    Transportation     Production     Other(1)     Total  
Revenues
  $ 561,171     $ 120,108     $     $ 681,279  
Operation cost(2)
    (802,338 )     (120,988 )     (60,885 )     (984,211 )
Depletion, depreciation and amortization
    (104,332 )     (58,415 )     (1,942 )     (164,689 )
 
                       
EBIT
  $ (345,499 )   $ (59,295 )   $ (62,827 )   $ (467,621 )
 
                       
 
                               
Capital expenditures
  $     $     $     $  
 
                       
 
                               
Identifiable assets(3)
  $ 5,048,402     $ 781,844     $ 4,320,524     $ 10,150,770  
 
                       
 
(1)   Includes unallocated G&A costs associated with corporate maintenance costs and legal expenses. It also includes as identifiable assets corporate available cash of $4.4 million.
 
(2)   Allocable G&A costs are allocated based on revenues.
 
(3)   Identifiable assets contain related legal obligations of each segment including cash, accounts receivable and payable and recorded net assets.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
                                 
    Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009  
    Segment              
            Oil and Gas              
    Pipeline     Exploration &     Corporate &        
    Transportation     Production     Other(1)     Total  
Revenues
  $ 1,505,644     $ 108,290     $     $ 1,613,934  
Operation cost(2)
    (2,750,353 )     (181,197 )     (288,358 )     (3,219,908 )
Depletion, depreciation, amortization and impairment
    (315,128 )     (278,670 )     (5,814 )     (599,612 )
 
                       
EBIT
  $ (1,559,837 )   $ (351,577 )   $ (294,172 )   $ (2,205,586 )
 
                       
 
                               
Capital expenditures
  $ 12,500     $     $     $ 12,500  
 
                       
 
                               
Identifiable assets(3)
  $ 4,694,321     $ 273,739     $ 2,886,345     $ 7,854,405  
 
                       
 
(1)   Includes unallocated G&A costs associated with corporate maintenance costs and legal expenses. It also includes as identifiable assets corporate available cash of $1.2 million.
 
(2)   Allocable G&A costs are allocated based on revenues.
 
(3)   Identifiable assets contain related legal obligations of each segment including cash, accounts receivable and payable and recorded net assets.
                                 
    Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008  
    Segment              
            Oil and Gas              
    Pipeline     Exploration &     Corporate &        
    Transportation     Production     Other(1)     Total  
Revenues
  $ 1,804,390     $ 544,381     $     $ 2,348,771  
Operation cost(2)
    (2,415,009 )     (512,027 )     (259,160 )     (3,186,196 )
Depletion, depreciation and amortization
    (312,995 )     (96,128 )     (4,594 )     (413,717 )
 
                       
EBIT
  $ (923,614 )   $ (63,774 )   $ (263,754 )   $ (1,251,142 )
 
                       
 
                               
Capital expenditures
  $     $     $     $  
 
                       
 
                               
Identifiable assets(3)
  $ 5,048,402     $ 781,844     $ 4,320,524     $ 10,150,770  
 
                       
 
(1)   Includes unallocated G&A costs associated with corporate maintenance costs and legal expenses. It also includes as identifiable assets corporate available cash of $4.4 million.
 
(2)   Allocable G&A costs are allocated based on revenues.
 
(3)   Identifiable assets contain related legal obligations of each segment including cash, accounts receivable and payable and recorded net assets.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
4. Asset Retirement Obligations
We recorded the following activity related to our asset retirement obligations liability for the nine months ended September 30, 2009:
         
Asset retirement obligations as of December 31, 2008
  $ 2,183,190  
Liabilities settled
    (32,037 )
Accretion expense
    83,423  
 
     
Asset retirement obligations as of September 30, 2009
  $ 2,234,576  
 
     
5. Stock-Based Compensation
Effective April 14, 2000, after approval by our stockholders, we adopted the 2000 Stock Incentive Plan (the “2000 Plan”). Under the 2000 Plan, we are able to make awards of stock-based compensation. The number of shares of common stock reserved for grants of incentive stock options (“ISOs”) and other stock-based awards was increased from 650,000 shares to 1,200,000 shares after approval by our stockholders at the 2007 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which was held on May 30, 2007. As of September 30, 2009, we had 341,040 shares of common stock remaining available for future grants. Options granted under the 2000 Plan have contractual terms from six to ten years. The exercise price of ISOs cannot be less than 100% of the fair market value of a share of common stock determined on the grant date. The 2000 Plan is administered by the Compensation Committee of our Board of Directors.
Pursuant to FASB guidance on accounting for stock based compensation, we estimate the fair value of stock options granted on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model. The following assumptions were used to determine the fair value of stock options granted during the year ended December 31, 2008. There were no stock options granted in the nine months ended September 30, 2009.
         
