PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN BP AMERICA PRODUCTION COMPANY AND ZPZ DELAWARE I LLC
Exhibit
2.1
BY AND BETWEEN
BP AMERICA PRODUCTION COMPANY
AND
ZPZ DELAWARE I LLC
EXHIBITS
EXHIBIT “A” —
|
PROPERTIES AND ALLOCATION OF PURCHASE PRICE |
|
EXHIBIT “A-2” —
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PROPERTIES AND PLANTS |
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EXHIBIT “B” —
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EXCLUDED PROPERTIES |
|
EXHIBIT “C” —
|
LITIGATION, CLAIMS AND DISPUTES |
|
EXHIBIT “D” —
|
FORM OF ASSIGNMENT AND XXXX OF SALE |
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EXHIBIT “E” —
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FORM OF CERTIFICATE |
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EXHIBIT “F” —
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FORM OF LETTERS-IN-LIEU |
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EXHIBIT “G” —
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FORM OF NON-FOREIGN CERTIFICATE |
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EXHIBIT “H” —
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FORM OF TRANSITION AGREEMENT |
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EXHIBIT “I - 1” —
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FORM OF BUYER PARENT GUARANTY AGREEMENT |
|
EXHIBIT “I - 2” —
|
FORM OF SELLER PARENT GUARANTY AGREEMENT |
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EXHIBIT “J” —
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FORM OF PREFERENTIAL RIGHTS NOTICE LETTER |
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EXHIBIT “K” —
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EMPLOYEE/CONTRACTOR MATTERS |
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EXHIBIT “L” —
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FORM OF SEISMIC LICENSE |
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EXHIBIT “M” — |
FORM OF MINERAL DEED AND CONVEYANCE |
SCHEDULES
Schedule 4.1
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Review of Title Records to Certain Properties |
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Schedule 10.1.8
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Material Contracts |
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Schedule 10.1.11
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Suspense Funds |
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Schedule 10.1.13
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Xxxxx |
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Schedule 10.1.14
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PPRs |
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Schedule 10.1.15
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Restrictions on Assignment |
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Schedule 10.1.16
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Current Commitments |
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Schedule 10.1.17
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Technology Information |
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Schedule 10.1.21
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Tax Partnerships |
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Schedule 12.4
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Plugging and Abandonment |
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Schedule 14.1(A) to Exhibit “K”
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Employees |
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Schedule 14.1(B) to Exhibit “K”
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Independent Contractors |
THIS PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT (this “Agreement”) dated July 20, 2010, is by and between BP
AMERICA PRODUCTION COMPANY, a Delaware corporation, with an office at 000 XxxxXxxx Xxxx Xxxxxxxxx,
Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000 (“Seller”) and ZPZ DELAWARE I LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, with
an office at 0000 Xxxx Xxx Xxxx., Xxxxx 000, Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000 (“Buyer”) (individually, a
“Party” and collectively, the “Parties”).
WHEREAS, Seller desires to sell and deliver to Buyer, and Buyer desires to purchase and accept
from Seller, Seller’s interests in certain oil and gas properties and related assets; and
WHEREAS, the Parties have reached agreement regarding the sale and purchase;
NOW, THEREFORE, for and in consideration of the mutual covenants herein and other good and
valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the Parties
agree to all the terms and conditions in this Agreement:
ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS
DEFINITIONS
1.1 Definitions. In this Agreement, capitalized terms have the meanings provided in this Article, unless defined
elsewhere in this Agreement.
“AAA” means the American Arbitration Association.
“AAA Rules” has the meaning given in Article 18.2.3.
“Accounting Referee” means the accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche, LLP (at its
Houston office), or if such firm shall decline or is unable to act, such other nationally
recognized accounting firm on which the Parties agree in writing.
“Adjusted Purchase Price” has the meaning given it in Article 2.2.
“Adverse Condition Diligence Review Deadline” has the meaning given in Article 5.2.
“Adverse Condition Dispute” has the meaning given in Article 5.4.
“Affiliate” means any entity that, directly or indirectly, through one or more
intermediaries, controls or is controlled by or is under common control with the entity specified.
For the purpose of this definition, the term “control” means ownership of fifty percent (50%) or
more of voting rights (stock or otherwise) or ownership interest or the power to direct or cause
the direction of the management and policies of the entity in question.
“Aggregate Transaction Claims” means the aggregate of all amounts for which Seller
would be responsible to pay Buyer under this Agreement for (i) Alleged Adverse Conditions under
Article 5.2 and (ii) indemnification under Article 8.
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“Agreement” has the meaning given it in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement
and includes all Exhibits hereto, as the same may be amended from time to time by the Parties.
“Alleged Adverse Condition” means any condition or circumstance not in compliance
with, or that has given rise to any liability or obligation to report, investigate, monitor,
remove, cleanup, remediate, restore or correct under applicable Environmental Laws existing as of
the Closing Date that: (a) is asserted by Buyer in accordance with Article 5.2, and (b) requires an
expenditure to remedy exceeding One Million Dollars (US $1,000,000) net to Seller’s interests in
the Property affected by such individual condition; provided, however, that for purposes of
determining whether any Alleged Adverse Condition meets such threshold amount, if the same Alleged
Adverse Condition affects more than one Property, the costs and expenditures attributable to such
Alleged Adverse Condition shall be aggregated for all of the affected Properties; provided,
further, that if the costs and expenditures attributable to an Alleged Adverse Condition are in
excess of the $1,000,000 threshold, then all of the costs and expenditures attributable to such
Alleged Adverse Condition will be included in the calculation of the aggregate value of all
Aggregate Transaction Claims in determining whether the Deductible has been met.
“Arbitrable Dispute” means, except as set forth below, any and all disputes, Claims,
counterclaims, demands, causes of action, controversies and other matters in question arising out
of or relating to this Agreement or the alleged breach hereof, or in any way relating to matters
that are the subject of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby or the relationship
between the Parties created by this Agreement, regardless of whether (a) allegedly
extra-contractual in nature, (b) sounding in contract, tort or otherwise, (c) provided for by Law
or otherwise, or (d) seeking damages or any other relief, whether at Law, in equity or otherwise;
provided, however, that the term “Arbitrable Dispute” does not include disputes that by the terms
of this Agreement (i) will be determined by the Accounting Referee or the Environmental Referee, or
(ii) relate to breach of confidentiality obligations, or (iii) concern either Party’s right to
terminate this Agreement.
“Assignment and Xxxx of Sale” means a document in the form of Exhibit “D”.
“Assumed Obligations” has the meaning given it in Article 12.2.
“BOE” means barrel of oil equivalent which is one barrel of crude oil, one barrel of
natural gas liquids or 5.8 mcf of natural gas.
“Business Day” means between 8:00 a.m. Central Time and 4:00 p.m., Central Time, on a
week day when federally chartered banks in the State of Texas generally are open for business.
“Buyer” has the meaning set forth in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
“Buyer Group” means each and all of: (a) Buyer and its officers, directors, agents,
consultants and employees, and (b) Buyer’s Affiliates and their officers, directors, agents,
consultants and employees.
“Buyer Severance Plan” has the meaning set forth in Article 14.11 to Exhibit “K”.
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“Buyer’s Acquisition Team” means Xxxxx X. Xxxxxx, Vice President — Business
Development; Xxxxx X. Xxxxxxx, Director A&D Transactions; and Xxx Xxxxxx — Business Development.
“Casualty Loss” means physical damage to the Properties that (a) occurs between
execution of this Agreement and Closing, (b) is not the result of normal wear and tear, mechanical
failure or gradual structural deterioration of materials, equipment, and infrastructure, downhole
failure (including (i) failures arising or occurring during drilling or completing operations, (ii)
junked or lost holes, or (iii) sidetracking or deviating a well) or reservoir changes, and (c) has
an adverse effect on the value of the affected Properties in an amount that exceeds One Million
Dollars (US $1,000,000).
“Certificate” means a document in the form of Exhibit “E”.
“Charges” means (a) (i) invoices or bills received under Contracts in the ordinary
course of business, (ii) other ordinary course of business charges for operating and maintaining
material, equipment, other personal property and fixtures, leases, easements, rights-of-way,
servitudes, subsurface leases, licenses and permits, and (iii) charges for utilities and insurance
and (b) charges for the acquisition of materials, equipment, other personal property and fixtures,
leases, easements, rights-of-way servitudes, subsurface leases, licenses and permits (in each case)
to the extent that such items were acquired during the time period specified; provided that in no
event shall Charges include (1) royalties (including overriding royalties), (2) costs and expenses
arising out of any Contractual Audit, (3) costs and expenses relating to Imbalances or Suspense
Funds, or (4) any costs and expenses incurred outside of the ordinary course of business in
connection with the performance of services (such as costs and expenses attributable to personal
injuries, environmental liabilities and/or property damages). For the avoidance of doubt, the
foregoing proviso is not intended to exclude charges for (i) services performed during the time
period specified for the repair of the facilities and equipment and (ii) associated clean-up and
spill response.
“Claim Notice” means a notice of Third Party Claim or Loss provided in accordance with
Article 8.8.
“Claims” means any and all claims, demands, suits, causes of action, losses, damages,
liabilities, fines, penalties and costs (including attorneys’ fees and costs of litigation),
whether known or unknown, and whether an Environmental Claim or a Non-Environmental Claim.
“Close” or Closing” means consummation of the transactions contemplated by
this Agreement, including execution and delivery of all documents and other consideration as
provided in this Agreement.
“Closing Date” means subject to Article 17.1, (a) the date that is five (5) Business
Days after all conditions precedent in Articles 15.1, 15.2 and 15.3 have been satisfied or waived
by the Party for whose benefit the conditions exist or (b) any other date agreed by the Parties.
“Closing Payment” means an amount, expressed as a positive or negative number, equal
to the difference between (i) the estimate of the Adjusted Purchase Price stated in the Closing
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Statement less (ii) the Performance Deposit as of the Closing Date. If the amount is a negative
number, the Closing Payment shall be the absolute value of such amount.
“Closing Statement” refers to the document described in Article 16.1.
“Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and any successor statute, as
amended from time to time.
“Computed Interest” means simple interest at a rate per annum equal to five percent
(5%), but in no event greater than the maximum rate of interest allowed by Law. If the Performance
Deposit becomes due in accordance with Article 17.2 but is not paid on the date when due,
commencing on the next calendar day, “Computed Interest” means interest, compounded
monthly, at a rate per annum equal to twelve percent (12%), but in no event greater than the
maximum rate of interest allowed by Law. If the Performance Deposit is not paid in accordance with
Article 2.4 when due, commencing on the next calendar day, “Computed Interest” means
interest, compounded monthly, at a rate per annum equal to twelve percent (12%), but in no event
greater than the maximum rate of interest allowed by Law.
“Confidentiality Agreement” means the Confidentiality Agreement dated July 2, 2010,
between BP International Limited and Apache Corporation, as the same may be amended from time to
time.
“Contracts” has the meaning set forth in clause (c) of the definition of the term
“Properties”.
“Contractual Audit” means joint interest audits and similar audits that are expressly
permitted under the existing terms of the Contracts.
“Data Room” means the virtual Data Room established by Seller pertaining to the
Properties.
“Day” means a calendar day consisting of twenty-four (24) hours from midnight to
midnight.
“Deductible” means an amount equal to three percent (3%) of the unadjusted Purchase
Price.
“Effective Time” as to each Property, means July 1, 2010, at 7:00 a.m., local time
where the Property is located.
“Employees” has the meaning set forth in Article 14.1 to Exhibit “K”.
“Environmental Claims” means any and all Third Party Claims of any kind or character
(including demands, suits, causes of action, rights of action or regulatory actions), losses, risk
of losses, impairment of rights, damages, liabilities, subordinations, fines, or penalties and all
expenses and costs (including attorneys’ fees, costs of litigation and court costs) associated
therewith, whether known or unknown, direct or indirect, that (a) are asserted pursuant to
Environmental Laws or (b) relate to, arise out of, or are connected with Alleged Adverse
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Conditions (including, without limitation, Third Party Claims for personal injury, death or property damage
under common law or any other non-Environmental Laws).
“Environmental Referee” has the meaning given in Article 5.4.
“Environmental Laws” means any and all Laws, applicable contracts or common laws that
relate to (a) prevention of pollution or environmental damage, (b) removal or remediation of
pollution or environmental damage, or (c) protection of the environment, public health or safety.
“Exchange Act” has the meaning given in Article 12.16.
“Excluded Properties” means the items, properties and matters that are set forth in
Exhibit “B” or that are otherwise excepted, reserved or retained by Seller under the terms of this
Agreement.
“Final Accounting Settlement” means the post-Closing accounting activities conducted
in accordance with Article 6 which shall be conducted in accordance with this Agreement and
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, as applied by Seller with respect to the Properties on
the date the Final Accounting Statement is prepared.
“Final Accounting Statement” means a statement prepared by Seller and delivered to
Buyer in accordance with Article 6.5 setting forth the adjustments applicable to the period between
the Effective Time and the end of the Transition Period.
“Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” means generally accepted accounting
principles, consistently applied, with such exceptions to such generally accepted accounting
principles as may be expressly noted or otherwise expressly referred to on any individual financial
statement or schedule.
“Governmental Authority” means, whether or not capitalized, any federal, state, local,
municipal or other government, any governmental, regulatory or administrative agency, commission,
body or other authority exercising or entitled to exercise any administrative, executive, judicial,
legislative, police, regulatory or taxing authority or power, or any court or governmental
tribunal, including without limitation, any tribal authority.
“Guaranty Agreement” means a document in the form of Exhibit “I - 1”, with respect to
Buyer, and Exhibit “I - 2”, with respect to Seller.
“HSR Act” means the Xxxx-Xxxxx-Xxxxxx Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended.
“Hydrocarbons/CO2” means crude oil, natural gas, casinghead gas, condensate, sulfur,
natural gas liquids, and other liquid or gaseous hydrocarbons and any other minerals of every kind
or character and carbon dioxide.
“Imbalance” means over-production or under-production or over-deliveries or
under-deliveries subject to a make-up obligation with respect to hydrocarbons produced from or
allocated to the Properties, regardless of whether such over-production or under-production, or
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over-deliveries or under-deliveries, make-up obligations arise at the wellhead, pipeline, gathering
system, transportation receipt point or other location and regardless of whether the same arises
under contract or by operation of Law.
“Indemnified Party” has the meaning set forth in Article 8.8.
“Indemnifying Party” has the meaning set forth in Article 8.8.
“Interim Period” means the period between the date of this Agreement and the Closing
Date.
“Knowledge” (or “known” or other derivatives thereof and whether or not capitalized)
means, as to each Party, the present and actual knowledge, without investigation, in the case of
(a) Seller, Seller’s Disposition Team and (b) Buyer, Buyer’s Acquisition Team.
“Laws” means any and all applicable laws, statutes, codes, constitutions, ordinances,
permits, licenses, authorizations, agreements, decrees, orders, judgments, rules or regulations
(including, for the avoidance of doubt, Environmental Laws) that are promulgated, issued or enacted
by a tribal or governmental entity or authority having appropriate jurisdiction of the Property or
the Parties.
“Leave” has the meaning set forth in Article 14.1 of Exhibit “K”.
“Letters-in-Lieu” means a document in the form of Exhibit “F” in connection with oil
production from the Properties which shall be prepared by Seller, signed by the Parties and
delivered to purchasers of production from the Properties at such time as is mutually agreed by the
Parties.
“Loss” means any and all Claims, losses, risk of losses, impairment of rights,
damages, liabilities, subordinations, fines, or penalties and all expenses and costs (including
interest, attorneys’ fees, costs of litigation and court costs) associated therewith, whether known
or unknown, direct or indirect, excluding a Third Party Claim.
“Material Adverse Effect” means an event or circumstance that, individually or in the
aggregate, results in a material adverse effect on the ownership, operations, or value of the
Properties, taken as a whole, or a material adverse effect on the ability of Seller to consummate
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including the existence of a stay or injunction
materially limiting Buyer’s ability to exercise or enforce any of its right or perform any of its
obligations hereunder or under any of the agreements contemplated hereunder; provided, however,
that none of the following shall be deemed to constitute a Material Adverse Effect: (i) any effect
resulting from changes in general market, economic, financial, credit or political
conditions in the area in which the Properties are located, the United States or worldwide, or
any outbreak of hostilities or war; (ii) any changes in the prices of hydrocarbons; (iii) natural
declines in well performance; (iv) changes in the oil and gas industry generally; (v) actions taken
by Buyer or its Affiliates, (vi) actions permitted by this Agreement; (vii) the announcement or
pendency of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or the consummation of the transactions
contemplated hereby, (viii) any change to the extent an adjustment is fully provided under Article
2.2; and (ix) any acts of terrorism.
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“Material Contract” has the meaning given it in Article 10.1.8.
“NAG SPU” has the meaning given in Article 12.16.
“Net Revenue Interest” or “NRI” with respect to any Property that is a unit or
well, means the interest in and to all oil, gas and associated liquids and gaseous hydrocarbons
produced, saved, and sold from such unit or well, after giving effect to all royalties, overriding
royalties, production payments, carried interests, net profits interests, reversionary interests,
and other burdens upon, measured by, or payable out of production therefrom.
“Non-Environmental Claims” means all Third Party Claims and Losses, except for
Environmental Claims.
“Non-Foreign Certificate” means a document in the form of Exhibit “G”.
“Non-Op Insurance Proceeds” means amounts received by or on behalf of Seller under
insurance policies in respect of damage to Properties operated by Third Parties occurring prior to
the Effective Time.
“NORM” means naturally occurring radioactive materials.
“Operating Revenues” means sales proceeds for oil, gas and other hydrocarbons produced
from the Properties, net of royalties and marketing costs (which include for purposes of this
definition, costs of gathering, treating, processing, compression, and transportation), to the
extent such items are not treated as “Charges” under Article 6, and all other operating revenues
attributable to the Properties, excluding excise, severance and other production taxes and further
excluding producing, drilling and construction overhead receipts Seller receives under operating
agreements with Third Parties.
“Other Agreements” has the meaning set forth in clause (d) of the definition of
“Properties”.
“Parties” has the meaning given it in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
“Party” has the meaning given it in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
“Performance Deposit” has the meaning given it in Article 2.4.
