For Copel, 2022 was a year to envision the future we want and work hard to build it. The controlling shareholder’s message from the end of the year to transform Copel into a dispersed capital company (“True Corporation”), allows for, under Federal Law 9,074/95, the renewal and maintenance of 100% of the Company’s stake in its main Hydroelectric Power Plants, which have a total installed generation capacity in 2023 of 6,967 MW, the largest of them being Foz do Areia with 1,676 MW (concession maturity on 12.21.24), Segredo with 1,260 MW (maturity on 09.25.32), and Salto Caxias with 1,240 MW (maturity on 03.20.33).

However, we see benefits beyond the full renewal of the aforementioned concessions. The opportunity to act as a private player in the highly competitive environment of the electricity sector, which is already mainly composed of private companies, will allow us to obtain greater efficiency gains and leverage investment conditions by adding value in the short, medium, and long terms for Copel and all our stakeholders.

Committed to the energy transition, we launched Vision 2030, which consists of guidelines that will lead our actions throughout the decade. The main purpose guiding our strategy is to become one of Brazil’s largest integrated energy groups with relevance in the four segments of the industry, with people as a competitive advantage, and focusing on customer experience.

This path towards sustainability and efficiency includes the revision of the energy matrix so that 100% of the energy generated by the company comes from renewable sources. Our planning also provides for integration with scale among business and the capital allocation discipline.

The first steps of this Vision have already been taken. At the end of the year, we launched the investment plan for Usina Elétrica a Gás de Araucária, our thermal power plant, in line with the decarbonization process of the Company’s generation matrix. Proving the seriousness and commitment to sustainability, we linked 30% of the short-term incentives paid for the company’s results to ESG goals.

Also, Compagas (a company in which Copel has a 51% stake) renewed for another 30 years the concession for the supply of piped gas in the Paraná State. This is another key step in the Company’s strategy to focus on the core business of electricity given that it will allow for the continuity of the work aimed at the sale of 100% of its stake in this asset.

By expanding our renewable generation complex, we acquired the Santa Rosa & Mundo Novo, and Aventura wind farms, which total an installed capacity of 260.4 MW. The complex consists of nine wind farms in the Rio Grande do Norte State, one of the best regions for wind generation in the world. Also in the Rio Grande do Norte State and operating two years before the deadline of our energy sale contracts, the Jandira Wind Complex has 26 wind turbines and adds 90.1 MW of power to the company’s generation capacity. With the new complexes, Copel totals 1.2 GW of installed capacity in 47 wind farms, which account for 17% of the 7 GW of the Company’s generation capacity.

Such a journey, which seeks an increasing sustainable performance, is in line with our economic and financial results. In 2022, Copel reported an EBITDA adjusted for non-recurring items of R$5.5 billion, a growth of 10% over 2021.

Most of the investments were once again concentrated on energy distribution. We invested R$1.8 billion in expansion works and modernization of the power grid in Paraná, our concession area. One of the highlights is Paraná Trifásico, a program that is investing R$2.8 billion to build 25 thousand kilometers of three-phase grids that revamp the energy supply to rural areas. In 2022, we totaled 10.5 thousand kilometers built, accounting for 42% of the total expected for the program.

In terms of open innovation, we started to structure a Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) fund, which will have R$150 million invested to finance solutions in areas such as renewable energy and smart grids. We have also launched the second phase of the Copel Volt Program, which is responsible for bringing Copel close to startups that provide solutions for the energy market.

The company’s successful actions translate into market recognition. Copel was elected the best energy company in Brazil by Valor 1000, a ranking of the Valor Econômico newspaper. We were also included on B3’s Corporate Sustainability Index (ISE) for the 17th time and on the Efficient Carbon Index (ICO2).

Finally, in addition to the excellent operation of our assets and the great customer service provided, Management’s top priority for 2023 consists in transforming Copel into a corporation.

 

 

Daniel Slaviero

CEO of Copel

List of contents

1.Consolidated Results	2
1.1   EBITDA	2
1.2   Operating Revenue	3
1.3   Operational Costs and Expenses	4
1.4   Equity in Earnings of Subsidiaries	6
1.5   Financial Results	6
1.6   Consolidated Net Income	6
1.7   Debt	6
2. Investment	8
5.1   2.1 Investment Policy	8
5.2   2.2 Investment Program	8
3.   Copel Geração e Transmissão	9
3.1   Financial Performance	9
3.1.1 IFRS effect in the Transmission segment	10
3.2   Operacional Performance	11
3.2.1 Generation	11
3.2.2 Hydro and Wind Generation	11
3.2.3 Thermal Generation	12
5.3   3.3 Transmission	12
3.3.1 RBSE Reprofiling	13

 

4. Copel Distribuição	14
5.4   4.1 Financial Performance	14
4.1.1 Regulatory Efficiency	15
4.2   Operational Performance	16
4.2.1 Grid Market (TUSD)	16
4.2.2 Captive Market	16
4.2.3 Concession Agreement	16
4.2.4 Investment and Operational Data	16
5.   Copel Mercado Livre	19
5.1   Financial Performance	19
5.2   Operational Performance	20
6. ESG Performance	21
6.1 Copel pioneers in ESG in the sector	21
6.2 Recent Highlights	21
6.3 Indicators	22
6.4 Ratings, Rankings, and Indexes	22
7. Other highlights	23
List oh Exhibits

1.Consolidated
Results

The following analyzes refer to the fourth quarter of 2022 and the year-to-date, compared to the same period in 2021.

1.1

EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA (excluding non-recurring items) reached R$1,427.6 million in 4Q22, an amount 37.3% higher than the R$1,039.6 million recorded in 4Q21. This increase is mainly due to the better result of Copel GeT (increase of 48.3%), Copel Distribuição (+10.4%) and Compagas (increase of R$62.4 million), partially offset, mainly, by the performance of TPP Araucária, which did not register dispatches in the period, compared to 360 GWh dispatched in 4Q21. It should be noted that manageable costs, excluding provisions and reversals, decreased by 28.1%, in real terms when comparing periods.

The main factors that explain the result are:

(i)

the R$311.9 million improvement in the result from the purchase and sale of electricity (without considering TPP Araucária), essentially due to the more favorable hydrological scenario in 4Q22 (average GSF of 77.64%, against 67.71% in 4Q21) and the entry of the Vilas Wind Complex into the generation portfolio (asset acquired on November 30, 2021) positively impacting Copel GeT's performance;

(ii)

the better result for Compagas (EBITDA of R$97.1 million in 4Q22, against R$34.7 million in 4Q21), basically due to (a) the recovery of balance related to natural gas supply and transport contracts (graphic account)[1], (b) the best distribution margin due to the greater volume distributed in the captive market and the tariff adjustments applied in 2022; and (c) the effect of provisions for civil litigation realized in 4Q21;

(iii)

the increase of R$ 61.1 million in equity income, due to the higher remuneration on transmission assets of jointly-owned subsidiaries; and

(iv)

the 41.0% reduction in expenses with “personnel and management, after excluding the effect of R$125.7 million from the Voluntary Dismissal Program in 4Q21, explained mainly by the higher amount related to the performance bonus (PPD) and profit sharing and results (PLR) in the year 2021.

These events were partially offset, above all, by the reduction of R$752.2 million with “electricity sales to distributors” given the lack of dispatch from TPP Araucária in 4Q22 compared to 360 GWh dispatched in 4Q21, as a result of the improvement in hydrological conditions in 2022.

 

Adjusted Consolidated EBITDA

 

 

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^[1] Graphic account: regulatory tool in which the differences, positive or negative, related to the price of gas are registered and accumulated, between the prices contained in the supply tariffs applied to the monthly billing of consumers, for the provision of the distribution service, and those billed by the suppliers to the concessionaire, in accordance with the Supply Contracts. Source: AGEPAR Resolution n. 028 of 10/31/2022.

The non-recurring items that were neutralized for calculating the adjusted EBITDA are shown in the table below:

Adjusted EBITDA	4Q22	4Q21	Δ%	2022	2021	Δ%
EBITDA	902.1	942.9	(4.3)	4,217.2	6,528.6	(35.4)
(-)/+ Provision/Reversal of PDI indemnities	-	125.7	-	(8.9)	139.2	-
(-)/+ Fair value in the purchase and sale of energy	(36.9)	37.1	-	(32.7)	35.8	-
(-)/+ Provision for litigation	452.7	30.0	-	452.7	30.0	-
(-)/+ Impairment of generation assets and gas	109.7	(24.3)	-	151.9	(132.3)	-
(-)/+ Energy Overcontracting	-	(71.8)	-	-	(71.8)	-
(-)/+ GSF Reconciliation	-	-	-	-	(1,501.2)	-
(-)/+ Provision for allocation of PIS/Cofins credits and effects	-	-	-	752.4	-	-
(-)/+ Tariff flag account on MMGD and Adhesion to the REFIS/PR	-	-	-	(10.1)	-	-
'(-)/+ Sale of the Headquarters Building	-	-	-	-	(27.9)	-
Adjusted EBITDA	1,427.6	1,039.6	37.3	5,522.5	5,000.4	10.4
(-) / + Equity in earnings of subsidiaries	(148.5)	(126.2)	17.7	(478.6)	(366.3)	30.6
Adjusted EBITDA without earnings of subsidiaries	1,279.2	913.4	40.0	5,043.9	4,634.1	8.8

 

Note: Refers to Impairment of generation assets (NE 31.4) and includes Write-off of Parts (NE 31.6) and Services (NE 31.3) incurred in the maintenance of TPP Araucária turbines (Major Inspection).