    December 31,
    2008
Stock options granted
    75,000  
Risk-free interest rate
    3.23 %
Expected term, in years
    6.00  
Expected volatility
    90.7 %
Dividend yield
    0.00 %
Expected volatility used in the model is based on the historical volatility of the common stock and is weighted 50% for the historical volatility over a past period equal to the expected term and 50% for the historical volatility over the past two years prior to the grant date. This weighting method was chosen to account for the significant changes in our financial condition beginning approximately three years ago. These changes include changes in our working capital, changes in pipeline throughput and the reduction and ultimate elimination of our outstanding debt.
The expected term of options granted used in the model represents the period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding. The method used to estimate the expected term is the “simplified” method as allowed under the provisions of the SEC’s Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107. This number is calculated by taking the average of the sum of the vesting period and the original contract term. The risk-free interest rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the date of the grant. As we have not declared dividends on common stock since we became a public company, no dividend yield was used. No forfeiture rate was assumed due to the lack of forfeiture history for this type of award. Actual value realized, if any, is dependent on the future performance of common stock and overall stock market conditions. There is no assurance that the value realized by an optionee will be at or near the value estimated by the Black-Scholes-Merton option-pricing model.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
At September 30, 2009, there were a total of 424,559 shares of common stock reserved for issuance upon exercise of outstanding options under the 2000 Plan. A summary of the status of stock options granted to key employees, officers and directors, for the purchase of shares of common stock for the periods indicated, is as follows:
                                 
                    Weighted    
            Weighted   Average   Aggregate
            Average   Remaining   Intrinsic
    Shares   Exercise Price   Contractual Life   Value
Options outstanding at December 31, 2008
    555,559     $ 2.43                  
Options granted
        $                  
Options exercised
        $                  
Options expired or cancelled
    (131,000 )   $ 2.13                  
 
                               
Options outstanding at September 30, 2009
    424,559     $ 2.53       5.7     $ 8,000  
 
                               
Options exercisable at September 30, 2009
    306,559     $ 2.38       5.5     $ 8,000  
 
                               
The following table summarizes additional information about stock options outstanding at September 30, 2009:
                                                 
            Options Outstanding   Options Exercisable
                    Weighted Average                   Weighted
                    Remaining   Weighted           Average
Range of Exercise       Number   Contractual Life   Average Exercise   Number   Exercise
Prices       Outstanding   (Years)   Price   Exercisable   Price
$0.35 to $0.80  
 
    70,830       3.6     $ 0.44       70,830     $ 0.44  
$1.55 to $1.90  
 
    23,429       2.4     $ 1.71       23,429     $ 1.71  
$2.81 to $2.99  
 
    318,500       6.5     $ 2.92       200,500     $ 2.93  
$ 6.00    
 
    11,800       0.6     $ 6.00       11,800     $ 6.00  
       
 
                                       
       
 
    424,559                       306,559          
       
 
                                       

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)
September 30, 2009
The following summarizes the net change in non-vested stock options for the periods shown:
                 
            Weighted
            Average
            Grant Date
    Shares   Fair Value
Non-vested at December 31, 2008
    284,000     $ 1.83  
Granted
        $  
Canceled or expired
    (100,000 )   $ 1.20  
Vested
    (66,000 )   $ 2.35  
 