“Permitted Encumbrances” means any and all:
(a) royalties, overriding royalties, sliding scale royalties, production payments,
reversionary interests, convertible interests, net profits interests and similar burdens
encumbering any Property to the extent the net cumulative effect of such burdens does not
operate to reduce the Net Revenue Interest of such Property, at any time during the
productive life of such Property to less than the Net Revenue Interest (NRI) for such
Property set forth in Exhibit “A” or increase the Working Interest of such Property, at any
time during the productive life of such Property, to more than the Working Interest (WI)
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for such Property set forth in Exhibit “A” without a corresponding and proportionate increase in
the associated Net Revenue Interests for such Property;
(b) consents to assignment and similar contractual provisions affecting the Properties
that are set forth on Schedule 10.1.15;
(c) preferential rights to purchase and similar contractual provisions affecting the
Properties that are set forth on Schedule 10.1.14;
(d) rights to consent by, required notices to, and filings with a tribal or
governmental entity or authority associated with the conveyance of the Properties;
(e) rights reserved to or vested in a tribal or governmental entity or authority having
jurisdiction to control or regulate the Properties in any manner whatsoever, and all Laws of
such tribal or governmental entities or authorities;
(f) easements, rights-of-way, servitudes, surface leases, sub-surface leases, grazing
rights, logging rights, ponds, lakes, waterways, canals, ditches, reservoirs, equipment,
pipelines, utility lines, railways, streets, roads and structures on, over and through the
Properties; provided that such encumbrances do not in the aggregate interfere materially
with the use or operation of the affected Property for the purpose for which such Property
is currently used;
(g) the terms and conditions of unitizations, communitizations, poolings, agreements,
instruments, licenses and permits affecting the Properties to the extent the net cumulative
effect of such burdens does not operate to reduce the Net Revenue Interest (NRI) of such
Property, at any time during the productive life of such Property to less than the Net
Revenue Interest (NRI) for such Property set forth in Exhibit “A” or increase the Working
Interest of such Property, at any time during the productive life of such Property, to more
than the Working Interest (WI) for such Property set forth in Exhibit “A” without a
corresponding and proportionate increase in the associated Net Revenue Interests (NRI) for
such Property;
(h) liens for taxes or assessments not yet delinquent or, if delinquent, which are
being contested by Seller in good faith; provided, however, that this provision will not
diminish or affect in any way the Parties’ rights and obligations under the indemnities
provided in this Agreement;
(i) liens of operators relating to obligations not yet delinquent or, if delinquent,
which are being contested by Seller in good faith; provided, however, that this provision
will not diminish or affect in any way the Parties’ rights and obligations under the
indemnities provided in this Agreement;
(j) matters that would otherwise be Alleged Adverse Conditions but that do not meet the
individual threshold and aggregate deductible amounts set forth in the definition of Alleged
Adverse Conditions or that Buyer waives in accordance with Article 5.3 or for which a
Purchase Price adjustment was made or another remedy provided pursuant to Article 5.2;
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(k) matters referenced in Exhibit “C”;
(l) production, gathering, processing and transportation related Imbalances;
(m) Suspense Funds;
(n) matters that Buyer waives in writing;
(o) terms and conditions of tribal or governmental licenses and permits affecting the
Properties that are set forth on Schedule 10.1.15;
(p) matters specifically listed on Exhibit “A” or otherwise disclosed on a Schedule to
this Agreement;
(q) the terms of any contract, agreement or other instrument required under Article 16
below to be delivered by any Party at Closing;
(r) alleged title defects affecting any Property on federal lands consisting of a
failure to file any instrument in Seller’s chain of title records in the applicable county
so long as the instrument in question is filed with the BLM; and
(s) such defects or irregularities in the title to the Properties that do not
materially interfere with the ownership, operation, or use of the Properties affected
thereby as such Properties were owned, operated or used as of the Effective Time.
“Person” means a natural person, corporation, partnership, limited liability company,
joint stock company, trust, estate, joint venture, union, association or unincorporated
organization, Governmental Authority or any other form of business or professional entity.
“Plants” means, collectively, Seller’s right, title and interest in and to the Block
31 plant, the Crane Plant, the Xxxxxxx plant and the East Vacuum Liquid Recovery plant, in each
case, as such plants are more particularly described in Exhibit “A-2”.
“Plugging and Abandonment” means all decommissioning activities and obligations as are
required by Laws, contracts associated with the Properties, this Agreement or any Governmental
Authority and further including all well plugging, replugging and abandonment; facility
dismantlement and removal; pipeline and flowline removal; dismantlement and removal
of any and all platforms and other property of any kind related to or associated with
operations or activities conducted on the Properties; and site clearance, site restoration and site
remediation.
“PPR” means a preferential right to purchase any Property arising out of an agreement
covering such Property.
“Process Safety Management” means Process Safety Management of Highly Hazardous
Chemicals; Explosives and Blasting Agents (29 CFR 1910), as amended, that is associated with the
Properties.
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“Properties” means all of Seller’s right, title and interests (real, personal, mixed,
contractual or otherwise) in, to and under or derived from the following, excluding the Excluded
Properties:
(a) all Hydrocarbons/CO2 leasehold interests, royalty interests, overriding royalty
interests, mineral interests, fee interests, surface interests, production payments, sliding
scale royalty interests, reversionary interests and net profits interests that are
attributable to the interests described in Exhibit “A”, together with all rights that arise
by operation of Law or otherwise in all properties and lands unitized, communitized or
pooled with the properties described in Exhibit “A” and the production of Hydrocarbons/CO2
attributable thereto;
(b) all unitization, communitization and pooling declarations, orders and agreements
(including all units formed by voluntary agreement and those formed under the rules,
regulations, orders or other official acts of any tribal or governmental entity or authority
having jurisdiction) to the extent they relate to any of the interests described in Exhibit
“A”, or the production of Hydrocarbons/CO2 attributable thereto;
(c) to the extent assignable, all Hydrocarbons/CO2 sales and/or purchase contracts,
processing contracts, gathering contracts, transportation contracts, farm-in and farm-out
contracts, areas of mutual interest, operating agreements, balancing contracts, permits,
licenses and other contracts, agreements and instruments (collectively, the
“Contracts”) to the extent they relate to any of the interests described in Exhibit
“A” and/or the Plants, or the production of Hydrocarbons/CO2 attributable thereto;
(d) all easements, rights-of-way, surface leases, sub-surface leases, licenses and
permits (to the extent such licenses and permits are assignable without any out-of-pocket
cost to Seller) and other agreements, rights or interests relating to the use or ownership
of surface or subsurface property and structures (collectively, the “Other
Agreements”) that are used in connection with ownership or operation of the Properties
and/or the Plants, or the production, handling or transportation of Hydrocarbons/CO2
attributable to such Properties;
(e) all personal property, improvements, fixtures, xxxxx (including producing, shut-in,
injection, line, co-op, disposal, water supply or plugged and abandoned), tanks,
compressors, meters, boilers, buildings, machinery, equipment, inventory, pipelines,
gathering and processing systems, plants, platforms, utility lines, tools, helium rights,
saltwater and water rights, roads, permits, licenses and other appurtenances, to the extent
the same are situated upon, and used or held for use in connection with the ownership,
operation, maintenance or repair of the Properties and/or the Plants, or the production,
handling or transportation of Hydrocarbons/CO2 attributable to the Properties or the Plants;
(f) the Plants and associated gathering systems;
(g) all partnerships (tax, state law or otherwise) affecting any Properties;
(h) all Imbalances;
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(i) all Suspense Funds;
(j) to the extent assignable, all rights to indemnities (except with respect to
Seller’s retained liabilities) and releases from Third Parties relating to the Properties;
but only to the extent that such indemnities relate to liabilities for which Buyer is
responsible under this Agreement;
(k) to the extent assignable, all insurance proceeds under existing policies of
insurance, if any, relating to the Properties; but only to the extent that such benefits
relate to liabilities for which Buyer is responsible under this Agreement;
(l) all intangibles, including operating revenues and accounts receivable relating to
the period after the Effective Time, in each case associated with the Properties or the
production of Hydrocarbons/CO2 attributable to the Properties;
(m) all vehicles used or held for use in connection with the Properties or the
production of Hydrocarbons/CO2 attributable to the Properties;
(n) all credit or other rights to prepaid costs, expenses, accounts payable and other
disbursements for which the purchase price is increased under Article 2.2;
(o) the Records; and
(p) all other assets and properties of Seller used or held for use in connection with
the Properties and the production of Hydrocarbons from the Properties.
“Prudent Cost Response” means the most cost-effective response to an Alleged Adverse
Condition that is reasonably expected to address any obligation concerning the reporting,
investigation, monitoring, removal, cleanup, remediation, restoration or correction of such
condition to meet the requirements of Environmental Laws and, where applicable, to the satisfaction
of any governmental authorities with jurisdiction over the Property on which such Alleged Adverse
Condition exists, which response does not materially interfere with the use or operation of such
Property.
“Purchase Price” has the meaning set forth in Article 2.2.
“Purchase Price Allocation” has the meaning set forth in Article 2.3.
“Records” means, except as excluded in Exhibit “B” or otherwise excluded or retained
by Seller under the terms of this Agreement, means, except as otherwise provided under the terms of
this Agreement, Seller’s original books, records, files, data, information, drawings and maps to
the extent (and only to the extent) related to the Properties (including electronic copies of all
computer records where available, contract files, lease files, well logs, division order files,
title opinions and other title information (including abstracts, evidences of rental payments,
maps, surveys and data sheets), hazard data and surveys, production records, engineering files and
environmental records); provided, however, that Buyer acknowledges that Seller images and retains
Records in electronic format, and may provide imaged or electronic Records rather than originals of
seismic data and of other data, records or information not maintained or not readily
11
accessible in hard copy form. “Records” shall not include (i) Seller’s general corporate books and records and
files, even if containing references to Properties, (ii) books, records (including seismic data)
and files that cannot be disclosed under the terms of any Third Party agreement (and Seller’s
requested consent to make disclosure has not been obtained) or are not transferable without payment
of fees or penalties (except as may be agreed to be paid by Buyer) or cannot be disclosed under
applicable Law, (iii) information entitled to legal privilege, including attorney work product and
attorney-client communications (excluding title opinions, which shall be included in the Records),
and information relating to Excluded Properties, (iv) Seller’s or its Affiliates’ studies related
to internal reserve assessments, (v) any employment records, including personnel information,
personnel records and medical records, relating to Employees (except to the extent provided in
Exhibit “K” or an Employee voluntarily signs a release authorizing disclosure of any or all such
information with respect to himself or herself, with the signing of such release not being made a
condition of either receiving an offer of, or commencing, employment with Buyer or its Affiliates),
(vi) income tax information, (vii) records relating to the acquisition or disposition (or proposed
acquisition or disposition) of the Properties, including proposals received from or made to, and
records of negotiations with, Persons which are not a part of Buyer Group or its representatives
and economic analyses associated therewith, and (viii) seismic data already owned or held by Buyer.
With respect to seismic data, the Records shall consist of proprietary Transferable Seismic Data
licensed pursuant to royalty free licenses in substantially the form of Exhibit “L”.
“Rescission” has the meaning set forth in Article 3.1.3.
“Reverse Breakup Fee” has the meaning set forth in Article 17.2.
“Sales Tax” means any and all transfer, sales, gross receipts, compensating use, use
or similar taxes, and any associated penalties and interest.
“SEC Basis Financial Statements” has the meaning set forth in Article 12.16.
“Seismic License” means a document in the form of Exhibit “L”.
“Seller” has the meaning set forth in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.
“Seller Group” means each and all of: (a) Seller and its officers, directors, agents,
consultants and employees, and (b) Seller’s Affiliates and their officers, directors, agents,
consultants and employees.
“Seller’s Disposition Team” means Xxxx Xxxxxx, HSSE M&A Project Manager; Xxxxx
Xxxxxxx, Director HSSE M&A; Xxxxxx Xxxxxxx, NA Gas Assistant Controller; Xxxxxxx Xxxxxxx, NA Gas
Business Development Project Manager; Xxxx Xxxxxxx, Permian Reservoir Management Team Leader; Xxxxx
Xxxxxx, NA Gas Operated by Others Project Manager; Xxxx Xxxxxxxx, Regional Director, US & Americas
M&A; Xxxxxxx Xxxxxxx, Project Manager M&A; Xxx Xxxxxx, Director — M&A; Xxxxx Xxxxxx, Manager —
Business Development — Midstream; Xxxxx Xxxxxx, Equity Crude Marketing Representative; and Xxxxxxx
Xxxx, NA Gas Negotiations & Land Manager.
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“Solvent” means, when used with respect to any Person, as of any date of determination
(i) the amount of the Present Fair Salable Value of its assets will, as of such date, exceed all of
its liabilities, contingent or otherwise, as of such date, (ii) such Person will not have, as of
such date, an unreasonably small amount of capital for the business in which it is engaged or will
be engaged and (iii) such Person will be able to pay its Debts as they become absolute and mature,
taking into account the timing of and amounts of cash to be received by it and the timing of and
amounts of cash to be payable on or in respect of its indebtedness. The term “Solvency” shall have
its correlative meaning. For purposes of the definition of “Solvent” only, (A) “Debt” means
liability on a “Claim”; and (B) “Claim” means (i) any right to payment, whether or not such a right
is reduced to judgment, liquidated, unliquidated, fixed, contingent, matured, unmatured, disputed,
undisputed, legal, equitable, secured or unsecured or (ii) the right to an equitable remedy for
breach on performance if such breach gives rise to a right to payment, whether or not such
equitable remedy is reduced to judgment, liquidated, unliquidated, fixed, contingent, matured,
unmatured, disputed, undisputed, legal, equitable, secured or unsecured. “Present Fair Salable
Value” means the amount that may be realized if the aggregate assets of such Person (including
goodwill) are sold as an entirety with reasonable promptness in an arms length transaction under
present conditions for the sale of comparable business enterprises.
“Suspense Funds” means proceeds of production and associated penalties and interest in
respect of any of the Properties that are payable to Third Parties and are being held in suspense
by Seller as the operator of such Properties.
“Tax” means any and all fees (including, without limitation, documentation, license,
reporting, filing and registration fees), taxes (including, without limitation, production, gross
receipts, margin, ad valorem, value added, windfall profits, environmental, turnover, sales, use,
property, stamp, leasing, lease, user, leasing, use, excise, franchise, transfer, heating value,
fuel, excess profits, occupational, interest equalization, lifting, oil, gas, or mineral production
or severance and other taxes), levies, imposts, duties, charges or withholdings of any nature
whatsoever, imposed by any governmental authority, tribal authority or taxing authority, domestic
or foreign, together with any and all penalties, fines, additions to Tax and interest thereon,
whether or not such Tax shall be existing or hereafter adopted.
“Termination Defect Amount” means twenty percent (20%) of the unadjusted Purchase
Price with respect to the total value of all of the following as of the date immediately prior to
the Closing Date, to the extent attributable to the Properties being acquired by Buyer under this
Agreement: (i) Casualty Losses; and (ii) Alleged Adverse Conditions.
“Third Party” (whether or not capitalized) means any person or entity, governmental or
otherwise, other than (i) Seller and Buyer and (ii) with respect to Seller, Seller’s Affiliates, or
with respect to Buyer, Buyer’s Affiliates.
“Third Party Claims” means any and all claims of any kind or character, including
demands, suits, causes of action, rights of action, regulatory actions, losses, risk of losses,
impairment of rights, damages, liabilities, subordinations, fines, or penalties and all expenses
and costs (including attorneys’ fees, costs of litigation and court costs) associated therewith,
whether known or unknown, direct or indirect, and whether an Environmental Claim or a
Non-Environmental Claim, that are brought by, on behalf of or owed to a Third Party; provided that a
13
Third Party Claim against a Party by a partner, member, officer, director or employee of that
Party, an Affiliate of that Party, or any partner, member, officer, director or employee of such an
Affiliate shall not be a Third Party Claim brought by or owed to a “Third Party”. For clarity, any
Claim asserted by or on behalf of any receiver or trustee of the bankruptcy estate of Buyer, Seller
or any of their respective Affiliates shall be deemed a Third Party Claim.
“Third Party Licenses” has the meaning set forth in Article 10.1.17.
“Third Party-Owned Software” means software licensed from a Third Party for use in
connection with the Properties or the operation thereof.
“Third Party Seismic Data” means seismic data covering all or any portion of the
Properties that is owned by a Third Party and is licensed or used by Seller or Seller’s Affiliates
under a license or other agreement with the Third Party owner of such seismic data.
“Transferable Seismic Data” means Seller’s proprietary seismic data, if any, covering
the Properties, provided that such data does not include (a) data the transfer or disclosure of
which is restricted by the terms of any Third Party agreement unless consent to such transfer or
disclosure has been obtained and Buyer has paid any fees associated therewith, or (b) the codes for
processing such data.
“Transferred Employees” has the meaning set forth in Article 14.2 of Exhibit “K”.
“Transition Agreement” means a document in the form of Exhibit “H”.
“Transition Period” means the period beginning on the Closing Date and ending on the
date on which the Transition Agreement terminates.
“Working Interest” or “WI” with respect to any Property that is a unit or
well, the interest in and to such unit or well that is burdened with the obligation to bear and pay
costs and expenses of maintenance, development and operations on or in connection with such unit or
well, but without regard to the effect of any royalties, overriding royalties, production payments,
net profits interests and other similar burdens upon, measured by, or payable out of production
therefrom.
1.2 Certain Interpretive Provisions. In this Agreement, unless the context otherwise requires:
(a) | the singular number includes the plural number and vice versa; | ||
(b) | reference to any Person includes such Person’s successors and assigns but, if applicable, only if such successors and assigns are permitted by this Agreement, and reference to a Person in a particular capacity excludes such Person in any other capacity; | ||
(c) | reference to any gender includes each other gender; |
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(d) | reference to any (i) agreement (including this Agreement), document or instrument means such agreement, document or instrument as amended or modified (including any waiver or consent) and in effect from time to time in accordance with the terms thereof and, if applicable, the terms hereof and (ii) unless expressly provided otherwise, Law means such Law as amended, modified, codified, reenacted or replaced and in effect from time to time; | ||
(e) | reference to any Article, Section, Schedule or Exhibit means such Article, Section, Schedule or Exhibit of or to this Agreement, and references in any Article, Section, Schedule, Exhibit or definition to any clause means such clause of such Article, Section, Schedule, Exhibit or definition; | ||
(f) | any accounting term used and not otherwise defined in this Agreement has the meaning assigned to such term in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles; | ||
(g) | the words “this Agreement,” “herein,” “hereby,” “hereunder,” “hereof,” “hereto” and words of similar import are references to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular Section or other provision hereof or thereof, unless expressly so limited; | ||
(h) | the word “including” and its derivatives means “including, but is not limited to,” and corresponding derivative expressions; | ||
(i) | relative to the determination of any period of time, “from” means “from and including,” “to” means “to but excluding” and “through” means “through and including;” | ||
(j) | whenever the Parties have agreed that any approval or consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, such phrase includes the Parties’ agreement that the approval or consent shall not be unreasonably delayed or conditioned; | ||
(k) | no consideration shall be given to the captions of the articles, sections, subsections, or clauses, which are inserted for convenience in locating the provisions of this Agreement and not as an aid in its construction; | ||
(l) | no consideration shall be given to the fact or presumption that one Party had a greater or lesser hand in drafting this Agreement; every covenant, term and provision of this Agreement shall be construed simply according to its fair meaning and not strictly for or against any Party (notwithstanding any rule of law requiring an agreement to be strictly construed against the drafting party), it being understood that the Parties to this Agreement are sophisticated and have had adequate opportunity and means to retain counsel to represent their interests and to otherwise negotiate the provisions of this Agreement; | ||
(m) | examples shall not be construed to limit, expressly or by implication, the matter they illustrate; |
15
(n) | a defined term has its defined meaning throughout this Agreement, and each Exhibit and Schedule to this Agreement, regardless of whether it appears before or after the place where it is defined; | ||
(o) | all references to prices, values or monetary amounts refer to United States dollars, unless expressly provided otherwise; | ||
(p) | each Exhibit and Schedule to this Agreement is a part of this Agreement, but if there is any conflict or inconsistency between the main body of this Agreement and any Exhibit or Schedule, the provisions of the main body of this Agreement shall prevail; and | ||
(q) | the word “or” may not be mutually exclusive, and can be construed to mean “and” where the context requires there to be a multiple rather than an alternative obligation. |
ARTICLE II
SALE OF PROPERTIES
SALE OF PROPERTIES
2.1 Sale and Purchase. On the Closing Date, but effective as of the Effective Time, and upon the terms and conditions
of this Agreement: (a) Seller shall sell, assign and convey the Properties to Buyer, and (b) Buyer
shall purchase and accept the Properties from Seller; provided, however, that Seller expressly
excepts, reserves and retains, unto itself and its Affiliates, successors and assigns, the Excluded
Properties.