We highlight the non-recurring items referring to (i) provisions and related disputes, mainly, the discussion in arbitration protected by secrecy and confidentiality, in the evidentiary instruction phase and liquidation of the sentence, which was already included as a contingent liability in the financial statements of the Copel; (ii) impairment of generation assets in the amount of R$109.7 million, resulting from the provision of R$144.5 million related to UEGA, partially offset by the reversal of R$34.8 million related to other Copel GeT assets ; and (iii) R$36.9 million referring to the fair value of the purchase and sale of energy (marked to market) by Copel Mercado Livre, amount determined by the difference between the contracted price and the future market price estimated by the Company.

Within the scope of transmission assets, it is worth mentioning that item 3.1.1 presents the regulatory accounting of the result for the purpose of verifying the IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) effect.

Considering the accumulated result for 2022, adjusted EBITDA reached R$5,522.5 million, an amount 10.4% higher than the R$5,000.4 million recorded in 2021, mainly justified by (i) the better performance of Copel GeT in the result in purchase and sale of electricity, essentially due to the more favorable hydrological scenario in 2022 (average GSF of 86.16%, against 76.82% in 2021) and the entry of the Vilas Wind Complex in the generation portfolio; (ii) the better result of Copel Distribuição, basically due to the record of lower manageable costs in 2022, essentially with personnel and management and the growth of 0.8% in the billed grid market, which excludes offset energy from Mini and Micro Distributed Generation – MMGD; and (iii) the better result of Compagas (adjusted EBITDA of R$265.0 million in 2022, against R$185.5 million in 2021), basically due to the recovery of the balance related to the contracts for the supply of natural gas and transport (graphic account), better distribution margin due to the greater volume distributed in the captive market and the tariff adjustments applied in 2022, and lower impact of provisions for litigation. These events were partially offset, mainly by the result of TPP Araucária, which recorded lower dispatch in the annual comparison (238 GWh in 2022, compared to 2,196 GWh in 2021).

1.2

Operating Revenue

Net operating revenue totaled R$5,626.7 million in 4Q22, a decrease of 14.7% compared to the R$6,593.7 million recorded in 4Q21. This result mainly reflects:

(i)

the reduction of R$752.2 million with electricity sales to distributors, mainly due to the lack of dispatch from TPP Araucária in 4Q22, compared to 360 GWh dispatched in 4Q21, a consequence of the improvement in hydrological conditions, and the lower result from the sale of electricity in the Spot Market (MCP) by the distributor;

(ii)

the R$139.8 million drop with electricity sales to final customers, mainly due to the 6.4% drop in the distributor's billed captive market, which excludes the offset energy from Mini and Micro Distributed Generation - MMGD, and the negative effect of 9.58% applied to the Energy Tariff (TE) component due to the last tariff readjustment;

(iii)

the decrease of R$134.1 million in revenue from use of the main distribution and transmission grid, mainly due to the lower remuneration of transmission assets, due to the lower IPCA in the period (IPCA of 1.63% in 4Q22 against 2.96% in 4Q21), the 2.4% reduction in the distributor's billed grid market and the distributor's revenue reduction account "Energy Development Account - CDE", intended to fund the CDE objectives set out in law and that, in order to maintain the neutrality of the sectorial charge, it constitutes a sectorial asset in the CVA; and

(iv)

the R$128.6 million drop in the result of sectorial financial assets and liabilities (CVA), as a result of the reduction in energy costs and other financial components.

These results were partially offset by:

(i)

the increase of R$141.2 million in revenue from distribution of piped gas, basically due to the higher volume distributed in the captive market and the tariff readjustments applied to consumers in February, May and August 2022, with an average cumulative effect of 78.3% in the gas portion; and

(ii)

the increase of R$52.6 million in the “other operating revenues” line, mainly due to (i) the higher fair value in the purchase and sale of electricity (marked-to-market) by Copel Mercado Livre, amount determined by the difference between the contracted price and the future market price estimated by the Company, and (ii) the increase in revenues from leasing and rentals by the distributor, with emphasis on the greater volume of sharing of posts/fixing points and the contractual readjustment by the General index of Market Prices - IGP-M.

 

In 2022, net operating revenue totaled R$21,927.7 million, a decrease of 8.6% compared to the R$23,984.3 million recorded in 2021, with emphasis on the following variations: (i) reduction of R$2,138.9 million (-35.3%) in revenue from electricity sales to distributors; (ii) decrease of R$593.9 million (-26.2%) in the result of sectorial financial assets and liabilities; and (iii) decrease of R$466.2 million (-8.8%) in revenue from use of the main distribution and transmission grid.

1.3

Operational Costs and Expenses

In 4Q22, operating costs and expenses totaled R$5,209.6 million, down R$13.8% compared to the R$6,046.9 million recorded in the same period of 2021, mainly due to:

(i)

the decrease of R$687.9 million in “materials and supplies for power electricity”, essentially due to the lack of dispatch from TPP Araucária in the last quarter;

(ii)

the reduction of 54.1% (-R$307.6 million) in expenses with “personnel and management”, mainly due to the lower provision related to the performance bonus (PPD) and profit sharing (PLR) and the reduction of 508 employees, basically through voluntary dismissal programs carried out in the period. Neutralizing the effects of provisions and reversals referring to the performance bonus (PPD) and profit sharing (PLR) and the reversal associated with the voluntary dismissal program (PDI), there is still a reduction of 11.3% in the quarterly comparison. Considering the accumulated inflation measured by the National Consumer Price Index - INPC, of 5.93% between 4Q21 and 4Q22, there was a reduction in real terms of 16.3%;

Personnel and Management	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
Personnel and management	261,364	568,930	(54.1)	1,026,862	1,550,857	(33.8)
(-) Profit sharing PLR and PPD	24,399	(121,089)	-	(42,008)	(367,423)	(88.6)
(-)/+ Provision/Reversal for indemnification for PDI	-	(125,713)	-	8,926	(139,232)	-
TOTAL	285,763	322,128	(11.3)	993,780	1,044,202	(4.8)

 

(iii)

the reduction of R$289.1 million in the cost of “electricity purchased for resale”, due to more favorable hydrological conditions for the period (average GSF of 77.64%, against 67.71% in 4Q21); and

(iv)

the decrease of R$240.3 million in the “charge of the main distribution and transmission grid” line, mainly justified by lower system service charges (ESS), due to the reduction in thermal dispatch in 4Q22.

These reductions were partially offset by: (i) growth of R$476.2 million in “provisions and reversals”, reflecting mainly the increase in the estimate of losses in civil actions related to discussions in arbitration protected by secrecy and confidentiality, in phase of probative instruction and liquidation of judgment, which was already included as a contingent liability in Copel's financial statements; (ii) the 62.7% increase in expenses with “natural gas and supplies for the gas business”, mainly due to the increase in sales volume to captive market consumers and the acquisition of natural gas at a higher cost due to exchange rate variations and oil prices; (iii) growth of R$45.7 million in the “other costs and expenses” line, mainly due to the greater financial compensation for the use of water resources due to the greater dispatch of hydroelectric plants (+R$26.3 million) and the recording of losses in the deactivation of assets, especially at the distributor; and (iv) an increase of R$19.1 million in “third-party services”, basically due to higher expenses with maintenance of facilities, communication and data processing and customer service.

Expenses with PMSO, excluding provisions and reversals, decreased by 23.9% in relation to the same period of the previous year. Considering the accumulated inflation measured by the National Consumer Price Index - INPC, of 5.93% between 4Q21 and 4Q22, there was a reduction of 28.1%, in real terms.

Manageable Costs	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
Personnel and management	261,364	568,930	(54.1)	1,026,862	1,550,857	(33.8)
Private pension and healthcare plans	65,844	64,127	2.7	266,181	248,773	7.0
Material	26,924	19,780	36.1	92,447	69,822	32.4
Third-party services	229,799	210,690	9.1	800,743	706,599	13.3
Other costs and expenses operating	162,790	117,080	39.0	534,494	(1,205,258)	-
TOTAL	746,721	980,607	(23.9)	2,720,727	1,370,793	98.5

 

 

Headcount Evolution

 

In 2022, total operating costs and expenses reached R$19,490.1 million, an amount 3.1% higher than the R$18,904.6 million recorded in 2021, highlighting: (i) the positive effect of R$1,570.5 million in the 2021 result recorded in the “other costs and expenses” line, referring to the renegotiation of the hydrological risk (GSF); and (ii) the negative effect of R$810.6 million related to the provision for the allocation of PIS and Cofins credits in 2022. Disregarding these effects, operating expense costs decreased by 8.8% year-on-year (R$18,679.5 million in 2022 from R$20,475.1 million in 2021), mainly reflecting (i) better hydrological conditions (GSF average of 86.16%, compared to 76.82% in 2021) impacting the 14.8% reduction with “electricity purchased for resale”; and (ii) reduction of 93.5% with “materials and supplies for power electricity” as a result of lower dispatch from the Araucária Thermoelectric Plant in 2022.