               
Non-vested at September 30, 2009
    118,000     $ 2.08  
 
               
For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, we recognized $164,526 of compensation expense for vested stock options. As of September 30, 2009, there was $96,153 of unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested stock options granted under the 2000 Plan. The weighted average period over which the unrecognized compensation cost will be recognized is 7 months.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2009, we recognized $60,000 of expense for stock issued to the Board of Directors at fair value.
6. Contingencies
From time to time we are involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
7. Loan Receivable
On July 31, 2009, we issued a $2,000,000 loan to Lazarus Energy Holdings, LLC. The non-interest bearing loan is due on or before January 31, 2010. The loan is secured by a first lien on property owned by Lazarus Environmental, LLC and a second lien on property owned by Lazarus Louisiana Refinery II, LLC.
8. Option to Acquire Assets
We are currently in an option period to acquire a portion of the assets owned by Lazarus Energy Holdings, LLC under a purchase and sale agreement. The primary assets included are a light, sweet crude topping unit in Nixon, Texas, a barge and truck terminal in Mermentau, Louisiana and 560,000 barrels of storage associated with the two facilities. In the event we exercise our option to acquire the Lazarus assets, we will issue 47,141,196 shares of our common stock to Lazarus in a non-cash transaction. Issuance of the common stock under the purchase and sale agreement would constitute a change in control, and closing will therefore be subject to shareholder approval, as well as other customary closing conditions.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Cautionary Statements
Certain of the statements included in this quarterly report on Form 10-Q, including those regarding future financial performance or results or that are not historical facts, are “forward-looking” statements as that term is defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), and Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The words “expect,” “plan,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “project,” “estimate,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Blue Dolphin Energy Company (referred to herein, with its predecessors and subsidiaries, as “Blue Dolphin,” “we,” “us” and “our”) cautions readers that these statements are not guarantees of future performance or events and such statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from those indicated in forward-looking statements. Some of the important factors, risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to vary from forward-looking statements include:
  §   the level of utilization of our pipelines;
 
  §   availability and cost of capital;
 
  §   actions or inactions of third party operators for properties where we have an interest;
 
  §   the risks associated with exploration;
 
  §   the level of production from our oil and gas properties;
 
  §   oil and gas price volatility;
 
  §   uncertainties in the estimation of proved reserves and in the projection of future rates of production and timing of development expenditures;
 
  §   regulatory developments; and
 
  §   general economic conditions.
Additional factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements are discussed under the caption “Risk Factors” in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date thereof. We undertake no duty to update these forward-looking statements. Readers are urged to carefully review and consider the various disclosures made by us which attempt to advise interested parties of the additional factors which may affect our business, including the disclosures made under the caption “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in this quarterly report.
ITEM 2.   MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Executive Summary
We are engaged in two lines of business: (i) pipeline transportation services to producer/shippers, and (ii) oil and gas exploration and production. Our assets are located offshore and onshore in the Texas Gulf Coast area. Our goal is to create greater long-term value for our stockholders by increasing the utilization of our existing pipeline assets and pursuing strategic alternatives that will diversify our asset base, improve our competitive position and are accretive to earnings. Although we are primarily focused on acquisitions of pipeline assets and maximizing our current facilities, we also continue to review, evaluate opportunities and acquire additional oil and gas properties.
Pipeline Transportation. Although the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System added a new shipper in the nine months ended September 30, 2009 (the “current period”), pipeline revenues were down compared to the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (the “previous period”) due to decreased volumes transported on both the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System and GA350 Pipeline. Deliveries from Galveston Area Block 321 into the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System began in mid-March 2009. The Blue Dolphin Pipeline System is currently transporting an aggregate of approximately 12 MMcf of gas per day from eight shippers. The GA 350 Pipeline is currently transporting an aggregate of approximately 17 MMcf of gas per day from six shippers.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Oil and Gas Exploration and Production.
  §   Galveston Area Block 321 – In September 2008, we acquired a 0.5% overriding royalty interest in an exploratory well in Galveston Area Block 321. Drilling of the well commenced in late December 2008 and continued through early January 2009. The well commenced production in mid-March 2009. Production is currently being delivered through the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System.
 
  §   High Island Block 115 – The B-1 well resumed production in February 2009 after being shut-in due to damage to third party onshore facilities resulting from Hurricane Ike. The B-1 well is currently shut-in due to changes in the production handling agreement. We expect production to resume in early 2010. We maintain a 2.5% working interest in the well.
 