2.2 Purchase Price. The total consideration for the Properties, subject to adjustments as described below, is (a)
the payment by Buyer to Seller of Three Billion Xxx Xxxxxxx Xxxxxxx Xxxxxx Xxxxxx Dollars (US
$3,100,000,000) (“Purchase Price”), payable in full (less the amount of the Performance Deposit
paid by Buyer to Seller) at Closing in immediately available funds, and (b) Buyer’s assumption of
the Assumed Obligations. The Purchase Price shall be adjusted as follows:
2.2.1 increased by the Computed Interest on the Purchase Price for the period from the
Effective Time through the earlier to occur of (a) August 31, 2010 and (b) the Closing Date,
less the Computed Interest on the Performance Deposit from the
date of its receipt by Seller until the earlier to occur of (i) August 31, 2010 and
(ii) the Closing Date;
2.2.2 decreased by the amount of Operating Revenues to which Buyer is entitled under
Article 6.2 but which are collected and retained by Seller;
2.2.3 increased by Six Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars (US $650,000) per month
(pro-rated on a daily basis for any partial month) pursuant to Article 6.2.2 from the
Effective Time through the Closing Date;
2.2.4 increased by the amount of Charges for which Buyer is responsible under Article
6.2 but which are paid by Seller;
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2.2.5 decreased by the amount of Charges for which Seller is responsible under Article
6.2 but which are paid by Buyer;
2.2.6 increased by amounts to which Seller is entitled pursuant to Article 6.1;
2.2.7 increased by the amount of taxes and assessments for which Buyer is responsible
under Article 6.3 but which are paid by Seller;
2.2.8 decreased by the amount of taxes or assessments for which Seller is responsible
under Article 6.3 but which are paid by Buyer;
2.2.9 decreased by the agreed or arbitrated net adjustment, if any, to which Buyer is
entitled for Alleged Adverse Conditions pursuant to Article 5.2;
2.2.10 decreased or increased, as appropriate, by any adjustments made for Properties
excluded pursuant to Article 3.1;
2.2.11 decreased for any agreed reduction in value pursuant to Article 7.2; and
2.2.12 increased or decreased, as the case may be, by any other amount mutually agreed
to by the Parties in writing.
The Purchase Price, as so adjusted, is the “Adjusted Purchase Price”.
2.3 Purchase Price Allocation For Tax purposes, on or before the Closing Date, Buyer and Seller shall agree in writing as to
the allocation of the Purchase Price among the Properties under the methodology required pursuant
to Section 1060 of the Code (the “Purchase Price Allocation”). If an adjustment to the Purchase
Price is made under this Agreement, the Parties shall adjust the Purchase Price Allocation to be
consistent with the Adjusted Purchase Price. Seller and Buyer shall report the transactions
contemplated hereby on all U.S. federal income tax returns (including Form 8594 and all other
information returns and supplements thereto required to be filed by the Parties
under Section 1060 of the Code) in a manner consistent with such Purchase Price Allocation. In the
event that the allocation is disputed by any taxing authority, the Party receiving notice of such
dispute will promptly notify and consult with the other Party and keep the other Party apprised of
material developments concerning resolution of such dispute.
2.4 Performance Deposit . On or before noon Houston time, July 30, 2010, Buyer shall have initiated the wire transfer of
immediately available funds (and provided reasonable evidence of such initiation) to Seller (or its
designee) equal to $1,500,000,000, which constitutes 48.39% of the Purchase Price (the “Performance
Deposit”). Seller shall provide Buyer wiring instructions for the Performance Deposit at least
three (3) Business Days prior to July 30, 2010.
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ARTICLE III
PREFERENTIAL RIGHTS AND CONSENTS TO ASSIGNMENT
PREFERENTIAL RIGHTS AND CONSENTS TO ASSIGNMENT
3.1 Preferential Rights to Purchase. Seller shall use Buyer’s good faith allocation of the Purchase Price set forth in Exhibit “A” to
provide any required preferential right to purchase notifications in connection with the
transactions contemplated hereby, using the form of Preferential Purchase Right Notice Letter
attached as Exhibit “J”.
3.1.1 If, as of the Closing Date, a holder of a preferential purchase right (“PPR”) has
notified Seller that it elects to exercise its PPR with respect to the Properties to which
its PPR applies (determined by and in accordance with the agreement in which the PPR
arises), then the Properties covered by that PPR will not be sold to the Party originally
executing this Agreement as “Buyer” (subject to the remaining provisions in this Article),
and the Purchase Price will be reduced by the value allocated to such Properties in Exhibit
“A”. Buyer remains obligated to purchase the remainder of the Properties not affected by an
exercised PPR or a PPR for which the time to exercise has not expired. Upon the
consummation of the sale of any Properties to the holder of such preferential right, any
such Properties shall be deemed for all purposes to constitute “Excluded Properties”.
3.1.2 After the Closing, if for any reason the purchase and sale of the Properties
covered by the PPR is not or cannot be consummated with the holder of the PPR that exercised
its PPR or if the time for exercising the PPR expires without exercise by any holder of the
PPR, Seller may so notify Buyer and within ten (10) Business Days after Buyer’s receipt of
such notice, Seller shall sell, assign and convey to Buyer and Buyer shall purchase and
accept from Seller such Properties pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and for the value
allocated to such Properties in Exhibit “A” (except the Closing Date with respect to such
Properties will be the date of assignment of such Properties from Seller to Buyer).
3.1.3 If on the Closing Date any PPR applicable to some Properties has not been waived
and the time to elect has not elapsed, Closing with respect to such Properties affected
thereby shall proceed. If (i) the holder of a PPR validly exercises its
preferential right to purchase after the Closing, or (ii) the Parties inadvertently
close on a Property subject to a PPR either without having provided the required
notification to the holder of such PPR or without such holder having waived such PPR or the
time for such holder to exercise such PPR having expired, and after closing on such
Property, the holder of such PPR elects to exercise such PPR, then within ten (10) Business
Days of (i) or (ii) above (x) Buyer and Seller shall execute such instruments as reasonably
necessary to revoke, extinguish and/or rescind the original assignment of such affected
Property(ies) to Buyer and/or re-convey such affected Properties to Seller, as appropriate
(each hereinafter a “Rescission”), effective as of the Effective Time, (y) Seller shall
cause an amount equal to (1) Buyer’s good faith allocation of the Purchase Price set forth
in Exhibit “A” attributable to such affected Property(ies) or, in the case of an affected
Property that is not allocated a value in Exhibit “A”, as may be mutually agreed by the
Parties; provided that if no such agreement is reached, such matter shall be an Arbitrable
Dispute; (2) decreased by the amount of Operating Revenues attributable to such
18
Properties after the Effective Time that are actually accounted for, collected or retained by Buyer;
(3) increased by the Charges attributable to such Properties after the Effective Time that
are paid or accounted for by Buyer; and (4) increased by the amount of taxes and assessments
attributable to such Properties paid by Buyer, to be paid to Buyer in accordance with wire
instructions to be provided by Buyer at least two (2) Business Days prior to the end of such
ten (10) Business Day period and (z) any Properties in which the holder of a PPR validly
exercises and acquires shall automatically, and without need to amend this Agreement, be
deemed to constitute Excluded Properties for all purposes of this Agreement, and the Buyer
shall have no further obligations with respect to such Excluded Properties. If for any
reason the purchase and sale of such affected Property(ies) covered by the validly exercised
PPR contemplated by this Article 3.1.3 is not or cannot be consummated with the holder of
the PPR within ninety (90) Days after the Closing, Seller shall so notify Buyer within three
(3) Business Days, and within ten (10) Business Days after Buyer’s receipt of such notice,
Seller shall sell, assign and convey to Buyer and Buyer shall purchase and accept from
Seller such Properties pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and for Buyer’s good faith
allocation of the Purchase Price set forth in Exhibit “A” (except “Closing Date” with
respect to any such Properties shall mean the date of assignment of such Properties from
Seller to Buyer).
3.1.4 Any PPR must be exercised subject to the terms and conditions of this Agreement,
including the payment to Seller of a performance deposit in an amount that corresponds to
the percentage of the Purchase Price set forth in Article 2.4.
3.2 Consents to Assignment.
3.2.1 If a required consent has not been obtained prior to Closing, the Property with
respect to which consent is required but not obtained shall be excluded from this Agreement
and the Purchase Price shall be adjusted by the value allocated to such Property in Exhibit
“A” or, in the case of an affected Property that is not allocated a value in Exhibit “A”, as
may be mutually agreed by the Parties; provided that if no such agreement is reached prior
to Closing, such matter shall be an Arbitrable Dispute. Buyer remains obligated to purchase
from Seller the remainder of the Properties that are not subject to such unobtained required
consent. If Seller subsequently obtains any required
consents not obtained prior to or at Closing, Seller shall promptly notify Buyer and
within ten (10) Business Days after Buyer’s receipt of such notice, Seller shall sell,
assign and convey to Buyer and Buyer shall purchase and accept from Seller such Properties
pursuant to the terms of this Agreement and for the value allocated to such Properties in
Exhibit “A” or otherwise determined by mutual agreement or determined pursuant to the
provisions of Article 18 for purposes of the adjustment to the Purchase Price previously
made with respect to such affected Property (except “Closing Date” with respect to such
Property shall mean the date of assignment of such Property from Seller to Buyer).
3.2.2 With respect to Contracts and Other Agreements incident to ownership of or
reasonably necessary for the operation of the Properties that require consent to assignment
and which consent has not been obtained prior to Closing, Buyer at its option, shall have
the right to elect to have this Article 3.2.2 apply with respect thereto, instead of having
the affected Property (and the related Contract or Other
19
Agreement) excluded from this Agreement as provided in Article 3.2.1. If Buyer elects to have this Article 3.2.2 apply to
any such Contract or Other Agreement, Seller shall execute and deliver such instruments and
take such other actions as Buyer may reasonably request in order to carry out the intent of
this Agreement and the transfer of such Contracts or Other Agreements, including the
execution of back-to-back agreements to effect the transfer from Seller to Buyer of the
benefits and burdens of or on Seller under all such Contracts or Other Agreements under
which Seller is obligated to perform (provided that entering into such back-to-back
agreements does not result in a breach of any obligations under any such Contract or Other
Agreement), to the extent that Seller is unable to transfer or assign such Contract or Other
Agreement to Buyer. To the extent that Seller is unable to assign a Contract or Other
Agreement with respect to which Seller has elected that this Article 3.2.2 shall apply,
Seller shall use commercially reasonable efforts to continue to hold such Contract or Other
Agreement for the benefit of Buyer until such time as (x) such Contract or Other Agreement
can be assigned to Buyer in accordance with the terms thereof, or (y) the Contract or Other
Agreement is terminated in accordance with its terms or otherwise at the direction of Buyer,
to the extent such termination does not breach such Contract or Other Agreement.
3.3 Affiliate Consents and Waivers. Each Party shall cause its Affiliates to give any required consents and waive any PPR held by
such Affiliates.
ARTICLE IV
TITLE REVIEW
TITLE REVIEW
4.1 Review of Title Records. Not later than (i) five (5) Business Days after the execution and delivery of the Agreement
with respect to the Properties set forth on Schedule 4.1 or (ii) August 2, 2010 with respect to all
other Properties, Seller shall make available (during Seller’s regular business hours and at their
current location) for Buyer’s review, Records in Seller’s and its Affiliates’ possession relating
to title to the Properties. If Buyer requests copies of title Records, Seller shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to provide the requested copies to Buyer at
Buyer’s expense. Buyer shall conduct its review of Records in accordance with the terms of the
Confidentiality Agreement.
4.2 Waiver.
Buyer (on behalf of Buyer Group and their successors and assigns) hereby waives for all purposes
all objections, defects and Claims (whether known or unknown) associated with the title to the
Properties except for Buyer’s rights with respect to Seller’s representation set forth in Article
10.1.6.
ARTICLE V
CONDITION OF THE PROPERTIES
CONDITION OF THE PROPERTIES
5.1 Condition of the Properties.
After execution and delivery of this Agreement, Seller shall provide Buyer access (during Seller’s
regular business hours) to Seller-operated Properties, and Seller will use its commercially
reasonable efforts to obtain permission for Buyer to gain access to Third Party-operated
Properties, to conduct a visual inspection of the same.
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5.1.1 Any such inspection, including through the performance of Phase I Environmental
Site Assessments, shall be conducted in accordance with the terms of the Confidentiality
Agreement and subject to any releases or other agreements required by the operator of the
Properties. Prior to Closing, Buyer may not operate equipment, conduct testing, sample
materials, perform Phase II environmental audits, or conduct invasive activities during such
inspection without Seller’s prior written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably
withheld. Buyer shall be responsible for arranging, at its own cost, transportation to and
from the Properties. During the time period between the Closing and the Adverse Condition
Diligence Review Deadline, Buyer may not conduct testing, sample materials, conduct invasive
activities related to environmental conditions or perform Phase II environmental audits
without in any case obtaining any applicable Third Party operator’s prior written consent,
and without obtaining Seller’s prior written consent, which consent shall not be
unreasonably withheld, unless recommended in a Phase I environmental audit or required by
applicable Law in which case Seller’s prior written consent will not be required.
5.1.2 Buyer’s access to the Properties shall be at Buyer’s sole risk and expense; and
Buyer hereby releases Seller Group from and shall fully indemnify, defend, protect and hold
Seller Group harmless from and against any and all Losses and Third Party Claims to the
extent arising out of or connected with Buyer’s inspection of the Properties or travel to or
from or presence on the Properties in connection with the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement.
5.2 Alleged Adverse Conditions.
As soon as reasonably practical (and on an ongoing basis), but no later than one hundred twenty
(120) Days after the Closing Date (the “Adverse Condition Diligence Review Deadline”),
Buyer shall notify Seller of any conditions that might constitute Alleged Adverse Conditions.
Buyer’s notice of such conditions must include (i) a description of each individual condition to
which Buyer takes exception (including any and all supporting documentation) and (ii) an estimate
of the costs Buyer in good faith attributes to bringing such condition into compliance with
applicable Environmental Laws. Seller and Buyer shall meet from time to time to attempt to agree
on a resolution of Alleged Adverse Conditions.
5.2.1 If the Parties are unable to agree on resolution of any Alleged Adverse
Conditions on or before sixty (60) Days after the Adverse Condition Diligence Review
Deadline, Seller has the option, in its sole discretion, to either (a) bring the Alleged
Adverse Condition into compliance with Environmental Laws (as in effect as of the Closing
Date); or (b) deliver to Buyer an indemnity agreement in favor of Buyer Group, upon terms
reasonably acceptable to Buyer, fully releasing Buyer Group from and protecting, defending,
indemnifying and holding Buyer Group harmless from and against all Environmental Claims
arising from or relating to such Alleged Adverse Condition.
5.2.2 If Seller elects, at its sole cost, to bring any Alleged Adverse Condition into
compliance with Environmental Laws (as in effect as of the Closing Date), Seller may, by
notice to Buyer, elect to continue attempting to remediate such condition to completion for
up to one hundred eighty (180) Days after the Adverse Condition Diligence Review Deadline.
Seller’s remediation of any Alleged Adverse Condition may
21
not materially interfere with the
use of operation of the affected Property. If Seller does not remediate an Alleged Adverse
Condition within such period, Buyer shall give Seller written notice of such failure or
non-completion and within five (5) Business Days following the earlier to occur of the date
that (i) Seller and Buyer agree in writing on the existence and value of the Alleged Adverse
Condition or (ii) resolution of any dispute regarding the existence or value of the Alleged
Adverse Condition in accordance with the provisions of Article 5.4, Seller shall pay to
Buyer an amount equal to the value of such Alleged Adverse Condition, if any, as so agreed
or determined.
5.2.3 If an Alleged Adverse Condition can be remediated, the adjustments or payments
with respect to that Alleged Adverse Condition shall not exceed the Prudent Cost Response.
5.2.4 Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary, Buyer shall
not be entitled to an adjustment or other remedy relating to any Alleged Adverse Condition
unless and until the aggregate value of all Aggregate Transaction Claims exceeds the
Deductible, and then only to the extent such Aggregate Transaction Claims exceeds the
Deductible; and Buyer shall be solely responsible for and bear all costs and expenses
associated with any and all Aggregate Transaction Claims up to the Deductible. No payment
shall be due with respect to any Alleged Adverse Condition for which Seller, at its option,
delivers to Buyer an indemnity agreement in favor of Buyer in accordance with Article 5.2.1,
nor shall any Alleged Adverse Condition for which Seller has indemnified Buyer be included
as an Aggregate Transaction Claim.
5.3 Waiver. Buyer (on behalf of Buyer Group and their successors and assigns) waives for all purposes all
objections and Claims (whether known or unknown) associated with environmental conditions
(including Alleged Adverse Conditions) except for (a) Buyer’s rights with respect to Seller’s
indemnity under Article 8.3, (b) Alleged Adverse Conditions Buyer raised to Seller by proper notice
within the applicable time period specified in, and as otherwise required by, Article 5.2, and (c)
such Alleged Adverse Conditions as are settled by written agreement of the Parties or determined in
accordance with Article 5.4.