1.4

Equity in Earnings of Subsidiaries

The equity income from joint ventures and other Copel affiliates was 70% higher than that recorded in the same period of the previous year. In 4Q22, the amount was R$148.5 million, against R$87.3 million recorded in 4Q21, mainly due to the higher remuneration on transmission assets, justified by the periodic tariff review applied to contracts. More details can be seen in Exhibit I.

1.5

Financial Results

In 4Q22, the financial result was a negative R$270.0 million, against a negative R$207.2 million recorded in 4Q21, mainly reflecting the higher balance of loans and financing (R$12.5 billion vs. 8 billion in 4Q21) and higher interest rates in the period (CDI of 3.16% in 4Q22 compared to 1.84% in 4Q21). Financial income recorded growth of R$39.4 million (+18.4%), basically due to the higher income from financial investments (+R$46.3 million), basically due to the higher CDI, partially offset by the 38.0% drop in moratorium additions on energy bills.

Financial Results	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
Financial Revenues	252,849	213,479	18.4	1,032,837	932,049	10.8
Financial Expenses	(522,814)	(420,659)	24.3	(1,987,504)	(1,259,410)	57.8
Update of provision for allocation of PIS and Cofins credits	-	-	-	(1,011,370)	-	-
Total Financial Result	(269,965)	(207,180)	30.3%	(1,966,037)	(327,361)	-
Adjusted Financial Result (-) PIS and Cofins provision	(269,965)	(207,180)	30.3%	(954,667)	(327,361)	191.6

 

 

1.6

Consolidated Net Income

In 4Q22, Copel recorded net income of R$623.5 million against net income of R$396.2 million recorded in 4Q21. In addition to the items already mentioned, it is worth noting the increase of R$328.0 million in the item “income tax and social contribution on profit”, basically due to the deduction of amounts due to the payment of Interest on Own Capital (JCP). In 2022, reported net income was R$1.1 billion.

Considering non-recurring items, adjusted net income was R$1,031.4 million in 4Q22 against R$460.0 million in 4Q21, growth of 124.2%. In the year, the company recorded adjusted net income of R$2,751.7 million against R$2,793.8 million recorded in 2021.

The amounts above do not consider the effects of the accounting reclassification referring to the discontinued operation of Copel Telecom.

 

1.7

Debt

Copel's total consolidated debt amounted to R$12,454.2 million on December 31, 2022, a variation of 5.3% in relation to the amount recorded on December 31, 2021, of R$11,826.1 million.

At the end of 4Q22, the Company's gross debt represented 58.9% of consolidated shareholders' equity, which was R$21,142.6 million.

The following charts show the indebtedness of Copel and its subsidiaries at the end of December 2022.

Debt by Subsidiary

Adjusted Net Debt/EBITDA Adjusted

Debt Indexers

Average cost: 9.67%

Amortization - R$ million

Average term to maturity: 3.9 years

 

 

 

Weighted Average Cost and Average term to maturity

 

 

2. Investment

2.1 Investment Policy

In March 2021, the Board of Directors approved the Company's Investment Policy. Said Policy was the object of analysis and approval by the Investment and Innovation Committee, which was established by the new Bylaws of March 11, 2021, whose main purpose is to improve discipline in the allocation of capital, being an essential tool for the execution of strategic guidelines for sustainable growth, generation of value for shareholders and the perpetuity of our energy business.

The Policy establishes the criteria for the selection, prioritization, evaluation, approval and monitoring of investments. Among the various aspects, the Policy segregates investment opportunities in three groups that will be prioritized as follows:

(i)

Operating Investments: expansion of capacity and modernization of the assets of the Distribution, Transmission and Generation concessions, in addition to the continuity of existing businesses;

(ii)

Strategic Investments: acquisition and development of new assets with an emphasis on brownfield opportunities and that provide operational synergies to the Company. Portfolio review and divestments are included; and

(iii)

Investments in Innovation: where we highlight projects aimed at open innovation.

The Investment and Innovation Committee meets ordinarily once a month and extraordinarily whenever necessary, analyzing and issuing recommendations for the Company's investment proposals.

 

 

2.2 Investment Program

The Investment Programs follow their schedules in each development project and Copel Distribuição represents the largest expected investment value of the group and a relevant part is allocated to the Transformation Program (see item 4.2.4).

For 2022, the estimated amount allocated to the investment program was R$2,067.1 million and the realized amount was R$2,329.6 million. For 2023, the 233rd Ordinary Meeting of the Company's Board of Directors approved the forecast of R$2,182.3 million for the investment program, with Copel Distribuição contemplating the greater part of the forecast amount, whose objective is the permanent improvement of efficiency operational and cost reduction through the advancement of important projects, highlighting the continuity of the execution of the “Paraná Trifásico” and “Smart Grid” programs already started in 2021. These programs aim at renewing depreciated assets in rural areas, improving quality and agility in service, integration with smart cities and improved information via network sensing.

We highlight the amount of R$ 229.4 million realized in 2022 for the Jandaíra Wind Complex due to the entry into commercial operation of 100% of the enterprise in 2022.

Subsidiary / SPC	Carried 4Q22	Carried 2022	Scheduled 2023
Copel Distribuição [2]	484.1	1,848.1	1,878.9
Copel Geração e Transmissão	112.9	472.7	274.9
Generation	77.4	307.1	117.2
Jandaíra Wind Complex	41.7	229.4	7.0
Hydroelectric Power Plants	26.6	45.7	42.3
Wind Farms	2.0	21.2	45.9
Small Hydroelectric Plants	7.0	10.9	6.6
Transmission	15.3	48.9	103.7
Improvements/Reinforcement	14.7	47.8	100.2
TL Curitiba Leste-Blumenau	0.5	1.1	3.6
Other projects GeT [3]	20.2	116.6	54.0
Holding	3.9	6.2	5.0
Copel Comercialização	0.6	2.6	1.6
Copel Serviços	0.0	0.1	1.0
Other participations [4]	0.0	0.0	20.9
Total	601.4	2,329.6	2,182.3

 

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^[2] Includes the "Transformação" program comprising the Paraná Trifásico, Rede Elétrica Inteligente and Confiabilidade Total.

^[3] Includes modernization of the GOC (Generation Operations Center), investments in substations/transmission lines and other projects.

^[4] 3 Other Participations: includes Complexo Bandeirantes, SPE Voltália and Innovation Startup

3.                 Copel Geração (Consolidated Results)

3.1    Financial Performance

Copel GeT presented adjusted EBITDA, excluding non-recurring effects, of R$855.6 million in 4Q22, an increase of 48.3% compared to R$576.8 million in 4Q22.

This result mainly reflects the improvement of R$311.9 million in the result from the purchase and sale of electricity (excluding UEGA), essentially due to the more favorable hydrological scenario in 4Q22 (average GSF of 77.64%, against 67.71% in 4Q21), as well as:

(i)

increase of R$60.4 million in equity income due to higher remuneration on transmission assets of jointly-owned subsidiaries;

(ii)

decrease of 13.5% in manageable costs, excluding provisions and reversals, due to the reduction in personnel costs, due to lower provision for profit sharing (PLR), performance bonus (PPD) and indemnities with PDI;

Manageable Costs	4Q22	4Q21	Δ%	2022	2021	Δ%
Personnel and management	82,771	161,967	(48.9)	326,531	444,437	(26.5)
Private pension and healthcare plans	19,894	18,979	4.8	79,674	71,905	10.8
Material	4,726	3,631	30.2	17,903	13,716	30.5
Third-party services	73,453	90,563	(18.9)	240,635	235,553	2.2
Other costs and expenses operating[5]	109,706	60,644	80.9	291,279	174,627	66.8
TOTAL	290,550	335,784	(13.5)	956,022	940,238	1.7

 

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^[5] Does not consider the effect of the GSF reconciliation in 2021, the amount of R$1,560.9 million

Excluding the provision for profit sharing (PLR), performance bonus (PPD) and indemnities with PDI, we have a decrease in personnel costs of 17.2%. Considering the accumulated inflation measured by the National Consumer Price Index - INPC, of 5.93% between 4Q21 and 4Q22, personnel and administrator costs decreased by 21.9% in real terms.

Personnel and Management	4Q22	4Q21	Δ%	2022	2021	Δ%
Personnel and management	82,771	161,967	(48.9)	326,531	444,437	(26.5)
(-) Profit sharing PLR and PPD	(6,127)	(30,174)	(79.7)	(10,718)	(90,325)	(88.1)
(-/+) Provision/Reversal for indemnification for PDI	-	(39,191)	(100.0)	2,329	(39,649)	(105.9)
TOTAL	76,644	92,602	(17.2)	318,143	314,464	1.2

(iii)

reduction of R$17.1 million in third-party services, due to lower maintenance costs for installations and the electrical system;

(iv)

incorporation in the result of new projects, Wind Complex Vilas, SHP Bela Vista and Wind Complex Jandaíra.