  §   High Island Block 37 – The A-2 well resumed production in February 2009 after being shut-in due to damage to third party onshore facilities resulting from Hurricane Ike. We maintain a 2.8% working interest in the well.
Our pipeline assets remain significantly under-utilized. The Blue Dolphin Pipeline System is currently operating at approximately 8% of capacity, the GA 350 Pipeline is currently operating at approximately 26% of capacity and the Omega Pipeline is inactive. Production declines, temporary stoppages or cessations of production from wells tied into our pipelines or from our working and overriding royalty interests in wells in Galveston Area and High Island blocks could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows and liquidity if the resulting revenue declines are not offset by revenues from other sources. Due to our small size, geographically concentrated asset base and limited capital resources, any negative event has the potential to have a material adverse impact on our financial condition. We are continuing our efforts to increase the utilization of our existing assets and acquire additional assets that will diversify our asset base, improve our competitive position and be accretive to earnings.
Results of Operations
For the three months ended September 30, 2009 (the “current quarter”), we reported a net loss of $321,386 compared to a net loss of $442,737 for the three months ended September 30, 2008 (the “previous quarter”). For the nine months ended September 30, 2009 (the “current period”), we reported a net loss of $2,071,644 compared to a net loss of $1,143,590 for the nine months ended September 30, 2008 (the “previous period”).
Three Months Ended September 30, 2009 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2008
Revenue from Pipeline Operations. Revenues from pipeline operations decreased by $118,922, or 21%, in the current quarter to $442,249 primarily as a result of decreases in gas volumes transported due to natural production declines. Revenues from the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System decreased to approximately $331,000 in the current quarter compared to approximately $468,000 in the previous quarter. Daily gas volumes transported on the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System averaged 13 MMcf of gas per day in the current quarter, down from 23 MMcf of gas per day in the previous quarter. Revenues on the GA 350 Pipeline increased to approximately $111,000 compared to approximately $93,000 in the previous quarter despite a decrease in average daily gas volumes transported of 18 MMcf of gas per day in the current quarter from 22 MMcf of gas per day in the previous quarter.
Revenue from Oil and Gas Sales. Revenues from oil and gas sales decreased by $77,839, or 65%, in the current quarter to $42,269 due to lower commodity prices and production from High Island Block 115 being shut-in. The sales mix by product was 66% gas and 34% condensate. Our average realized gas price per Mcf in the current quarter was $3.32 compared to $9.97 in the previous quarter. Our average realized condensate price per barrel was $86.75 in the current quarter compared to $140.34 in the previous quarter.
Pipeline Operating Expenses. Pipeline operating expenses in the current quarter decreased by $105,886 to $309,695 due to decreases in storage tank repairs and painting costs, salt water transportation expenses, legal fees and pump motor repairs. The decreases were partially offset by increases in crane repairs.
Lease Operating Expenses. Lease operating expenses decreased by $10,979 to $29,731 in the current quarter due to decreased production.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses decreased by $66,843 to $434,721 in the current quarter primarily due to a decrease in officer salaries, which was partially offset by an increase in legal fees.
Depletion, Depreciation and Amortization. Depletion, depreciation and amortization decreased by $31,327 to $133,362 in the current quarter due to a reduced value in oil and gas properties attributable to prior write-downs.
Other Income. Other income increased by $104,307 due to a one year consulting agreement with Lazarus Energy Holdings, LLC.
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2009 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008
Revenue from Pipeline Operations. Revenues from pipeline operations decreased by $298,746, or 17%, in the current period to $1,505,644 primarily as a result of decreases in gas volumes transported due to natural production declines. Revenues from the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System decreased to approximately $1,219,000 in the current period compared to approximately $1,494,000 in the previous period. Daily gas volumes transported on the Blue Dolphin Pipeline System averaged 17 MMcf of gas per day in the current period, down from 23 MMcf of gas per day in the previous period. Revenues on the GA 350 Pipeline decreased to approximately $287,000 compared to approximately $310,000 in the previous period due to a decrease in average daily gas volumes transported of 20 MMcf of gas per day in the current period from 24 MMcf of gas per day in the previous period.
Revenue from Oil and Gas Sales. Revenues from oil and gas sales decreased by $436,901, or 80%, in the current period to $108,290 due to lower commodity prices and High Island Block 115 being shut-in as a result of changes in the production handling agreement. The sales mix by product was 84% gas and 16% condensate. Our average realized gas price per Mcf in the current period was $3.11 compared to $11.83 in the previous period. Our average realized condensate price per barrel was $72.81 in the current period compared to $118.40 in the previous period.
Pipeline Operating Expenses. Pipeline operating expenses in the current period increased by $33,783 to $1,267,416 due to an increase in crane repairs and other repairs related to damage from Hurricane Ike. The increases were partially offset by decreases in insurance, storage tank repairs, legal fees and salt water transportation costs.
Lease Operating Expenses. Lease operating expenses decreased by $95,541 to $78,436 in the current period due to decreased production from our producing properties.
Impairment of Oil and Gas Properties. We recorded a full cost ceiling impairment of $203,110 for the current period. Under the full cost method of accounting, we are required on a quarterly basis to determine whether the book value of our oil and natural gas properties (excluding unevaluated properties) is less than or equal to the “ceiling,” based upon the expected after tax present value (discounted at 10%) of the future net cash flows from our proved reserves, calculated using prevailing oil and natural gas prices on the last day of the period, or a subsequent higher price under certain circumstances. Any excess of the net book value of our oil and natural gas properties over the ceiling must be recognized as a non-cash impairment expense. Our ceiling was calculated using prices of $47.19 per barrel of oil and $3.65 per MMbtu. Accordingly, at March 31, 2009, our costs exceeded our ceiling limitation, resulting in a write-down of our oil and natural gas properties.
General and Administrative Expenses. General and administrative expenses increased by $93,712 to $1,790,633 in the current period primarily due to increases in compensation expense, legal fees and office expenses related to the current office lease. These increases were partially offset by a decrease in property and liability insurance.
Other Income. Other income increased by $26,390 due to a one year consulting agreement with Lazarus Energy Holdings, LLC. This increase was partially offset by a decrease in interest income.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Sources and Uses of Cash. Our primary source of cash is cash flow from operations. During the nine months ended September 30, 2009, we had negative cash flow from operations of $2,586,351, excluding working capital changes, due to low utilization of our pipeline systems, loss of oil and gas revenues attributable to natural production declines, significantly lower commodity prices and payment of a severance package. Also, as mentioned in note 7, on July 31, 2009 we loaned $2 million to Lazarus Energy Holdings, LLC.
Currently, we do not enter into any hedges or any type of derivatives to offset changes in commodity prices. We also do not have any outstanding debt or a credit facility with a bank or institution that may restrict us from issuing debt or common stock. Available cash at September 30, 2009 was approximately $1.2 million.
The following table summarizes our change in cash flows at September 30, 2009 and 2008:
                 