5.4 If the Parties are unable to agree upon the existence, validity or value or cure of any
Alleged Adverse Condition (“Adverse Condition Dispute”), then, within two hundred ten (210) Days
after the Adverse Condition Diligence Review Deadline, such dispute shall be exclusively and
finally resolved pursuant to this Article 5.4 by a single arbitrator, who shall be an environmental
attorney with at least ten (10) years experience in oil and gas environmental matters, has not at
any point in the past ten (10) years represented or been adverse to any Party and is selected by
mutual agreement of Buyer and Seller within fifteen (15) Days after the delivery and receipt by
either Party of a notice of an Adverse Condition Dispute, and absent such agreement, by the
Houston, Texas office of the AAA (the “Environmental Referee”). Except as otherwise provided in
the preceding sentence, any Environmental Dispute arbitration proceeding shall be conducted in
accordance with Article 18. To the extent that the award of the Environmental Referee with respect
to any Alleged Adverse Condition value is not taken into account as an adjustment to the Purchase
Price pursuant to Article 6, then within ten (10) Days after the Environmental Referee delivers
written notice to Buyer and Seller of the
22
award with respect to an Alleged Adverse Condition value,
and subject to the other terms hereof and after taking into account all previous adjustments to the
Purchase Price in accordance with Article 6, (i) Buyer shall pay to Seller the amount, if any, so
awarded by the Environmental Referee to Seller and (ii) Seller shall pay to Buyer the amount, if
any, so awarded by the Environmental Referee to Buyer.
ARTICLE VI
ACCOUNTING
ACCOUNTING
6.1 Products. Seller (or the operator of the Properties) has gauged or otherwise measured all merchantable oil
and liquid hydrocarbon substances associated with the Properties and stored in tanks and vessels to
the bottom of the flange as of the Effective Time and Seller shall be entitled to the proceeds
associated with such oil and liquid hydrocarbon substances when sold. Oil and liquid hydrocarbon
substances in treating and separation equipment upstream of pipeline connections, as of the
Effective Time, shall not be considered merchantable and shall become the property of Buyer.
Actual amounts shall be accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement.
6.2 Revenues, Expenses and Capital Expenditures.
Except as expressly provided otherwise in this Agreement:
6.2.1 Seller is entitled to all Operating Revenues attributable to the Properties for
the period prior to the Effective Time and is responsible for all Charges attributable to
the Properties for the period prior to the Effective Time;
6.2.2 Seller also is entitled to the sum of Six Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars
(US$650,000) per month (prorated on a daily basis for any partial month) (as an agreed
reimbursement in lieu of Seller’s actual overhead) for the period from the Effective Time
until the Closing Date; and
6.2.3 Buyer is entitled to all Operating Revenues attributable to the Properties for
the period on and after the Effective Time and is responsible for all Charges (except
producing, drilling and overhead costs payable to Seller or its Affiliates, other than
pursuant to Article 6.2.2) attributable to the Properties for the period on and after the
Effective Time.
Actual amounts shall be accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement, unless previously
accounted for under the Transition Agreement. Whether Charges and Operating Revenues are
attributable to periods before or after the Effective Time shall be determined in accordance with
Generally Accepted Accounting Principles and Council of Petroleum Accountants Societies (XXXXX)
standards, based on the accrual method of accounting.
6.3 Taxes.
Seller shall bear all Taxes and assessments, including excise taxes, severance or other production
taxes, ad valorem taxes and any other federal, state or local taxes or assessments attributable to
ownership or operation of the Properties prior to the Effective Time; and all deductions, credits
or refunds pertaining to the aforementioned taxes and assessments, no matter when received, belong
to Seller. Provided that Closing has occurred, Buyer shall bear all taxes and assessments,
including sales taxes, excise taxes, severance or other
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production taxes, ad valorem taxes and any
other federal, state or local taxes and assessments attributable to ownership or operation of the
Properties on and after the Effective Time (excluding Seller’s income taxes, franchise taxes or
margin taxes from the Effective Time through Closing and excluding income or capital gains taxes
from the sale of the Properties); and all deductions, credits and refunds pertaining to the
aforementioned taxes and assessments, no matter when received, belong to Buyer. Ad valorem or
property or other taxes based on revenue from the Properties shall apply to the tax year for which
the tax rendition is issued and shall be prorated based on the percentage of the assessment period
occurring before and after the Effective Time. Actual amounts shall be accounted for in the Final
Accounting Settlement. Buyer shall be responsible for and pay any and all Sales Tax on the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement. Each Party is responsible for filing any tax returns
and handling payment of any tax due under Law during the period when it holds title to the
Properties.
6.4 Credits.
Provided Closing has occurred, Buyer shall reimburse Seller for any and all prepaid insurance
premiums, utility charges, rentals, deposits and any other prepays (excluding taxes) applicable to
the period on and after the Effective Time that are attributable to the Properties. Actual amounts
shall be accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement.
6.5 Final Accounting Settlement.
As soon as reasonably practicable, but no later than one hundred eighty (180) Days after the end of
the Transition Period, Seller shall deliver the Final Accounting Statement to Buyer. Within three
(3) Business Days following delivery of the Final Accounting Statement, Seller shall provide to
Buyer’s representatives all supporting documentation reasonably necessary for Buyer’s
representatives to review and verify any adjustments set forth in such Final Accounting Statement.
6.5.1 As soon as reasonably practicable, but no later than sixty (60) Days after Buyer
receives the Final Accounting Statement, Buyer may deliver to Seller a written report
containing any changes Buyer proposes to such statement. Any adjustments covered by the
Final Accounting Statement as delivered by Seller to which Buyer fails to object in the
written report within the sixty (60) Day time period shall be deemed correct and are final
and binding on the Parties and not subject to further review, audit or arbitration.
6.5.2 As soon as reasonably practicable, but no later than forty-five (45) Days after
Seller receives Buyer’s written report, the Parties shall meet to attempt to agree on any
adjustments to the Final Accounting Statement. If the Parties fail to agree on final
adjustments within that forty-five (45) Day period, either Party may submit the disputed
items to the Accounting Referee. The Parties shall direct the Accounting Referee to resolve
the disputes within thirty (30) Days after its receipt of relevant materials pertaining to
the dispute (and the Parties agree to use their respective reasonable efforts to deliver
such materials promptly to the Accounting Referee).
6.5.3 The Final Accounting Statement, whether as agreed between the Parties or as
determined by a decision of the Accounting Referee, shall be binding on and non-appealable
by the Parties. The Accounting Referee shall act as an expert for the limited purpose of
determining the specific disputed adjustments submitted by either
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Party and may not award
damages or penalties to either Party with respect to any matter. Seller and Buyer shall
share equally the Accounting Referee’s fees and expenses.
6.5.4 Any amounts owed by one Party to the other under the Final Accounting Settlement
shall be paid within thirty (30) Days after the earlier of: (i) the date that the amounts
are agreed by the Parties, and (ii) the date that the Parties receive the Accounting
Referee’s decision; and the revenues and expenses included in the Final Accounting
Settlement (including any and all Operating Revenues and Charges received and booked by
Seller prior to Seller’s delivery of the Final Accounting Statement to Buyer) shall be final
and binding on the Parties and not subject to further review, audit or arbitration.
6.6 Post-Final Accounting Settlement Revenues.
6.6.1 Buyer shall pay Seller any and all Operating Revenues received by Buyer (to the
extent not accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement or the Transition Agreement) for
the period prior to the Effective Time, and
6.6.2 Seller shall pay Buyer any and all Operating Revenues received by Seller (to the
extent not accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement or the Transition Agreement) for
the period after the Effective Time, except producing, drilling and overhead charges payable
to Seller or its Affiliates and the sum per month specified in Article 6.2.2, which are to
be retained by Seller.
The Party responsible for making payment in Articles 6.6.1 or 6.6.2 above shall make full payment
to the other Party within thirty (30) Days after receipt of the Operating Revenues in question.
6.7 Post-Final Accounting Settlement Expenses.
6.7.1 Seller shall reimburse Buyer for any and all Charges paid by Buyer (to the extent
not accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement or the Transition Agreement) that are
attributable to periods prior to the Effective Time, except producing, drilling and overhead
charges payable to Seller or its Affiliates and the sum per month specified in Article 6.2.2
which are to be retained by Seller, and
6.7.2 Buyer shall reimburse Seller for any and all Charges paid by Seller (to the
extent not accounted for in the Final Accounting Settlement or the Transition Agreement)
that are attributable to periods after the Effective Time.
The Party responsible for making payment in Articles 6.7.1 or 6.7.2 above shall make full payment
to the other Party within thirty (30) Days after receipt of an applicable invoice and proof that
such invoice was paid for the Charges in question.
6.8 Joint Interest Audits.
Seller is entitled (at Seller’s expense) to resolve all Contractual Audits (whether or not being
conducted as of the Effective Time) that are applicable to any periods for which Seller is
responsible under this Agreement and to pay or receive (as
25
applicable) any amounts due or
receivable attributable to Seller’s current interest in the Properties that are subject to such
audits.
ARTICLE VII
LOSS, CASUALTY AND CONDEMNATION
LOSS, CASUALTY AND CONDEMNATION
7.1 Notice of Loss.
Seller shall promptly notify Buyer of all instances of Casualty Loss that occur and become known to
Seller between the date of this Agreement and Closing.
7.2 Casualty Loss.
If, prior to Closing, any Properties are impacted by a Casualty Loss, Seller and Buyer shall meet
to attempt to agree on an adjustment to the Purchase Price reflecting the reduction in value of the
Properties because of such Casualty Loss. For this purpose “reduction in value” is based on the
principle that Seller should generally bear the costs of repairing the Properties to the state
existing immediately prior to the Casualty Loss, but if such repair results in equipment or
facilities that are newer than or upgraded from that which existed immediately prior to the
Casualty Loss, Buyer should bear a portion of such costs as is equitable given the benefit to Buyer
of such newer or upgraded equipment or facilities. No adjustment associated with a Casualty Loss
will exceed the reasonable value claimed by the Buyer in the applicable claim to Seller of such
Casualty Loss.
7.2.1 If the Parties are unable to agree on resolution of a Casualty Loss, the Parties
shall Close with the Purchase Price being decreased by the arithmetic average of the good
faith estimates of the reduction in value associated with such Casualty Loss by both Buyer
and Seller; provided, however, that within thirty (30) Days after the Closing Date, either
Party may initiate binding arbitration in accordance with Article 18 to resolve the dispute.
Any claim with respect to a Casualty Loss not referred to arbitration within thirty (30)
Days following Closing (or, with respect to any Casualty Loss for which Seller provides
notice that it will continue attempting to cure after Closing, within thirty (30) Days after
the one hundred eighty (180) Day period cure period following Closing has expired) shall be
deemed waived by Buyer for all purposes.
7.2.2 Seller shall retain any and all insurance proceeds and other payments associated
with or attributable to any Casualty Losses.
ARTICLE VIII
ALLOCATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND INDEMNITIES
ALLOCATION OF RESPONSIBILITIES AND INDEMNITIES
8.1 Opportunity for Review.
Each Party represents that it has had an adequate opportunity to review all release, indemnity and
defense provisions in this Agreement, including the opportunity to submit the same to legal counsel
for review and advice. Based on the foregoing representation, the Parties agree to the provisions
set forth below.
8.2 Seller’s Non-Environmental Indemnity Obligation.
From and after the Closing Date, Seller shall release Buyer Group from and subject to the
limitations set forth in this Agreement, shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold Buyer Group
harmless from and against (a) all Non-Environmental Claims to the extent relating to, arising out
of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, the ownership or operation of the Properties or any
part thereof prior
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to the Closing Date, including Non-Environmental Claims relating to: (i) injury
or death of any person whomsoever, (ii) damages to or loss of any property or resources, (iii)
breach of contract, (iv) common law causes of action such as negligence, strict liability, nuisance
or trespass, or (v) fault imposed by Law or otherwise and (b) all Claims arising out of any breach
by Seller of Seller’s representations, warranties, covenants or agreements set forth in this
Agreement. These indemnity and defense obligations apply regardless of cause or of any
negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent negligence or strict liability),
breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of law, or other fault of Buyer Group, or any
pre-existing defect.
8.3 Seller’s Environmental Indemnity Obligation.
(a) From and after the Closing Date, Seller shall release Buyer Group from and subject to the
limitations set forth in this Agreement, shall protect, defend, indemnify and hold Buyer Group
harmless from and against all Environmental Claims (including such Claims associated with asbestos
or NORM, plugging and abandonment and Process Safety Management, as limited by Articles 12.3, 12.4
and 12.5) to the extent relating to, arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly,
Seller’s ownership or operation of the Properties or any part thereof prior to the Closing Date.
This indemnity and defense obligation applies regardless of cause or of any negligent acts or
omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent negligence or strict liability), breach of duty
(statutory or otherwise), violation of law, or other fault of Buyer Group, or any pre-existing
defect.
(b) From and after the Closing Date, Seller shall release the Buyer Group from, and subject to the
Adverse Condition Diligence Review Deadline and the Deductible set forth in Article 5.2, protect,
defend, indemnify and hold Buyer Group harmless from and against any and all Environmental Claims
relating to, arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, Alleged Adverse Conditions,
to the extent such Alleged Adverse Conditions are not otherwise remediated by the Seller pursuant
to Article 5.2.
8.4 Buyer’s Non-Environmental Indemnity Obligation.
From and after Closing Date, Buyer shall release Seller Group from and shall protect, defend,
indemnify and hold Seller Group harmless from and against (a) all Non-Environmental Claims relating
to, arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, ownership or operation of the
Properties or any part thereof prior to the Closing Date (no matter when asserted) for which
Seller’s indemnity and defense obligation in Article 8.2 has ceased or terminated (in accordance
with Article 8.7 or otherwise) or does not apply, (b) all Non-Environmental Claims relating to,
arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, ownership or operation of the Properties
or any part thereof on and after the Closing Date (no matter when asserted), including in each case
Non-Environmental Claims relating to (i) injury or death of any person whomsoever, (ii) damages to
or loss of any property or resources, (iii) breach of contract, (iv) common law causes of action
such as negligence, strict liability, nuisance or trespass, or (v) fault imposed by Law or
otherwise, and (c) all Claims arising out of any breach by Buyer of Buyer’s representations,
warranties, covenants or agreements set forth in this Agreement. These indemnity and defense
obligations apply regardless of cause or of any negligent acts or omissions (including sole
27
negligence, concurrent negligence or strict liability), breach of duty (statutory or otherwise),
violation of Law, or other fault of Seller Group, or any pre-existing defect.
8.5 Buyer’s Environmental Indemnity Obligation. From and after Closing, Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall protect, defend, indemnify
and hold Seller Group harmless from and against all Environmental Claims relating to, arising
out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, ownership or operation of the Properties or any
part thereof prior to the Closing (no matter when asserted) for which Seller’s indemnity and
defense obligation in Article 8.3 has ceased, terminated (in accordance with Article 8.7 or
otherwise) or does not apply, and from and against any and all Environmental Claims relating to,
arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, ownership or operation of the Properties
or any part thereof on and after the Closing. These indemnity and defense obligations apply
regardless of cause or of any negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent
negligence or strict liability), breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of Law, or
other fault of Seller Group, or any pre-existing defect.
8.6 Seller’s Retained Liabilities. From and after Closing, Seller shall release the Buyer Group from and shall protect, defend and
indemnify and hold such Buyer Group harmless from and against any and all Claims relating to,
arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly (and no matter when asserted):
(a) the ownership or operation of its Excluded Properties, including (A) Claims relating to: (i)
injury or death of any person whomsoever, (ii) damages to or loss of any property or resources,
(iii) breach of contract, (iv) common law causes of action such as negligence, strict liability,
nuisance or trespass, or (v) fault imposed by Law or otherwise, regardless of cause or of any
negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent negligence or strict liability),
breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of law, or other fault of Seller Group, or any
pre-existing defect and (B) tax Claims or disputes;
(b) all taxes for which Seller has agreed to be responsible under this agreement;
(c) (i) all Claims pursuant to the False Claims Act or similar state Laws relating to the
Properties, but only to the extent attributable to periods of time prior to the Closing, (ii) all
Claims for severance taxes or fees owed or payable to any Governmental Authority or Person
(including Claims alleging undervaluation or underpayment thereof or wrongdoing, fault or strict
liability relating thereto) relating to the Properties, but only to the extent attributable to the
period prior to the Closing, and (iii) all Claims for royalties and fees relating thereto
(including Claims alleging undervaluation or underpayment thereof or wrongdoing, fault or strict
liability relating thereto) relating to the Properties, but only to the extent attributable to the
period prior to the Closing;
(d) any Claims set forth in Exhibit “C” relating to the Properties for which Seller has not
indemnified Buyer pursuant to Article 8.6(c) above, but only to the extent attributable to the
period prior to the Closing;
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(e) with regard to Properties operated by Seller, any Claims relating to or arising out
of any joint audit under any applicable operating agreement with respect to the operation of the
Properties, to the extent attributable to the period prior to the Closing;
(f) any Claims relating to the Properties operated by Seller and arising out of the gross
negligence or willful misconduct of the Seller or its Affiliates; and
(g) any Claims or obligations relating to Seller’s employees for which Seller has agreed to be
responsible pursuant to the provisions of the Transition Agreement.
Claims under this Article 8.6 may be made whether or not a Claim also could be asserted under
Articles 8.2 or 8.3, and Claims under this Article 8.6 are not subject to any of the limitations
set forth in Article 8.7 or elsewhere in this Agreement and survive indefinitely.
8.7 Claim Periods and Deductibles. Seller will not have an obligation or liability to the Buyer Group under Articles 8.2 and 8.3
for:
(a) any Claim under Article 8.2 or 8.3, if Buyer has not provided Seller with a Claim Notice within
twenty-four (24) months from and after Closing with respect to such Claim (other than (i) Claims
under Article 8.2(b) with respect to the breach of Article 10.1.23 for which a Claim Notice must be
given within seventy-two (72) months from and after Closing and (ii) any Claim under (A) Article
8.2(b) with respect to the breach of any of the Seller’s covenants in Articles 3, 6, 17, 19 or
Exhibit “K” or relating to a breach of Article 10.1.6 and (B) Article 8.3(b), each of which shall
survive indefinitely); and
(b) any and all Claims (other than any Claim under Article 8.2(b) with respect to the breach of any
covenants set forth in Articles 3, 6, 17, 19 and Exhibit “K” or relating to the breach of any
representation or warranty in Article 10.1.6 or Article 10.1.23, for which there shall be no
threshold or deductible hereunder) in the aggregate up to three percent (3%) of the Purchase Price.
Seller shall not collectively be required to indemnify Buyer under Articles 8.2 and 8.3 for
aggregate damages in excess of the Purchase Price.
In calculating the foregoing deductible amounts set forth in this Article 8.7, any dollar or
materiality qualifiers in the representations and warranties shall be disregarded. Notwithstanding
anything in this Agreement to the contrary, with respect to an Alleged Adverse Condition and/or any
Claim relating thereto, in determining whether Buyer is entitled to a remedy for such Alleged
Adverse Condition and/or any Claim relating thereto, the threshold amounts with respect thereto
shall not be applied more than once.