Adjusted EBITDA	4Q22	4Q21	Δ%	2022	2021	Δ%
	745.9	561.9	32.7	3,298.5	4,826.6	(31.7)
'(-)/+ Impairment of generation assets	109.7	(24.3)	-	144.2	(147.9)	-
(-)/+ Provision/Reversal of PDI indemnities	-	39.2	-	2.3	39.6	(94.1)
(-)/+ GSF Reconciliation	-	-	-	-	(1,560.9)	-
(-)/+  PLR Supplement on GSF Reconciliation	-	-	-	-	16.4	-
(-)/+Reflections of the PIS/Cofins Provision	-	-	-	(16.7)	-	-
Adjusted EBITDA	855.6	576.8	48.3	3,428.3	3,173.8	8.0
(-)/+ Equity in Earnings of Subsidiaries	(145.9)	(85.5)	70.7	(470.6)	(356.4)	32.1
Adjusted EBITDA without equity	709.8	491.3	44.5	2,957.7	2,817.4	5.0
(-)/+ Revenue Adjustment TRA IFRS/Regulatory	(24.4)	(122.0)	(80.0)	(156.9)	(502.8)	(68.8)
Adjusted EBITDA for the Transmission IFRS effect	685.4	369.3	85.6	2,800.8	2,314.6	21.0

 

Note: Refers to Impairment of generation assets (NE 31.4) and includes Write-off of Parts (NE 31.6) and Services (NE 31.3) incurred in the maintenance of TPP Araucária turbines (Major Inspection).

This result was partially offset by:

(i)

the R$712.8 million reduction in the “electricity sales to distributors” line, due to the lack of dispatch from TPP Araucária in 4Q22, compared to 360 GWh in 4Q21. Consequence of the improvement of hydrological conditions in the recent period;

(ii)

the reduction of R$65.5 million in revenue from “use of the main transmission grid”, mainly due to the impact of inflation on the remuneration of transmission asset contracts (IPCA of 1.63% in 4Q22 compared to 2.96 % in 4Q21);

(iii)

increase in other costs and expenses, effect of higher costs with the payment of financial compensation for the use of water resources - CFURH (R$42.7 million in 4Q22 against R$18.1 million in 4Q21), and insurance (R$7.9 million in 4Q22 against R$6.2 million in 4Q21).

We highlight the non-recurring item referring to the impairment resulting from the provision related to UEGA in the amount of R$144.5 million, partially offset by the reversal of R$34.8 million referring to other assets of Copel GeT, with emphasis on HPP Baixo Iguaçu and HPP Colíder.

Within the scope of transmission assets, it is worth mentioning that item 3.1.1 presents the regulatory accounting of the result for the purpose of verifying the IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) effect.

In 4Q22, Copel GeT recorded net income of R$501.2 million, an increase of 96.1% compared to 4Q21. This result mainly reflects: (i) the EBITDA growth, due to the points presented above and (ii) the better result with income tax and social contribution due to the deduction of amounts due to the payment of Interest on Equity (JCP); (iii) partially offset by the increase in financial expenses, due to the higher amount financed and the increase in the CDI rate (3.16% in 4Q22 against 1.84% in 4Q21).

Main Indicators	4Q22	4Q21	Δ%	2022	2021	Δ%
Net Operating Revenue (R$ million)	1,233.7	2,099.3	(41.2)	5,039.7	7,551.4	(33.3)
Operating Costs and Expenses (R$ million)	(829.1)	(1,807.8)	(54.1)	(2,978.9)	(3,678.4)	(19.0)
Operating Income (R$ million)	391.1	241.0	62.3	1,906.8	3,791.1	(49.7)
Net Income (R$ million)	501.2	255.6	96.1	1,599.5	2,820.1	(43.3)
EBITDA (R$ million)	745.9	561.9	32.7	3,298.5	4,826.6	(31.7)
Operating Margin	31.7%	11.5%	176.2	37.8%	50.2%	(24.6)
Net Margin	40.6%	12.2%	233.7	31.7%	37.3%	(15.0)
EBITDA Margin	60.5%	26.8%	125.9	65.4%	63.9%	2.4
Investment Program (R$ million)	113.4	206.0	(45.0)	473.2	494.8	(4.4)

 

In 2022, Copel GeT recorded EBITDA of R$3,298.5 million, a decrease of 31.7% compared to 2021, impacted by the effect of the renegotiation of the hydrological risk (GSF) of R$1,560.9 million in 2021. Disregarding the non-recurring effects, EBITDA of R$3,428.3 million was recorded, growth of 8.0%. This result is explained, above all, by the improvement in the hydrological scenario, with the consequent lower dispatch volume of TPP Araucária, with the commercialization of 238 GWh in 2022 compared to 2,195 GWh in 2021, when CVU reached the value of R$ 2,553.20/MWh. In relation to net income in 2022, the amount of R$1,599.5 million was recorded, 43.3% lower than in 2021. This result is justified by: (i) negative financial result of R$624.6 million in 2022 , compared to a negative R$438.3 million recorded in 2021, due to the increase in debt charges; and (ii) due to the R$169.9 million increase in depreciation and amortization, mainly due to the adherence, in 2021, to the hydrological risk renegotiation (GSF).

3.1.1 IFRS effect in the Transmission segment

For the calculation, an adjustment was made considering the effects of the application of CPC47/IFRS15 in the corporate statements in the transmission segment.

IFRS effect in the Transmission segment	4Q22	4Q21	Δ%	2022	2021	Δ%
(A) IFRS revenue1	247.1	323.9	(23.7)	1,018.2	1,319.1	(22.8)
O&M revenue and effective interest	238.6	304.1	(21.5)	991.2	1,267.3	(21.8)
Revenue and build margin	17.8	53.9	(67.1)	116.1	239.4	(51.5)
Cost of construction	(9.2)	(34.2)	(72.9)	(89.1)	(187.7)	(52.5)
(B) Regulatory revenue1	222.7	201.9	10.3	861.3	816.3	5.5
(B-A) Revenue Adjustment TRA IFRS/Regulatory	(24.4)	(122.0)	(80.0)	(156.9)	(502.8)	(68.8)
(+/-) Effects on Equity in Earnings in the transmission companies2	(112.4)	(13.4)	-	(363.3)	(227.2)	59.9
IFRS effect in Transmission business	(136.8)	(135.4)	1.0	(520.2)	(730.0)	(28.7)

 

---

¹ net of taxes and charges.

² difference between IFRS and regulatory earnings of jointly-owned subsidiaries in the transmission segment, proportional to Copel GeT's interest in the projects.

 

 

3.2  Operacional Performance

Copel is present in 10 states, operating in the generation and transmission business.

In the Generation business, Copel GET operates a diversified park of hydroelectric, wind and thermal plants, totaling 6,966.6 MW of installed capacity and 3,228.9 average MW of assure energy, considering the updates made by Ordinance No. 709/2022/GM/MME, more details in “Other highlights”. The assure energy in force on 12/31/2022 is available in the 2022 Management’s Report. (including SPE's, participations and TPP Araucária). In the Transmission business, Copel owns a total grid of 9,685 Km of transmission lines and 51 basic grid substations, considering the affiliates.

For more information on generation and transmission operational data, see Exhibit IV.

 

 

3.2.1 Generation

Copel's generating portfolio is made up of 94% of renewable sources, such as hydro and wind power.

 

3.2.2 Hydro and Wind Generation

The power generation of Copel Geração e Transmissão S.A. and its wind farms in 2022 was 24,723 GWh, against 17,053 GWh in 2021. This growth is mainly due to the increase in hydro generation. Copel's wind farms suffered a reduction in generation, due to the effects of La Niña in the Northeast of the country in 2022. This reduction was offset by the acquisition of the Vilas Wind Complex by the company.

In 2022, Copel Geração e Transmissão (including energy from HPP Foz do Areia – FDA and SHP Bela Vista – BVE, but excluding TPP Araucária) sold 17,344 GWh of electricity, an increase of 0.1%. In 4Q22, Copel GeT sold 4,334 GWh, a decrease of 0.6%.

For wind farms, the total electricity sold in 2022 was 3,150 GWh, an increase of 34.6%, mainly influenced by the acquisition of the Vilas Wind Complex which, since December 2021, entered the generation portfolio of Company, and for the early entry into commercial operations at Jandaíra. In 4Q22, the volume reached 884 GWh, an increase of 33.8%.

Consolidated Generation Sales (GWh)

3.2.3 Thermal Generation

TPP Araucária

In 2022, UTE Araucária generated 238 GWh, compared to 2,195 GWh in 2021, due to the improvement in hydrological conditions in 2022. In this sense, in 4Q22 there was no dispatch from the plant.

TPP Figueira

After the modernization process, TPP Figueira entered into test operation on 04/25/2022, according to ANEEL Order Nº 1047/2022. Moving on to commercial operation on 12/07/2022, by ANEEL order Nº 2502/2022. Generated 4.7 GWh in the period.