    September 30,     September 30,  
    2009     2008  
Cash flow from operations
               
Loss from operations
  $ (2,071,644 )   $ (1,143,590 )
Change in current assets and liabilities
    (514,707 )     1,063,315  
 
           
Total cash flow from operations
    (2,586,351 )     (80,275 )
 
               
Net cash outflows
               
Capital expenditures
    (15,643 )     (698,972 )
Payments on borrowings
    (97,961 )      
 
           
Total cash outflows
    (113,604 )     (698,972 )
 
           
 
               
Total change in cash flows
  $ (2,699,955 )   $ (779,247 )
 
           
In the past two years, we have used a portion of our cash reserves to fund our working capital requirements that were not funded from operations.
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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 3.   QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK.
Not Applicable.
ITEM 4T.   CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
As of the end of the period covered by this report, we carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Principal Accounting and Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act). Based upon this evaluation, as of September 30, 2009, the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to our management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial and Accounting Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
Changes in Internal Controls over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in our internal controls over financial reporting during the period covered by this report that have materially affected, or that are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1.   LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
From time to time we are involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. In our opinion, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material effect on our financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
ITEM 1A.   RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes from the risk factors disclosed in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.
ITEM 2.   UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
None.
ITEM 3.   DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4.   SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
None.
ITEM 5.   OTHER INFORMATION
None.

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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
ITEM 6.   EXHIBITS
     (a) Exhibits:
 
    The following exhibits are filed herewith:
  3.1(1)   Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Blue Dolphin Energy Company.
 
  3.2(2)   Amended and Restated Bylaws of Blue Dolphin Energy Company.
 
  31.1   Ivar Siem Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
  31.2   T. Scott Howard Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
  32.1   Ivar Siem Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
  32.2   T. Scott Howard Certification Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
(1)   Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibits filed in connection with Form 8-K of Blue Dolphin Energy Company under Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, dated June 2, 2009 (Commission File No. 000-15905).
 
(2)   Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibits filed in connection with Form 8-K of Blue Dolphin Energy Company under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, dated December 26, 2007 (Commission File No. 000-15905).
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BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY & SUBSIDIARIES
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
         
  By: BLUE DOLPHIN ENERGY COMPANY
 
 
November 2, 2009  /s/ Ivar Siem    
  IVAR SIEM   
  Chairman and Chief Executive Officer   
 
     
  /s/ T. Scott Howard    
  T. SCOTT HOWARD   
  Principal Financial and Accounting Officer   
 

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