8.8 Notice of Claims. If a Claim is asserted against a Party for which the other Party may have an obligation of
indemnity and defense (whether under this Article 8 or any other provision of this Agreement), the
Party seeking indemnification (“Indemnified Party”) shall give the Party from which the Indemnified
Party seeks indemnification (“Indemnifying Party”) prompt written notice of the
Claim, setting forth the particulars associated with the
29
Claim (including a copy of the written
Claim, if any) as then known by the Indemnified Party (“Claim Notice”).
8.9 Defense of Claims. Within thirty (30) Days after the Indemnifying Party receives a Claim Notice, the Indemnifying
Party shall notify the Indemnified Party whether or not the Indemnifying Party will assume
responsibility for defense and payment of the Claim. The Indemnified Party is authorized, prior to
and during such thirty (30) Day period, to file any motion, pleading or other answer that it deems
necessary or appropriate to protect its interests, or those of the Indemnifying Party, and that is
not prejudicial to the Indemnifying Party. If the Indemnifying Party elects not to assume
responsibility for defense and payment of the Claim, the Indemnified Party may defend against, or
enter into any settlement with respect to, the Claim as it deems appropriate without relieving the
Indemnifying Party of any indemnification obligations the Indemnifying Party may have with respect
to such Claim. The Indemnifying Party’s failure to respond in writing to a Claim Notice within the
thirty (30) Day period shall be deemed an election by the Indemnifying Party not to assume
responsibility for defense and payment of the Claim. If the Indemnifying Party elects to assume
responsibility for defense and payment of the Claim: (a) the Indemnifying Party shall defend the
Indemnified Party against the Claim with counsel of the Indemnifying Party’s choice (reasonably
acceptable to Indemnified Party which shall cooperate with the Indemnifying Party in all reasonable
respects in such defense), (b) the Indemnifying Party shall pay any judgment entered or settlement
with respect to such Claim, (c) the Indemnifying Party shall not consent to entry of any judgment
or enter into any settlement with respect to the Claim that (i) does not include a provision
whereby the plaintiff or claimant in the matter releases the Indemnified Party from all liability
with respect to the Claim or (ii) contains terms that may materially and adversely affect the
Indemnified Party (other than as a result of money damages covered by the indemnity), and (d) the
Indemnified Party shall not consent to entry of any judgment or enter into any settlement with
respect to the Claim without the Indemnifying Party’s prior written consent. In all instances the
Indemnified Party may employ separate counsel and participate in defense of a Claim, but the
Indemnified Party shall bear all fees and expenses of counsel employed by the Indemnified Party.
8.10 Waiver of Certain Damages. Each Party irrevocably waives and agrees not to seek indirect, consequential, punitive or
exemplary damages of any kind in connection with any dispute arising out of or related to this
Agreement or breach hereof. For the avoidance of doubt, this Article 8.10 does not diminish or
otherwise affect the Parties’ rights and obligations to be indemnified against, and provide
indemnity for, Claims under any indemnities in this Agreement.
8.11 Exclusive Remedy. Except for remedies that cannot be waived as a matter of Law, if Closing occurs, the indemnities
set forth in this Agreement shall be the exclusive remedy for breach of any representation,
warranty or covenant set forth in this Agreement; provided, however, nothing in this Article 8.11
shall be deemed to affect any Person’s right to equitable relief (including specific performance)
for breach of a covenant set forth in this Agreement.
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ARTICLE IX
DISCLAIMERS
DISCLAIMERS
9.1 Disclaimers. Except for the representations and warranties of Seller set forth in this Agreement: (a) Seller
shall assign the Properties to Buyer “AS-IS, WHERE-IS”, and with all faults and defects in their
present condition and state of repair, without recourse, even for the return of the Purchase Price,
and (b) Seller disclaims any and all representations and warranties with respect to the Properties
and Buyer disclaims reliance on any and all representations and warranties with respect to the
Properties as an inducement to enter into this Agreement, whether express, statutory, implied or
otherwise, including any warranty as to (i) title, (ii) compliance with Laws, (iii) existence of
any and all prospects or recompletion opportunities, (iv) geographic, geologic or geophysical
characteristics, (v) existence, quality, quantity or recoverability of hydrocarbon substances, (vi)
ability to produce, including production or decline rates, (vii) costs, expenses, revenues,
receipts, prices, accounts receivable or accounts payable, (viii) contractual, economic or
financial information and data, (ix) continued financial viability, including present or future
value or anticipated income or profits, (x) environmental or physical condition (surface and
subsurface), (xi) federal, state, or local income or other tax consequences, (xii) absence of
patent or latent defects, (xii) safety, (xiii) state of repair, (xiv) merchantability, (xv) fitness
for a particular purpose and (xvi) conformity to models or samples of materials; and Buyer (on
behalf of Buyer Group and their successors and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all claims they
may have against Seller Group associated with (i) through (xvi) hereinabove, except for the Buyer’s
right to assert the existence of Alleged Adverse Conditions in accordance with Article 5.2 and
Buyer’s right to assert indemnity claims permitted by Article 8.
9.2 Disclaimer of Statements and Information. Except for the representations and warranties of Seller set forth in this Agreement and the
disclosures relating thereto, Seller expressly disclaims any and all liability and responsibility
for and associated with the quality, accuracy, completeness or materiality of information, data and
materials shown to or furnished (electronically, orally, in writing or any other medium and whether
or not shown or furnished before or after execution of this Agreement) to Buyer Group and
associated with the Properties or the transactions contemplated by this Agreement; and Buyer (on
behalf of Buyer Group and their successors and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all claims they
may have against Seller Group associated with the same.
ARTICLE X
SELLER’S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
SELLER’S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
10.1 Seller’s Representations and Warranties.
Seller represents and warrants to Buyer that:
10.1.1 Organization and Good Standing. Seller is a corporation duly
organized, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of Delaware and has all
requisite corporate power and authority to own the Properties. Seller is duly licensed
or
31
qualified to do business as a foreign corporation and is in good standing in all
jurisdictions in which the Properties are located.
10.1.2 Corporate Authority; Authorization of Agreement. Seller has all
requisite corporate power and authority to execute and deliver this Agreement, to consummate
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and to perform all obligations placed on
Seller in this Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the valid and binding obligation of
Seller, enforceable against it in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability
may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency or other Laws relating to or affecting the
enforcement of creditors’ rights and general principles of equity (regardless of whether
such enforceability is considered in a proceeding at law or in equity).
10.1.3 No Violations. Subject to the receipt of all consents, approvals and
waivers from Third Parties in connection with the transactions contemplated hereby and
assuming compliance with the provisions of the HSR Act (if required) in connection with such
transactions, Seller’s execution and delivery of this Agreement and consummation of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement will not:
(a) conflict with or require consent of any person or entity under any terms,
conditions or provisions of Seller’s certificate of incorporation or bylaws;
(b) violate any provision of, or require any consent or approval under any Law or
agreement with tribal or governmental authorities applicable to Seller (except for
consents and approvals of governmental authorities customarily obtained subsequent to
transfer of title);
(c) conflict with, result in a breach of, constitute a default under or constitute an
event that with notice or lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default under,
accelerate or permit the acceleration of the performance required by, or require any
consent, authorization or approval under: (i) any agreement of Seller, or any mortgage,
indenture, loan, credit agreement or other agreement evidencing indebtedness for borrowed
money to which Seller is a party or by which the Properties are bound, or (ii) any order,
judgment or decree of any governmental authority; or
(d) result in creation or imposition of any lien or encumbrance on any of the
Properties.
10.1.4 Litigation. Except as set forth in Exhibit “C” there is no litigation,
action or proceeding pending against Seller or, to Seller’s knowledge, threatened against
Seller that would have an adverse effect on the value, ownership or operation of the
Properties or that would prevent timely consummation of the transaction contemplated by this
Agreement. Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary, Seller
agrees to retain sole responsibility for the litigation matters set forth in Exhibit “C” to
the extent (and only to the extent) such litigation relates to the Properties for the period
prior to the Closing.
10.1.5 Bankruptcy. There are no bankruptcy or receivership proceedings
pending against, being contemplated by or, to Seller’s knowledge, threatened against Seller
or any of its Affiliates.
10.1.6 Special Warranty of Title. Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement
to the contrary, Seller shall warrant title to and forever defend title to the
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Properties,
subject to the Permitted Encumbrances, against adverse claims of title by, through or under
Seller or its Affiliates, but not otherwise.
10.1.7 Liens, Mortgages and Security Interests. Other than the Permitted
Encumbrances, there are no liens, mortgages or security interests encumbering the
Properties.
10.1.8 Material Contracts. Schedule 10.1.8, together with Exhibit “A” insofar
as it describes easements, rights-of-way, surface leases or similar instruments, sets forth
(i) Seller’s or its Affiliates’ contracts for the sale of hydrocarbons produced from the
Properties and (ii) all contracts or agreements of the type described below included in such
Properties or by which such Properties are bound (collectively, the “Material Contracts”):
(a) any contract or agreement for capital expenditures or the acquisition or
construction of fixed assets that requires aggregate future payments in excess of
One Million Dollars ($1,000,000);
(b) any indenture, mortgage, loan, credit, sale-leaseback or similar contract
or agreement;
(c) any Hydrocarbon/CO2 sales or purchase agreement, supply agreement,
marketing agreement, exchange agreement, transportation agreement or similar
arrangement that is not terminable without penalty on thirty (30) Days notice or
less;
(d) any contract or agreement for, or that contemplates, the sale of any
interest in the Properties;
(e) any contract or agreement with any Affiliate of Seller;
(f) any unit agreement and any operating agreement applicable to the
Properties;
(g) any contract or agreement that includes a non competition restriction,
“area of mutual interest” arrangement or other similar restriction on doing
business; and
(h) any other contract which involves any future payment or obligation in
excess of One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) or is otherwise material to the
operations of the Properties.
The Material Contracts are in full force and effect in accordance with their respective
terms, and there exist no defaults by Seller or, to Seller’s knowledge, by another party
thereto in the performance of any obligation thereunder and no event has occurred that with
notice or lapse of time or both would constitute any default under any such Material
Contract. None of the Material Contracts has been amended except as set forth in Schedule
10.1.8. Prior to the execution of this Agreement, the Seller has made available to Buyer
true and complete copies of each Material Contract and all amendments thereto, except for
such Material Contracts or amendments thereto (if applicable) for which any of Seller’s
future payment obligations or other obligations are not, individually or in the aggregate, in excess of Five Million Dollars ($5,000,000)
or are
33
otherwise not material to the ownership or operation of the Properties; provided,
however, Seller shall have furnished any such Material Contracts prior to Closing.
10.1.9 Compliance with Laws. Neither Seller nor any of its Affiliates has
violated, and Seller and such Affiliates are in compliance with, all applicable Laws with
respect to the ownership and, if operated by Seller or its Affiliates, operation of the
Properties, except where such violation or noncompliance could not reasonably be expected to
result in a liability, cost, expense or loss of Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($500,000) or
more. Seller has not received any written notice of a violation of or default by it or its
Affiliates with respect to any Law or any decision, ruling, order or award of any
governmental authority or arbitrator applicable to such Properties.
10.1.10 Imbalances. The production imbalances and the gathering, processing,
transportation or other non-production imbalances (including any imbalances resulting from
any product exchange transaction) attributable to the Properties do not in the aggregate
exceed One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) net to Seller’s interest.
10.1.11 Suspense Funds. Schedule 10.1.11 (which will be delivered within 5
Business Days of the date hereof) will set forth all suspense funds held by Seller for the
account of a third party or an Affiliate of Seller that are associated with the Properties
as of December 31, 2009, except minimum suspense accounts that will be cleared prior to
Closing.
10.1.12 Non-Consent Operations. There are no operations (including, without
limitation, drilling operations) associated with the Properties with respect to which the
Seller is currently or will become a non-consenting or non-participating party.
10.1.13 Xxxxx. As to xxxxx operated by Seller and, to the knowledge of
Seller, as to xxxxx operated by Third Parties, each (a) hydrocarbons or other well
associated with the Properties is properly permitted and within the production tolerances
established by the Governmental Authority having appropriate jurisdiction, (b) injection and
disposal well associated with the Properties is properly permitted, (c) abandoned well
associated with the Properties is plugged in compliance with the applicable Laws, and (d)
hydrocarbons well associated with the Properties has been produced in compliance with
allowables allocated thereto by the applicable Governmental Authority. Except as set forth
on Schedule 10.1.13, as to xxxxx operated by Seller and, to the knowledge of Seller, as to
xxxxx operated by Third Parties, there is no hydrocarbons well associated with the
Properties that Seller is currently obligated by Law or contract or agreement to plug and
abandon because such well is not currently capable of producing in commercial quantities.
With respect to xxxxx operated by Seller and, to the knowledge of Seller, xxxxx operated by
Third Parties, Schedule 10.1.13 lists all temporarily abandoned xxxxx associated with the
Properties. Notwithstanding the foregoing, Buyer acknowledges and agrees that Seller’s
representations in this Article 10.1.13 shall not apply to any xxxxx operated by Buyer and
that Schedule 10.1.13 will not include any references to such Buyer-operated xxxxx. The
production from the Properties, net to Seller’s interest in the Properties, has exceeded
27,000 BOE per day on average for the past twelve months.
10.1.14 PPRs. Except as set forth in Schedule 10.1.14, none of the Properties
are subject to, nor are the transactions contemplated hereby subject to, any PPRs.
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10.1.15 Restrictions on Assignment. Except (a) as set forth in Schedule
10.1.15, (b) compliance with the HSR Act, (c) consents and approvals of governmental
authorities customarily obtained subsequent to transfer of title, (d) contracts or
agreements that are terminable upon thirty (30) Days notice without payment of any fee, and
(e) PPRs set forth in Schedule 10.1.15, none of the Properties are subject to, nor is Seller
bound by, any consents or other restrictions on assignment, including, but not limited to,
requirements for consents to any assignment, (in each case) that would be applicable in
connection with the transactions contemplated hereby.
10.1.16 Current Commitments. Schedule 10.1.16 contains a true and complete
list of (a) all authorizations for expenditures for all drilling operations applicable to
the Properties in excess of Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($750,000) or for capital
expenditures to such Properties in excess of Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($750,000)
that have been proposed by any person or entity on or after the Effective Time, whether or
not accepted by Seller or any other person or entity and (b) all authorizations for
expenditure in excess of Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($750,000) and written
commitments for all drilling operations in excess of Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars
($750,000) applicable to such Properties or for other capital expenditures to such
Properties in excess of Seven Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($750,000) for which all of the
activities anticipated in such authorizations for expenditures or commitments have not been
completed by the Effective Time.
10.1.17 Technology Information. Schedule 10.1.17 (which will be delivered
within 5 Business Days of the date hereof) sets forth all licenses, agreements or other
contractual arrangements covering any seismic, geological and geophysical information,
software, object and source codes, or any other technological information held by Seller in
connection with ownership or operation of any of the Properties, other than with respect to
2-D seismic (“Third Party Licenses”). Except as provided in Schedule 10.1.17, Seller owns
or has the right to use without any limitations or restrictions adversely affecting the use
of the same in the ordinary conduct of its business, the Third Party Licenses. This
Agreement (a) has not altered or impaired, nor will alter or impair, any such rights or, (b)
has not breached, or will not breach, any agreements with third party vendors. No person or
entity has overtly challenged or questioned the validity or effectiveness of any Third Party
License.
10.1.18 Governmental Licenses. Seller has obtained all governmental and
tribal permits, licenses and other authorizations required to own and, if operated by Seller
or its Affiliates, operate the Properties; all such authorizations are in full force and
effect; and no violations exist thereunder. No proceeding is pending or, to Seller’s
knowledge, threatened relating to the challenging, revocation or limitation of any such
permit, license or authorization.
10.1.19 Multiemployer Plans. Seller does not sponsor, maintain or have any
obligations under any multiemployer plan with respect to those employees listed by Seller as
provided for in Exhibit “K”.
10.1.20 Taxes. All property Taxes and severance Taxes that are due have been
timely paid or are being contested in good faith. Seller has timely filed or caused to be
timely filed all Tax returns, reports, statements and similar filings required by
35
applicable
Law with respect to the Properties due on or prior to the Closing Date. There are no
extensions or waivers of any statute of limitations with respect to such Taxes or Tax liens
burdening the Properties except for liens for current Taxes not yet due and payable.
10.1.21 Tax Partnerships. Except as provided in Schedule 10.1.21 none of the
Properties are subject to tax partnership reporting requirements under applicable provisions
of the Code. For any Property that is the subject of tax partnership reporting
requirements, Seller will use its commercially reasonable efforts to effect a §754 election
with respect any such tax partnerships.
10.1.22 Status of Seller. Seller is not a “foreign person” within the meaning
of Code §1445.
10.1.23 Financial Assurances. Seller is Solvent and, after giving effect to
the transactions contemplated hereby, Seller shall be Solvent.
ARTICLE XI
BUYER’S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
BUYER’S REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
11.1 Buyer’s Representations and Warranties. Buyer represents and warrants to Seller that:
11.1.1 Organization and Good Standing. Buyer is a limited liability company
duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the Laws of Delaware and has all
requisite limited liability company power and authority to own the Properties. Buyer is
duly licensed or qualified to do business as a foreign limited liability company and is in
good standing in all jurisdictions in which the Properties are located.
11.1.2 Limited Liability Company Authority; Authorization of Agreement. Buyer
has all requisite limited liability company power and authority to execute and deliver this
Agreement, to consummate the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and to perform all
of the obligations placed on Buyer in this Agreement. This Agreement, when executed and
delivered by Buyer, constitutes the valid and binding obligation of Buyer, enforceable
against it in accordance with its terms, except as such enforceability may be limited by
bankruptcy, insolvency or other Laws relating to or affecting the enforcement of creditors’
rights and general principles of equity (regardless of whether such enforceability is
considered in a proceeding at law or in equity).
11.1.3 No Violations. Assuming compliance with the provisions of the HSR Act
(if required) in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, Buyer’s
execution and delivery of this Agreement and consummation of the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement will not:
(a) conflict with or require the consent of any person or entity under any of the
terms, conditions or provisions of Buyer’s certificate of formation or limited liability
company agreement; or
36
(b) violate any provision of, or require any consent or approval under any Law or
agreement with tribal or governmental authorities applicable to Buyer (except for consents
and approvals of governmental authorities customarily obtained subsequent to transfer of
title); or
(c) conflict with, result in a breach of, constitute a default under or constitute an
event that with notice or lapse of time, or both, would constitute a default under,
accelerate or permit the acceleration of the performance required by, or require any
consent, authorization or approval under: (i) any agreement of Buyer, or any mortgage,
indenture, loan, credit agreement or other agreement evidencing indebtedness for borrowed
money to which Buyer is a party, or (ii) any order, judgment or decree of any governmental
authority.