 

 

GSF - Generation Scaling Factor

 

Source: CCEE

 

 

Average Monthly PLD (South Submarket) - R$/MWh

 

Source: CCEE

3.3 Transmission

Copel has more than 9,600 km of transmission lines in nine Brazilian states, considering its own assets and in partnership with other companies. In addition to building, maintaining and operating an extensive own energy transmission grid, Copel provides services to projects of other concessionaires with the quality of someone who has accumulated more than 60 years of experience in the sector. The Transmission projects are listed in Exhibit IV, including the projects of Copel Geração e Transmissão, SPCs Costa Oeste, Marumbi and Uirapuru Transmissora (100% Copel GeT), as well as the 7 SPCs in which Copel GeT has a stake.

3.3.1 RBSE Reprofiling

The Concession Agreement 060/2001 represents 37.7% of the annual permitted revenue (RAP) of Copel GET's transmission business, also considering its affiliates. Below, we describe the flow of receipt of the portion of revenue referring to the Basic Grid - Existing System (RBSE) for the next cycles. It is important to note that this flow may change in the future, as a result of the tariff review processes and/or review of parameters used to compose these revenues by the regulatory agent. The values referring to O&M from the 2022-2023 cycle are based on the value currently indicated in sub-module 9.1 of the Tariff Review Program (Proret).

Note:

Economic component: future values based on the 2022-2023 cycle (last ANEEL Resolution REH published)

Financial component: values published in REH 2847/21. Subject to review during the current cycle in view of the controversy in the methodology used to calculate these values by the regulatory agency.

RAP values up to the 2022/2023 cycle taken from the REH of each cycle, with reference to the cycle price (June of the year of publication) RAP values include RB and DIT assets

 

 

 

 

4. Copel Distribuição

4.1 Financial Performance

 

Copel Distribuição's EBITDA in 4Q22 was R$441.9 million, a result 10.3% higher than that recorded in 4Q21. This growth is mainly due to the reduction in manageable costs, especially the 54.9% reduction in personnel and management costs, a reflection of the company's Voluntary Dismissal Programs (PDI) and the reduction in profit sharing and results (PLR) and performance bonus (PPD) amounts; partially offset by the 2.4% reduction in the billed grid market. Excluding the non-recurring effects listed below, Copel Distribuição had an adjusted EBITDA growth of 10.4% in 4Q22 and 6.9% in 2022.

Adjusted EBITDA	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
EBITDA	441.9	400.8	10.3	938.8	1,573.6	(40.3)
(-)/+Tariff flag account on MMGD	-	-	-	(43.4)	-	-
(-)/+Reflections of the PIS/Cofins Provision	-	-	-	(38.7)	-	-
(-)/+Provision for allocation of PIS/Cofins Credits	-	-	-	810.6	-	-
(-)/+ Provision/Reversal of PDI indemnities	-	71.5	-	(4.2)	63.0	-
(-)/+PLR supplement on GSF Reconcilliation	-	-	-	-	49.3	-
(-)/+Adhesion to the Tax Installment Program - REFIS/PR	-	-	-	33.3	-	-
(-)/+ Energy Overcontracting	-		-	-		-
(-)/+Sale of the Headquarters Building	-	-	-	-	(27.9)	-
Adjusted EBITDA	441.9	400.4	10.4	1,696.4	1,586.3	6.9

 

Manageable costs, excluding provisions and reversals, decreased by 30.7% compared to 4Q21, even with the increase of: (i) 45.3% in other costs and operating expenses, due to losses in the deactivation of assets and the increase in expenses with rental of equipment and vehicles; (ii) 26.6% with third-party services, caused by the increase in expenses with maintenance of the electrical system and customer service and (iii) 60.2% costs with material, due to the increase in expenses with materials for the electrical system, fuel and vehicle parts.

Manageable Costs	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2,022	2,021	∆%
Personnel and management	153,742	341,007	(54.9)	599,121	905,338	(33.8)
Private pension and healthcare plans	42,215	39,438	7.0	169,493	155,774	8.8
Materials	21,243	13,259	60.2	71,302	51,722	37.9
Third party services	143,126	113,059	26.6	505,407	450,752	12.1
Other operating costs and expenses	34,577	63,227	(45.3)	185,361	140,329	32.1
TOTAL	394,904	569,990	(30.7)	1,530,684	1,703,915	(10.2)

 

The personnel and management account, excluding the effects of provisions for profit sharing (PLR) and performance bonus (PPD), recorded a reduction of 9.7% in 4Q22 and 4.3% in the year.

Personnel and Management	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2,022	2,021	∆%
Personnel and management	153,742	341,007	(54.9)	599,121	905,338	(33.8)
(-) Profit sharing (PLR) and PPD	(17,421)	79,959	(121.8)	28,076	241,043	(88.4)
(-) Reversal of indemnification for voluntary dismissal	-	71,492	(100.0)	(4,199)	63,013	(106.7)
TOTAL	171,164	189,556	(9.7)	575,244	601,282	(4.3)

 

Considering the accumulated inflation measured by the National Consumer Price Index - INPC, of 5.93% between December 2021 and December 2022, the personnel and management cost line registered a reduction in real terms of 14.8% in relation to the values registered in 4Q21, especially as a result of the reduction of 173 employees between periods.

The following table presents the main indicators of Copel Distribuição:

Main Indicators	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
Net Operating Revenue (R$ million)	3,587.4	4,049.6	(11.4)	13,903.3	14,836.4	(6.3)
Operating Costs and Expenses (R$ million)	(3,265.1)	(3,751.4)	(13.0)	(13,418.8)	(13,669.4)	(1.8)
Operating Income (R$ million)	259.8	279.1	(6.9)	(685.2)	1,233.5	-
Net Income (R$ million)	324.3	214.1	51.4	(229.8)	857.9	-
EBITDA (R$ million)	441.9	400.8	10.3	938.8	1,573.6	(40.3)
Operating Margin	0.1	0.1	5.1	-	0.1	-
Net Margin	0.1	0.1	71.0	-	0.1	-
EBITDA Margin	0.1	0.1	24.5	0.1	0.1	(36.3)
Investment Program (R$ million)	484.1	501.3	(3.4)	1,848.1	1,623.0	13.9

 

In 4Q22, we also highlight:

(i)

the 5.0% decrease in revenue from use of the main distribution grid, due to the 2.4% reduction in the billed grid market, partially offset by the average effect of a 16.5% increase in the tariffs of use of the distribution system (TUSD), given the company's tariff readjustment in June 2022. This revenue is also negatively affected by the increase of more than 50% in the sectorial charge "Energy Development Account - CDE" in 2022, intended to fund the CDE objectives set out in law and that, in order to maintain the neutrality of the sectorial charge for the distributor, it constitutes a sectorial asset in the CVA;

(ii)

the 14.7% reduction in revenue from electricity sales to final customers, due to the 6.4% reduction in the billed captive market and the average effect of a 9.58% reduction in the Energy Tariff (TE ) component in the company's tariff readjustment;

(iii)

the 67.0% decrease in revenue from electricity sales to distributors, mainly due to the reduction in revenue from the settlement of energy in the CCEE Spot Market, given a lower Settlement Price of Differences (PLD) in the period;

(iv)

the 30.4% reduction in costs with charges of main transmission grid, due to the reduction in System Services Charges (ESS), resulting from a more favorable hydrological scenario, partially offset by the increase in charges for using the main transmission grid;

(v)

the 8.4% reduction in the costs of electricity purchased for resale, due to the reduction in expenses with the purchase of energy from auctions and from Itaipu Binacional;

(vi)

the 21.6% decrease in income from sectorial financial assets and liabilities (CVA), due to the reduction in the constitution of financial assets, with the reduction in energy costs and other financial components;

(vii)

the 38.0% increase in other operating revenues, mainly due to the growth in revenue from leasing and rental of equipment and structures, especially from pole sharing agreements, due to the higher volume of poles/fixing points allocated and the contractual readjustment by the IGP-M, and

(viii)

the 54.6% increase in provisions, due to the increase in provisions for tax, civil and administrative litigation. The provision for bad debt (PCLD), excluding amounts from debt collect, remained at the same levels.

Copel Distribuição's net income in 4Q22 was R$324.3 million, an increase of 51.4% compared to 4Q21, as a result of the better operating performance and the increase of R$64.5 million in the "Income tax and social contribution on profit" line, as a result of the deduction of amounts due to the payment of Interest on Equity (JCP).

In the second quarter of 2022, amounts were provisioned for the allocation of PIS and Cofins credits, which negatively affected Copel Distribuição's results for the year, ending the year at negative R$229.8 million. Excluding this and other non-recurring effects, Copel presented an adjusted net income of R$949.6 million in 2022.

 

4.1.1 Regulatory Efficiency

Copel Distribuição recorded adjusted EBITDA of R$1,696.4 million in the last 12 months, an amount 11.5% above regulatory EBITDA, equivalent to an efficiency of R$175.5 million.