11.1.4 SEC Disclosure. Buyer is acquiring the Properties for its own account
for use in its trade or business, and not with a view toward or for sale associated with any
distribution thereof, nor with any present intention of making a distribution thereof within
the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
11.1.5 Litigation. There is no litigation, action or proceeding pending
against Buyer or, to Buyer’s knowledge, threatened against Buyer that would prevent timely
consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
11.1.6 Independent Evaluation. Buyer is sophisticated in evaluation, purchase,
ownership and operation of oil and gas properties and related facilities similar to the
Properties, and in making its decision to enter into this Agreement and to consummate the
transactions contemplated herein, Buyer (a) relied solely on its own independent
investigation and evaluation of the Properties and the advice of its engineers, contractors,
geological and geophysical advisors, lawyers and accountants and not on any comments,
statements, reports, projections or other documents or materials provided by or for Seller
or its agents, whether before or after execution of this Agreement, and (b) satisfied itself
as to the environmental, physical and other condition of, and contractual arrangements
affecting, the Properties.
11.1.7 Bankruptcy. There are no bankruptcy or receivership proceedings pending
against, being contemplated by or, to Buyer’s knowledge, threatened against Buyer or any of
its Affiliates.
11.1.8 Financial Assurances. Buyer has (or as of Closing will have) available
financial resources to discharge all obligations assumed by Buyer hereunder.
11.1.9 Consents. Except for any consents required in connection with the HSR
Act, there are no consents that would be applicable in connection with the consummation of
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement by Buyer.
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ARTICLE XII
ADDITIONAL COVENANTS
ADDITIONAL COVENANTS
12.1 Subsequent Operations. Seller makes no representations or warranties to Buyer as to transferability or assignability of
operatorship of any Properties that Seller currently operates. Rights and obligations associated
with operatorship of the Properties are governed by operating and similar agreements covering the
Properties and will be decided in accordance with the terms of such agreements.
12.2 Buyer’s Assumption of Obligations. If Closing occurs, and subject only to Seller’s indemnities in Articles 5.2, 8.2, 8.3 and 8.6,
and except for other matters that are Seller’s or its Affiliate’s express obligations under this
Agreement, Buyer hereby assumes, shall pay and shall timely perform and discharge all of Seller’s
duties and obligations associated with the Properties arising prior to, on or after the Closing
(including any and all contractual duties and obligations arising therefrom) (collectively, the
“Assumed Obligations”), and in fulfilling these obligations, Buyer shall comply with all Laws.
12.3 Asbestos and NORM. The Properties may currently or have in the past contained asbestos and NORM, and special
procedures associated with assessment, remediation, removal, transportation or disposal of asbestos
and NORM may be necessary, and Buyer acknowledges and agrees as follows from and after Closing.
12.3.1 Except with respect to a breach by Seller of any of its representations or
warranties contained in Article 10, as limited by Article 8, Buyer accepts sole
responsibility for and agrees to pay any and all costs and expenses associated with
assessment, remediation, removal, transportation and disposal of asbestos and NORM
associated with the Properties, and may not claim the fact that assessment, remediation,
removal, transportation or disposal of asbestos and NORM are not complete or that additional
costs and expenses are required in connection with assessment, remediation, removal,
transportation or disposal of asbestos and NORM as an Alleged Adverse Condition or the basis
for any other redress against Seller or its Affiliates, and Buyer (on behalf of Buyer Group
and their successors and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all Losses and Third Party
Claims they may have against Seller Group associated with the same; and
12.3.2 Except with respect to a breach by Seller of any of its representations or
warranties contained in Article 10, as limited by Article 8, Buyer releases Seller Group
from and shall fully protect, defend, indemnify, and hold Seller Group harmless from and
against any and all Losses and Third Party Claims relating to, arising out of, or connected
with, directly or indirectly, the assessment, remediation, removal, transportation and
disposal of asbestos and NORM associated with the Properties, no matter whether arising
before, on or after the Effective Time. This indemnity and defense obligation will apply
regardless of cause or of any negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent
negligence or strict liability), breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of Law
or other fault of Seller Group, or any pre-existing defect. For the removal of doubt,
Buyer’s release under this Article 12.3 does not prevent Buyer from asserting
38
the existence
of an Alleged Adverse Condition under Article 5.2 for asbestos or NORM that is, as of a date
prior to Closing, in a condition that violates existing Laws. The preceding sentence shall
in no way expand Buyer’s rights under Article 5.2 or diminish Buyer’s waiver contained in
Article 5.3.
12.4 Plugging and Abandonment. The Properties may contain xxxxx and facilities that have been shut in or temporarily or
permanently abandoned including such xxxxx as are listed on Schedule 12.4, and Buyer acknowledges
and agrees as follows from and after Closing:
12.4.1 Except with respect to a breach by Seller of any of its representations or
warranties contained in Article 10, as limited by Article 8, Buyer hereby expressly assumes
and accepts sole and exclusive responsibility for and agrees to pay all costs and expenses
associated with Plugging and Abandonment of all xxxxx and facilities associated with the
Properties (whether or not listed on Schedule 12.4), and may not claim the fact that
Plugging and Abandonment operations are not complete or that additional costs and expenses
are required to complete Plugging and Abandonment operations as an Alleged Adverse Condition
or the basis for any other redress against Seller or its Affiliates, and Buyer (on behalf of
Buyer Group and their successors and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all Losses and
Third Party Claims they may have against Seller Group associated with the same; and
12.4.2 Except with respect to a breach by Seller of any of its representations or
warranties contained in Article 10, as limited by Article 8, Buyer releases Seller Group
from and shall fully protect, defend, indemnify, and hold Seller Group harmless from and
against any and all Losses and Third Party Claims relating to, arising out of, or connected
with, directly or indirectly, Plugging and Abandonment operations, no matter whether arising
before, on or after the Effective Time. This indemnity and defense obligation will apply
regardless of cause or of any negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence,
concurrent negligence or strict liability), breach of duty (statutory or otherwise),
violation of Law, or other fault of Seller Group, or any pre-existing defect. For the
removal of doubt, Buyer’s release under this Article 12.4 does not prevent Buyer from
asserting the existence of an Alleged Adverse Condition under Article 5.2 for any condition
that, as of a date prior to Closing, violates existing Laws with respect to Plugging and
Abandonment operations. The preceding sentence shall in no way expand Buyer’s rights under
Article 5.2 or diminish Buyer’s waiver contained in Article 5.3.
12.5 Process Safety Management. Buyer acknowledges that Process Safety Management is an ongoing process, and Buyer acknowledges and
agrees as follows from and after Closing:
(a) Except with respect to a breach by Seller of any of its representations or warranties
contained in Article 10, as limited by Article 8, Buyer accepts sole responsibility for and
agrees to pay all costs and expenses associated with Process Safety Management associated
with the Properties (including identification,
39
evaluation and remediation), and may not
claim the fact that the Process Safety Management is not complete or that additional costs
and expenses are required to comply with or complete Process Safety Management as an Alleged
Adverse Condition, or the basis for any other redress against Seller, and Buyer (on behalf
of Buyer Group and their successors and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all claims they
may have against Seller Group associated with the same; and
(b) Except with respect to a breach by Seller of any of its representations or warranties
contained in Article 10, as limited by Article 8, Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall
fully protect, defend, indemnify and hold Seller Group harmless from and against any and all
Claims relating to, arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, Process
Safety Management associated with the Properties, no matter whether arising before or after
the Effective Time. This indemnity and defense obligation will apply regardless of cause or
of any negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent negligence or
strict liability), breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of Law, or other fault
of Seller Group, or any pre-existing defect. For the removal of doubt, Buyer’s release
under this Article 12.5 does not prevent Buyer from asserting the existence of an Alleged
Adverse Condition under Article 5.2 for any condition that, as of a date prior to Closing,
violates existing Laws with respect to Process Safety Management. The preceding sentence
shall in no way expand Buyer’s rights under Article 5.2 or diminish Buyer’s waiver contained
in Article 5.3.
12.6 Imbalances. Imbalances may exist as of the Effective Time. If Closing occurs, all Imbalances (whether for
over-production or over-deliveries by Seller or under-production or under-deliveries by Seller)
will pass to Buyer as of the Effective Time, and Buyer thereupon shall be entitled to all rights
and shall assume all obligations with respect to any and all such Imbalances. There shall be no
amounts paid to or by either Party to the other as a Purchase Price adjustment, as part of the
Final Accounting Settlement or otherwise, based on Imbalances. Subject to Article 8, if Closing
occurs:
12.6.1 Buyer accepts sole responsibility for and agrees to pay all costs and expenses,
if any, associated with Imbalances, and Buyer (on behalf of Buyer Group and their successors
and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all claims they may have against Seller Group
associated with the same; and
12.6.2 Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall fully protect, defend, indemnify and
hold Seller Group harmless from and against any and all Losses and Third Party Claims relating to, arising out of, or connected with, directly
or indirectly, Imbalances, no matter whether arising before, on or after the Effective Time.
12.7 Suspense Funds. Buyer acknowledges that Suspense Funds may exist as of the Effective Time. Seller shall transfer
at Closing any Suspense Funds held by Seller as operator of any Properties and the obligations with
respect thereto to Buyer. This transfer shall be accounted for in the Final Accounting Statement.
Subject to Article 6 and Article 8, if Closing occurs:
40
12.7.1 Buyer accepts sole responsibility for and agrees to pay all costs and expenses
associated with the Suspense Funds, and Buyer (on behalf of Buyer Group and their successors
and assigns) irrevocably waives any and all claims they may have against Seller Group
associated with the same; and
12.7.2 Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall fully protect, defend, indemnify and
hold Seller Group harmless from and against any and all Losses and Third Party Claims
relating to, arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, the Suspense Funds,
no matter whether arising before, on or after the Effective Time.
12.8 Sales Tax. The Parties agree that this sale is an occasional sale of assets by Seller in which it does not
trade in the ordinary course of business. The Parties shall take commercially reasonable actions
to assert and establish the occasional sale exemption from Sales Tax associated with the
transactions contemplated hereby. If Sales Tax is due and owing as a result of Seller’s transfer
of the Properties to Buyer, Buyer shall be solely responsible and liable for any and all such Sales
Tax. Before the Closing Date, Buyer and Seller shall agree on the value of the tangible personal
property being transferred and Buyer shall provide Seller with documentation detailing the basis
for Buyer’s allocation of the Purchase Price to any such Properties that are subject to Sales Tax.
Buyer shall provide Seller with an exemption certificate for any tangible personal property
included in the Properties for which it claims a Sales Tax exemption. Seller shall invoice, and
Buyer shall pay, any Sales Tax on Buyer’s acquisition of all nonexempt tangible personal property
and Seller shall remit the Sales Tax to the applicable governmental entity or authority. If Seller
is later required to pay any additional Sales Tax, interest, or penalty thereon, Buyer shall
reimburse Seller within thirty (30) Days after receipt of Seller’s written notice of the payment.
Notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary (including Article 6 or
Article 8), Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall fully protect, defend, indemnify and hold
Seller Group harmless from and against any and all Losses and Third Party Claims (no matter when
asserted) relating to, arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, Sales Tax
resulting from or associated with Seller’s transfer of Properties to Buyer.
12.9 Guaranty Agreement and First Amendment to Deed of Guarantee and
Indemnity. Buyer has caused its ultimate parent company or an Affiliate of Buyer (who is
acceptable to Seller) to execute and deliver the Guaranty Agreement in the form of Exhibit
“I-1” simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement.
12.9.2 Seller has caused its ultimate parent company or an Affiliate of Seller (who is
acceptable to Seller) to execute and deliver the Guaranty Agreement in the form of Exhibit
“I-2” simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement.
12.9.3 Each of Seller and Buyer has caused BP Exploration Operating Company Limited and
Apache Corporation, respectively, to execute and deliver the First Amendment to Deed of
Guarantee and Indemnity simultaneously with the execution of this Agreement.
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12.10 Transition Agreement. Buyer and Seller shall execute and deliver the Transition Agreement at Closing.
12.11 Seismic Data.
Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, Buyer is responsible for obtaining any
necessary consents to Seller’s assignment of any Third Party Seismic Data licenses or other
agreements or for Buyer to enter into new licenses or other agreements, in each case as may be
needed to permit Buyer to continue to utilize any Third Party Seismic Data covering the Properties
after the Closing Date. Seller shall reasonably assist Buyer in contacting the relevant Third
Parties, but Buyer shall be solely responsible for and shall bear all costs and transfer and other
fees required to obtain assignments or new licenses or other agreements in connection with Third
Party Seismic Data. With respect to any of Seller’s wholly-owned seismic data pertaining to the
Properties, Buyer and Seller shall execute and deliver the Seismic License at Closing.
12.12 Interim Period. During the Interim Period, Seller shall maintain and operate the Properties and dispose of
production from the Properties in the ordinary course of business consistent with the Seller’s past
custom and practice with respect to the Properties.
12.12.1 Without the consent of Buyer (which shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed), during the Interim Period, Seller shall not, with respect to the Properties:
(a) except with respect to matters indemnified by Seller that are referenced in Exhibit
“C”, waive, compromise or settle any right or claim which reasonably would be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect;
(b) incur any obligation in excess of $500,000 with respect to the Properties for which
Buyer would be responsible after Closing, other than in connection with transactions in the
normal, usual and customary manner, of a nature and in an amount consistent with past
practices employed by Seller with respect to the Properties and/or in connection with
situations believed in good faith by Seller to constitute an emergency (in which case Seller’s obligation is limited to notifying Buyer as soon as reasonably
practicable of such emergency and obligations);
(c) encumber, sell, lease, or otherwise dispose of any of the Properties having a value
in excess of $500,000 (excluding sales of hydrocarbons therefrom), except to the extent
replaced by equivalent property or to the extent used, consumed or abandoned in the normal
operations of Seller’s business; or
(d) enter into a contract or commitment for any capital expenditure or acquisition or
construction of fixed assets in either case for which Buyer would be responsible after
Closing in an amount individually in excess of $500,000, except in connection with
situations believed in good faith by Seller to constitute an emergency (in which case
Seller’s obligation is limited to notifying Buyer as soon as reasonably practicable of such
emergency and obligations).
12.12.2 Regardless of whether all of the operations conducted by Seller during the
Interim Period with respect to any of the Properties have been fully
42
completed by Seller
prior to Closing, upon Closing Buyer shall assume full responsibility for the completion of
all such operations applicable to the Properties, subject, however, to the terms of the
Transition Agreement during the Transition Period.
12.12.3 Buyer acknowledges Seller owns undivided interests in certain of the Properties
and that Seller does not operate all of the Properties, and Buyer agrees that the acts or
omissions of Third Party working interests owners (including Third Party operators) shall
not constitute a breach of the provisions of this Article 12.12, nor shall any action
required by a vote of working interest owners constitute such a breach so long as Seller has
voted its interest in a manner that complies with the provisions of this Article 12.12.
Furthermore. Seller shall not be deemed or held to be in breach of any of Seller’s
representations, warranties, covenants or other agreements contained in this Agreement to
the extent that any such breach arises out of or in connection with the actions of Buyer or
Buyer’s Affiliates as operators or co-owners of any of the Properties prior to the Closing.
12.13 Consents to Assign. Prior to the Closing Date, Seller shall attempt to obtain consents necessary to assign the
Properties to Buyer at Closing.
12.14 Notification of Breaches. Until Closing:
12.14.1 Buyer shall notify Seller promptly upon Buyer’s knowledge that any of Seller’s
or Buyer’s representations or warranties in this Agreement are untrue in any material
respect or will be untrue in any material respect as of the Closing Date or that any
covenant or agreement to be performed or observed by Seller prior to or on the Closing Date
has not been so performed or observed in any material respect or that any title defect or
noncompliance with any Environmental Law exists.
12.14.2 Seller shall notify Buyer promptly upon Seller’s knowledge that any of Seller’s
or Buyer’s representations or warranties in this Agreement are untrue in any material
respect or will be untrue in any material respect as of the Closing Date or that any
covenant or agreement to be performed or observed by Buyer prior to or on the Closing Date
has not been so performed or observed in a material respect.
12.14.3 If any of Buyer’s or Seller’s representations or warranties are untrue or will
become untrue in any material respect between the date of execution of this Agreement and
the Closing Date, or if any of Buyer’s or Seller’s covenants or agreements to be performed
or observed prior to or on the Closing Date shall not have been so performed or observed in
any material respect, but if such breach of representation, warranty, covenant or agreement
shall (if curable) be cured by the Closing, then such breach shall be considered not to have
occurred for all purposes of this Agreement.
12.15 Third Party-Owned Software. Buyer shall be responsible for the purchase of all Third Party-Owned Software that is needed or is
appropriate for Buyer’s operation of the Properties as currently operated by Seller. Seller will
use reasonable efforts to procure for Buyer the rights (including seeking and obtaining relevant
vendor consents) to access
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and use (or permit Seller to access and use on Buyer’s behalf) all Third
Party-Owned Software during the Transition Period only, and Buyer shall bear all costs and fees, if
any, to procure such consents and shall reimburse Seller in the Final Accounting Settlement for any
such costs or fees incurred by Seller in connection therewith. Buyer acknowledges that Buyer’s
rights to access and use Third Party-Owned Software under Third Party consents so procured by
Seller will expire at the end of the Transition Period, and Buyer agrees to obtain its own licenses
for all Third Party-Owned Software that Buyer deems necessary or appropriate in connection with the
operation of the Properties after the Transition Period. Upon termination of the Transition
Period, Buyer shall certify to Seller in writing that all Third Party-Owned Software for which
consents were obtained for it by Seller either has been de-installed or have been licensed by Buyer
from the applicable vendor. Seller shall have the right to confirm, at Seller’s expense, that
post-Transition Period use by Buyer of all Third Party-Owned Software has either ceased or
continues under license(s) Buyer has acquired from the applicable vendors.