 

 

4.2 Operational Performance

4.2.1 Grid Market (TUSD)

Copel Distribuição's grid market, made up of the captive market, supply to concessionaires and licensees within the State of Paraná and all the free customers existing in its concession area, showed a reduction in electricity consumption of 0.5% in 4Q22 and growth of 2.4% in 2022. The billed grid market, which considers the offset energy from Mini and Micro Distributed Generation (MMGD), registered a reduction of 2.4% in 4Q22 and an increase of 0.8% in the year.

4.2.2 Captive Market

Copel Distribuição's grid market, made up of the captive market, supply to concessionaires and licensees within the State of Paraná and all the free customers existing in its concession area, showed a reduction in electricity consumption of 0.5% in 4Q22 and growth of 2.4% in 2022. The billed grid market, which considers the offset energy from Mini and Micro Distributed Generation (MMGD), registered a reduction of 2.4% in 4Q22 and an increase of 0.8% in the year

More information about Grid Market and Captive Market in Notice to the Market – 02/23.

4.2.3 Concession Agreement

In December 2015, the Company signed the fifth amendment to the Public Service Concession Agreement for Electricity Distribution No. 46/1999 of Copel Distribuição SA, which extends the concession until July 7, 2045. Copel Distribuição complied with the conditioning requirements of economic-financial efficiency and quality for the inspection cycle of the initial 5 years. From the sixth year after the conclusion of the contract, failure to comply with the quality criteria for three consecutive years or the economic-financial management criteria for two consecutive years will result in the opening of the expiry process.

For the quality criterion of distribution service provision, ANEEL defined the limits of Equivalent Interruption Duration per Consumer Unit - DEC and Equivalent Interruption Frequency per Consumer Unit - FEC for the years 2021 to 2026. For DEC, the result calculated in 2022 was 7.98 hours, below the regulatory limit of 9.19 hours. For FEC, the result in the same period was 5.29 interruptions, below the regulatory limit of 6.80 interruptions.

The economic-financial management efficiency criterion will be measured by the calculation, each calendar year, according to ANEEL Normative Resolution No. 896/2020, by the following inequation:

 

 

 

4.2.4 Investment and Operational Data

Transformation Program (Programa Transformação)

The Transformation Program is a broad investment plan with the objective of modernizing, automating and renovating the distribution grid and private communication grid with standardized technologies to service automation equipment. Among the expected benefits are the strengthening of rural grid to reduce disconnections and guarantee support for the growth of agribusiness in the State of Paraná, the reduction of costs with O&M and commercial services and improvement in the control of DEC and FEC indicators. The program is composed of 3 pillar projects to achieve the objectives:

·

Paraná Tri-phase: represents the improvement and renewal of rural distribution grid in the Company's concession area, with the implementation of a three-phase grid and creation of redundancy in the main rural branches. By the end of December 2022, 160,000 rural customers had already benefited, along 10,506 km of grid.

·

Smart Grid: implement a private communication grid with standardized technology to service all automation equipment in the distribution grid and advanced metering infrastructure. By the end of 2022, 432,000 smart meters had been installed. In phase 1 of the program, advances were identified for our operation, with the reduction of man-hours and kilometers traveled, less non-technical losses, improvement in quality and reduction of DEC/FEC reimbursements, with estimated benefits in the order of R$49 million/year.

·

Total Reliability: aims to ensure modernity in the operations of the energy grid based on the following premises: maintain full communication between teams and the availability of equipment on the grid, implement automation in special equipment, maintain the entire municipality of the concession with a substation or special key and expand the grid circuits and Self Healing. By the end of 2022, the project had completed 74.15% of the planned schedule.

Copel Distribuição's Transformation Program covers the construction of approximately 25 thousand km of new grid, 15 thousand new automated points and the implementation of smart grid technology in the state of Paraná.

Compact and Protected Grid - Copel Distribuição S.A. has been implementing compact grid predominantly in urban areas with a high degree of afforestation in the vicinity of distribution grid and protected grid exclusively in rural areas. Compact grid avoids cutting and pruning trees and improves the quality of supply, as it reduces the number of disconnections. Protected grid also improves the quality and reliability of the system as it avoids interruptions due to contact with vegetation or other objects and bad weather. At the end of 2022, the extension of compact and protected grid installed was 22,366 km, compared to 18,065 km in 2021, an increase of 4,301 km, or 23.8%, in twelve months.

Isolated Secondary Grid- Copel Distribuição also invests in isolated low voltage secondary grid (127/220V), which have significant advantages over the conventional overhead grid, such as: improving the indicators Duração Equivalente de Interrupção por Unidade Consumidora - DEC (Equivalent Duration of Interruption per Consumer Unit) and e Frequência Equivalente de Interrupção por Unidade Consumidora – FEC (Equivalent Frequency of Interruption by Consumer Unit), hinder energy theft, improve environmental conditions, reduce pruning areas, increase safety, reduce voltage drop across the grid and increase the life of transformers by reducing the number short circuits in the network, among others. At the end of 2022, the extension of isolated secondary distribution grid installed was 21,896 km, compared to 20.885 km in 2021, an increase of 1,011 km, or 4.8%, in twelve months.

Losses

Energy losses refer to the generated electrical energy that passes through transmission lines and distribution grid, but which is not commercialized, either for technical or commercial reasons. Distribution losses can be defined as the difference between the electricity purchased by distributors and that billed to their consumers, being classified as technical and non-technical.

Technical Losses are inherent to the activity of electrical energy distribution, as part of the energy is dissipated in the process of transport, voltage transformation and measurement as a result of the laws of physics. Historically, the Company's Technical Losses have maintained percentages close to or below the regulatory target. At the end of 2022, Technical Losses were 2,017 GWh, compared to 2,011 GWh in 2021.

On the other hand, Non-Technical Losses, calculated by the difference between total losses and technical losses, originate mainly from theft (clandestine connection, direct diversion from the grid), fraud (tampering the meter or deviations), reading, measurement and billing errors. These losses are largely associated with the concessionaire's management and the socioeconomic characteristics of the concession areas. The Company's indicator has remained below regulatory targets in the last 5 years, a reflection of the improvement of techniques to combat losses from the development of data analysis technologies, process automation and exclusivity of the field team for inspections, allowing an increase in productivity and assertiveness in the return of Non-Technical Losses. At the end of 2022, Non-Technical Losses were 684 GWh, compared to 649 GWh in 2021.

It should be noted that the targets established for the tariff reasonableness of Non-Technical Losses take into account the level of complexity of the distributor's concession area and, according to ANEEL Report 01/2021 on Electricity Losses in Distribution, the complexity index of the concession of the Copel Distribuição is one of the smallest compared to other concessionaires in Brazil.

At the end of 2022, total losses were 2,701 GWh, compared to 2,660 GWh in 2021. In terms of classification, Total Losses comprised 75% of Technical Losses and 25% of Non-Technical Losses.

 

5.Copel Mercado Livre

5.1    Financial Performance

Adjusted EBITDA	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
EBITDA	62.1	(12.1)	-	124.0	58.2	113.0
(-)/+ PLR supplement on GSF Reconciliation	-	-	-	-	0.5	-
(-)/+ Fair value in the purchase and sales of energy	(36.9)	37.1	-	(32.7)	35.8	-
(-)/+ Provision/Reversal of PDI indemnities	-	2.8	-	(0.3)	2.8	-
(-)/+Reflections of the PIS/Cofins Provision	-	-	-	(0.7)	-	-
Adjusted EBITDA	25.2	27.8	(9.4)	90.3	97.3	(7.2)

 

In 4Q22, Copel Mercado Livre recorded an adjusted EBITDA of R$25.2 million, an amount 9.4% lower than the R$27.8 million recorded in 4Q21, mainly reflecting the lower margins in electricity sales in 4Q22, also impacting the 7.2% reduction in adjusted EBITDA accumulated in 2022.

The main adjustment in the periods was the fair value (marked-to-market) of energy purchase and sale contracts - amount determined by the difference between the contracted price and the future market price estimated by the Company.

Manageable costs decreased by 43.4% in 4Q22 compared to 4Q21, mainly due to (i) a 54.6% reduction in “personnel and management” due to the reduction in provisions for profit sharing and/or results and reversal of the performance bonus; (ii) the 26.9% reduction in “third-party services” due to the lower cost of specialized services for project preparation; and (iii) a 9.5% drop in “other operating costs and expenses” due to the reduction in leases, rents and the cost of computer equipment and software.

Manageable Costs	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
Personnel and management	3,471	7,641	(54.6)	12,712	18,568	(31.5)
Private pension and healthcare plans	458	398	15.1	1,787	1,547	15.5
Material	17	3	-	53	17	-
Third-party services	479	655	(26.9)	2,665	2,925	(8.9)
Other costs and expenses operating	1,326	1,465	(9.5)	4,989	3,756	32.8
TOTAL	5,752	10,161	(43.4)	22,206	26,813	(17.2)

 

Excluding the effects of profit sharing (PLR) and performance bonuses, the personal account and managers recorded a decrease of 1.2% compared to the amounts recorded in 4Q21, reflecting the restructuring resulting from the adhesions to the Incentivized Retirement Program - PDI started in 2021 and concluded in 2022. 