12.16 Financial Statements. Both prior to and after the Closing, Seller shall provide Buyer with access (upon reasonable
notice and during normal business hours ) to (i) information reasonably requested by Buyer from
Seller’s operating and financial Records relating primarily to the Properties for the fiscal years
ended December 31, 2008 and December 31, 2009 which were previously made available to Seller’s
auditors for purposes of preparing BP North American Gas Strategic Performance Unit’s (“NAG SPU”)
annual audited and quarterly reviewed financial statements for those years with respect to the
Properties and (ii) information reasonably requested by Buyer from NAG SPU’s corresponding records
for any completed fiscal quarter for the fiscal year to be ended December 31, 2010 prior to the
Closing, including (in each case) Records reasonably requested with respect to oil and natural gas
reserves and production and direct lease operating costs with respect to each of the Properties and the gross revenues from each of the
Properties and such other information relating to the Properties as Buyer may reasonably request in
order for Buyer to prepare financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2009 and periods
ended June 30, 2010, in each case to the extent necessary to be included by Buyer in any filings
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) with respect to or as a
result of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement (the “SEC Basis Financial Statements”)
(it being acknowledged that Seller shall not be required to prepare any pro formas and
forward-looking statements). Seller shall cause Seller’s and Seller’s Affiliates’ personnel to
reasonably cooperate with Buyer in providing such access and to reasonably assist Buyer in locating
and interpreting such Records and Seller shall reasonably instruct IBM in IBM’s capacity as
Seller’s contractor to provide reasonable assistance to Buyer in the preparation of the SEC Basis
Financial Statements. In connection herewith, Seller shall use its commercially reasonable efforts
to cause, both prior to and after Closing, Seller’s independent public accountants to make
available to Buyer the personnel of Seller’s independent public accountants and Seller shall
consent to Seller’s independent public accountants consulting on the preparation of the SEC Basis
Financial Statements, provided that Buyer provides to such independent public accountants customary
indemnities, waivers and agreements with respect to such audit work papers and other files as such
independent public accountants and Seller shall request. Seller shall reasonably cooperate with
the Buyer’s independent public accountants in the preparation, audit and/or review of the SEC Basis
Financial Statements so that Buyer may file the SEC Basis Financial Statements within the time
period required by the Exchange Act, which cooperation will include the delivery of one or more
customary representation letters from Seller to such independent public accountants as may be
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reasonably required by such independent public accountants to perform an audit in accordance with
generally accepted auditing standards or a review in accordance with AICPA standards and to render
an opinion acceptable to the SEC with respect to the audit or review of the SEC Basis Financial
Statements, it being understood that such representation letters shall acknowledge (i) Seller’s use
of estimates and allocations in the preparation of the SEC Basis Financial Statements, and (ii)
Seller’s belief that the SEC Basis Financial Statements represent the financial conditions and
results of operations of the Properties, and that such estimates and allocations were made on a
reasonable basis. The cost incurred by Seller and its Affiliates in providing the financial Records
(including fees of accountants) to Buyer and assisting Buyer as provided in this Article shall be
borne by Buyer. Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall fully protect, defend, indemnify and
hold Seller Group harmless from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses or damages
(including costs of investigation and attorneys’ and experts’ fees and expenses) relating to,
arising out of, or connected with, directly or indirectly, the preparation or furnishing of any
such records to Buyer, any actions, representations or certifications of Seller’s and its
Affiliates’ personnel or auditors with respect to the information contained in such Records, or
Buyer’s use of the information contained in such Records, the inclusion of such financial Records
in any debt or equity offering documents or related materials, regardless of cause or of any
negligent acts or omissions (including sole negligence, concurrent negligence or strict liability),
breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of Law, or other fault of Seller Group, or any
pre-existing defect.
ARTICLE XIII
HSR ACT
HSR ACT
13.1 HSR Filings. As promptly as practicable and in any event not more than two (2) Business Days after the date of
this Agreement with respect to any initial filing pursuant to the HSR Act, both Parties shall file
with all Governmental Authorities that may be necessary in order to consummate the transactions,
including the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice, as applicable, the required
notification and report forms and shall as promptly as practicable furnish any supplemental
information that may be requested in connection therewith, and request early termination of the
waiting period under the HSR Act.
Each Party shall bear its own costs and expenses incurred in connection with any such filing and
provision of information, and Buyer and Seller shall each bear one-half of the costs of any filing
fee required under the HSR Act. The Parties hereto shall have the right to review in advance all
characterizations of the information relating to this Agreement and the transactions contemplated
hereby that appear in any filing made with a Governmental Authority as contemplated herein. Buyer
and Seller agree to respond promptly to any inquiries from Governmental Authorities, including the
Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission, concerning such filings and to comply in all
material respects with the filing requirements of the HSR Act. Buyer and Seller shall consult and
cooperate with each other and, subject to the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement, shall
promptly furnish all information to the other Party that is necessary in connection with Buyer’s
and Seller’s compliance with the HSR Act. Buyer and Seller shall keep each other fully apprised
with respect to any requests from or communications with Governmental Authorities, including the
Department of Justice or the Federal Trade Commission, concerning such filings and shall consult
with each other with respect to all
45
responses thereto and consider any comments of the other Party
in good faith. Each of Seller and Buyer shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to take
all actions reasonably necessary and appropriate in connection with any HSR Act filing to
consummate the transactions hereby as soon as practicable; provided, however, in no event will
either of the Parties or their respective Affiliates be required to agree to any divestiture,
transfer or licensing of its properties, assets or businesses, or to the imposition of any
limitation on the ability of any of the foregoing to conduct its businesses or to own or exercise
control of its assets and properties.
ARTICLE XIV
PERSONNEL
PERSONNEL
14.1 Employees. Employee related matters are addressed on Exhibit “K”.
ARTICLE XV
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO CLOSING
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT TO CLOSING
15.1 Conditions Precedent to Seller’s Obligation to Close.
Seller shall, subject to satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to Closing in Article 15.3,
consummate the sale of the Properties on the Closing Date, provided the following conditions
precedent have been satisfied or have been waived in writing by Seller:
15.1.1 Each of the representations and warranties of Buyer contained in this Agreement
shall be true and correct in all respects (without regard to any material adverse effect or
other materiality qualifier) with the same force and effect as though such representations
and warranties had been made or given on and as of the Closing Date, except where such
failures to be so true and correct would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
be expected to have a material adverse effect on the ability of Buyer to consummate the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
15.1.2 Each of Buyer’s material obligations, covenants and conditions in this Agreement
to be performed or complied with prior to Closing shall have been complied with in all
material respects; and
15.1.3 Buyer shall be willing and able to deliver the documents and perform the actions
set forth in Article 16.3.
15.2 Conditions Precedent to Buyer’s Obligation to Close.
Buyer shall, subject to satisfaction or waiver of the conditions to Closing set forth in Article
15.3, consummate the purchase of the Properties contemplated by this Agreement on the Closing Date,
provided the following conditions precedent have been satisfied or have been waived in writing by
Buyer:
15.2.1 Each of the representations and warranties of Seller contained in this Agreement
shall be true and correct in all respects (without regard to any Material Adverse Effect or
other materiality qualifier) with the same force and effect as though
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such representations
and warranties had been made or given on and as of the Closing Date, except where such
failures to be so true and correct would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect;
15.2.2 Each of Seller’s material obligations, covenants and conditions in this
Agreement to be performed or complied with prior to Closing shall have been complied with in
all material respects; and
15.2.3 Seller shall be willing and able to deliver the documents and perform the
actions set forth in Article 16.2.
15.3 Conditions Precedent to Obligation of Each Party to Close. The Parties shall, subject to waiver or satisfaction of the conditions to Closing set forth in
Articles 15.1 and 15.2, consummate the sale and purchase of the Properties on the Closing Date,
provided the following conditions precedent have been satisfied or have been waived in writing by
both Parties:
15.3.1 if applicable, consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement
is not prevented by (and the required waiting period, if any, has expired under) the HSR Act
and the rules and regulations of the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice;
15.3.2 no injunction, order or award restraining, enjoining or otherwise prohibiting
consummation of, or granting material damages associated with, the transactions contemplated
by this Agreement or sale of any one or more of the Properties has been issued by any
Governmental Authority of competent jurisdiction and remains in effect, and no suits,
actions or other proceedings are pending before any such Governmental Authority in which a
Third Party seeks to restrain, enjoin or otherwise prohibit consummation of, or obtain
material damages associated with, the transactions contemplated by this Agreement or sale of
any one or more of the Properties; provided that if such an injunction, order, award, suit,
action or other proceeding applicable to some (but not all) of the Properties is pending on
the Closing Date, Closing with respect to the unaffected Properties shall proceed and the
Parties shall conduct a second closing for the affected Properties if and when the
above-referenced condition to Closing is removed. If the above-referenced condition to
Closing is not removed as to the affected Properties within one hundred twenty (120) Days
after the Closing Date, the affected Properties, automatically and without need for
amendment of this Agreement, shall be removed from this Agreement and shall be deemed
Excluded Properties, and Buyer shall not be obligated to make payment to Seller for that
portion of the Purchase Price allocated to such Properties in Exhibit “A” (or, in the case
of an affected Property that is not allocated a value on Exhibit “A”, as may be mutually
agreed by the Parties; provided that if no such agreement is reached, such matters shall be
an Arbitrable Dispute), and the Parties shall have no further obligations to each other with
respect to the same; and
15.3.3 all material consents and approvals (except for consents and approvals of tribal
or governmental entities or authorities customarily obtained subsequent to transfer of
title) have been obtained; provided, however, if on the Closing
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Date material consents
applicable to some (but not all) of the Properties have not been obtained, Closing with
respect to the unaffected Properties shall proceed, and the Parties shall conduct a second
closing for the affected Properties, if and when the above-referenced condition to Closing
is removed. If the above-referenced condition to Closing is not removed as to the affected
Properties within one hundred eighty (180) Days after the Closing Date, the affected
Properties (automatically and without need for amendment of this Agreement) shall be removed
from this Agreement, and Buyer shall not be obligated to make payment to Seller for that
portion of the Purchase Price allocated to such Properties in Exhibit “A” (or, in the case
of an affected Property that is not allocated a value on Exhibit “A”, as may be mutually
agreed by the Parties; provided that if no such agreement is reached, such matters shall be
an Arbitrable Dispute), and the Parties shall have no further obligations to each other with
respect to the same.
ARTICLE XVI
THE CLOSING
THE CLOSING
16.1 Closing.
No later than seven (7) Days prior to the Closing Date, Seller shall provide Buyer a statement
(“Closing Statement”) setting forth an estimate, prepared in good faith, of the Adjusted Purchase
Price, taking into account the adjustments permitted hereunder. Buyer shall have four (4) Days to
review the Closing Statement. On the Day following expiration of such four (4) Day review period,
Buyer shall submit a written report containing any changes Buyer proposes to be made to the Closing
Statement. The Parties shall attempt to agree on a final Closing Statement no later than two (2)
Days prior to Closing. If the Parties are unable to agree by that date, Seller’s good faith
estimate shall be used to determine the Adjusted Purchase Price to be used at Closing. If the
Closing Payment is a positive number, such amount shall constitute the dollar amount to be paid by
Buyer to Seller at Closing pursuant to Article 16.3.1. If the Closing Payment is a negative
number, the absolute value of such amount shall constitute the dollar amount to be paid by Seller
to Buyer pursuant to Article 16.2.1. Seller or Buyer, as applicable, also shall provide to the
other Party wiring instructions designating the account(s) to which Buyer or Seller, as applicable,
shall deliver the Closing Payment. Closing shall be held on the Closing Date in Seller’s office at
000 XxxxXxxx Xxxx Xxxxxxxxx, Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000 or such other place as Seller may notify Buyer
before the Closing Date.
16.2 Seller’s Obligations at Closing. At Closing, Seller shall deliver to Buyer, unless waived by Buyer, the following:
16.2.1 if the Closing Payment is a negative number, the Closing Payment by wire
transfer of immediately available funds to the account(s) designated by Buyer in accordance
with this Agreement;
16.2.2 a document substantially in the form of the Assignment and Xxxx of Sale,
assigning all of Seller’s right, title and interests in the Properties, executed by an
Attorney-in-Fact of Seller and acknowledged, in four (4) multiple originals, plus such
additional originals as are necessary to allow recording in all appropriate jurisdictions
(or such greater number as the Parties agree);
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16.2.3 four (4) originals of the Certificate executed by an authorized officer or an
Attorney-in-Fact of Seller;
16.2.4 four (4) originals of the Non-Foreign Certificate executed by an
Attorney-in-Fact of Seller;
16.2.5 four (4) originals of a Secretary’s Certificate or Assistant Secretary’s
Certificate certifying as to the due authorization of Seller’s signatory to the documents
signed at Closing;
16.2.6 four (4) originals of the Transition Agreement executed by an Attorney-in-Fact
of Seller;
16.2.7 four (4) originals of the Seismic License executed by an authorized officer or
an Attorney-in-Fact of Seller; and
16.2.8 any other instruments and agreements (including ratification or joinder
instruments required to transfer Properties from Seller to Buyer and deeds) as are necessary
or appropriate to comply with Seller’s obligations under this Agreement.
16.3 Buyer’s Obligations at Closing. At Closing, Buyer shall deliver to Seller, unless waived by Seller, the following:
16.3.1 if the Closing Payment is a positive number, the Closing Payment by wire
transfer of immediately available funds to the account(s) designated by Seller in accordance
with this Agreement;
16.3.2 the documents referred to in Articles 16.2.2, 16.2.3 16.2.6, 16.2.7 and 16.2.8,
executed by an authorized officer or an Attorney-in-Fact of Buyer and acknowledged;
16.3.3 four (4) originals of the Certificate executed by an authorized officer or an
Attorney-in-Fact of Buyer;
16.3.4 four (4) originals of (i) certificates of the appropriate governmental
authorities, dated as of a date not earlier than two (2) Business Days prior to the Closing
Date, evidencing Buyer’s existence and good standing in the States of Delaware, and (ii)
certificates of the Secretary or Assistant Secretary of Buyer (and with respect to the
Guaranty Agreement, Buyer’s Affiliate), dated on the Closing Date, certifying (A) that a
true and correct copy of the resolutions of Buyer’s board of directors authorizing this
Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby are attached thereto have been duly
adopted and are in full force and effect; (B) that true and correct copies of the
certificate of formation, all amendments thereto and limited liability company agreement of
Buyer are attached thereto; and (C) as to the incumbency and authorization of Buyer’s
signatory executing on behalf of Buyer this Agreement and the other documents executed in
connection herewith and Buyer’s Affiliate’s signatory, with respect to the Guaranty
Agreement); and
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16.3.5 any other instruments and agreements (including ratification or joinder
instruments required to transfer the Properties from Seller to Buyer and deeds) as necessary
or appropriate to comply with Buyer’s obligations under this Agreement.
ARTICLE XVII
TERMINATION
TERMINATION
17.1 Grounds for Termination. This Agreement may be terminated (except for the individual provisions specifically referenced in
Article 17.2 below) at any time prior to Closing (unless another date is stated below):
17.1.1 by the Parties’ mutual written agreement;
17.1.2 by either Party, if consummation of the transactions contemplated by this
Agreement would violate any non-appealable final order, decree or judgment of any state or
federal court or agency enjoining, restraining, prohibiting or awarding substantial damages
in connection with (a) Seller’s proposed sale of Properties to Buyer, or (b) consummation of
the transactions contemplated by this Agreement;
17.1.3 by Seller, if Buyer refuses or fails to fulfill its obligations under Article
2.4, without necessity of notice or right to cure;
17.1.4 by either Party, if at any time prior to the Closing Date, such Party becomes
aware that any condition precedent to such Party’s obligation to Close cannot be satisfied
prior to the Closing Date, provided, however, that the terminating Party shall have given
the other Party at least five (5) Business Days (“cure period”) in which to attempt to cure
the situation and at the end of such cure period, the relevant condition precedent remains
unable to be satisfied prior to the Closing Date;
17.1.5 notwithstanding anything contained in this Agreement to the contrary, by the
Seller or Buyer, if Closing has not occurred on or before October 29, 2010 (unless such date
is extended by mutual agreement of the Parties); provided, however, that no Party shall have
the right to terminate this Agreement pursuant to this Article 17.1.5 if such Party is at
such time in material breach of any provision of this Agreement; or
17.1.6 by either Party, if the Termination Defect Amount meets or exceeds the requisite
amount set forth in the definition of such term.
17.2 Effect of Termination; Failure to Close. Except as otherwise provided in this Article 17.2, if this Agreement is terminated in accordance
with Article 17.1, such termination is without liability to either Party, except performance of
obligations in this Article 17.2, Articles 5.1.2, 17.3, 17.4, 18.1, 18.2, 19.1, 19.3, 19.7, 19.8,
19.10, 19.12, 19.13, 19.14, 19.15, 19.16, 19.17 and 19.20, all of which provisions survive
termination of this Agreement. If Closing does not occur, Seller shall on the earlier of (i)
November 3, 2010 or (ii) within three (3) Business Days after termination of this Agreement, refund
the Performance Deposit together with Computed Interest thereon through the end of the Day
immediately preceding the date of such refund to Buyer unless Closing did not occur because of
Buyer’s material breach of this
50
Agreement or Buyer’s failure or refusal to Close that is not
permitted by the terms of this Agreement. If Closing does not occur because of Buyer’s
material breach of this Agreement or Buyer’s failure or refusal to Close that is not permitted by
the terms of this Agreement, Seller shall on the earlier of (i) November 3, 2010 or (ii) within
three (3) Business Days after termination of this Agreement, refund to Buyer an amount equal to (i)
the Performance Deposit together with Computed Interest thereon through the end of the Day
immediately preceding the date of such refund minus (ii) an amount equal to five percent (5%) of
the Purchase Price together with Computed Interest thereon from July 30, 2010 through the end of
the Day immediately preceding the date of such refund (the “Reverse Breakup Fee”). Seller’s
retention of the Reverse Breakup Fee shall constitute liquidated damages and not a penalty. Each
Party agrees that notwithstanding anything in this Agreement to the contrary, in the event that the
Reverse Breakup Fee shall be retained by Seller in accordance with this Article 17.2, the payment
of such Reverse Breakup Fee shall be the sole and exclusive remedy of any member of the Seller
Group against any member of the Buyer Group, and in no event will any member of the Seller Group
seek to recover any other money damages or seek any other remedy based on a claim at law or in
equity with respect to (1) any loss suffered, directly or indirectly, as a result of the failure of
the transactions contemplated hereby to be consummated, (2) the termination of this Agreement, (3)
any liabilities or obligations arising under this Agreement, or (4) any claims or actions arising
out of or relating to any breach, termination or failure of or under this Agreement, and no member
of the Buyer Group shall have any further liability or obligation to any member of the Seller Group
relating to or arising out of this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby. The
provisions for payment of the Reverse Breakup Fee as liquidated damages in this Article 17.2 have
been included because, in the event of termination of this Agreement as described in Article 17.2,
both Buyer and Seller agree that the actual damages that would be incurred by Seller are reasonably
expected to approximate the amount of the Reverse Breakup Fee and because the actual amount of such
damages would be difficult, if not impossible, to measure precisely and Buyer waives any rights to
claim otherwise, and Seller shall have no liability or obligation to any member of the Buyer Group
relating to or arising out of the Reverse Breakup Fee.
17.3 Dispute over Right to Terminate. If there is a dispute between the Parties over the right of a Party to terminate this Agreement,
Closing shall not occur on the Closing Date, and the Party that disputes the right of the other
Party to terminate is entitled, within thirty (30) Business Days after the Closing Date, to
initiate litigation to resolve the dispute. If the Party that disputes the other Party’s right to
terminate this Agreement does not initiate litigation within the thirty (30) Business Day period,
this Agreement shall be deemed properly terminated as of the original date of termination (without
prejudice to Seller’s right to retain the Reverse Breakup Fee together with any interest earned
thereon pursuant to Article 17.2), and the Party that disputes or has a right to dispute
termination of this Agreement, on behalf of itself, its Affiliates, and the officers, directors,
agents, employees, successors and assigns of itself and its Affiliates, irrevocably waives any and
all claims it and they may have against the terminating Party for termination of this Agreement.