Pessoal and Management	4Q22	4Q21	∆% 2022	2021	∆%
Personnel and management	3,471	7,641	(54.6)          12,712	18,568	(31.5)
(-) Profit sharing PLR and PPD	192	(1,089)	-                (222)	(3,374)	(93.4)
(-/+) Provision/Reversal for indemnification for PDI	-	(2,843)	-                 311	(2,843)	-
TOTAL	3,664	3,709	(1.2)         12,800	12,351	3.6

 

Net income in 4Q22 was R$49.9 million, a substantial increase compared to R$785 thousand in 4Q21. In the accumulated result for the year, Copel Mercado Livre's net income was R$108.4 million, more than twice the R$53.7 million recorded in 2021. This result is due to the increase in the mark-to-market recorded in revenue in 2022 and the increase of R$ 18.4 million in financial result, especially due to financial investments. As a result, the EBITDA Margin for the year increased from 1.3% in 2021 to 2.5% in 2022, an increase of 95.7%.

Main Indicators	4Q22	4Q21	∆%	2022	2021	∆%
Net Operating Revenue (R$ million)	1,279.3	1,251.4	2.2	4,938.4	4,536.4	8.9
Operating Costs and Expenses (R$ million)	(1,217.4)	(1,263.6)	(3.7)	(4,814.7)	(4,478.4)	7.5
Operating Income (R$ million)	71.1	(8.4)	-	156.0	71.9	117.0
Net Income (R$ million)	49.9	0.8	-	108.4	53.7	101.7
EBITDA (R$ million)	62.1	(12.1)	-	124.0	58.2	113.0
Operating Margin	5.6%	-	-	3.2%	1.6%	99.3
Net Margin	3.9%	0.1%	-	2.2%	1.2%	85.3
EBITDA Margin	4.9%	-	-	2.5%	1.3%	95.7
Investment Program (R$ million)	0.6	-	-	1.3	0.7	85.7

 

5.2    Operational Performance Copel was a pioneer in creating an energy trader and the first to sell electricity to free customers, when this category was created in the country, in 1995. Copel Mercado Livre, created in 2016, is already the largest in the country in terms of electricity volume traded in the free contracting environment (ACL), offering more savings and tranquility to customers from all regions of Brazil. For a long time known as Copel Energia, Copel Mercado Livre is responsible for selling electricity and providing services in the ACL. In December 2022, the Company registered 1,683 clients/contracts, an increase of 2.8% in relation to the same period of the previous year. The amount of electricity sold reached 6,209 GWh sold in 4Q22, an increase of 3.1% compared to 4Q21. The chart below shows the evolution of Copel Mercado Livre in terms of quantity of GWh sold and number of final consumers. For more information, consult the Notice to the Market 02/23.

 

 

6. ESG Performance

6.1 Copel pioneers in ESG in the sector

Copel was the first company in the industry to produce an Environmental Impact Report for a generation project, and the first energy company in Brazil to become a signatory of the UN Global Compact in 2000. The Company promotes actions to disseminate the UN’s Agenda 2030 and implement the SDGs of the electricity sector. In 2020/2021, Copel participated in the Global Compact Program “SDG Ambition”. Copel joined the “Pact on Water and Energy Resilience” Commitment and received the Federal Government’s Pro Gender and Race Equality Seal. The Company received the Pró-Ética Seal, 2018-2019 and 2020-2021 editions, granted by the Brazillian Comptroller General (CGU) and Instituto ETHOS, for the voluntary adoption of integrity measures, for public recognition of the commitment to implement measures aimed at prevention, detection, and remediation of acts of corruption and fraud.

6.2 Recent Highlights

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ESG Goals: In continuity with the Carbon Neutrality Plan approved in March 2021, the Company's Board of Directors approved, at a meeting held on November 4, 2022, the strategies, indicators and goals that will be the basis for the construction of the planning , organization of work teams and the development of actions for Copel for the coming years. The list of ESG indicators to be measured and monitored by the Company was also approved, with the objective of providing relevant and timely information to Copel's stakeholders. Monitoring the goals and action plan will be part of the scope of work of the Statutory Sustainable Development Committee. More information on Copel's Sustainability Portal.

§

ISE B3: Copel was ranked 14th in the Ranking of companies listed on B3’s Corporate Sustainability Index (ISE B3);

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Copel signed in May 2022 the Letter of Commitment to the Adoption and Implementation of Metrics of Stakeholder Capitalism.

Environmental

§

The Company has a Copel 2030 Neutrality Plan, approved by the Board of Directors: focusing on science-based goals (SBTi), to neutralize Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions for the assets controlled by Copel (according to the concept defined in the GHG Protocol methodology) until 2030.

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Climate Change Management: maintained Concept B of the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), one of the main initiatives of the financial sector to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from companies.

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It is part of the portfolio of B3’s Carbon Efficient Index (ICO2 B3) – 2021

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Joined the Pact on Water and Energy Resilience. Net Zero Ambition Movement – On April 13, 2022, Copel joined the Net Zero Ambition Movement. The movement is part of the strategies developed by the Global Compact so that large companies together can promote actions that result in the reduction of 2Gton CO2e by 2030.

Social

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Actions and Programs – Solidary Selective Collection; Grow Energy Program; Electricity Citizenship; Good Neighborhood Program; Diversity Commission; Human Rights; EducaODS; Illuminating Generations; More than Energy, among others.

Governance

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It has Statutory Advisory Committees to the Board of Directors: Statutory Audit Committee -CAE; Statutory Sustainable Development Committee -CDS, Investment and Innovation Committee -CII and Minority Shareholders Committee -CDM;

§

The Board of Directors is made up mostly of independent members;

§

The number of CAD members elected by non-controlling shareholders increased to 3;

§

The Statutory Audit Committee -CAE is made up of independent members, one of whom is an external member;

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Establishment of variable remuneration with ESG targets –2022: 10% of PPD;

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Achievement of the Pro-Ethics Seal 2020-2021 granted by CGU and Instituto ETHOS –2021; and

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Listed under B3 Governance Level 2.

Priority SDG of the Brazilian Electricity Sector

 

 

 

6.3 Indicators

The indicators may change due to the assurance of the independent external audit.

 

6.4 Ratings, Rankings, and Indexes

 

Index	Ranking	Reference Year:
	14th position	2022
S&P Global	CSA Score 68	2022
CARBON DISCLOSURE PROGRAM (CDP)	Classification B	2022
		2023
		2023
	Low Risk	2023
	A	2023

 

 

 

 

7. Other highlights

 

Transformation into Corporation

According to Material Fact 06/22 of November 21, 2022, the State of Paraná, the Company's controlling shareholder, expressed its intention to transform Copel into a company with dispersed capital and no controlling shareholder (Corporation), through a public offering of secondary distribution of common shares and/or share deposit certificates (units) issued by the Company.

On December 21, 2022, the Company's Board of Directors approved the carrying out of a study to enable the full renewal of the Concessions of the Hydroelectric Power Plants Governor Bento Munhoz da Rocha Netto (“Foz do Areia”), Governor Ney Braga (“Segredo”) and Governor José Richa (“Salto Caxias”) for 30 years and analyze fundraising alternatives for the payment of the respective granting bonuses, including a possible public offering of primary distribution of shares and/or Units of its issuance (Material Fact 07/22). Considering the efforts for a possible primary offering, the controlling shareholder asked Copel to hire strategic advisors to carry out the offering in a single way, being assured to Copel full reimbursement of the costs and expenses incurred in said hiring, proportionally to the potential economic benefit to be earned from the capital market operation (Material Fact 10/22).

As per Notice to the Market 01/23 of January 31, 2023, the company informed the approval by the Board of Directors of the hiring of specialized advisory services that will work on the structuring of a possible public offer for the distribution of shares and/or certificates of deposit of shares (Units) for the transformation of Copel into a Corporation; (ii) the continuation of studies to change the Company's corporate structure and full renewal of the main hydroelectric power plant concessions. The evaluation and due diligence work between Copel and advisors began in March/2023.

 

Available Cash Flow and Dividends

Available Cash Flow is defined in the Dividend Policy as: FCD = Cash generated by Operating activities, less net cash used by investing activities, as follows: (a) Cash Generated by Operating Activities: cash generated by operating activities in the fiscal year, before taxes, contributions (IRCS) and financial charges; (b) Net cash used by Investment activities: amount invested in the fiscal year in non-current assets. The Table below shows the calculation of the FCD for the 2022:

 

Payment of Dividends

On October 19, 2022, the Company's Board of Directors decided to submit for approval at the Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting (AGE), the distribution of dividends in the form of Interest on Equity (JCP) in the gross amount of R$970,000,000.00 (nine hundred and seventy million reais), with payment to be made in 2 (two) installments: a) R$600,000,000.00 (six hundred million reais) on 11.30.2022 and b) R$370,000,000.00 (three hundred and seventy million reais) on a date to be set by the Annual Shareholders' Meeting (AGO) in 2023. The AGE for approval of the proceeds is scheduled for November 21, 2022. For more information, see the Proposta da Administração.