17.4 Confidentiality. Notwithstanding the termination of this Agreement or any other provision of this Agreement to the
contrary, the terms of the Confidentiality Agreement remain in full force and effect, provided that
if and when Closing occurs and
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effective on the Closing Date, the Confidentiality Agreement shall terminate to the extent (and only to the extent) it applies to the Properties
conveyed at Closing.
ARTICLE XVIII
ARBITRATION
ARBITRATION
18.1 Friendly Consultation. In the event of any Arbitrable Dispute, the Parties shall attempt in the first instance to resolve
such dispute through friendly consultations between the Parties. The Parties agree to attempt to
resolve all Arbitrable Disputes arising hereunder promptly, equitably and in a good faith manner.
18.2 Arbitration.
18.2.1 The Parties shall attempt to resolve any Arbitrable Dispute promptly by
negotiation between representatives who have authority to settle the controversy. Either
Party may give the other Party written notice of any Arbitrable Dispute not resolved in the
normal course of business. Within thirty (30) Days after delivery of the notice, the
receiving Party shall submit to the other a written response. The notice and response shall
include (a) a statement of that Party’s position and a summary of arguments supporting that
position, and (b) the name and title of that Party’s representative and of any other Person
who will accompany the representative. Within thirty (30) Days after delivery of the
initial notice, the executives of both Parties shall meet at a mutually acceptable time and
place, and thereafter continue to meet as often as they reasonably deem necessary, to use
their good faith and reasonable efforts to attempt to resolve the dispute. All negotiations
pursuant to this clause shall be confidential and shall be treated as compromise and
settlement negotiations for purposes of applicable rules of evidence.
18.2.2 If an Arbitrable Dispute has not been resolved within sixty (60) Days after
delivery of the initial notice set forth in Article 18.2.1, or if the Parties failed to meet
within thirty (30) Days after delivery of such notice, the Parties shall endeavor to settle
the dispute by mediation under the AAA Mediation Procedure then currently in effect. Either
Party may ask AAA to select a mediator or the Parties may mutually agree on a mediator.
18.2.3 If any Arbitrable Dispute has not been resolved within sixty (60) Days after a
Party initially asked the AAA to select a mediator pursuant to Article 18.2.2, then, at the
request of either Party, such Arbitrable Dispute shall be submitted to binding arbitration
in accordance with the AAA Commercial Arbitration Rules then in effect (the “AAA Rules”).
18.2.4 Except as otherwise provided in Article 5.4 any arbitration hereunder will be
conducted before a panel that shall consist of two (2) Party-appointed arbitrators, one (1)
appointed by Seller and one (1) appointed by Buyer and a third neutral arbitrator who shall
chair the panel. No arbitrator may be a current or former officer, director, employee or
consultant of, or other person who has had a business or personal relationship with, a Party
or of any of its Affiliates. Each arbitrator must be an attorney
52
licensed in the State of Texas and must have not less than seven (7) years of
experience in the U.S. oil and gas industry. The third arbitrator (if applicable) shall be
selected as provided in the AAA Rules.
18.2.5 The arbitration shall proceed under the AAA Rules and shall be governed by the
Federal Arbitration Act, 9 U.S.C. Section 1, et. seq. If there is any inconsistency between
this Article 18 and the AAA Rules or the Federal Arbitration Act, this Article 18 shall
control. The arbitrators may, in their discretion, limit or expand discovery in any
arbitration proceeding. The arbitrators’ award shall be in writing. The Parties expressly
covenant and agree to be bound by the award of the arbitrators as a final determination of
the matter in dispute, and a judgment thereon may be entered in any court of competent
jurisdiction. In rendering an award the arbitrators shall abide by (a) the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and (b) the Laws of the State of Texas. The arbitrators shall
not have jurisdiction or authority to add to, detract from or alter in any way the
provisions of this Agreement. The arbitrators may award equitable relief, such as specific
performance, as well as monetary damages for any Party’s breach of such Party’s obligations
under this Agreement, but in no event may the arbitrators award punitive damages or any
other damages expressly waived in Article 8.10.
18.2.6 The arbitration shall take place in Houston, Texas.
18.2.7 The arbitration panel may apportion the costs of arbitration between the Parties
in such manner as it deems reasonable, taking into account the circumstances of the
Arbitrable Dispute, the conduct of the Parties and the result of arbitration. The
arbitration panel shall be empowered and directed to enter an award by default against any
Party to the arbitration who declines to pay when required by the arbitration panel its
share of such fees and costs. In addition, the arbitration panel, shall be entitled to
award to a Party such Party’s reasonable attorney’s fees and expert fees, as determined by
the arbitration panel considering those factors mentioned in the first sentence of this
Article 18.2.7, incurred in connection with such Party’s preparation for and participation
in the arbitration.
18.2.8 The arbitrators shall follow the Code of Ethics for Arbitrators in Commercial
Disputes approved by the American Bar Association House of Delegates on February 9, 2004 and
approved by the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors of the American Arbitration
Association.
18.2.9 Notwithstanding the other provisions set forth in this Article 18, a court of
competent jurisdiction may issue a pre-arbitral injunction, pre-arbitral attachment, or
other order in aid of arbitration proceedings and the enforcement of any award. Without
prejudice to such provisional remedies as may be available under the jurisdiction of a
court, the arbitral tribunal shall have full authority to grant provisional remedies and to
direct the Parties to request that any court modify or vacate any temporary or preliminary
relief issued by such court.
18.2.10 Before a request to arbitrate under Article 18.2.3 is given or prior to the
selection of the arbitrator(s), nothing contained herein shall prevent a Party
53
from applying to a court that would otherwise have jurisdiction for provisional or
interim measures. After the arbitrator(s) has been selected, they shall have sole
jurisdiction to hear such applications, except that any measures ordered by the
arbitrator(s) may be immediately and specifically enforced by a court otherwise having
jurisdiction over the Parties.
ARTICLE XIX
MISCELLANEOUS
MISCELLANEOUS
19.1 Notices. All notices and other communications required or desired to be given hereunder must be in writing
and sent (properly addressed as set forth below) by (a) certified or registered U.S. mail, return
receipt requested, with all postage and other charges fully prepaid, (b) hand or courier delivery,
or (c) facsimile transmission. Date of service by mail and delivery is the date on which such
notice is received by the addressee and by facsimile is the date sent (as evidenced by fax machine
generated confirmation of transmission) if received during normal business hours on a Business Day;
provided, however, if not received during normal business hours on a Business Day, then date of
receipt will be on the next date that is a Business Day. Each Party may change its address by
notifying the other Party in writing of such address change, and the change will be effective
thirty (30) Days after such notification is received by the other Party.
To Seller:
BP America Production Company
000 XxxxXxxx Xxxx Xxxxxxxxx
Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile: 000-000-0000
Attn: Assistant General Counsel, Legal Group
000 XxxxXxxx Xxxx Xxxxxxxxx
Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile: 000-000-0000
Attn: Assistant General Counsel, Legal Group
To Buyer:
ZPZ Delaware I LLC
0000 Xxxx Xxx Xxxx., Xxxxx 000
Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile: 000-000-0000
Attn: Vice President — Business Development
0000 Xxxx Xxx Xxxx., Xxxxx 000
Xxxxxxx, Xxxxx 00000
Facsimile: 000-000-0000
Attn: Vice President — Business Development
19.2 Costs and Post-Closing Consents. Notwithstanding other provisions of this Agreement, Buyer shall be responsible for recording and
filing documents associated with assignment of the Properties to it and for all costs and fees
associated therewith, including filing the assignments in the appropriate counties, provided,
however, that Seller shall file the appropriate change of operator forms. As soon as practicable
after recording or filing, Buyer shall furnish Seller all recording data and evidence of all
required filings made by Buyer. Buyer shall be responsible for obtaining all consents and
approvals of tribal or governmental entities or authorities customarily obtained subsequent to
transfer of title and all costs and fees associated therewith. Except as expressly provided otherwise in this
Agreement, all fees, costs and expenses incurred by the Parties in negotiating this Agreement and
in consummating the
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transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be paid in full by the Party
that incurred such fees, costs and expenses.
19.3 Brokers, Agents and Finders. Neither Seller or any of its Affiliates has retained any brokers, agents or finders in connection
with the transactions contemplated hereby for which Buyer or its Affiliates shall have any
liability. Seller releases Buyer Group from and shall fully protect, indemnify and defend Buyer
Group and hold them harmless from and against any and all claims relating to, arising out of, or
connected with, directly or indirectly, commissions, finders’ fees or other remuneration due to any
agent, broker or finder claiming by, through or under Seller or its Affiliates. Neither Buyer or
any of its Affiliates retained any agents, brokers or finders for Buyer associated with the
transactions contemplated hereby for which Seller or any of its Affiliates shall have any
liability. Buyer releases Seller Group from and shall fully protect, indemnify and defend Seller
Group and hold them harmless from and against any and all claims relating to, arising out of, or
connected with, directly or indirectly, commissions, finders’ fees or other remuneration due to any
agent, broker or finder claiming by, through or under Buyer or its Affiliates.
19.4 Records. At Closing and through the Transition Period, Seller shall grant Buyer reasonable access to the
Records. No later than the end of the Transition Period (except as provided below), Seller shall
furnish Buyer electronic copies of the Records that are maintained by Seller and such copies of the
Records shall become the property of the Buyer; with the understanding that Seller may retain
originals or copies of any Records. If Seller retains originals of Records, Seller shall provide a
copy of them to Buyer at Seller’s expense. Buyer shall maintain the Records received from Seller
for five (5) years after the Closing Date and afford Seller full access to the Records and a right
to copy the Records at Seller’s expense as reasonably requested by Seller. In addition, Buyer
shall afford Seller full access to records and data produced after the Closing Date and reasonably
requested by Seller in connection with any claim by Buyer for indemnity or breach of Seller’s
representations, warranties or covenants under this Agreement (excluding, however, attorney work
product and attorney-client communications entitled to legal privilege), and a right to copy such
records and data at Seller’s expense.
19.5 Further Assurances. After Closing and on an on-going basis: (a) Buyer shall execute and deliver or use reasonable
efforts to cause to be executed and delivered any other instruments of conveyance and take any
other actions as Seller reasonably requests to more effectively put Seller in possession of any
property that was not intended to be (i) a Property or (ii) conveyed or was conveyed in error
(including reassignment from Buyer to Seller of any Properties that were conveyed in violation of
valid preferential purchase rights or material consents to assignment disclosed in Schedules to
this Agreement and subject commensurate payment adjustment), or to implement Buyer’s assumption of
obligations pursuant to Article 12.2; and (b) Seller shall execute and deliver or use
reasonable efforts to cause to be executed and delivered any other instruments of conveyance and
take any other actions as Buyer reasonably requests to more effectively put Buyer in possession of
the Properties conveyed or to have been conveyed in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.
Except to the extent constituting Excluded Properties, Seller and Buyer agree that it is the intent
of the Parties that Seller assign and convey to Buyer all of the upstream oil and gas assets owned
by Seller, which were reflected in the financial information provided to Buyer in the Data Room or
were, as of the
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Effective Time (and with respect to upstream oil and gas assets acquired by Seller
after the Effective Time but prior to Closing, as of the Closing Date), located in Andrews,
Brewster, Cochran, Crane, Crockett, Culberson, Ector, Edwards, Gaines, Garza, Glassock, Loving,
Lynn, Martin, Midland, Pecos, Presidio, Regan, Reeves, Schleicher, Sterling, Sutton, Terrell,
Terry, Upton, Uvalde, Val Verde, Ward, Winkler, and Yoakum Counties, Texas and Eddy and Lea,
Counties, New Mexico. The Parties shall execute and deliver documents conveying all of Seller’s
right, title and interest in the federal, state and tribal interests in the Properties on forms
approved by the governmental authority or tribal authority, executed by an Attorney-in-Fact of
Seller and acknowledged, in the number required by the governmental authority or tribal authority
or such greater number as the Parties agree as promptly as reasonably practicable following
Closing. For a period of two (2) years after the Closing Date, to the extent any Affiliate of
Seller has given notice to terminate a Contract pursuant to its terms, Buyer shall have the right
(in its sole discretion) to retain such Contract under the same terms and conditions therein and to
extend the term thereof up to a date ending two (2) years after the Closing Date.
19.6 Survival of Certain Obligations. Except for the representation and warranty in Article 10.1.6, which shall survive
indefinitely and the representation and warranty in Article 10.1.23, which shall terminate six (6)
years after the Closing Date, the representations and warranties of the Parties in Articles 10 and
11 terminate twenty-four (24) months after the Closing Date; and thereafter no action can be
commenced either in court or disputes brought to arbitration based on breach of those
representations and warranties, without prejudice to the right to recovery in connection with
actions or disputes commenced in the appropriate forum prior to the end of such periods. Except as
expressly provided otherwise in this Agreement, waivers, disclaimers, releases and obligations of
indemnity and defense contained in this Agreement survive the Closing indefinitely.
19.7 Amendments and Severability.
No amendments, waivers or other modifications of terms of this Agreement shall be effective or
binding on the Parties unless they are written and signed by both Parties. Invalidity of any
provisions in this Agreement shall not affect the validity of this Agreement as a whole, and in
case of such invalidity, this Agreement shall be construed as if the invalid provision had not been
included herein.
19.8 Successors and Assigns. Except as expressly provided otherwise in this Agreement, this Agreement may not be assigned, (in
whole or in part), without the express prior written consent of the non-assigning Party, except
that Seller may assign its rights to proceeds hereunder. The terms, covenants and conditions
contained in this Agreement are binding upon and inure to the benefit of the Parties and their
permitted successors and assigns.
19.9 Headings. Titles and headings in this Agreement have been included solely for ease of reference and shall not
be considered in interpretation or construction of this Agreement.
19.10 Governing Law.
This Agreement (including administration of binding arbitration pursuant to Article 18) is governed
by the Laws of the State of Texas, excluding any choice of law rules that would direct application
of Laws of another jurisdiction. Any action permitted by this Agreement to be commenced in court
shall be
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brought and maintained exclusively in federal or state court located in Xxxxxx County,
Texas, and each Party hereby waives any objection it may have thereto.
19.11 No Partnership Created.
It is not the purpose or intention of this Agreement to create (and it shall not be construed as
creating) a joint venture, partnership or any type of association, and neither Party is authorized
to act as an agent or principal for the other Party with respect to any matter related hereto.
19.12 Public Announcements. Seller (on behalf of Seller Group) and Buyer (on behalf of Buyer Group) agree not to issue any
public statement or press release concerning this Agreement or the transaction contemplated by it
(including price or other terms) without prior notice to and written consent of the other Party;
provided, however, that the foregoing shall not apply to any such issuance (i) to a governmental
authority, listing authority or other entity when required by Law or to the extent such data and
information is required to be furnished in compliance with any applicable Laws, listing agreement
or exchange regulation or pursuant to any legal proceedings or because of any order of any court
binding upon the issuing Party, or (ii) to the extent that it must be disclosed pursuant to any
rules or requirements of any government or stock exchange having jurisdiction over the issuing
Party, in each case after prior consultation with the other Party.
19.13 No Third Party Beneficiaries.
Nothing contained in this Agreement entitles anyone other than Seller or Buyer or their permitted
successors and assigns to any claim, cause of action, remedy or right of any kind whatsoever,
except with respect to waivers and indemnities or other provisions in this Agreement that expressly
provide for waivers or indemnification of Buyer Group or Seller Group, in which case members of
such groups are considered third party beneficiaries for the sole purposes of those waiver and
indemnity provisions.
19.14 Indemnities Applicability. The release, defense, indemnification and hold harmless provisions provided for in this Agreement
shall be applicable whether or not the claims, demands, suits, causes of action, losses, damages,
liabilities, fines, penalties and costs (including attorneys’ fees and costs of litigation) in
question arose solely or in part from the active, passive or concurrent negligence, strict
liability, breach of duty (statutory or otherwise), violation of Law, or other fault of any
Indemnified Party, or from any pre-existing defect.
19.15 Waiver of Consumer Rights.
As partial consideration for the Parties entering into this Agreement, each Party can and does
hereby waive the provisions of the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Consumer Protection Act, Article
17.41 et seq., Texas Business and Commerce Code, a law that gives consumers special rights and
protection, and all other consumer protection Laws of the State of Texas, or of any other state
that may be applicable to this transaction, that may be waived by such Party. It is not the intent
of either Party to waive and neither Party does waive any Law or provision thereof that is
prohibited by Law from being waived. Each Party represents that it has had an adequate opportunity
to review the preceding waiver provision, including the opportunity to submit the same to legal
counsel for review and advice, and after
57
consultation with an attorney of its own selection
voluntarily consents to this waiver and understands the rights being waived herein.
19.16 Not to be Construed Against Drafter.
Each Party has had an adequate opportunity to review each and every provision of this Agreement and
to submit the same to legal counsel for review and advice. Based on the foregoing, the rule of
construction, if any, that a contract is construed against the drafter shall not apply to
interpretation or construction of this Agreement.
19.17 Conspicuousness of Provisions.
The Parties agree that provisions of this Agreement in “bold” or all capitalized type satisfy any
requirement of the “express negligence rule” and other requirement at law or in equity that
provisions be conspicuously marked or highlighted.
19.18 Possible Exchange.
Each Party reserves the right to structure the transactions contemplated under the terms of this
Agreement as a non-simultaneous like-kind exchange pursuant to Section 1031 of the Code, as
amended. If a Party elects to so structure this transaction, the Parties shall execute all
documents reasonably necessary for such Party to effectuate the non-simultaneous like-kind
exchange.
19.19 Execution in Counterparts.
This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, that when taken together constitute one valid and
binding agreement.
19.20 Entire Agreement. This Agreement and the Confidentiality Agreement supersede all prior and contemporaneous
negotiations, understandings, letters of intent, understandings and agreements (whether oral or
written) between the Parties or their Affiliates relating to the terms of purchase and sale of the
Properties and constitute the entire understanding and agreement between the Parties with respect
to the sale, assignment and conveyance of the Properties and other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement.
19.21 Time Periods.
Whenever any period of time (but not a date certain) for performance is specified hereunder, if
either Party is stayed or enjoined from taking the action required during such period, then the
period shall automatically be adjusted to end on the later of the original period of time and
thirty (30) Days after expiration of the stay or injunction.
19.22 Time of the Essence.
Time is of the essence with respect to all provisions of this Agreement that specify a time for
performance; provided, however, that the foregoing shall not be construed to limit or deprive a
Party of the benefits of any grace or cure period allowed in this Agreement.
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The Parties have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly authorized representatives on
the day and year first set forth above.
SELLER | BUYER | |||||||
BP AMERICA PRODUCTION COMPANY | ZPZ Delaware I LLC | |||||||
By:
|
/s/ Xxxx X. Xxxxxxxx | By: | /s/ Xxxxx X. Xxxxxx | |||||
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