Copel Day 2022

On November 22, 2022, Copel held the Copel Day event to present the 2030 Strategic Planning. The fundamentals and pillars supported by the decarbonization of the current portfolio, integration with businesses scale the and the discipline of capital allocation with compatible returns were highlighted with the risks of projects, portfolios, investments and strategic options. This journey has the vision of positioning the Company among the largest integrated energy companies in Brazil in terms of market value, with sustainable development. For more information, see the event at this link.

 

COMPAGAS renewal

COMPAGAS signed with the Government of the State of Paraná, on December 27, 2022, an agreement that renews for 30 (thirty) years the concession referring to the exploitation of the distribution of piped gas public service, with exclusive distribution in the State of Paraná and other related activities. The main issues present in the renewal of the concession are: Adoption of the “price-cap” regulatory model, replacing the current model of the “cost plus” type; Remuneration based on the weighted average cost of capital (WACC); Initial Net Regulatory Remuneration Base (BRRL) of R$647.8 million (includes assets not amortized in the current concession on the base date 12/31/2021 and the granting bonus, offset against regulatory liabilities), plus investments and amortizations carried out between 01.01.2022 and 07.06.2024, restated by the IPCA and remunerated at the initial WACC rate of 9.125% p.a.; Grant Bonus of R$508.0 million in favor of the State of Paraná; Total estimated Capex of R$ 2.5 billion to be carried out over 30 (thirty) years; Tariff adjustment based on IPCA variations; Indicative plan includes interiorization in the 10 (ten) mesoregions of the State of Paraná; Expiration of the concession on 07/06/2054.

Divestment in UEGA

On November 4, 2022, the CAD approved further studies for a potential divestment of the Copel group's equity interest in UEG Araucária S.A. “UEGA”. These studies are part of the decarbonization process of the Copel group's generation matrix and are in line with Copel's Corporate Strategic Planning – 2030 Vision, strengthening the pillars for the perpetuity and sustainable growth of the business. On December 22, 2022, Copel and the partner Petróleos Brasileiros S.A. (“Petrobras”) disclosed the intention of joint sale, through a competitive procedure, and started the opportunity disclosure stage (teaser) referring to the sale of all shares in the company UEG Araucária S.A. (“UEGA”), in which Copel's direct and indirect stake is 81.2% in the total and voting capital of the company and Petrobras holds 18.8% of the remaining stake. On February 8, 2023, Copel announced the start of the non-binding proposal phase for the sale of UEGA.

Review of Assured Energy for plants participating in the MRE

The Ministry of Mines and Energy - MME published Ordinance No. 709/2022/GM/MME which approves the methodology, criteria, assumptions and settings for the Ordinary Review of assured Energy of Hydroelectric Power Plants - UHEs centrally dispatched in the Interconnected System National – SIN, effective from January 1, 2023. Considering that the plants in question are part of the MRE (Energy Reallocation Mechanism), its result stems from the joint performance of all the plants belonging to this mechanism in a proportional manner to the participation of each agent in this system. In view of the final data disclosed in the Ordinance, combined with the reduction of the Assured Energy of Eletrobras' plants (Law 14,182/2021) and effective from January 2023, it is estimated that there will be neutrality of the energy allocated to the Company per year, considering if the generation of the MRE adjusted for the impact of the expected GSF.

Below are listed the hydroelectric plants of Copel's subsidiaries and affiliates whose physical guarantee amounts were revised by the said Ordinance:

HPP	Partners/Partners	Previous Assured Power (average MW)	Current Assured Power (average MW)	Concession end date
Segredo	Copel GeT	578.5	558.3	09/25/2032
Salto Caxias	Copel GeT	605.6	575.4	03/20/2033
Capivari Cachoeira (GPS)	Copel GeT	109	103.6	01/03/2053
Foz do Areia (FDA)	Copel GeT - 100%	604.3	575.3	12/21/2024
Mauá (Consórcio Energético Cruzeiro do Sul)	Copel GeT - 51% Eletrosul       -   49%	197,7	188.5	05/27/2047
Dona Francisca (DFESA)	COPEL - 23,03% Gerdau - 51,82% Celesc - 23,02% Statkraft  -        2,12%	75.9	72.5	09/21/2037
Fundão (Elejor)	COPEL       - 70% Paineiras Part. -  30%	63.8	62.1	06/11/2040
Santa Clara (Elejor)		69.2	66	06/11/2040

 

Completion of the Acquisition of the Aventura and Santa Rosa & Mundo Novo Wind Farm Complexes

On October 6, 2022, the Company announced to the market that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Copel Geração e Transmissão (“Copel GeT”), entered into an agreement for the acquisition of 100% of the Wind Farm Complexes Santa Rosa & Mundo Novo (SRMN) and Aventura ( “Wind Farm Complexes”), totaling 260.4 MW of installed capacity (“Operation”). After fulfilling the conditions precedent, on January 30, 2023, Copel GeT concluded the acquisition of the Wind Farm Complexes, in the restated value (Enterprise Value) of R$ 1,760.6 million. The acquisition is part of the Company's strategy for growth in renewable energy, expands the diversification of the generation portfolio and adheres to its Investment Policy. The venture integrates the generation portfolio from 2023 onwards.

Copel GeT inaugurated new COGT facility

On December 20, 2022, Copel inaugurated the new facilities of the Company's Generation and Transmission Operation Center (COGT), in Curitiba (PR). The teams that work at COGT are responsible for remote and centralized command, full time, of the company's power plants, substations and thousands of km of power transmission lines.

Copel inaugurated an electrostation with ultra-fast recharging

Copel started operating its first ultra-fast charger in Curitiba. With the new structures, the capital of Paraná is the city best served by charging stations in Brazil. New charging stations are being installed in the State and their implementation increases the number of electric vehicular chargers made available by Copel from 23 to 32, throughout Paraná. The current structure guarantees a network of 1,246 kilometers that can be covered by electric vehicles, with charging points available. The electroway project was encouraged by the Copel Volt open innovation program.

Copel GeT launches public call for R&D projects in the area of green hydrogen

Copel GeT launched a public call for proposals for Research and Development (R&D) projects for new technologies related to the production of low-carbon hydrogen from biomass, biofuels and other organic residues. Up to R$7.6 million will be allocated to the contemplated projects. Proponents must submit projects that fit into at least one of the four lines of research defined in the public notice: development of methodology for the production of low-carbon hydrogen, search for innovative solutions for logistics and distribution, for storage and for new applications and use of low-carbon hydrogen.

Energy efficiency program started new public call

Projects aimed at exchanging equipment with a view to saving energy can be enrolled in a new public call opened by Copel to finance energy efficiency actions. In all, R$30 million are available for the exchange of light bulbs, appliances, industrial machinery and other electricity-powered equipment, provided that they replace similar old ones, bringing efficiency gains in electricity consumption. Once the possibilities for making consumption more efficient have been exhausted, projects for the installation of solar systems for self-generation may also be entered in the call. The funds come from the Energy Efficiency Program – PEE regulated by Aneel.

Copel upgrades from “BBB” to “A” in the MSCI ESG Rating

MSCI ESG Ratings, an important global reference index for investors, carried out a reclassification of Copel's rating in December 2022, from “BBB” to “A”. For the upgrade, MSCI considered improvements in governance, especially in its workforce management and strong employee engagement. In addition, he emphasized the new acquisitions of wind generation projects, which further improves the Company's renewable generation portfolio.

Copel Distribuição wins ANEEL Ombudsman Award

The award is given to distributors that have the best performance in dealing with complaints registered by customers, in addition to the best service structure. In six editions of the award created by the National Electric Energy Agency (Aneel), this was Copel's third victory, which has won second place three times in the evaluation. The result was released on March 15, 2023, World Consumer Day. ANEEL takes into account nine criteria to recognize the best ombudsmen. Four of them are related to the treatment of complaints: the time for this treatment, the origin of the complaints, the clarity of the information provided and the speed in responding to the consumer.

Copel held meetings with Abrate and Abrage executives

Copel GeT held meetings related to the Promoting Agenda for Strengthening Institutional Relations project, with the presence of representatives of the Brazilian Association of Electricity Generating Companies (Abrage) and the Brazilian Association of Electricity Transmission Companies (Abrate), on the days December 7th and 12th. The purpose of the meetings was to present the company's position regarding the main themes that permeate the discussions led by these associations in the Brazilian Electricity Sector, among them the impacts of the pandemic on the schedules for the execution of transmission works, the centralized settlement of User Charges of the Transmission System, the need to define clear guidelines for electricity transmission concessions at the end of the contract – clarity and predictability in establishing guidelines and other matters that impact on the transmission companies' revenue.

Disclaimer The information contained in this press release may contain forward-looking statements that reflect management’s current view and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance, and financial results. Any statements, expectations, capabilities, plans and assumptions contained in this press release that do not describe historical facts such as statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the direction of future operations, the implementation of relevant operating and financial strategies, the investment program, factors or trends affecting the Company’s financial condition, liquidity or results of operations are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and involve a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that these results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.

Investor Relations ri@copel.com Phone: +55 (41) 3331-4011